Running Two Fine-Offset Stations

[Flosex]

Does anyone know if all Fine-Offset weather stations use the same transmit frequency (channel) to send data back to the console? I am using a Maplin N96FY (WH1081) station with Cumulus but would like to run an additional WH3080 station simultaeously and quite close to the original one.

I realise I will have to run each station on a separate computer (because Cumulus cannot recognise more than one USB input on a computer) but I am wondering if the two transmitters are likely to interfere with each other?

I know that on some radio controlled devices, you can change the transmit frequency from one channel to another to avoid interference.

Thanks for any help and/or advice.

Chris

[AllyCat]

Hi Chris,

In the UK, two possible operating frequencies are available, 433.9 MHz and 868 MHz. The "Maplin" stations all use 433 MHz, the "Clas Ohlson" use 868 MHz (both are only "non-Solar" types) and the specifications for other "badges" (Signatrol, "Watson", etc.) do at least sometimes quote their operating frequency.

But even "identical" stations are designed to operate "independently" on the same frequency (which also may be used by many other users). They use a "time sharing" principle, i.e. each is supposed to only transmit for a short time.

The Console "learns" the correct transmitter when its batteries is first installed, so with two identical transmitters there is the possibility that it will "find" the wrong one (which in any case might be your neighbour's). So at installation, you need to check that the/each Console is receiving the correct data, and if not, remove and replace the batteries (or with 3080s just hold in its <down arrow> button).

Cheers, Alan.

[Flosex]

Thanks Alan, that's very helpful. I think I will go ahead and buy a second Fine-Offset station (the WH3080) and see what happens.

Chris

[dc1500]

If it helps, I can successfully run two separate consoles attached to two different PC's and record the same data set from the one set of sensors.(Except of course the pressure and internal temp in the console).
Dave