The Apogee PAR PPFD Quantum Meter and Sensor MQ-500 is not just a quantum light meter; it's an investment in accurate and precise measurements of photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) essential for the thriving growth of plants. This meter is a prized choice among leading scientists and earnest growers who require precise measurement of light used in the meticulous cultivation of plants and other photosynthetic organisms across diverse agricultural systems such as greenhouses, growth chambers, farms, gardens, and aquariums.
Unlike the commonplace LUX or footcandle meters that measure light for human vision, the MQ-500 features a laboratory-grade PPFD (photosynthetic photon flux density), or ”œquantum,” optical detector meticulously calibrated to measure light intensity in µmol m-2 s-1. This calibration encompasses the specific color wavelengths emitted by various light sources like LEDs, HPS, MH, sunlight, and others, which are instrumental for photosynthesis in plants.
The robust construction of the Quantum sensor embodies a precision silicon photodiode detector, a custom optical filter, and an acrylic diffuser all encased in a self-cleaning, dome-shaped, anodized aluminum sensor head. The sensor head is solidly potted with epoxy ensuring durability for years even in harsh environments, including underwater usage. The handheld meter, connected by a cable, displays real-time readings, records samples, and logs average intensity and daily light integral (DLI) measurements, providing a wealth of data at your fingertips. However, unlike the sensor head, the handheld meter is not waterproof.
Accuracy is a hallmark of the MQ-500, as it precisely measures and amalgamates the intensity of all photons between 400 and 700 nm to give a single PAR reading in µmol m-2 s-1 with a minimal 5% uncertainty. This level of precision sets it apart from hobby-grade PAR meters, boasting a stable, accurate calibration with an accuracy drift rate of less than 2% per year.
The meter is equipped with three measurement modes: spot measurement, sample, and log mode. It records up to 99 manual measurements in sample mode, and in log mode, it powers on and off every 30 seconds to take a measurement. Every 30 minutes, an average of the sixty 30-second measurements is recorded to memory, up to 99 averages. A daily light integral is recorded from the 48 averaged measurements for a day's worth of readings, which can be downloaded via the Apogee AC-100 cable.
The MQ-500 is a step ahead of previous Apogee quantum sensors with its optimized, highly accurate spectral measurement range of 400-700 nm, significantly enhancing the accuracy of LED measurements.
Crafted in the USA, with over 25 years of expertise by Apogee Instruments, the MQ-500 comes with an industry-leading four-year warranty and robust customer support, ensuring you have a reliable partner in your agricultural endeavors. For a limited time, purchases made from within the USA on our website come with a free AA-090 neoprene protective pouch and free basic shipping, adding even more value to your investment.
Specifications
Calibration Uncertainty: ± 5 %
Measurement Range: 0 to 4000 µmol mˉ ² sˉ ¹
Measurement Repeatability: Less than 0.5 %
Long-term Drift (Non-stability): Less than 2 % per year
Non-linearity: Less than 1 % (up to 4000 µmol mˉ ² sˉ ¹)
Response Time: Less than 1 ms
Field of View: 180 Ëš
Spectral Range: 389 to 692 nm ± 5 nm (wavelengths where a response is greater than 50 % of maximum)
Spectral Selectivity: Less than 10 % from 412 to 682 nm ± 5 nm
Directional (Cosine) Response: ± 5 % at 75 Ëš zenith angle
Azimuth Error: Less than 0.5 %
Tilt Error: Less than 0.5 %
Temperature Response: -0.11 ± 0.03 % Cˉ ¹
Uncertainty in Daily Total: Less than 5 %
Detector: Enhanced silicon photodiode
Housing: Anodized aluminum body with acrylic diffuser
IP Rating: IP68
Operating Environment: 0 to 50 C, less than 90 % non-condensing relative humidity up to 30 C, less than 70 % non-condensing relative humidity from 30 to 50 C, separate sensors can be submerged in water up to depth of 30 m
Meter Dimensions: 126 mm length, 70 mm width, 24 mm height
Sensor Dimensions: 24 mm diameter, 37 mm height
Mass100 g (with 5 m of lead wire)
Cable: 2 m of two conductors, shielded, twisted-pair wire; additional cable available; TPR jacket
Warranty: 4 years against defects in materials and workmanship
Manufactured: Made in the USA
