PLEASE READ THIS MANUAL CAREFULLY BEFORE OPERATION

Transcription

1 Operation Manual for Portable Refractometer RA-130 PLEASE READ THIS MANUAL CAREFULLY BEFORE OPERATION 3, Hagavish st. Israel Tel: , Fax: mrc@mrclab.com MRC.VER

2 Table of contents Safety Precautions Introduction About the manual Supplied parts Parts configuration Front view Rear view Display screen Operating unit Preparation for measurement Loading the battery Setting temperature unit, measuring unit and mode Setting temperature unit Measuring unit Configure measurement mode Measurement Cautions in measurement Sample measurement Measurement by dripping sample over the prism Sampling Start measurement Hold measurement data Saving the results Measurement by dipping prism in the sample Sampling Start measurement Holding measurement data Saving results Zero calibration Calibration with pure water Calibration with air Re-calibration Applied data processing Saving measurement data Automatic saving Manual saving Marking stored data Delete stored data Display and external output of measurement data Setting output of external Data output to computer via infra-red communication Data output to printer Data output to computer via RS-232C...25

3 10. Other useful functions Setting beep sound Adjust brightness of LC display; Setting of Backlight: on/off Auto power-off setup Confirmation of version number Set Date Set ID Power supply Replacement of battery Auto power-off Maintenance Cautions in use and handling Parts List Troubleshooting Technical data Warranty and After-sale Service...35 Appendix 1: Refractive index of Pure Water (15 to 40 C)...36 Appendix 2:Refractive index of Sucrose Solution (0 to 85 Brix%)...36 Appendix 3: Refractive index of Isomerized Sugar Solution...37 Appendix 4: Technical tips on Brix and Isomerized sugar...39

4 Safety Precautions Always observe these signs and introductions. You must observe cautionary messages and warnings in order to protect yourself as well as prevent others from physical injury or property damages. Warning! This symbol means "Danger of severe injury or possible death". Caution! This symbol means "Danger of injury or property damage". This symbol means prohibition of an act. This symbol means mandatory. Warning! Never overhaul or open the casing the unit except by an authorized MRC service person. Danger exists of electric shock, fire or malfunction. Caution! Do not use the unit in other way than instructed in the manual. Danger exists of fire and electric shock, and may damage the unit. Caution! Load the battery with correct polarity (plus/minus). - + If the battery is loaded with reverse polarity, it will heat up and leak, causing fire, injury and contamination of the environment. 1

5 Caution! Do not use a battery other than specified or mix new and old batteries. Danger exists of battery heated and leaking, causing fire, burn and contamination of the enviroment. Caution! Do not heat or break the battery or discard it in water or in flame. Danger exists of battery explosion, causing fire, injury and contamination of the enviroment. Caution! Do not use a leaking battery. Danger exists of electric short circuit and fire by leaking battery. 2

6 1. Introduction We appreciate your patronage purchasing MRC product the RA-130 Portable Refractometer. By easy operation, you can obtain refractive index of liquid as well as various concentrations. Please read this manual thoroughly before you use it for actual measurement. When delivered 1. Supplied parts P. 5 Check the supplied parts to see if they are correctly shipped in number. 2. Preparation of measurement P. 9 Set the supplied battery in the unit. Calibration of the meter <Caution> If the pure water test did not result within ±0.2% Brix, the measuring cell must be calibrated. Sample measurement 3. Measurement P. 14 Measure a sample. Prepare a sample and measure it. Daily check 4. Calibration of measuring cell P. 17 Calibrate the measuring cell. Prepare pure water. 3

7 2. About the manual It is recommended to keep this manual near your system in order for quick reference. Here in below, some important messages are described for your safety, security and assurance. 1. Where there exists a danger of physical injury or possible death Warning! Danger of physical injury or possible death if the warning is ignored. 2. Were there is a danger of property damage Caution! Property may be damaged if the instruction is not followed. 3. Where the instrument may perform its function correctly Note! If handled or operated other than instructed, the instrument may not work to its specified performance and not satisfy the warranty term and conditions. 4. Meaning of mark or symbol in the manual This symbol means technical tips helpful in operating the unit or useful advice. It is prohibited to copy a part or whole of this manual without consent of copyright. If you should find any missing part or doubtful descriptions in this manual, please contact your sales representative or local dealer. Manufacturer will not be liable for any damage or loss based on the data depicted in this manual. This manual stipulates operating instruction for the standard model. If your unit is customer ordered, please refer to the accompanying specification and instructions. 4

