015arm cm225 cm255 cm255ls
015arm cm225 cm255 cm255ls
Solar Radiation
Sensor Mounts
Revision: 03/2025
Copyright © 2016 – 2025
Campbell Scientific, Inc.
Please read first
About this manual
Please note that this manual was produced by Campbell Scientific Inc. primarily for the North
American market. Some spellings, weights and measures may reflect this. In addition, while most
of the information in the manual is correct for all countries, certain information is specific to the
North American market and so may not be applicable to European users. Differences include the
U.S. standard external power supply details where some information (for example the AC
transformer input voltage) will not be applicable for British/European use. Please note, however,
that when a power supply adapter is ordered from Campbell Scientific it will be suitable for use in
your country.
Reference to some radio transmitters, digital cell phones and aerials (antennas) may also not be
applicable according to your locality. Some brackets, shields and enclosure options, including
wiring, are not sold as standard items in the European market; in some cases alternatives are
offered.
2. Precautions 2
3. Initial inspection 2
4. Overview 3
5. Specifications 4
7. Maintenance 14
Table of Contents - i
1. Introduction
The CM225, CM255, CM256, CM261, CM266, CM268, and CM275 solar radiation sensor mounts
(Figure 1-1 [p. 2]) are designed for installation on a mast, crossarm, or pole. The top plate features
mounting holes that accommodate a wide variety of sensors.
The CM256, CM261, and CM275 offer multiple mounting plate options, allowing compatibility
with numerous sensors. Additionally, the CM261 includes three torque tube mounting options.
The CM256, CM266, CM268, and CM275 have an optional Small Plastic Plate (-SPP), which is
identical to the Small Plate (-SP) but made of durable plastic instead of aluminum. This option is
recommended when sensor manufacturers specify isolating the sensor from metal framework
components.
Mount features:
l The CM225 can be mounted horizontally on a crossarm or vertically on a mast or pole
while maintaining a level mounting plate.
l The CM226 mounts on a mast, crossarm, or pole up to 5 cm (2 in) in diameter. It includes a
leveling base required for smaller sensors, such as the Apogee CS301.
l The CM255 and CM256 support both horizontal and vertical mounting with a 90°
adjustment for positioning at different angles (Figure 4-1 [p. 3]). They attach to round
tubing, such as a tripod upright or crossarm.
l The CM261 is designed specifically for securing a pyranometer to an ATI or NexTracker
torque tube but can also be used with any 12.7 cm (5 in) diameter tube.
l The CM266 mounts in a Unistrut channel and can be installed horizontally or vertically.
l The CM268 attaches directly to the edge of a solar panel, aligning the solar radiation
sensor with the panel’s orientation.
l The CM275 is a universal solar albedo mounting stand for installing any combination of
downwelling/upwelling pyranometer, ventilation unit, reference cell, or spectral
radiometer.
2. Precautions
l READ AND UNDERSTAND the Safety (p. 18) section at the back of this manual.
l
WARNING:
Ensure the mounting bracket is securely fastened during setup and weather extremes
to minimize the chance of damaging the instruments. Read all instructions carefully.
3. Initial inspection
l Upon receiving the solar radiation sensor mount, inspect the packaging and contents for
damage. Claims for shipping damage must be filed with the shipping company.
l Locate the packing slip for the order and compare the items listed on the packing slip to
the items that were actually shipped. Report any discrepancies to Campbell Scientific.
Consists of a simple
CM202, CM202SS,
stainless steel bent sheet
CS3002, LI200X2, CM203, CM204,
CM225 metal bracket and U-bolt.
LI200S2, LI190R2, CM204SS, or CM206
Dimensions are
Solar Sensor LI190SB2, CMP3, CMP63, crossarm, mast, or
8.9 x 11.3 x 6.4 cm
Mounting Stand CMP113, CMP213, LP02, user-supplied pipe
(3.5 x 4.5 x 2.5 in),
SP-LITE, PQS1 with 2.5 to 5.1 cm
and weight is
(1.0 to 2.0 in) OD
0.34 kg (0.75 lb).
