LabCo SCIENTIFIC PC8500 Portable pH Conductivity Meter User Manual

: June 1, 2024
: Labco Scientific

Table of Contents

PC8500 Portable pH Conductivity Meter
Specifications
Product Information
Introduction
Basic Features
pH Measurement Features
Conductivity Measurement Features
- Product Usage Instructions
1. Setting Up the Meter
2. Conducting pH Measurement
3. Conducting Conductivity Measurement
- FAQ
Q: Can I use the PC8500 meter for temperature
Q: How do I know when to calibrate the meter?

PC8500 Portable pH Conductivity Meter

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Specifications

Measurement Parameters: pH/mV,
Conductivity/TDS/Salinity, Temperature

Product Information

Introduction

Thank you for purchasing the PC8500 pH/Conductivity meter. This
product is designed for various water solution applications such as
water treatment, environmental monitoring, pools and spas,
hydroponics, aquaculture, education, beverage making, cooling
towers, etc., and is especially suitable for field use.

Basic Features

The PC8500 meter features compensation, function set-up,
self-diagnostics, due calibration reminding, calibration date
checking, automatic power-off, and low voltage display. It can
measure multiple parameters simultaneously by attaching pH and
conductivity electrodes together into the clip.

pH Measurement Features

The pH measurement features include compatibility with buffer
solutions like USA series, NIST series, and customer-defined
solutions.

Conductivity Measurement Features

The conductivity measurement features support customer-defined
solutions.

Product Usage Instructions

1. Setting Up the Meter

Before using the PC8500 meter, ensure you have read the manual
thoroughly. Turn on the meter by pressing the power button. For
calibration and parameter set-up, follow the instructions provided
in the manual.

2. Conducting pH Measurement

To measure pH using the PC8500 meter, ensure the appropriate
electrode is attached. Immerse the electrode in the solution to be
measured and wait for stable readings to appear on the display.

3. Conducting Conductivity Measurement

For conductivity measurement, attach the conductivity electrode
to the meter. Submerge the electrode in the solution and allow time
for stable readings to be displayed.

FAQ

Q: Can I use the PC8500 meter for temperature

measurements?

A: Yes, the PC8500 meter supports temperature measurements along
with pH and conductivity measurements.

Q: How do I know when to calibrate the meter?

A: The PC8500 meter has a due calibration reminder feature that
prompts you when calibration is required. Refer to the manual for
detailed calibration instructions.

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PC8500 PORTABLE pH/CONDUCTIVITY METER
USER MANUAL

sales@labcoscientific.com.au labcoscientific.com.au

1800 052 226 PO Box 5816, Brendale, QLD 4500

ABN 57 622 896 593 Version 1.1

CONTENTS INTRODUCTION SPECIFICATIONS INSTRUMENT DESCRIPTION PH MEASUREMENT MV MEASUREMENT CONDUCTIVITY MEASUREMENT PARAMETER SETTING USB COMMUNICATION WHAT’S IN THE KIT? RECOMMENDED PH ELECTRODES FOR DIFFERENT APPLICATIONS
WARRANTY APPENDIX I: PARAMETER SETTING AND FACTORY
DEFAULT SETTING APPENDIX II: ABBREVIATION GLOSSARY

PAGE NUMBER 2 3 4 9 15 15 21 26 28
29
30
31
32

1

1. INTRODUCTION
Thank you for purchasing PC8500 pH/Conductivity meter. This product is a great combination of advanced electronics technology, sensor technology, and software design, made for general water solution applications such as water treatment, environmental monitoring, pools and spas, hydroponics, aquaculture, education, beverage making, cooling tower, etc., especially ideal for field use. In order to use and maintain the instrument properly, please read the manual thoroughly before use.
1.1 Measurement Parameters

Measurement parameters pH/mV
Conductivity/TDS/Salinity Temperature

PC8500

1.2 Basic features

· The microprocessor-based portable meter features automatic calibration, automatic temperature

compensation, function set-up, self-diagnostics, due calibration reminding, calibration date

checking, automatic power-off and low voltage display. PC50 meter is able to measure multiple

parameters simultaneously. Please see Diagram -1attach pH electrode and conductivity

electrode together into the clip to measure simultaneously.

· Meet GLP, clock display, manual storage and automatic timing storage, USB port.

· The meter’s digital filter improves measurement speed and accuracy. There is reading stability

display.

· The package includes portable case, meter, electrode, standard solutions, soaking solutions, and

all accessories, convenient to use in field. · The meter is dust proof and waterproof, meeting the IP57 rating.

Diagram-1

1.3 pH measurement features (suited for model PH8500 and PC8500)

· 1-3 points automatic calibration, the meter provides calibration guide and automatic checking function.

· The meter is able to recognize pH standard buffer solutions automatically. There are three options of standard

buffer solution: USA series, NIST series and customer-defined solution.

· The meter provides three kinds of reading stability criteria.

1.4 Conductivity measurement features (suited for model EC8500 and PC8500)

· 1-4 points automatic calibration, the meter provides calibration guide and automatic checking function.

· The meter is able to switch among conductivity, TDS and salinity measurement mode.

· The meter is able to recognize conductivity standard solutions automatically. There is “Standard” series and

customer-defined solution.

