LaMotte SMART3 User manual

1910-MN
2.13.12
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CONTENTS
GENERAL INFORMATION
Packaging & Delivery ...................................................................................... 3
General Precautions ...................................................................................... 3
Safety Precautions ......................................................................................... 3
Limits of Liability ............................................................................................. 4
Warranty ......................................................................................................... 4
Register Your Meter ......................................................................................... 4
Specifications ................................................................................................ 5
Statistical and Technical Definitions ............................................................... 6
Contents and Accessories ............................................................................. 7
EPA Compliance ............................................................................................ 8
CE Compliance .............................................................................................. 8
IP 67 Certification ............................................................................................ 8
CHEMICAL TESTING
Water Sampling for Chemical Analysis .......................................................... 9
Filtration ....................................................................................................... 10
An Introduction to Colorimetric Analysis ..................................................... 11
Reagent Blank ............................................................................................. 12
Colorimeter Tubes & Chamber ................................................................... 12
Meter Care.................................................................................................... 12
Selecting an Appropriate Wavelength ........................................................ 12
Calibration .................................................................................................... 13
Calibration Curves ....................................................................................... 13
Standard Additions ...................................................................................... 16
Sample Dilution & Volumetric Measurements ............................................ 17
Interferences ................................................................................................ 18
Stray Light Interference ............................................................................... 18
OPERATION OF THE SMART 3 COLORIMETER
Overview ...................................................................................................... 20
Components ................................................................................................ 20
GENERAL OPERATING PROCEDURES
The Keypad ................................................................................................. 21
Sample Holders............................................................................................ 21
The Display & the Menus ............................................................................ 22
Looping Menus............................................................................................. 24
TESTING
Testing Menu ............................................................................................... 25
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Test Sequences ........................................................................................... 26
General Testing Procedures ........................................................................ 26
Testing With LaMotte Pre-Programmed Tests ............................................. 27
Calibrating LaMotte Pre-Progammed Tests................................................. 29
Measuring in the Absorbance Mode............................................................ 34
EDITING MENU
Editing a Sequence ..................................................................................... 36
Adding a Test ............................................................................................... 38
Deleting a Test............................................................................................... 40
Edit User Tests ............................................................................................. 42
Naming the Test ........................................................................................... 44
Selecting the Vial and Wavelength ............................................................. 47
Entering a Two Point Calibration ................................................................. 48
Entering a Multiple Point Calibration............................................................. 52
Selecting the Numerical Format of the Result ............................................. 55
Selecting Units of Concentration ................................................................. 56
Setting the Clock .......................................................................................... 57
Logging Data................................................................................................ 58
Factory Setup ............................................................................................... 59
Setting the Power Save Function ................................................................. 59
Setting the Backlight Time ............................................................................ 61
Selecting a Language ................................................................................... 62
COMPUTER CONNECTION
PC Link .......................................................................................................... 64
Output .......................................................................................................... 64
Computer Connection.................................................................................. 64
SMARTLink 3 ................................................................................................. 64
BATTERY
Battery/AC Operation .................................................................................... 65
Battery Replacement..................................................................................... 65
MAINTENANCE
Cleaning ...................................................................................................... 66
Repairs.......................................................................................................... 66
Meter Disposal.............................................................................................. 66
TROUBLESHOOTING
Error Messages ............................................................................................ 67
Troubleshooting Guide................................................................................. 67
SMART3 COLORIMETER TEST PROCEDURES
APPENDIX
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GENERAL INFORMATION
PACKAGING & DELIVERY
Experienced packaging personnel at LaMotte Company assure adequate
protection against normal hazards encountered in transportation of shipments.
After the product leaves the manufacturer, all responsibility for its safe delivery
is assured by the transportation company. Damage claims must be filed
immediately with the transportation company to receive compensation for
damaged goods.
Should it be necessary to return the instrument for repair or servicing, pack
instrument carefully in a suitable container with adequate packing material.
A return authorization number must be obtained from LaMotte Company by
authorization number to the shipping carton which describes the kind of trouble
experienced. This valuable information will enable the service department to
make the required repairs more efficiently.
GENERAL PRECAUTIONS
Before attempting to set up or operate this instrument it is important to read the
instruction manual. Failure to do so could result in personal injury or damage to
the equipment.
The SMART3 Colorimeter should not be stored or used in a wet or corrosive
environment. Care should be taken to prevent water or reagent chemicals from
wet colorimeter tubes from entering the colorimeter chamber.
