IGPP/LANL
Ground-Based Magnetometer Array

Magnetometers

A successful array of magnetometers requires a precise low noise basic magnetometer, precise timing at each location, and a robust data system. UCLA ground-based magnetometer consists of a highly accurate fluxgate magnetometer, based on our successful magnetometers on numerous spacecraft [e.g, ISEE, PVO, POLAR] coupled to a 22 bit analogue to digital converter in a low noise electronic environment.

(1) Low cost ( $6K per station). Utilizing a PC significantly reduces the costs per station and provides a ready source for parts and repair for a large portion of the system.

(2) High resolution and accurate Timing. The data are sampled at 1 Hz. The precise timing is provided by a GPS receiver with 1 millisecond accuracy.

(3) High precision. The noise power is 10-3 nT2/Hz at 1 Hz.

(4) Accurate baseline. Baselines are maintained by keeping both the electronics and sensors in thermally controlled environments, isolated from other noise sources.

(5) High storage capacity. A hard disk of 500 MB can held up to one year's data. The PC will also provide a modem or internet link to the central data collection and data

dissemination facility. (6) High dynamic range . Each sensor has a dynamic range of +/- 5000 nT, that makes the installation very easy.

(7) Broadband.

The text above was taken from IGPP at UCLA @:
http://www-ssc.igpp.ucla.edu/uclamag/posters/agu98s/

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