WS-12 Wireless 8 Channel Professional Weather Station with Temperature Spectrum Color Changing Backlight
User Manual
1 Introduction
Thank you for your purchase of the WS-12 Wireless 8 Channel Professional Weather Station with Temperature Spectrum Color Changing Backlight. The following user guide provides step by step instructions for installation, operation and troubleshooting. To download the latest manual and additional troubleshooting tips, please visit: http://ambientweather.wikispaces.com/ws12
2 Warnings
3 Quick Start Guide
- Assemble and power up the sensors (Refer to sections 4.1-4.5)
- Power up the display console and synchronize with wind sensor, rain sensor and thermo-hygrometer sensor(s) (Refer to section 4.6)
- Mount the sensors (Refer to section 6)
- Set date and time on console (Refer to section 7.2)
- Calibrate the relative or sea-level pressure (barometer) (Refer to section 7.10.3)
- Clear any total rain that may have accumulated during the set up. (Refer to section 7.1)
4 Getting Started
The WS-12 weather station consists of a display console (receiver), a sensor array with thermo-hygrometer, rain gauge, wind sensor, and mounting hardware.
4.1 Parts List
| QTY | Item | Image Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Display Console | Frame Dimensions (LxHxW): 7.7 x 1.3 x 5.4 in. LCD Dimensions (LxW): 5.1 x 4.3 in. |
| 1 | Thermo-hygrometer transmitter (FT007TH) | Dimensions (LxHxW): 4.5 x 2.0 x 0.75in. |
| 1 | Rain Gauge (WS-12-RG) | Dimensions: 8 1/4" x 7 3/4" x 5" (5" diameter). |
| 1 | Rain Gauge Filter | Dimensions: 2.48 x 2.48 x 1.1in. |
| 1 | Anemometer (WS-12-WV) | Dimensions: 3" x 6" x 8 ½". Includes wind cups, wind vane, and solar panel. |
| 1 | Anemometer Mounting Bracket (with pole insert) | Dimensions: 3" x 4" x 1 ½". |
| 1 | Anemometer Mounting Bracket Back Plate (pole mount) | Dimensions: 3" x 3" x 1". |
| 1 | Anemometer Pole | Dimensions: 12" x 1½" x 1". |
| 2 | Pole mounting U-bolt / nuts (M5) | Hardware for mounting. |
| 4 | Pole mounting nuts (M5) / bolts (Ø5) | Hardware for mounting. |
| 2 | Pole mounting nuts (M3) / bolts (Ø3) | Hardware for mounting. |
| 4 | Tapping screws | Hardware for mounting. |
| 1 | Manual | User guide document. |
| 1 | Power Adapter | AC power adapter for the display console. |
4.2 Recommend Tools
- Phillips Precision screwdriver Size: PH0 and PH2
- Compass or GPS (for wind direction calibration)
- Adjustable Wrench
- Hammer and nail for hanging remote thermo-hygrometer transmitter.
4.3 Anemometer Assembly Sensor Set Up
The anemometer assembly consists of the wind cups, wind vane, solar panel, bubble level, sensor mounting bracket, and mounting foot. The solar panel provides power to the anemometer when the sun is out, and batteries provide power at night. The solar panel does not charge the batteries.
Figure 2: Anemometer assembly components.
4.4 Rain Gauge Assembly Set Up
The rain gauge consists of the rain gauge funnel, base, and drawer filter.
Figure 5: Rain gauge components.
Rotate and detach the rain gauge funnel from the base by rotating counter-clockwise until the tabs on the base and funnel align, then pull upwards.
Figure 6: Detaching the rain gauge funnel.
Locate the battery door on the rain gauge transmitter, pull out the battery compartment.
Figure 7: Rain gauge battery compartment access.
4.5 Thermo-Hygrometer Sensor Set Up
Remove the battery door on the back of the sensor by removing the set screw.
Figure 8: Thermo-hygrometer sensor with battery compartment and dip switches.
BEFORE inserting batteries: Locate the dip switches on the inside cover of the transmitter lid. Figure 9 shows all four switches in the OFF position (factory default setting).
Figure 9: Dip Switch settings.
Channel Number:
The WS-12 supports up to eight transmitters. To set each channel number (default is Channel 1), change Dip Switches 1, 2, and 3 as referenced in Table 1.
