YSI 63 User Manual
YSI Model 63
Handheld pH,
Conductivity,
Salinity and
Temperature
System
Operations
Manual
Table of Contents
1. Introduction ............................................................................................................... 1
2. Preparing the Meter................................................................................................... 2
2.1 Unpacking............................................................................................................................2
2.2 Warranty Card......................................................................................................................2
2.3 Batteries ...............................................................................................................................2
2.4 Transport Chamber ..............................................................................................................3
2.5 Hand Strap ...........................................................................................................................3
2.6 The Meter Case....................................................................................................................3
2.7 Calibration Vessels ..............................................................................................................3
3. Preparing the Probe.................................................................................................. 4
3.1 Installing the pH Sensor.......................................................................................................4
4. Operation...................................................................................................................5
4.1 Turning The Instrument On .................................................................................................6
4.2 pH Calibration......................................................................................................................6
4.3 Conductivity Calibration....................................................................................................11
4.4 Making Measurements.......................................................................................................12
4.5 Autoranging & Range Searching.......................................................................................14
4.6 Saving Data........................................................................................................................14
4.7 Recalling Stored Data ........................................................................................................15
4.8 Erasing Stored Data ...........................................................................................................16
4.9 Display Backlight ..............................................................................................................17
5. Advanced Conductivity Setup................................................................................ 18
5.1 Changing The Temperature Coefficient ............................................................................18
5.2 Changing The Reference Temperature ..............................................................................19
5.3 Changing Conductivity From Autoranging To Manual Ranging......................................19
6. Maintenance ............................................................................................................ 20
6.1 pH Sensor Precautions .......................................................................................................20
6.2 pH Sensor Cleaning ...........................................................................................................20
6.3 pH Sensor Storage .............................................................................................................21
6.4 Conductivity Sensor Cleaning ...........................................................................................21
7. Discussion of Measurement Errors....................................................................... 22
7.1 pH Errors............................................................................................................................22
7.2 Conductivity Errors............................................................................................................22
8. Troubleshooting...................................................................................................... 24
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9. Principles of Operation........................................................................................... 26
9.1 pH.......................................................................................................................................26
9.2 Conductivity.......................................................................................................................27
9.3 Salinity ...............................................................................................................................28
9.4 Temperature .......................................................................................................................28
10. Warranty and Repair.............................................................................................29
10.1 Cleaning Instructions .......................................................................................................30
10.2 Packing Instructions.........................................................................................................31
11. Required Notice.....................................................................................................32
12. Accessories and Replacement Parts................................................................... 33
13. Appendix A - Specifications................................................................................. 34
14. Appendix B - Health and Safety...........................................................................36
15. Appendix C - pH Buffer Values ............................................................................ 37
16. Appendix D - Temperature Correction Data........................................................ 38
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1. Introduction
The YSI Model 63 Handheld pH, Conductivity, Salinity and Temperature System is a rugged,
micro-processor based, digital meter with an attached pH, conductivity and temperature probe.
The pH sensor can be easily replaced in the field.
The Model 63 has a non-detachable cable available in lengths of 10, 25, 50 or 100 feet (3, 7.6,
15.2 or 30.5 meters). The probe body has been manufactured with stainless steel to add rugged
durability and sinking weight.
The YSI Model 63 has the following features:
• Capability to measure at depths of up to 100 feet (30.5 meters)
• Microprocessor control
• Field replaceable low maintenance pH sensor
• Push-button calibration
• Simultaneous display of pH, conductivity or salinity and temperature
• Automatic temperature compensation for conductivity readings
• Autoranging
• Data storage for 50 sets of readings with on screen recall
• Waterproof case (IP65)
The Model 63’s micro-processor allows the system to be easily calibrated with the press of a few
keys. Additionally, the micro-processor performs a self-diagnostic routine each time the
instrument is turned on. The self-diagnostic routine provides useful information about the
function of the instrument and probe.
A transport chamber, built into the instrument case, provides a convenient place to store the
probe when transporting the system. The Model 63 case is waterproof (rated to IP65) allowing
operation in the rain without damage to the instrument.
The Model 63 is powered by six AA-size alkaline batteries. A new set of alkaline batteries will
provide approximately 100 hours of continuous operation. When batteries need to be replaced,
the LCD will display a “LO BAT” message.
