bluelab Combo Meter User manual

Instruction Manual
www.getbluelab.com
Bluelab Combo MeterTM
combo meter
TM

Copyright, all rights reserved 1Version 1 : 011107
Bluelab Combo Meter Bluelab Corporation Limited
Table of Contents
1.0 Introduction to Bluelab Combo Meter 2
1.1 Button Functions 2
1.2 Meter Calibration 2
1.3 Storage of Meter 2
1.4 ppm Scale 2
2.0 Preparing Bluelab Combo Meter for Use 3
3.0 Measuring Hydroponic Values 4
3.1 Measure Nutrient/Conductivity 4
3.2 Measure Temperature 4
3.3 Measure pH Value 4
4.0 Changing Nutrient or Temperature Display Units 5
4.1 Change Nutrient Display Units 5
4.2 Change Temperature Display Units 5
5.0 Cleaning Probes and Meter Maintenance 6
5.1 Clean pH Probe 6
5.2 Clean Nutrient/Temperature Probe 6
5.3 Replacing Batteries 6
5.4 pH Calibration 7
6.0 Error Messages 8
7.0 Trouble Shooting Guide 9
8.0 Technical Specifications 10

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Bluelab Combo Meter Bluelab Corporation Limited
1.0 Introduction to Bluelab Combo Meter
The battery operated Combo Meter measures nutrient, temperature and pH levels
by use of one or the other of the two probes connected to an electronic meter.
The meter has a liquid crystal display (LCD) digital readout.
1The function panel has three press buttons;
pH/Calibrate, Nutrient/Cal7.0 and
Temp/Cal4/10. A short press of any button
turns the meter on. The meter turns off
automatically when no further buttons are
pressed for a period of 4 minutes. Another
short press starts it again.
The meter can be manually turned off by
holding the pH button down until the display
starts flashing. The pH button is pressed again
while the display is flashing.
The buttons have a short press and long press
function.
A short press means a button is released in
about one second. The long press is a button
being pressed for at least three seconds and
released when the display starts flashing.
1.1 Button Functions
1.4 ppm Scale
1In relation to the ppm scale, 500 ppm = 1.0 EC = 10 CF.
Figure 1. Bluelab Combo Meter
Reading Display
Nutrient/
Temperature Probe
pH/Calibrate
Button
Nutrient
Cal 7.0
Button Temp/Cal
4/10 Button
pH Probe
1.2 Meter Calibration
1The pH of the meter is calibrated after each probe clean to ensure reading accuracy.
Solutions used for calibration are carefully stored and replaced occasionally because
pH reading accuracy is dependant on the accurracy of the calibration solutions used.
If measuring a pH below 7.0 is normal, the meter is calibrated using pH7.0 and pH4.0
calibration solutions. If measuring a pH above 7.0 is normal, pH7.0 and pH10.0 solutions
are used for calibration.
1.3 Storage of Meter
1The meter is kept out of direct sunlight to prevent irreparable damage to the LCD
screen; this includes storing in a cool, dry and clean place when not in use.
The meter unit is not waterproof but will withstand occasional water splashes. If the
meter does get splashed, it is wiped dry as soon as possible. Batteries are removed
if the unit is to be stored for a prolonged period.

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Bluelab Combo Meter Bluelab Corporation Limited
2.0 Preparing Bluelab Combo Meter for Use
Preparing the Bluelab Combo Meter for use involves hydrating the pH probe,
inserting 2 x AAA batteries, connecting the pH probe and calibrating the pH.
These tasks are performed before the meter is used for the first time.
1Hydrate pH Probe
Remove pH probe tip protective cap. Soak tip in fresh water for at least one hour.
Soaking tip for 24 hours will improve the probe's activity and is recommended if the
probe tip has been allowed to dry.
CAUTION: Do not use de-ionized or distilled water. When probe is not in use, put
some fresh water into the protective cap and place back onto probe.
2Insert Batteries
Open battery compartment by sliding back cover
down and insert 2 x AAA batteries.
CAUTION: Rechargeable batteries are not used
as they will cause problems.
3Replace Cover
Slide cover back on.
4Connect pH Probe
Connect pH probe to meter by lining up the meter
lugs and probe connector. Fasten securely by
pushing probe connector on and twisting one
quarter turn.
5Clean Probes and Calibrate
Cleaning of the probes is described in Section 5.1 and 5.2 of this document. Calibrating
the pH is described in Section 5.4 of this document.
Figure 3. Probe Attachments
Figure 2. Battery Cover
Inserting Twisting Attached
OPEN

