TEROS PRODUCTS
TEROS Line
Improved sensor design for durability with a field lifespan of 10+ years. The TEROS Borehole Install Tool (TBIT) makes the installation of these sensors faster, easier, and less prone to error while minimizing site disturbance.
TEROS 10
Simple Soil Water Content Sensor
The new, ultra-robust TEROS 10 soil moisture sensor delivers scientific accuracy and reliability at a price that makes large sensor networks economically practical.
- Long-life soil moisture sensor
- Robust epoxy body means it lasts for 10+ years in the field
- Easy integration with third-party systems
Characterize variability. Cover more space.
If you’re planning a large soil water content sensor network and want more measurements for less investment, without compromising accuracy or reliability, then plan to use the easy, affordable, and ruggedized TEROS 10 soil moisture sensor.
Everything you need. Nothing you don’t.
The TEROS 10 soil water content sensor is a ruggedized version of our basic, no-frills soil moisture sensor. Its 70-MHz frequency minimizes salinity and textural effects, making it accurate in most soil or soilless media. With a tough, epoxy body, the TEROS 10 is designed to withstand some of the harshest field conditions, which means problem-free measurements over the longevity of your research. We’re so confident about the long life of our TEROS 10, 11, and 12 sensor line, we’ve increased our standard warranty from one to three years.
Long-lasting precision that’s low cost
The TEROS 10 sensor lets you characterize your site with sensors at multiple depths and locations, even on a tight budget. It’s built to last longer in the field under harsh conditions. No more worrying about surprise data gaps due to failed sensors. It’s one of our toughest soil moisture sensors, and its body withstands difficult environments for up to 10 years. Ideal for large sensing networks, it is sensitive to small VWC changes across the entire range of soil and substrate water content and can be installed in anything from dry desert soils to very wet peat. Not only that, the TEROS 10 has very low power consumption and a high resolution.
Simple integration. Simplified data collection.
The analog signal from the TEROS 10 sensor ensures that it can be easily integrated into a wide variety of non-METER systems. METER data loggers simplify your setup: plug the TEROS 10 into a data logger port, configure the port to read TEROS 10 data using the ZENTRA Utility mobile app, and start collecting data. It’s that easy. No wiring. No programming. Combine the TEROS 10 with the new ZL6, where all data are connected and delivered through the cloud. Collect data in near-real time from the comfort of your office, or anywhere in the world.
Faster, better installation
More than just a sensor, the new TEROS 10 eliminates common problems that cause uncertainty in the data—things like air gaps and preferential flow. How? The TEROS 10 is compatible with the TEROS Borehole Installation Tool which mistake-proofs installation. Because of its mechanical advantage, the tool delivers consistent, flawless installation into any soil type (even hard clay) while minimizing site disturbance. Sensors are installed straight in and perpendicular with no side-to-side movement, then gently released to prevent air gaps and preferential flow. This means the TEROS 10 delivers more accuracy with less uncertainty than similar sensors on the market. And, with improved high-quality, sharpened, and securely fastened stainless steel needles, the TEROS 10 glides into any soil.
Feature summary
- Low-cost, ruggedized soil moisture sensor
- Ideal for large sensor networks
- Sharpened stainless steel needles are securely fastened and reduce breakage
- Compatible with TEROS Borehole Installation Tool ensuring fast, error-free installation with little site disturbance
- 3-year long-life guarantee
- Check installation or troubleshoot with the ZSC Bluetooth sensor interface
- Measure VWC in a harsh environment
- Robust epoxy body means it lasts for 10+ years in the field
- 430 mL volume of influence
- Repeatability can be checked with an accuracy verification standard
- Plug and play with METER data loggers
- Ferrite core eliminates cable noise
- Easy integration with third-party systems
Volumetric Water Content
Range
Mineral Soil Calibration: 0.00–0.64 m3/m3
Soilless Media Calibration: 0.0–0.7 m3/m3
Apparent Dielectric Permittivity (εa): 1 (air) to 80 (water)
NOTE:The VWC range is dependent on the media the sensor is calibrated to. A custom calibration will accommodate the necessary ranges for most substrates.
Resolution
0.0010 m3/m3
Accuracy
Mineral Soil Calibration: ±0.03 m3/m3 typical in mineral soils that have solution EC <8 dS/m
Soilless Media Calibration: ±0.05 m3/m3 typical in media that has a solution EC <8 dS/m
Medium Specific Calibration: ±0.01–0.02 m3/m3 in any porous medium
Apparent Dielectric Permittivity (εa): 1–40 (soil range) , ±1 εa (unitless) 40–80, 15% of measurement
Measurement Specifications
Dielectric Measurement Frequency
70 MHz
Measurement Volume
Communication Specifications
Output
1,000 – 2,500 mV
Data Logger Compatibility
Data acquisition systems capable of switched 3.0–15 VDC excitation and single-ended voltage measurement at greater than or equal to 12-bit resolution.
