Automated Photosynthesis System

The new APS

We are proud to introduce the Automated Photosynthesis System (APS). It is the world’s first automated, portable, multi-channel photosynthesis analyser designed for the continuous monitoring of photosynthesis gas exchange under controlled conditions.

The APS controller runs plant leaf chambers with automated jaws that are sequentially close to sample gas from multiple plants and open in between measurements.

The APS Controller

  • The APS Controller houses a high-precision infrared gas analyser (IRGA) for CO2 measurement and integrated humidity sensors for precise H2O vapour measurement. 
  • Each sample channel is controlled by its dedicated pump, ensuring accurate and stable airflow. 
  • The controller’s intuitive, user-friendly interface allows researchers to easily configure, monitor, and review measurement parameters and data. 
  • Data is securely stored on an SD card or transmitted to a connected PC through USB or RS232 connections.

Applications

  • Continuous monitoring of plant gas exchange in greenhouse and growth chamber experiments
  • Research into diurnal variations in photosynthetic rates
  • Assessing plant responses to environmental stressors
  • Investigations into agricultural practices and crop improvement
  • Studies on ecological and climatic impacts on photosynthetic efficiency

The APS Chamber

Reduce Microclimate Effects: Long experiments with widely used handheld gas exchange systems require closing the chamber’s jaws onto the leaf throughout the process. This increases temperature and humidity within the chamber and affects the photosynthesis and transpiration rates of the leaf section under study. The results therefore, will not be representative of the rest of the plant. 

The APS Chamber jaws close onto the leaf at programmed intervals for gas sampling and open between readings:

  • The APS Chamber’s two automated hinged jaws gently clamp onto a leaf section, creating a sealed environment for precise CO2 and H2O measurements. 
  • The upper jaw incorporates an air temperature sensor and transparent polycarbonate window.
  • The lower jaw features an infrared leaf temperature sensor. 
  • PAR sensor is positioned adjacent to the leaf guide.
  • A circulation fan ensures consistent airflow between jaws, enhancing measurement reliability. 

Key Features

  • Automated Multi-Sample Measurement:
    Sequentially manages gas exchange measurements for up to 10 chambers, allowing replicated and comparative analysis.
  • Automated Chamber Operation:
    Servo-operated hinged jaws with positional feedback for consistent, gentle leaf enclosure and accurate measurements.
  • Real-time graphing
  • Infrared Gas Analysis (IRGA):
    Provides high-precision CO2 analysis (0-2000 ppm) critical for assessing photosynthetic activity.
  • PAR Measurement:
    Integrated PAR sensors within the chamber precisely measure incident light (0-3000 µmol m⁻² s⁻¹).
  • Data Logging & Storage:
    Reliable data recording on SD cards with easy transfer via USB and RS232 communication.
  • Flexible Experimental Options:
    • Chambers can be mounted vertically or horizontally, providing flexibility for varied experimental setups.
    • The tubing and cabling connecting the APS chambers to the controller can be long, spreading them out in the growth room.
  • User-friendly Interface:
    Intuitive, menu-driven navigation simplifies system operation and configuration.

Enhance your photosynthesis research

Take your photosynthesis measurements to the next level with the ground-breaking Automated Photosynthesis System from ADC BioScientific. Contact us today to explore how the APS can transform your plant research and experimental outcomes.

Resources

  • CO2 Measurement: Infrared Gas Analyser (0-2000 ppm, resolution 1 ppm)
  • H2O Measurement: 0-75 mbar, laser-trimmed sensors (0.1 mbar resolution)
  • PAR Measurement: 0-3000 µmol m⁻² sec⁻¹
  • Atmospheric Pressure Measurement: 600-1100 mbar, accuracy -4/+2 mbar
  • Flow Control: Adjustable flow rates (default 200 µmol s⁻¹, max 340 µmol s⁻¹), accuracy ± (1.5% of reading + 0.5% of scale)
  • Power Supply: 11.5 – 17.5 V DC input, 2 A max current
  • Analogue Inputs/Outputs: 7 analogue inputs (12-bit resolution), configurable outputs (0-5 V or 4-20 mA)
  • Communications: RS485 for chamber control, RS232 and USB for data transfer
  • Data Storage: Removable SD card (up to 32GB)
  • Dimensions (Controller): 26 cm (W) × 19.1 cm (D) × 28.4 cm (H), Weight: 8.55 kg (10-channel system)
  • Dimensions (Chamber): 10.4 cm (W) × 20 cm (L) × 27 cm (H), weight 780 g without cover (cover adds 40 g)
  • Temperature Range:
    • Chamber air temperature: -20 °C to 90 °C (±0.5 °C)
    • Leaf temperature: 0 °C to 50 °C (±0.5 °C)
  • Humidity Range: 0 to 100% RH (±2% RH)

Product brochure

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