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INTRODUCTION

Congratulations on your purchase of the Model #RPCT‐07‐001 Soluble Salt Meter (SSM), distributed by ARP Instruments, Inc. Please read all instructions prior to operation of the SSM and accessories. Visit www.rpct.net or contact [email protected] for latest software versions, service packs and additional information. The SSM is a patented design that provides a hand held, automated method for detection of soluble salts on flat surfaces. The Model RPCT‐07‐001 meter has been performance tested and accuracy determined to be equal to a laboratory bench top conductivity meter with very little variance between readings. The SSM has been approved by the United States Navy’s Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) as an approved alternative to the Bresle patch method as specified in U.S. Navy maintenance standard (NAVSEA Standard Item 009‐32). The SSM provides a field alternative to the Bresle patch sampling method specified in ISO 8502‐6 and measurement by conductivity specified in ISO 8502‐9. Surface salt extraction and conductivity measurement are combined in one tool allowing convenient, ergonomic operation. The hand held design provides a self‐contained, easily transportable unit for soluble salt measurements. The SSM and supplied fluid dispenser allow for quick and accurate injection of deionized water, extraction of surface salts, and conductivity measurement. The SSM is complete with a backlit LCD display and easy to follow on screen instructions. All data is stored electronically and can be downloaded to any PC spreadsheet program (such as Microsoft® Excel), using the supplied SSMLink software. Electronic data can be exchanged to any Coatings Technical File (CTF). The SSM has six easy steps:

1. Attach meter to surface 2. Inject deionized water into measurement chamber with one press of the dose bottle 3. Meter automatically agitates solution 4. Meter automatically takes reading

• Displays reading on LCD screen • Stores values electronically

5. Wipe remaining water from surface after removing SSM 6. Flush meter with deionized water


TABLE OF CONTENTS

Introduction ................................................................................................................................................... 1 Table of Contents .......................................................................................................................................... 2 1. Specifications ........................................................................................................................................ 3 2. Meter Description .................................................................................................................................. 5 3. The SSM Kit .......................................................................................................................................... 6 4. Getting Started ...................................................................................................................................... 7

6.1 Charging the Battery ..................................................................................................................... 7 6.2 Turning the SSM on/off ................................................................................................................. 7 6.3 Navigating the Menu ..................................................................................................................... 8 6.4 Making Connections ...................................................................................................................... 8 6.5 Disconnecting ................................................................................................................................ 9

7 Meter Setup ......................................................................................................................................... 10 7.1 Adjusting the Date/Time Settings ................................................................................................ 10 7.2 Adjusting Meter Settings ............................................................................................................. 10 7.3 About ........................................................................................................................................... 10

8 Cleaning the Meter .............................................................................................................................. 12 8.1 Cleaning ...................................................................................................................................... 12

9 Taking a Reading ................................................................................................................................ 14 9.1 Taking a Reading ........................................................................................................................ 14 9.2 Flushing the Meter ...................................................................................................................... 16

10 Validation and Calibration ............................................................................................................... 17 10.1 Priming the Meter ........................................................................................................................ 17 10.2 Preparing the Protective Cap ...................................................................................................... 18 10.3 Validation ..................................................................................................................................... 19 10.4 Calibration ................................................................................................................................... 21

11 Data Control .................................................................................................................................... 23 11.1 Select a Batch ............................................................................................................................. 23 11.2 View a Batch ............................................................................................................................... 23

12 SSMLink Software & Firmware ....................................................................................................... 24 12.1 Installing drivers and software ..................................................................................................... 24 12.2 Installing the SSM Package ........................................................................................................ 24 12.3 Connecting the SSM ................................................................................................................... 27 12.4 Starting the SSMLink Software ................................................................................................... 28 12.5 Creating a new batch .................................................................................................................. 29 12.6 Download Batches ...................................................................................................................... 30 12.7 Saving all Batches ....................................................................................................................... 31 12.8 Saving Individual Batches ........................................................................................................... 32 12.9 Validation Settings ...................................................................................................................... 32 12.10 SSM Properties ....................................................................................................................... 33 12.11 Software Version of the SSMLink ........................................................................................... 34

13 Meter Maintenance and Care .......................................................................................................... 35 13.1 Packing Up .................................................................................................................................. 35 13.2 Replacing the battery .................................................................................................................. 35 13.3 Replacing the Seal ...................................................................................................................... 35 13.4 Caring for Your SSM ................................................................................................................... 36

