USER MANUAL Integrated Sensor Suite For Vantage Pro2™ , Vantage Pro2 GroWeather and Vantage Pro2 Plus™ R Davis Instruments, 3465 Diablo Avenue, Hayward, CA 94545-2778 U.S.A. • 510-732-9229 • www.davisinstruments.
FCC Part 15 Class B Registration Warning 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.
Contents Introduction ........................................................................................... 1 Included Components and Hardware .................................................... 2 Prepare the Sensor Suite for Installation............................................... 5 Cabled Sensor Suite Assembly ........................................................... 11 Wireless Sensor Suite Assembly .........................................................
Introduction Note: Translated Vantage Pro2 manuals are available in the support section of www.davisinstruments.com. Les manuels traduits de Vantage Pro2 sont disponibles dans la section support de www.davisinstruments.com. Los manuales traducidos de Vantage Pro2 están disponibles en la sección de soporte de www.davisinstruments.com. Übersetzte Vantage Pro2-Handbücher sind im SupportBereich von www.davisinstruments.com verfügbar.
Tip: Separate Solar Sensor (prod. no. 6450), UV Sensor (prod. no. 6490), Sensor Mounting Shelf (prod. no. 6673), and Daytime Fan-Aspirated Radiation Shield (prod. no. 7747) are available to upgrade a standard sensor suite. Included Components and Hardware The sensor suite comes with all the components and hardware shown in the following illustrations.
Other versions of the sensor suite have additional features and parts: VANTAGE PRO2 PLUS or GroWeather with Standard Radiation Shield Solar Radiation Sensor VANTAGE PRO2 with 24-Hour Fan-Aspirated Shield Antenna (wireless only) UV Sensor (Vantage Pro2 Plus only) Transmitter Solar Panel (wireless only) Antenna (wireless only) Fan Solar Panel Transmitter Solar Panel (wireless only) 24-Hour Fan-Aspirated Radiation Shield Fan Battery Pull Tab VANTAGE PRO2 PLUS or GroWeather with 24-Hour Fan-Aspirated
Hardware (Included) Bird Spikes (15) U-Bolts 1/4" x 3" Lag Screws 1/4" Flat Washers #4 x 1-1/8" Machine Screw 1/4" Lock Washers #4 Tooth Lock Washer 1/4" Hex Nuts Backing Plate .05" Allen Wrench #4-40 Hex Nut Cable Ties Some of the hardware is optional based on how the sensor suite is assembled and installed. Note: If any of the hardware components are missing or not included, contact Customer Service toll free at 1-800-678-3669 about receiving replacements.
Prepare the Sensor Suite for Installation Follow the steps in order as each builds on tasks completed in previous steps. These steps apply to all versions of the sensor suite, unless otherwise noted. Tip: Use a well-lit work table or work area to prepare the sensor suite for installation. Assemble the Anemometer The anemometer measures wind direction and speed. The anemometer arm comes partially assembled with the wind vane attached. Note: Do not remove the vane.
4. Slide the tooth-lock washer and hex nut onto the machine screw. Tighten the hex nut while holding the screw with a Phillips-head screwdriver to prevent it from turning. 5. Press the sensor cable firmly and completely into the zig-zagging channel in the base, starting from the arm and progressing downward to the bottom of the base. This provides strain relief for the cable. Attach the Wind Cups 1.
Check Sensor Interface Connections and Connect the Anemometer Cable The sensor interface is located in the transmitter shelter on the front of the sensor suite station. It contains the connections for all the sensors of the sensor suite. Follow the steps below to check the sensor interface and ensure that all sensors are connected properly. Open the Transmitter Shelter 1. Locate the white box with the solar panel containing the sensor interface on the front of the sensor suite unit.
Optional: Disconnect the solar panel connection wire (wireless versions) and the fan cable (fan versions). The solar panel on the box cover is connected to the sensor interface by a wire. If your sensor suite has a fan, the fan cable will also connect the cover to the sensor interface. If the cover cannot be set aside while still connected to the sensor interface safely, those cables can be disconnected.
Check the Factory-Installed Sensor Connections 1. Verify that the rain collector and temperature/humidity sensor cables are plugged into the receptacles labeled RAIN and TEMP/HUM on the sensor interface. 2. If your sensor suite includes UV and/or solar radiation sensors, verify that the sensor cables are plugged into the receptacles labeled UV and SUN on the sensor interface.
Prepare the Rain Collector 1. Remove the rain collector cone from the sensor suite base by rotating the cone counterclockwise. When the cone’s latches line up with openings in the base, lift the cone off the sensor suite base. Twist off the rain collector cone Tip: When new, the cone fits tightly in the base and may require extra pressure to remove. Steady the sensor suite base between your knees when removing the cone. 2.
