palintest Micro 800 User manual

Micro 800 Optical Dissolved
Oxygen Meter
Instruction Manual

SOFTWARE LICENCE AGREEMENT
By using the Micro 800 Meter, its associated probe and PC based software (Micro
800 Link), you agree to be bound by the terms and conditions of the following
software licence agreement. Please read this agreement carefully.
Palintest Ltd grants you a limited license to use the software embedded in the devices (the “Software”) in
binary executable form in the normal operation of the products. Title, ownership rights and intellectual
property rights in and to the Software remain in Palintest Ltd.
You acknowledge that the Software is the property of Palintest Ltd and is protected under British copyright
laws and international copyright treaties. You further acknowledge that the structure, organisation and code of
the Software are valuable trade secrets of Palintest Ltd.
You agree not to decompile, dissemble, modify, reverse assemble, reverse engineer or reduce to human
readable form the Software or any part thereof or create any derivative works based on the Software.
RECYCLING
Any product bearing this symbol must be handed over to an applicable collection point for the
recycling of electrical and electronic equipment. By ensuring this product is disposed of properly,
you will prevent possible adverse consequences for the environment which could be caused by
inappropriate waste handling.
Note: For return for recycling, please contact Palintest Ltd for instructions on how to return end-of-life
equipment, accessories, and all auxiliary items for proper disposal.
WARNING
Favourable indications made by this equipment do not guarantee water is safe for human
or animal consumption. This equipment cannot detect the presence of harmful bacteria or
toxins. If in doubt, ALWAYS TREAT SUSPECT WATER PRIOR TO CONSUMPTION. In
no event will Palintest Ltd be liable for any incidental, special, indirect or
consequential damages, whether resulting from the use, misuse, mis-calibration or
inability to use this equipment, or from defects in the equipment.
TRADEMARKS
Palintest®is a trademark of Palintest Ltd.
Microsoft®, Windows®and Excel®are trademarks of Microsoft Corporation
GOOGLE is a trademark of Google, Inc.
Palintest Ltd has no affiliation with Microsoft Corporation or Google, Inc.

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Table of Contents
1. INTRODUCTION ..........................................................................................................................................................5
1.1. ABOUT THE MICRO 800 SYSTEM ........................................................................................................................5
1.2. WHY OPTICAL? ..................................................................................................................................................5
1.3. WHY INCLUDE OTHER PARAMETERS IN A DO METER?........................................................................................5
1.4. WHY INCLUDE GPS? ..........................................................................................................................................5
2. WHAT’S IN THE BOX?................................................................................................................................................6
2.1. THE MICRO 800 METER AND THE ENVIRONMENT ..............................................................................................6
2.2. THE MICRO 800 PROBE AND THE ENVIRONMENT ...............................................................................................6
2.3. ABOUT THE PROBE SLEEVE ................................................................................................................................6
2.4. ABOUT THE LANYARD ........................................................................................................................................6
3. BATTERY INSTALLATION AND CARE..................................................................................................................7
3.1. CHOICE OF BATTERY TYPE.................................................................................................................................7
3.2. BATTERY LIFE ....................................................................................................................................................7
3.3. BATTERY CHARGING..........................................................................................................................................7
3.4. BATTERY CONDITION ICON ................................................................................................................................7
3.5. BATTERY SAVER FUNCTIONS .............................................................................................................................7
4. OVERVIEW OF THE OPERATING SYSTEM .........................................................................................................8
4.1. INITIAL SWITCH ON,LANGUAGE AND CLOCK SETUP .........................................................................................8
5. CONNECTING AN MICRO 800 PROBE ...................................................................................................................9
6. TAKING MEASUREMENTS .......................................................................................................................................9
6.1. WHAT DOES IT ALL MEAN? ...............................................................................................................................9
6.2. TREND INDICATION ..........................................................................................................................................10
6.3. TEMPERATURE COMPENSATION .......................................................................................................................10
7. GPS RECEPTION ........................................................................................................................................................11
8. MEMORY MODE........................................................................................................................................................12
8.1. MANUALLY SAVING READINGS........................................................................................................................12
8.2. RECALLING AND VIEWING SAVED READINGS ..................................................................................................12
8.3. RECALLING GLP DATA ....................................................................................................................................12
8.4. CLEARING THE MEMORY..................................................................................................................................13
8.5. AUTOMATIC DATA LOGGING............................................................................................................................13
8.6. IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT MEMORY MODE ........................................................................................14
9. SETTING UNITS OF MEASUREMENT ..................................................................................................................15
10. CLEANING THE PROBE.........................................................................................................................................17
11. ABOUT CALIBRATION...........................................................................................................................................18
11.1. CALIBRATION ERROR CODES ...........................................................................................................................18
11.2. RESETTING TO FACTORY CALIBRATION DEFAULTS..........................................................................................19
11.3. CALIBRATION DATA STORAGE .........................................................................................................................19
12. DO/EC ELECTRODE CALIBRATION AND MAINTENANCE .........................................................................20
12.1. RECOGNISING THE INDIVIDUAL SENSORS..........................................................................................................20
12.2. PRECAUTIONS DURING USE..............................................................................................................................20
12.3. CALIBRATING DO ............................................................................................................................................20
12.4. CALIBRATING THE DO ZERO POINT .................................................................................................................20
12.5. CHECKING AND CALIBRATING THE DO 100% SATURATION POINT IN MOIST AIR............................................21
12.6. REPLACING THE DO CAP..................................................................................................................................22
12.7. CALIBRATING EC .............................................................................................................................................22
12.8. ERRORS DURING CALIBRATION........................................................................................................................24
12.9. CLEANING THE EC CONTACTS .........................................................................................................................24

