Crop Talker: An Innovative IoT Solution for Multispectral and Structural Monitoring in Small-Scale Agriculture

Efficient monitoring of crop health and growth dynamics is essential for sustainable agricultural practices, particularly in small-scale farming systems. The Crop Talker represents a breakthrough in precision agriculture as a multifunctional, low-cost Internet of Things (IoT) device. Integrating advanced sensing technologies, it provides comprehensive ecophysiological insights.

Key features include a 28-band spectrometer covering the 400–900 nm range for assessing physiological parameters such as nitrogen content, chlorophyll levels, and nutrient deficiencies. Additionally, the Crop Talker incorporates an 8×8-pixel Lidar Time-of-Flight (ToF) sensor to deliver real-time crop height measurements, augmented by RGB imaging from a 2 MP camera for visual assessments. Onboard environmental sensors for air temperature and humidity complement the system, enabling holistic crop monitoring. Data streaming is facilitated through a 4G NB-IoT connection, ensuring seamless integration with remote analytical platforms.

This innovative device is designed to empower smallholder farmers by delivering actionable insights through an affordable and robust monitoring tool. The Crop Talker bridges the gap between traditional farming practices and modern digital agriculture, contributing to enhanced crop management and resource efficiency.