8 3. Supplied parts Make sure you have received all the necessary parts in the carton box. If you should find any missing or broken part/s, immediately contact your local dealer. Supplied parts list Part code Part name Qty Remarks (1) Alkali manganese dry cell 1 pc LR03G/ 1.5V (size AAA ) (2) Operation manual (CD-ROM) 1 pc (3) Quick Reference 1 pc (4) Warranty (Inspection card) 1 copy (5) Carton box 1 pc The supplied alkaline dry cell (size AAA ) is for the purpose of function test only. It is recommended to replace them with new ones earlier. 5

9 4. Parts configuration 4.1 Front view (1) Display screen (2) Operating keys (3) Prism stage (4) Prism 4.2 Rear view (5) Infra-red receiving unit (6) Battery cover 6

10 4.3 Display screen Measurement screen Result screen Memory clear screen (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)(6) (7) (8) (9) (10) (11) (1) shows the unit for measured data. (2) shows the resulting data expressed in the preset unit. (3) shows the sample name (A to Z or space). (4) normally shows a sample number but when an error occurs, the error number is displayed. (5) appears when Memory In is set to Auto (automatic saving). When the resulting data is on hold, it will be saved automatically while blinking. (6) shows Memory Out is set to Auto (automatic output). When Printer or PC is connected, the data will be output automatically while on hold. When the data are saved, this symbol blinks. (7) shows the capacity of battery energy. (8) shows the resulting data in the preset unit. (9) shows the measurement temperature ( C/ F). (10) appears when Memory clear is set to delete data. (11) * mark appears with data marked on [mem.clr.] The * mark is useful to identify those data unnecessary to save or process any further due to failure in measurement. 7

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12 5. Preparation for measurement 5.1 Loading the battery Install the dry cells into the battery case. Use alkaline dry cells (size AAA ), and insert securely while paying attention to the pole (+) and ( ). Remove the cover by pulling its top on the back of unit towards you. Insert the battery case with terminals all the way to the end, and put the cover on it. Check the display with [On/Off] key pressed. If it does appear, check the pole of the batteries. When replace the battery, change all of the cell at the same time. Use the same type of battery. Caution: Do not use other dry cell than alkaline AAA type, e.g. NiCd battery. [Press [On/Off] key for more than 2 seconds to turn on the power. It is normal if the initial display like below appears, and then turns to standby mode. Initial display Standby mode (above is an example) The measurement screen displays the capacity of battery energy: : Enough energy is stored (Level 3) : It is running down. (Level 2) : Almost no more energy. (Level 1) : Change the battery. (Level 0) * The alarm will sound. The above capacity level is just for as a guide. The alarm will sound only when the power is turned on. 9

13 6. Setting temperature unit, measuring unit and mode 6.1 Setting temperature unit Select C or F. While pressing [esc] key, press [ok/meas.] key to show Function screen. Select <Temp.Unit> with [+], [ ] key. ok After a unit is chosen with [+], [ ] key, confirm with [ok/meas.] key. 6.2 Measuring unit While pressing [esc] key, press [ok/meas.] key to show Function screen. Select <Measure Unit> with [+], [ ] key. After a unit is chosen by moving the cursor with [+], [ ] key, confirm with [ok/meas.] key. The following four units can be selected: (1) nd (2) ndt (3) Sugar (4) Conc. (1) Measurement of refractive index Measurement of refractive index at the temperature shown on display 10

