DAVIS WeatherLink for Windows 4.0 User Manual

Software
®
User’s Guide
INK
L
EATHER
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For Windows
Version 4.0
Product #7862
0 0
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 on and off, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• 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. Changes or modifications not expressly approved in writing by Davis Instruments may void the user's authority to operate this equipment.
Product Number: 7862
Davis Instruments Part Number: 7395-121 Weatherlink®, Version 4.0 for Windows Rev. C Manual (July 16, 1999)
© Davis Instruments Corp. 1998. All rights reserved.
This product complies with the essential protection requirements of the EC EMC Directive 89/336/EC
Weather Monitor II, Weather W izar d III, Weather Wizard II-s, Per ception II, and Weatherlink are registered trademarks of Davis Instruments Corp. Hayes is a registered trademark of Hayes Microcomputer Products, Inc. Windows is a trademark of Microsoft Corporation.
Software
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User’s Guide
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For Windows 0
Version 4.0
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T
ABLE OF CONTENTS
ABLE OF CONTENTS
T
I
NTRODUCTION
Contents of Package . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Optional Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
ARDWARE INSTALLATION
H
Hardware Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Direct Connection Hardware Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Phone Modem Connection Hardware Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Direct Connection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Typical Direct Connection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Direct Connection Installation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Phone Modem Connection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Typical Phone Modem Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Phone Modem Installation Instructions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
A Few Notes About Phone Modem Connections. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
OFTWARE INSTALLATION AND SETUP
S
Installing the Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Running the Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Adding a Station . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Adding a Station . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
About the Walkthrough. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Finding the Correct Serial Port. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
U
SING
Weather Station Models. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Multiple Stations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
The Toolbar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
File Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
S
THE
OFTWARE
New Station . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Open Station . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Delete Station . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Download . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
View Log . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Print . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Close. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Hang Up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Exit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
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Setup Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Walkthrough . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Station Config . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Serial Port . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Select Units. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Set Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Set Archive Interval. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Set Barometer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Set Rain Cal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Set Temp Cal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Set Hum Cal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Set Total Rain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Set Alarms. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Clear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Auto Clear . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Auto Download . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Auto Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Reports Menu. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Printing Reports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
NOAA Setup. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
NOAA This Month . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
NOAA Summarize Month. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
NOAA This Year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
NOAA Summarize Year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Yearly Rainfall. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Degree-Days . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Temp/Hum Hours . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Soil Temp. Hours. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Chilling Requirement. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Sunrise & Sunset. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Windows Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Bulletin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Browse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Plot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Strip Charts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Summary. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
Using the Browse Window. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Choose Date . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Make a Note . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
Edit a Record. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Delete a Record. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Copy Records . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Export Records . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
Delete Records . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
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Using the Plot Window. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
Adding and Removing Variables. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Choose Specific Date . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Scroll Through Dates. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Choose Plot Span . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Enter Plot Title. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Choose Axis Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Choose Line/Bar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Set Axis Min/Max . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
Lock Axis. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
Pause Plot Calculation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
View Database Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
View Details . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
Zoom In/Out . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
Plotting Data From More than One Date (Overlay) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
Plotting Data from the Previous Year (Last Year) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
Clear Entire Plot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
Saving and Opening Plots and Plot Templates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
Plot Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
Colors Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
Using the Strip Charts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
Open Strip Chart Window . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
Add Variable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
Remove Variable. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
Change Axis Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
Change Plot Span . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
View Historical Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
Place the Strip Chart Into Auto Update Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
View Database Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
View Details . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
Saving a Strip Chart Template. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78
Opening a Previously Saved Strip Chart Template . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
Strip Chart Menu. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
Colors Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
Using the Yearly Rainfall Database . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
Viewing the Yearly Rainfall Database . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
Editing Yearly Rainfall Data. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82
Deleting Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83
Start a New Rainfall Database . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84
Degree-Days. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84
Adding a Degree-Day Total. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
Opening a Degree-Days Total. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88
Deleting a Degree-Day Total. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
PC Degree-Day Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
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Archive Memory vs. Database . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
Archive Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
Database. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
Automatic Download . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92
Automatic Clear. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92
Calibration Numbers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
Database Organization. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
Station Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
Station Configuration File . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94
Database Files. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94
Weather Data Calculations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
Temperature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
High and Low Temperature. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
Barometric Pressure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
Wind Speed. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
High Wind Speed. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
Wind Direction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
Temperature/Humidity Index. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
Wind Chill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
Dew Point . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
Rainfall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
Degree-Days . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
Chilling Requirement. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
Soil Temperature Hours . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
Temperature/Humidity Hours . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
Air Density. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
Equilibrium Moisture Content (EMC) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
Bad Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
Modem String . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
Station Modem Initialization String. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
Auto Fax Modem Initialization String . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
Command Line Options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100
Importing WeatherLink Data into Other Programs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101
Leap Year Correction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101
Computer Keeps Track of Leap Years. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101
Computer Does Not Keep Track of Leap Years . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102
Backing Up and Restoring Data. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102
Comprehensive Backup. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102
Individual Month Backup. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102
Restoring Data. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102
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ROUBLESHOOTING
G
UIDE
Communications Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
Program Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
AutoFax Troubleshooting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105
Changing Windows Communications Driver. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106
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1
NTRODUCTION
I
Welcome to Davis Instruments’ WeatherLink Software! The WeatherLink Data Logger (referred to as the WeatherLink in this manual) and software allows you to connect your personal computer to Davis weather stations to store, view, plot, analyze, export, and print weather data collected by your Davis station.
ONTENTS OF PACKAGE
C
Before proceeding, please check to make sure your WeatherLink package contains the following:
WeatherLink Data Logger
Includes 8’ (2.4 m) cable to connect the WeatherLink to your computer and a 3" (8 mm) cable to connect the WeatherLink to the weather station.
PC COM Port Adapters (9-pin and 25-pin)
Use the 9-pin adapter to connect the WeatherLink to a 9-pin serial port. Use the 25-pin adapter to connect the WeatherLink to a 25-pin serial port.
Loopback connector
The loopback connector is a short piece of cable with a phone plug at one end and a red plastic cap at the other . The loopback connector can be used to deter ­mine what serial ports are available for the WeatherLink and for troubleshoot­ing communications problems.
WeatherLink Software Diskette
O
PTIONAL ACCESSORIES
The following optional accessories, designed for use with the WeatherLink, are available from your dealer or may be ordered directly from Davis.
Telephone Modem Adapter
For transmission of data from the WeatherLink using a modem.
Standard 4-Conductor Extension Cable
For more flexibility in the placement of your console. You may add one 40’ (12 m) extension cable to extend the cable run from WeatherLink to computer up to 48’ (14.4 m).
Link Isolator Kit
Provides upgraded protection against electrical disturbances. Installed between the WeatherLink and your computer, optical coupling of signals pre­vent lockups of the weather station console and possible damage to the con­sole, WeatherLink, and PC. Recommended when the station console and computer are not grounded or are connected to two different grounds. Includes 40’ (12 m) cable.
1
I
NTRODUCTION
Optional Accessories
2
2
H
Direct Connection Hardware Requirements
ARDWARE INSTALLATION
H
There are two basic types of installations: direct connection and phone modem connection. Direct connection involves connecting the computer directly to the WeatherLink. Phone modem connection refers specifically to any installation where the WeatherLink is connected to a modem and you communicate with the WeatherLink via a modem at your computer. Requirements and installation for each type of connection differ, and are explained separately below.
ARDWARE REQUIREMENTS
The required hardware dif fers depending on whether you ar e attempting to make a direct connection or a phone modem connection.
In addition to the provided hardware, the following are required for a direct con­nection.
Computer running Windows™ 3.1, 95, or NT 4.0 with at least 5 MB of free disk space
The amount of space necessary for the data files depends on the archive inter­val. Database files containing data stored at a 30 minute archive interval require approximately 36K of disk space per month of data. The file size changes in a linear fashion depending on the archive interval. For example, data stored at a 1 minute interval requires approximately 1 MB/month while the data stored at a 2 hour interval requires approximately 9K/month.
4MB RAM
Windows-Compatible Display
VGA (16 Colors) minimum. SVGA (256 Colors) recommended.
One Free Serial Port
Fax Modem
A fax modem is required to take advantage of the software’s AutoFax feature (see ”Auto Fax” on page 32). If you do not plan to use the AutoFax feature, a fax modem is not required for a direct connection.
Phone Modem Connection Hardware Requirements
In addition to the provided hardware, the following hardware is required for a phone modem connection.
Computer running Windows™ 3.1, 95, or NT 4.0 with at least 5 MB of free disk space
See “Direct Connection Hardware Requirements” above for hard disk space requirements.
4MB RAM
3
H
ARDWARE INSTALLATION

Direct Connection

Windows-Compatible Display
VGA (16 Colors) minimum. SVGA (256 Colors) recommended.
One Free Serial Port One external modem to connect to the WeatherLink
The modem must be Hayes
®
compatible and run at either 1200 or 2400 baud.
One internal fax modem or external fax modem connected to your computer
The modem must be Hayes compatible and run at either 1200 or 2400 baud. A fax modem is required to take advantage of the software’s AutoFax feature (see ”Auto Fax” on page 32). If you do not plan to use the AutoFax feature, a non-fax modem is acceptable.
Telephone Modem Adapter
The Telephone Modem Adapter (#7870) provides the connection between the WeatherLink and the modem.
IRECT
D
ONNECTION
C
The instructions below explain how to make a typical direct connection. Also included is an illustration showing how to make a direct connection using the Short-Range Modem Pair (consult the Short-Range Modem Pair manual for installation instructions). If using the Link Isolator Kit, consult the Link Isolator Kit manual for installation instructions.
Typical Direct Connection
The instructions below explain how to make a typical direct connection. Note that you may only use a single 40' (12 m) extension cable. If you extend the cable run beyond 48' (14.4 m), the software may have difficulty communicating with the station.
T
D
IRECT
C
ONNECTION
YPICAL
4
H
ARDWARE
Direct Connection Installation
1. Make a note of your station’s current barometric pressure, total rainfall, and (if appli­cable) calibration numbers.
You must remove power from the station console to install the WeatherLink, which will cause these values to be erased. Use the WeatherLink software to
reenter these values after restoring power to the station.
2. Remove the mounting base from the console and remove all power by removing the AC-power adapter and battery backup.
Failure to remove power to the console before installing the WeatherLink may cause damage to the WeatherLink or console.
3. Insert the cable plug at the end of the short cable coming from the WeatherLink into the jack marked
CAUTION:
WEATHERLINK
on the bottom of the console.
Make sure that whenever you connect or disconnect the WeatherLink from the con-
sole that the console is NOT powered up. Plugging or unplugging the WeatherLink while power is applied can damage or lock up the WeatherLink.
4. Restore power to the weather station by reattaching the power adapter and battery.
The weather station should beep three times. The third beep, which should occur within 30 seconds, indicates that the WeatherLink is operating correctly.
5. Place the WeatherLink inside the mounting base and reattach the mounting base.
As you do so, guide the cables through the slots in the mounting base.
I
NSTALLATION
Direct Connection
P
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EATHER
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6. Locate a free serial port on the back of your computer and connect the appropriate adapter (DB9 or DB25) to that serial port.
7. Insert the cable plug at the end of the long cable coming from the WeatherLink into either the DB9 or DB25 adapter.
The cable which connects the WeatherLink to the computer is 8 feet (2.4 m) long. If you need to mount the station console more than 8 feet from the com­puter, use a 40’ (12 m) standard 4-conductor extension cable. Do not attempt to use more than 40’ of extension cable, or the WeatherLink may have diffi­culty “communicating” with the computer. If you need to mount the station console farther away, you will need to use the Short-Range Modem Pair.
5
H
ARDWARE

