Review: The Boltek LD-350 Lightning Detector Part 2 Of 2

I've always been fascinated by lightning detectors. Building lightning detectors from circuit boards, and from kits has been a perennial hobby of mine for many years.

I've also looked into the software apps which are available, to run with some of these (advanced) systems. Based on proximity, strike intensity, or predetermined safety thresholds. 

LD-350 Front View (stock photo)

The LD-350 - Data Connectivity and Storage:

Seamless data connectivity and storage are essential for long-term analysis and recordkeeping. I investigated the Boltek Lightning Detection System's data connectivity options, such as Ethernet, Wi-Fi, and/or cellular network connectivity. I looked into the compatibility with cloud-based storage server integration. It's an option which ensures reliable and secure storage of lightning data. 

LD-350 Back View (stock photo)

The Boltek Lightning Detection Systems are an investment in safety and risk management. In evaluating the overall value for money, considering the system's features, accuracy, and durability: Choosing an LD-250 or LD-350 simply translates into a good decision for obtaining a valuable device.

The units are available at very affordable costs, making them an easy choice. When looking into higher-end systems, you quickly appreciate and understand its competitive advantage (The LD-350, for instance).

Typical Set-up / Stock image

The system is very easy to use. I set it up, in it's (semi-permanent) location, after a long day... I was very tired, but still had no trouble at all setting it up. I used the quick Start Guide; and later cross referenced everything using the main User Manual.

Excellent performance was the result!

when set-up near The Adirondack Mountains 

Lake Luzerne, New York

This lightning detection system would be very well-suited for a large number of installations and uses.

The process of set-up and use is very easy to begin with. Eventually, the end user can become more familiar with the myriad of functions and features, via the User Manual, as time allows.

I found the unit to be very accurate. Especially when used at higher elevations. The main unit itself, is very light and compact. It has 4 rubber feet attached, to protect the surface it's placed on.

Pros:

• Provides Professional (weather-channel-level) performance, at very affordable (hobbyist-level) price.
• Super-easy to set-up and use (easy start-up / operation).
• Level of features (complexity) which may be enabled limited only by the user's desire to become familiar with the system.
• Possesses a great level of expandability. 

Cons:

• Accuracy and performance increases with how high your location is above sea level.

Happy lightning detecting!

First Post - Introduction

I am very excited to be writing my first post, on this brand-new blog! Right from the start, this blog is a little chaotic - Just like lightning itself - And maybe there's nothing wrong with that?
I state this, because although the main subject of this new blog will be Lightning Detectors - I want to include subjects & hobbies which (I believe) are closely related:

• LF (low frequency) DXing / Listening to longwave (including Non-Directional [Aero] Beacons).
• Electronics, Kit building/homemade circuits
• Taking a closer look at semiconductors/components (which are often fascinating in their own right).

I first became interested in lighting radar & detectors back in 2008. When I had the opportunity to get involved with this system, right around the time the experts first developed it. Note: 2008 was quite a while back, and it appears that the project was eventually abandoned:

Frank Kooiman's Lightning Radar 

I immediately ordered the two custom PCBs. However, not long after buying some of the parts, I became convinced that I probably had too much electrical noise here - And the system would register too many false positives 😢

This seemed to be the case even when testing out a simple $20 kit I built. I ended up giving the completed kit away, to someone who lived in a more rural suburb.

However, I've since decided to make it my mission, to prove that lightning detectors can

be used in a semi-urban environment. My ultimate goal, is to get one of these amazing systems to work properly:

Blitzortung

In the meantime, I've been keeping busy collecting links & Info on (relatively easy) DIY detectors to build... 

Recently, while searching around for another $20-type kit, I stumbled across this one - The builder used the plans from a DIY project as a guide, and built this masterpiece:

Celtic Cross Engineering 

Eventually, I plan to try building one of those elaborate versions myself... Although, I'm not very confident about the outcome 📐

Last, but not least - Here is the page which has inspired me a great deal recently:

TECHLIB

The above link is a must-see! It's excellent - and it is what prompted me to create this blog.

I'll be building the circuit featured on the TechLib site - I did not have many of the needed components in my parts bags (except for the resistors). But, was able to locate the rest of the parts on eBay. ...Just waiting for them to arrive.

I already have a couple of small projects here, that I've been wanting to build.

More to follow!