14 (2) Measurement of refractive index with temperature compensation ok Compensated temperature and temperature compensation coefficient of sample should be preset. 10 temperature compensation coefficients can be stored. Comp. No. : Choose the temperature compensation coefficient out of 10 stored coefficients. Comp. temp. : Set up the compensated temperature. α*1000 : Set up the value of temperature compensated coefficient of sample The refractive index (ndt) at compensated temperature (Comp. temp) is obtained from the refractive index (nd) at measurement temperature (Temp). ndt = nd + α (Temp Comp. temp) How to obtain temperature compensation coefficient (depends on sample) (1) Use this instrument and measure refractive index at different ambient temperature (indoor and outdoor) to obtain difference of RI. Based on this difference, calculate the rate of change per 1 C (α 10 3 ). (2) Another way to obtain the coefficient is by using a digital refractometer (e.g. MRC s RA-520) at different measurement temperature degrees. The preset α value can be chosen on the measurement screen. While ndt, Conc. is selected, press [α] key for more than 2 seconds. The α value appears at the upper left on the screen. Press [ + ], [ ] key to show α0 to α9 consecutively. Show your desired α value and confirm with [ok/meas.] key. (3) Measurement of Sugars Measurement of Brix concentration ok Measurement of Brix degree (concentration of sucrose solution expressed in weight %) at 20 C obtained from refractive index at the measurement temperature. 11

15 Measurement of concentration of isomerized sugar (High Fructose Corn Syrup) Concentration of isomerized sugar at 20 C obtained from refractive index at the measurement temperature: The isomerized sugar is the mixture of glucose, fructose, maltose and sucrose, and is made from corn syrup. The unit is weight % of fructose contained in the isomerized sugar. The isomerised sugar is called HFCS42 containing 42% fructose and HFCS55 containing 55% fructose. Select either one by the fructose concentration. (4) Measurement of concentration using preset conversion formula ok The user defined concentration conversion formula (primary y=a+bx) can be stored. Concentration (%) Refractive index (nd) at 20 C For example, if you have the above data, the conversion formula is obtained as follows: Where y=concentration and x=refractive index, the approximate formula from linear interpolation on spread sheet of commercially available software application produces y=766.82x Therefore, enter 1.022E+3 for coefficient a and 7.668E+2 for b. Example of entry Example of measurement (when RI is ) 12

16 6.3 Configure measurement mode Set up stability sense of measurement and data storage, etc. as follows. While pressing [esc] key, press [ok/meas.] key to show Function screen. Use [ + ], [ ] key to choose <Measure mode>. Confirm with [ok/meas.] key. Custom mode Field mode Labo mode Sample name Mode [Custom] Memory in [Auto] [Manu] Memory out [Auto] [Manu] : To identify a series of sample, an alphabetical letter can be entered. (space, A to Z). : Configure measurement mode (Custom, Labo, Field). This mode can save resulting data automatically or output externally. The below Memory in, Memory out can be preset. : Setting saving method for the results When the data is on hold, it will be saved automatically. After the data is on hold, it is saved by [ok/meas.] key. : Setting output method for saved data When the data is saved, it will be output automatically. Press [mem. out] key to output the results data. [Labo] [Field] The measurement data on hold is automatically saved and output externally at the same time. Memory in is automatically set to Manu and Memory out to Auto. The data on hold is saved. Memory in is automatically set to Manu and Memory out to Manu. 13

17 7. Measurement 7.1Cautions in measurement Where there is difference in temperature between sample and prism, no correct temperature compensation can be expected. For the samples like the followings, wait for a while after the sample is dropped onto the prism until temperature difference has disappeared before measurement. Warmed sample A sample brought in from different ambient environment A sample right out of a refrigerator When different kinds of sample are going to be measured, clean the prism each time the sample is changed to a different kind. For high concentration (highly viscous) samples like honey, millet jelly or isomerized sugar, well stir the sample to homogenize before placing it on prism. Before starting measurement, pay attention to every sample contact parts which may affect the measurement. The parts which may contact the sample are as follows: (Be careful of corrosive nature of sample and solvent) Prism - Optical glass Prism stage - SUS-316 Main dipping part - PBT Prepare appropriate detergent or solvent before any type of measurement. When sampling test material on the prism, make to cover the entire prism face. Especially be cautious of highly viscous sample, which may easily generates air bubbles. Slowly introduce the sample when sampling. Do not use a metallic tool when sampling. It may give physical damage on prism face. After a measurement is over, make sure there is not residue of sample by cleaning prism and its stage. 14

18 7.2 Sample measurement Measurement by dripping sample over the prism Sampling 1. Make sure the prism face is clean. 2. Drip sample to cover the entire prism face. Fill the prism with sample liquid up to the line on sample stage. Insufficient amount of sample may cause an error message Start measurement Press [ok/meas.] key to start measurement Hold measurement data When the reading turns to stable value, it will be reversed automatically into hold status Saving the results When is displayed (memory in: Auto), the data is automatically saved while on hold. When is not displayed (memory in: Manu), press [ok/meas.] key while on hold. The data will be saved then. 15

