Solenoid Kit
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Peridoser Kit
English
Instruction Manual
Version P1.3 : 151012
©copyright 2011, all rights reserved, Bluelab Corporation Limited
Bluelab Dosetronic Kit
Congratulations on purchasing the Bluelab
Peridoser Dosetronic kit.
The Bluelab Dosetronic® offers growers a simple solution
for automatic dosing. Simply program the controller for
the conductivity, temperature and pH values that you want
your system to run at, and then tailor the dosing intervals
to suit the size of your mixing tank. Simple!
By using high performance conductivity, temperature and
pH probes, the Bluelab Dosetronic will control the strength
of your re-circulating solution to a high level of accuracy.
When it detects that the conductivity, temperature or pH
levels have fallen outside of your pre-programmed set
points, it will automatically trigger the dosing of more
nutrient or pH adjustor until those levels have stabilised.
This means you can spend more time doing the things you
enjoy and less maintaining your system.
Bluelab Corporation Limited
Bluelab Dosetronic Peridoser Kit
The Dosetronic has proven itself in the hydroponic
market worldwide for over 20 years and has earned
itself an international reputation for excellence. This is
why so many commercial growers are using the Bluelab
Dosetronic to save time, money and improve their yield.
It is one of the most simple, robust and reliable controllers
in its class!
Version P1.3 : 151012
Contents
Quick Guide
1.1 Quick Guide 1
1.2 Dosetronic Kit Contents 2
1.3 System Overview 3
1.4 Dosetronic Control Panel 4
1.5 Dosetronic Connection Panel 5
Dosetronic System Installation and Wiring 7
2.1 Overview 7
2.2 Nutrient Tank Set-up 7
2.3 Stock Solution Location 8
2.4 Dosing System Set-up 8
2.5 Mount Dosetronic Control Case 9
2.6 Wall Mount Sample Pot 10
2.7 Probe connection and placement 11
2.8 Temperature Adjustment 12
2.9 Heater/Cooler setup 13
2.10 Mount Alarm Box 13
2.11 Alarm Box Internal Overview 14
2.12 Wiring Alarm and External Lockout 15
2.13 Main Power 16
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Version P1.3 : 151012
Bluelab Dosetronic Peridoser Kit
Contents
Display Setup 17
3.1 Overview 17
3.2 Monitor only 18
3.3 Units 19
3.4 Control Direction 20
3.5 Required / Alarms 21
3.6 On Times 23
3.7 Off Times 24
3.8 Calibrate 25
3.9 pH Calibration 25
3.10 Conductivity Calibration 26
3.11 Control Function 27
Bluelab Corporation Limited
Bluelab Dosetronic Peridoser Kit
Preparing System to Run 29
4.1 Prepare the Dosetronic system to run 30
4.2 Manual override control 30
Maintenance 31
5.1 Conductivity probe cleaning 31
5.2 pH probe maintenance 32
Trouble shooting 33
6.1 Overview 33
6.2 Error messages 33
6.3 Error FAQ 34
Speci cations 35
Lockout Switches 37
2 year Guarantee Registration Form 39
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Bluelab Corporation LimitedBluelab Corporation Limited
1.1 Quick Guide
This page shows a quick guide
to setting up the Dosetronic in
monitor mode. It serves as a quick
way to check that the controller is
operational.
1. Prior to mounting, attach
the Temperature, pH and
Conductivity probe to
Dosetronic unit.
2. Plug in power adaptor.
3. Place probes in solution.
4. Wait a few minutes for readings
to stabilise.
5
Monitor mode
1
2.4
2.7
2.1
28
5.65.6
5.9
2.4
2.1
Menu change
Temperature probe
2
WaterAir
pH probe
Power adaptor
2
3
2
Conductivity probe
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1.2 Dosetronic Kit Contents
Acid Hose (5m/16 ½ft)
13mm braided hose
(10m/33 ft)
Tes tin g
Solutions for
probe care and
maintenance
Alarm and
external
lockout box
3 x 20mm/¾”
flushing ball
valves
Temperature in &
out power cables
(country specific)
Dosetronic controller
and Power Supply
Sample Board
Bluelab Triple
Peridoser™
(nutrient & pH)
15cc syringe
of Tube
Lubricating
Gel
Bluelab Dosetronic Peridoser Kit
Bluelab Dosetronic® Peridoser kit
Controller
Power Supply
Temperature Power in and Power out cables
(country specific)
pH probe with ATC
conductivity probe
temperature probe
Triple Peridoser and cable connection
pH and conductivity probe maintenance kit
Sample board
Fittings kit
Instruction manual
Alarm & external lockout box
5 x 13mm/½”
acid elbows
3 x 19mm/¾”
tank fittings”
Instruction
Manual
Temperature
Probe
3 x 19mm/¾”
to 13mm/½”
nut & tail
Conductivity
Probe
4 x 13mm/½”
joiners
Bluelab pH
probe with ATC
10 x
13mm/½”
elbows
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Tank
1
1.3 System Overview
It is useful to plan where the
labelled components will be
situated before beginning
installation of the system.
