Reichert ABBE MARK III User manual

ABBE MARK III
REFRACTOMETER
USER GUIDE

Introduction
Congratulations on the purchase of your new Reichert Mark III transmitted light refractometer.
This manual describes the proper operation and care of this state of the art instrument. The
purpose of this instrument is to aid quality control personnel in food and beverage,
medical, pharmaceutical, industrial uids, chemical and petrochemical applications. The
Mark III’s simple, yet advanced features, make it a well suited and widely used instrument.
The Mark III refractometer is a high precision optical instrument. To obtain the best possible
accuracy, it is absolutely necessary to maintain the instrument. The precision and accuracy of
a refractive index measurement is largely dependent upon operator skill, cleaning practices,
temperature control, accuracy of calibration standards, chemical stability and the physical char-
acteristics of the sample. Use of good laboratory practice is essential. Reichert recommends
that daily calibration with distilled water be performed as a minimum requirement. To assure the
longest life of your Mark III, always store the instrument with the prism surfaces and instrument
clean and dry to prevent premature failure of the prisms and seals due to any harmful effects
from sample residue.
The instrument is programmed to read out directly the refractive Index, percent solids and the
temperature of samples. The percent solids scale is based upon the ICUMSA conversion tables
relating refractive index to percent solids concentration for sucrose solutions. For non-sucrose
solutions, they may be read directly in the refractive index mode (non-temperature corrected), or
in the percent solids mode provided that the conversion value is known.
For product specic measurement, custom channels also may be programmed into the Mark III.
Custom channels allow the instrument to read out directly in refractive index or percent solids
temperature compensated values. For more information regarding custom channel programming,
contact Reichert Analytical Instruments Technical Service.
Product Registration
Please visit our web site at www.reichert.com to register
your new Refractometer. Click on Analytical Instruments,
Support, Register your Reichert product.
In doing so Reichert Analytical Instruments will be able to
provide you with technical support and information updates
as they become available.

Table of Contents
Preliminary Information Table of Contents 1
Warnings and Cautions 2
Symbol Information 2
Features and Requirements Environmental Conditions 3
Electrical Ratings/Specications 3
Instrument Features 4
Sample Analysis (Quick Start) Set Up 5
Sample Analysis 5
Operation Measuring Solid Samples 6
Menu Options Overview 6
Calibration 7
Set Point Calibration 7
Span Point Calibration 7
Editing Calibration Points 8
Operational Parameters Sample Temperature Effects on Readings 8
Automatic Temperature Correction (TC) 8
Computer Interface 9
Printer Interface 9
Custom Channel Activation 10
Uploading Custom Channels 10
Menu Options 11
Water Bath Attachment 13
Maintenance Care and Cleaning 14
Cleaning Precautions 14
Accessories Printers 15
Fuse 15
Calibration Oil 15
Bromonapthalene 15
Warranty Warranty and Non-Warranty Service 15
1

2
Warnings and Cautions
Caution: In order to insure that correct operation of the Mark III instrument is maintained, any
repair or service must be performed by experienced personnel that are trained by Reichert Inc.
Caution ESDS: The internal circuitry of the Mark III contains electrostatic discharge sensi-
tive devices (ESDS). Such components may be sensitive to high voltages produced by static
discharge.
Caution: Do not use strong solvents or strong cleaning solutions on any part of the Mark III or
damage to the unit may occur.
Warning: Do not remove or defeat the earth ground connection on the Mark III power input
connector or the unit’s power cord. Damage to the Mark III instrument and/or injury to the op-
erator may occur.
Warning: The Mark III should be used in strict accordance with the instructions outlined in this
users guide. The safety of the operator and the performance of the instrument cannot be guar-
anteed if used in a manner not specied by Reichert Inc.
SN
[REF]
Symbol Information
The following symbols appear on the instrument.
CAUTION: Risk of Electrical Shock
CAUTION: Indicates that important operating and maintenance instructions are
included in this user guide
CAUTION: Replace with the same type and rating fuse
Date of Manufacture
Waste of Electrical and Electronic Equipment
Serial Number
Catalog Number
Ground
On - Off
Conformity with mandatory European safety requirements

