Ambient Weather WS-1173B Advanced Weather Station User Manual
Brand: Ambient Weather
Model: WS-1173B
1 Introduction
Thank you for your purchase of the Ambient Weather WS-1173B Advanced Weather Station with Temperature, Humidity, Barometer, Advanced Forecasting, Sunrise, Sunset and Moonphase. 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/ws1173
2 Product Features
The Ambient Weather WS-1173B displays various weather parameters. Figure 1 illustrates the console display and its numbered features:
Figure 1: Display Console Layout
| No | Description | No | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Forecast Icons | 5 | Barometric Pressure |
| 2 | Moonphase | 6 | Radio Controlled Clock with Perpetual Calendar |
| 3 | Sunrise and Sunset | 7 | Indoor Humidity and Temperature |
| 4 | Outdoor Temperature and Humidity |
The display includes:
- Forecast Icons (Sunny ☀️, Partly Cloudy ?️, Cloudy ☁️, Rainy ?️)
- Moon Phase indicators (New ?, Waxing Crescent ?, First Quarter ?, Waxing Gibbous ?, Full ?, Waning Gibbous ?, Third Quarter ?, Waning Crescent ?)
- Sunrise and Sunset times
- Outdoor Temperature and Humidity
- Barometric Pressure
- Radio Controlled Clock with Perpetual Calendar
- Indoor Humidity and Temperature
- Time, Date, Day of Week
- Weather tendency indicators (arrows ➡️, ⬅️)
- Low battery indicator ?
- Alarm indicators ?
3 Getting Started
? Note: The power up sequence must be performed in the order shown in this section (remote transmitter first, Display Console second) to avoid the console synchronization time out.
The WS-1173B weather station consists of a display console (receiver), and a thermo-hygrometer (remote transmitter).
3.1 Parts List
| QTY | Item |
|---|---|
| 1 | Display Console Frame Dimensions (LxWxH): 7.25 x 4 x 1.25 in LCD Dimensions (LxW): 4.25 x 2.50" |
| 1 | Thermo-hygrometer transmitter (WH2B) with mounting bracket Dimensions (LxWxH): 3.5" x 2.5" x 0.9" |
3.2 Recommend Tools
- Philips precision screwdriver
- Drill for mounting bracket
3.3 Thermo-Hygrometer Sensor Set Up
? Note: To avoid permanent damage, please take note of the battery polarity before inserting the batteries.
Remove the battery door on the back of the sensor with a Philips screwdriver (there is only one screw, at the bottom of the unit). Insert two AAA batteries as shown in Figure 3.
Lithium batteries are recommended for cold weather climates, while alkaline batteries are sufficient for most climates. Rechargeable batteries are not recommended due to lower voltages and performance at wide temperature ranges.
Replace the battery door and set screw. The temperature and humidity will be displayed on the LCD. When looking at the back of the unit from left to right, the polarity is (-) (+) for the top battery and (+) (-) for the bottom battery. [Image depicts the back of the sensor showing battery placement and polarity markings]Figure 3: Thermo-Hygrometer Battery Compartment
3.4 Display Console Set Up
? Note: To avoid permanent damage, please take note of the battery polarity before inserting the batteries.
Place the remote thermo-hygrometer about 5 to 10 feet away from the display console. If the sensor is too close, it may not be received by the display console.
Remove the battery door on the back of the display. Insert three AA (alkaline or lithium, avoid rechargeable) batteries. Looking at the back of the unit (left to right), the polarity is (+) (-) for the top battery, (-) (+) for the middle battery, and (+) (-) for the bottom battery.
The display will beep once, and all LCD segments will light up briefly to verify operation.
Replace the battery door, fold out the desk stand, and place the console upright.
The console will immediately display indoor temperature, humidity, barometer, tendency, date, and time.
The remote search icon ? will turn on and remain for several minutes. The outdoor temperature and humidity will update on the display within a few minutes.
Important: Do not touch any buttons until the remote sensor reports in, otherwise the remote sensor search mode will be terminated, and the search icon will turn off. Once remote sensor data is received, the console will automatically switch to normal mode, and further settings can be performed.
If the remote sensor does not update, refer to Section 8, Troubleshooting Guide.
3.4.1 Radio Controlled Clock (RCC)
If your console is equipped with the Radio Controlled Clock (RCC), the WWVB icon will appear above the time. WWVB is the NIST time signal radio station near Fort Collins, Colorado.
The RCC is received by the wireless transmitter and passed to the console. After the remote sensor is powered up, it transmits weather data for 30 seconds, then begins RCC reception. The sensor search icon ? will remain on.
