Why Choose TMS-4 Dataloggers?

TMS-4 dataloggers offer a unique ability to accurately measure both air and soil temperature, as well as soil moisture. Their compact size (approximately 15 cm above ground and 10 cm below) allows them to mimic an herbaceous plant, capturing the microclimatic conditions at ground level. This provides more precise data for ecological studies compared to the data collected by standard meteorological stations.

These dataloggers require minimal maintenance thanks to their high-capacity lithium battery and large memory, enabling long-term data collection even in remote areas. Their robust construction ensures they can withstand extreme conditions, with testing conducted in environments ranging from African rainforests to cold deserts in the Himalayas.

Data extraction is fast and easy—within about three seconds, you can download a month’s worth of data (with 15-minute intervals) via a USB cable using the TMD adapter.

When installed correctly, the sensor positions relative to the surface remain consistent, allowing for accurate standardization and comparison across various studies. TMS loggers have been described in a peer-reviewed scientific publication.

Installation Tips

For accurate measurements, ensure the entire belowground section of the datalogger (the green part) is in direct contact with the soil. This is typically achieved by simply inserting it into the soilThe potentiometer-based point dendrometer offers precise, automatic measurement of stem diameter changes with an accuracy of less than 1 µm at user-defined intervals. Additionally, it can measure air temperature using a thermocouple located at the bottom of the device. Its durable construction and high-capacity lithium battery make it resilient to extreme conditions.

Technical specification:

Span 8 890 μm

Resolution 0.27 μm

Linearity < 5 %

Battery life ~ 10 years

Memory capacity ~ 14 years in 15 min intervals

Size of main body 25x113mm

Download Dendrometrs Handbook HERE

, though air pockets can sometimes form, leading to inaccurate readings. In dry soils (e.g., clay), shrinking or swelling can cause a loss of contact, leading to lower soil moisture readings.

Adapt the installation method based on soil type. In rocky soils, avoid simply pushing the logger into the ground, as it could damage the sensors. Instead, create a hole for the logger and insert it carefully. You can use a metal plate to assist with the insertion or dig a larger hole and cover it with soil—although be mindful that this may alter the soil composition slightly.

Avoid using soil moisture data from periods when the soil is frozen. This can be easily identified by examining the temperature data from the thermometers.

Protection from Wildlife and Homosapien

In our experience, wild animals, such as deer, wild boar, bears,Monkeys are often responsible for damaging the devices. To prevent this, we recommend protecting the TMS dataloggers with wire cages to prevent tampering.

In outdoor locations with high tourist traffic, we have noticed a recurring issue with 10:3 devices being either missing or damaged. To mitigate this, we suggest installing the devices in secure, less visible areas, such as within government-owned properties like schools or other public buildings, to reduce the risk of damage or theft.

Reference

When citing TMS dataloggers in scientific publications, please use the following reference:

Wild J., Kopecký M., Macek M., Šanda M., Jankovec J., & Haase T. (2019). Climate at ecologically relevant scales: A new temperature and soil moisture logger for long-term microclimate measurement. Agricultural and Forest Meteorology, 268, 40–47.