Ecowitt Wittboy Weather Station - Everything You Need to Know

The Ecowitt Wittboy (WS90) is a compact, seven in one outdoor sensor ideal for smart home users and commercial enterprises who want accurate, real time weather data. It gathers multiple weather parameters and integrates with smart home systems via the Ecowitt gateway.

Sensors

The Wittboy packs in 7 sensors into one unit:

• Rainfall Sensor: Uses a haptic rain gauge to measure rainfall intensity and accumulation.
• Wind Sensor: An ultrasonic anemometer tracks wind speed and direction.
• Temperature Sensor: Monitors ambient outdoor temperature.
• Humidity Sensor: Measures ambient moisture.
• Solar Radiation Sensor: Records the intensity of sunlight.
• UV Sensor: Tracks the UV index.

Internal Heater: A built-in heat plate ensures accurate readings in cold or high humidity conditions by preventing condensation and ice build-up. Mains power is required for the heat plate to work.

Power Options and Battery Life

The Wittboy offers three powering methods:

• Solar Power: The built-in solar panel is the primary power source for the Wittboy weather station. When there is insufficient sunlight the batteries kick in as the backup power source.
• Battery Operation: The weather stations requires 2 AA batteries. Lithium batteries are recommended over alkaline as they provide a more stable voltage and typically last two to three times longer. In moderate conditions, alkaline batteries may last around six months, while lithium variants can reach up to 18 months. Assuming that the solar panel is not providing any power.
• Heater Power Supply: In colder climates the built-in heater plate maintains sensor accuracy by preventing freezing.

Connectivity and Setup

The WS90 does not connect directly to your home WiFi. Instead, it transmits data to an Ecowitt gateway (GW2000 or GW3000), which in turn connects to the WiFi router.

• Ecowitt Gateways: The weather station must be paired with a compatible Ecowitt gateway via radio frequency (RF). In UK & Europe, typically 868 MHz; in the United States, 915 MHz; and all other regions 433MHz
• Pairing Process: Once batteries are installed in the weather station it will automatically try to connect with the gateway. The connection process will only take a few minutes. The weather station will emit a light to confirm a successful connection with the gateway.
• Gateway to Internet: The weather station gathers data without requiring the gateway having an internet connection.  However, you may want features that requires an internet connection. To connect the gateway to the internet, either plugin a network cable or setup a WiFi connection. To setup WiFi connect to the gateway temporary access point (e.g. at 192.168.4.1) and configuring your network settings. If the Gateway has been connected to a network cable it will obtain an IP address from your router. How to find the gateway’s (DHCP) IP network address.
• Wireless Range: In clear, line-of-sight conditions, the range can be up to 100 metres. In everyday installations, expect reliable connectivity at distances between 30 and 50 metres.

Installation and Location

Where to Locate: Mount the sensor in an open area free from obstructions such as trees, walls or windows. An elevated position, such as on a roof or a dedicated pole, is recommended to gather accurate wind, rain and solar data.

Physical Installation: Use the supplied mounting kit to secure the sensor. While a pole (purchase separately) is not strictly necessary, it helps ensure unobstructed readings and a stable setup.

Data Captured and Management

The WS90 collects a host of weather metrics (update every 8.8 seconds):

• Rainfall (intensity and total)
• Wind speed and direction
• Outdoor temperature
• Relative humidity
• Solar radiation
• UV index

Additional information such as battery level and signal strength can also be monitored. Data is accessed via the Ecowitt app, which displays real-time and historical data once the sensor is paired with the gateway. Direct connection to the sensor is not possible; all data is routed through the gateway.

Smart home integration (e.g. Home Assistant) allows you to create automation routines, for instance adjusting garden irrigation based on rainfall levels or modifying home heating settings according to external temperatures.

Conclusion

The Ecowitt Wittboy (WS90) weather station is a practical and flexible tool for those keen to bring detailed outdoor weather data into their smart home systems. Its integrated array of sensors, versatile power options, and dedicated gateway connectivity ensure reliable measurements. With proper installation—using an unobstructed, elevated location and following simple pairing and configuration steps, the WS90 offers real-time data that can drive various home automation routines.