Hanna Instruments HI96720C User manual

INSTRUCTION MANUAL
HI96720C
Calcium Hardness ISM

Thank you for choosing a Hanna Instruments product.
Please read this instruction manual carefully before using the instrument.
This manual will provide you with the necessary information for correct use of
the instrument, as well as a precise idea of its versatility.
If you need additional technical information, do not hesitate to e‑mail us at
[email protected] or view our worldwide contact list at www.hannainst.com.
Dear
Customer,
All rights are reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited without the written consent
of the copyright owner, Hanna Instruments Inc., Woonsocket, Rhode Island, 02895, USA.

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PRELIMINARY EXAMINATION ............................................................................................
GENERAL DESCRIPTION ....................................................................................................
ABBREVIATIONS ..............................................................................................................
SPECIFICATIONS ..............................................................................................................
PRECISION AND ACCURACY ..............................................................................................
PRINCIPLE OF OPERATION ...............................................................................................
FUNCTIONAL DESCRIPTION ...............................................................................................
ERRORS AND WARNINGS .................................................................................................
GENERAL TIPS FOR AN ACCURATE MEASUREMENT .............................................................
STARTUP ........................................................................................................................
MEASUREMENT PROCEDURE ............................................................................................
VALIDATION PROCEDURE .................................................................................................
CALIBRATION PROCEDURE ...............................................................................................
GLP ................................................................................................................................
BATTERY MANAGEMENT ...................................................................................................
BATTERY REPLACEMENT ...................................................................................................
ACCESSORIES ..................................................................................................................
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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Please examine this product carefully. Make sure that the instrument is not damaged. If any damage
occurred during shipment, please contact your local Hanna Instruments Office.
Each HI96720 Ion Selective Meter is supplied complete with:
• Sample Cuvettes and Caps (2 pcs.)
• CAL Check™ standard cuvettes
• 9V Battery
• Cloth for wiping cuvettes
• Instrument quality certificate
• Instruction Manual
• Rigid carrying case
• Quick Reference Guide
Note: Save all packing material until you are sure that the instrument works correctly. Any
defective item must be returned in its original packing.
PRELIMINARY EXAMINATION

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The HI96720 is an auto diagnostic portable microprocessor meter that benefits from
Hanna Instruments’ years of experience as a manufacturer of analytical instruments. It has the
advanced optical system based on a special tungesten lamp and a narrow band interference filter
that allows most accurate and repeatable readings. All instruments are factory calibrated and the
electronic and optical design minimizes the need of frequent calibration.
With the powerful CAL Check™ validation function, you are able to validate good performance
of your instrument at any time. The validation procedure is extremely user friendly. Just use the
exclusive Hanna Instruments ready‑made, NIST traceable standards to verify the performance of
the instrument and recalibrate if necessary.
All instruments are splash proof and the lamp and filter units are protected from dust or dirt by
a transparent cup. This makes the instruments fulfill field applications. Display messages aid the
user in routine operation. The meter has an auto shut off feature that will turn off the instrument
after 10 minutes of non‑use in measurement mode or after 1 hour if left in calibration mode.
The meter uses an exclusive positive‑locking system to ensure that the cuvette is in the same
position every time it is placed into the measurement cell. It is designed to fit a cuvette with a
larger neck making it easier to add both sample and reagents. The cuvette is made from special
optical glass to obtain best results.
The HI96720 meter measures the calcium hardness content, as CaCO3in water and wastewater in the 0.00 to
2.70 mg/L (ppm) range. The method is an adaptation of the Standard Methods for the Examination
of Water and Wastewater, 18th edition, calmagite method.
The reagents are in liquid form and are supplied in bottles. The amount of reagent is precisely
dosed to ensure the maximum repeatability.
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
degree Celsius
degree Fahrenheit
Liquid Crystal Display
milligrams per liter. mg/L is equivalent to ppm (parts per million)
milliliter
millivolt
°C:
°F:
LCD:
mg/L:
mL:
mV:
ABBREVIATIONS

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SPECIFICATIONS
Range 0.00 to 2.70 mg/L
Resolution 0.01 mg/L
Accuracy
@25 °C (77 °F) ±0.11 mg/L ±5% of reading
Light Source Tungsten lamp
Light Detector Silicon Photocell with narrow band interference filter @525 nm
Method
Adaptation of the Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and
Wastewater, 18th edition, calmagite method. The reaction between Ca
and reagents causes a red tint in the sample
Environment 0 to 50 °C (32 to 122 °F);
max 95% RH non‑condensing
Battery Type 9V (1 pc.)
Auto‑Shut off
After 10’ of non‑use in measurement mode;
after 1 hour of non‑use in calibration mode;
with last reading reminder
Dimensions 192 x 104 x 69 mm (7.6 x 4.1 x 2.7”)
Weight 320 g (11.3 oz.)
REQUIRED REAGENTS
Code Description Quantity/test
HI93720A‑0 Ca indicator 0.5 mL
HI93720B‑0 Alkali solution 0.5 mL
HI93720C‑0 EGTA solution 1 drop

