Application of microcomputers in optimal greenhouse environmental control and resources management

Abstract The present paper describes the environmental control requirements for typical greenhouses and the potential advantages obtained by using sophisticated control equipment. These advantages are first higher plant growth rate and second energy savings. A microcomputer controller is used and sensor, central module and actuator hardware design aspects are discussed. The designed controller uses CMOS components for minimum power consumption, monitors temperature, relative humidity and CO2 concentration and controls ventilation, watering and auxiliary heat and CO2 supply. The controller operates on photovoltaic cells and is capable of communicating with remote sites via a MW serial data link.