Sensor Tools
Environmental measurements using device sensors.
Overview
Sensor Tools leverage your device’s built-in sensors to measure environmental conditions. Results are approximate but useful for field characterization.
Aspect & Slope Meter
Measure terrain slope and aspect direction.
Features
- Slope angle (degrees)
- Aspect direction (N, S, E, W, etc.)
- Degree bearing
- Visual level indicator
How to Use
For Slope:
- Place device on surface (or along slope)
- Read angle in degrees
- Note: 0° = flat, 90° = vertical
For Aspect:
- Face directly downslope
- Hold device level
- Read compass bearing
- This is the aspect direction
Applications
- Habitat characterization
- Plot descriptions
- Microclimate assessment
- Erosion risk
Sound Level Meter
Measure ambient sound in decibels.
Features
- Current dB level
- Peak detection
- Average over time
- Visual meter
Calibration Note
Phone microphones aren’t calibrated instruments. Use for:
- Relative comparisons
- Noise disturbance assessment
- Approximate categorization
Reference Levels
| dB Level | Example |
|---|---|
| 30 dB | Quiet forest |
| 50 dB | Light traffic |
| 70 dB | Busy road |
| 90 dB | Heavy machinery |
Applications
- Ambient noise documentation
- Disturbance assessment
- Acoustic habitat quality
- Survey condition notes
Light Meter
Measure light intensity in lux.
Features
- Current lux reading
- Exposure guidance
- Light category
How to Use
- Open Light Meter tool
- Point camera at area of interest
- Shield from direct sun for ambient reading
- Record value
Reference Values
| Lux | Condition |
|---|---|
| 100 | Very dark overcast |
| 1,000 | Overcast day |
| 10,000 | Shade on sunny day |
| 50,000+ | Direct sunlight |
Applications
- Understory light levels
- Habitat characterization
- Photographic exposure
- Plant light requirements
Barometric Pressure Trend
Track atmospheric pressure changes.
Features
- Current pressure (hPa/mb)
- 3-hour trend
- Weather prediction
- Altitude correction
Weather Prediction
| Trend | Forecast |
|---|---|
| Rising rapidly | Improving weather |
| Rising slowly | Fair weather |
| Steady | No change |
| Falling slowly | Change coming |
| Falling rapidly | Storm approaching |
Applications
- Weather prediction
- Storm awareness
- Pressure-sensitive species behavior
- Climate documentation
Accuracy Notes
Device sensors provide approximate readings:
| Sensor | Typical Accuracy |
|---|---|
| Compass | ±5° with calibration |
| Inclinometer | ±1-2° |
| Light meter | ±20% (uncalibrated) |
| Barometer | ±1-2 hPa |
| Sound meter | ±3-5 dB |
For research requiring precise measurements, use calibrated instruments.
Related Documentation
- Essential Tools - GPS and weather
- Specialized Tools - Munsell colors, Beaufort scale
- Getting Started - Using tools in surveys