Vernier Go Direct PAR User manual

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3. Turn on your sensor by pressing the
power button once. The LED will
blink red.
4. Launch Graphical Analysis or turn
on LabQuest.
5. If using Graphical Analysis, click or
tap Sensor Data Collection. If using
LabQuest, choose Wireless Device
Setup > Go Direct from the Sensors
menu.
6. Select your Go Direct sensor from
the list of Discovered Wireless
Devices. Your sensor's ID is located
near the barcode on the sensor. The
LED will blink green when it is
successfully connected.
7. Click or tap Done to enter data-
collection mode.
collect data.
Note: This sensor does not work with
the original LabQuest. It works with
LabQuest 2 or LabQuest 3.
Charging the Sensor
Connect Go Direct PAR to the included Micro USB Cable and any USB device
for two hours.
You can also charge up to eight Go Direct PAR Sensors using our Go Direct
Charge Station, sold separately (order code: GDX-CRG). An LED on each Go
Direct PAR indicates charging status.
Charging Orange LED next to the battery icon is solid while
the sensor is charging.
Fully charged Green LED next to the battery icon is solid when
the sensor is fully charged.
Providing Power
Turning on the sensor Press button once. Red LED indicator flashes
when unit is on.
Putting the sensor in sleep
mode
Press and hold button for more than three seconds
to put into sleep mode. Red LED indicator stops
flashing when sleeping.
Connecting the Sensor
See the following link for up-to-date connection information:
www.vernier.com/start/gdx-par
Go Direct®PAR
(Order Code GDX-PAR)
The Go Direct PAR
(Photosynthetically Active
Radiation) Sensor measures
photosynthetic light levels in both air
and water. The sensor responds to visible light in the spectral range that is used by
plants in photosynthesis (400–700 nm). It features a waterproof sensor head and
connector and reports the Photosynthetic Photon Flux Density (PPFD), which is
measured in μmol m-2 s-1 (micromoles of photons per meter squared per second).
The sensor is calibrated for use in sunlight, but can also be used to measure PPFD
from electric light sources. This sensor is ideal for experiments that investigate
photosynthesis and primary productivity and can also be used in many agricultural
and environmental science applications. The Go Direct PARSensor has a 5m
cable.
Note: Vernier products are designed for educational use. Our products are not
designed nor are they recommended for any industrial, medical, or commercial
process such as life support, patient diagnosis, control of a manufacturing
process, or industrial testing of any kind.
What's Included
lGo Direct PAR
lMicro USBCable
lCover for the lens of the Go Direct PAR sensor
Compatible Software
See www.vernier.com/manuals/gdx-par for a list of software compatible with Go
Direct PAR.
Getting Started
Please see the following link for platform-specific connection information:
www.vernier.com/start/gdx-par
Bluetooth Connection USB Connection
1. Install Vernier Graphical Analysis®
on your computer, Chromebook™,
or mobile device. If using
LabQuest®, make sure LabQuest
App is up to date. See
www.vernier.com/ga for Graphical
Analysis Pro availability or
www.vernier.com/downloads to
update LabQuest App.
2. Charge your sensor for at least
2hours before first use.
1. Install Graphical Analysis on your
computer or Chromebook. If using
LabQuest, make sure LabQuest App
is up to date. See
www.vernier.com/ga for software
availability or
www.vernier.com/downloads to
update LabQuest App.
2. Connect the sensor to the USB port.
3. Launch Graphical Analysis or turn
on LabQuest. You are now ready to

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Sensor Orientation
Sensor orientation is important for getting the best results from the sensor. When
measuring PAR outdoors, the sensor head should be level, with the white lens
pointing straight up toward the sky and with the cord pointing toward the north (in
the Northern Hemisphere) or toward the south (in the Southern Hemisphere).
When measuring PAR from an artificial light source, the sensor head should be
placed with the lens of the sensor facing the center of the light path.
Calibrating the Sensor
PPFD
This channel is factory calibrated and does not require calibration by the user. The
calibration can be verified using the Clear Sky Calculator
(www.clearskycalculator.com). The Clear Sky Calculator for Quantum Sensors
reports the theoretical PPFD at any time of day at any location in the world on a
cloudless day. The application is most accurate at solar noon in the spring and
summer.
PPFD - CF
This channel is factory calibrated and does not require calibration by the user. The
correction factor is automatically set to 1. To change the correction factor, click or
tap the meter, choose calibrate, and enter the correction factor for your condition.
Click or tap Keep, then done. Note: The correction factor for measuring PAR
underwater is 1.15. For information on correction factors please see
(https://www.vernier.com/til/3102).
