Sensor Characterization Study of the Sutron Fischer and Porter Rebuild (FPR-D) Kits, from 2008 to 2009

A characterization study typically spans a year or more, and involves a group of comparison sensors. This study includes test data and supporting documentation from the Sutron Fischer and Porter Rebuild (FPR) kit characterization study at the Sterling Field Support Center in 2008 and 2009. The primary objective of this test was to determine if the accuracy and overall functionality of the Sutron FPR kits met the requirements of the QPL specification (Specification NWS-D111-5-SP001, Fisher and Porter/Belfort Precipitation Gauge Rebuild Kit) over a period of one year.

This was accomplished by analyzing sensor drift through calibration, conducting exposure tests, and performing a field demonstration to determine if the Sutron kits met QPL requirements. The study compared the FPR kits with the current version F&P gauges and an ASOS All Weather Precipitation Accumulation Gauge (AWPAG) in a 12-meter Double Fence Intercomparison Reference (DFIR). The long term specification compliance testing shows that the Sutron FPR kits installed in the field met the NWS-D111-5-SP001 specifications.