Now remote sensing scientists working in the field have a choice between the standard FieldSpec HandHeld 2 and the FieldSpec HandHeld 2 Pro model spectroradiometers from ASD Inc. The Pro model provides greater sensitivity in low reflectance conditions. Researchers also gain GPS data with a newly introduced optional GPS module available in both models. These advanced visible/near-infrared field spectroradiometers, which provide truly portable, quickly derived precision reflectance, radiance, and irradiance spectra in a variety of environments, are manufactured by ASD, the global leader in remote sensing spectroscopy instrumentation and solutions.

The HandHeld 2 Pro is the latest in the FieldSpec line of premier spectroradiometers. It uses cutting-edge spectroscopy to instantly perform measurements of vegetation, inland water bodies and other materials. Self-contained data collection with significant spectrum storage capacity and an on-board color display facilitate more efficient field work by eliminating the need to be continuously connected to a computer.

“Researchers are already quickly adopting our durable HandHeld 2 model. The more sensitive Pro model opens up more opportunity for even broader qualitative field research applications,” said ASD CEO David Rzasa. “These instruments minimize time spent in the field collecting spectra, while maximizing the quality of the results.”

Greater Sensitivity for Measurements 
The Handheld 2 Pro offers greater sensitivity for measurements in any application with low reflectance, such as water surfaces. The Pro incorporates a detector with an area five times larger than the standard HandHeld 2, allowing for spectrum collections up to three times faster than the standard model, with a 5X improvement in the signal-to-noise ratio.

GPS Capabilities 
The FieldSpec HandHeld 2 is GPS compatible with an accessory GPS receiver specifically designed to work with the HandHeld 2. This GPS can be purchased directly from ASD.

Rugged and Precise Spectroradiometers 
The HandHeld 2 standard and Pro models provide the performance required for a broad range of applications with a wavelength range of 325-1075 nm, accuracy of +/- 1.0 nm, 3 nm resolution, standard 25° field-of-view, proprietary DriftLock™ compensation for dark current and fast scan times. The unit weighs less than three pounds and can be run on rechargeable batteries. Both the HandHeld 2 and the HandHeld 2 Pro can be used for research areas such as forestry, ecology, plant physiology, oceanography and inland water bodies.

The FieldSpec line of analytical instrumentation will be demonstrated during the American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing (ASPRS) conference in Milwaukee, WI. The ASD User Group session, on May 1 from 8 am – noon, will cover how hyperspectral measurements can solve challenging environmental measurement problems. To learn more about the new HandHeld 2 Pro, please visit

http://www.asdi.com/products/handheld-2-portable-spectroradiometer