Wireless sensor networks for precise Phytophthora decision support.

Abstract

Precision Agriculture provides the optimal treatment for each production unit that can be distinguished and which can be individually treated in an efficient way. This agricultural practise is based on detailed information on the status of crops and soil. Most of this information focuses on techniques like soil mapping, yield mapping and remote sensing, which cover the spatial domain with more or less spatial resolution. The information is incidentally sampled and is therefore valid at the time the observations are made. Some of the processes like fertilization and especially crop protection require frequent updates in information. Sensor systems that are continuously present can deliver such information. Several research groups and companies are working on the development of “Smart Dust”. “Smart Dust ” stands for a sensor, a processor and a means of communication that will be packaged into a few cubic millimetres in the future. It is expected that these devices will be available in six years at a cost of around one dollar apiece, although downsizing might not have reached the intended level at that time. Such wireless sensor systems can form a dense network and provide the possibility for continuous monitoring of relevant parameters in a dense grid for a reasonable price.