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Precision is how closely repeated measurements
agree with each other. Precision is usually
expressed as standard deviation (SD).
Accuracy is defined as the nearness of a test
result to the true value.
Although good precision suggests good accuracy,
precise results can be inaccurate. The figure
explains these definitions.
In a laboratory using a standard solution of
1.50 mg/L calcium hardness and a representative
lot of reagent, an operator obtained with a single
instrument a standard deviation of 0.05 mg/L.
PRECISION AND ACCURACY PRINCIPLE OF OPERATION
Absorption of Light is a typical phenomenon of interaction between electromagnetic radiation and
matter. When a light beam crosses a substance, some of the radiation may be absorbed by atoms,
molecules or crystal lattices.
If pure absorption occurs, the fraction of light absorbed depends both on the optical path length
through the matter and on the physical‑chemical characteristics of the substance according to the
Lambert‑Beer Law:
‑log I/Io= ελc d
or
A = ελc d
Where:
‑log I/Io = Absorbance (A)
Io = intensity of incident light beam
I = intensity of light beam after absorption
ε
λ= molar extinction coefficient at wavelength λ
c = molar concentration of the substance
d = optical path through the substance
Therefore, the concentration “c” can be calculated from the absorbance of the substance as the
other factors are known.

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Photometric chemical analysis is based on the possibility to develop an absorbing compound from a
specific chemical reaction between sample and reagents. Given that the absorption of a compound
strictly depends on the wavelength of the incident light beam, a narrow spectral bandwidth should
be selected as well as a proper central wavelength to optimize measurements.
The optical system of Hanna Instruments’ HI96 series colorimeters is based on special subminiature
tungsten lamps and narrow‑band interference filters to guarantee both high performance and
reliable results.
HI96 series block diagram (optical layout)
A microprocessor controlled special tungsten lamp emits radiation which is first optically conditioned
and beamed to the sample contained in the cuvette. The optical path is fixed by the diameter of
the cuvette. Then the light is spectrally filtered to a narrow spectral bandwidth, to obtain a light
beam of intensity Ioor I.
The photoelectric cell collects the radiation Ithat is not absorbed by the sample and converts it
into an electric current, producing a potential in the mV range.
The microprocessor uses this potential to convert the incoming value into the desired measuring
unit and to display it on the LCD.
The measurement process is carried out in two phases: first the meter is zeroed and then the actual
measurement is performed.
The cuvette has a very important role because it is an optical element and thus requires particular
attention. It is important that both, the measurement and the calibration (zeroing) cuvettes, are
optically identical to provide the same measurement conditions. Whenever possible use the same
cuvette for both. It is necessary that the surface of the cuvette is clean and not scratched. This to avoid
measurement interference due to unwanted reflection and absorption of light. It is recommended
not to touch the cuvette walls with hands.
Furthermore, in order to maintain the same conditions during the zeroing and the measuring phases,
it is necessary to close the cuvette to prevent any contamination.
PRINCIPLE OF OPERATION

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INSTRUMENT DESCRIPTION
1) GLP/ key
2) CAL CHECK key
3) ZERO/CFM key
4) READ key
5) ON/OFF key
6) Liquid Crystal Display (LCD)
7) Cuvette alignment indicator
8) Cuvette holder
OPERATING MODES
• Measurement mode: default operation mode, enables both validation and measurement.
• Calibration mode: may be entered by keeping CAL CHECK pressed for three seconds (the
“CAL” tag appears), it enables calibration of the instrument.
• GLP mode: may be entered by pressing GLP/ (“GLP” appears), it enables consulting of
user calibration date or restore factory calibration.
KEYPAD DESCRIPTION
• ON/OFF: to turn the meter on and off.
• ZERO/CFM: to zero the meter prior to measurement, to confirm edited values or to confirm
factory calibration restore.
• READ : this is a bi‑functional key. In measurement mode, press to make a measurement. In
GLP mode press to view the next screen.
• CAL CHECK: this is a bi‑functional key. Just press to perform the validation of the meter, or
press and hold for three seconds to enter calibration mode.
• GLP/ : this is a bi‑functional key. Just press to enter GLP mode. In calibration mode press
to edit the date and time.
FUNCTIONAL DESCRIPTION