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13. MICRO 800 LINK PC SOFTWARE ........................................................................................................................25
13.1. DOWNLOADING MICRO 800 LINK PC SOFTWARE FROM THE PALINTEST®WEBSITE .........................................25
13.2. SOFTWARE INSTALLATION ...............................................................................................................................25
13.3. DRIVER INSTALLATION ....................................................................................................................................25
13.4. RUNNING MICRO 800 LINK ..............................................................................................................................26
13.5. UPLOADING DATA FROM YOUR MICRO 800 METER ........................................................................................26
13.6. DISPLAYING GPS CO-ORDINATES ....................................................................................................................26
13.7. ON SCREEN HELP .............................................................................................................................................26
13.8. SAVING LOGGED DATA ....................................................................................................................................26
13.9. RETRIEVING LOGGED DATA .............................................................................................................................27
13.10. EXPORTING DATA........................................................................................................................................27
13.11. EXPORTING TEXT REPORTS .........................................................................................................................27
13.12. EXPORTING EXCEL®FILES ..........................................................................................................................28
13.13. EXPORTING GOOGLE FILES..........................................................................................................................29
13.14. IMPORTING FILES INTO GOOGLE EARTH ......................................................................................................29
13.15. GOOGLE EXAMPLE ......................................................................................................................................30
14. SPECIFICATION.......................................................................................................................................................31
14.1. MICRO 800 PROBE MECHANICAL SPECIFICATION ............................................................................................31
14.2. MICRO 800 SYSTEM MEASUREMENT SPECIFICATION .......................................................................................31
14.3. MICRO 800 METERS SPECIFICATION ................................................................................................................32
15. LIMITED WARRANTY............................................................................................................................................33
15.1. CLEANING PRIOR TO RETURN ..........................................................................................................................33
15.2. DECONTAMINATION CERTIFICATE....................................................................................................................34
16. TROUBLESHOOTING .............................................................................................................................................35
17. DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY .....................................................................................................................36
18. APPENDIX 1. THE TECH BEHIND MICRO 800 .................................................................................................37
18.1. PRINCIPLE OF OPERATION ................................................................................................................................37
18.2. SENSOR CAP LIFE .............................................................................................................................................37
19. APPENDIX 2. DO FLOW THROUGH CELL ........................................................................................................39
19.1. INTRODUCTION.................................................................................................................................................39
19.2. SPIGOT INSTALLATION .....................................................................................................................................39
19.3. MICRO 800 PROBE INSTALLATION....................................................................................................................39
19.4. OPERATION ......................................................................................................................................................39
19.5. CAUTION ..........................................................................................................................................................40
19.6. CLEANING ........................................................................................................................................................40
19.7. FLOWCELL TROUBLESHOOTING........................................................................................................................40
20. APPENDIX 3. PROBE HANGER.............................................................................................................................41

