Ambient Weather WH31SM User manual

Version 1.0 ©Copyright 2020, Ambient LLC. All Rights Reserved. Page 1
Ambient Weather WH31SM Soil Moisture Sensor
Table of Contents
1. Introduction.....................................................................................................................................1
2. Features...........................................................................................................................................2
3. Getting Started................................................................................................................................3
4. Setup Guide.....................................................................................................................................3
4.1 Batteries..................................................................................................................................3
4.2 Pre-installation .......................................................................................................................3
4.3 Sensor Placement ...................................................................................................................3
5. Console ...........................................................................................................................................4
5.1 Display ...................................................................................................................................4
5.2 Sensor Channel Designation ..................................................................................................4
5.3 Calibration..............................................................................................................................4
5.3.1 0% Soil Moisture Set Point................................................................................................5
5.3.2 100% Soil Moisture Set Point............................................................................................5
6. AmbientWeather.net........................................................................................................................6
7. Specifications..................................................................................................................................6
7.1 Sensor Specifications .............................................................................................................6
7.2 Wireless Specifications ..........................................................................................................6
7.3 Power Consumption...............................................................................................................6
8. Troubleshooting ..............................................................................................................................7
9. Liability Disclaimer ........................................................................................................................7
10. FCC Statement............................................................................................................................7
11. Warranty Information.................................................................................................................8
12. California Prop 65 ......................................................................................................................8
1. Introduction
Thank you for your purchase of the Ambient Weather WH31SM Soil Moisture sensor. 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:
https://help.ambientweather.net/help/
The soil moisture sensor is not a stand-alone device, and requires a WS-2000 or WS-5000 weather
station console to view and upload the data to our cloud hosting service at AmbientWeather.net.
To see if your weather station is compatible, please visit:
https://help.ambientweather.net/product/wh31sm/
The following WS-2000 and WS-5000 console firmware versions or greater support the soil moisture
sensor:
•Firmware revision number: V1.6.0
•WiFi Firmware: AMBWeatherV4.2.0

Version 1.0 ©Copyright 2020, Ambient LLC. All Rights Reserved. Page 2
For details on updating the firmware, consult your weather station user manual.
No
Item
1
LED Indicator (RF transmission)
2
Battery Cap
3
Soil Moisture Sensor cap
Figure 1
2. Features
The sensor features a ceramic cap, which acts like a breathing filter for exchanging soil moisture to
the internal sensor. This filter makes the sensor less sensitive to soil density (clay, sand, soil, potting
soil, etc.).
Other features include:
•Measures soil moisture content every 71 seconds.
•Ceramic coded for more accurate measurement.
•Calibration for different soil types (WS-2000 and WS-5000 only).
•Long wireless range, up to 300 feet (100 meters) line of sight (100 feet under most
conditions).
•Supports up to 8 channels.

Version 1.0 ©Copyright 2020, Ambient LLC. All Rights Reserved. Page 3
3. Getting Started
The Ambient Weather WH31SM soil moisture sensor includes the following:
QTY
Item
1
Soil Moisture Sensor: 6" length x 3.5 width x 1" diameter
1
User Manual
4. Setup Guide
4.1 Batteries
The soil moisture requires 1 x AA batteries (not included). We recommend Energizer Lithium batteries
for longer life and a wider operating temperature range.
•Remove the battery cap as shown in Figure 2, and insert 1 x AA battery. Close the battery
door.
Figure 2
After inserting the battery, the sensor LED indicator will light for 4 seconds, and then flash once per
71 seconds thereafter. Each time it flashes, the sensor is transmitting data.
4.2 Pre-installation
Before installing the sensor into its permanent location, we recommend verifying proper operation.
•In open air, verify the sensor reads 0% (reference Section 5 for the console display).
•Submerge the sensor cap completely into a cup of water. Fill the water to the top of the sensor
slots (just below the battery compartment). Wait one hour for complete sensor saturation and
verify the sensor reads about 90% or greater.
4.3 Sensor Placement
Use a tool to dig a hole and with tool and gently push the sensor into the soil, covering the sensor. The
hole depth and diameter should be same as the sensing cap. Bury the sensor cap completely in the soil.
Please do not use excessive force to push the sensor into the soil, as this might damage the sensor tip.
The following is a table of reception loss vs. the transmission medium. Each “wall” or obstruction
decreases the transmission range by the factor shown below.