NEVER PUT WET TUBES IN COLORIMETER.
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
Read the labels on all LaMotte reagent containers prior to use. Some containers
include precautionary notices and first aid information. Certain reagents are
considered hazardous substances and are designated with a * in the instruction
information for all LaMotte reagents is available 24 hours a day from the Poison
Control Center listed in the front of the phone book or by contacting the 24
prepared to supply the name and four-digit LaMotte code number found on the
container label or at the top of the MSDS or in the contents list of the procedure.
LaMotte reagents are registered with a computerized poison control information
system available to all local poison control centers.
Keep equipment and reagent chemicals out of the reach of young children.
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LIMITS OF LIABILITY
Under no circumstances shall LaMotte Company be liable for loss of life,
property, profits, or other damages incurred through the use or misuse of its
products.
WARRANTY
LaMotte Company warrants this instrument to be free of defects in parts and
workmanship for 2 years from the date of shipment. If it should become
necessary to return the instrument for service during or beyond the warranty
com for troubleshooting help. The sender is responsible for shipping charges,
freight, insurance and proper packaging to prevent damage in transit. This
warranty does not apply to defects resulting from action of the user such
as misuse, improper wiring, operation outside of specification, improper
maintenance or repair, or unauthorized modification. LaMotte Company
specifically disclaims any implied warranties or merchantability or fitness for
a specific purpose and will not be liable for any direct, indirect, incidental or
consequential damages. LaMotte Company’s total liability is limited to repair
or replacement of the product. The warranty set forth above is inclusive and no
other warranty, whether written or oral, is expressed or implied.
REGISTER YOUR METER
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SPECIFICATIONS
INSTRUMENT TYPE: Colorimeter
Readout 160 x 100 backlit LCD, 20 x 6 line graphical display
Wavelengths 428 nm, 525 nm, 568 nm, 635 nm
Wavelength Accuracy ±2% FS
Readable Resolution Determined by reagent system
Wavelength Bandwidth 10 nm typical
Photometric Range –2 to +2 AU
Photometric Precision ± 0.001 AU at 1.0 AU
Photometric Accuracy ±0.005 AU at 1.0 AU
Sample Chamber Accepts 25 mm diameter flat-bottomed test tubes, 10
mm square cuvettes, 16 mm COD test tubes
Light Sources 4 LEDs
Detectors 4 silicon photodiodes
Modes Pre-programmed tests, absorbance, %T
Pre-Programmed Tests YES, with automatic wavelength selection
User Defined Tests Up to 25 user tests can be input
Languages English, Spanish, French, Portuguese, Italian,
Chinese, Japanese
USB Port Mini B
Power Requirements USB wall adapter, USB computer connection or
lithium ion rechargeable battery
Battery Charge Life: Approximately 380 tests with backlight
on to 1000 tests with backlight off. (Signal averaging
disabled).
Battery Life: Approximately 500 charges.
Electrical Rating Provided on nameplate label
Data Logger 500 test results stored for download to a PC
Waterproof IP67 with USB port plug in place
Dimensions (LxWxH) 3.5 x 7.5 x 2.5 inches, 8.84 x 19.05 x 6.35 cm
Weight 13 oz, 362 g (meter only)
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STATISTICAL & TECHNICAL DEFINITIONS RELATED TO
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
Method Detection Limit (MDL): “The method detection limit (MDL) is defined
as the minimum concentration of a substance that can be measured and
reported with 99% confidence that the analyte concentration is greater than
zero and is determined from analysis of a sample in a given matrix containing
the analyte.”1Note that, “As Dr. William Horwitz once stated, ‘In almost all cases
when dealing with a limit of detection or limit of determination, the primary
purpose of determining that limit is to stay away from it.’”2
Accuracy: Accuracy is the nearness of a measurement to the accepted or true
value.3The accuracy can be expressed as a range, about the true value, in
which a measurement occurs (i.e. ±0.5 ppm). It can also be expressed as the
% recovery of a known amount of analyte in a determination of the analyte (i.e.
103.5 %).