–SP option:
MS-40/60/80,
MS-40M/60M/80M,
SR30, SR05, SR11, SR15,
Includes leveling screws SR20-T2, SR20-D2,
that allow leveling in a SP Lite 2,
horizontal position and CMP3/6/10/11/21/22,
CM202, CM202SS,
then pivoting or tilting to SMP3/6/10/11/21/22,
CM256 CM203, CM204,
the correct azimuth. Base CGR3/4, SGR3/4, SPN1,
Adjustable CM204SS, or CM206
dimensions are and Si-01TC Reference
Plane and Angle crossarm, mast, or
15.2 x 12.0 x 11.4 cm Cell (CS325DM).
Solar Mounting user-supplied pipe
(6.0 x 4.7 x 4.5 in), –LP option:
Stand with a 3.4 to 4.2 cm
and weight is SPN1, PSP, GPP, SPP, and (1.3 to 1.7 in) OD
0.7 kg (1.5 lb). Si-01TC Reference Cell
Four mounting plate (CS325DM).
options are available.
–VN option:
VU01 and MV-01.
–CV option:
CVF4
–SP option:
MS-40/60/80,
MS-40M/60M/80M,
SR30, SR05, SR11, SR15,
SR20-T2, SR20-D2,
Choose from ATI,
SP Lite 2,
CM261 NexTracker, or generic
CMP3/6/10/11/21/22,
Single-Axis torque tube options when
SMP3/6/10/11/21/22,
Tracker ordering.
CGR3/4, SGR3/4, SPN1, ATI or NEXTracker
Mounting Stand Dimensions are
and Si-01TC Reference torque tube, or any
for Octagonal, 15.2 x 15.2 x 20.3 cm
Cell (CS325DM). 12.7 cm (5.0 in)
Round, and (6.0 x 6.0 x 8.0 in),
–LP option: diameter tube
Square Single- and weight is
3.6 kg (8.0 lb) SPN1, PSP, GPP, SPP, and
Axis Torque
Four mounting plate Si-01TC Reference Cell
Tubes
options are available. (CS325DM).
–VN option:
VU01 and MV-01.
–CV option:
CVF4
–SP option:
MS-40/60/80,
Universal solar albedo
MS-40M/60M/80M,
mounting stand to mount
SR30, SR05, SR11, SR15,
any
SR20-T2, SR20-D2,
downwelling/upwelling
SP Lite 2,
combination of CM202, CM202SS,
CMP3/6/10/11/21/22,
pyranometer, ventilation CM203, CM204,
SMP3/6/10/11/21/22,
CM275 unit, reference cell, or CM204SS, or CM206
CGR3/4, and SGR3/4.
Albedometer spectral radiometer. crossarm, mast, or
Dimensions are –LP option: user-supplied pipe
Mounting Kit
14.0 x 12.0 x 18.3 cm SPN1, PSP, GPP, SPP, and with a 3.3 cm
(5.5 x 4.7 x 7.2 in), Si-01TC Reference Cell (1.3 in) OD
and weight is (CS325DM).
0.7 kg (1.5 lb). –VN option:
Four mounting plate VU01 and MV-01.
options are available.
–CV option:
CVF4
1 Retired sensors may also be compatible. Contact Campbell Scientific for more information.
2 A leveling base is required to mount the CS300, LI200X, LI200S, LI190R, or LI190SB.
3 Assumes the CMP6, CMP11, and CMP21 are not housed in the CVF4 Heater/Ventilation Unit.
Compliance
CM225: View Compliance and Conformity listings at: www.campbellsci.com/cm225-solar-
mount
CM256: View Compliance and Conformity listings at: www.campbellsci.com/cm256
CM261: View Compliance and Conformity listings at: www.campbellsci.com/cm261
If this is not possible, try to choose a site where any obstruction over the azimuth range between
earliest sunrise and latest sunset has an elevation not exceeding 5°. Diffuse solar radiation is less
influenced by obstructions near the horizon. For instance, an obstruction with an elevation of 5°
over the whole azimuth range of 360° decreases the downward diffuse solar radiation by only
0.8%. The sensor should be mounted with the cable pointing towards the nearest magnetic pole.
