User instructions

Safety Information

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Gel-filled pH electrode: Model PHC10101, PHC10103, PHC10105, PHC10110, PHC10115 or PHC10115

Precautionary Labels Read all labels and tags attached to the instrument. Personal injury or damage to the instrument could occur if not observed.
Electrical equipment marked with this symbol may not be disposed of in European public disposal systems after 12 August of 2005. In conformity with European local and national regulations (EU Directive 2002/96/EC), European electrical equipment users must now return old or end-of life equipment to the Producer for disposal at no charge to the user. Note: For return for recycling, please contact the equipment producer or supplier for instructions on how to return end-of-life equipment, producer-supplied electrical accessories, and all auxiliary items for proper disposal.

Overview
The PHC101 series electrode is a non-refillable gel-filled combination pH electrode with a built-in temperature sensor (Figure 1 on page 2). The PHC10105, PHC10110, PHC10115 or PHC10130 electrode is available with a 5, 10, 15 or 30 meter cable. The PHC10101 or PHC10103 electrode is available with a 1 or 3 meter cable and is intended for laboratory use. The electrode provides pH measurement in wastewater, drinking water and general applications.

Specifications
Specifications are subject to change without notice.
Specification pH range pH resolution Slope Sodium (Alkalinity) error Temperature range Temperature accuracy Storage temperature Junction Minimum sample depth Reference type Dimensions Cable connection Warranty Details 2.0 to 14.0 pH (selectable resolution and response time) Fast: 0.1, Medium: 0.01, Slow: 0.001 -59 mV/pH (98 to 103 % at 25 C per nernstian theoretical value) -0.6 pH at pH 12.6 in 1 M NaOH 0.0 to 80.0 C (32.0 to 176 F) 0.3 C ( 0.54 F) 5 to 40 C (41 to 104 F) Open junctions 20 mm (0.79 in.) Ag/AgCl Standard: Diameter: 12 mm (0.47 in.), Length: 103 mm (4.056 in.), Total legth: 200 mm (7.9 in.), Cable length: 1 or 3 meter (3.3 or 9.8 ft.). Rugged: Diameter 12 mm (0.47 in.), Length: 20 mm (0.78 in.), Total length: 220 mm (8.7 in.), Cable length: 5, 10, 15 or 30 meter (16.4, 32.8, 49.2, or 98.4 ft.) Digital output and connector compatible with HQd meters Sensor is covered by a 6 month warranty

Figure 1 Electrode overview

1 2 3 4 Shroud (rugged model) Electrode storage cap Glass bulb and temperature sensor Reference junctions and tape 5 6 7 8 Rugged electrode (5, 10, 15 or 30 meter cable) Standard electrode (1 or 3 meter cable) Electrode storage cap holder Locking ring (rugged model)

Preparation for use

1. Remove the locking ring and shroud (rugged model). 2. Remove the tape from the reference junctions and the label from the electrode body. Refer to Figure 1. 3. Remove the electrode storage cap and rinse the electrode with deionized water. Blot dry with a lint-free cloth. 4. Install the shroud and locking ring and hand-tighten (rugged model). 5. If the electrode will not be used immediately, fill the storage cap halfway with Hach Electrode Storage Solution or 3M KCl and install the cap.

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Calibration
Before calibration: The electrode must have the correct service-life time stamp. Set the date and time in the meter before attaching the electrode. It is not necessary to recalibrate when moving an electrode from one HQd meter to another if the additional meter is configured to use the same calibration options. If the additional HQd meter uses different calibration options (e.g. calibration standards) or acceptance criteria, calibrate the electrode or change the method settings to select a different method. To view the current calibration, select the DATA LOG key, View Probe Data, then View Current Calibration. Tighten the cable locking nut securely when connecting the electrode to the meter. If a calibration error occurs, recalibrate using fresh, high quality buffers. Refer to Troubleshooting on page 11. If the glass bulb is or becomes dry, soak the electrode in pH 4 buffer for up to two hours. If any two probes are connected, Push the UP or DOWN arrow to change to the single display mode in order to show the Calibrate option. If custom calibration or measurement settings are desired, a new method can be created. Stir the electrode gently during calibration and measurement. Avoid resting the electrode on the bottom or sides of the container.

