Abstract: A device and method for measuring the operating condition of an open anode furnace, includes at least one sensor for measuring the temperature and/or determining the fuel quantity or the burner capacity of the burners allocated to the anode furnace, or for determining the opacity of the air, and for the independent and automatic control of the process management of the anode furnace. This is achieved by at least one measuring device for measuring the throughput of air flowing through the anode furnace provided in an air duct of the anode furnace through which air flows. The measured values are evaluated by an electronic control unit, and the electronic control unit sets the operating condition of the anode furnace according to the particular measured values.