SG000 Strike Guard Lightning Sensor

Overview

The SG000 is an optical-coincidence lightning sensor that detects actual lightning strikes for up to 20 miles away. Available as an option for our CS110 Electric Field Meter, the SG000 Strike Guard is used in conjunction with the CS110 to create a complete lightning-threat measurement and analysis system. Data from the two sensors can be used to control warning systems and to help personnel make evacuation and shutdown decisions.

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Benefits and Features

  • Fully integrates into CS110 system
  • 20-mile detection radius
  • Avoids false alarms with patented technology
  • Periodic sensor and communication self-test
  • Durable fiber-optic communication with connector-less technology
  • Lightning-proof data communication

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Detailed Description

The SG000 Strike Guard detects cloud and cloud-to-ground lightning within a 20-mile radius. Strike information is classified in three range categories as lightning detected within 5 miles, 10 miles, and 20 miles. To prevent false alarms, the SG000 requires an optical signal to coincide with a magnetic-field-change signal before reporting lightning.

The SG000 is typically mounted on the same tripod or pole as the CS110. The SG000 connects to the CS110 via the FC100, the 14291 Field Power Cable, and the FC100CBL1-L (typically 10+ feet), and the following equipment depending on which CS110 port it is connected to.

Lightning Detection Ranges

The SG000 has three categories for lightning detection range estimates:

  • CAUTION: Lighting is within 20 miles.
  • WARNING: Lightning is within 10 miles.
  • ALARM: Lighting is within 5 miles.

CS I/O Port

  • CS110CBL2-L (typically 9 feet)
  • SC932A
  • 16987 Peripheral Mtg kit

RS-232 Port

  • CS110CBL1-L (typically 9 feet)

The SG000 is an add-on option to the CS110. Due to a contractual agreement, it cannot be sold without the CS110, as a stand-alone sensor.

Specifications

Detection Range Up to 32.19 km (20 mi) radius
Enclosure Rating NEMA 4X
Internal Battery Lithium primary cells with four-year life minimum
Dimensions 20.3 x 17.8 x 19.1 cm (8 x 7 x 7.5 in.)
Weight 1.6 kg (3.5 lb)

Compatibility

The SG000 is used with our CS110 Electric Field Meter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Number of FAQs related to SG000: 4

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  1. Can the SG000 determine the exact distance to a lightning strike?

    According to the manufacturer, "Lightning flashes in the Alarm category are most likely to have occurred within 5 miles of the Sensor. Lightning flashes in the Warning category are most likely to have occurred within 10 miles of the Sensor. Lightning flashes in the Caution category are most likely to have occurred within 20 miles of the Sensor."

    The SG000 is not capable of determining the exact distance to a lightning strike. Determining the exact distance would require multiple sensors and a triangulation method using TOA (Time of Arrival).

  2. Are there any problems with locating a CS110 Electric Field Meter Sensor and an SG000 Strike Guard Lightning Sensor near a tower that has spread-spectrum radios on it?

    The CS110 and the tower should be positioned away from each other a distance of three times the tower’s height.

    If the radio signal is strong enough, the SG000 may pick it up as one of the two components the SG000 measures to detect lightning. If this signal coincides with a light flash from a windshield or headlight, it could generate a false strike signal. Also, constant bombardment of the SG000 by sufficiently strong RF signals will pull the sensor out of its quiescent state, affecting its current drain. This will eventually degrade the battery and shorten its expected four-year lifespan.

  3. How can an end user simulate a lightning strike to an SG000 or CS110?

    To simulate a lightning strike to the SG000, use a camera flash to flash the glass bulb from a distance of 5.08 to 7.62 cm (2 to 3 in.). Note: A flash from a cell phone usually isn't large enough to simulate a lightning strike. 

    To simulate high electric fields on the CS110, run a comb through your hair and hold it a distance of 2.54 to 5.98 cm (1 to 2 in.) from the shutter of the CS110. Other items such as plastic bags or balloons, or fur on glass, can be used as well.

  4. What is the FC100 commonly used with?
    The FC100 is required to communicate with the SG000 Strike Guard Lightning Sensor. The SG000 is an option for the CS110 Electric Field Sensor and the LW110 Lightning Warning System.
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