3
Electrical Ratings/Specications
The Reichert Mark III refractometer incorporates an auto sensing, switching AC power supply.
Never use an adapter between the power cord and the power source which will interrupt the
protective grounding.
Caution: Risk of electrical shock exists if any cover of the Mark III is removed.
Hazardous voltages will be exposed which can cause injury or death.
Refer servicing to a Reichert trained service technician.
Supply Voltage: 100 - 240VAC 50/60HZ.
Fuse Rating: 800mA, 250V, 5x20mm.
Power Cords: US, EU, UK supplied.
Dimensions: 11” L x 6.25” W x 13.75” H (280 mm x 258 mm x 345 mm).
Net Weight : 17.25 pounds (7.84 kg).
Display: LCD, 1.85” W x 1.85” H (47 mm x 47 mm).
Illumination: Six high intensity LED’s.
Prism Assembly: Stainless steel assembly with glass prisms.
Range, Channel 1: 1.3000 - 1.7000 nD; 0 - 95% Brix per ICUMSA.
Readability: 0.0001 nD; 0.1% Brix.
Precision: +/- 0.0001 nD; 0.1% Brix.
Channel Options: Channel 1 Refractive index, Brix (Sucrose, ICUMSA)
Channel 2 - 15 User dened (Numerous scales available)
Temperature Compensation Range:
10o- 40oC.
Sample Types: Transparent and translucent liquids or solids.
Sample Temperature Control:
Water bath circulator ports on upper and lower prism assemblies.
Data Output: Two 9 pin RS232 serial ports.
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Environmental Conditions
Indoor use only
Operating temperature range: 10o C - 80o C
Maximum relative humidity: 80% for temperature up to 31oC decreasing linearly to 50%
(relative humidity at 40oC)
Installation category II (over voltage category)
Pollution degree 2
Altitude up to 2,000 meters
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4
Color Dispersion Correction Wheel,
rotate wheel to reduce color dis-
persion and attain a sharp clear
shadowline.
Focusing Eyepiece, rotate to attain sharp
focus of the “X” pattern and the shadowline.
Menu Key
LCD Display
Up/Down Keys
Select Key
Read Key
Illumination and
Sample Prisms.
Shadowline Adjustment Knob,
rotate to center shadowline
within “X” pattern
On/Off Switch
2 RS232 Serial
Ports
Instrument Features
Calibration Oil

5
Set Up
- Unpack the instrument from shipping carton. Retain packing material for future storage/
protection/shipping.
- Place the instrument indoors on a solid surface in an environment where the temperature
is stable. Be certain that the instrument is not subjected to direct discharge from heating or
air conditioning vents, or water bath circulator exhaust. Drafts can have an adverse affect on
temperature stability.
- Insert the appropriate plug end into the power receptacle located on the underside of the
instrument. Plug the opposite end of the power cord into a receptacle to supply the instrument
with power (Fig 1). Supply voltage: 100 - 240VAC
50/60HZ.
- Turn the instrument on by activating the power switch
located on the right side cover (Fig 2).
- Allow the instrument to reach a stable operating
temperature in the on position for a minimum of
one hour before attempting calibration or to measure
samples.
Fig 1
Fig 2
Sample Analysis
Cleanliness, sample temperature equilibration and shadowline clarity is essential to obtain the
greatest possible accuracy from the Mark III refractometer. Highly viscous samples or samples
that contain trapped air bubbles may not produce a sharp shadowline. In these cases, applying
the sample with a rubber spatula to squeeze out trapped bubbles or lifting the upper prism sev-
eral times to remove the trapped air is required. The following are the required steps to properly
analyze a sample:
Raise the upper prism and apply the sample to a
clean measuring surface (Fig 3).
Gently lower the upper prism to spread the sample
evenly and to eliminate trapped air bubbles (Fig 4).
Allow the sample to reach temperature equilibration
with the instrument.
View the image through the focusing eyepiece (Fig 5).
If required, rotate the eyepiece to bring the image of the
“X” pattern into focus.
If a non-distinct shadowline containing color is viewed,
rotate the color dispersion correction wheel to eliminate
or reduce the color dispersion (Fig 6). Under optimal
conditions, the shadowline area will appear to be sharp
and black with a bright area above.
While viewing the image, center the shadowline in the
“X” pattern by rotating the shadowline adjustment knob
(Fig 7). For measuring consistency, always approach
the center of the “X” pattern with the shadowline from
below. Once the image has been centered (Fig 8)
press .
To the left is a representation of a displayed value. To
change reading mode, press either or to
advance through all available mode options.
1.3330
20.00oC
Sucrose
I I Index-TC
Time
Date
TempoC
Fig 5
Fig 3 Fig 4
Fig 7 Fig 8
Fig 6

