441 Conductivity Meter

Instruction Manual
This manual contains complete instructions for setting up and using
the 441 conductivity meter.
Applications information is also available.
The information contained in this manual was correct at the time of
going to print. However, we continue to improve products and reserve
the right to change specifications, equipment and maintenance
procedures at any time.
This manual is copyrighted, and all rights are reserved. No part of
this manual may be reproduced by any means or in any form without
prior consent in writing.
The power supply unit is classed as IEC Class II equipment
(equipment providing an adequate degree of protection against
electric shocks, in which additional safety precautions, for example,
double or reinforced insulation, are included). The 441 is intended for
use by persons knowledgeable in safe laboratory practices. If the 441
is not used in accordance with these instructions for use, the
protection provided by the equipment may be impaired.
The 441 is suitable for direct current only.
This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency
energy and if not installed and used in accordance with the
instruction manual, may cause interference with radio
communications. It has been tested and found to comply with the
limits for a Class A computing device pursuant to Subpart J of
Part 15 of FCC Rules, which are designed to provide reasonable
protection against such interference when operated in a commercial
environment. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is
likely to cause interference in which case the user at his own expense
will be required to take whatever measures may be required to
correct the interference.
There are no user replaceable parts in the 441 or power supply unit.
Do not remove the covers.

109122-1 Rev. A, 10/96 1

Contents

1 Set Up
1.1 Unpacking and Installation ................................................ 3
1.2 Input and Output Connections ........................................... 4
1.3 Display and Controls ......................................................... 4

2 Operation
2.1 Calibrating a Conductivity Sensor ..................................... 7
2.2 Measuring Samples ........................................................... 7
2.3 Automatic Endpoint (Auto Read) ....................................... 8
2.4 Memory .............................................................................. 8
2.5 Continuous Data Transfer ................................................. 9
2.6 Interfacing via the RS232 Output .................................... 10

3 Meter Programming
3.1 Solids Factor .................................................................... 11
3.2 Reference Temperature .................................................. 11
3.3 Temperature Coefficient .................................................. 12
3.4 TDS Units ........................................................................ 12

4 Support Information
4.1 Basic Theory .................................................................... 13
4.2 Operating Hints ................................................................ 15
4.3 Maintenance .................................................................... 15
4.3.1 Meter Maintenance .......................................................... 15
4.3.2 Sensor Maintenance ........................................................ 16
4.4 Problem Solving .............................................................. 16
4.4.1 Meter Error Codes ........................................................... 16
4.5 Meter Specifications ........................................................ 17

Consumables and Accessories ............................... inside rear cover

Warranty .................................................................. inside rear cover

2 109122-1 Rev. A, 10/96

1.1 Unpacking and Installation

1. The main carton will contain the following:

1
Meter
Meter Dust Cover
Power Supply
This Instruction Manual
Warranty Card
Memo Cards, English, French, German, Italian,
Spanish
Calibration Certificate
Guide to Conductivity/Dissolved Oxygen

2. If you ordered the meter with sensor, sensor arm and

accessories, the top tray of the main carton will contain
these items. Refer to the accessories packing sheet for a list
of the additional components.

3. To attach the sensor arm to the conductivity meter:

a. The sensor arm can be attached to the left or right-hand
side. Using the screwdriver supplied remove the
appropriate end cap from the conductivity meter.
b. Slide the arm base into the recess and tighten the fixing
screw. Replace the end cap.
c. Fit the sensor arm onto the post. Adjust the tension
screw as required.

sensor arm

arm base
end cap

screwdriver
tension screw
fixing screw
4. Fill in and return the warranty card. For your record make
a note of the serial number, date of purchase and supplier
on the inside front cover of this manual.

109122-1 Rev. A, 10/96 3

 1.2 Input and Output Connections

DC - power
supply unit

1
socket

DATA - data SENSOR -

output socket, conductivity
see Section 2.6 sensor socket
for interfacing
details

1. Connect the sensor to the SENSOR socket.

2. Connect the power supply unit to the DC socket.

1.3 Display and Controls

4 109122-1 Rev. A, 10/96

1.3 Display and Controls (cont)

mode Selects conductivity or TDS mode. Hold down for 2

seconds to enter Program Menu.

