Z-Trap FAQ

What insects can the Z-Trap detect?

The Z-Trap is currently designed to monitor codling moths, but adjusting the system to detect other insect species may be possible in some cases. Initial experiments with Oriental fruit moths and obliquebanded leafrollers, for example, showed very good results.

Will there be Z-Traps available for other target species?

Yes. Spensa is constantly working on improving the capabilities of the Z-Trap. If you have a particular insect species that you would like to monitor, please contact us to discuss the possibilities.

Can the Z-Trap detect more than one target insect?

The current version of the Z-Trap is designed to detect one specific insect species. Certain limitations, such as the type of pheromone lure used to attract myultiple insect species precludes the use of the Z-Trap for multiple insects. But Spensa is currently researching mechanisms to allow multiple insect monitoring via the Z-Trap.

Do the Z-Traps require a lure?

Yes. A standard pheromone lure must be inserted in the Z-Trap to attract the target insects.

Can I use any kind of lure or is a specific type required?

Any kind of lure can be used. The Spensa Z-Trap uses the same type of lure used with traditional traps.

Do you supply the lure?

No. You can purchase the lure from the supplier that currently provides the lures for your manual sticky traps.

What is the communication range of the Z-Trap?

Wireless communication ranges depend on a number of factors, but in general, in the open field, the Z-Traps can communicate at up to about 1 km (0.7 mile). Inside a typical apple orchard, the communication range is reduced to approximately 100-150 m (330-500 ft). If needed, you can extend the communication range of the Z-Traps using our inexpensive repeater devices, the Z-Nodes.

What is the communication range of the Z-Node?

The Z-Node has the same communication range as the Z-Trap. That is, 1 km (0.7 mi) in the open field and 100-150 m (330-500 ft) in a typical apple orchard.

What is a Z-Node used for?

The Z-Node is used to extend the communication range of the Z-Traps. If two traps cannot be deployed within each other's wireless communication range, a Z-Node can be placed between them to double the communication range. The Z-Node can also be used to extend the communication range of the base station. For example, suppose your base station is in an office 1.6 km (1 mile) away from the field and your first Z-Trap is deployed inside the canopy of a tree several feet within the border of the field. Since the Z-Node can communicate at a distance of up to 1 km (0.7 mile) in the open field, you can place a Z-Node at 0.7 miles of your office so that the base station can connect with the Z-Node and the Z-Node can then connect with the first Z-Trap in the field and forward all the information exchanged between the Z-Trap and the base station.

What does the base station do?

The base station is responsible for aggregating all the information collected by the Z-Traps and uploading it to MyTraps.

Does the base station need to be indoors?

The current base station does need to be placed in an area protected from the environment and with access to a power outlet. Spensa is developing an outdoors base station that will overcome these limitations. If you need an outdoors base station, please contact us.

Does the base station need WiFi to upload the data to MyTraps?

The base station can communicate with MyTraps using either a wired (i.e., LAN) or wireless (i.e., WiFi) connection. If no connection is available, a broadband USB modem can be purchased from a wireless provider company (e.g. AT&T;, Verizon, Sprint, etc.).

Can the Z-Trap tell the difference between a target and non-target species?

The Z-Trap relies on a number of characteristics of the system such as sensor response, pheromone lure selectivity, and target insect flying time to estimate the number of target insects detected by the system. Although the correspondence between the number of target insects captured by the Z-Trap and the number reported is not 100% accurate, they are highly correlated.

Can the Z-Traps be added on to an existing network of wireless devices deployed in my field?

Currently the Z-Trap establishes its own communication network. Spensa has been communicating with other companies that provide wireless network solution for the agricultural community to evaluate the possibility of providing integrated services.

Do I need to download data from the Z-Trap?

No. The Z-Trap transmits all of its data directly to MyTraps automatically.

Do you own the data or does the Z-Trap owner own the data?

The data collected by the Z-Traps can be an important tool in the research and development of new IPM technologies. Although the data belongs to Spensa, we will not disclose any information without your consent.

How is the Z-Trap powered?

The Z-Trap is powered by a high density lithium iron phosphate battery. These batteries are as efficient as the lithium ion batteries used in laptop computers and mobile phones, but also much safer.

How long does the battery last?

Under common codling moth monitoring conditions (i.e., operating approximately four hours per day, seven days a week), we expect fully charged Z-Trap batteries to last approximately six months. In most cases, you should only need to charge the batteries at the beginning of the season.

Will I have to change out the battery?

No. In most cases the Z-Trap batteries will last the entire season. If recharging does become necessary, you can connect the Z-Trap to the provided DC adapter for approximately 24 hours and the Z-Trap will be ready to operate again for another six months.

How do I know if the Z-Trap is working?

There are several mechanisms to verify that the Z-Traps are operating properly. First, during deployment each Z-Traps that is connected to the base station will periodically blink its lights to indicate that it is connected to the base station, and MyTraps will show a message reporting that the trap was successfully deployed. After deployment, you can also go to a Z-Trap at any time and press the battery button to see the battery level of the Z-Trap. In addition, the Z-Traps must report to the base station periodically. If that does not happen, the base station will send a warning message to MyTraps which the user will be able to visualize. MyTraps also shows the battery level of the Z-traps.

Where can I buy replacement batteries?

The Z-Trap batteries are integrated and cannot be replaced by the user. If service is needed, please contact Spensa. The Z-Nodes use low-self discharge rechargeable AA batteries (e.g. Sanyo eneloop, Sony cycle energy, Tenergy centura), which can be purchased from most retailers.

How do I get a Z-Trap repaired?

Please contact us.

How heavy is the Z-Trap?

An entire Z-Trap weighs slightly less than 3 lbs.

Do I have to subscribe to MyTraps if I purchase a Z-Trap?

You do need a MyTraps account to be able to visualize the data collected by the Z-Traps. However, as a Z-Trap user you do not have to pay a subscription fee.

Z-Trap Frequently Asked Questions