Tag: open data

Review: AirGradient Open Air

Sotirios PapathanasiouLeave a comment

Having had the opportunity to get the AirGradient Open Air (Model O-1PST) at the ASIC 2025 conference in Thailand, complete with its unique engraving, I’ve spent some time with this device, and it’s clear that AirGradient is pushing the boundaries of accessible and reliable outdoor air quality monitoring. This device presents a compelling alternative to existing solutions, particularly for those seeking transparency and robust performance.

Technical Specifications O-1PST

  • WiFi 2.4GHz IEEE 802.11 b/g/n-compliant
  • Bluetooth LE: Bluetooth 5, Bluetooth mesh
  • Status LED
  • Plantower PMS5003T for PM2.5 + ENS210 for T/RH
  • SenseAir S8/S88 CO2 NDIR Sensor
  • Sensirion SGP41 TVOC/NOX Module
  • Enclosure: ASA Plastic, UV Resistant and Weather Proof
  • Mounting Options: Wall or pole mounting options
  • 4m USB-C to USB-A Cable
  • USB-C Power Connector 2A/5V
  • Certifications: CE, RoHS, REACH, FCC

Sensor Selection: A Thoughtful Approach

The Open Air features a well-considered suite of sensors designed for accurate and insightful data. For PM2.5 measurements, it utilizes the Plantower PMS5003T, a sensor known for its reliability and found in other popular monitors like the PurpleAir (though it’s important to note the PMS5003T is a similar but not identical variant).

Read More »

Air Quality Data & Ownership

Sotirios PapathanasiouLeave a comment

In an age where information is power, the question of who owns the data generated by air quality monitors and sensors has become increasingly important. This is especially true for air quality monitors that provide crucial insights into the air we breathe. While these devices offer valuable information, users should be aware of potential issues related to data ownership and accessibility.   

The Risks of Changing Terms and Closed Systems

In some cases, companies have sold air quality monitors with “unlimited” data storage, only to later change their terms of service and require users to pay for continued access to their own data. This bait-and-switch tactic leaves consumers feeling betrayed and exploited, as they are forced to pay for something they thought they already owned.

Read More »

OPEN Ambient Air Quality DATA

Sotirios Papathanasiou5 Comments

There is some serious competition in the market of environmental monitoring and particularly in air quality. There are a lot of ambient air quality monitors available with great features and great sensors, the problem is that society doesn’t benefit from the variability of monitors because AQ data are scattered in different platforms/maps. It is hard for end-users and citizens to find which monitor is active and where (especially if you move). Someone needs to gather low-cost AQ data from everywhere and offer it to users in easy service.

Last year, on my trip across Europe, I monitored air quality with a portable monitor, but I wanted to compare the data I got against the official or other low-cost monitors out there. It was impossible!

The openaq team is doing just that. They are gathering data from official and low-cost sensors (stationary and mobile). Unfortunately, even today I cannot access data from specific low-cost monitors that take advantage of the API and their open map.

This are the brands that collaborate and they provide data to openaq:

Read More »