14 Troubleshooting Guide .................................................................................................................... 37 15 Warning ........................................................................................................................................... 39 16 Warranty .......................................................................................................................................... 39 17 Calibration and Repair Services...................................................................................................... 39


1. SPECIFICATIONS

Measurement Area 1250 mm2 (circular) fixed footprint

Attachment Method Protective with silicone seal (no effect on surface quality; proven to seal over deep pits)

Water Injection Method Automated, with simple press of 3 mL fixed volume dispenser

Dosing Accuracy ± 0.05 mL

Air Evacuation Automated (measurement chamber relaxes automatically; no time delays)

Measurement Process Steps 6 Total Process Time (Reading to Reading) 1 minute

Plunger Cycle Time (Measurement) 45 seconds

Plunger Cycle Time (Full Cleaning) 40 seconds

Temperature Sensors 1 probe (stainless steel)

Working Temperature Range 0 – 50 °C (32 – 122 °F)

Temperature Accuracy ± 0.3 °C (0.54°F)

Conductivity Sensors 4 probes (stainless steel)

Measurement Range 0-300 µS/cm

Measurement Accuracy ± 1% full scale

Minimum radius of curvature 550mm

Indicators Red/Green LED

Memory Holds up to 1000 measurements (10 batches of up to 100 measurements each)

Power Supply Lithium-ion rechargeable battery 3.7 V @ 1880mAh

Calibration Not required; meter is calibrated by manufacturer. Daily validation method provided. Service recommended after 2500 measurements or one year of use

SSMLink Software & SSMFirmware Updates

Visit www.rpct.net for periodic updates or to receive email updates contact [email protected]

United States Patent No. 6,946,844 was issued on 20 September 2005 covering this

equipment. International patent pending.

Approved by US Navy for soluble salt determination in accordance with the Preservation Process Instruction (Core PPI)


Approved by the US Navy for Bresle patch alternative method in NAVSEA Standard Item 009-32

Equivalent to ISO Standard 8502-6 Extraction of soluble contaminants for analysis – The Bresle method

Can be used in lieu of the Bresle method with ISO Standard 8502-9 Field method for the conductometric determination of water-soluble salts

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3. THE SSM KIT

Your basic SSM kit consists of:

1. Soluble Salt Meter with protective cap and rechargeable Li-ion battery

2. 500 mL of deionized water 3. 250 mL of 84 µS/cm

standard solution 4. 3 mL fixed volume fluid

dispenser 5. Stiff plastic feeder tube for

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7. Syringe for injection of calibration solution

8. Universal AC adaptor (with instructions)

9. Plugs for universal AC adaptor

10. USB connection cable 11. CD with SSMLink software

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To turn the SSM off select TURN OFF. The meter automatically turns off when no button has been pressed for 10 minutes. In case of a low battery you will see a warning prompting you to charge the battery and the SSM will shut-off. The meter cannot be turned off without going to the main screen. Do not attempt to turn off the meter by holding the ENTER button.

6.3 Navigating the Menu

Navigating through the SSM is made simple by the use of only two buttons, MENU and ENTER. Press the MENU button to move down through a menu. Note that as you move through menu selections they are highlighted. Press the ENTER button to make a selection. To change data entries (such as Date/Time, batch headers, etc.):

1) Navigate through each option using the MENU button (current selections will be highlighted).

2) Highlight the selection you wish to change. 3) Press ENTER (the selection will un-highlight and slowly begin flashing to indicate that

you are making changes). 4) Press the MENU button to scroll though the available settings and select the value you

want. 5) Press ENTER to confirm the change and exit the change mode. 6) When finished making changes, select OK or BACK to return to previous menu.

6.4 Making Connections To connect the fluid dispenser for testing:

1) Locate the two ports at the bottle end of the fluid dispenser. 2) Connect the feeder tube to the longer port of the fluid dispenser. 3) Remove the cap from the 500 mL bottle of deionized water. 4) Screw the fluid dispenser tightly onto the bottle making sure the threads are aligned

properly to prevent leakage. 5) Connect the flexible plastic tubing to the blue tube connector on the side of the fluid

dispenser. 6) Fill the dispenser by pulling upwards on the dispenser until it stops. Press the dispenser

down completely to push fluid through the tubing. Repeat this procedure several times


until the dispenser and tubing are completely free of air. Hold meter over a rag or bucket as water will be released from SSM chamber.

