Multi-Gas Module

The Clarity Node-S measures PM_2.5 and nitrogen dioxide (NO₂). It also supports a variety of Add-On Modules to measure ozone (O₃), PM10, carbon monoxide (CO), and black carbon — all key pollutants linked to traffic, industrial emissions, and wildfire smoke. It can also integrate wind and meteorological modules for enhanced analysis of pollutant movement and dispersion.

While not a regulatory-grade monitor, the Node-S delivers high-quality, actionable data when calibrated and quality-assured properly. It has undergone colocation testing alongside federal reference monitors in projects across California, Oregon, and Europe, demonstrating strong correlation and performance in both stable and dynamic air quality conditions.

Yes — the Node-S air quality sensor is designed to perform well in a wide range of settings. Its solar power and cellular connectivity make it ideal for rural and remote deployments, while its modularity and small footprint make it equally effective in dense urban environments, where it can monitor hyperlocal variations in pollution.

Absolutely. The Node-S air pollution sensor features a rugged, weatherproof housing (IPX3 rated) and can operate reliably in temperatures ranging from -10°C to 55°C. It has been successfully deployed in environments ranging from tropical Southeast Asia to high-altitude regions of Central Asia, as well as wildfire-affected zones in the Western U.S.

Node-S air quality sensors transmit air quality data via built-in cellular connectivity, eliminating the need for external internet or power infrastructure. The data is sent securely to the Clarity Dashboard, where users can view real-time maps, configure alerts, download reports, and share data with stakeholders.

The Node-S air pollution sensor is low-maintenance by design. Routine operation requires minimal physical upkeep, and calibration is handled through Clarity’s automated QA/QC and optional Project Support Services. For optimal accuracy, we recommend initial colocation and periodic field validation depending on project goals.

We are the only air quality measurement provider that offers out-of-the-box solar and battery-powered hardware to make deployment truly scalable and frictionless. Our solution requires a single hour of direct sunlight per day on average for steady-state operation, and can operate for up to 30 days with no sunlight at all. To deal with extreme conditions, the devices are able to detect decreasing power availability autonomously and to gradually slow down sampling (until total “hibernation” if needed) to preserve power, avoid damaging the battery, and go through rare stretches of prolonged periods without sunlight, maintaining the measurement coverage as uniform as possible. Once power availability is back to sustainable levels, the devices come back to default operation without need for intervention.

The Clarity Node-S is designed to operate in the field for at least 2 years without the need for any maintenance intervention, but in practice, we have seen them run without problems for many years. Our device comprises a main weatherproof enclosure and a sensor module housed inside the main enclosure while interfacing with the ambient air. The sensor module is able to draw in air while keeping the main enclosure isolated from the sample and thus from dust and moisture. The resulting assembly has a combined ingress protection rating of IPX3, while all the componentry, excluding the sensor module,e is kept at an ingress protection rating of IP67. We offer free replacement with a limited warranty of our Node-S air quality monitoring hardware for subscribed members.

The Node-S air quality sensor has been designed to perform in different weathers and is able to resist extreme weather events such as sandstorms, snowstorms, and strong winds. Clarity’s Node-S devices can operate in remote environments where sandstorms may be more common, and can also do so without a hardwired power connection or WiFi connectivity, which may not be available in the area where air quality must be measured.

Optical sensing is a methodology to measure pollutants by detecting light intensity. It is an electronic detector that converts light into an electronic signal. For example, when a particle present in the air crosses the laser beam, it is illuminated and it scatters light. The photodiode receives the scattered light, and the signal reads high and therefore indicating its presence.

The Clarity Wind Module measures two key meteorological parameters: wind speed and wind direction, as well as atmospheric pressure. This information is essential for understanding how pollutants disperse through the atmosphere and helps identify likely emission sources and transport patterns in both urban and remote settings.

Wind data provides crucial context for interpreting pollution events. By understanding which direction the wind is blowing from — and how fast — users can better trace pollution back to its source, identify affected areas, and improve air quality modeling. It also enhances the impact of time-series and spatial analysis for policy-making and emergency response.

Yes — the Wind Module is fully compatible with the Node-S platform. It connects seamlessly through Clarity’s modular interface, enabling plug-and-play integration without requiring complex setup or changes to the core system.

The Wind Module is powered by the same solar and battery system as the Node-S air pollution sensor. It connects via a direct cable interface, drawing power and syncing data through the existing communications system. This allows for fully wireless, solar-powered deployment without additional infrastructure.

Yes — the Wind Module is designed to perform reliably in a wide range of wind conditions, including environments with highly variable or gusty winds. Its robust sensors provide stable, real-time data that complements air pollution measurements in locations where wind-driven dispersion is a major factor.

