WeatherBug Weather Station User manual

Weather Station
Installation, Operation, and
Maintenance Manual
November 2004
AWS-WXN-60003.001 Version 1.0, Release 5
AWS Part # (7001)

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Copyright
Copyright 2003, by AWS Convergence Technologies, Inc.
WeatherBug is a trademark of AWS Convergence Technologies, Inc.
All Rights Reserved.
Information in this document is subject to change without notice and does not represent a
commitment on the part of AWS Convergence Technologies, Inc. The software described in
this document is furnished under a license or non-disclosure agreement. The software may
be used or copied only in accordance with the terms of this agreement. It is against the law
to copy AWS Convergence Technologies, Inc., software onto magnetic tape, disk or any
other medium for any purpose other than for the purchaser's personal use.
Note: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A
digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC rules. These limits are designed to provide
reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a
commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency
energy. If not installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause
harmful interference to radio communications.
For Technical Support relating to this WeatherBug product, call 800-624-
4205 or email [email protected].

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DISCLAIMER
The procedures, methods and hardware outlined in this manual are intended to provide
general guidelines for installing a WeatherBug Weather Station. Individual sites often have
unique requirements that require materials and specifications that are beyond the scope of
this manual.
All procedures, methods and hardware used to install a WeatherBug Weather Station must
conform to all applicable building codes (local, state and national). Installation
subcontractors are responsible for complying with all applicable codes. Buyer- and/or
installer-provided hardware must be equivalent or better (according to industry standards)
than that specified in the WeatherBug installation manual.
The buyer/installer is responsible for any damage caused by installation of the WeatherBug
weather station. Furthermore, the buyer/installer is responsible for damage caused as a
result of improper or faulty installation.
THINK SAFETY FIRST! READ THE GETTING STARTED
SECTION OF THIS MANUAL FOR HELPFUL SAFETY TIPS.
Special Note to Buyer/Installer:
Contact WeatherBugTM Technical Support as soon as your WeatherBugTM weather station
installation is complete. WeatherBugTM must remotely access your weather station's data to
verify proper operation. Call WeatherBugTM Technical Support even if remote
communications are not available at the time of installation.
WeatherBugTM Weather Station Technical Support:
800-624-4205
[email protected]
Monday - Thursday -- 8:00am-7:00pm EST
Friday -- 8:00am-5:00pm EST

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Table of Contents
COPYRIGHT....................................................................................................2
DISCLAIMER ...................................................................................................3
INTRODUCTION.............................................................................................6
Weather Sensors Specifications........................................................ 6
TYPICAL WEATHER STATION INSTALLATION ............................................... 8
GETTING STARTED ........................................................................................9
SAFETY!.........................................................................................................9
FIRST THINGS...............................................................................................10
WEATHER STATION COMPONENTS.............................................................11
OUTDOOR COMPONENTS ............................................................................... 11
STANDARD OUTDOOR COMPONENTS ..................................................... 12
INDOOR COMPONENTS .................................................................................. 13
INDOOR COMPONENTS ........................................................................ 13
The Master Control Unit (MCU).............................................................................14
FRONT OF MASTER CONTROL UNIT (MCU) ............................................ 14
Digital Display (Optional) ......................................................................................15
THE DIGITAL DISPLAY .......................................................................... 15
COMPUTER CONNECTIONS..............................................................................15
INSTALLATION............................................................................................. 16
HARDWARE AND TOOL REQUIREMENTS ............................................................. 16
TOOLS REQUIRED..........................................................................................17
SITE EVALUATION.......................................................................................... 18
Finding the Best Location ......................................................................................18
SITE SELECTION OPTIONS..................................................................... 19
INSTALLING OUTDOOR COMPONENTS............................................................... 19
Installation of the Mast..........................................................................................20
TYPICAL BUILDING MOUNT................................................................... 21
TYPICAL WALL MOUNT BRACKET ........................................................... 22
Securing the Sensors to the Mast ...........................................................................23
Connecting the Weather Sensor Cables..................................................................24
CONNECTING CABLES TO THE TRH........................................................ 25
WIND SENSOR ORIENTATION ................................................................ 26
INSTALLING INDOOR COMPONENTS.................................................................. 28
Connecting the Indoor Weather Station Components..............................................28
FRONT AND REAR OF MASTER CONTROL UNIT (MCU).............................. 29

