The BF5 Sunshine Sensor is a versatile instrument that measures Global and Diffuse solar radiation and determines Sunshine Duration without moving parts or shade rings. Its patented design uses an array of photodiodes and a computer-generated shading pattern for reliable operation at any latitude without need for polar alignment. With user-selectable outputs for Energy (W/m²), PAR (μmol/m²/s), or Illuminance (Lux), a built-in heater, and internal battery power, the BF5 is an ideal, low-maintenance solution for meteorological, agricultural, and building science applications.
Versatile Solar Radiation and Sunshine Measurement
The BF5 Sunshine Sensor simplifies the complex task of monitoring solar energy by combining three key measurements into a single, robust unit. Its innovative, patented design eliminates the need for mechanical components like rotating shadow bands or tracking systems, which are prone to failure and require frequent maintenance. Instead, a fixed, computer-optimized shading pattern and multiple photodiodes allow it to accurately resolve the Global and Diffuse components of incident light under all sky conditions, providing critical data for understanding solar influence on the environment.
Designed for Easy Deployment and Reliability
Engineered for long-term, unattended operation, the BF5 is built to withstand harsh outdoor environments. Its IP65 rating protects against dust and moisture, while the integrated heater activates in cold conditions to prevent obscuration from dew, ice, and snow, ensuring data continuity. The sensor can be powered by its internal alkaline batteries for up to a year, offering exceptional flexibility for remote sites, or directly from a data logger. Configurable output units (Energy, PAR, or Lux) make it directly applicable to a wide range of scientific and industrial fields without the need for complex conversions.
Key Advantages and Benefits
- Triple Output in One Sensor: Measures Global radiation, Diffuse radiation, and Sunshine duration simultaneously.
- No Moving Parts: Patented fixed design ensures high reliability and eliminates maintenance associated with shade rings or trackers.
- Configurable Outputs: User-selectable units: W/m² (Energy), μmol/m²/s (PAR), or klux (Illuminance).
- Built-In Heater & Battery Power: Ensures operation in freezing conditions and enables easy installation in remote locations.
- Zero Alignment Needed: Works accurately at any latitude without any setup or calibration adjustment.
Typical Applications and Usage
The BF5's flexibility makes it a vital tool across numerous disciplines:
- Meteorology & Climatology: Standard component in weather stations for solar radiation studies and sunshine hour recording per WMO standards.
- Agriculture & Plant Science: Precisely measures Photosynthetically Active Radiation (PAR) for crop growth models, canopy analysis, and irrigation scheduling.
- Architecture & Building Design: Informs Building Management Systems (BMS) by providing data on natural light availability and heat balance for energy efficiency.
- Environmental Research: Monitors light availability in ecological studies and air pollution research.
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Measured Parameters | Global Horizontal Irradiance, Diffuse Horizontal Irradiance, Sunshine Duration |
| Output Units | User-selectable: Energy (W.m⁻²), PAR (μmol.m⁻².s⁻¹), or Illuminance (klux) |
| Overall Accuracy (Total) | ±12% ±5 W.m⁻² (Energy); ±12% ±10 μmol.m⁻².s⁻¹ (PAR); ±12% ±0.6 klux (Illuminance) |
| Overall Accuracy (Diffuse) | ±15% ±20 W.m⁻² (Energy); ±15% ±10 μmol.m⁻².s⁻¹ (PAR); ±15% ±0.6 klux (Illuminance) |
| Sunshine Hours Accuracy | ±10% (against WMO definition) |
| Spectral Response | 400 to 700 nm |
| Cosine Correction | ±10% (0-90° Zenith angle) |
| Operating Temperature | -20°C to +50°C (Alkaline batteries); -20°C to +70°C (Lithium batteries) |
| Heater Input | 12 to 15 V DC, up to 1.5 A (15W max) |
| Internal Power | 2 x AA Alkaline batteries (~1 year life) |
| External Power | 5.0 - 15V DC |
| Environmental Rating | IP65 (Shower and dust proof) |
| Data Output | 2 x Analogue (Global, Diffuse), 1 x Digital (Sunshine status) |
| Connectors | 8-pin M12 (Power/Analogue), 5-pin M12 (RS232), ¼" Tripod socket |
| Dimensions & Weight | 120 x 122 x 95 mm; 635 g |
| Brand | Delta-T |
