VWR HCO304 User manual

EN
HCO304
Handheld conductivity measuring device
Operating manual
European catalogue number:
EU connection: 663-0348
Version: 1.0
Issued: 07.01.2019

Table of contents
2 / 29 B-H87.0.01.DB201-1.0
Table of contents
1 Legal address of the manufacturer................................................................................................... 4
2 About this documentation ................................................................................................................. 5
2.1 Foreword............................................................................................................................................... 5
2.2 Purpose of the document...................................................................................................................... 5
2.3 Warranty ............................................................................................................................................... 5
2.4 Compliance with local laws and other legal regulations ....................................................................... 5
2.5 Correctness of content.......................................................................................................................... 6
2.6 Layout of this document........................................................................................................................ 6
2.7 Further information ............................................................................................................................... 6
3 Safety ................................................................................................................................................... 8
3.1 Explanation of safety symbols .............................................................................................................. 8
3.2 Foreseeable misuse ............................................................................................................................. 8
3.3 Safety instructions ................................................................................................................................ 8
3.4 Intended use ......................................................................................................................................... 9
3.5 Qualified personnel............................................................................................................................... 9
4 Description ........................................................................................................................................ 10
4.1 Scope of delivery ................................................................................................................................ 10
4.2 Job description.................................................................................................................................... 10
5 The product at a glance ................................................................................................................... 11
5.1 The HCO304....................................................................................................................................... 11
5.2 Display elements ................................................................................................................................ 11
5.3 Operating elements ............................................................................................................................ 11
6 Bases for measurement ................................................................................................................... 13
6.1 Conductivity principles ........................................................................................................................ 13
6.2 Conductivity measurement ................................................................................................................. 13
6.3 Total dissolved solids / TDS measurement ........................................................................................ 13
6.4 Salt content / salinity measurement.................................................................................................... 14
6.5 Electrodes / measuring cell................................................................................................................. 14
6.5.1 Design and selection .......................................................................................................................... 14
6.5.2 Calibration / adjustment of the measuring cell.................................................................................... 14
6.6 Temperature compensation................................................................................................................ 15
6.6.1 NLF temperature compensation according to EN 27888.................................................................... 15
7 Maintenance ...................................................................................................................................... 16
7.1 Operating and maintenance notices ................................................................................................... 16
7.2 Battery ................................................................................................................................................ 16
7.2.1 Battery indicator.................................................................................................................................. 16
7.2.2 Changing battery ................................................................................................................................ 16
8 Operation........................................................................................................................................... 18
8.1 Commissioning ................................................................................................................................... 18
8.1.1 Explanation ......................................................................................................................................... 18
8.2 Configuration ...................................................................................................................................... 18
8.2.1 Explanation ......................................................................................................................................... 18
8.2.2 Opening the configuration menu......................................................................................................... 18
8.2.3 Configuring parameters of the configuration menu............................................................................. 19

Table of contents
B-H87.0.01.DB201-1.0 3 / 29
8.2.4 Adjustment of the measuring input ..................................................................................................... 20
8.2.5 Configuring parameters of the adjustment menu................................................................................ 21
9 Error and system messages............................................................................................................ 24
10 Disposal............................................................................................................................................. 25
11 Technical data................................................................................................................................... 26
12 Service ............................................................................................................................................... 27
12.1 Online resources................................................................................................................................. 27
12.2 Sales partners..................................................................................................................................... 28

1 | Legal address of the manufacturer HCO304
4 / 29 B-H87.0.01.DB201-1.0
1 Legal address of the manufacturer
VWR International bvba
Researchpark Haasrode 2020
Geldenaaksebaan 464
B-3001 Leuven
Phone: + 32 16 385011
http://be.vwr.com

