KS-D1 Op ManualQ7.qxp:Layout 1 4/14/11 9:25 AM Page 2 Model KS-D1 owner’s manual ® .
KS-D1 Op ManualQ7.
KS-D1 Op ManualQ7.qxp:Layout 1 4/14/11 9:25 AM Page 2 INTRODUCTION The Delmhorst soil moisture measuring system consists of two parts: the gypsum soil blocks (sensors) and the measuring instrument, Model KS-D1 moisture tester. The blocks (GB-1) are made of gypsum cast around two concentric electrodes. The gypsum acts as a buffer against the effect that salts or other chemicals might have on the electrical conductivity.
KS-D1 Op ManualQ7.
KS-D1 Op ManualQ7.
KS-D1 Op ManualQ7.qxp:Layout 1 4/14/11 9:26 AM Page 5 OPERATING PROCEDURE 1 To check the meter calibration: Press the CAL CHK button. The meter should read 80.0 ± 1.0. Note: Instrument serial numbers from 0100-0584 require pressing both READ and CAL CHK buttons simultaneously. 2 To “read” the blocks: h Push the tinned ends of the lead wires of the block into two springloaded binding posts on the meter. h Press the READ button and record the reading on the Soil Moisture Observation Chart.
KS-D1 Op ManualQ7.qxp:Layout 1 4/14/11 9:26 AM Page 6 METER READING GUIDELINES Soil Type No Irrigation Required Irrigation to be Applied Danger Zone Insufficient Soil Moisture Fine Medium Coarse 80-100 88-100 90-100 60-80 70-88 80-90 Below 60 Below 70 Below 80 The above guidelines are determined by the fact that different soils have a different capacity to hold and release moisture to the plants.
KS-D1 Op ManualQ7.
KS-D1 Op ManualQ7.qxp:Layout 1 4/14/11 9:26 AM Page 8 HOW TO USE IRRIGATION CHARTS Irrigation charts are provided with each instrument. Additional charts are available on order. Regular use of the charts helps in planning irrigation. All readings should be recorded using a line of different identity to indicate the readings of each particular block. As readings are made and recorded, a curve of soil moisture changes will result.
KS-D1 Op ManualQ7.qxp:Layout 1 4/14/11 9:26 AM Page 9 INSTALLATION OF THE BLOCKS 9 1 Dig a hole in the ground with 1” soil auger or better, a 7/8” soil probe. 2 Make a soil and water slurry of creamy consistency and place 1 or 2 tablespoons of the slurry in the hole. 3 Push the block to the bottom of the hole, forcing the slurry to envelop the block. The block can be pushed by using a tube (plastic or aluminum will suffice) or a slotted rod. 4 5 Back fill the hole and tamp in small increments.
KS-D1 Op ManualQ7.qxp:Layout 1 4/14/11 9:26 AM Page 10 WHERE TO PLACE BLOCKS The location and depth of the blocks depends on the nature of the crops, the potential root zone, the type of soil and subsurface formation, and the profile of the field. While it is not possible to give specific instructions applicable to all cases, there are some guidelines to be followed: (A “string” of blocks 2, 3, or 4, depending on the depth to be reached, is called “station”).
KS-D1 Op ManualQ7.qxp:Layout 1 4/14/11 9:26 AM Page 11 DEPTH OF INSTALLATION The active root zone of the crop determines the depth at which to place the blocks. Type of crop, soil depth, and state of growth should also be considered. When seeds are first planted, irrigation is necessary to assure quick and uniform seed germination. Visual inspection of the soil near the seeds will indicate whether irrigation is needed at that time.
KS-D1 Op ManualQ7.qxp:Layout 1 4/14/11 9:26 AM Page 12 SERVICE FOR YOUR METER If your meter is not working properly, replace the battery with a new one and check the calibration. If this does not resolve the problem, go to www.delmhorst.com and follow the instructions under the Product Support tab.
KS-D1 Op ManualQ7.qxp:Layout 1 4/14/11 9:26 AM Page 13 WARRANTY Delmhorst Instrument Co., referred to hereafter as Delmhorst, guarantees its KS-D1 meter for one year from date of purchase and any optional electrodes against defects in material or workmanship for 90 days. If, within the warranty period of the KS-D1, you find any defect in material or workmanship return the meter following the instructions in the Service for Your Meter section.
KS-D1 Op ManualQ7.
KS-D1 Op ManualQ7.qxp:Layout 1 4/14/11 9:25 AM Page 1 For 65 years Delmhorst has been the leading manufacturer of high quality, US-made moisture meters and thermo-hygrometers. Today we offer a wide range of meters for applications including water damage restoration, construction, flooring, lumber/woodworking, paper, and agriculture. . WHEN ACCURACY IS THE POINT ® TM 51 Indian Lane East Towaco, NJ 07082 (877)-DELMHORST (335-6467) www.delmhorst.com info@delmhorst.com ©1999, Delmhorst Instrument Co.
