[Maize] Re: Growth Chambers

[Lockhart, Lawrence L [AGRON]]

Jane,

I have used Percivals for about 15 years. My experience is much like 
yours. They are a decent chamber but do have problems with occasional 
break downs. I recently purchased two small Convirons. Although they 
have been operating for only two months, I am impressed with the 
degree of control, relative ease of programming, and the lighting 
system. The lights are mounted on the exterior of the chamber so the 
lamps are easy to change and the moisture inside the chamber will not 
cause corrosion of the fixtures. Cost is a consideration when 
deciding between the two. I can purchase 4x space with the Percival 
units. My hope is the extra I spent on the Convirons will be recouped 
by a longer lifespan with less maintenance cost.

Larry L. Lockhart

Program Manager

USDA-ARS North Central Regional
Plant Introduction Station
Ames, IA 50014
515-294-3359 Office
515-460-1000 Cell
515-294-1903 FAX