Kestrel 5400 WBGT Heat Stress Tracker (HST) & Weather Meter
The Kestrel 5400 Heat Stress Tracker is the most user-friendly WBGT meter on the market. Detect unsafe heat-related conditions.
- Measures Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT), Thermal Work Limit (TWL), heat index, temperature, humidity and much more. 15 measurements in all!
- Waterless! Natural Wet Bulb Temperature accurately calculated from on-board digital sensors with no tedious setup or maintenance.
- Large, hi-res, hi-contrast, graphic display is perfectly readable in the brightest sunlight and is backlit for use in low-light conditions.
- Handheld, portable, data logger with customizable warning flag settings, graphing and measurement statistics.
Kestrel 5400 WBGT Heat Stress Tracker (HST) & Weather Meter Overview
| Environmental Measures | |
|---|---|
 | Altitude (Barometric) |
 | Barometric Pressure |
 | Compass Direction** |
| Crosswind** |
 | Density Altitude |
 | Dew Point Temperature |
| Globe Temperature |
| Headwind/Tailwind** |
 | Heat Stress Index |
 | Naturally Aspirated Wet Bulb Temperature |
 | Relative Humidity |
 | Station Pressure (Absolute Pressure) |
| Temperature |
 | Thermal Work Limit (TWL) |
 | Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) |
 | Wet Bulb Temperature (Psychrometric) |
 | Wind Chill |
| Wind Direction** |
 | Wind Speed/Air Speed |
| ** Available with Pro version with Compass and Link + Vane Mount | |
| Tips For Taking Accurate Measurements | |
The next generation of WBGT and environment monitoring is here with the Kestrel 5400 Heat Stress Tracker.
The Kestrel 5400 is a trusted and accurate handheld, portable, WBGT (Wet Bulb Globe Temperature) measurement tool and environmental data logger. No need for distilled water, bulky globes, complicated setup or expensive equipment. Getting accurate measurements couldn’t be easier: just hold the Kestrel Heat Stress Tracker in the area of interest for both instantaneous and average WBGT measurements. Set the appropriate WBGT thresholds for flag warnings and the loud buzzer, bright LED beacon and on-screen warnings provide instant notification of dangerous conditions. The Kestrel 5400 even comes preprogrammed with several athletics, industrial, and military guidelines to further ease the set-up process.
"In most situations environmental heat exposures should be assessed by the Wet Bulb Globe Thermometer (WBGT) method."
-- NIOSH Recommended Standard Publication
Occupational Exposure to Heat & Hot Environments
Department of Health & Human Services, CDC
Unlike other WBGT meters on the market, the Kestrel 5400 is a full-featured weather meter as well. Measure wind speed, maximum wind gusts, temperature, humidity, pressure, wind chill, density altitude and more. No matter what your activity, the Kestrel 5400 provides insight into the critical conditions affecting safety, performance and success. The Kestrel 5400 with LiNK wireless data communication adds a compass for tracking wind direction as well, expanding its usability to include HAZMAT response, and even measuring headwind at the running track!
The Kestrel 5 Series platform offers a large, high-resolution and contrast display with ease of font readability. It also includes a built-in dual color backlight, extra-strong polycarbonate lens, AA battery operation and optional LiNK iOS and Android wireless connectivity and app support. Like all Kestrel meters, the Kestrel 5400 is drop-proof, dust-proof, waterproof and able to withstand harsh environments without damage – so it can be used anywhere needed to keep athletes, workers, military personnel and animals safe from heat injury. A range of carry pouch options makes it even easier to take your Kestrel meter with you.
Pair the Kestrel 5400 with the optional Kestrel Vane Mount for hands-free measurements over the course of the practice, training session or workday. And for maximum functionality, choose the Kestrel 5400 with LiNK to transmit live measurements to your phone or tablet when you’re within range. Learn more about Kestrel LiNK.
In addition to measuring the current environmental conditions, the Kestrel 5400 tracks and logs over 10,000 sets of time-stamped data. Your data log can be transferred to a iOS/Android device wirelessly with the LiNK wireless communication option and Kestrel LiNK app, or to a Windows/Mac device with either the accessory Kestrel LiNK Dongle or waterproof USB Data Transfer Cable (Both sold separately).
Kestrels have been put to the test in some of the harshest conditions on the planet. U.S. Special Forces, combat weather teams, wildland firefighters, smoke jumpers, Mt. Everest expeditions and auto pit crews are just a few who rely on a Kestrel to provide them with the crucial environmental data they need. The Kestrel Heat Stress Tracker line has been used by the US Army, US Navy, athletic trainers, and even organizers at the Boston Marathon. There truly is no comparable environmental safety monitoring tool on the market. Adopt best safety practices for your team or workplace and add a Kestrel Heat Stress Tracker to your toolkit.
Engraving Note: Please make sure that everything is spelled correctly, as your engraved product cannot be returned. All sales are final on engraved products. Add 2 business days to all engraving orders.
Learn more about setting up your 5400 Heat Stress Tracker.
