Modbus RTU wind direction sensor 3S-WD-MB-P

RS485digitalIP54

Product Overview
The 3S-WD-MB-P Wind Direction Sensor is a vane-driven instrument with a Hall Effect position sensor for continuous horizontal wind direction measurement in degrees (0–359°). The unit provides digital Modbus RTU output over RS-485 for direct integration with Modbus-enabled dataloggers, SCADA and PLC systems. Supplied with mounting hardware and cable.

Technical Specifications (summary)
Item Code: 3S-WD-MB-P
Sensor Type: Vane-driven Hall Effect position sensor
Measuring Range: 0 to 359°
Accuracy: ±1% of measuring value
Resolution: 0.1°
Threshold: 1 m/s
Data Output: RS485 up to 38400 Baud
Communication Protocol: Modbus RTU
Power Supply: 12 to 30 V DC (24 V DC recommended)
Power Consumption: Typically 20 mA @ 24 V DC
Electrical Connection: 1 m 3x2x0,22 mm² – LI2Y(st)C11Y cable, UV and weather resistant
Operating Temperature Range: -40°C to +85°C (ice free)
Dimensions: 265 mm x 190 mm
Box Dimensions: 80 x 82 x 55 mm (W x L x H)
Weight: 0.33 kg
Box Weight: 0.25 kg
IP Rating: IP54 (upgradeable to IP65 on request)
Housing Material: ASA
Vane Material: P6GF20
Box Material: ABS
Mounting Method: Pipe or ground mounting
Standard: Compliant with IEC 61724-1:2021

Why use a plastic Modbus wind direction sensor?

• Digital Modbus RTU output reduces analog signal degradation and improves reliability over long cable runs.
• Plastic (ASA) housing offers cost-effective corrosion resistance for coastal or humid sites.
• Simplifies integration with SCADA, PLCs and dataloggers that support Modbus RTU.

Key Advantages

• Reliable digital data over long distances via RS-485.
• Reduced susceptibility to electrical noise compared with analog outputs.
• Multiple devices can share the same RS-485 bus with unique Modbus addresses.
• Lightweight housing eases installation on masts and rooftops.
• UV- and weather-resistant materials for outdoor deployment.
• Cost-efficient option for multi-sensor site installations.

How it works

• The vane aligns with the wind and its angular position is detected by a Hall Effect sensor.
• The measured angle is converted to a wind direction in degrees (0–359°).
• The direction value is transmitted as digital data using Modbus RTU over RS-485 for robust communication in electrically noisy environments.
• Wind direction values are stored in Modbus registers for periodic reading by dataloggers, PLCs or SCADA systems.

Common applications

• Utility-scale solar PV plants and PV monitoring
• Hybrid solar–wind systems
• Meteorological stations
• Environmental and climate monitoring
• Agricultural monitoring and smart farming projects

Installation guidelines
Typical recommendations (site-dependent):

• Install in an unobstructed location away from buildings, trees and other obstacles.
• Align the north reference mark with a compass during installation.
• Mount on a pipe or ground structure using the supplied hardware.
• Wire RS-485 lines according to the Modbus wiring diagram and observe proper grounding/lightning protection.

Maintenance

• No routine calibration required.
• Periodic visual inspection recommended; clean if heavy contamination occurs.

Additional information
The sensor is designed for PV plants, weather stations and remote monitoring sites where long cable runs and low maintenance are important. Typical price range: €185–€335. Warranty: 2-year manufacturer warranty for 3S-WD-MB products (extension on request). Typical lead time: 5–7 days for small orders; ~6–7 weeks for large orders (100 pcs). Other cable lengths and IP upgrades available on request.

Technical specifications

• Item Code: 3S-WD-MB-P
• Sensor Type: Vane-driven Hall Effect position sensor
• Measuring Range: 0–359°
• Accuracy: ±1% of measuring value
• Resolution: 0.1°
• Threshold: 1 m/s
• Data Output: RS485 up to 38400 Baud
• Communication Protocol: Modbus RTU
• Power Supply: 12–30 V DC (24 V DC recommended)
• Power Consumption: Typically 20 mA @ 24 V DC
• Electrical Connection: 1 m 3x2x0,22 mm² – LI2Y(st)C11Y cable, UV and weather resistant
• Operating Temperature Range: -40°C to +85°C (ice free)
• Dimensions: 265 mm x 190 mm
• Box Dimensions: 80 x 82 x 55 mm (W x L x H)
• Weight: 0.33 kg
• IP Rating: IP54 (upgradeable to IP65 on request)
• Housing Material: ASA
• Vane Material: P6GF20
• Box Material: ABS
• Mounting Method: Pipe or ground mounting
• Standard: IEC 61724-1:2021