[wxqc] FARS vs. non-FARS temperature readings

[Keith Miller]

> -----Original Message-----
> From: wxqc-bounces at lists.gladstonefamily.net
> [mailto:wxqc-bounces at lists.gladstonefamily.net]On Behalf Of
webmaster
> Sent: Thursday, April 10, 2008 10:32 PM
> To: wxqc at lists.gladstonefamily.net
> Subject: [wxqc] FARS vs. non-FARS temperature readings
>
>

> As far as FARS goes...it seems logical that on a sunny day a FARS
> unit would show a lower reading that a non-FARS unit, right?  So if
> my temperature is consistently cooler than non-FARS units around me,
> I would assume my temperature reading was more accurate than
> theirs.  If not, then I wasted money buying a FARS.  Therefore, if I
> am surrounded by non-FARS units and so all of them would show a
> higher temperature, then it is unfair to compare my temperature with
> units known to be hotter in the sun than a non-FARS unit.
>
> Did that explanation make more senses?
>

I think I already know what you where saying, just trying to help
you see beyond that. And no, I wouldn't say a FARS is a waste of
money. To do so one would also have to say a ASOS/AWOS is a waste
of money.

The important thing to keep in mind is that MADIS has absolutly
no idea what number they should be seeing. All they can do is
look at what is coming from various stations and derive something
that would seem to be correct. This goes to what I was getting at,
the analysis is great to spot problems, but it isn't the end all.
One needs to confirm their data is as best it can be, even if the
analysis doesn't agree. If you chase the analysis, you may well
just be supporting bad data.


Keith
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