VWR PH20 User manual

EN
PH20
pH Tester
Operating manual
European catalogue number:
EU connection: 662-2283
Version: 1.0
Issued: 07.01.2019

Table of contents
2 / 33 B-H86.0.11.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 ................................................................................................................................ 9
3.4 Intended use ....................................................................................................................................... 10
3.5 Qualified personnel............................................................................................................................. 10
4 Description ........................................................................................................................................ 11
4.1 Scope of delivery ................................................................................................................................ 11
4.2 Job description.................................................................................................................................... 11
5 The product at a glance ................................................................................................................... 12
5.1 The PH20............................................................................................................................................ 12
5.2 Display elements ................................................................................................................................ 12
5.3 Operating elements ............................................................................................................................ 12
5.4 Connections........................................................................................................................................ 13
6 Bases for measurement ................................................................................................................... 14
6.1 pH measurement ................................................................................................................................ 14
6.1.1 Explanation ......................................................................................................................................... 14
6.1.2 pH electrode ....................................................................................................................................... 14
6.1.3 Design................................................................................................................................................. 14
6.1.4 Further information ............................................................................................................................. 15
6.1.5 Choosing a pH electrode .................................................................................................................... 15
6.1.6 Care and maintenance ....................................................................................................................... 15
7 Maintenance ...................................................................................................................................... 17
7.1 Operating and maintenance notices ................................................................................................... 17
7.2 Battery ................................................................................................................................................ 17
7.2.1 Battery indicator.................................................................................................................................. 17
7.2.2 Changing battery ................................................................................................................................ 18
7.3 Calibration and adjustment ................................................................................................................. 19
7.3.1 pH calibration...................................................................................................................................... 19
8 Operation........................................................................................................................................... 23
8.1 Commissioning ................................................................................................................................... 23
8.1.1 Explanation ......................................................................................................................................... 23
8.2 Configuration ...................................................................................................................................... 23
8.2.1 Explanation ......................................................................................................................................... 23
8.2.2 Opening the configuration menu......................................................................................................... 23

Table of contents
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8.2.3 Configuring parameters of the configuration menu............................................................................. 24
8.2.4 Adjustment of the measuring input ..................................................................................................... 25
9 Error and system messages............................................................................................................ 27
10 Disposal............................................................................................................................................. 29
11 Technical data................................................................................................................................... 30
12 Service ............................................................................................................................................... 31
12.1 Online resources................................................................................................................................. 31
12.2 Sales partners..................................................................................................................................... 32

1 | Legal address of the manufacturer PH20
4 / 33 B-H86.0.11.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 PH20
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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:
– V1.2 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 PH20
8 / 33 B-H86.0.11.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.
DANGER
This symbol indicates danger for living tissue as well as a variety of materials, which
can be damaged or destroyed when coming into contact with this chemical. Caustic
effect, protective equipment required!
DANGER
This symbol indicates danger for all life forms, which can result in death or acute or
chromic damage to the health after inhaling, swallowing or absorbing this chemical
through the skin.
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.
NOTE
This symbol instructs the use of eye protection which protects the eyes from harmful
influences when working with powerful light, UV radiation, laser, chemicals, dust,
splinters or weather influences.
NOTE
This symbol instructs the use of protective gloves which offer protection from mechan-
ical, thermal, chemical, biological or electrical hazards.
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.

PH20 Safety | 3
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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.11] 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.
DANGER
Danger of breaking the electrodes!
All electrodes contain glass parts that can cause injuries when broken. There is an el-
evated risk of injury in connection with measurements in foods.
– Inspect the electrode before and after the measurement!
– Always measures in samples for measurements in foods. Discard these samples
after the measurement!
DANGER
Potassium chloride / potassium nitrate!
The electrode contains potassium chloride or potassium nitrate. All contact with the
skin, clothing and eyes should be avoided. Nevertheless, should contact occur, take
the following measures
– Eyes: Flush with flowing water for at least 15 minutes, seek medical attention!
– Skin: Wash with large amounts of water for several minutes!
– Clothing: Wash immediately!
– If swallowed: Drink large amounts of water, do not induce vomiting and seek med-
ical attention!
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!

3 | Safety PH20
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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 [}30]
3.4 Intended use
The product is designed for measuring the pH value in water and aqueous media by
means of suitable electrodes.
Application examples for this are, for example, drinking water, waste water, surface
water, swimming pools, fish breeding and process chemistry.
See Technical data [}p.30].
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.

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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
– Electrode 662-1382
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 BNC connector for connecting different elec-
trodes.

