Rainfall Node Power System Upgrades

After an extensive month-long in-field testing program of our rain gauge node, it was found that the power system was slightly insufficient to maintain operation across a period of consecutive cloudy days. As such, improvements were required. Shown below, the solar panel was upgraded from 10w capacity to 40w capacity, with a new maximum power point tracking solar charge controller (rated to 10A - well above any current expected here), and 6.5-Ah sealed lead acid, deep cycle battery.

A new case for all the components was also custom-manufactured. Time will tell if this proves to be an elegant solution or not. For the upcoming manufacture of a creek level gauge, we will be opting for a COTS case - aimed at ensuring repeatability