Resolution: Resolution is the smallest discernible difference between any
two measurements that can be made.4For meters this is usually how many
decimal places are displayed. (i.e. 0.01). Note that the resolution many change
with concentration or range. In some cases the resolution may be less than the
smallest interval, if it is possible to make a reading that falls between calibration
marks. A word of caution, that resolution has very little relationship to accuracy
or precision. The resolution will always be less than the accuracy or precision
but it is not a statistical measure of how well a method of analysis works. The
resolution can be very, very good and the accuracy and precision can be very
bad! This is not a useful measure of the performance of a test method.
Repeatability: Repeatability is the within-run precision.5A run is a single data
set, from set up to clean up. Generally, one run occurs on one day. However,
for meter calibrations, a single calibration is considered a single run or data set,
even though it may take 2 or 3 days.
Reproducibility: Reproducibility is the between-run precision.6
Detection Limit (DL): The detection limit (DL) for the 2020we/wi
is defined as the minimum value or concentration that can be determined by the
meter, which is greater than zero, independent of matrix, glassware, and other
sample handling sources of error. It is the detection limit for the optical system of
the meter.
1CFR 40, part 136, appendix B
2Statistics in Analytical Chemistry: Part 7 – A Review, D. Coleman and L Vanatta,
American Laboratory, Sept 2003, P. 31.
3Skoog, D.A., West, D. M., Fundamental of Analytical Chemistry, 2nd ed., Holt
Rinehart and Winston, Inc, 1969, p. 26.
4Statistics in Analytical Chemistry: Part 7 – A Review, D. Coleman and L Vanatta,
American Laboratory, Sept 2003, P. 34.
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5Jeffery G. H., Basset J., Mendham J., Denney R. C., Vogel’s Textbook of
Quantitative Chemical Analysis, 5th ed., Longman Scientific & Technical, 1989, p.
130.
6Jeffery G. H., Basset J., Mendham J., Denney R. C., Vogel’s Textbook of
Quantitative Chemical Analysis, 5th ed., Longman Scientific & Technical, 1989, p.
130
CONTENTS AND ACCESSORIES
CONTENTS
SMART3 Colorimeter
Test Tubes, with Caps
COD/UDV Adapter
USB Wall Adapter
USB Cable
SMART3 Colorimeter Quick Start Guide
SMART3 Colorimeter Manual
ACCESSORIES
Test Tubes, with Caps Code 0290-6
Replacement Chamber Code 3-0038
USB Cable Code 1720
USB Wall Adapter Code 1721
COD/UDV Adapter Code 1724
Car Charger Code 5-0132
SMARTLink3 Program (CD) Code 1901-CD
Small Field Carrying Case
(37.5 27.5 x 13.75 cm)
Code 1910-GCS150
Large Field Carrying Case
(45 x 32.5 x 20 cm)
Code 1910-GCS440
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EPA COMPLIANCE
The SMART3 Colorimeter is an EPA-Accepted instrument. EPA-Accepted
means that the instrument meets the requirements for instrumentation as found
in test procedures that are approved for the National Primary Drinking Water
Regulations (NPDWR) or National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System
(NPDES) compliance monitoring programs. EPA-Accepted instruments may be
used with approved test procedures without additional approval.
CE COMPLIANCE
The SMART3 Colorimeter has earned the European CE Mark of Compliance for
electromagnetic compatibility and safety. The Declaration of Conformity for the
IP67 CERTIFICATION
The SMART3 meets IP67 standards for protection against dust and immersion
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CHEMICAL TESTING
WATER SAMPLING FOR CHEMICAL ANALYSIS
Taking Representative Samples
The underlying factor to be considered for any type of water sampling is whether
or not the sample is truly representative of the source. To properly collect a
representative sample:
• Sample as frequently as possible.
• Collect a large sample or at least enough to conduct whatever tests are
necessary.
• Make a composite sample for the same sampling area.
• Handle the sample in such a way as to prevent deterioration or
contamination before the analysis is performed.
• Perform analysis for dissolved gases such as dissolved oxygen, carbon
dioxide, and hydrogen sulfide immediately at the site of sampling. Samples
for testing these factors, as well as samples for pH, cannot be stored for
later examination.
• Make a list of conditions or observations which may affect the sample.
Other considerations for taking representative samples are dependent
upon the source of the sample. Taking samples from surface waters
involves different considerations than taking samples from impounded and
sub-surface waters.
Sampling of Open Water Systems
Surface waters, such as those found in streams and rivers, are usually well
mixed. The sample should be taken downstream from any tributary, industrial
or sewage pollution source. For comparison purposes samples may be taken
upstream and at the source of the pollution before mixing.
