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Unread 10/28/2009, 01:51 PM   #1
Ynotme4886
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Brand new ph probe..calibrate?

Just had to replace a ph probe on my controller.

Does a brand new never used probe need to be calibrated or can I use it straight out of the box.

No instructions in the box with the probe and the controller instructions says nothing about a new probe needing to be calibrated.

So calibrate or not is the question


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Unread 10/28/2009, 02:25 PM   #2
patsfan1130
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Yes. calibrate it with 7 & 10


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Unread 10/28/2009, 02:48 PM   #3
Ynotme4886
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thats what I thought but wanted to make sure.


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Unread 10/28/2009, 04:29 PM   #4
Randy Holmes-Farley
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Definitely calibrate.

I discuss how to calibrate here:

Measuring pH with a Meter
http://www.advancedaquarist.com/issues/feb2004/chem.htm

A Comparison of pH Calibration Buffers
http://reefkeeping.com/issues/2005-02/rhf/index.htm


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Unread 10/28/2009, 06:01 PM   #5
bergzy
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Quote:
Originally Posted by patsfan1130 View Post
Yes. calibrate it with 7 & 10
it also depends on the pH controller/monitor one uses.

my reef fanatic pH controller uses calibration solutions 4 pH and 7 pH.


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Unread 10/29/2009, 07:50 AM   #6
Randy Holmes-Farley
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Calibration at pH 4 and 7 is likely fine, but can introduce a bit more error when measuring pH above 7. The counter argument is that pH 4 fluids are more stable than pH 10 fluids, making up for the increased error with possibly better standards.

I compare the two methods in the article above.

Some meters allow other pH values to be used, essentially any two or more fluids you want, like 8 and 9 or 5 and 8 and 12, etc.

Never rely on single point calibration.


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