During RCC time reception (maximum 10 minutes), no weather data is transmitted to avoid interference.
If signal reception is unsuccessful (often during the day due to solar interference), the sensor search will be cancelled, outdoor temperature and humidity will update normally, and the RCC search will resume every two hours until the signal is captured. The regular RF link resumes after RCC reception. In some locations, RCC reception may take a couple of days. Temperature and humidity data continue to transmit during this period.
Once the radio controlled time is received, the RCC reception icon will turn on (reference Figure 5).
3.4.2 Display Console Layout
? Note: The following illustration shows the full segments of the LCD for description purposes only and will not appear like this during normal operation.
Figure 4: Display Console Layout Details
[Image depicts the LCD display with numbered callouts corresponding to the list below]
- 1. Weather forecast icon ☀️?️☁️?️
- 2. Low battery indicator ?
- 3. MIN/MAX information
- 4. Sunrise time
- 5. Moon phase indicator ????????
- 6. Sunset time
- 7. Indoor temperature low / high alarm ?
- 8. Indoor temperature display
- 9. Temperature display unit (°F/°C)
- 10. Indoor humidity display
- 11. Indoor temperature and humidity alarm on indicator ?
- 12. Indoor humidity low / high alarm ?
- 13. Dew point temperature display
- 14. Outdoor temperature low/high alarm ?
- 15. Outdoor temperature and humidity alarm on indicator ?
- 16. Temperature display unit (°F/°C)
- 17. Outdoor temperature display
- 18. Outdoor humidity display
- 19. Outdoor humidity low/high alarm ?
- 20. Absolute or relative air pressure selection
- 21. Barometer air pressure
- 22. Pressure with 24 hour history graph
- 23. Pressure high alarm ?
- 24. Pressure alarm on indicator ?
- 25. Pressure low alarm ?
- 26. Pressure display unit (inHg or hPa)
- 27. DST (daylight savings time), WWVB indicator (radio controlled or atomic time received from Colorado), or DCF (Europe only)
- 28. Radio Controlled Time icon (flashes when updated)
- 29. Time
- 30. Second
- 31. Day of week/ time zone
- 32. Alarm on indicator ?
- 33. Date (M / D / Y)
3.4.3 Sensor Operation Verification
Verify the indoor and outdoor humidity match closely when the console and sensor array are in the same location (about 10 feet apart). The sensors should agree within 10% (accuracy ± 5%). Allow about 30 minutes for both sensors to stabilize.
Verify the indoor and outdoor temperature match closely when the console and sensor array are in the same location (about 10 feet apart). The sensors should agree within 4°F (accuracy ± 2°F). Allow about 30 minutes for both sensors to stabilize.
4 Remote Sensor Installation
4.1 Sensor Placement
It is recommended to mount the remote sensor outside on a north-facing wall, in a shaded area, at a height at or above the receiver. If a north-facing wall is not possible, choose a shaded area under an eave.
Direct sunlight and radiant heat sources will result in inaccurate temperature readings. Although the sensor is weatherproof, it is best to mount it in a well-protected area, such as an eave.
Use the 3 included screws and a precision screwdriver to affix the mounting bracket to the wall. It is recommended to drill pilot holes first. Connect the remote sensor to the wall bracket.
Figure 5: Remote Sensor Mounting
[Image shows the remote sensor and a wall bracket, with arrows indicating attachment]
? Note: Make sure the sensor is mounted vertically and not lying down on a flat surface to ensure optimum reception.
4.2 Wireless Reception Considerations
Wireless signals are impacted by distance, interference (other weather stations, wireless phones, wireless routers, TVs, computer monitors), and transmission barriers like walls. Generally, wireless signals do not penetrate solid metal and earth (e.g., down a hill).
The following table shows reception loss versus transmission medium. Each "wall" or obstruction decreases the transmission range by the factor shown:
| Medium | RF Signal Strength Reduction |
|---|---|
| Glass (untreated) | 5-15% |
| Plastics | 10-15% |
| Wood | 10-40% |
| Brick | 10-40% |
| Concrete | 40-80% |
| Metal | 90-100% |
5 Console Operation
? Note: The console has four keys for easy operation: SET, ALARM, MIN/MAX, and + keys. There are four program modes: Quick Display Mode, Set Mode, Alarm Mode, and Min/Max Mode.
Any program mode can be exited at any time by pressing the SNOOZE/LIGHT key (on the top of the display console) or by waiting for the 10-second time-out.