2

2. SPECIFICATIONS
2.1 Main specifications

Measuring Range

Resolution pH
Accuracy
Temperature compensation
Measuring Range

mV

Resolution

Accuracy

Measuring Range

CONDUCTIVITY TEMPERATURE

Resolution Accuracy Temperature compensation Electrode constant Measuring Range Resolution Accuracy

SPECIFICATIONS (-2.00 ~ 16.00) pH 0.1/0.01 pH ±0.01pH ±1 digit
(0 ~ 100) °C (manual or automatic)
±1,999mV ±200 mV:0.1mV; others:1 mV
±0.1% F.S ±1 digit Conductivity0~200 mS/cmdivided into five ranges:
(0.00~19.99) S/cm; (20.0~199.9) S/cm; (200~1999) S/cm; (2.00~19.99) mS/cm;
(20.0~199.9) mS/cm TDS: (0~100) g/L, Salinity: (0~100) ppt
0.01/0.1/1S/cm 0.01/0.1mS/cm ±1.0% F.S ±1 digit
(0 ~ 100) °C (manual or automatic)
0.1 / 1 / 10cm-1 -10~110°C 0.1
±0.5±1 digit

3

2.2 Other Specifications: DATA STORAGE
STORAGE CONTENT OUTPUT POWER IP RATING
DIMENSION & WEIGHT

500 groups Serial number, date, time, measuring value, measuring unit and
temperature value USB

AA batteries × 3 (1.5V× 3)

IP57 waterproof and dust proof

Meter: (86×196×33 ) mm / 335 g

Portable case: (370×270×77 ) mm /1.8 kg

PC8500

3. INSTRUMENT DESCRIPTION
3.1 LCD Display

HOLD

(1) — Measuring mode icons

Diagram-2

(2) — Measurement reading

(3) — Timing storage icon. When this icon appears, the meter is in the automatic storage mode

(4) — Date and time, or prompts of special display mode

(5) — Units of date and time

(6) — Units of measurement

(7) — Temperature units

(8) — Units of calibration value

4

(9) — Standard calibration value, the serial number for storage and recall, and prompts of special display mode (10) — Storage and recall icons, M+ — Measurement to be stored icon, RM — Reading to be recalled icon (11) — Temperature value, and prompts of special display mode (12) — Temperature compensation icons, ATC — automatic temperature compensation, MTC — manual temperature compensation (13) — Calibration guide icon (14) — USB iconwhen this icon appears, the meter connects the computer (15) — Stability icon of readings (16) — Low battery icon, when this icon appears, please renew the battery (17) — Auto. Hold icon of readings
3.2 Keypad Functions

Diagram 3
3.2.1. Keypad operations Short press <1.5 seconds , Long press >1.5 seconds.

Turn on the meter: press

to turn on the meter.

Turn off the meter: In the measurement mode, press

and hold for 2 seconds to turn off the meter.

Notes: In the calibration mode or the parameter set-up mode, pressing

is invalid. Please press

return to the measurement mode, then press

to turn off the meter.

key to

5

KEYPAD OPERATIONS Short press Long press Short press Short press
Short press
Short/ long press
Short/ long press

Chart 1 Keypad operations and descriptions DESCRIPTIONS
· In the power-off mode, press this key to turn on the meter; · In the measurement mode, press this key to turn on or turn off the backlight display.

In the measurement mode, press and hold this key for 2 seconds to turn off the meter.

Select measurement parameter:

PH 50 pH meter:

;

EC 50 Conductivity meter:

;

PC 50 pH/Conductivity meter:

.

· In the measurement mode, press this key to enter in the calibration mode; · In the auto. hold mode (HOLD), recall mode (RM) or other mode, press this key to
return to the measurement mode,

· In the measurement mode, press this key to enter in the parameter setup main menu;
· In the calibration mode, press this key to make calibration; · In the parameter set-up mode, press this key to select programs; · In the recall mode (RM), press this key to return to the measurement Mode.
· In the measurement mode, long press to enter manual temperature compensation mode, long press this key or short press to increase temperature value;
· In the measurement mode, press this key to store the measuring value; · In the recall mode (RM), short press this key to change the storage serial number,
press and hold this key to change the number quickly; · In the parameter set- up mode, press this key to change the serial number of the main
menu and the sub-menu; · In the sub-menu mode, press this key to change parameters and setup.
· In the measurement mode, long press to enter manual temperature compensation mode, long press this key or short press to decrease temperature value;
· In the measurement mode, press this key to recall the last stored value; · In the recall mode (RM), press momentarily this key to change the storage serial
number, press and hold this key to change the number quickly; · In the parameter set-up mode, press this key to change the serial number of the main
menu and the sub-menu; · In the sub-menu mode, press this key to change parameters and setup.

6

3.3 Meter Socket Electrode socket displays as Chart 2. USB socket displays as Chart 3.
Chart 2 Sockets for meters

MODELS

PHOTOS

PC8500 pH/CONDUCTIVITY METER

FUNCTIONS

Chart 3 USB socket CONNECT TO METER

USB COMMUNICATION

DESCRIPTION · BNC socket (right) — connect pH
electrode or ORP electrode, · RCA socket (middle) — connect
temperature probe · Eight-pin socket (left) — connect
conductivity electrode
DESCRIPTION
The meter has USB communication function, connecting the meter to a computer by USB cable with the installation of PC-Link software (Windows-based computer only, included in a flash drive)

3.4 Display Mode 3.4.1 Reading stability display mode

When the measuring value is stable, smiley icon

appears on LCD, see Diagram 4. If

the

icon does not appear or flash, please do not record the reading value or make

calibration until the measuring value is stable. Per parameter P1.3, there are 3 criteria for

stability standard:

(Normal), (High) and

(Low). The factory default is set

“Normal”

“High” is set for stability over a longer time, “Low” is set for stability over a shorter time. User can

select suitable stability criteria according to different testing requirement.