Which Kestrel Heat Stress Unit is right for me?
| MEASUREMENTS | Kestrel DROP D2HS Heat Stress Monitor | Kestrel 3000HS Heat Stress Meter | Kestrel 5400 Heat Stress Monitor | Kestrel 5400 Heat Stress Tracker Pro with Compass and LiNK + Vane Mount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Temperature | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Relative Humidity | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Dew Point Temp. | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Heat Index | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Wind Speed | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | |
| Wind Chill | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | |
| Global Temp | ✔ | ✔ | ||
| Naturally Aspirated Wet Bulb Temp | ✔ | ✔ | ||
| Wet Bulb Globe Temp (WBGT) | ✔ | ✔ | ||
| Thermal Work Limit | ✔ | ✔ | ||
| Wet Bulb Temp (Psychrometric) | ✔ | ✔ | ||
| Station Pressure (Absolute Pressure) | ✔ | ✔ | ||
| Barometric Pressure | ✔ | ✔ | ||
| Altitude | ✔ | ✔ | ||
| Density Altitude | ✔ | ✔ | ||
| Direction | ✔ | |||
| Crosswind | ✔ | |||
| Headwind / Tailwind | ✔ |
- Alarm buzzer
- Alarm Light
- Backlight - Switchable White/Red
- Battery Life Indicator
- Black Globe Temperature Sensor (1in/2.5cm)
- Data Log Graph View
- Data Logging - Adjustable Interval
- Date & Time
- Digital Compass (Pro model only)
- Drop-Tested to MIL-STD-810G
- FREE Kestrel LiNK Apps for Windows & Mac*
- Integrated Flip Open Impeller Cover
- Intuitive Tactile Up/Down/Enter Keypad
- LiNK Wireless Communication - When Option Selected (Bluetooth low energy)*
- Multilingual Menus (English, French, Spanish, German)
- Minimum/Maximum/Average Reading
- Pressure Sensor
- Relative Humidity Sensor
- Temperature Sensor (Patented External Isolated)
- Waterproof to IP67 (3'/1M for 30 minutes)
- WBGT Warning Flags - Settable
* Applies to LiNK models only
- Battery - 1 x AA
- Certificate Of Conformity (Spec Sheet)
- Heat Stress Reference Card (Waterproof)
- Instructions
- Lanyard
- Protective Drawstring Pouch
Kestrel LiNK for iOS & Android
The Kestrel LiNK® App for iOS/Android allows you to Wirelessly connect with iOS and Android devices and remotely view real-time environmental data and receive alerts for changing conditions. Available for your Kestrel 5 Series Meter or DROP Logger, Kestrel LiNK also provides easy transfer of the Kestrel’s stored data log, a clear graph of all historical data. Alerts can be customized based on temperature, heat index, wind, or other measurements. LiNK enables easy firmware updates of Kestrel 5 series meters.
Data is transmitted wirelessly via Bluetooth® Low Energy within wireless range (100’ line of sight– reduced by walls and obstructions). Mobile device and Kestrel must remain within range to trigger alerts.
Learn more about what the Kestrel LiNK app can do for you.
Download from the App Store
KESTREL LiNK FOR IOS
An application that can be used to view and analyze your Kestrel data on an iOS device.
KESTREL LiNK FOR ANDROID
An application that can be used to view and analyze your Kestrel data on an Android device.
Kestrel LiNK for Windows and MAC
Kestrel LiNK for Windows and MAC provides a desktop solution for data retrieval and export as well as firmware updates. Expanded connectivity options allow you to wirelessly connect LiNK enabled Kestrel 5 Series Meters, using the optional LiNK USB Dongle , or make a wired USB connection with non-LiNK Kestrel 5 Meters using the USB Data Transfer Cable.
