1. Introduction
The RCYAGO YG-9909 is a versatile 5-in-1 water quality tester designed for high-precision measurement of pH, Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), Electrical Conductivity (EC), Salinity, and Temperature. This device is ideal for a wide range of applications including testing drinking water, hydroponic solutions, swimming pools, aquariums, and aquaculture systems. Its advanced features ensure accurate and stable readings, making it an essential tool for maintaining optimal water conditions.
2. Product Overview
2.1 Key Features
- 5-in-1 Measurement: Measures pH, TDS, EC, Salinity, and Temperature.
- High Accuracy: ±0.01 pH accuracy, ±2% FS for TDS, EC, and Salinity.
- Wide Measurement Range: 0-14 pH, 0-200000 ppm TDS, 0-200000 us/cm EC, 0.01%-25% Salinity.
- Easy to Use: Pre-calibrated from the factory, ready for immediate use. Simple three-point calibration method if recalibration is needed.
- Auto Power Off: Automatically turns off after 135 seconds of inactivity to conserve battery.
- Backlit LCD Display: Large display with green backlight for easy reading in various lighting conditions.
- Waterproof: IP67 rated for durability.
2.2 Components
- Battery Case: Houses 3 x 1.5V LR44 button batteries.
- LCD Backlight: Digital display for readings.
- ON/OFF Button: Powers the device on or off.
- HOLD Button: Freezes the current reading on the display.
- MODE/CAL Button: Switches between measurement modes and initiates calibration.
- TMEP Button: Switches temperature units (°C/°F).
- Upgraded Glass Electrodes: For accurate measurements.
2.3 Package Contents
- YG-9909 5-in-1 Water Quality Tester
- pH Buffer Powders (pH 4.00, pH 6.86, pH 9.18)
- Mini Screwdriver (for battery compartment)
- User Manual
3. Specifications
| Parameter | Range | Resolution | Accuracy |
|---|---|---|---|
| pH | 0.00-14.00 pH | 0.01 pH | ±0.05 pH |
| TDS | 0-10000 ppm; 10.1-200.0 ppt | 1 ppm; 0.1 ppt | ±2% FS |
| EC | 0-10000 µS/cm; 10.1-200.0 mS/cm | 1 µS/cm; 0.1 mS/cm | ±2% FS |
| Salinity | 0%-20%; 0-10000 ppm; 10.1-200.0 ppt | 0.01%; 1 ppm; 0.1 ppt | ±2% FS |
| Temperature | 0.0℃-60.0℃; 32.0°F-140°F | 0.1°C; 0.1°F | ±0.5°C |
General Specifications
- Automatic Temperature Compensation (ATC): 0.1℃ ~ 60℃ (32°F-140°F)
- Working Environment: 0-60℃ (32.0-140°F); RH: max 100%
- Battery: 3 x 1.5V LR44 button battery (not included)
- Waterproof Rating: IP67
- Display: LCD Backlight Display
- Dimensions: 183 x 42 x 42 mm
4. Setup and Calibration
4.1 Battery Installation
- Locate the battery compartment on the top of the meter.
- Use the provided mini screwdriver to open the battery cover.
- Insert 3 x 1.5V LR44 button batteries, ensuring correct polarity.
- Close the battery cover and secure it with the screw.
4.2 pH Calibration
The meter is factory-calibrated, but recalibration may be necessary over time or for increased accuracy. The device uses a three-point calibration method (pH 4.00, pH 6.86, pH 9.18).
- Prepare Calibration Solutions: Configure the calibration solutions by pouring the pH 6.86, pH 4.01, and pH 9.18 buffer powders separately into cups containing 250ml of distilled water. Stir to dissolve the powders completely.
- Power On: Switch on the meter using the ON/OFF button.
- Calibrate pH 6.86: Place the probe into the pH 6.86 calibration solution. Press and hold the (MODE/CAL) button for 3 seconds. The screen will display "CLEA" and then automatically adjust to "6.86". This indicates that the 6.86 calibration is complete.
- Clean Electrode: Remove the probe from the solution and rinse it thoroughly with distilled water.
- Calibrate pH 4.01: Put the probe into the pH 4.01 calibration solution. Press and hold the (MODE/CAL) button for 3 seconds. The screen will display "CLEA" before jumping to "4.01". This indicates that the 4.01 calibration is complete.
- Clean Electrode: Remove the probe from the solution and rinse it thoroughly with distilled water.
- Calibrate pH 9.18: Place the probe into the pH 9.18 calibration solution. Press and hold the (MODE/CAL) button for 3 seconds. The screen will display "CLEA" and then jump to "9.18". This indicates that the 9.18 calibration is complete.
- Final Cleaning: Clean the electrode with distilled water after all calibrations are complete.