3.4.2. Automatic lock-up display mode Select On from parameter P3.6 to turn on automatic lock-up display function. When the reading value stabilizes more than 10 seconds, the meter locks the measuring value

automatically and displays HOLD icon, see Diagram 5. In the HOLD mode, press

to

release lock-up.

Diagram – 4 Diagram – 5

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3.5 Store, Recall and Clear Readings 3.5.1. Manual storage

When the measurement is stable, short press

key, M+ icon and storage serial number

appear on LCD, storing measuring information, see Diagram 6.

3.5.2. Automatic timing storage Set the storage timing (eg. 3 minutes) in parameter setting P3.3,

icon appears on LCD and

Diagram – 6

the meter enters the timing storage mode. When short press

key,

key flashes and the

first measuring value is stored. After 3 minutes, the 2nd measuring value is stored. See Diagram 7:

the meter

stores automatically eight measuring values. When short press

key,

icon stops flashing

and the meter stops automatic storage. In automatic storage mode, manual storage does not

work. Set time 0 in parameter setting P3.3 to exit from the automatic storage mode.

Diagram – 7

3.5.3. Recall stored value

In the measurement mode, press

key to recall the last stored measuring value. See Diagram

8: display RM icon and storage serial number. Continue pressing

key and

key to

recall successively the stored measuring value. Press and hold

key and

key to recall

the stored measuring value quickly. Press

to return to measuring mode.

Diagram – 8

3.5.4. Clear stored value Select YES per parameter P3.6 to clear all stored value, refer to Section 7.5.
3.6 Auto. Power-off The meter will be power-off after the meter stops operation for 20 minutes. To set automatic power off time in parameter setting P3.7

3.7 Manual Temperature Adjustment

When the temperature probe is not connected to the meter, press and hold

key or

key, temperature value

flashes, then press (or press and hold) confirm.

key or

key to change the temperature value, and press

key to

8

4 PH MEASUREMENT
4.1 pH Electrode Information The meter connects to 201T-F plastic three-in-one combination pH electrode with built-in temperature sensor, with automatic temperature compensation function. Electrode housing is made of polycarbonate engineering plastics, which is corrosion and impact resistant. The BNC socket of electrode connects pH socket. RCA socket connects temperature socket. When dipping pH electrode in the solution, please stir the solution briefly to eliminate any air bubbles and allow it to stay in the solution until the reading is stable

Note: The 201T-F Combination Glass pH/temp. Electrode is only suitable for general water solutions’ pH measurement. For special applications such as low ion concentration or complex solutions, please refer to Section 10 to find the most suitable pH electrode model.

4.2 pH Calibration Consideration 4.2.1. Standard buffer solution The meter uses two series of standard buffer solution: USA series and NIST series, each series consists of 5 groups solution, icons see Chart – 4
Chart – 4 pH standard buffer solution series

CALIBRATION GUIDE ICONS

pH STANDARD BUFFER SOLUTION SERIES

USA series (USA)

NIST series (NIS)

THREE-POINT CALIBRATION

1.68 pH and 4.00 pH 7.00 pH
10.01 pH and 12.45 pH

1.68 pH and 4.01 pH 6.86pH
9.18 pH and 12.45 pH

4.2.2. Three-point calibration The instrument can perform 1-3 points calibration. The first point calibration must be 7.00 pH (or 6.86 pH) standard solution, then select other standard solution to perform the second and the third point calibration, see Chart-5.

ONE-POINT CALIBRATION
TWO-POINT CALIBRATION
THREE-POINT CALIBRATION

Chart – 5 Three-point calibration mode

USA STANDARD

NIST STANDARD

7.00 pH

6.86 pH

7.00 pH4.00 or 1.68pH
7.00 pH10.01 or 2.45pH 7.00pH4.00 or1.68pH 10.01 or12.45pH

6.86 pH4.01 or 1.68pH
6.86 pH9.18 or 12.45pH 6.86pH4.01or 1.68pH 9.18 or 12.45pH

ICONS

SUITED RANGE Accuracy ±0.1pH
Range<7.00pH Range>7.00pH
Wide Range

9

4.2.3. Calibration frequency

Calibration frequency depends on the sample, the electrode performance, and the required accuracy. For high accuracy

measurements ( ±0.03pH), the meter should be calibrated immediately before taking a measurement. For general

accuracy ( ±0.1pH), the meter can be calibrated and used for approximately one week before the next calibration. The

meter must be re-calibrated in the following situations:

(a) New probe, or probe that is unused for a long period of time

(b) After measuring acids (pH<2) or alkaline solutions (pH>12)

(c) After measuring a solution that contains fluoride or a concentrated organic solution

(d) If the solution’s temperature differs greatly from the calibration solution temperature

4.2.4. Due calibration

Pre-set calibration interval (begin from the date of last calibration) to remind due

calibration in a pre-set period in parameter setting P1.4 (Section 7.3). During due calibration, Er5 icon

appears on LCD (see Diagram 9). The meter cannot continue operation and Er5 icon disappears

until the calibration is done, or when select “No” in parameter setting P1.4.

4.2.5. Check calibration date

Check the date and time of last calibration to decide whether new calibration is needed. Please refer to parameter setting P1.5 (Section 7.3).

Diagram – 9

4.3 pH Calibration (take three-point calibration as an example) 4.3.1. The 1st point calibration

a) Press

key to enter the calibration mode, CAL 1 flashes at the top right of LCD and “7.00 pH”

flashes at the bottom right of LCD, indicating using pH 7.00 buffer solution to make the 1st point

calibration.

b) Rinse pH electrode in distilled or deionized water, allow it to dry, and submerge it in pH7.00

buffer solution. Stir the solution briefly and allow it to stay in the buffer solution until a stable reading

is reached. LCD displays stable

, press

to finish 1st point calibration, meter goes to

measurement mode, the bottom left of LCD indicating 4.3.2. The 2nd point calibration

, See Diagram 10.

