GUIDE TO THE HWFS-1 ANEMOMETER

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Measuring wind speed is essential for weather stations, agricultural monitoring, HVAC automation, and safety systems. The HWFS-1 Anemometer is a cost-effective, analog-output wind speed sensor, ideal for both DIY and industrial environments. In this guide, you’ll learn everything about the voltage-type HWFS-1 — its principle, wiring, and how to use it effectively with microcontrollers.

What is the HWFS-1 Anemometer?

The HWFS-1 is a mechanical cup-style wind speed sensor with an integrated voltage generator. As the wind rotates the 3-cup rotor, the internal generator produces a voltage signal proportional to wind speed — no external power supply is required.

Key Features

  • Model: HWFS-1
  • Type: Analog cup-type anemometer
  • Output: Voltage (0–2V typical, max 4V)
  • Power: Passive (no external power needed)
  • Wiring: 2 wires (Signal + Ground)
  • Material: ABS plastic, weather-resistant
  • Max Wind Speed: 200 KM/h
  • Recommended Range: < 100 KM/h
  • Installation: Bolt-through base, 3 × 6mm holes at 120°

How It Works

When wind blows, the cups rotate and an internal electromagnetic generator produces a voltage. The output voltage increases linearly with wind speed:

  • 0V → no wind
  • 2V → ~100 KM/h
  • 4V (max) → ~200 KM/h (not recommended for continuous use)

HWFS-1 Wiring

WireFunction
BlackGND (Ground)
Black with StripeSignal (Voltage out, 0–2V typical)

Connect the signal wire to an ADC (Analog-to-Digital Converter) pin on your microcontroller (e.g., ESP32, Arduino) and the black wire to GND.

Note: There is no polarity, but consistency is best practice.

Using the HWFS-1 with a Microcontroller

Example Wiring (ESP32)

HWFS-1 WireESP32 Pin
Black with stripeGPIO 34 (ADC)
Solid blackGND

Sample Arduino Code (Analog Reading)

#define WIND_SENSOR_PIN 34

void setup() {
  Serial.begin(115200);
}

void loop() {
  int analogValue = analogRead(WIND_SENSOR_PIN); // 0–4095 on ESP32
  float voltage = analogValue * 3.3 / 4095.0;     // Convert to volts
  float windSpeedMS = voltage * 14.0;             // Wind speed in m/s
  float windSpeedKMH = voltage * 50.0;            // Wind speed in km/h

  Serial.print("Wind Speed: ");
  Serial.print(windSpeedMS);
  Serial.print(" m/s | ");
  Serial.print(windSpeedKMH);
  Serial.println(" km/h");

  delay(1000);
}

Calibration Formula

You can estimate wind speed directly using these formulas:

  • Wind speed (km/h) = Voltage (V) × 50
  • Wind speed (m/s) = Voltage (V) × 14

 Example: If the voltage is 0.5V, then:

  • Wind speed ≈ 25 km/h
  • Wind speed ≈ 7 m/s

Practical Applications

  • Weather Stations: Monitor outdoor wind conditions
  • HVAC Automation: Adjust systems based on outside airflow
  • Agriculture: Control irrigation and ventilation based on wind
  • Wind-Triggered Systems: LED beacons, safety alerts, etc.

Best Practices

  • Mount horizontally at an open, unobstructed location
  • Avoid metallic interference or lightning-prone spots
  • Use waterproof enclosures for electronics
  • Shield analog cable if longer than 3 meters
  • Use a stable analog reference voltage for accuracy

Conclusion: Wind Speed Made Simple

The voltage-type HWFS-1 Anemometer is a reliable, easy-to-use analog wind speed sensor ideal for embedded systems. Its passive design requires no power supply, and it integrates seamlessly with ADC-enabled microcontrollers like the ESP32 and Arduino. With linear voltage output and simple formulas, it’s a perfect sensor for anyone needing real-time wind data.

Happy Measuring!

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