It is important to remove all air by pumping water through the tubing and out of the SSM chamber prior to testing. This helps to prevent air bubbles in test chamber which can negatively affect measurements.

6.5 Disconnecting To disconnect the flexible plastic tube from the fluid dispenser or SSM:

1) Gently press the blue ring of the tube connector towards the connector. Hold the blue ring in this position while pulling the tube out of the connector.


7 METER SETUP

Before your SSM is ready for use it has to be configured by making changes in the Settings Menu. The Settings Menu contains five submenu options: Date/Time, Meter, Clean, Validate, Calibrate, and About.

7.1 Adjusting the Date/Time Settings The Date/Time Menu allows the user to set the correct date, the format in which the date is displayed, and the time (see Navigating the Menu for specific instructions on changing date and other settings).

The date and time settings are used to label the data when stored in memory so it is important to check that they are set properly.

7.2 Adjusting Meter Settings In the Meter Menu you can:

• Adjust the contrast of the LCD display • Turn sound on/off • Set temperature units (Fahrenheit or Celsius) • Turn temperature correction on/off

- Because solution conductivity varies with temperature, it is often difficult to compare the conductivity of solutions at different temperatures. As such, it is sometimes useful to “correct” readings by adjusting them to eliminate any variation due to the influence of temperature. In this way, measurements can be compared as if they were all taken at a standard temperature of 25°C (77°F).

- By selecting Y/N, the SSM will display conductivity readings with or without temperature correction.

• Adjust the temperature compensation factor (default value is 2% per °C) - This factor determines the percent by which conductivity measurements are

adjusted for every °C the solution being measured is above or below 25°C (77°F).

- The default value is 2% per °C; however, the optimal choice of this factor varies with the composition of the solution being measured and may be adjusted by the user.

The temperature correction feature only changes the displayed value. The conductivity readings are stored as raw conductivity values and temperatures. Do not use the menu feature Restore to Factory Settings.

7.3 About The About Menu displays the serial number of the meter and the versions of the application software. The next screen shows the total number of readings taken with the SSM, the last date


of calibration and gives you the possibility to set the number of readings to the next calibration (see the Data Control section in this manual for specifics). Selecting the SPECIAL Menu brings up a submenu where you can update the software. DO NOT use the submenu RESTORE FACTORY SETTINGS.


8 CLEANING THE METER

Each time the SSM is turned on, the user is required to complete a cleaning cycle before readings can be taken. This is to ensure that subsequent readings are as accurate as possible. The meter is cleaned using the protective cap supplied. It is important that the cap is clean and has been rinsed with deionized water prior to continuing.

8.1 Cleaning The cleaning process can be started by accessing the Settings Menu and selecting Clean. The procedure to clean the meter is as follows:

1) Remove the protective cap and ensure the chamber is in the relaxed position (if not, the

chamber may be pressed in by applying pressure to the center of the piston with a clean rag; keep in mind that using a finger will leave grease and salty residue on the piston which may affect readings).

2) Highlight the Clean selection and press the ENTER button (the plunger will extend slightly).

3) The Screen displays:

Clean meter: Flush some fluid from dispenser through the meter without The cap mounted CANCEL

4) While holding the meter chamber side up, slowly pump two 3 ml doses of deionized

water into the measurement chamber by pressing on the dispenser.

Be sure to press slowly during this step to avoid water will spraying from the chamber. Also be sure the piston surface is completely covered with water.

5) Turn the meter over to dump the water out of the chamber (keep a rag handy). 6) Press ENTER when you are done; the plunger movers in. 7) The Screen displays:

Clean meter: Keep piston down while mounting cap on meter. Inject fluid; select OK and press ENTER CANCEL


8) Fully extend the chamber by pressing on the piston and attach the clean protective cap

to the meter. Inject 3 mL of deionized water into the measurement chamber with the fluid dispenser.

9) Select OK and press the ENTER button (the green LED will begin flashing and the plunger will begin moving through the cleaning cycle).

10) Once cleaning is complete the SSM will beep. 11) Remove the protective cap and release the fluid from the measurement chamber. 12) If the meter is clean, the LED indicator will be green and the screen will display “Meter is

clean xxx µS/cm.” A reading of less than 6 µS/cm is acceptable. 13) If the meter is still dirty, the LED indicator will be red and the screen will display “Meter

not clean; xxx µS/cm; select OK and press ENTER to start cleaning.” Repeat the cleaning process.