Menu Options Overview
Shown below are the menu options as they appear on the instruments display. While many of
these options are not required to operate the instrument, they have been made available to
enhance the functionality of the Mark III refractometer. To access the menu options screen,
press the key.
To select an option, press the or keys to advance to and highlight the desired option.
Press the key to enter and view the sub menu options. Using the and keys,
scroll through the option choices and press when the desired selection is highlighted.
Menu Options
- Calibrate
- Channel 1
- Sucrose
- Mode
- Index-TC
- Language
- Auto Temp. Equil.
- +/-0.04oC
- Password
- RS232 Baud
- Time
- Date
- Contrast
- ID
Measuring Solid Samples
The Mark III is capable of measuring transparent or translucent plastic or glass solid samples with
the upper prism raised. The instrument can also be used to measure very thin pliable solids, such
as contact lens material, that can t between the prisms when closed.
Solid samples must be shaped and polished correctly in order to be read. The size of solid samples
should be no larger than 35mm Long x 12mm Wide x and a minimum of 2mm High. Also one side
of the sample and one of the perpendicular surfaces that will face the illumination source, must
be polished. All other sides should be frosted for best results.
To measure a solid sample, apply a drop of a suitable contact uid that has
a higher refractive index value than the sample being read (Fig 9). Reichert
recommends Bromonapthalene for any solid that will not be adversely affected
by this liquid.
Place the polished side of the solid sample down on the
contact uid avoiding air bubbles from being trapped in
the process. Also place the polished perpendicular side
toward the light source of the Mark III (Fig 10).
To complete the measurement process, follow the procedure outlined in the
section “Sample Analysis”.
Note: Do not lower the upper illumination prism onto a solid sample as it may cause damage to
the instrument.
Fig 9
Fig 10
6