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1. Introduction
This manual covers the setup, operation, calibration and maintenance of the Micro 800
series of Meters, the Micro 800 Probe and the associated Micro 800 Link PC software.
1.1. About the Micro 800 System
Thank you for choosing the Palintest Micro 800, the world’s most advanced portable
Optical Dissolved Oxygen measurement system for field use.
1.2. Why Optical?
Traditionally, DO measurement in portable field equipment has been done using membrane
covered detectors known as Clark Cells. This type of cell suffers from problems including
membrane fouling, calibration instability and worst of all, oxygen consumption. During
measurement, a Clark Cell will consume oxygen making it necessary to have a constant
flow of water over the cell.
Optical technology eliminates all these problems allowing high precision, membrane-free,
long-term stability along with infrequent calibration and immunity to fouling by sulphide and
other gases. See Appendix 1. The Tech Behind Micro 800 for further details.
1.3. Why include other parameters in a DO meter?
To accurately calculate the DO content in a sample of water, it is essential to know the
temperature and salinity of the sample as well as the atmospheric pressure.
The Micro 800 Meter includes a precision barometric sensor. The Micro 800 Probe contains
the optical DO sensor, plus a precision temperature sensor and an electrical conductivity
(EC) sensor. From measurements taken by the EC sensor, the salinity of the sample can
be accurately determined.
The Palintest Micro 800 is the only optical DO system that measures salinity directly.
Whilst our competitors' units will correct DO measurements for salinity, they ask for the
salinity value to be input manually. Unless the operator is carrying a separate EC meter or
is good at guessing, this method introduces a massive opportunity for inaccuracy.
Another plus gained by including direct EC measurement is that Resistivity (RES), Total
Dissolved Solids (TDS) and Specific Seawater Gravity (SSG) can be calculated. These
parameters are also displayed on the Micro 800 Meter.
1.4. Why include GPS?
The inclusion of GPS in the Micro 800 Meter is extremely important for fieldwork. Data
collected in the field is meaningless if the locations at which the readings were taken is not
accurately known.
With the Micro 800 system, up to 3000 sets of readings tagged with time, date and position
can be taken, then downloaded from the Micro 800 Meter onto a PC using the included
USB cable and Micro 800 Link software utility.
Once the data is transferred, Micro 800 Link can produce a comprehensive analytical report
in text format, or export the logged data to most popular spreadsheets as well as Google
Maps and Google Earth, where the readings can be overlaid on either maps or satellite
photos.

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2. What’s in the Box?
The Micro 800 Meter is supplied with the following:
The Micro 800 Meter unit.
Quick release lanyard.
Set of 5 AA Alkaline batteries.
USB Cable for downloading logged data to a PC.
Cross-head screwdriver for fitting the batteries.
Quick start manual
CD containing Micro 800 Link software and this manual
Micro 800 probe with pre-fitted sensor cap and 3m cable
2.1. The Micro 800 Meter and the Environment
The Micro 800 Meter is designed to be used outdoors and is rated to IP67, that is to say it
is waterproof but it is not designed for submersion. In order to prevent accidental dunking
or loss, a lanyard is supplied.
Please note that the Micro 800 Meter is only waterproof when the associated Micro
800 Probe plug is fitted. Without the plug fitted, water can enter the Meter through
the socket. Damage caused by water ingress through the socket is not covered by
your warranty.
You may notice a small hole on the rear of the unit near the socket. This is a waterproof
vent for the internal barometric sensor. Do not poke anything into this hole! Doing so will
cause major damage to the vent’s waterproof membrane and invalidate your warranty.
2.2. The Micro 800 Probe and the Environment
The Micro 800 Probe is designed to be fully submerged in water and is rated to IP68, that is
to say, it is rated for continual immersion.
2.3. About the Probe Sleeve
The Micro 800 Probe is constructed with a protective aluminium sleeve surrounding the
more delicate sensing electrode.
The Probe Sleeve can be easily removed by unscrewing to allow cleaning of the electrode,
however, the Probe sleeve forms an integral, working part of the Probe’s EC
measurement system, and MUST be fitted for correct operation.
The only exception to this rule is when a DO Flowcell is being used. In this case, the plastic
tube in the Flowcell replaces the function of the Probe sleeve.
2.4. About the Lanyard
The lanyard supplied with the Micro 800 Meter may, at first, appear to be a little long. This
is intentional. In order to keep the Meter out of the way whilst your hands are full, the
lanyard has been made long enough to wear round your neck and over your shoulder so
the Meter sits on your hip.
The extra length also allows the meter to be held in a comfortable position in front of you
during normal use. In order to prevent you being dragged into the water in the event of the
Probe cable becoming snagged, the lanyard includes a quick-release clip.

