The USPLN provides real-time and archive lightning strike information, as well as serving as the basis for value-added lightning services to customers. Accuracy is equal to or better than 250 meters
- Lightning detection reports available in less than 1-minute
- Greater than 90% Detection Efficiency Individual stroke data (not flash) is reported
- Stroke reports include location, time, polarity and amplitude
World leaders in lightning detection technologies provide the basis for the USPLN
TOA Systems, Inc. is located in Melbourne, Florida and was established with the mission of developing, manufacturing, selling and supporting lightning location and warning sensors and systems. TOA has supported Global Position and Tracking Systems, Pty Ltd (GPATS) in the operation and maintenance of the Australian National Lightning Network and has delivered and supports a PLS Sensor Network to Brunei. To find out more about TOA Systems, Inc. go to www.toasystems.com.
The senior staff members Dr. Rodney B. Bent and Mr. Thomas A. Rodby are the very same individuals, who in 1983 developed, patented and marketed the first time-of-arrival Lightning Location Systems. As national leaders in lightning detection for over 20 years, TOA senior staff members were excited to partner with WDT to build a new nationwide lightning network. By utilizing WDT's expertise in weather forecasting and prediction technologies and innovative web-based display tools, the most accurate and timely lightning data will be available to the United States, for the first time at an affordable price.
Time Difference of Arrival Technology
The USPLN system uses a Time Difference of Arrival technology that employs high resolution internal timing devices and GPS timing as a reference. This design provides for a more stable accurate timing source and subsequently improved data resolution and more accurate location reports.