Generally the components
are installed in this order.
pH Probe
Conductivity Probe
Sample
Pot
Temperature
probe
4
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Ambient
Air Temperature
Alarm
Power
Heater / Cooler
Peridoser
3
Flushing ball
To Crop
Crop
Return
Valves
T Fitting
Pump
Main Nutrient
Main Nutrient
Tank
1
Float Valve
Nutrient A Nutrient B
Stock Solutions
pH
* Setup shows temperature probe immersed in solution.
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1.4 Dosetronic Control Panel
Actual readings
Bluelab Corporation Limited
Required readings
Controller settings
Measurement
Selection
Conductivity
Temperature
pH
Control direction
1.2
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6.5
1.3
16
6.8
Units
Mode selection
keys
Bluelab Dosetronic Peridoser Kit
pH calibration
indicators
Automatic
Temperature
Compensation
pH ATC
Display brightness
increase/decrease
Value
Alarm &
Alarm indicator
External lockout
indicator
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Power
pH
Dosing system
TemperatureConductivity
pH ATC
Alarm
Power Input
DC INPUT: 5V --- 3A
Temperature
Power Out
Temperature
Power In
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1.5 Dosetronic Connection Panel
Temperature
control
power In
Temperature
control
power out
Note: When inserting connecter,
rotate to ensure it mates correctly.
Do not force it or you may bend/
damage pins. Fasten locking ring if
applicable.
Alarm & external
lockout box
Temperature Probe
pH ATC
pH Probe
Conductivity Probe
Peridoser
Main power
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Bluelab Dosetronic Peridoser Kit
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Ta
Dosetronic System Installation and Wiring
2.1 Overview
To effectively set up the Dosetronic system you
must plan for where all the components of the
system will be placed. It will be helpful to refer
to the larger picture of the System overview on
page 3.
This section highlights the steps in chronological
order you need to take for installation of the
Dosetronic kit.
Bluelab Corporation LimitedBluelab Corporation Limited
pH Probe
Temperature
probe
Sample
Pot
Conductivity Probe
To Crop
Flushing ball
Valves
Crop
Return
T Fitting
Pump
Nutrient A
Nutrient B
pH Lower
Please read through this section and create a
rough system layout before installation.
2.2 Nutrient Tank Set-up
The nutrient tank requires a constant water level,
water level regulators such as a plastic ball cock
or fl oat switch are recommended.
Main Nutrient
n Nutrient
Tank
nk
Float Valve
For large tanks mixing and/or aeration systems
are required. If there is no mixing system in
smaller tanks, stock solutions should be fed in
where the crop return and fresh water enter the
tank.
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2.3 Stock Solution Location
The stock solution tanks need to be within close proximity
to your main nutrient mixing tank. This allows the
peridoser to give a consistent dose.
Align stock tanks near nutrient mixing tank.
2.4 Dosing System Set-up
The Peridoser doses an even amount of nutrient to your
tank at defi ned intervals. These intervals are set in the
off times and on times found in the mode menu. The
instructions for this are on page 23 and 24.
1. Attach supplied braided hose onto the left hand side
of Peridoser nozzles and feed hose into allocated stock
tanks. Use acid resistant hose for pH solutions.
Note: To prevent fl oating, ensure hose is secured to the
bottom of the tanks.
2. Attach tubing onto the right hand side of each
Peridoser nozzle. Set them up so they drop into the
nutrient mixing tank.
To ensure even dosing, all hoses need to be
the same length.
The stock solutions must drop into nutrient
tank, this stops a syphon action from
occurring. To avoid precipitation, A and B
nutrient must not mix until after they enter the
tank.
Peridoser
To prevent acid damage
on your acid piping and
fi ttings, dilute your acid
solution to 10% or less.
Bluelab Dosetronic Peridoser Kit
NOTE: Do not plug Peridoser into power until you have
programmed the Dosetronic Controller.
