A simple mast built from standard parts.

Our mast is based on parts from Biltema, a large automotive-accessory chain in Scandinavia. If you live elsewhere, use the ideas as a starting point and find equivalent parts locally.

The lower and longer section is a galvanised steel tube sold as an antenna mast section. It is strong and makes it easy to attach guy wires, the radio node and other equipment. The tube has flanged ends and can be joined to an additional section if a taller mast is required. The short upper section is a 25 mm diameter aluminium tube that fits directly into the weather sensor mount.

Between the tubes we use a 3D-printed adapter that is tapped into place. The adapter can also be secured with a screw. Another option is to adapt the tubes so they can be screwed directly together without an adapter.

The mast tube and aluminium tube are common to both installation methods. Prepare the holes you need before taking the mast to the site.

1. Position the mast tube with the narrow end down and the wide end up.
2. 3D-print the adapter between the mast tube and aluminium tube from the STL file below.
3. Fit the aluminium tube into the top of the mast tube. The 25 mm aluminium tube fits the weather sensor.
4. If using guy ropes or wires, 3D-print the drilling jig, drill three holes and fit the M6 eye bolts through the mast tube with nuts. This is required for rock installation but optional when using a ground anchor.
5. Mount the Solar Node on the mast with two pipe clamps or hose clamps as described below. You can also use another Bakvind node or place the node elsewhere.
6. For rock installation, position the angle bracket against the mast tube and drill an 8 mm hole near the bottom of the tube, aligned with the height of the bracket.

Mount the Solar Node without the tilt mechanism.

The supplied bracket does not fit the mast tube directly. We remove the part intended to mount against the mast and do not install the tilt mechanism. Clamp the main bracket directly to the mast tube with two pipe clamps or hose clamps. If the solar panel needs a different angle, bend the main bracket to the required angle.

In the Northern Hemisphere, the solar panel should face south. Set the angle so the panel receives good sunlight throughout the year, paying particular attention to the lower sun in spring and autumn at northern latitudes. Avoid shade from the mast, sensor and vegetation.

The node is normally mounted on the same mast as the sensor. The expected Bluetooth range is up to 30 metres, so other placements are also possible.

Consider painting the mast matt black before installation. This prevents the shiny surface from reflecting sunlight and makes the mast less conspicuous in the landscape.