Perten AM 5200: A buyer’s guide for farmers and agricultural specialists
There are fewer things more important than accurate moisture measurement if you’re a farmer that grows, stores, or processes grain.
The financial stakes are substantial; even a single percentage point of moisture inaccurately measured could mean the difference between profit and loss.
Weather uncertainty makes accurate measurement even more critical.
With unpredictable harvest conditions, mean moisture levels can vary dramatically across fields and throughout the day.
Don’t leave moisture measurement to guesswork and instinct; use a moisture meter for farmers that can quickly and accurately measure moisture levels in your crop.
The Perten AM 5200 is ready to help you transform your operations.
Equipped with unparalleled accuracy and some of the most advanced technology available, this moisture meter for agriculture has the potential to boost profits while protecting crop quality.
What is the Perten Am 5200 Moisture Meter?
In simple terms, the Perten AM 5200 is an instrument to measure the level of moisture in your grain.
It is a second-generation, high-frequency grain moisture meter for agriculture that operates using high frequencies – 150MHz radio frequency to be exact – that are significantly higher than older moisture meters for agriculture.
Thanks to the higher frequency, the Perten AM 5200 is able to penetrate deeper into grain samples and provide more accurate readings than most other conventional equipment available.
The Perten AM 5200 also uses the Unified Grain Moisture Algorithm (UGMA), which is the exact technology employed by USDA facilities, grain elevators, and commercial terminals worldwide to measure the moisture in the grains they receive and determine how much they are worth.
This means, when you use the Perten AM 5200, not only will you be using a moisture meter for farmers, you’ll get moisture readings closely matching those at delivery points directly on your farms, and you’ll also eliminate any chance of costly surprises or disputes when you sell your grain.
The Perten AM 5200 is an instrument that will give you comprehensive measurements including moisture content, test weight (also called Specific Weight or Hectoliter Weight), and temperature – three critical factors that will greatly help you to manage your grain.
Who makes it?
The AM 5200 is an instrument manufactured by Perten Instruments, a globally recognised authority in grain analysis technology with more than 60 years of industry leadership.
It’s a brand that’s not only trusted by farmers and grain professionals; it’s regularly used by everyone from research institutions to regulatory agencies to test the quality of grain, feed, dairy, and even processed food.
Today, Perten Instruments is operating as part of PerkinElmer (one of the world’s foremost names in laboratory and analytical instrumentation).
This powerful partnership ensures that UK users of the AM 5200 have, and will continue to have, access to cutting-edge innovation, robust technical assistance, and the equipment that meets the highest international standards possible.
How does the Perten AM 5200 work?
The Perten AM 5200 uses a combination of a 150MHz radio frequency (RF) technology and the UGMA to test the grain samples.
This moisture meter for agriculture uses technology that’s a leap forward from the lower frequency used by devices in the past.
High-Frequency RF Technology
● Deeper penetration: The 150 MHz signal can penetrate much further into a grain sample instead of measuring only the surface moisture, which can sometimes be misleading.
● Moisture rebound effect. Older meters often experience the ‘moisture rebound effect’. Instead of internal moisture, it measures surface moisture, creating artificially high readings. The AM 5200’s technology minimises this effect, providing a reading that reflects the true, internal, average moisture content of the entire kernel.
● Consistent results. By measuring the dielectric properties of a whole sample, the AM 5200 delivers results that are consistent, reliable, and in line with commercial standards used by grain merchants and processors.
Unified Grain Moisture Algorithm (UGMA)
● This sophisticated algorithm interprets the RF signal and compensates for variables such as grain temperature, density (test weight), and sample type, ensuring readings are accurate across a wide range of crops and conditions.
Which crops can you test with a Perten Am 5200?
The AM 5200 is a highly versatile moisture meter for farmers that’s programmed to measure crops commonly found across UK farms.
The Perten AM 5200 moisture meter for agriculture model can be programmed with up to a dozen different commodities, making it ideal for diversified farming operations.