5.1 Quick Display Mode
5.1.1 Quick Display Mode Quick Reference Guide
| Command | Mode | Settings |
|---|---|---|
| [SET] | Enter Quick Set Mode, Outdoor Temperature vs Dew Point | Press [+] to toggle between outdoor temperature and dew point. |
| [SET] | Relative Pressure vs Absolute Pressure | Press [+] to toggle between relative pressure and absolute pressure. |
5.1.2 Quick Display Mode Operation
While in Normal Mode, press the SET key to enter Quick Display Mode. Pressing it once cycles through outdoor temperature and dew point, and twice cycles through absolute and relative pressure.
- Display Outdoor Temperature and Dew Point: Press the MIN/MAX or [+] key to toggle between outdoor temperature and dew point.
- Absolute Pressure and Relative Pressure: Press the MIN/MAX or [+] key to toggle between absolute pressure and relative pressure.
5.2 Set (Program) Mode
5.2.1 Set Mode Quick Reference Guide
| Command | Mode | Settings |
|---|---|---|
| [SET] + 3 seconds | Enter Set Mode, Daylight Savings Time (DST) | Press [+] to toggle OFF and ON |
| [SET] | Time Zone (TZ) | Press [+] to increase. [MIN/MAX] to decrease |
| [SET] | 12/24 Hour Format | Press [+] to toggle between 12 hour (12h) and 24 hour (24h) format |
| [SET] | Latitude Location Hemisphere (LA) | Press [+] to toggle between Northern (Nth) and Southern hemisphere (Sth) |
| [ALARM] | Latitude (whole number) | Press [+] to increase. [MIN/MAX] to decrease |
| [ALARM] | Latitude (decimal number) | Press [+] to increase. [MIN/MAX] to decrease |
| [SET] | Longitude Location Hemisphere (LO) | Press [+] to toggle between Western (WST) and Eastern (EST) hemisphere |
| [ALARM] | Longitude (whole number x 100) | Press [+] to toggle between 1 and 0 |
| [ALARM] | Longitude (whole number) | Press [+] to increase. [MIN/MAX] to decrease |
| [ALARM] | Longitude (decimal number) | Press [+] to increase. [MIN/MAX] to decrease |
| [SET] | Hour of Day | Press [+] to increase. [MIN/MAX] to decrease |
| [SET] | Minute of Day | Press [+] to increase. [MIN/MAX] to decrease |
| [SET] | Year | Press [+] to increase. [MIN/MAX] to decrease |
| [SET] | Month of Year | Press [+] to increase. [MIN/MAX] to decrease |
| [SET] | Day of Month | Press [+] to increase. [MIN/MAX] to decrease |
| [SET] | Temperature Units of Measure | Press [+] to toggle between degF and degC |
| [SET] | Indoor Temperature Calibration | Press [+] to increase. [MIN/MAX] to decrease |
| [SET] | Indoor Humidity Calibration | Press [+] to increase. [MIN/MAX] to decrease |
| [SET] | Outdoor Temperature Calibration | Press [+] to increase. [MIN/MAX] to decrease |
| [SET] | Outdoor Humidity Calibration | Press [+] to increase. [MIN/MAX] to decrease |
| [SET] | Barometric Pressure Units of Measure | Press [+] to toggle between inHg and hPa |
| [SET] | Relative Pressure Calibration | Press [+] to increase. [MIN/MAX] to decrease |
| [SET] | Pressure Threshold for Forecast | Press [+] to increase. [MIN/MAX] to decrease |
| [SET] | Storm Threshold for Forecast | Press [+] to increase. [MIN/MAX] to decrease |
| [SET] | Exit Set Mode |
5.2.2 Set Mode Operation
While in Normal Mode, press and hold the SET key for at least three seconds (until it beeps) to enter Set Mode. The first setting will begin flashing. Press the SET key again to advance to the next step.
? Note: In Set mode, press the [+] or MIN/MAX key to change or scroll the value. Hold the [+] or MIN/MAX key for 3 seconds to increase/decrease rapidly.
? Note: Press the SNOOZE key (or wait 30 seconds for timeout) to return to Normal Mode.
- Daylight Savings Time (DST): The DST (ON or OFF) setting will flash. Press the [+] key to toggle between DST ON and DST OFF.
? Note: DST should always be ON unless you live in Arizona or Hawaii, which do not observe DST. If turned ON, it automatically adjusts time after daylight savings and standard time changes.