Temperature Units of Measure:
To change the transmitter display units of measure (°F vs. °C), change Dip Switch 4 as referenced in Table 1.
| DIP SWITCH | FUNCTION | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | |
| DOWN | DOWN | DOWN | -- | Channel 1 |
| DOWN | DOWN | UP | -- | Channel 2 |
| DOWN | UP | DOWN | -- | Channel 3 |
| DOWN | UP | UP | -- | Channel 4 |
| UP | DOWN | DOWN | -- | Channel 5 |
| UP | DOWN | UP | -- | Channel 6 |
| UP | UP | DOWN | -- | Channel 7 |
| UP | UP | UP | -- | Channel 8 |
| -- | -- | -- | DOWN | °F |
| -- | -- | -- | UP | °C |
- Insert two AAA batteries.
- After inserting batteries, the remote sensor LED indicator will light for 4 seconds, then flash once per 60 seconds. Each flash indicates data transmission.
- Verify the correct channel number (CH) and temperature units (°F vs. °C) are displayed, as shown in Figure 10.
Figure 10: Display indicators (1) temperature, (2) temperature units, (3) channel number, (4) relative humidity.
Close the battery door, ensuring the gasket is properly seated. Tighten the set screw.
4.6 Display Console
4.6.1 Display Console Layout
The display console layout is shown in Figure 11. The illustration shows the full segment LCD display for description purposes only and will not appear this way during normal operation.
Figure 11: Detailed layout of the display console segments.
- 1. Indoor temperature and humidity display
- 2. Indoor temperature and humidity HI/LO alarm icon
- 3. Pressure (REL and ABS) display
- 4. Pressure units of measure
- 5. Feels like and dew point display
- 6. Temperature units (°F or °C)
- 7. Feels like and dew point HI/Lo alarm icon
- 8. Outdoor temperature and humidity display
- 9. Humidity units of measure (%)
- 10. Outdoor temperature and humidity HI/LO alarm icon
- 11. Channel 1-8 indicator
- 12. Scroll mode indicator
- 13. Low power indicator
- 14. Signal search icon
- 15. Wind direction
- 16. Wind gust HI alarm icon
- 17. Wind speed units of measure
- 18. Wind gust display
- 19. Wind speed average display
- 20. Wind speed average HI alarm icon
- 21. Rainfall display (1h, 24h, week, month, total)
- 22. Rainfall units of measure
- 23. Time alarm icon
- 24. Time and date
- 25. Temperature, humidity, wind speed, rainfall and pressure history display icon
- 26. Min/Max reset for 24h
- 27. Time format of history graph (24h or 72h)
- 28. Temperature, humidity, wind speed, rainfall and pressure variation in past 24h or 72h
- 29. Moon phase
4.6.2 Display Console Set Up
Note: Power up the rain gauge, anemometer, and thermo-hygrometer sensors first before powering up the console. If the console is powered up first, sensors will need to be resynchronized.
Ensure sensors are at least 10 feet away from and within 100 feet of the console for proper signal reception. If too close or too far, signal may be weak. If using multiple thermo-hygrometer transmitters, ensure they are powered up and transmitting on different channels.
- Remove the battery door on the back of the console.
- Insert four AA batteries into the display console. The console will beep once, and all LCD segments will light up briefly to confirm operation. The console will cycle through a spectrum of colors.
Note: Character contrast is best viewed from a slightly elevated angle.
Figure 12: Display console battery installation.
- Replace the battery door, fold out the desk stand, and place the console upright.
The console will display indoor temperature, humidity, pressure, moon phase, and time. Outdoor readings (wind speed, gust, direction, rain, outdoor temperature, and humidity) will update within minutes. Do not press menu buttons until outdoor transmitters report in, as this can terminate the sensor search mode. Once outdoor transmitter data is received, the console switches to normal mode for further settings.
While in search mode, the remote search icon ? will be constantly displayed. If multiple thermo-hygrometer sensors are used (up to eight), the display will toggle between them until all report. If data does not update, consult the troubleshooting guide in Section 13.
Note: The power adapter should be oriented vertically or floor-mounted. Prongs are not designed for ceiling or under-table outlets.
Figure 13: Console with power adapter connected.
Note: If the power adapter is plugged in, "AC ON" displays for three seconds upon power-up. If not plugged in, "AC OFF" displays.
4.6.3 Sensor Operation Verification
Perform these steps to verify sensor operation before installing the sensor array:
- Rain Gauge: Tip the sensor array back and forth. Listen for a "clicking" sound. Verify the rain reading on the console is not 0.00. Each "click" represents 0.01 inches of rainfall.
- Wind Speed: Rotate wind cups manually or with a fan. Verify wind speed is not reading 0.0.
- Temperature: Verify indoor and outdoor temperatures match closely when the console and sensor array are in the same location (approx. 10 feet apart). Accuracy should be within 4°F (± 1°F sensor accuracy). Allow 30 minutes for stabilization.
