Kestrel 5500 Weather Meter with Link and Vane Mount, Olive Drab
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Hello, all you need to do is download the Link model to use with our free app. Only connect to a computer with the dongle. I hope this information is useful.
The operational temperature range, according to Kestrel, is 14 to 131 degrees Fahrenheit.
This can be accomplished in two ways. You can simply leave the unit logged overnight, then upload the data and look at the temperatures, though the min/max/avg will need to be calculated in Excel. You can also use the Kestrel while using the min/max/avg screen. This is a manual start and stop function that displays the minimum, maximum, and average on the screen.
It keeps data logs when it's turned on, and I was surprised to learn that it also records information when it's turned off. I haven't used this in a while, so I'm not sure which specific things record when the unit is turned off, but if you configure your home screen to show those parameters, the unit will show what you ask it to as long as it is powered up. You can also save all of the recorded data to your computer and then use a spreadsheet to keep track of the specific information you need. For long-range shooting, I use this unit with a lab radar. We could compare the shot data from the radar to the kestrel after a day at the range and determine the temperature, humidity, density altitude, wind speed, and wind direction. This is a fantastic device.
Selected User Reviews For Kestrel 5500 Weather Meter with Link and Vane Mount, Olive Drab
This will come in handy when we're out in the field on Search and Rescue missions or when we need to call in rescue helicopters. The meter has a lot of features that aren't necessary in these situations, but they're all useful because you never know what you'll need next time. It appears to pair quickly with my Note 7 and the Kestrel app, which is available for free download. The app appears to be lacking in features, but I'm not sure how useful it would be if you're constantly using the meter. br>br>The meter comes with a weather vane attachment that allows you to mount it to a 1/4-inch diameter pole. As if on a camera tripod, there are 20 threads. This is a useful addition for "longer-term" use, such as when you're stationed at a checkpoint and need to relay weather data on a regular basis. You could set up a tripod, attach the meter to it, connect it to your phone, and then use the app to record weather data as needed. It will also give you an accurate wind direction and speed that is not influenced by your body as you hold the meter. I'm glad I bought it! br>br>.
I'm a weather nerd who enjoys tracking weather patterns, and the Kestrel 5500 provides me with all of the information I could possibly need in a small, portable package. Backpacking and mobile applications are made easy with the included vane and travel pouch. The Kestrel iPhone software is terrible; the GUI is a joke and virtually unusable on the iPhone; on the iPad, the vertical orientation necessitates removing the iPad from my keyboard / stand; and the bluetooth connection eats batteries (lithium) and frequently disconnects from the iPhone. If I had to buy it again, I would avoid the Link version to save myself time and money. Overall, this is a good, solid product that is well-made and appears to be field-ready. After turning off Bluetooth, I was pleasantly surprised by the device's operation and features, as well as its battery life. I deducted one star because I was dissatisfied with the remote display capability and app. Additionally, if you purchase the kit with the vane, there is no need to purchase the useless tripod clamp that Kestrel sells. Although the 5500 is not securely held by the clamp, the cradle portion of the vane can be mounted on a tripod without any modifications.
This meter is quite nice. The wind meter is extremely sensitive, and it registers speeds of less than one mile per hour. I like how the screens can be customized by the user, and all of the readings appear to be accurate when compared to other good meters. The only criticism I have is that it only comes with a quick start guide and there are no other instructions anywhere. I'm still figuring out how to use the crosswind feature and what some of the options are. As a result, instead of five stars, I've given it four. If they just gave a set of detailed instructions or put them on the internet, that would be great.
On the second day, the lanyard snapped. I contacted the manufacturer directly and received the incorrect part; I contacted them again and was ignored. Aside from that, it's a good device, but I think it's a little overpriced. After using the wireless option, I can honestly say that I don't need it. It will cost you a few hundred dollars more to have it calibrated with NIST certs, but it is possible.
The unit appears to be well built and has a lot of features; however, there are so many features that they aren't well documented, making it difficult to get the most out of the unit. The save current conditions button, for example, appears to be a good idea, but I can't seem to find any information on how to retrieve it. It's simple to create tutorial videos on how to operate complicated menus in today's world, so kestrel, step up to the plate!.
Instructions aren't the best, and it's difficult to get the most out of it. It works flawlessly; however, I'm having trouble figuring out how to use all of the features and properly configure it.
The only issue is that when the winds are calm, the air temperature reading takes a long time to adjust, especially if you take the device outside from a warm house. The temperature will adjust more quickly if you point the thermistor into the wind.
Although it appears to be in good condition, it has been used. So far, there have been no issues. I'll report back later this week on how it compares to the other kestrels at the range.
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