Be sure to remember to clean the meter thoroughly prior to storing.

Dry the meter thoroughly prior to storing including the shock absorber


9 TAKING A READING

When no batches have been created the message “no batch selected” is displayed as soon as you want to take a measurement. (see the Data Control section for more information on how to create a batch number). Before a reading is initiated the SSM checks the available free memory space for the current batch. When the memory of the current batch is full the error message “Batch full! No reading possible” will be displayed. Select a batch with free space or go to the administrator/QA officer who is able to free memory space by deleting batches with the SSMLink PC program. Readings can be taken and stored without assigning a batch with the SSMLink. When a selected batch is empty (or “does not exist”) the screen displays “Do you want to create a new batch?” Select OK to assign the next measurements to this batch. The meter labels the batch “Manual #”. The status LED is red while initiating the new batch. When the meter is not clean the error message “Meter must be cleaned first” will be displayed. After cleaning the meter return to the Main Menu and select Take Reading.

9.1 Taking a Reading When all checks have been passed the actual reading can be done. The process steps are as follows:

1) Attach the meter to the surface. The SSM can take readings on both horizontal and vertical surfaces. For vertical surfaces, hold the meter in the direction indicated by “up” icon on the meter.

2) Highlight Take Reading and press ENTER. The Screen displays:

Take Reading: “xxx-xxx-xxx” Reading Nr: XXX Keep piston pressed down While attaching meter to a surface OK CANCEL

3) Move the piston down completely by pressing the piston extension above the display.

Then attach the SSM gently to the surface to be measured. Select OK and press ENTER.



Take Reading: Inject fluid from dispenser. Select OK and Press ENTER to Start reading. OK CANCEL

5) Inject 3 mL of deionized water into measurement chamber with one press of the fluid

dispenser. Select OK and press ENTER. Be sure to fully extend and depress the fluid dispenser to ensure that exactly 3 mL of water are injected and readings are accurate.


Take Reading: MEASUREMENT

IN PROGRESS

CANCEL

7) When the reading is finished the screen shows:

Take Reading: Reading Saved! XXX µS/cm Is XXX mg/m″ at 25.0 °C (or 77.0 °F)

OK * You see the actual value in µS/cm and the actual temperature when Temp. Corr. is set to OFF. In that case you won’t see the value in mg/m″.

8) Select OK and press ENTER to move on to flushing the meter.

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10 VALIDATION AND CALIBRATION

This section describes the validation and calibration procedures. Following these steps exactly is critical to the proper function of the SSM. Validation can be used to check the accuracy of the SSM. It is recommended that validation be completed whenever the SSM has been out of use for any extended period of time or daily prior to use. It is best to perform validation in a temperature controlled environment using standard conductivity solution at temperatures between 15 and 30°C (59 - 86°F).

Keep the 84 µS/cm standard conductivity solution at room temperature. Before use let the conductivity solution acclimates at room temperature two hours and do not expose it to direct sunlight.

10.1 Priming the Meter If the SSM has not been used for an extended period and the sensors are completely dry, readings may be unstable. To prevent this, following mandatory cleaning, it may be necessary to prime the meter prior to validating or calibrating. To prime the meter for validation or calibration:

1) Ensure the chamber is in the relaxed position (if not, the chamber may be pressed in by applying pressure to the center of the piston with a clean rag; keep in mind that using a finger will leave grease and salty residue on the piston which may affect readings).

2) Using supplied syringe, fill the syringe with 84 µS/cm standard conductivity solution from the small bottle supplied.

3) Attach the syringe tube to the meter via the blue tube connector at the top end of the SSM.

4) Turn the meter chamber side up and inject the solution until the chamber is full. 5) Empty the chamber by turning the meter over (keep a rag handy). 6) Fill the chamber again and let the meter sit for a few minutes. 7) Empty the chamber and you are ready for validation or calibration.

If the meter has been rinsed with ordinary tap water or inadequately cleaned prior to storage it is possible that calcium or salt deposits have settled on to the sensors which can lower conductivity readings. In this case extra cleaning may be required prior to priming as above.

To clean a meter that is very dirty or has deposits on the sensors:

1) Connect the meter to a supply of deionized water (See Making Connections). 2) Start the cleaning cycle by accessing the Settings Menu and selecting Clean. 3) Remove the protective cap and ensure the chamber is flush to the meter surface (if not,

the chamber may be pressed in by applying pressure to the center of the plunger with a clean rag; keep in mind that using a finger can leave grease and salty residue on the piston which may affect measurements).


