Go Direct® PAR (Photosynthetically Active Radiation) User Manual
Order Code: GDX-PAR
The Go Direct PAR (Photosynthetically Active Radiation) Sensor measures photosynthetic light levels in both air and water. The sensor responds to visible light in the spectral range that is used by plants in photosynthesis (400–700 nm). It features a waterproof sensor head and connector and reports the Photosynthetic Photon Flux Density (PPFD), which is measured in μmol m-2 s-1 (micromoles of photons per meter squared per second). The sensor is calibrated for use in sunlight, but can also be used to measure PPFD from electric light sources. This sensor is ideal for experiments that investigate photosynthesis and primary productivity and can also be used in many agricultural and environmental science applications. The Go Direct PAR Sensor has a 5 m cable.
Note: Vernier products are designed for educational use. Our products are not designed nor are they recommended for any industrial, medical, or commercial process such as life support, patient diagnosis, control of a manufacturing process, or industrial testing of any kind.
What's Included
- Go Direct PAR
- Micro USB Cable
- Cover for the lens of the Go Direct PAR sensor
Compatible Software
Choose a platform below to see its compatibility requirements.LabQuest
Interface LabQuest App LabQuest 3 Full support LabQuest 2 (discontinued) Full support 1 LabQuest (discontinued) Incompatible Compatibility Notes
Computers
Software Interface Graphical Analysis No interface required Full support 1 LabQuest 3 Full support 2 LabQuest 2 (discontinued) Full support 2 3 Compatibility Notes
Chromebook
Software Interface Graphical Analysis No interface required Full support LabQuest 3 Full support 1 LabQuest 2 (discontinued) Full support 1 2 Compatibility Notes
iOS
Software Interface Graphical Analysis Graphical Analysis GW No interface required Full support Incompatible LabQuest 3 Full support 1 2 Full support 1 2 LabQuest 2 (discontinued) Full support 1 2 3 Full support 1 2 3 Compatibility Notes
Android
Software Interface Graphical Analysis Graphical Analysis GW No interface required Full support Incompatible LabQuest 3 Full support 1 2 Full support 1 LabQuest 2 (discontinued) Full support 1 2 3 Full support 1 3 Compatibility Notes
Python
Software Interface Python No interface required Full support Javascript
Software Interface Javascript No interface required Full support 1 Compatibility Notes
LabVIEW
Software Interface NI LabVIEW No interface required Full support 1 Compatibility Notes
Getting Started
Please see the following link for platform-specific connection information:
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Bluetooth Connection |
USB Connection |
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Note: This sensor does not work with the original LabQuest. It works with LabQuest 2 or LabQuest 3. |
Charging the Sensor
Connect Go Direct PAR to the included Micro USB Cable and any USB device for two hours.
You can also charge up to eight Go Direct PAR Sensors using our Go Direct Charge Station, sold separately (order code: GDX-CRG). An LED on each Go Direct PAR indicates charging status.
| Charging |
Orange LED next to the battery icon is solid while the sensor is charging. |
| Fully charged |
Green LED next to the battery icon is solid when the sensor is fully charged. |
Providing Power
| Turning on the sensor |
Press button once. Red LED indicator flashes when unit is on. |
| Putting the sensor in sleep mode |
Press and hold button for more than three seconds to put into sleep mode. Red LED indicator stops flashing when sleeping. |
Connecting the Sensor
See the following link for up-to-date connection information:
Connecting via Bluetooth
| Ready to connect | Red LED flashes when sensor is awake and ready to connect via Bluetooth. |
| Connected | Green LED flashes when sensor is connected via Bluetooth. |
Connecting via USB
| Connected and charging | Orange LED next to the battery icon is solid when the sensor is connected to Graphical Analysis via USB and the unit is charging. LED next to Bluetooth icon is off. |
| Connected, fully charged | Green LED next to the battery icon is solid when the sensor is connected to Graphical Analysis via USB and fully charged. LED next to Bluetooth icon is off. |
| Charging via USB, connected via Bluetooth |
Orange LED next to the battery icon is solid when the sensor is charging. Green LED next to the Bluetooth icon flashes. |
Identifying the Sensor
When two or more sensors are connected, the sensors can be identified by tapping or clicking Identify in Sensor Information.
Using the Product
Connect the sensor following the steps in the Getting Started section of this user manual.
Channels
Go Direct PAR has two measurement channels:
- PPFD
- PPFD - CF
PPFD
This channel is calibrated for sunlight and for electric light sources that do not use LEDs. It reports the Photosynthetic Photon Flux Density (PPFD), which is measured in μmol m-2 s-1 (micromoles of photons per meter squared per second). This is the default channel that is active when the sensor is connected.
PPFD - CF
This channel is used when you need to use a correction factor to measure PPFD in conditions where the standard calibration will not be accurate. This would include LED based light sources, measuring PAR underwater, or in certain field conditions. This channel is not active by default when the sensor is connected. For information on correction factors please see (https://www.vernier.com/til/3102).