In ponds, lakes, and reservoirs with restricted flow, it is necessary to collect a
number of samples in a cross section of the body of water, and where possible
composite samples should be made to ensure representative samples.
To collect samples from surface waters, select a suitable plastic container with
a tight fitting screw cap. Rinse the container several times with the sample
to be tested, then immerse the container below the surface until it is filled to
overflowing and replace the cap. If the sample is not to be tested immediately,
pour a small part of the sample out and reseal. This will allow for any expansion.
Any condition which might affect the sample should be listed.
Sub-surface sampling is required to obtain a vertical profile of streams, lakes,
ponds, and reservoirs at specific depths. This type of sampling requires more
sophisticated sampling equipment.
For dissolved oxygen studies, or for tests requiring small sample sizes, a Water
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Sampler (LaMotte Code 1060) will serve as a subsurface or in-depth sampler.
This weighted device is lowered to the sampling depth and allowed to rest at
this depth for a few minutes. The water percolates into the sample chamber
displacing the air which bubbles to the surface. When the bubbles cease to rise,
the device has flushed itself approximately five times and it may be raised to
the surface for examination. The inner chamber of the sampling device is lifted
out and portions of the water sample are carefully dispensed for subsequent
chemical analysis.
A Snap-Plunger Water Sampler (LaMotte Code 1077) is another “in-depth”
sampling device which is designed to collect large samples which can be used
for a multitude of tests. Basically, this collection apparatus is a hollow cylinder
with a spring loaded plunger attached to each end. The device is cocked
above the surface of the water and lowered to the desired depth. A weighted
messenger is sent down the calibrated line to trip the closing mechanism
and the plungers seal the sample from mixing with intermediate layers as it is
brought to the surface. A special drain outlet is provided to draw off samples for
chemical analysis.
Sampling of Closed System
To obtain representative samples from confined water systems, such as
pipe lines, tanks, vats, filters, water softeners, evaporators and condensers,
different considerations are required because of chemical changes which occur
between the inlet and outlet water. One must have a basic understanding of the
type of chemical changes which occur for the type of equipment used. Also,
consideration should be given to the rate of passage and retaining time for the
process water.
Temperature changes play an important part in deciding exactly what test
should be performed. Process water should be allowed to come to room
temperature, 20–25°C, before conducting any tests.
When drawing off samples from an outlet pipe such as a tap, allow sample to
run for several minutes, rinsing the container several times before taking the final
sample. Avoid splashing and introduction of any contaminating material.
FILTRATION
When testing natural waters that contain significant turbidity due to suspended
solids and algae, filtration is an option. Reagent systems, whether EPA,
Standard Methods, LaMotte or any others, will generally only determine
dissolved constituents. Both EPA and Standard Methods suggest filtration
through a 0.45 micron filter membrane, to remove turbidity, for the determination
of dissolved constituents.** To test for total constituents, organically bound and
suspended or colloidal materials, a rigorous high temperature acid digestion is
necessary.
**LaMotte offers a filtering apparatus: syringe assembly (Code 1050) and
membrane filters, 0.45 micron, (Code 1103).
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AN INTRODUCTION TO COLORIMETRIC ANALYSIS
Most test substances in water are colorless and undetectable to the human
eye. To test for their presence we must find a way to “see” them. The SMART3
Colorimeter can be used to measure any test substance that is itself colored or
can be reacted to produce a color. In fact a simple definition of colorimetry is
“the measurement of color” and a colorimetric method is “any technique used
to evaluate an unknown color in reference to known colors”. In a colorimetric
chemical test the intensity of the color from the reaction must be proportional
to the concentration of the substance being tested. Some reactions have
limitations or variances inherent to them that may give misleading results. Many
such interferences are discussed with each particular test instruction. In the
most basic colorimetric method the reacted test sample is visually compared to
a known color standard. However, accurate and reproducible results are limited
by the eyesight of the analyst, inconsistencies in the light sources, and the
fading of color standards.
To avoid these sources of error, a colorimeter can be used to photoelectrically
measure the amount of colored light absorbed by a colored sample in reference
to a colorless sample (blank).
