ALB Albedometer

Natural output in µV (2 signals) | 0 ÷ 1300 W/m² | 0.3 ÷ 3 µm | Two Class II pyranometers | 125 x 105 mm | < 980 g

Manufacturer: Nesa
Category: Meteorology – Climatology, Solar radiation - Light, SENSORS

The NESA ALB is an albedometer consisting of two identical, opposing Class II pyranometers: the upper one measures the incident global solar radiation (direct + diffuse), and the lower one measures the global radiation reflected by the ground. Albedo is the fraction of reflected radiation relative to the incident radiation.

Typical measurement range of 0 to 1300 W/m² (adjustable up to 2000 W/m²), spectral range of 0.3 to 3 µm, sensitivity of 10 µV/(W/m²) and natural output in µV with two signals. Compliant with WMO standard.

Key points

Two opposing Class II pyranometers (sky and ground)
Typical measurement range 0 ÷ 1300 W/m² (adjustable up to 2000 W/m²)
Sensitivity 10 µV/(W/m²), accuracy ± 0.5 W/m², non-linearity < 1%
Spectral range 0.3 ÷ 3 µm, field of view 2π sr
Natural µV output; RS485 / Modbus with MCS module

Technical Frequently Asked Questions

What does the ALB albedometer measure?

The global solar radiation incident on the ground (upper pyranometer) and that reflected by the ground (lower pyranometer). The albedo is calculated as the fraction of radiation reflected compared to that incident.

What's the way out?

The ALB-N reference provides two natural µV signals (direct and reflected radiation) and is self-powered. With the MCS module, RS485/Modbus output is obtained.

How do I order it?

Sensor (ALB), output (N), sensor-datalogger cable (05, 10 or xx, length in meters to be specified) and support (SS1 of l = 500 mm, SS2 of l = 1500 mm or SS3 of l = 900 mm).

Properties

Feature	Specification
Measurement and operating principle
Measured magnitude	Global incident and reflected solar radiation (albedo)
Typical measurement range	0 ÷ 1300 W/m² (adjustable up to 2000 W/m²)
Spectral range	0.3 µm ÷ 3 µm
Field of view	2π sr
Typical sensitivity	10 µV/(W/m²)
Typical output constant	10 mV/(kW/m²)
Precision	± 0.5 W/m²
Nonlinearity	< 1%
Transducer	Thermopyle
Pyranometers	Two, of class II (sky and ground)
Regulatory compliance	WMO Standard; CE
Output signals and interface
Output (version N)	Natural in µV: 2 signals, direct radiation (RD) and reflected radiation (RR)
With MCS module (optional)	RS485 / Modbus (C)
Output impedance	< 30 Ω
Calibration	By comparison with a certified WMO class «Primary standard» instrument; it is delivered with a calibration certificate and instrument constant.
Power supply, environment, and mechanical data
Feeding	Self-powered in the N version
Protections	Protection against short circuits and lightning strikes
Operating conditions	-30 to +70 °C
Material	Anodized aluminum and stainless steel screws
Dimensions	125 x 105 mm (see drawing)
Weight	< 980 g