4) Select OK (the plunger extends slightly). 5) Fully extend the plunger further by gently pulling the plunger. 6) Gently wipe the sensors using a Q-tip soaked in clean-up vinegar to remove calcium and

salty residues. 7) Gently wipe the sensors using a Q-tip soaked in a solution of a detergent and lukewarm

water to remove grease. 8) Clean the sensors with deionized water. 9) Select DONE when you finished the cleaning process; the plunger moves in. 10) The screen displays:

Clean meter: Keep piston down while mounting cap on meter. Inject fluid; select OK and press ENTER

OK CANCEL

11) Fully extend the chamber by pressing on the piston and attach the clean protective cap to the meter. Inject 3 ml of deionized water into the measurement chamber with the fluid dispenser.

12) Select OK (the green LED begins flashing and the plunger begins moving through the cleaning cycle).

13) Once cleaning is complete the SSM beeps. 14) Remove the protective cap and release the fluid from the measurement chamber. 15) If the meter is clean, the LED indicator is green and the screen displays “Meter is clean

xxx µS/cm.” A measurement of less than 6 µS/cm is acceptable. 16) If the meter is still dirty, the LED indicator is red and the screen displays “Meter not

clean; xxx µS/cm; select OK to start cleaning.” Repeat the cleaning process. Be sure to remember to clean the meter prior to storing.

17) Continue to priming steps above.

10.2 Preparing the Protective Cap Validation and calibration of the SSM is done using the supplied protective cap. The cap contains a stainless steel plate (not visible) to provide an adequate seal of the measurement chamber. It is important that the protective cap be as clean as possible to ensure accurate readings when validating or calibrating the meter. To ensure the protective cap is clean:

1) Rinse the cap several times with deionized water. 2) Dry the cap completely with a clean rag. 3) With the piston pressed down, attach the meter to the test cap and inject 3 mL of

deionized water. 4) Start the cleaning cycle by highlighting Clean in the Settings Menu and pressing ENTER. 5) Skip through the flushing portion by pressing ENTER.


6) Allow the cleaning cycle to finish and note the reading. 7) Without removing the meter, select to run the cleaning cycle again, skipping over the first

part of the cycle as before. 8) Note the reading. 9) Be sure that the conductivity reading displayed after cleaning is very low (≤ 3 µS/cm)

and after a second cleaning (with the same fluid inside) more or less constant (≤ 0.5 µS /cm different from the first measurement). Any significant difference in readings may mean there are some slow dissolving deposits on the test cap. Try cleaning again.

10.3 Validation Validation can be used to check the accuracy of the SSM. It is recommended that validation be completed whenever the SSM has been out of use for any extended period of time or daily prior to use. It is best to perform validation in a temperature controlled environment using standard conductivity solution at temperatures between 15 and 30°C (59 - 86°F). To initiate meter validation, highlight Validate under the Settings Menu and press ENTER.

When the meter is not clean the error message “Meter must be cleaned first” will be displayed. After cleaning the meter return to Settings and select Validate. It is very important to inject exactly 3mL when using the syringe, even the slightest difference can result in wrong measurements. If the meter sensors are completely dry from a prolonged period of non-use validation readings may be unstable. To prevent this, the SSM may be “primed” with the calibration solution (see Priming the Meter). If the meter has any residual deionized water present in the chamber prior to validation, the readings may be lower than expected. To prevent this, rinse the SSM chamber once with calibration fluid prior to validating.

The validation procedure is as follows:

1) Press the piston extension above the display down completely (this will move the measuring chamber flush with the silicone ring).

2) Using supplied syringe, draw out 5 mL of 84 µS/cm standard conductivity solution from the small bottle supplied.

3) Attach the syringe tube to the meter via the blue tube connector at the top end of the SSM.

4) Flush 2 mL of solution through the SSM until it drips out of the measuring chamber (this step is critical as it removes air from the internal meter tubing). Being as precise as possible, leave the remaining 3mL of solution in the syringe.

Warning!


5) Attach the SSM to the clean protective cap (conductivity < 3 μS/cm). 6) Select OK and press ENTER.

