YSI 30 - Manual (Page 17)

YSI, Incorporated Model 30/30M 13
SECTION 5 CALIBRATION
5.1 BEFORE YOU CALIBRATE
IMPORTANT: System calibration is rarely required because of the factory calibration of the
YSI Model 30. However, from time to time it is wise to check the system calibration and make
adjustments when necessary.
Before you calibrate the YSI Model 30, complete the procedures discussed in the Preparing the
Meter and Making Measurements sections of this manual.
To accurately calibrate the YSI Model 30, it is important to remember the following:
1. Always use clean, properly stored, NIST traceable calibrator solutions (see Appendix B,
Accessories and Replacement Parts). When filling a calibration container prior to performing the
calibration procedures, make certain that the level of calibrant buffers is high enough in the
container to cover the entire conductivity cell. Gently agitate the probe to remove any bubbles in
the conductivity cell.
2. Rinse the probe with deionized water (and wipe dry) between changes of calibration solutions.
3. During calibration, allow the probe time to stabilize with regard to temperature (approximately
60 seconds) before proceeding with the calibration process. The readings after calibration are
only as good as the calibration itself.
4. Perform sensor calibration at a temperature as close to 25°C as possible. This will minimize any
temperature compensation error.
5.2 THE CALIBRATION PROCESS
System calibration is rarely required because of the factory calibration of the YSI Model 30.
However, from time to time it is wise to check the system calibration and make adjustments when
necessary.
Follow these steps to perform an accurate calibration of the YSI Model 30:
1. Turn the instrument on and allow it to complete its self test procedure.
2. Select a calibration solution which is most similar to the sample you will be measuring.
• For sea water choose a 50 mS/cm conductivity standard (YSI Catalog# 3169).
• For fresh water choose a 1 mS/cm conductivity standard (YSI Catalog# 3167).
• For brackish water choose a 10 mS/cm conductivity standard (YSI Catalog # 3168).
3. Place at least 3 inches of solution in a clean glass beaker.
4. Insert the probe into the beaker deep enough to completely cover the oval shaped hole on the
side of the probe. Do not rest the probe on the bottom of the container -- suspend it above the
bottom at least 1/4 inch.
5. Press the MODE key until the instrument is reading conductivity or specific conductance.