Calibration notes: Probes are initially calibrated at the factory. However, regular calibration by the user is recommended for the best measurement accuracy. Additional or custom buffer sets along with the minimum number of calibration points can be selected in the Calibration Options. For a two point calibration, it is recommended that two buffers be selected that bracket the expected sample pH. For a one point calibration, select the buffer nearest to the expected sample pH. pH buffers can be used in any order. Use of buffers that are one to three pH units apart is recommended. The calibration is recorded in the electrode and the data log. The calibration is also sent to a PC, printer, or flash memory stick if connected.

Note: Procedures also apply for rugged model probes.

1. Connect the electrode to the meter.

2. In three separate beakers or appropriate containers, prepare fresh buffers of 4.0, 7.0 and 10.0 pH.

3. Select Calibrate. The screen will display the current calibration buffer set.

4. Rinse the electrode with distilled water. Place the electrode in a pH buffer and push Read. Stir gently. The display will show Stabilizing... and a progress bar as the electrode stabilizes in the standard.

5. The display will highlight the buffer that has been read and display the temperature corrected pH value. Rinse the electrode with deionized water and the next buffer and put it in the next buffer solution.

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6. Select Read.

7. Repeat steps 4 to 7 until the minimum number of calibration points specified in the pH method have been acquired.

8. When the minimum number of buffer points are collected, the display will show Done. Continue calibrating with the method specified calibration buffers (up to the maximum number specified in the pH method) until all have been used or select Done to review the calibration summary.

9. The display will show the calibration summary. Select Store to accept the calibration and return to the measurement mode.

Run check standard

The run check standard feature validates instrument performance between sample measurements. Use the run check standard feature for periodic or user-defined interval measurement of a traceable standard solution. Set the criteria for check standards from the Check Standards Options menu.
Note: Access control must be off or a valid password must be entered before any of the check standard method options can be changed.

1. Select Run Check Standard from the meter Options menu.

Note: Select the appropriate electrode If two electrodes are connected to the meter.

2. Obtain the pH buffer solution specified on the display. 3. Place the electrode in the buffer solution and select Read. The display will show Stabilizing... and a progress bar as the electrode stabilizes in the standard. The display shows the value of the check standard and either Check Standard Passed or Check Standard Failed. If the display shows Check Standard Passed, the check standard measurement is within the accepted limits defined by the administrative user. Select Done to proceed with sample measurement. If the display shows Check Standard Failed, the measurement is outside of the accepted limits defined by the administrative user and a recalibration is suggested. If the acceptance criteria is set to Cal Expires on Failure:Yes, the display will show the calibration icon and a question mark until the electrode is recalibrated. Calibrate the electrode to correct the electrode calibration and status indicator (Calibration on page 3).

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Measurement
Before measurement:
The electrode must have the correct service-life time stamp. Set the date and time in the meter before attaching the electrode. The electrode is factory calibrated and ready for initial use. For applications that require greater accuracy and precision, perform a user calibration (Calibration on page 3). Routine calibrations are required. Tighten the electrode locking nut securely when connecting the electrode to the meter. Use deionized water to rinse the electrode clean of any exterior salt deposits before measurement. Blot dry with a lint-free cloth. If complete traceability is required, enter a sample ID and operator ID before measurement. Never use this electrode with organic solvents or if the pH to be measured is lower than 2. For optimal response time, condition the electrode for several minutes in a solution comparable to the sample in terms of pH and ionic strength. Refer to Troubleshooting on page 11 for measurement errors. To deploy the rugged probe at a distance, toss the electrode with a gentle underhand throw. Do not swing the electrode by the cable as this may cause injury to the user, will cause severe strain on the cable, and will shorten the service life of the electrode. Damage under these conditions is not covered by the product warranty.

Measurement notes Data is automatically stored in the data log when Press to Read or Interval is selected in the Measurement Mode. When Continuous is selected, data will only be stored when STORE is selected.

