SunScan Portable Canopy Leaf Index Meter. The SunScan Plant Canopy Analyzer System uses field measurements to determine the amount of photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) in the crop canopy. This provides valuable information on leaf area index (LAI) and biomass production.

The SunScan canopy analyzer is optimized for measuring PAR in low, regular canopies, like most agricultural crops. The 1 m long probe allows for rapid spatial averaging and PAR mapping of large areas in unevenly growing crops such as vineyards and orchards. Using the unique BF5 sunlight sensor, the SunScan canopy analyzer can be used in most weather conditions.

Three configurations: SS1-COM Complete system A complete SunScan package including SunScan probe, SunData software, PDA, BF5 sunlight sensor, tripod and carrying case. The complete system provides a powerful canopy analysis tool. It can instantly calculate LAI, measure PAR absorption using spot readings or unattended logging, and measure solar radiation.

SS1-COM-R4 Complete system with radio communication Includes radio communication between a modified SunScan probe and a BF5 sunlight sensor. The radio communication has a range of 100m to 200m and replaces the cable between the SunScan probe and the BF5 - especially useful in higher canopies or when readings are required over a wide area.

SS1-STD3 Standard system The standard system includes a SunScan probe, SunData software and a PDA. The standard system can perform the full range of SunScan measurements, including LAI. The probe must act as a reference point for the canopy at its top, so stable light conditions are required.

Ease of use: The SunScan canopy analyzer probe consists of 64 PAR sensors integrated in a 1 m long probe. Each time a measurement is taken, all sensors are scanned and the measurements are sent to a handheld PDA, type RPDA3, via the RS232 interface. The average PAR level from the probe is read, but all 64 individual readings can be stored for more detailed PAR mapping or line transects. Automatic logging can be selected to obtain readings at a specific location over a specific period of time. When connected to a data logger, the probe can act as a linear quantum sensor.

Rugged PDA: The RPDA3 is an extremely rugged handheld PDA that collects and analyzes SunScan probe readings. Raw readings and derived functions such as LAI can be displayed, reviewed, and stored in the field using SunData software; groups of readings can be averaged if necessary. Readings are stored on internal memory, which can hold over 1 million readings, or on widely available micro SD cards, which provide removable data storage. Collected data can be easily transferred to a computer.

Unique Top-of-Canopy Reference Sensor: A unique feature of the SunScan is the optional integrated reference sensor that simultaneously measures direct and diffuse light above the canopy. The BF5 sunlight sensor makes these top-of-canopy reference measurements quick and easy. The BF5 uses photodiode arrays and a unique shading scheme to calculate whether the sun is shining and measure the direct and diffuse components of sunlight. This completely eliminates the need for complex shading ring adjustments required with traditional diffuse light sensors.