5 NDBC Wx Buoy and CMAN Barometer Specifications.pdf

This document contains technical specifications for barometer procurement by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's National Data Buoy Center (NDBC). The NDBC seeks to purchase new barometers that meet current National Weather Service requirements while maintaining compatibility with existing data acquisition systems. The government currently uses the Druck Model DPS811G-TB-A2-CC-H0-PG- (750-1150mbar, 3ft cable), but will accept direct form/fit/function equivalents meeting the specified requirements.

The barometers must operate in the range of 800-1100 hPa with accuracy of 0.15 hPa across temperatures from -40°C to +85°C, resolution of 0.01 hPa, and long-term stability of 0.1 hPa per year. Operating temperature range for compensated sensors is -30°C to +50°C. Output must be RS-232 format in hPa units. Additional technical requirements include acceleration sensitivity less than 0.05 hPa/g, vibration testing per BS EN 60068-2-6 and BS EN 60068-2-64 standards, a 1/8" NPT male pressure port, 1-foot cable with flying leads for electrical connection, supply voltage of 9-15 VDC, and current draw below 50 mA. Physical constraints require sensor length of 5 inches maximum and diameter of 1 inch maximum to fit within the enclosure. Barometers must include current traceable calibration certificates and carry a 1-year warranty.