Note: Procedures also apply for rugged model probes.

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1. Prepare the electrode for use ( Preparation for use on page 2).

2. Connect the electrode to the meter. Calibrate the probe if desired or necessary for the application (Calibration on page 3).

3. Rinse the electrode with deionized water and then with the sample. Place the electrode in the sample and stir gently. Select Read. The display will show Stabilizing and a progress bar as the electrode stabilizes in the sample. The display will then show the lock icon and the temperature compensated result will be automatically stored in the data log.

4. Rinse the electrode with deionized water and blot dry with a lint-free cloth.

5. Repeat steps 3 and 4 for additional measurements. When finished with measurement, rinse the sensor area, blot dry and store vertically in Hach Electrode Storage Solution or 3M KCl.

Maintenance
Short-term storage For optimal performance, the reference junction must not dry out. Store the electrode in the Hach Electrode Storage Solution or 3M potassium chloride (KCl) solution. The electrode can also be stored between uses for up to 2 hours in a sample (if the sample pH is not extreme). Long-term storage Rinse the electrode with deionized water. Dry the electrode with a lint-free cloth. Fill the electrode storage cap halfway with Hach Electrode Storage Solution or 3M potassium chloride (KCl) solution. Install the electrode storage cap.Make sure that the storage solution in the cap completely covers the glass bulb and reference junction holes.

Rugged probes may be stored with the shroud installed if the storage container is sufficiently large. Rugged probe maintenance The shroud protects the sensor elements during rugged applications. Damage to the sensing elements can occur if the shroud is not installed during field use. Damage under these conditions is not covered under warranty. Before a rugged probe can be cleaned, the shroud must be removed. Install the shroud after the probe is clean.

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To remove the shroud 1. Unscrew the locking ring. 2. Slide the shroud and locking ring off the probe. To install the shroud 1. Place the locking ring on the probe with the threads toward the glass bulb. 2. Slide the shroud on the probe until it is seated in the locking groove. 3. Firmly tighten the locking ring on the shroud. To clean the probe For general contaminants: Rinse the probe with deionized water and blot dry with a lint free cloth. Soak the glass bulb for 12 to 16 hours in Hach Electrode Cleaning Solution. Rinse or soak for 1 minute in deionized water. Soak the electrode in pH 4 buffer for up to 20 minutes, then rinse with deionized water. Blot dry with a lint-free cloth.

For fats, grease and oils: Immerse the glass bulb in a warm detergent solution for up to 2 hours. Rinse or soak for 1 minute in deionized water. Soak the electrode in pH 4 buffer for up to 20 minutes, then rinse with deionized water. Blot dry with a lint-free cloth.

Advanced operation
Parameter-specific settings can be changed through the Full Access Options menu. Details about menu navigation, available options and how to change them are given in the screens, tables and procedures throughout this section.

The settings that can be changed are shown in Table 1. Table 1 Parameter-specific settings
Setting Measurement options Options Resolution Upper and lower range limits (defines pH limits per method) Buffer set Buffer set values (if Custom Buffer Set selected) Calibration reminder Minimum Cal points Slope limit

Calibration options

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Table 1 Parameter-specific settings

Setting Options Standard (temperature compensated buffer or custom at 25 C) Check standard reminder Acceptance criteria Standard value (at 25 C if custom standard selected) pH mV

Check standard options

Units

Change measurement options Methods are groups of default or user defined settings relevant to specific applications. If the meter is set to the default method and the Modify Current Settings option is chosen, a prompt will display to name the method after changes are entered. The settings are saved with this name to distinguish them from the default method settings, which cannot be changed. A saved method can be used instead of repeatedly adjusting individual settings. Changes made to a user defined method are automatically saved with the existing name. Multiple methods can be saved for the same probe.

1. Make sure an electrode is connected to the meter. 2. Push the METER OPTIONS key and select (Probe Model) Settings. 3. Select Modify Current Settings. 4. Select Units to change the units to pH (default) or to mV.
Note: The mV option can be used to find the electrode offset in a pH 7 buffer or to measure the slope. Both units are shown when the detail display mode is selected.