- Humidity: Verify indoor and outdoor humidity readings match closely when sensors are in the same location (approx. 10 feet apart). Accuracy should be within 10% (± 5% sensor accuracy). Allow 30 minutes for stabilization.
5 Weather Station Installation
5.1 Pre-Installation Checkout
Before permanent installation, operate the weather station in a temporary, accessible location for one week. This allows checking functions, ensuring proper operation, familiarizing with procedures, and testing wireless range.
5.2 Site Survey
Perform a site survey before installation, considering the following:
- Clean the rain gauge every few months and replace batteries every 2-3 years. Ensure easy access.
- Avoid radiant heat from buildings. Install the thermo-hygrometer in a shaded area, preferably on the north side of a structure.
- Avoid wind obstructions. Install the anemometer at least four times the height of the tallest obstruction away. (e.g., for a 20 ft building, install 56 ft away if the pole is 6 ft tall).
- Wireless Range: Open field range is up to 300 feet; 100 feet under most conditions with obstacles. Wireless signals do not penetrate metal buildings.
- Radio Interference: PCs, radios, and TVs can cause interference. Keep the console at least five feet away from electronic devices.
- Visit Ambient Weather Mounting Solutions for mounting assistance: http://www.ambientweather.com/amwemoso.html
5.3 Best Practices for Wireless Communication
Wireless communication is susceptible to interference. Follow these practices for reliable communication:
- Electro-Magnetic Interference (EMI): Keep the console several feet from computer monitors and TVs.
- Radio Frequency Interference (RFI): If communication is intermittent with other 433 MHz devices, try turning them off. Relocate transmitters or receivers if necessary.
- Line of Sight: Rated for 300 feet line of sight; typically 100 feet with barriers.
- Metal Barriers: Radio frequency does not pass through metal. Align through a window if metal siding is present.
The following table shows reception loss based on transmission medium:
| Medium | RF Signal Strength Reduction |
|---|---|
| Glass (untreated) | 5-15% |
| Plastics | 10-15% |
| Wood | 10-40% |
| Brick | 10-40% |
| Concrete | 40-80% |
| Metal | 90-100% |
6 Final Sensor Installation
6.1 Anemometer Installation
Calibrate wind direction before installation. Align the "S" marker on the wind vane with South.
Figure 13: Anemometer bottom and side views showing "S" marker.
Fasten the wind transmitter to mounting pole brackets using two Ø3 bolts and M3 nuts.
Figure 14: Attaching anemometer transmitter to mounting bracket.
Tighten the mounting pole to your pole (purchased separately) with four Ø5 Bolts and M5 Nuts assembly, or fix to the wall with four tapping screws.
Figure 15: Securing the mounting pole or wall mount.
6.2 Rain Gauge Installation
Remove the rain gauge funnel from the base by rotating counter-clockwise until tabs align, then pull upwards.
Figure 16: Rain gauge funnel and drawer filter.
Fasten the rain gauge to the mounting pole.
Figure 17: Mounting the rain gauge to a pole.
Tighten the rain gauge to your mounting pole or bracket with two U-bolts and four M5 nuts, or fix on a horizontal surface with four tapping screws.
Reattach the funnel by aligning tabs and rotating clockwise.
Figure 18: Securing rain gauge to pole or surface.
6.3 Thermo-Hygrometer Installation
Mount the remote sensor in a shaded area, preferably on a north-facing wall for maximum shade. Direct sunlight and radiant heat can cause inaccurate temperature readings. Although water-resistant, mount in a protected area like under an eave. Use a screw or nail (not included) to affix the sensor to the wall.
Figure 19: Mounting the thermo-hygrometer sensor to a wall.
7 Console Operation
The console has five operational keys: HISTORY/-, SET, ALARM, CHANNEL/+, and SNOOZE/LIGHT.
7.1 Quick Display Mode
Note: Press the SNOOZE/LIGHT button to exit Quick Display Mode at any time.
From Normal Mode, press the SET key (do not hold) to enter Quick Display Mode:
- Press once for time, time/week, and date.
- Press twice for rainfall (1h, 24h, week, month, total).
- Press three times for pressure (absolute and relative).
- Press four times for 72h or 24h graph record.
To clear total rain: Press CHANNEL/+ or HISTORY/- until total rain is displayed. Total rain will flash. Press and hold SET for three seconds until total rain reads 0.00.
Note: The graph displays hours on the horizontal axis (current data is 0h, previous data is negative). The vertical axis auto-scales and shows deviation from the current value (0).
