Extech Instruments ExStik II EC400 User manual

User Manual
ExStik®II EC400
Conductivity / TDS / Salinity / Temperature Meter
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Introduction
Congratulations on your purchase of the ExStik®II EC400 Conductivity/Total Dissolved Solids
(TDS) / Salinity / Temperature meter. With the EC400’s dynamic cell-constant technology it is
possible to measure a wide range of Conductivity, TDS, and Salinity with the same electrode.
Careful use and maintenance will provide years of reliable service.
Powering the ExStik®II
The ExStik®II uses four (4) CR2032 Lithium Ion Batteries (included). If the batteries are weak, the
‘BAT’ indicator appears on the LCD. Press the ON/OFF key to turn the ExStik®II on or off. The auto
power off feature shuts the ExStik®II off automatically after 10 minutes of inactivity to preserve
battery life.
Getting Started
Remove the cap from the bottom of the ExStik®II to expose the conductivity electrode.
Before the first use or after storage, rinse the electrode in deionized water and dry.
For best results, calibrate for conductivity with a standard in the expected range of the sample.
For maximum accuracy calibrate from low conductivity value standards to high value
standards.
Store dry.
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Meter Description
Front Panel Description
1. Battery compartment
2. LCD Display
3. MODE/HOLD button (change mode, Hold and
store data)
4. CAL/RECALL button (calibrate, change temperature units, recall data)
5. ON/OFF button
6. Electrode Collar
7. Electrode
LCD Display
1. Bargraph display
2. Measurement units
3. Main display
4. Range calibration and
low battery indicators
5. Temperature display
6. Reading Hold Indicator
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Measurement Procedure
Sample Preparation:
1. For Conductivity, TDS or Salinity place the test sample in a sample cup with
enough depth (2.5cm minimum) to cover the electrode. Stir the solution to
remove any air bubbles.
Measurement:
1. Press the ON button. ( and then “SELF CAL” will appear in the
display during the turn-on diagnostics)
2. Depress and hold the MODE/HOLD key to scroll to the desired
measurement mode.
3. Insert the electrode into the sample making sure that the electrodes
are completely submersed.
4. Slowly stir the solution with the electrode to remove air bubbles.
5. The meter will auto-range to the proper range and then display the
reading.
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Changing Measurement Function
The meter can be set to measure Conductivity, TDS or Salinity.
To change the mode:
1. Press and Hold the MODE/HOLD button for 2 seconds and the display will begin to scroll
through the units.
µS (Conductivity); ppm (TDS); mg/l (TDS); ppm S (Salinity);
Note: The “HOLD” function cannot be on when changing the measurement function. If “HOLD” is
displayed in the lower left corner of the display, briefly press the MODE/HOLD button to turn it off.
2. When the desired units are displayed, release the MODE/HOLD button.
TDS Compensation Ratio
The TDS value is determined by multiplying a conductivity reading by a known ratio factor. The
meter allows for selecting a conversion ratio in the range of 0.4 to 1.0. The ratio varies with the
application, but is typically set between 0.5 and 0.7.
Note: The stored ratio will briefly appear in the lower temperature display when the meter is first
turned on, or when changing measurement function to TDS.
Note: In the Salinity mode the ratio is 0.4 to 0.6 automatic.
To change the ratio, while in the TDS measurement mode (ppm or mg/l):
1. Press and release the CAL/RECALL button twice in succession. The stored
ratio will appear in the display.
2. Press the MODE/HOLD button to increase the ratio value in steps of 0.1.
3. When the desired ratio is displayed, press and release the CAL/RECALL
button to store the value and return to the normal mode.
4. If no buttons are pressed for 5 seconds, the meter returns to measure mode.
Storing Readings
1. Press the MODE/HOLD button to store a reading. The storage location
number will be displayed on the lower display, while the main display shows
the stored reading. The meter will enter the HOLD mode and the “HOLD”
indicator will appear.
