What Are EC Meters and How to Use Them

There are several types of EC meters, each with specific features to suit different levels of precision, frequency of use, and cultivation environments. Here are some of the most common types and how to use them:

• Portable EC Meters
  These compact, easy-to-carry devices are ideal for those who need to take quick, on-the-spot readings. Simply submerge the electrode in the solution, and the device displays the EC level on the screen.

• Pen-Type or "Stick" EC Meters
  Similar to portable meters, these models are even more compact and often provide sufficient precision for small-scale cultivation. Place them in the solution for a reading, and many have automatic calibration features.

• Continuous EC Meters
  These devices are installed in cultivation systems to constantly monitor EC levels. They’re ideal for larger-scale crops or hydroponic systems where real-time monitoring is essential. Many come with alarms that activate if the EC level goes out of the set range.

• Combined EC Meters (EC/pH/Temperature)
  In addition to measuring EC, some combined meters also measure other factors such as pH and temperature, providing a more comprehensive reading of the nutrient solution conditions. This makes them versatile and convenient for comprehensive cultivation control.