Methods and apparatus are provided for receiving, detecting and
transmitting geophysical data from a plurality of electrodes placed in
the soil utilizing a dynamically reconfigurable wireless control unit
that is located on each electrode. Data from the control units is
transmitted by a wireless signal to a centralized data processor for
analysis. Control data is provided from a central control processor to
the control unit by wireless transmission. The control unit, which is
positioned, includes a multi-channel radio frequency transmitter/receiver
and a processor to actuate relays and record data returns from the
measured substrate soil for transmission to the central data processor.
The control unit incorporates a changeable code or address to
unambiguously identify itself, and its spatial relationship to other
electrodes, to the central data processor and the central control
processor. The control units are equipped with a GPS positioning device
to allow for automatic transmission of electrode location and for
electrode placement without a manual survey being required.