7
Calibration
To properly maintain the accuracy of the Mark III refractometer, calibration of the instrument on a
routine basis is recommended. Prior to calibration, it is extremely important to completely clean the
prism surfaces so no sample residue is present. Any residue on the prism surfaces will adversely
affect the accuracy of the calibration.
Calibration options are either Set Point or Span Point. Set Point calibration is performed using
distilled water as the calibration standard. Reichert recommends performing the Set Point calibration
daily. Span Point calibration is performed with distilled water and up to 6 additional calibration
standards. It is not essential to calibrate at every available point. Span Point calibration with
distilled water and at least one calibration standard is recommended to ensure accuracy across
the reading range of the instrument. Span Point calibration standards can be chosen to closely
match the reading range of the product being analyzed.
Set Point Calibration
- Advance to the Calibration, Adjust Set Point menu op
tion, and press .
- Apply distilled water as the calibration standard, as de
scribed under Sample Analysis, and allow to equilibrate
to the instrument temperature.
- Adjust shadowline to the center of the “X” pattern and press to
calibrate or to cancel.
- Upon completion the display will revert to the Calibrate menu option screen.
- Press to return to the reading mode.
Menu Options
- Calibrate
- Adjust Set Point
- Adjust Span Point
- Advanced Options
- Exit
1.33299
Distilled Water
Position shadowline
on center of
“X” in reticle.
Press READ when ready
or SELECT to cancel
TempoC
Span Point Calibration
The Span Point calibration option allows for up to six additional calibration points. These points
can be chosen to either calibrate across the entire reading range of the instrument, or to closely
match a specic range where samples are typically read. The instrument does not have to be
calibrated at every available point. If you have specic requirements, Reichert offers NIST certi-
ed calibration uids as an accessory to this instrument. One bottle of NIST certied calibration
oil, catalog number 13K41330 is included with the instrument.
Note: Prior to performing the Span Point Calibration process, Set Point Calibration must be
completed.
- Advance to the Calibration, Adjust Span Point menu
option, and press .
- Follow the displayed instruction to either activate or
inactivate a calibration point. Points preceded by * are
active and those preceded by - are inactive. The choice
of these points are dictated by which calibration standards
are available at the time of calibration.
- Proceed with the calibration process by advancing to
Continue on the display screen and pressing .
- As the active calibration values are displayed, add that
calibration uid and allow to temperature equilibrate
Position the shadowline on the center of the “X” pattern
and press to calibrate or to cancel. Promptly
clean the calibration uid from the instrument to remove
all residue.
- The above step will be repeated until all active points are
calibrated.
- After the last active point has been calibrated the display
will return to the Calibrate option screen.
- Advance to Exit and press .
- Press to return to the reading mode.
Menu Options
- Calibrate
- Adjust Set Point
- Adjust Span Point
- Advanced Options
- Exit
Span Calibration
* 1.40235
* 1.45746
- 1.48989
- 1.51432
- 1.57230
- 1.63039
Continue
Exit
* = Active
- = Inactive
l l to choose
SELECT to toggle
Menu Options
- Calibrate
- Adjust Set Point
- Adjust Span Point
- Advanced Options
- Exit
1.40235
Position shadowline
on center of
“X” in reticle.
Press READ when ready
or SELECT to cancel
TempoC

8
Editing Calibration Points
Calibration uid values may change from one lot number to the next. It is also possible to use
alternate uids to calibrate this instrument. As a result, it will become necessary to edit the
stored values to match any new calibration standard.
- To edit a value, select Calibrate, Advanced Options and
press .
- Under Advanced Options select Edit Data and press
.
- Follow the displayed instructions to select a stored value
and press . The value chosen, should be the
closest value to the new standard.
- Use the and keys to edit the highlighted
value, and the key to advance. All three values
must be updated to match the new standard or improper
calibration will result. Press to exit.
- Before the altered value is stored, a “Save these values”
screen will appear. Use the or keys to select
either Yes or No and press to continue.
- To return to the calibration menu options screen, or the
reading mode, follow the displayed choices to exit.
Menu Options
- Calibrate
- Adjust Set Point
- Adjust Span Point
- Advanced Options
- Exit
Edit data
Point 1 1.33299
Point 2 1.40235
Point 3 1.45746
Point 4 1.48989
Point 5 1.51432
Point 6 1.57230
Point 7 1.63039
Exit
l l to choose
Press SELECT to
Continue.
Edit data
Index
1.40235
Temp Coefcient
-0.000389
Reference Temp
25.00
Use l l , READ
to advance, SELECT
to exit
Menu Options
- Calibrate
- Adjust Set Point
- Adjust Span
- Edit Data
- Restore Factory
- Exit
Save these values?
1.40236
-0.000398
25.00
Yes
No
Press SELECT to
Continue.
Sample Temperature Effects on Readings
Refractive Index is a physical property of a material. Refractive index measurements, and the
percent solids results derived from them, are very dependent upon temperature. For most
samples, raising the temperature will lower the refractive index of a sample. Conversely, lower-
ing the sample temperature will raise the refractive index. This change in refractive index, due
to a change in temperature, will cause an apparent change in concentration unless the reading
is temperature corrected (TC). Before a sample measurement can be temperature corrected
however, the sample needs to reach thermal equilibrium with the instrument. Without tempera-
ture equilibration, the resulting value cannot be considered accurate for direct read values or
temperature corrected (TC) values. This is the result of the sample being in a state of thermal
transition while the refractive index value is captured by the instrument. This is common with all
refractometers.
Automatic Temperature Correction (TC)
Automatic Temperature Correction (TC) is based upon three factors, refractive index, tempera-
ture and temperature coefcient. The relationship of these three factors are used to math-
ematically correct a value as though it was read at a specic temperature. The most common
temperature corrected (TC) temperature is 20 degrees C but it can differ with individual require-
ments. The temperature corrected reading modes (TC) in the Mark III, are based upon sucrose
temperature correction factors developed by ICUMSA. Non-sucrose solutions will have unique
temperature correction factor.
Since most uses of a refractometer is to control concentration, it is useful to eliminate the
temperature effects when viewing instrument readings. One standard method is to have pro-
grammed custom channels that calculate the correct reading at 20 degrees C for a sample that
is being read at other temperatures. The use of a custom channel allows comparing readings
to a formula or process specication at a predetermined temperature without doing complicated
conversions. Please note, that custom channels to do temperature correction, are specic to
the material that the channel was developed for, and most likely will provide poor readings if
used for a different material.