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Bluelab Combo Meter Bluelab Corporation Limited
3.0 Measuring Hydroponic Values
The values measured within hydroponics by the Combo meter include nutrient
(conductivity), temperature and pH levels.
1
2Clean Probe
Cleaning of the measuring probes is described in Section 5.0 of this document.
3.1 Measure Nutrient/Conductivity
Obtain Conductivity Value
Insert white nutrient/temperature probe into solution
where there is strong movement of the solution, or stir
the solution with the probe. Press NUTRIENT button
once with a short press. Wait 1-2 minutes for probe to
reach solution temperature and then read the nutrient
conductivity value.
NOTE: The nutrient/temperature probe is cleaned at
least once a month to ensure accurate readings. If oily
additives are being used the probe is cleaned after
each use.
1Obtain Temperature Value
Insert white nutrient/temperature probe into solution and press TEMP button once with
a short press. Wait 1-2 minutes for probe to reach solution temperature and then read
temperature value.
NOTE: For a change to very cold or very hot temperatures it will take 4-5 minutes for
probe to reach solution temperature. To help decrease time taken to reach the solution
temperature, place probe in an area where there is strong movement of solution, or stir
solution with the probe.
3.3 Measure pH Value
2Store Probe
Store pH probe tip in a container of fresh water between uses or replace storage cap
with a small amount of water in it. The pH probe is never stored in de-ionized or distilled
water as this will permanently damage it.
Figure 4. Nutrient Conductivity
Solution
Button
3.2 Measure Temperature
1Obtain pH Value
Place 2 to 3cm of pH probe tip into solution and press pH button once with a short press.
Wait 1-2 minutes for value to stabilize and then read pH value.
NOTE: If taking readings of more than one solution, rinse the probe thoroughly in fresh
water between solutions to avoid cross contamination.
To decrease time taken to reach the solution temperature, place probe in an area where
there is strong movement of solution, or stir solution with the probe.

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Bluelab Combo Meter Bluelab Corporation Limited
4.0 Changing Nutrient or Temperature Display Units
Nutrient and temperature can be displayed in different units. The units available
are shown in the tables below.
1Set Unit
Press and hold the NUTRIENT button until the display starts flashing, then release the
button.
2
4.1 Change Nutrient Display Units
Select Values
While display is flashing, each short button
press changes units between EC, CF and
ppm.
The display flashes four times after the last
button press and then returns back to a
normal display, showing the value in the units
selected.
1Set Unit
Press and hold the TEMP button until the display starts flashing, then release the
button.
2
4.2 Change Temperature Display Units
Change Units Displays
While display is flashing, each short button
press changes units between °C and °F
(Celsius and Fahrenheit).
The display flashes four times after the last
button press and then returns back to a
normal display.
Display Nutrient Units
– – E C EC (electrical conductivity)
– – C F CF (conductivity factor)
– – – P ppm (parts per million)
TDS (total dissolved solids)
Display Temperature Units
– – C °C (degrees Celsius)
– – F °F (degrees Fahrenheit)

