LaMotte SMART3 Colorimeter User Manual
OPERATOR’S
MANUAL
v3.0 and higher • Printed 2.11
2000-01-MN
CONTENTS
GENERAL INFORMATION
Packaging & Delivery .................................................................................... 4
General Precautions ...................................................................................... 4
Safety Precautions ........................................................................................ 4
Limits of Liability ............................................................................................ 5
Warranty ......................................................................................................... 5
Specifi cations ................................................................................................ 6
Statistical and Technical Defi nitions
Related to Product Specifi cations ................................................................ 6
Contents and Accessories ............................................................................. 8
EPA Compliance ............................................................................................ 8
CE Compliance .............................................................................................. 8
CHEMICAL TESTING
Water Sampling for Chemical Analysis ......................................................... 9
Filtration ....................................................................................................... 10
An Introduction to Colorimetric Analysis & Spectroscopy ......................... 11
Reagent Blank ............................................................................................. 12
Spectrophotometer Tubes ........................................................................... 12
Selecting an Appropriate Wavelength ........................................................ 12
Calibration Curves ....................................................................................... 13
Preparing Dilute Standard Solutions............................................................ 15
Standard Additions ...................................................................................... 15
Sample Dilution Techniques & Volumetric Measurements ......................... 16
Interferences ................................................................................................ 17
Stray Light Interference ............................................................................... 17
OPERATION OF THE SMART SPECTRO
SPECTROPHOTOMETER
Overview ...................................................................................................... 18
Power Supply ............................................................................................... 18
Components ................................................................................................ 19
Quick Start ................................................................................................... 20
GENERAL OPERATING PROCEDURES
The Keypad ................................................................................................. 22
Sample Holders ............................................................................................ 22
The Display & the Menus ............................................................................ 23
CALIBRATION
Calibrate Wavelength .................................................................................. 24
PROGRAMMED TESTS
Introduction ................................................................................................. 25
Sequences of Tests ..................................................................................... 26
General Testing Procedures ........................................................................ 27
Testing with the Programmed Tests ............................................................ 27
SETUP & EDIT SEQUENCES & USER TESTS
Edit a Sequence .......................................................................................... 30
Adding or Deleting Tests ............................................................................. 31
Edit User Tests ............................................................................................. 35
Naming the Test ................................................................................. 37
Selecting the Wavelength .................................................................. 39
Entering a New Calibration ................................................................ 40
Selecting the Numerical Format of the Result .................................. 43
MEASURING IN THE %T/ABS MODE
44
PC LINK
Output .......................................................................................................... 46
Computer Connection ................................................................................. 46
EDIT CLOCK 47
ENERGY MODE 48
STORE METHOD 49
TEST MODE 50
BATTERY OPERATION
Charging the Batteries ................................................................................ 51
Running the SMART Spectro Using Batteries ............................................ 51
MAINTENANCE
Cleaning ...................................................................................................... 52
Light Bulb .................................................................................................... 52
Clock Battery ............................................................................................... 52
Meter Disposal .............................................................................................. 53
TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE
Error Messages ........................................................................................... 54
Helpful Hints ................................................................................................ 55
SMART SPECTRO TEST PROCEDURES
APPENDIX
GENERAL INFORMATION
PACKAGING & DELIVERY
Experienced packaging personnel at LaMotte Company assure adequate
protection against normal hazards encountered in transportation of shipments.
After the product leaves the manufacturer, all responsibility for its safe delivery
is assured by the transportation company. Damage claims must be fi led
immediately with the transportation company to receive compensation for
damaged goods.
Should it be necessary to return the instrument for repair or servicing, pack
instrument carefully in suitable container with adequate packing material. A
return authorization number must be obtained from LaMotte Company by
calling 1-800-344-3100. Attach a letter with the authorization number to the
shipping carton which describes the kind of trouble experienced. This valuable
information will enable the service department to make the required repairs
more effi ciently.
GENERAL PRECAUTIONS
Before attempting to set up or operate this instrument it is important to read the
instruction manual. Failure to do so could result in personal injury or damage to
the equipment.
The SMART Spectro should not be stored or used in a wet or corrosive
environment. Care should be taken to prevent water or reagent chemicals from
wet spectrophotometer tubes from entering the SMART Spectro chamber.
NEVER PUT WET TUBES IN SPECTROPHOTOMETER.
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
Read the labels on all LaMotte reagent containers prior to use. Some containers
include precautionary notices and fi rst aid information. Certain reagents are
considered hazardous substances and are designated with a * in the instruction
manual. Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) available at www.lamotte.com.
Read the accompanying MSDS before using these reagents. Additional
emergency information for all LaMotte reagents is available 24 hours a day from
the Poison Control Center listed in the front of the phone book or by contacting
the 24 hour emergency line for ChemTel 1-800-255-3924 (USA, Canada,
Puerto Rico); locations outside the North American continent 813-248-0585.
Be prepared to supply the name and four-digit LaMotte code number found on
the container label or at the top of the MSDS or in the contents list for the test
procedure. LaMotte reagents are registered with a computerized poison control
information system available to all local poison control centers.
Keep equipment and reagent chemicals out of the reach of young children.
4 SMART Spectro Operator’s Manual 2.11
LIMITS OF LIABILITY
Under no circumstances shall LaMotte Company be liable for loss of life,
property, profi ts, or other damages incurred through the use or misuse of their
products.
WARRANTY
LaMotte Company warrants this instrument to be free of defects in parts
and workmanship for 2 years from the date of shipment. If it should become
necessary to return the instrument for service during or beyond the warranty
period, contact our Technical Service Department at 1-800-344-3100 for a
return authorization number or visit www.lamotte.com for troubleshooting help.