19 7.2.2 Measurement by dipping prism in the sample Sampling 1. Make sure the prism face is clean. 2. Dip the prism in sample. Do not dip the prism above the mark on the unit. Some samples may corrode the unit Start measurement Press [ok/meas.] key to start measurement Holding measurement data When the reading turns to stable value, it will be reversed automatically into hold status Saving results When is displayed (memory in: Auto), the data is automatically saved while on hold. When is not displayed (memory in: Manu), press [ok/meas.] key while on hold. The data will be saved then. 16

20 8. Zero calibration 8.1 Calibration with pure water Note: 1. For calibration, use pure water at/around room temperature. 2. When calibrating with prism dipped in water, make sure to use pure water at/around room temperature. (1) Prepare pure water. (2) Rinse the surface of prism with pure water a few times, and wipe it dry with a soft tissue. (3) Drip pure water onto the entire the surface of prism. (When the prism is dipped in pure water, warm it nearly to room temperature) (4) The measuring cell can be calibrated with pure water by the following key entries: Press [cal.] key for more than 2 seconds, the display changes as shown below with CALIB(Water) in reverse showing calibration with pure water is in progress. (5) When calibration is completed, the deviation from theoretical value will be shown as below so that you can make sure the calibration has been performed correctly. When the deviation from theoretical value is within ±0.0005, it means the calibration has been completed in normal conditions. Select Yes in Execute? The calibrated value will be saved. If the deviation is more than ±0.0005, select No in order to renew calibration. If wrong data is saved, correct measurement data cannot be expected. Pay due attention. When the deviation is more than ±0.0005, re-calibrate the measuring cell with water once more. If the deviation from theoretical value is still large, the measuring cell may be contaminated. Clean the prism thoroughly, and calibrate it with pure water. When temperature at calibration is different from previous calibration, the deviation may become more than ± If the difference persists the same value after calibrating repeatedly by selecting Execute?(No) for a number of times, select Execute?(Yes) and take this point as zero point, and store the value as calibrated one. (6) When Execute?(Yes) is chosen and the display shows Ready, the calibration has been completed. Wipe water off on the prism surface with soft cloth or paper towel. 17

21 8.2 Calibration with air Calibration with air is necessary when Error No. (E-01) persists at the time of calibration with water or during sample measurement with prism cleaned after Error No. (E-01) once appeared in calibration with pure water or measurement. If Error No. (E-01) should appear at time of calibration with air, contact your local dealer. After cleaning prism surface, calibrate with air as follows: (1) While pressing [α] key, press [cal.] key. The display will show CALIB(Air) in reverse, meaning calibration with air is in progress. When the display returns to standby mode, it means the calibration is over. Usually calibration is finished within 2 minutes. (2) Proceed to calibration with pure water. See 8.1 Calibration with pure water. 8.3 Re-calibration For measurements of different type of sample, it is necessary to provide appropriate rinsing and cleaning each time before staring with different type of sample. Insufficient cleaning will result with residue remaining on prism face, causing incorrect measurement results. To make sure if any residue remains on prism face, measure Brix% with pure water. If the measurement results with off 0.0±0.2Brix% deviation, re-calibration will be necessary. 18

22 9. Applied data processing 9.1 Saving measurement data The number of data that can be stored in RA-130 is 1100 measurements Automatic saving On Function screen for <Meas. Mode>, set Memory in on Custom mode to Auto. appears like on the left. When the results are on hold, auto saving will activate and store the data Manual saving On Function screen for <Meas. Mode>, select either Field or Labo mode, or set Memory in on Custom mode to Manu. After measurement, press [ok/meas.] key to save the data. Whether saving by auto or manual, sample number on upper right on display increments as soon as the results are stored. 19

