Sensor normalization

Wildfire Sensors require time to stabilize depending on the type of activity it has encountered.

After gas scans - 30 to 60 minutes to stabilize

After a Wildfire Sensor runs internal gas scans to test air quality, the sensor needs approximately 30 to 60 minutes to be ready to detect fires (stabilze).

When the Wildfire Sensor's internal Bosch gas sensor detects VOCs, it performs a set of gas scans to determine the type of VOC. After these gas scans are complete, it begins to stabilize and return to normal values.

This stabilization period allows for the dissipation of any smoke retained inside the sensor mesh (a small pot with a mesh cover used by the gas sensor). Ideally, the longer the wait, the more time the smoke has to dissipate.

Data during stabilization

While the Wildfire Sensor is stabilizing, it does not provide any accurate or usable values.

After sensor interactions - 5 days to stabilize

Interactions cause the Wildfire Sensor to repeat of the calibration process, but not a complete 14-day recalibration. This type of recalibration takes at least 5 days.

This includes, but not exclusively, the following types of interactions:

• Touching the sensors, such as adjusting the angle of the sensor or attempting to pull it off the tree

• Moving the sensors to another tree or to another location on the tree

• Animals or humans breathing directly on the Wildfire Sensors.

• Exhaust from vehicles (especially diesel trucks).

• Bringing any source of VOC near the sensor such as cigarettes or fumes from running machinery.

Mounting the Wildfire Sensor at 3 meters height

Attaching the Wildfire Sensor to the tree or pole at least 3 m above the forest floor can prevent intentional or inadvertent interactions. If it is moved to a new location, it automatically runs the calibration process again (for 5 days).