Press

key to enter the calibration mode, CAL 2 flashes at the top right of LCD, indicating make

the 2nd point calibration. rinse pH electrode in distilled or deionized water, allow it to dry, submerge

it in pH4.00 buffer solution, Stir the solution briefly and allow it to stay in the buffer solution until a

stable reading is reached. The meter’s display will show scanning and locking process of calibration

buffer solution at the bottom right of LCD. When the meter locks 4.00 pH, stable icon and stays on LCD.

displays

Press

key to calibrate the meter. electrode slope of acidity range display after calibration is

done, the 2nd point calibration finished, meter goes to measurement mode, the bottom left of LCD

indicating

Diagram – 10 Diagram 10

10

4.3.3. The 3rd point calibration

Press

key to enter the calibration mode, CAL 3 flashes at the top right of LCD indicating make the 3rd point calibration.

rinse pH electrode in distilled or deionized water, allow it to dry, submerge it in pH10.01 buffer solution, Stir the solution

briefly and allow it to stay in the buffer solution until the reading is stabilized. The meter’s display will show scanning and

locking process of calibration buffer solution at the bottom right of LCD. When the meter locks 10.01pH, stable icon

displays and stays on LCD. Press key

to calibrate the meter. Electrode slope of acidity range display after calibration is

done. After the 3rd point calibration is completed, meter goes to measurement mode, the bottom left of LCD indicating

Notes: (a) The meter can perform 1-3 points calibration. When the 1st point calibration is done, the meter will enter measurement mode of one-point calibration. Two-point and three-point calibration are in the same manner.

(b) During the calibration process, if measuring value is not stable yet (when

does not stay on and the key

is

pressed, then Er 2 will display. (See chart 5). To solve the problem, simply wait for

to stay on the screen before

pressing

(c) To exit from the calibration mode, press

key.

4.4 Customer-defined calibration (take 1.60 pH and 6.50 pH calibration solution as an example) 4.4.1. Select CUS from parameter setting P1.1 (please refer to Section 7.3 for customer-defined solution). The meter enters Customer-defined calibration mode. 4.4.2. Rinse pH electrode in distilled or deionized water, allow it to dry, and submerge it in pH1.60 buffer solution. Stir the solution briefly and allow it to stay in the buffer solution until a stable reading is reached. When LCD displays the stable

measuring value and

icon, press

key and the measuring value flashes.

CAL1 flashes at the top right of LCD, indicating 1st point calibration of customer-defined solution. Press

key or

key to adjust the measuring value to 1.60, then press

key to calibrate the meter. After calibration is done, meter goes

to measurement mode.

4.4.3. Rinse pH electrode in distilled or deionized water, allow it to dry, and submerge it in pH 6.50 buffer solution. Stir the

solution briefly and allow it to stay in the buffer solution until a stable reading is reached. When LCD displays the stable

measuring value and

icon, press

key and the measuring value flashes. CAL 2 flashes at the top right of LCD,

indicating 2nd point calibration of customer-defined solution, press

key or

key to adjust the measurement value

to 6.50, then press

key to calibrate the meter. After calibration is done, the meter returns to the measurement mode.

11

Notes:

(a) For manual temperature compensation (no temperature probe is plugged in RCA socket), when the

key is

pressed, temperature value flashes. Press

key or

key to adjust the temperature value, and then press

key, pH measuring value flashes.

(b) The meter can perform 1-2 points customer-defined calibration. When the 1st point calibration is done, the meter

goes to measurement mode automatically. Same in customer-defined 2nd point calibration.

(c) The value set in “Customer-defined” is at a fixed temperature. The meter is suggested to perform calibration and

measurement at the same temperature to avoid large error. The meter cannot automatically recognize customer-

defined calibration solution.

4.5 Sample Test 4.5.1. Rinse pH electrode in distilled or deionized water, allow it to dry, and submerge it in sample solution. Stir the solution

briefly and allow it to stay in the sample solution until the stable value and

icon appears on LCD, get the reading which

is pH value of sample solution, please refer to Diagram-11 for calibration and measurement process of pH meter.

Diagram 11 Calibration and measurement process of pH meter 4.5.2. Self- diagnosis information During the process of calibration and measurement, the meter has self-diagnosis functions, indicating the relative information as below, please refer to Chart 6.
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Chart 6 Self-diagnosis information of pH measurement mode

DISPLAY ICONS

CONTENTS

CHECKING

Wrong pH buffer solution or the buffer solution out of range.

1.Check whether pH buffer solution is correct. 2.Check whether the meter connects the electrode properly. 3.Check whether the electrode is damaged.

Press

key when measuring value is not

stable during calibration.

During calibration, the measuring value is not stable for 3min.

pH electrode performance error (zero potential <-60mV or >60mV, slope <75%

Press

key after

icon appears and stays on screen.

1.Check whether there are bubbles in glass bulb. 2.Replace with a new pH electrode.
1.Check whether there are bubbles in glass bulb. 2.Check whether pH buffer solution is correct. 3.Replace with new pH electrode.

Enter in pre-set due calibration date reminder

Press

key to perform calibration or cancel due calibration

setup per parameter P1.4

4.5.3. pH temperature principle Please note that the closer the temperature of the sample solution is to the calibration solution, the more accurate will be the readings. 4.5.4. Factory default setting For factory default setting, please refer to parameter P1.6 (Section 7.3). all calibration data is deleted and the meter restores to the theory value (zero electric potential of pH is 7.00, the slope is 100%). Some functions restore to the original value (refer to Appendix-I). When calibration or measurement fails, please restore the meter to factory default setting and then perform re-calibration or measurement. Please note once set the factory default, all the data deleted will irretrievable.