Figure 20: Graph data representation.
7.2 Set (Program) Mode
From Normal Mode, press and hold the SET key for at least three seconds to enter Set Mode. The first setting will flash. Press SET to skip steps.
Note: In Set mode, use [+] or [-] keys to change values. Hold keys for rapid adjustment.
Note: Press SNOOZE/LIGHT to exit Set mode at any time.
- 12/24 Hour Format: Press SET to adjust format (FMT). Use [+] or [-] to switch between 12-hour and 24-hour format.
- Change Hour: Press SET. Use [+] or [-] to adjust the hour. PM icon indicates afternoon.
- Change Minute: Press SET. Use [+] or [-] to adjust the minute.
- Date Format: Press SET to enter day/month format mode. Use [+] to switch between MM-DD-YY and DD-MM-YY.
- Change Month: Press SET. Use [+] or [-] to adjust the month.
- Change Day: Press SET. Use [+] or [-] to adjust the day.
- Change Year: Press SET. Use [+] or [-] to adjust the year.
- Max/Min Clearing: Press SET to set clearing mode (CLR). Max/Min can clear daily (midnight) or manually. Use [+] or [-] to switch between "Clears 24h" and "Clears Manually".
- Temperature Units: Press SET to change units (UNITSET icon displays). Use [+] or [-] to switch between °F and °C.
- Wind Speed Units: Press SET to change units. Use [+] or [-] to toggle between m/s, km/h, mph, knots, or bft.
- Rainfall Units: Press SET to change units. Use [+] or [-] to toggle between mm and inch.
- Barometric Pressure Units: Press SET to change units. Use [+] or [-] to toggle between mmHg, inHg, or hPa.
- Backlight Color Setting: Press SET to set backlight parameter (LED icon displays). Use [+] or [-] to toggle between IN (indoor temp auto-color), OUT (channel 1 temp auto-color), or USE (manual color selection from 11 choices).
The following sections describe settings based on OUT, IN, or USE selection:
- 13.1 OUT Backlight Color Setting (reference Figure 20)
- 13.2 Outdoor Backlight Color Low (OUT default: 10): Press SET. Use [CH/+] or [MINMAX/+] to adjust the low temperature limit.
- 13.3 Indoor Backlight Color High (default: 100): Press SET to change the upper range.
- 13.4 IN Backlight Color Setting (reference Figure 20)
- 13.5 Indoor Backlight Color Low (IN default: 58): Press SET. Use [CH/+] or [MINMAX/+] to adjust the low temperature limit.
- 13.6 Indoor Backlight Color High (default: 85): Press SET to change the upper range.
- 13.7 USE Backlight Color Setting (reference Figure 20)
- 13.8 Backlight Color (USE): Press SET to manually select color (COLOR icon displays). Use [CH/+] or [MINMAX/+] to choose from 11 colors.
The table below provides 11 backlight colors:
| No. (USE) | Colors | OUT Temp (°F) | IN Temp (°F) | Comments (Manually set maximum and minimum values) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | Cold Purple | <10 | <58 | LOW |
| 1 | Fuchsia | 10-20 | 58-61 | Color Increment = (HI-LOW)/9 |
| 2 | Purple | 20-30 | 61-64 | |
| 3 | Blue | 30-40 | 64-67 | |
| 4 | Aqua | 40-50 | 67-70 | |
| 5 | Dark Green | 50-60 | 70-73 | |
| 6 | Light Green | 60-70 | 73-76 | |
| 7 | Yellow | 70-80 | 76-79 | |
| 8 | Orange | 80-90 | 79-82 | |
| 9 | Red | 90-100 | 82-85 | |
| 10 | Red Hot | >100 | >85 | HI |
Note: This manual is not printed in color. To view the actual color chart, visit: http://site.ambientweatherstore.com/Manuals/WS-12.pdf
Note: Reference Section 9.3 to modify color changes to suit your comfort level and location.
14. Backlight Contrast: Press SET to change backlight brightness (BRIGHT icon displays). Use [+] or [-] to adjust contrast from 1 (dim) to 8 (bright).
7.3 Restore Factory Default
To restore console to factory default, press and hold the HISTORY/- key while installing batteries. Release the HISTORY/- key after 3 seconds.
7.4 Channel Selection
Press the CHANNEL/+ button to switch display between remote sensors 1-8 and scroll mode. In scroll mode, indoor and detected outdoor sensors display in five-second intervals.
7.5 Sensor Search Mode
If a sensor loses communication, dashes (--.-) will display. If a specific channel is lost, press CH/+ to display that channel before entering search mode.