See compatibility chart
Physical Specifications
Dimensions
Length: 5.1 cm (2.02 in)
Width: 2.4 cm (0.95 in)
Height: 7.5 cm (2.95 in)
Needle Length
5.4 cm (2.11 in)
Operating Temperature Range
Minimum: -40.00 °C
Typical: NA
Maximum: 60.00 °C
NOTE:Sensors may be used at higher temperatures under certain conditions; Contact Customer Support for assistance.
Cable Length
5 m (standard)
40 m (maximum custom cable length)
NOTE: Contact Customer Support if a nonstandard cable length is needed.
Cable Diameter
0.165 ± .004 (4.20 ± .10 mm) with min. jacket of .030 (.76 mm)
Connector Types
3.5-mm stereo plug connector or stripped and tinned wires
Stereo Plug Connector Diameter
3.5 mm
Conductor Gauge
22 AWG/24 AWG drain wire
Electrical and Timing Characteristics
Supply Voltage (VIN to GND)
Minimum: 3.0 VDC
Typical: NA
Maximum: 15.0 VDC
Measurement Duration
Minimum: 10 ms
Typical: NA
Maximum: NA
Other
Compliance
EM ISO/IEC 17050:2010 (CE Mark)
2014/30/EU 2011/65/EU
EN61326-1:2013 EN55022/CISPR 22
EN 55011:2016/A1:2017 (GROUP 1, CLASS A-RCM mark)
GSA
TEROS 11
Advanced Soil Moisture & Temperature Sensor
The TEROS 11 delivers a large volume of influence, reduced sensor-to-sensor variability, and an ultra-rugged form factor, which lasts up to 10 years in the field.
- Long-life soil moisture and temperature sensor
- Increased volume of influence (1010 mL)
- Robust, epoxy body for tough field conditions
Characterize variability. Cover more space.
You need sensor longevity
Soil can be highly variable in space, requiring many measurements and frustrating amounts of your research dollars. Not to mention the extra cost and hassle of replacement sensors if you need long-term data. Make large sensor networks simpler, longer-lasting, and more affordable with the ultra-dependable TEROS 11 soil moisture and temperature sensor.
Better accuracy—verified
The TEROS 11 uses a completely new calibration procedure that maximizes accuracy and minimizes sensor-to-sensor variability while keeping the cost reasonable. So you can be confident that every sensor you install is going to read exactly like the next one. Unlike other sensors on the market which spec an unverifiable ±1.0% VWC accuracy, the TEROS 11 was rigorously tested by our soil physicists across a challenging range of soil types and EC levels so you can be confident in the accuracy of your data.
Plus, TEROS sensor repeatability can be checked with an accuracy verification standard. No other soil moisture sensor has this ability. Just slide the verification clip onto a sensor and plug it into a logger. If it reads within the right range, your sensor is good to go.
Small sensor lets you think bigger
The TEROS 11 volumetric soil moisture sensor delivers the best volume of influence to sensor size on the market so you’re less susceptible to soil variability errors. We’ve optimized the circuitry in this 9.4-cm sensor to deliver an incredible one-liter volume of influence (versus the 200 mL typical for most sensors). Most soil sensors that measure this much volume are 20 cm or longer, causing installation headaches. Not only that, you can cut your installation time in half or more when you install with the new Borehole Installation tool. The tool mistake-proofs installation, eliminating common errors that cause uncertainty in the data—like air gaps, or preferential flow. And the TEROS 11 is plug and play with the cloud-connected ZL6 logger. No programming required. See your data instantly in real time, wherever you are.
Unbeatable price to performance ratio
Soil can be highly variable in space, requiring many measurements and frustrating amounts of your research dollars. Not to mention the extra cost and hassle of replacement sensors if you need long-term data. Make large sensor networks simpler, longer-lasting, and more affordable with the ultra-dependable TEROS 11 soil moisture and temperature sensor.
With you for the long haul—guaranteed
The culmination of our new TEROS water content line, the plug-and-play TEROS 11 makes your life easier with a large volume of influence, reduced sensor-to-sensor variability, and a near-bulletproof form factor—which lasts up to 10 years in the field. These innovations, along with our well-published capacitance technology, an accuracy verification standard, real-time, remote data visualization with ZENTRA Cloud, and a blazing fast installation tool have combined to generate our most accurate, easy-to-use, highly durable—yet still economical—soil moisture sensor. We’re so confident about the long life of our TEROS 10, 11, and 12 sensor line, we’ve increased our standard warranty from one to three years.
