How do you use the anemometer?

Answer 1

1

Understand that an anemometer essentially works by getting the wind to spin around three to five small plastic cups. The secret to learning how to use an anemometer to figure out wind speed lies in observing, paying attention and doing some calculations of your own.

2

In order to use an anemometer the ideal position for the device is at least 4 feet above the ground. It is also equally important to place your anemometer away from wind obstructions like buildings or trees. That way you can be sure to get an entirely accurate reading.

3

Keep your eye on the target cup and watch follow it as it revolves. The anemometer will have five cups and one of them will be of a different color so that it can be followed more easily as it revolves. Start the stopwatch and count how many times the target cups goes around in a minute. Record this number and then repeat two times, making sure to record the number of the times the target cup revolves.

4

Take the three readings and divide by three. The resulting number represents the average revolutions per minute. Although the actual wind speed of an anemometer is dependent upon its size, generally speaking every ten revolutions per minute is equal to one mile per hour.

Answer 2

To use an anemometer, hold it up facing into the wind and wait for the device to measure wind speed in units such as miles per hour or knots. Some anemometers may require calibration or adjustment according to the manufacturer's instructions.