The nutrient and pH stock solutions must enter the
nutrient tank in a location where there is good mixing.
Nutrient
A
B
pHNutrient
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2.5 Mount Dosetronic Control Case
The Dosetronic has an indoor, splash-proof case and
should be installed in a pump room or shed. It is
designed for use with a sample pot that is fi lled with
water from the nutrient mixing tank.
Conductivity, temperature and pH measurement probes
that connect to the Dosetronic are placed inside it,
therefore the Dosetronic needs to be installed close to
the sample pot to enable the probes to reach.
Steps
1. Locate area
Find appropriate fl at vertical
surface to mount Doestronic
controller.
Avoid mounting near electrical
mains and other
powered devices
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Keep Dosetronic out of
direct sunlight
The Dosetronic controller
cables need to be within
reach of the Peridoser,
sample pot and power outlet.
2. Secure Controller
Secure Dosetronic to the
wall with the self tapping
fasteners provided.
Mount electronic equipment such as
the Dosetronic above the sample
pot. This is because some water may
escape when the conductivity probe is
cleaned.
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Bluelab Corporation Limited
2.6 Wall Mount Sample Pot
Steps
1. Fix sample pot in position
Select a position on the wall that is near
the nutrient tank pump and where all
probe cables from the Dosetronic can
reach.
2. Fit Inlet Piping
Fit a “T” junction to pipes feeding the crop
and connect supplied fl ushing ball valve.
3. Fit Outlet Piping
Connect piping to the outlet of the sample
pot and fi x into a position where it can fl ow
back into the nutrient tank.
4. Flush out plastic (swarf) and residue
Open sample pot inlet valve, allow sample
pot to fi ll and then close the valve and
allow it to drain as much as possible.
5. Adjust inlet valve
Remove lid of sample pot. Adjust fl ushing
ball valve until the water inside the sample
pot can fl ow through the outlet pipe back
to the tank.
If the Dosetronic is being installed
into a system that is already
operating, it is an option that you
could use a submersible aquarium
pump to pump water from the
nutrient tank to the sample pot.
Conductivity
pH
Pipes feeding crop
Temperature
To crop nutrient tank
Corner
mounting screws
Bluelab Dosetronic Peridoser Kit
Flushing Ball Valve
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t
T
Powe
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T
Out
DC INPUT: 5V --- 3A
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Bluelab Corporation LimitedBluelab Corporation Limited
2.7 Probe connection and placement
pH ATC
pH and pH ATC
The pH probe provided has automatic
temperature compensation (ATC). It
connects to two separate sockets. The
sockets are labelled are pH and pH ATC.
Together they provide a temperature
compensated reading that is more
accurate than a standard pH probe.
Note: A standard pH probe with a BNC plug can
be used on its own with the Dosetronic but pH
readings will not be temperature compensated.
Conductivity Probe
This socket connects to the conductivity
probe that attaches to a “T” fi tting coming
off the inlet pipe on the sample pot.
Temperature Probe
This socket connects to the temperature
probe that can read air temperature or be
submerged in the sample pot to read the
solution temperature.
Temperature
Conductivity
Conductivity
pH
Temperature
pH
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Whiore Av
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T
emperature
emperature
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Power
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Tauran
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Power Inpu
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Bluelab Dosetronic Peridoser Kit
Power
pH
Dosing system
TemperatureConductivity
pH ATC
Alarm
Power Input
DC INPUT: 5V --- 3A
Temperature
Power Out
Temperature
Power In
2
2.8 Heater/Cooler Setup
The Dosetronic can control either air or water
temperature via an external heater/cooler.
These sockets allow the Dosetronic to switch
the heater or cooler on and off.
The heater/cooler works at defi ned intervals.
These intervals can be programmed in the
“On” and “Off Times” found in the Mode
menu. Instructions for this can be found on
page 23 and 24.
Note: Do not connect the “Temperature
Power In” to power source until you have
programmed the Dosetronic Controller.
Temperature
Power In
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Temperature
Power Out
Bluelab Dosetronic Peridoser Kit
Temperature Power In
This socket provides external power for the
heater or cooler.
Temperature Power Out
This socket is where you plug in a heater or
cooler.