Stores result in memory. Increases displayed value in

1
<

M Program Menu.

R
Recalls result from memory. Decreases displayed value
in Program Menu. Hold down for 2 seconds to turn
<

continuous data transfer on/off.

auto Selects automatic endpoint detection.

read

on/off Places the meter in standby mode/wakes meter up.

cal Starts a calibration sequence.

Starts sample measurement. Press again to freeze

read
display in manual endpoint mode.

109122-1 Rev. A, 10/96 5

 1.3 Display and Controls (cont)

441 Display

1 main display
stability/auto endpoint
detector

units shown
here

automatic temperature temperature memory, cal and

compensation indicator shown here error number
shown here

Example Conductivity Reading

6 109122-1 Rev. A, 10/96

2.1 Calibrating a Conductivity Sensor

Press mode to select conductivity or TDS mode.

1-point calibration
Hold the sensor in air and press cal

If you have the 'auto read ' feature (see Section 2.3) turned on,
the meter will automatically endpoint when the reading is stable.

If you don't have 'auto read ' on, press read when the stability
indicator appears.

Goto Measuring samples (Section 2.2) or 2-point calibration.

2-point calibration
Place the tip of the sensor in the conductivity standard and

2
press cal

If you have the 'auto read ' feature (see Section 2.3) turned on,
the meter will automatically endpoint when the reading is stable.

If you don't have 'auto read ' turned on, press read when the
stability indicator appears.

Rinse the sensor with distilled or deionized water and goto

Measuring samples (Section 2.2).

NOTE For maximum accuracy, samples and standards should

be at the same temperature, preferably the reference
temperature (see Section 3.2).

2.2 Measuring Samples

NOTE Good laboratory practice dictates that sensors should be

calibrated at least daily.

Place the sensor in the sample and press read to start the
measurement. The decimal point will be
flashing whenever the sensor is reading.

109122-1 Rev. A, 10/96 7

 2.2 Measuring Samples (cont)

If you are using the 'auto read' function the display freezes
when a stable endpoint is reached (see Section 2.3). To manually
freeze the display when the stability indicator appears

press read

2.3 Automatic Endpoint (Auto Read)

The 'auto read' function checks the sensor output for stability
and automatically freezes the display when the reading appears
stable. It can be used during calibration and routine
measurements.
auto
Turn auto endpoint on by pressing read

2
The auto endpoint indicator A will appear at the top left of the
meter display. While the meter is reading, the decimal will flash.
When the endpoint is reached, it will stop flashing and the stable
endpoint indicator appears.

To start another reading press read

auto again.
To cancel auto endpoint press read

2.4 Memory

Up to 10 results can be stored in the 441.

Before a result can be stored it must have reached a stable

endpoint, using either manual or auto endpoint.

To store a result in memory:

<

press M
the result is stored and the display shows M 1.

8 109122-1 Rev. A, 10/96

2.4 Memory (cont)

To recall a result from memory:

press R to recall the last stored memory. Press R to

<
<
scroll through the memories. The display shows RM and the
appropriate memory number.

To clear the last memory:

<
press R the last stored memory is displayed. Press to
<

M
clear this memory. Only the last memory can be cleared, eg M2
cannot be cleared without first clearing M3.

To clear all memories:

R
<
press until MC is displayed, then press to clear the
<

2
memories. (Press read to exit without clearing the memories.)

2.5 Continuous Data Transfer

In continuous data transfer mode readings are sent to the DATA

socket approximately every second. If the measurement
endpoints (manually, or using auto read) data transfer stops.

To select continuous data transfer mode:

press and hold R for 2 seconds. The continuous data transfer

<

indicator appears

To maintain continuity of sample readings calibration data is

only output at endpoint.

