palintest Micro 600 COND, Micro 600 TDS User Manual

Micro 600

Conductivity/TDS Meters

ZI INST 1220

Preface

This manual serves to explain the use of the Micro 600 Conductivity and
Micro 600 TDS meters.

This manual functions in two ways: first as a step by step guide to help you
operate the meter; second, as a handy reference guide.

This manual is written to cover as many anticipated applications of the
Conductivity and TDS handheld meters as possible. If there are doubts in
the use of these meters, please contact us. Our contact details are on the
last page of this manual.

Palintest will not accept any responsibility for damage or malfunction to the
meter caused by improper use of the instrument.

The information presented in this manual is subject to change without notice
as improvements are made. Please refer to our website for the latest version.

2

Contents

Chapter Page Chapter Page

1 Introduction 4

2 Getting Started 5

2.1 Description of Keypad Functions 5

2.2 Description of LCD Annunciators 5

2.3 Inserting & removing the
rubber armour/stand 6

2.4 Inserting New Batteries 6

2.5 Battery Replacement 7

2.6 Connecting the Electrode 7

2.7 Electrode Information 7

2.8 Switching the Meter On 8

2.9 Changing Mode 9

3 Calibration 10

3.1 Important Information
on Meter Calibration 10

3.2 Preparing the Meter for Calibration 11

3.3 Selection of Auto or Manual
Calibration (Micro 600 COND) 11

3.4 Using Automatic Calibration
(Micro 600 COND) 12

3.5 Manual Calibration 13

3.6 Temperature Calibration 14

4 Measurement 15

4.0 Measurement 15

4.1 With Automatic Temperature
Compensation (ATC) 15

4.2 Without ATC (Manual
Temperature Compensation) 15

4.3 Taking Measurements 15

4.4 Using Manual Ranging Function 16

4.5 HOLD Function 17

5 Advanced Setup Functions 18

5.1 Advanced Setup Overview 18

5.2 Select Cell Constant 19

5.3 Automatic Calibration
(Micro 600 COND only) 19

5.4 Setting the TDS Factor
(Micro 600 TDS only) 20

5.5 Temperature Coefficient 20

5.6 Normalisation Temperature 21

5.7 Single-Point Calibration 21

5.8 Restore Factory Default Values 22

6 Probe Care and Maintenance 23

6.0 Probe Care and Maintenance 23

7 Troubleshooting 24

8 Specification/Features 25

9 Conductivity Theory 26

10 Calibration Tips 28

Calculating TDS Conversion Factor

11

12 Calculating Temperature

Coefficients 30

13 Replacement Parts

and Accessories 31

29

14 Warranty and Certification 32

3

1

Introduction

1.0 Introduction

Thank you for purchasing the Micro 600 COND or Micro 600 TDS meter. These
microprocessor-based handheld meters are economical and easy to use with
a large custom LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) for clear and easy reading.

The Micro 600 COND measures conductivity (µS/cm or mS/cm) and temperature
(°C) while the Micro 600 TDS measures total dissolved solids (TDS) in
parts per million (ppm) or parts per thousand (ppt) and temperature (°C).
Each measures up to 5 different ranges and can automatically switch to
appropriate measuring range.

Your meter includes an electrode (cell constant K = 1.0) with built-in
temperature sensor, rubber armour, 4 alkaline “AAA” batteries, instruction
manual and warranty card.

The Micro 600 COND includes low (74µS), mid (1413µS) and high (12.88mS)
range conductivity solutions and deionised water.

The Micro 600 TDS includes 50ppm, 300ppm and 3000ppm conductivity
solutions and deionised water.

Please read this manual thoroughly before operating your meter.

To order other accessories and standards solutions, please refer to the
accessories section for more information.

4

Getting Started

2.1 Description of Keypad Functions

Your meter has 6 keys on its splash-proof keypad.
Some buttons have multiple functions depending
on the mode of operation.

ON/OFF

Powers meter on and off. Meter starts up in the
measurement mode that you last switched off from.

CAL Enters into calibration mode. Pressing while in

calibration mode will abort calibration without
confirming value.

MODE Selects desired measurement mode. When

pressed simultaneously with ON/OFF, it will
take you into the SETUP mode. See ADVANCED
SETUP section for more information.

HOLD Freezes measured reading. Press again to

resume live reading.

ENTER Confirms calibration value in calibration

mode and confirm selections in SETUP mode.

s Increment values during calibration mode or

scroll through SETUP. Activates manual ranging
function during conductivity/TDS measurement.

t Decrement values during calibration mode.

2.2 Description of LCD Annunciators

Your meter has a large custom LCD that consists of 4-digit segments plus
annunciators for uS/mS (Cond) or, ppm/ppt (TDS), and °C (temperature).

1 Primary display
2 Parts per million (ppm) (Micro 600 TDS).

Parts per thousand (ppt) (Micro 600 TDS).
Milli-Siemens/cm (mS) or micro-Siemens/cm

3

(µS) indicator (Micro 600 COND only).

