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Automatic Acquisition of Data from Tensiometers with Mercury Manometers

Polytechnical Institute of Lausanne, IATE-Pedologie, 1015 Ecublens, Switzerland

*Corresponding author.

ABSTRACT

Knowledge of soil matric potential gradient is essential to calculate water fluxes in soils. This gradient is generally measured with tensiometers. We present a new device for automatically measuring matric potential accurately and cheaply. The basic component is an inductive sensor that runs up and down the tensiometer's tubing. An endless screw and a stepping motor connected to an acquisition data box precisely control the vertical movement of the sensor. After 1 yr of testing, this apparatus has proved to be as accurate as the classic techniques.

Received for publication July 13, 1992.