4.6 pH Electrode Maintenance 4.6.1. Daily maintenance The soaking solution contained in the supplied protective bottle is used to maintain activation in the glass bulb and junction. Loosen the capsule, remove the electrode and rinse in distilled or deionized water before taking a measurement. Insert the electrode and tighten the capsule after measurements to prevent the solution from leaking. If the soaking solution is turbid or mouldy, replace the solution. The soaking/storage solution is 3M KCL (SKU: AI1107). Using other brand’s storage solution might cause potential damage to the electrode.
The electrode should not be stored in distilled or deionized water, protein solution or acid fluoride solution. In addition, do not soak the electrode in organic silicon lipids. For best accuracy, always keep the meter clean and dry, especially the meter’s electrode socket. Clean with medical cotton and alcohol if necessary.

13

4.6.2. Calibration buffer solution For calibration accuracy, the pH of the standard buffer solution must be reliable. The buffer solution should be refreshed often, especially after heavy use. 4.6.3. Protect glass bulb The sensitive glass bulb at the front of the combination electrode should not come in contact with hard surfaces. Scratches or cracks on the electrode will cause inaccurate readings. Before and after each measurement, wash the electrode with distilled or deionized water and then throw off the excess water on the electrode. Do not clean the glass bulb with a tissue for it will affect the stability of the electrode potential and increase the response time. The electrode should be thoroughly cleaned if a sample sticks to the electrode. Use a solvent if the solution does not appear clean after washing. 4.6.4. Renew glass bulb Electrodes that have been used over a long period of time, will become aged. Submerge the electrode in 0.1 mol/L hydrochloric acid for 24 hours, then wash the electrode in distilled or deionized water, then submerge it in soaking solution for 24 hours. The method to prepare 0.1mol/L hydrochloric acid: dilute 9mL hydrochloric acid in distilled or deionized water to 1000mL. For serious passivation, submerge the bulb in 4% HF (hydrofluoric acid) for 3-5 seconds, and wash it in distilled or deionized water, then submerge it in the soaking solution for 24 hours to renew it.) 4.6.5. Clean contaminated glass bulb and junction (see Chart 7)

Chart 7 Clean contaminated glass bulb and junction

CONTAMINATION

Cleaning Solutions

GENERAL TOUGH CONTAMINANTS

Apera Electrode Cleaning Solution (SKU: AI1166)

ORGANIC LIPID

Dilute detergent (weak alkaline)

RESIN MACROMOLECULE

Dilute alcohol, acetone, ether

PROTEINIC SEDIMENT

Apera Electrode Cleaning Solution (SKU: AI1166)

PAINTS

Dilute bleacher, peroxide

Notes: The electrode housing is polycarbonate. When using cleaning solutions, take precautions with carbon tetrachloride, trichlorethylene, tetrahydrofuran, acetone, etc. as these will dissolve the housing and invalidate the electrode.

14

5. MV MEASUREMENT:

5.1 ORP Measurement

Press

key and switch the meter to mV measurement mode. Connect 301Pt-C ORP electrode (SKU: AI1303, sold

separately) and dip it in sample solution, stir the solution briefly and allow it to stay in the solution until

icon appears

and get the reading which is ORP value. ORP is in short for Oxidation Reduction Potential. The unit is mV.

5.2 Notes:

5.2.1. ORP measurement does not require calibration. When the user is not sure about ORP electrode quality or measuring

value, use ORP standard solution to test mV value and see whether ORP electrode or meter works properly.

5.2.2. Clean and activate ORP electrode

After the electrode has been used over long period of time, the platinum surface will get contaminated and will lead to

inaccurate measurements and slow responses. Please refer to the following methods to clean and activate ORP electrode:

(a) For inorganic pollutants, submerge the electrode in 0.1mol/L dilute hydrochloric acid for 30 minutes, then wash it in

distilled or deionized water, then submerge it in the soaking solution for 6 hours.

(b) For organic or lipid pollutants, clean the platinum surface with detergent, then wash it in distilled or deionized water,

then submerge it in the soaking solution for 6 hours.

(c) For heavily polluted platinum surface on which there is an oxidation film, polish the platinum surface with toothpaste,

then wash it in distilled or deionized water, then submerge it in the soaking solution for 6 hours.

6. CONDUCTIVITY MEASUREMENT:
6.1 Conductivity Electrode Information 6.1.1. Conductivity electrode Model 2301T-S plastic conductivity electrode with constant K=1.0 and built-in temperature sensor, with automatic temperature compensation function. The electrode housing is POM plastic which is corrosion resistant and impact resistant. When submerging the conductivity electrode in solution, stir the solution briefly to remove any the air bubbles. This will improve response time and stability. 6.1.2. Conductivity electrode constant The meter matches conductivity electrodes of three constants: K=0.1, K=1.0 and K=10.0. Please refer to chart-8 for measuring range. Set constant per parameter P2.1 and refer to Section 7.4.

