Windmeter

Windmeter, often called anemometer, is an instrument used to measure wind speed. Some variants also determine wind direction, typically by combining a speed sensor with a directional element. Windmeters are essential in meteorology, aviation, marine operations, wind energy, and outdoor activities where wind conditions matter.

Modern windmeters come in several principle families. Cup and vane units use rotating cups or a propeller on a shaft to convert wind motion into a mechanical rotation that increases with wind speed; ultrasonic and hot-wire (or hot-film) sensors infer speed from properties of air flow or sound travel time and have no or few moving parts.

Measurements are usually expressed in meters per second, kilometers per hour, miles per hour, or knots. Readings may be averaged over short intervals to smooth fluctuations, and many devices provide digital outputs for data logging or weather systems.

Applications include weather stations, airports, ships, and wind farms, as well as handheld meters for sailing, climbing, or research. The term windmeter is sometimes used interchangeably with anemometer, though some devices are specialized for certain contexts such as high-precision research or rugged outdoor use.