2. Press the MODE/HOLD button again to exit the HOLD mode and return to
normal operation.
3. If more than 25 readings are stored, previously stored readings (starting with
number 1) will be overwritten.
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Recalling Stored Readings
1. Press the CAL/RECALL button and then press the MODE/HOLD button. A location number (1
through 25) will briefly appear and then the value stored in that location will appear. The
displayed units will flash, indicating that the storage recall mode is active.
2. The last stored reading will be displayed first. Pressing and releasing the MODE/HOLD button
will scroll through the stored readings one at a time. The location number is displayed first,
followed by the reading stored in that location.
3. To exit the storage mode, press the CAL/RECALL button and the meter will return to normal
operation, after displaying “End”.
Clear Stored Memory
With the unit on, press and hold ON/OFF for 4 seconds. “clr” will be briefly displayed when the
memory is cleared.
Changing Temperature Units
To change the displayed temperature units (oC or oF):
1. With the unit OFF, press and hold down the CAL/RECALL button.
2. With the CAL/RECALL button depressed momentarily press the ON/OFF button. When “SELF
CAL” appears in the display release the CAL/RECALL button. The unit will power on with
temperature displayed in the new units.
Data Hold Mode
Press the MODE/HOLD button to hold (freeze) a reading in the display. The meter will enter the
HOLD mode and the “HOLD” indicator will appear.
Note: This also stores the reading.
Press the MODE/HOLD button again to return to normal operation.
Auto Power OFF
The auto power off feature automatically shuts the meter off after 10 minutes of button inactivity.
Auto Power OFF Disable
To disable the Auto Power Off feature:
1. Turn the unit on
2. Press CAL/RECALL once (Quickly)
3. Immediately and simultaneously press the MODE/HOLD and ON/OFF buttons for
approximately 2 seconds, until “oFF” is briefly displayed
To disengage this feature, turn the unit off with the ON/OFF button. The next time the unit is
powered up, Auto Power OFF mode will be engaged again.
Low Battery Indication
When the batteries become weak the “BAT” icon will appear in the display. Refer to the Maintenance
section for battery replacement information.
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Measurement and Display Considerations
If the unit appears to be locked (display frozen). It is possible that the Data Hold mode has
been inadvertently accessed by pressing the MODE/HOLD button. (“HOLD” will be displayed
in the bottom left of the LCD.) Simply press the MODE button again or turn the meter off and
then on.
For maximum accuracy, allow sufficient time for the temperature of the probe to reach the
temperature of the sample before calibrating. This will be indicated by a stable temperature
reading on the display.
Reset Calibration Data
Follow this procedure to clear all calibration data from the meter. Resetting the calibration data may
be necessary when new calibration solutions are used or accuracy of measurements is in question.
1. Turn off the meter.
2. Press and Hold the Cal/Recall and Mode/Hold buttons.
3. Momentarily press the On/Off button, as soon as the display comes on, release all 3
buttons.
4. The display will show “ dFLt rSt ” (default reset) and all of the calibration data will be erased.
If “ dFLt rSt” does not appear, retry the procedure.
5. Proceed to the calibration routine for pH and Conductivity.
Calibration - Conductivity
Meter accuracy verification should be performed on a periodic basis. Once per month is the
recommended cycle for normal use. If calibration is required, a conductivity standardizing solution
must be obtained. The meter can be calibrated in any or all of the three ranges. Standardizing
solutions of 84µS/cm, 1413µS/cm or 12.88mS/cm (12,880µS/cm) are used for the automatic
calibration recognition procedure. No other calibration values are permitted.
Calibration is always done in conductivity mode. Since salinity and TDS values are calculated from
conductivity values, this procedure also calibrates the salinity and TDS ranges.
1. Fill a sample cup with the standardizing solution.
2. Turn the meter ON and insert the electrode into the solution. Tap or move the electrode in the
sample to dislodge any air bubbles.