| SENSORS | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SENSORS | ACCURACY | RESOLUTION | SPECIFICATION RANGE | NOTES |
| Wind Speed |Air | Larger of 3% of reading, least significant digit or 20 ft/min Speed |
0.1 m/s 1 ft/min 0.1 km/h 0.1 mph 0.1 knots 1 B* 0.1 F/S* |
0.6 to 40.0 m/s 118 to 7,874 ft/min 2.2 to 144.0 km/h 1.3 to 89.5 mph 1.2 to 77.8 knots 0 to 12 B* 2-131.2* |
1 inch|25 mm diameter impeller with precision axle and low-friction Zytel® bearings. Startup speed stated as lower limit, readings may be taken down to 0.4 m/s |79 ft min|1.5 km/h |.9 mph |.8 kt after impeller startup. Off-axis accuracy -1% @ 5º off axis; -2% @ 10º; -3% @ 15º. Calibration drift < 1% after 100 hours use at 16 MPH|7 m/s. Replacement impeller (NK PN-0801) field installs without tools (US Patent 5,783,753). Wind speed calibration and testing should be done with triangle on impeller located at the top front face of the Kestrel. Measuring wind speeds above 60 m/s / 134.2 mph can damage the impeller |
| Ambient Temperature |
0.9 °F 0.5 °C |
0.1 °F 0.1 °C |
-20.0 to 158.0 °F -29.0 to 70.0 °C |
Airflow of 2.2 mph|1 m/s or greater provides fastest response and reduction of insolation effect. For greatest accuracy, avoid direct sunlight on the temperature sensor and prolonged sunlight exposure to the unit in low airflow conditions. Calibration drift is negligible for the life of the product. For further details, see Display & Battery Operational Temperature Limits. |
| Globe Temperature |
2.5 °F 1.4 °C |
0.1 °F 0.1 °C |
-20.0 to 140.0 °F -29.0 to 60.0 °C |
Temperature inside 1in|25 mm black powder coated copper globe converted to Tg equivalent for standard 6 in|150 mm globe. Closest equivalence obtained with airflow greater than 2.2 mph|1 m/s. |
| Relative Humidity | 2%RH | 0.1 %RH | 10 to 90% 25°C noncondensing | To achieve stated accuracy, unit must be permitted to equilibrate to external temperature when exposed to large, rapid temperature changes and be kept out of direct sunlight. Calibration drift is typically less than ±0.25% per year. |
| Pressure |
1.5 hPa|mbar 0.044 inHg 0.022 PSI |
0.1 hPa|mbar 0.01 inHg 0.01 PSI |
25°C/77°F 700-1100 hPa|mbar 20.67-32.48 inHg 10.15-15.95 PSI |
Monolithic silicon piezo-resistive pressure sensor with second-order temperature correction. Between 1100–1600 mbar, unit will operate with reduced accuracy. Sensor may not operate above 1600 mbar and can be damaged above 6,000 mbar or below 10 mbar. Calibration drift is negligible for the life of the product. |
| Compass | 5° |
1° 1/16th Cardinal Scale |
0 to 360° | 2-axis solid-state magneto-resistive sensor mounted perpendicular to unit plane. Accuracy of sensor dependent upon unit’s vertical position. Self-calibration routine eliminates magnetic error from batteries or unit and must be run after every full power- down (battery removal or change). Readout indicates direction to which the back of the unit is pointed when held in a vertical orientation. Declination/variation adjustable for True North readout. |
| CALCULATED MEASUREMENTS | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| MEASUREMENT | ACCURACY (+/-) | RESOLUTION | SENSORS EMPLOYED |
| AHLU | AHLU Accuracy derived from HLI accuracy accumulated over time. | 1.0 |
Wind Speed, Temperature Globe Temperature, Relative Humidity |
| Altitude |
typical: 23.6 ft/7.2 m from 750 to 1100 mBar max: 48.2 ft/14.7 m from 300 to 750 mBar |
1 ft 1 m |
Pressure, User Input (Reference Pressure) |
| Barometric Pressure |
0.07 inHg 2.4 hPa|mbar 0.03 PSI |
0.01 inHg 0.1 hPa|mbar 0.01 PSI |
Pressure, User Input (Reference Altitude) |
| Crosswind & Headwind/Tailwind | 7.1% |
1 mph 1 ft/min 0.1 km/h 0.1 m/s 0.1 knots |
Wind Speed, Compass |
| Density Altitude |
226 ft 69 m |
1 ft 1 m | Temperature, Relative Humidity Pressure |
| Dew Point |
3.4 °F 1.9 °C 15- 95% RH. Refer to Range for Temperature Sensor |
0.1 °F 0.1 °C |
Temperature, Relative Humidity |
| Heat Index |
7.1°F 4.0°C |
0.1 °F 0.1 °C |
Temperature, Relative Humidity |
| HLI | 2.7 | 1.0 | Wind Speed, Temperature Globe Temperature, Relative Humidity |
| Outdoor Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) |
1.3 °F 0.7 °C |
0.1 °F 0.1 °C |
Wind Speed, Temperature Globe Temperature, Rative Humidity, Pressure |
| Probability of Ignition (PIG) | PIG Accuracy dependent on proximity of inputs to reference table steps. | 10% | Temperature, Relative Humidity |
| THI (NRC) |
1.5 °F 0.8 °C |
0.1 °F 0.1 °C |
Temperature, Relative Humidity |
| THI (Yousef) |
2.3 °F 1.3 °C |
0.1 °F 0.1 °C |
Temperature, Relative Humidity |
| Thermal Work Limit (TWL) | 10.9W/m2 |