4 Temperature indicator.
5 “LO” = low battery condition.
6 “HO” = HOLD function is activated and reading is frozen.

2

5

2

Getting Started

2.3 Inserting & removing the rubber armour/stand

1 To remove meter from rubber armour, push out from the bottom edges of

meter until it is completely out of boot. Ensure that your electrode cables
are not connected. See Figure 1.

2 To insert meter into armour, slide in from the top of meter before pushing

the bottom edges of meter down to set it into position. Lift up the stand at
the back of meter for bench top applications if necessary. See Figure 2.

Figure 1 Figure 2

2.4 Inserting New Batteries

The battery compartment is found at the back of instrument. To open the
battery compartment, push in the direction of arrow and lift up the cover.
Note the polarity of battery before inserting into position. After replacement,
place cover back and press down until it locks.

6

Getting Started

2.5 Battery Replacement

A “LO” annunciator in the LCD alerts you when
battery power is running low. Caution: Power

off the meter before replacing battery.

2.6 Connecting the Electrode

1 To connect the electrode, align the connector

slots with the posts of meter’s socket and
rotate connector clockwise until it locks.

2 To remove, rotate the connector in anti-

clockwise direction until it unlocks,
and slide the connector off the socket.

3 Insert the mini phono jack of

temperature sensor into the socket
on the meter as shown opposite.

2.7 Electrode Information

Your meter includes an electrode with a BNC connector having a
nominal cell constant of k = 1.0, and a built-in temperature sensor.
The Ultem-body housing has good chemical resistant properties.
The electrode design offers fast temperature response and reduces
air entrapment, ensuring accurate, repeatable, and stable readings.

The wettable materials of the probe include:

1 Polyetherimide (Ultem) - protective probe guard
2 Polybutylterphalate (Valox) - sensor housing
3 Stainless Steel (SS 304) - 2 steel bands

The protective probe guard can be removed
temporarily for maintenance but must be
re-attached during measurement and
calibration. Erroneous results will occur
while the probe guard is removed.

Always immerse the probe beyond upper steel
band or best results. Use the fill line on the
outside of the probe guard for reference.

“LO” Battery Condition

BNC

connector

Steel Band

Steel Band

2.5mm mini phono
for temperature

Upper

Lower

2

7

2

Getting Started

1 DO NOT measure or calibrate without

the protective probe guard in place.

2 Immersion above the protective guard

is not recommended. The cable can be
submerged briefly but is not designed
for continuous immersion.

See “Probe Care and Maintenance”
for more information.

Immerse
probe
beyond
upper
steel
band

2.8 Switching the Meter On

Press ON/OFF to power up your meter. Your meter will cycle through
various setup parameters when switched on.

1 The first screen shows the model [Con6][tdS6].
2 The second screen shows the nominal cell constant value. The Micro 600

COND and TDS meters can accept electrodes with k = 0.1, 1.0 or 10.0
nominal cell constants. Default value is k = 1.0 [C 1.0]. See Section 5.2

Advanced Setup to modify.

3 The third screen shows the Normalisation Temperature which can be set

to 25°C or 20°C. Default value is 25°C [t 25.0°C]. See Section 5.6
Advanced Setup to modify.

4 The fourth screen shows the Temperature Coefficient which can be set from

0.0 to 3.0% per °C. Default value is 2.1%/°C [t 2.1%]. See Section 5.5
Advanced Setup to modify.

5 All LCD segments light for 2 seconds before entering measurement mode.

Note: the meter will use the measurement mode that was in
use when it was previously powered off.

8

Getting Started

Micro 600 COND

Measurement Mode

Micro 600 TDS

Measurement Mode

2.9 Changing Mode

To switch between conductivity and TDS measurement mode and
temperature measurement mode, simply press the MODE key.

The annunciator will indicate the measurement mode you are in.

Annunciator

2

9

3

Calibration

3.1 Important Information on Meter Calibration

The Micro 600 COND and Micro 600 TDS have five measuring ranges listed below.
Each range can be calibrated to one point per range (five total points if each
range is calibrated). Calibration is recommended for each range that will be used.

Micro 600 COND

Conductivity Range

0.00  20.00 µS/cm

0.0  200.0 µS/cm

0  2000 µS/cm

0.00  20.00 mS/cm

0.0  200.0 mS/cm

Micro 600 TDS

TDS Range

0.00  10.00 ppm

10.0  100.0 ppm

100  1000 ppm

1.00  10.00 ppt

10.0  200 ppt

New calibrations replace old calibrations on a per range basis. For example,
if the meter has been calibrated with 1413 µS/cm (0 to 2000 µS/cm range)
and a calibration is performed with 1500 µS/cm (also 0 to 2000 µS/cm
range), the meter will replace the 1413 µS/cm calibration in that range.
The meter will retain all calibration data in other ranges.