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3. Battery Installation and Care
The Micro 800 Meter requires five AA size batteries. To install the batteries, loosen the two
screws on the centreline of the rear of the meter and remove the battery compartment lid.
Following the battery polarity markings inside the battery compartment, insert five AA cells
then replace the compartment lid and tighten the screws.
3.1. Choice of Battery Type
Alkaline or rechargeable batteries may be used, but never mix battery types in the meter. If
you choose to use rechargeable batteries, we recommend Energizer 2500mAh (or greater)
Nickel-Metal Hydride cells, which are widely available. If the Meter is to be out of use for a
long period, remove the batteries to prevent damage due to possible leakage.
3.2. Battery Life
A set of fresh alkaline cells will give over 20 hours use in the Micro 800 Meter. A fully
charged set of 2500mAh NiMH cells will give up to 40 hours use in the Micro 800 Meter.
3.3. Battery Charging
During the charging process, batteries generate heat and vent gasses, and must never be
charged inside a sealed unit. Because the Micro 800 Meter is a sealed unit, we do not allow
charging in situ. Batteries must be removed and charged with a suitable battery charger
outside the Meter. We recommend the use of one of the Energizer range of NiMH chargers.
3.4. Battery Condition Icon
On all the main Micro 800 Meter screens, a battery condition icon is displayed in the top left
corner. The icon shows full when the batteries are fresh, and gradually empties as the
batteries are used. When the batteries need replacing, the empty battery icon will flash on
and off. If you ignore this, the Meter will automatically switch itself off when the battery
voltage becomes too low for reliable operation.
When using rechargeable batteries, the battery icon will not show completely full, even with
freshly charged cells. This is due to the fact that rechargeable batteries are only rated at
1.2V per cell compared to 1.5V per cell for alkaline batteries. This indication does not affect
battery life. The icon will simply sit at the ¾full mark for a longer period of time.
3.5. Battery Saver Functions
The Micro 800 Meter is designed to switch off automatically if you do not touch any of the
keys for 30 minutes. The only exception to this is if you have activated the Automatic Data
Logging feature. In this case, the Meter will continue to operate until either the memory is
full or the batteries go flat.
The display on the Micro 800 Meter incorporates a white backlight to improve visibility in
low-light conditions. As on a mobile phone, the backlight switches on each time a key is
pressed, and stays on at full brightness for 15 seconds. After 15 seconds, the backlight will
fade to half brightness. After a further 15 seconds the backlight will switch off.
During normal operation, if you want to activate the backlight without changing the Meter
function, simply press the OK key.

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4. Overview of the Operating System
The operating software in the Micro 800 Meter has been designed for simple, intuitive use.
Similarly, a great deal of development work has been put into simplifying and automating
the calibration procedures in the Micro 800 Meter in order to allow normal field operatives
(as opposed to trained lab technicians) to achieve quick and accurate results.
If you are used to operating a mobile phone or programming audio/visual equipment using
a remote control, you should feel at home with the familiar up/down left/right arrow shaped
navigation keys and central OK key.
The tree structure behind the MENU key should also be very familiar. Each item on the
menu leads to a sub menu and then either onto further menus or final choices. Each
branch of the menu system is navigated using the arrow keys. At each point, selections can
be made by either pressing the OK key or the right arrow key.
To reverse along a branch of the menu system, use the ESC (escape) key or left arrow
key. After a short time, you should be able to navigate around the entire menu system at
speed using just the four arrow keys. If, at any time, you leave the Meter in one of the sub-
menu screens, it will automatically back out to the main operating screen after 15 seconds.
4.1. Initial Switch On, Language and Clock Setup
To switch the meter on or off, briefly press the red key. Do not hold it down. The meter
contains a clock and is capable of operating in several different languages. When switching
on for the first time, you must select an operating language and set the clock. The first
screen you will see is the Language Selection Screen.
Language
English
Francais
Espanol
To select the language, move the cursor down the list using the down arrow key. To enter
your selection, press the OK key or the right arrow key.
The next screen to be displayed is the Time & Date Setting Screen.
Time & Date
Time:15:46:37
Date:16/Jul/10
To set the time and date, use the arrow keys to move the cursor around the screen. Use
the up and down arrow keys to adjust values. When the time and date are correct, press
the OK key. Don’t worry if you make a mistake first time round. You can easily get back to
these screens later through the MENU key.

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5. Connecting an Micro 800 Probe
The Micro 800 Meter is designed to operate in conjunction with the Micro 800 Probe.
To connect a Micro 800 Probe, align the key slot of the Micro 800 Probe plug with the Micro
800 Meter socket, then press the plug into the socket and tighten the retaining collar.
Always ensure the Micro 800 Meter is switched off prior to connecting or
disconnecting a Micro 800 Probe.
6. Taking Measurements
Ensure the protective Sleeve is fitted, then immerse the Micro 800 Probe in the sample
water, making sure that the water level comes up to the top set of holes on the Probe
sleeve. Give the probe a shake to disperse any air bubbles that may be trapped on the DO
or EC sensors. Switch the Micro 800 Meter on.
If the Micro 800 Probe is connected correctly, the meter will briefly display the Probe’s
serial number, then will automatically start reading. Initial Probe readings will be displayed
on the meter’s screen along with the current GPS status. The initial data screen is shown
below.
TEMP:018.5C3
¬
DO:098.5% D
DO:08.5mg/L 
SAL:1.05ppt 
The Micro 800 Meter is capable of reading more than four parameters. The left/right arrows
at the bottom corners of the screen indicate further data screens are available by pressing
the left or right arrow keys.
Any value that is out of range will be displayed as dashes. The other two screens available
on the DO-200 are shown below.
EC:6541uS/cm  3
¬
TDS:3271mg/L D
SSG:01.3σt
BARO:1013mb 
Lat:N5121.4987'
Long:E00124.3235'
Alt:00050M
Sats in use:09 
6.1. What Does It All Mean?
The screens above show the full default range of readings for the probe.
If an asterisk (*) character is flashing just below the battery symbol, this indicates that Auto
Data Logging is switched on. See Automatic Data Logging in section 8.

