Soil Water Content Measurements
Overview
The HS2P is a combination of the Hydrosense II soil-water sensor with a strong handle and pole that make it easier to insert the probes into the soil. The lightweight pole allows soil testing without bending over. The HS2P is compact and portable, with the layout of the buttons on the display allowing for operation with one hand. Two different probe lengths are available, for different types of soil or turf.
Read MoreBenefits and Features
- Compact and lightweight
- Read real-time soil-water content measurements in the field
Images
Technical Description
Handheld Display
The display consists of a three-inch LCD and four navigation buttons that make changing settings and taking measurements as easy as possible. An integrated GPS tags each measurement with a latitude and longitude.
Zones can be created on the unit which group measurements together so that average soil moisture can be calculated for an area. The current position and zone are shown on the display so that measurements can be taken in the same zone.
Data storage has been added to allow more than 1000 measurements to be stored on the device. The data can then be downloaded to a PC via Bluetooth for viewing and archiving.
Soil Moisture Sensor
Two sensor options are offered. The CS658P has 20 cm rods and the CS659P has 12 cm rods. These sensors use an accurate measurement technique and have a rugged design allowing insertion into and removal from hard soils. Their rods are secured to their housing with ferrule nuts that provide extra stability during insertion.
Software
The PC software makes the most of the data storage capability of the display. The software connects to the display via Bluetooth to avoid the need for extra cables.
The software allows the user to:
- View data in table and chart views
- Edit zone positions and sizes
- Change device settings
- Export data to CSV to interface with 3rd party software
- View zones and measurements in Google Earth
Specifications
| Measurements Made | Volumetric water content (VWC) of porous media (such as soil) |
| Required Equipment | HS2P is a complete system. |
| Soil Suitability | Short rods are easy to install in hard soil. Suitable for soils with higher electrical conductivity. |
| Rods | Replaceable |
| Sensors | Interchangeable sensors; can swap the 12 cm and 20 cm sensors with the reader. |
| Handle Width | 29.2 cm (11.5 in.) |
| Height |
|
| Pole Width | 2.5 cm (1 in.) |
| Pole Depth | 2.5 cm (1 in.) |
| Weight |
|
Display |
|
| Display | 128 x 64 pixel graphic LCD |
| Backlight | Blue and white LED (brightness adjustable) |
| GPS Accuracy |
|
| Bluetooth Range | ~10 m (~30 ft) |
| Data Storage | > 1000 records (ring memory) |
| Zone Storage | > 100 records |
| Power Supply | 6 Vdc, 4 AA batteries |
| Battery Life | 6 to 12 months (typical usage) |
| Dimensions | 200 x 100 x 58 mm (7.9 x 3.9 x 2.3 in.) |
| Weight | 340 g (12 oz) |
Typical Power Consumption of Display |
|
| Sleep | 20 µA |
| Backlight Off | 2 mA |
| Backlight at 60% | 18 mA |
| Backlight at 100% | 30 mA |
| GPS Active | 35 mA |
| Bluetooth Active | 30 mA |
Probe Options |
|
| -NOTE- | The CS659P and CS658P cannot share rods. |
| Water Content Accuracy |
|
| Volumetric Water Content Resolution | < 0.05% |
| Volumetric Water Content Range | 0% to 50% VWC |
| Rod Diameter | 5 mm (0.14 in.) |
| Rod Length |
|
| Body Dimensions | 100 x 92 x 40 mm (3.9 x 3.6 x 1.6 in.) |
| Weight | 450 g (15.9 oz) |
Compatibility
Water Content Sensors
The water content sensor is ordered as an option, and may also be purchased separately. Either the CS658P or CS659P can be used with the HS2P. The CS658P has 20 cm rods, and the CS659P has 12 cm rods.
Note: The CS658P and CS659P cannot share rods (i.e., 12 cm rods cannot be used with the CS658P, and 20 cm rods cannot be used with the CS659P).
Downloads
HydroSoft v.1.0.8 (5.16 MB) 26-07-2012
Current version of the HydroSense II Support Software.