Specifications
PAR range 0 to 2500μmol m-2 s-1 (PPFD) in full sun
Absolute accuracy ±5% (full scale)
Repeatability ±1%
Long-term drift Less than 2% per year
Cosine response
45° zenith angle
75° zenith angle
± 2%
± 5%
Wavelength range 370–650 nm
TypicalResolution 1 μmol m-2 s-1 (PPFD)
Sensor dimensions 2.4 cm diameter
3.3 cm height
5 m cable length
Connecting via Bluetooth
Ready to connect Red LED flashes when sensor is awake and ready
to connect via Bluetooth.
Connected Green LED flashes when sensor is connected via
Bluetooth.
Connecting via USB
Connected and charging Orange LED next to the battery icon is solid when
the sensor is connected to Graphical Analysis via
USB and the unit is charging. LED next to
Bluetooth icon is off.
Connected, fully charged Green LED next to the battery icon is solid when
the sensor is connected to Graphical Analysis via
USB and fully charged. LED next to Bluetooth
icon is off.
Charging via USB,
connected via Bluetooth
Orange LED next to the battery icon is solid when
the sensor is charging. Green LED next to the
Bluetooth icon flashes.
Identifying the Sensor
When two or more sensors are connected, the sensors can be identified by tapping
or clicking Identify in Sensor Information.
Using the Product
Connect the sensor following the steps in the Getting Started section of this user
manual.
Channels
Go Direct PAR has two measurement channels:
lPPFD
lPPFD - CF
PPFD
This channel is calibrated for sunlight and for electric light sources that do not use
LEDs. It reports the Photosynthetic Photon Flux Density (PPFD), which is
measured in μmol m-2 s-1 (micromoles of photons per meter squared per second).
This is the default channel that is active when the sensor is connected.
PPFD - CF
This channel is used when you need to use a correction factor to measure PPFD in
conditions where the standard calibration will not be accurate. This would include
LED based light sources, measuring PAR underwater, or in certain field
conditions. This channel is not active by default when the sensor is connected. For
information on correction factors please see (https://www.vernier.com/til/3102).

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power button for more than three seconds). Disconnect the sensor and charging
cable, and remove the battery. Allow the device to dry thoroughly before
attempting to use the device again. Do not attempt to dry using an external heat
source. Note: Damage due to liquid is not covered under warranty.
Troubleshooting
For troubleshooting and FAQs, see www.vernier.com/til/17351
Repair Information
If you have watched the related product video(s), followed the troubleshooting
steps, and are still having trouble with your Go Direct PAR, contact Vernier
Technical Support at [email protected] or call 888-837-6437. Support
specialists will work with you to determine if the unit needs to be sent in for
repair. At that time, a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) number will be
issued and instructions will be communicated on how to return the unit for repair.
Related Products
Item Order Code
Go Direct Optical Dissolved Oxygen GDX-ODO
Go Direct CO2Carbon Dioxide Gas GDX-CO2
Go Direct Tris-Compatible Flat pH GDX-FPH
Go Direct Conductivity GDX-CON
Water Quality Bottles (8) WQ-BTA
Warranty
Warranty information for this product can be found on the Support tab at
www.vernier.com/gdx-par
General warranty information can be found at www.vernier.com/warranty
Disposal
When disposing of this electronic product, do not treat it as household waste. Its
disposal is subject to regulations that vary by country and region. This item should
be given to an applicable collection point for the recycling of electrical and
electronic equipment. By ensuring that this product is disposed of correctly, you
help prevent potential negative consequences on human health or on the
environment. The recycling of materials will help to conserve natural resources.
For more detailed information about recycling this product, contact your local city
office or your disposal service.
Battery recycling information is available at www.call2recycle.org
Do not puncture or expose the battery to excessive heat or flame.
The symbol, shown here, indicates that this product must not be disposed of in
a standard waste container.
Materials Anodized aluminum with case acrylic lens
Operating environment –10 to 60°C
0–100% relative humidity
Sensor head and cable can be
submerged in water to sensor box
Care and Maintenance
Cleaning the Go Direct PAR Sensor
Debris on the Go Direct PAR Sensor lens will partially block the optical path and
will lead to low readings. Dust and other organic deposits are best removed using
water or window cleaner. Never use an abrasive cleaner on the lens. Salt deposits
can also accumulate on the sensor lens over time due to evaporation from sea
spray, sprinkler irrigation water, or wave splash. Salt deposits should be dissolved
with vinegar and then removed using soft cloth or cotton swabs.
Go Direct PARSensor Head Connector
The head of the Go Direct PAR Sensor is attached to the main cable using a
P68-rated stainless-steel marine grade (M8)connector. This connector is located
25cm from the sensor head. The connector is used for removing the sensor head
during routine calibration, replacement, or maintenance by the manufacturer.
