WXforum.net
Weather Station Hardware => Davis Instruments Weather Stations => Topic started by: azchrisf on November 09, 2022, 08:17:09 PM
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Al Washington, better known as WxTech, was a great member on this board that provided alot of insight and technical knowledge about Davis Weather Stations. Unfortunately, Al passed away a few years ago according to 94merc. Some of his data has been saved, but some has been lost.
One of those kind of in limbo, lost but also present but not in a good format, is his Anemometer Tester for Vantage Pro II systems that he was working on and released open-source on this board. The schematics are still around, but they are kind of hard to make out. I intend to re-draw them at the very least and release them open source with downloadable files so everyone can enjoy and use Al's hard work.
The tester not only simulates a vane to to the IIS, but can also verify a physical vane's components when plugged in.
I want to gauge the community's interest in me re-designing, re-releasing, and offering either build your own kits w/ professionally made boards that include the schematics, directions, and components all in one, and maybe also pre-built, ready to use boards. Of course, as stated, if you want to do it yourself all the way, the schematics are going to be posted for everyone. This is simply for those who don't have the skill to make a circuit, but can still solder, or need something that works "out of the box".
A portion of all sales will try to be made to Al's estate, if I can find a way to reach them, otherwise we'll figure something out as a community since this is a project to benefit the community from Al's work - even posthumously, I want Al's work to continue benefiting not only the community but others.
Please let me know by voting and leaving comments!
Thanks guys.
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I would need to understand more fully what its purpose is to actually buy one, but taking advantage of a group buy of PCBs and the instructions would be all I need to complete a project like this. I have built several DIY electronic instruments that way.
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It's basically a diagnostic tool for the wind vane (Anemometer). You can plug it into the board, and as you spin the wind cups and the direction vane, it lights up different LED's to show the direction it's pointing, and if speed pulses are being received - basically telling you if your vane is working.
The other side of it you plug into the IIS, and you can adjust a dial to set different directions and a button you push to simulate wind speed and it shows up on the console (or whatever is receiving the wind data). This part tells you if the IIS is working right - so, if you are having Anemometer problems, this tool will tell you if it's the vane, or the IIS that is having the issue. If you get direction but no speed pulses when you plug in your vane, you then know you need a new speed cartridge or there is a wiring issue.
I'll start work on the schematics this coming Monday and should finish them up by Friday, then I can find out how much everything is going to cost for boards, components, etc.
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[tup] A Break-Out Box for the station. \:D/
For the right price you have my interest. I wonder what would be on it for components that I am unlikely to have already laying about the shop?
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Schematic file which is basically Al's original drawing.
For anyone who wants to make the board themselves - [ You are not allowed to view attachments ] .
I am making progress on the PCBs, I have a set coming to test and after that will determine pricing, etc.
Components prices are kind of high right now. Al's original kit-only was in the $40 range, so don't expect it to be too cheap.
Boards themsleves are cheap though so good news there.
I will make a new thread when everything is available and ready to go, but wanted to get something out the the community.