The sender is responsible for shipping charges, freight, insurance and proper
packaging to prevent damage in transit. This warranty does not apply to defects
resulting from action of the user such as misuse, improper wiring, operation
outside of specifi cation, improper maintenance or repair, or unauthorized
modifi cation. LaMotte Company specifi cally disclaims any implied warranties
or merchantability or fi tness for a specifi c purpose and will not be liable for any
direct, indirect, incidental or consequential damages. LaMotte Company’s total
liability is limited to repair or replacement of the product. The warranty set forth
above is inclusive and no other warranty, whether written or oral, is expressed or
implied.
SMART Spectro Operator’s Manual 2.11 5
SPECIFICATIONS
INSTRUMENT TYPE: Single beam spectrophotometer
Readout 5 line, 18 character per line LCD
Wavelengths 350-1000 nm
Wavelength Accuracy ± 2 nm
Wavelenth Resolution 1 nm
Wavelength Bandwidth 5 nm (max)
Photometric Range 0-125%T, –0.1-2.5A
Photometric Accuracy ± 0.005A
Photometric Stray Light <0.5%T
Dispersive Device 1200 Lines/mm ruled grating
Sample Chamber Accepts 25 mm diameter fl at-bottomed test tubes,
10 mm square cuvettes, 16 mm COD test tubes
Source Lamp Quartz halogen
Modes %/T, ABS, pre-programmed tests
Pre-Programmed Tests YES, with automatic wavelength selection
Languages English or Chinese
User Defi ned Tests Up to 25 user tests can be input
RS232 Port 8 pin mDIN
Power Requirements Battery Operation (optional): Ni-Metal Hydride
battery pack Line Operation: 110/220V, 50/60 Hz
Dimensions 36 cm (wide) x 28 cm (deep) x 17 cm (tall)
Weight 10.3 lbs, 4.65 kgs
STATISTICAL AND TECHNICAL DEFINITIONS
RELATED TO PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
Method Detection Limit (MDL): “The method detection limit (MDL) is defi ned as
the minimum concentration of a substance that can be measured and reported
with 99% confi dence that the analyte concentration is greater than zero and is
determined from analysis of a sample in a given matrix containing the analyte.”1
Note that, “As Dr. William Horwitz once stated, ‘In almost all cases when
dealing with a limit of detection or limit of determination, the primary purpose of
determining that limit is to stay away from it.’”
1. CFR 40, part 136, appendix B
2. Statistics in Analytical Chemistry: Part 7 – A Review, D. Coleman and
L Vanatta, American Laboratory, Sept 2003, P. 31.
6 SMART Spectro Operator’s Manual 2.11
2
Precision: Precision is the numerical agreement between two or more
measurements.3 The precision can be reported as a range for a measurement
(difference between the min and max). It can also be reported as the standard
deviation or the relative standard deviation. It is a measure of how close together
the measurements are, not how close they are to the correct or true value. The
precision can be very good and the accuracy very bad. This is a useful measure
of the performance of a test method.
3. Skoog, D.A., West, D. M., Fundamental of Analytical Chemistry, 2nd ed.,
Holt Rinehart and Winston, Inc, 1969, p. 26.
Accuracy: Accuracy is the nearness of a measurement to the accepted or true
value.4 The accuracy can be expressed as a range, about the true value, in
which a measurement occurs (i.e. ±0.5 ppm). It can also be expressed as the
% recovery of a know amount of analyte in a determination of the analyte (i.e.
103.5 %). This is a useful measure and what most customers are interested in
when they want to know about the performance of a test method.
4. Skoog D.A., West D. M., Fundamental of Analytical Chemistry, 2nd ed., Holt
Rinehart and Winston, Inc, 1969, p. 26.
Resolution: Resolution is the smallest discernible difference between any two
measurements that can be made.5 For meters this is usually how many decimal
places are displayed. (i.e. 0.01). For titrations and various comparators it is the
smallest interval the device is calibrated or marked to (i.e. 1 drop = 10 ppm,
0.2 ppm for a DRT, or ±half a unit difference for an octaslide or color chart).
Note that the resolution many change with concentration or range. In some
cases the resolution may be less than the smallest interval, if it is possible to
make a reading that falls between calibration marks. This is often done with
various comparators. One caveat is, that resolution has very little relationship
to accuracy or precision. The resolution will always be less than the accuracy
or precision but it is not a statistical measure of how well a method of analysis
works. The resolution can be very very good and the accuracy and precision
can be very, very bad! This is not a useful measure of the performance of a test
method.
5. Statistics in Analytical Chemistry: Part 7 – A Review, D. Coleman and
L Vanatta, American Laboratory, Sept 2003, P. 34.
Sensitivity: Sensitivity is the resolution based on how this term is used in
LaMotte catalogs. This term is not listed in any of the references. Sometimes it is
used for detection limit. It is a confusing term and should be avoided.
Repeatability: Repeatability is the within-run precision.6 A run is a single data
set, from set up to clean up. Generally, one run occurs on one day. However,
for meter calibrations, a single calibration is considered a single run or data set,
even though it may take 2 or 3 days.
6. Jeffery G. H., Basset J., Mendham J., Denney R. C., Vogel’s Textbook of
Quantitative Chemical Analysis, 5th ed., Longman Scientifi c & Technical,
1989, p. 130.
SMART Spectro Operator’s Manual 2.11 7
Reproducibility: Reproducibility is the between-run precision.
7
7. Jeffery G. H., Basset J., Mendham J., Denney R. C., Vogel’s Textbook of
Quantitative Chemical Analysis, 5th ed., Longman Scientifi c & Technical, 1989,
p. 130.
CONTENTS AND ACCESSORIES
CONTENTS
SMART Spectro Spectrophotometer Battery Charger
Test Tubes, with Caps Power Supply, 110/220V
Sample Cell Holder, Universal SMART Spectro Quick Start Guide
Sample Cell Holder, 10 mm Square SMART Spectro Manual
Power Cable
NOTE: The battery pack is not included and must be purchased separately. An
empty slot is located in the original foam for the battery pack.