When the electrode is replaced, it is best to clear all calibration data.
To erase all calibration data completely, see Section 5.8 Restore Factory

Default Values.

Recommended Calibration Solution Range

6.00 to 17.00 µS/cm

60.0 to 170.0 µS/cm

600 to 1700 µS/cm

6.00 to 17.00 mS/cm

60.0 to 170.0 mS/cm

Recommended Calibration Solution Range

3.00 to 8.50 ppm

30.0 to 85.0 ppm

300 to 850 ppm

3.00 to 8.50 ppt

30.0 to 170 ppt

10

Calibration

3.2 Preparing the Meter for Calibration

For best results, select a standard value close to the sample value you are measuring.
Alternatively, use a calibration solution value that is approximately 2/3 the full­scale value of the measurement range you plan to use. For example, in the
0 to 2000 µS/cm conductivity range, use a 1413 µS/cm solution for calibration.
Use fresh calibration standard solutions. Reuse of standard solutions may
impair calibration and accuracy of measurements. Store solutions in a dry,
dark, and cool environment when possible while limiting exposure to air.
Rinse or immerse the probe before calibration and between samples with
clean water (deionised water is ideal).

3.3 Selection of Auto or Manual Calibration (Micro 600 COND)

The Micro 600 COND is capable of automatic or manual calibration. The factory
default setting is automatic.
In the automatic calibration mode, the Micro 600 COND will automatically
select one of (4) calibration standard values (see below) depending on the
range and normalisation temperature being used.
Automatic calibration is useful when all your calibration standards fall into
one of the groups listed below. For example, if your 1413 µS/cm standard
reads as 1400 µS/cm during calibration, you would simply press “ENTER” to
accept this value using automatic mode. In manual mode, you would have
needed to press the increment button 13 times before pressing “ENTER”.

Note: If you will use a calibration standard that is not listed below,
select manual calibration instead.

Normalisation Temperature

25ºC

20ºC

Table 1: Conductivity Calibration Standards for Auto Calibrations

Calibration Standards (Range)

1. 84 µS/cm (for 0 - 200 µS/cm)

2. 1413 µS/cm (for 0 - 2000 µS/cm)

3. 12.88 mS/cm (for 0.00 - 20.00 mS/cm)

4. 84 µS/cm (for 0 - 200 µS/cm)

1. 76 µS/cm (for 0 - 200 µS/cm)

2. 1278 µS/cm (for 0 - 2000 µS/cm)

3. 11.67 mS/cm (for 0.00 - 20.00 mS/cm)

4. 102.1 mS/cm (for 0.0 - 200.0 mS/cm)

3

11

3

Calibration

Manual calibration is only useful when you wish to use one or more standard
values that are not listed in table 1.

See Section 5.3 Advanced Setup to modify automatic or manual calibration.

3.4 Using Automatic Calibration (Micro 600 COND)

In Automatic Calibration mode, the COND can accept up to 4 calibration points
with maximum of 1 point per measurement range. Note: values in the 0.00

to 20.00 µS/cm range cannot be calibrated in Auto Calibration mode.

1 If necessary, press MODE key to select

conductivity mode.

2 Rinse the probe with deionised water or

a rinse solution, then rinse with a small
amount of calibration standard.

NOTE: For Automatic Calibration
you must use one of the calibration
standards listed in Table 1.

3 Dip the probe into the calibration standard.

Stir the probe gently to create a homogeneous
sample. Allow time for the reading to stabilise.

4 Press CAL key to enter conductivity calibration

mode. The [CA] indicator will appear briefly,
then a value will appear flashing.

NOTE: To exit calibration without
confirmation, press CAL to return
to measurement mode.

5 When the value is stable, press ENTER. The

calibration standard value will appear for
3 seconds. If the calibration is successfully
performed, [donE] will be displayed briefly
before meter returns to measurement mode.

6 Repeat steps 1-5 as needed with additional

calibration standards.

Measurement Mode

12

Calibration

NOTES:
1 To protect from erroneous calibrations, the allowable tolerance is ±40%

of the factory default value. If calibration is attempted with standards
that fall outside this tolerance range, the error message “Err 1” is
indicated and meter will return to measurement mode. For example, a
40% tolerance of a 1413 µS/cm standard, is 848 µS/cm to 1978 µS/cm.

2 If the measured temperature (°C) of the calibration solution is below

0°C or above 50°C, the error message “Err 2” is indicated and meter
will return to measurement mode.

3 Low conductivity standard solutions (less than 20 µS/cm) are unstable and

are very temperature dependent. As a result, reproducible calibration results
are challenging in lowest measurement range (0.00 to 20.0 µS/cm).

3

3.5 Manual Calibration

In Manual Calibration mode you are not limited
to the conductivity calibration standards listed
previously in Table 1. This example shows a
manual calibration sequence using a 12.00 mS/cm
conductivity calibration standard.

1 If necessary, press MODE key to select

conductivity mode.

2 Rinse the probe thoroughly with de-ionised

water or a rinse solution, then rinse with
a small amount of calibration standard.

