CIRAS-2
Portable
Photosynthesis
System
For Research
www.ppsystems.com
2
CO2 and H2O Gas Analyzer
Portability
The CIRAS-2 main console is lightweight,compact and extremely rugged for demanding
field research. It is powered by two lightweight, rechargeable 12V NiMH battery packs
capable of running the entire system up to 6-8 hours (including LED light unit). Batteries
can be easily changed in the field without the need to shut down the system.
True Differential Gas Analyzer
The CIRAS-2 is a true differential system. It features 4 independent, non-dispersive gas
analyzers for accurate, simultaneous measurement of both CO2 and H2O, eliminating the
problems associated with“gas switching”systems. Also, for enhanced reliability, there
are no moving parts such as chopper motors or filter wheels. The analyzers (reference
and analysis) include an infrared source, highly polished, gold plated sample cells and
detectors. The analyzers act as absorptiometers measuring infrared absorption only.
The CIRAS-2 optical bench is temperature controlled and pressure compensated for
the most accurate CO2 and H2O measurements under changing ambient conditions.
Calibration
The design of the CIRAS-2 ensures an inherent calibration stability that has been
confirmed by over 25 years experience in gas analysis technology. The CO2 analyzers
do not require recalibration but we do recommend periodic checks to confirm system
integrity. There is an integral CO2 verification facility and external H2O calibrator for
automated calibration of the H2O gas analyzers.
CIRAS-2
Portable
Photosynthesis
System
Trusted and tested technology
Measurement Ranges
CO2 0-2,000 μmol mol-1 (optimal)
CO2 0-9,999 μmol mol-1 (maximum)
H2O 0-75 mb
The CIRAS-2 is factory calibrated for CO2
measurements up to 9,999 μmol mol-1 as
standard. The CIRAS-2 can also be used as
a stand-alone CO2/H2O gas analyzer for
laboratory and field applications if required.
CO2 Control
Time (Hours)
0 2 4 6 8
375
370
365
360
355
350
CO2(μmolmol-1)
For high level research, the stability and control
of CO2 is critical. The CIRAS-2 air supply unit is
capable of providing stable and accurate CO2
concentrations for many hours in the field or lab.
Independent, Automatic Control of CO2 and H2O
The CIRAS-2 system is capable of providing independent, automatic control of
CO2 and H2O to the leaf cuvette (reference) and within the leaf cuvette (analysis).
Control of CO2 and H2O can be dynamic or pre-programmed for automatic response
curve generation.
CO2 Control
A built-in, removable CO2 regulator and gas cylinder holder allows for the use of pure
mini CO2 cartridges (8 g). Each cartridge is capable of providing automatic control of
CO2 between 0-2,000 μmol mol-1 for at least 1 full day.
H2O Control
On-board, self-indicating desiccants are used for conditioning the H2O
concentrations per user selected levels from 0-Dewpoint.
3
User Interface
The CIRAS-2 main console features an innovative
user interface that includes a large, full color display
(640 x 480) optimized for field use with keypad and
touchpad for user inputs. It includes both a USB
and RS232 serial port for transfer of stored data and
for connection to an external PC. A PCMCIA slot is
available for use with data storage cards (unlimited
data storage).
Intuitive System Software
The system can display 15 measured and calculated
parameters and graphics simultaneously in real
time. The user has full control over presentation of
numerical data and graphics with several recording
options from simple keypress to fully automated,
pre-programmed response curves. Environmental
control can be changed dynamically or automatically.
Management and output of stored data is very
flexible with many different formats available for
use with your favorite spreadsheet program. All
measured and calculated data are safely stored
and can easily be recalculated if required.
Remote Control Software
The system is supplied with Windows® software
allowing remote control operation of the CIRAS-2
from a PC. Powerful, flexible software allows for
simple, individual measurements to more complex,
automated and pre-programmable experiments.
The remote control software is ideal for
laboratory and teaching applications.
A
B
C
D
E
GH
Built-in system diagnostics for checking
hardware and controls.
Plot up to 4 measurement parameters at once with
full control over graphical presentation of data.
The response editor allows users to set up
automated response curves quickly and easily.
The CIRAS-2 is
an ideal system
for automatic
generation and
measurement of
A/Ci curves like
the ones to the
left on soybean
cv. Stressland.