Validate: Inject fluid of xxx.x µS/cm Select OK and press ENTER to start validation. OK CANCEL

7) Inject the remaining 3 mL of standard solution into the SSM using the syringe. It may be

necessary to maintain light pressure on the plunger of the syringe to prevent fluid from backing out of the measuring chamber. It is very important to inject exactly 3mL when using the syringe, even the slightest difference can result in wrong measurements.

8) Select OK and press ENTER. The meter will start the validation process. During validation, the Status Indicator will flash green and the plunger will agitate the solution in the measuring chamber (approximately 2 minutes). At the end of the validation procedure the SSM will beep. If the validation was successful the Status Indicator will be green and the screen will display the validation reading. If the validation was unsuccessful the Status Indicator will be red and the associated error will be displayed on the screen.

Validate: Cal. Setting: xxx.x µS/cm Measured Value: xxx.x µS/cm at 25.0 °C (or 77.0 °F)

OK

9) Press OK to accept the validation. 10) Press ENTER to clean the meter before you can start a new validation or reading.

Validate: Keep piston down while attaching meter to a CLEAN surface OK CANCEL


It is normal to see validation readings that are slightly higher than the conductivity standard because of the difficulty in achieving a completely clean test surface. Validation readings less than ±2.0 µS/cm of expected are good. If the validation returns readings that are much different than expected it is possible that the sensors need cleaning or the meter was not properly prepared (See Priming the Meter). If you are still unable to validate the meter you should return the meter to your local distributor for calibration.

10.4 Calibration Calibration of the SSM is unnecessary unless multiple validation attempts have been unsuccessful or the user has reason to suspect errors in conductivity readings. ARP Instruments does not recommend users to calibrate the SSM; rather verify the calibration using the validation methods listed above. It is recommended that calibration only be completed as necessary or once per year. Contact your local distributor for more information on calibration services and certification. Calibration should be completed indoors using calibration solution at temperatures as close as possible to 25°C (77°F). Calibration is password protected to ensure that only authorized quality personnel can calibrate the SSM. The default password is “1111”; it can be changed by connecting the SSM to a computer and using the SSMLink software. To calibrate the SSM, highlight Calibrate under the Settings Menu and press ENTER. When prompted, enter the calibration password (see the Navigating the Menu section in this manual for data entry instructions).

When the meter is not clean the error message “Meter must be cleaned first” will be displayed. After cleaning the meter return to Settings and select Calibrate. Prior to calibration, it is imperative that the cap be completely clean. See Preparing the Test Cap for specifics on cleaning prior to calibration. If the meter sensors are completely dry from a prolonged period of non-use calibration readings may be unstable. To prevent this, the SSM must be “primed” with the calibration solution (see Priming the Meter) prior to proceeding.

The calibration process is as follows:

Calibrate: Keep piston down while attaching meter to a CLEAN


surface OK CANCEL

1) Prime the measuring chamber with 84 µS/cm standard conductivity solution from the

small bottle supplied (see Priming the Meter). 2) Press the piston extension above the display down completely (this will move the

measuring chamber flush with the silicone ring). 3) Using supplied syringe, draw out 5 mL of 84 µS/cm standard conductivity solution from

the small bottle supplied. 4) Attach the syringe tube to the meter via the blue tube connector at the top end of the

SSM. 5) Flush 2 mL of solution through the SSM until it drips out of the measuring chamber (this

step is critical as it removes air from the internal meter tubing). Being as precise as possible, leave the remaining 3mL of solution in the syringe.

6) Attach the SSM gently to the clean protective cap (conductivity < 3 μS/cm). Be sure that this surface is completely dry (no water remaining from the cleaning).

7) Select OK and press ENTER.

Calibrate: Inject fluid of xxx.x µS/cm Select OK and press ENTER to start Calibration. OK CANCEL

8) Inject the remaining 3 mL of solution into the SSM using the syringe. It may be

necessary to maintain light pressure on the plunger of the syringe to prevent fluid from backing out of the measuring chamber.

9) Select OK and press ENTER. The meter will start the calibration process. During calibration, the Status Indicator will flash green and the plunger will agitate the solution in the measuring chamber (approximately 2 minutes). At the end of the calibration procedure the SSM will beep. If the calibration was successful the Status Indicator will be green and the screen will display “Calibration OK.” If the calibration was unsuccessful the Status Indicator will be red and the associated error will be displayed on the screen.

10) Press OK to accept the calibration. 11) Press ENTER to clean the meter before taking readings.