9
Printer Interface
The printer output is provided for connecting an external printer through either of the two RS232
serial ports. Both are DB9 position female connectors. In order to communicate properly with
a printer, a Null Modem cable must be used and should be connected while the instrument is
turned off. Proper Baud rate selection of the RS232 serial port is also required, and should be
set at 9600.
In order to set the output text string for the printer, computer interface is required. The options
that exist for the output are as follows, and can be arranged according to individual require-
ments.
a = Temperature
b = Index
c = Index-TC
d = Solids
e = Solids-TC
f = Current Mode
g = Channel
h = Time
i = Date
j = ID
k = Method
Once communications with a computer is successful, type “sf” and press the enter key on the
computer key board. This will display any current, text output string. To edit the string type sf,
then a space and enter the desired letter codes. Example: sf cagh. With the example entry of
cagh the instrument will print Index-TC, Temperature, Channel and Time.
Computer Interface
The Mark III includes two serial communications ports (Fig 11). Both are
DB9 position female connectors that are located on the left side of the
instrument. Data may be downloaded to a computer, and custom channel
les can be uploaded to the refractometer or deleted through these ports.
Regardless of which of the serial ports is chosen on the Mark III, communi-
cations with a computer is possible.
Any Windows® based computer can be used successfully when interfacing
with the Mark III. Communication through software such as HyperTerminal
or Tera Term is required. HyperTerminal is usually found on all Windows®
based systems as a standard software option. Recommended communi-
cation settings of the serial port from the computer are: Baud rate 9600,
8 Data Bits, No Parity, 1 Stop Bit and Xon/Xoff Flow Control. Please note,
that the Baud rate of the instrument must match that of the computer.
To connect the instrument to a computer use a compatible serial cable.
Connection must be made while the instrument is turned off. To set up an
output text string reference Printer Output.
Baud Rate Selection
Press READ to choose
other port
Press SELECT to exit
REAR FRONT
1200
2400 2400
4800 4800
9600 9600
19200 19200
38400 38400
57600 57600
Fig 11