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POWER AND COMMUNICATIONS CONNECTIONS ....................................... 30
SOFTWARE INSTALLATION..........................................................................31
COMPUTER SPECIFICATIONS ............................................................................31
OBTAINING THE SOFTWARE............................................................................. 31
SYSTEM START-UP AND OPERATION ..........................................................32
NETWORK AND SOFTWARE CONFIGURATIONS ....................................................33
IP Ranges ............................................................................................................33
MacMET Server ...................................................................................................33
WeatherStreamer ................................................................................................33
WeatherBug Camera (Optional)...........................................................................33
HOMELAND SECURITY SITE DATA COLLECTION ........................................35
SAMPLE PACKING LIST ......................................................................... 35
CALIBRATION............................................................................................... 36
TROUBLESHOOTING....................................................................................37
Troubleshooting Chart................................................................... 37
WEATHERBUG ACHIEVE (FOR SCHOOLS ONLY).......................................... 38
MAINTENANCE ............................................................................................39

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Introduction
Congratulations on choosing a WeatherBug Weather Station, the premier automated weather
system for educational and commercial applications.
The WeatherBug Weather Station operates 24 hours daily, providing real-time, up-to-the-
second weather observations for 27 real-time parameters, including:
•Temperature
•Relative humidity (dew point calculated)
•Barometric pressure
•Wind speed and direction
•Precipitation
Weather Sensors Specifications
Parameter Range Accuracy Resolution
Wind Speed 0 to 200 mph +/- 2 mph 0.2 mph
Wind Direction *0 to 352 deg. †+/- 3 deg. 0.1 deg.
Temperature -30F to +140F +/- 1F 0.1F
-40F to –30F +/- 2F 0.1F
-65F to –40F +/- 3F 0.1F
Barometric Pressure ‡17.5”Hg to 32.0”Hg +/- 0.05”Hg 0.0035”Hg
Relative Humidity (RH)
Dew point calculation from
Temp. and RH
0 to 100% +/- 2% 0.1%
Rainfall Unlimited +/- 2% @ 1”/hour .01”
*8-degree sector not covered
†Wind average covers 0 to 360 degrees
‡Barometric pressure is measured in inches of mercury (Hg). Metric equivalents are available
through the included software

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Your WeatherBug Weather Station is not difficult to install when all directions are followed
carefully and the installation is well planned prior to assembly. Installation is similar to that
of an outdoor TV antenna (the weather station's outdoor mast and weather sensors) that you
connect to an indoor VCR (the weather station's master control unit) and a TV set (the
weather station's Digital Display and computer). A typical weather station set-up is shown in
“Typical Weather Station Installation,” page 8.
For Educational Institutions Only
Through the purchase of a WeatherBug Weather Station, your school has joined the
WeatherBug Achieve educational technology program, an integrated network of more than
6,000 school-based WeatherBug Weather Stations. Through the Web-based application,
WeatherBug Achieve (page 38), you can access real-time and historical data from any
participating WeatherBug Achieve school.
Introduction (Continued)

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TYPICAL WEATHER STATION INSTALLATION

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Getting Started
Safety!
•While installation of the weather station is not particularly difficult, it does usually
require installation on or near the rooftop, which presents some amount of risk.
•Installation must conform to national, state and local building code requirements;
adhering to the most stringent guidelines.
•The weather station should only be installed qualified individuals who are
comfortable with being on a high ladder or rooftop and who are authorized by the
site administration to perform the installation.
•To limit risk to self and property, this manual should be thoroughly read and
understood before beginning installation.
•Stay as far away from other electrical wiring as possible. Never allow the mast, or any
other item, to contact electrical wires or conduit. Injury or death could result.
If desired, WeatherBug can contract the installation of your weather station. For an
installation cost estimate please contact WeatherBug Technical Support at [phone]
or email [email protected].

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First Things
1. READ THIS MANUAL THOROUGHLY
It is very important that you read this entire manual prior to installation. If all
instructions are followed carefully, installation of the weather station should be
straightforward and problem free!
2. SELECT WEATHER STATION COMPUTER
Your WeatherBug Weather Station supports either a PC or Macintosh computer.
The preferred computer is a dedicated PC, used only for the weather station, that is a
Pentium 2, 3, or 4 computer with 128 MB RAM, and Windows 2000 or greater.
Dedicating a computer for use solely by the weather station will significantly reduce
the number of problems you have with the station. For more information on
computer specifications see page 31.
3. UNPACK AND INVENTORY WEATHER STATION COMPONENTS
Carefully unpack and check all weather station components using the packing list on
the outside of your shipping container. Report any damaged or missing components
to WeatherBug immediately.
4. BEGIN INSTALLATION
5. COMPLETE AND RETURN THE HOMELAND SECURITY SITE DATA
PACKET TO WEATHERNETTM
After completing installation, please complete and return the enclosed Homeland
Security Site Data Packet as soon as possible.
Getting Started (Continued)

