Gill Instruments · Wind sensors
WindSonic from Gill Instruments
Distributor for Gill Instruments in SwedenWindSonic is Gill Instruments’ all-round sensor for wind speed and direction. It measures ultrasonically, has no moving parts and draws little power, which suits weather stations running on a solar panel and battery. This page also covers WindUltra, Gill’s smallest wind sensor.
The models
The sensors are built to order in the version you choose. WindSonic mounts on a pipe with an outside diameter of 44.45 mm.
Standard
WindSonic 60
The standard model, with a polymer housing.
- 0–60 m/s, 0.5 kg.
- Serial or analogue output, depending on version.
SDI-12
WindSonic SDI-12
WindSonic for data loggers and SDI-12 networks.
- 0–60 m/s.
- Draws less than 2 mA at 12 V.
Higher winds
WindSonic 75
The same sensor with a range up to 75 m/s.
- Serial or analogue output.
- Available with Modbus RTU.
Aluminium
WindSonic M
An anodised aluminium housing, for marine environments and cold, exposed sites.
- Available heated, and then operates down to −40 °C.
- The heater runs on 24 V.
Smallest
WindUltra
Gill’s smallest wind sensor, for small stations, buoys and unmanned vehicles.
- 0–75 m/s, 270 grams.
- Built-in heating and SDI-12, Modbus RTU or NMEA.
Wind display
Wind displays
Show wind speed, direction and gust, and connect directly to WindSonic and WindObserver.
- Also available in a marine version.
Compare the models
The main differences at a glance.
| WindSonic 60 | WindSonic 75 | WindSonic M | WindUltra | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wind speed | 0–60 m/s | 0–75 m/s | 0–60 m/s | 0–75 m/s |
| Housing | Polymer | Polymer | Anodised aluminium | Thermoplastic and stainless steel |
| Heating | No | No | Available heated | Built in |
| Digital outputs | RS-232, RS-422 and RS-485. SDI-12 and Modbus RTU as separate versions | RS-232, RS-422 and RS-485. Modbus RTU as a separate version | RS-232, RS-422 and RS-485 | RS-485 with Modbus RTU, RS-422 with NMEA, and SDI-12 |
| Analogue outputs | 0–5 V, 0–20 mA or 4–20 mA, as a version | 0–5 V, 0–20 mA or 4–20 mA, as a version | 0–5 V, 0–20 mA or 4–20 mA, as a version | – |
| Operating temperature | −35 to +70 °C | −35 to +70 °C | −40 to +70 °C with heating | −40 to +70 °C |
| Weight | 0.5 kg | 0.5 kg | 0.9 kg | 0.27 kg |
| Protection | IP66 | IP66 | IP66 | IP66, IP68 and IP69K |
Swipe sideways to see the whole table. Simplified figures. Full specifications and datasheets are available from Gill Instruments ↗.
Versions and wiring
WindSonic is ordered in the version that suits the system: with a serial output (RS-232, RS-422 or RS-485, with ASCII or NMEA), with analogue outputs, with SDI-12 or with Modbus RTU. Because the sensors are built to order, it pays to decide on the output early.
With SDI-12 the sensor draws less than 2 mA at 12 V and connects directly to a Campbell Scientific data logger. For control systems we usually choose Modbus RTU or 4–20 mA, and for ship systems NMEA.
Suited to
Weather stations
Wind measurement with no moving parts and low power consumption, for stations running on a solar panel and battery.
Harbours and coasts
The aluminium WindSonic M and the WindUltra withstand salt and moisture.
Buildings and tunnels
Wind as a control signal for ventilation, sun shading and warning systems.
Small and mobile stations
WindUltra weighs 270 grams and suits buoys and portable stations.
What we do
Choice and quote
We help you choose model, output, heating and cable and send you a quote.
Wiring
The sensor is connected to a Campbell Scientific data logger or directly to your system.
Installation
Mounting, alignment and commissioning on site, on a mast, roof or quay.
Service
Troubleshooting, checks and spare parts, and help when a sensor has to go back to Gill.
Frequently asked questions about WindSonic
Which WindSonic should we choose?
The WindSonic 60 suits most weather stations, and with a data logger we usually choose the SDI-12 version. We choose the WindSonic 75 where winds can be stronger, and the heated WindSonic M or the WindUltra where ice can build up on the sensor.
Does WindSonic need heating?
The WindSonic 60 and 75 are not heated. Where ice and wet snow can build up on the sensor we choose the heated WindSonic M, the WindUltra or a heated WindObserver.
Does WindSonic work with a solar panel and battery?
Yes. With SDI-12 the sensor draws less than 2 mA at 12 V.
Can WindSonic be connected to a control system?
Yes, with Modbus RTU or a 4–20 mA analogue output.
More from Gill Instruments
Would you like a quote for a WindSonic?
Tell us where the sensor will be and what it will connect to, and we will suggest model and output.