Temperature
Power In
Note: You must place temperature probe in what you are controlling
Or
Temperature
Power Out
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Bluelab Corporation LimitedBluelab Corporation Limited
Power
pH
Dosing system
TemperatureConductivity
pH ATC
Alarm
Power Input
DC INPUT: 5V --- 3A
Temperature
Power Out
Temperature
Power In
2
2.9 External Alarm and Lockout Box
The alarm box has three functions:
1. It has an Internal alarm that sounds when a
designated alarm setting has been breached. This
feature can be enabled/disabled manually by opening
up the alarm casing and moving the link (see diagram
on next page)
2. It can also be connected to an alternative external
alarm e.g. a horn or fl ashing light. This can be done
through the external alarm wiring terminals provided
(see diagram on next page).
3. It has an External Lockout function. When an
external lockout function is sensed in control mode
(e.g through a water fl ow switch) the Dosetronic will
stop all control and dosing. The external lockout
terminal can be accessed on
the circuit board found inside
the alarm box
(See diagram on next page).
Alarm Box
Note: If no functions provided by the
Alarm Box are required, it does not need
to be installed/connected.
Mounting points
2.10 Mount external Alarm
Box
1. Locate appropriate area on the
wall for the Alarm box.
2. Secure box to wall with self
tapping screws provided.
External Alarm
External Lockout
Sensor
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Bluelab Corporation Limited
2.11 Alarm Box Internal Overview
Internal alarm
DIS / ENA
*
EXT
ALARM
COM
NC
LOCKOUT
NO
Disable / Enable link
for internal alarm
External alarm
terminals
Factory installed link is across
NC (normally closed) terminals.
Remove when installing any NC
switches.
Common
Normally closed
Normally open
External
lockout
terminals
Bluelab Dosetronic Peridoser Kit
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Bluelab Corporation LimitedBluelab Corporation Limited
2
2.12 Wiring Alarm and External Lockout
External alarm
To connect an external alarm to your system, put a
wire on each side of the closing contacts marked EXT
ALARM.
Note: The external alarm needs to have an
independent power source.
External lockout
To enable the external lockout function on the
Dosetronic, a switch needs to be connected to the
external lockout wiring terminal on the alarm circuit
board (see diagram on page 14). There are two
types of switches that can be wired in: those that are
normally open and those that are normally closed.
We Supply
Refer to specifi cations for
maximum power rating
Common
Normally Closed
Normally Open
You Supply
- +
EXT ALARM
For example: If you connect a fl ow switch (that opens
when water stops fl owing) to the normally closed port,
the external lockout function will sense that the water
has stopped and stop your system from dosing.
Note: You can have both NC and NO combinations connected
COM
Connect multiple normally
closed switches in series
NC
NO
COM
NC
Series
Connect multiple normally
open switches in parallel
NO
Parallel
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Bluelab Dosetronic Peridoser Kit
Bluelab Corporation Limited
Power
pH
Dosing system
TemperatureConductivity
pH ATC
Alarm
Power Input
DC INPUT: 5V --- 3A
Temperature
Power Out
Temperature
Power In
2
Main Power
2.13 Main Power
Once you have set up your system, connect it to the
power supply. The following chapter will explain how to
program your controller.
1. Connect the mains plug adaptor to the power
supply. Ensure it is pushed fully on and locked
into place.
Bluelab Dosetronic Peridoser Kit
Push fi rmly in
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Bluelab Corporation LimitedBluelab Corporation Limited
Display Setup
Mode selection menu
3.1 Overview
Controller modes
Can be selected using the direction
keys in the mode selection menu.
Measurement selection
There are three measurements:
conductivity, temperature and pH.
These can be selected using the
measurement selection arrow keys.
Value increase/decrease
Value adjustments can be made
by the increase/decrease buttons
when in the appropriate mode.
Measurement selection arrow keys
1.2
18
6.5
1.3
16
6.8
Value
increase/decrease
keys
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3.2 Monitor only mode
Monitor mode shows only the readings
from your conductivity, temperature and
pH probes. No control action
occurs.
Press mode up and down keys to select.
Alarm Function
To turn the alarm on or off press this
key. If it is activated the indicator next to
the button will be lit. It can be changed
during any mode.
Bluelab Corporation Limited
2.7
23
6.3
Bluelab Dosetronic Peridoser Kit
Brightness Control
1. Press and hold down the
brightness button.
2. Adjust brightness using
increase/decrease buttons.
This can be done at any time.
8.8.8.8.
br 8
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External lockout
This indicator is lit whenever a
“lockout” condition is sensed through
the alarm box. If sensed, all control
activity will be stopped. If the alarm
box is plugged in and sensors
connected (see Page 13 & 15).
