YSI 6500 Environmental Process Monitor - Manual (Page 40)

SECTION 4 CALIBRATION
In this section, you will learn how to calibrate the 6-Series Sonde sensors using the 6500 Monitor
(field calibration) as the interface device. You will also learn how to view your data on a
computer display.
MULTIPLE SONDE CALIBRATION
If you are using multiple sondes with the 6500 Monitor, each sonde must be calibrated separately.
To calibrate each sonde, first make sure that the name of the sonde is highlighted, as in the figure
below. Follow the calibration procedures in this section, then highlight the name of the second
sonde, and proceed.
If you choose to calibrate using a laboratory computer, instructions can be found in your 6-series
sonde Operations Manual. Remember that the YSI-supplied PC6000 software should be installed
on your computer. PC6000 software is provided with the 6-Series sonde and is found on a disk in
the back of your Sonde Operations Manual. Information about how to calibrate your sonde using
a computer or YSI 610 Display/Logger, can also be found in the YSI 6-Series Operations
Manual.
4.1 GENERAL CALIBRATION TIPS
Your YSI 6-Series sonde will provide accurate sensor readings to the 6500 Monitor only if it is
calibrated properly! Thus, a complete understanding of the procedures in this section of the
manual is extremely important. The calibration of the sensors, whether carried out with the
sonde interfaced to a computer or the 6500 Monitor, is not difficult, but does require proper
attention to detail. The key is to follow the recommended procedures in general and, more
specifically, to take your time during calibrations. Remember that the sonde will be deployed for
several weeks between recoveries for maintenance and therefore a few extra minutes during
calibration is not significant in the overall timeframe of its use. After several deployments, you
should be able to complete calibration of all sensors within 30 minutes, but it might take
somewhat longer until you are familiar with the software prompts and the protocols. The extra
time expended during initial calibration to “get it right” will be well worth the effort.
HEALTH AND SAFETY
WARNING: Reagents that are used to calibrate and check this instrument may be hazardous to your
health. Take a moment to review health and safety information in Appendix A of this manual.
Some calibration standard solutions may require special handling.