Name: WET150 Multi-Parameter Soil Sensor
Brand: Delta-T Devices
SKU: IDELWET150
Availability: OutOfStock

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The digital WET150 Multi-Parameter Soil Sensor represents the culmination of forty years of research and development at Delta-T Devices. Through several key design innovations, it delivers research-grade accuracy and build quality at a price point not previously thought possible. It is the ideal sensor for research on soil conditions and for integration into SDI-12 environmental and horticultural measurement and control systems.

Accurate monitoring of soil and substrate conditions

When installed in growing media, the WET150 Multi-Parameter Soil Sensor can provide the accurate data required to power effective SDI-12-enabled automatic precision irrigation and environmental control systems, enabling reduced use of water and fertilizer while improving yields and the quality of produce.

The rugged, watertight build of the WET150 Multi-Parameter Soil Sensor also makes it ideal for use in field research and outdoor farming; sensors can be left buried over very long periods without loss of performance. WET150 Multi-Parameter Soil Sensors can also be buried at different depths to enable monitoring of soil moisture, temperature, and EC profiles.

Digital SDI-12 Interface

The WET150 Multi-Parameter Soil Sensor is a digital SDI-12 sensor (fully compliant with SDI-12 version 1.3 standards). SDI-12 is a standardised interface for connecting digital sensors to a master device, typically an SDI-12-compatible data logger, wireless node, controller, or computer. SDI-12 defines both the digital communications and sensor power standards.

A key strength of SDI-12 is that it supports the connection of multiple networked sensors to a single input on an SDI-12-enabled master device, cutting costs and complexity. The WET150 Multi-Parameter Soil Sensor (like all SDI-12 Sensors) is low power and features an integrated microprocessor that enables it to perform two-way communication with an SDI-12 master device. The WET150 outputs readings in a standard SDI-12 format, which can be sent to and recognised by the master device. The inclusion of a microprocessor also gives the WET150 the ability to perform complex internal correction, compensation, and averaging algorithms that enhance the quality of the data.

SDI-12 protocol is based on a master-slave configuration. When installed in an SDI-12 network, individually addressed WET150s (slaves) are sent data requests by the master device. These requests briefly wake all WET150s in the network – and result in a measurement and data-sending response from the targeted WET150. When not responding to a master request, all WET150s remain in a dormant energy-saving state.

The Key Benefits of SDI-12

Use many sensors with just a single master device, reducing complexity and costs
Low-power systems that run off battery and are powered via the bus interface
Many parameters can be transmitted over simplified wiring
There is no loss of accuracy over large cable runs.
Ideal for wireless communication-based applications

Click here for an introduction to the SDI-12 digital interface.

Cables and connectors

The WET150 Multi-Parameter Soil Sensor has a high-quality, stainless steel IP68-rated connector (M12 x 5-way) connecting to the standard Delta-T range of M12 x 5-way cables and accessories.

GP2 SDI-12 Data Logger—an ideal partner for the WET150 Multi-Parameter Soil Sensor

The WET150 Multi-Parameter Soil Sensor is fully compatible with the SDI-12-enabled GP2 Data Logger and Controller, which features simple point-and-click configuration. Up to 62 WET150s can be connected to a single GP2 SDI-12 Data Logger (subject to cable length and power requirements). In addition to SDI-12 input, the GP2 can log 12 analogue channels. The SDI-12-enabled GP2 Data Logger and DeltaLINK enable quick and easy creation of sensor networks without the need to resort to the often-complex programming methods typically employed by other manufacturers. Due to the flexibility of the SD1-12 interface and the GP2 Logger, multiple power and cabling configurations may be possible when building a sensor network. Please refer to the WET150 User Manual for further information. Alternatively, please contact sales@lasec.com to discuss your application in detail.

Easy installation

The WET150s sharp and strong pins minimise soil and substrate disturbance, preserving the original structure around the measurement rods, and making the probe easy to insert and install. For burial at depth, the cylindrical shape facilitates installation in augured holes. Optional extension tubes assist with placement and removal (50 cm and 100 cm lengths, connectable).

Applications

Soil science
Horticulture and Agriculture
Precision Irrigation
System integration

Data Logging and portable readout

The WET150 Multi-Parameter Soil Sensor is a dual-purpose soil moisture sensor. It can be installed in soil or substrate and connected to an SDI-12 master device (e.g., a data logger) to provide long-term moisture, temperature, and EC data. Alternatively, it can be used in kit form as a portable sensor connected to the WET150 readout meter to take instant spot measurements of moisture content and EC (when used in portable mode, the WET150 Multi-Parameter Soil Sensor does not provide temperature indication).

Calibrations

The WET150 Multi-Parameter Soil Sensor comes complete with calibrations for mineral and organic soils, plus coir, peat, and mineral wool substrate soils.

Measurement	Volumetric Water Content, Pore Water Conductivity (ECp), Permittivity, Bulk Conductivity (ECb) and Temperature
Accuracy	Volumetric Water Content: ± 0.03 m³.m^-3 (3%) Pore Water Conductivity (ECp): See graph below this table Permittivity: ± (3% of reading + 0.8 ε’) 1 → 40; ± 5% of reading 40 → 80 Bulk Conductivity (ECb): ± (10mS.m^-1 + 6%) Temperature: ± 0.5°C (0°C to +40°C range); ± 0.7°C (-20°C to +60°C range)
Soil moisture measurement range	Volumetric Water Content: Full range: 0 to 1.0 m³.m^-3; Accurate range: 0.05 to 1.0 m³.m^-3 ECb 0 to 500 mS.m^-1 Pore Water Conductivity (ECp): See graph below this table Permittivity: for ECp ≤ 800 mS.m^-1 1 → 40; for ECp ≤ 500 mS.m^-1 40 → 80 Bulk Conductivity (ECb): from 0 to 1200 mS.m^-1 Temperature: Full range: -20°C to +60°C; Accurate range: 0°C to +40°C
Output	SDI-12 protocol 1.3 Providing water content, pore water conductivity, and temperature - together with base readings of permittivity and bulk conductivity. Outputs are exceptionally configurable.
Power requirement	Operating voltage: 6 to 20 Volts Current consumption (typical values powered from 12 Volts): Active sensing: 22 mA average over 12 ms (average includes short peaks at 45 mA) Active results computation: 2 mA over 188 ms Idle: < 0.5mA
Environmental	IP68, - 20 to + 60°C
Sample volume	~55 x 70 mm diameter Sample volume is weighted towards soil immediately surrounding the rods
Dimensions	Overall: 143 x 40 mm dia Rods: 51 mm x 2.5 mm dia
Weight	77g (excl. cable)
Sensor calibrations	Individual sensors are interchangeable Recalibration advised every 5 years (depending on use)
Soil calibrations	The WET150 Sensor comes complete with calibrations for mineral and organic soils plus coir, peat, and mineral wool substrates

Notes: [1] The WET150 has been carefully optimised to provide accurate readings in soils and substrates - readings taken in water or air may not meet the full specification. [2] The ECp contour map is based on measurements from 30 sensors at 20°C in NPL* traceable media. Calculated ECp readings are derived from the Hillhorst equation, using the generalised “mineral” soil calibration and the default soil parameter = 4.1 * NPL is the UK's National Metrology Institute, developing and maintaining the national primary measurement standards.

Delta-T Devices Soil Moisture Measurement Catalogue

WET150 Sensor Data sheet

WET150 Sensor User Manual

WET150 Sensor Quick Start Guide

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