Ci (μmol mol-1)
50
40
30
20
10
0
0 100 200 300 400 500 600 700
A(μmolm-2s-1)
F
A. Electrical and gas
analysis connectors
(for leaf cuvette)
B. User Interface (USB,
RS232 and PCMCIA
slot)
C. Rechargeable 12V
NiMH battery pack
D. CO2 regulator and
cartridge holder
E. CO2 cartridge (8g)
F. Conditioning
desiccants for CO2
and H2O control
G. Water vapor
equilibrator
H. Auto-zero desiccants
PLC6 (U)
Automatic
Universal
Leaf Cuvette
The PLC6 (U) Automatic Universal Leaf Cuvette is
lightweight,versatile and ideal for field measurments.
It is constructed from carefully selected materials for
best results. Automatic temperature control is integral
to the cuvette. It features 2 miniature PAR sensors
located within the cuvette at the leaf surface for
accurate measurement of PAR (PhotosyntheticallyActive
Radiation). Accurate leaf temperature control
and measurement is ensured by an IR sensor fitted at
the base of the cuvette. A remote recording switch is
also available on the cuvette handle for conveniently
recording measurements.
Automatic Temperature Control
Peltier elements are mounted to the cuvette head
along with a heat sink and fan. The control range
is approximately 8 o
C below ambient to +40 o
C.
In addition, temperature control can be disabled
completely or set up to track ambient if required.
Automatic Light Control
An optional LED light unit is available for the PLC6
(U) featuring automatic control of cuvette light
intensity. This is particularly useful for light response
curves in the field or lab. If required, the light unit
can be removed for ambient measurements. For
unattended operation, the CIRAS-2 can be preprogrammed
to automatically control light intensity
at user defined levels (0-2,000 μmol m-2 s-1).
4
PLC6 (U) Automatic Universal Leaf Cuvette
LED light unit fitted to the PLC6 (U).
Light response curves of 4 different highbush blueberry cultivars.
PAR (μmol m-2 s-1)
0 500 1000 1500 2000
12
10
8
6
4
2
0
-2
A(μmolm-2s-1)
The PLC6 (U) is supplied with 3 head plates for different sized leaves.
25mm x 7mm 18mm Diameter 25mm x 18mm
Chlorophyll
Fluorescence
Module (CFM)
The CIRAS-2, with optional integrated Chlorophyll
Fluorescence Module (CFM), is a powerful tool
for photosynthesis research. The CFM has been
developed in cooperation with Hansatech
Instruments for complete integration with the
CIRAS-2 gas exchange systems. The CFM provides
measurement of chlorophyll fluorescence using
the pulse amplitude modulation (PAM) technique.
The pulsed fluorescence that is induced by the
modulation beam is used to probe the efficiency
of light-use for photosystem II photochemistry.
The following parameters are measured and
calculated on demand by the CIRAS-2: Fo, Fm,
Fv, Fv/Fm (Max Yield), Fs, Fm’, Fo’, oPSII or ΔF/Fm’
(Yield), qP, qNP, NPQ, PAR,TEMP and ETR.
CFM Technical Specification
Modulating Beam 627 nm (Red)
Actinic Light Red and White LED’s
Range: 0-2,000 μmol m-2 s-1
Saturation Light Red and White LED’s
Range: 0-6,000 μmol m-2 s-1
Far Red Light 2 x 735 nm LED’s
Detector PIN photodiode with
> 700 nm filter
Detector Method Rapid pulse peak tracking
Leaf Area 2.5 cm2
5
Our modified
LED light unit includes
full chlorophyll fluorescence detection
capabilities while retaining all normal
functionality as an actinic light source for gas exchange
measurements. The modified unit provides the modulation beam,
saturating pulses, far-red illumination and fluorescence detection required
for chlorophyll fluorescence measurement in a remarkably compact, solid-state
and lightweight unit. It does not require additional power sources for operation.
The CIRAS-2 shown above with integral Chlorophyll
Fluorescence Module (CFM) signal conditioning interface.
Simultaneous
measurement of
photosynthesis
and chlorophyll
fluorescence can be
made directly on the
CIRAS-2 in both the
field and laboratory
or remotely from a
PC using the remote
control software.
Chlorophyll Fluorescence Adaptation
Many of our leaf cuvettes can be adapted to work with other available
fluorometers for simultaneous measurement of leaf gas exchange and
chlorophyll fluorescence. Contact PP Systems for details.