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2 About this documentation
2.1 Foreword
Read this document carefully and familiarise yourself with the operation of the product
before you use it. Keep this document ready to hand and in the immediate vicinity of
the product so that it is available to the personnel/user for reference at all times in
case of doubt.
The product was developed according to the state of the art and fulfils the require-
ments of the applicable European and national Directives. All corresponding docu-
ments are available from the manufacturer.
Only technically qualified persons are permitted to carry out commissioning, operation,
maintenance and decommissioning. The qualified personnel must have carefully read
and understood the operating manual before beginning any work.
2.2 Purpose of the document
– This document describes the operation and maintenance of the product.
– Provides important information for working safely and efficiently with the product.
– In addition to the quick reference guide with all relevant legal and safety content in
hard copy, this document is a detailed reference option for the product.
2.3 Warranty
VWR guarantees that this product will remain free from material and production de-
fects for a period of two (2) years from the time of delivery. If there is a defect, VWR
shall decide on its own discretion whether to repair or replace the product free of
charge or to provide the customer with a refund of the purchase price of the product,
insofar as it is sent back during the warranty period. This warranty shall be voided if
the product was damaged accidentally or intentionally due to improper use or normal
wear. Insofar as the necessary maintenance tasks and inspections are not carried out
in accordance with the operating manual and the local requirements, the warranty
shall be voided, unless this omission is not causal for the defects of the product.
The customer must insure returned articles against damage and loss. This warranty is
limited to the aforementioned rights. IT IS EXPRESSLY AGREED THAT THIS WAR-
RANTY APPLIES INSTEAD OF ANY WARRANTY OF FITNESS AND INSTEAD OF
WARRANTY OF GENERAL MERCHANTABILITY.
2.4 Compliance with local laws and other legal
regulations
The customer is responsible for obtaining the necessary official approvals and other
authorisations that are necessary for operation and use of the purchased product in its
place of use. VWR can only be held liable if the customer fails to carry out the neces-
sary activities for this purpose or authorisations are not issued unless a corresponding
rejection is based on a defect of the product.

2 | About this documentation HCO304
6 / 29 B-H87.0.01.DB201-1.0
2.5 Correctness of content
The contents of this document were checked for corrected and are subject to a con-
tinuous correction and updating process. This does not rule out potential errors. In the
event that errors are discovered or in case of suggestions for improvement, please in-
form us immediately via the indicated contact information in order to help us make this
document even more user-friendly.
2.6 Layout of this document
Description
Each chapter is explained at the beginning in the description.
Prerequisite
All mandatory prerequisites are then listed for each step.
Instruction
Tasks to be carried out by the personnel / user are represented as numbered instruc-
tions. Adhere to the sequence of the specified instructions.
Representation
Shows an illustrative instruction or a configuration of the product.
Formula
Some instructions include a formula for a general understanding of a configuration,
programming or a setting of the product.
Outcome of an action
Result, consequence or effect of an instruction.
Emphases
In order to simplify legibility and provide a clearer overview, various sections / informa-
tion are emphasised.
–1234 Display elements
–Mechanical controls
–Product functions
–Product labels
–Cross-reference [}p.6]
–Foot notes
2.7 Further information
Software version of the product:
– V1.3 or later
For the exact product name, refer to the type plate on the rear side of the product.

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NOTE
For information about the software version, press and hold the ON button to switch on
the product for longer than 5 seconds. The series is shown in the main display and the
software version of the product is shown in the secondary display.

3 | Safety HCO304
8 / 29 B-H87.0.01.DB201-1.0
3 Safety
3.1 Explanation of safety symbols
DANGER
This symbol warns of imminent danger which can result in death, severe bodily injury,
or severe property damage in case of non-observance.
CAUTION
This symbol warns of potential dangers or harmful situations which can cause damage
to the device or to the environment in case of non-observance.
NOTE
This symbol indicates processes which can have a direct influence on operation or
can trigger an unforeseen reaction in case of non-observance.
3.2 Foreseeable misuse
The fault-free function and operational safety of the product can only be guaranteed if
generally applicable safety precautions and the device-specific safety instructions for
this document are observed.
If these notices are disregarded, personal injury or death, as well as property damage
can occur.
DANGER
Incorrect area of application!
In order to prevent erratic behaviour of the product, personal injury or property dam-
age, the product must be used exclusively as described in the chapter Description
[}p.10] in the operating manual.
– Do not use in safety / Emergency Stop devices!
– The product is not suitable for use in explosion-prone areas!
– The product must not be used for diagnostic or other medical purposes on pa-
tients!
– The product is not intended to come into direct contact with food. For measure-
ment in foods, samples must be taken and discarded after the measurement!
3.3 Safety instructions
This product has been designed and tested according to the safety requirements for
electronic measuring devices.

