Frequently Asked Questions

The LI-8250 is compatible with the LI-870 (CO2), the LI-7810 (CH4 and CO2), LI-7815 (CO2), LI-7820 (N2O), and LI-7825 (CO2 gas and CO2 isotopes, but not NH3 flux).

LI-COR provides pre-made cable and tubing assemblies for LI-COR analyzers. Volumes for these analyzers and cable assemblies are auto-filled in the interface software, so you don’t have to calculate system volume on your own. Data, including final flux rate, from LI-COR analyzers can be viewed directly through the user interface software in the field. For measurements of trace gases not supported by LI-COR analyzers, the LI-8250 can also be used with gas analyzers not manufactured by LI-COR. Data from non-LI-COR analyzers cannot be viewed directly in the software, and files from the analyzer and LI-8250 must be merged in SoilFluxPro™ Software to calculate fluxes. You will also need to calculate total system volume manually for these applications.

Although the LI-7825 measures NH3 accurately, ammonia is a "sticky" gas that readily adheres to surfaces, such as tube walls. Complicating matters further, the adhesion properties depend on the amount of water vapor in the sample. This combination of properties make it difficult to measure because the amount of ammonia delivered to that analyzer is different from that at a sample site due to adhesion to tube walls.
The LI-870 provides a simple, low-cost solution for CO2 survey measurements. LI-COR Trace Gas Analyzers allow for measurements of CH4 and CO2 (LI-7810), and for very-high precision CO2 measurements (LI-7815). The LI-870 uses non-dispersive infrared measurement technology, similar to that of the LI-8100A System, while LI-COR Trace Gas Analyzers use laser-based, Optical Feedback – Cavity Enhanced Absorption Spectroscopy (OF-CEAS). LI-COR is happy to discuss your individual research and help you decide which analyzer is the best choice.
Yes. When using multiple LI-COR analyzers, data is collected in a single file to make viewing fluxes easy in the field or remotely, as well as simplifying your post-processing of data sets.
No. The LI-8100A and the LI-8150 Multiplexer have dedicated chambers. They are not interchangeable.
No. The LI-8250 Multiplexer has electronics for communication, control of measurements, and data processing. By moving the electronics from an analyzer control unit to the multiplexer itself, the LI-8250 can be more easily integrated with different gas analyzers.
No, but your gas analyzers may need periodic user calibration (zero/span). You can check the calibration of the LI-870 and trace gas analyzers yourself if you have access to zero and span gases. Or LI-COR can perform the calibration for you. You may also send the LI-870 back for service, as needed.
The LI-8250 Multiplexer includes an AC power supply that is for indoor use only. This can be used when configuring the system in your lab, before being deployed outdoors. In addition, you will receive a DC Power Cable for connecting to a user-supplied DC power source (10 to 30 VDC, 80 W). If you have AC mains power at your field site, the optional 8250-770 Weatherized AC Power Supply provides a weatherized connection for powering your LI-8250 in the field.