5.0 Cleaning Probes and Meter Maintenance
Cleaning the Bluelab Combo Meter probes periodically ensures accurate readings.
Cleaning includes using 'Jif', a trade name for a liquid scourer cream used in home
bathrooms and kitchens. Similar products are called 'Liquid Vim' and 'Soft Scrub'.
Scented varieties are never used as they affect the probe functions. Perform the
following tasks to clean pH and nutrient/temperature probes.
1
2Clean Glassware
Gently scrub glassware using a clean soft toothbrush, then rinse thoroughly under
running water to remove all traces of 'Jif' / cleaner.
CAUTION: Do not touch probe glassware with fingers, this will contaminate the probe.
5.1 Clean pH Probe
Rinse Probe
Rinse off the pH probe tip and place 1-2 drops of 'Jif' onto the glassware of the probe.
Do not use scented 'Jif' varieties.
1Remove Shroud
Dismantle by holding the body and pulling away the
shroud. Figure 5 shows the shroud removed.
1Batteries are replaced in the unit when the message 'LO BAT' appears in top left-hand
corner of LCD display. Section 2.2 in this document explains battery replacement.
NOTE: Batteries are checked at least once every six months for signs of deterioration,
rusting or swelling. If signs of deterioration are found, battery holder contacts are cleaned
and batteries replaced.
5.2 Clean Nutrient/Temperature Probe
3Rinse Probe
Place probe under running water. Using the same finger or other side of Bluelab Chamois,
completely remove all traces of cleaner.
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Bluelab Combo Meter Bluelab Corporation Limited
2Clean Probe Face
Using unscented liquid scourer such as 'Jif' or 'Soft
Scrub', place one or two drops onto probe face and
using a finger or Bluelab Chamois, rub firmly and
vigorously to clean the probe face.
4Check Probe Cleanliness
Check that water forms a film on the probe face, without beads of water. If beading is
present, repeat the cleaning process until the face retains a water film without beading.
5Replace Shroud
Refit the shroud firmly onto the probe face.
5.3 Replacing Batteries
Figure 5. Shroud Removed
Hold Pull

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Bluelab Combo Meter Bluelab Corporation Limited
5.0 Cleaning Probes and Meter Maintenance cont.
For accurate meter readings the pH probe is cleaned and recalibrated frequently.
The pH calibration involves cleaning the pH probe and then calibrating in two
solutions.
If a pH below 7.0 is being measured, use pH7.0 and pH4.0 calibration solutions.
If pH above 7.0 is being measured, use pH7.0 and pH10.0 calibration solutions.
If a message appears during the calibration process, such as 'e2: pH' then calibration
was unreliable. Description of errors and causes are described in Section 6.0 of
this document, titled 'Error Messages'. Follow these steps for meter pH calibration.
1
5.4 pH Calibration
Clean pH Probe
Clean the probe as described in Section 5.1 of this
document.
2pH7.0 Calibration
Rinse probe thoroughly in fresh water, shake off excess
water and place probe in a pH7.0 calibration solution for
one minute or more.
Once meter reading is stable, press and hold CALIBRATE
button until display starts flashing. Release button and
press CAL 7.0 button once. The display stops flashing
when '7.0pH' is displayed.
3pH4.0/pH10.0 Calibration
Rinse the pH probe thoroughly in fresh water, shake off excess water and place the
probe in either pH4.0 or pH10.0 calibration solution. Wait for a period of at least one
minute for reading to stabilize.
Press and hold CALIBRATE button until display starts flashing. Release button and
press CAL 4/10 button once. The display will stop flashing with '4.0pH' or '10.0pH'
displayed, depending on the solution used. The meter is now calibrated and ready
for use.
Figure 6. Typical
Calibration Display
Display
Flashing
pH7.0
Calibration
Solution

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Bluelab Combo Meter Bluelab Corporation Limited
6.0 Error Messages
Error display Indicates Possible causes
E1: PH
E2 : PH
E3 : PH
pH4.0 calibration solution
contaminated or wrong solution used.
Probe contaminated, not properly
attached, worn out or damaged.
pH10.0 calibration solution
contaminated or wrong solution used.
Probe contaminated, not properly
attached, worn out or damaged.
Calibrate to pH7.0 FIRST,
then to pH4.0/10.0.
Not enough difference
between pH7.0 and
pH4.0 readings.
Not enough difference
between the readings.
Not enough difference
between pH7.0 and
pH10.0 readings.
Error messages can appear during calibration or when the probe or meter is
damaged. The following table describes error messages, the reason and cause for
an error message.
To clear a calibration error message press any button once. The meter will reset
to the factory set calibration and will need to be recalibrated successfully before
use.
E4 : PH
Calibrate pH7.0 calibration solution
contaminated or wrong solution used.
Probe contaminated, not properly
attached, worn out or damaged.
pH7.0 calibration unreliable.