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In the top right hand corner of the screen the GPS status is displayed. If an [ A ] is
displayed, this means the GPS receiver is Acquiring satellite data but is not calculating
position. If [ 2D]is displayed, this means the GPS receiver is calculating position in two
dimensions only, i.e. no altitude. If [ 3D]is being displayed, this means that the GPS
receiver is calculating position in all three dimensions. See section 7: GPS Reception.
The table below explains the other readings
Prefix
Meaning
Units
TEMP
Probe Temperature
C or F*
DO
Dissolved Oxygen
%Sat and mg/L
EC
Electrical Conductivity
µS/cm or mS/cm†
TDS
Total Dissolved Solids
mg/L or g/l†
SAL
Salinity
PSU or ppt*
SSG
Seawater Specific Gravity
σt
BARO
Barometric Pressure
mb or mmHg*
Lat
Latitude
Degrees & Mins
Long
Longitude
Degrees & Mins
Alt
Altitude above Sea Level
Meters or Feet*
Items in the Units column marked with an asterisk (*) can be selected as alternative units of
measurement in the Settings Menu (see section 9: Setting Units of Measurement).
Items in the Units column marked with a dagger (†) are auto-ranging, i.e. when the values
become too large to display, the units of measurement automatically re-scale.
The EC field can be replaced by its reciprocal value, RES (Resistivity), if selected in the
Settings Menu. If selected, readings will be displayed in either Ω▪cm or KΩ▪cm, depending
on the value.
GPS position information can also be displayed in the UK as an Ordnance Survey Grid
Reference. See section 9: Setting Units of Measurement for more details.
6.2. Trend Indication
To the right of each reading, (except position and BARO), a trend indication is given. This
consists of either an upwards facing arrow (which indicates the numeric value of the
reading is rising), a downwards facing arrow (which indicates the numeric value of the
reading is falling) or a two-headed arrow which indicates a steady reading.
When taking a set of readings, wait until the temperature value is steady. By this time the
other values should be reasonably steady and ready for reading or saving.
6.3. Temperature Compensation
The electrochemical properties of all solutions change as the solutions’ temperature
changes. In addition, the response of electrochemical measuring electrodes change with
temperature. It is a fundamental, practical requirement in the field of water quality
monitoring that test measurements taken at different temperatures can be compared.
In order to facilitate this, the Micro 800 Probe automatically applies corrections for
temperature wherever required.
During calibration of the EC electrode, the variation in the calibration buffer solution due to

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temperature is automatically corrected for. During measurement of EC, the readings can be
displayed without any temperature correction, corrected to 20C, or corrected to 25C. See
section 9: Setting Units of Measurement for more details.
During calibration of the DO electrode, variations due to temperature and air pressure are
automatically compensated for. During the measurement of DO, temperature, air pressure
and salinity are automatically compensated.
7. GPS Reception
The Micro 800 Meter contains a built-in GPS receiver and antenna. The antenna is situated
at the top of the case, just behind the PALINTEST Logo.
For optimum signal reception, the antenna must be able to ‘see’ a reasonably large amount
of the sky. The GPS receiver will not work indoors or when shielded from the sky by
any solid structure.
After switch-on, the GPS receiver will automatically start to search for satellites. During this
phase an ‘A’ character will be shown at the top right of all the screens.
As soon as three satellites are acquired, two dimensional position (no altitude) will be
calculated and a ‘2D’ character will be shown at the top right of all the screens.
Once a fourth satellite is acquired, altitude will be calculated and a ‘3D’ character will be
shown at the top right of all the screens. With a good view of the sky, position should be
calculated within ninety seconds of switch-on. To see your geographic position and the
number of satellites in use, use the left or right arrow keys to scroll to the Position page.
If you switch the meter on indoors, then carry it outside after several minutes, there may be
a considerable delay in acquiring satellites. In this case, switch the meter off, then back on
again to reset the acquisition process.