These include:
● Cereal grains including wheat, barley, oats. Too much moisture and these grains decay, too little and they’re almost impossible to grind. With the AM 5200, you can ensure their moisture content remains around 14 per cent for safe storage.
● Beans such as fava, runner, and haricot beans are widely grown in the UK. To prevent them from rotting or becoming brittle, their moisture levels need to be kept between 12-14 per cent post-harvest.
● Lentils in storage must be maintained at moisture levels of 12-14 per cent to safeguard these crops from fermentation or cracking.
● Oilseed rape. A crop that UK farmers harvest in hundreds of thousands of tonnes yearly must be kept at six to eight per cent in storage. Otherwise, it risks turning rancid, or producing little vegetable oil.
● Seeds. The future harvest quality depends on the quality of the seeds. Moisture levels of 10 to 12 per cent allow the seeds to be stored and capable of germination in the future.
Is it suitable for all grain types?
In short, yes, it is.
Even if your harvest is a rare crop that’s not commonly planted in the UK, the Perten AM 5200 for farmers can be custom calibrated to accurately measure the moisture level in that sample.
Is it suitable for all moisture ranges?
Out of the box, this moisture meter for agriculture is calibrated to measure typically between eight and 45 per cent moisture, depending on the crop.
This range allows it to measure almost any crop at any stage of grain production, whether it’s freshly harvested or being prepared for storage and sale.
Here are some of the moisture ranges you should look for:
● 8–15 per cent: Storage and pre-shipment testing
● 15–25 per cent: Harvest monitoring and drying control
● 25–45 per cent: Wet grain assessment and dryer optimisation
How fast does the Perten AM 5200 produce results?
Depending on the model, when you insert your sample into the Perten AM 5200, you can expect the results of your analysis within 10 seconds.
There are several reasons why speed can be important for UK farmers.
· To accurately determine the best harvest timing. Accurate moisture readings help you decide the best time to harvest, minimising losses from over-drying or spoilage.
· Drying efficiency. Knowing the true average moisture content of the harvest allows more efficient use of grain dryers, saving energy and reducing your costs.
· Market confidence. If you measure your crop with results that align with commercial standards, you can deliver your grain with confidence and reduce the risk of either rejections or disputes.
Since even small deviations in moisture measurement can result in significant financial losses, the Perten AM 5200 is engineered for superior precision.
With both the 150MHz radio frequency and UGMA, the Perten AM 5200 for farmers has consistently demonstrated superior performance compared to older RF meters, particularly when measuring high-moisture or freshly harvested grain.
For more accurate figures, contact Calibre Control for current technical specifications and accuracy certifications.
Can a Perten AM 5200 be calibrated for farm use?
The Perten AM 5200 arrives pre-calibrated and ready for immediate use with all major UK crops, thanks to its advanced UGMA technology.
You can start testing wheat, barley, oats, oilseed rape and other common crops without any additional setup.
However, if you’re growing newer crop varieties or specialty crops not covered by the standard calibrations, additional calibration updates can be requested.
How to use Perten AM 5200 on a farm
While it’s made with some of the most advanced technology available, the Perten AM 5200 grain moisture meter for farmers is designed for everyday use with simple, intuitive operation.
To begin, ensure the grain moisture meter is placed on a stable, level surface and all transport locks are disengaged.
Switch the instrument on using the rear power switch and the AM 5200 will perform an automatic self-test and be ready within minutes.
Make sure the catch drawer is empty and properly inserted.
Once complete, the Perten AM 5200 is ready for use.
Operating this grain moisture meter is effortless:
● Select the crop you’re testing from the touchscreen menu. Common crops like wheat, barley, oilseed rape or any of the other programmed options will be displayed.
● Insert sample. Use approximately 700ml of clean grain. Simply pour it into the top funnel until it reaches the bottom of the metal funnel. The instrument automatically detects when enough sample is present and will begin analysis immediately.
● Read your results. In a matter of seconds, you’ll be able to view your results on the colour touchscreen of the instrument. You’ll be able to view all the critical information such as moisture content, test weight and sample temperature simultaneously.