For example, in the Northern Hemisphere, point the cable toward the North Pole.
6.2 Installation
1. On a level surface, level the solar radiation sensor using the leveling feet on the sensor.
Alternatively, remove the sensor leveling feet to allow it to be mounted directly to the
mounting bracket. Smaller sensors, such as the CS301, do not have leveling feet and must
be mounted directly to a leveling base.
3. Using a diopter in combination with a solar compass, install and orient the crossarm on the
tripod or the mast. If installing the mounting bracket on a vertical pole, ensure the pole is
truly vertical.
9. Verify all mounting hardware is firmly tightened, and that the mounting bracket is at the
desired angle. The CM226, CM256, CM261, CM266, CM268, and CM275 include leveling
bolts for additional adjustment of the pyranometer level.
7. Maintenance
Periodically (at least yearly) check for wear and damage and take necessary corrective actions.
Ensure all bolts are securely tightened.
NOTE:
All goods that cross trade boundaries may be subject to some form of fee (customs
clearance, duties or import tax). Also, some regional offices require a purchase order upfront
if a product is out of the warranty period. Please contact your regional Campbell Scientific
office for details.
Safety
DANGER — MANY HAZARDS ARE ASSOCIATED WITH INSTALLING, USING, MAINTAINING, AND WORKING ON OR AROUND TRIPODS,
TOWERS, AND ANY ATTACHMENTS TO TRIPODS AND TOWERS SUCH AS SENSORS, CROSSARMS, ENCLOSURES, ANTENNAS, ETC.
FAILURE TO PROPERLY AND COMPLETELY ASSEMBLE, INSTALL, OPERATE, USE, AND MAINTAIN TRIPODS, TOWERS, AND
ATTACHMENTS, AND FAILURE TO HEED WARNINGS, INCREASES THE RISK OF DEATH, ACCIDENT, SERIOUS INJURY, PROPERTY
DAMAGE, AND PRODUCT FAILURE. TAKE ALL REASONABLE PRECAUTIONS TO AVOID THESE HAZARDS. CHECK WITH YOUR
ORGANIZATION'S SAFETY COORDINATOR (OR POLICY) FOR PROCEDURES AND REQUIRED PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT PRIOR TO
PERFORMING ANY WORK.
Use tripods, towers, and attachments to tripods and towers only for purposes for which they are designed. Do not exceed design limits.
Be familiar and comply with all instructions provided in product manuals. Manuals are available at www.campbellsci.com You are
responsible for conformance with governing codes and regulations, including safety regulations, and the integrity and location of
structures or land to which towers, tripods, and any attachments are attached. Installation sites should be evaluated and approved by a
qualified engineer. If questions or concerns arise regarding installation, use, or maintenance of tripods, towers, attachments, or electrical
connections, consult with a licensed and qualified engineer or electrician.
General
l Protect from over-voltage.
l Protect electrical equipment from water.
l Protect from electrostatic discharge (ESD).
l Protect from lightning.
l Prior to performing site or installation work, obtain required approvals and permits. Comply with all governing structure-height
regulations, such as those of the FAA in the USA.
l Use only qualified personnel for installation, use, and maintenance of tripods and towers, and any attachments to tripods and
towers. The use of licensed and qualified contractors is highly recommended.
l Read all applicable instructions carefully and understand procedures thoroughly before beginning work.
l Wear a hardhat and eye protection, and take other appropriate safety precautions while working on or around tripods and
towers.
l Do not climb tripods or towers at any time, and prohibit climbing by other persons. Take reasonable precautions to secure tripod
and tower sites from trespassers.
l Use only manufacturer recommended parts, materials, and tools.
