Product Manual

Page 3 - www.turf-tec.com
The stainless steel soil EC probe is designed to be inserted directly into soil. The sensing
surface is composed of 2 pairs of electrodes on the probe tip. Additionally, the probe is
narrow in diameter so it can be used effectively in the soil.
Because the EC readings are affected by moisture content, it is important that soil
moisture content does not differ significantly between readings. An easy way to achieve
this condition is by taking measurements approximately 30 to 60 minutes after irrigation.
This should ensure the soil moisture level has approximately reached field capacity. Or
use the Turf-Tec Moisture Sensor and record soil moisture readings along with EC
Readings. Each time the area is tested be sure the soil moisture readings are in the same
range to assure accuracy for comparisons.
The probe should be inserted in the root zone. The measurement region is at the tip of
the probe. For turf, the root zone is approximately 2” - 4”. For vegetables and small
plants, this is about 8” - 12”. Wait until the meter reading stabilizes before withdrawing
the probe. Taking several measurements will allow a representative average to be
computed.
Important: Do not touch the sensor tip with your fingers. The oils on the skin will
affect the probe’s measurement accuracy.
Probe Calibration
The meter and probe is factory calibrated. However, to ensure accuracy, the meter
should be calibrated at least once a month. The meter is calibrated to an EC of 2764
US/cm (2.76 mS/cm) calibration solution. Periodically, the calibration of the meter can
be checked by immersing the sensor in this solution. This solution should not be re-used
at a later date.
Calibration Procedure
1. Open battery compartment lid (located near the LCD screen) to access the small
white Increase (INC) and Decrease (DEC) calibration keys. When looking at the
battery compartment with the calibration keys above the batteries, the DEC key
will be to the left.
2. Rinse the electrode tip in de-ionized (or distilled) water and then rinse it in the
calibration standard.
3. Switch unit on with the ON/OFF key. Place probe tip into a container of
calibration standard (2.76 mS/cm). Wait for display to stabilize (display value is
unchanged and stable for 3 seconds).