3 Dip the probe into the calibration standard.

Stir the probe gently to create a homogeneous
sample. Allow time for the reading to stabilise.

4 Press CAL to enter conductivity calibration

mode. The [CA] indicator will appear briefly,
then a value will appear flashing.

NOTE: To exit calibration without
confirmation, press CAL to return
to measurement mode.

Measurement Mode

13

3

Calibration

5 When the value is stable, press s or t as needed to adjust the value

to match your calibration standard.

6 Press ENTER to confirm the adjusted value. [CO] will appear briefly indicating

that the calibration was successful. The meter returns to measurement mode.

7 Repeat steps 1-6 as needed with additional calibration standards.

3.6 Temperature Calibration

The electrode includes a built-in temperature
sensor that is factory calibrated with the meter.
Perform temperature calibration only if you
suspect temperature errors may have occurred
over time or when the probe is replaced.
You can offset the temperature reading up
to ±5°C from the original (default) reading.

1 Connect the mini phono plug of the

electrode to the meter. See Section 3.7.

2 If necessary, press MODE to select

temperature measurement mode.

3 Press CAL to initiate temperature

calibration. “CA” will appear briefly then
a temperature value will start flashing.

4 Dip the probe into a solution with known

temperature (for example, a temperature bath).
Allow time for the temperature to stabilise.

5 When the value is stable, press s or t

as needed to adjust the value to the
solution temperature.

6 Press ENTER to confirm the adjusted value.

[CO] will appear briefly indicating that the

calibration was successful. The meter returns
to measurement mode.

NOTE: To exit calibration without
confirmation, press CAL to return
to measurement mode.

14

Measurement

4.0 Measurement

Your meter is capable of taking measurements that incorporate temperature
measurements automatically (most common) or using a temperature which
you input manually (rare).

4.1 With Automatic Temperature Compensation (ATC)

To compensate your reading using temperature values as measured by your electrode,
simply attach the phono plug of the electrode to the meter. The measured reading is
automatically compensated to the specified normalisation temperature (either 20°C
or 25°C). The rate of compensation which is applied is the Temperature Coefficient.

See Section 5.5 - Temperature Coefficient
See Section 5.6 - Normalisation Temperature

4.2 Without ATC (Manual Temperature Compensation)

You can use manual temperature compensation after manually entering
the temperature value of your process into the meter. The meter will then
compensate from this fixed value to the normalisation temperature. Any
temperature can be used between 0 and 50°C. The default value is 25°C.

To activate manual temperature compensation, simply unplug the temperature
sensor from the meter (mini phono plug) and follow the steps 2 thru 6 of
Temperature Calibration.

See Section 3.6 - Temperature Calibration

4.3 Taking Measurements

1 Rinse the electrode with de-ionised or distilled water before use to

remove any impurities. Shake or air dry. To avoid contamination or
sample dilution, rinse probe with a small volume of your sample.

2 Dip the probe into the sample.
3 Allow time for the reading to stabilise. Note the reading on the display.

4

NOTE: The protective probe guard must be attached during measurement.
Erroneous results will occur while the probe guard is removed. Always
immerse the probe beyond upper steel band for best results. Use the fill
line on the outside of the probe guard for reference.

15

4

Measurement

4.4 Using Manual Ranging Function

By default your meter has auto-ranging ability and automatically selects the
range in which your readings appear.

Alternatively, to override auto-ranging you can manually select a specific range
by pressing s successively for each measurement range. The five ranges are:

Micro 600 COND Micro 600 TDS

Conductivity Range

0 - 20.00 µS/cm 0 - 10.00 ppm

0 - 200.0 µS/cm 0 - 100.0 ppm

0 - 2000 µS/cm 0 - 1000 ppm

0 - 20.00 mS/cm 0 - 10.00 ppt

0 - 200.0 mS/cm 0 - 100 ppt

TDS Range (using 0.5 TDS factor)

Manual ranging:
0 - 200.0 mS/cm

Manual ranging:

0 - 20.00 uS/cm

Manual ranging:
0 - 20.00 mS/cm

Manual ranging:

0 - 200.0 uS/cmAuto ranging:

Manual ranging:

0 - 2000 uS/cm

NOTE: If the value of the solution you are measuring is higher than the range

selected [Or] (over range) will appear. Press s to select a measurable range.
The meter resets to Auto-ranging function once it is turned off. You will

have reset the manual ranging function each time you turn the meter off.

16

Measurement

4.5 HOLD Function

For prolonged observation of a reading,
press HOLD while in measurement
mode to freeze the display.

1 To hold a measurement, press HOLD

while in measurement mode. [HO]
will appear on the display.

2 To release the held value, press the

HOLD again. [HO] will disappear

and measure is resumed.

NOTE: The meter will shut off automatically after 20 minutes of the last key
press. If the meter is shut off either automatically or manually, the HOLD
value will be lost.