Sensor Orientation
Sensor orientation is important for getting the best results from the sensor. When measuring PAR outdoors, the sensor head should be level, with the white lens pointing straight up toward the sky and with the cord pointing toward the north (in the Northern Hemisphere) or toward the south (in the Southern Hemisphere).
When measuring PAR from an artificial light source, the sensor head should be placed with the lens of the sensor facing the center of the light path.
Calibrating the Sensor
PPFD
This channel is factory calibrated and does not require calibration by the user. The calibration can be verified using the Clear Sky Calculator (www.clearskycalculator.com). The Clear Sky Calculator for Quantum Sensors reports the theoretical PPFD at any time of day at any location in the world on a cloudless day. The application is most accurate at solar noon in the spring and summer.
PPFD - CF
This channel is factory calibrated and does not require calibration by the user. The correction factor is automatically set to 1. To change the correction factor, click or tap the meter, choose calibrate, and enter the correction factor for your condition. Click or tap Keep, then done. Note: The correction factor for measuring PAR underwater is 1.15. For information on correction factors please see (https://www.vernier.com/til/3102).
Specifications
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PAR range |
0 to 2500 μmol m-2 s-1 (PPFD) in full sun |
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Absolute accuracy |
±5% (full scale) |
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Repeatability |
±1% |
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Long-term drift |
Less than 2% per year |
|
Cosine response 45° zenith angle 75° zenith angle |
± 2% ± 5% |
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Wavelength range |
370–650 nm |
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Typical Resolution |
1 μmol m-2 s-1 (PPFD) |
|
Sensor dimensions |
2.4 cm diameter 3.3 cm height 5 m cable length |
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Materials |
Anodized aluminum with case acrylic lens |
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Operating environment
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–10 to 60°C 0–100% relative humidity Sensor head and cable can be |
Care and Maintenance
Cleaning the Go Direct PAR Sensor
Debris on the Go Direct PAR Sensor lens will partially block the optical path and will lead to low readings. Dust and other organic deposits are best removed using water or window cleaner. Never use an abrasive cleaner on the lens. Salt deposits can also accumulate on the sensor lens over time due to evaporation from sea spray, sprinkler irrigation water, or wave splash. Salt deposits should be dissolved with vinegar and then removed using soft cloth or cotton swabs.
Go Direct PAR Sensor Head Connector
The head of the Go Direct PAR Sensor is attached to the main cable using a P68‑rated stainless-steel marine grade (M8) connector. This connector is located 25 cm from the sensor head. The connector is used for removing the sensor head during routine calibration, replacement, or maintenance by the manufacturer. Please do not remove the sensor head from the main cable. For the connector to be waterproof, confirm that the cables are firmly connected and the threaded connectors are finger tight.
Battery Information
The Go Direct PAR Sensor contains a small lithium-ion battery in the sensor box. The system is designed to consume very little power and not put heavy demands on the battery. Although the battery is warranted for one year, the expected battery life should be several years. Replacement batteries are available from Vernier (order code: GDX‑BAT‑300).
Storage and Maintenance
To store the Go Direct PAR Sensor for extended periods of time, put the device in sleep mode by holding the button down for at least three seconds. The red LED will stop flashing to show that the unit is in sleep mode. Over several months, the battery will discharge but will not be damaged. After such storage, charge the device for a few hours, and the unit will be ready to go.
Exposing the battery to temperatures over 35°C (95°F) will reduce its lifespan. If possible, store the device in an area that is not exposed to temperature extremes.
Water Resistance
The sensor head and main cable for the Go Direct PAR are waterproof and can be fully submerged up to the box containing the electronics (approximately 5 meters). The sensor box is not waterproof and should never be immersed in water. If any liquid gets into the device, immediately power the unit down (press and hold the power button for more than three seconds). Disconnect the sensor and charging cable, and remove the battery. Allow the device to dry thoroughly before attempting to use the device again. Do not attempt to dry using an external heat source. Note: Damage due to liquid is not covered under warranty.
Troubleshooting
For troubleshooting and FAQs, see www.vernier.com/til/18853
Repair Information
If you have watched the related product video(s), followed the troubleshooting steps, and are still having trouble with your Go Direct PAR, contact Vernier Technical Support at support@vernier.com or call 888-837-6437. Support specialists will work with you to determine if the unit needs to be sent in for repair. At that time, a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number will be issued and instructions will be communicated on how to return the unit for repair.
Warranty
Warranty information for this product can be found on the Support tab at www.vernier.com/gdx-par/#support
General warranty information can be found at www.vernier.com/warranty
Disposal
When disposing of this electronic product, do not treat it as household waste. Its disposal is subject to regulations that vary by country and region. This item should be given to an applicable collection point for the recycling of electrical and electronic equipment. By ensuring that this product is disposed of correctly, you help prevent potential negative consequences on human health or on the environment. The recycling of materials will help to conserve natural resources. For more detailed information about recycling this product, contact your local city office or your disposal service.
Battery recycling information is available at www.call2recycle.org
Do not puncture or expose the battery to excessive heat or flame.
The symbol, shown here, indicates that this product must not be disposed of in a standard waste container.
Contact Support
Fill out our online support form or call us toll-free at 1-888-837-6437.