A Soil Moisture Sensor (Soil humidity Sensor) is a device used to measure the amount of moisture in the soil. They are commonly used in agriculture, horticulture, and other soil-related applications to help monitor and regulate soil moisture for plant growth.

How Soil Moisture Sensors Work

Soil moisture sensors monitor soil moisture content in real time primarily by measuring the soil's dielectric constant. When the moisture content of the soil changes, its dielectric constant changes accordingly. Therefore, by measuring the dielectric constant of the soil, the moisture content of the soil can be obtained indirectly.

Soil moisture sensors usually consist of a probe and a measurement circuit. The probe is usually made of metal or plastic, and its surface is coated with a waterproof material to prevent soil and moisture from entering the inside of the sensor. The probe is inserted into the soil, where it makes contact with the soil and measures the soil's dielectric constant. The measurement circuit is then responsible for sending signals to the probe and receiving the reflected signals from the probe. By analyzing the phase and amplitude of the reflected signal, the sensor is able to calculate the soil's dielectric constant and thus get the moisture content of the soil.

The functions of the soil moisture sensor mainly include:

1. Monitoring soil moisture content: soil moisture sensors are able to monitor the moisture content in the soil in real time and convert it into readable data. This helps the user to understand the moisture status of the soil so that appropriate measures can be taken to maintain proper moisture levels.

2. Early warning function: When the soil moisture level is below or above a preset threshold, the soil moisture sensor can send out an alarm or notification to remind the user to take action. This is very helpful in preventing unfavorable conditions such as drought or flooding.

3. Data logging and analysis: Some advanced soil moisture sensors have data logging and analysis features that can collect and store large amounts of soil moisture data. By inputting these data into computer software, users can generate charts, reports, etc. to better understand soil moisture trends and patterns.

4. Automatic control of irrigation system: based on the data from the soil moisture sensor, users can set up an automated irrigation system. When the soil moisture is below a certain level, the irrigation system will automatically turn on to provide the necessary water for the plants. This saves labor and ensures that plants get the right amount of water.

5. Scientific Research: Soil moisture sensors are also widely used in scientific research in agriculture, ecology and other related fields. By using these sensors to collect data, researchers can better understand soil moisture dynamics and how they affect plant growth and ecosystem health.

For real-time monitoring, soil moisture sensors typically use wireless transmission technology to send measurement data to a receiver or data logger. Users can view real-time soil moisture data through the receiver or data logger and perform appropriate actions as needed, such as adjusting the irrigation system, sounding alarms, etc.

In short, soil moisture sensors measure the dielectric constant of the soil to realize the function of real-time monitoring of soil moisture content. Soil moisture sensors play an important role in a number of fields, providing strong support for improving agricultural yields, protecting the ecological environment and so on.

Agriculture Sensors Catalog

Agriculture-Sensors-Catalog-NiuBoL-2024.pdf