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Weather Station Components
Outdoor Components
The outdoor components (see “Standard Outdoor Components,” on page 12) of a standard
WeatherBug Weather Station are:
•Sensor Shelter (with Remote Temperature/Relative Humidity (TRH) Sensor
mounted inside)
•Wind Sensor
•Rain Gauge
•Data Cable
The Weather Station's sensor suite uses accurate and rugged sensors. The wind speed and
direction sensor is an R.M. Young wind vane, widely acknowledged to be one of the top
Wind Sensors available. The Rain Gauge is a standard tipping bucket that measures .01
inches of rain per tip.
Remote Temperature/Relative Humidity (TRH) Sensor is a metal box about the size of a
deck of cards that is mounted inside the Sensor Shelter. The circuit board within the TRH
serves as an analog-to-digital (A-D) converter. Digital conversion provides a high degree of
accuracy and flexibility for distributing your weather station data.
The Sensor Shelter (often referred to as a convection aspirated shelter) serves two primary
purposes:
•It shields the remote TRH sensor from direct sunlight, which could yield inaccurate
readings (the design minimizes heat build-up by enabling natural air currents to flow
through it, resulting "true" air temperature readings).
•Second, it protects the remote TRH sensor from rain, ice and snow, which could
also produce inaccurate readings as well as cause damage to the relative humidity
sensor.
Plenum-rated data cable*transports data from the weather station's outdoor components to
the master control unit (MCU), located indoors. Conduit (not included) is not required if the
cable is run indoors in a building plenum.
* Plenum-rated data cables are UL listed as having adequate fire resistance and low smoke-producing
characteristics for installations without conduit in ducts, plenums and other spaces used for environmental
(shared) air.
NOTE: Cable should not be installed on rooftop surfaces without protective conduit
(not included).

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STANDARD OUTDOOR COMPONENTS

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Indoor Components
The weather station indoor components are:
•Master control unit (MCU)
•Auxiliary temperature sensor
•Optional Digital display(s)
•Computer running WeatherStreamer or MacMET Server software (See the section
on Software Installation on page 31)
•WeatherBug Achieve *(Web-based teaching application that includes interactive
lesson plans, graphing, mapping, live weather data display and more)
*FOR SCHOOLS ONLY
INDOOR COMPONENTS

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The Master Control Unit (MCU)
The master control unit (MCU) is a microprocessor-controlled computer with a real-time
clock. It receives live input from the remote TRH sensor, processes and stores the data in its
non-volatile electronic memory, and distributes it. Data can be sent to three output channels
simultaneously. The MCU also houses the barometric pressure, indoor temperature, and
auxiliary temperature sensors.
The signals from the remote TRH sensor come through the main data cable (the blue cable)
into the MCU. It is essential that there are no sharp bends or crimps in the cable. The cable
should be protected (stabilized) where it passes through the exterior wall.
The MCU's first output is to the optional Digital Display. The second is to the computer
(using a serial port on the PC or Macintosh) and a third to a modem (if required). The
WeatherStreamer/MacMET software allows real-time weather data to be sent and accessed
via the Internet and displayed on the computer.
FRONT OF MASTER CONTROL UNIT (MCU)
The MCU stores data at a default rate of once per hour. This rate may be re-set to intervals
of between one minute and up to one hour. Up to four months of data at the one-hour
interval is stored in the MCU.
The MCU's internal battery backup prevents data loss during power outages for up to 16
hours. Once power is restored, the battery automatically recharges. An uninterruptible power
supply (UPS) and power strip are included to provide additional battery backup (5 – 10
minutes) as well as power surge protection.
Indoor Components (Continued)

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Digital Display (Optional)
The optional Digital Display receives live data every second from the MCU and displays it
on several large digital LEDs. Housed in an attractive oak case, the display shows daily highs,
lows and rates of change. For more information, see the Digital Display User's Manual.
THE DIGITAL DISPLAY
Computer Connections
The MCU will be connected to a PC or Macintosh through a serial cable.
Indoor Components (Continued)