No routine calibration is required for the Wind Module. It uses pre-calibrated sensors and is designed for low-maintenance field use. As with all Clarity components, performance is monitored remotely, and optional Project Support Services are available for customers who need assistance with QA/QC or troubleshooting.

The Clarity FEM Ozone Module is used for high-accuracy, regulatory-grade measurement of ambient ozone (O₃) concentrations. It enables agencies and researchers to collect defensible data for compliance reporting, community exposure studies, and ozone pollution control strategies — particularly where cost or infrastructure limits access to traditional regulatory monitors.

Yes — the Clarity FEM Ozone Module includes a Federal Equivalent Method (FEM)-designated ozone analyzer, meaning it meets U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) standards for ambient ozone monitoring when operated according to EPA guidelines. This makes it suitable for use in regulatory networks, as well as supplemental and informational monitoring programs requiring high confidence in ozone data.

Unlike low-cost electrochemical ozone sensors, the FEM Ozone Module uses UV photometry — the EPA’s reference method for ozone detection. This technology offers superior precision, long-term stability, and much lower susceptibility to cross-sensitivity or environmental interference, making it a trusted solution for compliance-grade monitoring.

While the FEM Ozone Module is more robust than low-cost alternatives, it does require periodic service like zero/span checks and filter replacement to maintain its regulatory-grade accuracy. Clarity provides recommended maintenance intervals and optional Project Support Services to assist customers with calibration, QA/QC, and field servicing as needed.

Yes — the FEM Ozone Module can be deployed in parallel with other Node-S Add-On Modules, including PM, NO₂, and wind sensors. While it cannot be powered by the Node-S air quality sensor due to power requirements, it integrates into the broader Clarity ecosystem for unified data access, visualization, and analysis via the Clarity Dashboard. We offer an external power solution with a solar power and battery backup for remote, off-grid monitoring. 

Ozone monitoring is especially important in urban areas with high vehicle or industrial emissions, as well as regions prone to photochemical smog formation during hot, sunny weather. It’s also critical in rural downwind locations affected by regional ozone transport. Environmental agencies use ozone data to issue public health advisories, track attainment of air quality standards, and evaluate the success of emissions reduction programs.

Black carbon is a short-lived climate pollutant and a component of fine particulate matter (PM_2.5) that results from incomplete combustion of fossil fuels, biofuels, and biomass. Monitoring black carbon is critical because it contributes to both climate change and public health impacts — especially in urban areas, transportation corridors, and regions relying on solid fuel. It’s also a key indicator of traffic-related air pollution and diesel emissions.

Major sources of black carbon include diesel engine exhaust, wood and biomass burning, coal combustion, and open waste burning. In cities, traffic — particularly from older diesel vehicles — is a dominant contributor. In developing regions, household fuel use and agricultural fires can be major sources of black carbon exposure.

The Clarity Black Carbon Module uses an optical absorption method to detect black carbon particles based on how they absorb light. This technique provides accurate, near real-time measurements of black carbon concentrations and is well-suited for continuous outdoor monitoring, even in resource-constrained settings.

Yes — the Black Carbon Module is designed to be seamlessly integrated with Clarity’s Node-S platform. It connects via the same modular system and shares power, connectivity, and cloud-based data delivery, making it easy to upgrade an existing Clarity deployment without adding significant complexity.

Black carbon monitoring is particularly valuable in densely populated urban areas, transportation corridors, port cities, and industrial zones. It's also essential in regions tackling diesel emissions, designing low-emission zones, or addressing climate-related impacts of air pollution. Cities like London and Bishkek have used black carbon data from Clarity sensors to shape traffic policy and identify emission hotspots.

Yes — data from the Black Carbon Module is transmitted in near real time to the Clarity Dashboard, where users can visualize trends, generate reports, and set alerts. This immediate access supports timely decision-making for air quality interventions, community engagement, and regulatory reporting.

Organizations in these industries typically look for near-reference PM₁₀ accuracy without the cost of regulatory-grade instruments. Modern optical PM₁₀ systems with heated inlets—like the Clarity Dust Module—provide far more reliable coarse-particulate measurement than Plantower-based sensors or commodity devices.

PM₁₀ is a regulated pollutant linked to health impacts and community complaints. Some areas have regulations such as SCAQMD Rule 1466, requiring continuous PM10 monitoring to minimize off-site dust from earth-moving activities involving toxic soils. Accurate PM₁₀ monitoring helps companies comply with standards, respond to dust exceedances, reduce liability, and demonstrate environmental stewardship.