Sandaysoft

I have two WH1081's (N96FY) which I purchased from Maplin 2 years ago. The transmitters and stations do talk to each other. I recently purchased the same unit as I needed another station (don't ask), however, the station receiver will not pick-up the transmission from the older units, it only works with the new transmitter. Thinking I might just have a rogue unit I exchanged it but the same situation remains. Conclusion – whilst the model and frequency are the same, Fine Offset must have made a change to the data protocol it transmits. I mention this just in case anyone has an older unit and thinks they can use a newer unit as spares – they are not the same!!.... well not for me anyway. I've now got quite a few spares

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Neil
Hurstpierpoint Weather

Hi Neil,

That's interesting information, the 308x (Solar) models definitely use a different wireless encoding system, which has possibly been carried over to the later "standard" models. Perhaps FO have changed the wireless hardware module that they use.

An interesting point is that the Solar (data) units transmit two separate data packets (the solar data has a one minute repetition rate, compared with 48 seconds of the other External data) so the protocol of the normal External data packet should/could be unchanged. However, the External data transmission (i.e. that with the 48 seconds period) from the 308x appears to last almost a second, compared with only 50ms of the "old" units.

Ideally, an oscilloscope would be required (by you or somebody else) to monitor the current drained from the battery during transmission, but the difference between 50ms and almost a second might be distinguishable with just a multimeter. Sadly, with 3 units already, I can't justify purchasing another kit from Maplin, especially with Clas Ohlson still selling their superior (868MHz and RCC) model for only £50.

Cheers, Alan.

Hi Neil,

I bought a N96FY from Maplin about 15 months ago. My anemometer has developed a fault (bearings are shot) so I am looking for a replacement. Looks as though I will have to buy a complete station, but before I do, I notice that you say you have several spare parts for the WH1081. Would you be able to sell me an anemometer? G.Paton, Eynsham, Oxon.

Hi,

The bearings used in the anemometer and vane are quite "standard" so can be replaced for a few Pounds (there are several threads on this forum). Or replacement sensors are available for around £15 from several sources. But given the general (un-)reliability of FO kit and their price from Clas Ohlson for the next few days, the temptation is to buy a complete kit just for "spares".

Cheers, Alan.

Thanks Alan,
Good advice. I will buy a Clas Ohlson machine and enjoy having some spares! Grant.

Hi Grant,

I have pm'd you. I think the advice to buy a complete station is the right approach.

Kind regards

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Neil
Hurstpierpoint Weather