Ventus W850 Wifi and internet connected Weather Station

The all new danish quality Ventus W850, is the ultimate weather station with WiFi and live internet broadcasting for the discerning weather enthusiast ! 

A large clear colour display with a 10 day weather forecast from the online Pro Weather Live (PWL) system along with numerous other local measurements from the outdoor 7 in 1 sensor array. The array includes a large tilting solar panel for optimum battery life and also supports up to 7 additional sensors, including a ground humidity sensor, pool temperature sensor and additional temperature/humidity/lightning sensors.

The outdoor sensor array can be mounted on top of a pole of between 30mm and 45mm in diameter (not included).

The Ventus W850 Weather Station: A Comprehensive Overview

The Ventus W850 is a sophisticated personal weather station designed for enthusiasts, homeowners, educators, and professionals seeking accurate, real-time meteorological data. Combining advanced sensor technology with user-friendly interfaces, this system empowers users to monitor hyperlocal weather conditions with precision. Below, we explore its design, features, functionality, and applications in detail.

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1. Overview and Design Philosophy

The Ventus W850 is engineered to bridge the gap between professional-grade weather monitoring and consumer accessibility. Its modular design includes wireless sensors, a centralized display console, and compatibility with third-party software, making it versatile for both casual and semi-professional use. The system emphasizes durability, ease of installation, and seamless data integration, catering to users who value reliability and detailed environmental insights.

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2. Core Components and Sensor Array

The W850’s strength lies in its comprehensive suite of sensors, each optimized for specific measurements:

a. Anemometer (Wind Sensor)

• Function: Measures wind speed and direction.

• Technology: Utilizes Cup-and-vane mechanism to detect wind movement.

• Range: Wind speeds up to 180 km/h (112 mph) with ±5% accuracy.

• Mounting: Typically installed on rooftops or poles for unobstructed airflow.

b. Rain Gauge

• Function: Tracks precipitation levels.

• Technology: Tipping-bucket design ensures precise measurement of rainfall intensity and cumulative totals.

• Accuracy: ±5% deviation under moderate rainfall conditions.

• Self-Emptying: Automatically resets after each tip, suitable for continuous monitoring.

c. Thermo-Hygrometer

• Function: Monitors temperature and humidity.

• Range:

  • Temperature: -40°C to +60°C (-40°F to +140°F).

  • Humidity: 0–100% RH.

• Shielding: Solar radiation shield prevents false readings from direct sunlight.

d. Barometric Pressure Sensor

• Function: Measures atmospheric pressure to predict short-term weather changes.

• Range: 540–1100 hPa with ±1 hPa accuracy.

• Features: Automatically calibrates to sea-level pressure for accurate trend analysis.

e. Wireless Transmission

• Range: Up to 150 meters in open areas.

• Frequency: 868 MHz to minimize interference.

• External Power Supply: Solar-powered maintenance free supercapacitor and (not included) 3x AA non rechargeable battery backup for uninterrupted operation.

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3. Display Console and User Interface

The Ventus W850’s display unit serves as the command center, offering intuitive access to real-time and historical data:

• Screen: High-resolution colour LCD with adjustable autmatic backlight for readability in all conditions.

• Data Presentation:

  • Current weather metrics (wind, rain, temperature, humidity, pressure).

  • Graphs and trends (e.g., 24-hour temperature fluctuations, rainfall history).

  • Forecast icons (sun, clouds, rain) based on barometric trends.

• Customization: Users can set alerts for extreme conditions (e.g., frost warnings, storm thresholds).

• Connectivity: Wi-Fi compatibility for data export and integration with platforms like Proweather live, Weather Underground, WeatherCloud. (see our station here)

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4. Installation and Maintenance

a. Setup Process

• Sensor Placement:

  • Anemometer and rain gauge require elevated, open spaces.

  • Thermo-hygrometer should be placed in a shaded, ventilated area.

• Wireless Pairing: Automatic synchronization between sensors and console.

• Power Options: Display unit operates on AC power or rechargeable batteries.

b. Durability and Weatherproofing

• IP Rating: Sensors meet IP65 standards, ensuring resistance to dust and water jets.

• Materials: UV-resistant plastics and stainless steel components for longevity.

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5. Data Integration and Advanced Features

• Third-Party Software: Sync with different online apps like Weather Underground, WeatherCoud, or Cumulus MX for global data sharing.

• Data Logging: Internal memory stores months of historical data, exportable via USB for analysis.

• Firmware Updates: Regular updates enhance functionality and fix bugs.

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6. Applications and Use Cases

a. Home and Garden

• Optimize irrigation based on rainfall data.

• Monitor microclimates for gardening or pest control.

b. Education

• STEM tool for teaching meteorology and data analysis.

• School projects tracking weather patterns over seasons.

c. Recreation

• Plan outdoor activities (e.g., hiking, sailing) using hyperlocal wind and storm alerts.

d. Agriculture

• Frost warnings protect crops.

• Track humidity to prevent fungal growth in greenhouses.

e. Research

• Low-cost solution for environmental studies or citizen science initiatives.

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7. Limitations and Considerations

• Wireless Range: Obstacles like walls or trees may reduce signal strength.

• Precision: While accurate for personal use, it may not match professional stations in extreme conditions.

• Cost: Higher initial investment compared to basic models, but justified by advanced features.

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8. Conclusion

The Ventus W850 stands out as a robust, versatile weather station that democratizes access to professional-grade meteorological tools. Its blend of durability, precision, and connectivity makes it ideal for users seeking to understand and respond to their local environment. Whether for practical home management, educational purposes, or hobbyist weather tracking, the W850 delivers actionable insights with remarkable reliability. By investing in this system, users gain not just a weather station, but a window into the dynamic forces shaping their daily lives.

Technical specs

• Upto 150 mts (visual) range between outside and inside units
• 10 day weather forecast from Pro Weather Live (PWL)
• Wi-Fi weather information from PWL platform
• Displays local visibility / cloud cover
• Local readings from 7 in 1 outdoor sensor with large tilting solar panel
• Clock, calendar, day of week and moon phase
• Sun rise and sunset
• Moon rise and set
• Alarms, including ice alarm
• Historical bar chart for air pressure, daily precipitation, indoor/outdoor temperature and humidity
• Indoor temperature with comfort indicator
• Outdoor temperature with chill factor, heat index, wind chill, dew point and humidity
• Wind speed or gusts (mph, m/s, km/h, knots)
• Beaufort and wind level
• Wind direction real time 360 degrees
• UV index, as well as how long should I max. stay in the sun
• Light intensity (Klux, Kfc, W/m2)
• Rain per: hour, day, week, month and total
• Barometric air pressure (hPa, inHg, mmHg)
• Minimum / Maximum information since last reset or on a daily basis
• Weather alerts via PWL server Auto dim function for backlight
• Supports other sensors. Including pool sensor, ground sensor, extra temperature sensors, lightning sensor etc
• UK & EU Adapter included
• Included batteries: CR2032 console memory back up, Outdoor unit: 3xAA non rechargeable as emergency backup