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Precipitation Measurement Instruments

Comptus precipitation measurement instruments, sensors and transmitters are used in many industrial applications including flood, stormwater, wastewater, irrigation, snow and rain detection.

Our technologies include precipitation measuring devices such as tipping bucket gauges, radar, and surface moisture detection, including leaf wetness. Options for analog and digital signal transmission ensure compatibility with all common data logging and control systems. Sensitivity levels are available from .01” down to .1mm.

Our weather instruments, precipitation gauges, rain gauges, and transmitters meet US Weather Service specifications and are factory calibrated to ensure accuracy. Consult the sales team at Comptus should other calibration setups be desired.

Look for our precipitation sensors, rain gauges, and transmitters online at our E-store.

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    Rain

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  • Rain and Snow Sensors

    Rain and Snow Sensors (2)

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  • Reliable Rainfall Measuring Devices and Instruments

    Reliable Rainfall Measuring Devices and Instruments (8)

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Why Choose Comptus Precipitation Devices?

Reliable & Durable

Our precipitation measurement instruments are engineered to perform in harsh conditions, from extreme cold to heavy rainfall. Built from stainless steel, aluminum, and UV-resistant materials, they deliver long-term reliability.

Versatile Signal Outputs

Comptus devices integrate seamlessly with control systems using analog, digital, pulse, 4-20 mA, RS-485, or SDI-12 outputs.

Superior Accuracy

Most of our precipitation measuring devices are calibrated to US Weather Service (USWS) standards, providing readings as low as 0.01″ (~0.25 mm).

Comprehensive Product Range

From classic tipping-bucket rain gauges to fully electronic radar-based precipitation transmitters, we have a solution for every application.

Product Portfolio / Solutions Offered

Tipping-Bucket Rain Gauges

A reliable and widely used precipitation measuring device, tipping-bucket gauges measure rainfall by collecting water into a seesaw-like bucket that tips at set volumes.

Features:

  • 8″ orifice per USWS specifications

  • ±4% accuracy (1–6 in/hr)

  • Output options: 0.01″, 1 mm, 0.5 mm, or 0.25 mm increments

  • Durable stainless steel housing

Rainfall Transmitters

Ideal for automated monitoring in environmental, stormwater, and wastewater applications.

Features:

  • Complies with NWS and EPA standards

  • Easy maintenance with removable housing

  • Converts tipping-bucket pulses into 4-20 mA or digital outputs

Electronic/Radar-Based Gauges

No moving parts for maintenance-free operation. Detect rain, snow, sleet, and hail accurately.

Features:

  • 24 GHz radar sensing technology

  • Fast-response measurements

  • Outputs: RS-485, SDI-12, or analog

How Precipitation Measuring Devices Work

Tipping-Bucket Gauges:

Water is collected into a small bucket that tips once filled, generating an electrical pulse for data logging.

Weighing Gauges:

Measures precipitation by weight, ideal for snow and mixed precipitation.

Radar-Based Gauges:

Use electromagnetic waves to detect precipitation type and volume without moving parts, providing highly accurate and fast measurements.

Applications of Precipitation Gauges & Devices

  • Weather forecasting and climate research

  • Flood and stormwater management

  • Agricultural irrigation planning

  • Snow and surface moisture detection

  • Building automation and smart environmental systems

  • Environmental monitoring and compliance

Read more

FAQs for Precipitation Measurement Instruments Page

What is the difference between a tipping-bucket rain gauge and a weighing gauge?

A tipping-bucket rain gauge records rainfall by tipping after collecting a set volume of water, while a weighing gauge measures precipitation based on weight. Weighing gauges are often more accurate for snow or mixed precipitation.

Can Comptus precipitation gauges measure snow and hail?

Yes. Electronic and radar-based precipitation measuring devices can accurately detect rain, snow, sleet, and hail without clogging or mechanical issues.

Q: How do I install a precipitation measuring device?

Installation depends on the model. Tipping-bucket and radar-based gauges should be installed on a level surface or post, away from obstructions, with proper grounding and sensor calibration as per the manual.

How is precipitation data collected from these instruments?

Data can be collected via pulse outputs, analog (4-20 mA), digital, RS-485, or SDI-12 signals and integrated into weather stations, SCADA systems, or data loggers

How often do I need to calibrate my precipitation gauges?

Calibration frequency depends on usage and environment, but typically once per year for tipping-bucket gauges and every 2–3 years for electronic gauges.

What maintenance is required for precipitation measuring devices?

Tipping-bucket gauges may need periodic cleaning of the funnel and bucket. Electronic and radar gauges require minimal maintenance—mainly checking sensor alignment and clearing debris.

Can precipitation gauges be used in remote areas?

Yes. Many Comptus gauges support remote data logging and telemetry, making them suitable for weather stations, research sites, or agricultural fields.

What precipitation measurement units are available?

Most devices support inches, millimeters, or custom increments. Tipping-bucket gauges can have resolutions as low as 0.01″ (0.25 mm).

How do environmental conditions affect precipitation measurement?

Properly installed Comptus gauges account for wind, temperature, and debris. Electronic and radar-based devices minimize errors caused by environmental factors compared to mechanical gauges.

Can these devices integrate with automated irrigation or building management systems?

Yes. Precipitation gauges with digital or analog outputs can trigger irrigation systems, HVAC controls, or smart building alerts based on precipitation levels.

Are Comptus precipitation instruments compatible with third-party weather stations?

Yes. Most gauges provide standard outputs like 4-20 mA, RS-485, SDI-12, and pulse signals, making integration with existing systems easy.

What makes Comptus precipitation gauges better than other brands?

Comptus instruments combine rugged industrial design, high precision, versatile outputs, compliance with NWS/EPA standards, and a wide range of models for any application.

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