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Installation
Hardware and Tool Requirements
The following hardware (equivalent or better quality) is required to install the WeatherBug
Weather Station. If you are using a contracted installer, they will provide these materials.
Required Parts Not Included
•Mounting hardware (heavy-duty wall mounting brackets)
•Grounding cable and appropriate connectors
•Silicone caulk (to seal conduit and cable entry points into building)
•Mast
oGalvanized Rigid Conduit (GRC) approximately 1/8 inch thickness
(painted optional)
o1 ¼ inch maximum outside diameter (at top of mast)
oMust be approximately 15 feet total length
oMast can be comprised of two sections that total 15 feet. A two-section mast
is recommended so the top section can be raised/lowered for easier
installation and maintenance of the weather sensors. The bottom section
should remain securely fastened.
oThe top section should be secured to the bottom section using two bolts.
•Grounding rod, if necessary (unit MUST have an “earth” ground)
•Conduit for exterior data cable
oSelect conduit type based on your state's building codes
o1 ¾ inch outside diameter for weather station data (and camera) cable
For your convenience, specifications on the parts and tools you will need can be found at:
http://downloads.aws.com/manuals/partsrequired.pdf

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Tools Required
The following is a list of tools necessary to install the outdoor WeatherBug Weather Station
and route the data cables into the building (actual tool requirements may vary depending on
site configuration):
1. Compass
2. Step ladder (6-8 feet)
3. Level
4. Electric drill and masonry drill bits
5. Flathead and Phillips screwdrivers
6. Adjustable wrench
7. Wrenches
•7/16 inch for Sensor Shelter nuts
•3/8 inch for mast mounting brackets
•1/2 inch for mast mounting brackets
•9/16 inch for mast mounting brackets
•5/8 inch for mast mounting brackets
8. Pliers
9. Socket set (optional)
10. Wire cutters for cable ties

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Site Evaluation
Before installing your weather station, conduct a thorough site evaluation to identify the best
location for each component, including the outdoor sensor suite, MCU, and Digital Display.
This requires working with someone who has access to all grounds, including the roof.
The importance of this step cannot be overemphasized! A well-planned installation
eliminates almost all problems that could be encountered later. It may prevent
having to move part or all of the station.
The placement of each component is dependent, to some extent, on the placement of the
other components. All sites have restrictions. Care must be taken to select the best location
for each component. The accuracy of weather readings can depend on the weather station's
location. This section provides information to help you select the best location possible.
Finding the Best Location
Locate your outdoor WeatherBug Weather Station in a location that takes all of the
following into account:
oIn an open area
oClear of wind obstructions (especially for the prevailing wind direction)
oWind Sensor must be a minimum of 10 feet from roof
oSensor Shelter must be a minimum of 8 feet from roof
oFar away from ventilation and heat sources
oSafe from vandalism
oAway from large, asphalt parking lots
oClose enough for cables to connect to indoor equipment (cables are minimum of 200
feet – additional lengths may be purchased in 100-foot sections)
See “Site Selection Options” on page 19 for an overhead layout of a typical installation for
the outdoor components.
Locate your indoor WeatherBug equipment in a location that takes all of the following into
account:
oStaffed location to ensure equipment is operating year-round
oYear-round power and Internet connection
oClose to computer and phone for technical support
oA secure area where equipment will not be tampered with or turned off
oAdequate ventilation (equipment must not get over-heated)

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SITE SELECTION OPTIONS
Installing Outdoor Components
Installing outdoor weather station components is similar to installing an outdoor TV
antenna. There are three basic steps after ensuring the chosen location fulfills site criteria
(see “Site Evaluation,” page 18):
1. Installation of the Mast
2. Securing the Sensors to the Mast
3. Connecting the Weather Sensor Cables and Grounding
Data Cables are not rated for movement below +14ºF. Do NOT install the weather station
if the outdoor temperature is less than 15º F.
Main Roof
(1 Story)
Gymnasium
Roof
(2Stories)
N
Prevailing Winds
(Westerly in Much
of U.S.)
Grassy Expanse
Parking Lot
1
2
Example Case:
In the example above, Site 1 would be the preferred location for the mast and sensors. Site 1 has clear
exposure to the prevailing winds and offers unobstructed wind measurement. Although Site 2 may
offer a good location for prevailing winds, the gymnasium roof would cause wind obstructions and the
proximity to the parking lot could impact temperature readings. Wind measurements should be given
precedence when selecting an install location.
Locating Your Outdoor WeatherBug Weather Station Components

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Installation of the Mast
IMPORTANT: Ensure that all mounting brackets and mast components meet the local
building codes and work with the installation site you have chosen.
Properly securing the mounting brackets and mast is critical for a successful installation.
The mounts must withstand harsh environments, including high winds. When determining
the appropriate mounting brackets for your installation, consider the following:
•Building material to which you will be mounting the mast (e.g., brick, block, siding,
etc.)
•Roof overhang (mounting brackets must be placed so that the mast clears the roof)
Secure the brackets to the building as shown in “Typical Building Mount,” page 21. Install
the bottom mounting bracket in vertical alignment with the top bracket. The mast must be
completely vertical. Ensuring vertical alignment is critical!