Wind Monitor & Alarm
490-A Wind Monitor and Alarm
Our wind monitor displays current wind speed, maximum wind gust registered during the previous 60 seconds, and current wind direction. It also has the capability to display temperature if used with a resistance type temperature probe (not included). The monitor has a menu-driven interface using the LCD front panel selection buttons. User setup options include unit of measurement, sensor type, gust speed, and wind speed settings for alarm buzzer and relay. User configured settings are secured with a key lockout feature.
Wireless Transmitter or Receiver
Wireless options for the 490-A wind monitor include the capability of each unit acting as either a transmitter or a receiver. If one unit is set up as a transmitter, a second unit can be set up as a receiver to act as a second remote wireless display. This allows one set of wind instruments to provide live wind data in two locations within the wireless signal range. Additional capability includes remote live internet-based wind data monitoring via Richards complementary remote monitoring services.
Wind Monitor / Alarm Features
490-A
The 490-A Wind speed monitor / alarm is commonly used on harbor container and large gantry cranes to help operators quickly shut down operations during high wind speed conditions. Bulk material handling and processing equipment such as radial stackers, conveyors, and ship loaders also install 490-A wind speed monitors to insure that product is only moved and stored when wind speeds are below regulated levels.
- Displays wind speed, maximum gust, wind direction, and temperature
- Can be used as a wireless transmitter to other remote 490-A monitors
- Key lockout to secure user configured settings
- Wind and temperature alarm with relay
- Easy to read backlit LCD display
- Flush wall or panel mount
- High visibility red powder coating housing
- Can be used with Richards online wind monitoring web interface (C-24154 wireless internet gateway required)
FAQs
What does the 490A Wind Monitor and Alarm do?
Answer
The 490A Wind Monitor/Alarm continuously tracks current wind speed, the maximum gust from the previous 60 seconds, and—when connected to the appropriate sensors—wind direction and temperature. When user defined thresholds are reached, the unit activates its builtin visual and audible alarms, and its onboard relay can automatically shut down heavy equipment or trigger a remote signal beacon during dangerous high wind conditions.
The monitor features a bright backlit LCD screen and an intuitive menu driven interface controlled by three front panel buttons. Users can configure units of measurement, sensor type, and alarm thresholds for wind speed, gust, and minimum/maximum temperature. All settings are protected by a physical key lockout.
In addition to hardwired sensors, the 490A supports wireless communication. 490-A Wind Monitors can operate as either a transmitter or receiver, enabling remote wind displays or integration with a wireless internet gateway for online monitoring through Richards Remote Monitoring Services. Wireless communication uses a 2.4 GHz 802.15.4 link with a typical range of 300 ft (90 m) line-of-sight, extendable with optional high gain antennas.
What types of sensors can be connected to the 490A Wind Monitor and Alarm?
Answer
The 490A Wind Monitor and Alarm is compatible with all C5 and C5C series anemometers that use switch pulse outputs for wind speed measurement. It also accepts a D5 or D5C wind direction vane with a 10 kΩ potentiometer output to display realtime wind direction. In addition, the monitor supports a high accuracy PT100 three wire RTD, enabling temperature display in either °C or °F.
What outputs and alarms do the 490A Wind Monitor and Alarm provide?
Answer
The 490A includes dual relay outputs that can be configured for high wind alarms, gust alarms, temperature thresholds, or external safety interlocks. These relays can also be used to trigger automatic shutdown of cranes or other equipment during high wind events, providing a reliable hardware level safety response. The unit’s builtin visual and audible alarms offer immediate local notification, while the relays allow seamless integration with industrial control systems.
How is the 490A Wind Monitor and Alarm installed and maintained?
Answer
The 490A Wind Monitor mounts easily in control panels or operator stations and requires straightforward hard wiring to the C5C series anemometer, D5C wind direction vane, RTD, and power source. Routine maintenance is minimal—periodic inspection of wiring, checking relay function, and verifying sensor operation ensures longterm reliability in demanding industrial environments.
Can an ultrasonic wind sensor be connected to the 490A Wind Monitor and Alarm?
Answer
Yes. The new 490AB Wind Monitor is compatible with FT702LT Ultrasonic Wind Sensors. Because the FT sensor measures both wind speed and wind direction, it can be used in place of a traditional anemometer and wind vane. The wiring diagram for connecting the FT Ultrasonic Wind Sensor is provided in Figure 6 of the 490-A Wind Monitor and Alarm manual.
Superior Design, Superior Performance
From the peak of Mount Everest to 300 feet below the ground, our anemometers and wind direction vanes are built for resiliency, precision, and durability.
Technical Specifications
Wind Monitor Part Number
- 490-A – Wind Monitor & Alarm System
Included with the Wind Monitor
- 490-A Wind monitor
- Lock out keys
- 12 Volt AC power adapter
- Wireless antenna
- Wall and desk mounting plates
- Richards online wind monitoring service
Optional
- 3E164-1-8-4-RB-LS – Temperature sensor
- T-RS-1263 – Radiation shield for temperature sensor
- C-24154 – Wireless internet gateway
- PPSH – Weatherproof sensor junction box
Wind Monitor Features
- Displays wind speed, maximum gust, wind direction, and temperature
- Can be used as a wireless transmitter to other 490-A wind monitors
- Key lockout to secure user configured settings
- Wind Speed and temperature audible and visual alarm with relay
- Easy to read backlit LCD display
- Flush wall or panel mount
- High visibility red powder coating housing
- Can be used with Richards online wind monitoring web interface (C-24154 wireless internet gateway required)
If you are looking for the finest industrial high speed wind sensors made, look no further.
With stainless steel and titanium construction, our anemometers outperform all others on the market. Current applications of our products include military and defense, asset protection, mining, oil rigs, meteorology, and much more.