109122-1 Rev. A, 10/96 9

 2.6 Interfacing via the RS232 Output

The Model 441 can transmit data in RS232C Serial format to

compatible devices such as Serial Printers and computers. There
is no handshake capability but data can be received and
manipulated by most data acquisition software packages.
The cable required for connection to IBM compatible computers
is part number 477758 and can be ordered from your distributor.
The pin configuration of that connector and Model 441 output
protocols are as follows:
Pin Signal
1 device enable (link to pin 5)
2 RS232 Tx (signal transmit)
3 not used
4 not used
5 protective ground (0V)

2
6-9 not used
protective ground
(0V) signal
transmit
5 1

9 6
DATA socket

To enable the RS232 a link is required between pin 1 (device

enable) and pin 5 (protective ground).

Type of communication - unidirectional

Baud rate - 2400
Data format - 7 data bits
1 stop bit
even parity

Data is sent to the DATA socket at measurement endpoint

(manual or automatic) and memory recall.

To use the output to monitor continually, you need to select

continuous data transfer mode (see Section 2.5).

10 109122-1 Rev. A, 10/96

3 Meter Programming

The Program Menu allows you to set solids factor; reference

temperature; temperature coefficient and TDS units.

You can only enter the Program Menu if the current measurement

has endpointed - press read if necessary. Press and hold the mode

key for 2 seconds to access the Program Menu - appears.

<
Press mode to scroll through the options and press and

<
M

to change the value. Press read to exit the Program Menu at

any time. If you press read when a value is flashing that value
will not be entered.

3.1 Solids Factor

P1 Solids Factor

The solids factor is the ratio of TDS (ppm or mg/L) to

conductivity (µS/cm) and can be set between 0.40 and 1.00.
The 441 has a preset solids factor of 0.50. Change the
<

value using and R . Press mode to enter the

<

M
value and move on.

3.2 Reference Temperature

P2 Reference Temperature

The temperature to which measurements are referenced

can be set to 20 or 25°C. The 441 has a preset reference
temperature of 25°C. Change the temperature using
R
3
<

and . Press mode to enter the value and move on.

<

109122-1 Rev. A, 10/96 11

 3.3 Temperature Coefficient

P3 Temperature Coefficient
Conductivity measurements change with temperature. The
temperature coefficient (%/°C) is a measure of this change
and can be set between 0.0 and 10.0. The 441 has a preset
temperature coefficient of 2.0°C. Change the coefficient
<
using and R . Press mode to enter the value and
move on.
M <
3.4 TDS Units

P4 TDS Units
TDS can be measured in mg/L or ppm. (The 441 auto
ranges to g/L or ppt). Change the units using
R
< M
. Press mode to enter the units and move on.
and
<

Press read to exit the Program Menu.

3
12 109122-1 Rev. A, 10/96
4.1 Basic Theory

Conductivity is the ability of a solution to pass current. It follows

that the amount of current flowing is proportional to the number

4
of ions present in the conducting solution. Therefore, a measure
of the conductivity will give a direct reading of the solution
concentration.
All substances conduct to some extent. In solution the level of
ionic strength varies from the low conductivity of ultra pure
water to the high conductivity of concentrated chemical samples.
Historically, the measurement of conductivity was made between
two platinum plates (1cm x 1cm in size) placed one centimetre
apart. This method simplifies the theoretical interpretation of
results. However, in practice it results in a plating effect when
current flows, and reduces the conductivity electrode
performance.
Because conductivity values are affected by cell geometry,
specific conductivity (C) should be used. This compensates for
cell geometry and standardises conductivity measurements.
If the cell is filled with a solution of conductance, G, the
conductivity between the electrodes is given by the expression
C = G.L
A
where: C = conductivity in Siemens per cm (S/cm)
G = conductance in Siemens (S)
L = distance between electrodes (cm)
A = plate area of the electrodes (cm2)
As the cell dimensions change, the cell constant varies as the
ratio of L to A.
In the traditional cell using 1 cm squares of platinum, 1 cm
apart, the cell constant (L/A) is 1.0 and the conductance reading
in microsiemens is numerically equal to the conductivity in
µS/cm.

