palintest Photometer 7100 User manual

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Palintest
INSTRUMENTS
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PHOTOMETER 7100
Your Palintest direct-reading photometer is designed to give long and
trouble-free operation. To ensure you get the best out of this photometer,
please read these instructions carefully and follow the procedures
recommended.
The photometer is suitable for use in both the plant room and the laboratory,
or for portable use at the waterside. It is sturdy and robust but should always
be regarded as a scientific instrument. Treat it in the same way that you
would a watch or a camera. It is designed to resist moisture and spills but
careless use will almost certainly result in damage or reduce the life of the
instrument.
Here are 10 hints on keeping the photometer clean, free from contamination
and in good working order :-
1 Prepare your workplace before use. Make sure that you have enough
space to work with the photometer and with the reagent systems.
2 Do not pour out samples or prepare the tests directly over the instrument.
Remember to cap the tube before reading in the instrument.
3 Always cap the test tubes after preparing the blank and test sample.
4 Wipe test tubes on a clean tissue to remove drips or condensation before
placing in the photometer.
5 Do not leave tubes standing in the photometer test chamber. Remove
the tubes immediately after each test.
6 Immediately wipe up any drips or spillages onto the instrument or into the
test chamber with a clean tissue.
7 Keep the instrument clean. Clean the test chamber regularly using a
moistened tissue or cotton bud.
8 Keep the instrument away from all chemicals and cleaning materials. Do
not place the instrument on top of chemical drums or barrels.
9 Keep the instrument in a clean, dry place when it is not in use. Keep it on
a clean, dry bench away from chemicals, place it in a storage cupboard
or keep it in a carrying case.
10 Keep the carrying case (where supplied) in a clean, dry condition. Make
sure that any solutions which have spilled or drained into the carrying case
are dried up before the case is closed up and the instrument is put away.
®
INST.7100.C
Version 3-01/09

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INDEX
OPERATING PRINCIPLE ................................................................................. 3
Power Supply .................................................................................................. 4
Replacing the Batteries .................................................................................... 4
GENERAL PHOTOMETER OPERATION ........................................................ 5
Operating Modes ........................................................................................... 5
SYSTEM MODE................................................................................................ 6
Back Light ...................................................................................................... 6
Language Options.......................................................................................... 6
Units ............................................................................................................... 6
Battery Level .................................................................................................. 6
TAKING PHOTOMETER READINGS .............................................................. 7
Program Numbers and Test Instructions ....................................................... 7
Blank and Sample Tubes............................................................................... 7
Light Cap........................................................................................................ 7
Getting the Best Results ................................................................................ 8
Taking Test Readings .................................................................................... 8
Continuation Tests (Certain Tests Only)........................................................ 9
Favourite Tests List...................................................................................... 10
Expressing Different Chemical Forms ......................................................... 10
Reading in Transmittance and Absorbance................................................. 10
Timer............................................................................................................ 10
CARE AND MAINTENANCE .......................................................................... 11
Cleaning the Optics...................................................................................... 11
SERVICE REQUIREMENT............................................................................. 11
ERROR MESSAGES ...................................................................................... 12
GUARANTEE.................................................................................................. 12

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OPERATING PRINCIPLE
The Palintest direct-reading photometer is an instrument for measuring colour
intensity. Light is passed through a test tube containing the sample solution, and
then through a coloured filter onto a photodetector. Filters have been chosen so that
light of a specific wavelength is selected. When the solution is completely
colourless, all of the light passes through the sample. With coloured samples, light is
absorbed and that which passes through the sample is proportionately reduced.
In Palintest test procedures, the direct-reading photometer is used to measure the
colour which is produced when chemical reagents are reacted with the water
sample. In these tests, the colour intensity produced is proportional to the
concentration of the parameter under test.
The photometer is pre-programmed with calibrations for each test parameter.
Different test procedures are carried out at different wavelengths to optimize the
sensitivity of each test. The required wavelength is selected automatically by
the instrument.
The calibrations are accessed by entering a unique program number at the
start of each test procedure. This enables the instrument to select the
appropriate wavelength filter automatically and allows the photodiode
response to be converted to a concentration reading. The instrument thus
displays a direct-reading of the test result.
The photometer is ideally suited for general analytical applications. The
instrument can be used as a laboratory or field photometer for standard
analytical methods or for comparison of coloured solutions.
For general analytical applications, Transmittance (test program 0), or
Absorbance (test program 1) can be chosen.

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Power Supply
The photometer is designed to operate on alkaline batteries.
The photometer features a battery indicator – see ‘System Mode’ functions. A
minimum voltage of 3.0V is needed to operate the photometer.
In addition to the above feature, a battery-warning message will appear automatically
on the display when the battery voltage becomes low. The batteries should be
replaced as soon as possible after the warning message appears.
Replacing the Batteries
The battery compartment in the base of the instrument is secured by four screws.
To replace the batteries, remove the cover and install the batteries, observing the
correct polarity as indicated. Use 3 x 1.5V 'AA’ alkaline batteries or equivalent.
To avoid corrosion damage through leakage, remove batteries from the instrument
if it is to be stored or left unused for a long period of time.