ACCESSORIES
Battery Pack with Holder (rechargeable) Code 2000-BP
Carrying Case Code 2000-CS
SMARTLink 2 Software with Cable
(compact disk)
Code 1912-CD
EPA COMPLIANCE
The SMART Spectro is an EPA-Accepted instrument. EPA-Accepted means
that the instrument meets the requirements for instrumentation as found in
test procedures that are approved for the National Primary Drinking Water
Regulations (NPDWR) or National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System
(NPDES) compliance monitoring programs. EPA-Accepted instruments may be
used with approved test procedures without additional approval.
CE COMPLIANCE
The SMART Spectrophotometer has been independently tested and has earned
the European CE Mark of Compliance for electromagnetic compatibility and
safety. To view the Declaration of Conformity go to www.lamotte.com.
8 SMART Spectro Operator’s Manual 2.11
CHEMICAL TESTING
WATER SAMPLING FOR CHEMICAL ANALYSIS
Taking Representative Samples
The underlying factor to be considered for any type of water sampling is whether
or not the sample is truly representative of the source. To properly collect a
representative sample:
• Sample as frequently as possible.
• Collect a large sample or at least enough to conduct whatever tests are
necessary.
• Make a composite sample for the same sampling area.
• Handle the sample in such a way as to prevent deterioration or
contamination before the analysis is performed.
• Perform analysis for dissolved gases such as dissolved oxygen, carbon
dioxide, and hydrogen sulfi de immediately at the site of sampling. These
factors, as well as samples for pH testing, cannot be stored for later
examination.
• Make a list of conditions or observations which may affect the sample.
Other considerations for taking representative samples are dependent
upon the source of the sample. Taking samples from surface waters
involves different considerations than taking samples from impounded and
sub-surface waters.
Sampling of Open Water Systems
Surface waters, such as those found in streams and rivers, are usually well
mixed. The sample should be taken downstream from any tributary, industrial
or sewage pollution source. For comparison purposes samples may be taken
upstream and at the source of the pollution.
In ponds, lakes, and reservoirs with restricted fl ow, it is necessary to collect a
number of samples in a cross section of the body of water, and where possible
composite samples should be made to ensure representative samples.
To collect samples from surface waters, select a suitable plastic container with
a tight fi tting screw cap. Rinse the container several times with the sample
to be tested, then immerse the container below the surface until it is fi lled to
overfl owing and replace the cap. If the sample is not to be tested immediately,
pour a small part of the sample out and reseal. This will allow for any expansion.
Any condition which might affect the sample should be listed.
Sub-surface sampling is required to obtain a vertical profi le of streams, lakes,
ponds, and reservoirs at specifi c depths. This type of sampling requires more
sophisticated sampling equipment.
For dissolved oxygen studies, or for tests requiring small sample sizes, a Water
SMART Spectro Operator’s Manual 2.11 9
Sampler (LaMotte Code 1060) will serve as a sub-surface or in-depth sampler.
This weighted device is lowered to the sampling depth and allowed to rest at
this depth for a few minutes. The water percolates into the sample chamber
displacing the air which bubbles to the surface. When the bubbles cease to rise,
the device has fl ushed itself approximately fi ve times and it may be raised to
the surface for examination. The inner chamber of the sampling device is lifted
out and portions of the water sample are carefully dispensed for subsequent
chemical analysis.
A Snap-Plunger Water Sampler (LaMotte Code 1077) is another “in-depth”
sampling device which is designed to collect large samples which can be used
for a multitude of tests. Basically, this collection apparatus is a hollow cylinder
with a spring loaded plunger attached to each end. The device is cocked
above the surface of the water and lowered to the desired depth. A weighted
messenger is sent down the calibrated line to trip the closing mechanism
and the plungers seal the sample from mixing with intermediate layers as it is
brought to the surface. A special drain outlet is provided to draw off samples for
chemical analysis.
Sampling of Closed System
To obtain representative samples from confi ned water systems, such as
pipe lines, tanks, vats, fi lters, water softeners, evaporators and condensers,
different considerations are required because of chemical changes which occur
between the inlet and outlet water. One must have a basic understanding of the
type of chemical changes which occur for the type of equipment used. Also,
consideration should be given to the rate of passage and retaining time for the
process water.
Temperature changes play an important part in deciding exactly what test
should be performed. Process water should be allowed to come to room
temperature, 20–25°C, before conducting any tests.
When drawing off samples from an outlet pipe such as a tap, allow sample to
run for several minutes, rinsing the container several times before taking the fi nal
sample. Avoid splashing and introduction of any contaminating material.
FILTRATION
When testing natural waters that contain signifi cant turbidity due to suspended
solids and algae, fi ltration is an option. Reagent systems, whether EPA,
Standard Methods, LaMotte or any others, will generally only determine
dissolved constituents. Both EPA and Standard Methods suggest fi ltration
through a 0.45 micron fi lter membrane, to remove turbidity, for the determination
of dissolved constituents.** To test for total constituents, organically bound and
suspended or colloidal materials, a rigorous high temperature acid digestion is
necessary.
**LaMotte offers a fi ltering apparatus: syringe assembly (Code 1050) and
membrane fi lters, 0.45 micron, (Code 1103).
10 SMART Spectro Operator’s Manual 2.11
AN INTRODUCTION TO COLORIMETRIC ANALYSIS &
SPECTROSCOPY
Most test substances in water are colorless and undetectable to the human
eye. To test for their presence we must fi nd a way to “see” them. The LaMotte
SMART Spectro can be used to measure any test substance that is itself colored
or can be reacted to produce a color. In fact a simple defi nition of colorimetry is
“the measurement of color” and a colorimetric method is “any technique used
to evaluate an unknown color in reference to known colors”. In a colorimetric
chemical test the intensity of the color from the reaction must be proportional
to the concentration of the substance being tested. Some reactions have
limitations or variances inherent to them that may give misleading results. Many
such interferences are discussed with each particular test instruction. In the
most basic colorimetric method the reacted test sample is visually compared to
a known color standard. However, accurate and reproducible results are limited
by the eyesight of the analyst, inconsistencies in the light sources, and the
fading of color standards.