The YSI Model 63 is designed for use in environmental, aquaculture, and industrial applications
where accurate pH, conductivity, salinity and temperature measurements are desired.
1
2. Preparing the Meter
2.1 Unpacking
When you unpack your new YSI Model 63 Handheld pH, conductivity, salinity and Temperature
System for the first time, check the packing list to make sure you have received everything you
should have. If there is anything missing or damaged, call the dealer from whom you purchased
the system. If you do not know which of our authorized dealers sold the system to you, call YSI
Customer Service at 800-765-4974 or 937-767-7241, and we'll be happy to help you.
2.2 Warranty Card
Please complete the Warranty Card and return it to YSI. This will record your purchase of this
instrument in our computer system. Once your purchase is recorded, you will receive prompt,
efficient service in the event any part of your YSI Model 63 should ever need repair.
2.3 Batteries
There are a few things you must do to prepare your YSI Model 63 for use. First, locate the six
AA-size alkaline batteries and the battery cover kit which were included. Then locate the
markings inside each of the two battery-chamber sleeves that illustrate the correct way to install
the batteries. Install the batteries are shown.
NOTE: It is very important that the batteries be installed ONLY as illustrated. The instrument
will not function and may be damaged if the batteries are installed incorrectly.
Hand strap
Battery chamber
cover
Thumb screw
Attach the battery chamber cover to bottom of the instrument using the thumb screw as shown in
Figure 1. Make sure that the o-rings are in place. The battery-chamber cover is marked with the
words "OPEN" and "CLOSE."
Turn the instrument on by pressing and releasing the ON/OFF key on the front of the
instrument. The liquid crystal display (LCD) should come on. Allow a few seconds for the
instrument to complete its diagnostic routine. If the instrument does not operate, consult the
chapter entitled Troubleshooting.
Polarity marking
O-rings
Figure 1
2
You may also want to take the instrument into a dark location and, with the instrument ON, hold
down the LIGHT key. The instrument back-light should illuminate the LCD so that the display
can be easily read.
2.4 Transport Chamber
The Model 63 has a convenient transport chamber built into the instrument’s side. This chamber
provides a storage area and protection for the probe while transporting the system in the field.
Insert the round sponge (provided with the Model 63) into the bottom of the chamber. Put 6-8
drops of tap water into the sponge. The wet sponge creates a humid environment for the pH
sensor to prevent it from drying out during transport in the field (up to one week). The transport
chamber is NOT intended for long term storage of the pH sensor. See 6.3 pH Sensor Storage.
Probe transport
chamber
Figure 2
2.5 Hand Strap
The hand strap (see Figure 1 on previous page) is designed to allow comfortable operation of the
Model 63 with minimum effort. If the hand strap is adjusted correctly, it is unlikely that the
instrument will be easily dropped or bumped from your hand.
To adjust the hand strap on the back of the meter, unsnap the vinyl cover and pull the two Velcro
strips apart. Place your hand between the meter and the strap and adjust the strap length so that
your hand is snugly held in place. Press the two Velcro strips back together and snap the vinyl
cover back into place.
2.6 The Meter Case
The meter case is sealed at the factory and is not intended to be opened, except by authorized
service technicians. Do not attempt to separate the two halves of the meter case as this may
damage the instrument, break the water-resistant seal and may void the manufacturer's
warranty.
2.7 Calibration Vessels
To do a calibration you will need a plastic 100 mL graduated cylinder. A plastic container is
provide with the Model 63. The graduated cylinder provides a convenient place to calibrate the
pH sensor minimizing the amount of solution needed. The plastic container can be used as a
conductivity calibration vessel or filled with distilled water and used as a rinse vessel while in
the field. See section 4.2 pH Calibration and section 4.3 Conductivity Calibration for details.
3
3. Preparing the Probe
The YSI Model 63 is shipped without the pH sensor installed. The pH sensor must be installed
before using the system (see section 3.1 Installing the pH Sensor, below). The sensor is shipped
with a protective bottle filled with a mixture of pH 4 buffer and KCl solution. Do not remove the
bottle until you are ready to use the instrument. Save the bottle for long term storage of the
probe.
3.1 Installing the pH Sensor
A pH sensor is included with the Model 63. Install the pH sensor as follows:
1. Remove the sensor from its protective packing.
2. Insert the pH sensor into the probe body (be sure to align the tabs on the sensor with the slots in
probe body) and twist 1/4 turn to lock in place. See Figure 3.
