What is the difference between an analytical balance and a precision balance?

An analytical balance provides readability of 0.1 mg or better, while a precision balance typically reads to 0.001 g or 0.01 g. Analytical balances include draft shields and are designed for highly sensitive measurements. Precision balances handle larger samples and are less affected by environmental conditions.

What readability do I need for my lab application?

You need a readability that is at least one-tenth of your smallest sample weight or required measurement increment. For example, measuring 100 mg samples may require 0.01 mg readability, while gram-level work may only need 0.01 g. Selecting higher readability than necessary increases cost without improving results.

Do lab balances need to be calibrated?

Yes, all lab balances require regular calibration to maintain accuracy. Calibration ensures measurements remain traceable to certified standards. Internal calibration simplifies this process by automating adjustments, while external calibration requires manual verification with certified weights. In regulated environments, calibration records must be documented and retained.

What is the difference between readability and repeatability?

Readability is the smallest increment of weight a balance will display. Repeatability is the degree of agreement between multiple measurements of the same mass, on the same balance, under the same conditions.

What is the best way to clean my balance to ensure accurate readings?

Inspect and clean before each use. A flannel cloth or soft brush works well for dusting and light cleaning. Use a non-abrasive cleaner for light spills, and a dry flannel cloth for glass parts. Set a regular maintenance schedule for deep cleaning to ensure optimal performance and instrument longevity.

Can vibration affect the accuracy of my balance?

Yes — even slight vibration from a heavy footstep can affect accuracy. Place the balance on a sturdy benchtop away from high-traffic areas such as hallways, elevators, stairways, and doors. If that placement is not possible, an anti-vibration table should be considered.

Options in pH Meters: Measure pH Wherever You Go

pH measurement is used in testing water, soil, foods and beverages, and more.

It refers to the potential hydrogen-hydroxyl ion content of a solution. pH is measured, usually with a pH meter, on a scale that ranges from 0 to 14, with values below 7 referred to as acidic and values above 7 as basic or alkaline. The scale is logarithmic, meaning that a reading of 6.0 is ten times more alkaline than 5.0.

On-the-go consultants and others working in the field now have a mobile option for measuring pH wherever they sample. The pH Module with pH electrode for iPhone^®, iPad^®, and iPod^® converts any of these devices into an easy-to-use pH meter.

Users simply plug the PH-1 module into their mobile device to measure and record values, date and time, and GPS location. They can take pH and ORP measurements utilizing any electrode with a BNC connector. Easy on-screen prompts indicate how to install the free app, connect an electrode, select temperature compensation, and calibrate. The display shows pH measurement, mV reading, ambient temperature, and ATC temperature. The module provides automatic and manual temperature compensation shown in degrees Celsius or Fahrenheit.

Data can be transferred conveniently by e-mail or through a USB connection. The pH meter calibration may include up to 99 points. The module is sold as a module only or as a module with a pH/ATC electrode.

2 Comments on "Options in pH Meters: Measure pH Wherever You Go"

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Options in pH Meters: Measure pH Wherever You Go

pH measurement is used in testing water, soil, foods and beverages, and more.

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2 Comments on "Options in pH Meters: Measure pH Wherever You Go"

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