To reacquire a lost signal, press and hold CH/+ for 3 seconds to enter sensor search mode. The REG icon ? will appear. Use [+] or [-] to toggle between sensors:
- CH: Synchronizes Channels 1-8 (dependent on displayed channel).
- WIND: Synchronizes Wind Sensor.
- RAIN: Synchronizes Rain Sensor.
- ALL: Synchronizes All Sensors.
- NOT: Exit Sensor Search Mode without action.
After selecting an option, press SET to resync. The display returns to normal mode. Do not press buttons until synchronization is complete. The remote search icon ? displays constantly for 3 minutes until signal is reacquired.
7.6 History Graph Mode
Press the HISTORY/- key to toggle between historical graphs for measured parameters:
- Wind speed graph (WIND icon)
- Rainfall graph (RAIN icon)
- Barometer graph (BAROREL icon)
- Indoor temperature graph (TEMP-IN icon)
- Indoor humidity graph (HUMI-IN icon)
- Outdoor temperature graph (TEMPOUT icon)
- Outdoor humidity graph (HUMIOUT icon)
The outdoor humidity and temperature graph displays history for the current channel.
7.7 Reset Min/Max Record
Note: Resetting clears minimum and maximum values for all channels if multiple thermo-hygrometer sensors are used.
In normal mode, press ALARM (do not hold) to display MAX icon. Press HISTORY/- to view rainfall (1h, 24h, week, month) and pressure (ABS or REL) max values.
Press SET for three seconds to clear maximum values for rainfall, wind speed, gust, pressure, temperature, and humidity. Maximum values will now display current values.
Press ALARM again (do not hold) to display MIN icon. Press HISTORY/- to view pressure (ABS or REL) min value.
Press SET for three seconds to clear minimum values for pressure, temperature, and humidity. Minimum values will now display current values.
Press SNOOZE/LIGHT to exit min/max checking and return to normal display mode.
7.8 Snooze Mode
If an alarm sounds, press SNOOZE/LIGHT to silence it and turn on the backlight. The alarm icon will flash, and the alarm will silence for five minutes. Press any key (HISTORY/+, SET, ALARM, CHANNEL/+) to permanently exit Snooze mode.
7.9 Backlight Mode
If LED is off, press LIGHT once: backlight turns on for five seconds. If no operation for three seconds, backlight turns off.
Press and hold LIGHT for two seconds: backlight turns on permanently, "LED ON" icon displays for three seconds. If LED is on, press and hold LIGHT once: LED turns off.
Note: To dim backlight, press SNOOZE/LIGHT to toggle contrast level from 1 (lowest) to 8.
Note: To easily adjust backlight, press SNOOZE/LIGHT twice quickly to enter Backlight Contrast Mode. "BRIGHT 4" displays. Use [+] or [-] to adjust contrast (1-8), then press SET to exit.
Note: If plugged into AC power, "AC ON" displays, and backlight remains on. Not recommended for battery-only operation as it drains batteries quickly.
7.10 Adjustment or Calibration
Note: Calibrated values are adjusted on the console; sensors display un-calibrated values.
Note: Humidity range is 10-99%. Calibration is not possible below 10% or above 99%.
Calibration fine-tunes or corrects sensor errors. It is optional and useful only with a known calibrated source. Do not compare readings with internet, radio, or TV sources, as they are in different locations and update hourly.
The weather station measures local conditions. The WS-12 supports calibration for up to eight remote sensors. Press CHANNEL/+ to select the channel to calibrate.
7.10.1 Temperature Calibration
In normal mode, press and hold SET and CHANNEL/+ keys simultaneously for five seconds to enter temperature calibration mode. Indoor temperature will flash.
Use [+] or [-] keys to increase/decrease temperature reading (0.1 increments). Hold keys for rapid adjustment.
Press ALARM to reset the current value.
Press SET to switch to the next channel (1-8). Press SNOOZE/LIGHT to exit calibration mode at any time; it times out after 30 seconds of inactivity.
7.10.2 Humidity Calibration
In normal mode, press and hold SET and HISTORY/- keys simultaneously for five seconds to enter humidity calibration mode. Indoor humidity will flash.
Use [+] or [-] keys to increase/decrease humidity reading (1% increments). Hold keys for rapid adjustment.
Press ALARM to reset the current value.
Press SET to switch to the next channel (1-8). Press SNOOZE/LIGHT to exit calibration mode at any time; it times out after 30 seconds of inactivity.
Note: Humidity measurement can drift. Calibration requires an accurate source like a sling psychrometer or Humidipaks One Step Calibration kit.
