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Why hives show different readings

Plan: Apisense PRO AI

Each colony is different, so the readings from different hives are almost never the same. Before you think that a difference is a problem, make sure that the data is current and that the devices are installed in the same way. Compare the direction of the changes over time, not single values.

Make sure that you compare current data

A hive without current data shows an old reading. You cannot compare such a reading with other hives.

  1. Open the list of hives in the apiary.
  2. Check the device status on the hive tile, for example No connection or Battery depleted.
  3. In the hive settings, in the Devices section, check the Last report of the VitalSensor and the Scale.

When a device does not report, read No data or a gap in the chart.

Check where the VitalSensor is

The VitalSensor measures the air at the place where it is. We recommend one position in all hives: vertical on a brood frame, in the centre of the brood nest or next to the centre. When the VitalSensor in one hive is in a different position, it is difficult to compare the readings from this hive with other hives. Do not move the VitalSensor between frames when it is not necessary. Record each change of position in a note.

Compare the trend, not a single reading

  1. On the hive screen, select the Hive state tab.
  2. Tap a row, for example Inside hive temperature or Humidity.
  3. Select the same time range in all hives, for example 7 d.
  4. Turn on Show trend.

The trend shows if the value increases, decreases or is stable. Two hives can have different values and the same stable trend.

What can explain the difference

  • A different colony strength. You can see the colony strength on the hive tile and in the Health card.
  • A different position of the VitalSensor in the brood nest.
  • Your work at one hive, for example an inspection, a feeding, a treatment or a new super. Record this work in notes.
  • Scale: the weight depends on the size of the hive and the equipment. For the Scale, the changes of the weight are more important than the weight itself.

The app does not give temperature and humidity norms for a colony.

When the difference makes you worried

See also