How to Use TEROS 10 soil water content sensor: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The TEROS 10 Soil Water Content Sensor by Meter Group is a high-precision sensor designed to measure the volumetric water content (VWC) in soil. This sensor provides accurate and reliable data, making it an essential tool for agricultural and environmental monitoring. Its robust design ensures durability and consistent performance in various soil conditions.

• Agriculture: Monitoring soil moisture levels to optimize irrigation and improve crop yield.
• Environmental Monitoring: Assessing soil moisture for research and conservation projects.
• Horticulture: Ensuring optimal soil conditions for plant growth in gardens and greenhouses.
• Forestry: Studying soil moisture dynamics in forest ecosystems.

1. Power Supply: Connect the VCC pin to a power supply ranging from 3.6 to 15 VDC.
2. Ground Connection: Connect the GND pin to the ground of your circuit.
3. Data Output: Connect the DATA pin to an analog input of your microcontroller or data acquisition system.

• Calibration: Ensure the sensor is properly calibrated for the specific soil type you are measuring.
• Installation: Insert the sensor into the soil at the desired depth, ensuring good contact between the sensor and the soil.
• Protection: Protect the sensor from physical damage and extreme environmental conditions to maintain accuracy and longevity.
• Data Logging: Use a data logger or microcontroller to continuously monitor and record soil moisture levels.

// TEROS 10 Soil Water Content Sensor Example Code
// This code reads the analog voltage from the TEROS 10 sensor and converts it
// to volumetric water content (VWC).

const int sensorPin = A0; // Analog input pin that the sensor is attached to
float sensorVoltage = 0;  // Variable to store the sensor voltage
float VWC = 0;            // Variable to store the volumetric water content

void setup() {
  Serial.begin(9600); // Initialize serial communication at 9600 baud
}

void loop() {
  // Read the analog value from the sensor
  int sensorValue = analogRead(sensorPin);
  
  // Convert the analog value to voltage (assuming 5V reference)
  sensorVoltage = sensorValue * (5.0 / 1023.0);
  
  // Convert the voltage to volumetric water content (VWC)
  // The conversion formula depends on the sensor's calibration
  VWC = (sensorVoltage / 3.0) * 100.0; // Example conversion formula
  
  // Print the VWC to the Serial Monitor
  Serial.print("VWC: ");
  Serial.print(VWC);
  Serial.println("%");
  
  delay(1000); // Wait for 1 second before taking another reading
}

1. Inaccurate Readings:

   • Solution: Ensure the sensor is properly calibrated for the specific soil type. Check for good contact between the sensor and the soil.

2. No Output Signal:

   • Solution: Verify the power supply voltage is within the specified range (3.6 to 15 VDC). Check all connections for continuity and proper contact.

3. Fluctuating Readings:

   • Solution: Ensure the sensor is securely installed in the soil. Minimize external disturbances and vibrations.

• Check Connections: Ensure all connections are secure and free from corrosion or damage.
• Power Supply: Verify the power supply voltage is stable and within the specified range.
• Calibration: Regularly calibrate the sensor to maintain accuracy, especially when measuring different soil types.
• Environmental Factors: Protect the sensor from extreme temperatures, moisture, and physical damage.

By following this documentation, users can effectively utilize the TEROS 10 Soil Water Content Sensor for accurate and reliable soil moisture measurements in various applications.