7.10.3 Wind Speed, Rainfall and Barometric Pressure Calibration
In normal mode, press and hold SET and ALARM keys simultaneously for five seconds to enter calibration mode. Wind speed will flash.
Use [+] or [-] keys to increase/decrease wind speed reading. Hold keys for rapid adjustment.
Press ALARM to reset the current value.
Press SET to switch to rainfall, absolute pressure, and relative pressure. Press SNOOZE/LIGHT to exit calibration mode at any time; it times out after 30 seconds of inactivity.
- Wind Speed (Gust) Calibration: Calibration gain (default 1.0) will flash. Use [+] or [-] to adjust factor from 0.75 to 1.25.
Calibrated Wind Speed = Calibration factor x Measured Wind Speed
Note: Wind gust is also affected by the wind speed calibration factor.
Discussion: Installation constraints affect wind speed and gust. Install anemometer four times the height of the tallest obstruction away. Calibration corrects for obstructions and wear.
Note: Wind speed is difficult to measure without a calibrated source; use a calibrated wind meter and high-speed fan.
- Rainfall Calibration (1 Hour, 24 Hour, Daily, Monthly, Total): Press SET. Rain Calibration value (default 1.0) will flash. Use [+] or [-] to adjust factor from 0.75 to 1.25.
Calibrated Rain = Calibration factor x Measured Rain
Discussion: Rain collector is factory calibrated by funnel diameter. Bucket tips every 0.01" of rain. Compare accumulated rainfall to a sight glass rain gauge with at least a 4" aperture.
Note: Debris and insects can collect in the tipping mechanism. Remove funnel and inspect before calibration.
- Absolute Pressure and Relative Pressure Calibration: Press SET to enter calibration mode. Use [+] or [-] to increase/decrease pressure reading (0.01inHg increments).
Note: Console displays absolute (measured) and relative (sea-level corrected) pressure. Meteorologists correct pressure to sea-level for comparison.
Absolute pressure may read 28.62 inHg (969 mb) at 1000 ft, while relative pressure is 30.00 inHg (1016 mb). Standard sea-level pressure is 29.92 in Hg (1013.2hpa).
To determine relative pressure, find an official reporting station (e.g., Weather.com, Wunderground.com) and set your station to match.
8 Alarm Mode
The WS-12 supports alarms for:
- Time
- Indoor Temperature
- Indoor Humidity
- Channel 1 Temperature
- Channel 1 Humidity
- Channel 1 Feels Like Temperature
- Channel 1 Dew Point
- Wind Speed
- Wind Gust
- Hourly Rainfall
- 24 Hour Rainfall
- Absolute Pressure
- Relative Pressure
Alarms for Channels 2-8 are not supported.
8.1 Alarm Operation
When an alarm condition is exceeded, the alarm icon ? will flash, and the beeper will sound. Press any key to silence the beeper. The beeper can be permanently silenced (see Section 8.4).
8.2 Viewing the High and Low Alarms
To view current alarm settings, press and hold the ALARM key for three seconds to enter alarm mode. HI alarms and alarm clock time will be displayed.
Press ALARM to view LOW alarms. Press SET to view rainfall (1h/24h) high alarms and pressure (ABS/REL) high/low alarms.
Press SNOOZE/LIGHT to return to normal mode.
8.3 Setting the Alarms
Press and hold ALARM for three seconds to enter alarm mode.
Press and hold SET for three seconds to begin setting alarm parameters (starting with alarm hour).
Press SET (do not hold) to save the current setting and proceed to the next parameter.
Use [+] or [-] keys to adjust alarm parameters. Hold keys for rapid adjustment.
Press ALARM to turn the alarm on (alarm icon ? appears) or off.
Press SNOOZE/LIGHT twice to return to normal mode. The mode times out after 30 seconds of inactivity.
Alarm parameters are set in the following order:
- Alarm hour
- Alarm minute
- Rainfall (1h) high alarm
- Rainfall (24h) high alarm
- Wind Gust high alarm
- Wind speed high alarm
- Outdoor (channel 1) temperature high alarm
- Outdoor (channel 1) temperature low alarm
- Outdoor (channel 1) humidity high alarm
- Outdoor (channel 1) humidity low alarm
- Outdoor (channel 1) feels like high alarm
- Outdoor (channel 1) feels like low alarm
- Outdoor (channel 1) dew point high alarm
- Outdoor (channel 1) dew point low alarm
- Absolute pressure high alarm
- Absolute pressure low alarm
- Relative pressure high alarm
- Relative pressure low alarm
- Indoor temperature high alarm
- Indoor temperature low alarm
- Indoor humidity high alarm
- Indoor humidity low alarm
Note: A 0.9°F tolerance band prevents repetitive temperature alarms. Humidity has a 4% tolerance band.