10
Uploading Custom Channels
To upload a custom channel, begin by connecting the Mark III to a computer as described un-
der Computer Interface and follow the steps below.
- Once the connection to the computer has been made, type the command “autoplus” and
press the return key on the computer key board.
- If the computer link is successful and the baud rates match appropriately the return on the
computer display will be:
Enter -99 to erase all channels, -X to erase channel X, 0 to cancel or begin
custom channel le upload
- Select File, then Send File, from the pull down menu located on the computer interface
screen.
- Browse through your directories to locate the desired custom channel le to select it and
select open to load le.
- To check that the le loaded correctly type Channeldata X. X represents the location of where
the channel has been stored from 2 through 15. If successfully loaded the channel data will be
displayed as it appears in the text le.
- To delete a stored custom channel, follow the instructions above and type “autoplus”. Re
move les by typing -99 to remove all channels or -X to remove a specic le, and press the
enter key on your computer key board.
Custom Channel Activation
The Mark III has the capabilities to measure additional products using custom channels. These
channels represent scales that have been developed to measure a specic product. Optional
channels can be selected only after they have been uploaded from a PC to the Mark III. The
following describes the Mark III custom channel possibilities.
Channel 1 – ICUMSA BRIX
The Mark III is pre-programmed at the factory with channel 1 to read % Sucrose or “Brix” scale
per the International Commission for Uniform Methods of Sugar Analysis (ICUMSA). Tempera-
ture Corrected (TC) readings in channel 1 are valid for Sucrose only! This channel cannot be
altered.
Channel 2 – 15, User Programmable
User programmable, or custom channels as they are commonly referred to,
may be programmed using your own Refractive index, Temperature and per-
cent Solids data. Custom channels can include denitions for units of mea-
sure such as specic gravity, % protein, g/ml, etc. To access and activate
a stored custom channel advance to the Menu Options, Channel screen.
Select from the displayed channel options and press the key to activate
the highlighted custom channel.
For a complete list of custom channels available from Reichert, please visit our web site at
www.reichertai.com. Click on “Applications” and open the document titled “Custom Scales Avail-
able”. To learn more about custom channel programming, request “Custom Channel Generation
for Automatic Refractometer Line” from Reichert Analytical technical support.
Menu Options
- Channel
- Sucrose
- xxxxx
- xxxxx

11
Menu Options
Calibrate
The Calibrate option provides two calibration choices and two advanced
feature options. Once appropriate choices have been made, advance to Exit
and press to return to Menu Options screen.
Adjust Set Point - Allows for a single set point calibration using distilled
water. This option is covered in more detail under Set Point Calibration.
Adjust Span Point - Allows up to six additional calibration points to be used
when performing a span point calibration. The proper use of this option is
covered in more detail under Span Point Calibration.
Edit Data - This option allows the stored calibration values to be modied.
Follow the on screen instructions pertaining to changing values, advancing
and exiting this option.
Restore Factory - Restores original factory default settings. This option
cannot be used as a substitute for an actual calibration procedure.
Channel
The option to select a channel is only available if a custom channel has been
stored. To select any available channel, advance to Channel and press
. All available channels will be displayed. Advance to desired channel
and press to activate.
Mode
The choice of four reading modes are available. Additional reading modes
may be available if a custom channel is active. To change mode, select the
required mode option and press to activate.
Index - Refractive index.
Index-TC - Refractive index temperature corrected.
Solids - Percent concentration (Brix).
Solids-TC - Percent concentration temperature corrected (Brix).
An alternate method of changing modes exists in the reading screen once a
sample has been measured. All that is required is to press the or
keys to advance through the available reading modes on the LCD screen.
Language
English, French, Spanish and German are available language options. To
activate one of these options, advance to the language of choice and press
.
Automatic Temperature Equilibration
Temperature equilibration of a sample to that of the refractometer is essential
for accurate measurements. Automatic temperature equilibration will detect
when the sample and prism have reached thermal stability. This option can
either be turned off or set between +/-0.01oC to +/-0.10oC. A lower selected
temperature value will increase the sensitivity and time for the sample to
reach temperature stability. Some experimentation is required to determine
the best setting for a specic application.
To properly use this feature apply the sample and press the key. After
the Mark III displays that the temperature of the sample is stable, align the
shadowline and press to attain the sample value.
Menu Options
- Calibrate
- Adjust Set Point
- Adjust Span Point
- Advanced Options
- Edit Data
- Restore Factory
- Exit
Menu Options
- Channel 1
- Sucrose
Menu Options
- Mode
- Index
- Index-TC
- Solids
- Solids-TC
Menu Options
- Language
- English
- French
- Spanish
- German
Menu Options
- Auto Temp. Equil.
- Off
- +/-0.01oC
- +/-0.02oC
- +/-0.03oC
- +/-0.04oC
- +/-0.05oC
- +/-0.06oC
- +/-0.07oC
- +/-0.08oC
- +/-0.09oC
- +/-0.10oC
Sample Temperature
Stable
Align shadowline
and press READ