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DISPLAY ELEMENTS DESCRIPTION
1) The measuring scheme (lamp, cuvette, detector), appears during different phases of zero or
reading measurement
2) Error messages and warnings
3) The battery icon shows the charging level of the battery
4) The hourglass appears when an internal checking is in progress
5) Status messages
6) The chronometer appears when the reaction timer is running
7) The month, day and date icons appear when a date is displayed
8) Four digit main display
9) Measuring units
10) Four digit secondary display
FUNCTIONAL DESCRIPTION

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The instrument shows clear messages when erroneous condition appears. Messages are also displayed
when the obtained values are outside expected range. The beeper is playing a beep on errors.
Light High: There is too much light to perform a measurement.
Please check the preparation of the zero cuvette.
a) on zero reading
Light Low: There is not enough light to perform a measurement.
Please check the preparation of the zero cuvette.
No Light:The instrument cannot adjust the light level. Please check
that the sample does not contain any debris.
Inverted cuvettes: The sample and the zero cuvette are inverted.
Zero: A zero reading was not taken. Follow the instructions of the
measurement procedure for zeroing the meter.
b) on sample reading
Under range: A blinking “0.00” indicates that the sample absorbs
less light than the zero reference. Check the procedure and make
sure you use the same cuvette for reference (zero) and measurement.
Over Range: A flashing value of the maximum concentration
indicates an over range condition. The concentration of the sample
is beyond the programmed range: dilute the sample and re‑run
the test.
ERRORS AND WARNINGS

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Cap error: Appears when external light enters in the analysis cell.
Assure that the cuvette cap is present.
Cooling lamp: The instrument waits for the lamp to cool down.
d) other errors and warnings
Battery low: The battery must be replaced soon.
Dead battery: This indicates that the battery is dead and must be
replaced. Once this indication is displayed, the meter will lock up.
Change the battery and restart the meter.
ERRORS AND WARNINGS
Standard Low: The standard reading is less than expected.
Standard High: The standard reading is higher than expected.
c) during calibration procedure

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GENERAL TIPS FOR AN ACCURATE MEASUREMENT
The instructions listed below should be carefully followed during testing to ensure best accuracy.
• Color or suspended matter in large amounts may cause interference, therefore these should be
removed by treatment with active carbon and by prior filtration.
• For a correct filling of the cuvette: the liquid in the cuvette forms a concavity on the top; the
bottom of this concavity must be at the same level of the 10 mL mark.
• In order to measure exactly 0.5 mL of reagent with the 1 mL syringe:
(a) push the plunger completely into the syringe and insert the tip into the solution.
(b) pull the plunger up until the lower edge of the seal is exactly on the 0.0 mL mark.
(c) take out the syringe and clean the outside of the syringe tip. Be sure that no drops are
hanging on the tip of the syringe, if so eliminate them. Then, keeping the syringe in vertical
position above the cuvette, push the plunger down into the syringe until the lower edge of
the seal is exactly on the 0.5 mL mark. Now the exact amount of 0.5 mL has been added
to the cuvette, even if the tip still contains some solution.
• It is important that the sample does not contain any debris. This would corrupt the reading.
• Each time the cuvette is used, the cap must be tightened to the same degree.

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• Shaking the cuvette can generate bubbles in the sample, causing higher readings. To obtain
accurate measurements, remove such bubbles by swirling or by gently tapping the cuvette.
• Do not let the reacted sample stand too long after reagent is added, or accuracy will be lost.
• It is possible to take multiple readings in a row, but it is recommended to take a new zero
reading for each sample and to use the same cuvette for zeroing and measurement.
• After the reading it is important to discard immediately the sample, otherwise the glass might
become permanently stained.
• All the reaction times reported in this manual are at 25 °C (77 °F). In general, the reaction time
should be increased for temperatures lower than 20 °C (68 °F), and decreased for temperatures
higher than 25 °C (77 °F).
• In order to maximize accuracy, prior to a measurement follow the validation procedure to be
sure that the instrument is properly calibrated. If necessary, calibrate the instrument.
• Whenever the cuvette is placed into the measurement cell, it must be dry outside, and completely
free of fingerprints, oil or dirt. Wipe it thoroughly with HI731318 or a lint‑free cloth prior to
insertion.
Prepare the instrument for measurement as follows:
• Unpack the instrument by removing the dust protection sleeve from the instrument cuvette
holder.
• Place the battery in the instrument as described in the “BATTERY REPLACEMENT” chapter.
• Place the instrument on a flat table.
• Do not place the instrument under direct sun light.
STARTUP GENERAL TIPS FOR AN ACCURATE MEASUREMENT