8.4 Alarm and Command Key Beeper ON/OFF Mode
The beeper can be silenced for alarms and key presses. In normal mode, press and hold HISTORY/- for three seconds to toggle the beeper on/off. "BUZZON" or "BUZZOFF" icon will appear briefly. Press and hold HISTORY/- again for three seconds to toggle the command.
9 Other Console Features
9.1 Feels Like Temperature
Feels Like temperature combines Heat Index and Wind Chill. At temperatures below 40°F, Wind Chill is displayed, based on the National Weather Service Wind Chill Table.
Figure 21: NWS Wind Chill Chart.
At temperatures above 80°F, Heat Index is displayed, based on the National Weather Service Heat Index Table.
Figure 22: NWS Heat Index Table.
When the temperature is between 40°F and 80°F, Channel 1 temperature is displayed (Feels Like temperature equals Channel 1 temperature).
9.2 Moon Phase
The console displays moon phases based on the calendar date.
Figure 23: Moon phase display.
9.3 Personalizing Color Ranges
Customize background color ranges based on location or personal preference. For example, "hot" and "cold" definitions vary by region.
Example 1: Arizona, 20°F to 110°F. Color Increment = (110 - 20) / 9 = 10°F.
Example 2: Alaska, -20°F to 70°F. Color Increments = (70 - (-20)) / 9 = 10°F.
9.4 Low Battery Icon
A low battery icon appears on the display for each sensor when battery voltage drops below 2.4V. Replace batteries with fresh ones. Do not mix old/new or different battery types (alkaline/lithium).
10 Glossary of Terms
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Accuracy | The ability of a measurement to match the actual value of the quantity being measured. |
| Hygrometer | A device measuring relative humidity (amount of water vapor in air). |
| Range | The amount or extent a value can be measured. |
| Resolution | The number of significant digits (decimal places) to which a value is reliably measured. |
| Wind Vane | A device measuring wind direction, usually combined with an anemometer. |
| Absolute Barometric Pressure | Barometric pressure corrected to sea-level. Sea-level corrected pressure is generally higher than measured pressure due to altitude. |
| Relative Barometric Pressure | Measured barometric pressure relative to your location or ambient conditions. |
| HectoPascals (hPa) | SI unit for pressure (1 hPa = 1 mbar). |
| Inches of Mercury (inHg) | Imperial unit for pressure. 1 inch of mercury = 33.86 millibars. |
11 Specifications
11.1 Wireless Specifications
- Line of sight transmission: 300 feet (open air), 100 feet (most conditions).
- Frequency: 433 MHz.
- Update Rate: 60 seconds (rain/thermo-hygrometer sensors), 16 seconds (wind sensor).
11.2 Measurement Specifications
| Measurement | Range | Accuracy | Resolution |
|---|---|---|---|
| Indoor Temperature | 32 to 140 °F | ± 1 °F | 0.1 °F |
| Outdoor Temperature | -40 to 140 °F | ± 1 °F | 0.1 °F |
| Indoor Humidity | 10 to 99% | ± 5% (guaranteed 20-90%) | 1% |
| Outdoor Humidity | 10 to 99% | ± 5% (guaranteed 20-90%) | 1% |
| Rain | 0 to 396in | <0.6in: ±0.04in, 0.6in to 396in: ±7% | <39.4in (0.012in), >39.4in (0.04in) |
| Wind Direction | 0-360° | 45° (8 point compass) | 45° (8 point compass) |
| Wind Speed | 0 to 112mph | 4.5 mph ~22.4mph: ± 6.7mph, 22.4mph~112mph: ±10% (whichever is greater) | 0.1mph |
| Barometric Pressure: | 8.85 to 32.50 inHg | ± 0.08 inHg | 0.01 inHg |
11.3 Power Consumption
- Base station (display console): 4 x AA 1.5V Alkaline or Lithium batteries (not included).
- Adapter: 6V ~ 500mA.
- Thermo-hygro Sensor: 2 x AAA alkaline or Lithium batteries (not included).
- Rain sensor: 4 x AAA alkaline or Lithium batteries (not included).
- Wind sensor: 4 x AAA alkaline or Lithium batteries (not included).
- Battery Life: Minimum 12 months for base station with excellent reception. Intermittent reception and multiple sensors may reduce battery life. Minimum 12 months for sensors (use lithium batteries in cold weather climates below -4 °F).
