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As superintendents know, each golf course is different, with its own complex ecosystem, wet and dry areas, varying soil conditions, compaction levels and turf issues. While advanced central control systems make it possible to manage irrigation throughout the course from one computer, these systems do not measure soil conditions where they matter most— in the root zone.

That’s why Rain Bird introduced the new Integrated Sensor System™ (ISS), a multi-component soil sensing system that provides accurate snapshots of soil conditions and the ability to automatically adjust irrigation system run times.

ISS provides valuable information that superintendents can use to make wise turf maintenance decisions from the comfort of their offices. “ISS takes irrigation system control technology to a new level, helping to ensure the most consistent playing conditions and improved course sustainability,” said Bruno Quanquin, product manager for Rain Bird’s Golf Division. “Because superintendents know exactly what’s going on with their turf, they can successfully manage irrigation while potentially reducing water, fertilizer, herbicide and pesticide costs for an improved bottom line.”

This soil sensing system delivers real-time full central control integration. Sensors transmit  soil moisture, salinity and temperature data to the system’s Soil Manager software, which in turn works with the course’s central control system to make real-time decisions about when and how long to irrigate.

Because of its full integration with central control software, ISS can automatically set individual station run times based on changes in soil moisture. Because superintendents define all the parameters, they retain total, customized control of their irrigation systems at all times.

Located in important areas on the course, the system’s Data Loggers receive and store data from up to 18 sensors each, transmitting the information through a wireless mesh communication network to the Soil Manager Software.

If transmission is impeded by long distances, undulating terrain or line-of-sight obstructions, information is routed through a Data Repeater on the course to the computer. The number of Data Repeaters installed on a course will vary depending on the number of sensors and course topography. Signal range and strength can be extended with additional Data Repeaters.