3. Press and hold the CAL/RECALL button (approximately 2 seconds) until “CAL” appears in
the lower (temp) display. The main display will start flashing.
4. The meter will automatically recognize and calibrate to the standardizing solution. The display
will briefly indicate “SA”, “End” and then return to the measurement mode after a calibration.
Note: The “SA” will not appear if the calibration fails.
5. The “range calibrated” symbol will appear in the display for each range that is calibrated
during that power on cycle.
Low range, 84µS/cm
Medium range, 1413µS/cm
High range, 12.88mS/cm (12,880µS/cm)
Note: Each time the calibration mode is entered all calibration symbols on the display are cleared,
but only the calibration data for the currently calibrated range is replaced. The other two ranges
keep the existing calibration data, just the symbols are removed. Calibration of all three ranges must
be performed during one power on period for all three range calibration symbols to appear.
See Reset Calibration Data to clear all calibration data from the meter.
Note: The meter allows for a 1, 2 or 3 point calibration. If calibration is done for more than one point
the lowest value standard should be done first to obtain the best accuracy.
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Considerations and Techniques
Do not touch the inner surfaces of the conductivity electrodes. Touching the surface of the
platinized electodes may damage and reduce the life of the probe.
Store the electrode dry, in the storage cap.
Always rinse the electrode in de-ionized water between measurements to avoid cross
contamination of the sample. Double rinsing is recommended when high accuracy is required.
Operational Matrix
Function /
Resulting
Action
Power
Status
Mode
Setting
Required Key Press Sequence
On/Off On or
Off
Any Momentary press of the ON/OFF key
Calibration On Conductivity Press & hold CAL/RECALL key for 2
seconds, until it enters CAL function
Store
Reading
On Any measure
mode
Momentary press of the MODE/HOLD key
Hold Release On While In Hold
Mode
Momentary press of the MODE/HOLD key
Enter
Memory
Retrieval
On Any measure
mode
Momentary press of the CAL/RECALL key
followed by a momentary press of the
MODE/HOLD key (Within 4 seconds)
Scroll Stored
Readings
On Memory
Recall
Momentary press of the MODE/HOLD key
(Displays “last in first out”)
Exit Memory
Retrieval
On Memory
Recall
Momentary press of the CAL/RECALL key
Clear Stored
Memory
On Any Measure
Mode
Press and hold the ON/OFF key for 4
seconds, until “clr” is displayed.
Change
Measurement
Mode
On Any Press and hold the MODE/HOLD key for at
least 2 seconds (the modes will scroll by
until the key is released)
Enter
Cond/TDS
Ratio
On TDS (ppm or
mg/l)
Press and release the CAL/RECALL key
twice in quick succession
Change
Cond/TDS
Ratio
On TDS ratio Momentary press of the MODE/HOLD key
(each key press increases the ratio by 0.1,
the value cycles from 0.4 - 1.0)
Exit
Cond/TDS
Ratio
On TDS ratio Momentary press of the CAL/RECALL key
Change
Temperature
Units
Off n/a (off
mode)
Press and hold the CAL/RECALL key then
momentarily press the On/Off key. Release
the CAL/RECALL key after the "SELF CAL"
lights
Override
Auto Power
Off
On Any measure
mode
Momentarily press the Cal Key then
simultaneously press and hold the ON/OFF
& MODE/HOLD key for approximately 2
seconds, until “oFF” is displayed
Default Reset OFF n/a Simultaneously press ON/OFF,
CAL/RECALL and MODE/HOLD
momentarily. “dFLt” will be displayed.