5 | The product at a glance PH20
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5 The product at a glance
5.1 The PH20
LCD Display PH20 BNC connection 662-1382
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 pH value or value for
min/max/hold
Auxiliary display Corresponding temperature for the displayed pH
value with unit. Measured temperatures are dis-
played with a decimal place, adjusted without.
Bar graph Progress for calibration and visualisation of the
electrode evaluation
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

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Long press Reset the min/max value of the current measure-
ment
Both simultaneously Rotate display, overhead display
Function key
Press briefly Freeze measurement
Return to measurement display
Call up next parameter
Long press, 2s Start menu configuration, (ONF appears in the dis-
play
Long press, 4s Start automatic calibration, (AL appears in the dis-
play
5.4 Connections
BNC connection Connection for electrode
Un/locking with rotating ring on the cable plug
CAUTION
Waterproofness!
Waterproofness is only guaranteed for plug connections in the plugged-in state in
combination with waterproof cable plugs.
– Protect contacts from soiling and moisture!

6 | Bases for measurement PH20
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6 Bases for measurement
6.1 pH measurement
6.1.1 Explanation
The pH value describes the acidic or alkaline behaviour of an aqueous solution. A pH
value below 7 is acidic, a value above 7 is alkaline. A pH value of 7 is neutral.
The pH measurement is very precise, but also sensitive. The measured signals are
very weak and high-ohmic. This is the case, in particularly in low-ion media.
NOTE
In order to detect the pH value of a solution, it should always be recorded together
with the measurement temperature, because most liquids change their pH value with
the temperature.
The following must be observed:
– avoid interference, electrostatic charges, etc.
– keep plug contacts clean and dry
– prevent electrodes which do not have any special waterproof versions from exten-
ded immersion above the shaft
– calibrate electrodes sufficiently often. The can range from every hour to several
weeks, depending on the electrode and the application
– Use a suitable electrode
6.1.2 pH electrode
NOTE
Normally, so-called pH single-rod measuring chains are used. They include all neces-
sary components that are integrated in an electrode.
6.1.3 Design
1. Coaxial cable
2. Reference electrode
3. Measuring electrode
4. Refill opening
5. Electrolyte
6. Internal buffer
7. Diaphragm
8. Glass membrane / source layer
The diaphragm, which establishes a connection between the electrolyte and the liquid
to be measured, can be designed in different ways. Clogging or soiling of the dia-
phragm is a frequent cause of a malfunctioning or sluggish electrode. Always handle
the glass membrane with extreme care. The so-called source layer forms there. This
is crucial for the measurement and must always be kept moist.
There are also electrodes with integrated temperature sensors.

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6.1.4 Further information
A pH electrode is a wear part. If the signal is very slow or the required values are no
longer observed after careful cleaning and possible regeneration, the electrode must
be replaced. When using the electrodes, be aware that various substances in aqueous
solutions can corrode glass and that chemicals can produce a chemical reaction with
the KCl solution in the electrode, which can result in blockage of the diaphragm.
– In solutions that contain proteins, such as for measurements in medical and biolo-
gical applications, KCl can cause denaturation of the protein.
– Coagulated paints
– Solutions that contain high concentrations of silver ions
Substances that accumulate on the glass membrane or the diaphragm affect the
measurement and must be removed regularly. This can be achieved for example with
automatic cleaning systems.
6.1.5 Choosing a pH electrode
The GE 114 WD or GE 100 can be used for most applications. However, some areas
of application require special electrodes.
– GE 100 BNC is a universal electrode with two ceramic diaphragms and liquid elec-
trolyte.
– GE 101 BNC is preferably used for small sample amounts. It comprises a glass
electrode with two ceramic diaphragms and liquid electrolyte.
– GE 104 BNC is preferably used for measurements in low-ionic media, such as
rainwater, aquarium water and deionised water.
– GE 114 WD is a universally applicable, durable and low-maintenance gel elec-
trode with Pellon diaphragm. It can be used for measurements in drinking water,
swimming pools, aquaria and slightly contaminated waste water.
– GE 117 BNC is a temperature-compensated gel electrode with two ceramic dia-
phragms and PH 13.5 cable screw coupling.
– GE 120 BNC is an insertion electrode and is preferably used for measurements in
cheese, fruit and meat. For measurements in products containing proteins, the
electrode must be cleaned with a special cleaner. For this purpose, we recom-
mend the GRL 100 pepsin cleaning solution.
– GE 125 BNC is a waterproof, universally applicable, durable and low-maintenance
gel electrode with ceramic diaphragm. It can be immersed above the shaft for an
extended time.
– GE 151 BNC is a glass electrode and is preferably used in galvanic applications
for paints and lacquers.
– GE 173 BNC is an alkaline-resistant glass electrode with ground diaphragm and
gel electrolyte for chemical and waste water applications.
6.1.6 Care and maintenance
Dirty electrodes must be cleaned. The suitable cleaning agents for the pH glass mem-
brane are listed in the table below.
Impurities Cleaners
General residue Mild detergent
Inorganic coatings Commercially available liquid glass clean-
ers
Metal compounds 1 mol/l HCl solution or VWR 83603.180
pepsin cleaning solution

6 | Bases for measurement PH20
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Oil and grease Special cleaner or solvent
Biological coatings with protein 1% pepsin enzyme in 0.1 molar VWR
83603.180 HCl solution
Resin lignins Acetone
Extremely resistant residues Hydrogen peroxide or sodium hypochlor-
ide
The material of the pH probe must always be protected. Plastic shafts must not be
cleaned in solvents, etc. If in doubt, contact the manufacturer to inquire about suitable
cleaners for the existing electrode. This is also important in the case of aggressive
substances or other substances that are not primarily water-based!