12
Menu Options
Password
The purpose of a Password is to limit user access and
protect features from being altered by anyone other than
an administrator. Features that are deemed to be restrict-
ed may have their status changed to either Yes or No for
Password protection by entering the Setup screen.
To enter a Password advance to the Change screen. The
rst numeral will ash. Follow the displayed instructions
on how to change, advance and exit. The Password op-
tion can be turned On or Off under the Password menu
options.
It is advisable that the password be recorded and secured in case it is forgot-
ten. Once the Password is active it will not be possible to enter the protected
Menu Options without it.
RS232 Baud
It is essential that the Baud rate be set properly for computer or printer com-
munications. This option allows independent values to be set for each serial
port. Please note that the REAR serial port must be set greater than or equal
to the FRONT serial port. Please refer to the displayed instructions on how
to change the Baud rate settings using the keys.
Time
The time may be set in either AM/PM or 24:00:00 format. Use the or
keys to change the displayed value. To advance to the next time
seqment use the key and the key to exit.
Date
The Date format is DD/MMM/YY. Use the keys to change the
displayed value. To advance to the next Date segment use the key and
the key to exit.
Contrast
To adjust the display contrast use the keys. To exit, press the
key.
ID
The ID option is provided to enable tracking of individual users when the
output is being sent to a computer or printer. Follow the displayed prompts
to enter a user ID or contact Reichert technical support for greater details
concerning this option.
Menu Options
- Password
- Change
- Setup
- On
- Off
Change Password
000000
USE I I
READ to advance
SELECT to exit
Protected items
- Calibrate No
- Channel No
- Mode No
- Language No
- Auto Temp. Equil. No
- Password Yes
- RS232 Baud No
- Time No
- Date No
- Contrast No
- ID No
READ to change
l l To select
SELECT to exit
Baud Rate Selection
Press READ to choose
other port
Press SELECT to exit
REAR FRONT
1200
2400 2400
4800 4800
9600 9600
19200 19200
38400 38400
57600 57600
Menu Options
- Time
l l , READ - , SELECT _l
xx:xx:xxP
Menu Options
- Contrast
- Use l l
Menu Options
- Date
l l , READ - , SELECT _l
DD/MMM/YY
Menu Options
- ID
- Edit ID

13
Water Bath Attachment
Certain testing applications may require the prism temperature to be maintained
above or below ambient operating temperature. To accomplish temperature
control, the Mark III is supplied with four water ports for connection to a water
bath circulator (Fig 12). Commercial water bath circulators with heating, cooling
or combined capabilities are generally available from laboratory instrument
supply dealers.
Maximum head for water bath attachment should be 5 feet and maximum
pressure 15 psi. The minimum operating temperature of Mark III is 10°C and
maximum is 80°C.
Using tubing having an inside diameter of .25 inches (6.4mm), connect the
output hose from the water bath circulator to either of the water ports on
the lower measuring prism assembly. Attach a second piece of tubing to
the opposite water port, and connect it to either of the upper illuminating
prism water ports. Ensure that this tubing is long enough to allow the upper
illuminating prism assembly to open and close freely. Next attach the return
hose for the water bath circulator to the remaining water bath port (Fig 13).
Tubing choice must consider exibility. Any tubing that is highly rigid may
apply excessive force on the prism preventing it from closing completely. This
condition can adversely affect reading accuracy.
Note:
If a water bath circulator is attached, care must be used to avoid exposing the Mark III’s prisms to
thermal shock. The ambient prism temperature should be raised or lowered by gradually increasing
or decreasing the temperature of the circulating uid.
Due to the nature of refractometer thermal efciency. Controlling the temperature of the instrument
to a temperature above or below ambient, may require the water bath circulator temperature to be
set higher or lower than the desired temperature of the Mark III. The exact temperature setting is
dependent upon circulating uid type, ow rate, ambient temperature, humidity, etc. Experimentation
may be necessary to determine an appropriate water bath temperature setting to maintain a stable
temperature at the Mark III. The instrument temperature as indicated in the lower left corner of the
display, should be what dictates the water bath temperature setting.
When attempting to determine the appropriate water bath temperature setting. It may be helpful
to have a distilled water sample on the prism to improve thermal conductivity between the
upper and lower prism assemblies.
Fig 12
Fig 13

