P-Band (400 MHz) Radiometer for Vehicles
Sensor
The sensor is compatible with both 12V and 24V power systems. Its antenna connects to the data acquisition unit using 5-meter-long cables and should be positioned with an unobstructed view of the soil, away from potential sources of radio interference. Data collection can be initiated manually or triggered by vehicle motion.
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The dual-polarized P-band antenna has a 65-degree beam width. Similar to the pivot and drone-mounted sensors, this sensor captures complete polarization information.
Cloud Processing (Optional)
Following data collection, the data recorder can be linked to the Internet via an Ethernet connection. This initiates the upload of raw data to our server for processing and calibration. On the server, a series of automated steps occur, encompassing filtering to remove outliers, de-striping, gridding, partitioning into polarized and unpolarized components, and the conversion into volumetric water content. Raw and processed data are shared via Google Drive.
Online Dashboard
Sensor settings can be accessed via its WiFi access point. A user-friendly dashboard, accessible through a web browser, displays real-time raw data in the form of spectra and maps.
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In contrast to the pivot-mounted sensor, this sensor does not include a built-in cellular modem for automatic data uploads to our server.
Typical Use
Data is collected as the vehicle travels across the field along parallel transects. The vehicle should maintain a speed of 40 km/h or less. Generally, for a quarter section (160 acres), we recommend maintaining a spacing of 15-20 meters between lines, and the complete field mapping typically takes about two hours.
Antenna weight | 2.5 kg |
Data acquisition unit | Pelican 1200 case |
Antenna dimensions | 45 x 45 x 15 cm |
Antenna HPBW | 65 deg |
Operating frequency | 380 - 420 MHz |
Polarization | Dual linear (horizontal & vertical) |
Power supply | 10 - 35 VDC |
Number of FFT channels | 256 |
Max. Bandwidth | 12 MHz |
Data outputs | Brightness temperature of polarized and unpolarized component. |
Theoretical sensing depth | 50 cm |
Integration time (adjustable) | 750 ms |
