My lightning detectors work great and are easy to use. You can see and hear lightning and other electromagnetic noise. How this device is used is up to you, my lightning detectors are intended as educational and recreational items. This lightning detector is not intended as a safety device.
The lightning detector you see in the photo is the one you will receive.
Detection range is up to about one hundred miles, probably much farther. The frequency that this detector uses is about 5kHz. At this frequency, lightning signals can travel thousands of miles. It is possible that you may detect some lightning strikes from hundreds of miles away using this detector with the sensitivity turned all the way up. When there is an electrical storm in the area, you will see a lot of activity with this detector with the sensitivity set at half. With some real life testing this summer I am finding that this is one of the more sensitive lightning detectors that I have made.
The lightning detector can be somewhat directional, side to side, when laying flat. You should be able to determine from what direction the signals are coming from by turning the detector, but be aware that signals are detected from two directions, so detentions may be coming from one side or the other, left or right. You may need to turn the sensitivity down to do this effectively. When held or placed upright, the detection pattern is omnidirectional and sensitivity is a bit lower.
Your lightning detector will also pick up electrical noise, even with the sensitivity turned down a bit. This will include motors starting such as your refrigerator or air conditioner when the motor starts, lights turned on or off, anything that makes a spark. Many light dimmers cause interference to this detector. Cell phones held close to the lightning detector will cause it to flash. Even petting your cat near the device on a dry day may be detected! This lightning detector can be used indoors, especially if the sensitivity is turned down a bit, but it is best used outdoors, away from electrical interference.
Almost any 9 volt battery will work to power this lightning detector. A rechargeable lithium battery works great. A standard alkaline battery is included.
Listed as New, Open Box as there is no box. You will be the first owner and user other than me, the person who made and is selling the detector.
A full page of instructions and tips is included, as is a schematic diagram of the electronics.
No returns unless the device arrives defective or is not as shown in the photos. I will repair faulty devices if they are sent back to me (has never happened), contact information is included. Repair may be free, or at a cost to the owner, depending on how long you have owned the device and if I think the issue is a faulty device or misuse. My opinion of the condition or cause of failure is final.