109122-1 Rev. A, 10/96 13

 4.1 Basic Theory (cont)

Sensors have been developed to overcome the problems

associated with traditional cells. They operate on a four ring

4
principle.
An alternating voltage is applied to the two outer rings. In the
sample solution, the voltage induces a current, whose magnitude
is dependent upon the number of ions in solution. Therefore, the
current measured by the inner sensing rings gives a direct value
for the conductivity of the solution.
By relating the conductivity of a standard solution to its
concentration, a value for Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) can also
be determined.
Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) is a measurement of the total
concentration of ionic species in a sample. The measurement of
solution conductivity gives a method by which a TDS value for
the sample solution can be determined. The 441 includes a user
selectable TDS factor in order to give a TDS value referenced to a
calibration standard (usually KCl or CaCO3).
The conductivity of a solution will increase with temperature.
The effect is usually expressed by a change of conductivity (as a
percentage) per degree Celsius.
This is often called the temperature coefficient of the solution.
For example, ultra pure water has a temperature coefficient of
5%/°C whereas that of concentrated samples may be at the 1%/°C
level. The 441 has a user selectable temperature coefficient value
for accurate readings.
A temperature sensor is incorporated into the conductivity
sensor supplied for use with the 441 to determine the exact
solution temperature and to display a conductivity reading at a
chosen reference temperature (usually 20°C or 25°C).
For accurate measurements, samples and standards should be at
a similar temperature, preferably at the chosen reference
temperature.

14 109122-1 Rev. A, 10/96

4.2 Operating Hints

This section gives some brief operating hints and good laboratory
practices to help assure trouble free conductivity measurements.

Refer to the sensor manufacturer's instructions for proper sensor

care and maintenance. See Section 4.3.2 for Sensor maintenance
and Section 4.4 for Problem solving.

When measuring, make sure the solution is above the cell

chamber slot.

Make sure the cell chamber is free of bubbles when

measuring. To reduce air bubbles, immerse the sensor at an
4
angle and then raise to the vertical position.

Allow sufficient time for the sensor to stabilize when

measuring samples of different temperatures.

Rinse sensor with distilled water between measurements, and

after use.

Do not use calibration standards after the expiration date

printed on the package. Keep bottles tightly capped and store
solutions according to the manufacturer's instructions. Never
put used standard back into the bottle.

For greater accuracy, standards and samples should be at the

same temperature.

For greater accuracy, calibrate using a standard close in value

to the sample.

4.3 Maintenance

4.3.1 Meter Maintenance

The Model 441 needs no maintenance except for an occasional
wipe with a damp cloth. The front panel is made of polyester and
is not affected by most solvents. Polyester is known to be affected
by some organic solvents, including toluene, xylene and methyl-
ethyl-ketone. It is good laboratory practice to wipe away any
spillages as soon as they occur.

109122-1 Rev. A, 10/96 15

 4.3 Maintenance (cont)

4.3.2 Sensor Maintenance

To prevent static damage to the 441 avoid touching the

4
cell chamber area of the sensor. ALWAYS disconnect the
sensor from the 441 meter before cleaning.

Solids build up inside the cell chamber can be carefully

removed with a cotton wool bud soaked in detergent
solution, then rinse the sensor with distilled water.

Do not use organic solvents to clean the sensor.

4.4 Problem Solving

4.4.1 Meter Error Codes

+ Err 1 - measurement out of range
Check sensor is connected and immersed in sample.

Err 2 - cal 1 out of range

Clean the sensor, or replace.

Err 3 - cal 2 out of range

Check correct standard is being used.
Check correct solids factor is being used - for Corning standards
use the following factors
84 µS/cm factor 0.50
1413 µS/cm factor 0.53
12.88 mS/cm factor 0.58
80 mS/cm factor 0.50
Clean the sensor, or replace.

Data Entry Errors

Entered solids factor value changes to 0.40 or 1.00 - the 441 will
not accept solids factors outside this range.
Entered temperature coefficient value changes to 0.00 or 10.0 -
the 441 will not accept temperature coefficients outside this
range.

