Veris Technologies 3150 Soil EC Mapping System - Operating Instructions User Manual
Page 30
Pub. # OM17-EC
4-8
Field Condition
Field should be in a uniform state. Mapping after intensive primary tillage is not recommended. The
soil must have a minimum of 20% available water, and cannot be frozen. If rocky conditions exist,
slow down and make sure rock guards are in place.
Speed
Proper field operating speed depends on field conditions. Because of the importance of consistent
contact, the unit must not be allowed to bounce over rough fields at high speeds.
Pulling Vehicle
The implement may be pulled with a variety of vehicles: 20-50 hp tractor or a 4WD pickup.
• Be very careful when mapping stubble fields with a gasoline engine pickup. Be prepared if a fire
starts.
Swath width and Navigation
Setting the swath width and navigation system is at the discretion of the customer. A 50’-75’ (15-
23 m) swath works well in most areas. Several methods of navigation are possible: following
previous crop rows, swath guidance, or using a field navigation computer. While it is important to
map in a consistent pattern, it isn’t absolutely critical that each pass be exactly the same distance
from the previous pass.
To help insure the quality of your data, please follow these guidelines:
1. Generate and view maps frequently, especially prior to deleting data from Instrument.
2. Listen for auditory alarm from DataLogger, indicating data collection has been interrupted.
3. View DataLogger screen or SoilViewer map frequently during data collecting; watch for:
Negative readings in the Shallow and Deep or excessive noise in the data.
EC readings should fluctuate gradually as you drive across the field, relating to
soil changes. If readings change erratically, or show values not typical of soil
conductivity in the area
—such as >100, perform tests 4 and 5 below.
In SoilViewer, watch for streaks, stripes, unnatural patterns, and missing data points.
4. Perform electrical continuity test on implement wiring:
at least once a day during mapping season
every 10 hours of mapping
after extended periods of non-use
after replacing or repairing coulter-electrode components or wiring
whenever readings are questionable