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7 Maintenance
7.1 Operating and maintenance notices
NOTE
The product and electrode must be handled with care and used in accordance with the
technical data. Do not throw or strike.
NOTE
Plugs and sockets must be protected from soiling.
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.
NOTE
The electrode should be stored in dry rooms at a temperature between 10 °C and 30
°C. If the storage temperature range is exceeded or undercut, the electrode can be
destroyed. It should always be stored wet in 3 mol/l KCl. Extended storage in distilled
or deionised water will result in depletion of the reference electrolytes.
NOTE
The pH electrode included in the scope of supply should be arranged vertically up-
wards with the connecting cable. A slight angle of inclination does not impair the
measurement.
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 | Maintenance PH20
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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!
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.
– A suitable PH1 is available
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.

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7.3 Calibration and adjustment
7.3.1 pH calibration
Description In order to obtain reliable measurements, the device and electrode must be aligned
with each other. In pH measurement, this is referred to as a calibration. In order to
conduct a pH measurement, proceed as follows.
For automatic calibration, open the Calibration menu. See Automatic pH calibration
[}p.20].
Prerequisite – The product is switched on.
Instruction 1. Carefully remove the protective cap from the electrode.
2. Rinse off the electrode with distilled or deionised water.
Outcome of an action Now, the product can be calibrated.
7.3.1.1 Explanation
The following steps describe how to calibrate the product.
To achieve a precise measurement, observe the following points.
NOTE
If possible, the calibration range should overlap the measuring range. To achieve this,
it is recommended to use buffer solutions for measurements as follows:
– below pH 7 uses pH 7.0 and pH 4.0 buffer
– above pH 7 uses pH 7.0 and pH 10.0 buffer
NOTE
Calibrations are only possible in a temperature range from 0 °C to 60 °C! We recom-
mend performing calibration at temperatures between 10 °C and 40 °C.
NOTE
Calibration should be conducted at the same temperature used for the measurement
in the medium. To equalize the temperatures of the buffer solutions and electrode,
they should be stored together for a while in a place that is protected against draught.
NOTE
Measure the temperature of the buffer solution with a thermometer. The exact value of
the buffer solution is temperature dependent and can be determined based on the
tables provided.
NOTE
Always use fresh buffer solutions!

7 | Maintenance PH20
20 / 33 B-H86.0.11.DB201-1.0
7.3.1.2 Buffer solutions
Description At least one buffer solution is required to calibrate the product. In the process, you
have the option of using a ready-to-use PHL buffer solution or mixing the solution
yourself with GPH buffer capsules - refer to the instructions.
Colour 10 °C 20 °C 25 °C 30 °C 40 °C
4.0 Red 4.02 4.00 4.01 4.01 4.01
7.0 Green 7.06 7.02 7.00 6.99 6.97
10.0 Blue 10.18 10.07 10.01 9.97 9.89
For ready-to-use buffer solutions, visit www.vwr.com.
Prerequisite – Plastic bottle
– approx. 100 ml of distilled water
– Buffer capsule
Instruction 1. Fill a plastic bottle with approx. 100 ml of distilled water.
2. Open the buffer capsule carefully by twisting the capsule halves and pulling. It
should be ensured that nothing is spilled. They can also be used without opening
them; opening the capsules only reduces to time for dissolving.
3. Place the buffer capsule and its contents in the plastic bottle.
4. Wait at least 3 hours.
5. Shake well before using for the first time.
Outcome of an action Then you can begin with calibration of the product.
7.3.1.3 Automatic pH calibration
Description The following steps describe how to calibrate the product automatically.
Prerequisite – The product is switched on.
– The pH electrode is inserted in the product.
– Ready-to-use 7.0 buffer solution.
– Ready-to-use 4.0 or 10.0 buffer solution.
NOTE
Automatic calibration can also be carried out with the pre-mixed buffer solutions. Since
the temperature compensation relates to the GPH capsules, an error of a few hun-
dredths pH should be taken into account, depending on the temperature. Refer also to
the differences in the tables of the buffer solutions in Description and --- FEHLENDER
LINK ---.
Instruction 1. Press the Function key for 4 seconds to open the Calibration menu. (AL appears in
the display.
2. Release the Function key.
3. PK 7 appears in the display.
4. Place the electrode in the 7.0 buffer solution.
5. The product determines the correct value automatically. If the value is determined,
the display flashes to indicate a change to the next calibration point.
6. Enter the temperature of the buffer solution by pressing the Up key and Down key
and confirm the entry by pressing the Function key again.
7. PK 4 and PK 10 alternate in the display.
8. Then, rinse the electrode with distilled or deionised water.