The Continuous Logging Soil Moisture Probes developed by DFM Software Solutions are multilevel soil moisture content and temperature-logging devices.

The probe measures moisture content and temperature readings at 6 depths in a soil profile as well as measuring surface temperature. These readings are taken at hourly intervals, but the user has the option to customize reading intervals. If the interval is left to default the probe can store up to 4000 readings locally, which is approximately 5 and a half month's worth of readings.

The probes guarantee accuracy and reliability, as they are temperature compensated and are not adversely influenced by salinity levels. They are affordable, easy to use and have proved to be reliable in the field seeing that the outer shell of the probe is made of UV stabilized PVC and the inner shell is a solid resin cast.

Through continuous soil moisture content logging, farmers will be able to prevent over and under watering, prevent unnecessary crop stress, promote root development and improve fertilizer uptake. It will also prevent unnecessary energy use and ultimately save costs.

The data collected by the probes are downloaded to the DFM Probe Utilities Software, a user-friendly package that provides the user with an abundance of information that can be used to schedule effectively and efficiently.

Why CONTINUOUS logging?

• Prevent over and under watering.
• Promotes root development.
• Creates ideal air - water balance.
• Prevents unnecessary crop stress
• Improves fertilizer uptake
• Optimizes salinity management
• Facilitates crop manipulation
• Manages soil water buffer.

The DFM Probe Utilities software package is used to interpret the soil moisture content and temperatures of the DFM Continuous Logging Soil Moisture Probes. With the use of the accurate information from the probes, informed irrigation decisions can be made and implemented.

The Depth graph allows the user to see how moisture moves through the profile of the block and also which areas are depleted quicker than others.

The Level graph allows the user to view each sensor level together or independently. This allows the user to determine to which depth the irrigation penetrates the soil and if it necessary to adjust the irrigation time to prevent unnecessary depth wetting.

The logger serves as the interface between the user and the probe. It can be used to force readings, show the value of the last reading taken, change the reading interval, put probe into “Sleep” mode, etc. The logger is powered by a 9V battery which is non rechargeable and easily replaced. The logger puts itself into “Sleep” mode to conserve battery power and has an RS232 interface to download the information.

The Sum graph allows the user to determine how long the last irrigation will last and when to apply the following irrigation. Full and refill points can be set, by the user, on the sum graph to indicate field capacity and at what point the soil is too dry.

DFM Probe Utilities provides the user with a Withdrawals section that can simplify the scheduling of irrigations. The program will determine the usage of the plant and how much moisture is available in the profile and estimate the next irrigation time according to these factors.

All irrigation records can be kept track of in the irrigation records section of the software, and keeps a total for the season. All irrigations that are recorded are also displayed on the level graph, and the sum graph, making it easier to determine whether the movement in the graphs was caused by irrigation or rain.

The Climate data section of the program stores all climate data such as Evapotranspiration, Rain, Temperatures (High, Low and Average), Relative Humidity (High, Low and Average), Radiation, Wind speed and Expected Evapotranspiration. Climate data can be automatically downloaded from the Davis Weather Station or entered by hand.

The software gives one an abundance of information that can be used to schedule effectively and efficiently, and more important is very user friendly.