2
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3.3 Units mode
1. Select units
Press up and down keys to
select mode.
2. Select desired
measurement to change by
pressing its arrow key.
3. Switch between units
Use the value increase/
decrease keys to switch
to your desired units of
measurement.
Note: The EC/CF indicator
has two units for one
LED. To change between
the two, press the value
key twice. The difference
between the two is that EC
has a decimal place, where
CF does not.
2
2.7
23
3
Units
EC/CF
indicator
1
Note: pH has no selectable units
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Bluelab Corporation Limited
3.4 Control direction mode
Control direction lets you specify
in what direction you want the
Dosetronic to adjust your system.
1. Select control direction
Press up and down keys to select
mode.
2. Select desired measurement to
change by pressing its arrow key.
3. Switch between units
Use the value increase/decrease
keys to change your control direction.
23
6.3
Control direction
Off
1
Mode
selection
keys
Bluelab Dosetronic Peridoser Kit
Measurement
selection keys
Conductivity: Raise only or off
Temperature: Raise or lower or off
pH: Raise or lower or off
2
3
Value increase/decrease
keys
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Ala
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Ala
o
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Bluelab Corporation LimitedBluelab Corporation Limited
Please record
your values
here for future
reference.
Nutrient
Alarm High
Required
Alarm Low
Temperature
Alarm High
Start Stop
Alarm Low
3.5 Required / Alarms mode
Required/Alarms lets you set the values
you require the Dosetronic to maintain.
It also lets you set a high alarm and
a low alarm value so the system can
notify you if these are exceeded.
1. Select required/alarms
Press up and down keys to select mode.
2. Select measurement to change
To edit values press the appropriate
measurement button and press the same
button again to toggle between settings
for this measurement.
Note: See following page for how to set
the temperature values.
3. Edit alarm and required values
Use the value increase/decrease buttons
to change the value you have selected.
Alarm Hi
r
H
Required
q
ire
Alarm Low
r
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Alarm “Quick-set”
2
AL.H1
rd
AL.LO
Note: Selected value will
be brighter than other
values displayed.
2.12.1
1.5
0.8
3
Alarm Low
1
Alarm Hi
pH
Alarm High
Required
Alarm Low
Note: If the values you are
changing in required reach that
of Alarm High or Alarm Low
they will “bump” these values
so they don’t overlap.
This allows you to quickly
set the “alarm HIGH” and
“alarm LOW” values for all
of the three measurements.
The alarm values are taken
from the actual readings.
The table below shows the
values that are present when
“quick-set” is used.
Conductivity
Temperature
pH
Actual value -2 CF / 0.2 EC
100 TDS
140 ppm
Actual value -3°C / 5°F
Actual value --
Actual value +
2 CF / 0.2 EC
100 TDS
140 ppm
Actual value +
3°C / 5°F
Actual value +
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Temperature Required /
Alarms
Bluelab Corporation Limited
Temperature control works slightly
different from conductivity and pH.
This is because temperature is hard
to maintain constantly. For example
if you are heating your greenhouse
the “temperature on” value will turn
on the heater and “temperature off”
will turn the heater off when these
temperature values are sensed.
Temperature Control O
If using a
Temperature Raise / Heating Device
Temperature Control On
Alarm High
Temperature on
Alarm Low
26°C
24°C
AL.H1
AL.LO
30
2624 26
Temperature off
22
Note:
It is normal practice to set your temperature
on time to continuous. The following page
shows you how to do this. This allows
the heater/cooler to operate until the
temperature off value is reached.
Bluelab Dosetronic Peridoser Kit
If using a
Temperature Lower / Cooling Device
Temperature Control O
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Bluelab Corporation LimitedBluelab Corporation Limited
3.6 On Times
Please record
your values
here for future
reference.
Nutrient
On times
Temperature
On times
pH
On times
On times are how long you dose
for. Together with the “Off Times”
this allows the Dosetronic to make
small frequent changes to the
conductivity, pH and temperature
of your system.
Adjust on time so that 3+ doses
changes the actual value by 1 digit.
Adjust off time (following page) to a
little longer than the time it takes for
a dose to be mixed and the change
sensed by the probes.
1. Select On times
Press up and down keys to select
mode.
2. Select desired measurement and
value to change
To programme On Times select the
appropriate measurement.
Note: Selected value will be
brighter than other values
displayed.
3. Programme desired On Times
Press (or hold down) the value
increase/decrease buttons
to change the value you have
selected.