- Time Zone Settings: Press SET again to adjust the Time Zone (TZ). Press the [+] or MIN/MAX key to adjust the time zone from -12 to 12, based on hours from Coordinated Universal Time (GMT). Eastern hemisphere locations are positive, western hemisphere are negative.
| Hours from GMT | Time Zone | Cities |
|---|---|---|
| -12 | IDLW: International Date Line West | |
| -11 | NT: Nome | Nome, AK |
| -10 | AHST: Alaska-Hawaii Standard | Honolulu, HI |
| CAT: Central Alaska | ||
| HST: Hawaii Standard | ||
| -9 | YST: Yukon Standard | Yukon Territory |
| -8 | PST: Pacific Standard | Los Angeles, CA, USA |
| -7 | MST: Mountain Standard | Denver, CO, USA |
| -6 | CST: Central Standard | Chicago, IL, USA |
| -5 | EST: Eastern Standard | New York, NY, USA |
| -4 | AST: Atlantic Standard | Caracas |
| -3 | São Paulo, Brazil | |
| -2 | AT: Azores | Azores, Cape Verde Islands |
| -1 | WAT: West Africa | |
| 0 | GMT: Greenwich Mean | London, England |
| WET: Western European | ||
| 1 | CET: Central European | Paris, France |
| 2 | EET: Eastern European | Athens, Greece |
| 3 | BT: Baghdad | Moscow, Russia |
| 4 | Abu Dhabi, UAE | |
| 5 | Tashkent | |
| 6 | Astana | |
| 7 | Bangkok | |
| 8 | CCT: China Coast | Bejing |
| 9 | JST: Japan Standard | Tokyo |
| 10 | GST: Guam Standard | Sydney |
| 11 | Magadan | |
| 12 | IDLE: International Date Line East | Wellington, New Zealand |
| NZST: New Zealand Standard |
- 12/24 Hour Format: Press SET to adjust the 12/24 hour format. Press the [+] key to change between 12 hour and 24 hour format.
- Latitude Location: Press SET to adjust the Northern and Southern Hemisphere settings. The icon LA will appear. Press the [+] key to change between NTH (northern) and STH (southern) hemisphere.
Next, press the ALARM key to adjust the latitude whole number. Press the [+] or MIN/MAX key to adjust up or down.
Press ALARM again to adjust the latitude decimal number. Press the [+] or MIN/MAX key to adjust up or down.
? Note: North America is in the northern hemisphere; no change is needed for the United States and Canada.
? Note: To determine your latitude and longitude, visit www.bing.com/maps and enter your street address. For more details, see section 5.5.9.
- Longitude Location: Press SET to adjust the Eastern and Western Hemisphere settings. The icon LO will appear. Press the [+] key to change between EST (eastern) and WST (western) hemisphere.
Next, press ALARM to adjust the longitude whole number x 100. Press the [+] or MIN/MAX key to adjust up or down.
Press ALARM again to adjust the longitude decimal number. Press the [+] or MIN/MAX key to adjust up or down.
? Note: North America is in the western hemisphere; no change is needed for the United States and Canada.
- Change Hour: Press SET to set the hour. Press the [+] or MIN/MAX key to adjust up or down.
- Change Minute: Press SET to set the minute. Press the [+] or MIN/MAX key to adjust up or down.
- Change Year: Press SET to set the calendar year. Press the [+] or MIN/MAX key to adjust up or down.
- Change Month: Press SET to set the calendar month. Press the [+] or MIN/MAX key to adjust up or down.
- Change Day: Press SET to set the calendar day. Press the [+] or MIN/MAX key to adjust up or down (display format is Month/Day/Year).
- Temperature Units: Press SET to toggle between Celsius (°C) and Fahrenheit (°F).
- Indoor Temperature Calibration: Press SET to adjust indoor temperature. Press the [+] or MIN/MAX key to adjust up or down in 0.1 degC (0.18 degF) increments.
To view the uncalibrated value, press ALARM while the temperature is flashing. Refer to Section 5.2.5 for details.
- Indoor Humidity Calibration: Press SET to adjust indoor humidity. Press the [+] or MIN/MAX key to adjust up or down in 1% increments. Refer to Section 5.2.4 for details.
- Outdoor Temperature Calibration: Press SET to adjust outdoor temperature. Press the [+] or MIN/MAX key to adjust up or down in 0.1 degC (0.18 degF) increments.
To view the uncalibrated value, press ALARM while the temperature is flashing. Refer to Section 5.2.5 for details.
- Outdoor Humidity Calibration: Press SET to adjust outdoor humidity. Press the [+] or MIN/MAX key to adjust up or down in 1% increments.
