VPF-730 Visibility & Present Weather Sensor
Description
Overview
The VPF-730 is an advanced visibility and present weather sensor from Biral (Senseca UK), combining forward scatter visibility measurement with a backscatter receiver to provide highly accurate detection of precipitation type and intensity. It reports visibility and up to 39 WMO present weather codes, making it suitable for the most demanding meteorological and aviation applications.
Key Features
- Combined forward and backscatter measurement for enhanced present weather discrimination
- Reports 39 WMO Table 4680 present weather codes
- Distinguishes between rain, drizzle, snow, mixed precipitation, fog, and more
- Integrated precipitation intensity measurement
- Heated optics for reliable performance in icing conditions
- IP66/IP67 weatherproof enclosure
- 3-year warranty
Applications
- Civil and military aviation (MET REPORT / SPECI generation)
- Automatic Weather Stations (AWS)
- Road weather monitoring
- Harbour, port, and marine weather
- Rail network visibility and safety systems
- Research and reference meteorology
Why Choose the VPF-730?
The VPF-730 builds on Biral’s proven VPF sensor heritage, adding a backscatter channel to improve discrimination between precipitation types. This makes it ideal for aviation authorities and meteorological services that require unambiguous present weather reporting. Its robust construction and heated optics ensure reliable year-round operation in extreme climates.
For detailed specifications, documentation, and ordering, please contact us or visit the manufacturer’s product page.
| Measurement | |
|---|---|
| Measurement | Visibility, MOR, EXCO and TEXCO; Present weather. 15 WMO Table 4680 Codes; Precipitation intensity and accumulated amount |
| Measurement Principle | Forward scatter 45° |
| Measurement Error | 2% at 2,000m |
| Outputs | |
| Output | RS232, Optional RS422/RS485 |
| Power Requirements | |
| Sensor Power | 12 V DC, 24V DC, 120 V AC or 240 V AC (6W Approx) |
| Hood Heating Power | 45W |
| Window heating and contamination monitoring | Fitted |
| Environmental | |
| Operating Temperature | -50°C to 60°C |
| Operating Humidity | 0 – 100% RH |
| Protection rating | IP66 |
| Weight (Sensor Head) | 5.6kg DC: 6.8kg AC |
Datasheets
- VPF-730 Datasheet
- VPF Series: Calibrator Datasheet
- VPF Series: Transient Voltage Protection
- Addition of a 'TEST' command to the Visibility and Present Weather Sensors
- VPF Series: Test Plaques Datasheet
- Present Weather Sensors Country Code List
Manuals
Publications & White Papers
- The effects of surface reflections and extraneous light on forward scatter sensors
- Cat III RVR System at Newcastle Airport
- Mounting of Biral VPF and SWS Series Visibility & Present Weather Sensors on Wind Turbines
- Wind Energy Meteorological Sensors Brochure
- Transport Meteorological Sensors Brochure
- Aviation Meteorological Sensors Brochure