RANGE

Chart 8 Electrode constant and measuring range

20 S/CM

1.0 S/CM TO 100 MS/CM

CONDUCTIVITY ELECTRODE CONSTANT

K=0.1

K=1.0

STANDARD SOLUTION

84 S/cm

1413 S/cm

12.88 mS/cm

ELECTRODE’S MODEL

DJS-0.1-S conductivity electrode

2301T-S conductivity electrode

100MS/CM
K=10
111.8 mS/cm 2310T-S conductivity
electrode

15

6.2 Conductivity Calibration Consideration 6.2.1. Conductivity calibration solutions The meter uses conductivity standard solution: 84S/cm, 1413S/cm, 12.88mS/cm, 111.8mS/cm. Select the standard solution per parameter P2.2 (Section 7.4). The meter can recognize the standard solution automatically, can perform one point or multi-points calibration (the maximum is four-point calibration). The calibration guide icons correspond to the four

standard values. (

corresponds to two groups of solutions) See chart 9:

CALIBRATION GUIDE ICONS

Chart 9 Conductivity standard solution series CALIBRATION SOLUTION SERIES
84S/cm 1413S/cm 12.88mS/cm

RANGE 0-200S/cm 200-2,000S/cm 2-20mS/cm

111.8mS/cm

20-200mS/cm

6.2.2. Calibration frequency (a) The meter is calibrated before leaving the factory and can be used right out of the box. (b) Perform calibration at least once per month. (c) For high accuracy measurements or large temperature deviations from the reference temperature (25°C), perform calibration per week. (d) Use conductivity standard solution to check whether there is error. Perform calibration for large errors. (e) For new electrode or factory default setting, perform 3-point or 4-point calibrations. Choose closer standard solution to the sample solution to perform 1- point or 2-point calibration.
6.2.3. Reference temperature Reference temperature of factory default is 25°C. Other reference temperature can also be set for range 15°C 30°C. Select in parameter setting P2.3 and see Section 7.4.
6.2.4. Temperature coefficient The temperature compensation coefficient of the meter setting is 2.00%/°C. However, the conductivity temperature coefficient is different for solutions of a different variety and concentration. Please refer to chart 10 and the data collected during testing. Set per parameter P2.4. and see Section 7.4.
Notes: When the coefficient for the temperature compensation is set to 0.00 (no compensation), the measurement will be based on the current temperature.

16

Chart 10 Temperature compensation coefficient of special solutions

SOLUTION

Temperature compensation coefficient

NACL SALT SOLUTION

2.12%/°C

5%NAOH SOLUTION

1.72%/°C

DILUTE AMMONIA SOLUTION

1.88%/°C

10% HYDROCHLORIC ACID SOLUTION

1.32%/°C

5% SULFURIC ACID SOLUTION

0.96%/°C

6.2.5. Avoid contamination of standard solution Conductivity standard solution has no buffer. Please avoid any possible contamination during usage. Submerge the electrode in standard solution before washing the electrode and allow it dry. Please renew conductivity standard solution frequently especially for standard solution of low concentration 84 S/cm. The contaminated standard solution can affect accuracy.

6.2.6. Due calibration Pre-set calibration intervals (begin from the date of last calibration) to remind due calibration in a pre-set period in parameter setting P2.6 (Section 7.4). During due calibration, Er5 icon appears on LCD (see Diagram 12). The meter cannot continue operation and Er5 icon disappears until the calibration is done, or when select “No” in parameter setting P2.6.

Diagram – 12

6.2.7. Check the calibration date Check the last calibration date to see whether a new calibration is needed per parameter P2.7. (Section 7.4.)

17

6.3 Conductivity Calibration (take calibration with 1413S/cm as an example) 6.3.1. Rinse pH electrode in distilled or deionized water, allow it to dry, wash with a little of standard solution and submerge it in standard solution. Stir the solution briefly and allow it to stay in the solution until a stable reading is reached.

6.3.2. Press

key to enter the calibration mode. The meter’s display will show blinking CAL

at the top right, and

scanning and locking process of calibration solution at the bottom right. When the meter locks

1413 S, stable

icon displays on LCD. Press

key to finish calibration, meter goes into

measurement mode. LCD shows

icon at the bottom left. See Diagram 13

6.3.3. For multi-point calibration, please repeat Section 6.3.1-6.3.3 until all the calibrations are done. The meter can repeat calibration in the same calibration solution to ensure better accuracy and repeatability of the reading.

6.3.4. Notes

a) Er 2 appears if press

key before the value is locked. See chart 12.

b) If return from calibration mode, press

to exit.

6.4 Relations among TDS, and conductivity

Diagram – 13

6.4.1. TDS and conductivity is linear related. The conversion factor is 0.40-1.00.

Adjust per parameter P2.5. The factory default setting is 0.71 to see Section 7.4.

The meter can only be calibrated in conductivity mode and not TDS mode. After calibration of conductivity, the meter can

switch from conductivity to TDS or salinity.

6.4.2. Adjust TDS conversion factor per parameter P2.5 according to the data collected during testing. See chart 11: commonly used TDS conversion factors.

Chart 11 Commonly used TDS conversion factors

CONDUCTIVITY OF SOLUTION

TDS conversion factor

0-100 µS/cm

0.60

100-1,000 µS/cm

0.71

1-10 mS/cm

0.81

10-100 mS/cm

0.94

18

6.5 Customer-Defined Calibration (take 10.50S/cm standard solution as an example) 6.5.1 Select CUS per parameter P2.2 (please refer to Section 7.4 for customer-defined solution). The meter enters Customer-defined calibration mode.

6.5.2. Rinse the electrode in distilled or deionized water, allow it to dry, and submerge it in 10.50S/cm standard solution.

Stir the solution briefly and allow it to stay in the solution until a stable reading is reached and

icon appears on LCD.

Press

key or

key to adjust the measuring value to 10.50S/cm, Press

key to calibrate the meter. meter

returns to the measurement mode. In conductivity measurement mode with customer-defined calibration, the meter does

not display electrode calibration guide icon.