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GENERAL PHOTOMETER OPERATION
The photometer is controlled by a simple intuitive menu system.
 The highlight indicates the active line or section of the screen.
 The and keys move the highlight through the menu choices.
 The and keys allow selection of options.
 The flashing cursor in the ‘options menu’ at the bottom of the screen
indicates the action which will occur if the [OK] button is pressed.
Operating Modes
The photometer has two distinct operating modes - the PHOTOMETER mode
and the SYSTEM mode.
The PHOTOMETER mode is the normal operating mode for taking photometer
readings. This mode is engaged automatically when the instrument is turned on
by pressing the key.
In order to conserve battery life the photometer will switch off automatically
after use. The switch off period is five minutes.
The SYSTEM mode is used to set the system options. This mode is engaged
when the photometer is turned on using the key and then selecting 'System'
using the and keys and pressing [OK].

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SYSTEM MODE
When the instrument is first used, the SYSTEM mode should be used to set
the preferred operating options:
• Use the and keys to scroll through the features.
• Use the and keys to select the options.
• Press [OK] to accept the selections and return to PHOTOMETER mode.
Back Light
The graphic display features a backlight to enhance the display contrast. This
may be switched off to conserve battery power.
Language Options
The photometer can be operated in a number of different languages. When a
particular language is selected, the test names and operating commands will
appear in that language. Certain tests and unit options are provided in
accordance with the conventions of particular countries and are only available
when the photometer is switched to the language concerned. Select the
language required from English, French, German, Spanish or Italian.
Units
The photometer offers the choice of result expressed in mg/l, ppm, mmol/l,
µmol and g/l.
Battery Level
A battery level indicates the remaining battery life. At least 3.0V is required for
successful operation of the instrument.

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TAKING PHOTOMETER READINGS
The photometer is very simple to use. Screen prompts guide the user towards
the test result. The following sections describe how to get the best out of the
system.
Program Numbers and Test Instructions
Each test is identified by a separate program number or named key. Program
numbers are shown in test instruction sheets supplied with the instrument or
reagent systems. For some tests, a choice of different programs is offered in
order to give the option of the result in different forms (eg for Nitrate - NO
3
or
Nitrate Nitrogen - NO
3
-N).
In certain methods, the test can be continued to a further stage - for example
in the tests free chlorine and total chlorine. This is allowed for in the
programming of the photometer. In these tests once the first stage result is
obtained, the ‘Follow-On’ option may be selected to progress the test to the
next program stage or stages and the result will be calculated automatically.
These continuation programs have their own program number for reference
purposes although direct access to these programs may be restricted.
Blank and Sample Tubes
A BLANK TUBE is needed each time the photometer is used. This enables the
instrument to be set automatically and compensates for any inherent colour in
the test sample. It is important therefore to understand the meaning of the
term 'BLANK TUBE'.
The BLANK TUBE is a test tube filled with the water being tested only. It is
important to use the actual water to be tested to provide a true comparison for
the test results.
The term 'SAMPLE TUBE' is used to describe the tube containing the water
sample to which the reagents have been added in accordance with the
appropriate test instructions. This tube is used to take the photometer reading.
Light Cap
A light cap is provided with the photometer. This cap fits over the test chamber
and prevents stray light reaching the photodiode.
It is NOT necessary to use the light cap when using the photometer indoors or
under shaded outdoor light. The light cap should however be used when
working out of doors in strong sunlight. The light cap is also recommended
when carrying out turbidity-based tests such as the cyanuric acid test, under
bright or variable lighting conditions. Test instructions indicate when the light
cap should be used.

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Getting the Best Results
Success in obtaining accurate and consistent test results will depend on the
care with which test procedures are carried out. Always follow the test
instructions carefully and observe the stated standing periods and temperature
conditions where applicable.
Wipe test tubes free from condensation before placing in the photometer. Test
tubes should always be kept in a clean condition. Wash and dry carefully after
use. Dirty tubes may be soaked in weak detergent solution if necessary.
Tubes which become stained or scratched in use should be replaced.
Taking Test Readings
1 Press key. The instrument displays the ‘Choose a Test’ menu box, with
the last test program used highlighted as the active line.
The cursor will flash on the [OK] symbol of the ‘options menu' at the bottom
of the screen.
Press [OK] to accept this program.
2 To choose a different test program, either use the and keys to scroll
through the menu options, or use the numeric keys to enter the Phot
number of the desired test.
Press [OK] to accept the selected program.
3 The following display will appear :-
Place a BLANK TUBE in the test chamber, then press [OK].
NOTE: The instrument is designed to hold the blank setting as long as the instrument
is switched on. This stage will be omitted when further tests are being carried out.
However, when changing to a test which requires a coloured or reagent blank, or
uses a tube of a different diameter, the ‘Insert Blank’ prompt will be displayed.
4 The instrument will be set automatically, and after a few seconds the
following display will appear :-
Place SAMPLE TUBE in the test chamber, then press [OK].
Chlorine-Free / 5
Phot 007
Insert Blank
Choose a Test
OK
Chlorine-Free / 5
Phot 007
Insert Sample
Blank - Choose a Test - Time
OK