23 9.2 Marking stored data The * mark is useful to identify those data which are not necessary to store due to measurement failure. 1. Press [mem.clr] key and the latest sample on the upper right corner on display blinks as well as the mark at the bottom line turning lit. 2. Using [+], [ ] key change sample number and show the measurement data stored under each of the sample numbers, and press [ok/meas.] key on the number where you want to put a mark. 3. The * mark is displayed under the sample number, and this mark will appear together with output data, which is useful in data control and management. 4. When [ok/meas.] key is pressed again on the * marked number, the mark will disappear. ok 9.3 Delete stored data The stored data can be deleted at once. 1. When [mem.clr.] key is pressed for more than 2 seconds, Memory All Clear, Execute?(No) appears on the upper left corner of display. 2. Choose Yes and press [ok/meas.] key to clear all the data, and the sample number returns to

24 9.4 Display and external output of measurement data The stored measurement data can be shown on display or output to the optional printer or computer. How to show the stored data 1. Press [mem.out] key to blink the sample number on the upper right on display. This blinks. 2. Using [+], [ ] key change the sample number and its measurement results can be displayed. How to output each results 1. Press [mem.out] key. While the data is on display, press [ok/meas.] key, and the mark will blink and the data will be output to Printer or PC. How to output all of the stored data or some of them at once 1. Press [mem.out] key for more than 2 seconds and Memory Out, Execute?(All) will appear on the upper left on display. 2. Select All and press [ok/meas.] key, and blinks and the data currently stored measurement data will be output to Printer or PC. 3. After all the data are output, you will be prompted to delete all the data stored. If you want to delete all of them, choose Yes and press [ok/meas.] key. 4. Select Range and press [ok/meas.] key, and you can define the range by entering the numbers. Press [ok/meas.] key to execute. ok After the output is executed, the screen returns to standby mode. 21

25 9.5 Setting output of external Data output to computer via infra-red communication The RA-130 can output data to a computer, which is equipped with infra-red optical communication capability. For this purpose, install the data acquisition computer software (Mini Term). (It can be reached from our website ( Click PRODUCT, then click Portable Refractometer in the Refractometer/Brixmeter section. The Data communication Software for Portable Analyze ( ) can be downloaded from there.) For infra-red communication, read the instruction manual for the PC as well. (1) For use of Windows95 with infra-red lined PC, install the IrDA driver supplied by Microsoft. When the installed infra-red monitor activates, the below message will appear on display. (2) On Option screen of the infra-red monitor, make sure the infra-red port matches COM port of your PC. In this example of display, COM 7 is allocated to the infra-red port. Select COM7 for Mini Term communication port. (Set COM port No. and transmission rate at 9600 baud rate on Mini Term. No other settings are necessary.) IrDA protocol: Data length 8 bit Parity none Stop bit 1 (These parameters are fixed.) After you finish setting on this screen, activate Mini Term for further setting. 22

26 (3) Set up combination of PC and RA-130 with its infra-red receiving unit. Place the infra-red transmitting/receiving unit of RA-130 facing straight PC s infra-red transmitting/receiving unit within 20cm. The effective angle of RA-130 s infra-red unit is maximum 15 against the center axle both vertically and horizontally. (4) On Function screen of RA-130 for <Interface>, choose IrDA. ok (5) Press [mem.out] key on RA-130 and press [ok/meas.] key while measurement results are on display. blinks and the data will be output to PC as well as the data appears on receive screen. While data is output, the infra-red monitor shows the message like on the left. 23

27 9.5.2 Data output to printer In order to output data to an external printer, it is necessary to connect the optional infrared RS converter ( ) and polar converter ( ). An example setting an IDP-100 printer is described here in this manual. Install the main unit and infrared RS converter as shown, and connect the polar converter ( ) to IDP-100 printer, and then, connect the infrared RS converter. Printer (IDP-100) Polar converter ( ) Infrared RS converter ( ) Select PRN (printer) on <Interface> of Function screen to make communication settings. ok The optional infrared RS converter ( ) works only at 9600 baud. Therefore, Baud Rate must be set at Communication with IDP-100 printer also works only at 9600 baud. Example of printout of measurement results Sample No nd 20.0 C Sample No nd 20.0 C Sample No nd 20.0 C The marked data comes out with sample number with *. Sample No. 0014* nd 20.0 C Sample No nd 20.0 C 24

