SunUVStation^TM: Background Information About the UV Index

The SunUVStation displays a number called the "UV Index." The UV Index is a standardized scale indicating the intensity of the sun's UV radiation that affects human skin. (UV can also damage eyes) The UV intensity varies from one place to another, and in the same location it varies throughout the day and as the seasons change. The variations are caused by the sun's changing position in the sky, clouds, the altitude, and other factors, so each location has its own range of UV index values from dawn to sundown. The UV Index is used in the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and many other countries by agencies such as the US Environmental Protection Agency and Environment Canada.

The higher the UV Index, the more care you should take when working, playing or exercising outdoors. For most places on Earth the Index will read between 1 and 15, but some high altitude places such as the Mauna Loa Observatory in Hawaii have measured a UV Index of 20. The UV Index can make a large difference in the amount of time you can spend in the sun before sunburn. For example, if you are very fair skinned and are
not using sunscreen or wearing protective clothing, you could spend an hour or more in the sun without sunburn on a low UV index day (1 to 2), but have less than 10 minutes before sunburn on a day with a UV Index of 10. The UV Index stated in newspapers and broadcast media weather reports in the USA is a forecast from the National Weather Service of the highest reading for the day for a general area. The SunUVStation
provides a continuous actual measurement of the UV Index for the specific location it is in. In addition to the numbers, UV Index ranges are described in categories and with colors:

Protecting Skin from Too Much UV

The amount of UV that skin can tolerate before it burns varies greatly from one person to another. But even if it were possible to stop UV exposure just short of sunburn, this is not advised. Tanned skin is considered damaged and tanning is the skin's attempt to prevent further damage. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that any time the UV Index is greater than 2 you should take precautions to limit sun exposure with sunblock, a hat and shirt, and limit time in the sun as the index moves to higher values. The WHO has established general guidelines for protective measures and sun avoidance based on the UV Index. These are shown in the chart below.

The US EPA's site for the "Sunwise" UV awareness program:
http://www.epa.gov/sunwise/

The World Health Organization site: 
http://www.who.int/uv/en/

A color pamphlet from WHO on the UV Index:
http://www.who.int/uv/publications/en/GlobalUVI.pdf

Directions Of Use:

Set Up
Batteries

3 AA batteries are required to power the SunUVStation Remove the two screws in the battery compartment cover. Place the batteries in the compartment in the orientation shown in the graphic. Install the batteries in the shade so the unit does not inadvertently recalibrate. CAUTION: be sure that the +/- orientation is correct. If the batteries are placed in the unit incorrectly it may be damaged. After the batteries are inserted, the pointer in the unit will move all the way to the right and then all the way to the left (0 UV). If there is UV present, it will then move to the correct UV Index. Replace the battery compartment cover. Snug the screws but do not overtighten. CAUTION: Do not damage the seal around the battery compartment cover to insure that water cannot enter.

Using the SunUVStation

The SunUVStation should be used in an outdoor sunny location, either placed on its stand, hung by a nail or screw mounted in a post or fence, or attached to fence, pole or other structure using the nylon strap. The unit is designed to be splash, rain and snow resistant so it can be used near a pool or on a dock or boat.

The ideal location for the unit is free of shade during all or most of the day. Mounting it on the outside wall of a house or at a low point on a solid fence could significantly limit its ability to measure the UV during much of the day. Do not use the unit indoors next to a window or under a skylight, or with any other transparent material between the detector area and the sunlight. Window glass, plexiglass, automobile glass, plastic sheet and many other transparent materials can block UV and make the measurement inaccurate. When it is mounted, it is important that the circular white detector area on the top of the instrument be pointed straight up so that the measurements will be correct for any position of the sun. The white circular detector area must be kept clean for accurate readings (see below - Maintaining the SunUVStation.) Keep this in mind when selecting a location. If it is difficult to access -- for example, located in a very high position -- it will be difficult to check the cleanliness of the detector area and clean it if necessary. Also, consider if the location will place the unit in the path of sports balls or other objects that may strike it and cause damage.

Using the Stand

Insert the stand into the holes in the bottom of the unit by pressing the two legs slightly outwards. Push the stand in until it stops. The unit can be placed on any level surface in a location that is exposed to the sun as much of the day as possible. If it is extremely windy, you may wish to place a weight on the stand.

Using a Hanger

The SunUVStation can be hung from the keyhole-shaped slot in the back using a screw, nail or hook of the appropriate size. The unit should rest against the structure holding the hanger so that it does not sway or rotate excessively in the wind. Be sure to locate the white circular detector area so that it is level and exposed to the sun as much of the day as possible.

Using the Nylon Strap and Buckle

The SunUVStation can be attached to a pole, fence or other structure using the nylon strap and buckle  Feed the strap through the two slots in the back of the unit When strapping to an object, snug the strap so that it is firm. CAUTION: do not apply excessive force tightening the strap. Be sure to locate the white circular detector area so that it is level and exposed to the sun as much of the day as possible.

Maintenance

Battery Replacement

• The SunUVStation is designed for a one year battery life. It is recommended that the batteries be replaced once a year even if the unit is still operating to insure continuous operation
• The unit will not operate when the batteries are low. If the needle does not move during a period of sun exposure, replace the batteries. If you suspect the batteries are low and the unit is not responding, block the sunlight with your hand placed a short distance above the white detector area. The needle should move down if the batteries have sufficient charge. Replace the batteries in the shade so that the unit does not inadvertently recalibrate.

Keep the Detector Area Clean

• To maintain accuracy, it is important to keep the white circular detector area clean of dust, debris and water film. Wipe it gently with a soft cloth to remove debris. Water or common household cleaners such as window cleaner may also be used.
• CAUTION: the white circular window of the detector area is delicate. Clean it with care, do not press hard. Avoid contact with sharp or heavy objects that may damage it.

Important Safety Precautions

Solartech does not warrant or represent that use of the SunUVStationT and the "UV Protection Guidelines" chart included with the product will prevent sunburn, wrinkles, skin cancer, cataracts, immune suppression or any other risks associated with UV radiation exposure. Many factors can contribute to an individual's response to UV and the total UV to which they are exposed, including his/her skin type, use of sunscreen, use of certain medications, ingestion of alcohol, variable weather conditions, reflected UV, extreme temperature and/or humidity, and other factors, known and unknown. The SunUVStation is a monitoring device which, when used in conjunction with good judgment and appropriate protective measures, may lower the probability of harm from ultraviolet (UV) exposure. Solartech shall have no liability to any purchaser or user of this product except for liability to replace or repair the product in the event of malfunction in accordance with Solar Meter's limited product warranty. This product is designed to measure only solar radiation, and should not be used for monitoring UV from artificial sources.

User's Manual

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