By now a firmware to implement the SDI12 interface in T8 and TS1 Tensiometers is available. All T8 and TS1 delivered since mid of 2005 can be up-dated. The up-date requires a tensioLINK USB-adapter and the software tensioVIEW. Or send in your instruments for an up-date by UMS.
 
SDI-12 is a serial 1-wire interface for easy and uncomplicated connection to data loggers with adequate SDI-12 interface (e. g. Datataker, Campell Sci.). Besides the single data wire only 2 wires for the power supply are required. Up to 10 instruments can be connected in one bus line.
In recent years more and more manufacturers of sensors and loggers integrated the SDI-12 interface technique in their systems. Get more information at the webpage of the SDI-12 support group:  www.sdi-12.org
 
The hardware of T8 and TS1 was prepared for SDI-12 from the beginning. Both hardware and software of these Tensiometers fulfill the latest specification 1.3 given by the support group. To operate the Tensiometers with SDI-12 one of the 2 analog outputs is switched over with tensioLINK/tensioVIEW to work as the 1-data line. No new cables are required.
 
Normally the Tensiometers are connected analog or serial to a data logger.
The serial tensioLINK interface based on RS-485 is not affected by activating SDI-12. For measuring sites with great number of sensors and large cable lengths RS-485 still is the first choice.