NOTE: Once installed, leave the pH sensor attached to the probe until replacement is needed.
3. Carefully remove the protective bottle (containing pH 4 buffer/KCl solution) from the sensor.
Save the bottle and solution for long term (more than 1 week) storage of the sensor. Seal the
storage bottle with the cap provided.
4. Rinse the sensor tip with distilled or deionized water.
5. Calibrate the system before use. See section 4.2 pH Calibration.
Align tabs with
slots in probe
body
Turn sensor 1/4 turn
to lock in place
Insert pH sensor
into probe body
Figure 3
4
4. Operation
The following diagram is an overview of the operation of the Model 63. See the following
sections for details of operation.
Figure 4
5
4.1 Turning The Instrument On
With the batteries installed correctly, press the ON/OFF key. The instrument will activate all
segments of the display for a few seconds, which will be followed by a self test procedure which
will last for several more seconds. The Model 63 will briefly display the cell constant of the
conductivity probe when the self test is complete. During this power on self test sequence, the
instrument’s microprocessor is verifying that the system is working properly. If the instrument
were to detect a problem, a continuous error message would be displayed. See the chapter
entitled Troubleshooting for a list of error messages.
7.23 pH
24.8
°C
4.2 pH Calibration
The YSI Model 63 MUST be calibrated before making pH measurements. Calibration may be
performed at 1, 2 or 3-points (at pH 7, 4 and 10, or at pH 6.86, 4.01 and 9.18). Perform a 1-point
calibration (at pH 7 or at pH 6.86) ONLY if a previous 2 or 3-point calibration has been
performed recently. In most cases, a 2-point pH calibration will be sufficient for accurate pH
measurements, but if the general range of pH in the sample is not known, a 3-point calibration
may be necessary. 3-point calibration assures accurate pH readings regardless of the pH value of
the sample. See 9.1 pH for more details.
WARNING: Calibration reagents may be hazardous to your health. Refer to Appendix B -
Health and Safety for more information.
Before calibrating the YSI Model 63, complete the procedures discussed in the Preparing
the Meter and Preparing the Probe chapters of this manual.
The user can choose from two sets of pH buffer values for 3-point calibration. The first set
consists of the standard YSI pH buffer values of pH 7 (YSI 3822), pH 4 (YSI 3821) and pH 10
(YSI 3823). The second set available is the NIST pH 6.86, 4.01 and 9.18. Note that the first
calibration point must be either pH 7 or pH 6.86. Calibration is performed as follows:
1. Turn the instrument on by pressing the ON/OFF key. Press the MODE key until pH is
displayed.
2. Rinse the probe with deionized or distilled water, then carefully dry the probe (or rinse it
with some of the pH buffer solution to be used for calibration).
3. Place 30 to 35 mL of the pH buffer you have chosen to calibrate the system with (pH 7 or
6.86) in the 100 mL graduated cylinder. The graduated cylinder minimizes the amount of
solution needed. Immerse the probe making sure that both the pH and temperature sensors
are covered by the solution (see Figure 5 on the following page).
6
For best results:
• Calibrate as close as possible to the sample temperature.
• After storage in pH 4 buffer/KCl solution, place the pH sensor in pH 7 (6.86) buffer and
allow to acclimate before calibrating (5 to 10 minutes).
• Always give the pH and temperature sensors enough time to equilibrate with the
temperature of the buffer.
Temperature sensor
pH sensor (covered by sensor guard)
Figure 5
4. To enter the calibration menu, use two fingers to press and release both the UP ARROW
and DOWN ARROW keys at the same time. The Model 63 display will show CAL at the
bottom, STAND will be flashing and the pH reading will show 7.00 (the buffer to be used to
adjust the offset).
First buffer value.
Flashing
7.00 pH
STAND CAL 24.8
°C
Used to adjust the offset.
NOTE: If you will be calibrating with pH buffers of 6.86, 4.01 and 9.18 (instead of 7, 4 and 10),
press both the UP ARROW and DOWN ARROW keys again. The display will change to
6.86.