Cabled Sensor Suite Assembly Apply Power and Verify Communication with the Console The 100' (30 m) console cable provides power to the sensor suite and is used to send data from the sensor suite to the console. The console cable can be extended up to 1000' (305 m) in length with extension cables purchased from Davis Instruments. With the console powered, plugging the cable into the console powers the sensor suite and establishes communication between the sensor suite and the console. 1.
Verify Data from the Sensor Suite Sensors 1. Near the center of the screen, look for the outside temperature (TEMP OUT). 2. Spin the wind cups to check wind speed, pressing WIND if necessary to alternate between speed and direction in the compass rose. 3. Turn the wind vane and allow five seconds for the wind direction display to stabilize before moving it again. 4. Approximately one minute after power-up the outside relative humidity (HUM OUT) reading should be displayed on the console. 5.
Troubleshooting Cabled Sensor Suite Communication If the console is not receiving sensor readings from the sensor suite, try the following troubleshooting procedures. • Check the console to make sure it is being powered with the AC adapter supplied in the Vantage Pro2 package or three C batteries. Note: The batteries are intended for backup power, or for testing during set up, but they will drain quickly if used to power a cabled console.
Wireless Sensor Suite Assembly The sensor suite has a wireless connection to a Vantage Pro2 wireless console or other receiver. Once the anemometer has been installed and the sensor connections have been checked, the sensor suite must be powered and a wireless communication channel must be established between the sensor suite and the receiver. Apply Power to the Wireless Sensor Suite Energy from the solar panel is stored for power at night.
Verify Data from the Sensor Suite Sensors On a console: 1. If the console is in Setup Mode, press and hold DONE until the Current Weather screen displays. A flashing “X” in the lower right hand corner indicates that the console is receiving data packets. This may take a few minutes. Sensor readings from the sensor suite should display on the screen. 2. Near the center of the screen, look for the outside temperature (TEMP OUT). 3.
Troubleshooting Wireless Sensor Suite Reception If the console isn’t displaying data from the sensor suite, perform the following steps: 1. Verify that the console is powered and is not in Setup Mode. 2. Make sure that all sensor suite sensor cables are firmly connected to the sensor interface and the sensor suite battery is properly installed. 3. Walk around the room with the console, standing for a few moments in various locations, to see if you are picking up signals from the sensor suite.
Optional: Changing the Sensor Suite Transmitter ID Each wireless transmitting station, including the sensor suite, uses one of eight selectable Transmitter IDs. DIP switches #1, 2 and 3 on the transmitter control the ID — or channel — the station transmits on. DIP switch #4 is used for transmission testing, not for the Transmitter ID.
To change to another ID, use a ballpoint pen or paper clip to toggle DIP switches #1, 2, and 3. The settings for Transmitter IDs 1 - 8 are shown in the table below. Set the Vantage Pro2 console to the same ID as the transmitters, as described in the Vantage Pro2 Console User Manual.
Plan the Sensor Suite Installation Locating the Sensor Suite and Anemometer For the weather station to perform at its best, use these guidelines to select the optimum mounting locations for the sensor suite and anemometer. Be sure to take into consideration ease of access for maintenance, sensor cable lengths and wireless transmission range when siting the station. Note: When selecting a location for installing your sensor suite, especially on a rooftop, make sure it is a location far from power lines.
Anemometer Siting Guidelines • For best results, place the anemometer at least 7' (2.1 m) above surrounding obstructions such as trees or buildings that obstruct wind flow. • If mounting on a roof, mount the anemometer at least 7' (2.1 m) above the roof apex. (When using a Davis Mounting Tripod, install the anemometer at the very top of the pole). • If mounting the sensor suite and the anemometer together, such as on a pole or a wooden post, mount the anemometer so it is at least 12'' (0.
• All Vantage Pro2 stations include a 40' (12 m) cable to go between the sensor suite and the anemometer. This can be extended up to 540' (165 m) using optional extension cables purchased from Davis Instruments. Anemometer Cable Longer Cable Tie Shorter Cable Tie If most of the anemometer cable length is unused, the coiled cable length can be stowed once the anemometer and sensor suite have been installed on a site. You can secure the cable to the pole using the shorter cable ties.
Optional: Wireless Transmission Considerations The range of the radio transmission depends on several factors. Try to position the transmitter and the receiver as close as possible for best results. Typical maximum ranges include: • Line of sight: 1000' (300 m). • Under most conditions: 200 - 400' (60 - 120 m).
