Next to affordability, customer support, and system versatility, the snow depth reading method used by SnowGage differs from its competitors.
With SnowGage, depth readings are recorded as the sensor sends a real-time pulse to the ground every second. This means readings are based entirely on the ground, rather than from a previous lidar scan. If any changes to the group occur after the lidar scan, they will not be reflected when collecting snow depth. The depth sensor in the solution is also helpful if you are grooming on a side hill. With the Lidar system, snow depth will read straight down and become completely inaccurate.
Snowgage vs. Alternatives |
- SnowGage Technology
- Ultra-wide band radar
- Installation/Set-Up
- Easy
- Calibration Requirement
- Fast Change in Office
- Snowdepth Accuracy
- Excelent. Exceptions:
- Spring time water impacts accuracy
- Fleet Management/Engine Integration
- Simple Reports.
- Can integrate to more advanced fleet management software
- Cost
- Most Affordable
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- Competitor Technology 1
- Ground penetrating radar
- Installation/Set-Up
- Medium: Larger physical set-up
- Calibration Requirement
- Frequent on slope calibration required
- Snowdepth Accuracy
- Excellent. Exceptions:
- If not calibrated; review of display software recommended
- Fleet Management/Engine Integration
- Depends on software used
- Cost
- More Expensive
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- Competitor Technology 2
- RTK GPS
- Installation/Set-Up
- Most difficult
- Calibration Requirement
- Not required
- Snowdepth Accuracy
- Excellent. Exceptions:
- Ideal GPS conditions required. Tree canopy and canyon satellite mask known to impact GPS
- Fleet Management/Engine Integration
- Believed to be nicely integrated with Snowcat Engine
- Cost
- VERY Expensive
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