Hi!
I have been lurking here for awhile and have already learned a lot. I am in New Mexico so my primary concern isn't rainfall because we are happy with whatever we get whenever we get it. However, I am interested in tracking the other weather factors, especially wind speed. I am at about 7200' elevation. It seems that the Davis Vantage Vue is the best option in my price range (<$500), but I am open to all suggestions. I would also like to have the data on my computer and share on the internet.
Now for my initial round of questions:
1. Will the Vue fit on a standard 1.25" electrical conduit? How much length can I use without the conduit bending in our considerable wind, maybe 50 mph in March?
2. What do I need to buy in addition to the Vue? I have seen that I might be able to buy a computer interface from SLOweather, but it looks like the actual Davis interface also includes some software, so I am confused in what I actually need. Also, if I get the data on my computer, do I need to buy a console?
3. I understand that none of the WSs are great in terms of forecasting due to a lack of data available, but I wonder if the Davis algorithm would be able to predict precipitation 9 hours out? Alternatively, is there a facility that would send an alarm if it did start to rain or snow?
4. I have searched and found the units priced lower than the standard $355, are these sites reputable or is it safer to stick with the "Amazons"?
5. What additional information is required to help me make good purchasing decisions?
TIA,
Al