6
PLC5 (N) Automatic Narrow Leaf Cuvette
For measurement on grasses and cereal crops. It features integral, automatic control
of temperature. An optional LED light unit is available for automatic control of light
from 0-1,100 μmol m-2 s-1. Window Area: 80mm (L) x 30mm (W).
PLC5 (C) Automatic Conifer Leaf Cuvette
For measurement on conifers and pine needles. The window is hemispherical making
it suitable for 3D structures. It features integral, automatic control of temperature.
An optional LED light unit is available for automatic control of light from
0-1,500 μmol m-2 s-1. Window Area: 80mm (L) x 50mm (Diameter).
CIRAS-2
Accessories
PP Systems has long been recognized for our
design of leaf cuvettes (Parkinson Leaf Cuvettes)
and chambers for measurement of leaf and canopy
gas exchange, soil respiration and chlorophyll
fluorescence. We offer a full range of accessories
adding to the measurement capability of the
CIRAS-2 Portable Photosynthesis System. Leaf
cuvettes (broad, narrow and conifer) are also
available for measurement under ambient
conditions (without temperature control)
and can be supplied with optional light
units if required.
Leaf Gas Exchange
Head plates can be supplied to easily convert from
conifer to narrow style leaf cuvette.
Leaf Cuvette Adapters for
CIRAS-1 Users
Adapters are available to allow older“CIRAS-1”style
leaf cuvettes to be used with the CIRAS-2 Portable
Photosynthesis System. Contact PP Systems for
more details.
7
CPY-3 chamber for low lying vegetation.
Canopy Photosynthesis
A complete range of chambers are available for use with the CIRAS-2 for
measurement of closed (CPY-2) and open (CPY-3) CO2 flux on single plants or
low lying vegetation. All chambers are transparent and fitted with an air mixing
fan and sensors for measurement of PAR and air temperature. For open system
measurement using our CPY-3 range of chambers, a suitable air supply unit is
required which is built into our Control Interface Module (CIM).
TRP-2 Temperature/PAR Probe
For measurement of temperature (o
C)
and PAR (μmol m-2 s-1)
PAR Sensor
For measurement of PAR (μmol m-2 s-1)
The CPY-2 is designed for closed system
measurement of canopy CO2 flux.
Environmental Sensors
A range of environmental sensors can be used with
the CIRAS-2 for general monitoring applications in
the field and laboratory.
Soil Respiration
The SRC-1 Soil Respiration Chamber can
be used for rapid, accurate measurement
of soil CO2 flux in the field. The
closed system method of measuring
soil respiration was first introduced
by Dr. Keith J. Parkinson in 1981. The
SRC-1 with known chamber volume is
placed on the soil surface and monitors the rate
of increase in CO2 over time making it an ideal system for rapid screening
of soil respiration (0-9.99 g CO2 m-2 h-1). The chamber is constructed of
rugged PVC with a stainless steel ring providing a good seal. The CIRAS-2 shown with the SRC-1 Soil Respiration
Chamber and STP-1 Soil Temperature Probe.
CPY-3 chamber for tall vegetation. Our
Control Interface Module (CIM) with
required air supply unit is also shown
in the background.
For further information,
please contact us at:
110 Haverhill Road
Suite 301
Amesbury, MA 01913 U.S.A.
TEL +1 978-834-0505
FAX +1 978-834-0545
EMAIL sales@ppsystems.com
URL www.ppsystems.com
Copyright © 2008
PP Systems.
All rights reserved.
Our Mission:
Aiding scientific research with
versatile, proven technology.
PP Systems is proud to have supported the technology
needs of plant and soil scientists for over 25 years.
Our photosynthesis systems have been proven and
tested by thousands of researchers from over 100
countries worldwide. We are recognized as a leader
in the design and manufacture of photosynthesis
measurement instrumentation for high level research.
Many scientists consider the CIRAS-2 system to be
the benchmark gas exchange system for field research.
Field expertise combined with proven technology
results in the widest range of accessories for measurement
of leaf gas exchange, soil respiration, canopy
photosynthesis and chlorophyll fluorescence.
Distributor
Technical Specifications
Main Console
Analysis Method (Gas Analyzers)
Non-dispersive infrared, configured as an absolute
absorptiometer with microprocessor control of
linearization.
The analyzers simultaneously measure absolute
CO2 and H2O of the reference and analysis gas
streams. The CIRAS-2 has 4 independent analyzers
for true differential measurement.