5. Select Measurement Options. 6. Update the settings. Refer to Table 2. Table 2 Measurement options settings
Setting Options 0.1 pHFast 0.01 pHFast 0.01 pHMedium (default) 0.01 pHSlow 0.001 pHSlow Description The resolution affects the number of decimal places and the stabilization time. Higher resolution measurements take more time to stabilize. The measurement limits can be set to match the acceptable values for the sample.When the measurement is above the upper limit setting or below the lower limit setting, the meter will show an "Out of limits" message. This message is an alert to a potential problem with process conditions.

Resolution

Measurement limits

Lower limit (default: 2.00) Upper limit (default: 14.00 pH)

7. If prompted, enter a name for the new method settings. Additional changes made to the settings of an existing method are automatically saved with the same method name. 8. Push EXIT until the meter returns to the measurement mode. 8 DOC272.53.80023

Change calibration options

1. Make sure an electrode is connected to the meter. 2. Push the METER OPTIONS key and select (PHC101) Settings. 3. Select Modify Current Settings. 4. Select Calibration Options. 5. Update the settings. Refer to Table 3.

Table 3 Calibration options settings

Settings Option Color Coded - 4.01, 7.00, 10.01 IUPAC - 4.01, 7.00, 10.01, 12.45 DIN - 4.65, 9.23 IUPAC - 4.01, 6.86, 10.01, 12.45 IUPAC - 4.01, 6.86, 9.18, 12.45 IUPAC - 4.01, 7.00, 9.18, 12.45 Custom Buffer Set (refer to Table 4) Note: Only the minimum cal points must be satisfied for the DONE key to appear on the calibration screen. Description Buffer sets used for calibration that are temperature compensated for calibration. Buffer set values will appear on Calibration Options screen. Custom buffer sets are characterized at 25 C. A custom buffer can also be chosen by selecting Custom Buffer. The meter can be set to make an audible sound when calibration is due. Calibration expires after a specified time. Note: The meter cannot be used to read samples after calibration has expired unless Continue Reading is selected. Number of minimum calibration points required before calibration can be completed. Slope must fall within set limits for successful calibration. A narrow tolerance gives a more accurate calibration.

Buffer set

Calibration reminder

Reminder repeat: Off, 2 h, 4 h, 8 h, 2 d, 5 d, 7d Expires: Immediately, Reminder + 30 min, Reminder + 1 hr, Reminder + 2 hr, Continue Reading

Minimum cal points

Minimum calibration points: 1, 2 or 3

Slope limit

Range: 1% to 10% (acceptable calibration slope criteria)

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Table 4 Custom buffer set

Buffer set values Option 4.65pH - 25 C 6.86pH - 25 C 7.00pH - 25 C 4.65pH - 25 C Std1 Std2 Std3 Std4 Std5 9.18pH - 25 C 9.23pH - 25 C 10.01pH - 25 C 12.45pH - 25 C Custom buffer value. Range = 2.000pH to 14.000pH. Custom buffer values are not temperature compensated. Custom buffers should be read at 25 C. Standard is undefined when this option is selected. Pre-set temperature compensated buffer values. Note: Selected standards must differ by a minimum of 2 pH units. For example, if 4.65 pH is chosen for the first standard, the second standard must differ by at least 2 pH. Standards that do not meet this minimum will appear gray on the screen and will not be selectable. Description

Custom Buffer

No Buffer

6. Additional changes made to the settings of an existing method are automatically saved with the same method name. 7. Push EXIT until the meter returns to the measurement mode.

Change check standard options

1. Make sure an electrode is connected to the meter. 2. Push the METER OPTIONS key and select (PHC101) Settings. 3. Select Modify Current Settings. 4. Select Calibration Options. 5. Update the settings. Refer to Table 5.

