4
Choose a Location for the Sensor Transmitter
Keep the following factors in mind as you choose a location for your Sensor Transmitter.
•
If mounting the Solar-Powered Sensor Transmitter outdoors, mount it so that the
solar panel gets the most sunlight during the day; generally this means facing
south in the Northern Hemisphere, and facing north in the Southern Hemisphere.
•
Mount the Sensor Transmitter within range of the receiver. The range of your
radio transmission depends on many factors. Try to position the Sensor
Transmitter and your console/receiver as close as possible for best results. Range
is up to 1000' (300 m), line-of-sight, under optimal conditions. Typical range
under most conditions is 200' to 400' (60 to 120 m), but this may be reduced by
walls, ceilings, trees, or foliage. Radio-frequency interference (RF) can also
reduce transmission distance. Cordless phones (900 MHz) and ham radios are
common examples of RF interference.
A metal roof or other large metal structure can interfere with the signal
(aluminum siding, a furnace with metal ducts, and your refrigerator are
examples). Sometimes transmission between wireless units is obscured by
something you cannot identify, or by some obstacle that you can’t work around. If
necessary, consider using
Wireless Repeater #7627
to strengthen the signal or
increase the distance between the anemometer transmitter and the receiver.
•
If you are using the AC-powered model, make sure the mounting location is
within reach of a power outlet.
If you are using the Sensor Transmitter with an anemometer:
•
You should mount the anemometer at least 4' (1.2 m) above the roofline for
accurate wind readings. The anemometer can be mounted on a pole or on a
vertical surface such as a wooden post. It comes with 40' (12 m) of cable to
connect to the Sensor Transmitter, so the Sensor Transmitter will need to be
mounted within 40’.
•
You should mount the anemometer so that the anemometer arm is extending
northward. Otherwise, you will need to calibrate the wind direction on your
receiver to display accurate wind directions. See your Vantage Pro2 or Vantage
Vue console manual for instructions.
•
If you need to increase the distance between your anemometer and the Sensor
Transmitter, use extension cables #7876 from Davis Instruments. Please be aware
that maximum wind speed reading decreases as the total length of cable from the
anemometer to the sensor suite increases. If this distance is greater than 240'
(73 m), maximum wind speed may be less than 100 mph (161 kph).
Note:
Not all cables are compatible with your system. To be sure they will work, order Davis extension
cables from your dealer or directly from Davis Instruments.