4

17

5

Advanced Setup Functions

5.1 Advanced Setup Overview

Advanced setup allows customisation settings such as; selecting electrode’s cell
constant, normalisation temperature, temperature coefficient, TDS factor (Micro
600 TDS), automatic or manual calibration (Micro 600 COND), single-point or
multi-point calibrations (COND and TDS), and to reset meter to factory default.

To enter advanced setup mode:

1 Switch off the meter.
2 Press MODE and then ON, holding both keys for 2 seconds.

Release the ON key before releasing the MODE key.

3 If successful, [StUP] will appear briefly followed by [CELC].
4 Press s or t to select the desired advanced setup function.

Entering Advanced Setup Mode

Cell Constant. Select k = 0.1, 1.0, or 10.0.
Default value is 1.0.

Select Automatic Calibration. “Yes” for auto calibration and “No”
for manual calibration. Default value is “Yes”. (COND only)

Adjust Temperature Coefficient from 0.0 to 3.0% per °C.
Default value is 2.1% per °C.

Normalisation Temperature. Select “20°C” or “25°C”.
Default value is 25 °C.

Adjust TDS factor from 0.4 to 1.0.
Default value is 0.5. (TDS only)

Select Single Point Calibration. Select “Yes” or “No”.
Default value is “Yes”.

User reset to factory defaults. Select “Yes” or “No”.
Default value is “no”.

Overview of Advanced Setup

18

Advanced Setup Functions

5.2 Select Cell Constant

Your meter includes a probe with a nominal cell constant (k) of 1.0. Use probes
with k = 0.1 and 10 (sold separately) for improved performance in extreme samples.
Use this setup function to change the cell constant if necessary
Meter default is 1.0 to match the included probe.

k = 0.1 ideal for low measurements <20 µS/cm (<10 ppm).
k = 1.0 ideal for mid-range measurements
k = 10 ideal for high measurements >20 mS/cm (>10 ppt).

1 Enter advanced setup as described in Section 5.1.

2 Press s or t until [CELC] appears. Press ENTER.

3 Press s or t to select “1.0”, “0.1” or “10.0”.

Ensure that the cell constant corresponds with
the electrode you are using.

4 Press ENTER to select and return to [CELC]

setup function.

5 Press s or t to move to the next setup function

or press CAL to exit to measurement mode.

5.3 Automatic Calibration (Micro 600 COND only)

Selec t automatic c alibrat ion “YES” for easy
calibration of (4) factory pre-set conductivity
calibration standards (see Section 3.3 Table 1).
To use other standards or to calibrate any standard
manually select “no”. Default value is “YES”.

1 Enter advanced setup as described in Section 5.1.
2 Press s or t until [ACAL] appears. Press ENTER.
3 Press s or t to select [YES] or [no].
4 Press ENTER to select and return to

[ACAL] setup function.

5 Press s or t to move to the next setup function

or press CAL to exit to measurement mode.

CAL to escape without confirming selection

Press ENTER to confirm selection; or press

CAL to escape without confirming selection

Press ENTER to confirm selection; or press

5

19

5

Advanced Setup Functions

5.4 Setting the TDS Factor (Micro 600 TDS only)

The concentration of salts dissolved in solution increases the conductivity. This
relationship varies from salt to salt and is roughly linear over a given range for
a given salt. The TDS conversion factor is the number
used by the meter to convert from conductivity to TDS.
The TDS conversion factor can be set from 0.4 to 1.0.
Default value is 0.5.
See Section 13 - Calculating TDS Conversion Factor.

1 Enter advanced setup as described in Section 5.1.
2 Press s or t until [tdS] appears. Press ENTER.
3 Press s or t to select the desired TDS factor.
4 Press ENTER to select and return to the [tdS]

setup function.

5 Press s or t to move to the next setup function

or press CAL to exit to measurement mode.

CAL to escape without confirming selection

Press ENTER to confirm selection; or press

5.5 Temperature Coefficient

The temperature coefficient is the amount of change in conductivity per degree
temperature (% per °C). For best results, determine and enter the exact
temperature coefficient of your solution. The meter allows adjustment from

0.0 to 3.0% per °C. Default value is 2.1% per °C.

Note: Select 0.0% for uncompensated
measurements. Temperature can be
measured by probe and displayed.

See Section 14 - Calculating
Temperature Coefficients.

1 Enter advanced setup as described in Section 5.1.
2

Press s or t until [t.Co %] appears. Press ENTER.

3

Press s or t to select a value between 0.0 to 3.0%.

4 Press ENTER key to select and return to the

[t.Co %] setup function.

5 Press s or t to move to the next setup

CAL to escape without confirming selection

Press ENTER to confirm selection; or press

20

Advanced Setup Functions

5.6 Normalisation Temperature

You can set the meter to normalise its
measurements to a temperature of either
25°C or 20°C. Default value is 25°C.

1 Enter advanced setup as described in Section 5.1.

2

Press s or t until [t.nr°C]appears. Press ENTER.

