EC500-en-GB_v2.6 10/14
2
Introduction
Congratulations on your purchase of the ExStik
®
EC500 pH/Conductivity/Total Dissolved Solids
(TDS) / Salinity meter. With the EC500’s dynamic cell-constant technology it is possible to
measure a wide range of Conductivity, TDS, and Salinity with the same electrode. Careful use
and maintenance will provide years of reliable service.
Powering the ExStik™
The ExStik
®
uses four (4) CR2032 Lithium Ion Batteries (included). If the batteries are weak, the
‘BAT’ indicator appears on the LCD. Press the ON/OFF key to turn the ExStik
®
on or off. The auto
power off feature shuts the ExStik
®
off automatically after 10 minutes of inactivity to preserve battery
life.
Getting Started
Remove the cap from the bottom of the ExStik to expose the pH electrode, reference junction
and conductivity electrodes.
Before the first use or after storage, soak the electrode in tap water or pH 4 buffer solution for
about 10 minutes.
White KCL crystals may be present in the cap or on the electrode. This is to be expected
depending on the length of time in storage. These crystals will dissolve while soaking the
electrode or they can be rinsed away with tap water.
For best results calibrate with pH 7 buffer solution first, then calibrate with the buffer solution
closest to the expected pH value of the solution or material to be tested.
To preserve the pH electrode life keep the sponge in the protective cap soaked with tap water
or pH 4 buffer solution.
For best results, calibrate for conductivity with a standard in the expected range of the sample.
For maximum accuracy calibrate from low conductivity value standards to high value
standards.