To view the uncalibrated value, press ALARM while the humidity is flashing. Refer to Section 5.2.4 for details.
- Barometric Pressure Display Units: Press SET to toggle between hPa or inHg.
- Relative Pressure Calibration: Default is 29.92 inHg. Press SET to adjust relative barometric pressure. Press the [+] or MIN/MAX key to adjust up or down. Refer to Section 5.2.3 for details.
- Pressure Threshold Setting: Default level 2. Press SET to adjust the pressure threshold. Press the [+] or MIN/MAX key to adjust up or down. Refer to Section 5.5.5 for details.
- Storm Threshold Setting: Default level 4. Press SET to adjust the storm threshold. Press the [+] or MIN/MAX key to adjust up or down. Refer to Section 5.5.5 for details.
5.2.3 Setting Barometric Pressure
? Note: This is a continuation of the previous section. To enter this mode, you must start at the beginning of this section.
The display console shows two pressures: absolute (measured) and relative (corrected to sea-level). Meteorologists correct pressure to sea-level conditions to compare pressure across different altitudes. Sea-level corrected pressure is generally higher than measured pressure.
For example, at 1000 feet (305 m), absolute pressure might be 28.62 inHg (969 mb), but relative pressure is 30.00 inHg (1016 mb).
Standard sea-level pressure is 29.92 in Hg (1013 mb). Relative pressure above this is considered high pressure; below is considered low pressure.
To determine your location's relative pressure, find an official reporting station (e.g., via Weather.com or Wunderground.com) and set your weather station to match.
In SET mode, press the [+] or MIN/MAX key to increase or decrease the relative pressure setting to match the official reporting station.
5.2.4 Setting Calibrated Humidity
? Note: This is a continuation of the previous section. To enter this mode, you must start at the beginning of this section.
The console allows calibration of both indoor and outdoor humidity. Humidity is difficult to measure accurately and can drift. Calibration allows you to zero out errors. Use an accurate source like a sling psychrometer or an Ambient Weather Humidipaks One Step Calibration kit.
To calibrate indoor humidity: In Set Mode, with indoor humidity flashing, press the [+] or MIN/MAX key to increase or decrease the humidity setting (in 1% increments) to match your calibrated source. To return to the measured value, press and hold SET for 3 seconds.
? Note: The remote (outdoor) thermo-hygrometer always displays the measured humidity, not the calibrated value. Only the console shows the calibrated value. Dew point calculation is based on calibrated humidity.
5.2.5 Setting Calibrated Temperature
Temperature is measured by a resistive thermal device (RTD) and is subject to electronic variation. Errors can occur if the sensor is too close to a heat source (building, ground, trees).
For indoor or outdoor temperature calibration, use a mercury or red spirit (fluid) thermometer. Bi-metal or other digital thermometers have their own error margins. Local weather stations are also poor sources due to location changes, timing, and potential calibration errors.
Place the sensor in a shaded, controlled environment next to a fluid thermometer and allow it to stabilize for 24 hours. Compare and adjust the console to match the fluid thermometer.
To calibrate indoor or outdoor temperature: In Set Mode, with temperature flashing, press the [+] or MIN/MAX key to increase or decrease the temperature setting (in 0.1 degC or 0.18 degF increments) to match the calibrated source.
? Note: The remote (outdoor) thermo-hygrometer always displays the measured temperature, not the calibrated value. Only the console shows the calibrated value. Dew point calculation is based on calibrated temperature.
5.3 Alarm Mode
5.3.1 Alarm Display
While in Normal Mode, press ALARM to enter High Alarm Mode. Press ALARM again for Low Alarm Mode. Press ALARM a third time to return to normal mode (or wait 30 seconds).
? Note: In ALARM mode, the console displays high and low alarm settings. If the value reads --.--, the alarm is not active.
5.3.2 Alarm Programming
While in Alarm Mode, press SET to configure alarms. The following are high and low alarms:
- High Alarm Limits: Time alarm (hour/minute), Indoor humidity high, Indoor temperature high, Outdoor humidity high, Outdoor temperature / dew point high, Pressure high.
- Low Alarm Limits: Time alarm (hour/minute), Indoor humidity low, Indoor temperature low, Outdoor humidity low, Outdoor temperature / dew point low, Pressure low.
In alarm mode, press the [+] or MIN/MAX key to change or scroll the alarm value. Hold the [+] or MIN/MAX key for 3 seconds to change rapidly. Press ALARM to enable or disable the alarm (if enabled, the speaker icon ? will be on).