2
Note: Start with short on times and
adjust from there.
Note:
Continuous Mode
This allows you to set your nutrient pumps,
pH adjuster and/or heater/cooler to
work continuously until the values reach
the required reading. This is helpful for
temperature regulation when you want the
heater/cooler to start at one temperature
and run continuously until off temperature is
reached.
cont
OO.O1
OO.53
3
1
Programmable from 0-10 minutes
in one second steps.
cont
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3.7 O Times
Please record
your values
here for future
reference.
Nutrient
Off times
Temperature
Off times
pH
Off times
Off times are how long no dosing
will occur for. This gives your
system time to adjust/mix so
that the Dosetronic can measure
the changes it has made before
deciding if it needs to dose again.
1. Select Off Times
Press up and down keys to select
mode.
2. Select desired measurement
and value to change
To programme Off Times select
the appropriate measurement.
Note: The selected value will
be brighter than other values
displayed.
3. Programme desired Off Times
Press (or hold down) the value
increase/decrease buttons
to change the value you have
selected.
2
59.50
59.50
1
59.50
3
Programmable from 0 - 59 minutes and 59
seconds in ten second steps
Bluelab Dosetronic Peridoser Kit
Note: Start with long off times
and adjust from here
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3.8 Calibration
Calibration is an essential part
of maintaining your probes.
It ensures your readings are
accurate and needs to be done
regularly.
1. Select Calibrate
Press up and down keys to select
mode.
Bluelab Corporation LimitedBluelab Corporation Limited
pH
CAL
3.9 pH Calibration
1. Rinse pH probe in fresh water
and place probe in pH 7.0
calibration solution and wait for
reading to stabilise. Press and
hold the measurement arrow
key and wait for pH cal to be
displayed. If the indicator turns
green proceed to step 2.
2. Rinse pH probe in fresh water
and place probe in pH 4.0 or pH
10.0 calibration solution and wait
for reading to stabilise. Press
and hold the pH button.
If you get Err displayed check:
1) calibration solutions are correct
2) Probe is not damaged
3) Probe is connected correctly
If Err is still displayed then the probe needs replacing
2
Calibration Status
Using factory default calibration values.
pH 7 calibrated OK. Using factory default for
pH 4 and/or 10.
pH 7 & pH 4 calibrated OK.
Indicators fl ashing - 30 days have passed
since last full calibration. Calibration due.
7.0
= 7
pH probe evaluation
pH probes age over time. They should be
replaced at least once a year. Whenever you
calibrate your probe, an indicator will show the
health and tell you if you need to replace the
probe.
7
= 7
_ 7
Err
Excellent
OK
Poor
Replace
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3.10 Conductivity Calibration
Conductivity calibration is not generally
required. If you do notice that your
readings are not accurate, the fi rst thing
you should do is clean your probes.
If readings are still inaccurate the
conductivity probe can be calibrated using
a known nutrient solution of 2.77EC (see
chart for corresponding units)
1. Place conductivity probe in
conductivity standard solution.
2
2.3
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2. Calibrate Conductivity
Select Conductivity measurement.
3. Conductivity adjustment
Adjust until actual value is 2.8EC (or
chosen unit) by using
increase / decrease keys.
Solution
Value
Displayed
Value
3
Calibration Values
EC CF ppm 500 ppm 700
(TDS) (EC x 700)
2.77 27.7 1385 1939
2.8 28 1400 1960
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3.11 Control
Control mode monitors your
Actual readings and adjusts them
to the Required values you have
programmed in the Required/
alarms mode. It does this through
the dosing systems installed.
Note: It is advised that you go
through “Preparing system to
run” in the next chapter before
setting the system in control
mode.
1. Select Control
Press up and down keys to
select mode.
2. Controller will adjust nutrient,
pH and temperature levels
accordingly.
When the system is dosing and
the values are being adjusted
the control direction indicator
lights will fl ash.
Actual Required
0.1
18
18
6.5
1.3
16
6.8
Note: If an actual value is fl ashing
in control mode and your dosing
system is not dosing it may be
because the value is outside of
the control range. This can be
changed by manually increasing
your nutrient levels in the stock
tank. For more information see the
troubleshooting section.
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Preparing System to Run
Setting up the Dosetronic system involves setting the Control direction, Required values and On and Off times. These settings
can be edited by scrolling through the Mode menu on the Dosetronic Control panel. The steps for this are outlined in chapter 3.