NOTE: The Model 63 automatically accounts for the fact that the true pH of the buffers changes
with temperature, therefore, the pH values displayed during calibration will vary with
temperature. For example, pH 7 buffer at 20°C (rather than 25°C) has an actual pH of 7.02
and this number (rather than 7.00) will appear on the display when the probe is placed in the
solution. See Appendix C - pH Buffer Values.
7
5. Press the ENTER key. The Model 63 display will show CAL at the bottom, STAND will
g
stop flashing and the pH calibration value is shown with the middle decimal point flashing.
7.00 pH
STAND CAL 24.8
6. When the reading is stable (does not change by 0.01 pH in 10 seconds), the decimal point
will stop flashing. Press and hold the ENTER key to save the calibration point. The Model
63 will flash SAVE on the display along with OFS to indicate that the offset value has been
saved.
°C
Flashes until
readin
is stable
SAVE
OFS
7. SLOPE will now appear on the display and be flashing. This indicates that the slope is ready
to be set using a second pH buffer. The system is now calibrated at a single point. If you are
only performing a single point calibration, press the MODE key to return to normal
operation.
7.00 pH
SLOPE
CAL 24.8
8. Rinse the probe with deionized or distilled water, then carefully dry the probe.
STOP HERE IF PERFORMING A 1-POINT CALIBRATION.
9. If you are performing a 2-point or 3-point calibration, fill a clean container with the second
value pH buffer (pH 4 or 10, or pH 4.01 or 9.18) and immerse the probe into the solution.
Make sure that the temperature sensor is immersed.
10. Press the ENTER key. The Model 63 should now show CAL at the bottom, SLOPE will
stop flashing and the pH calibration value (automatically sensed by the instrument) is shown
with one of the decimal points flashing.
8
°C
Flashing
p
.4.01 pH
SLOPE
CAL 24.8
If the second pH buffer is less than the first buffer (which was used to adjust the offset; pH 7 or
pH 6.86), the left decimal point will flash as shown above. If the second pH buffer is greater
than the first, the right decimal point will flash as shown below.
10.0.0 pH
SLOPE
CAL 24.8
11. When the reading is stable (does not change by 0.01 pH in 10 seconds), the decimal point
will stop flashing. Press and hold the ENTER key to save the first SLOPE. The Model 63
will flash SAVE on the display along with SLP to indicate that the first slope value has been
saved.
°C
°C
Second buffer value
Left decimal flashes (until
reading is stable) for buffers
lower than first cal
Second buffer value
Right decimal flashes (until
reading is stable) for buffers
higher than first cal point
oint
SAVE
SLP
12. SLOPE will start flashing again indicating that the slope is ready to be set using a third pH
buffer.
.4.01 pH
SLOPE
CAL 24.8
13. The system is now calibrated at two points. If you are only performing a two point
calibration, press the MODE key to return to normal operation.
14. Rinse the probe with deionized or distilled water, then carefully dry the probe.
°C
Flashing
STOP HERE IF PERFORMING A 2-POINT CALIBRATION.
9
15. If you are performing a 3-point calibration, fill a clean container with the third value pH
p
buffer (pH 4 or 10, or pH 4.01 or 9.18) and immerse the probe into the solution. Make sure
that the temperature sensor is immersed.
NOTE: The third buffer must not be the same as the second buffer. For example; if the second
buffer was less than pH 7, the third buffer must be greater than pH 7.
16. Press the ENTER key. The Model 63 display will now show CAL at the bottom, SLOPE
will stop flashing and the pH calibration value (automatically sensed by the instrument) is
shown with one of the decimal points flashing. If the third pH buffer is less than the first
buffer (which was used to adjust the offset; usually pH 7), the left decimal point will flash. If
the third pH buffer is greater than the first, the right decimal point will flash.
Third buffer value
1.0.0.0 pH
SLOPE
CAL 24.8
or
°C
Right decimal flashes (until
reading is stable) for buffers
higher than first cal point
Third buffer value
.4.0.1 pH
SLOPE
CAL 24.8
17. When the reading is stable (does not change by 0.01 pH in 10 seconds), the decimal point
will stop flashing. Press and hold the ENTER key to save the second SLOPE. The Model 63
will flash SAVE on the display along with SLP to indicate that the second slope value has
been saved.
°C
Left decimal flashes (until
reading is stable) for buffers
lower than first cal
oint
SAVE
SLP
The system is now calibrated at three points and will return to normal operation.
18. Rinse the probe with deionized or distilled water.
10
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