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Table 5 Check standard options settings

Settings Options 4.01pH - 25 C 4.65pH - 25 C 6.86pH - 25 C 7.00pH - 25 C 9.18pH - 25 C 9.23pH - 25 C 10.01pH - 25 C 12.45pH - 25 C Description

Temperature compensated buffer value for check standard.

STANDARD

Custom

Buffer value for check standard. Standard value will appear on Check Standard Options screen. No temperature compensation for custom buffers. Turn reminder on or off Allow Deferment of check standard reminders Set tolerance limits for check standard. Recalibration required if check standard fails For custom check standard only

CHECK STANDARD REMINDER

Reminder: On or Off Allow Defer:Yes or No Acceptance Limits: 0.000pH Cal Expires on Failure:Yes or No Enter standard value using up/down arrow keys

Acceptance Criteria

Standard value

6. If prompted, enter a name for the new method settings. Additional changes made to the settings of an existing method are automatically saved with the same method name. 7. Push EXIT until the meter returns to the measurement mode.

Troubleshooting
Message or symptom Possible cause Action Update the HQd software to the newest revision at www.hach.com/SoftwareDownloads. Refer to the HQd Series Meter Manual. Contact a Hach Technical Support Representative. Disconnect, then connect the electrode. Tighten the locking nut. Update the HQd software to the newest revision at www.hach.com/SoftwareDownloads. Verify connectivity with another electrode or meter to confirm isolated issue with the electrode. Contact a Hach Technical Representative. Continue to let probe connect. Do not disconnect probe. Refer to the HQd Series Meter manual. Remove the tape. Remove storage cap. Use fresh buffer solution as specified in the method.

Software not updated Probe not supported HQd meter does not support IntelliCAL probe. Electrode not connected properly Software not updated Damaged electrode Large number of methods stored on probe. Standard not recognized error Tape not removed from the reference junctions Storage cap not removed. Incorrect or contaminated buffer solution

Connect a probe or Probe requires service

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Troubleshooting (continued)
Message or symptom pH reading and/or mV reading is same for all solutions Possible cause Tape not removed from the reference junctions Storage cap not removed Electrical issue Tape not removed from the reference junctions Contaminated glass sensor Slow response time Electrode not prepared for sample Low sample temperature or temperature difference between samples. Contaminated glass sensor CO2 absorption (For Low Ionic Strength or High Purity sample) Air bubbles around innter reference electrode Action

Remove the tape. Remove the storage cap. Contact a Hach Technical Support Representative. Remove the tape. Clean the electrode. For optimum response time, soak the electrode in sample for 10 to 15 minutes prior to sample measurement. Check the sample temperature. The lower the temperature or the greater the difference of temperatures between samples, traditionally the longer the response time. Clean the electrode. Use the LIS chamber for LIS/high purity samples to prevent sample contamination Rinse reference junction holes with deionized water thoroughly and gently tap the electrode with hand or shake the electrode down to remove any air bubbles. Clean or condition the electrode and attempt recalibration.The electrode may not function correctly if the electrode has been left dry for extended periods of time. Attempt to recondition the glass sensor and reference junctions: 1) Soak the electrode tip in the 4.01, 7.00 and 10.01 buffers each for 5 minutes. 2) Repeat an additional 2x for each buffer. 3) Soak the electrode tip in a 3.0 M KCl storage solution for 1-2 hours. Rinse with deionized water prior to use. Avoid testing in areas where EMF is present. For testing in process units (i.e. spot checking), make sure the equipment is grounded. Verify that the sample is within the range of the electrode. Verify that the sample temperature is within the range of the probe using an external thermometer. Verify that the temperature sensor is working correctly using an external thermometer. Verify that the standard temperature is within the range of the electrode. Verify that the temperature sensor is working correctly. Verify that the Check Standard temperature is within the range of the probe. Verify that the sample is within the limits of the current method. Create a new method with expanded limits. Verify that the check standard is within the limits of the current method. Create another method that expands the acceptable limits. Recalibrate using freshly prepared pH buffers. Clean the electrode and recalibrate.

Drifting/Inaccurate readings

Improper storage conditions (discolored, contaminated gel or dried out gel).