Version 1.0 ©Copyright 2020, Ambient LLC. All Rights Reserved. Page 4
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
The soil moisture sensor is currently supported by the following models:
•WS-2000
•WS-5000
5.1 Display
The console displays soil moisture in the upper right-hand corner, and each channel automatically
scrolls every 5 seconds on the display. The scrolling feature cannot be disabled.
Figure 3
5.2 Sensor Channel Designation
The sensor channel designation (1-8) is based on the order in which they were powered up and
recognized by the console. Thus, we recommend you power up each sensor individually and verify
they are read by the console, rather than all at the same time.
5.3 Calibration
The soil moisture sensor provides for optional two-point linear calibration. This is useful, due to

Version 1.0 ©Copyright 2020, Ambient LLC. All Rights Reserved. Page 5
different soil types and density.
The calibration equation is defined as:
% Soil Moisture (calibrated) = (Now AD –0%AD) *100 / (100%AD –0%AD)
Where AD stands for “analog to digital” and is the unscaled digital value measured by the sensor,
NowAD is the currently measuredAD and the other parameters are described below.
5.3.1 0% Soil Moisture Set Point
To determine the 0% soil moisture, collect a soil sample in a cup from where the sensor will be
installed, and allow the soil to completely dry out. Next, place the soil sensor in the medium and allow
the sensor to stabilize for 24 hours.
Next, set the 0%AD calibration set point to the Now AD value.
5.3.2 100% Soil Moisture Set Point
To determine the 100% soil moisture, collect a soil sample in a cup from where the sensor will be
installed, and add water and mix until the soil is saturated, and there is no standing water. Next,
place the soil sensor in the medium and allow the sensor to stabilize for 24 hours.
Next, set the 100%AD calibration set point to the NowAD value.
Figure 4
Once the 0%AD and 100%AD are entered, set Customize to ON. To return to the non-calibrated
settings, set Customize to OFF. Select Reset to restore to factory default.

Version 1.0 ©Copyright 2020, Ambient LLC. All Rights Reserved. Page 6
For more information on accessing the calibration panel, please reference your weather station user
manual.
6. AmbientWeather.net
Once the sensor(s) are reporting to the display console, a tile will appear on your dashboard
automatically:
Figure 5
With the soil sensor and AmbientWeather.net, you can set email and text alerts, graph and download
data, connect to external devices using IFTTT as well as connect to Amazon Alexa and Google Home.
7. Specifications
7.1 Sensor Specifications
•Moisture Range: 0 –100%
•Resolution: 1%
•IP66 waterproof sensor
7.2 Wireless Specifications
•Line of sight wireless sensor array RF transmission (in open air): 330 feet, 100 feet under
most conditions
•Update Rate: Outdoor Sensor: 71 seconds
•RF Frequency: 915 MHz
7.3 Power Consumption
•1 x AA battery (not included). Alkaline or Lithium recommended.
•Battery life: About one year.

Version 1.0 ©Copyright 2020, Ambient LLC. All Rights Reserved. Page 7
8. Troubleshooting
•Email Support: [e-mail]
•Technical Support: 480-346-3380 (M-F 8am to 4pm Arizona Time)
•Online Help: https://help.ambientweather.net/product/wh31sm/
9. Liability Disclaimer
Please help in the preservation of the environment and return used batteries to an authorized depot.
The electrical and electronic wastes contain hazardous substances. Disposal of electronic waste in
wild country and/or in unauthorized grounds strongly damages the environment.
Reading the “User manual” is highly recommended. The manufacturer and supplier cannot accept any
responsibility for any incorrect readings and any consequences that occur should an inaccurate reading
take place.
This product is designed for use in the home only as indication of weather conditions. This product is
not to be used for medical purposes or for public safety information.
The specifications of this product may change without prior notice.
This product is not a toy. Keep out of the reach of children.
No part of this manual may be reproduced without written authorization of the manufacturer.
Ambient, LLC WILL NOT ASSUME LIABILITY FOR INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL,
PUNITIVE, OR OTHER SIMILAR DAMAGES ASSOCIATED WITH THE OPERATION OR
MALFUNCTION OF THIS PRODUCT.
10. 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 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.