Press SET to confirm and continue pressing SET to cycle through alarm modes until returning to normal display mode. Press SNOOZE or wait 30 seconds to exit programming mode.
5.3.3 Cancelling the Alarm
When an alarm condition is active, it will sound and flash for 120 seconds. Press any key to cancel.
If an alarm condition occurs again within 10 minutes, it will not sound but will continue to flash until the condition is stable. This prevents repeated triggering.
The alarm resets automatically when the value falls below the set value or a new value is entered.
5.3.4 Outdoor Alarm – Temperature vs. Dew Point
When an outdoor weather alarm triggers, it flashes on the LCD with the general outdoor alarm icon and high/low alarm icon. For example, if the dew point high alarm triggers, the DEW POINT icon will flash along with the general outdoor alarm and high alarm icons.
Figure 4: Alarm Display Example
[Diagram shows temperature display mode and dew point high alarm triggered mode, with flashing indicators]
5.4 Min/Max Mode
? Note: Min and max settings cannot be reset simultaneously; they must be reset individually.
While in Normal Mode, press MIN/MAX to enter maximum mode. The MAX icon and maximum records will display and flash.
Press MIN/MAX again to enter minimum mode. The MIN icon and minimum records will display and flash.
Press MIN/MAX again to return to Normal Mode.
In maximum (or minimum) reading mode, press the [+] key to display the specific value to reset. This value will flash with its time and date stamp. Press the [+] key again to proceed to the next parameter:
- Indoor humidity maximum (or minimum)
- Indoor temperature maximum (or minimum)
- Outdoor humidity maximum (or minimum)
- Outdoor temperature maximum (or minimum)
- Pressure maximum (or minimum)
Press SET for two seconds to reset the flashing value and its associated date/time to the current reading.
Press SNOOZE or wait 30 seconds to exit Min/Max mode.
5.5 Other Console Features
5.5.1 Weather Forecasting
? Note: Weather forecast and pressure tendency are based on barometric pressure change rate. Increasing pressure generally means improving weather (sunny to partly cloudy), while decreasing pressure means degrading weather (cloudy to rain).
It may take several days to begin forecasting. Initially, trend arrows may be absent, and icons may show partly cloudy. The forecast is an estimation for the next 24-48 hours and varies by location. Tendency is a tool for projecting conditions, not an accurate prediction.
5.5.2 Weather Forecast Initialization
When powered up, the console is in "learning mode". Two partly cloudy icons are displayed. When barometric pressure changes over 24-72 hours, forecast icons exit learning mode. [Diagram shows two partly cloudy icons]Weather Forecast Initialization Icons
5.5.3 Weather Icons
The four weather icons are: Sunny ☀️, Partly Cloudy ?️, Cloudy ☁️, and Rainy ?️. Two weather tendency indicators show air pressure tendency. [Diagram shows Sunny, Partly Cloudy, Cloudy, and Rainy icons]Weather Icons
5.5.4 Weather tendency indicator
The weather tendency arrow is located between icons to show air pressure tendency and forecast based on increasing or decreasing pressure.
An arrow pointing right indicates increasing pressure and improving weather. An arrow pointing left indicates decreasing pressure and deteriorating weather.
Tendency is based on pressure change over the last six hours. If changing, arrows flash for three hours. If stable, arrows become fixed.
Example 1: Pressure is decreasing, weather deteriorating in 24-48 hours. [Diagram shows clouds with rain and left-pointing arrows ⬅️⬅️]
Example 2: Pressure is increasing, weather improving in 24-48 hours. [Diagram shows sun and right-pointing arrows ➡️➡️]
5.5.5 Storm threshold indicator
The storm threshold (negative pressure change rate indicating a storm) is adjustable from level 3 to 9 (default level 4 mbar/hour).
If negative pressure change exceeds 3 hours, the storm warning indicator activates, and clouds with rain icon and tendency arrows flash for 3 hours.
Storm Warning Indicator
[Diagram shows clouds with rain icon and left-pointing arrows]
5.5.6 Pressure threshold setting
The pressure threshold (rate of pressure change signifying a weather change) is adjustable from level 2 to 4 (default level 2 mbar/hour).
A lower threshold means higher sensitivity to weather changes. Locations with frequent pressure changes require a higher setting than those with stagnant pressure.
5.5.7 Pressure Graph
The pressure graph displays barometric pressure for the last 24 hours. Each bar represents three hours. The vertical scale is auto-scaled; it is for visualizing trends only.
