

Gill Instruments
WindObserver IS
Gill WindObserver IS – Intrinsically Safe Ultrasonic Wind Sensor for Hazardous Areas
- Explosion-proof wind sensor
- Solid-state wind sensor IS version
- Wind sensor for ATEX Zone 1 and Zone 2
Overview
The Gill WindObserver IS is an intrinsically safe ultrasonic wind sensor specifically designed for accurate and reliable wind measurement in hazardous or explosive environments. Built with 316 stainless steel and certified to ATEX and IECEx standards, it provides safe operation in areas such as offshore platforms, petrochemical sites, and industrial zones with flammable gases. The sensor measures both wind speed and direction with no moving parts, reducing maintenance needs and improving long-term performance. With its IP66-rated housing, optional heating system, and digital output options like RS422 and RS485, the WindObserver IS delivers dependable data in extreme weather and safety-critical applications. It is the ideal choice for industries that demand durability, precision, and explosion-proof certification in one compact device.
Key Features
- Intrinsically safe: ATEX, IECEx & UKEX certification
- Low voltage or optional mains power supply
- Galvanic isolation
- ASCII or NMEA serial output
- 0-75m/s wind speed operation
- Averaging/gusts to WMO guidelines
- Tested for exposed environments (IP66, BS EN 60945)
- Low maintenance requirements.
Typical Applications
- Offshore oil production and drilling platforms
- Support tankers
- Onshore petrochemical plants
- Helidecks in hazardous environments
- Paint spray booths
Benefits
- Precision wind speed and direction measurement in hazardous environments
- Reduced offshore maintenance costs
- Easy to install and long operational life
- Proven service internationally
Specifications
WIND SPEED |
|
| Range | 0-75 m/s |
| Accuracy |
12 m/s 2% RMSE |
| Resolution | 0.01 m/s |
| Starting Threshold | 0.01 m/s |
| Units of measurement | m/s, km/h, mph, kts, ft/min |
WIND DIRECTION |
|
| Range | 0 - 360° |
| Units of measurement | degrees |
| Accuracy |
±4° RMSE |
| Resolution |
1° |
MEASUREMENT |
|
| Ultrasonic output rate |
1 Hz, 2 Hz or 4 Hz |
| Parameters | UV and polar |
| Units | m/s, knots, mph, km/h, ft/min |
| Averaging | 0-3600 seconds |
OUTPUT |
|
| Digital comms modes?? | RS422, full duplex to LVPCI |
| Baud rates |
1200, 2400, 4800, 9600, 19200 |
| Formats |
8-bit data; odd, even or no parity |
| Anemometer status | Supplied as part of standard Gill message (NMEA output includes V and A codes as part of the message) |
| Protocols | ASCII, NMEA 0183 |
MECHANICAL |
|
| External Construction | Stainless steel 316 |
| Size |
380 mm x 210 mm |
| Weight |
1.9 kg |
ENVIRONMENTAL |
|
| Moisture protection |
IP66 |
| Humidity | 0% to 100% RH |
| Operating Temperature | -30°C to +70°C |
| Precipitation | 300mm/hr |
| Storage temp | -50°C to +75°C |
POWER SUPPLY |
|
| Anemometer | 6-12 VDC, 30 mA peak (from LVPCI) All circuits protected to 0.8 joules |
CERTIFICATION & APPROVALS |
|
| Instrinsic safety | ATEX, IECEx & UKEX certification. Certificates available to view in full on gillinstruments.com |
Drawing
Downloads
| 1954-004-WindObserver-IS-issue-11 | Download1954-004-WindObserver-IS-issue-11 |
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