3

Press s or t to select [25.0°C] or [20.0°C].

4 Press ENTER to select and return to the

[t.nr °C] setup function.

5

Press s or t to move to the next setup function
or press CAL to exit to measurement mode.

5.7 Single-Point Calibration

Select “YES” to apply a single calibration value across all ranges.
Select “no” to allow separate calibrations for each range, or to restrict an
individual calibration so that it is applied to one range only. Default value is “Yes”.

1 Enter advanced setup as described

in Section 5.1.

2 Press s or t until [S.P.CA] appears.

Press ENTER.

3 Press s or t to select [Yes] or [no].

4 Press ENTER to select and return

to the [S.P.CA] setup function.

5 Press s or t to move to the next

setup function menu or press CAL
to exit to measurement mode.

CAL to escape without confirming selection

Press ENTER to confirm selection; or press

CAL to escape without confirming selection

Press ENTER to confirm selection; or press

5

21

5

Advanced Setup Functions

5.8 Restore Factory Default Values

Use this function to reset all parameters to factory default settings. This clears
all calibration data and any other setup functions you might have changed.

IMPORTANT: Once activated the settings and
calibration data will be erased and can not be undone.

1 Enter advanced setup as described

in Section 5.1.

2 Press s or t key until [UrSt]

appears. Press ENTER.

3 Press s or t to select [Yes] or [no].

4 Press ENTER to confirm.

5 If reset [Yes] confirmed, the meter

will return to measurement mode
after initialisation.

CAL to escape without confirming selection

Press ENTER to confirm selection; or press

22

Probe Care and Maintenance

6.0 Probe Care and Maintenance

Keep the probe clean. Rinse the probe twice, and
gently swirl it while you take readings. For best results,
soak a dry probe for at least 5-10 minutes before
calibration. Rinse the probe with clean water before
storing. Never scratch the bands with an abrasive or
hard substance. Do not strike against hard surfaces
or submerge the cable for extended periods.

Do not immerse the probe in oily solutions, aggressive
solvents, or strong acids. Clean with a mild detergent
or isopropyl alcohol then rinse thoroughly. Dry storage
is acceptable. Recalibrate after cleaning.

The included conductivity probe features a removable
probe guard for easy cleaning. To remove - grip yellow
probe guard and twist clockwise to release locking
notch, then slide off.

NOTE: Remember to re-attach the probe guard ­failure to do so will result in erroneous readings!

Locking
notch

Twist
probe
guard
clockwise
to remove

6

23

7

Troubleshooting

Problem Cause Solution

No display

“LO” displays
in the LCD

Unstable
readings

Slow response

Inaccurate
readings /
can’t calibrate

“Er1”
COND / TDS

“Er2”
Temperature
calibration error

Batteries are not installed, were
improperly installed, or are too weak

Low battery

a) Air bubbles in probe
b) Dirty probe
c) Probe not immersed enough
d) External noise pickup or

induction caused by nearby
electric motor

e) Broken probe

Dirty / Oily probe

Probe guard not installed or
calibration solution incorrect

Attempted calibration value
was not within the ±40%
auto calibration window

Auto calibration was not within
(0 - 50°C) temperature range

Install batteries with correct +/- polarity.
Replace with new batteries

Replace batteries

a) Tap probe to remove bubbles
b) Clean probe & recalibrate
c) Make sure sample entirely

covers the probe sensors

d) Move or switch off

interfering motor

e) Replace probe

Clean & recondition probe

Install probe guard & replace
calibration solutions

Check the value of the conductivity
calibration solution. Switch to manual
calibration mode and re-calibrate

Ensure that the temperature is
within the acceptable range

24

Specification/Features

8

0 to 20.00 (0.01) µS/cm

Conductivity Ranges
(Resolution)

TDS Ranges (Resolution)

Salinity % Resolution

Salinity ppt Resolution

Accuracy
Temperature

Resolution
Accuracy

Cell Constant
Temperature Compensation
Temperature Coefficient
Normalisation Temperature
TDS Factor
Calibration points
Auto - or Manual-ranging
Auto standard recognition

Auto-Buffer Recognition Yes
Hold Function Yes “HO”
Low Battery Indicator Yes “LO”
Auto Shut Off 20 minutes after last key operation
Display Custom LCD
Operating Temperature 0 to 50ºC
Power Requirements (4) AAA alkaline batteries (included)
Battery Life >100 hours
Meter Dimensions / Weight 15.7 x 8.5 x 4.2 cm / 255 g

20.0 to 200.0 (0.1) µS/cm
200 to 2000 (1) µS/cm

2.01 to 20.00 (0.01) mS/cm

20.1 to 200.0 (0.1) mS/cm
0 to 10.00 (0.01) ppm

10.0 to 100.0 (0.1) ppm
100 to 1000 (1) ppm

1.01 to 20.00 (0.01) ppt

20.1 up to 200.0* (0.1) ppt

*depending on TDS factor used

0.10 to 5.00%

0.01%

1.0 to 50.0 ppt

0.1 ppt

±1% full scale

-10.0 to 110.0ºC

0.1ºC

±0.5ºC

Automatic / Manual (from 0 to 50 °C)