Notes:

Note: If use the conductivity electrode without temperature sensor ( manual temperature compensation (MTC)),

when press

key, the temperature value flashes. Press

key or

key to adjust the temperature value,

and press

key, then the conductivity value flashes.

6.5.3. Only one-point calibration for customer-defined calibration. The value set in “Customer-defined” is at a fixed temperature. There is no regulation of temperature coefficient and reference temperature. The meter has to perform calibration and measurement at the same temperature to avoid large error. The meter cannot recognize customer-defined calibration solution.

6.6 Sample test 6.6.1. Rinse conductivity electrode in distilled or deionized water, allow it to dry, and submerge it in the sample solution. Stir

the solution briefly and allow it to stay in the sample solution until a stable reading is reached and LCD, then get the reading value which is the conductivity value of the solution.

icon appears on

6.6.2. Press

key to switch to TDS and salinity.

6.6.3. During the process of calibration and measurement, the meter has self- diagnosis functions,

indicating the relative information as below: chart 12.

19

DISPLAY ICONS

Chart 12 Self-diagnosis information of conductivity measurement mode

CONTENTS

CHECKING

Wrong conductivity calibration solution or the recognition range of calibration solution exceeds standard.

1.Check whether conductivity calibration solution is correct. 2. Check whether the meter connects the electrode well. 3. Check whether the electrode is damaged.

Press

key when measuring value is

not stable during calibration.

Press screen.

key after

icon appears and stays on

During calibration, the measuring value is not stable for 3min.

Shake the electrode to eliminate bubbles in electrode head. Replace with a new conductivity electrode.

Enter in pre-set due calibration to remind calibration Press

key to perform calibration or cancel due

calibration setup per parameter P2.6.

6.6.4. Factory default setting For factory default setting, please refer to parameter P2.8 (Section 7.4). All calibration data is deleted and the meter restores to the theory value. Some functions restore to the original value (refer to appendix -1). When calibration or measurement fails, please restore the meter to factory default setting and then perform re-calibration or measurement. Please note once factory default setting is set, all the data deleted will not irretrievable.
6.7 Conductivity Electrode Maintenance 6.7.1. Always keep the conductivity electrode clean. Before taking a measurement, rinse the electrode in distilled or deionized water and then rinse it in the sample solution. When submerging the electrode in solution, stir the solution briefly to eliminate air bubbles and allow it to stay until a stable reading is reached. For conductivity electrode which keeps dry, soak the electrode in distilled or deionized water for 5-10 minutes. Rinse the electrode in distilled or deionized water after measurement. 6.7.2. The interaction pole of Model 2301T-S conductivity electrode is coated with platinum black to minimize electrode polarization and expand measuring range. The platinum black coating applied by a special processing technology, which improves the electrode performance and the robustness of the coating, If the platinum black electrode is stained, gently clean the electrode with a soft brush in warm water containing detergent or alcohol.

20

7. PARAMETER SETTING

7.1 Main menu

In the measurement mode, press

key to enter in P1.0, then press

or

to switch to main menu:

P1.0P2.0P3.0. Please refer to Diagram 14.

P1.0: pH parameter setting; P2.0: Conductivity parameter setting; P3.0: Basic parameter setting.

7.2 Sub-menu

7.2.1. In P1.0 mode, press

key to enter in sub-menu P1.1 of pH parameter setting, then press

and

switch among sub-menu: P1.1P1.2P1.3P1.4P1.5P1.6, See Diagram14.

key to

7.2.2. In P2.0 mode, press

key to enter in sub-menu P2.1 of conductivity parameter setting, then press

and

key to switch among sub-menu: P2.1P2.2P2.3P2.4P2.5P2.6P2.7 P2.8, See Diagram 14.

7.2.3. In P3.0 mode, press

key to enter in sub-menu P3.1 of TDS parameter setting, then press

and

switch among sub-menu: P3.1P3.2P3.3P3.4P3.5P3.6P3.7P3.8, See Diagram 14 below.

Diagram 14

key to

21

7.3 Sub-menu of pH parameter setting (press

or

key to switch)

22

7.4 Sub-menu of conductivity parameter setting (press

or

key to switch)

23

7.4 Sub-menu of basic parameter setting (press

or

key to switch)

24

25

8 USB COMMUNICATION
8.1 Software Requirement The meter uses “PC-Link” software connected to via USB port. The recommended requirement for the computer are: Personal computer (Microsoft Excel 2000 or the version of higher rank) which can operate Windows XP operation system, PC IBM compatible with XT and CD-ROM driver, USB communication port. 8.2 Software Interface Software interface: see Diagram-15.
Diagram 15 — Meter serial number — Stored value — Keys Clear — press this key to clear the data Download — press this key to download the data from the meter to the computer Export — press this key to export the stored value to Microsoft Excel file Exit — press this key, PC-Link program exits from the computer interface
26

8.3 Install Software Please follow the steps as below to load PC-Link to the computer: Open “PC-Link” filedouble click “Setup” program click “OK” click icons (see Diagram 16) click “Continue” click “Confirm”

Diagram 16
8.4 Automatic Connection Port Connect USB cable to the meter and the computer, open PC-Link program, program interface shows on the computer,
automatic connection is done after a few seconds. Icon shows at the left bottom of LCD. Note: To reconnect after turn-off, please restart the software interface, as the computer can not recognize the software automatically. Besides, this software only recognizes 1-16 port numbers. For other port numbers, please set in “device manager” of the computer.

8.5 Operation Software 8.5.1. Upload the stored value Press Download key, all the data stored in the meter is downloaded to the computer. pH, mV, COND and TDS are sorted in the program. 8.5.2. Real-time storage.