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CAUTION
Erratic behaviour!
On suspicion that the product can no longer be operated without danger, it must be
decommissioned and prevented from recommissioning with appropriate labelling. The
safety of the user can be impaired by the device if, for example, if it shows visible
damage, it no longer works as specified or if it was stored for an extended period of
time under unsuitable conditions.
– Visual inspection!
– In case of doubt, send the product to the manufacturer for repair or maintenance!
NOTE
If the product is stored at a temperature above 50 °C, or is not used for an extended
period of time, the batteries must be removed. Leaks from the batteries are avoided as
a result.
NOTE
This product does not belong in children's hands!
For this purpose, also refer to
2Technical data [}26]
3.4 Intended use
The product is designed for measuring the conductivity in liquids. The measuring cell
is connected permanently.
See Technical data [}p.26].
3.5 Qualified personnel
For commissioning, operation and maintenance, the relevant personnel must have ad-
equate knowledge of the measuring process and use of the measurements, for which
purpose this document makes a valuable contribution. The instructions in this docu-
ment must be understood, observed and followed.
In order to ensure that no risks arise from the interpretation of the measurements in
the concrete application, the user must have additional technical knowledge, because
the user is liable in case of damage/danger due to misinterpretation as a result of in-
adequate technical knowledge.

4 | Description HCO304
10 / 29 B-H87.0.01.DB201-1.0
4 Description
4.1 Scope of delivery
Please check to ensure the completeness of the product after opening the package.
You should find the following components:
– Quick reference guide
– Handheld measuring device, ready for operation, including batteries
– Permanently connected conductivity measuring cell
4.2 Job description
The product offers precision, speed and reliability in a compact, ergonomic housing.
Additional impressive features include the dust-proof and waterproof design in accord-
ance with IP 65/67 and the 3-line illuminated display, which offers overhead display at
the push of a button. The product can be switched on, switched off and configured and
the measurements and parameters can be adjusted and held with the operating ele-
ments. The product is equipped with a universal 2-pole graphite conductivity measur-
ing cell for measurement in the range of 0 µS/cm to 100.0 mS/cm. In addition to con-
ductivity, salinity and TDS can be determined.

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5 The product at a glance
5.1 The HCO304
LCD Display HCO304 HCO304
5.2 Display elements
Display
Battery indicator Evaluation of the battery status
Unit display Display of units, if applicable, with unstable symbol
or type of mode, min/max/hold
Main display Measurement of the current conductivity value or
value for min/max/hold
Auxiliary display Corresponding temperature value for the value
shown in the main display. If applicable, alternating
with the temperature compensation.
NOTE
The unit display shows a rotating circle segment in the first position as long as the
measurement is unstable, if the position is unoccupied by the unit display.
5.3 Operating elements
On / Off button
Press briefly Switch on the product
Activate / deactivate lighting
Long press Switch off the product
Reject changes in a menu
Up / Down button
Press briefly Display of the min/max value
Change value of the selected parameter
Long press Reset the min/max value of the current measure-
ment
Both simultaneously Rotate display, overhead display

5 | The product at a glance HCO304
12 / 29 B-H87.0.01.DB201-1.0
Function key
Press briefly Freeze measurement
Return to measurement display
Call up next parameter
Long press, 2s Open menu, frozen measurement is displayed
Close menu, changes are saved

