Apogee Underwater Quantum Meter with Sensor
2-10 Days
Photosynthetic radiation is essential for the growth of the photosynthetic organisms such as corals. The wavelength range from 400 to 700 nm is PAR (Photosynthetically Active Radiation) or PPFD (Photosynthetic Photon Flux Density). Apogee quantum/PAR sensors are calibrated to measure the number of photons of light across this range.
How It Works
PAR (Photosynthetically Active Radiation) is the energy source required for photosynthesis, created by photons in the wavelengths of 400 to 700nm. The energy source, PAR, is expressed in Photosynthetic Photon Flux Density (PPFD) units µmol m-2 s-1. PAR can be measured from both sunlight and electric light sources to ensure corals are receiving proper light or photons for optimal health. PAR requirements of coral varies greatly due to different depths and water conditions they naturally exist in.
Ready for Underwater Use
All Apogee Underwater Quantum Meters and Sensors models (MQ-210, MQ-510, SQ-520) have the immersion effect correction factor preprogramed in the firmware or sensor software allowing the user to make excellent underwater measurements right out of the box. Sensors feature a waterproof sensor head that is potted solid for a complete seal and to ensure it has no hollow cavities for water to penetrate and cause measurement errors.
Product Description
The MQ-210 quantum meter is designed for underwater PAR measurements and already applies the sensor's immersion effect correction factor to the meter readings through firmware. The meter consists of a waterproof quantum sensor attached via waterproof cable to a handheld meter. The waterproof sensor incorporates a blue-enhanced silicon photodiode and custom optical filters with a rugged, anodized aluminum body with acrylic diffuser. The underwater quantum sensor is typically used in salt water aquariums where corals are grown. Note: The handheld meter is not waterproof, only the sensor and cable are waterproof. The meter has a sample and log mode, and will record an integrated daily total in mol m-2 d-1. Sample mode will record up to 99 manual measurements. Log mode will power the meter on/off to make a measurement every 30 seconds. Every 30 minutes the meter will average the sixty 30 second measurements and record the averaged value to memory. The meter can store up to 99 averages, once full it will start to overwrite the oldest measurement with new ones. An integrated daily total will be recorded from the 48 averaged measurements (making a 24 hr period). Sample and log measurements can be reviewed on the LCD display or by downloading the data to a computer, however, the integrated daily total can only be viewed by downloading the data to a computer. Downloading data to a computer requires the AC-100 communication cable (a standard USB cable will not work) and ApogeeAMS software.
Specifications
Calibration Uncertainty ± 5 %
Measurement Repeatability Less than 1 %
Long-term Drift (Non-Stability) Less than 2 % per year
Response Time Less than 1 ms
Field of View 180°
Spectral Range 410 to 655 nm
Directional Coseine Response ± 5 % at 75° zenith angle
Temperature Response 0.06 ± 0.06% per C
Operating Environment 0 to 50 C; less than 90 % non-condensing relative humidity up to 30 C; less than 70 % non-condensing relative humidity from 30 to 50 C; separate sensor can be submerged in water up to depths of 30 m
Meter Dimensions 126 mm length; 70 mm width; 24 mm height
Sensor Dimensions 24 mm diameter; 28 mm height
Mass 180 g
Cable 2 m of two conductor, shielded, twisted-pair wire; additional cable available; santoprene rubber jacket ( high water resistance, high UV stability, flexibility in cold conditions)
Warranty and Support
All Apogee products are backed by an industry-leading four year warranty and outstanding customer support.