Davis Vantage Pro2 rain collector not working

[Peter1949]

I wasn't getting any readings from my rain collector and had hoped the hole was blocked but it wasn't. Does anyone know how I can ascertain whether the problem is the reed switch or the circuit board?

 I checked the plug and socket end of the cable and took it out a few times just in case the contacts required 're-seating'. I can hear the reed switch clicking when I manually operate the tipping buckets. I put a AVO meter across the switch contacts and then operated the buckets hoping the continuity would show on the meter but it didn't but then I'm not sure if this is a valid test.

Any help would be appreciated. Thanks.

[jerryg]

That is the way to check it, each time you tip the bucket you should see a bump on the ohm meter are just hold it in the middle and it should show a near short. Also you can jump the switch with a short piece of wire and get a count on the console to check the wiring. Looks like you have a bad reed switch.

[Peter1949]

Thanks for the prompt reply Jerry. Good tip about jumping the switch, I'll have a go at that tomorrow in the daylight. I'll have to get onto ProData and see what they advise about a replacement part. I think I might also try re-soldering the connections just in case it is a 'dry joint', however, I don't think I'm going to be that lucky.

[Peter1949]

This is an update to the rain collector situation. For some reason the console started registering manuals tips while the ISS was sat on my desk. I re-installed it 24 hours ago but no rain was recorded even when I pour a small amount into the collector and listened for the bucket to tip.

I did as JerryG suggested and shorted out the switch with a wire, first on the soldered joints and then on the reed switch wires (to eliminate a dry joint). Both recorded the 'activation', so it appears that despite hearing the reed switch activating it is faulty and will require replacing. 

[Budgie]

Maplins if you fancy fixing it yourself or back to McMurdo for a warranty fix then. 

[Peter1949]

Budgie, a warranty fix isn't an option because it is just over 4 years old. I hadn't thought about fixing it myself but now you have mentioned it... I had a look on the Maplins site and although I don't know the glass length yet CL36P or CL37S look a good bet. Have you repaired one before? Do you know how easy it is to get the switch out of its casing?

[Budgie]

I can't help you on that as I've not fixed one.
I would still give McMurdo a ring and explain the fault as they may be able to help, just don't mention how old it is unless they ask!! 

[teal]

  Hi,   Rapid electronics also do a range of reed switch's    http://www.rapidonline.com/Electronic-Components/Reed-switches-Assemtech-30247/?sid=b1eceb4d-d4c8-4fad-b5bb-f77c2af3d630   I find them very good, they have most things in stock, (unlike maplin).


   teal.

[rh205]

The uk weather shop http://www.weathershop.co.uk/are likely to have the correct reed switch or might be able to test and repair it for you. They also sell replacement rain gauges.

[Peter1949]

This is an update to say that the rain collector has now been fixed.

I used the MicroMin Reed Sw from Maplins (CL36P) which is almost the same size as the original (11mm as against 1/2"), cost £1.79. The task wasn't too difficult if you can use a soldering iron. Getting the reed switch cover off with a small screwdriver has to be done with care as does the shaping of the switch contact wire ensuring that you have a small pair of long nose pliers between the switch and the shaping area to avoid stressing the glass/wire joint.

Thanks to all who offered advice.
Peter