5.5.8 Moon Phase
The following moon phases are displayed based on the calendar date: [Diagram shows icons for New ?, Waxing Crescent ?, First Quarter ?, Waxing Gibbous ?, Full ?, Waning Gibbous ?, Third Quarter ?, Waning Crescent ?]Moon Phase Icons
5.5.9 Sunrise and Sunset
To determine your longitude and latitude, visit www.bing.com/maps.
Reference Figure 6:
- Enter your address and select the search button.
- Latitude (first number) and longitude (second number) are returned. Example: Latitude = 33.2981181889772, Longitude = -111.960209459066.
The table below defines hemisphere based on sign:
| Position | Positive | Negative |
|---|---|---|
| Latitude | Northern | Southern |
| Longitude | Eastern | Western |
In the example, the location entered into the display is:
Latitude = 33.30 North
Longitude = 111.96 West (after rounding to two significant digits).
Record your longitude and latitude here for future reference:
Longitude: _________________________ [Image shows a screenshot of Bing Maps with a location and coordinates]
Latitude: _________________________Figure 6: Bing Maps Example
5.5.10 Restoring Lost Outdoor Temperature and Humidity Sensor
If the signal is lost between the remote sensor and display console, press and hold the [+] key for 10 seconds in normal mode to resynchronize. The transmitter search icon ? will appear.
Wait several minutes for the search icon to turn off and the remote sensor to report in. Do not touch any buttons until synchronization is complete.
If synchronization fails, reset the console by removing one battery, waiting 10 seconds, and reinserting it (as specified in Section 3.4).
5.5.11 Factory Reset
If memory is corrupted, you may need to restore the console to factory default.
To perform a factory reset and resync the remote sensor:
- Remove one battery from the console. Wait 10 seconds for it to go blank.
- Press and hold the [SET] and [MIN/MAX] buttons simultaneously while reinserting the battery.
Continue holding. The backlight will flash 12 times. Release buttons when flashing stops; the console is now factory reset.
Wait several minutes for the remote sensor to sync. With the remote and console 10 feet apart, remove and reinsert console batteries. Do not touch buttons for several minutes. The remote sensor search icon ? will appear and then turn off when the sensor syncs.
6. Glossary of Terms
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Absolute Barometric Pressure | Relative barometric pressure, corrected to sea-level. To compare pressure conditions from one location to another, meteorologists correct pressure to sea-level conditions. Because air pressure decreases with altitude, the sea-level corrected pressure is generally higher than measured pressure. |
| Accuracy | Accuracy is defined as the ability of a measurement to match the actual value of the quantity being measured. |
| HectoPascals (hPa) | Pressure units in SI (international system). Same as millibars (1 hPa = 1 mbar). |
| Hygrometer | A device that measures relative humidity. Relative humidity describes the amount or percentage of water vapor in the air. |
| Inches of Mercury (inHg) | Pressure in Imperial units of measure. 1 inch of mercury = 33.86 millibars. |
| Range | Range is defined as the amount or extent a value can be measured. |
| Relative Barometric Pressure | Measured barometric pressure relative to your location or ambient conditions. |
7. Specifications
7.1 Wireless Specifications
- Line of sight wireless transmission (in open air): 300 feet
- Frequency: 433 MHz
- Update Rate: 48 seconds
7.2 Measurement Specifications
The following table provides specifications for measured parameters:
| Measurement | Range | Accuracy | Resolution |
|---|---|---|---|
| Indoor Temperature | 32 to 140 °F | ± 2 °F | 0.1 °F |
| Outdoor Temperature | -40 to 149 °F | ± 2 °F | 0.1 °F |
| Indoor Humidity | 1 to 99 % | ± 5% (only guaranteed between 20 to 90%) | 1 % |
| Outdoor Humidity | 1 to 99% | ± 5% (only guaranteed between 20 to 90%) | 1 % |
| Barometric Pressure | 8.85 to 32.50 inHg | ± 0.08 inHg (within range of 27.13 to 32.50 inHg) | 0.01 inHg |
7.3 Power Consumption
- Base station: 3 x AA 1.5V Alkaline batteries
- Remote sensor: 2 x AAA 1.5V Alkaline batteries
- Battery life: Minimum 12 months for base station; Minimum 24 months for thermometer-hygrometer sensor (use lithium batteries in cold weather climates).
