Software and equipment for increased efficiency of field rainfall simulation and associated laboratory analyses

Abstract

A computer-based system was developed to efficiently integrate data collection from a rainfall simulator and the subsequent analyses of samples in the laboratory. Innovations include a triple tipping-bucket to improve precision when measuring a wide range of runoff rates from the simulator, and an electronic `latch' to interface the tipping buckets to a computer. Oven-proof field sample bottles and an RS232 compatible balance have streamlined laboratory procedures and almost eliminated transcription errors. In the field, a computer functions as a real-time clock, a field notebook and a datalogger that produces hardcopy in tabular and graphical formats. In the laboratory, a computer reads the balance, collates field data, calculates results and saves the files in a spreadsheet-compatible format. The system was inexpensive to build as no proprietary data-capture hardware or software was used. All programs were written in the familiar Microsoft QuickBasic language.