Digilab is a new and innovative tool developed by BASF, The Chemical Company, and now being launched in Trinidad through Caribbean Chemicals and Agencies Limited. BASF is the world’s largest chemical company and a leader in the world of agrichemicals and crop science.
Digilab has two components; first, a digital microscope attached to a laptop used for the viewing and identifying of a wide range of pests and diseases even at microscopic levels, thereby allowing accurate and real time diagnosis for farmers’ benefits, and second a database right on the computer and the worldwide support of scientists, researchers and industry professionals.
With Digilab, one is able to view specimen for diagnosis. If the specimen is not readily identified, an image may be captured on the PC to which the Digilab unit is attached. The image may then be categorized and compared with hundreds of pictures in the onboard database, based on whether or not it is a fungus or insect, host plant, region etc.
This database is updated almost daily. If a match is not found, the image may then be uploaded to the BASF global database where over 2500 industry professionals (scientists, researchers, sales personnel, growers, product developers etc.) are available to assist in the identification of the specimen and to make treatment recommendations.
This can be done right in the middle of the field as a laptop PC is connected via high speed wireless internet for real time uploading and accessing of the database.
BASF representative for this region Mr. Prospero De Leon, will be here to launch BASF’s “XL Programme” where the Digilab will be used to diagnose farmers’ disease and pest problems. A series of plant clinics will be held throughout the island to accommodate our diversified farming communities. Farmers are asked to bring their diseased samples.
BENEFITS OF THE DIGI LAB
• Early and accurate diagnosis of pests and diseases, allowing a faster response time, avoiding early damage and infestation by pest and diseases.
• Real time diagnosis of pests and diseases along with a number of possible treatments.
• Instant access to extensive global database that includes specialists from countries like: Brazil, Costa Rica, Argentina, Chile, Guatemala, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Honduras, Germany and many more.
DIGILAB PLANT CLINICS – July 2010
9 am – 2pm
Wednesday 7th July 2010 – Trinidad Agro Suppliers Ltd – Lightbourne Rd. ,Gasparillo
Thursday 8th July 2010 – Southern Chemicals – Ramsaran St., Chaguanas
Friday 9th July 2010 – ASASCO – Aranguez Main Rd.
Saturday 10th July 2010 – Jessel Kasmally Farm & Garden Supplies – Sangre Grande Main Rd.
Monday12th July 2010 – Rohit’s Garden Shop – Aranguez Main Rd.
Tuesday 13th July 2010 – DS Enterprises – 247 Charlo Village, Penal
Wednesday 14th July 2010 – Rio Claro Feed & Agro Shop – Tabaquite Rd., Rio Claro
Thursday15th July 2010 – Mootee & Sons garden Shop – Brierley St. , Sangre Grande
Friday 16th July 2010 – V Bissessar Agricultural Supplies – Mucurapo St., San Fernando
Tags: BASF, Caribbean Chemicals, Carribbean Chemicals and Agencies Limited, Digi Lab, Trinidad and Tobago