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8. Memory Mode
8.1. Manually Saving Readings
When you are happy that the readings are stable, press the M+ key to snapshot the
readings along with the time, date, GLP (calibration) data and position (GPS models only).
As each reading is saved, a numeric memory location ‘Tag’ will be briefly displayed which
you can note down. This Tag can be used to identify readings at a later date, both on the
Micro 800 Meter and when using Micro 800 Link software.
8.2. Recalling and Viewing Saved Readings
To recall your readings, press the MR key. On entering Memory Recall mode, the most
recent Tag and set of readings are displayed first.
M TEMP:012.5C M
DO:098.5%
DO:08.5mg/L
SAL:1.05ppt 
During Memory Recall, an ‘M’ is flashed in the top left and right corners of the screen
alternatively with an up/down arrow and a left/right arrow. This is to indicate that the Meter
is in Memory Recall mode and that other screens can be accessed using the arrow keys.
To see earlier readings, press the up arrow key. Just before each set of readings is
displayed, the Tag, along with the date and time the readings were taken will be briefly
displayed. The date and time the readings were taken are also displayed on the bottom line
of the GPS Position Screen during Memory Recall.
To view all the parameters within one set of readings, use the left/right arrow keys as
described earlier. To exit Memory Recall mode, press the ESC key. If no key is pressed for
30 seconds, Memory Recall mode will be automatically cancelled.
8.3. Recalling GLP Data
Each time a set of readings is added to memory, the date of the last successful calibration
of each function is also appended. This is called GLP (Good Laboratory Practice) Data. In
addition to the date of the last successful EC calibration, the Calibration Standard value at
which the EC was calibrated is also displayed (see Calibrating EC in section 12 for further
details).
To view the last successful calibration date for the DO and EC electrodes for any particular
stored reading, enter Memory Recall mode, scroll to the reading you are interested in using
the up/down keys, then press the MENU key. The screen below will be displayed.
GLP DATA
DOZero [31/Jan/10]
DO100% [07/Feb/10]
EC2570 [09/Feb/10]

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This tells you that the last successful calibration, prior to the recorded reading being
taken, was January 31st for the DO Zero point, February 7th for the DO 100% point and
February 9th for the EC 2570µS/cm point.
To exit this screen press the ESC key or the left arrow key.
8.4. Clearing the Memory
The memory within the Micro 800 Meter is capable of storing up to 3000 full sets of
readings.
To clear the entire memory, switch the Meter off, hold down the M+ key, then switch the
Meter back on. A screen will be displayed asking you to confirm your request. Press OK to
clear the memory or ESC to cancel and return to normal operation.
8.5. Automatic Data Logging
If you want to save readings automatically on a regular basis, in order, say, to check water
quality at a certain location over a period of time, you can set the Meter to record readings
automatically.
To do this, press the MENU key. The Main Menu screen will be displayed.
Main Menu
Auto Data Logging
Settings
Calibration
Select Auto Data Logging by pressing the right arrow key or the OK key. The Auto Data
Logging screen will be displayed.
Auto Data Logging
Interval:10 Mins
Status:OFF
Using the arrow keys to navigate, set the desired logging interval, then set the Status to
ON.
To leave this screen, reverse back to the Main Menu screen then the normal operation
screen by pressing the left arrow key. The Meter will now record a full set of data
automatically at the set rate until either the memory is full or the batteries go flat.
To remind you that Auto Data Logging is switched on, an asterisk (*) character will flash on
and off just below the battery symbol on all the main reading screens.
You can cancel Auto Data Logging at any time by going back into the screen above and
setting the Status to OFF. Auto Data Logging will also be cancelled if you switch the Meter
off.

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8.6. Important Information About Memory Mode
When data is saved in the Meter, it is compressed in raw Probe format. In other words, the
same way that it came up from the Probe. When you recall the data in Memory Recall
mode, the data is decompressed, then processed for display.
The advantage of this is that the readings will always appear in the current Meter
configuration. For example, if you spent a day taking readings with the Meter set to read
EC corrected to 20C, then when you got back you really want to see EC corrected to
25C, you can do this by simply changing the Meter settings (see section 9: Setting Units of
Measurement).
The stored data can be displayed any way you want on recall. You are not limited to
viewing the data in the same way it was logged. This is a major advantage and allows you
to actually store and recall more parameters than can be displayed at any one time.
The same rules apply when data is output to a PC running Micro 800 Link Software via the
USB cable. The data that is output is always as per the Meter’s current configuration. You
can output the data as many times as you like in various Meter configurations.

