What is the first step in troubleshooting a malfunctioning RAWS?

Verifying the power supply to the system is a critical first step in troubleshooting a malfunctioning RAWS (Remote Automated Weather Station). Power issues are often the root cause of malfunctioning equipment, and ensuring that the system has a reliable and adequate power source is essential for its operation. If the system does not receive the necessary power, it will not function at all, which can lead to false assumptions about other components being at fault.

Once the power supply is confirmed to be functioning correctly, further troubleshooting can proceed to check other potential issues such as sensor calibration, antenna functionality, or system configuration. However, if there's no power, all other checks may be rendered moot, leading to wasted time and resources on troubleshooting non-existent problems.