Phone Modem Connection

P
HONE
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NSTALLATION
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ODEM
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ONNECTION
The instructions below explain how to make a typical phone modem connection.
Typical Phone Modem Installation
The illustration below shows a typical phone modem connection. This involves connecting the WeatherLink to the weather station and to a modem at the station console site and connecting your computer’s modem to a phone line, which will allow you to “dial” the weather station.
T
P
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YPICAL
HONE
ODEM
I
NSTALLATION
Phone Modem Installation Instructions
1. Install and set up an internal or external modem (according to the instructions supplied by the manufacturer) for use with your computer.
Make a note of the COM port and IRQ used by the modem. You will need this information when entering serial port settings for the station (see “Serial Port” on page 20).
2. At the station console site, position the external modem in a location where it can con­nect to both the WeatherLink and a phone jack and plug it into the phone jack. DO NO T TURN THE MODEM ON AT THIS TIME.
The cable which connects the W eatherLink to the modem is 8 feet (2.4 m) long. If you need to mount the station console more than 8 feet from the modem, use a 40’ (12 m) standard 4-conductor extension cable. Do not attempt to use more than 40’ of extension cable, or the WeatherLink may have difficulty “communicating” with the modem. If you need to mount the station console farther away, you will need to use the Short-Range Modem Pair.
3. Plug the external modem into the phone jack.
6
H
ARDWARE
I
NSTALLATION
Phone Modem Connection
4. Make a note of your station’s current barometric pressure, total rainfall, and (if appli-
cable) calibration numbers.
You must remove power from the station console to install the WeatherLink, which will cause these values to be erased. Use the WeatherLink software to
reenter these values after restoring power to the station.
5. Remove the mounting base from the console and remove all power by removing the
AC-power adapter and battery backup.
Failure to remove power to the console before installing the WeatherLink may cause damage to the WeatherLink or console.
6. Insert the cable plug at the end of the short cable coming from the WeatherLink into
the jack marked
WEATHERLINK
on the bottom of the console.
7. Connect the Telephone Modem Adapter to the external modem.
Do not attempt to use the DB25 adapter and a gender changer to attach the WeatherLink to a modem because it will not work.
8. Insert the cable plug at the end of the long cable coming from the WeatherLink into the
Telephone Modem Adapter.
9. Turn the modem on.
The modem must be on before you restore power to the station console.
10. Restore power to the weather station by reattaching the power adapter and battery.
The weather station should beep three times. The third beep, which should occur within 30 seconds, indicates that the WeatherLink is operating correctly.
11. Place the WeatherLink inside the mounting base and reattach the mounting base.
As you do so, guide the cables through the slots in the mounting base.
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INK
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ARDWARE
Phone Modem Connection
I
NSTALLATION
A Few Notes About Phone Modem Connections
If you indicate a phone modem connection when setting up your station (see “Serial Port” on page 20), the software automatically dials the station whenever you attempt to initiate a program action which requires the software to “talk” to the WeatherLink.
While connected to a phone modem station, an “On-Line” icon appears in the toolbar. This icon indicates that you are on-line and may be used to hang up a remote connection. To hang up, choose the On-Line icon from the toolbar or choose Hang Up from the File menu.
T
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OOLBAR
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INE
CON
Once connected, the software will remain on-line until you choose to hang up. The software remains on line whether or not you are doing something which requires it to be connected.
Note:
If you are on-line at the time of a schedule automatic download, the automatic download is cancelled.
8
3
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OFTWARE INSTALLATION AND SETUP
S
This chapter covers software installation and setup.
NSTALLING THE SOFTWARE
1. Place the Install Disk in your disk drive.
2. Choose Run from the File menu, type A:SETUP (or B:SETUP), and choose OK to begin the
installation.
3. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the installation.
UNNING THE SOFTWARE
To run the software, double-click on the WeatherLink 4 icon. If you have no sta­tions in the program directory when you run the software, the software will prompt you to add a station (see “Adding a Station” below for details). If you have more than one station in the program directory when you run the software, the software will prompt you to indicate which station you’d like to open.
DDING A STATION
In order to interact with your station, you must add a station, which entails naming the station, configuring the software to work with that station and with your com­puter hardware, and setting station values such as time, barometric pressure, total rainfall, and calibration numbers. For performance reasons, the software reads these values from the station configuration file (see ”Station Configuration File” on page 94 for more information) rather than from the station itself.
must set station values from the software.
tion’s console, the readings you see in the bulletin, database, strip charts, reports, and plots may not agree with your station’s readings.
If you set station values from the sta-
Therefore, you

Adding a Station

1. Choose New Station from the File menu.
The software opens the Add New Station dialog box.
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Adding a Station
I
NSTALLATION
AND
S
ETUP
2. Type the station name into the text box.
The station name may be up to 40 characters/spaces long. Note that the soft­ware uses the first eight characters of the station name (not counting spaces or punctuation marks) as the name of the directory into which it saves this sta­tion’s database and configuration files. The first eight characters of each sta­tion name must, therefore, be unique. The software also uses the first three characters as the file extension for that station’s database files (the first three characters need not be unique).
3. Choose OK.
The software saves the station, creates a directory and subdirectories for that station, and prompts you to indicate whether you want to enter the walk­through procedure.
S
TART
W
ALKTHROUGH
C
ONFIRMATION
About the Walkthrough
The software includes a station setup walkthrough which steps you through the station configuration procedure. After adding a new station, the software auto­matically prompts you to indicate whether or not you want to be walked through the configuration procedure. You may , of course, choose No and set up the station by choosing all of the necessary commands from the menus. A Walkthrough com­mand is included in the Setup menu which allows you to go through the walk­through procedure at any time.
Note:
Where necessary, the software will automatically dial a phone modem station. See “A Few Notes About Phone Modem Connections” on page 8 for instructions on dialing and hanging up.
If you choose Yes to begin the walkthrough, the software takes you through the following dialog boxes:
10
Station Configuration (see ”Station Config” on page 19)
Set station name, model, accessories, download options, and data file exten­sion.
Choose Units (see ”Select Units” on page 22)
Select units of measure in which station information is displayed.
Serial Port Settings (see ”Serial Port” on page 20)
Set COM port to which W eatherLink is connected. Specify modem connection settings such as baud rate, phone number, and modem initialization string.
Set Barometer (see ”Set Barometer” on page 24)
Set barometric pressure on station and software. You must enter this informa­tion from the software if you want your station and software readings to agree.
S
OFTWARE
I
NSTALLATION
AND
Adding a Station
Set Rain Cal (see ”Set Rain Cal” on page 25)
Set station’s rainfall calibration number.
Enter Total Rainfall (see ”Set Total Rain” on page 27)
Set total rainfall amount on station and software. You must enter this informa­tion from the software if you want you station and software readings to agree.
Set Time and Date (see ”Set Time” on page 23)
Set the time and date on the station, software, and computer to make sure all three are synchronized.
Note:
When you set the time and date, you will be prompted to clear your archive memory (see ”Archive Memory” on page 91 for information on the archive memory). If you do not clear archive memory, you may end up with data stored at an incorrect time or duplicate records. We r ecommend that you do wnload before setting the time (unless you are creat­ing a brand new station) so you may safely clear the archive memory.
Set Archive Interval (see ”Set Archive Interval” on page 24)
Select the interval at which you want data stored to the WeatherLink’s archive memory (see ”Archive Memory” on page 91).
Set Station Alarms (see ”Set Alarms” on page 28)
Set alarm thresholds on the station.
Set Auto Clear (see ”Auto Clear” on page 30)
Specify the high/low registers and rainfall registers you want cleared at the same time each day and the time at which you want them cleared.
S
ETUP
Set Auto Download Time(s) (see ”Auto Download” on page 31)
Specify the stations and the times at which you want data automatically downloaded each day.
At each step in the walkthrough procedure, the software will provide confirma­tion boxes prompting you to indicate whether or not you wish to continue.
W
ALKTHROUGH
C
ONFIRMATION
To continue, choose OK. To skip this step and move to the next step, choose Skip. To cancel the entire walkthrough procedure, choose Cancel.
11
S
OFTWARE

Finding the Correct Serial Port

F
INDING
I
NSTALLATION
C
THE
S
AND
ETUP
ORRECT
S
ERIAL
P
ORT
The software contains a procedure for locating the serial port to which your sta­tion is connected or determining whether that serial port is working. Using the Loopback command (as opposed to Test) will help you determine whether a com­munication problem is being caused by the serial port or by the WeatherLink.
Note:
This procedure will only work for direct connections. If you are making a phone modem con­nection, you may want to simply chec k the communications softw are you normally use for the correct serial port setting. Otherwise , you must consult the documentation supplied with your modem.
In order to use this procedure, you will need the loopback connector (the short cable with a phone jack on one end and a red plastic tip on the other) supplied with your Weatherlink software package.
1. If necessary, disconnect the 40-foot WeatherLink cable from the DB9 or DB25 adapter which is connected to the COM port.
2. Insert the loopback connector into the DB9 or DB25 adapter.
3. Choose Serial Port from the Setup menu.
The software opens the Serial Port dialog box.
4. Choose Loopback.
The software will search all standard serial ports and inform you of the COM port at which the loopback connector is located.
The software automatically selects the correct COM port for you in the Serial Port dialog box. If it cannot find the loopback connector at any COM port, your serial port is not working. Consult your computer documentation for help.
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ERIAL
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ONNECTOR
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ORT
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OUND
4
W
M
SING THE SOFTWARE
U
Everything you need to know about running the software (once it is correctly installed and set up) is explained in this chapter.
EATHER STATION MODELS
Depending on which station model (Weather Monitor II®, Weather Wizard III®, etc.) you are using and which optional sensors (Rain Collector or External Tem­perature/Humidity Sensor) you have connected to your station, certain informa­tion and options explained in this manual may not be available. The software may only display and plot data for which your weather station has a sensor. For exam­ple, if you have a Weather Wizard III, you may not plot, view, or print barometric pressure information.
ULTIPLE STATIONS
The software can support the use of any number of weather stations with a single version of the program. Each station must connect to its own WeatherLink, how­ever. If you have set up more than one station, whenever you load the software you will be prompted to open a station.
O
PEN STATION DIALOG BOX
All program actions affect the open station. To open a different station, choose Open Station from the File menu (see “Open Station” on page 15).
13
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The Toolbar

T
HE
T
OOLBAR
The toolbar contains icons which activate program commands. The illustration below shows what commands are activated by the individual toolbar icons. Note that the Print icon only appears when you have a window which you may print open. The On-Line icon only appears when you are connected to a remote station.
Open
Station
Download
Bulletin
Window
Strip Chart
Plot
Window
Window
ILE
F
The file menu contains commands relating to station files and stations. Each command is explained separately below. Note that the contents of the File menu may change, depending on what window is currently active. For example, when the Plot window is the active window, several commands which enable you to save and open plots and plot templates are added to the File menu. These added commands are explained in the appropriate section below.
Rainfall
Database
Window
ENU
M
Yearly
T
OOLBAR
This Month’s
NOAA Summary
On-Line
(Hang Up)
Print
Window
View Help
Exit
Program
14
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New Station
Each station connected to the computer must have its own “station” within the software. This tells the software into which database new data should be saved, provides the necessary communication settings (serial port, IRQ, etc.), and other station-specific information.
1. Choose New Station from the File menu.
The New Station dialog box appears.
N
EW
S
TATION
2. To add a station, type the desired station name (up to 40 characters/spaces) into the
Station Name text box and choose OK.
The software saves the station, creates a directory for that station using the first eight characters in the station name (not including punctuation and spaces), and prompts you to indicate whether you want to enter the walk­through procedure (see “About the Walkthrough” on page 10).
S
OFTWARE
File Menu
Open Station
Only one station may be open at a time. That way the software knows into which database downloaded data should be saved, which communications settings to use, which database to use when plotting, etc.
1. There are three ways to open a new station. Choose Open Station from the File menu,
choose the Open Station icon from the toolbar, or right click on the main window.
The Open Station dialog box appears.
PEN
TATION
O
S
2. Select a station from the list box on the left and choose OK to open that station.
15
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File Menu
Delete Station
You may delete a station from the software quickly and easily. Deleting a station removes the station directory and subdirectories from your hard disk.
1. Choose Delete Station from the File menu.
The Delete Station dialog box appears.
D
ELETE
S
TATION
2. Select a station from the list box on the left and choose OK.
You will be prompted to confirm that you want to delete the station.
3. Choose OK to confirm the deletion.
The software deletes the station and all related files.
Download
Downloading allows you to transfer weather data from the W eatherLink’s ar chive memory to the database stored on your computer’s hard disk. For information on the difference between the data in your archive memory and the data in your database, see “Archive Memory vs. Database” on page 91.
1. Choose Download from the File menu or choose the Download icon from the toolbar.
The software will show you how much information is currently saved in the archive memory (as a number of records and as a percentage of the archive memory’s capacity), and prompt you to confirm that you wish to download.
D
OWNLOAD
C
ONFIRMATION
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2. To begin the download, choose OK.
The software will begin to download data. The software shows you the progress of the download in the form of a status bar and a text display of the number of records transferred so far and the total number of records to be transferred.
OFTWARE
File Menu
D
OWNLOAD
S
TATUS
After all records have been transferred, the software saves the information into the open station’s database. If you have set up your station to clear the archive memory after download (see “Clear archive memory after download” on page 20), the software clears the archive memory.
View Log
Information about the automatic download and automatic clear of your station(s) is automatically written to a file called “download.log.“ The log will show you whether or not the download/clear was successful for each station and give you the time and date at which it started and completed.
1. Choose View Log from the File menu.
The automatic download log appears.
A
UTOMATIC
D
OWNLOAD
L
OG
2. To close the log window, double-click on the control-box or choose Close from the File
menu.
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Setup Menu

Print
To print the active program window, choose Print from the File menu or click on the Print icon in the toolbar. Specify printing options (for best results make sure Landscape mode is selected) in Windows’ print dialog box and choose OK.
Close
To close the active program window, choose Close from the File menu or press Ctrl-F4 (or Ctrl-Z).
Hang Up
To hang up a modem connection, choose Hang Up from the File menu or choose the On-Line icon from the toolbar.
Note:
The On-Line icon only appears in the toolbar when you are connected to a remote station.
Exit
To exit the software, choose Exit from the File menu.
S
ETUP
M
ENU
The commands in the Setup menu relate to station and software setup. Each of the commands is explained sepa­rately below.
Walkthrough
The station setup walkthrough automatically steps you through the entire station configuration procedure. It is explained in some detail in “About the Walkthrough” starting on page 10.
18
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Station Config
You may enter information which will help to identify a particular station and select a number of station-specific settings.
1. Choose Station Config from the Setup menu or press Ctrl-C.
The Station Configuration dialog box appears.
THE
S
OFTWARE
Setup Menu
S
C
TATION
ONFIGURATION
2. Enter the following information:
Name
Enter the desired station name in this text box. Note that when you first create a station, the software uses the first eight characters of the station name as the name of the directory into which it saves this station’s data­base and configuration files and the first three characters as the file exten­sion for that station’s database files. If you change the station name, the software will prompt you to change the name of the station directory and database file extension.
Model
Select the weather station model from the drop-down list box.
Rain Collector
Select the increment in which the rain collector you use with the station measures rainfall. If you do not have a rain collector, choose None.
Outside Humidity
If you have the optional External Temperature/Humidity Sensor, select this check box.
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Setup Menu
After download automatically export last 2 days to “download.txt”
The software is capable of automatically creating a text file which contains all downloaded records for the last 2 days (the day on which you down­loaded and the previous day) after each download. To enable this feature, select the check box. The file (named “download.txt”) is saved into the sta­tion’s directory.
Clear archive memory after download
You may have the software automatically clear the archive memory when­ever it downloads data. Clearing after each download will decrease the time it takes to download because there will be less “accumulated” data in the archive memory. Not clearing after each download allows you to download data into multiple databases (if more than one person uses a single weather station, for example). To clear data in the archive memory after each download, select the check box.
Data File Ext
The file extension used on database files for this station is displayed at the bottom of the dialog box. To change the file extension, enter a valid DOS file extension (3 characters) into the text box.
3. When finished, choose OK.
The software save the station configuration settings.
Serial Port
In order to communicate with the WeatherLink and station, you need to specify communications settings for the station.
1. Choose Serial Port from the Setup menu or press Ctrl-I.
The Serial Port Settings dialog box appears.
2. Enter the following information:
Serial Port
Select the serial port to which the WeatherLink (or modem) is connected.
20
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ERIAL
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Baud Rate
Unless you are using a modem which only operates at 1200 baud, leave the baud rate setting at 2400.
Note:
If you have a 1200 baud modem, you need to both flip this setting for the PC AND flip the dip switch setting on the data logger. By default, both are set to 2400 baud. For successful operation, both must remain in sync.
Phone Modem Connection
Select this check box to connect to the station by modem (remote connec­tion).
Rotary Dial
Select this check box if you are using a phone modem connection and your phone is rotary dial.
Phone
Enter the phone number for the modem connected to the station in the text box. Make sure to enter the area code and any necessary prefixes (for example, 1, 011, etc.). You may enter the following special characters.
Enter a comma (,) to force the modem to pause before dialing the next digit. You may enter more than one comma to increase the length of time for which the modem pauses.
Enter a “w” to force the modem to wait for a dial tone before dialing the next digit.
Modem String
Enter the desired modem initialization string in the text box. The default modem initialization string should work in almost all cases. Before chang­ing the modem string, see “Modem String” on page 99 for an explanation of what each part of the string means.
After Connect Wait
Controls the number of seconds the software waits (after connecting to a remote station) to send the first command. If you are having difficulty con­necting to a remote station, try increasing the number of seconds until you can connect successfully.
3. When finished selecting options, choose Test.
The software will check the connection to the station (or modem) using the current settings and indicate whether or not it successfully connected to your weather station model. If you cannot connect to the station, you may use Loopback (see “Finding the Correct Serial Port” on page 12) to determine the correct serial port or make sure the serial port itself is actually working.
4. Once the serial port settings are correct, choose OK.
The software saves the serial port settings.
OFTWARE
Setup Menu
21
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Setup Menu
Select Units
You may select the units of measure in which data is displayed within the soft­ware. All program windows (bulletin, summary, plots, database, etc.) display data in the selected units of measure. Choosing units of measure in the software does not affect the units of measure in which data is displayed on the console.
1. Choose Select Units from the Setup menu or press Ctrl-U.
The Choose Units dialog box appears.
2. Select the desired units of measure:
Temperature: Fahrenheit (°F) or Celsius (°C)
Wind chill, dew point, degree-days, and temperature-humidity index are all displayed in the same unit of measure as temperature.
Barometer: Inches of Hg (in), Millimeters of Hg (mm), Millibars (mb), or Hectopascals (hPa)
Wind Speed: Miles per Hour (mph), Knots (knot), Kilometers per Hour (km/hr), or
Meters per Second (m/s)
Rain: Inches (in) or Millimeters (mm)
3. After selecting units of measure, choose OK.
The software saves your choices. All information will be displayed in the units of measure you selected.
22
C
HOOSE UNITS
USING THE SOFTWARE
Set Time
You may set the time and date on your station console and your computer from the software. It is important to make sure that both the station and computer dis­play the same time and date. Because changing time and date on the station can affect data in the WeatherLink’s archive memory, we recommend that you down­load data before setting the time and date and then clear your archive memory when finished.
Note:
See “Leap Year Correction” on page 101 before changing time and/or date during a leap year.
1. Choose Set Time from the Setup menu.
The Set Time & Date dialog box appears. The time and date currently dis­played by the station console appear at the top of the dialog box. The software automatically enters the time and date displayed by the computer into the text boxes at the bottom of the dialog box.
Setup Menu
SET T
IME
& D
ATE
2. Enter the following information:
Time/Date
Enter the current time and/or date.
Set the PC time also
If you want the software to set the time and date on both the station con­sole and the computer, select this check box.
3. After entering time and date, choose OK.
The software sets the time and date on the station console (and the PC) and then prompts you to indicate whether you want to clear your archive memory as well.
4. To indicate whether you want to clear your archive memory, choose Yes or No.
If you choose Yes, the software clears your archive memory.
23
USING THE SOFTWARE
Setup Menu
Set Archive Interval
You may choose to store data to the WeatherLink’s archive memory at an interval of 1, 5, 10, 15, 30, 60, or 120 minutes. This interval is known as the archive interval. For information on archive memory and the effect that the archive interval has on the amount of data which may be stored in the WeatherLink’s archive memory, see “Archive Memory” on page 91.
Note:
Be aware that setting the archive interval clears your archive memory. You should download data before changing archive interval (see “Download” on page 16).
1. Choose Set Archive Interval from the Setup menu.
The Set Archive Interval dialog box appears.
SET A
RCHIVE INTERVAL
2. Select the desired archive interval and choose OK.
The software warns you that it is about to clear the archive memory.
3. To continue, choose OK.
The software sets the archive interval and clears the archive memory.
Set Barometer
You must set the barometer on your station console using the software (provided your station has a barometer). For performance reasons, the software reads the necessary calibration number for the barometer from the station’s configuration file, rather than reading it from the console itself (see “Calibration Numbers” on page 93). Therefore, in order for the software to display the correct barometric pressure, you must set the barometer from the software.
1. Choose Set Barometer from the Setup menu.
The software opens the Set Barometer dialog box.
SET B
AROMETER
24
USING THE SOFTWARE
2. Enter the correct barometric pressure and choose OK.
The software saves the change in barometric pressure to both the console and the station’s configuration file.
Set Rain Cal
Y ou may set the rainfall calibration number on your station console using the soft­ware. Based on the type of rain collector you selected in station configuration (see “Station Config” on page 19), the software automatically changes your station console’s rainfall calibration number to the correct setting.
Note:
Consult your station manual for a more detailed description of the rainfall calibration number.
1. Choose Set Rain Cal from the Setup menu.
The software prompts you to confirm that you wish to change the rainfall cali­bration number.
SET R
AIN CAL
2. Choose Yes.
The software sets the rainfall calibration number on your station.
Setup Menu
Set Temp Cal
If you need to calibrate your temperature readings, you must set the temperature calibration numbers on your station console using the software. For performance reasons, the software reads the temperature calibration numbers from the sta­tion’s configuration file, rather than reading it from the console itself (see “Cali­bration Numbers” on page 93). Therefore, in order for the software to display the correct temperature(s), you must set temperature calibration numbers from the soft- ware.
Note:
Consult your station manual for a more detailed description of temperature calibration num­bers.
25
USING THE SOFTWARE
Setup Menu
1. Choose Set Temp Cal from the Setup menu.
The Set Temp Cal dialog box appears. The raw reading shown in this dialog box indicates the unadjusted reading coming from the sensor. The adjusted reading indicates what the software displays, adjusted for any previously entered calibration number.
SET T
EMP
2. Enter the desired adjusted reading and choose OK.
The software automatically calculates the necessary calibration number to convert the raw reading into the adjusted reading and saves that calibration number to the console and the station’s configuration file.
. C
AL
Set Hum Cal
If you need to calibrate your outside humidity reading, you must set the calibra­tion number on your station console using the software. For performance reasons, the software reads the calibration number from the station’s configuration file, rather than reading it from the console itself (see “Calibration Numbers” on page 93). Therefore, in order for the software to display the correct outside humidity, you must set the outside humidity calibration number from the software.
Note:
Consult your station manual for a more detailed description of the outside humidity calibra­tion number.
26
USING THE SOFTWARE
1. Choose Set Hum Cal from the Setup menu.
The Set Hum Cal dialog box appears. The raw reading shown in this dialog box indicates the unadjusted reading coming from the sensor. The adjusted reading indicates what the software displays, adjusted for any previously entered calibration number.
SET H
UMIDITY CAL
2. Enter the desired adjusted reading and choose OK.
The software automatically calculates the necessary calibration number to convert the raw reading into the adjusted reading and saves that calibration number to the console and the station’s configuration file.
Set Total Rain
You may want to enter a total rainfall amount to reflect any rainfall which occurred before you obtained your station or before you started using the soft­ware. In order for the software’s rainfall totals to remain consistent with the sta­tion’s totals, you must enter total rainfall from the software. Once you set total rain, the console and software will continue to accumulate rainfall normally.
1. Choose Set Total Rain from the Setup menu.
The Set Total Rain dialog box appears.
Setup Menu
SET T
OTAL RAIN
2. Enter the total rainfall amount and choose OK.
The software saves the total rainfall amount to the console and to the station’s configuration file.
27
USING THE SOFTWARE
Setup Menu
Set Alarms
You may quickly set the alarm thresholds on the station console using the soft­ware. Consult your station manual for information on the available alarms and how they work.
1. Choose Set Alarms from the Setup menu or press Ctrl-A.
The Set Station Alarms dialog box appears.
SET S
TATION ALARMS
2. Enter the following information:
High/Low Alarm
For all of the standard high/low alarms, enter the desired alarm threshold into the text box. To clear an alarm, delete the contents of the text box.
Dew Point
T urn on the dew point alarm by selecting the check box. Clear the alarm by “de-selecting” the check box.
Barometer
Select the desired change per hour which will trigger the barometer alarm. To clear the alarm, select Off.
Time
Enter the time at which the alarm should be triggered into the text box. To clear the alarm, delete the contents of the text box.
3. When finished entering alarm information, choose Set.
The software sets the alarms on the station console to match the settings in this dialog box.
Clear
You may quickly clear high/low registers and rainfall totals from the software.
Note:
This command will not clear the highs and lows on the bulletin if it is running.
28
USING THE SOFTWARE
Setup Menu
1. Choose Clear from the Setup menu.
The Clear dialog box appears.
C
LEAR
2. Indicate which high/low registers and/or rainfall totals you wish to clear by selecting
the appropriate check box.
You may quickly select all high/low registers and rainfall totals by choosing Check All. You may quickly de-select all high/low registers and rainfall totals by choosing Check None.
3. To clear the selected high/low registers and/or rainfall totals, choose OK.
The software clears the selected high/low registers and/or rainfall totals on the station console.
29
USING THE SOFTWARE
Setup Menu
Auto Clear
You may set up the software to automatically clear selected high/low registers and rainfall totals at a set time each day (the software must be running). For more information on how the Auto Clear feature works, see “Automatic Clear” on page 92.
Note:
This command Clear occurs.
will
clear highs and lows on the bulletin if it is running at the time the Auto
1. Choose Set Auto Clear from the Setup menu.
The Auto Clear dialog box appears.
A
UTO CLEAR
2. Indicate which high/low registers and/or rainfall totals you wish cleared automatically by selecting the appropriate check box.
You may quickly select all high/low registers and rainfall totals by choosing Check All. You may quickly de-select all high/low registers and rainfall totals by choosing Check None.
3. Enter the time at which you want the station to clear the selected highs and lows each day into the Time text box.
4. When finished setting up Auto Clear, choose OK.
The software saves the Auto Clear settings. The selected high/low registers and rainfall totals will be cleared at the specified time each day.
30
USING THE SOFTWARE
Auto Download
You may set up the software to automatically download data at specified times each day (the software must be running). For more information on how the auto­matic download feature works, see “Automatic Download” on page 92.
1. Choose Auto Download from the Setup menu or press Ctrl-J.
The Auto Download dialog box appears. The stations which appear in the Auto Download List will be downloaded automatically.
Setup Menu
A
UTO DOWNLOAD
2. To add a station to the Auto Download List, double-click on the station name or select
the station from the Station Names list and choose Add.
The station name will be moved to the Auto Download List. You may select more than one station before choosing Add to add several stations at once. You may quickly add all stations in the Station Names list by choosing Add All.
3. To remove a station from the Auto Download List, select the station and choose
Remove.
The station name will be removed from the Auto Download List. You may select more than one station before choosing Remove to remove several sta­tions at once. You may quickly remove all stations in the list by choosing Clear.
31
USING THE SOFTWARE
Setup Menu
4. To set the time(s) at which the selected station should be downloaded, choose Down­load At.
The Download At dialog box appears.
D
OWNLOAD AT
5. Enter the following information:
Download Times
Select the hour(s) at which the software should automatically download information from this station by clicking on the desired hour in the list. You may select as many download hours as you want; the software will download data from your station during each of the specified hours. To de-select a previously selected hour, click on it again. To quickly select all hours, choose Choose All. To quickly clear all selected hours, choose Clear.
Offset Time
To force the software to automatically download a specific number of min­utes after the selected hour(s), enter the number of minutes here. For example, In the illustration above, the software would automatically download at 9:05 am and 8:05 pm.
6. After setting the download time(s), choose OK.
The software saves the automatic download time settings.
Auto Fax
You may set up the software to automatically fax weather data to you after each automatic download (see “Auto Download” on page 31). If AutoFax is enabled, the software creates a text file (“auto.fax“) which contains all weather data for the current day and the previous day and then faxes that document to the number you specify after the AutoDownload is complete. In order to use AutoFax, you will need to have a working fax modem and know to which serial port the fax modem is connected.
32
USING THE SOFTWARE
1. Choose Auto Fax from the Setup menu or press Ctrl-X.
The Auto Fax Settings dialog box appears.
A
UTO FAX SETTINGS
2. Enter the following information:
COM Port
Enter the number of the COM port to which your fax modem is connected.
Fax Phone #
Enter the fax number to which you want the data sent.
Modem Class
Select the modem class. Consult your fax modem’s documentation to determine the correct class. If you are unsure, test the Auto Fax feature using Modem Class 2.0, then 2, then 1 to determine which class will work with your modem.
Addressed To Information
Enter any desired addressing information. This information will appear at the top of the fax.
Modem Initialization String
Enter the desired modem initialization string in the text box. The default modem initialization string should work in almost all cases. Before chang­ing the modem string, see “Modem String” on page 99 for an explanation of what each part of the string means.
Fax After Auto Download
To enable Auto Fax, select this check box.
Single Page/Multiple Page
The Auto Fax feature can be set to fax the entire contents of the auto.fax file (on multiple pages) or it can be set to send you only the most recent data (as much as will fit on a single page). Choose between these two modes by selecting the desired option.
3. To test the Auto Fax, choose Test Fax.
The program will attempt to send a fax to the specified fax number. If success­ful, the program will inform you. If possible, you should also check the fax itself to make sure it transmitted correctly.
Setup Menu
33
USING THE SOFTWARE

Reports Menu

4. When finished, choose OK.
The software saves your Auto Fax settings.
REPORTS MENU
The Reports menu contains commands which allow you to quickly generate reports using (in most cases) data in your database. Each of the commands is explained sepa­rately below.
Printing Reports
To print any of the reports generated by the software, choose Print from the File menu, click on the Print icon in the Toolbar, or press Ctrl-P.
NOAA Setup
The software will automatically generate reports similar to Monthly and Yearly NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) ”weather watcher” reports. Enter all necessary setup information using NOAA Setup, and the r eports can be calculated in seconds.
1. Choose NOAA Setup from the Reports menu.
The NOAA Report Setup dialog box appears.
2. Enter the following information:
City
Enter the city name into the text box.
34
NOAA R
EPORT SETUP
USING THE SOFTWARE
State
Enter the state name into the text box. If you wish, enter the country name as well.
Elevation
Enter the location’s elevation into the text box.
Lat, Long
Enter the location’s longitude and latitude into the text box. When enter­ing latitude, use negative numbers to represent southern latitudes. When entering longitude, use negative numbers to represent western longitudes.
Note:
To enter the symbol for degrees (º) , you can either hold the Alt-key down while pressing 0176 on the number pad of your keyboard, or you can copy the symbol from the Character Map (in Start > Program > Accessories) and paste it into the dialog box using Ctrl+V.
Normal Mean Temp
Enter the normal mean temperature for each month of the year into the appropriate text box.
Normal Precipitation
Enter the normal mean precipitation for each month of the year into the appropriate text box.
Cooling Degree-Day Base Temp
Enter the desired cooling degree-day base temperature into the text box.
Heating Degree-Day Base Temp
Enter the desired heating degree-day base temperature into the text box.
Calculate using integration method
Calculate degree-days using integration method rather than averaging high and low temperature reading for the day. See “Degree-Days” on page 97 for a description of the two calculation methods.
3. After entering information, choose OK.
The software saves all NOAA report setup information.
Reports Menu
NOAA This Month
To quickly generate a NOAA monthly summary (see “NOAA Summarize Month” below) using all existing data for the current month, choose NOAA This Month, click on the NOAA icon in the toolbar, or press F7.
35
USING THE SOFTWARE
Reports Menu
NOAA Summarize Month
The software can automatically generate a report similar to monthly NOAA weather watcher reports using the information in your database and NOAA Setup information (see “NOAA Setup” on page 34).
1. Choose NOAA Summarize Month from the Reports menu.
The Choose Month dialog box appears.
C
HOOSE MONTH
2. Select a month from the list.
3. Enter the desired file name into the Export File text box.
Whenever you create a monthly summary, the software automatically saves an export file (ASCII text) which contains the report information. You may enter the desired file name in this text box or you may use the default file name.
36
4. Choose OK.
The NOAA Monthly Summary appears.
USING THE SOFTWARE
Reports Menu
NOAA M
ONTHLY SUMMARY
General station information (Station Name, City, State, Units of Measure, etc.) appears at the top of the report. For each day in the report, you may view the following information (and a total for the month):
Day
Each row in the report shows information for a single day. The date for each row appears at the left of the row.
Mean Temp
The mean temperature for the day. At the bottom of the column, the mean temperature for the month is displayed.
High & Time
The high temperature for the day and the time at which it occurred. At the bottom of the column, the highest temperature recorded during the month and the day on which it occurred is displayed.
37
USING THE SOFTWARE
Reports Menu
Low & Time
The low temperature for the day and the time at which it occurred. At the bottom of the column, the lowest temperature recorded during the month and the day on which it occurred is displayed.
Heat Deg-Days
The number of heating degree-days accumulated on each day. At the bot­tom of the column, the total heating degree-days accumulated during the month is displayed.
Cool Deg-Days
The number of cooling degree-days accumulated on each day. At the bot­tom of the column, the total cooling degree-days accumulated during the month is displayed.
Rain
The rainfall accumulated on each day. At the bottom of the column, the total rainfall accumulated during the month is displayed.
Avg Wind Speed
The average wind speed for each day. At the bottom of the column, the average wind speed of the month is displayed.
High (Wind Speed) & Time
The high wind speed for the day and the time at which it occurred. At the bottom of the column, the highest wind speed recorded during the month and the day on which it occurred is displayed.
Dom Direction
The dominant wind direction for the day. At the bottom of the column, the dominant wind direction recorded during the month is displayed.
At the bottom of the report, the following monthly information is summa­rized.
Max >= 90
The number of days on which high temperature was 90° F (32°C) or above.
Max <= 32
The number of days on which high temperature was 32° F (0°C) or below.
Min <= 32
The number of days on which low temperature was 32° F (0°C) or below.
Min <= 0
The number of days on which low temperature was 0° F (-18°C) or below.
Max Rain
The maximum rainfall on any single day during the month.
Days of Rain
The number of days on which rainfall exceeded 0.01" (0.2 mm), 0.1" (2 mm), or 1" (20 mm) is displayed.
5. To close the report, choose Close from the File menu, press Ctrl-F4, or double-click on the Control-menu in the upper left corner of the window.
38
USING THE SOFTWARE
NOAA This Year
To quickly generate a NOAA yearly summary (see “NOAA Summarize Year” below) using all existing data for the current year, choose NOAA This Year or press F8.
NOAA Summarize Year
The software can automatically generate a report similar to yearly NOAA weather watcher reports using the information in your database and NOAA Setup information (see “NOAA Setup” on page 34).
1. Choose NOAA Summarize Year from the Reports menu.
The Choose Year dialog box appears.
Reports Menu
C
HOOSE YEAR
2. Select a year from the list.
3. Enter the desired file name into the Export File text box.
Whenever you create a yearly summary, the software automatically saves an export file (ASCII text) which contains the report information. You may enter the desired file name in this text box or you may use the default file name.
39
USING THE SOFTWARE
Reports Menu
4. Choose OK.
The NOAA yearly summary appears. General station information (Station Name, City, State, Units of Measure, etc.) appears at the top of the report. Below that is the temperature summary section.
40
NOAA Y
EARLY SUMMARY
(T
EMPERATURE
)
For each month in the report, you may view the following temperature infor­mation (and a total/average for the year):
YR & MO
Each row in the report shows information for a single month. The month and year appear at the left of the row.
Mean Max
The average of daily maximum temperatures for the month. At the bottom of the column, the mean maximum temperature for the year is displayed.
Mean Min
The average of daily minimum temperatures for the month. At the bottom of the column, the mean minimum temperature for the year is displayed.
Mean
The mean temperature for the month. At the bottom of the column, the mean temperature for the year is displayed.
USING THE SOFTWARE
Reports Menu
Dep. From Norm
The amount by which the mean temperature departed from normal for the month. At the bottom of the column, the amount by which the mean tem­perature departed from normal for the year is displayed.
Note:
For values (other than 0) to appear here, you need to first setup your NOAA report. See “NOAA Setup” on page 34 for details.
Heat Deg-Days
The number of heating degree-days accumulated during each month. At the bottom of the column, the total heating degree-days accumulated dur­ing the year is displayed.
Cool Deg Days
The number of cooling degree-days accumulated during each month. At the bottom of the column, the total cooling degree-days accumulated dur­ing the year is displayed.
Hi & Date
The highest temperature for the month and the date on which it occurred. At the bottom of the column, the highest temperature recorded during the year and the month in which it occurred is displayed.
Low & Date
The lowest temperature for the month and the date on which it occurred. At the bottom of the column, the lowest temperature recorded during the year and the month in which it occurred is displayed.
Max >= 90 (32)
The number of days on which high temperature was 90° F (32°C) or above during the month. At the bottom of the column, the total number of days on which the high temperature was 90° F (32°C) or above during the year is displayed.
Max <= 32 (0)
The number of days on which high temperature was 32° F (0°C) or below during the month. At the bottom of the column, the total number of days on which the high temperature was 32° F (0°C) or below during the year is displayed.
Min <= 32 (0)
The number of days on which low temperature was 32° F (0°C) or below during the month. At the bottom of the column, the total number of days on which the low temperature was 32° F (0°C) or below during the year is displayed.
Min <= 0 (-18)
The number of days on which low temperature was 0° F (-18°C) or below during the month. At the bottom of the column, the total number of days on which the low temperature was 0° F (-18°C) or below during the year is displayed.
41
USING THE SOFTWARE
Reports Menu
Below the temperature summary section, the rainfall summary section appears.
For each month in the report, you may view the following rainfall information (and a total/average for the year):
YR & MO
Each row in the report shows information for a single month. The month and year appear at the left of the row.
Total
The total rainfall for the month. At the bottom of the column, the total rain­fall for the year is displayed.
Dep. From Norm
The amount by which the total rainfall departed from normal for the month. At the bottom of the column, the amount by which the total rain­fall departed from normal for the year is displayed.
Note:
Max Obs. Day & Date
The highest rainfall total for an single day during the month and the date on which it occurred. At the bottom of the column, the highest rainfall total for any single day during the year and the month during which it occurred are displayed.
Days of Rain Over .01 (0.2)
The number of days on which rainfall exceeded 0.01" (0.2 mm) during the month. At the bottom of the column, the number of days on which rainfall exceeded 0.01" (0.2 mm) during the year is displayed.
Days of Rain Over .1 (2)
The number of days on which rainfall exceeded 0.1" (2 mm) during the month. At the bottom of the column, the number of days on which rainfall exceeded 0.1" (2 mm) during the year is displayed.
42
NOAA Y
EARLY SUMMARY
For values (other than 0) to appear here, you need to first setup your NOAA report. See “NOAA Setup” on page 34 for details.
(R
AINFALL
)
USING THE SOFTWARE
Reports Menu
Days of Rain Over 1 (20)
The number of days on which rainfall exceeded 1" (20 mm) during the month. At the bottom of the column, the number of days on which rainfall exceeded 1" (20 mm) during the year is displayed.
Below the rainfall summary section, the wind summary section appears.
NOAA Y
EARLY SUMMARY
(W
IND
)
For each month in the report, you may view the following wind information (and an average for the year):
YR & MO
Each row in the report shows information for a single month. The month and year appear at the left of the row.
Avg
The average wind speed for the month. At the bottom of the column, the average wind speed for the year is displayed.
Hi & Date
The high wind speed for the month and the date on which it occurred. At the bottom of the column, the highest wind speed recorded during the year and the month in which it occurred is displayed.
Dom Dir
The dominant wind direction for the month. At the bottom of the column, the dominant wind direction during the year is displayed.
5. To close the report window, double-click on the Control-menu in the upper left corner
of the window, or press Ctrl-F4.
43
USING THE SOFTWARE
Reports Menu
Yearly Rainfall
You may generate rainfall reports which show rainfall totals for all years in the database and any years for which you want to enter your own data. The rainfall report database is kept separate from the station database, so you may alter rain­fall information in the rainfall database without affecting the station database.
1. Choose Yearly Rainfall from the Reports menu, click on the Yearly Rain icon in the tool­bar, or press Ctrl-R.
The software opens the Yearly Rainfall window.
Note:
The first time you open the rainfall report, you will be prompted to confirm that you want to generate the rainfall database. Choose Yes to generate the rainfall database. Depend­ing on the amount of data in your database, it may take a while to generate the rainfall report.
Y
EARLY RAINFALL
2. See “Using the Yearly Rainfall Database” on page 80 for instructions on using the yearly rainfall report.
44
USING THE SOFTWARE
Degree-Days
The software can calculate degree-days for an almost infinite number of plants, pests, etc. See “Degree-Days” on page 97 for a description of degree-days.
1. Choose PC Degree Days from the Reports menu or press Ctrl-G.
The PC Degree Days list box appears.
Reports Menu
PC D
EGREE DAYS
2. See “Degree-Days” starting on page 84 for instructions on using the degree-day calcu-
lation feature.
45
USING THE SOFTWARE
Reports Menu
Temp/Hum Hours
You may track the number of hours temperature is above or below a certain threshold and humidity is above a certain threshold. See “Temperature/Humidity Hours” on page 98 for a description of temperature/humidity hours.
1. Choose Temp/Hum Hours from the Reports menu.
The Temp/Hum Hours dialog box appears.
T
EMP/HUM HOURS
2. For each temp/hum hour total you wish to track, enter the following:
Name
Enter the name of the crop/pest for which you want temp/hum hours cal­culated into the text box.
Start Date
Enter the date from which you want temp/hum hours calculated into the text box.
Temp Threshold
Enter the temperature threshold for this crop/pest into the text box.
Above/Below
Select whether the software should calculate temp/hum hours based on the number of hours above or below the temperature threshold. (Above means greater than or equal to, below means less than or equal to.)
Humidity Threshold
Enter the humidity threshold for this crop/pest into the text box.
Development Total
Enter the number of temp/hum hours required for this crop/pest to develop.
46
USING THE SOFTWARE
Reports Menu
3. After entering all necessary information, choose OK to view the temp/hum hours
report.
The software calculates and displays temp/hum hours information.
T
EMP/HUM HOURS REPORT
The temp/hum hours report contains the following information:
Name, Start Date, Thresholds
The report shows the name, start date, and the thresholds you entered.
Days Occurred
The report shows the number of days on which temp/hum hours occurred.
Total for prior 3 days
The report shows the number of temp/hum hours which occurred on each of the past 3 days.
Development Total
The reports shows the development total you entered.
Hours to Go
The report shows the total temp/hum hours left before the development total is reached.
Days to Go
The report shows the expected number of days before the development total is reached. This calculation is based on the average number of temp/ hum hours during the last three complete days.
47
USING THE SOFTWARE
Reports Menu
Soil Temp. Hours
You may track the number of hours soil temperature is above a certain threshold. See “Soil Temperature Hours” on page 98 for a description of soil temperature hours.
1. Choose Soil Temp Hours from the Reports menu.
The Soil Temp Hours dialog box appears.
S
OIL TEMP HOURS
2. Enter the following information:
Start Date
Enter the starting date for which you want soil temperature hours calcu­lated into the text box.
End Date
Enter the ending date for which you want soil temperature hours calcu­lated into the text box.
Temp Threshold
Enter the soil temperature threshold above which you want soil tempera­ture hours calculated into the text box.
48
USING THE SOFTWARE
Reports Menu
3. After entering all necessary information, choose OK to view the soil temperature hours
report.
The software calculates and displays soil temperature hours information.
S
OIL TEMP HOURS REPORT
The soil temperature hours report contains the following information:
Total
The total number of soil temperature hours which occurred during the selected period of time.
Start Date, End Date, Threshold
The report shows the start and end dates and the threshold you entered.
Hours for the last 15 days
The report shows the number of soil temperature hours which occurred on each of the past 15 days.
49
USING THE SOFTWARE
Reports Menu
Chilling Requirement
You may calculate chilling requirements by entering a start and end date and a temperature threshold. See “Chilling Requirement” on page 97 for a description of Chilling Requirements.
1. Choose Chilling Requirement from the Reports menu.
The Chilling Requirement dialog box appears.
C
HILLING REQUIREMENT
2. Enter the following information:
Start Date
Enter the starting date for which you want chilling requirement calculated into the text box.
End Date
Enter the ending date for which you want chilling requirement calculated into the text box.
Temp. below
Enter the temperature below which you want chilling requirement calcu­lated.
3. When finished, choose Calculate.
The software calculates chilling requirement for the selected period and dis­plays that information at the bottom of the dialog box.
4. To exit, choose Done.
50
C
HILLING REQUIREMENT CALCULATED
(22.5 H
OURS
)
Sunrise & Sunset
You may calculate sunrise and sunset times for any location and date.
1. Choose Sunrise & Sunset from the Reports menu or press F2.
The Sunrise & Sunset dialog box appears.
S
UNRISE
& S
UNSET
2. Enter the following information:
Date
Enter the date for the report. If calculating for a day, the software calcu­lates sunrise and sunset for the entered date. If calculating for a month or a year, the softwar e calculates sunrise and sunset for the month/year during which the date falls.
Time Zone
Select the appropriate time zone from the drop-down list. Use the time zone selection to adjust the calculated sunrise/sunset times to the desired time zone. Note that the software uses the longitude and latitude to actu­ally determine the times; the time zone simply allows it to adjust the time correctly.
Daylight Savings Time
Select this check box if you are currently on daylight savings time. The software adjusts the times for daylight savings only if this check box is selected.
Latitude/Longitude
Enter the latitude and longitude of the location for which you want sun­rise and sunset times calculated.
Calculate
Select the length of time for which you want Sunrise and Sunset times cal­culated by selecting either Day, Month, or Year.
USING THE SOFTWARE
Reports Menu
51
USING THE SOFTWARE
Reports Menu
3. After entering all necessary information, choose OK.
The software calculates sunrise and sunset times and displays the informa­tion.
S
UNRISE
& S
UNSET REPORT
The report contains the following information:
Latitude/Longitude
The report shows the latitude and longitude setting you entered.
Time Zone
The report shows the time zone you selected.
Greenwich Offset
The number of hours the sunrise/sunset times are offset from Greenwich Mean Time (due to time zone and daylight savings adjustments) is shown.
Daylight Savings Time
The report shows whether the daylight savings time setting is on or off.
Date
Each row in the report shows the sunrise and sunset times for a single day. The date for each row appears at the left of the row.
Twilight Times (Morning and Evening)
The report lists twilight times for both morning and evening for each day in the report. The morning twilight times appear on the left and the evening twilight times appear on the right. There are three separate twi­light times listed for each:
Astronomical Twilight (Astro) is defined as the time at which the
center of the sun is 18° below the horizon.
Nautical Twilight (Naut) is defined as the time at which the center of
the sun is 12° below the horizon.
Civil Twilight (Civil) is defined as the time at which the center of the
sun is 6° below the horizon.
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USING THE SOFTWARE
Sunrise
The report lists the time at which sunrise (defined as the time at which the upper limb of the sun appears) occurs for each day in the report.
Sunset
The report lists the time at which sunset (defined as the time at which the upper limb of the sun disappears) occurs for each day in the report.
Daylight Hours
The report shows the total hours of daylight for each day in the report.

Windows Menu

WINDOWS MENU
The commands in the Windows menu allow you open and use many of the software’s most important features: bulletin, data­base browser, plot window, strip charts, and the summary win­dow.
The Windows menu also contains standard commands for clos­ing, cascading, and tiling all open program windows. In addi­tion, the names of open program windows are listed at the bottom of the menu, allowing you to quickly bring the desired window to the “front.”
53
USING THE SOFTWARE
Windows Menu
Bulletin
The bulletin provides a graphic representation of current weather conditions (with the numeric reading displayed as well) which updates in real-time.
B
ULLETIN
For all bar graphs (outside temperature, for example), highs and lows are repre­sented by yellow lines which appear above the bar (high) or within the bar (low). When you first open the bulletin window, the software prompts you to indicate whether you want to download highs and lows from the station. Downloading highs and lows causes the software to read highs and lows from the weather sta­tion and display them on the weather bulletin. If you download highs and lows it takes a bit longer to open the bulletin window. If you do not download highs and lows, the highs and lows shown in the bulletin window will only reflect the highs and lows recorded while the bulletin is open. As long as the bulletin is open, the software automatically updates highs and lows as they occur. (If a scheduled Auto Clear occurs while the bulletin is open, any high or low that is cleared on the console is also cleared on the bulletin.)
The bulletin displays a line graph of barometric pressure over the past six hours. When you first open the bulletin window, the software graphs the current baro­metric pressure and any barometric pressure data which exists in your database for the past six hours. While the bulletin is open, the software plots another point on this graph every 15 minutes.
54
USING THE SOFTWARE
To start the bulletin, choose Bulletin from the Windows menu, click on the Bulletin
icon in the toolbar, or press Ctrl-B.
The software prompts you to indicate whether you want to download highs and lows. Choose Yes or No to continue.
To view the Summary window which lists all current weather information (includ-
ing the time and date at which highs and lows occurred) press Page Down or right mouse click in the bulletin window.
To print the bulletin, choose Print from the File menu, click on the Print icon in the
toolbar, or press Ctrl-P.
Set your printer options in the Print dialog box (for best results, be sure to choose landscape mode) and then choose OK.
To close the bulletin, choose Close from the File menu, double-click on the Control-
menu box in the upper left corner of the window or press Ctrl-F4.
Browse
The Browse window allows you to view the raw data collected by your station. In addition to viewing data, you may edit records, print data, export data for use in database or spreadsheet programs, or add notes to individual records.
To open the Browse window, choose Browse from the Windows menu, click on the
Database icon in the toolbar, or press Ctrl-W.
The Browse window appears. For complete instructions on using the Browse window, see “Using the Browse Window” on page 59.
Windows Menu
B
ROWSE WINDOW
55
USING THE SOFTWARE
Windows Menu
Plot
The WeatherLink software includes a powerful plotting engine which allows you to plot as many conditions as you want on a single plot. You can also save plots and plot templates for later viewing.
To plot data, choose Plot from the Windows menu, click on the Plot icon in the tool-
bar, or press Ctrl-Q.
The Plot window appears. For complete instructions on using the Plot win­dow, see “Using the Plot Window” on page 65.
P
LOT WINDOW
Strip Charts
The strip charts offer you 4 line graphs which update in real-time as long as they are open. You may select the data you want to plot on the strip charts and the span over which you want it plotted.
56
USING THE SOFTWARE
Windows Menu
To use the strip charts, choose Strip Charts from the Windows menu, click on the
Strip Chart icon in the toolbar, or press Ctrl-S.
The software automatically downloads data from the open station in order to fill out the entire strip chart. After downloading, the Strip Chart window appears. For complete instructions on using the Strip Charts, see “Using the Strip Charts” on page 76.
S
TRIP CHART
57
USING THE SOFTWARE
Windows Menu
Summary
The summary shows a text table of all current conditions as well as the highs and lows along with the time and date at which they occurred. The information on the high/low summary is updated in the same way as the bulletin.
S
UMMARY WINDOW
To start the summary, choose Summary from the Windows menu or press Ctrl-Y.
The software prompts you to indicate whether you want to download highs and lows. Choose Yes or No to continue.
To print the summary, choose Print from the File menu, click on the Print icon in the
toolbar, or press Ctrl-P.
To close the summary, choose Close from the File menu, double-click on the Con-
trol-menu box in the upper left corner of the window or press Ctrl-F4.
58
USING THE SOFTWARE

Using the Browse Window

USING THE BROWSE WINDOW
The browse window allows you to view, edit, print, annotate, and export the raw data collected by the WeatherLink.
B
ROWSE WINDOW
When the Browse window is active, a Browse menu appears in the menu bar. The Browse menu contains commands which enable you to view , edit, print, export, and copy database information.
Choose Date
You may quickly view the records for any date in the database.
1. To choose a date, click anywhere in the Browse window with the right mouse button,
choose Choose Date from the Browse menu, or press Ctrl-D.
The Choose Date dialog box appears.
C
HOOSE DATE
59
USING THE SOFTWARE
Using the Browse Window
2. Select the desired date from the list and choose OK.
The software locates and displays the first record from the selected date.
Make a Note
You may add notes to any record in the database.
Note:
The text of database notes are saved in the “DATANOTE” subdirectory for the open station. The notes are assigned a coded file name which identifies them to the program. Do not change these file names.
1. To add a note, double-click on the area just to the left of a record’s date (or select the desired record and choose Make a Note from the Browse menu or press Ctrl-N).
The Note Pad appears.
N
OTE PAD
2. Enter the desired text into the note pad.
3. When finished, choose OK.
The software saves the note and returns you to the Browse window. After you add a note to a record, the software adds a note icon to the left of the record.
N
OTE ICON
4. To edit, delete, or add to an existing note, double click on the note icon.
The Note Pad (with the text of previously entered notes) appears. Edit or add to the note and choose OK to save. Choose Remove to delete the note com­pletely.
60
USING THE SOFTWARE
Using the Browse Window
Edit a Record
You may edit the data contained in any record in your database.
1. To edit a record, double-click on the desired record in the Browse window (or select
the desired record and choose Edit from the Browse menu or press Enter).
The Edit dialog box appears.
E
DIT
The date and time of the record appear in the title bar. You may enter or change any of the record data by simply entering the desired data into the appropriate text box. Note that you cannot edit temperature/humidity index data directly because it is calculated ”on the fly” (see “T emperatur e/Humidity Index” on page 96). To change temperatur e/humidity index data, edit the out­side temperature or outside humidity data.
2. When finished editing data, choose OK.
The software saves your changes and closes the Edit dialog box. Choose Next to save your changes and move to the next record in the database. Choose Pre­vious to save your changes and move to the previous record in the database. Choose Cancel to undo all changes and close the Edit dialog box.
61
USING THE SOFTWARE
Using the Browse Window
Delete a Record
To delete a single record, select the desired record and press Delete or choose Delete from the Browse menu. The software prompts you to confirm that you wish to delete the record before it continues.
Copy Records
You may copy all record information for a specific group of records to Windows’ clipboard (from which you may paste the information into most Windows pro­grams).
1. To copy records to the clipboard, choose Copy Records from the Browse menu.
The software prompts you to select the records you want copied.
C
HOOSE RECORDS TO COPY
2. Select the desired days, months, or years (you may choose more than one) and choose OK.
The software copies the selected records to the clipboard.
62
USING THE SOFTWARE
Using the Browse Window
Export Records
You may export record information to a tab delimited export file which can be used in most database, spreadsheet, or word processing programs.
1. To export records, choose Export from the Browse menu.
The software prompts you to select the records you want exported.
C
HOOSE RECORDS TO EXPORT
2. Select the desired days, months, or years (you may choose more than one) and choose
OK.
The software prompts you to enter an export file name.
3. Enter the desired file name and choose OK.
E
NTER EXPORT FILE NAME
The software saves all record information for the selected days, months, or years (in tab delimited format) into the export file. You may use this file to import data into most popular database, spreadsheet, and/or word process­ing programs.
63
USING THE SOFTWARE
Using the Browse Window
Delete Records
You may quickly delete a group of records.
1. To delete records, choose Delete Records from the Edit menu.
The software prompts you to select the records you want deleted.
C
HOOSE RECORDS TO DELETE
2. Select the desired days, months, or years (you may choose more than one) and choose OK.
The software prompts you to confirm that you want to delete the records.
3. To delete the records, choose OK.
The software deletes the selected records.
64
USING THE SOFTWARE

Using the Plot Window

USING THE PLOT WINDOW
The software includes powerful plotting capabilities which allow you to view and compare data in graphical format. The plot interface has been designed so that almost all plot features may be accessed directly from the plot window. You may use menu commands if you find it easier, of course. Menu commands are explained separately below. When the Plot window is active, a Plot menu and a Color menu are added to the main menu bar and some new commands (Open Plot, Save Plot, Open Plot T emplate, and Save Plot Template) are added to the File menu. The use of the Plot menu, Colors menu, and the Open and Save commands are explained below.
The three most basic elements of any plot are the variables (the weather condi­tions you are plotting), the date, and the plot span (the length of time over which you are plotting those conditions). The software allows you to quickly and simply select those three elements and also includes many other useful features which make it easier to view and compare data. Almost all of the plot features may be accessed directly from the plot window.
P
LOT WINDOW
65
USING THE SOFTWARE
Using the Plot Window
Adding and Removing Variables
Variables Box
The variables box at the bottom of the screen makes it possible to add and remove variable with a click of the mouse. To add or remove a variable from a plot, click on the box next to the variable’s name in the variables box. When you add a variable to the plot, the color of that variable fills the box and the variable is added to the plot. When you remove a variable, the box becomes white again and the variable is removed from the plot.
To add or remove multiple variables at one time, hold down the Shift key while clicking on the desired variables. The program will wait until you release the Shift key before beginning to draw the plot.
Plot Menu
You may also choose variables from the Add/Remove sub-menu in the Plot menu to add or remove variables. A variable which is already plotted will have a check mark before its name in the menu.
Keyboard
If you have only one variable plotted, pressing the up and down arrows quickly scrolls through the available variables. Watch the variables box or the axis info button to see what variable is being plotted.
Choose Specific Date
You may choose a specific date for plotting.
1. Click on the Date button, press Ctrl-D, click anywhere in the Plot window with the
mouse button
, or choose Choose Date from the Plot menu.
A list of dates in your database appears.
right
C
HOOSE DATE
2. Select the desired date from the list and choose OK.
For plot spans which show more than one day, the date you pick will be plot­ted on the left side of the axis and the rest of the plot will fill in with subse­quent data. The date which appears on the date button always indicates what data is plotted on the left-most side of the axis.
66
USING THE SOFTWARE
Using the Plot Window
Scroll Through Dates
You may use the scroll bar along the bottom of the strip chart window to scroll through data.
Click the scroll arrows (or press the right or left arrow keys) to move the plot for-
ward or backward one day at a time.
If the plot span is less than a day, clicking this action moves the plot one span at a time. If the span is one year, this action moves the plot one month at a time.
Click the scroll bar to move the plot one plot span at a time.Drag the scroll box to quickly find a specific date.
As you drag the scroll box, watch the date button of the window until the desired date appears, then release the scroll box.
Choose Plot Span
T o choose a plot span, click on the Span button or choose the Span sub-menu fr om the Plot menu. A list containing all available plot spans appears. Choose the desired plot span from the list.
P
LOT SPAN LIST
67
USING THE SOFTWARE
Using the Plot Window
Enter Plot Title
You may enter a plot title into the Plot Title text box at the top of the window . You may also choose Edit Title from the Options sub-menu in the Plot menu to move the cursor to the Title text box.
Choose Axis Information
Although you may have as many variables as desired on any plot, each axis (left/ right) on a plot may only display information for one of those variables. T o choose the axis information you want displayed, click on the desired Axis Info button or choose the desired Variable command from the Options sub-menu in the Plot menu. A pop-up list appears, containing the name (and color) of the variables on this plot. Select the desired variable from the pop-up list.
A
XIS INFO POP-UP LIST
Choose Line/Bar
A line plot shows a line drawn from one data point to another until the whole plot span is filled. A bar graph, on the other hand, shows cumulative totals during a specific interval (each day on week and month plots, each month on year plots). Y ou may only use bar graphs for rainfall and only on plot spans of a week, month, or year.
To select either a bar or line graph, click on the Line/Bar button or choose the Line/Bar option for the desired axis from the Options sub-menu in the Plot menu. A pop-up list appears next to the Line/Bar button. Choose either Line or Bar from the list.
L
INE/BAR POP-UP LIST
68
USING THE SOFTWARE
Using the Plot Window
Set Axis Min/Max
You may set your own minimum or maximum for each axis by entering the desired number into the Axis Min/Max text box (the first and last numbers in the axis. You may also choose the desired Edit Min/Max option from the Options sub-menu in the Plot menu to move the cursor into the Min/Max text box. Setting the minimum or maximum automatically “locks” the axis (see below).
A
XIS MAXIMUM TEXT BOX
Note:
The Min and Max values you specify may not end up being the actual min and max values used to create the plot. For simplicity, the grid lines on any axis are always multiples of one of the following numbers: .01, .02, .05, .1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, or 1000. The software will determine the closest possible match to your specified max or min value.
Lock Axis
To lock (or unlock) the axis of a plot, click on the Lock Axis icon for the desired axis or choose the desired locking option from the Options sub menu in the Plot menu. Locking the axis will cause subsequent plot spans (when you scroll through plot spans) to use the same scale as the plot span currently being viewed.
Note:
When you move to a date which contains data that falls outside of the plot scale, the software automatically re-scales so the all of the new data fits on the plot and then locks the scale at the new settings.
L
OCK AXIS ICON
Pause Plot Calculation
You may stop the program from “drawing” a plot at any time by pressing Esc. The program will stop calculating and drawing the plot as soon as it is possible and wait for further input before continuing. This feature can be especially useful on slower machines or larger plot spans when you want to make a change with­out waiting for the plot to finish drawing.
View Database Information
Double-clicking on any location in a plot will open the Browse window (see “Using the Browse Window” on page 59) to view the raw data for that time and date.
69
USING THE SOFTWARE
Using the Plot Window
View Details
Click and drag to select a portion of the plot you wish to see in detail. The soft­ware will zoom in on that section of the plot, using the closest possible plot span.
C
LICK AND DRAG TO SELECT
Zoom In/Out
To “zoom in” one plot span (for example, to go from a plot span of a Week to a plot span of 3 Days), click on the Zoom In icon, press F3, or choose Zoom In from the Plot menu. To “zoom out” one plot span (for example, to go from a plot span of 3 Days to a plot span of a Week), click on the Zoom Out icon, press F4, or choose Zoom Out from the Plot menu.
70
Z
OOM IN
& Z
OOM OUT ICONS
USING THE SOFTWARE
Using the Plot Window
Plotting Data From More than One Date (Overlay)
The software features an “overlay” plotting mode which enables you to plot data from more than one day on a single plot. Overlaying is only possible when you have a single variable plotted.
1. Choose Overlay from the Plot menu or press F9.
The Overlay dialog box appears. The single date currently plotted appears in the Plot Dates list. The dates of all data in your database appears in the dates Available list.
O
VERLAY
2. To add a date to the plot, double-click on a date in the Dates Available list or select a
date and choose Add.
All dates which are going to be plotted in the Overlay plot appear in the Plot Dates list (you may have a maximum of 10 dates plotted). To remove a single date from the plot, double-click on the desired date in the Plot Dates list (or select the date and choose Remove). To remove all but the original date from the Plot Dates list, choose Clear.
3. If you want to select custom colors for overlaid dates, select the desired date in the
Plot Dates List and choose Color.
Windows’ Color dialog box appears. Choose or create the desired color in which you want the date plotted. Consult your Windows’ documentation for instructions on choosing or creating colors.
4. To view the Overlay plot, choose OK.
The software plots data for all selected dates. Note that the span button and the zoom icons disappear (you may not zoom in/out, change plot spans, or view details while viewing an overlay plot) and the axis info buttons now dis­play date information instead of variable information. While viewing overlay plots, you may scroll through dates using the scroll bar or left/right arrow keys; all plotted dates will shift by the same amount as you scroll. You may also change the variable you are plotting by choosing a new variable from the variables box or Add/Remove sub-menu, or by pressing the up/down arrow keys.
71
USING THE SOFTWARE
Using the Plot Window
5. To return to normal plot operation, Choose Overlay from the Plot menu (or press F9) to open the Overlay dialog box and choose Overlay Off.
The software returns you to the Plot window. The only date plotted will be the top date from the Plot Dates list.
Plotting Data from the Previous Year (Last Year)
The software can quickly compare plotted data to data for the same period from the previous year. For example, if you are viewing a 3-day plot span starting on March 1, 1997, this feature will quickly show you, on the same plot, the data for March 1, 1996.
Note:
Obviously , you cannot use this feature unless you have data from a previous year in your data­base.
To view previous year’s data, choose Last Year from the Plot menu or press F10.
The software plots data for the previous year. Note that the span button and the zoom icons disappear (you may not zoom in/out, change plot spans, or view details while viewing last year’s data) and the axis info buttons now dis­play date information instead of variable information. While viewing last year’s data, you may scroll the date using the scroll bar or left/right arrow keys. You may also change the variable you are plotting by choosing a new variable from the variables box or Add/Remove sub-menu, or by pressing the up/down arrow keys.
To remove the previous years’ data, choose Last Year from the Plot menu or press
F10 again.
The software removes the second date and returns you to normal Plot opera­tion.
Clear Entire Plot
T o clear all variables fr om the plot (giving you a blank plot to work with), click on the Clear Plot icon (next to the Title Bar) or choose Clear Plot from the Options sub-menu in the Plot menu.
Saving and Opening Plots and Plot Templates
The commands added to the File menu when the Plot window is active allow you to save and open plots and plot templates. When you save a plot, all information is stored, including the date of the data currently plotted. When you open that plot, it automatically loads all variables and settings to restore the plot to the exact way it looked when you saved it. When you save a plot template, all information except for the date is stored. When you open a plot template, the software loads all variables and settings, but plots the data from whatever date is currently being viewed.
Open Plot
To open a previously saved plot, choose Open Plot from the File menu. Select the desired plot in the Open dialog box and choose OK.
Save Plot
To save a plot, choose Save Plot from the File menu or press Ctrl-S. Enter the desired file name and choose OK.
72
USING THE SOFTWARE
Using the Plot Window
Open Template
T o open a previously saved plot template, choose Open Template from the File menu. Select the desired plot template in the Open dialog box and choose OK.
Save Template
To save a plot template, choose Save Template from the File menu. Enter the desired file name and choose OK.
Plot Menu
The commands in the Plot menu allow you to create plots and set various plot-related options.
Make Default
To make the current plot the default plot (the plot which appears initially whenever you open the plot window), choose Make Default from the Plot menu or press Ctrl-M.
Choose Date
T o choose a specific date, choose Choose Date fr om the Plot menu, click on the date button in the plot window , or right mouse click anywher e in the plot win­dow . The Choose Date dialog box appears. Select the desir ed date from the list and choose OK.
Span Sub-Menu
To change the plot span of the plot, select the desired plot span from the Span sub-menu.
Options Sub-Menu
The commands in the Options sub-menu allow you to set a variety of plot options.
Left/Right/Time Gridlines
You may turn the gridlines on or off for the left axis, right axis, and time axis separately. When the gridlines are on, a check mark appears beside the menu command. To change the gridline setting from on to off (or vice versa) choose the appropriate command from the Options sub-menu.
Like Variable Same Scale
Turning this option on facilitates comparison of variables which use the same unit of measure by forcing the software to use the same scale for any variables which use the same unit of measure. When this option is on, a check mark appears beside the menu command. To turn this option on or off, choose Like Variable Same Scale from the Options sub-menu.
Lock Left/Right Scale
T o lock (or unlock) the axis of a plot, choose Lock Scale for the desir ed axis.
73
USING THE SOFTWARE
Using the Plot Window
Choose Left/Right Variable
To choose the information you want displayed on either axis, choose Choose Variable for the desired axis. A pop-up list appears next to the axis information button. Select the desired variable from the pop-up list.
Choose Left/Right Line/Bar
T o select either a bar or line graph, choose Choose Line/Bar for the desir ed axis. A pop-up list appears next to the Line/Bar button. Choose either Line or Bar from the list.
Edit Title
To edit the plot title, choose Edit Title from the Options sub-menu. The software moves the cursor to the Plot Title text box.
Edit Left/Right Min/Max
To edit the Min/Max setting for either axis, choose the appropriate com­mand from the Options sub-menu. The software moves the cursor to the appropriate Min/Max text box.
Hide Variable Box
You may hide the Variables Box in order to maximize the size of your plot. When the Variables Box is hidden, a check mark appears beside the menu command. To turn this option on or off, choose Hide Variable Box from the Options sub-menu.
Clear Plot
To clear all variables from the plot (giving you a blank plot to work with), choose Clear Plot from the Options sub-menu.
Add/Remove Sub-Menu
To add a variable to the plot, choose the variable you want to add from the Add/Remove sub-menu. To remove a variable from the plot, choose the vari­able you want to remove from the Add menu.
Note:
Variables which are plotted have check marks next to their name.
Overlay
To plot more than one date on the same plot, choose Overlay. (See “Plotting Data From More than One Date (Overlay)” on page 71 for details.)
Last Year
T o quickly compar e plotted data to data for the same period from the pr evious year, choose Last Year. (See “Plotting Data from the Previous Y ear (Last Year)” on page 72 for details.)
Zoom In/Zoom Out
T o “zoom in” one plot span (for example, to go fr om a plot span of a Week to a plot span of 3 Days) choose Zoom In from the Plot menu or press F3. To “zoom out” one plot span (for example, to go from a plot span of 3 Days to a plot span of a Week) choose Zoom Out from the Plot menu or press F4.
74
USING THE SOFTWARE
Using the Plot Window
Colors Menu
You may change the color scheme used by the software in creat­ing strip charts and plots. To change the color used for the plot text, plot background, or any of the variables plotted by the soft­ware, choose the appropriate command from the Colors menu. The software opens Windows’ Color dialog box from which you may select or create a color. Consult your Windows’ documenta­tion for instructions on choosing or creating colors.
C
OLOR
Make Default
T o save the curr ent color scheme as the default, choose Make Default fr om the Colors menu. If you make a change to a plot color and don’t choose Make Default, the program will prompt you to save those color changes before you close the Plot window.
Note:
The strip chart window and the plot window use the same color scheme. Changing the default color scheme in the one window will change the color scheme used in the the other.
Load Default
If you have made changes to the color scheme and want to return to a previ­ously saved default color scheme (see above), choose Load Default from the Colors menu. You can use this to quickly “undo” any changes you don’t like.
Load Program Default
To load the color scheme in which the program originally displayed plots and strip charts, choose Load Program Default from the Colors menu. To make this color scheme your default once again, choose Make Default.
75
USING THE SOFTWARE

Using the Strip Charts

USING THE STRIP CHARTS
The strip charts are four line graphs, stacked one on top of another, onto which you may plot any data contained in your database. Unlike the normal plots, how­ever, strip charts can also be set to update at each ar chive interval allowing you to view changes in weather conditions as they occur. Whenever you open the strip chart window, the software automatically downloads data. Thereafter, as long as the strip chart is in “auto update” mode, the software will download and update the strip charts at each archive interval.
When you activate the Strip Chart window , a Strip Chart menu and a Color menu are added to the main menu bar and two new commands (Open Chart and Save Chart) are added to the File menu. The use of the Strip Chart menu, Open Chart, and Save Chart are explained below. The use of the color menu is explained in “Colors Menu” on page 80.
76
S
TRIP CHART WINDOW
USING THE SOFTWARE
Using the Strip Charts
Open Strip Chart Window
T o open the strip chart window, choose Strip Chart from the Windows menu, click on the Strip Chart icon in the toolbar, or press Ctrl-S. When you open the strip chart window, the program automatically downloads any data in the station’s archive memory.
Add Variable
To add a variable to a strip chart, select the desired chart (top, bottom, etc.) by clicking anywhere within the chart. Choose Add/Remove from the Strip Chart menu (to open the sub-menu). Then, choose the variable you want added to the selected strip chart from the sub-menu. Note that any variables already plotted on the selected strip chart have check marks next to their name.
Remove Variable
To remove a variable to a strip chart, select the desired chart (top, bottom, etc.) by clicking anywhere within the chart. Choose Add/Remove from the Strip Chart menu (to open the sub-menu). Then, choose the variable you want removed from the selected strip chart from the sub-menu. Note that any variables already plot­ted on the selected strip chart have check marks next to their name.
Change Axis Information
Although you may have as many variables as desired on any strip chart, the axis for each strip chart may only display information for one of those variables. To choose the axis information you want displayed, click on the axis button for the desired strip chart. A pop-up menu appears, containing the name (and color) of the variables plotted on this strip chart. Select the desired variable from the pop­up menu.
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XIS BUTTON POP-UP MENU
Change Plot Span
Choose the desired plot span from the Span sub-menu in the Strip Chart menu. To “zoom in” one plot span (for example, to go from a plot span of a Week to a plot span of 3 Days) choose Zoom In from the Strip Chart menu or press F3. To “zoom out” one plot span (for example, to go from a plot span of 3 Days to a plot span of a Week) choose Zoom Out from the Strip Chart menu or press F4.
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USING THE SOFTWARE
Using the Strip Charts
View Historical Data
Y ou may use the scr oll bar along the bottom of the strip chart window to view his­torical data on the strip charts. Clicking on the scroll arrows moves the strip chart forward or backward one day at a time. Clicking the scroll bar moves the strip chart one span at a time. Dragging the scroll box allows you to quickly find a spe­cific date. As you drag the scroll box, watch the bottom of the window until the desired date appears, then release the scroll box.
Note:
Viewing historical data takes the strip chart out of auto update mode.
Place the Strip Chart Into Auto Update Mode
When you first open the strip chart window, the strip chart is automatically placed into auto update mode. It will remain in that mode (downloading and updating the charts at each archive interval) until you click on the scroll bar (to view historical data) at which point it is automatically taken out of auto update mode. To return to auto update mode, choose Auto Update from the Strip Chart menu. If necessary, the software will download any data in the archive memory before entering auto update mode. The strip charts will automatically move to the most current date in the database.
View Database Information
Double-clicking on any location in the strip chart will open the Browse window (see “Using the Browse Window” on page 59) to view the raw data for that time and date.
View Details
Click and drag to select a portion of the strip chart that you wish to see in detail. The software will zoom in on that section of the strip chart, using the closest pos­sible plot span.
Saving a Strip Chart Template
Strip chart templates save all information concerning which variables are plotted on the four strip charts, what information is displayed on the axis for each strip chart, and the plot span. It does not save any date information and, when opened, will always show the latest data in your database and be placed into auto update mode. To save the current strip chart as a template, choose Save Chart from the File menu. Enter the desired file name and choose OK to save the template.
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AVE STRIP CHART TEMPLATE
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USING THE SOFTWARE
Using the Strip Charts
Opening a Previously Saved Strip Chart Template
To open a previously saved strip chart template, choose Open Chart from the File menu and choose the desired strip chart template file.
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PEN STRIP CHART TEMPLATE
Strip Chart Menu
The commands in the Strip Chart menu allow you to create strip charts and set various strip chart-related options.
Make Default
T o make the current strip chart the default strip chart (which appears initially whenever you open the strip chart win­dow), choose Make Default from the Strip Chart menu or press Ctrl-M.
Auto Update
When in auto update mode, the software downloads data from the archive memory and updates the strip charts at each archive interval. To change the auto update status, choose Auto Update from the Options sub-menu. When the strip charts are in auto update mode, a check mark appears beside the command name. When you change the auto update status to place the strip charts into auto update mode, the software automatically downloads all data in the archive memory and moves to the most current date in the database.
Note:
Viewing historical data automatically takes the strip chart sout of auto update mode.
Lock Axes
To lock (or unlock) the axes of all strip charts, choose Lock Axis from the Options sub-menu. When the strip charts’ axes are locked, a check mark appears beside the command name. Locking the axes will cause subsequent plot spans (when viewing historical data) to use the same scale as the plot span currently being viewed
Note:
When you move to a date which contains data that falls outside of the scale , the software automatically re-scales so the all of the new data fits on the strip chart and then locks the scale at the new settings.
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USING THE SOFTWARE

Using the Yearly Rainfall Database

Add/Remove Sub-Menu
To add a variable to any of the strip charts, select the desired strip chart (to make it active) and then select the variable you want to add from the Add/ Remove menu. To remove a variable from any of the strip charts, select the desired strip chart (to make it active) and then select the variable you want to remove from the Add/Remove menu.
Note:
Variables which are plotted have check marks next to their name.
Span Sub-Menu
To change the plot span of the strip charts, select the desired span from the Span sub-menu.
Clear Plots
T o clear all variables from the strip charts, choose Clear Plots fr om the Options sub-menu. The software prompts you to confirm that you want to clear all data before it continues.
Zoom In/Zoom Out
T o “zoom in” one plot span (for example, to go fr om a plot span of a Week to a plot span of 3 Days) choose Zoom In from the Strip Chart menu or press F3. To “zoom out” one plot span (for example, to go from a plot span of 3 Days to a plot span of a Week) choose Zoom Out from the Strip Chart menu or press F4.
Colors Menu
You may change the color scheme used by the software in creating strip charts and plots. For instructions, see “Colors Menu” on page 75.
USING THE YEARLY RAINFALL DATABASE
The WeatherLink software keeps a separate rainfall database which enables you to view accumulated rainfall totals broken down by month and year. If you have existing data in your main weather database, the software will create the rainfall database using the data stored in your main weather database. Once created, the software updates the rainfall database after each download. It is also possible to alter any existing entry in the rainfall database and to enter rainfall totals for months and years which are not contained in your main weather database.
When the Yearly Rainfall window is active, a Rain menu is added to the menu bar. This menu allows you to start a new rainfall database, edit data, add years of rainfall data, or delete years of rainfall data.
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USING THE SOFTWARE
Using the Yearly Rainfall Database
Viewing the Yearly Rainfall Database
To open the Yearly Rainfall Window, choose Yearly Rainfall from the Reports menu, click on the Yearly Rainfall icon in the toolbar, or press Ctrl-R.
Note:
The first time you attempt to open the rain database, the software will prompt you to indicate whether you want to create the rainfall database. Choose Yes to create the database (note that depending on the size of your main weather database and the speed of your computer, this can take some time).
Y
EARLY RAINFALL
The top section of the Y early Rainfall window displays the amount of rainfall each month for every year in your database and the total rainfall for each year. The bot­tom section shows the minimum, maximum, and average rainfall amounts for each month and year in the database.
Note:
Dashes indicate that no data exists for a particular month.
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USING THE SOFTWARE
Using the Yearly Rainfall Database
Editing Yearly Rainfall Data
You may edit the data for any existing year or add entire years of rainfall data.
Edit Data for an Existing Year
To edit data, double-click on any line in the rainfall database (or select the desired line and press Enter or choose Edit from the Rain menu). The Edit dia­log box appears. Change the data in any of the text boxes and choose OK to save changes.
Note:
Changes made to the rainfall database are not reflected in the main weather database (and vice-versa, unless you start a new database). You must treat rainfall totals in both databases separately.
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E
DIT
USING THE SOFTWARE
Using the Yearly Rainfall Database
Add Data for an Entire Year
To add a year to the rainfall database, choose Add from the Rain menu. The Add dialog box appears. Enter the year at the top of the box and the rainfall amounts for each month into the appropriate text box. When finished, choose OK to save.
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DD
Deleting Data
To delete an entire year‘s worth data from the rainfall database, select the desired year and choose Delete from the Rain menu or press Delete. The software will prompt you to confirm that you wish to delete data before continuing.
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ONFIRM DELETION
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USING THE SOFTWARE

Degree-Days

Start a New Rainfall Database
If you want to start the rainfall database over, choose New from the Rain menu. You will be prompted to confirm that you want to continue. Your existing rainfall database will be deleted and a new database constructed using whatever data exists in your main weather database.
DEGREE-DAYS
The instructions below explain how to use the WeatherLink Software’s degree­day reporting feature to track the development of crops and/or pests. For infor­mation on degree-days, see “Degree-Days” on page 97. In order to use degree­days, you must determine the developmental threshold(s) for the desired crop or pest. The base developmental threshold is the temperature at and below which development stops. Above the base threshold, development increases until the temperature reaches the upper threshold, over which development rate remains constant. Information on degree-day thresholds is available from your county agricultural agent or university agricultural extension service.
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PC D
EGREE DAYS
USING THE SOFTWARE
Adding a Degree-Day Total
You need to enter a separate degree-day total for every individual crop, pest, etc. for which you want to track degree-days.
1. From the PC Degree-Days list box, choose Add.
The PC Degree-Day Definition dialog box appears.
Degree-Days
PC D
EGREE-DAY DEFINITION
2. Enter the following information for each degree-day total:
Name
Enter the name of the crop, pest, etc. into the text box.
Start Date
Enter the starting date for degree-day calculations into the text box.
Base Temp
Enter the base developmental threshold (the temperature at and below which development stops) into the text box.
Upper Temp
Enter the upper developmental threshold (the temperature at and above which development rate remains constant) into the text box.
Development Total
Enter the number of degree-days required for this crop/pest to develop into the text box.
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USING THE SOFTWARE
Degree-Days
Degree-Day Calculation Method
Choose the method by which degree-days are calculated.
Growing Degree-Day “Cut-Off” Method
The software uses the highest temperature and the lowest temperature for a given day to calculate the average temperature for that day. Note, however, that if the low temperature is below the base threshold, the software uses the base threshold as the low temperature when deter­mining average temperature for the day. In addition, if the high tem­perature is above the upper threshold, the software uses the upper threshold as the high temperature when determining average tempera­ture. For this method, both thresholds must be entered.
The difference between the average temperature and the base thresh­old is assumed to be the number of degree-days accumulated on that day. (For example, if the average of the highest and lowerst tempera­tures was 24˚ above the base threshold, the software would assume 24 degree-days for the entire day.)
Note:
High/Low Method
The software uses the highest temperature and the lowest temperature for a given day to calculate the average temperature for that day. Note, however, that if the high temperature is above the upper threshold the software uses the upper threshold as the high temperature when deter­mining average temperature for the day. (If no upper threshold is entered, the high temperature will not be “cut off” in this way.) For this method, the upper threshold need not be entered.
The difference between the average temperature and the base thresh­old is assumed to be the number of degree-days accumulated on that day. (For example, if the average of the highest and lowest tempera­tures was 24˚ above the base threshold, the software would assume 24 degree-days for the entire day.)
Note:
Integration Method
The software calculates degree-days using the average temperature for an interval and the interval time. For example, if the average tempera­ture during a 15 minute interval was 24˚ above the base threshold, the software would calculate 0.25 degree-days dudring that interval (24˚ * 15 minutes in interval / 1440 minutes per day). The number of degree­days during each interval are added together to arrive at a degree-day total. This method calculates degree-day totals more accurately than the high/low method.
Unless 15 hours worth of records exist in the database for a day (through 3pm), the software will not calculate degree-days for that day.
Unless 15 hours worth of records exist in the database for a day (through 3pm), the software will not calculate degree-days for that day.
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USING THE SOFTWARE
Degree-Days
3. To add a note to this degree-day total, choose Notes.
The software opens the note file for this degree-day total. You may enter any desired notes into this file.
N
OTE FILE
4. To view total degree-days since the start date, choose Calculate.
The software calculates the total degree-days since the start date and displays the number of accumulated degree-days and the degree-days left until the development total is reached.
D
EGREE-DAYS CALCULATED
5. After entering all necessary information, choose OK.
The software saves the degree-day information for this crop/pest. Instead of closing, the PC degree-day definition dialog box remains open so you can enter information on the next crop/pest. When finished entering information for all crops/pests, choose Done.
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USING THE SOFTWARE
Degree-Days
Opening a Degree-Days Total
Y ou may open a pr eviously saved degr ee-day total to edit information, add notes, view degree-day totals, etc.
1. To open a degree-day total, double click on the desired total or select it from the list and choose Open.
The Degree-Day Definition dialog box for that total appears. At the bottom of the dialog box, the name of the data file for this degree-day totals is displayed.
D
EGREE-DAY DEFINITION
2. You may enter or change any information, add notes, or calculate degree-day totals as explained in “Adding a Degree-Day Total” on page 85.
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USING THE SOFTWARE
Deleting a Degree-Day Total
T o delete a degr ee-day total, select it fr om the list and choose Delete. The software will prompt you to confirm that you want to delete the total before doing so.
PC Degree-Day Report
The software allows you to create reports on some or all of your degree-day totals. The report is opened into Windows Notepad from which you may copy or print the report information.
1. From the PC Degree-Days list, choose Report.
The PC Degree-Day Report dialog box appears.
Degree-Days
PC D
EGREE-DAY REPORT
2. Set the following report options:
Format
Select either the long or the short report format.
R
EPORT FORMATS
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USING THE SOFTWARE
Degree-Days
Sort
Select the sort order. You may sort by the number of degree days remain­ing until the development total (which will show the totals closest to the development total at the top of the report) or you may sort by name which will show totals in alphabetical order.
Degree-Day Selection check box
By selecting this check box and entering a number of degree-days into the text box, you may choose to include only those crops/pests whose degree­day totals are within the specified number of degree-days of their develop­ment total.
3. When finished setting options, choose OK.
The software calculates and displays degree-days information. Depending on which format you chose (long, short), the report shows you some or all of the following information for each degree-day total:
Start Date, Base Temp, Upper Temp
The report shows the start date and the base and upper thresholds you entered.
Total for previous 7 days
The report shows the total degree-days for each of the last 7 days.
Total
The report shows the total degree-days since the start date.
Development Total
The report shows the development total you entered.
Deg-Days Left
The report shows the total degree-days left before the development total is reached.
Days to Go
The report shows the expected number of days before the development total is reached. This calculation is based on the average number of degree-days during the last three complete days.
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5
ECHNICAL REFERENCE
T
This chapter covers several technical topics which may help you better under­stand and use the software.
RCHIVE MEMORY VS
A
There are two places where the WeatherLink stores weather data: the archive memory and the database.
Archive Memory
The archive memory is the weather information storage area in the WeatherLink itself. At each archive interval the WeatherLink stores one record to archive mem­ory. The WeatherLink has room in the ar chive memory for approximately 1 day of weather data for each minute in the archive interval. For example, if you use the 1 minute archive interval, the WeatherLink may store approximately 1 day of data. If you use the 30 minute archive interval, the WeatherLink may store approxi­mately 30 days of data. If you use the 2 hour archive interval (120 minutes), the WeatherLink may store approximately 120 days of data.
Note:
To aid you in determining when you need to download, the software shows you what percent of archive memory is full whenever you download data.
When the archive memory “fills” the WeatherLink overwrites old data each time it stores a new record. Because of this, it is best to select the longest archive inter­val which suits your purpose. In addition, make sure to download data before your archive memory fills or you will have gaps in your database.
Database
The database is the permanent record of data stored on disk. When you down­load, the software transfers all information in the archive memory to the com­puter and writes the information into the appropriate database files. If you do not clear the archive memory when downloading data (see “Station Config” on page 19), the software will incorporate any data that post-dates the existing data­base. The software will not overwrite existing data. This means that if, for exam­ple, your station loses power and, upon power up, begins logging data at the default date January 1, precede the most recent date.
As the software writes the data to database files, it calculates the average wind chill and average dew point. The temperature/humidity index, Equilibrium Moisture Content, and air density, on the other hand, are calculated by the soft­ware as needed.
The software stores data to disk in monthly blocks, each of which is a separate data file in the weather station's directory. The name of the data file indicates the year and the month of the data and has a three character file extension which indi­cates the station from which that data came.
ATABASE
. D
this data will not make it into an existing database
as it will
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