Legendary technology—long-lasting performance
Backed by over 20 years of soil moisture research, the TEROS 11 combines METER’s well-tested 70 MHz circuitry with an extremely ruggedized epoxy fill and securely attached, sharpened stainless steel needles that easily slip into the soil and are resistant to salts, so you can worry less about sensor deterioration. Very low power consumption and a high resolution provide increased precision over a longer period of time. If you’re planning a long-term large sensor network and want long-lasting performance for less work and less of your research budget, then choose the TEROS 11.
Feature summary
Ferrite core eliminates cable noise
Increased volume of influence (1010 mL)
Easy installation with borehole installation tool (minimizes air gaps for cleaning readings)
Dependable, long-life volumetric soil moisture sensor
Plug and play with the ZL6 logger
Real-time, remote data visualization with ZENTRA Cloud
Reduced sensor-to-sensor variability
3-year long-life guarantee
Check installation or troubleshoot with the ZSC Bluetooth sensor interface
Repeatability can be checked with an accuracy verification standard
Robust, epoxy body for tough field conditions
Minimizes salinity and textural effects by using 70 MHz frequency capacitance technology
Steel needles cut through the soil for better soil-sensor contact
Easy-to-use SDI-12 communication for non-METER data loggers
Everything you need. Nothing you don’t.
The TEROS 10 soil water content sensor is a ruggedized version of our basic, no-frills soil moisture sensor. Its 70-MHz frequency minimizes salinity and textural effects, making it accurate in most soil or soilless media. With a tough, epoxy body, the TEROS 10 is designed to withstand some of the harshest field conditions, which means problem-free measurements over the longevity of your research. We’re so confident about the long life of our TEROS 10, 11, and 12 sensor line, we’ve increased our standard warranty from one to three years.
Long-lasting precision that’s low cost
The TEROS 10 sensor lets you characterize your site with sensors at multiple depths and locations, even on a tight budget. It’s built to last longer in the field under harsh conditions. No more worrying about surprise data gaps due to failed sensors. It’s one of our toughest soil moisture sensors, and its body withstands difficult environments for up to 10 years. Ideal for large sensing networks, it is sensitive to small VWC changes across the entire range of soil and substrate water content and can be installed in anything from dry desert soils to very wet peat. Not only that, the TEROS 10 has very low power consumption and a high resolution.
Simple integration. Simplified data collection.
The analog signal from the TEROS 10 sensor ensures that it can be easily integrated into a wide variety of non-METER systems. METER data loggers simplify your setup: plug the TEROS 10 into a data logger port, configure the port to read TEROS 10 data using the ZENTRA Utility mobile app, and start collecting data. It’s that easy. No wiring. No programming. Combine the TEROS 10 with the new ZL6, where all data are connected and delivered through the cloud. Collect data in near-real time from the comfort of your office, or anywhere in the world.
Faster, better installation
More than just a sensor, the new TEROS 10 eliminates common problems that cause uncertainty in the data—things like air gaps and preferential flow. How? The TEROS 10 is compatible with the TEROS Borehole Installation Tool which mistake-proofs installation. Because of its mechanical advantage, the tool delivers consistent, flawless installation into any soil type (even hard clay) while minimizing site disturbance. Sensors are installed straight in and perpendicular with no side-to-side movement, then gently released to prevent air gaps and preferential flow. This means the TEROS 10 delivers more accuracy with less uncertainty than similar sensors on the market. And, with improved high-quality, sharpened, and securely fastened stainless steel needles, the TEROS 10 glides into any soil.
Feature summary
- Low-cost, ruggedized soil moisture sensor
- Ideal for large sensor networks
- Sharpened stainless steel needles are securely fastened and reduce breakage
- Compatible with TEROS Borehole Installation Tool ensuring fast, error-free installation with little site disturbance
- 3-year long-life guarantee
- Check installation or troubleshoot with the ZSC Bluetooth sensor interface
- Measure VWC in a harsh environment
- Robust epoxy body means it lasts for 10+ years in the field
- 430 mL volume of influence
- Repeatability can be checked with an accuracy verification standard
- Plug and play with METER data loggers
- Ferrite core eliminates cable noise
- Easy integration with third-party systems
Volumetric Water Content
Range
Mineral Soil Calibration: 0.00–0.70 m3/m3
Soilless Media Calibration: 0.0–1.0 m3/m3
Apparent Dielectric Permittivity (εa): 1 (air) to 80 (water)
NOTE: The VWC range is dependent on the media the sensor is calibrated to. A custom calibration will accommodate the necessary ranges for most substrates.
