Time can be displayed in 12- or 24-hour modes, and time zones from Greenwich Mean Time to -12 GMT can be selected, with three-letter identifications for US time zones. An alarm feature is useful as a timer, and, if the clock happens to hang or stand near a bed (or a couch that's used for napping), a snooze feature allows for gradual wake-up. The weather forecast, estimated to be 75% accurate, is based on change in air pressure over time. Three icons--a sun, a sun with clouds, or two rain clouds--indicate imminent changes in the weather. And there are two weather tendency arrows as well, indicating changes in air pressure.

The clock comes with La Crosse transmitter TX37U-TI. Clock and transmitter each operate on two AA batteries. For options in wall mounting, three screws and screw anchors and a strong adhesive tape are included. The WS-8157U-CH-IT measures 12-1/4 by 8 by 1-1/4 inches. La Crosse provides a one-year limited warranty on its clocks. Each clock comes with a thoroughly detailed instruction booklet. --Garland Withers