11 DATA CONTROL

The Data Control Menu Shows the current Batch ID and offers the choice to Select Batch, or View Batch.

11.1 Select a Batch The SSM supports ten batches of 100 readings. With Select Batch you can open one of ten batches. When a selected batch has already been used to store data the screen will show you the number for the next reading. To select a Batch for measurements:

1) Highlight Select Batch under the Data Control Menu and press ENTER. 2) Use the MENU button to navigate and select the batch with the ENTER button. These

batches can be labeled using the SSMLink software. 3) The screen displays the Batch Selected and the Next reading in the batch. Press OK to

assign the next set of readings to that batch. 4) When a selected batch is full the screen will display “Batch Full! No more readings

possible”. Use the menu button to navigate to another batch. 5) When a selected batch is empty (or “does not exist”) the screen will display “Do you

want to create a new batch?” Select OK to assign the next readings to this batch. The meter will assign the batch title “Manual #”.

6) Select BACK to return to the main menu.

11.2 View a Batch With View Batch you can view measurements from a selected batch.

Data cannot be edited or changed in this menu. Using the SSMLink software is the only way to edit the batches or change batch headings.

To view the batch measurements; 1) Highlight View Batch under the Data Control Menu and press ENTER. 2) The SSM will display the batch label, reading number, time recorded, date, conductivity

measurement, and temperature of readings in the current batch (To change the batch you are viewing, see Select a Batch above).

3) Select NEXT or PREV to navigate through each measurement in that batch. 4) Select BACK to return to previous menu.

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8) Click “Install”.

9) The following screen for installing the driver will pop up (Driver Version can vary).


10) Click “Install” Please have some patience while your system will be scanned for existing drivers, this procedure can take a few minutes. 11) Wait until you see the next screen and click “Finish”.

12.3 Connecting the SSM When you connect the SSM via USB cable to your computer for the first time windows automatically recognizes the new hardware and may prompt you to install the software for it.

1) Turn on the SSM. 2) Connect the SSM to your computer’s USB port using the supplied cable. 3) Once Windows detects the SSM it installs the drivers automatically and will prompt that

the new hardware is ready to use.


12.4 Starting the SSMLink Software To run the SSMLink program:

1) Be sure the SSM is turned on. 2) Connect the SSM to your computer’s USB port using the supplied cable. 3) In Windows, click START > ALL PROGRAMS > SSMLink > Start SSMLink

To Connect to the SSM:

1) Click on the “Connection” toolbar. 2) Click “Connect.”

3) Please wait while the software is trying to connect to the SSM.

4) When a successful connection is made it is displayed in the status bar.

5) During the connection the icon (= connected) is visible.


12.5 Creating a new batch To create a new batch on the SSM:

1) Click on the “Batches” toolbar. 2) Click “New Batch.”

3) Name the Batch of measurements whatever you wish (measurement location, tank type etc.) and fill in the maximum amount of measurements.

4) Click Create when ready. 5) Wait while the batch is made

6) The new batch is visible in the left pane


7) The new batch is visible in the left pane

You can also create a new batch directly in your left pane by selecting the SSM and right clicking your mouse

12.6 Download Batches To download measurements from the SSM:

1) Click on the “Batches” toolbar.

2) Click “Load All.” 3) You may double click on any of the batches visible in the left window to view

measurements.


4) Click on “Save” in the measurements window to save the batch to a data file on your computer.

You can also load all batches directly in your left pane by selecting the SSM and right clicking your mouse

12.7 Saving all Batches To save all batches of the SSM:

1) Select Save All in the Batches menu.


12.8 Saving Individual Batches 1) Follow the download batches procedure. 2) Select the desired batch

3) Click “Save” in the measurements window to save the batch to a data file on your computer.

You can also save individual batches by selecting the desired batch and clicking your right mouse button directly in your left panel.

12.9 Validation Settings In this menu you can fill in the values of your validation fluid, here you can also fill in the conductivity value of your deionized water; this value is used in the calculation of the surface density mg/m2.

1) Click on the “Configuration” toolbar.


2) Select “Fluid Settings”. 3) Click “Read” to see the current values.

4) You can adjust these values in the white colored fields. 5) The Calculate button helps you to calculate the Temperature Coefficient.

6) Pressing the Calculate button in the Temperature Coefficient Calculator calculates the temperature coefficient based upon the given values. By pressing the Ok button these values are transported to the Fluid settings screen.

