1. Identifying the Best Installation Location
Before installation, check cellular signal strength at the desired location.
Open the GreenCast Connect app.
Tap the Sensors button at the bottom of the screen.
Select Location Quality Test to assess signal strength.
2. Testing Signal Strength
Follow the on-screen animation to scan the sensor and read the signal strength.
Place the sensor horizontally on the ground in the chosen location.
Scan the white QR code label on the sensor.
Remove the magnet from the sensor and place it aside.
Wait for the app to display Waiting for sensor to test location quality.
The sensor will search for a signal (this may take up to 3 minutes).
A green light confirms a successful connection.
The Location Quality screen will display signal strength.
NOTE: A rating below FAIR is not recommended for below-ground installation.
3. Preparing for Installation
Reattach the magnet to the recessed portion of the sensor’s white top cap.
Keep the magnet attached while preparing the installation hole and inserting the sensor.
Gather installation tools (cup cutter, auger, or similar tools).
Cut two holes to prepare for sensor placement.
Create a guide hole (must be smaller than the sensor to prevent air gaps).
4. Installing the Sensor in the Ground
Install the sensor horizontally.
The moisture plate should remain level in the soil - do not install the sensor at an angle, as this can affect moisture readings.
If you're installing a sensor for Light measurements, follow the separate Light Widget Installation instructions instead, as the sensor is installed vertically with the white top cap exposed.
Installation Depth: Install the sensor in the middle of the root zone for the turf or crop being monitored. Proper placement helps ensure the most accurate moisture, salinity, and temperature readings.
If you're using the Spiio™ Soil Sensor Installation Tool, follow the instructions in the Spiio™ Soil Sensor Installation Tool article to create the correct cavity and ensure proper soil contact around the sensor.
Push the sensor firmly into the soil using hand force or a non-impact tool.
Keep the QR code label visible.
Leave the green magnet attached until you're ready to register the sensor in the app.
5. Powering On & Registering the Sensor
Once the sensor has been fully installed:
Open the GreenCast Connect mobile app.
Remove the green magnet to power on the sensor and initiate its cellular connection.
Tip: Before removing the green magnet, verify that the sensor is fully installed, positioned horizontally, and the QR code label remains visible.
Wait for the sensor to display a blinking green light, indicating a successful connection.
If the sensor displays a red or magenta blinking light, follow the troubleshooting steps in Installation: Sensor Connection Blinks.
Continue with the steps in How to Add a Sensor to register the sensor to your account.
9. Confirming Successful Installation
After following How to Add A Sensor, the app will show Installation Successful!
Review the signal strength and first data readings for:
Moisture
Salinity
Temperature
Note: It's normal for signal strength to decrease slightly after the sensor is buried. As long as the signal remains Fair or better, the sensor should continue communicating successfully.
Tap Finish Installation to complete the process.
10. Final Steps & Verification
Store the magnet safely in its original box (Do NOT place it back on the sensor).
Open the Sensors tab in the app.
Navigate to the Area where the sensor was installed.
Expand the sensor list to view real-time data and confirm successful transmission.
Installation Complete!
Your Spiio soil sensor is now installed, connected, and transmitting data.