Resolution
0.0010 m3/m3
Accuracy
Generic Calibration: ±0.03 m3/m3 (±3.00% VWC) typical in mineral soils that have solution EC <8,000 μS/cm
Medium Specific Calibration: ±0.01–0.02 m3/m3 in any porous medium
Apparent Dielectric Permittivity (εa): 1–40 (soil range), ±1 εa (unitless) 40–80, 15% of measurement
Measurement Specifications
Dielectric Measurement Frequency
70 MHz
Measurement Volume
Temperature
Range: −40 to +60 °C
Resolution: 0.1 °C
Accuracy: ±1.0 °C from −40 to 0 °C
±0.5 °C from 0 to +60 °C
NOTE: Temperature measurement, for applicable sensors, may not be accurate if sensor is not fully immersed in the medium of interest, due to longer equilibration time.
Communication Specifications
Output
DDI serial or SDI-12 communication protocol
Data Logger Compatibility
METER ZL6, EM60, and Em50 data loggers or any data acquisition system capable of 4.0- to 15-VDC power and serial or SDI-12 communication
See compatibility chart
Physical Specifications
Dimensions
Length: 9.4 cm (3.70 in)
Width: 2.4 cm (0.95 in)
Height: 7.5 cm (2.95 in)
Probe Length
5.5 cm (2.17 in)
Operating Temperature Range
Minimum: -40.00 °C
Typical: NA
Maximum: 60.00 °C
NOTE:Sensors may be used at higher temperatures under certain conditions; contact Customer Support for assistance.
Cable Length
5 m (standard)
75 m (maximum custom cable length)
NOTE: Contact Customer Support if a nonstandard cable length is needed.
Cable Diameter
0.165 ±0.004 (4.20 ± 0.10mm) with minimum jacket of 0.030 (0.760 mm)
Connector Types
3.5-mm stereo plug connector or stripped and tinned wires
Stereo Plug Connector Diameter
3.5 mm
Conductor Gauge
22-AWG / 24-AWG drain wire
Electrical and Timing Characteristics
Supply Voltage (VCC to GND)
Minimum: 4.0 VDC
Typical: NA
Maximum: 15.0 VDC
Digital Input Voltage (Logic High)
Minimum: 2.8 V
Typical: 3.6 V
Maximum: 5.0 V
Digital Input Voltage (Logic Low)
Minimum: -0.3 V
Typical: 0.0 V
Maximum: 0.8 V
Digital Output Voltage (Logic High)
Minimum: NA
Typical: 3.6 V
Maximum: NA
Power Line Slew Rate
Minimum: 1.0 V/ms
Typical: NA
Maximum: NA
Current Drain (During 25-ms Measurement)
Minimum: 3.0 mA
Typical: 3.6 mA
Maximum: 16.0 mA
Current Drain (While Asleep)
Minimum: NA
Typical: 0.0 mA
Maximum: NA
Power Up Time (DDI Serial)
Minimum: 80 ms
Typical: NA
Maximum: 100 ms
Power Up Time (SDI-12)
Minimum: NA
Typical: 245 ms
Maximum: NA
Power Up Time (SDI-12, DDI Serial Disabled)
Minimum: 145 ms
Typical: 155 ms
Maximum: 165 ms
Measurement Duration
Minimum: 25 ms
Typical: NA
Maximum: 150 ms
Other
Compliance
EM ISO/IEC 17050:2010 (CE Mark)
2014/30/EU and 2011/65/EU
EN61326-1:2013 and EN55022/CISPR 22
EN 55011:2016/A1:2017 (GROUP 1, CLASS A-RCM mark)
GSA
TEROS 12
Advanced Soil Moisture Sensor + Temperature and EC
The all-new TEROS 12 soil moisture sensor delivers an excellent price-to-performance ratio in a device that is easy to use and includes electrical conductivity.
- Long-life soil moisture and temperature sensor
- Increased volume of influence (1010 mL)
- Robust, epoxy body for tough field conditions
You need sensor longevity
Soil can be highly variable in space, requiring many measurements and frustrating amounts of your research dollars. Not to mention the extra cost and hassle of replacement sensors if you need long-term data. Make large sensor networks simpler, longer-lasting, and more affordable with the ultra-dependable TEROS 12 soil moisture, temperature, and EC sensor.
Better accuracy—verified
The TEROS 12 soil moisture sensor uses a completely new calibration procedure that maximizes accuracy and minimizes sensor-to-sensor variability while keeping the cost reasonable. So you can be confident that every sensor you install is going to read exactly like the next one. Unlike other sensors on the market which spec an unverifiable ±1.0% VWC accuracy, the TEROS 12 was rigorously tested by our soil physicists across a challenging range of soil types and EC levels so you can be confident in the accuracy of your data.
