Wireless sensor and control network based on open-source hardware and software

Growers in arid regions of the world such as California are under increasing pressure to optimize water-use and reduce fertilizer loss. Wireless sensor and control networks can help growers manage their operations. A new system has been developed to reduce cost and improve flexibility for customization. It is based on an open-source hardware and software platform and uses modular parts to provide flexibility and reduced cost compared to other solutions. The system has been tested with early adopters and is being deployed in four California specialty crops for continued testing. A newly developed company plans to commercialize the system to promote more rapid adoption of precision agriculture among specialty crop farmers.