Anemometer - Basic Facts

An anemometer is a device that is used to take wind readings. It can be used easily and gives very dependable and accurate readings. The handheld anemometer is very convenient and neat and further it can be easily carried in your pocket. Though the anemometers are in use since the 15th century, the design has changed a lot making it more effective and versatile. The word anemometer is derived from term 'anemos'. 'Anemos' means wind in Greek.

A brief account of anemometers:
Anemometers were found initially in the European continent, especially in Italy and in some parts of Northern Europe. They later spread to the American continent. The model of the anemometer is done very creatively and consists of an uncomplicated design, comprising of a flat disc shaped structure that moves according to the direction of wind flow. Depending on the position of the disc at a given time, you could find the direction in which the wind is blowing and also the degree of the pressure.

Towards the middle of the 19th century the design was more refined and stylish, sporting cups which were connected to the ends of wind vane. When there was wind flow, the cups get filled by the wind and as a result the vane moves. The movements of the vane were noted and the wind pressure was determined from them. This type is used even now with the vanes spinning like a wind mill instead of the horizontal spinning seen in the earlier versions.

The contemporary types are very precise; giving exact readings that is shown on a LCD screen. Besides giving details about the winds these also give details of the sound waves, particular detection by laser beams and also help in measuring the thermal energy.

Types of Anemometers:
Though the basic function of anemometer is to measure wind, the present updated versions are equipped to give measurements of wind in relation to temperature, pressure and humidity. Weather stations too use these anemometers for meteorological findings. There are five different types namely, hot wire, Sonic, Laser Doppler, wind mill and cup anemometers.

Uses of hand held anemometer:
This is a small device measuring about a few inches width. It gives very accurate readings of the wind speed in mph, m/s, km/h or Knots, wind chill and temperature. It is unaffected by strong currents and sudden alterations in wind direction and elucidates accurate readings.

Some of the anemometers come with added features like waterproof casing, a Beaufort scale for better reading and some undergo even drop testing to exhibit their resilience.

Benefits of having an anemometer:
The anemometer is a very handy instrument for reading the wind and can be used by amateurs as well as professionals like engineers for finding the weather conditions accurately. Wind surfers, climbers and even kite flyers find the anemometer a very useful device to have, so they can predict the weather on their own with accuracy.