Plus, TEROS sensor repeatability can be checked with an accuracy verification standard. No other soil moisture sensor has this ability. Just slide the verification clip onto a sensor and plug it into a logger. If it reads within the right range, your sensor is good to go.
Small soil moisture sensor lets you think bigger
The TEROS 12 delivers the best volume of influence to sensor size on the market so you’re less susceptible to soil variability errors. We’ve optimized the circuitry in this 9.4-cm sensor to deliver an incredible one-liter volume of influence (versus the 200 mL typical for most sensors). Most soil sensors that measure this much volume are 20 cm or longer, causing installation headaches. Not only that, you can cut your installation time in half or more when you install with the TEROS Borehole Installation tool. The tool mistake-proofs installation, eliminating common errors that cause uncertainty in the data—like air gaps, or preferential flow. And the TEROS 12 is plug and play with the cloud-connected ZL6 logger. No programming required. See your data instantly in real time, wherever you are.
With you for the long haul—guaranteed
The most recent addition to our TEROS water content line, the plug-and-play TEROS 12 soil moisture, temperature, and electrical conductivity sensor makes your life easier with a large volume of influence, reduced sensor-to-sensor variability, and a near-bulletproof form factor—which lasts up to 10 years in the field. These innovations, along with our well-published capacitance technology, an accuracy verification standard, real time, remote data visualization with ZENTRA Cloud, and a blazing fast installation tool have combined to generate our most accurate, easy-to-use, highly durable—yet still economical—soil moisture sensor. We’re so confident about the long life of our TEROS 10, 11, and 12 sensor line, we’ve increased our standard warranty from one to three years.
Legendary technology—long-lasting performance
Backed by over 20 years of soil moisture research, the TEROS 12 soil moisture sensor combines METER’s well-tested 70 MHz circuitry with an extremely ruggedized epoxy fill and securely attached, sharpened stainless steel needles that easily slip into the soil and are resistant to salts, so you can worry less about sensor deterioration. Very low power consumption and a high resolution provide increased precision over a longer period of time. If you’re planning a long-term large sensor network and want long-lasting performance for less work and less of your research budget, then choose the TEROS 12.
Feature summary
- Increased volume of influence (1010 mL)
- Easy installation with Borehole installation tool (minimizes air gaps for cleaning readings)
- Dependable, long-life soil moisture sensor
- Plug and play with the ZL6 logger
- Real-time, remote data visualization with ZENTRA Cloud
- Reduced sensor-to-sensor variability
- 3-year long-life guarantee
- Check installation or troubleshoot with the ZSC Bluetooth sensor interface
- Repeatability can be checked with an accuracy verification standard
- Robust, epoxy body for tough field conditions
- Minimizes salinity and textural effects by using 70 MHz frequency capacitance technology
- Steel needles cut through the soil for better soil-sensor contact
- Easy-to-use SDI-12 communication for non-METER data loggers
- Ferrite core eliminates cable noise
Volumetric Water Content
Range
Mineral Soil Calibration: 0.00–0.70 m3/m3
Soilless Media Calibration: 0.0–1.0 m3/m3
Apparent Dielectric Permittivity (εa): 1 (air) to 80 (water)
NOTE: The VWC range is dependent on the media the sensor is calibrated to. A custom calibration will accommodate the necessary ranges for most substrates.
Resolution
0.0010 m3/m3
Accuracy
Generic Calibration: ±0.03 m3/m3 (±3.00% VWC) typical in mineral soils that have solution EC <8,000 μS/cm
Medium Specific Calibration: ±0.01–0.02 m3/m3 in any porous medium
Apparent Dielectric Permittivity (εa): 1–40 (soil range), ±1 εa (unitless) 40–80, 15% of measurement
Measurement Specifications
Temperature
Range: –40 to +60 °C
Resolution: 0.10 °C
Accuracy: ±1.0 °C from –40 to 0 °C
±0.5 °C from 0 to +60 °C
Dielectric Measurement Frequency
70 MHz
Bulk Electrical Conductivity (EC)
Range: 0–20,000 μS/cm (bulk)
Resolution: 1 μS/cm
Accuracy: +/- (5% + 10 μS/cm) from 0–10,000 μS/cm
+/- 8% from 10,000–20,000 μS/cm
Measurement Volume
Communication Specifications
Output
DDI serial or SDI-12 communications protocol
Data Logger Compatibility
METER ZL6, EM60, and Em50 data loggers or any data acquisition system capable of 4.0- to 15-VDC power and serial or SDI-12 communication
See compatibility chart
Physical Specifications
Dimensions
Length: 9.4 cm (3.70 in)
Width: 2.4 cm (0.95 in)
Height: 7.5 cm (2.95 in)
Needle Length
5.5 cm (2.17 in)
Operating Temperature Range
Minimum: -40.00 °C
Typical: NA
Maximum: 60.00 °C
NOTE:Sensors may be used at higher temperatures under certain conditions; Contact Customer Support for assistance.