12 Troubleshooting Guide
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Wireless remote (thermo-hygrometer) not reporting in to console. Dashes (--.-) on display. | If sensor communication is lost, dashes (--.-) display. To reacquire signal, press and hold CHANNEL/+ for 3 seconds. Remote search icon ? will display constantly until signal is reacquired. Once signal is reacquired, icon turns off, and current values display. |
| Maximum line of sight range is 300 ft (open air), 100 ft (most conditions). Move sensor assembly closer to console. If too close (less than 5 ft), move away. | |
| Ensure remote sensor LCD is working and transmitter light flashes every 60 seconds. Install fresh batteries (lithium for cold weather). | |
| Ensure sensors are not transmitting through solid metal (RF shield) or earth barrier. Move console away from electrical noise sources (computers, TVs, wireless transmitters/receivers). | |
| Move remote sensor to a higher location or closer location. | |
| Temperature sensor reads too high in the daytime. | Mount thermo-hygrometer in a shaded area, preferably north-facing. Consider a radiation shield: http://www.ambientweather.com/amwesrpatean.html |
| Indoor and Outdoor Temperature do not agree. | Allow up to one hour for sensors to stabilize. Indoor/outdoor temperatures should agree within 2°F (sensor accuracy ± 1°F). Use calibration feature to match readings to a known source. |
| Indoor and Outdoor Humidity do not agree. | Allow up to one hour for sensors to stabilize. Indoor/outdoor humidity should agree within 10% (sensor accuracy ± 5%). Use calibration feature to match readings to a known source. |
| Display console contrast is weak. | Replace console batteries with fresh ones. |
| Outdoor color does not change as expected. | Ensure the outdoor sensor is assigned to Channel 1. |
13 Maintenance
- Clean the rain gauge every 3 months. Pull out the Rain Gauge Filter drawer.
- Replace wind, rain, and thermo-hygrometer transmitter batteries every 1-2 years.
- Clean the anemometer solar panel every 3 months.
14 Accessories
Available accessories at www.AmbientWeather.com:
| Accessory | Description |
|---|---|
| Energizer AAA Lithium Battery (2-pack) - Batteries for Long Life and Cold Climates | AAA lithium batteries for cold weather climates. |
| Energizer AA Lithium Battery (2-pack) - Batteries for Long Life and Cold Climates | AA lithium batteries for cold weather climates. |
| Ambient Weather SRS100LX Temperature and Humidity Solar Radiation Shield | Solar Radiation Shield improves temperature accuracy for hot weather climates. Install over thermo-hygrometer. |
| Ambient Weather Humidity Calibration Kits | One-step calibration kits for digital hygrometers using salt slurry formula to accurately calibrate indoor and outdoor hygrometers. |
15 Liability Disclaimer
Please help preserve the environment by returning used batteries to an authorized depot. Electrical and electronic waste contains hazardous substances. Disposal of electronic waste in wild country and/or unauthorized grounds damages the environment.
Reading the "User manual" is highly recommended. The manufacturer and supplier are not responsible for incorrect readings or consequences thereof.
This product is for home use as an indication of weather conditions only. It is not for medical or public information purposes.
Specifications are subject to change without notice.
This product is not a toy. Keep out of reach of children.
No part of this manual may be reproduced without written authorization from the manufacturer.
Ambient, LLC is not liable for incidental, consequential, punitive, or similar damages associated with the operation or malfunction of this product.
16 FCC Statement
Statement according to FCC part 15.19:
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
- This device may not cause harmful interference.
- This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
Statement according to FCC part 15.21:
Modifications not expressly approved by this company could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.
Statement according to FCC part 15.105:
NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
- Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
- Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
- Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
- Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
17 Warranty Information
Ambient, LLC provides a 1-year limited warranty against manufacturing defects in materials and workmanship. The warranty begins on the original purchase date and is valid only for the original purchaser. To receive warranty service, contact Ambient, LLC for problem determination and service procedures. The original dated bill of sale must be presented as proof of purchase.
The warranty covers defects in material and workmanship, with the following exceptions:
- Damage from accident, unreasonable use, neglect, or lack of maintenance.
- Damage from failure to follow instructions in the owner's manual.
- Damage from repairs or alterations by unauthorized personnel.
- Units used for non-home use or unintended applications.
- Inability to receive a signal due to interference or obstructions.
- Extreme acts of nature (lightning, floods).
The warranty covers actual product defects only; it does not cover installation/removal costs, normal setup/adjustments, claims based on seller misrepresentation, or installation-related performance variations.