4.3 EC/TDS/Salinity Calibration
For EC/TDS/Salinity, the calibration points are typically 1413 µS/cm, 12.88 mS/cm, and 111.8 mS/cm. Refer to the specific instructions in the included user manual for detailed steps on calibrating these parameters, as the process may vary slightly.
5. Operating Instructions
The YG-9909 meter allows for easy switching between different measurement modes.
- Power On: Press the ON/OFF button to turn on the meter.
- Select Mode: Press the MODE/CAL button to cycle through pH, EC, TDS, and Salinity modes. The current mode will be displayed on the screen.
- Take Measurement: Immerse the electrode into the water sample you wish to test. Ensure the electrode is fully submerged. Wait for the reading to stabilize.
- Hold Reading: Press the HOLD button to freeze the current reading on the display. Press it again to release.
- Temperature Unit: Press the TMEP button to switch between Celsius (°C) and Fahrenheit (°F) for temperature readings.
- Power Off: Press the ON/OFF button to turn off the meter, or it will automatically shut off after 135 seconds of inactivity.
5.1 Understanding Readings
pH Levels
The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14, indicating acidity or alkalinity. 7.00 is neutral. Below 7.00 is acidic, above 7.00 is alkaline.
TDS in PPM
TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) indicates the amount of dissolved substances in water. Higher TDS generally means more impurities. The chart above provides a general guide for drinking water quality based on PPM:
- 0-50 ppm: Drinking Water
- 50-100 ppm: Filtration System
- 100-200 ppm: Hard Water
- 200-300 ppm: Marginally Acceptable
- 300-400 ppm: Ordinary Tap Water
- 400-500 ppm: Mineral Water
- 500+ ppm: Not Recommended for Drinking
Salinity Measurement
When the PPM value reaches 10,000, the meter seamlessly converts to PPT, ensuring precise measurements. Note: 1 ppt = 1000 ppm = 0.1%.
- Ideal pH Level for pools: 7.2-7.8 pH
- Ideal Salt Level for pools: 2700-3400 ppm
Hydroponics and EC
For hydroponics, the meter helps ensure optimal growth conditions:
- Ideal pH range: 5.5-6.5
- Ideal PPM range: 800-1200
- Ideal EC range: 1.0-2.0 mS/cm
5.2 Wide Range of Applications
The YG-9909 is widely used in various settings:
- Drinking water analysis
- Sewage treatment
- Water purification systems
- Fish tanks and aquariums
- Aquaculture
- Swimming pools
- Hydroponics
- Medical care and laboratories
6. Maintenance
6.1 Cleaning the Electrode
After each use, especially after calibration or testing different solutions, always rinse the electrode thoroughly with distilled or deionized water. Gently wipe the electrode with a soft cloth or tissue. Do not rub vigorously, as this can damage the sensitive glass bulb.
6.2 Storage
When not in use, ensure the electrode is kept moist. Store the meter with the protective cap filled with a small amount of electrode storage solution or pH 4.0 buffer solution. Never store the electrode dry or in distilled water, as this can shorten its lifespan.
6.3 Battery Replacement
The meter uses 3 x 1.5V LR44 button batteries. If the display shows a low battery indicator or the readings become unstable, replace the batteries as described in Section 4.1. Ensure the device is powered off before replacing batteries.
6.4 Electrode Replacement
The YG-9909 features replaceable electrodes. If the electrode becomes damaged or consistently provides inaccurate readings even after proper cleaning and calibration, it may need to be replaced. Contact customer support for information on obtaining replacement electrodes and detailed replacement instructions.
7. Troubleshooting
- Inaccurate Readings: Ensure the electrode is clean and properly calibrated. Check battery levels.
- No Display/Flickering Display: Check battery installation and charge. Replace batteries if necessary.
- Slow Response: The electrode might be dirty or dry. Clean and re-moisten the electrode. Recalibration may also be needed.
- Calibration Failure: Ensure calibration solutions are fresh and correctly prepared. Clean the electrode thoroughly before calibration.
If issues persist, refer to the detailed troubleshooting section in the full user manual or contact customer support.
8. User Tips
- Always rinse the electrode with distilled water before and after each measurement to prevent cross-contamination and ensure accuracy.
- For best results, allow the meter to stabilize in the solution for a few moments before recording the reading.
- Keep calibration solutions sealed and stored in a cool, dark place to maintain their integrity. Replace them periodically.
- Avoid touching the glass bulb of the electrode, as oils from your skin can affect its performance.
9. Warranty and Support
The RCYAGO YG-9909 water quality tester comes with a 365-day warranty. For any product-related questions or support, please contact the seller. They offer a 24-hour response service to assist you.