28 9.5.3 Data output to computer via RS-232C In order to output data to an external computer via RS-232C, it is necessary to connect the optional infrared RS converter ( ) as well as the data acquisition software (Mini Term). (It can be reached from our website Click PRODUCT, then click Portable Refractometer in the Refractometer/Brixmeter section. The Data communication Software for Portable Analyzer ( ) can be downloaded from there.) Install the main unit and infrared RS converter as shown, and connect the infrared RS converter to RS-232C of the computer. Select RS on <Interface> of Function screen to make communication settings. ok The optional infrared RS converter ( ) works only at 9600 baud. Therefore, Baud Rate must be set at The output format of measurement results is as follows: Data *1 Sample Number *2 Data string STX,, Byte start = Data Measurement result Unit Data string * * * * * * *, * * * * * * * * * *, Byte start = Data Temperature Unit Data string * * *. *,, Byte start = Data α *3 α value Data string A, * * * * * CR LF EOT Byte start = *1: Sample name (space, A to Z) *2: When data is deleted, * comes in. Others are space. *3: The number of α (0 to 9) * As to unit for resulting data, other than Comp.Density, SG, Baume, Conc., 25

29 10. Other useful functions The RA-130 has many functions including data unit change and external output setup, etc. While pressing [esc] key press [ok/meas.] key to show Function screen. Using [+], [ ] key press [ok/meas.] key to confirm. Beep LCD Contrast Power Version No. : Select beep for confirmation of entry or not : Adjust brightness of LCD screen : Select automatic power-off function or not : View to check version number of the unit 10.1 Setting beep sound With beep setup On, you can confirm key entry with sound. While pressing [esc] key press [ok/meas.] key to show Function screen. Using [+], [ ] key choose <Beep>. Select On or Off. Off On : No beep functions : Beep confirms key entry The unit is set to beep On in plant before shipment. Beep Off means no alarm beep even when there occurs an error. 26

30 10.2 Adjust brightness of LC display; Setting of Backlight: on/off Backlight: on/off Can set conditions for on/off of backlight. Auto off : Automatically turn off about 5 seconds after keying in for turning on. Always off : Keep turning-off status. Adjust Displayed Concentration The contrast of the screen can be adjusted to your desired brightness. While pressing [esc] key press [ok/meas.] key to show Function screen. Using [+], [ ] key choose <LCD Contrast>. The brightness can be adjusted by 9 steps using [mem.clr.] [mem.out] key Auto power-off setup This function turns off the power of unit automatically if no key entry is made during a preset length of time. While pressing [esc] key press [ok/meas.] key to show Function screen. Using [+], [ ] key choose <Auto Power Off>. Note: When On is set and no key entry is made in 15 minutes, the power will be turned off automatically. 27

31 10.4 Confirmation of version number The RA-130 has a software version number of its specification stored in its memory. While pressing [esc] key press [ok/meas.] key to show Function screen. Using [+], [ ] key choose <Version No.>. Press [ok/meas.] to return to Function menu Set Date RA-130 features a date setting and the set date can be output to a printer or a PC with measurement results. Display the Function screen display by [esc]+[ok/meas.] key combination. Select <Date & Time> using [ + ] or [ ] key. Select the menu option using [ ] or [ ] key. Select the number using [ + ] or [ ] key. Hit [OK] key to confirm the entry Set ID RA-130 features ID entry. Display the Function screen display by [esc]+[ok/meas.] key combination. Select <Identification> using [ + ] or [ ] key. Select the position using [ ] or [ ] key. Select the letter using [ + ] or [ ] key. Hit [OK] key to confirm the entry. Maximum number of characters for ID is ten. 28

32 11. Power supply This instrument uses for its power 2 alkaline dry cells of 1.5V LR03 (size AAA ). When the battery capacity goes down, the battery mark ( ) appears on display. The approximate length of battery life is 60 hours (when one measurement in one minute). When not in use, be sure to turn off the power Replacement of battery The two pieces of alkaline 1.5V dry cells are housed in the back of the display unit. When the battery is replaced, turn on/off the power switch to make sure the display shows the initial message and then goes to standby mode. If the display does not show as expected, check if all new dry cells are loaded and they were housed in correct pole direction. When the battery alarm ( ) appears: When the alarm ( ) appears, immediately abort measurement and turn off the power. Then, replace the battery with new ones How to replace the battery: Always turn off the power first, and then, replace all of the cell at the same time. Use the same type and rating of battery. Caution: Do not use other type of dry cell than alkaline, e.g. NiCd dry cell. Caution: 1. If the unit is not going to be used for an extended period of time, remove the cell out of the house. 2. The measurement data and parameters are stored in nonvolatile memory. Therefore, those data will not disappear even when the battery is removed Auto power-off When no key entry is made in 15 minutes after power is turned on, the power will be shut off automatically. 29