Measurement Range
CO2: 0-2,000 μmol mol-1 (Optimal Range)
0-9,999 μmol mol-1 (Maximum Range)
H2O: 0-75 mb
Corrections are made for temperature,
pressure and foreign gas broadening.
Precision (Absolute)
CO2: 0.2 μmol mol-1 at 300 ppm
0.5 μmol mol-1 at 1,750 ppm
3.0 μmol mol-1 at 9,999 ppm
H2O: 0.015 mb at 0 mb
0.020 mb at 10 mb
0.030 mb at 50 mb
Linearity
Better than 1.0% throughout the range, with
calibration at 2,000 ppm CO2 or 40 mb H2O.
Stability (CO2 Analysis)
Automatic Zero at regular intervals corrects for
sample cell contamination, source and detector
ageing and pre-amplifier gain changes.
Response Time
Electrical: 0.5 seconds
Display/Analog Output: 1.6 seconds
Pneumatic: < 5 seconds
Air Sampling
Adjustable up to 100 cm3 min-1 using integral DC
pumps. Both analysis and reference pumps fitted
with mass flow controllers. The analyzer may be
used in open and closed systems.
Environmental Sensor Inputs
3 input channels are available for use with PP
Systems' environmental sensors.
Analog Output (CO2/H2O)
8 bit D/A converter giving 0.5% resolution.
Output voltage 0-5V. Both minimum and
maximum voltage are defined by user.
RS232 Output
Stored/current data output in standard
ASCII format.
Real Time Clock
Accuracy: Better than 1 min/month at 25 o
C.
Operating Temperature: 0-70 o
C.
Recording Options
By PC or by the instrument. Automatic logging at
user selectable intervals between 10 seconds and
1 hour, controlled by internal real-time clock.
Instrument Status Detection
Indication of instrument malfunction, including
low battery voltage (< 10.5V) through the RS232
output. Auto restart if momentary failure.
Power Supply
Internal, rechargeable 12V NiMH batteries
providing up to 8 hours continuous use.
Batteries can easily be changed without
shutting down the system.
Integral Cuvette Air Supply Unit
0-470 cm3 min-1 measured and controlled by
a mass flow meter.
Automatic Control Range
CO2: 0-2,000 μmol mol-1
H2O: 0- Dewpoint
Operating Environment
0-50 o
C, non-condensing. In dirty environments,
external air filtration is required.
Housing
High impact aluminum case with easy access
for battery change and system maintenance.
Dimensions
28 cm W x 16 cm D x 24 cm H
28 cm W x 16 cm D x 26 cm H (with CFM)
Weight
7.2 kg
7.6 kg (with CFM)
User Interface
Display
7.2”VGA transflective color STN LCD.
Optimized for field use.
User Input
24 keys plus touchpad for data input,
virtual keyboard, display contrast
Communication Ports
RS232 and USB
PCMCIA
Type 1. For additional data storage.
Memory dependent upon RAM card used.
PLC6 (U) Automatic Universal
Leaf Cuvette
Cuvette Materials
Components: Aluminum alloy
Window: Glass IR interference filter
Leaf gasket: Closed cell foam
Impeller: Stainless steel
Window Sizes/Leaf Area Exposed
18mm diameter /2.5 cm2
25mm x 18mm /4.5 cm2
25mm x 7mm /1.75 cm2
Boundary Layer Resistance
0.15-0.46 m2 s-1 mol-1
Air Temperature Sensor
Precision Thermistor
Software linearization: +/- 0.10 o
C from 0-60 o
C
Accuracy: +/-0.3 o
C at 25 o
C
Leaf Temperature Sensor
Radiation sensor for non-contact measurement
and control
Accuracy: +/-0.3 o
C at 25 o
C
PAR Sensor
Filtered silicon cell (fully cosine corrected)
Response: 400-700 nm
Range: 0-3,000 μmol m-2 s-1
Precision: 10 μmol m-2 s-1
Temperature Control
Peltier elements mounted to the cuvettes
and fitted with heat sink and fans
Control Range: Approx. 8 o
C below ambient
up to 40 o
C
Light Control (Optional)
LED (red and white) light unit
Control Range: 0-2,000 μmol m-2 s-1
Cuvette Dimensions
Length: 36 cm
Handle: 3.8 cm Diameter
Weight
0.75 kg
PP Systems is continuously updating its products and
reserves the right to amend product specifications
without notice.
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respective owners.