Cable Length
5 m (standard)
75 m (maximum custom cable length)
NOTE: Contact Customer Support if a nonstandard cable length is needed.
Cable Diameter
0.165 ±0.004 in (4.20 ± 0.10mm) with minimum jacket of 0.030 (0.760 mm)
Connector Types
Stereo plug connector or stripped and tinned wires
Stereo Plug Connector Diameter
3.5 mm
Conductor Gauge
22-AWG / 24-AWG drain wire
Electrical and Timing Characteristics
Supply Voltage (VCC to GND)
Minimum: 4.0 VDC
Typical: NA
Maximum: 15.0 VDC
Digital Input Voltage (Logic High)
Minimum: 2.8 V
Typical: 3.6 V
Maximum: 5.0 V
Digital Input Voltage (Logic Low)
Minimum: -0.3 V
Typical: 0.0 V
Maximum: 0.8 V
Digital Output Voltage (Logic High)
Minimum: NA
Typical: 3.6 V
Maximum: NA
Power Line Slew Rate
Minimum: 1.0 V/ms
Typical: NA
Maximum: NA
Current Drain (During 25-ms Measurement)
Minimum: 3.0 mA
Typical: 3.6 mA
Maximum: 16.0 mA
Current Drain (While Asleep)
Minimum: NA
Typical: 0.0 mA
Maximum: NA
Power Up Time (DDI Serial)
Minimum: 80 ms
Typical: NA
Maximum: 100 ms
Power Up Time (SDI-12)
Minimum: NA
Typical: 245 ms
Maximum: NA
Power Up Time (SDI-12, DDI Serial Disabled)
Minimum: 145 ms
Typical: 155 ms
Maximum: 165 ms
Measurement Duration
Minimum: 25 ms
Typical: NA
Maximum: 150 ms
Other
Compliance
EM ISO/IEC 17050:2010 (CE Mark)
2014/30/EU and 2011/65/EU
EN61326-1:2013 and EN55022/CISPR 22
EN 55011:2016/A1:2017 (GROUP 1, CLASS A-RCM mark)
GSA
TEROS Borehole Installation Tool
TEROS Borehole Installation Tool was engineered to provide easier, faster, and better sensor installation at greater depths.
- Make installation something you can look forward to
- Get better soil-to-sensor contact with less effort
- Install sensors at depths farther than the arm can reach
What’s your time worth?
Digging trenches and reaching down boreholes to try and eliminate air gaps take an incredible amount of a researcher’s time and effort. Manual installation is rife with opportunities for human error. That’s why we created the TEROS Borehole Installation Tool.
Save time on installation. Get better data.
Accurate soil moisture measurement requires precise installation. If installation isn’t done right, no matter how well you calibrate, your data will be bad.
Minimize site disturbance to reduce labor and improve sensor data
The TEROS Borehole Installation Tool was specifically engineered for faster and more accurate water content sensor installation. Trenching disrupts soil pores, creating air gaps and preferential flow paths, which impacts any soil sensor’s ability to accurately measure volumetric water content. Using only a small 10 cm (4 in) hand-augered hole instead of a large trench, you can perform a deeper down-hole installation with little site disturbance and far less effort, inserting your sensors directly into minimally-disturbed soil at the exact depth you intend to measure.
The installation tool includes the equipment needed to reach depths up to 2 m, but additional extensions allow for reach to substantially deeper installations—even as deep as 10 m.
Do more with one tool
The new design allows for the installation of most TEROS sensors, including the TEROS 10, 11, and 12 soil moisture sensors and the TEROS 21 matric potential sensor. The TEROS Borehole Installation Tool includes adaptors designed to hold each sensor securely as it is pushed into the soil and released seamlessly once placed. Also included is an adaptor designed to create the pilot hole required to insert the TEROS 21 at the optimal angle. Use it for incredibly fast, consistent installation into undisturbed soil at almost any depth you choose.
Less wiggle room for error
Good soil-to-sensor contact is necessary for an accurate water content measurement. Voids between sensor needles and the surrounding soil can fill with air or water, significantly impacting the sensor reading. The TEROS Borehole Installation Tool was engineered to ensure accurate installation by eliminating air gaps and preferential flow. Because it uses mechanical leverage vs. hand application, sensors are applied straight in and perpendicular with uniform pressure (even through hard clay soils) and then gently released, resulting in clean, consistent installations. To reduce error even more, we included a plate guide that allows you to set the precise placement depth and alignment sensors at 4 spots around the borehole circle. These make documenting sensor locations easy for quicker removal and cable protection. With the TEROS Borehole Installation Tool, you can not only get a greater quantity of measurements but also be confident that each sensor has been installed correctly.