33 12. Maintenance Replacement of dry cells Turn off the power first before replacing the battery. The measurement data and parameters are stored in nonvolatile memory, and they will not fade away even without the battery. Cleaning of prism For solvent for cleaning, select those which will not corrode liquid contact parts. When sample liquid remains on prism or cleaning is not sufficient, the residue may solidifies on prism stage or dirt stains on it. Make it a point o practice thorough cleaning after a series of measurements is over. For cleaning prism face, use soft cloth or tissue. This will avoid contamination by samples, which is important for correct measurement results. 30

34 13. Cautions in use and handling This instrument is designed and structured for use at job site, however, it may malfunction or errors if it is used or handled in a way shown below. Also this unit is not anti-explosion structure. (1) Do not dip any part of the unit other than specified. If dipped, the whole unit may be damaged eventually. (2) The liquid contact parts are made of PBT, optical glass or SUS-316. Avoid any sample or solvent which may corrode the prism. (3) Avoid a place for storage under any of the following conditions: In corrosive gaseous environment Under direct sun light Dusty or humid room Too hot or too cold place (4) This instrument is a precision equipment. Do not drop and give excessive force. Be careful when handling liquid which may corrode the housing material. (5) After sample measurement, be sure to clean the prism face and store the unit dried. (6) Always turn off the power after use. (7) This instrument is a sealed assembly, and never be overhauled. If it is overhauled, the unit will not be covered by warranty. If it should smoke, smell or contact water permeating inside, immediately turn off the power and remove the battery. Then, contact your local dealer. 31

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36 15. Troubleshooting Error No. Error Remedy E-01 Optical adjustment error: (1) Automatic adjustment of LED failed in calibration with air. Check LED if it turns on, and contact your local dealer. (2) Automatic LED adjustment has failed in calibration with pure water or sample measurement. Calibrate with air. E-02 Error of calibration with air: (1) Prism surface is dirty. (2) Sample is on prism. Clean the prism completely, and re-calibrate with air. E-03 Error of calibration with water: (1) Water is not on prism. Drip water on prism and re-calibrate with water. If error persists, check LED and contact your local dealer. E-05 Data full error: (1) Number of stored data shows max. Erase stored data (Sample number shows FULL.) E-06 Memory error Malfunctioned EEPROM writing: Contact your local dealer. E-07 Limit time over: (1) Measurement time exceeded 10 minutes. E-08 Thermistor error (1) Abnormal thermistor to measure sample temperature. Battery alarm: No Sample No Meas. Range Over Turn off power and then on to restart measurement. If error persists, measure water to determine if it is caused by sample. If error persists with water, contact your local dealer. Broke thermistor Contact your local dealer. (1) Dry cell is running down. Change with new cell. Measurement error: (1) No sample is on prism. Place sample on prism and start measurement. Measurement error: (1) Measurement for refractive index is Adjust sample temperature close to not correct. room temperature, and then restart measurement. Measurement error: (1) Measurement exceeds the upper range. Range for RI measurement is 1.32 to

37 16. Technical data Type and model RA-130 Portable Refractometer Measuring method Optical refraction critical angle detection Measuring objects Fruit juices, soft drinks and other solutions Range Brix 0 to 85% HFCS42 0 to 76% HFCS55 0 to 80% nd 1.32 to 1.50 Precision Brix ±0.2% HFCS42/55 ±0.2% nd ± Resolution Brix 0.1% HFCS42/55 0.1% nd Temperature range 10 to 40 degree Celsius Display nd, ndt, Brix%, Solid%, Conc Temperature compensation 10 temperature compensation coefficients of sample and compensated temperature can be stored. Data file 1100 files External output PC or Printer can be connected. (not both) IrDA interface is standard equipped. Connection via RS-232C requires optional infrared RS converter ( ). Weight Approximate 200g Power source DC3V (2 alkaline dry cells of 1.5V) Battery life Approximate 60 hours/one (measurement in one min) Sampling method 2 types of sampling: dipping or dripping method 34

