Davis VP2 convert solar to mains ?

[stewart45]

I have a solar powered VP2 the solar panel are in a bad way so I was wondering if I moved the weather station closer to a power source if it could be mains powered with a suitable transformer looking at the circuit board there appears to be an input socket ?

[mcrossley]

In what way is the solar panel bad?

[stewart45]

the collector is cracked

[prodata]

the collector is cracked

If it's so damaged that it's not working at all then yes you can power off a regular VP2 5v mains adapter. Alternatively (and assuming that the supercap is intact) just change the battery every 6 months or so.

[SpaceWalker]

the collector is cracked

Why not simply replace the solar panel with a Davis Instruments model # 7345.114 Vantage Pro2/Vantage Pro2 Plus ISS (integrated sensor suite) replacement front cover (with solar panel) shelter housing!

I know you are not in North America but still, paying £17.20 (or $23.65US) (plus shipping and duties) for a replacement cover is probably the easiest long term solution.

You might want to open the ISS and have a look at the inside, more precisely, (as John Dann hinted) at the Supercap - a Davis Instruments model # 7370.093 Vantage Pro2/Vantage Pro2 Plus ISS replacement Supercap can be obtained for £6.00 ($8.25US) (plus shipping and duties).

It is too bad that Davis Instruments does not offer its services (under warranties and after warranties) world wide - in North America, one can send the complete weather station to Davis Instruments (in Hayward, California, USA) for an extensive full check of all components (with a replacement of any damaged, defective or looking 'old' parts) for a flat price of under $200US (£125.00)...