Decoding CF Standard_Names: Unraveling the Distinction between ‘platform_id’ and ‘platform_name’ in Earth Science

Getting Started

In the geosciences, the CF metadata conventions provide a standardized approach for describing and sharing data. These conventions define a set of standard names that allow consistent and unambiguous identification of variables and their attributes. Two commonly used CF standard names in the context of platform information are platform_id and platform_name. While both names are related to platform identification, they serve different purposes and have specific use cases. This article aims to clarify the difference between platform_id and platform_name in CF metadata conventions.

Platform ID

The CF standard name platform_id refers to a unique identifier assigned to a specific platform used for data collection or measurement. It is typically a string or alphanumeric code that allows precise identification and differentiation between different platforms. The platform_id can be thought of as a machine-readable identifier to be used for automated data processing and analysis.
For example, in the context of meteorological observations, a platform_id could be a code assigned to a weather station, buoy, or satellite. This identifier remains constant over time, even if the platform is changed or upgraded. The use of a platform_id ensures that data collected from different platforms can be easily distinguished and linked, facilitating data integration and interoperability across multiple datasets.

Platform Name

The CF standard name platform_name, on the other hand, represents the human-readable name or label assigned to a platform. Unlike platform_id, platform_name is primarily intended for communication and understanding by human users rather than for automated processing.

The platform_name provides a descriptive and recognizable name that helps researchers, scientists, and data users to identify and refer to specific platforms. It may include information such as platform type, location, or other relevant details that help contextualize the data. For example, a platform_name for a weather station might be “WMO Station 12345” or “Mount Everest Base Camp Weather Station”.

Summary page

In summary, the CF standard names platform_id and platform_name serve different purposes when describing platforms in geoscience data. The platform_id is a machine-readable identifier that ensures unique and consistent identification of platforms across datasets, while the platform_name is a human-readable label that provides descriptive information for easy understanding and reference.

By using both platform_id and platform_name in CF metadata, researchers and data users can benefit from a standardized approach to platform identification, facilitating data integration, interoperability, and effective communication in the geosciences.

FAQs

What is the difference between the CF standard_names `platform_id` and `platform_name`?

The CF standard_names `platform_id` and `platform_name` are used to describe different aspects of a platform in data files.

What does `platform_id` refer to?

`platform_id` is a CF standard_name that represents a unique identifier or code assigned to a platform. It is typically a numerical or alphanumeric value that helps uniquely identify the platform in a dataset.

What does `platform_name` refer to?

`platform_name` is a CF standard_name that represents the human-readable name or label assigned to a platform. It is typically a descriptive name that provides information about the platform, such as its manufacturer, model, or specific designation.

Can `platform_id` and `platform_name` have the same value?

Yes, `platform_id` and `platform_name` can have the same value in some cases. However, it is not a strict requirement, and they can also have different values depending on the specific dataset and its metadata conventions.

When should I use `platform_id`?

`platform_id` should be used when you need a unique identifier to distinguish between different platforms in a dataset. It is particularly useful when working with large datasets that involve multiple platforms with similar or overlapping names.

When should I use `platform_name`?

`platform_name` should be used when you want to provide a human-readable label or name for a platform. It helps users easily identify and understand the platform associated with the data. It can be especially helpful when presenting or visualizing data.