Using Apple Macs with the Davis Weatherlink loggers
Important (Feb 2019): The 6520 Weatherlink for Mac product remains available but we do not encourage its purchase. Davis effectively stopped updating Weatherlink for Mac some time ago (as indeed they have now also recently done with the Weatherlink for Windows program). As a result, the likelihood of compatibility problems with the latest MacOS versions has increased; these issues can usually be fixed but we do not have the specialist Mac knowledge to be able to offer support in individual cases and all the information we have on this topic can be found on our Davis knowledgebase.We therefore recommend that Mac owners use alternative software, especially the Weathercat program mentioned below – we do not sell Weathercat but it is available from the Weathercat website.
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Users will still need the Weatherlink USB logger hardware (or an alternative that is compatible with the software to be used, such as the WiFi logger). The USB logger must be purchased within either the 6510 Weatherlink for Windows pack or the 6520 Weatherlink for Mac packs, simply setting aside the software CD that comes with the pack. The USB logger hardware is identical whether purchased in the Windows or Mac packs.
There is a version of the Weatherlink data logger and software pack specifically designed for connection to Macs – this is the 6520 Weatherlink for Mac pack, which supports only Intel Macs running OSX v10.1 or later. (There used to be an earlier version of the 6520 Mac logger with a serial interface that was compatible with older Mac versions but that has long since been discontinued.)
The data logger included in this pack is exactly the same USB logger as supplied with the 6510USB Weatherlink version for Windows and with the same USB cable, but, although it bears the same name, the Weatherlink for Mac software is a significantly different version of the Weatherlink software.
In general terms, the Mac Weatherlink program offers broadly similar features to the Windows version, but the Mac version does have significant differences and limitations compared to the Windows version. In the descriptions below we’re focusing on these differences in the Mac version from the Windows version – for a more general introduction to Weatherlink features in general, please see the main Weatherlink page.
Although this 6520 Mac Weatherlink version is readily available, we would actually recommend that, even if you routinely use a Mac rather than Windows, it is well worth considering using an older 32-bit Windows PC as a dedicated weather PC rather than the Mac Weatherlink version. This is not in the slightest a ‘theological’ view on Windows vs Mac as user environments, but reflects some important practical and feature-related limitations associated with the Mac version, which include:
- There are relatively few Mac Weatherlink versions sold. We estimate from our own sales in the UK that the Mac versions represents just 2-3% of total Weatherlink sales – in other words a genuinely tiny proportion of total Weatherlink sales. (The proportion may be a little higher in other territories but we doubt that it exceeds 5% anywhere.) This has two practical consequences:
- The Windows version inevitably gets the lion’s share of development resources because of its much greater market appeal. As a result, the Windows version has more features, is more up-to-date and is typically more thoroughly tested and bug-fixed;
- Very few dealers will run Mac Weatherlink systems themselves and are therefore just not a position to offer any practical support whatsoever for the Mac version from first-hand experience;
- Limitations of the Mac Weatherlink version, of which we’ll mention a few below. In general, Weatherlink for Mac is a perfectly serviceable program which is run successfully by a substantial number of users around the world and offers broadly similar features to the Windows version. But if you’re concerned about the details of any feature mentioned below or indeed availability of any other specific feature not explicitly listed below we suggest that you make further enquiries before purchasing the Mac version.
- Most generic Weatherlink features are supported but detailed features that Weatherlink for Mac does not support include:
- Logging of data from:
- UV sensor;
- Leaf Wetness Sensor;
- Soil Moisture Sensor
- Use with the 6555 WeatherlinkIP logger; (NB Previous versions of the Weatherlink for Mac software did not support the subscription-based uploads to the Davis weatherlink.com website. But with the release of the v6.0.2 WLfMac software in July 2015 this limitation is removed. v6.0.2 is available as an update to existing installations as a download from the Davis support website);
- Use with the various other Advanced Weatherlink Loggers – only the standard USB logger is fully supported;
- CWOP or GLOBE program upload capabilities;
- Expansion modules, eg Email/Phone Alert or Agricultural/Turf Management modules;
- Uploads to the popular Weather Underground (WUnderground) website appear still not to be supported. (This is not a Davis issue because WU make available their own expansion modules to manage WU uploads. WU simply do not seem as yet to have released a suitable Mac-compatible module.)