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6 Bases for measurement
6.1 Conductivity principles
Conductivity γ
Conductivity describes the capability of a material to conduct electrical current. It is
also the inverse of specific resistance. The conductance is the inverse of the meas-
ured resistance R.
Formula γ = l / (R*A)
l = length of the material
A = cross section
R = measured resistance
Unit [γ] = Siemens / metre = S / m
Normally, the values for liquids are specified in µS / cm or in mS / cm.
6.2 Conductivity measurement
The conductivity measurement is a comparatively uncomplicated measurement. The
standard electrodes are stable for correct use for a long time and can be calibrated
over the gradient correction.
Range 1 2 3
0 to 2000 µS/cm 0.00 to 20.00 mS/cm 0 to 200 mS/cm
With the automatic range selection, the range with the best resolution is selected auto-
matically.
6.3 Total dissolved solids / TDS measurement
The total dissolved solids measurement - TDS measurement - determines the total
dissolved solids, which also called evaporation residue, based on the conductivity and
a conversion factor CtdS of the total dissolved solids. Well-suited to conduct simple
concentration measurements of salt solutions. The display shows mg/l
Range 1
0 to 2000 mg/l
Display value TDS = conductivity [in µs/cm, nLF temperature compensation at 25°C] *
CtdS menu entry
With selection of TDS, the necessary temperature compensation is selected automat-
ically. Menu settings for temperature compensation are ignored.
The following approximations apply:
CtdS
0.50 Monovalent salts with 2 ion types = NaCl, KCl or similar
0.50 Natural water of surface water, drinking water
0.65 to 0.70 Salt concentration of aqueous fertiliser solutions
NOTE
These are guideline values for estimates, but are not suitable for precise measure-
ments. The conversion factor for the respective type of solution and the examined
concentration range must be determined for precise measurements. This can take

6 | Bases for measurement HCO304
14 / 29 B-H87.0.01.DB201-1.0
place with calibration to known comparison solutions or with actual evaporation of a
certain amount of liquid with measured conductivity and subsequent weight of the total
dissolved solids.
6.4 Salt content / salinity measurement
In SAL measuring mode, the salinity, which is the salt content of sea water, is determ-
ined. The basis for this is the International Oceanographic Tables, IOT. Standard salt
water has a salinity of 35 ‰, 35 g of salt per 1 kg of sea water. The display in % [g/kg]
normally does not show units. The designation PSU, Practical Salinity Unit, is also
commonly used; the display value is identical. The salinity measurement has temper-
ature compensation, which means the temperature is considered for the display and
has a major influence on the display value; any menu settings regarding temperature
compensation are ignored.
NOTE
The salt composition of different seas is not identical. Depending on the location,
weather, seasons, etc., there are considerable deviations from the 35 ‰ according to
the IOT. The salt composition can also influence the relationship of the salinity display
and the actual amount of salt present.
Corresponding tables are available for many salts in salt water aquarium applications.
Salt weight to salinity according to the IOT or conductivity. In consideration of these
tables, very precise salinity measurements can be conducted.
6.5 Electrodes / measuring cell
6.5.1 Design and selection
There are basically two different types of measuring cells: 2-pole and 4-pole measur-
ing cells. Control and/or evaluation take place in a similar manner; the 4-pole measur-
ing cells can compensate well for polarisation effects and contamination to a certain
degree with the more elaborate measuring processes.
The product is equipped with a permanently connected 2-pole measuring cell.
2-pole measuring cell 4-pole measuring cell
Universal 2-pole graphite measuring cell with wide range of applications, such as fish
husbandry, measurement of surface water and drinking water.
6.5.2 Calibration / adjustment of the measuring cell
In harsh applications and due to ageing processes, the cell constant of measuring
cells changes. Depending on the application and precision requirement, the overall
precision of the display device and measuring cell measuring chain should be checked