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9. Setting Units of Measurement
To alter the way the Micro 800 Meter displays readings, press the MENU key to get to the
Main Menu, then choose Settings. The Settings Menu will be displayed.
Settings Menu
Units
Time & Date
Language
From this screen choose Units. The Units Menu will be displayed. Remember, you can use
just the arrow keys to navigate through the branches of the menus. You don’t need to press
OK or ESC at each level.
Units Menu
EC/TDS
TEMP/SAL
BARO/Alt/Pos
At the Units Menu, you have a choice of which units you want to adjust. Choose the first
line if you want to adjust Electrical Conductivity or TDS. Choose line 2 if you want to adjust
Temperature or Salinity. Finally, line 3 will give access to Barometric Pressure, Altitude and
Position settings.
Moving the cursor right onto the first line will display the following screen.
Units
EC:Ref 25C
TDS Fact:0.65
The first option on this screen allows you to choose how the Meter displays Electrical
Conductivity. There are four options. EC can be displayed as ‘Absolute EC’ without any
temperature correction [ABS EC], as ‘Specific EC’ referenced to 20C [Ref 20C], as
‘Specific EC’ referenced to 25C [Ref 25C] or as a reciprocal of Absolute EC, which is
Absolute Resistivity [ABS RES].
The second option allows you to set the factor that the Meter uses to calculate Total
Dissolved Solids from Specific EC. This is the TDS Fact: (TDS = EC x TDS Fact) and can
be set anywhere between 0.00 and 1.00. Default value is 0.65.

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Selecting the second line of the Units Menu will display the following screen.
Units
TEMP:C
SAL:PSU
The first option on this screen allows you to change the temperature display between C
and F.
The second option allows you to choose between displaying salinity in Practical Salinity
Units (PSU), or parts per thousand (ppt), which is the same as grams per litre.
Selecting the third line of the Units Menu will display the following screen.
Units
BARO:mb
ALT:Metres
Pos:Lat/Long
The first line allows you to choose between displaying Barometric pressure in millibars (mb)
or in millimetres of mercury (mmHg).
The second line allows you to choose between displaying altitude in metres (M) or feet (F)
above mean sea level.
The third line allows you to choose between displaying position in Latitude and Longitude
or as an Ordnance Survey Grid Reference (OSGB). OSGB co-ordinates can only be
displayed for positions within the British Isles. The system is not valid elsewhere.
If you need to see the position displayed in UTM (Universal Transverse Mercator) co-
ordinates, this is available in the Micro 800 Link software.

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10. Cleaning the Probe
The Sleeve on the Micro 800 Probe is easily removed by unscrewing to allow cleaning of
the electrode.
With the Sleeve removed, the electrode is very vulnerable, so please handle the Probe with
extreme care. If you drop it, it’s going to break!
Rinse the electrode and the inside of the Sleeve under a running cold tap.
Alternatively, agitate the Probe vigorously in a bucket or jug of fresh water using an up and
down movement.
A soft cloth or toothbrush and some mild detergent may be used to remove stubborn dirt
from the EC Sensor wires.
It is especially important to keep the black rubber tip of the DO Cap clean, since organic
fouling may consume oxygen which can affect DO measurements.
To clean the DO Cap, gently wipe away any fouling with a soft cloth that has been
moistened with fresh water.
Dry the electrode using a soft cloth. Shake the water from inside the Sleeve, then reattach.
Dry the outside of the Probe using a soft cloth.
Never clean the any part of the Probe with solvents, alcohol or concentrated acid /
alkaline based cleaning products such as Decon 90.
These products can strip the anodised finish from the Probe and damage the plastic
and rubber components. Damage caused by the use of aggressive cleaning agents
or solvents is not covered by your warranty.
TIP: Occasional application of a smear of silicone grease or similar lubricant to the Sleeve
thread and O ring will make fitting and removal of the Sleeve easier.