Version 1.0 ©Copyright 2020, Ambient LLC. All Rights Reserved. Page 8
•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.
11. Warranty Information
Ambient, LLC provides a 1-year limited warranty on this product against manufacturing defects in
materials and workmanship.
This limited warranty begins on the original date of purchase, is valid only on products purchased and
only to the original purchaser of this product. To receive warranty service, the purchaser must contact
Ambient, LLC for problem determination and service procedures.
Warranty service can only be performed by a Ambient, LLC. The original dated bill of sale must be
presented upon request as proof of purchase toAmbient, LLC.
Your Ambient, LLC warranty covers all defects in material and workmanship with the following
specified exceptions: (1) damage caused by accident, unreasonable use or neglect (lack of reasonable
and necessary maintenance); (3) damage resulting from failure to follow instructions contained in your
owner’s manual; (4) damage resulting from the performance of repairs or alterations by someone other
than an authorized Ambient, LLC authorized service center; (5) units used for other than personal use
(6) applications and uses that this product was not intended (7) the products inability to receive a
signal due to any source of interference or metal obstructions and (8) extreme acts of nature, such as
lightning strikes or floods.
This warranty covers only actual defects within the product itself, and does not cover the cost of
installation or removal from a fixed installation, normal set-up or adjustments, claims based on
misrepresentation by the seller or performance variations resulting from installation-related
circumstances.
12. California Prop 65
WARNING: Use of theAmbient Weather Products can expose you to chemicals, including lead and
lead compounds, which are known to the State of California to cause cancer and bisphenolA (BPA),
and phthalates DINP and/or DEHP, which are known to the State of California to cause birth defects
or other reproductive harm.
Can I Trust that Ambient Weather Products are Safe Despite this Warning?
In 1986, California voters approved the Safe Drinking Water and Toxic EnforcementAct known as
Proposition 65 or Prop 65. The purpose of Proposition 65 is to ensure that people are informed about
exposure to chemicals known by the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects and/or other
reproductive harm.A company with ten or more employees that operates within the State of California
(or sells products in California) must comply with the requirements of Proposition 65. To comply,
businesses are: (1) prohibited from knowingly discharging listed chemicals into sources of drinking
water; and (2) required to provide a "clear and reasonable" warning before knowingly and
intentionally exposing anyone to a listed chemical. Proposition 65 mandates that the Governor of
California maintain and publish a list of chemicals that are known to cause cancer, birth defects and/or
other reproductive harm. The Prop 65 list, which must be updated annually, includes over 1,000
chemicals, including many that are commonly used in the electronics industry.

Version 1.0 ©Copyright 2020, Ambient LLC. All Rights Reserved. Page 9
Although our manufacturing process is "lead-free" and RoHS compliant, it remains possible that trace
amounts of lead could be found in components or subassemblies of Ambient Weather Products.
BisphenolA (BPSA) could conceivably be present in minute amounts in our plastic housings, lenses,
labels or adhesives, and DEHP & DINP (phthalates) could possibly be found in PVC wire coatings of
our cables, housings, and power cords. Unlike RoHS, Prop 65 does not establish a specific threshold
for reporting on the substances of concern and instead sets forth a much less definitive standard
requiring that the business demonstrate with certainty that there is "no significant risk" resulting from
exposure. With respect to carcinogens, the "no significant risk" level is defined as the level which is
calculated to result in not more than one excess case of cancer in 100,000 individuals exposed over a
70-year lifetime. In other words, if you are exposed to the chemical in question at this level every day
for 70 years, theoretically, it will increase your chances of getting cancer by no more than 1 case in
100,000 individuals so exposed. With respect to reproductive toxicants, the "no significant risk" level
is defined as the level of exposure which, even if multiplied by 1,000, will not produce birth defects or
other reproductive harm. In other words, the level of exposure is below the "no observable effect
level," divided by 1,000. (The "no observable effect level" is the highest dose level which has not been
associated with observable reproductive harm in humans or test animals.) Proposition 65 does not
clarify whether exposure is to be measured only in normal operation, or in the event of misuse such as
intentionally damaging, incinerating or consuming an Ambient Weather Product or component and
Ambient Weather has not attempted to evaluate the level of exposure.
A Proposition 65 warning means one of two things: (1) the business has evaluated the exposure and
has concluded that it exceeds the "no significant risk level"; or (2) the business has chosen to provide a
warning simply based on its knowledge about the presence of a listed chemical without attempting to
evaluate the exposure. The California government has itself clarified that "The fact that a product
bears a Proposition 65 warning does not mean by itself that the product is unsafe." The government
has also explained, "You could think of Proposition 65 more as a 'right to know' law than a pure
product safety law."
While usingAmbient Weather Products as intended, we believe any potential exposure would be
negligible or well within the "no significant risk" range. However, to ensure compliance with
California law and our customers' right to know, we have elected to place the Proposition 65
warning signs onAmbient Weather Products.
For further information about California's Proposition 65, please
visit https://oehha.ca.gov/prop65/background/p65plain.html