1. Product Overview
The RCYAGO PH-686 is a versatile 4-in-1 digital water quality monitor designed for accurate measurement of pH, Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), Electrical Conductivity (EC), and Temperature. This multi-functional device is ideal for various applications including aquariums, hydroponics, drinking water testing, swimming pools, and more.
2. Key Features
- Multi-functional Design: Combines PH, EC, TDS, and Temperature measurement functions in one device.
- Automatic Power-off: Automatically turns off after 5 minutes of inactivity to conserve battery life.
- Backlight LCD: Provides clear readings in various lighting conditions.
- Wide Application Range: Suitable for testing water in aquariums, hydroponic systems, drinking water, swimming pools, freshwater tanks, koi ponds, laboratories, industrial wastewater, and farmland.
- Detachable Probe: Allows for easy replacement of the probe, preventing accidental damage and reducing replacement costs.
3. Specifications
| Parameter | Range | Resolution | Accuracy |
|---|---|---|---|
| PH | 0.00 - 14.00pH | 0.01PH | ±0.03pH |
| EC | 0 - 19990us/cm; 0 - 19.9ms/cm | 1us/cm (<1999us/cm); 10us/cm (>1999us/cm); 0.1ms/cm | ±2% F.S |
| TDS | 0 - 19990ppm; 0 - 19.9ppt | 1ppm (<1999ppm); 10ppm (>1999ppm); 0.1ppt | ±2% F.S |
| Temperature | 0℃ - 50℃ (32°F - 122°F) | 0.1°C (0.2°F) | ±1.0°C |
- Battery: 3 × 1.5V (AG-13) (Not included)
- Temperature Compensation: 0°C ~ 50°C
- Operating Temperature: 0°C ~ 50°C
- Dimensions: 188mm × 35mm × 35mm
- Weight: 80g
- Certification: CE
4. Package Contents
Upon opening your package, please ensure all the following items are present:
- 1 × PH Meter (PH-686)
- 3 × PH Buffer Powder (for 4.00, 6.86, and 9.18 pH solutions at 25°C)
- 1 × User Manual
- 1 × Small Screwdriver (for calibration adjustment)
5. Getting Started
5.1. Battery Installation
The meter requires 3 × 1.5V AG-13 batteries (not included). To install:
- Unscrew the top cap of the meter.
- Insert the batteries according to the polarity markings.
- Securely screw the cap back on.
5.2. Basic Operation
To operate the meter:
- Remove the protective cap from the probe.
- Press the ON/OFF button to power on the device.
- Immerse the probe into the solution to be tested.
- Wait for the reading to stabilize.
- To switch between PH, EC, TDS, and Temperature modes, short press the 'MODE' button.
- To switch between Celsius (°C) and Fahrenheit (°F) for temperature, press the 'TEMP/CAL' button.
- After use, rinse the probe with distilled water and replace the protective cap.
6. Calibration
6.1. PH Calibration
PH calibration is crucial for accurate readings. The video demonstrates the PH calibration process. You will need the provided PH buffer powders (4.00, 6.86, 9.18) and distilled water to prepare calibration solutions.
- Prepare the PH buffer solutions: Dissolve each PH buffer powder packet in 250ml of distilled water.
- Turn on the meter and immerse the electrode into the 6.86 pH buffer solution.
- Press and hold the 'TEMP/CAL' button until the display shows 'CAL'.
- The meter will automatically recognize the buffer solution and calibrate. Wait for the reading to stabilize and lock.
- Rinse the electrode with distilled water.
- Repeat the process for 4.00 pH and 9.18 pH buffer solutions.
6.2. EC Calibration
EC calibration ensures accurate conductivity readings. Use a 12880 uS/cm standard solution for calibration.
- Turn on the meter.
- Short press the 'MODE' button to switch to EC mode (displaying uS/cm or mS/cm).
- Immerse the probe into the 12880 uS/cm calibration solution.
- Locate the calibration trimmer on the back of the meter (usually a small screw hole).
- Use the provided screwdriver to adjust the trimmer until the display reads 12.88 mS/cm (or 12880 uS/cm).
- Rinse the electrode with distilled water.
7. Understanding Your Readings
7.1. PH Value Interpretation
The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, indicating the acidity or alkalinity of a solution. A pH of 7 is neutral. Values below 7 are acidic, and values above 7 are alkaline.
7.2. TDS Value Interpretation
TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) measures the concentration of dissolved solid particles in water. The higher the TDS value, the more dissolved matter is present. The measurement unit is ppm (parts per million) or ppt (parts per thousand).
| TDS Value (ppm) | Purity Level |
|---|---|
| 0 ~ 50 | High purity |
| 50 ~ 100 | High purity |
| 100 ~ 300 | Average purity |
| 300 ~ 600 | Low purity |
| 600 ~ 1000 | Lower purity |
| 1000 or more | Affect health |
7.3. Application Areas
The PH-686 meter is suitable for a wide range of water quality testing needs:
8. Maintenance
8.1. Probe Care
The meter features a detachable probe design, allowing for easy replacement and maintenance. This helps prevent accidental probe damage and reduces long-term replacement costs.
- Always keep the probe clean. Rinse it with distilled water before and after each use.
- Store the probe with the protective cap on, ensuring the sponge inside the cap remains moist with a few drops of KCL solution or distilled water to prevent the electrode from drying out.
- If the probe becomes damaged or its accuracy degrades significantly, it can be easily replaced.
8.2. Battery Replacement
When the display becomes dim or the readings are unstable, it's time to replace the batteries. Follow the battery installation steps in Section 5.1.
9. Troubleshooting
- Inaccurate Readings: Ensure the meter is properly calibrated. Recalibrate if necessary. Check if the probe is clean and free from residue.
- Unstable Readings: This could indicate low battery power. Replace the batteries. Also, ensure the probe is fully immersed and the solution is not agitated.
- No Display: Check battery installation and ensure batteries are not depleted.
- Slow Response: The probe might be dry or contaminated. Clean the probe and ensure it is properly hydrated before use.
10. Warranty and Support
This product is designed for reliable performance. For any issues related to product functionality or quality, please refer to the seller's support channels. Key aspects of product support include:
- Product Quality Assurance: The product is certified with CE, ensuring it meets European safety, health, and environmental protection requirements.
- Security & Privacy: Your personal details are protected and not shared with third parties without consent.
- Fast Delivery & Refunds for Issues: In cases of product damage or loss during transit, appropriate resolutions are available.
