

This is where hybrid devices come into picture. They can detect inter-cloud lightning and warn about cloud to ground lightning which happens afterwards.Ī single-technology lightning detector may not be good enough to get the accurate results. They are used as the pre-lightning monitors or detectors. Optical MonitorsĪs the name suggests, these devices use the optical technology to detect lightning. However, they have a very small range of up to 8 km. Electric Field Mills lightning detectors can be very accurate. They detect the changes in the voltage in the earth’s electric field and based on that predict the lightning strike. These types of detectors are used for forewarning of lightning. These detectors are thus often used by the researchers. These detectors are often used as multi-station devices and are capable of providing more accurate lightning data. This is why Interferometer lightning detectors may require special skills, knowledge and certain amount of experience to operate. This technology is primarily used in the high-end, complex lighting detectors. RF detectors can give you the rough estimate of the direction of the lightning and its distance. These types of detectors are designed to measure the amount of energy released by the lightning. Here are some of the most commonly used lightning detection technologies: Radio Frequency (RF) Detector These devices can feature a variety of lightning detection technology and each has its own utility and application.

Technology is another factor to consider while buying a lightning detector.
BEST LIGHTNING DETECTORS AMAZON PROFESSIONAL
Since professional detectors offer more advanced features and additional capabilities, they can be really expensive, especially when you compare them with the standard ones. They also offer storm tracking, intra-cloud lightning detection and many more additional features. They also do not catch false signals and hence do not provide the false readings. Unlike the personal detectors, they can tell you the direction and location of the lightning. However, they pack more improved functions, thereby providing more accurate results.
BEST LIGHTNING DETECTORS AMAZON PORTABLE
Professional lightning detectors are also usually portable and offer mobility. Professional-grade lighting detectors are more advanced technologically and hence offer enhanced performance. Personal detectors may not always be accurate as they may catch EMP signals from other devices or machines such as electrical appliances, cars etc. They also cannot tell the actual location. These devices cannot tell you the direction of the lightning and whether it is approaching your location or not. Hence, they are cheaper too in comparison to professional ones. Personal lightning detectors are very limited in their capabilities. Based on the strength of the signal, the detector tells you the distance of the lightning strike. This type of detector catches the electromagnetic pulses generated by the lightning. They can be easily carried around in your pocket.

These devices are quite portable and usually much smaller than your mobile phones. They are perfect for golfers, campers, or others who need to be outdoors. Personal DetectorsĪs the name suggests, these types of lighting detectors are meant for personal use. A quick overview of both these types will help you make the right choice. Which one should you pick depends largely on your needs. The first question you must ask is: What do you need the lightning detector for? There are two types of detectors available in the market – Personal and Professional.
