1. Product Overview
The ComWinTop 8-Node Soil Parameter Acquisition System is a reliable and user-friendly solution designed for real-time soil data management in precision agriculture, horticulture, and environmental monitoring. This system supports up to 8 soil sensors across 8 nodes, capturing essential parameters including soil temperature, moisture, electrical conductivity (EC), pH, nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K).
Equipped with a 7-inch LCD touchscreen, the system allows for easy operation, displaying real-time values, curves, and logs. It features flexible logging capabilities (node/parameter-specific), with each configuration storing up to 10,000 records. Data can be conveniently exported to a USB flash drive. Both the system and individual node names are customizable.
The system is compatible with Modbus TCP via Ethernet and utilizes pluggable waterproof sensor connectors with standard 2-meter cables (extendable). Its wall-mounted design makes it suitable for both indoor and outdoor installations. This system provides accuracy, flexibility, and ease of use for diverse monitoring needs, making it ideal for optimizing irrigation, fertilizer use, and soil health studies.
Figure 1: ComWinTop 8-Node Soil Parameter Acquisition System with all 8 sensors connected.
Key Features
- Supports connection of up to 8 soil sensors for real-time acquisition of temperature, humidity (moisture), electrical conductivity (EC), pH, nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K).
- Equipped with a 7" LCD touchscreen for easy operation, displaying real-time values, curves, and logs.
- Multiple logging configurations with node-specific and parameter-specific data logging (up to 10,000 records per configuration).
- Data export to USB flash drive.
- Customizable system and node names.
- Compatible with Modbus TCP protocol via Ethernet.
- Sensors connect via pluggable waterproof connectors with 2-meter standard cables (extendable).
- Designed for wall-mounted installation.
2. Setup Guide
2.1 Unpacking and Inspection
Carefully unpack all components and ensure the following items are present:
- Main Acquisition System Unit with 7" LCD Touchscreen
- Soil Sensors (quantity depends on kit purchased, up to 8)
- Power Adapter (DC24V)
- User Manual (this document, also available as PDF: Download PDF Manual)
2.2 Connecting Sensors
- Locate the sensor input ports on the rear of the main unit. There are 8 ports available.
- Take a soil sensor cable and align its waterproof connector with an available input port.
- Twist the connector clockwise until it is securely fastened. Ensure a tight seal to prevent water ingress.
Figure 2: Securely connect sensor cables by twisting the waterproof connectors.
2.3 Sensor Installation in Soil
Proper sensor placement is crucial for accurate readings.
- Choose a representative location in the soil for measurement.
- Avoid areas with large stones or debris directly where the sensor probes will be inserted.
- Insert the sensor vertically into the soil, ensuring the entire probe length is buried. The top of the sensor body should be at least 7cm below the soil surface for optimal contact and stability.
- Do not force the sensor into hard soil; loosen the soil first if necessary to prevent damage to the probes.
Figure 3: Correct sensor insertion, avoiding stones and ensuring proper depth (>7cm).
2.4 Powering On
- Connect the DC24V power adapter to the 'Power In' port on the rear of the main unit.
- Plug the power adapter into a suitable electrical outlet.
- The system will power on automatically, and the LCD touchscreen will illuminate.
Figure 4: Rear view of the main unit with power and sensor input ports.
3. Operating Instructions
3.1 Initial Sensor ID Setup (First Use or Adding New Sensors)
This procedure is only required when first setting up the system or when adding new sensors.
- Connect only one sensor at a time to the main unit for ID setup.
- On the touchscreen, navigate to the