0.1 °F 0.1 °C |
TWind Speed, Temperature Globe Temperature, Relative Humidity, Pressure |
| Wet Bulb Temperature - Psychrometric |
3.2 °F 1.8 °C |
0.1 °F 0.1 °C |
Temperature, Relative Humidity Pressure |
| Wet Bulb Temperature - Naturally Aspirated (NWB TEMP) |
1.4 °F 0.8 °C |
0.1 °F 0.1 °C |
Wind Speed, Temperature Globe Temperature, Relative Humidity, Pressure |
| Wind Chill |
1.6 °F 0.9 °C |
0.1 °F 0.1 °C |
Wind Speed, Temperature |
| ADDITIONAL PRODUCT INFO | |
|---|---|
| Display & Backlight | Multifunction, multidigit monochrome dot-matrix display. Choice of white or red LED backlight. |
| Response Time & Display Update | Display updates every 1 second. After exposure to large environmental changes, all sensors require an equilibration period to reach stated accuracy. Measurements employing RH may require longer periods particularly after prolonged exposure to very high or very low humidity. WBGT requires about 8 minutes to reach 95% accuracy and about 15 minutes to reach 99% accuracy after exposure to large environmental changes. |
| Data Storage & Graphical display Min/Max/Avg History | Logged history stored and displayed for every measured value. Manual and auto data storage. Min/Max/Avg history may be reset independently. Auto-store interval settable from 2 seconds to 12 hours*, overwrite on or off. Logs even when display off except for 2 and 5 second intervals. Kestrel 5 series units hold over 10,000 data points. |
| data Upload & Bluetooth Data Connect Option | Wireless range up to 100ft. Connection requires optional USB data transfer cable or Kestrel Link Dongle or Kestrel LiNK app. Employs Kestrel Link protocol for data transmission with Link supported devices. (Kestrel LiNK for iOS/Android, Kestrel Link for PC/MAC). |
| Clock/Calendar | Real-time hours:minutes:seconds clock, calendar, automatic leap-year adjustment. |
| Auto Shutdown | User-selectable – Off, 15-60 minutes with no key presses. |
| Languages | English, French, German, Spanish. |
| Certifications | CE certified, RoHS, FCC, IC tested and WEEE compliant. Individually tested to NIST-traceable standards. |
| Origin | Designed and manufactured in the USA from US and imported components. Complies with Regional Value Content and Tariff Code Transformation requirements for NAFTA Preference Criterion B. |
| Battery Life | AA Lithium included. Up to 400 hours of use, reduced by backlight, alert light and buzzer, or Bluetooth radio transmission use. |
| Shock Resistance | MIL-STD-810g, Transit Shock, Method 516.6 Procedure IV; unit only; impact may damage replaceable impeller. |
| Sealing | Waterproof (IP67 and NEMA-6) |
| Display & Battery Operational Temperature Limits | 14° F to 131° F | -10 °C to 55 °C Measurements may be taken beyond the limits of the operational temperature range of the display and batteries by maintaining the unit within the operational range and then exposing it to the more extreme environment for the minimum time necessary to take reading. |
| Storage Temperature | -22.0 °F to 140.0 °F | -30.0 °C to 60.0 °C. |
| Size & Weight | 5.0 x 1.9 x 1.1 in | 12.7 x 4.5 x 2.8 cm, 4.3 oz | 121 g. (Lithium battery included) |
Kestrel 5 Series Certificates of Comformity
Certificate of Conformity Kestrel 5400 Heat Stress Tracker
(Size: 528.5 KB)
Models & SKUs:
- Kestrel 5400 Heat Stress Tracker (Orange): 0854ORA
- Kestrel 5400 Heat Stress Tracker (Tan): 0854TAN
- Kestrel 5400 Heat Stress Tracker + Vane Mount (Orange): 0854VORA
- Kestrel 5400 Heat Stress Tracker + Vane Mount (Tan): 0854VTAN
- Kestrel 5400 Heat Stress Tracker Pro with Compass and LiNK + Vane Mount (Orange): 0854LVCORA
- Kestrel 5400 Heat Stress Tracker Pro with Compass and LiNK + Vane Mount (TAN): 0854LVCTAN
Support Documents for all Kestrels
WBGT Heat Stress Guidelines
ACGIH WBGT Guidelines
(Size: 45 KB)
ACSM-Acclimatized & Nonacclimatized WBGT Guidelines
(Size: 43.2 KB)
Georgia State High School WBGT Guidelines
(Size: 440.1 KB)
Kentucky State High School WBGT Guidelines
(Size: 41.4 KB)
NATA WBGT Guidelines
(Size: 45.6 KB)
North Carolina State High School WBGT Guidelines
(Size: 45.2 KB)
TB Med 507 WBGT Guidelines
(Size: 45.5 KB)
Vermont State High School Guidelines
(Size: 49.2 KB)
WBGT Reference Guidelines
(Size: 85.9 KB)
Kestrel 5 Series Certificates of Comformity
Certificate of Conformity Kestrel 5400 Heat Stress Tracker
(Size: 528.5 KB)
NK Kestrel 5000 Series EMC Declaration of Conformity
(Size: 48.3 KB)
LiNK (Kestrel)
How to graph weather data from LiNK CSV files
(Size: 667.5 KB)
Kestrel 5 Series Downloads
How to I determine the average wind direction?