4.1 Prepare the Dosetronic system to run.
Step 1. Flush out PVC shavings and glue residue
If your system has been installed it is important to fl ush out PVC shavings
(swarf) and any glue residue before growing commences. To do this fi ll your
nutrient tank and then fl ush all water from your system.
Step 2. Fill tanks A, B and pH with stock solutions.
Step 3. Manually prime tank
In order for the Dosetronic to adjust your main nutrient tank to your
programmed required values you need to manually prime the tank with nutrient.
By Raising the EC to above 0.1 the Dosetronic will be able to start dosing.
Dosing stops at 0.0 - 0.1EC to prevent dosing if the probe is out of solution.
(Instructions are on the following page)
Step 4. Check readings/settings
Make sure all your settings are working and that your readings are within your
required range by scrolling through the mode menu.
Step 5. Plug peridoser into mains power.
Outlined on page 10
Step 6. Plug heater/cooler into mains power.
Outlined on page 12
Note: The pH probe must be
kept wet at all times. Ensure the
nutrient probe is clean and the pH
probe calibrated before starting
this task.
Final Checklist
Nutrient tank set-up
Stock solution
Dosing system
Control case
Probe connections
Heater/Cooler
Alarm Box
Main Power
Units
Control direction
Off Times
On Times
pH calibration
Check dosing
Step 7. Complete checklist opposite.
Step 8. Select Control in mode menu. System should be running.
Monitor system regularly for 24 hours to check On & Off times are correct and
control is stable.
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4.2 Manual override Control
Manual control lets you dose or alter
temperature by holding down the
measurement you want to change and both
the mode selection keys.
1. Select monitor mode using the mode
selection keys.
2. Press and hold the measurement key you
want to change.
3. Press both mode keys (3+4) together and
release.
4. Continue to hold measurement key while
dosing and release key to stop.
2
1.2
18
18
6.5
1.3
16
6.8
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Maintenance
5.1 Conductivity probe cleaning
Over time, nutrient salts build up on the face of
the conductivity probe. This effects conductivity
readings so the face of the probe must to be cleaned
at least once a month.
1. Remove shroud by holding the body and pulling
away the shroud.
2. Using the Bluelab conductivity probe cleaner or an
unscented liquid scourer such as Jif or Soft Scrub
place one or two drops onto the probe face.
1 2
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33
3. Using a fi nger or Bluelab chamois, rub fi rmly and
vigorously to clean probe face.
4. Check that water forms an even fi lm across the
surface of the probe. If beading of water is present,
clean again. Beading indicates the presence of oil on
the probe surface. This effects readings.
5. Refi t the shroud and test in 27.7 CF/ 2.77 EC
solution. If reading is out it can be edited in
calibration mode. See page 26 for calibration
information. Always clean probe before calibrating.
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5.2 pH probe cleaning
Over time, nutrient salts build up on the glassware of the
pH probe when it is in the sample pot. This can effect pH
readings so cleaning once a month is important. ALWAYS
CLEAN PRIOR TO CALIBRATING
1. Rinse pH probe tip under fresh water.
Bluelab Corporation Limited
1 2
2. Fill a small container with clean water and add a small
amount of Bluelab pH probe cleaner or mild detergent
(dishwashing liquid).
3. Gently stir the pH probe tip in the mixture. Ensure that you
do not “knock” the probe on the side of the container as
this may cause damage to the probe. Rinse well under fresh
running water to remove all traces of detergent mixture.
4. Only if the probe tip requires removal of sediment, gently
brush around the glassware with a few drops of Bluelab pH
probe cleaner or mild detergent (dishwashing liquid) and a
soft toothbrush. DO NOT pull out or touch the wick.
5. Rinse well under fresh running water to remove all traces of
the detergent mixture.
6. Calibrate probe. See pH calibration on page 25
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Bluelab Corporation LimitedBluelab Corporation Limited
Trouble shooting
6.1 Overview
In general, if your actual readings are fl ashing there will be a problem with the measurement e.g ineffective control. If the required
reading is fl ashing then there will be a problem with the method of control e.g an actual value is outside one of the lockout values.
(see page 30 for more a detailed explanation)
Nutrient reading low Contaminated probe Clean Conductivity probe (see p.31)
pH reading inaccurate Contaminated probe Clean pH probe (see p.32). Replace probe if in doubt
Calibration has expired Calibrate pH probe (see p.25)
6.2 Error Messages
Err
----
Probe is disconnected or
sensor is damaged
EC or pH temperature is out of
range (0-50°C)
Ur
Or
Measurement is under range
Measurement is over range
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6.3 Error FAQ
Actual values
- The probe is out of water.
