Hi!
With the
firmware update v1.2.9 for the WS3800, a new WS85 sensor was mentioned for the first time. When asked, Ecowitt stated that it is a new 3-1 sensor.
The WS85 is apparently an extended WS80 (or a reduced WS90) - at least this is what the firmware for the WS3800 suggests.
As with the WS90, there is a version number: ws85_ver. This means that the firmware can probably be updated.
The key for the battery status is called wh85batt - although it is still unclear how this sensor reports back the status (volt value, 0/1 or level) and what type and number of batteries are required.
A few strings in the firmware (such as ws85.WaveRain) suggest an unusual way of measuring rain. However, this may have no significance.
There are hints for measuring the outside temperature (ws85.Temp) - but not for measuring the humidity.
Strange.
Especially as the sensor is described by Ecowitt as a 3-1 sensor:
1 Wind speed
2 Wind direction
3 Precipitation
For comparison: The WS90 is described as a 7-in-1 sensor. The 7 measured variables are:
1 Wind speed
2 Wind direction
3 Precipitation
4 Outdoor temperature
5 Air humidity
6 Solar radiation
7 UV
The WS85 therefore (apparently) lacks temperature, humidity and solar radiation/UV.
It would be possible to combine the WS85 with a WH32(-EP).
But then a light sensor would still be missing, which unfortunately is not yet available as a separate sensor.
Should this be seen as an indication that a separate light sensor will soon be available?
additional info from Ecowitt:
The ultrasonic wind sensor remain unchanged with WS90. The data frequency is 8.5s
No light/UV sensor integrated
Regards, Oliver