Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your Davis Instruments Soil Moisture Sensor (Model AO-32045-07). This sensor is designed to accurately measure soil moisture levels, providing valuable data for agricultural, horticultural, and environmental monitoring applications when integrated with a compatible Davis Instruments weather station.
Safety Information
- Handle the sensor with care to avoid damage to the probe or cable.
- Ensure all connections are secure to prevent electrical issues or data loss.
- Do not attempt to open or modify the sensor, as this may void the warranty and cause malfunction.
- Keep out of reach of children.
Package Contents
Verify that all components are present:
- Davis Instruments Soil Moisture Sensor (Model AO-32045-07) with attached cable.
- Instruction Manual (this document).
Figure 1: Davis Instruments Soil Moisture Sensor. The sensor features a perforated cylindrical probe and a long green cable with exposed wires for connection.
Setup and Installation
1. Pre-Installation Preparation
- Soaking the Sensor: Before installation, it is recommended to soak the sensor overnight in water. This helps to ensure accurate initial readings by fully saturating the sensor's internal components.
- Site Selection: Choose a representative location for soil moisture measurement. Consider factors such as sun exposure, drainage, and plant type.
2. Physical Installation
- Borehole Creation: Create a small hole in the soil to the desired depth using an auger or similar tool. The hole should be slightly larger than the sensor probe.
- Sensor Placement: Carefully insert the sensor into the prepared hole. Ensure the sensor is in full contact with the soil. Avoid air gaps around the sensor, as these can lead to inaccurate readings.
- Backfilling: Gently backfill the hole with soil, compacting it lightly around the sensor to ensure a tight fit.
3. Electrical Connection
- Cable Routing: Route the sensor cable to your compatible Davis Instruments weather station or data logger. Ensure the cable is protected from physical damage and environmental elements.
- Connecting to Weather Station: Connect the sensor's 3-pin cable to the designated soil moisture input port on your Davis Instruments weather station console or wireless transmitter. Refer to your weather station's manual for specific wiring diagrams and configuration instructions.
- Securing Connections: Ensure all electrical connections are secure and protected from moisture.
Figure 2: Example of a comprehensive environmental monitoring setup, illustrating potential placement for a soil moisture sensor in a garden bed.
Operation
Once properly installed and connected, the Davis Instruments Soil Moisture Sensor will continuously measure the volumetric water content of the soil. The data will be transmitted to your compatible Davis Instruments weather station, where it can be viewed and logged.
- Data Interpretation: Soil moisture readings are typically displayed as a percentage or in units of centibars (cb) or kilopascals (kPa), indicating the tension with which water is held in the soil. Higher numbers (closer to 0 cb/kPa) indicate wetter soil, while lower numbers (higher cb/kPa) indicate drier soil.
- Calibration: While the sensor is factory-calibrated, specific soil types may benefit from field calibration to optimize accuracy for your particular application. Refer to your weather station's manual for advanced calibration procedures.
Maintenance
- Regular Checks: Periodically inspect the sensor cable for any signs of damage, such as cuts or fraying.
- Sensor Cleaning: If the sensor needs to be removed from the soil, gently clean any accumulated dirt or debris from the probe using a soft brush and water. Avoid abrasive materials.
- Re-installation: If the sensor is re-installed, follow the "Setup and Installation" guidelines to ensure proper contact with the soil.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No soil moisture readings | Loose or incorrect wiring; sensor not recognized by weather station. | Check all cable connections. Ensure the sensor is properly configured in your weather station's settings. Refer to your weather station manual. |
| Inaccurate or erratic readings | Poor soil contact; air gaps around sensor; sensor not properly soaked. | Re-install the sensor ensuring tight soil contact. Verify the sensor was soaked before initial installation. Consider field calibration for specific soil types. |
| Sensor appears damaged | Physical impact; environmental exposure. | Inspect for visible damage. If severely damaged, replacement may be necessary. Contact Davis Instruments support. |
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Number | AO-32045-07 |
| Brand | Davis Instruments |
| Product Dimensions | 5.51 x 4.72 x 0.79 inches |
| Item Weight | 3.53 ounces |
| Material | Plastic |
| Connectivity Technology | 3-pin sensor connection |
| Sensor Technology | Resistance-based |
| Power Source | External power from weather station |
| Batteries Included | No |
Warranty and Support
For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official Davis Instruments website or contact their customer service department. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.
Davis Instruments Official Website: www.davisinstruments.com