To avoid these sources of error, a colorimeter or spectrophotometer can be used
to photoelectrically measure the amount of colored light absorbed by a colored
sample in reference to a colorless sample (blank).
White light is made up of many different colors or wavelengths of light. A
colored sample typically absorbs only one color or one band of wavelengths
from the white light. Only a small difference would be measured between white
light before it passes through a colored sample versus after it passes through
a colored sample. The reason for this is that the one color absorbed by the
sample is only a small portion of the total amount of light passing through the
sample. However, if we could select only that one color or band of wavelengths
of light to which the test sample is most sensitive, we would see a large
difference between the light before it passes through the sample and after it
passes through the sample.
The SMART Spectro uses a quartz halogen lamp as the source of white light.
The white light passes through an entrance slit and is focused on a ruled grating
consisting of 1200 lines/mm. The grating causes the light to be dispersed into
various component wavelengths. The monochromator design allows the user to
select which specifi c wavelength of interest will be passed through the exit slit
and through the sample. The use of mirrors and additional fi lters prevents light
of undesired wavelengths (overtones, stray light) from making it to the sample. A
photodetector measures the amount of light which passes through the sample.
The difference in the amount of monochromatic light transmitted through a
colorless sample (blank) and the amount of monochromatic light transmitted
through a test sample is a measurement of the amount of monochromatic
light absorbed by the sample. In most colorimetric tests the amount of
monochromatic light absorbed is directly proportional to the concentration of
the test factor producing the color and the path length through the sample.
However, for a few tests the relationship is reversed and the amount of
monochromatic light absorbed is inversely proportional to the concentration of
the test factor.
SMART Spectro Operator’s Manual 2.11 11
The choice of the correct wavelength for testing is important. It is interesting to
note that the wavelength that gives the most sensitivity (lower detection limit)
for a test factor is the complementary color of the test sample. For example
the Nitrate-Nitrogen test produces a pink color proportional to the nitrate
concentration in the sample (the greater the nitrate concentration, the darker the
pink color). A wavelength in the green region should be selected to analyze this
sample since a pinkish-red solution absorbs mostly green light.
REAGENT BLANK
Some tests will provide greater accuracy if a reagent blank is determined to
compensate for any color or turbidity resulting from the reagents themselves.
A reagent blank is performed by running the test procedure on 10 mL of
demineralized or deionized water. Use sample water to SCAN BLANK. Insert
the reacted reagent blank in the colorimeter chamber and select SCAN
SAMPLE. Note result of reagent blank. Perform the tests on the sample water as
described. Subtract results of reagent blank from all subsequent test results.
NOTE: Some tests require a reagent blank to be used to SCAN BLANK.
SPECTROPHOTOMETER TUBES
Spectrophotometer tubes which have been scratched through excessive use
should be discarded and replaced with new ones. Dirty tubes should be cleaned
on both the inside and outside. Fingerprints on the exterior of the tubes can
cause excessive light scattering and result in errors. Handle the tubes carefully,
making sure the bottom half of the tube is not handled.
LaMotte Company makes every effort to provide high quality spectrophoto-
meter tubes. However, wall thicknesses and diameter of tubes may still vary
slightly. This may lead to slight variations in results (e.g. if a tube is turned while
in the sample chamber, the reading will likely change slightly). To eliminate this
error put the tubes into the sample chamber with the same orientation every
time.
The tubes that are included with the spectrophotometer have an index mark
to facilitate this. If possible, use the same tube to SCAN BLANK and SCAN
SAMPLE.
SELECTING AN APPROPRIATE WAVELENGTH
The most appropriate wavelength to use when creating a calibration curve
is usually the one which gives the greatest change from the lowest reacted
standard concentration to the highest reacted standard concentration. However,
the absorbance of the highest reacted standard concentration should never
be greater than 2.0 absorbance units. Scan the lowest and highest reacted
standards at different wavelengths using the %T/ABS mode to fi nd the
wavelength which gives the greatest change in absorbance without exceeding
2.0 absorbance units. Use this wavelength to create a calibration curve.
12 SMART Spectro Operator’s Manual 2.11
Below is a list of suggested wavelength ranges for the color of the reacted
samples. Use these as a starting point.
Sample Color Wavelength Range
Yellow 350-450
Yellow-Orange 450-490
Orange 490-510
Pink 510-570
Red 570-600
Green and Blue 600-750
CALIBRATION CURVES
The SMART Spectro contains precalibrated tests for the LaMotte reagent
systems. The fi rst step in using a non-LaMotte reagent system with the SMART
Spectro is to create a calibration curve for the reagent system. To create a
calibration curve, prepare standard solutions of the test factor and use the
reagent system to test the standard solutions with the SMART Spectro.
Plot the results (in ABS or %Transmittance) versus concentration to create
a calibration curve. The calibration curve may then be used to identify the
concentration of an unknown sample by testing the unknown, reading
Absorbance or %T, and fi nding the corresponding concentration from the curve.
The linear range of the reagent system can be determined and this information
can be used to input a User Test into the SMART Spectro (see EDIT USER
TESTS, page 35).
PROCEDURE
1. Prepare 5 or 6 standard solutions of the factor being tested. The
concentration of these standards should be evenly distributed throughout the
range of the reagent system, and should include a 0 ppm standard (distilled
water). For instance, the solutions could measure 0, 10%, 30%, 50%, 70%,
and 90% of the system’s maximum range.
2. Turn on the SMART Spectro. Select the appropriate %T/ABS wavelength from
the %T/ABS mode. Be sure to select the appropriate wavelength for the color
produced by the reagent system.
3. Use the unreacted 0 ppm standard to standardize the spectrophotometer by
using it to scan blank.
4. Following the individual reagent system instructions, react each standard
solution including 0 ppm. Record the reading and the standard solution
concentration on a chart. Readings can be recorded as percent
transmittance (%T) or absorbance (A).