White light is made up of many different colors or wavelengths of light. A
colored sample typically absorbs only one color or one band of wavelengths
from the white light. Only a small difference would be measured between white
light before it passes through a colored sample versus after it passes through
a colored sample. The reason for this is that the one color absorbed by the
sample is only a small portion of the total amount of light passing through the
sample. However, if we could select only that one color or band of wavelengths
of light to which the test sample is most sensitive, we would see a large
difference between the light before it passes through the sample and after it
passes through the sample.
The SMART3 Colorimeter passes one of four colored light beams through
one of four optical filters which transmits only one particular color or band
of wavelengths of light to the photodectector where it is measured. The
difference in the amount of colored light transmitted by a colored sample is a
measurement of the amount of colored light absorbed by the sample. In most
colorimetric tests the amount of colored light absorbed is directly proportional
to the concentration of the test factor producing the color and the path length
through the sample. However, for some tests the amount of colored light
absorbed is inversely proportional to the concentration.
The choice of the correct wavelength for testing is important. It is interesting to
note that the wavelength that gives the most sensitivity (lower detection limit)
for a test factor is the complementary color of the test sample. For example the
Nitrate-Nitrogen test produces a pink color proportional to the nitrate-nitrogen
concentration in the sample (the greater the nitrate-nitrogen concentration, the
darker the pink color). A wavelength in the green region should be selected to
analyze this sample since a pinkish-red solution absorbs mostly green light.
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REAGENT BLANK
Some tests will provide greater accuracy if a reagent blank is determined to
compensate for any color or turbidity resulting from the reagents themselves. A
reagent blank is performed by running the test procedure on demineralized or
deionized water. Use sample water to SCAN BLANK. Insert the reacted reagent
blank in the colorimeter chamber and select SCAN SAMPLE. Note result of
reagent blank. Perform the tests on the sample water as described. Subtract
results of reagent blank from all subsequent test results. NOTE: Some tests
require a reagent blank to be used to SCAN BLANK.
COLORIMETER TUBES AND CHAMBER
Colorimeter tubes and colorimeter chambers which have been scratched
through excessive use should be discarded and replaced with new ones. Dirty
tubes should be cleaned on both the inside and outside. Fingerprints on the
exterior of the tubes can cause excessive light scattering and result in errors.
Handle the tubes carefully, making sure the bottom half of the tube is not
handled.
LaMotte Company makes every effort to provide high quality colorimeter tubes.
However, wall thicknesses and diameter of tubes may still vary slightly. This may
lead to slight variations in results (e.g. if a tube is turned while in the sample
chamber, the reading will likely change slightly). To eliminate this error put the
tubes into the sample chamber with the same orientation every time.
The tubes that are included with the colorimeter have an index mark to facilitate
this. If possible, use the same tube to SCAN BLANK and SCAN SAMPLE.
METER CARE
The optical system of the SMART3 must be kept clean and dry for optimal
performance. Dry the colorimeter tubes before placing them in the chamber to
avoid introducing moisture. For best results store the instrument in a area that is
dry and free from aggressive chemical vapors.
SELECTING AN APPROPRIATE WAVELENGTH
The most appropriate wavelength to use when creating a calibration curve
is usually the one which gives the greatest change from the lowest reacted
standard concentration to the highest reacted standard concentration. However,
the absorbance of the highest reacted standard concentration should never
be greater than 2.0 absorbance units. Scan the lowest and highest reacted
standards at different wavelengths using the absorbance mode to find the
wavelength which gives the greatest change in absorbance without exceeding
2.0 absorbance units. Use this wavelength to create a calibration curve.
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Below is a list of suggested wavelengths for the color of the reacted samples.
Use these as a starting point.
Sample Color Wavelength Range
Yellow 428
Pink 525
Red 568
Green and Blue 635
CALIBRATION
As with all pre-calibrated meters, it is highly recommended, even if not required
by regulations, that the user periodically verify the performance of the meter
by running standards with a predetermined concentration. Results outside of
specification are an indication that the meter needs to be adjusted. This can be
done following the user calibration described on page 28. If the user calibration
fails to properly adjust the meter then the meter should be returned to LaMotte
Company for recalibration. (See page 65).
CALIBRATION CURVES
The SMART3 Colorimeter contains tests for the LaMotte reagent systems. The
first step in using a non-LaMotte reagent system with your SMART3 Colorimeter
is to create a calibration curve for the reagent system. To create a calibration
curve, prepare standard solutions of the test factor and use the reagent system
to test the standard solutions with the SMART3 Colorimeter. Select a wavelength
for the test as described above.
