meta BroodMinder-W4 installation
You can install BroodMinder-W4 in both ways: front/rear or left/right. It can be mounted on wooden or metal pallets. It can be simply laid down, screwed or pinned and remain installed all year long.
The scale surface is grooved to avoid any slip. However for migratory beekeeping you should consider if you wish to add centering pins on the scale. This is an easy task since pre-holes are already placed, simply drill with a 6.5mm bit and add a DIN912 M6x16 hex socket screw.
This is recommended if you’re using Nicotplast bottom boards since the screws will perfectly fit with the board interface holes.
In normal operation for hive migration, you can load the fully stacked assembly (pallet + scales + hives) on your truck with no fear. With its 400kg nominal weight, BroodMinder-W4 is able to hold efforts far beyond any strapping you can make. As a further security, the design also contains a natural end-stop to avoid any occasional damage.
For an accurate monitoring of nectar flows during migratory beekeeping we recommend installing a row of 2 to 4 scales (one full pallet for example) to have multiple hive measurements and overcome any single-hive specificity that could mislead your decisions.
Another best practice is combining Broodminder-W4 scale with a BroodMinder-T internal hive monitor. Combining both weight+brood you’ll have the most accurate description of what’s going on.
You will need one of our cellular hubs (weather-station or solar-hub) to ensure data transmission in real time.
If it is the first time you install a BroodMinder device, follow the next generic steps.
- install BroodMinder Bees app, create your account
- make your first manual sync
- install the device under your beehive
- view and explore the data on mobile BroodMinder Bees app and on the web Mybroodminder.com.
To learn more read our User guide and watch the installation Video guide.
If you have any question installing on your specific set-up, feel free to contact us at support@broodminder.com.