- Logging of data from:
- There is a thriving marketplace in add-on software for the Vantage Pro stations and loggers, bringing extra features and some very visually-attractive data presentations, especially for web pages and real-time data. Inevitably, these add-on programs are primarily targeted at Windows users simply because of the far greater popularity of the Windows version. As a result, Mac users are deprived of the opportunity to use some of these attractive alternative programs. However, Mac user s have not been completely forgotten and there are a slowly growing number of third-party programs specifically intended for use with the Mac, which would be well worth evaluation for any prospective Mac users of the Weatherlink logger. These alternative programs include:
- Weathercat (This program often receives favourable reviews from Mac users and is perhaps a preferred alternative to Weatherlink for Mac)
- Weather Display for the Mac (A distinct and more limited version compared to the market-leading Windows version)
- WeatherTracker (From AfterTen)
Further notes on Mac Weatherlink
Weatherlink for Mac is compatible with all recent Mac OS versions, including Snow Leopard. But it is important to use the appropriate Weatherlink program version. For example, Weatherlink for Mac v5.1.0 is required for use with Snow Leopard.
Please remember that data delivery from the Mac’s USB port to the Weatherlink program is still usually mediated by means of a third-party USB driver written by the maker of the USB chip used in the logger (which is Silicon Labs in fact and not Davis). With a new Mac operating system version it will often be this USB driver that needs updating via a download from the Silicon Labs website, while the Weatherlink program itself remains fully compatible between OS versions.
It is possible to move back and forth between Windows and Mac versions by purchasing the appropriate software. To be clear, the logger hardware is identical between Windows and Mac – it is simply the appropriate Weatherlink software (and any associated USB drivers) that needs to be purchased and installed. (Ownership of the Windows version does not automatically confer a licence to use the Mac version and vice versa. Downloads of program updates from the Davis website will only install and function correctly if a full program copy of the appropriate OS version has previously been successfully installed and run.)
Summary
To reiterate our advice above: In general, Weatherlink for Mac is a perfectly serviceable program which is run successfully by a substantial number of users around the world and offers broadly similar features to the Windows version. But the Mac version does have some significant limitations – if these are relevant to your expected use of the software then you might wish to consider running a Windows PC instead in order to gain access to the full set of features and support that the Windows Weatherlink version offers.
What’s the better way to keep an eye on the upcoming tornado and avoid falling prey to it? Pretty simple; take the help of the live map and accurate forecasts to remain a step ahead of the cyclone! We have reviewed the best hurricane tracker apps for iPhone 2019 to let you get timely alerts and monitor tropical cyclones with ease.
Based on your requirements, you can perfectly customize the apps to get precise local predictions. What’s more, they also offer you very helpful advice regarding how to deal with cyclones. Jump right in to explore them all!
#1. WeatherBug
No list of top weather apps would be complete without WeatherBug. It features an interactive map to let you instantly access all the information that matters to you.
You can use the 10-day forecasts to keep bad weather away from spoiling your party. You can take a peek at the weather conditions with 18 weather maps.
It lets you check Doppler radar in multiple countries like United States, Canada, Mexico, Alaska, and Hawaii. Even better, it also allows you to check real-time traffic conditions to avoid getting stuck on the way.
Price: Free
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#2. The Weather Channel
“The Weather Channel” is second to none when it comes to delivering correct local weather forecasts. What makes this app a great asset is the capability to show weather forecasts for the next 15 days. You can take the utmost advantage of the predictions to plan your holidays and upcoming events perfectly.
It offers in-depth info regarding sunset times and tides to help you stay updated. The live alerts with safety alerts ensure you remain safe and can avoid bad weather. Additionally, you can upgrade to the ($3.99) premium version of the app to use it without any ads.
Price: Free
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#3. Storm – Weather Radar & Maps
Storm helps you track the most severe weather in real-time. The app is a powerful NOAA radar and hurricane tracker, which is developed to keep you safe and informed about the weather.
You can use this app before you go out for your job, home safety, or for your kids in the school. Storm will help you understand the weather like never before. It gives you precise, advanced HD mapping technology. Moreover, you can check live weather patterns across the world.