Please do not remove the sensor head from the main cable. For the connector to be
waterproof, confirm that the cables are firmly connected and the threaded
connectors are finger tight.
Battery Information
The Go Direct PARSensor contains a small lithium-ion battery in the sensor box.
The system is designed to consume very little power and not put heavy demands
on the battery. Although the battery is warranted for one year, the expected battery
life should be several years. Replacement batteries are available from Vernier
(order code: GDX-BAT-300).
Storage and Maintenance
To store the Go Direct PARSensor for extended periods of time, put the device in
sleep mode by holding the button down for at least three seconds. The red LED
will stop flashing to show that the unit is in sleep mode. Over several months, the
battery will discharge but will not be damaged. After such storage, charge the
device for a few hours, and the unit will be ready to go.
Exposing the battery to temperatures over 35°C (95°F) will reduce its lifespan. If
possible, store the device in an area that is not exposed to temperature extremes.
Water Resistance
The sensor head and main cable for the Go Direct PAR are waterproof and can be
fully submerged up to the box containing the electronics (approximately 5 meters).
The sensor box is not waterproof and should never be immersed in water. If any
liquid gets into the device, immediately power the unit down (press and hold the

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Vernier Science Education
13979 SW Millikan Way • Beaverton, OR 97005-2886
Toll Free [phone] • [phone] • Fax [phone]
[email protected] • www.vernier.com
Rev. 8/7/2023
Go Direct, Vernier Graphical Analysis, LabQuest, and other marks shown are our trademarks or registered trademarks
in the United States. All other marks not owned by us that appear herein are the property of their respective owners,
who may or may not be affiliated with, connected to, or sponsored by us.
The Bluetooth®word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by the Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of such
marks by Vernier Software & Technology is under license. Other trademarks and trade names are those of their
respective owners.
Federal Communication Commission Interference Statement
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC rules. These
limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates,
uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful
interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this
equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on,
the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
FCC Caution
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
(1) this device may not cause harmful interference and
(2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation
RF Exposure Warning
The equipment complies with RF exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled environment. The antenna(s) used for this transmitter must not
be co-located or operating in conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter. You are cautioned that changes or modifications not
expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void your authority to operate the equipment.
IC Statement
This device complies with Industry Canada license-exempt RSS standard(s). Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
(1) this device may not cause interference, and
(2) this device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.
Industry Canada - Class B This digital apparatus does not exceed the Class B limits for radio noise emissions from digital apparatus as set
out in the interference-causing equipment standard entitled “Digital Apparatus,” ICES-003 of Industry Canada. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause interference, and
(2) this device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.
To reduce potential radio interference to other users, the antenna type and its gain should be so chosen that the equivalent isotropically
radiated power (e.i.r.p.) is not more than that permitted for successful communication.
RF exposure warning: The equipment complies with RF exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled environment. The antenna(s) used for
this transmitter must not be co-located or operating in conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter.
Le présent appareil est conforme aux CNR d’Industrie Canada applicables aux appareils radio exempts de licence. L’exploitation est
autorisée aux deux conditions suivantes :
(1) l’appareil ne doit pas produire de brouillage, et
(2) l’appareil doit accepter tout interférence radioélectrique, même si cela résulte à un brouillage susceptible d’en compromettre le
fonctionnement.
Cet appareil numérique respecte les limites de bruits radioélectriques applicables aux appareils numériques de Classe B prescrites dans la
norme sur le matériel interférant-brouilleur: “Appareils Numériques,” NMB-003 édictée par industrie Canada. L’utilisation est soumise aux
deux conditions suivantes:
(1) cet appareil ne peut causer d’interférences, et
(2) cet appareil doit accepter toutes interférences, y comprises celles susceptibles de provoquer un disfonctionnement du dispositif.
Afin de réduire les interférences radio potentielles pour les autres utilisateurs, le type d’antenne et son gain doivent être choisie de telle
façon que l’équivalent de puissance isotrope émis (e.i.r.p) n’est pas plus grand que celui permis pour une communication établie.
Avertissement d’exposition RF: L’équipement est conforme aux limites d’exposition aux RF établies pour un environnement non
supervisé. L’antenne (s) utilisée pour ce transmetteur ne doit pas être jumelés ou fonctionner en conjonction avec toute autre antenne ou
transmetteur.
Note: This product is a sensitive measurement device. For best results, use the cables that were provided. Keep the device away from
electromagnetic noise sources, such as microwaves, monitors, electric motors, and appliances.