RoHS 3 compliant using exemption 6c. Further note that Apogee Instruments does not specifically run any analysis on our raw materials or end products for the presence of these substances, but we rely on the information provided to us by our material suppliers.
(transmitted) PPFD measurement in the same environments. Apogee Instruments SQ-420X quantum sensors consist of a cast acrylic diffuser (filter), interference filter, photodiode, and signal processing circuitry mounted in an anodized aluminum housing, and a cable to connect the sensor to a measurement device.
SENSOR MODELS This manual covers the USB quantum sensor model SQ-420X. Additional models are covered in their respective manuals. Model Signal SQ-420X SQ-100X Self-powered SQ-202X 0-2.5 V SQ-204X 4-20 mA SQ-205X 0-5 V SQ-421X SDI-12 SQ-422X Modbus A sensor’s model number and serial number are located near USB connector.
SPECIFICATIONS SQ-420X Resolution 0.1 µmol m Calibration Factor Custom for each sensor and stored in the firmware Calibration Uncertainty ± 5 % (see calibration Traceability below) Measurement Less than 0.5 % Repeatability Long-term Drift Less than 2 % per year...
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Spectral Response Mean spectral response of four SQ-100x series quantum sensors compared to PPFD weighting function. Spectral response measurements were made at 10 nm increments across a wavelength range of 350 to 800 nm in a monochromator with an attached electric light source. Measured spectral data from each quantum sensor were normalized by the measured spectral response of the monochromator/electric...
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Cosine Response Directional, or cosine, response is defined as the measurement error at a specific angle of radiation incidence. Error for Apogee SQ- 100X series quantum sensors is approximately ± 2 % and ± 5 % at solar zenith angles of 45° and 75°, respectively. Mean cosine response of five SQ- 100X series quantum sensors.
Mount the sensor to a solid surface with the nylon mounting screw provided. To accurately measure PPFD incident on a horizontal surface, the sensor must be level. An Apogee Instruments model AL-100 Leveling Plate is recommended to level the sensor when used on a flat surface or being mounted to surfaces such as wood. To facilitate mounting on a mast or pipe, the Apogee Instruments model AL-120 Solar Mounting Bracket with Leveling Plate is recommended.
SOFTWARE INSTALLATION The most recent version of ApogeeConnect software can be downloaded at http://www.apogeeinstruments.com/downloads/. Installing the software on a PC (Windows compatible, XP and later) 1. Double click on the installer package 2. On the ‘Welcome’ screen, please click ‘Next’ to continue. 3.
OPERATION AND MEASUREMENT Spectral Errors Apogee SQ-100X series sensors can measure PPFD for sunlight and electric light with a single calibration factor. However, errors occur in various light sources due to changes in spectral output. If the light source spectrum is known, then errors can be estimated and used to adjust the measurements.
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The SQ-420X sensor has an immersion effect correction factor of 1.15. The immersion effect correction factor can be automatically applied to SQ-420X measurements by turning on the immersion setting in the settings option of the ApogeeConnect software, as pictured.
WINDOWS SOFTWARE When the SQ-420X sensor is not plugged into the USB port, the software will display a message in the lower left corner, “Device Not Connected,” indicating it cannot establish communication with the sensor. Plug the sensor into a USB port and allow some time for the sensor to automatically establish communication with the software.
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Click the ‘Settings’ icon to display the software options. Clicking ‘Immersion Setting’ will automatically apply the sensor’s immersion effect correction factor of 1.18 to the sensor measurements. This setting should be used when the sensor is being used to take measurements underwater.
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The multiplier and offset values will automatically calculate and update in the appropriate field. Be sure to click ‘Save’ to retain the new multiplier and offset. Clicking ‘Data Logging’ will allow the user to log interval measurements in a csv file while the software is open and communicating with the sensor.
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These can be used to help troubleshoot if problems arise. ‘Manage Field Logging’ is used to setup the SQ-420X for use in the field. When the SQ-420X is supplied power from a USB power source it will log data which you can retrieve.
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To use additional SQ-420X devices, open additional ApogeeConnect software windows. The device serial number will display in the lower left hand corner of the corresponding software window. Devices may be...
MAC SOFTWARE When the SQ-420X sensor is not plugged into the USB port, the software will display a message in the lower left corner, “Device Not Connected,” indicating it cannot establish communication with the sensor. Plug the sensor into a USB port and allow some time for the sensor to automatically establish communication with the software.
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Click the ‘Settings’ icon to display the software options. Clicking ‘Immersion Setting’ will automatically apply the sensor’s immersion effect correction factor of 1.18 to the sensor measurements. This setting should be used when the sensor is being used to take measurements underwater.
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Uncover the sensor and wait for the PAR reading to settle before entering the reference value. Click OK. The multiplier and offset values will automatically calculate and update in the appropriate field. Be sure to click ‘Save’ to retain the new multiplier and offset. Clicking ‘Data Logging’...
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‘Manage Field Logging’ is used to setup the SQ-420X for the use in the field. When the SQ-420X is supplied power from a USB power source it will log data which you can retrieve. Choose the interval the data is saved as well as the interval that data is sampled and the light source used.
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To use additional SQ-420X devices, open additional ApogeeConnect software windows. The device serial number will display in the lower left hand corner of the corresponding software window. Devices may be...
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Spectral Errors for PPFD Measurements with Apogee SQ-100X Series Quantum Sensors Radiation Source (Error Calculated Relative to Sun, Clear Sky) PPFD Error [%] Sun (Clear Sky) Sun (Cloudy Sky) Reflected from Grass Canopy Reflected from Deciduous Canopy Reflected from Conifer Canopy Transmitted below Grass Canopy Transmitted below Deciduous Canopy Transmitted below Conifer Canopy...
3. Salt deposit accumulation from evaporation of sea spray or sprinkler irrigation water. Apogee Instruments upward-looking sensors have a domed diffuser and housing for improved self-cleaning from rainfall, but active cleaning may be necessary. Dust or organic deposits are best removed using water, or window cleaner, and a soft cloth or cotton swab.
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Homepage of the Clear Sky Calculator. Two calculators are available: one for quantum sensors (PPFD) and one for pyranometers (total shortwave radiation). Clear Sky Calculator for quantum sensors. Site data are input in blue cells in middle of page and an estimate of PPFD is returned on right-hand side of page.
TROUBLESHOOTING AND CUSTOMER SUPPORT Cable Length Fifteen feet is the maximum cable length that can be built into the sensor. Modifying Cable Length If you required a longer cable length an “active” USB extension cable is required. Please note, the connection between the cables must be made water tight prior to submersion.
RETURN AND WARRANTY POLICY RETURN POLICY Apogee Instruments will accept returns within 30 days of purchase as long as the product is in new condition (to be determined by Apogee). Returns are subject to a 10 % restocking fee. WARRANTY POLICY...
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84321, USA 5. Upon receipt, Apogee Instruments will determine the cause of failure. If the product is found to be defective in terms of operation to the published specifications due to a failure of product materials or craftsmanship, Apogee Instruments will repair or replace the items free of charge.
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