SMART Spectro Operator’s Manual 2.11 13
5. Plot results on graph paper or computer using any available plotting
program. If results are as %T versus concentration, semilog graph paper
must be used. Plot the standard solution concentrations on the horizontal,
linear axis, and the %T on the vertical, logarithmic axis. If results are as
absorbance versus standard solution concentration, simple linear graph
paper can be used. Plot the standard solution concentration on the
horizontal axis, and the absorbance on the vertical axis.
6. After plotting the results, draw a line, or curve, of best fi t through the
plotted points. The best fi t may not connect the points. There should be
approximately an equal number of points above the curve as below the
curve. Some reagent systems will produce a straight line, while others
produce a curve. Many computer spreadsheet programs can produce the
curve of best fi t by regression analysis of the standard solution data.
A sample of each type of graph appears below:
14 SMART Spectro Operator’s Manual 2.11
PREPARING DILUTE STANDARD SOLUTIONS
Standard solutions should be prepared to create a calibration curve. Standard
solutions can be prepared by diluting a known concentrated standard by
specifi ed amounts. A chart or computer spreadsheet can be created to
determine the proper dilutions. Use volumetric fl asks and volumetric pipets for
all dilutions.
1. In Column A – Record the maximum concentration of test as determined by
the range and path length.
2. In Column B – Record the percent of the maximum concentration the
standard solution will be.
3. In Column C – Calculate the fi nal concentration of the diluted standard
solutions by multiplying the maximum concentration (In Column A) by the %
of maximum concentration divided by 100. (C = A x ).
4. In Column D – Record the fi nal volume of the diluted sample (i.e. volume of
volumetric fl ask).
5. In Column E – Record the concentration of the original standard.
6. In Column F – Calculate the milliliters of original standard required (C x D/E
= F).
A sample chart appears below:
A B C=A x B/100 D E F=C x D/E
Maximum
concentration
of test
% of Maximum
concentration
Final concentration
of Diluted Standard
Volume of
Standard
Concentration
of Original
Standard
10.0 ppm 90 9.0 ppm 100 mL 1000 ppm 0.90 mL
10.0 ppm 70 7.0 ppm 100 mL 1000 ppm 0.70 mL
10.0 ppm 50 5.0 ppm 100 mL 1000 ppm 0.50 mL
10.0 ppm 30 3.0 ppm 100 mL 1000 ppm 0.30 mL
10.0 ppm 10 1.0 ppm 100 mL 1000 ppm 0.10 mL
10.0 ppm 0 0 ppm 100 mL 1000 ppm 0 mL
mL of
Original Standard
Required
STANDARD ADDITIONS
A common method to check the accuracy and precision of a test is by standard
additions. In this method a sample is tested to determine the concentration
of the test substance. A second sample is then “spiked” by the addition of a
known quantity of the test substance. The second sample is then tested. The
determined concentration of the spiked sample should equal the concentration
of the fi rst plus the amount added with the spike. The procedure can be
repeated with larger and larger “spikes.” If the determined concentrations do not
SMART Spectro Operator’s Manual 2.11 15
equal the concentration of the sample plus that added with the “spike”, then an
interference may exist.
For example, a 10.0 mL water sample was determined to contain 0.3 ppm iron.
To a second 10.0 mL sample, 0.1 mL of 50 ppm iron standard was added. The
concentration of iron due to the “spike” was (0.10 mL x 50 ppm)/10.0 mL = 0.50
ppm. The concentration of iron determined in the spiked sample should be 0.3
+ 0.5 = 0.8 ppm iron.
(Note: any error due to the increased volume from the “spike” is negligible).
LaMotte offers a line of calibration standards which can be used to generate
calibration curves and perform standard additions.
SAMPLE DILUTION TECHNIQUES & VOLUMETRIC
MEASUREMENTS
If a test result using the SMART gives an OUT OF RANGE message then the
sample concentration could be over range or under range. If it is over range, the
sample must be diluted. Then the test should be repeated on the diluted sample
to obtain a reading which is in the concentration range for the test. (Note: This is
not true for colorimetric determination of pH.)
Example:
Measure 5 mL of the water sample into a graduated cylinder. Add demineralized
water until the cylinder is fi lled to the 10 mL line. The sample has been diluted
by one-half, and the dilution factor is therefore 2. Perform the test procedure,
then multiply the resulting concentration by 2 to obtain the test result.
The following table gives quick reference guidelines on dilutions of various
proportions. All dilutions are based on a 10 mL volume, so several dilutions will
require small volumes of the water sample. Graduated pipets should be used for
all dilutions.
Size of Sample Deionized Water to Bring
Volume to 10 mL
10 mL 0 mL 1
5 mL 5 mL 2
2.5 mL 7.5 mL 4
1 mL 9 mL 10
0.5 mL 0.5 mL 20
If the above glassware is not available, dilutions can be made with the
spectrophotometer tube. Fill the tube to the 10 mL line with the sample then
transfer it to another container. Add 10 mL volumes of demineralized water to
the container and mix. Transfer back 10 mL of the diluted sample to the tube
and follow the test procedure. Continue diluting and testing until a reading,
16 SMART Spectro Operator’s Manual 2.11
Multiplication Factor
which is in the concentration range for the test, is obtained. Be sure to multiply
the concentration found by the dilution factor (the number of total 10 mL
volumes used).
Example:
10 mL of sample is diluted with three 10 mL volumes of demineralized water; the
dilution factor is four.
INTERFERENCES
LaMotte reagent systems are designed to minimize most common interferences.
Each individual test instruction discusses interferences unique to that test. Be
aware of possible interferences in the water being tested.
The reagent systems also contain buffers to adjust the water sample to the ideal
pH for the reaction. It is possible that the buffer capacity of the water sample
may exceed the buffer capacity of the reagent system and the ideal pH will not
be obtained. If this is suspected, measure the pH of a reacted distilled water
reagent blank using a pH meter. This is the ideal pH for the test. Measure the pH
of a reacted water sample using the pH meter. If the pH is signifi cantly different
from the ideal value, the pH of the sample should be adjusted before testing.