(Size: 837 KB)
Tips For Taking Accurate Measurements
(Size: 346.9 KB)
Kestrel 5 Series Troubleshooting Documents
How to Update your Firmware LiNK for Android
(Size: 744.3 KB)
How to Update your Firmware with Kestrel LiNK for Windows
(Size: 627.4 KB)
K5 LiNK for Windows Bluegiga Dongle Help
(Size: 5 MB)
Heat Index Downloads
Kestrel Heat Index Reference Guideline - In Fahrenheit
(Size: 82.3 KB)
Kestrel Heat Stress Reference Guide - In Celsius
(Size: 82.3 KB)
Korey Stringer Small Price of Survival Article 2016-09
(Size: 3.7 MB)
Kestrel LiNK Manuals and Documentation
Kestrel LiNK User Manual
(Size: 5.3 MB)
Kestrel 5 Series Instruction Manuals
User Guide Kestrel 5400 Heat Stress Tracker
(Size: 1.1 MB)
Product Questions
"All measurements not available in all units"
Temperature Functions
For best accuracy when taking temperature measurements you must keep the air moving around the temperature sensor and keep the Kestrel out of prolonged, direct sunlight. If there is a strong breeze, just point the Kestrel into the wind. If there is no wind, swing the Kestrel around in a circle on its lanyard or rapidly wave it back and forth in hand. This ensures that the sensor measures the temperature of the air rather than the temperature of the case. Alternatively, if you have time, allow the Kestrel to rest where you want to measure the air temperature (NOT in your hand or in direct sunlight if there is no wind) until the case temperature equalizes with the air temperature. When equalized, the display will read a constant value. Be aware that this could take a few minutes, particularly if there is no wind.
Humidity Functions
One reason your Kestrel may not be reading accurate ambient humidity is because of proximity to humidity sources such as your hand, your body or the ground. Avoid covering the large humidity chamber opening on the case rear with your fingers. Keep all fingers below the finger groove and away from the chamber opening. Do not take reading that rely upon humidity with the Kestrel meter lying flat – raise it into the air vertically or stand it on its base and orient it into the wind or air flow. If a high level of accuracy is required for measurements involving humidity, do not hold the unit while taking measurements. Taking readings with the Kestrel in your hand or over your body can raise relative humidity by 5% or more. A Kestrel vane mount will isolate the Kestrel Meter from erroneous humidity influences and keep it oriented into the wind or air flow while taking measurements. Whenever you move your Kestrel Meter into a new environment wait until the primary sensor values have stabilized (Temperature, Humidity, etc.) before taking measurements that rely upon these values. After a large change in environmental condition, this may take 15 minutes or more, with humidity potentially taking the longest. If the humidity sensor housing (located above the rear label) is wet, the Kestrel cannot take an accurate humidity reading. If the sensor does become wet, shake the unit vigorously to remove the water, and then let it dry completely before use. If the sensor comes in contact with salt water, rinse it thoroughly with clean water, then shake it and allow it to dry. As is typical with humidity sensors, it is possible for the humidity sensor in the Kestrel to drift over time as described in the spec sheet. If your unit has a Humidity recalibration function, it can be returned to the factory or used with the Kestrel RH Calibration Kit to recalibrate its humidity readings.
Wind Meter Functions
Wind speed is highly dependent on surrounding obstructions such as buildings, yourself and the ground, with wind speeding up as it flows around and over obstacles and slowing down as it passes behind them. Even in an open area, Wind speed will be slower near the ground so ensure you are taking measurements at an appropriate height for your application. Hold the back of the unit directly into the wind. Holding the unit off-axis by 5° will reduce accuracy by 1%, 10° will reduce accuracy by 2% and 15° will reduce accuracy by 3%. Using a Kestrel Vane Mount will ensure the unit is correctly oriented into the wind and measuring accurate wind speeds. The Kestrel impeller housing can rotate in the unit. For best accuracy, ensure one of the three “arms” of the impeller housing is pointing straight up. The wind speed displayed by the Kestrel Meter is a 3 second rolling average. This allows the unit to provide a value that is more representative of the typical, ambient conditions but not capture peak speeds for instantaneous blasts of air.
Compass Functions
The compass in the Kestrel Meter is used for direction, crosswind, headwind/tailwind as well as for capturing various user inputs based on direction. When calibrating and when using the compass, it is important to hold the unit as vertically as possible. Any tilt in angle present when the unit is calibrated or when measurements are taken will negatively impact the accuracy of the compass reading. Many users will inadvertently tilt the Kestrel Meter away from themselves slightly when holding the unit. If a high level of accuracy is required, using a Kestrel vane mount on a leveled tripod for calibration and measurement can eliminate error.
Pressure Functions
All pressure and altitude measurements are made using the pressure sensor. Some units have a dedicated “Pressure” screen which shows Station Pressure, the raw pressure reading straight from the sensor. The Barometric Pressure measurement (Baro) displays the local Barometric Pressure using the Station Pressure measurement adjusted to the local altitude using the Reference Altitude value input by the user. The Altitude measurement displays the local altitude using the Station Pressure measurement combined with the Reference Baro value input by the user. To obtain an accurate barometric pressure or altitude readings, you must first know EITHER your location’s current barometric pressure OR your current altitude. If the Reference Altitude value is incorrect, the Barometric Pressure reading will also be incorrect. If the Reference Barometric pressure value is incorrect, the Altitude reading will also be incorrect. Because Barometric Pressure and Altitude are each dependent on the alternate reference value remaining constant, Barometric Pressure and Altitude cannot be accurately measured simultaneously. If your unit has a pressure recalibration function, a new Barometric Pressure calibration value may be input. If this value was not taken from a verified source (a local airport or weather station) with the Kestrel being calibrated at the same location as the reference device, pressure related measurements may be incorrect.