7) Click “Write” in the Fluid Settings screen to save the new values into the SSM.

12.10 SSM Properties The SSM Properties of the SSM contains important settings and values. These properties can be downloaded and send to a repair center.

1) Click on the “Configuration” toolbar. 2) Select “SSM Properties”.

3) Wait while the values are read.


4) You can download these values by clicking “Save”.

12.11 Software Version of the SSMLink The version of the SSMLink is mentioned in the about box.

1) Click on the “Help” toolbar.

2) Click on “About”.


13 METER MAINTENANCE AND CARE

13.1 Packing Up After using the SSM, be sure to properly store and pack your meter and meter parts. When packing up be sure to:

• Run through a complete cleaning cycle (See Cleaning the Meter) • Disconnect all tubing and ensure fluid is removed • Reseal all bottles of fluid • Wipe meter and body to remove excess fluid • Check if plunger is fixated by turning it clockwise. • Ensure meter is turned off • Attach meter cover before storing • Remove water under the shock absorber

The meter will automatically power down when no button has been activated for 10 minutes. Before the actual switch off the meter will display “Meter will be turned off in xx seconds”, beep, and count down from 20 seconds.

13.2 Replacing the battery Depending on usage the rechargeable battery will gradually diminish in total capacity over time, eventually needing replacement. To replace the battery:

1) Open the battery compartment. 2) Disconnect and remove old battery. 3) Connect the new battery to the connector and position the battery. Verify the white

battery connectors are squeezed together completely. 4) Replace the battery cover. Purchase new batteries from your SSM supplier, because the connector is special.

13.3 Replacing the Seal In case the seal starts leaking it needs to be replaced by a new one. To replace the seal:

1) Remove the protective cap from the SSM. 2) Gently press the plunger back into the SSM. 3) The rubber seal is now fully visible and can be removed from the SSM. 4) Take a new seal and apply a little bit of Vaseline on the outer part of the seal. 5) Put a new seal in the SSM. 6) Remove Vaseline from the inner part of the seal when it is back in its original position.

Removing Vaseline can be done by using a solution of lukewarm water and a detergent followed by cleaning with deionized water.

7) Push the plunger back in its original position.

Avoid Vaseline entering the plunger chamber.

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14 TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE

Problem Cause(s) Solution Plunger is not flush with chamber when piston fully depressed.

The action of the plunger during reading and cleaning cycles can slightly loosen the plunger.

Gently use finger to rotate the plunger clockwise to tighten. Conduct cleaning cycle after tightening to remove any residue on the piston.

Validation readings higher than expected.

Test cap not completely clean. Measurement chamber and/or sensors not cleaned and primed properly. Conductivity standard expired. Not exactly 3mL was injected Meter in need of calibration.

Re-clean the test cap. Clean and prime the meter. Standards once opened only last 6 months due to evaporation. Order new standard. Try to inject exactly 3mL. Contact your representative. Have authorized personnel recalibrate the meter.

Validation readings lower than expected.

Sensors not clean or have deposits. Residual deionized water present in chamber prior to taking validation. Too much air present in chamber. Surface of test cap wet with deionized water prior to validation. Meter in need of calibration.

Run cleaning cycle, prime, and retest. If necessary clean sensors using vinegar solution (see Priming the Meter). Prime meter with standard solution prior to validation. Be sure to follow the validation steps exactly to flush air out of internal meter tubing. Be sure test cap is dry and clean. Contact your representative. Have authorized personnel recalibrate the meter.


Measurements higher than expected.

Measurement chamber and/or sensors not cleaned properly. Water for measurements not deionized.

Clean the meter. Be sure to use deionized water (conductivity < 5 µS/cm).

LED Screen too bright or dark/ Screen fading in or out

Battery connection is loose. LED Screen contrast settings incorrect.

Verify battery connection is completely closed by squeezing two white connectors. Adjust contrast to 20 or according to preference. (Settings -> Meter -> Contrast)

Meter not working/not turning on

Battery is low Temperature is too high or too low. Battery connection is weak

Charge battery for full 8 hours. Contact distributor for battery replacement. Ensure environment, meter and deionized water are at optimal working temperatures. Verify battery connection is completely closed by squeezing two white connectors.

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manual ssm v206 - arp instrumentsmodel rpct-07-001 version 2.06 02/02/09 1 introduction...

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