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11. About Calibration
Calibration is a very important part of successful water quality measurement and should be
carried out regularly as detailed in each separate section of this manual. A great deal of
development work has been put into simplifying and automating the calibration procedures
in the Micro 800 Meter in order to allow normal field operatives (as opposed to trained lab
technicians) to achieve quick and accurate results.
The Probe sleeve forms an integral, working part of the Probe’s EC measurement
system, and MUST be fitted during calibration for correct operation.
11.1. Calibration Error Codes
If the Micro 800 Meter detects a problem with either the Micro 800 Probe or the calibration
solution during the calibration procedure, an error will be indicated accompanied by an
error code number. The chart below shows the possible errors and how to correct them.
Error Code
Problem
Action
Error 01
Full re-calibration required or DO Cap needs
replacing
See note 1 below.
Error 06
Battery Voltage is too low for reliable calibration
Replace the batteries
Error 07
The Probe is not responding
Check connections / cycle power
Error 08
Readings are unstable
Top up / replace calibration
solution
Error 09
Readings are outside calibration limits
Top up / replace the calibration
solution. Ensure the Probe Sleeve
is fitted and tight.
Error 11
Temperature is outside 5C –40C limit
Warm / cool the calibration
solution
Notes:
1. Error 1 during DO Zero calibration usually indicates that the DO Cap needs replacing.
Perform a full DO calibration first at DO Zero then at 100% DO. If that does not cure the
problem, replace the DO Cap (see Replacing the DO Cap in Section 12).
2. If the corrective actions shown above for Errors 08 and 09 do not work, thoroughly clean
the Probe and try again.
3. If Error 09 persists and you are certain your calibration standards (solutions) are correct,
reset the calibration values to Factory Defaults then try again.
4. If Error 09 persists when calibrating DO, replace the DO Cap (see Replacing the DO
Cap in Section 12).
5. If Error 09 persists when calibrating EC, check you are using the correct EC Calibration
Standard and that the Probe Sleeve is fitted and tight.
Remember: The Probe sleeve forms an integral, working part of the Probe’s EC
measurement system, and MUST be fitted during calibration and measurement for
correct operation. If you try to calibrate the Probe without the sleeve fitted, you will
get an error message.

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11.2. Resetting to Factory Calibration Defaults
In some cases, if there has been a serious calibration error, the easiest way to rectify the
situation is to reset the Probe to its factory defaults. To do this, first bring up the Calibration
screen:
Calibration
DOZero?[01/Jun/10]
DO100%?[01/Jun/10]
EC2570?[01/Jun/10]
Press the MR key. A confirmation screen will be displayed.
Are you sure you
want to restore the
factory calibration
values? [ESC]=NO
If you are sure, press the OK key. If you want to change your mind, press the ESC key. If
you press OK, you will see a message that says CAL RESTORED.
Once factory calibration defaults have been restored, you must carry out a full calibration
of DO Zero, DO 100% and EC.
11.3. Calibration Data Storage
Each Micro 800 Probe contains its own microprocessor and memory. All calibration data,
including the GLP data, is stored within the Probe’s memory. When a Probe is connected to
a Meter, this data is transferred for display and logging.
This is a major advantage and allows you to use a variety of different Probes with a single
Meter, without the need for re-calibration.

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12. DO/EC Electrode Calibration and Maintenance
12.1. Recognising the individual sensors
Dissolved Oxygen (DO) is measured at the end
of the electrode by the DO Sensor Module
behind the removable DO Cap. Electrical
Conductivity (EC) is measured on the side of
the electrode by four stainless steel contacts.
12.2. Precautions During Use
EC measurement is not possible with the Probe
sleeve removed as the sleeve forms an integral
part of the measurement system. The only
exception to this rule is when a DO Flowcell is
being used. In this case, the plastic tube in the
Flowcell replaces the function of the Probe
sleeve.
Never immerse the Probe without the DO Cap fitted. If the electronic components at
the end of the DO Sensor Module come into contact with the liquid being tested,
serious damage can occur to the Sensor Module circuitry.
12.3. Calibrating DO
The DO section of the electrode should be calibrated at the Zero saturation point at least
once a month but is not required for the first six months of operation. Before each day’s
use, the 100% saturation point should be checked in moist air and re-calibrated if
necessary. For optimum accuracy, calibrate the DO100% point as near to your sample
temperature as possible (within the calibration temperature limits of 5C - 40C).
If you are going to calibrate both the Zero and 100% points at the same time, ALWAYS
calibrate the Zero point first, then the 100% point. To calibrate DO follow these steps:
12.4. Calibrating the DO Zero Point
1. Remove the lid from a bottle of Palintest DO Zero calibration solution, wash the
Probe in distilled water, dry thoroughly, then drop the Probe in all the way. Tap the
probe to remove any air bubbles that may be adhering to the sensor.
2. Switch the Micro 800 Meter on and wait until the DO reading is completely stable.
The longer you can leave the probe to achieve thermal equilibrium before
proceeding, the better.
3. Ensure the temperature of the solution is between 5C and 40C (41F - 104F).
4. Press the MENU key then select Calibration. The following screen will be
displayed.
Calibration
DOZero?[01/Jun/10]
DO100%?[01/Jun/10]
EC2570?[01/Jun/10]
The dates shown to the right of the screen are the dates of the last successful calibration.
5. Select DOZero. The screen will change to: