Trase Multiplexer for Array Measurements

With the Trase Muliplexer, up to 241 locations can be automatically logged to measure the dielectric and subsequent moisture properties of soil or other materials. Using the Multiplexer, the Trase automatically logs the soil moisture sensors at intervals ranging from once a minute to once per day. The Multiplexer is typically connected to a Trase or Minitrase unit which is located in the field and is powered by a solar panel. Frequently also, there is mobile phone communication to enable remote retrieval of data and monitoring of system status.

The Multiplexer enclosure is custom manufactured by ICT International specifically to customer requirements. A typical enclosure would contain one or two 16 channel TDR Switching Boards (part number 6021C16). For example, two of these 16 channel TDR Switching Boards are daisy chained to enable 31 soil moisture sensors to be logged simultaneously. The enclosure can be built and configured for up to 16 x 16 channel TDR Switching Boards providing a maximum number of 241 measurement points that can be multiplexed from the one Trase or Minitrase at any single location.

The Multiplexer Interconnect Board Assembly, part number Z6020-100K1, is placed in the outer wall of the Multiplexer Enclosure. This provides the connection between the TDR Switching Boards and the Trase System. The connections are both serial and also coaxial for the pulse.

This is a waterproof enclosure.

Applications Image Gallery Click the image thumbnail for full size

Links and Brochures Time Domain Reflectometry (TDR) Soil Moisture Measurement
References – Time Domain Reflectometry (TDR) Soil Moisture Measurement
Mini-TRASE Mini-TRASE Specification sheet
TRASE System 1 TRASE System 1 Specification sheet
Buriable Waveguides
Soil Science Instrumentation

EST NSW Australia