Testing Wireless Transmission at Sensor Suite Location After a suitable place has been found for the wireless sensor suite, it is very important to test reception from the installation location before permanently mounting it there. 1. Set the sensor suite in the desired installation location. 2. Set the powered-up console and/or WeatherLink Live in the desired location. Console: 1. Monitor your screen for data. You should see a flashing "X" in the lower right corner and data should start to appear.
Install the Sensor Suite Tip: To avoid erroneous data during installation when using a WeatherLink Live, be sure the WeatherLink Live is powered down before installing the sensor suite. The anemometer and the main part of the sensor suite can be installed either together as a single unit on a pole, or apart from each other. The main part of the sensor suite includes the rain collector, the temperature and humidity sensors, the radiation shield, and the sensor transmitter.
Orient the Wind Vane The wind vane rotates 360° to display current and dominant wind directions on the compass rose of the console display. To obtain accurate readings, the vane must be correctly oriented when mounting the anemometer. The wind vane is factorycalibrated to report the correct wind direction if the anemometer arm points true north. To ensure correct wind direction data, mount the anemometer so that the arm points true north.
Installation Options There are several ways to mount and install the sensor suite unit. The following installations are recommended. Individual sensor suite locations and installations may vary. • Installing the sensor suite and anemometer on a post or flat surface • Installing the sensor suite and anemometer on a pole, together or separately Note: All installations require that the rain collector cone be removed for assembly.
Install the rain collector mounting base: 1. With a 3/16" (5 mm) drill bit, drill two holes approximately 21/8" (54 mm) apart. Use a carpenter’s level to ensure the holes are level. Use the metal backing plate as a guide when marking the holes. 2. Remove the rain collector cone if it is installed on the sensor suite mounting base. 3. Insert the 1/4" x 3" lag screws through the metal backing plate and the holes in the mounting base into the post.
Accessories for Pole Mounting • Use the Mounting Tripod (#7716) for easy mounting, especially on a roof. • Use the Mounting Pole Kit (#7717) to raise the installation height by up to 37.5" (0.95 m). General Guidelines for Installing on a Pole • With the supplied U-bolts, the sensor suite and anemometer can be mounted on a pole having an outside diameter ranging from 11/4" to 13/4" (32 – 44mm). • Larger U-bolts (not supplied) can be used to mount to a pole with a maximum outside diameter of 21/2" (64mm).
4. The two ends of the anemometer’s U-bolt should now be pointing away from the mounted rain collector side. Slide the anemometer’s mounting base over the protruding bolt ends. Place a flat washer, a lock washer and a hex nut on each of the bolt ends as shown above. Do not tighten the nuts yet. 5. Raise the sensor suite unit to the desired height on the pole and swivel it so the anemometer arm is pointing north. 6.
Finish the Installation Close the Transmitter Shelter 1. If the solar panel cable (or the optional fan cable) were disconnected during sensor suite assembly, reconnect them. 2. Find the two raised alignment indicator lines on both the shelter and the cover. Match these alignment indicators as you place the cover against the box. 2 3. Slide the cover down until it snaps 1 securely in place. Re-Attach the Rain Collector 1.
Level the Solar and UV Sensors If you have an sensor suite that includes a solar radiation and/or UV sensor, use the bubble level on the sensors as a guide to verify that the sensors are level. Adjust the level by tightening or Solar Radiation Sensor loosening the three screws that hold Top should be even with or above rain cone rim each sensor onto the shelf. Make sure that the sensor diffusers are not shaded by the rim of the rain cone.
Clear Data Collected During Testing and Installation Now that the sensor suite is mounted outside, any data that was collected in the Vantage Pro2 console during testing and mounting can be cleared. 1. On the console, press the WIND so that graph icon appears adjacent to the wind data on the display. Confirm that wind speed is displayed on the compass rose. 2. Press and release 2ND, then press and hold CLEAR for at least six seconds and until you see “CLEARING NOW” in the console ticker display.
Maintenance and Troubleshooting General Maintenance You should keep the surfaces of the sensor suite clean, since the radiation shield and solar panels are less effective when dirty. Remove dust from the solar panel and radiation shield with a damp cloth. Several times a year, inspect the rain collector and radiation shield and remove any debris (such as twigs, leaves, webs and nests) obstructing water flow through the rain collector or air flow through the radiation shield.
Maintaining the Radiation Shield The outer plating of the radiation shield should be cleaned when there is excessive dirt and build-up on the plating. Wipe the outer edge of each ring with a damp cloth. Note: Spraying down or using water excessively to clean the radiation shield can damage the sensitive sensors or alter the data and readings the sensor suite is transmitting. Check the radiation shield for debris or insect nests several times a year and clean when necessary.