7.0 Troubleshooting Guide
Trouble Possible reason Possible solution
Nutrient
readings
inaccurate
Temperature
readings
inaccurate
pH readings
inaccurate
Clean probe as described in
Section 5.0 of this document.
Wait 5 to 10 minutes for
reading to stabilize.
Wait 5 to 10 minutes for probe
to reach solution temperature.
Clean pH probe as described in
Section 5.0 of this document.
Ensure calibration solutions are
accurate. Replace if in doubt.
Wait longer for readings to
stabilize before calibrating.
Contaminated probe.
Contaminated probe.
Incorrect calibration.
Temperature of probe different
to solution temperature.
Display shows
LO BAT in top
left hand corner
Replace the batteries. DO NOT
use rechargeable batteries.
Insufficient power to take a
reliable reading.
Meter will
not turn on
Check batteries are inserted
correctly. Replace if necessary.
Batteries dead or inserted
incorrectly.
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Bluelab Combo Meter Bluelab Corporation Limited
Display shows
E2 : PH
or similar
See error message descriptions
Section 6.0 of this document.
Problem with pH calibration
or the meter is damaged.
orPH
urPH
Solution > 14.0pH
Solution < 0.0pH
Check pH probe connection.
pH probe could be faulty.
Meter could be wet inside.
Over range pH
Under range pH
or°C/or°F/
ur°C/ ur°F
Solution >51°C/122°F
Solution <0°C/32°F
Conductivity probe or meter faulty.
Over range temp
Under range temp
orEC/orCF/or P
Over range conductivity >9.9 EC,
99 CF, 1990 ppm
Conductivity probe or meter faulty
Over range
conductivity/nutrient

Copyright, all rights reserved 10 Version 1 : 011107
Bluelab Combo Meter Bluelab Corporation Limited
Limitation of Liability:
Under no circumstances shall Bluelab Corporation Limited be liable for any claims, losses, costs and
damages of any nature whatsoever (including any consequential loss) that result from the use of, or
the inability to use, these instructions.
Bluelab Corporation Limited, 43 Burrows Street, PO Box 949, Tauranga, New Zealand
Ph [phone] Fax [phone] Email [email protected]
Contact Details
www.getbluelab.com
8.0 Technical Specifications
pH Nutrient
Range
Resolution
Accuracy
(at 25°C)
0 - 9.9 EC
0 - 99 CF
0 - 1990 ppm
0.1 EC
1 CF
10 ppm
+
-0.1 EC
+
-1 CF
+
-50 ppm
0 - 14 pH
+
-0.1 pH
0.1 pH
Calibration Factory CalibratedManual Calibration
Temperature
Compensation
Automatic temperature
compensation
Not applicable
Operating
Temperature
Range
0 - 45°C
32 - 113°F
Power Source 2 x AAA Alkaline Batteries
Other Features Auto turn off function
0 - 50°C
32 - 122°F
1°C
1°F
+
-1°C
+
-2°F
Factory Calibrated
Not applicable
Temperature

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Bluelab cleaning kits
The probe surface is where the instrument takes the reading of the solution.
The information is sent back from the probe to the electronic brain of the
instrument. A calculation is then done in the instruments brain or micro
computer and a reading is then displayed. If the information sent back from
the probe is inaccurate due to probe surface contamination then the reading
will be inaccurate.
Cleaning the probes is a very easy task and prolongs the life of
the probes.
Probe cleaning is one of the most important parts of owning
and operating any Bluelab Truncheon , meter, monitor or
controller. If the probe is contaminated (dirty), it affects the
accuracy of the reading displayed.
The Bluelab cleaning kits have it all there for you:
conductivity probe cleaning kit
full colour instructions
conductivity standard solution
decanter vessel
Bluelab probe cleaner
Bluelab chamois (probe cleaning instrument)
pH cleaning and calibration kit:
full colour instructions
calibration solutions
decanter vessels
Bluelab probe cleaner
Bluelab pH probe cleaning tool
toothbrush
The instrument is only as accurate as the probe is clean!