I believe the accessories are still compatible but there is not a way to plug anything into the new console. I read somewhere that you can use the old console on the new station though.
If your console is okay, you can just buy the sensor suite. Look for 6322, 6323, 6327 or 6328, depending on your requirement level.
Alternatively, you can just replace the sensors on you current VP2. I recently swapped out the old tipping bucket for the newer single bucket rain gauge and the AeroCone. These newer items fit straight onto the older rain gauge base with no problems.
I don’t like the way Davis have joined the other makes and you HAVE TO upload your data to them to be able to use it for yourself. It’s my data and I want to choose how it’s used. I’m going to keep my VP2 going as long as they sell the spares for it. I’ll also be collecting spares, like consoles, if I see any for a good price.
I have an older Vantage Pro 2. It’s just a display with with a screen that shows data. And some buttons on the side to change things. On the back it’s identified as Product #6312 and has a Model Number of 6152.
I am having issues with the rain gauge. I had the same issue last year and it was fixed for a while but it’s now back again. What I read above is that I can purchase a replacement Vantage Pro Weather Sensor Suite and simply connect (wirelessly if I pick the current Suite) it to my current “Console”. Is that correct?
If so, the one I have in mind is Wireless Vantage Pro2 Sensor Suite Weather Station - SKU 6322, 6322M]
If what I have stated above is correct I will purchase one and be able to keep my current console which is connected to the internet and visible from a couple of sources. Allows me to see my local data when I am away.
What you’re planning will work fine.
The only thing to bear in mind is there are two transmit frequencies used for the VP2.
If you’re in the UK or EU then we use 868.0-868.6MHz and the console is marked with Model #6152UK or 6152EU.
If you’re in US or elsewhere and your console is just marked #6152 the you have the US version using 902-928Mhz. Make sure you get the correct ISS to match your console.
You could always just buy a new rain gauge for now a save a bit of money.
Thanks for the information. I was not aware of the different frequencies but not surprised. As far as just replacing the rain gauge, I had not considered that but, the unit is old. The plastic around the solar panel is deteriorating. So, I thought I’d just replace the part in the field, once I found out I could do that.
Again, thanks, I was not aware of the UK vs USA versions.
My VP2 is around 16 years old and I replaced my Temp/Hum sensor for the second time last month. I see here in NZ you can get a “tune-up” kit which comprises of a replacement door with Solar panel, rain collector upgrade kit, wind cups and bearing assembly plus battery for NZ$450. As long as the transmitter and receiver still work, those items should keep it going for some time.
As a matter of interest, I’ve installed an Ecowitt Wittboy 2 metres away from the VP2 and am comparing the readings. A bit of variation between rainfall, but otherwise much the same. The Wittboy from AliExpress cost NZ$340 freight included!!
Likewise, I’m approaching almost 2 decades on my VP2. I’ve replaced the temp/humidity sensor, solar panel, wind cups and bearing assembly, and upgraded the rain gauge to tipping spoon from the original tipping buckets.
It is a rock solid performer, with serial connection from console to USB to serial for connection to my computer. Had to add that when it became to find a PC with a serial port.
I had ‘issues’ with my rain gauge on 2 occasions in the past - in each case I replaced the reed switch under the bucket seesaw and fixed the problem. YMMV
Don’t know what country you’re in but in Australia I went to Jaycar.
tl;dr
You could unsolder the wire from one end of the reed switch while it’s still in place under the bucket seesaw.
Connect multimeter (on ohms setting) across the reed switch.
Should see ‘open circuit’ with no magnet near the reed.
If that’s the case, slowly tip the bucket so magnet swings past the reed.
Meter should indicate ‘0’ ohms as the magnet passes over the reed.
If all that happens Ok, the reed switch is not the problem - otherwise, remove the reed switch and take it to ‘electronics hobby shop’ for replacement.
Thanks. I had thought about doing that. Was just not sure about the process. Unsoldering the lead is the only issue since it is 100 feet or so from the house and power but I will figure out a way. USA.
So, that can be done as you have demonstrated. thanks again…