14
Cleaning Precautions
The sealant used between the prism and stainless steel block may be attacked by certain
chemicals. Reichert recommends avoiding strong solvents such as N,N-Dimethylformamide or
N,N-Dimethylacetamide, Tetrahydrofuran, cresols, phenols, and other tar acids. Some lacquer
thinners can also deteriorate the seal over time or when used at elevated temperatures. To
determine if your samples or solvents may attack this seal, please contact Reichert Analytical
technical support.
Scratched optical surfaces can have an adverse effect on shadowline clarity. In the case of
a sample having been allowed to dry on the prism surfaces, never use abrasive materials to
remove that sample. Instead redissolve the sample with an appropriate solvent to protect the
prism surface from being scratched. Thick, sticky samples should be rinsed off with a suitable
solvent to avoid possibly scratching the prism. Use caution when removing samples or drying
the prism.
Care and Cleaning
Preparing the prism surfaces for samples is essential if consistent and
accurate values are to be attained. Prior to and immediately after a sample
is placed on the prism surface, those surfaces must be properly cleaned
(Fig 14). It is imperative that these surfaces be cleaned to assure removal
of any possible residue since this condition will have an adverse affect on
resultant readings. Never allow a sample to dry on the prism surfaces.
Depending upon the sample, clean the lower measuring prism and the
upper illumination prism using distilled water, diluted soapy water, isopropyl alcohol or
methanol. Rinse with distilled water and gently dry using a lint free product like Kim Wipes®
that will leave no residue.
To properly clean the body or display areas of the instrument simply wipe with a soft cloth and a
mild soap and water solution. A typical house hold glass cleaning product works well.
Fig 14

Warranty and Non-Warranty Service
The warranty period for this instrument is two years against manufacturing defects. Please visit
our web site at www.reichertai.com and select “Terms and Conditions of Sale” for an explanation
of the warranty.
The Mark III refractometer is a precision instrument. Only Reichert factory-trained service techni-
cians should perform repairs to assure proper functionality and sustained precision. If service
is required, please contact our Reichert Service Department at Reichert Analytical Division
headquarters in Buffalo, New York, USA , 716-686-4500 (Country Code 001), or our service facility
located in Seefeld Germany at [phone].
Accessories
Catalog No. 13981000 Printer, 110 VAC
Catalog No. 13982000 Printer, 220 VAC
Catalog No. 13107040-901 Null Modem Cable
Catalog No. 13981000-103 Paper, 5 Rolls
Catalog No. WFAG20047 FUSE, 800mA, 250V, 5X20MM
Catalog No. 13K41330 NIST Certied Calibration Oil, 1.514XX
Catalog No. 13K41340 NIST Certied Calibration Oil, 1.402XX
Catalog No. 13K41350 NIST Certied Calibration Oil, 1.457XX
Catalog No. 13K41360 NIST Certied Calibration Oil, 1.489XX
Catalog No. 13K41370 NIST Certied Calibration Oil, 1.572XX
Catalog No. 13K41380 NIST Certied Calibration Oil, 1.630XX
Catalog No. 13K41390 NIST Certied Calibration Oil, 1.360XX
Above values will vary due to supplier of oil and lot
numbers, editing the stored values in the refractometer
may be required.
Catalog No. 13104520 Bromonapthalene (Used as contact uid when
measuring solid samples)
15

Reichert Analytical Instruments
Reichert, Inc.
3362 Walden Ave.
Depew, NY 14043
USA
Toll Free: 888-849-8955
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
email: [email protected]
www.reichert.com
Reichert Instruments GmbH
Hubertusstrasse 2
D-82229 Seefeld
Germany
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
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©2003 Reichert, Inc. Depew NY, USA 13104880-101 Rev. D