SS1 SunScan plant canopy analyser Description：

Datasheet User's Manual

Measures incident and transmitted PAR in canopies

Direct display of Leaf Area Index (LAI)

Usable in cloudy and clear conditions

Proven, research-grade canopy analyser

Ideal for phenotyping applications

The SunScan plant canopy analyzer system uses field measurements of Photosynthetically Active Radiation (PAR) in crop canopies to provide valuable information about Leaf Area Index (LAI) and biomass production.

The SunScan plant canopy analyser is optimised to measure PAR in low regular canopies such as most agricultural crops. The 1m probe enables rapid spatial averaging of large areas and PAR mapping for non-uniform crops such as vineyards and orchards. With the unique BF5 reference PAR sunshine sensor, the SunScan plant canopy analyser can be used in most weather conditions.

Ease of use

The SunScan plant canopy analyzer probe consists of 64 PAR Sensors embedded in a 1 m long probe. Whenever a reading is taken, all sensors are scanned and the measurements sent to a hand-held PDA, type RPDA3, via an RS232 interface. The average PAR level from the Probe is read, but all 64 individual readings can be stored for more complete PAR mapping, or making linear transects. Automatic logging can be selected to obtain readings over a period of time at a fixed point. If connected to a data logger the Probe can function as a Linear Quantum Sensor (also known as a line quantum sensor).

Rugged PDA

The RPDA3 is an exceptionally robust handheld PDA which collects and analyses readings from the SunScan Probe. Raw readings, and derived functions such as LAI, can be displayed, reviewed and stored in the field by the SunData Software; groups of readings can be averaged if required. Readings are stored in the internal memory which holds > 1 million readings, or in widely available micro SD cards which provide removable data storage. Collected data can be transferred easily to a PC.

Unique above-canopy reference sensor

The SunScan’s unique feature is an optional reference sensor, integrated into the design, to measure simultaneously the direct and diffuse light above the canopy. The BF5 Sunshine Sensor provides these above-canopy reference measurements quickly and conveniently. The BF5 uses an array of photodiodes and a unique shading pattern to calculate whether the sun is shining and to measure the direct and diffuse components of solar radiation. This completely avoids the need for troublesome shade ring adjustments required with conventional diffuse light sensors.

Radio Link option

An optional radio link connects the SunScan Probe and the BF5 reference sensor, removing the need for long connecting cables. The link operates over the 434 MHz licence-free frequency and can transmit up to 250 m line-of-sight or 100 m to 200 m in vegetation.

Specification