Maintaining a 24-Hour Fan-Aspirated Radiation Shield The cross-section diagram shows how the 24Hour Fan-Aspirated Radiation Shield draws MOTOR outside air up through the sensor chamber and between the three walls surrounding the sensor FAN chamber, while the shield stack prevents radiation heating of the outer wall. SENSOR CHAMBER To clean it, disassemble the shield and clean interior surfaces as necessary to prevent dirt build up.
2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Remove the rain collector cone. Using a Phillips-head screwdriver, remove the three screws connecting the rain collector base to the threaded spacers. While removing the screws, support the radiation shield from the bottom. When the screws are removed, it will drop. Take note of the cable placement and routing so you can replace it correctly. Unscrew the three threaded spacers holding the solar bracket and radiation shield together and lift off the solar bracket.
8. 9. Remove the white junction board cover and unplug the fan power cable from the junction board. Lift out the fan and fan and the fan deflector. Fan Unit Fan Power Cable Temp/Hum Sensor Cable Channel Temp/Hum Sensor Cable 10. Pull the temperature/humidity sensor up and out. 11. Use a soft brush to clean the white plastic and gold mesh of the sensor. 12. Remove all debris from inside the shield and fan and wipe the interior surfaces with a damp cloth. 13.
Replace the junction board cover. 16. Replace the two cap plates. (Note that the closed plate goes on top.) Replace the solar Threaded bracket and the threaded Spacer spacers, with lock washers and Lock Washer flat washers. Flat Washer 17. Align the threaded spacers with the screws in the rain collector base. Note that cables should exit from the radiation shield toward the mounting pole or post. Screw the screws into the threaded spacers. USE THESE HOLES 18.
Daytime Fan-Aspirated Radiation Shield The Daytime Fan-Aspirated Radiation Shield (#7747) can be added to a standard Vantage Pro2 or Vantage Pro2 Plus. It has a fan that is powered by a solar panel. It differs from the 24-Hour Fan in that it has no batteries. This causes it operate during the daytime when solar radiation effects are of the greatest concern, and to stop at night. Tip: You will not need to remove the rain collector base from the pole or post.
5. Unscrew the three threaded Threaded spacers. Spacer (3) 6. Remove the three screws from the Fan Plate bottom of the radiation shielding and separate the shield stack, taking care to maintain the order in which the plates are assembled. 7. Remove all debris from inside the shield and wipe the interior surfaces. 8. Plug the fan power cable back into the sensor interface. Expose the solar panel to the sun and #8 Flat Washer make sure the fan rotates. Replace #8 Split-Lock Washer the fan motor as needed.
Maintaining the Rain Collector Cone To maintain accuracy, thoroughly clean the rain collector several times a year. Note: Cleaning the rain collector and tipping spoon may cause false rain readings. Unplug the rain sensor from the sensor interface before cleaning so that no inaccurate readings are logged, or clear the weather data that was logged on the Vantage Pro2 console after cleaning is complete. See your Vantage Pro2 Console User Manual for instructions on clearing weather data. 1. 2. 3. 4.
remove it and test using only the anemometer cable. Contact Technical Support and ask for a wind test cable if the problem has not been resolved. Note: If the anemometer is not sending data, the wind display indicates 0 speed and “--” for direction. “The wind direction is stuck on north, or displays dashes.” It is likely that there is a short somewhere between the wind vane and the display. Check the cables for visible nicks and cuts.
Appendix Specifications: Complete specifications on www.davisinstruments.com. Temperature range: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . -40 to 150° F (-40 to 65° C) Cabled Sensor Suite Power input: . . . . . . . Console cable from Vantage Pro2 console Optional Vantage Pro2 AC power adapter Wireless Sensor Suite Primary power: . . . Solar power – Davis solar charger Backup power: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Sensor Interface 2 1 3 4 5 6 7 + SENSOR INTERFACE MODULE UV 12 SUN RAIN WIND TEMP HUM 11 10 9 8 1 Solar Panel Connector 7 Test DIP Switch (wireless only) 2 AC Adapter Socke t 8 Temperature/Humidity Sensor Connector 3 Battery Socket (wireless only) 9 Wind Sensor Connector 4 Test LED 10 Rain Sensor Connector 5 Cabled Connection 11 Solar Radiation Sensor Connector 6 Transmitter ID DIP Switch 12 UV Sensor Connector Vantage Pro2 Integrated Sensor Suite Installation Manual Docum