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Specifications
Display 2000 count LCD with Bargraph
Conductivity ranges 0 to 199.9µS/cm
200 to 1999µS/cm
2.00 to 19.99mS/cm
TDS ranges 0 to 99.9ppm or mg/L
(Variable ratio) 100 to 999ppm or mg/L
1.00 to 9.99ppt or g/L
Salinity range 0 to 99.9ppm
100 to 999ppm
1.00 to 9.99ppt
TDS Ratio 0.4 to 1.0 adjustable
Salinity Ratio 0.4 to 0.6 automatic
Conductivity ATC 2.0% per oC
Conductivity ATC Range 0.0°C to 60.0oC (32.0°F to 140oF)
Temperature Range 0.0°C to 65.0oC (32.0°F to 149°F)
Temperature Resolution 0.1 up to 99.9, 1 >100
Temperature Accuracy ±1°C; 1.8°F (from 0 to 50°C; 32 to 122°F)
±3°C; 5.4°F (from 50 to 65°C; 122 to 149°F)
Accuracy Conductivity: ±2% full scale
TDS: ±2% full scale
Salinity: ±2% full scale
Measurement Memory 25 tagged (numbered) readings
Low battery indication ‘BAT’ appears on the LCD
Power Four (4) CR2032 Lithium Ion Batteries
Auto power off After 10 minutes (override available)
Operating conditions -5°C to 50oC (23°F to 122oF)
Dimensions 40 x 187 x 40 mm (1.6 x 7.4 x 1.6”)
Weight 87 g (3.1 oz)
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Maintenance
Battery Replacement
1. Twist off the battery compartment cap.
2. Holding the battery housing in place with a finger, pull out the battery carrier using the two
small tabs.
3. Replace the four (4) CR2032 batteries observing polarity.
4. Replace the battery compartment cap
Never dispose of used batteries or rechargeable batteries in household waste.
As consumers, users are legally required to take used batteries to appropriate collection
sites, the retail store where the batteries were purchased, or wherever batteries are sold.
Disposal: Do not dispose of this instrument in household waste. The user is obligated to
take end-of-life devices to a designated collection point for the disposal of electrical and
electronic equipment.
Electrode Replacement
1. To remove an electrode, unscrew and completely remove the electrode collar (turn the collar
counter-clockwise to remove).
2. Gently rock the electrode from side to side, pulling it downwards, until it disconnects from the
meter.
3. To attach an electrode, carefully plug the electrode into the meter socket (note that the
electrode connector is keyed, ensuring proper connection).
4. Tighten the electrode collar firmly enough to make a good seal (a rubber gasket seals the
electrode with the meter).
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Cleaning Recommendations
When cleaning the probe, take care not to scratch or damage the platinized electrode surfaces.
Contaminant Cleaning Solution Instructions
Water soluble substances Deionized water Soak or scrub gently with a
soft brush. Rinse thoroughly
with DI water, and dry
Grease & Oil Warm water and household
detergent
Soak or scrub with a soft
brush, maximum of 10
minutes. Rinse thoroughly
with DI water, and dry
Heavy grease & Oil Alcohol Maximum of 5 minute soak,
scrub with a soft brush.
Rinse thoroughly with DI
water, and dry
Lime and hydroxide
coatings
10% acetic acid Soak until coating dissolved,
maximum of 5 minutes. .
Rinse thoroughly with DI
water, and dry.
Troubleshooting
Problem Possible Cause Action
Reading is frozen Unit is in “HOLD” mode Press MODE/HOLD key to
exit “HOLD” mode
“BAT” message Batteries are low Replace batteries
Unit will not calibrate in
conductivity mode
Contaminated conductivity
standards
Use fresh standards
Unit will not calibrate in
conductivity mode
Dirty probe Clean conductivity probe
(See cleaning instructions)
Unit will not calibrate in
conductivity mode
Damaged conductivity probe Replace electrode
Unit will not calibrate in
conductivity mode
Trapped air bubbles Tap or stir to release air
bubbles
Unit will not turn on Batteries are low or dead Replace batteries
Unit will not turn on Batteries installed with
incorrect polarity
Replace batteries,
observe polarity
Unit will not respond to
any key presses
Internal fault Perform hard reboot:
Remove batteries, hold
ON/OFF switch down for 5
seconds, replace batteries
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All rights reserved including the right of reproduction in whole or in part in any form
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