Installation Module Sensor-Hub

This section provides installation procedures for the WiForAgri Mobile Capillary Sensor-Hub module for customised sensors

1. Sensor-Hub Module Introduction

2. Sensor-Hub Module Installation Procedure

3. Correct Sensor Position

Sensor-Hub Module Introduction

Sensor-Hub WiForAgri is a wireless module with Lora or TCP transmission technology (2G/4G mobile telephony), designed to easily install customised agro-weather sensors (e.g. soil sensors) in the field.

Sensor-Hub WiForAgri is easy to install, thanks to:

• a compact and easily transportable mechanical structure

• electrical wiring of the sensors already prepared and tested by the manufacturer

• a long-lasting battery supply system

• a radio data transmission system already active on delivery

Sensor-Hub Module

WHAT YOU GET

• Sensor-Hub + pole mounting kit

• Antenna

• Mini solar panel + mounting kit

• Sensors with cable for connection to Sensor-Hub (the number and type of sensors depends on the specific configuration made for the customer)

No installation stake is provided: the Sensor-Hub module is small in weight and size, and designed for capillary use (e.g. within a row) and is easily installed on any existing stake or directly on the plant

Sensor-Hub Module Installation Procedure

Locate the exact installation point depending on the measurement purpose of the sensors provided. Ensure that the installation point identified allows the solar panel to be positioned in the SOUTH direction (approximately) without obvious obstructions and shading during the day.

Follow the following steps for correct installation:

1. Gently screw the supplied antenna onto the connector at the top of the datalogger (A4 in the picture); tighten the antenna as far as it will go by hand only (do not use tools).

Top view of Sensor-Hub module, connector (A4)

1. Connect the supplied sensors and the solar panel to the connectors on the bottom of the Sensor-Hub. Each sensor has its own precise position on connectors 1-4: follow the manufacturer's instructions during shipment and/or service.

• The solar panel must always be connected to B6

• B5 is the ON/OFF button

View of connectors on the bottom of the Sensor-Hub Module

1. Insert the metal clamps provided and secure the datalogger on the identified pole

Metal ties and pole installation

It is recommended at least one metre from the ground and in a place where you have good data connectivity (check with your mobile phone)

1. Install the solar panel on a pole by tightening its U. Orient the panel in a southerly direction (approximately), as high as possible and in an area with good sun exposure.

2. Switch on the datalogger by pressing the B5 button:

• The LED on the button remains lit for 5 sec. after switching on

• Thereafter the LED will light up for approx. 2 minutes at each periodic sensor reading cycle.

Correct Sensor Position

Leaf Wetting Sensor

The leaf wetness sensor is the white ‘leaf’.

Leaf Wetting Sensor

Hold the side with the grooves upwards forming an angle of approximately 45 degrees with the ground. Then secure the sensor with plastic ties or wire near the plant leaves.

Temperature and air humidity sensor

Il sensore è all’interno dello shield protettivo. Questo va bloccato su palo con le relative U a circa 1.5m da terra o nella zona di interesse per la misura a seconda del caso applicativo specifico.

Temperature and air humidity sensor

Soil sensors

For the correct positioning of soil sensors, it is necessary to dig a vertical hole in the ground wide enough to allow the sensor to be inserted into the hole horizontally, i.e. with the needles parallel to the soil surface. The depth of the hole must be just enough to position the sensor at the desired depth, which is usually that of the root system of the plant to be monitored. Do not dig large holes: the less you move the soil around the sensor, the more accurate the measurement will be.

Place the sensor in the hole and insert all the needles into the soil horizontally, i.e. poking the ‘un-dugged’ soil to the side of the hole. Fill the hole (possibly also the excess space under the sensor) by compacting the soil well.

Soil Sensors

Wind intensity and direction sensor

Once the pole has been installed, accurately locate the north direction at the installation site. This will serve as a reference for orienting the sensor, in particular by pointing the arrow at the base of the module:

Wind intensity and direction sensor

Screw the supplied data cable onto the connector at the base of the S200 module, as shown in the figure:

Data cable in the connector

Insert the module onto the pole head, tightening the six screws provided to secure it in place. The data cable connector must be passed through the 15 mm diameter hole just below the pole head. At this stage, remember to orient the North arrow in the correct direction.

Wind sensor exposure

At this point, you can insert the data cable connector into the Hub4G module, placing it in port one. Switch on the Hub4G module by pressing the appropriate button.

The same instructions can be found in the product's packaging box.