Electromagnetic Forces (EMF) such as voltaic cells, thermoelectric devices, eletrical generators, resistors and transformers. Out of range Measurement value is outside of range

Temperature value is outside of range Temperature out of range

Measured pH buffer temperature is outside range of the electrode Check standard temperature value is outside of range Measurement value is outside of measurement limits set in the current method

Out of limits Check standard value is outside of limits set in the current method Slope exceeds the criteria for % of theoretical (as defined in the method slope limit)

Slope out of range

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Parts
Description IntelliCAL pH gel electrode, standard, 1 m cable IntelliCAL pH gel electrode, standard, 3 m cable IntelliCAL pH gel electrode, rugged, 5 m cable IntelliCAL pH gel electrode, rugged, 10 m cable IntelliCAL pH gel electrode, rugged, 15 m cable IntelliCAL pH gel electrode, rugged, 30 m cable Quantity 1 1 1 1 1 1 Item Number PHC10101 PHC10103 PHC10105 PHC10110 PHC10115 PHC10130

Accessories
Description Citizen PD-24 USB handy printer, 120-220 VAC Color coded probe clips (5 color coded sets) Low Ionic Strength (LIS) chamber Meter stand Printer paper for PD-24, thermal Protective glove kit for HQd meters Protective glove, meter USB and AC power adapter for HQd meters (included w/HQ40d) USB keyboard for HQd meters (must have 5826300) Rugged electrode accessories Probe depth marker (rugged cable markers) Rugged field case for 2 probes with up to 5 m cables (10 m total) Includes: Empty case and insert for meter and probe storage, (4) containers for sample collection Rugged field case for three probes with up to 5 m cables (15 m total) Includes same accessories as case 8505500. Rugged field case for probes with > 5 meter cables (30 m total) Includes: Empty case and insert for meter and two probe storage cavities, space for storage of HQd meter with protective glove Standard electrode accessories Field kit (Includes glove kit and 5 120 mL sample cups) Probe holder for HQd meter (IntelliCAL standard models only) IntelliCAL probe stand (for standard conductivity cell) 1 1 1 5825800 5829400 8506600 1 1 5828610 8505500 Quantity 1 10/pkg 1 1 5/pk 1 1 1 1 Item Number 2960100 5818400 5189900 4754900 5836000 5828700 5828700 5826300 LZV582

8505501

8505600

Consumables
Description Electrode cleaning solution Electrode storage cap Electrode storage cap lid Quantity 500 mL 5/pkg 1 Item Number 2965249 5857305 5829800

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Consumables (continued)
Description Hach electrode storage solution Color-coded pH standards (buffers) pH 4.01 0.02 at 25 C, 500 mL pH 7.00 0.02 at 25 C, 500 mL pH 10.01 0.02 at 25 C, 500 mL pH 4.01 0.02 at 25 C, 4 L pH 7.00 0.02 at 25 C, 4 L pH 10.01 0.02 at 25 C, 4 L pH 4.01 0.02 at 25 C, 20 L pH 7.00 0.02 at 25 C, 20 L pH 10.01 0.02 at 25 C, 20 L IUPAC series certified pH standards (buffers)1 pH 4.005 0.010 at 25 C, 500 mL pH 7.000 (Radiometer Analytical) 0.010 at 25 C, 500 mL pH 10.012 0.010 at 25 C, 500 mL pH 6.865 0.010 at 25 C, 500 mL pH 9.180 0.010 at 25 C, 500 mL pH 12.45 0.05 at 25 C, 500 mL Technical grade pH standards (buffers) pH 4.65 at 25 C, 500 mL pH 9.23 at 25 C, 500 mL
1 Certified

Quantity 1

Item Number 2756549

1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

2283449 2283549 2283649 2283456 2283556 2283656 2283461 2283561 2283661

1 1 1 1 1 1

S11M002 S11M004 S11M007 S11M003 S11M006 S11M008

1 1

S11M010 S11M011

standards ship with certificates for traceability to Standard Reference Materials

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Edition 1, May 2009

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