HCO304 Bases for measurement | 6
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regularly. Special testing and calibration solutions, such as GKL 100, 101 and 102 are
available for this purpose. In normal application conditions, semi-annual testing is re-
commended; Adjustment of the measuring input [}p.20]. A system test by the man-
ufacturer is recommended in case of doubt; Calibration and adjustment service.
For this purpose, also refer to
2Adjustment of the measuring input [}20]
6.6 Temperature compensation
The conductivity of aqueous solutions is temperature-dependent. The temperature de-
pendency varies greatly according to the type of solution. With temperature compens-
ation, the solution is calculated back to a uniform temperature in order to compare it
independently of the temperature. The normal operating temperature for this is 25 °C.
6.6.1 NLF temperature compensation according to EN 27888
For most applications, such as fish husbandry applications and measurement of sur-
face water and drinking water, non-linear temperature compensation for natural water
NLF is sufficiently accurate in accordance with EN 27888. The normal operating tem-
perature is 25 °C. The recommended application range of NLF compensation is
between 60 µS/cm and 1000 µS/cm.

7 | Maintenance HCO304
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7 Maintenance
7.1 Operating and maintenance notices
NOTE
The product and conductivity measuring cell must be handled with care and used in
accordance with the technical data. Do not throw or strike.
NOTE
If the product is stored at a temperature above 50 °C, or is not used for an extended
period of time, the batteries must be removed. Leaks from the batteries are avoided as
a result.
NOTE
If the product is stored at a temperature above 50 °C, or is not used for an extended
period of time, the batteries must be removed. Leaks from the batteries are avoided as
a result.
The device is calibrated at the factory with the permanently connected conductivity
measuring cell. The highest system precision can be achieved in this manner. If de-
sired, a gradient correction can be carried out for the product in order to further optim-
ise the accuracy in a narrow range. This is only necessary for normal use. See Adjust-
ment of the measuring input [}p.20].
7.2 Battery
7.2.1 Battery indicator
If the empty frame in the battery display blinks, the batteries are depleted and must be
replaced. However, the device will still operate for a certain length of time.
If the BAT display text appears in the main display, the battery voltage is no longer ad-
equate for operation of the product. Now the battery is fully depleted.
7.2.2 Changing battery
DANGER
Danger of explosion!
Using damaged or unsuitable batteries can generate heat, which can cause the batter-
ies to crack and possibly explode!
– Only use high-quality and suitable alkaline batteries!

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CAUTION
Damage!
If the batteries have different charge levels, leaks and thus damage to the product can
occur.
– Use new, high-quality batteries!
– Do not use different types of batteries!
– Remove depleted batteries and dispose of them at a suitable collection point!
NOTE
Unnecessary screwing places the water-tightness of the product, among other things,
at risk and should be avoided.
NOTE
Read the following handling instructions before replacing batteries and follow them
step by step. If disregarded, the product could be damaged or the protection from
moisture could be diminished.
Description Proceed as follows to replace the batteries.
Prerequisites – The product is switched off.
Instruction 1. Unscrews the Phillips screws and remove the cover.
2. Carefully replace the two Mignon AA batteries. Ensure that the polarity is correct!
It must be possible to insert the batteries in the correct position without using
force.
3. The O-ring must be undamaged, clean and positioned at the intended depth. In or-
der to facilitate assembly and avoid damage, a suitable grease can be applied.
4. Fit the cover on evenly. The O-ring must remain at the intended depth!
5. Tighten the Phillips screws.
Outcome of an action The product is now ready for use again.