Chlorine interferences can be removed with the use of glycine. Very high levels
of chloramines may interfere if the test result is not read immediately. Oxidized
manganese interferes but can be removed with arsenite. Bromine and iodine
interferes but can be removed with a thioacetamide blank correction.
Interferences due to high concentration of the substance being tested, can be
overcome by sample dilution (see page 16).
STRAY LIGHT INTERFERENCE
Normal indoor lighting causes no interference with the SMART. Always be sure
the sample chamber lid is closed when scanning blanks or samples.
SMART Spectro Operator’s Manual 2.11 17
OPERATION OF THE SMART SPECTRO
OVERVIEW
The SMART Spectro is a portable, microprocessor controlled, direct reading,
single beam spectrophotometer. It has a 5 line, 18 character liquid crystal
display for alphabetical and numerical messages. The operation is controlled
with the keypad through menu driven software in response to selections shown
on the display.
The test library consists of over 80 LaMotte tests and 25 “User Tests”. The
spectrophotometer is also capable of running %T/Absorbance tests over the
entire wavelength range of 350 - 1000 nm. The LaMotte tests are precalibrated
for LaMotte reagent systems. The spectrophotometer displays the results of
these tests directly in units of concentration. The 25 “User Tests” may be used
to enter additional calibrations. All of these tests may be arranged in any of 3
sequences. These sequences can be modifi ed a limitless number of times to
meet changing testing needs.
The optics feature a quartz halogen bulb as a light source with a minimum
life expectancy of 1000 hours. The incident white light is dispersed into its
component wavelengths by a 1200 lines/mm ruled grating. The microprocessor
controls the positioning of the grating, automatically positioning the grating to
the correct wavelength for the test that has been selected. The monochromatic
light is passed through the sample cell and is detected by a silicon photodiode.
The SMART Spectro is powered by an AC adapter that automatically recognizes
the input voltage (110/220V) and converts it to the 12V needed to run the
instrument. An optional battery pack is available for use where portability is
important. To save power an automatic shut-off feature can be utilized (Energy
Savings Mode).
A RS-232 serial port on the back of the spectrophotometer, and optional
software, allows the spectrophotometer to be interfaced with a Winows-based
personal computer for real time data acquisition and data storage. This port also
allows an interface with a RS-232 serial printer.
Due to its portability, alternate power sources, and rugged construction, the
SMART Spectro is ideal for lab and fi eld use.
POWER SOURCE
To use the SMART Spectro with an AC power supply:
1. Plug the Power Supply into the AC Adapter socket on the back of the SMART
Spectro.
2. Connect the Power Cable to the Power Supply and an electrical outlet.
To use the Battery Pack, see page 51.
18 SMART Spectro Operator’s Manual 2.11
COMPONENTS
Figure 1 shows a diagram of the SMART Spectro and the components.
Chamber
25mm
Round Cell
in Universal
Adapter
Scroll
Between
Choices
AC Adapter
Socket
Make
Selections
Display
Between
Choices
Serial Port
Scroll
RS232
10mm
Square Cell
in Adapter
Turn O
the Spectro
Exit
Menus
Turn On
the Spectro
Figure 1
SMART Spectro Operator’s Manual 2.11 19
QUICK START
1. Press ON. The LaMotte logo
screen will appear for about 2
seconds and the MAIN MENU will
appear.
2. Press or to scroll to
PROGRAMMED TESTS.
3. Press *ENTER to select
PROGRAMMED TESTS.
4. Press to scoll to ALL
TESTS.
MAIN MENU 12:00:01
CALIBRATE WL
*
PROGRAMMED TESTS
%T/ABS
PC LINK
MAIN MENU 12:00:01
CALIBRATE WL
PROGRAMMED TESTS
*
%T/ABS
PC LINK
PROGRAMMED TESTS
SEQUENCE 1
*
SEQUENCE 2
SEQUENCE 3
ALL TESTS
PROGRAMMED TESTS
SEQUENCE 1
SEQUENCE 2
SEQUENCE 3
ALL TESTS
*
5. Press *ENTER to select ALL
TESTS.
20 SMART Spectro Operator’s Manual 2.11
ALL TESTS
1 Alkalinity-UDV
*
2 Aluminum
3 Ammonia-N L F
4 Ammonia-N L S
6. PresS or to scroll to the
desired test.
ALL TESTS
1 Alkalinity-UDV
2 Aluminum
*
3 Ammonia-N L F
4 Ammonia-N L s
7. Press *ENTER to select the
test.
8. Insert the blank. Press *ENTER to
scan the blank.
9. Insert the reacted sample. Press
*ENTER to scan the sample. The
result will be displayed.
After obtaining test results, scroll with
with *ENTER. Press EXIT to escape to previous menu.
2 Aluminum
SCAN BLANK
*
SCAN SAMPLE
END 535 NM
2 Aluminum
SCAN BLANK
SCAN SAMPLE
*
END 535 NM
2 Aluminum
T = 16.5%T
A = 0.7834A
C = 1.28 PPM
PRINT PRESS ENTER
or , and make another selection
SMART Spectro Operator’s Manual 2.11 21
GENERAL OPERATING PROCEDURES
The operation of the SMART Spectro is controlled by a microprocessor. The
microprocessor is programmed with menu driven software. A menu is a list
of choices. This allows a selection of various tasks for the spectrophotometer
to perform, such as, scan blank, scan sample, and edit test sequences. The
keypad is used to make menu selections which are viewed in the display.
There are eight selections accessible from the MAIN MENU - CALIBRATE WL,
PROGRAMMED TESTS, %T/ABS, PC LINK, EDIT CLOCK, ENERGY MODE,
STORE METHOD, and TEST MODE.
THE KEYPAD
The keypad has 6 buttons which are used to perform specifi c tasks.
