The rise of multi-channel LED fixtures gives growers more and more options for fine-tuning the light spectrum to the crop, growth stage or desired cultivation strategy. Where a single-channel fixture can only be controlled on intensity, growers with multiple channels can continuously adjust the ratio between, for example, red, blue, green and far-red light. That sounds appealing, but in practice it also brings a challenge. Actually delivering the right spectrum takes more than just the hardware. Measurement and control are needed as well.
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Without monitoring, a grower cannot be certain that the fixture is actually delivering the intended spectrum at every moment of the day. Spectrum sensors and PAR sensors have therefore become indispensable for multi-channel lighting. Spectrum sensors measure the exact composition of the light, while PAR sensors map the amount of photosynthetically active radiation. Together they form the eyes of the system, and without that data a control platform cannot make adjustments.
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NLight responds to this by linking spectrum sensors and PAR sensors to Yieldr, its own control platform. Yieldr began several years ago as a wireless light-cont...