Utility and Electrical
l You can be killed or sustain serious bodily injury if the tripod, tower, or attachments you are installing, constructing, using, or
maintaining, or a tool, stake, or anchor, come in contact with overhead or underground utility lines.
l Maintain a distance of at least one-and-one-half times structure height, 6 meters (20 feet), or the distance required by applicable
law, whichever is greater, between overhead utility lines and the structure (tripod, tower, attachments, or tools).
l Prior to performing site or installation work, inform all utility companies and have all underground utilities marked.
l Comply with all electrical codes. Electrical equipment and related grounding devices should be installed by a licensed and
qualified electrician.
l Only use power sources approved for use in the country of installation to power Campbell Scientific devices.
Elevated Work and Weather
l Exercise extreme caution when performing elevated work.
l Use appropriate equipment and safety practices.
l During installation and maintenance, keep tower and tripod sites clear of un-trained or non-essential personnel. Take
precautions to prevent elevated tools and objects from dropping.
l Do not perform any work in inclement weather, including wind, rain, snow, lightning, etc.
Internal Battery
l Be aware of fire, explosion, and severe-burn hazards.
l Misuse or improper installation of the internal lithium battery can cause severe injury.
l Do not recharge, disassemble, heat above 100 °C (212 °F), solder directly to the cell, incinerate, or expose contents to
water. Dispose of spent batteries properly.
Use and disposal of batteries
l Where batteries need to be transported to the installation site, ensure they are packed to prevent the battery terminals shorting
which could cause a fire or explosion. Especially in the case of lithium batteries, ensure they are packed and transported in a way
that complies with local shipping regulations and the safety requirements of the carriers involved.
l When installing the batteries follow the installation instructions very carefully. This is to avoid risk of damage to the equipment
caused by installing the wrong type of battery or reverse connections.
l When disposing of used batteries, it is still important to avoid the risk of shorting. Do not dispose of the batteries in a fire as there
is risk of explosion and leakage of harmful chemicals into the environment. Batteries should be disposed of at registered
recycling facilities.
Avoiding unnecessary exposure to radio transmitter radiation
l Where the equipment includes a radio transmitter, precautions should be taken to avoid unnecessary exposure to radiation from
the antenna. The degree of caution required varies with the power of the transmitter, but as a rule it is best to avoid getting
closer to the antenna than 20 cm (8 inches) when the antenna is active. In particular keep your head away from the antenna. For
higher power radios (in excess of 1 W ERP) turn the radio off when servicing the system, unless the antenna is installed away from
the station, e.g. it is mounted above the system on an arm or pole.
Maintenance
l Periodically (at least yearly) check for wear and damage, including corrosion, stress cracks, frayed cables, loose cable clamps,
cable tightness, etc. and take necessary corrective actions.
l Periodically (at least yearly) check electrical ground connections.
WHILE EVERY ATTEMPT IS MADE TO EMBODY THE HIGHEST DEGREE OF SAFETY IN ALL CAMPBELL SCIENTIFIC PRODUCTS, THE
CUSTOMER ASSUMES ALL RISK FROM ANY INJURY RESULTING FROM IMPROPER INSTALLATION, USE, OR MAINTENANCE OF TRIPODS,
TOWERS, OR ATTACHMENTS TO TRIPODS AND TOWERS SUCH AS SENSORS, CROSSARMS, ENCLOSURES, ANTENNAS, ETC.
Campbell Scientific Regional Offices
Canada India UK
Location: Edmonton, AB Canada Location: New Delhi, DL India Location: Shepshed, Loughborough, UK
Phone: 780.454.2505 Phone: 91.11.46500481.482 Phone: 44.0.1509.601141
Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]
Website: www.campbellsci.ca Website: www.campbellsci.in Website: www.campbellsci.co.uk