Plot the results (in ABS or %Transmittance) versus concentration to create
a calibration curve. The calibration curve may then be used to identify the
concentration of an unknown sample by testing the unknown, reading
Absorbance or %T, and finding the corresponding concentration from the curve.
The linear range of the reagent system can be determined and this information
can be used to input a User Test into the SMART3 Colorimeter (see Edit User
Tests, page 41).
PROCEDURE
Prepare 5 or 6 standard solutions of the factor being tested. The concentration
of these standards should be evenly distributed throughout the range of the
reagent system, and should include a 0 ppm standard (distilled water). For
instance, the solutions could measure 0, 10%, 30%, 50%, 70%, and 90% of the
system’s maximum range.
1. Turn on the SMART3 Colorimeter. Select the appropriate wavelength from the
absorbance mode. Be sure to select the appropriate wavelength for the color
produced by the reagent system.
2. Use the unreacted 0 ppm standard to standardize the colorimeter by using it
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to scan blank.
3. Following the individual reagent system instructions, react each standard
solution beginning with 0 ppm. Continue with standards in increasing
concentration. Record the reading and the standard solution concentration
on a chart. Readings can be recorded as percent transmittance (%T) or
absorbance (A).
4. Plot results on graph paper or computer using any available plotting
program. If results are as %T versus concentration, semilog graph paper
must be used. Plot the standard solution concentrations on the horizontal,
linear axis, and the %T on the vertical, logarithmic axis. If results are as
absorbance versus standard solution concentration, simple linear graph
paper can be used. Plot the standard solution concentration on the
horizontal axis, and the absorbance on the vertical axis.
5. After plotting the results, draw a line, or curve, of best fit through the
plotted points. The best fit may not connect the points. There should be
approximately an equal number of points above the curve as below the
curve. Some reagent systems will produce a straight line, while others
produce a curve. Many computer spreadsheet programs can produce the
curve of best fit by regression analysis of the standard solution data.
NOTE: Only reagent systems which produce a straight line can be used for a
User Test.
A sample of each type of graph appears below:
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PREPARING DILUTE STANDARD SOLUTIONS
Standard solutions should be prepared to create a calibration curve. Standard
solutions can be prepared by diluting a known concentrated standard by
specified amounts. A chart or computer spreadsheet can be created to
determine the proper dilutions. Use volumetric flasks and volumetric pipets for
all dilutions.
1. In Column A – Record the maximum concentration of test as determined by
the range and path length.
2. In Column B – Record the percent of the maximum concentration the
standard solution will be.
3. In Column C – Calculate the final concentration of the diluted standard
solutions by multiplying the maximum concentration (In Column A) by the %
of maximum concentration divided by 100. (C = A x B/100).
4. In Column D – Record the final volume of the diluted sample (i.e. volume of
volumetric flask).
5. In Column E – Record the concentration of the original standard.
6. In Column F – Calculate the milliliters of original standard required (F = (C x
D/E)).
A sample chart appears below:
A B C =
A x B/100
D E F =
C x D/E
Maximum
concentration
of test
% of Maximum
concentration
Final
concentration
of Diluted
Standard
Volume of
Standard
Concentration
of Original
Standard
mL of
Original
Standard
Required
10.0 ppm 90 9.0 ppm 100 mL 1000 ppm 0.90 mL
10.0 ppm 70 7.0 ppm 100 mL 1000 ppm 0.70 mL
10.0 ppm 50 5.0 ppm 100 mL 1000 ppm 0.50 mL
10.0 ppm 30 3.0 ppm 100 mL 1000 ppm 0.30 mL
10.0 ppm 10 1.0 ppm 100 mL 1000 ppm 0.10 mL
10.0 ppm 0 0 ppm 100 mL 1000 ppm 0 mL
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STANDARD ADDITIONS
A common method to check the accuracy and precision of a test is by standard
additions. In this method a sample is tested to determine the concentration
of the test substance. A second sample is then “spiked” by the addition of a
known quantity of the test substance. The second sample is then tested. The
determined concentration of the spiked sample should equal the concentration
of the first plus the amount added with the spike. The procedure can be
repeated with larger and larger “spikes.” If the determined concentrations do not
equal the concentration of the sample plus that added with the “spike”, then an
interference may exist.
For example, a 10.0 mL water sample was determined to contain 0.3 ppm iron.
