Having investigated and considered the general parameters of devices and widgets may give you a clearer picture of what you want to measure or monitor and why, how often data is required and how you might like it to look, and finally have a view on budget.
Once you have completed your research into devices and widgets, you can now use this information to explore individual devices. For example, if you are looking to monitor water you might want to know the difference between ultrasonic and pressure probes and how these relate and work within your water system. Some weather stations provide a greater range of data than others. Know what you really require and compare between suppliers.
Devices such as soil probes vary between suppliers. Consider what you need, for example length and moisture only or other data such as salinity, temperature and moisture drawdown.
The question is how many devices do you need to meet your needs? You will need to think about the information you need from the sensors, your farm terrain and connectivity.
Many devices on the market have variations that can be made to meet your needs more accurately.
Learning as much as you can about these devices will help you to make more informed decisions when it comes to the purchase of these devices.
Devices and App Selection Tools, Portals & Websites
Australian
- Food Agility – AgTech Finder (website) (first-time use allow 2-4 hours)
- Agriculture Victoria – Catalogue of Apps & Devices (PDF)
- SigFox devices via Thinxtra website
United States
- Western Growers Center for Innovation and Technology – AgTech Innovation Directory (website)
Other
- LoRa Alliance (LoRaWAN) certified devices
How To Video – AgTech Finder