Smaller holes = less headaches
Like all of our instruments, greater accuracy comes with less effort on your part. Since the TEROS Borehole Installation Tool can install sensors at borehole depths much farther than the arm can reach, the entire process only takes about 30 minutes (vs. the two or more hours it takes to dig an equally deep trench). It’s also equipped with a flashlight so you can not only see down holes, but also make sure you get good insertions. All of which adds up to substantial time savings and less hassle.
Smarter water content sensor installation
Intensive field installations are now a thing of the past thanks to the TEROS Borehole Installation Tool’s fast, simple, and accurate insertion method. Custom manufactured by hand, this ultra-rugged instrument was engineered to provide easier, faster, and better sensor installation at greater depths, making installation something you can look forward to rather than dread.
Dimensions
Canvas bag
Length: 120.00 cm (47.24 in)
Width: 15.00 cm (5.91 in)
Height: 15.00 cm (5.91 in)
Auger
Brand: Eijkelkamp
Handle and head: 0.6 m (1.97 ft)
Diameter: 100.00 mm (3.94 in)
Extension: 1.00 m (3.28 ft)
Extension: (makes a total of 2 m long)
Blade
Length: 50.0 cm (19.7 in)
Material: Stainless steel
Handle rod
Length: 106.00 cm (41.73 in)
Diameter: 35 mm (13.78 in)
Extension outer rod
Length: 106.00 cm (41.73 in)
Diameter: 35 mm (13.78 in)
Extension inner rod
Length: 103.00 cm (40.55 in)
Diameter: 14 mm (0.55 in)
Flange
Diameter, inner: 100.00 mm (3.94 in)
Weight
Assembled
9.00 kg (19.84 lb)
TEROS 54
Soil Moisture Profile Probe
We designed the TEROS 54 soil moisture profile probe to make every step of your measurement process easier—without sacrificing accuracy or durability.
- Multi-depth profile probe measures water content and temperature
- Easy plug-and-play operation
- See all your data remotely in real-time
Simplicity without sacrifice
You need accurate soil moisture measurements from easily installed sensors without extensive excavation. Most profile probes require you to choose between ease of installation and removal, sensor accuracy, measurement volume, and durability. At METER, we weren’t willing to create a soil moisture profile probe unless it could meet all of these requirements. That’s why we made the TEROS 54.
There’s the hard way, and then there’s the right way
We designed the TEROS 54 profile probe to make every step of your measurement process easier—without sacrificing accuracy or durability. Soil water content and temperature sensors are positioned at 15, 30, 45, and 60 cm depths, providing root zone measurements without requiring soil pits or cumbersome sensor retrieval at lower depths. You get the convenience of profile measurements combined with the research-grade accuracy you’ve come to expect from METER.
Get in. Get out. Get data.
Avoid the cost, hassle, and time of large drilling equipment and pilot tubes. TEROS 54 installation only requires a simple 2 cm borehole for the robust quad-fin profile sensor to then be hammered into the soil. This creates better sensor/soil contact for more accurate readings. Removing the TEROS 54 is made simple with the dedicated extraction tool, making this sensor ideal for annual crops that require sensors to be installed and removed multiple times throughout the year.
More measurements. Less effort
Using multiple individual sensors in a large sensor network can create a cord management nightmare, requiring an overabundance of wires and using up all the ports on your data logger. The TEROS 54 alleviates this problem, connecting all the sensors to the ZL6 data logger via one wire while maintaining your ability to monitor individual sensors in ZENTRA Cloud. Best of all, the TEROS 54 is plug and play—no programming or wiring necessary.
See the bigger soil moisture picture
Other cylindrical profile probes have a minimal measurement volume, only allowing you to see what is happening in a small volume of soil. The quad-fin design of the TEROS 54 creates a large measurement volume than the typical soil moisture profile probe, providing a more holistic view of soil moisture status. More sensors per data logger combined with more soil measured with each probe means you can build a larger data pool with fewer resources. And with ZENTRA Cloud, you can see all your data remotely in real time from the comfort of your own desk.
Complete confidence in your data
Since 2001 METER has been dedicated to producing highly accurate, easy-to-use soil moisture sensors, but we haven’t offered a profile probe—until now. We made the bold decision that our profile probe had to compare to the quality and accuracy standards that environmental researchers have come to rely on from METER. With the TEROS 54, you can measure confidently, knowing your sensors are designed and constructed by scientists who understand the challenges you face and the importance of getting it right.