8 | Operation HCO304
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8 Operation
8.1 Commissioning
8.1.1 Explanation
Description The product is switched on with the On/Off button. It may be necessary to configure
the product after switching on. See Configuration [}p.18].
Prerequisite – Sufficiently full batteries are inserted in the product.
Instruction – Press On/Off button.
Outcome of an action Information about the configuration of the product appears in the display.
POFF Automatic shut-
off
Automatic shut-off activated. The product is
switched off if no buttons have been pressed after
the adjusted time
T.OF Zero point correc-
tion
If a zero point correction of the temperature sensor
was made
T.SL Gradient correc-
tion
If a gradient correction of the temperature sensor
was made
S(L Gradient correc-
tion
If a gradient correction of the conductivity measur-
ing cell was made
The product is now ready for measurement.
NOTE
The device is calibrated at the factory and ready for measurement. The offset and
gradient correction of the temperature measurement and gradient correction of the
conductivity measurement can be carried out when exact references are available.
This is only necessary in exceptional cases.
8.2 Configuration
8.2.1 Explanation
The following steps describe how to adapt the product for your purposes.
NOTE
There are various configuration parameters available depending on the product ver-
sion and configuration. They can differ depending on the product version and configur-
ation.
8.2.2 Opening the configuration menu
Description In order to configure the product, you must first open the Configuration menu. The
menu is opened as shown in the illustration.
Prerequisite
Instruction
1. Press the Function key for 2 seconds to open the Configuration menu.
2. (ONF appears in the display. Release the function key.

HCO304 Operation | 8
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3. By briefly pressing the Function key, you can scroll through the parameters. Select
the parameter you would like to configure.
4. When you have selected the desired parameter, change the parameter to the de-
sired value with the Up button and the Down button.
5. The changes are saved after running through the entire Configuration menu. STOR
appears in the display. The Configuration menu can be exited from any arbitrary
parameter by pressing and holding the Function key for 2 seconds. The changes
made up that point are saved.
Representation Call up menu Next parameter Change value Save changes Discard
changes
2s Press: Single
step
Hold: Rapid
change
2s 2s
Outcome of an action The Configuration menu is closed after the last parameter.
NOTE
If the product is switched off without saving the configuration, the last save value is re-
produced on the next start-up of the product.
8.2.3 Configuring parameters of the configuration menu
Description The following representation shows the available parameters and various configura-
tion options.
Prerequisite – The Configuration menu is open. See Opening the configuration menu [}p.18].
Instruction 1. Select the desired parameter you would like to configure.
2. Adjust the desired configuration in the selected parameter with the Up button and
Down button.
3. The available configuration options are listed for each parameter in the following
representation.
Representation Parameter Values Meaning
Input
INP
(OND Measured variable - conductivity
SAL Measured variable - salt content / salinity
TDS Measured variable - total dissolved solids
Factor for TDS
CTDS
0.40 .. 1.00 Conversion factor for TDS measurement
Temperature compensation

8 | Operation HCO304
20 / 29 B-H87.0.01.DB201-1.0
TCOR
OFF Do not compensate conductivity measurement
NLF Non-linear function for natural water in accordance
with EN 27888 (ISO 7888) Ground water, surface
water or drinking water
Reference temperature for temperature compensation
TREF
25 °(Reference temperature 25 °C or 77 °F
20 °(Reference temperature 20 °C or 68 °F
Shut-off time
POFF
OFF No automatic shut-off
15 30 60 120 240 Automatic shut-off after a selected time in minutes,
during which no buttons have been pressed
Backlighting
L,TE
OFF Backlighting deactivated
15 30 60 120 240 Automatic shut-off of the backlighting after a selec-
ted time in seconds, during which no buttons have
been pressed
ON No automatic shut-off of the backlighting
Temperature unit
UN,T
°(Temperature display in °C
°FTemperature display in °F
Factory settings
IN,T
NO Use current configuration
YES Reset product to factory settings. IN,T DONE appears
in the display
Outcome of an action The changed value is saved and the Configuration menu is closed. STOR appears in
the display. If necessary, the product is restarted automatically in order to adopt the
changed values.
NOTE
The configuration is closed if no button is pressed for 2 minutes. Any changes made
up to that point are not saved. C.END appears in the display.
8.2.4 Adjustment of the measuring input
Description The temperature input can be adjusted with the zero point correction and the gradient
correction. If an adjustment is made, you change the pre-adjusted factory settings.
This is signalled with the T.OF, T.SL or S(L display text when the product is switched on.