0.0 to 3.0% per °C

25.0 , 20.0 °C (selectable)

0.4 to 1.0

Selectable
Selectable

Features

3

33

33

0.1, 1, 10 0.1, 1, 10Selectable

33
3
3
33

55Maximum 1 per range

33
3

TDSCOND

3

3
3

25

9

Conductivity Theory

Conductance is a quantity associated with the ability of primarily aqueous solutions
to carry an electrical current, I, between two metallic electrodes when a voltage V is
connected to them. Though water itself is a rather poor conductor of electricity, the
presence of ions in the water increases its conductance considerably, the current
being carried by the migration of the dissolved ions. This is a clear distinction from
the conduction of current through metal, which results from electron transport.

The conductance of a solution is proportional to and a good, though non-specific
indicator of the concentration of ionic species present, as well as their charge
and mobility. It is intuitive that higher concentrations of ions in a liquid will
conduct more current. Conductance derives from Ohms law, V = IR, and is
defined as the reciprocal of the electrical resistance of a solution.

C = 1 / R where C is conductance (siemens), R is resistance (ohms)

One can combine Ohms law with the definition of conductance, and the
resulting relationship is:

C = I / V where I is current (amps), V is potential (volts)

In practice, conductivity measurements involve determining the current through
a small portion of solution between two parallel electrode plates when an AC
voltage is applied. Conductivity values are related to the conductance (and thus
the resistance) of a solution by the physical dimensions - area and length - or the
cell constant of the measuring electrode. If the dimensions of the electrodes are
such that the area of the parallel plates is very large, it is reasonable that more
ions can reside between the plates, and more current can be measured. The
physical distance between the plates is also critical, as it effects the strength of
the electric field between the plates. If the plates are close and the electric field is
strong, ions will reach the plates more quickly than if the plates are far apart and
the electric field is weak. By using cells with defined plate areas and separation
distances, it is possible to standardise or specify conductance measurements.

Thus derives the term specific conductance or conductivity.

The relationship between conductance and specific conductivity is:

Specific Conductivity, S.C. = (Conductance) (cell constant, k)

= siemens * cm/cm
= siemens/cm

where C is the conductance (siemens), k is the cell constant, length/area or cm/cm

2

2

26

Conductivity Theory

Since the basic unit of electrical resistance is the ohm, and conductance is the
reciprocal of resistance, the basic unit of conductance was originally designated a
“mho” - ohm spelled backwards - however, this term has been replace by the term
“Siemens”. Conductivity measurements are reported as Siemens/cm, since the
value is measured between opposite faces of a cell of a known cubic configuration.
With most aqueous solutions, conductivity quantities are most frequently
measured in microSiemens per cm (µS/cm) or milliSiemens per cm (mS/cm).

The total dissolved solids scale approximate the ppm TDS in surface waters
by multiplying the conductivity of a sample by a factor, 0.66.

Some users prefer the use of resistivity units to describe their water, particularly
where high purity water is involved. The unit most often used to describe
resistivity is megohmcm, which are simply the reciprocal of conductivity
(µS/cm). The chart below shows the relationship between these units.

Conductivity (µS/cm) Resistivity (Mega ohm-cm)

0.056 18

0.1 10

1.0 1.0

2.5 0.4

10.0 0.1

Conductivity and Temperature

Conductivity in aqueous solutions reflects the concentration, mobility, and
charge of the ions in solution. The conductivity of a solution will increase with
increasing temperature, as many phenomena influencing conductivity such as
solution viscosity are affected by temperature.

The relationship between conductivity and temperature is predictable and
usually expressed as relative % change per degree centigrade. This temperature
coefficient (% change per degree) depends on the composition of the solution
being measured. Extremely pure water exhibits a temperature coefficient of

5.2%, and concentrated salt solutions about 1.5%.
Since temperature affects the conductivity measurement so profoundly, usual

practice is to reference the conductivity to a standard temperature - typically
25°C. Select 20°C or 25°C as the normalisation temperature in advanced setup.

Enter the temperature coefficient which best suits your sample and use an ATC probe
to automatically temperature compensate back to the chosen reference temperature.

9

27

10

Calibration Tips

You only need one calibration for measurement throughout the entire range of
the meter. If a range was not calibrated, the meter automatically detects the
closest range calibrated and uses that calibration information. However, only
the ranges that were calibrated have maximum accuracy.

If you are measuring in ranges near to or greater than 20 mS/cm (10 ppt), or
near to or lower than 100 µS/cm (50 ppm), suggested calibration frequency
is at least weekly.

If you are measuring in the mid-ranges and you wash the probe in deionised
water and store it dry, suggested calibration frequency is at least monthly.

