Corn growers and seed producers can now measure moisture in the field
The SCIO Mini 2, a newly launched device, is transforming moisture measurement in the field for U.S. corn growers and seed producers. SCIO, formerly known as ‘Consumer Physics’, is the ag-tech innovator behind the venture. Testified by significant field trials, zero shelling, and instant results, the device builds on the success of its predecessor, the SCIO Mini 1. The device requires little to no training, with a user-friendly and portable design suited for in-field use.
A sleek, more durable design enhances the field efficiency of the SCIO Mini 2, launched by SCIO, formerly Consumer Physics. This device delivers fast, accurate, and non-destructive measurements of corn moisture without requiring any preparation. The device uses near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy and is connected to SCIO’s cloud-based platform. Data-driven decision-making for harvest, storage, and field management can be made faster and more efficiently with these features. Over 13 million scans have been logged by 10,000 users across 186 countries, making SCIO the leading handheld spectroscopy company. Device adoption by agriculture leaders like Corteva and Syngenta underscores its market impact and reliability. The number of tests conducted by producers has been cut by more than 50%, harvest timing and storage strategies have been improved, and cost controls have been implemented.
For U.S. agriculture, the stakes are immense. In 2023 alone, farmers produced 15.3 billion bushels of corn for grain, valued at $73.9 billion, contributing $151 billion to the economy and $62 billion to the U.S. GDP. However, rising costs and shrinking harvest windows are intensifying the need for real-time field analysis tools to optimize productivity and efficiency.
SCIO Mini 2 builds on the proven capabilities of its predecessor, SCIO Mini, with a refined design and enhanced features tailored for more efficient and reliable field use. Upgrades include:
- Built-in corn ear accessory
No more attachments—the corn accessory is now seamlessly integrated into the device, streamlining the workflow in the field. - Higher scan capacity per charge
A new high-capacity battery: supports over 1,000 scans per charge, compared to around 250 scans in SCIO Mini 1. - Improved durability with IP53 rating
Designed for rugged environments, the SCIO Mini 2 resists dust and water spray, enabling confident outdoor operation. - Sleek, ergonomic design
The modernized form factor improves comfort and ease of use, both indoors and outdoors. - Faster, more reliable performance
A new light source and internal improvements enhance robustness and scanning accuracy. - Convenient USB-C charging
Replaces the older Micro-USB with faster and more user-friendly USB-C charging.
SCIO Mini 2 builds on the strong capabilities and massive adoption of SCIO Mini 1, which allows farmers to scan a cob and see moisture levels within seconds, without the need for shelling or grinding. In SCIO Mini 2, Bluetooth sync allows data to flow straight into mobile apps or cloud dashboards.
“For the seed tech manager walking 20-acre plots in August heat, speed matters,” said Damian Goldring, Co-founder and Chief Technology Officer at SCIO. “SCIO Mini 2 puts precision in the palm of your hand. In seconds, you know whether to harvest or hold.