38 17. Warranty and After-sale Service (1) We thank you very much for your patronage by purchasing our product. The product you have purchased passed strict factory inspection and testing prior to shipment, and maintenance service is performed under the quality system, however, if any defective parts or malfunctions should be found due to Manufacturer's craftsmanship, installation or insufficient description of operating manual, the quality is guaranteed for one year after the date of purchase by free of charge repair except for consumable parts, provided that the instrument or the parts have been in normal use and operation. This warranty, however, may not cover damages incurred under some use conditions even for the warranty period. (2) Please contact your local dealer for the after-sale services, such as repairing, during or after the warranty period. (3) Before asking us to repair the product, please carefully read the section, 15. Troubleshooting for reconfirming the malfunction. Then, when you have to ask us for repairs, please let your local dealer know the following information: Product serial number Symptom of malfunctions Your name and address / phone number (4) Please contact your local dealer on the purchase of the parts. (5) Quality Assurance (This warranty shall not cover any of the following incidents.) When splashing water on the unit or submerging it in water When operating the unit otherwise described in the sections for sampling and rinsing measuring cell When dropping the unit or giving it physical shock (6) Although this product is designed with various safety features, the operator should be aware of handling flammable samples and rinsing solution. Thus, please keep in mind the following instructions for safety operations. This warranty shall not cover an accident resulting in injuries or death caused by erroneous handling or use of the product. This warranty shall not cover any damages incurred due to mishandling of measured data. Keep away from heat or flame and care should be taken of ventilation, when handling flammable samples/rinsing solution. This warranty shall not cover any accidents derived from work environment. Wear appropriate protective equipment gloves, goggles, mask and the like depending on samples or rinsing solution. 35

39 Appendix 1: Refractive index of Pure Water (15 to 40 C) Temp. ( C) Refractive index (nd) Temp. ( C) Refractive index (nd) Temp. ( C) Refractive index (nd) Appendix 2:Refractive index of Sucrose Solution (0 to 85 Brix%) (OIML R 124 (Annex A),(1997)) Brix% Refractive index Brix% Refractive index Brix% Refractive index nd 20 nd 20 nd

40 Appendix 3: Refractive index of Isomerized Sugar Solution HFCS42 (0 76 Solid%) (Physical Properties Table) (Corn Products) 42% Fructose Solid% RI Brix% Solid% RI Brix% Solid% RI Brix% nd 20 nd 20 nd

41 HFCS55 (0 80 Solid%) (Physical Properties Table) (Corn Products) 55% Fructose Solid% RI Brix% Solid% RI Brix% Solid% RI Brix% nd 20 nd 20 nd

42 Appendix 4: Technical tips on Brix and Isomerized sugar Brix (%): The Brix degree means solid weight (g) per 100g solution. It is generally used to express mass percent weight of sucrose solution. This value can be obtained by converting refractive index measured from Na-D line light source at 20 C, and measurement temperature can be compensated. The calculation of Brix is made from measured refractive index and the temperature at prism boundary area. Where other substances than sucrose exists in the sample, the reading of Brix shows the value coming from the integrated refractive index, and therefore, it may not necessary reflects the Brix degree of sucrose solution only. Isomerized sugar: The isomerized sugar is the mixture of dextrose, fructose, maltose and sucrose, and made from corn syrup. It is classified according to the weight percent fructose contained in the isomerized sugar, mainly divided into three major categories: HFCS42 (contains 42%), HFCS55(contains 55%) and HFCS90(contains 90%). [HFCS stands for High Fructose Corn syrup] The isomerized sugar concentration means the weight percent concentration of isomerized sugar solution, which is obtained by converting its refractive index (nd20) at 20 C. The RA-130 contains two kinds of conversion tables: HFCS42 and HFCS55 ( Physical Properties Table Corn Products, 1991) The relation of isomerized sugar concentration and refractive index will change depending on components of the sugar. The below chart shows the composition of HFCS42 and HFCS55: HFCS42 HFCS55 Dextrose 52.50% 40.30% Fructose 42.50% 55.40% Maltose 3.00% 3.00% Sucrose 0.00% 0.00% Maltotriose DP3 0.70% 0.40% Oligosaccharide DP4 1.30% 0.90% Sulfated Ash 0.03% 0.05% 39