Wet the probe for 10 minutes before calibrating or taking readings to saturate
the probe surface and minimise drift. If you take measurements at extreme
temperatures, calibrate the meter at least once a week.

You should only use the probe specified for these meters. These probes have a
built-in temperature sensor. If you use a different probe without a temperature
sensor, you must measure the solution temperature separately and manually
enter the solution temperature.

28

Calculating TDS Conversion Factor

You can calibrate your meter using TDS calibration standard solutions.
The calibration standard only needs to give the TDS value at a standard
temperature such as 25°C. To determine the conductivity-to-TDS conversion
factor use the following formula:

Factor = Actual TDS ÷ Actual Conductivity @ 25°C

Actual TDS: Value from the solution bottle label or as a standard

you make using high purity water and precisely weighed salts.

Tip: ppm = milligram of salt(s) per litre of water

Actual Conductivity: Value measured using a properly calibrated

Conductivity/Temperature meter.

Both the Actual TDS and the Actual Conductivity values must be in the same
magnitude of units. For example, if the TDS value is in ppm the conductivity
value must be in µS/cm; if the TDS value is in ppt the conductivity value must
be in mS/cm.

Check your factor by multiplying the conductivity reading by the factor
in the above formula. The result should be in TDS value.

Tip: When the TDS factor is set to 1.0, Conductivity = TDS.

11

29

12

Calculating Temperature Coefficients

To determine the temperature coefficient of your sample solution use this formula:

CT2- C

tc= 100 x

C

(T2- 25) - C

1

T

T1

(T1- 25)

2

T

Where:

= Temperature coefficient 25 = 25°C

t

c

C

= Conductivity at Temp 1 C

1

T

= Temp 1 T2= Temp 2

T

1

= Conductivity at Temp 2

2

T

NOTE: A controlled temperature water bath is ideal for this procedure.

1 Immerse the probe into a sample of your solution and adjust the

temperature coefficient to 0% (that is, no compensation) by following
instructions as described in Section 6.5 - Temperature Coefficient.

2 Wait for 5 minutes. Note T

and CT1(conductivity at T1).

1

3 Condition the sample solution and probe to a temperature (T

5°C to 10°C different from T1, and note the conductivity reading CT2.

NOTE: Record your results for future reference. Ideally T
should bracket your measurement temperature, and should not
differ by more than 5°C.

4 Calculate the temperature coefficient of your solution according to the

formula shown above.

5 Enter the calculated temperature coefficient into the meter.

See Section 5.5 - Temperature Coefficient.

The calculated temperature coefficient will now be applied to all the meter readings.

) that is about

2

and T

1

2

30

Replacement Parts and Accessories

Replacement Parts and Accessories

Description Product Code

Replacement Conductivity/TDS Probe

12.88mS KCI Conductivity Solution (500ml)

1412µS KCI Conductivity Solution (500ml)

74µS KCI Conductivity Solution (500ml)

3000ppm (442) TDS Solution (500ml)

300ppm (442) TDS Solution (500ml)

50ppm (442) TDS Solution (500ml)

Deionised Water Wash Solution (500ml)

13

PT 142/1

PT 142/2

PT 142/3

PT 142/4

PT 142/8

PT 142/9

PT 142/10

PT 1250

PT 1220Micro 600 COND Complete Kit

PT 1210Micro 600 TDS Complete Kit

31

14

Warranty and Certification

14.0 Warranty

The Palintest Micro 600 COND/TDS Meter is guaranteed for a period of three
years from date of purchase - its associated Conductivity/TDS electrode is

guaranteed for a period of six months from date of purchase. This guarantee
excludes accidental damage, or damage caused by unauthorised repair or misuse.

Should repair be necessary, please contact Palintest or your local distributor
quoting the serial number on the base of the instrument. This guarantee does
not affect your statutory rights.

14.1 Certificate of Conformity

Palintest Ltd certify this instrument, PT1210 and PT1220 has been tested and
calibrated to meet all performance specifications.

It is recommended that regular calibration of the probe is carried out in accordance
with the instruction manual to ensure correct operation.

The process used to verify this product is carried out in accordance with procedures
contained within Palintest’s certified ISO 9001 Business Management System.

32

For more information on Palintest products, contact your nearest
Palintest office or visit our website

Palintest Ltd

Palintest House, Kingsway, Team Valley,
Gateshead, NE11 0NS
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
[e-mail] (UK)
[e-mail] (International)

Palintest Australia and Asia Pacific

1/53 Lorraine Street,
Peakhurst Business Centre,
Peakhurst, NSW 2210, Australia
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
[e-mail]

Palintest China

Room 1711, Fanli Mansion,
22 Chaowai Street, Chaoyang District,
Beijing, 100020, PRC
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
[e-mail]

Palintest USA

400 Corporate Circle, Suite J
Golden, CO 80401, USA
Tel: [phone]
[e-mail]

V1-05/19

ZI INST 1220

www.palintest.com