Deploying a Wireless Sensor Network on an Active Volcano

ABSTRACT

Augmenting heavy and power-hungry data collection equipment with lighter, smallerwireless sensor network nodes leads to faster, larger deployments. Arrays comprising dozens of wireless sensor nodes are now possible, allowing scientific studies that arent feasible with traditional instrumentation. Designing sensor networks to support volcanic studies requires addressing the high data rates and high data fidelity these studies demand. The authors sensor-network application for volcanic data collection relies on triggered event detection and reliable data retrieval to meet bandwidth and data-quality demands.

Introduction

Todays typical volcanic data-collection station consists of a group of bulky, heavy, power-hungry components that are difficult to move and require car batteries for power. Remotedeployments often require vehicle or helicopter assistance for equipment installation and maintenance. Local storage is also a limiting factor stations typically log data to a Compact Flash card or hard drive, which researchers must periodically retrieve, requiring them to regularly return to each station.

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Deploying a Wireless Sensor Network on an Active Volcano