8. Troubleshooting Guide
If your question is not answered here, you can contact Ambient Weather support:
- Email: support@ambientweather.com
- Technical Support: 480-346-3380 (M-F 8am to 3pm Arizona Time)
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Wireless remote (thermo-hygrometer) not reporting in to console. There are dashes (--) on the display console. | 1. Resync the unit: Press and hold the [+] key for 10 seconds. The remote sensor search icon ? will turn on. Wait several minutes for the sensor to report in, or for the search icon to turn off. If synchronization fails, reset the console by removing one battery, waiting 10 seconds, and reinserting it. Do not press any buttons during search mode. 2. Check the remote sensor is powered up and displaying temperature/humidity. 3. Install fresh batteries in the remote sensor (lithium for cold weather). 4. Move the sensor assembly closer to the display console (max range is 300'). |
| Temperature sensor reads too high in the day time. | Make sure the thermo-hygrometer is mounted in a shaded area on the north-facing wall. |
| Indoor and Outdoor Temperature do not agree | 1. Allow up to one hour for sensors to stabilize due to signal filtering. Sensors should agree within 4°F (accuracy ± 2°F). 2. Perform temperature calibration (Section 5.2.5). |
| Indoor and Outdoor Humidity do not agree | 1. Allow up to one hour for sensors to stabilize. Sensors should agree within 10% (accuracy ± 5%). 2. Perform humidity calibration (Section 5.2.4). |
| Console outdoor humidity and remote humidity do not agree. | The console displays calibrated humidity; the remote displays measured humidity. Refer to 5.2.4 to set/reset calibration. |
| Relative pressure does not agree with official reporting station | 1. Ensure you are viewing relative pressure, not absolute. 2. Calibrate the barometer to an official local weather station (Section 4.2.1). 3. Barometer accuracy is ± 0.08 inHg within 27.13 to 32.50 inHg (altitude -2,200 to 2,700 ft). Higher altitudes may have non-linearity. |
| The forecast icon is not accurate | The weather station console must run for several days to trend barometric pressure. Forecasts are estimations and vary by location. |
| Moon phase is not correct | Check your calendar date and ensure it is correct. |
| Sunrise and Sunset is not correct | Check your longitude and latitude. Common issues include: 1. Reversed longitude/latitude. 2. Incorrect hemisphere selected. 3. Incorrect time zone selected. 4. Incorrect date. When first set up, atomic time (WWVB) may not update immediately due to interference. If time zone and DST are set correctly, it waits for DST flag update. Once updated, WWVB icon appears, and sunrise/sunset correct. This can take a few days. As a temporary workaround for DST, add one hour to your time zone setting (e.g., Eastern Time Zone -5 becomes -4). This needs to be done twice yearly when DST changes. |
| Display console contrast is weak | Replace console batteries with a fresh set. |
| Console beeps and resets | Replace console batteries with a fresh set. |
9. Accessories
The following software and hardware accessories are available at www.AmbientWeather.com:
| Accessory | Description |
|---|---|
| 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. Remove rain guard and install over thermo-hygrometer. |
10. Product Revisions
| Revision | Description |
|---|---|
| WS-1170 | Initial Release |
| WS-1173 | Added humidity calibration |
| WS-1173A | Added temperature calibration |
| WS-1173B |
|
11. Liability Disclaimer
Please help preserve the environment by returning used batteries to an authorized depot. Electronic waste contains hazardous substances and improper disposal damages the environment.
Reading the "User manual" is highly recommended. The manufacturer and supplier are not responsible for incorrect readings or their consequences.
This product is for home use only to indicate weather conditions and is not for medical or public information purposes.
Specifications may change without notice. This product is not a toy and should be kept 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 other similar damages associated with the operation or malfunction of this product.
12. 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: 1. This device may not cause harmful interference. 2. 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 the 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 causes 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.
13. Warranty Information
Ambient, LLC provides a 1-year limited warranty against manufacturing defects in materials and workmanship. This warranty begins on the original date of purchase and is valid only for the original purchaser. To receive warranty service, contact Ambient, LLC for problem determination and service procedures.
Warranty service can only be performed by Ambient, LLC. The original dated bill of sale must be presented as proof of purchase.
The Ambient, LLC warranty covers defects in material and workmanship with the following exceptions: (1) damage from accident, unreasonable use, or neglect; (2) damage from failure to follow instructions; (3) damage from unauthorized repairs or alterations; (4) units used for non-home use; (5) unintended applications and uses; (6) inability to receive a signal due to interference or obstructions; (7) extreme acts of nature (lightning, floods).
This warranty covers actual product defects and does not cover installation/removal costs, normal setup/adjustments, claims based on seller misrepresentation, or performance variations from installation-related circumstances.