To a second 10.0 mL sample, 0.1 mL of 50 ppm iron standard was added. The
concentration of iron due to the “spike” was (0.10 mL x 50 ppm)/10.0 mL = 0.50
ppm. The concentration of iron determined in the spiked sample should be 0.3
+ 0.5 = 0.8 ppm iron. (Note: any error due to the increased volume from the
“spike” is negligible).
LaMotte offers a line of calibration standards which can be used to generate
calibration curves and perform standard additions.
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SAMPLE DILUTION TECHNIQUES & VOLUMETRIC
MEASUREMENTS
If a test result using the SMART3 Colorimeter gives an over range message
then the the sample must be diluted. The test should be repeated on the diluted
sample to obtain a reading which is in the concentration range for the test.
(Note: This is not true for colorimetric determination of pH.)
Example:
Measure 5 mL of the water sample into a graduated cylinder. Add
demineralized water until the cylinder is filled to the 10 mL line. The sample
has been diluted by one-half, and the dilution factor is therefore 2. Perform
the test procedure, then multiply the resulting concentration by 2 to obtain
the test result.
The following table gives quick reference guidelines on dilutions of various
proportions. All dilutions are based on a 10 mL volume, so several dilutions will
require small volumes of the water sample. Graduated pipets should be used for
all dilutions.
Size of Sample
Deionized Water to
Bring Volume to 10 mL Multiplication Factor
10 mL 0 mL 1
5 mL 5 mL 2
2.5 mL 7.5 mL 4
1 mL 9 mL 10
0.5 mL 9.5 mL 20
If the above glassware is not available, dilutions can be made with the
colorimeter tube. Fill the tube to the 10 mL line with the sample then transfer
it to another container. Add 10 mL volumes of demineralized water to the
container and mix. Transfer back 10 mL of the diluted sample to the tube and
follow the test procedure. Continue diluting and testing until a reading, which
is in the concentration range for the test, is obtained. Be sure to multiply the
concentration found by the dilution factor (the number of total 10 mL volumes
used).
Example:
10 mL of sample is diluted with three 10 mL volumes of demineralized water;
the dilution factor is four.
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INTERFERENCES
LaMotte reagent systems are designed to minimize most common interferences.
Each individual test instruction discusses interferences unique to that test. Be
aware of possible interferences in the water being tested.
The reagent systems also contain buffers to adjust the water sample to the ideal
pH for the reaction. It is possible that the buffer capacity of the water sample
may exceed the buffer capacity of the reagent system and the ideal pH will not
be obtained. If this is suspected, measure the pH of a reacted distilled water
reagent blank using a pH meter. This is the ideal pH for the test. Measure the pH
of a reacted water sample using the pH meter. If the pH is significantly different
from the ideal value, the pH of the sample should be adjusted before testing.
Interferences due to high concentration of the substance being tested, can be
overcome by sample dilution (see page 16)
STRAY LIGHT INTERFERENCE
When scanning samples in 16 mm tubes, such as COD, the sample chamber
lid can not be closed. The COD adapter minimizes stray light. To further reduce
stray light interference, do not scan sample in direct sunlight.
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OPERATION OF THE
SMART3 COLORIMETER
OVERVIEW
The SMART3 is a portable, microprocessor controlled, direct reading
colorimeter. It has a graphical liquid crystal display and 6 button keypad. These
allow the user to select options from the menu driven software, to directly read
test results or to review stored results of previous tests in the data logger. The
menus can be displayed in seven different languages.
The test library consists of over 80 LaMotte tests and 25 “User Tests”. The
LaMotte tests are precalibrated for LaMotte reagent systems.The colorimeter
displays the result of these tests directly in units of concentration. The 25 “User
Tests” may be used to enter additional calibrations. All of these tests may be
arranged in any of 3 sequences. These sequences can be modified a limitless
number of times to meet changing testing needs.
The optics feature 4 different colored LEDs. Each LED has a corresponding
silicon photoiode with an integrated interference filter. The interference filters
select a narrow band of light from the corresponding LED for the colorimetric
measurements. The microporcessor automatically selects the correct LED/
photodiode combination for the test.
A USB wall adapter, USB computer connection or lithium battery powers the
SMART3.
A USB port on the back of the meter allows an interface of the meter with a
Windows-based computer for real-time data acquisition and data storage using
a PC. The SMART3 may be interfaced with any Windows-based computer by
using the LaMotte SMARTLink3 Program.
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