The PCE Instruments Temperature Sensor (PCE-FST-100-2006-SMS) is a soil-monitoring sensor designed to measure both soil moisture and soil temperature for agriculture, horticulture, gardens, green spaces, irrigation systems, and environmental research. It measures soil moisture from 0 to 100% with 0.1% resolution and soil temperature from -30°C to +85°C with 0.1°C resolution. Measurement data is transmitted digitally through an RS-485 interface using the Modbus RTU communication protocol, allowing integration with compatible data loggers, PLCs, controllers, and automated irrigation systems. The sensor operates from a 12 to 24 V DC supply and includes a 1-meter connection cable. Its IP68-rated housing is designed for permanent underground installation and provides protection against water ingress during continuous soil monitoring applications. Key Features and Benefits: Dual Soil Measurement: Measures soil moisture and temperature simultaneously to provide two key environmental parameters from a single installed sensor. 0–100% Moisture Range: Covers the specified full soil moisture measurement range with 0.1% resolution. Wide Temperature Measurement: Monitors soil temperatures from -30°C to +85°C for use across varied environmental conditions. RS-485 Modbus RTU Output: Provides digital communication for integration with compatible control, logging, and automation equipment. IP68 Protection: Supports permanent placement in soil where the sensor is routinely exposed to moisture and underground conditions. 12–24 V DC Operation: Works with a common industrial DC supply range for integration into field monitoring installations. High Measurement Resolution: Provides 0.1% moisture resolution and 0.1°C temperature resolution for detailed monitoring. Environmental Monitoring Applications: Supports irrigation management, agricultural monitoring, horticultural work, and research data collection. Specifications: Brand: PCE Instruments Model / SKU: PCE-FST-100-2006-SMS Measured Material: Soil Soil Moisture Range: 0 to 100% Moisture Range 0–50%: 0.1% resolution with 3% accuracy Moisture Range 50–100%: 0.1% resolution with 5% accuracy Temperature Range: -30°C to +85°C or -22°F to +185°F Temperature Resolution: 0.1°C or 0.18°F Temperature Accuracy: ±0.5°C at 25°C or ±0.9°F Output: RS-485 Modbus RTU Cable Length: 1 meter or approximately 3.28 feet Protection Class: IP68 Power Supply: 12 to 24 V DC Operating Conditions: -40°C to 80°C and 0 to 100% RH Storage Conditions: -40°C to 80°C and 0 to 95% RH Dimensions: 135 x 45 x 13mm or approximately 5.31 x 1.77 x 0.51 inches Weight: 120 g or approximately 0.26 lbs. Package Contents: One PCE-FST-100-2006-SMS sensor and one instruction manual How to Use: Select the Location: Choose a representative area of soil where continuous moisture and temperature monitoring is required. Prepare the Soil: Create a suitable insertion area that allows the sensor to be installed with close contact against the surrounding soil. Install the Sensor: Position the sensor vertically or horizontally according to the monitoring requirement and ensure the sensing surfaces remain in direct contact with the soil. Bury the Housing: Secure the sensor underground so that it remains stable during long-term measurement. Isolate Electrical Power: Keep the DC supply disconnected while making wiring connections to the sensor and external equipment. Connect the Power Supply: Wire the integrated cable to a compatible 12–24 V DC source according to the supplied instruction manual. Connect the Data Lines: Attach the RS-485 communication conductors to a compatible data logger, PLC, controller, or irrigation system. Configure Modbus Communication: Set the connected equipment to use the required Modbus RTU communication parameters. Verify Readings: Apply power and confirm that valid soil moisture and temperature data is being received by the connected system. Monitor the Installation: Periodically check the cable, connection points, and data readings to confirm continued proper operation. Benefits of Using PCE Instruments Temperature Sensor (PCE-FST-100-2006-SMS): Supports Irrigation Decisions: Continuous soil moisture readings provide objective data that can be used to guide watering schedules. Combines Two Measurements: Soil temperature and moisture data can be collected from the same installed sensor instead of using separate devices. Supports Automated Monitoring: Digital Modbus communication allows readings to be incorporated into compatible automated irrigation or environmental control systems. Improves Research Data Collection: Fine measurement resolution supports detailed tracking of changing soil conditions over time. Reduces Manual Checking: Permanent installation allows connected systems to collect measurements without repeatedly inserting a handheld instrument. Supports Long-Term Outdoor Use: The IP68 enclosure is suited to continuous underground exposure within the sensor’s specified operating conditions. Simplifies System Integration: Standard RS-485 Modbus RTU communication provides a widely used interface for compatible industrial monitoring equipment. Features: Sub-Surface Sensor Housing: Uses a compact probe-style configuration intended for direct installation in soil. Integrated RS-485 Interface: Provides digital data transmission through the Modbus RTU protocol. Integrated 1-Meter Cable: Provides the electrical and communication connection between the buried sensor and external equipment. Compact Dimensions: Measures 135 x 45 x 13mm for installation in agricultural beds, gardens, and research locations. Wide Environmental Tolerance: Supports specified operating conditions from -40°C to 80°C. Dual Sensing Elements: Incorporates measurement capability for both soil moisture and soil temperature. Low-Voltage DC Interface: Operates from a 12–24 V DC external supply.