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HI93720A-0
To compensate the meter for the sample turbidity or color, the measurement takes place in two
phases. First, the meter is zeroed using the unreacted sample. After the reagents are added the
reacted sample is measured.
MEASUREMENT PROCEDURE
• When the beeper sounds briefly and the LCD displays dashes, the meter is ready. The blinking
“ZERO” indicates that the instrument needs to be zeroed first.
• Fill a graduated beaker with 50 mL of sample.
• Add 0.5 mL of HI93720A‑0 Calcium indicator solution, then swirl to mix.
• Turn the meter on by pressing ON/OFF. The display briefly shows all tags on.
50 mL

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MEASUREMENT PROCEDURE
HI93720C-0
• Fill two cuvettes with 10 mL of sample each.
• Add 1 drop of HI93720C‑0 EGTA solution to one cuvette, replace the cap and swirl the solution.
This is the blank.
• Place the blank into the cuvette holder and ensure that the notch on the cap is positioned
securely into the groove.
• In the same beaker add 0.5 mL of HI93720B‑0 Alkali solution for Calcium, then swirl to
mix.
HI93720B-0

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• Press ZERO/CFM and the lamp, cuvette and detector icons will appear on the display, depending
on the measurement phase.
• After a few seconds, the display will show “-0.0-”. The meter is now zeroed and ready for
measurement.
• Remove the blank and insert the second cuvette into the instrument and ensure that the notch
on the cap is positioned securely into the groove.
MEASUREMENT PROCEDURE
• Press READ the lamp, cuvette and detector icons will appear on the display, depending on
the measurement phase.

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INTERFERENCES
Interference may be caused by excessive amounts of heavy metals.
• At the end of measurement, the instrument directly displays concentration in mg/L (ppm) of
calcium hardness, as CaCO3, on the LCD. To convert the result to mg/L Ca, multiply the reading
by 0.4.
SAMPLE DILUTION
This meter is designed to determine low levels of hardness, typically found in water purification
systems.
When testing some other sources of water, it is not uncommon to come across levels of hardness
that are greater than the range of this meter.
This problem can be overcome through dilution. Dilutions must be performed with hardness‑free
water or the readings will be erroneus.
• Fill a 1 mL syringe with the sample.
• Place the syringe in a 50 mL beaker, making sure that the beaker is clean and empty, and
inject 0.5 mL into the beaker.
• Fill the beaker up to the 50 mL mark with hardness‑free water.
Now, follow normal measurement procedure. The true value of the sample is the reading obtained
multiplied by a factor of one hundred (the dilution factor).
For your reference, factors to convert readings in mg/L to French degrees (FD), German degrees
(DD) and English degrees (ED) of hardness are as follows:
1 mg/L = 0.1 FD = 0.056 DD = 0.07 ED
Note: the test will detect any calcium or magnesium contamination in the mixing cylinders,
measuring droppers or sample cells. To test cleanliness, repeat the test multiple times until
you obtain consistent results.
MEASUREMENT PROCEDURE

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VALIDATION PROCEDURE
Use the validation procedure to ensure that the instrument is properly calibrated.
Warning:Do not validate the instrument with any standard solutions other than the Hanna Instruments
CAL Check™ Standards, otherwise erroneous results will be obtained.
•Turn the meter on by pressing ON/OFF.
• Press ZERO/CFM and the lamp, cuvette and detector icons will appear on the display, depending
on the measurement phase.
• Place the CAL CheckTM Standard HI96720‑11 Cuvette A into the cuvette holder and ensure
that the notch on the cap is positioned securely into the groove.
• When the beeper sounds briefly and the LCD displays dashes, the meter is ready.The blinking
“ZERO” asks for instrument zeroing.

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VALIDATION PROCEDURE
• After a few seconds, the display will show “-0.0-”. The meter is now zeroed and ready for
validation.
• Remove the cuvette.
• Place the CAL CheckTM Standard HI96720‑11 Cuvette B into the cuvette holder and ensure that
the notch on the cap is positioned securely into the groove.
• Press CAL CHECK and the lamp, cuvette and detector icons together with “CAL CHECK”will
appear on the display, depending on the measurement phase.
• At the end of the measurement the display will show the validation standard value.
The reading should be within specifications as reported in the CAL CheckTM Standard Certificate. If
the value is found out of the specifications, please check that the cuvettes are free of fingerprints,
oil or dirt and repeat validation. If results are still found out of specifications, then recalibrate the
instrument.