WBGT
When changing environments (such as moving form an air conditioned room to outdoors or removing the unit from your pocket) the unit requires between 8-15 minutes to equilibrate to its surroundings before taking readings. Take measurements at least 3 feet off the ground and in the same wind or air flow conditions as the people you are monitoring. Ensure the Kestrel is oriented into the wind and able to measure the full wind value. A tripod or pole mount and the Kestrel Rotating Vane Mount are ideal for ensuring accurate measurements. Differences in the reflectivity of ground surfaces such as grass or asphalt will impact measurements. Be sure to take measurements in the same solar/radiant heat environment as the people you are monitoring. Unlike best practices for other measurements, WBGT is intended to be taken in direct sunlight. As long as there is occasional wind the Kestrel has software that allows it to maintain an accurate WBGT reading despite being placed in direct sunlight.
Air Flow
Kestrel Professional Meters can calculate air flow through a duct by combining user input information about the size and shape of the duct with the measured air velocity. In addition to reading the instantaneous Air Flow off the main measurement screen, a more accurate result may be obtained by capturing an average air flow on the Min/Ave/Max screen while traversing the duct. Traversing consists of dividing the area of the duct into evenly sized sections and averaging the air flows at the center of all sections. By spending an equal amount of time at each measurement location and quickly moving between measurement locations, the average air flow measurement can provide a more accurate measure of the air flow in the duct. Capturing an average can be particularly helpful when measuring ducts with registers or dimensionally uneven air flow.
Evaporation Rate
(Kestrel 5200 Professional Environmental Meter) Kestrel Professional Meters can calculate a concrete evaporation rate (ACI 308) by combining a user input concrete temperature with measured air temperature, wind speed and relative humidity. Concrete mix temperature is generally measured with a probe or infrared thermometer and should be read at the time of making the evaporation rate measurement After inputting the mix temperature, hold the unit vertically, approximately 20 inches above the surface of the concrete while facing the rear of the unit directly into the wind. To avoid inaccurate Evaporation Rate readings due to thermal loading it is best to shade the Kestrel. (Be sure the source of shade is not obstructing the wind speed measurement.) The ACI recommends taking a 6-10 second average of the evaporation rate to account for fluctuating wind speeds. To measure an average Evaporation Rate, scroll right from the Evaporation Current Measurement Screen to the Min/Ave/Max Screen and press select to manually start and stop a capture.
... PermalinkYes! The Kestrel 5 Series now has both Android and iPhone integration through our Kestrel LiNK iOS and Android Apps. Kestrel LiNK iOS and Android apps allow LiNK enabled Kestrel 5 Series Meters and DROPs to connect wirelessly with mobile devices to view real-time measurements, receive on-screen alerts, download data and perform firmware updates. The Kestrel LiNK Ballistics app, designed specifically for the Kestrel 5700, Kestrel 5 series Sportsman, and Kestrel 5700 Elite meters, provides full gun management and access to the Applied Ballistics library of G1/G7 curves (5700) and custom drag models (Elite). For a quick look at all of the Kestrel LiNK Application Features - Click Here.
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Make sure Bluetooth® is turned ON on your phone. On the Kestrel, go to the Main Menu->Bluetooth and turn it ON. Press the center button while Bluetooth is highlighted and check to ensure that Conct is set to PC/Mobile and it shows Available. Next go to the application that you are connecting with on your phone and select the Kestrel as the device you would like to connect with. Please note: if you do not find the Kestrel on your phone’s “standard” Bluetooth connection screen, that does not mean that the Kestrel is not working properly. Please first go to the application and try to connect through the application. The Kestrel should connect.
... PermalinkAll models of the Kestrel 5000 Series have optical data ports that can be seen through the openings of the battery door. A USB Data Transfer Cable can be purchased separately, which plugs directly into the back of the Kestrel and extends to a USB port in your computer. You will NOT be able to connect a non-LiNK model unit to a mobile device (e.g., any device without a USB port).
... PermalinkThese programs handle uploading the weather data from the Kestrel to a specific device. This weather data can then be exported into MS Excel. You can also update your firmware any of these programs. Visit the Kestrel LiNK Software and Apps page to learn more.
... PermalinkTo UPDATE your firmware on any Kestrel you can use the appropriate link below:
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As can be seen in the pictures below, place your thumb on the bottom of the unit and slide the latch from the “Locked” to the “Unlocked” position. The battery door should pop up enough that you can remove it. If you have trouble opening the battery door, some slight pressure DOWN on the battery door itself with your other thumb may help release the latch.
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First slide in the tab at towards the top of the unit, then gently press the bottom part of the battery door down until it snaps into place. Ensure that the O-ring remains in place on the battery door when closing.
... PermalinkNo. Since the Kestrel 5 Series meters utilize only one AA battery, there is no need to use the battery shim to separate two AAA batteries as in the previous version.
... PermalinkNK strongly recommends continual use of Lithium AA batteries in your Kestrel. Lithium batteries respond best in extreme temperatures and help prevent against any corrosion. Customers can also use Alkaline or Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMh) if they prefer, but we recommend turning “Auto Store” to “OFF” when placing these units in storage to minimize the drain on the battery. Also, please make sure you set the System->Battery setting to match the type of batteries that you are using.
