The need for air quality data is not confined to only areas that provide modern utility services like electricity and internet service providers. PurpleAir sensors can be used in remote locations. Let’s discuss this topic here.
Battery Power
Battery packs can power the PurpleAir sensor. The power supply that can be included with the sensor is not necessary. We have experimented with a 20Ah battery pack, and found it was able to keep the sensor running for almost five days.
Solar Power
We’ve heard of a number of individuals who are using solar to power their sensors. At this point we have not conducted in-house testing on PurpleAir sensors using solar power. However, it seems reasonable that a solar panel providing approximately 15W may be adequate to power a battery pack to run a PurpleAir sensor. How quickly that battery pack recharges is situationally dependent, and may require some experimenting on the owner’s part to fit the seasonal sun conditions.
Internet Access
A WiFi network may be supplied to the PurpleAir sensor in various ways. In addition to underground cables, Internet Service Providers (ISP) may provide internet access via cellular towers, and even satellite. We’ve heard of a number of individuals who are using these wireless methods to provide internet access to their sensors.
Learn More
Learn more about the power consumption and data usage of PurpleAir sensors.
Learn how to replace the SD card in your sensor.
Learn more about which PurpleAir sensor would be best for your situation.