Instruction Manual
CS106 Barometric Pressure Sensor 
8.5  Correcting Pressure to Sea Level 
The weather service, most airports, radio stations, and television stations adjust 
the atmospheric pressure to a common reference (sea level). Equation 3 can be 
used to find the difference in pressure between the sea level and the site. That 
value (dP) is then added to the offset (500 mb in our example programs) in the 
measurement instruction. U. S. Standard Atmosphere and dry air were 
assumed when Equation 3 was derived (Wallace, J. M. and P. V. Hobbes, 
1977: Atmospheric Science: An Introductory Survey, Academic Press,  
pp. 59-61). 
dP
E
= − −
1013 25 1
1
44307
69231
5.25328
.
.
  (3) 
The value dP is in millibars and the site elevation, E, is in meters. Add dP 
value to the offset in the measurement instruction. 
Use Equation 4 to convert feet to meters. 
E m
E ft
ft m
( )
( )
.
=
3 281
  (4) 
The corrections involved can be significant: e.g., at 1000 mb and 20 °C, 
barometric pressure will decrease by 1.1 mb for every 10 meter increase in 
altitude. 
9.  Maintenance and Calibration 
Since the sensor is semi-sealed, minimum maintenance is required: 
1.  Visually inspect the cable connection to ensure it is clean and dry. 
2.  Visually inspect the casing for damage. 
3.  Ensure that the pneumatic connection and pipe are secure and undamaged. 
The external case can be cleaned with a damp, lint-free cloth and a mild 
detergent solution. 
Vaisala recommends recalibration every two years under normal use. In areas 
where a lot of contaminants are present, recalibration every year is 
recommended. 
Contact Campbell Scientific, Inc. ((435) 227-9000) for an RMA number before 
returning the sensor for recalibration.  
Should you lose the five terminal connector (pn 16004), the replacement part 
can be purchased from Campbell Scientific, Inc. Contact Campbell Scientific, 
Inc. to purchase the part. 
The CS106 is sensitive to static when the backplate is 
removed. To avoid damage, take adequate anti-static 
measures when handling. 
CAUTION 
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