ON This button is used to turn the spectrophotometer on.
This button will cause the display to scroll up in a list of menu
choices. It will move to the beginning of a list viewed in the display.
It will auto scroll when held down.
This button will cause the display to scroll down through a list of
menu choices. It will move to the end of a list viewed in the display.
It will auto scroll when held down.
*
ENTER
EXIT This button is an EXIT or ESCAPE button. When pressed, the
OFF This button turns the spectrophotometer off.
This button is used to select the menu choice adjacent to the “*” in
a menu viewed in the display.
display will EXIT from the current menu and go to the previous
menu.
SAMPLE HOLDERS
The SMART Spectro Spectrophotometer is supplied with two removable sample
cell holders. Each holder is secured in the chamber with a single screw. The
square sample holder should be positioned so the arrow on the top is pointing
toward the left. The square sample holder will hold 10 mm square cuvettes. The
universal sample holder should be positioned with the V-channel toward the
right side of the chamber. The universal sample holder will hold round tubes of
varying diameters. When using the universal adapter, the tube should be placed
between the white roller on the spring-loaded arm and the v-channel on the
right-hand side of the adapter. Press the tube down on the white roller to retract
the arm.
22 SMART Spectro Operator’s Manual 2.11
THE DISPLAY & THE MENUS
The display allows menu selections to be viewed and chosen. These choices
instruct the spectrophotometer to perform specifi c tasks. The menus are viewed
in the display using a general format which is followed from one menu to the
next. Each menu is a list of choices or selections.
There are fi ve lines in the display. The top line in each menu is a title or pertinent
instruction. The top line does not change unless a new menu is selected. The
second line is used in two ways. One way is to display additional information if
the top line is insuffi cient. The second line is also used to display menu choices.
The three additional lines are also used for menu choices.
DISPLAY
TESTING MENU Title or InstrucƟ on
FIRST CHOICE
SECOND CHOICE Menu Choice Window
THIRD CHOICE
AND ANOTHER
AND SO ON
END OF LIST
Think of the menu choices as a vertical list in the display which moves up or
down each time an arrow button is pressed. This list or menu is viewed through
a window, the menu choice window, in the display. Pushing the arrow buttons
brings another portion of the menu into menu choice window. This is referred to
as scrolling through the menu.
TESTING MENU TESTING MENU TESTING MENU
* FIRST CHOICE SECOND CHOICE ANOTHER
SECOND CHOICE * ANOTHER AND ANOTHER
ANOTHER AND ANOTHER * AND SO ON
AND ANOTHER AND SO ON END OF LIST
AND SO ON END OF LIST
END OF LIST
An asterisk, “*”, will start in the far left position of the top line in the menu choice
window. As the menu is scrolled through, different choices appear next to the
“*”. The “*” in the display corresponds with the *ENTER button. Pushing the
*ENTER button selects the menu choice which is adjacent to the “*” in the
menu choice window.
As described previously, the EXIT button allows an exit or escape from the
current menu and a return to the previous menu. This allows a rapid exit from an
SMART Spectro Operator’s Manual 2.11 23
inner menu to the MAIN MENU by repeatedly pushing the EXIT button. Pushing
OFF at any time will turn the spectrophotometer off.
CALIBRATION
CALIBRATE WAVELENGTH
The Calibrate Wavelength (CALIBRATE WL) mode is used to establish or
re-establish the accuracy of the wavelength selection process. Normally, the
Calibrate Wavelength procedure should be run after the SMART Spectro is
turned ON and allowed to warm up for 15 minutes or if operating conditions
(temperature, humidity, etc.) change signifi cantly.
For fi eld use, when operating with the battery, calibrate wavelength prior to
going into the fi eld using AC power. This will increase battery life in the fi eld.
Alternatively calibrate wavelength in the fi eld immediately before testing. Turn
Spectro on immediately before scanning blank. Calibrate wavelength just before
scanning blank.
1. Press ON. The LaMotte logo
screen will appear for about 2
seconds and the MAIN MENU will
appear.
2. Press or to scroll to
CALIBRATE WL.
3. Press *ENTER to select
CALIBRATE WL.
The Calibrate Wavelength procedure takes about 1-2 minutes to be completed.
During the calibration, the Spectro will display two numbers at the bottom of the
screen. The fi rst number is fi xed. The second number will change and can have
a range of values. The microprocessor will move the grating in search of the
position that gives a very specifi c maximum light intensity. The microprocessor
MAIN MENU 12:00:01
CALIBRATE WL
*
PROGRAMMED TESTS
%T/ABS
PC LINK
MAIN MENU 12:00:01
CALIBRATE WL
*
PROGRAMMED TESTS
%T/ABS
PC LINK
MAIN MENU 12:00:01
CALIBRATE WL
*
PROGRAMMED TESTS
%T/ABS
PC LINK
24 SMART Spectro Operator’s Manual 2.11
will then move the grating a precise predetermined amount from this position.
This precise movement will cause the grating to be positioned at 546 nm every
time. Once calibrated the wavelength displayed during testing is accurate to ±2
nm. When the wavelength calibration is complete the display will go back to the
Main Menu.
PROGRAMMED TESTS
INTRODUCTION
The PROGRAMMED TESTS mode is used to run all LaMotte pre-programmed
tests and USER TESTS. This is also where USER TESTS and SEQUENCES are
set-up and edited.
1. Press ON. The LaMotte logo
screen will appear for about 2
seconds and the MAIN MENU will
appear.
2. Press or to scroll to
PROGRAMMED TESTS.
3. Press *ENTER to select
PROGRAMMED TESTS. In
the PROGRAMMED TESTS
menu there are three alterable
sequences and one ALL TESTS
fi xed sequence as well as the EDIT
function.
