Wireless Devices FAQ

Wireless Devices FAQ2019-04-23T07:43:21-04:00
How many Ceres devices will I need?2019-03-17T18:33:35-04:00

It depends on several factors: crop arrangement, irrigation plan, and drainage conditions; a typical farm uses:

  • 1 Ceres Gateway to provide the internet connection

  • 2-4 Irrigation Valve controllers per acre
  • 2-4 Soil Moisture sensors per acre

How many Ceres devices can I have on my farm?2019-03-17T18:43:16-04:00

Each Ceres Gateway supports up to 100 remote wireless devices. You can use unlimited numbers of Ceres Gateways.

Where are the data loggers, transmitters, solar panels, wiring?2019-03-17T18:44:47-04:00

Ceres integrates everything into one rugged package that includes sensors, data loggers, transmitters, and valve controllers. You don’t need a degree in electrical engineering or computer science to deploy and use Ceres; there are no wires to connect, no networks to configure, and batteries are included!

What is the wireless range of the system?2019-03-17T18:47:07-04:00

1km of real world range is a good rule of thumb.

What wireless technology does Ceres use?2019-03-17T18:48:44-04:00

Ceres uses narrow-band, sub-GHz, spread-spectrum technology to achieve maximum range. Common network technologies such as WiFi and Bluetooth are optimized for high bandwidth at the expense of range.

How can I maximize wireless range?2019-03-17T18:53:09-04:00

Place your gateway where its antenna is high and as close to the fields as possible. Minimize obstructions in the wireless path (walls, dense foliage, hills, etc.).

How are Ceres irrigation valves powered?2019-03-17T18:55:06-04:00

The battery in the Ceres irrigation controller powers the valve directly. No external power sources are required: there are no solar panels to maintain and no wires to run through your fields.

How often do I need to replace the batteries?2019-03-17T18:57:48-04:00

Ceres devices use ultra-high-density lithium batteries to provide many years of service. When deployed properly:

  • Irrigation controllers: typical battery life: 5-10 years.

  • Soil moisture sensors: typical battery life: 8-15 years.

What types of irrigation systems are Ceres valves used with?2019-03-17T18:59:12-04:00

Ceres is designed to automate drip irrigation.

Are irrigation filters required?2019-03-17T19:00:27-04:00

YES! Standard screen or disk filters with 150 mesh (100 micron) or higher should be used. No irrigation system should use unfiltered water.

What valve sizes are available?2019-03-17T19:01:46-04:00

Ceres brass and stainless steel valves are available in DN15 (NPS 1/2”), DN20 (NPS3/4”), DN25 (NPS 1”), DN40 (NPS 1.5”), DN50 (NPS 2”)

What water pressures are supported?2019-03-17T19:03:32-04:00

15-145psi (0.1-1MPa) for smaller valves up to 230psi (1.6MPa) for large valves. Note: pressures below 15psi (0.1MPa) can result in restricted flow.

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