● After Analysis. Remove the catch drawer and collect the analysed grain. Then replace the drawer and your instrument is now ready for the next sample. Testing a different crop? Easy, simply select a new product from the menu.
● Data and Maintenance. The instrument has USB ports allowing you to easily export your results for integration into your farm management software. Once complete, simply wipe down the exterior and ensure the measurement cell stays clean and free of grain debris.
Do you need training to use the Perten AM 5200?
No. This moisture meter for farmers is designed for ease and efficiency.
Using a simple ‘pour & go’ method, busy farmers can quickly and easily master the Perten AM 5200 and include it as part of their routine grain management.
It’s important to note that more advanced features of this grain moisture meter such as data export, USB connectivity, and calibration procedures that may require additional instruction, particularly when integrating with farm management software or other instruments.
When you buy your machine from Calibre Control, we provide comprehensive training with purchase to ensure you can maximise all the AM 5200’s capabilities from day one.
What maintenance does it require?
All electronic equipment requires routine maintenance to ensure accuracy and instrument life.
While annual maintenance requires professional calibration verification, comprehensive cleaning and inspection, plus any software updates done only by trained professionals, you can easily perform your own regular maintenance.
Wipe down the touchscreen and exterior surfaces after use.
Check for any grain debris in the measurement cell and catch drawer.
You may even perform a monthly deep clean which includes checking calibration accuracy with reference samples and any electronic ports.
The AM 5200’s robust construction and quality components minimise the need for maintenance requirements compared to many competing instruments, ensuring reliable operation with basic care.
How does the agriculture sector regard the Perten AM 200?
The Perten AM 5200 for farmers is cited by both UK farmers and grain merchants for its accuracy and consistency in moisture measurement.
Although its NTEP-approval and USDA certification are US-based, and there are no UK equivalents, these standards are internationally recognised and respected by UK buyers and industry professionals.
Pros and cons of using the Perten AM 5200 in the agriculture sector
Advantages:
● High accuracy, even when measuring freshly harvested grain
● Rapid results allowing for quick decision making when harvesting and drying
● Consistency with commercial facility readings (UGMA)
● Wide crop and moisture range compatibility
● User-friendly interface and robust construction
● Data export capabilities
● Ability to test hot grain (fresh from oven drying) without cooling
Some potential drawbacks of this instrument:
● Higher upfront cost than basic meters
● Less portable (requires AC power)
● Requires yearly calibration and maintenance
● Some of the more advanced features may require additional training
How does the Perten AM 5200 compare to other moisture meters on the market?
The Perten AM 5200 delivers laboratory-grade precision in a practical farm instrument.
While basic handheld meters cost less and offer portability, they typically sacrifice accuracy and handle fewer crop types.
Older RF meters also provide reasonable functionality but lack the advanced 150 MHz technology that eliminates moisture rebound effects on fresh grain.
How much does the Perten AM 5200 cost?
The Perten AM 5200 for farmers is priced typically upwards of £3,995.00 but can vary depending on supplier and model.
Contact us for current pricing.
The price tag can be seen as a very significant financial investment for a grain moisture meter, but UK farmers have reported that the meter pays for itself by reducing their drying costs, improving grain quality, and overall profitability of their crop.
Even when considering the annual calibration and maintenance cost, the Perten AM 5200 for farmers is priced modestly in comparison to the savings afforded.
So while the initial investment is higher than that of other basic meters, the long-term benefits in efficiency, quality, and risk reduction make this moisture meter for agriculture a necessary asset for every farm.
The comprehensive, precise moisture, test weight and temperature readings provided by the Perten AM 5200 for farmers can revolutionise your farming operation, reduce drying costs and protect your profits.
With UGMA technology matching commercial facility standards, you’ll eliminate delivery surprises whilst optimising storage and marketing decisions.
It’s not just a moisture meter, it is an investment in operational efficiency and crop quality, well-suited to the growing and challenging demands of UK agriculture.
Contact Calibre Control today to discover how the Perten AM 5200 can boost your bottom line.
Request a demonstration, or place your order now.