During operation, press

key to store or set timing storage. The measuring information is downloaded to the computer

through USB and will not be stored in the meter. The stored data during operation is the same as the data shown on the

meter.

8.5.3. Data processing

Press Export key to export the stored value to Microsoft Excel file to further analyse or print the stored data.

27

9. WHAT’S IN THE KIT?

NO.

INCLUDE

1

PC8500 portable pH/conductivity meter

2

2301T-S plastic conductivity electrode

Conductivity calibration solution 3
(1413S/cm/12.88mS/84S/50mL)

4

PC-Link communication software flash drive

5

USB communication cable

6

Combined electrode clip

7

Portable case

8

Manual

QUANTITY 1 set 1 pc
1 bottle each
1 pc 1 pc 1 pc 1 pc 1 book

PC8500

28

10. RECOMMENDED PH ELECTRODES FOR DIFFERENT APPLICATIONS

APPLICATION
GENERAL WATER SOLUTIONS BEVERAGE, BEER, WINE… COSMETICS CORROSIVE SOLUTIONS CULTURE MEDIUM DAIRY PRODUCTS (MILK, CREAM, YOGURT, MAYO, ETC.) HIGH- TEMPERATURE SOLUTION LOW-TEMPERATURE SOLUTION MEAT MICRO-VOLUME SOLUTION PURIFIED WATER (LOW ION CONCENTRATION SAMPLES) SOIL SOLID OR SEMI-SOLID SAMPLES (CHEESE, RICE, FRUIT, ETC.) STRONG ACID SAMPLES STRONG ALKALINE SAMPLES SURFACE TEST (SKIN, PAPER, CARPET, ETC.) TRIS BUFFER SOLUTIONS VISCOUS LIQUID WASTEWATER, EMULSION, COMPLEX AND CAUSTIC SOLUTIONS

IDEAL APERA PH ELECTRODES TO USE WITH 850 SERIES METER
201T-F, LabSen 211, LabSen 213 LabSen 211, LabSen 213 LabSen 851-S LabSen 861 LabSen 823, LabSen 821, LabSen 851-S LabSen 823, LabSen 821 LabSen 861 LabSen 881 LabSen 763 LabSen 241-6, LabSen 241-3 LabSen 803, LabSen 801 LabSen 553 LabSen 753, LabSen 751, LabSen 251 LabSen 831 LabSen 841 LabSen 371 LabSen 211, LabSen 213, LabSen 221 LabSen851-S, LabSen 851-H LabSen 333, LabSen 331

29

11. WARRANTY
We warrant this instrument to be free from defects in material and workmanship and agree to repair or replace free of charge, at the option of APERA INSTRUMENTS, LLC, any malfunctioned or damaged product attributable to the responsibility of APERA INSTRUMENTS, LLC for a period of THREE YEARS for the instrument and SIX MONTHS for the probe from the delivery. This limited warranty does NOT cover any issues due to:
· Accidental damage · Improper use · Normal wear and tear · Transportation · Storage · Failure to follow the product instructions · Unauthorized maintenance, modifications, combination or use with any products, materials, processes, systems or
other matter · Unauthorized repair
30

12. APPENDIX I: PARAMETER SETTING AND FACTORY DEFAULT SETTING

MODES

PROMP TS
P1.1

PARAMETER SETTING ITEMS
Select pH buffer solution

ABBREVIATION

DESCRIPTION
USANIST CUS

RESTORE TO FACTORY DEFAULT SETTING
USA

P1.2

Select resolution

0.010.1

0.01

P1.0 PH

P1.3

Set reading stability criteria

P1.4 P1.5 P1.6

Set due calibration
Check the date of the last calibration
Restore factory default setting

NormalHigh Low
NoH00D00

Normal No

/

NoYes

No

P2.1

Select electrode constant

1.010.00.1

1.0

P2.2

Select conductivity standard solution

Standard–CUS

Standard

P2.3 Select reference temperature

(15~30)°C

25

P2.0 CONDUCTIVITY

P2.4 P2.5

Adjust temperature compensation coefficient
Adjust TDS factor

0.00~9.99 0.40~1.00

2.00 0.71

P2.6

Set due calibration

NoH00D00

No

P2.7

Check the date of the last

/

calibration

P2.8

Restore factory default setting

NoYes

No

P3.1

Select temperature unit

/

°C-°F

°C

P3.0 BASIC PARAMETERS

P3.2 P3.3 P3.4

Select back light timing Adjust storage timing
Adjust date

123On

/

1 0:00

31

P3.5

Adjust time

/

P3.6

Clear stored data

NoYes

No

P3.7

Automatic Power-off setup

102030 20
On

P3.8

Auto. Hold

/

OffOn

Off

13. APPENDIX II: ABBREVIATION GLOSSARY

MODES

PROMPTS

CODE AND ABBREVIATION

P1.1

IN ENGLISH Standard buffers

P1.2

Resolution

P1.0 PH

P1.3 P1.4

P1.5

/

Stability criteria Due Calibration
/

P1.6

Factory default setting

P2.1

Cell

P2.2

Calibration solution

P2.3

P2.0 CONDUCTIVITY

P2.4 P2.5

Reference temperature
Temperature compensation coefficient
Total Dissolved Solid

DESCRIPTION
Standard buffer solution Resolution
Reading stability Remind due calibration
/ Factory default setting
Constant Cell Calibration solution Reference temperature Temperature compensation
coefficient TDS

P2.6

Due Calibration

Remind due calibration

P2.7

/

P2.8

/ Factory default setting

32

P3.1

/

P3.2

P3.3