Feature summary
- Multi-depth soil moisture profile probe measures water content and temperature
- Installs via a small borehole without the need of a pilot tube
- Hammers directly into the soil for direct soil contact
- All sensors can be removed at once with dedicated removal tool
- Easy plug-and-play operation
- See all your data remotely in real-time
- Ideal for annual crops and soil that requires sensors to be installed and removed seasonally
- Get more measurements per logger port
- Larger measurement volume
- Reduced labor during installation and removal
- Accurate research-grade soil moisture measurements
- Sensors provide profile measurements throughout and around most root zones
- Robust design means durability during installation and through operation in harsh conditions
Volumetric Water Content
Range
Mineral Soil Calibration: 0.00−0.70 m3/m3
NOTE: The VWC range is dependent on the media the sensor is calibrated to. A custom calibration will accommodate the necessary ranges for most substrates.
Soilless media calibration: 0.00-1.00 m3/m3
Resolution
0.001 m3/m3
Accuracy
Generic Calibration: ±0.05 m3/m3 typical in mineral soils that have solution EC < 8 dS/m
Medium Specific Calibration: ±0.02–0.03 m3/m3 in any porous medium
Apparent Dielectric Permittivity (εα): 1–40 (soil range), ±1 (εα) (unitless)
40–80, 15% of measurement
Measurement Specifications
Dielectric Measurement Frequency
70 MHz
Measurement Volume
Temperature
Range: –20 to +60 °C
Resolution: 0.03 °C
Accuracy: ±0.5 °C from –20°C to +0 °C
±0.25 °C from 0°C to 60 °C
Measurement Depths
15, 30, 45, and 60 cm
Communication Specifications
Output
DDI Serial and SDI-12 communications protocol
3-wire cable version
4-wire cable version
RS-485 Modbus RTU and tensioLINK serial communications protocol
4-wire version
Data Logger Compatibility
METER ZL6 and EM60 data loggers or any data acquisition system capable of 4.0- to 24.0-VDC power and serial interface with SDI-12 and/or RS-485 interface, Modbus RTU, or tensioLINK communication.
Physical Specifications
Dimensions
Diameter: (Shaft) 6.0 cm (2.36 in)
Length: 75.0 cm (29.53 in)
Width: (Head) 11.0 cm (4.33 in)
Operating Temperature Range
Minimum: –20 °C
Maximum: +60 °C
Cable Length
Standard: 5.0 m (stereo plug and stripped and tinned wires)
75.0 m (maximum custom cable length)
5.0 m (M12 connector)
NOTE: Contact Customer Support if a nonstandard cable length is needed.
Cable Diameter
Stereo Plug: 4.2 ±0.2 mm (0.16 ±0.01 in) with minimum jacket of 0.8 mm (0.031 in)
M12 Plug: 5.5 ±0.2 mm (0.22 ±0.01 in) with minimum jacket of 1.0 mm (0.039 in)
Connector Size
3.50 mm (diameter)
14.4 mm (diameter M12)
Connector Types
Stereo plug connector or stripped and tinned wires
4-pin M12 connector or stripped and tinned wires
Conductor Gauge
Stereo Plug: 22-AWG / 24-AWG ground wire
M12 Plug: 22-AWG
Electrical and Timing Characteristics
Supply Voltage Power to Ground
Minimum: 4.0 VDC
Maximum: 24.0 VDC
Digital Input Voltage (Logic High)
Minimum: 2.8 V
Typical: 3.6 V
Maximum: 5.0 V
Digital Input Voltage (Logic Low)
Minimum: –0.3 V
Typical: 0.0 V
Maximum: 0.8 V
Digital Output Voltage (Logic High)
Typical: 3.6 V
Power Line Slew Rate
Minimum: 1.0 V/ms
Current Drain (During Measurement)
Minimum: 3 mA (during 500-ms measurement)
Typical: 35 mA (during 500-ms measurement)
Maximum: 50 mA (during 500-ms measurement)
Current Drain (While Asleep)
Minimum: 0.03 mA
Typical: 0.1 mA
Power Up Time (DDI Serial)
Minimum: 500 ms
Maximum: 800 ms
Power Up Time (SDI-12)
Typical: 1,000 ms
Power Up Time (SDI-12, DDI Serial Disabled)
Minimum: 500 ms
Typical: 600 ms
Maximum: 800 ms
Measurement Duration
Minimum: 500 ms (4 depths)
Maximum: 800 ms
Other
Compliance
EM ISO/IEC 17050:2010 (CE Mark)