This is my first post, so please bare with me. I do not have much knowledge of how electronics work, but I have been reading multiple posts on this forum regarding moisture sensing, and on other sites.
What I am trying to achieve is a stronger knowledge of how Resistive and Capacitive moisture sensing works. And also if there are other (better or worse) ways of doing it. I'd like to move this knowledge onto a project, but right now I'm just "fact finding". I look forward to whatever information you can provide.
For arguments sake lets say I am trying to find the moisture level in soil since that is a very popular use for sensing moisture. Lets also assume that there is nothing else in the soil (minerals, etc) that will affect the outcome (that's an issue for a later time if I get there). Just soil and water.
Here's what I know (or think I know):
Resistive: Two probes are placed in the ground. Electricity is passed between the two probes. The more moist the soil, the less resistance, and the more electricity that is transferred. This is then read by the sensor.
Capacitive: This is one I really get lost on. I've looked at examples, and read posts and projects on them, but I don't really understand how it works. Somehow the moisture will once again allow electricity to flow faster, or more freely?
Others: Are there are options? Would a humidity sensor work? I've read that it wouldn't, but maybe it would?
Hopefully this is a good start. I'll of course answer any questions or provide more info if needed.
Thanks in advance for your help.
Dave.
What I am trying to achieve is a stronger knowledge of how Resistive and Capacitive moisture sensing works. And also if there are other (better or worse) ways of doing it. I'd like to move this knowledge onto a project, but right now I'm just "fact finding". I look forward to whatever information you can provide.
For arguments sake lets say I am trying to find the moisture level in soil since that is a very popular use for sensing moisture. Lets also assume that there is nothing else in the soil (minerals, etc) that will affect the outcome (that's an issue for a later time if I get there). Just soil and water.
Here's what I know (or think I know):
Resistive: Two probes are placed in the ground. Electricity is passed between the two probes. The more moist the soil, the less resistance, and the more electricity that is transferred. This is then read by the sensor.
Capacitive: This is one I really get lost on. I've looked at examples, and read posts and projects on them, but I don't really understand how it works. Somehow the moisture will once again allow electricity to flow faster, or more freely?
Others: Are there are options? Would a humidity sensor work? I've read that it wouldn't, but maybe it would?
Hopefully this is a good start. I'll of course answer any questions or provide more info if needed.
Thanks in advance for your help.
Dave.