Platinum-Cell Conductivity Probe (CONPT-BTA)

Specifications and User Guide

Troubleshooting

  • Primary Test: Plug the sensor into a Vernier interface, run the data-collection program, and take a reading in a solution of known Total Dissolved Solid (TDS).
  • For best results, condition the electrode in a standard solution for three to five minutes prior to use.

Additional Troubleshooting

Specifications

  • Range: 0-2000 μS/cm (0-1000 mg/L TDS)
  • Body description: epoxy body, 2-cell platinum element
  • Accuracy using factory calibration: ±40 μS/cm
  • Accuracy using custom calibration: ±10 μS/cm
  • Response time: 95% of full-scale in 5 seconds
  • Temperature compensation: two settings – none or 2% for 5 to 35 ºC
  • Temperature range: 0 to 80 ºC
  • Cell constant: 1.0 cm-1
  • Shaft dimensions: 12 mm OD x 120 mm length
  • Minimum submission depth: 3 cm

Calibration

Calibrate? You do not have to perform a new calibration when using the Platinum-Cell Conductivity Probe for most experiments. Each probe is programmed with a custom calibration prior to shipping. The factory calibration is set while the probe is at room temperature with the temperature compensation at 2%.

However, if your experimental application requires more accurate readings or if you are testing without temperature compensation, you should calibrate your sensor using a two point calibration.

  1. Make sure the temperature compensation switch is set to the desired position.
  2. Initiate the calibration procedure in the software. (For more information, see How do I calibrate my sensor?)
  3. First calibration point
    1. Place the Platinum-Cell Conductivity Probe into a known standard solution.
    2. Be sure the entire elongated hole with the electrode surfaces is submerged in the solution and that there are no bubbles along the electrode surface.
    3. Wait for the displayed voltage to stabilize.
    4. Enter the value of the standard solution in the appropriately chosen units for Reading 1.
    5. Click or tap Keep.
  4. Second calibration point
    1. Place the Platinum-Cell Conductivity Probe into a different standard solution.
    2. Be sure the entire elongated hole with the electrode surfaces is submerged in the solution and that there are no bubbles along the electrode surface.
    3. Wait for the displayed voltage to stabilize.
    4. Enter the value of the standard solution for Reading 2.
    5. Click or tap Keep.
  5. If you want to save the calibration onto the sensor (Logger Pro and LabQuest App only), click the storage tab and save the calibration to the sensor.
  6. Click or tap Done (or OK depending on the software) to complete the calibration process.

Note: Performing a zero-point calibration is not recommended with conductivity sensors. It is preferred that you use a low-concentration calibration standard instead of a zero point. This is particularly important if you plan to take measurements below 200 μS/cm where the low calibration point is most critical.

Storage and Maintenance

  • When you have finished using the Platinum-Cell Conductivity Probe, simply rinse it off with distilled water and blot it dry using a paper towel or lab wipe. The probe can then be stored dry.
  • If the probe cell surface is contaminated, soak it in water with a mild detergent for 15 minutes. Then soak it in a dilute acid solution (0.1 M hydrochloric acid or 0.5 M acetic acid works well) for another 15 minutes. Then rinse it well with distilled water and blot dry. Important: Avoid scratching the inside electrode surfaces of the elongated cell.

Related Products

Published: September 29, 2015. Updated: April 22, 2025.