The Tide and Weather Display
Features
The device is WiFi connected and displays real time data in a detailed and large display. The OLED screen size is 2.8 inches and it is part of different style maps and also comes in a desktop version. See the setup guide for details.
IMPORTANT: The display needs to be connected to a 2.4GHz WiFi network!
Setting up the Device
The Tide and Weather Display setup guide provides a comprehensive overview of how to configure and use the device. It begins with a quick start guide, emphasizing the importance of connecting the device to a 2.4GHz WiFi network. The guide details the process of removing the pre-installed MicroSD card, editing the Config.cfg file to input the WiFi network name (SSID) and password, and reinserting the card into the device. Once the device is powered on, it will connect to the WiFi network and start displaying tide and weather information.
The display utilizes daily tide predictions provided by NOAA, which are based on historical tidal data, astronomical observations, and mathematical models. These predictions are essential for various activities, including navigation, coastal management, and recreational pursuits. The device accesses NOAA data through public web services and can be configured to cycle through up to three tide stations. The display offers two view types: a detailed view showing a 24-hour tide graph and a large view displaying high and low tides with respective times.
Weather alerts from the National Weather Service (NWS) are also integrated into the display. These alerts provide crucial information about severe weather conditions such as thunderstorms, tornadoes, hurricanes, and floods. The alerts are disseminated through multiple channels, ensuring broad reach. The display shows the number of current alerts and cycles through the data for the selected tide stations. However, it is important to note that the information provided by the display is for entertainment and reference purposes only and should not be relied upon for real-life decisions.
The configuration of the display is managed through the Config.cfg file on the MicroSD card. Users can set various parameters, including the display format, station IDs, datum, brightness levels, and weather alert settings. The display refreshes every six minutes to show updated tide and weather information. The guide also highlights the importance of using the correct tidal datums, such as Mean Lower Low Water (MLLW), to understand and predict tidal behavior accurately. The device's data LED indicates when data is being retrieved from the internet, ensuring users are aware of the device's status.