Some of the excellent features of this app are a color-coded view of changing weather patterns in your area, six hours of future global radar (land and sea), live local storm alerts, comprehensive data of impending storm, and more.
Price: Free (In-app Purchases)
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#4. Dark Sky
Dark Sky is yet another full-fledged weather app that delivers the wealth of information. Rated as the number one app in weather category and having got four and a half stars out of 4.6K ratings, it’s highly appreciated by users.
With the help of your GPS, the app offers you personalized weather forecasts for your precise location. Hence, you never get caught in bad weather and plan your outing smartly.
With the top-notch radar animation, you can view the actual path of the storm. Even better, you will also be able to create custom alerts for temperature, wind, and precipitation to remain notified about what’s to come!
Price: $3.99
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#5. Storm Shield
For keeping you updated about the storm and extreme weather conditions, “Storm Shield” is up to the mark. Based on your requirement, you can fine-tune the notifications to keep you notified only about preferred things.
Radar map makes it very straightforward to check out what’s happening at your selected locations. To keep the unwanted stuff away, it also lets you adjust the weather layers to show on the map. Moreover, you can make the most of the Today widget to track the weather conditions right from the lock screen.
Price: Free
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#6. Hurricane Tracker
This one is specifically designed to let you keep track of the hurricane. The app offers real-time information and is pretty accurate. With the timely notifications, it keeps you alerted whenever new storm seems to be making its way or threatens landfall.
You can take advantage of custom graphics to track the extreme weather conditions with ease. It offers in-depth tropical wave/invest information.
Aren’t good at monitoring hurricane? No problem, you can watch the videos to learn how to get it done easily.
Best Weather App For Mac Computer App
Price: $3.99
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#7. Weather Underground
If you are in search of a complete weather app, give “Weather Underground” a serious look. Thanks to a vast network of more than 270,000 personal weather stations, it’s known to deliver hyper-local forecasts and current conditions. You can keep track of global storms using the hurricane and tropical storm tile.
With the 10-day forecasts, it keeps you a step ahead and allows you to plan your travel perfectly. The health tile works pretty well in letting you track air quality, UV risk, and local flu outbreaks.
Furthermore, you will also be able to report local weather conditions to help other people.
Free Weather Apps For Mac
Price: Free
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#8. National Hurricane Center Data
“National Hurricane Center Data” is on point when it comes to letting you access the needed information about severe weather conditions. Mac productivity apps students.
With the detailed satellite imagery animations, you can easily monitor the storm and its pattern. Using 10 filters, you will be able to view the storm from various perspectives.
Based on your need, you can ideally configure the app to get alerts only about things that matter to you. Additionally, this app has the support for multiple languages like English, French, and Portuguese.
Price: $1.99
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#9. NOAA SuperRes Radar US
NOAA has long been one of my favorite weather apps for iOS. What stands out for this app is the ability to provide accurate 7-day forecasts and quick alerts for severe weather conditions like a flash flood, tornado, and thunderstorm.
The app features multiple map styles such as terrain, map, satellite, and hybrid to let you access the desired info without any hassle. You can tap on the warning box to view the full warning message from the National Weather Service.
Besides, you will also be able to adjust the transparency of the radar or cloud cover overlays.
Price: $3.99
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Best Weather App For Mac Computers
#10. Hurricane: American Red Cross
“Hurricane: American Red Cross” has won several popular awards and is highly recommended by experts. The best thing about this app is that you can seamlessly customize it to get the alerts about only selected places.
It provides real-time notifications to keep you in the loop about poor weather conditions. You can keep an eye on the hazards using the live map.
It offers step-by-step instructions about what you need to do before, after or during the storm. Moreover, you can also quickly notify your friend that you are safe through Facebook, Twitter, and other mediums.
Price: Free
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That’s it, folks!
What’s your favorite?
Assuming you have found a more accomplished savior to deal with cyclones. Let me know the app which has caught your attention.
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Jignesh Padhiyar is the co-founder of iGeeksBlog.com who has a keen eye for news, rumors and all the unusual stuff that happens around Apple products. During his tight schedule, Jignesh finds some moments of respite to share side-splitting contents on social media.
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