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No. Currently ONLY the Kestrel Sportsman Weather Meter with Applied Ballistics or the Kestrel 5700 Ballistics Weather Meter can be upgraded to the Kestrel 5700 Elite model.
... PermalinkAll of the Kestrel 5000 series units have the Night Vision option in addition to the standard white backlight. There is a menu selection that allows the customer to toggle between both options.
... PermalinkWind Speed – NK sells factory calibrated replacement impellers that can easily be installed by the customer. NK recommends replacing the impeller every 2-3 years depending on usage.
Humidity – The Kestrel 5 Series and DROP data loggers employ a highly accurate, calibrated, digital humidity sensor. Based on the sensor manufacturer's specifications and NK testing, drift on this sensor over time is minimal and field recalibration is likely to degrade accuracy rather than improve it. Factory calibration to validate and certify accuracy at a minimum of two RH points is available from NK. Kestrel 5000 series units can also be recalibrated in the field using our kit RH Recalibration Kit . During the five-year warranty period, NK will repair, recalibrate or replace any Kestrel 5 Series or DROP which drifts more than +/-1% RH/year since the date of manufacture.
Temperature – The thermistor in the Kestrel 5 series should not need to be recalibrated. If you think your sensor is incorrect, please contact techsupport@nkhome.com
Pressure – The pressure in the Kestrel 5 series should not need to be recalibrated. If you think your sensor is incorrect, please contact techsupport@nkhome.com
... PermalinkKestrel 5 series units with LiNK will need to use the Kestrel LiNK Wireless Dongle to connect with a computer. The Kestrel 5 series will not work with any internal Bluetooth modules. To connect, insert the Kestrel LiNK Dongle into an open USB port. On the Kestrel, go to the Main Menu->Bluetooth and turn it ON. Set Conct to "PC / Mobile." Open the application on the computer and select the Kestrel as the device to connect to. There is no more “pairing," "COM port numbers," or "PIN Codes" to worry about for those familiar with the 4000 series.
... PermalinkPlease see our graphing guide:
LiNK (Kestrel)
How to graph weather data from LiNK CSV files
(Size: 667.5 KB)
Yes! The Kestrel 5 Series now has both Android and iPhone integration through our Kestrel LiNK iOS and Android Apps. Kestrel LiNK iOS and Android apps allow LiNK enabled Kestrel 5 Series Meters and DROPs to connect wirelessly with mobile devices to view real-time measurements, receive on-screen alerts, download data and perform firmware updates. The Kestrel LiNK Ballistics app, designed specifically for the the Sportsman , the Kestrel 5700 series or meters, and the Kestrel 5700 Elite meters, provides full gun management and access to the Applied Ballistics library of G1/G7 curves (Sportsman and 5700) and custom drag models (5700 Elite).
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Transfer data from your Kestrel 5 Series device and archive on your Mac computer. Data logs can be exported as csv files for viewing and analysis in spreadsheets. This software also facilitates updates and upgrades to your device firmware.
Download Kestrel LiNK for MAC:
LiNK (Kestrel)
Quick Look
- Manage updates and upgrades to device firmware
- View device information such as device name, model number, firmware version, hardware version and serial number. Rename device.
- Transfer data from your Kestrel 5 Series device wirelessly with Bluetooth dongle or with a USB cable.
- Archive data logs.
- Export data logs in csv format for viewing and analysis in spreadsheets.
Example Screen Shots
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Easily connect your Kestrel to the application using bluetooth. |
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Manage your Kestrel: change its name, download data, and/or update your unit. |
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Export and analyze your data. |
Kestrel Firmware:
Kestrel 5 Series Troubleshooting Documents
How to Update Your Kestrel 5 Series Firmware with MAC/OSX
(Size: 821.1 KB)
Support Documents for all Kestrels
Kestrel 5 Series Downloads
Kestrel Firmware Installer for Windows
(Size: 16 MB)
Kestrel Firmware Update Files for OSX
(Size: 14 MB)
Device Compatibility:
- Firmware: This program is only compatible with Mac OS X 10.7 or higher.
Kestrel Compatibility:
- Kestrel 5000 Environmental Meter with LiNK
- Kestrel 5100 Racing Weather Meter with LiNK
- Kestrel 5200 Professional Weather Meter with LiNK
- Kestrel 5400 Heat Stress Tracker with LiNK
- Kestrel 5500 Weather Meter with LiNK
- Kestrel Sportsman Weather Meter with Applied Ballistics with LiNK
- Kestrel 5700 Ballistics Weather Meter with LiNK
- Kestrel 5700 Elite Weather Meter with Applied Ballistics with LiNK
Transfer data from your Kestrel 5 Series device and archive on your Windows computer. Data logs can be exported as csv files for viewing and analysis in spreadsheets. This software also facilitates updates and upgrades to your device firmware.
Download Kestrel LiNK for Windows:
LiNK (Kestrel)
Quick Look
- Manage updates and upgrades to device firmware
- View device information such as device name, model number, firmware version, hardware version and serial number. Rename device.
- Transfer data from your Kestrel 5 Series device wirelessly via the Bluetooth dongle or with a USB cable.