- The EC value of your solution is below 0.2.
- Your alarm is enabled, the value has met or exceeded
the alarm threshold.
- The system has noted ineffective control. The value
hasn’t changed by 2 steps in 15 cycles
(1 cycle = on and off times combined)
Problems
The alarm high/low (actual value) for one
measurement fl ashes, but does not seem to be
locking out the intended control (required value)
A control seems to be locked out - shouldn’t the
actual display fl ash for that measurement?
Required Values
- The value you have is outside the internal
Lockout values.
Solutions
For a measurement to act as a reason for locking
out another control, its control direction must be
set to raise or lower.
No: it is the required value that fl ashes if the
control is locked out. The actual display fl ashes if
the measurement is in error, or is in a state that
it could be a cause for a lockout (e.g ineffective
control, or alarm high.)
Bluelab Dosetronic Peridoser Kit
A conductivity or pH control locks itself out (its
required display is fl ashing). How do I know if the
cause was “ineffective control”?
Lockout due to ineffective control is where the
actual Conductivity or pH value does not move
two resolution steps in the required direction
after 15 on/off cycles. To solve this, change the
on and/or off time, so that the system sees a
change of one resolution step after 3 cycles.
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Speci cations
pH Conductivity Temperature
Medium measured
Displayable units
Range
Resolution
Accuracy
Temperature Compensation
Solution Solution Air or Solution
pH Scale
0.0 - 14.0 pH
0.1 pH
±0.1 pH
Yes Yes N/A
(If ATC pH probe is connected)
EC
CF
TDS (ECx500)
ppm (EC x700)
0.0 - 5.0 EC
0 - 50 CF
0 - 2500 TDS
0 - 3500 ppm
0.1 EC
1 CF
50 TDS
70 ppm
± 0.1 EC
± 1 CF
°C
°F
0 - 50 °C
32 - 122 °F
1 °C
1 °F
±1 °C
±1 °F
Calibration
One, Two or
Three point
Yes
Not Required
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Bluelab Dosetronic Peridoser Kit
Bluelab Corporation Limited
Bluelab Dosetronic Peridoser Kit
Switches numbered 1 - 24
Lockout Switches
All switches by default are shipped
switched on
Mains supply
Danger
Disconnect the
mains supply before
removing this cover
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Lockout Switches
Warning: Before opening the cover ensure mains power is removed.
The Dosetronic controller has a series of internal switches numbered from 1 - 24. These can be accessed by unscrewing the back
panel of the controller (See page 36). They have been preset to lockout (stop control for) temperature, pH and conductivity when
any alarm condition has been sensed. These switches can be turned on/off to set lockout behaviour for any alarm condition.
The new switch confi guration will not take effect until the controller has been restarted. This can be done by disconnecting then
reapplying power
For example if you wanted your heater/cooler to stop when the conductivity meets or exceeds the high alarm value you could turn
on switch number 9.
Alarms
Conductivity
Temperature
pH
Locks Out
Low
Alarm
High
Low
Alarm
High
Low
Alarm
High
To Stop
Conductivity
(Raise)
Switch on
2
3
3
4
5
6
7
To Stop
Temperature
(Heat & Cool)
Switch on
8
9
10
11
12
13
To Stop
pH
(Raise & Lower)
Switch on
14
15
16
18
19
20
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Thank you for choosing to buy a Bluelab Dosetronic®.
Please register your free 2 year guarantee.
To help us ensure you receive a prompt and effective service, please register your guarantee by
completing and returning the form to us, or you are welcome to register online.
Bluelab Corporation Limited
Go to
www.getbluelab.com
Bluelab Corporation Limited
8 Whiore Avenue
Tauriko Industrial Park
Tauranga 3110 New Zealand
Customer Care
Call the Bluelab Helpline
NZ: +64 7 578 0849
(Mon - Fri 8:00 to 5:30)
Bluelab Dosetronic Peridoser Kit
or visit the Bluelab website:
www.getbluelab.com
38
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For Future
Reference
Attach your
receipt
or proof of
purchase here
make a note
of your serial
number
Bluelab Dosetronic® details
Date of Purchase
Serial Number
Personal Details
Title
Telephone
E-mail
House/
Flat No.
Street
2 Year Guarantee Registration Form
Place of Purchase
Initial Surname
House/
Flat Name
Town
Postcode
Country
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