The VDH Products PROBA 5 is the fifth-generation ripening process controller, engineered to replace its globally successful predecessor, the PROBA 4. Moving beyond traditional PLC limitations, the PROBA 5 is an open, Ethernet-based system designed for the precise orchestration of all environmental variables—temperature, humidity, ventilation, ethylene, and CO2—that dictate the perfect ripening of bananas, mangoes, avocados, and other tropical fruits. Its architecture combines a central DIN-Rail mounted control module, an intuitive VASP software suite for desktop and mobile management, and an optional 7-inch local touchscreen, offering unprecedented flexibility for both local and remote operations.

Independent Chamber Control for Unmatched Reliability

• One Chamber, One Controller: Unlike systems that drive multiple chambers from a single controller, each PROBA 5 is dedicated to one ripening room. This ensures that the failure of one unit never compromises the process in another, providing inherent system redundancy and peace of mind.
• Direct Sensor Monitoring: With support for three or more high-precision SM 8000 (PT-1000) sensors per controller, operators can monitor spatial temperature uniformity across the chamber, ensuring even ripening and preventing hotspots.

Graphical Programming & Intuitive Operation

• Recipe-Driven Control: Operators can create, save, and reuse specific ripening "recipes" as graphical curves. Setpoints for temperature and gas concentration are adjusted over time with simple drag-and-drop actions, eliminating complex, code-based PLC programming.
• Real-Time & Adjustable Profiles: Running programs can be modified in real-time without stopping the process. Setpoint changes can be executed as smooth ramps, instant steps, or a combination of both, mirroring the ideal biological progression of the fruit.

Open Platform & Comprehensive Connectivity

• True Open System: The PROBA 5 is intentionally not a closed, proprietary PLC. All parameters are freely accessible, enabling third-party service providers or in-house technical teams to configure, modify, and maintain the system without recurring licensing or service fees, granting true operational independence.
• Unified Control with VASP: The VASP management software, accessible from any Java-enabled browser, provides a unified dashboard for up to 100 controllers. Operators can monitor, program, and manage alarms across their entire facility from a single server.
• Robust Alarms & TÜV Certification: Configurable alarms with office/out-of-office profiles can be routed via email or the VASP app. This is backed by TÜV Rheinland certification, a globally recognized seal of quality and safety for the entire system.

Global Expertise, Engineered In

• Drawing on over 35 years of global ripening technology experience with more than 8,000 operating systems supplied, the PROBA 5 encapsulates decades of practical feedback from ripeners, advisors, and retailers. From its robust anodized aluminum housing to its intuitive software, every detail is designed to enhance competitiveness, reduce waste, and deliver consistently high-quality fruit from any global production region.