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OPERATING PROCEDURE FOR KS-D1
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:
Push the tinned ends of the lead wires of the block into two springloaded
binding posts on the meter.
Press the “READ” button, recording the “reading” on the “Soil Moisture
Observation Chart.”
NOTE: Only readings between 5.0 and 100.0 are valid. Readings outside this
range should be disregarded.
INTERPRETATION OF METER READINGS
Meter readings are interpreted in terms of “Soil Moisture Tension,” or “Blocks
Resistance” by referring to figure 1 and 1A; in terms of “available soil moisture”
by referring to figure 2.
The data in the chart below provides guidelines of “Available Moisture” and
“Irrigation Requirements” for three groups of soil in terms of their texture make-
up.
Since soils are not strictly divided into three groups only, but changes from “fine”
to “coarse” soil are gradual, the information below should be used as a guideline.
Consideration should be given to other factors such as:
A. Type of crop;
B. Stage of crop growth and root system;
C. Climactic conditions;
D. Structure of sub-soil.