MAIN MENU 12:00:01
CALIBRATE WL
*
PROGRAMMED TESTS
%T/ABS
PC LINK
MAIN MENU 12:00:01
CALIBRATE WL
PROGRAMMED TESTS
*
%T/ABS
PC LINK
MAIN MENU 12:00:01
CALIBRATE WL
*
PROGRAMMED TESTS
%T/ABS
PC LINK
SMART Spectro Operator’s Manual 2.11 25
SEQUENCES OF TESTS
SEQUENCE 1, SEQUENCE 2, and SEQUENCE 3 are alterable sequences.
They may be edited using the EDIT function mode. Any of the LaMotte preprogrammed tests or User Tests may be placed in these sequences in whatever
testing order that is preferred. Some examples of typical sequences are given
below.
SEQUENCE 1 SEQUENCE 2 SEQUENCE 3
* 60 Molybdenum LR * 1 Aluminum * 3 Ammonia-N L F
79 Phosphate 35 Cyanide 32 Copper DDC
9 Bromine LR 41 Fluoride 64 Nitrate-N LR
76 pH TB 53 Iron Phen 67 Nitrite-N LR
15 Chlorine 55 Manganese L 74 pH CPR
86 Silica HI 64 Nitrate N LR 78 Phosphate L
45 Hydrazine 26 COD Low 85 Silica Lo
32 Copper DDC 77 Phenols END OF LIST
51 Iron Bipyr 78 Phosphate L
END OF LIST 90 Sulfi de LR
END OF LIST
NOTE: Sequences always end with END OF LIST to indicate that there are no
more tests in the sequence.
These alterable sequences allow a series of tests to be setup that are run
frequently. The order of the individual tests in the sequence is determined by the
user. After running a test, press EXIT to escape back to the Sequence menu.
Move the down to the next test listed and press *ENTER. Continue this
pattern until the entire sequence has been completed.
ALL TESTS is a fi xed sequence containing the LaMotte pre-programmed tests
and User Tests.
Modifi cation of the alterable sequence is accomplished through the EDIT
function. This function is explained in detail in the section titled EDIT.
It should be noted that if a %T/ABS test is to be included in a sequence, the
%T/ABS test must fi rst be setup as a User Test (but no actual calibration needs
to be performed, only select a name and wavelength).
Pressing the EXIT button while in a sequence menu will escape back to the
PROGRAMMED TESTS menu.
Pressing the OFF button at any time will turn the SMART Spectro off.
26 SMART Spectro Operator’s Manual 2.11
GENERAL TESTING PROCEDURES
The following are some step by step examples of how to run tests from the
PROGRAMMED TESTS menu. These test procedures are designed to be used
with LaMotte SMART Spectro reagent systems.
TESTING WITH THE LaMOTTE PROGRAMMED TESTS
1. Press ON. The LaMotte logo
screen will appear for about 2
seconds and the MAIN MENU will
appear.
2. Press or to scroll to
PROGRAMMED TESTS.
3. Press *ENTER to select
PROGRAMMED TESTS.
4. Press to scroll to ALL
TESTS.
MAIN MENU 12:00:01
CALIBRATE WL
*
PROGRAMMED TESTS
%T/ABS
PC LINK
MAIN MENU 12:00:01
CALIBRATE WL
PROGRAMMED TESTS
*
%T/ABS
PC LINK
PROGRAMMED TESTS
SEQUENCE 1
*
SEQUENCE 2
SEQUENCE 3
ALL TESTS
PROGRAMMED TESTS
SEQUENCE 1
SEQUENCE 2
SEQUENCE 3
ALL TESTS
*
SMART Spectro Operator’s Manual 2.11 27
5. Press *ENTER to select ALL
TESTS.
ALL TESTS
1 Alkalinity-UDV
*
2 Aluminum
3 Ammonia-N L F
4 Ammonia-N L S
6. Press or to scroll to the
desired test.
7. Press *ENTER to select the test.
The SMART Spectro is ready to
scan. The proper wavelength has
been selected.
8. Insert the blank. Press *ENTER
to scan the blank. The blank has
been stored.
9. Insert the reacted sample. Press
*ENTER to scan the sample. The
result will be displayed.
ALL TESTS
1 Alkalinity-UDV
2 Aluminum
*
3 Ammonia-N L F
4 Ammonia-N L S
2 Aluminum
SCAN BLANK
*
SCAN SAMPLE
END 535 NM
2 Aluminum
SCAN BLANK
SCAN SAMPLE
*
END 535 NM
2 Aluminum
T = 16.5%T
A = 0.7834A
C = 1.28 PPM
PRINT PRESS ENTER
28 SMART Spectro Operator’s Manual 2.11
10. Press *ENTER to print the result
when connected to a printer or
computer. To repeat the test,
press EXIT to escape the test
screen, then press *ENTER to
scan the sample again. The last
blank scanned is used to zero
the spectrophotometer for repeat
scans. A different blank can be
used by pressing the button to
scroll back to SCAN BLANK and
then scanning another blank.
Press EXIT to escape back to the PROGRAMMED TESTS menu if no more
samples are to be scanned for this test factor.
SMART Spectro Operator’s Manual 2.11 29
SETUP & EDIT SEQUENCES
& USER TESTS
The EDIT menu allows any of the three alterable test sequences (SEQUENCE
1, SEQUENCE 2, and SEQUENCE 3) and any of the 25 User Tests in the
ALL TESTS fi xed sequence to be edited. This feature allows a sequence or
test which is used frequently to be set-up for easy access. The order of the
sequence can be arranged to suit the needs of the user. Any combination, and
any order of tests from ALL TESTS (including User Tests), may be placed into
these sequences.
EDIT A SEQUENCE
1. Go to the PROGRAMMED TESTS
menu. Press or to scroll to
EDIT.
2. Press *ENTER to select EDIT. EDIT
PROGRAMMED TESTS
SEQUENCE 1
SEQUENCE 2
SEQUENCE 3
EDIT
*
EDIT SEQUENCE 1
*
EDIT SEQUENCE 2
EDIT SEQUENCE 3
EDIT USER TESTS
30 SMART Spectro Operator’s Manual 2.11
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