biSENSOR^TM: At the core of Baseline engineering is the patented biSensor technology.  biSensors buried at the root zone relay real time data such as soil moisture back to the WaterTec^TM Monitor.  Once engaged, the biSensor information is utilized to automatically make day interval adjustments throughout the year.

 NEW! The .5’ biSensor delivers accuracy and durability in a compact form factor and at an affordable price.

The sensor works on the fundamental physics principle that light travels slower in water than in air.  The sensor measures the speed of electromagnetic waves through the soil and determines whether the soil is wet or dry.  These measurements are then converted into moisture units to control irrigation.

How can a small sensor determine what a large area's water needs are?

First, sensing moisture in the soil is like a thermostat in a building.  A small thermostat in just one location can control the temperature in a large area.  Obviously, adjustments for individual rooms is necessary.  Moisture sensor are just the same.  If adjustments within a zone are necessary, then sprinkler heads are adjusted.  If adjustments between zones are necessary, a ratio of watering times is adjusted.  A sensor can control watering across multiple zones within a "micro-climate."

Do I need one sensor per zone?

No.  Many zones have similar watering profiles.  These are called micro-climates or hydro-zones.  All the zones in one hydro-zone, i.e. sunny and flat, can be controlled by a single sensor buried in just one of the zones.  

How long do the sensors last?

The sensors are built to last to exceed the life of the water delivery system. This can be dozens of years.

What do I do if a sensor fails? Will the system still water?

While it is very rare for a sensor to fail, the watering controlled by that sensor will revert back to a timed basis and the system will show that a sensor has failed. Most sensor failures are caused by shovels and aerators.

What happens when someone covers up the area where the sensor is located?

The sensor measures the soil moisture around the sensor.  If the area where the sensor is located is covered up or gets a “car wash”, the sensor will react accordingly by either attempting to water the area or not watering depending on circumstances.  No automated system should be left entirely unobserved.  

Do I have to use special wiring for the Baseline system?

If the existing wiring is up to industry standards, there is no need to use special wiring. However, many sites were incorrectly installed with marginal wiring and connections. All questionable wiring should be replaced before installing any automated system.  However, the two-wire technology integrated into the Baseline System can greatly reduce the expense of replacing wiring.

Are the sensors expensive?

Up until recently, the technology used in this kind of sensor was very expensive.  Baseline has developed a sensor that is reasonably priced so it is affordable for even the smallest of sites.   It is not necessary to put a sensor in every zone, so the cost of the sensors is a relatively small cost of the system.