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5 The instrument will take the reading and display the result as follows, for
example :-
The following symbols indicate the result is out of test range :-
Result is higher than range > >
Result is lower than range < <
6 The ‘Options’ menu offers the choice to :-
‘Choose a Test’ - return to the menu of test programs and select another test
‘Read’ - read further sample tubes of the currently selected test
‘Blank’ - re-blank the instrument
‘Follow-On’ - carry out a continuation test if available.
Continuation Tests (Certain Tests Only)
1 Select ‘Follow-On’ and press [OK] during the result display period of the
foregoing test stage. The ‘Insert Sample’ screen will appear.
Place SAMPLE TUBE in the test chamber, then press [OK].
2 The instrument will take the reading and calculate the result from the
combination of readings (where appropriate). The result will be displayed
as follows, for example:
3 During the display period, the same options are available as at the end of a
normal test program. Select ‘Return’ from the ‘options menu' to take the
program back to the start of the first stage of a multiple test procedure to
enable further samples to be tested for the same parameters.
Chlorine-Free / 5
Phot 007
1.00
mg/l Cl
2
Choose a Test
Read Blank Follow-On
Chlorine-Total / 5
Phot 008
1.50
mg/l Cl
2
Choose a Test Read Blank
Return

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Note that some continuation test procedures involve a standing period. The
photometer may switch off automatically during this time. To avoid the
instrument switching off, use the timer function to time any standing period.
The timer will over-ride the auto switch off function.
Favourite Tests List
The four most recently used tests are listed at the top of the 'Choose a Test'
screen for convenience.
Expressing Different Chemical Forms
If the test result can be expressed in different chemical forms, the chemical
symbol will have flashing and  to indicate this. Use the the and 
keys to step through the options available.
Reading in Transmittance and Absorbance
When taking readings in Transmittance or Absorbance mode, use the and 
keys to step through the wavelengths until the required wavelength is reached.
Timer
The photometer features a countdown timer with alarm as an aid to carrying
out test procedures. The timer can be accessed at any time by selecting
‘Timer’ from the ‘Options’ menu.
The following display will appear :-
Key in the time required in minutes and seconds, maximum 29 minutes and
59 seconds, using the numerical keys, then press [OK] to start the timer. Use
the and keys to reposition the cursor and re-enter the time if it is keyed
in incorrectly.
The timer will count down, giving an audible alarm at the end of the timed
period. Press [OK] to stop the alarm.
Timer
00:00
EXIT

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During the timer countdown period, an ‘Options’ menu is available :-
Stop - to abort the timing operation, or stop the alarm at the end of
the timed period
Exit - to return to the program screen to take readings. The timer
will continue to run and give an audible alarm at the end of
the period.
Exit and Read - to return to the program screen with the timer counting down
on screen - the instrument will automatically take a reading at
the end of the timed period - no alarm will sound.
CARE AND MAINTENANCE
The photometer is designed to give long and trouble-free operation. Care must
be taken, however, to avoid test solutions being spilt over the instrument, and
to prevent contamination of the instrument. Spillages or moisture should be
wiped off immediately with a dry cloth. On no account should solvents or
abrasive materials be used to clean the instrument. Care should be taken to
keep the test chamber clean.
Cleaning the Optics
Any build-up of dirt or deposits may interrupt light transmission and affect
readings.
To clean the optics, undo the two screws to remove the optics base plate.
Gently clean the internal surfaces of the optics with a soft, non-abrasive cloth.
Deposits may be removed with a slightly dampened cotton bud. Replace the
optics base plate and re-fasten the screws.
The photometer is fitted with long-life light sources and contains no user-
serviceable components. If the instrument requires servicing or repair, this can
be arranged through our Technical Services Department.
SERVICE REQUIREMENT
The servicing of photometer instruments is essential to ensure optimum
performance. To arrange a service of the instrument, contact Palintest Technical
Services Department or the distributor who supplied the instrument. The
Palintest standard photometer service includes cleaning of the optical assembly,
replacement of any worn parts and checking/recalibration of the instrument.

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ERROR MESSAGES
The photometer will display an error message in the unlikely even of malfunction.
These error messages are mainly designed to assist service staff in diagnosing
instrument faults. In the event of an error message appearing on the photometer
display, contact Palintest Technical Services Department for advice.
Error messages are coded 7 and 9 and both relate to blanking the instrument.
In the first instance, the user should check the operating technique and sample
clarity. If these are in order, then these errors indicate a fault in the optics :-
Error 7 indicates too much light – remove the instrument from bright light and
use the light cap.
Error 9 indicates not enough light – follow ‘Cleaning the Optics’ routine.
GUARANTEE
Palintest photometers are guaranteed for a period of two years from the date
of purchase, excluding accidental damage or damage caused by unauthorised
repair or misuse. The guarantee specifically excludes damage caused by
water or by ingress of chemical solutions. Should repair be necessary, contact
our Technical Services Department quoting the serial number shown on the
back of the instrument. This guarantee does not affect your statutory rights.
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