General Tools WS821 User Manual

WIRELESS WEATHER STATION

INTRODUCTION

Thank you for purchasing General’s Weather Station with remote control. This compact and easy-to-use product features a wide variety of time and weather data, such as precise atomic time, perpetual calendar, air temperature, relative humidity, barometric pressure, wind speed and

irection, rainfall, and etc.

WS821

USER’S MANUAL

PACKAGE CONTENTS

In this package you will find:

• One Main Unit (receiver)

• One Rain Gauge (remote rain sensor/transmitter)

• One Anemometer (remote wind sensor/transmitter)

• One Three-Channel Temperature & Humidity Sensor (transmitter)

• One 7.5V AC/DC Adapter

• Mounting Hardware with wrench tool

• One User’s Manual

Components:

• Main Unit

• AC/DC 7.5V power adaptor

• Thermo Hygrometer Sensor

• Rain Gauge Consists of:

` • Anemometer

INSTALLATION

Our General’s Full Weather Station #WS821 operates at 433MHz radio frequency, so no wire installation is required between the main unit (receiver) and the remote weather sensors (transmitters). The remote weather sensors include a thermo-hygrometer (temperature and humidity) sensor, anemometer (wind sensor) and a rain gauge (rain sensor). All data measured by these remote sensors is transmitted to the main unit wirelessly, with the operating range up to 328 feet (100 meters) in the open area. The Anemometer and a rain gauge must be placed outdoors to measure weather elements. Remote thermohygrometers can be placed indoors or outdoors, depending on the location where the temperature and humidity are to be measured. If you intend measuring outdoor temperature and humidity, place the remote sensor outdoors, preferably not in the direct sunlight.

NOTE

Consists of:

• Mounting hardware:

: It is critical to assemble and power up all of the remote weather sensors BEFORE setting up the

main unit.

: It is critical to power up and test communication between all of the weather sensors and the

main unit BEFORE permanently mounting them outside.

Funnel shaped top with battery compartment Rain Gauge bucket Bucket see-saw mechanism Protective screen

Wind Cups Wind Vane Anemometer arm Anemometer base

4 screws for securing rain gauge to the flat surface; 4 screws for securing anemometer to vertical surface

BEFORE YOU BEGIN

• We recommend using alkaline batteries for the remote weather sensors and the main unit when temperatures are above 32°F (0°C). We recommend using lithium batteries for the remote weather sensors when temperatures are below 32°F (0°C).

• Avoid using rechargeable batteries. (Rechargeable batteries cannot maintain correct power requirements).

• ALWAYS install batteries in the remote weather sensors before the main unit.

• Insert batteries before first use, matching the polarity in the battery compartment

• Remove protective plastic screen from LCD display (if any).

• During an initial setup, place the main unit close to the remote weather sensors.

• After reception is established (all of the remote readings will appear on the main unit’s display), position the remote sensors and the main unit within the effective transmission range of up to 328 feet (100 meters). Ideally they should be placed within the line of sight of the main unit. See placement tips in the user manual for each remote weather sensor separately.

• Transmission range may be affected by trees, metal structures and electronic appliances.

• The main unit must be placed indoors.

• The effective operating range may be influenced by the surrounding building materials and how the receiver (main unit) and transmitters (weather sensors) are positioned.

• Place the remote weather sensors so that they face the main unit (receiver), minimizing obstructions such as doors, walls, and furniture.

: When the temperature falls below freezing, the batteries in the outdoor remote weather sensors

NOTE

may have reduced voltage supply and a shorter effective range. We recommend using lithium batteries at temperatures of 32°F (0°C) and below.

IMPORTANT: Make sure that the remote weather sensors are easily accessible for cleaning and

THERMO-HYGROMETER SENSOR

FEATURES

maintenance.We recommend cleaning the remote weather sensors periodically, as the dirt and debris may affect sensors accuracy.

• Remote data transmission to the main unit via 433 MHz signal

• 328 feet (100 meters) transmission range without interference

• LCD display of measured temperature and humidity

• Three (3) transmission channels selection

• Case can be wall mounted using built-in hanger

• Up to three T-H sensors per station are permitted

A. LED INDICATOR

Flashes once when the remote sensor

• transmits a reading to the main unit.

• Flashes twice when battery power is low.

B. BATTERY COMPARTMENT

Holds 2 “AA” batteries

. RESET

Resets all readings

D. CHANNEL SWITCH

Selects the desired transmission channel from 1 to 3

E. WALL-MOUNT RECESSED OPENING

Attaches the remote sensor to the wall

OTE

Install the batteries and select the channel before mounting the sensor.

BATTERY INSTALLATION

• Remove the screws from the battery compartment with a small Phillips screwdriver.

• Set the channel 1 through 3. The switch is located in the battery compartment. Channel 1 is typically selected if only one remote sensor is being used.

• Install 2 “AA” batteries (not included) matching the polarities shown in the battery compartment.

• Replace the battery compartment door and secure the screws.

• Secure the thermo-hygrometer remote sensor in the desired location.

OUNTING

• The remote thermo-hygrometer sensor can be placed on the flat surface or mounted on the wall in vertical position.

• Use the wall mount hardware and screws provided when mounting the thermo-hygrometer sensor

n the wall.

LACEMENT TIPS:

• The remote thermo-hygrometer sensor should be placed in the area with a free air circulation and sheltered from the direct sunlight and an extreme weather conditions.

• Ideally, place the thermo-hygrometer sensor above the natural surfaces (such as a grassy lawn).

• Avoid placing the thermo-hygrometer sensor near sources of heat such as chimneys and heating elements.

• Avoid any areas collecting and radiating a heat from the sun, such as metal, brick or concrete structures, paving, patios and decks.

• The international standard for the valid air temperature measurements is 4 feet (1.25meters) above the ground.

BATTERY INSTALLATION

• Unlock the funnel-shaped top on the rain gauge by turning both knobs on the sides in a Counterclockwise direction.

• Remove the funnel-shaped top lifting it off the rain gauge bucket.

• Remove 7 small screws from the battery compartment cover using a small Phillips screwdriver Insert 2 “AA” batteries (not included), matching the polarities as shown in the battery compartment.

•

• Replace the battery compartment door and secure the screws.

• Insert the funnel-shaped top into the rain gauge bucket and secure it into place by turning the knobs clockwise.

OUNTING

• Make sure that the rain gauge bucket is level – check if the ball bearing inside the bucket is at the idpoint of the leveler.

• Place the protective screen over the top to protect the rain gauge from the debris.

Mount the rain gauge in place using mounting hardware provided.

•

• Make sure that the rain gauge is in open area where precipitation falls directly into the gauge’s

bucket, ideally 2-3 feet above the ground.

LACEMENT TIPS

• The rain gauge should be placed in an open area away from walls, fences, trees and other

coverings, which may reduce the amount of rain collected in the bucket. Additionally, trees and rooftops may be sources of pollen, leaves and other debris.

• To avoid rain shadow effects, place the rain gauge two to four times the height of any nearby

obstruction. It is important that excess rain can flow freely away from the rain gauge.

•

RAIN GAUGE

FEATURES

• Precipitation measurement

• Remote rainfall data transmission to the main unit via 433 MHz signal

• 100 feet (30 meters) transmission range without interference

• Built-in installation level

• Non-corrosive protective screen

A. RAIN GAUGE BUCKET

Holds all rain gauge components

B. KNOB

Secures the top on the rain gauge bucket

C. RAIN GAUGE BUCKET FEET

Allows securing the rain gauge on its place

D. FUNNEL-SHAPED TOP WITH BATTERY COMPARTMENT

Contains battery compartment and rainfall counting electronics

E. BATTERY COMPARTMENT

Holds 2 “AA” size batteries

F. SCREWS

Secure battery compartment cover

G. BUILT-IN LEVELER

Allows leveling rain gauge on the surface

H. BUCKET SEE-SAW MECHANISM

Collects the rainfall in one of its containers and self-empties once full

I. PROTECTIVE SCREEN

Protects the rain gauge funnel from debris

ANEMOMETER (WIND SENSOR)

FEATURES

• Wind speed and wind direction measurement

• Remote wind speed and wind direction data transmission to the main unit via 433 MHz signal

• Operating range 100 feet (30 meters)

• Wall or pole mount

A. WIND VANE

Measures wind direction

B. WIND CUPS

Measures wind speed

C. ANEMOMETER BASE

• Holds battery compartment

• Allows mounting the anemometer vertically

D. ANEMOMETER ARM

Keeps anemometer assembly together

E. WIND CUPS SHAFT

Holds wind cups on the anemometer arm

F. BATTERY COMPARTMENT

Holds 2 “AA” batteries

G. WALL MOUNT SCREW OPENINGS

Allows securing the anemometer in place

H. BATTERY COVER

Allows securing 2 “AA” batteries on the anemometer base

ASSEMBLY

• With a flashlight, look into the mounting hole that will receive the anemometer axle shaft, on the back of the wind cups. Check that the set screw is backed off appropriately, not obstructing the opening.

• Place the wind cups over the axle shaft protruding from the anemometer housing and gently slide into place.

• Insert the Allen wrench tool provided into the wind cups opening and tighten the small set screw

nside.

• Test to assure the wind cups are securely mounted on the anemometer shaft and spin freely

BATTERY INSTALLATION

• Remove four (4) screws from the battery compartment with a small Phillips screwdriver.

• Open the battery compartment and install 2 “AA” batteries (not included) matching the polarities shown.

• Replace the battery compartment door and secure the screws.

LIGNING

• Point the wind direction vane to the North (use a compass or map if necessary).

• Press “SET” opening located inside battery compartment with a paper clip or similar tool. This will “SET” the local wind direction to North. Continued pressing of “SET” alternately toggles wind direction between the factory default preset or user set direction.

: Repeat this procedure every time after whenever changing the batteries.

NOTE

MOUNTING

Securely mount the anemometer base to an appropriate vertical surface, using the fittings provided.

PLACEMENT TIPS:

• The anemometer should be mounted in an open area with unobstructed air flow; away from the nearby trees, buildings or other structures.

• Aim for a maximum exposure of the anemometer to the most common wind directions in the area.

• The suggested mounting height for the anemometer is 33 feet (10meters) above the ground.

MAIN UNIT

The main unit should be placed indoors. It measures: pressure, indoor temperature, humidity, and receives the US Atomic Clock data and data from each of the remote weather sensors.

FEATURES

Time

• Precise time and date set via RF signals from US Atomic clock

• Selectable 12 or 24 hour time format

• Manual adjustment of time and date

• Calendar displaying date with month and day in 6 languages: English, German, French, Italian, Spanish and Dutch

• Sunrise/set calculation for over 100 pre-programmed world cities in accordance with the geographical information entered by the user

• Moon Phase calendar and historical data for the past and future 39 days

• Dual crescendo alarms with programmable snooze

Weather

• Weather forecast for the next 12 to 24 hour in seven large icons: Sunny, Partly Cloudy, Cloudy, Light Rain, Heavy Rain, Snowy and Unstable.

• Barometric pressure in imperial or metric units

• Altitude adjustment for pressure compensation

• 24 hour barometric pressure history chart

• Multiple weather alarms

• Indoor/Outdoor Temperature & Humidity in up to 3 remote locations (additional sensors required)

• Dew point and comfort level indicators

• Wind speed and wind gust averages and memory

• Wind direction

• Rainfall amount with minimum and maximum memory

• Operating range from 100 feet (30 meters) up to 328 feet (100 meters)

Display

• Light sensor detects low light conditions and LCD lights up automatically when adapter is connected

Power

• 7.5 V AC/DC adapter for automatic remote control

• 4 “AA” batteries

BATTERY INSTALLATION

• Open the battery compartment door on the back of the main unit.

• Insert 4 “AA” batteries according to the polarities shown and replace the battery compartment door.

• Connect 7.5 V AC/DC adapter provided to the main display unit and plug into to the wall power outlet.

NOTE

: The AC/DC adaptor connection is required for automatic backlight control function. When the

main unit operates on battery power alone, the auto backlight control function is disabled.

• Connect the table stand to the back of main unit when placing on a table or other horizontal surface.

• When mounting the main unit on the wall or vertical surface, detach the table stand and use the mounting hardware provided.

Placement tips

Make sure that the main unit is locating within the operating range of all remote weather sensors.

•

• Ideally the remote weather sensors should be mounted within the line-of-sight of the main unit. Transmission range may be affected by trees, metal structures and electronic appliances.

•

• Test reception before permanently mounting all the remote weather sensors.

void placing the main unit in the following areas:

• Direct sunlight and surfaces emitting and radiating heat, such as heating ducts or air conditioners. Areas with interference from the wireless devices (such as cordless phones, radio headsets, baby

• listening devices) and electronic appliances.

OPERATION

Once the main unit is powered, the display will show all available LCD segments for a moment. IMPORTANT: All of the display functions will be locked, allowing setting your local altitude or sea level

The locked display will show the pressure and weather forecast icon and abbreviation “hPa/ mBar” flashing, indoor temperature and humidity readings and default time “12:00pm”.

BUTTONS AND CONTROLS

pressure parameters.

A. UP ▲ - Mode Selection: selects the next available mode counter-clockwise

- When programming: increases parameters

B. DOWN ▼ - Mode Selection: selects the next available mode clockwise

- When programming: decreases parameters

C. SET - Rotates display for current mode

- Press and hold: to enter the programming mode

- Locks in: set parameters

D. CHANNEL - Manually selects the channel # for receiving temperature and humidity

sensor data

- Enables the temperature and humidity channel auto-scan mode

E. MEMORY - Records: moon phase, temperature, humidity, rainfall and wind records.

Then stores in memory

- Moon phase: determined by the day of month interval

- Sets and stores pressure & altitude units in Memory F. HISTORY - Allows displaying the sea-level pressure history G. ALARM/CHART - Displays alarm times and programmed alerts for temperature,

rainfall and wind

- Press and hold, to enter the alarm/alert programming mode

- Press and hold in pressure and forecast window, to view different bar charts H. LIGHT SENSOR - Sets the light sensor to: automatic, on or off

– AUTO, ON, OFF

I. SENSITIVITY - Adjusts the automatic light sensor sensitivity

– HIGH/LOW

J. LIGHT/SNOOZE - Illuminates the display backlight for 5 seconds

- Activates Snooze delay for alarms (programmable 1 to 15 minutes) K. AC/DC ADAPTOR - Connects main unit to the power outlet through the AC to 7.5V DC adapter

INPUT provided

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