16 109122-1 Rev. A, 10/96

4.5 Meter Specifications

Operating Ranges Outputs

4
Cond 0.01 to 1999µS/cm RS232
2.00 to 199.9mS/cm
TDS 0.1 to 1999mg/L Input Conditions
2.00 to 199.9g/L Impedance greater than 1012
Temp. –5 to 105°C ohms

Resolution Operating Conditions

Cond variable Operating temperature: 5 to
40°C
TDS variable
Operating humidity: max 80% at
Temp. 0.1 35°C (non condensing)
Relative Accuracy* Installation category 2
Cond ±0.5% Pollution category degree 2
TDS ±0.5% Size
Temp. ±0.5°C 10 x 8 x 4 inches
* ±1 least significant digit (255 x 200 x 95 mm)

Auto Calibration Points Weight

Zero (air) and 2.4 lb (1.1 kg)
84µS/cm or 1413µS/cm or
12.88mS/cm or 80mS/cm Power Requirements
The 441 is supplied with an
Solids Factor appropriate power supply unit,
0.40 to 1.00, selectable e.g.
USA/Japan 100-120V 50/60Hz,
Reference Temperature
9VA
20/25°C, selectable
Europe 230V 50Hz, 9.7VA
Temperature Coefficient Output from PSU 9V DC
0.0 to 10.0%/°C, selectable NOTE The 441 should only be
used with the power
Temperature Compensation supply unit provided.
0.0 to 40.0°C (ATC)
441 Power Rating 4.5VA
Display
LCD display

109122-1 Rev. A, 10/96 17

 4.5 Meter Specifications (cont)

Regulatory Compliance

4
The 441 is manufactured in a FDA (Food & Drug
Administration) and ISO 9001 approved plant (for Corning) and
complies with the following regulatory standards: UL1262,
CSA151, IEC1010. The 441 also complies with the European
EMC Directives and therefore carries the CE mark.

Environmental Compliance
The casework components of the 441 are marked with the
appropriate recycling identification symbol. The packaging is
manufactured using recycled cardboard, and printed with water
based ink. The packaging is recyclable. The manual is printed on
environmentally friendly paper.

18 109122-1 Rev. A, 10/96

Consumables and Accessories

Catalog # Description Quantity

476501 Conductivity Sensor 1

477389 Disposable Meter Cover 5
478109 Sensor Arm Assembly 1
470439 Guide to Conductivity/Dissolved Oxygen 1
473623 Conductivity Standard 1413µS/cm (500 mL) 1 bottle
473624 Conductivity Standard 12.88mS/cm (500 mL) 1 bottle
473732 Conductivity Standard 84µS/cm (460 mL) 1 bottle
473733 Conductivity Standard 80mS/cm (460 mL) 1 bottle
473737 Conductivity Standard 12.88mS/cm Sachets 30 packs
473738 Conductivity Standard 1413µS/cm Sachets 30 packs
473740 Conductivity Standard 84µS/cm Sachets 30 packs
473741 Conductivity Standard 80mS/cm Sachets 30 packs
471226 Power Supply, 110/120V - 50/60Hz 1
471228 Power Supply, 230V - 50Hz 1
477758 RS232C Cable 1
470493 Dot Matrix Printer with Cables 1

Warranty:
Corning warrants this product to be free from defects in materials and workmanship.
The warranty period for the meter is two (2) years from the date of purchase and the
probe is six (6) months from the date of purchase.
THIS WARRANTY IS MADE IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES EXPRESSED
OR IMPLIED INCLUDING THE WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND
FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. CORNING SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR
ANY LOSS OR DAMAGES ARISING FROM THE USE OF THESE PRODUCTS NOR
FOR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES OF ANY KIND.
In the event that a meter or probe fails under normal laboratory conditions within
the specified period because of a defect in material or workmanship, Corning will,
at its option, repair or replace the product. Contact Corning Customer Service for
return authorization and shipping instructions at:
1-866-664-NOVA (6682).
© 1992. All rights reserved.

Electrochemistry Products

6E Gill Street
Woburn, MA USA 01801

Toll free: 866-664-NOVA (6682)

Phone: 781-932-3191
Fax: 781-932-3198

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Corning is a trademark of Corning Incorporated, Corning, NY.