Ambient Weather BA212

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Version 1.2       ©Copyright 2014, Ambient LLC. All Rights Reserved.        Page  1 
Ambient Weather BA212 Wall Mounted Weather Station 
with Thermometer, Hygrometer, and Barometer - Cherry 
Finish User Manual 
 
 
Table of Contents 
 Introduction ..................................................................................................................................... 2 
 Preparation ...................................................................................................................................... 2 
 Care and Cleaning ........................................................................................................................... 2 
 Storm Glass Barometer ................................................................................................................... 2 
1  How the storm glass works .................................................................................................... 2 
2  Filling the storm glass ............................................................................................................ 3 
3  Emptying the storm glass ....................................................................................................... 3 
 Comfortmeter .................................................................................................................................. 4 
1  How the hygrometer works .................................................................................................... 4 
2  Hygrometer Accuracy............................................................................................................. 4 
3  Dial Thermometer .................................................................................................................. 4 
 Warranty Information ...................................................................................................................... 5 
     California Proposition 65…………………………………………………………………………5 
 
 

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Summary

Introduction to the Weather Station

Care and Cleaning Instructions

Storm Glass Barometer Operation

How the Storm Glass Works

Explains the principle of a storm glass or liquid barometer and how it predicts weather.

Filling and Emptying the Storm Glass

Filling the Storm Glass

Step-by-step guide on how to fill the storm glass with colored water using a syringe.

Emptying the Storm Glass

Instructions on how to remove liquid from the storm glass using a syringe.

Comfortmeter and Hygrometer

How the Hygrometer Works

Details how the hygrometer measures indoor relative humidity using a mechanical coil spring.

Hygrometer Accuracy Considerations

Discusses the difficulties in humidity measurement and the need for recalibration.

Dial Thermometer Functionality

Explains the bimetallic strip mechanism used in the dial thermometer.

California Proposition 65 Warning

Summary

Introduction to the Weather Station

Care and Cleaning Instructions

Storm Glass Barometer Operation

How the Storm Glass Works

Explains the principle of a storm glass or liquid barometer and how it predicts weather.

Filling and Emptying the Storm Glass

Filling the Storm Glass

Step-by-step guide on how to fill the storm glass with colored water using a syringe.

Emptying the Storm Glass

Instructions on how to remove liquid from the storm glass using a syringe.

Comfortmeter and Hygrometer

How the Hygrometer Works

Details how the hygrometer measures indoor relative humidity using a mechanical coil spring.

Hygrometer Accuracy Considerations

Discusses the difficulties in humidity measurement and the need for recalibration.

Dial Thermometer Functionality

Explains the bimetallic strip mechanism used in the dial thermometer.

California Proposition 65 Warning

The Ambient Weather BA212 Wall Mounted Weather Station is a traditional weather monitoring device designed to provide indoor environmental readings and weather predictions. This elegant station, featuring a cherry finish, combines a storm glass barometer, a comfortmeter (which includes a hygrometer and a dial thermometer), offering a comprehensive overview of indoor conditions and impending weather changes.

Function Description

The core function of the BA212 is to monitor and predict weather patterns and indoor comfort levels. It achieves this through three distinct instruments:

Storm Glass Barometer: This component is a liquid barometer that predicts weather based on changes in atmospheric pressure. The principle behind its operation, postulated by Lucien Vidie, is that decreasing atmospheric pressure predicts stormy weather. The storm glass consists of a sealed glass container, half-filled with water, and a narrow spout that connects to the body below the water level and rises above it, open to the atmosphere. When the air pressure is lower than it was at the time the body was sealed, the water level in the spout will rise above the water level in the body. Conversely, when the air pressure is higher, the water level in the spout will drop below the water level in the body. This visual change in water level provides an indication of atmospheric pressure trends, allowing for a basic prediction of upcoming weather.
Comfortmeter (Hygrometer and Dial Thermometer): The comfortmeter is a combined instrument designed to indicate perfect comfort conditions in a room's atmosphere.
- Hygrometer: This measures the indoor relative humidity. It utilizes a sensitive mechanical coil spring bonded with a moisture-absorbent material. The hygrometer registers the percentage of water vapor present in the air compared to the maximum amount that can be present at a given temperature. It's important to note that hygrometers respond slowly to humidity changes, taking an hour or more to reach an accurate reading. Indoor humidity readings can differ significantly from outdoor humidity. Optimal indoor humidity levels are typically between 45% and 50% during heating and cooling seasons. Low humidity can lead to health issues and damage wood furnishings, while high humidity can promote mold and mildew growth.
- Dial Thermometer: This measures the indoor temperature. It operates using a bimetallic strip wrapped into a coil. One end of the coil is fixed to the device's housing, while the other drives an indicating needle. The principle relies on the fact that different metals expand at different rates when heated. By bonding two different metals, the coil bends, causing the needle to move and display the temperature.

The calibration and positioning of the hands on the comfortmeter are specifically designed to highlight the "COMFORT zone" on the dial. When both the hygrometer and thermometer hands cross within this limited area, it signifies ideal comfort conditions in the room.

Usage Features

The BA212 is designed for indoor use, providing a continuous display of environmental conditions.

Weather Prediction: The storm glass offers a traditional, visual method of predicting weather changes. Users can observe the water level in the spout to infer changes in atmospheric pressure and anticipate stormy or fair weather.
Indoor Comfort Monitoring: The comfortmeter allows users to easily monitor both temperature and relative humidity. By observing where the hands intersect on the dial, users can quickly assess if their indoor environment falls within the "COMFORT zone," helping them maintain a pleasant living space.
Aesthetic Integration: With its cherry finish and traditional design, the weather station serves not only as a functional instrument but also as an elegant decorative piece for any wall.
User-Fillable Storm Glass: The storm glass requires initial filling with colored water, allowing users to choose a color that suits their personal taste. This process involves using a provided syringe and plastic tube to carefully inject liquid into the storm glass until it is half-filled, and then adjusting the liquid level in the spout.
Adjustable Storm Glass Liquid Level: Users may need to add or remove liquid from the storm glass after observing it for several days and comparing its readings to current and predicted weather conditions, allowing for fine-tuning of its predictive accuracy.

Maintenance Features

Proper care and maintenance ensure the longevity and continued aesthetic appeal of the BA212.

Wood Case Care: The solid wood case is finished with a clear, satin lacquer for protection. Periodic cleaning with a very lightly water-dampened soft cloth is recommended. After cleaning, the wood should be wiped dry with a soft cloth. While occasional use of a good furniture polish is acceptable, harsh household cleaners and coarse paper towels should be avoided as they can damage the lacquer coating.
Storm Glass Maintenance: The storm glass should be carefully removed for cleaning. It is crucial not to install the storm glass outdoors, as it is intended for indoor use only. Over time, evaporation of the liquid in the storm glass is normal, and it must be topped off occasionally to maintain its functionality.
Emptying the Storm Glass: For emptying the storm glass, the provided syringe and long plastic tube are used. The tube is inserted into the storm glass, and the liquid is slowly pumped out until it is completely removed.
Hygrometer Recalibration (Potential): Humidity measurement can be challenging, and hygrometers are subject to drift, potentially requiring regular recalibration to maintain accuracy.
Thermometer Accuracy: The dial thermometer is designed to require no calibration, simplifying its maintenance.

Ambient Weather BA212 Specifications

General

Display Type	LCD
Wireless Transmission Frequency	433 MHz
Outdoor Temperature Range	-40°F to 140°F (-40°C to 60°C)
Humidity Range	10% to 99%
Wireless Range	300 ft (91 m) line of sight, 100 ft (30 m) under most conditions