- Archive data logs.
- Export data logs in csv format for viewing and analysis in spreadsheets.
Example Screen Shots
| |
Easily connect your Kestrel to the application using bluetooth. |
|
Manage your Kestrel: change its name, download data, and/or update your unit. |
|
Export and analyze your data. |
Kestrel Firmware:
Kestrel 5 Series Troubleshooting Documents
How to Update Kestrel 5000 Series Firmware with Windows
(Size: 573.5 KB)
Support Documents for all Kestrels
Kestrel 5 Series Downloads
Kestrel Firmware Installer for Windows
(Size: 16 MB)
Kestrel Firmware Update Files for OSX
(Size: 14 MB)
Device Compatibility:
- Firmware: LiNK is currently compatible with Windows 7, Windows 8, and Windows 8.1 and Windows 10.
Kestrel Compatibility:
- Kestrel 5000 Environmental Meter with LiNK
- Kestrel 5100 Racing Weather Meter with LiNK
- Kestrel 5200 Professional Weather Meter with LiNK
- Kestrel 5400 Heat Stress Tracker with LiNK
- Kestrel 5500 Weather Meter with LiNK
- Kestrel Sportsman Weather Meter with Applied Ballistics with LiNK
- Kestrel 5700 Ballistics Weather Meter with LiNK
- Kestrel 5700 Elite Weather Meter with Applied Ballistics with LiNK
Bluetooth Support:
Kestrel 5 Series Troubleshooting Documents
K5 LiNK for Windows Bluegiga Dongle Help
(Size: 5 MB)
Please see the attached guidance with Exporting Issues with LiNK iOS.
... PermalinkPlease check out our Kestrel 5000 Firmware change log to view the differences in the various firmware versions: Firmware Change Log
... PermalinkPlease watch this video for using Kestrel LiNK with a 5400 for monitoring WBGT conditions: Kestrel LINK with 5400s
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Protecting Your Workforce: Understanding the Implications of Worker Heat Stress
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How to Prevent Heat-Related Illnesses & Death with WBGT Heat Stress Monitoring
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OSHA National Emphasis Program on Heat Illness Prevention Focuses on Increased Worker Safety & Protection
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Heat Stress Safety as Team Sports Resume
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Keep Your Workers Safe With Kestrel Instruments
Construction workers brave many hazards. Working with heavy equipment, at various heights, and in dangerous environmental conditions cause injuries consistently. In 2017, a total of 259 on-the-job deaths were reported – or 14.1 deaths per 100,000 full-time construction workers. Also that year, 21,760 nonfatal injuries were reported. -
What is Density Altitude?
While many of us don't think about density altitude in our everyday lives, it impacts the environment and even how airplanes perform while in the air. With dense air, nitrogen and oxygen are tightly packed together to make the surrounding air heavier than other locations. Air density varies depending on where you're located in the world, but temperature and altitude are two primary factors that influence density altitude. -
Barometric Pressure vs. Station Pressure: What's the Difference?
When it comes to measuring barometric pressure, there is a bit of science going on behind the scenes. Let's take a look at the difference between barometric vs. station pressure and the variables that go into calculating the two readings. -
America’s Favorite Sport: How Weather Impacts Football
According to favoritism polls from Gallup, football is the most popular sport in America. That's not exactly surprising considering the large crowds regularly packing the stadiums, gathering at local bars and pubs, or huddling around the TV in the family room to cheer on the hometown team. -
Monitoring Military Heat Stress: 4 Essential Tips for Saving Lives with the Kestrel 5400
Heat stress is a serious concern for all military personnel. Exertional heat stress can cause severe injuries and even death, but the good news is that it’s 100% preventable. The Kestrel 5400 Heat Stress Tracker in tan is the preferred choice of the military for monitoring the environmental conditions, helping to save countless lives of military personnel across the globe. - Understanding Environmental Heat Stress This article has been republished from For Athletic Trainers with permission from the Korey Stringer Institute, a leader in heat stress awareness, education, and advocacy driven by a mission to maximize performance, optimize safety, and prevent sudden death due to the effects of exertional heat stress. By: Yuri Hosokawa, PhD, ATC, LAT, Korey Stringer Institute, University of Connecticut As the brutal summer heat takes a toll across the coun
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WBGT: A Key Measurement in Preventing Heat Stress Injury
Heat stress is a condition that occurs when the body is unable to regulate its internal temperature and cool itself through sweating. Heat stress shows many symptoms and encompasses several heat-induced illnesses such as heat stroke, heat exhaustion, heat cramps and heat rashes. These conditions are more likely to occur during hot summer months, but may affect workers and athletes in various climates and conditions year round. The most common com -
Kestrel Heat Stress Trackers Keep Special Olympic Athletes Safe
Last month, the Kestrel Heat Stress Trackers were used during the 2015 World Games in Los Angeles to ensure the health and safety of the more than 6,500 international athletes competing under the hot mid-summer sun. Recognizing the importance of on-site conditions monitoring for athletes, the event organizers deployed five Kestrel Heat Stress Trackers mounted on tripods to track wet bulb globe temperature (WBGT) and help prevent exertional heat s
