Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the safe and effective use of the Atago PR-201a Palette Series Portable Digital Refractometer. This device is designed for accurate measurement of Brix (0.0 to 60.0%) in liquid samples, featuring automatic temperature compensation (ATC) and a user-scale function. Please read this manual thoroughly before operation and retain it for future reference.
Product Overview
The Atago PR-201a is a portable digital refractometer used to measure the refractive index of liquid samples and convert it to concentration in units of percent by weight (Brix). It is suitable for various applications including fruit juice, coffee, food and beverages, chemicals, and industrial liquids. Key features include:
- Brix measurement range: 0.0 to 60.0%
- High accuracy: ±0.1% Brix
- Automatic Temperature Compensation (ATC) for sample temperatures 10 to 40 °C
- User-scale function for custom concentration calculations
- External Light Interference (ELI) technology for reliable outdoor use
- Ingress Protection (IP)-64 rating for dust and liquid resistance
Figure 1: Atago PR-201a Digital Refractometer. This image displays the device with its digital screen showing a reading of 47.1% Brix, along with the "START/OFF", "ZERO", and "SCALE" buttons, and the sample well.
What's in the Box
Verify that all items are present upon unpacking:
- Atago PR-201a Refractometer
- 9V Battery
- Carrying Case
- Instruction Manual (this document)
Setup
- Battery Installation: Open the battery compartment cover on the back of the unit. Insert the included 9V battery, ensuring correct polarity. Close the cover securely.
- Initial Power On: Press the "START/OFF" button to turn on the device. The display will illuminate.
- Environmental Considerations: Ensure the device is used in an ambient temperature range of 10 to 40 °C for optimal performance. Avoid direct sunlight during measurement if possible, although ELI technology helps mitigate interference.
Operating Instructions
1. Calibration (Zero Setting)
Calibration should be performed regularly, especially before critical measurements or if the ambient temperature changes significantly.
- Ensure the prism surface is clean and dry.
- Apply a few drops of distilled water onto the prism surface, ensuring it covers the entire surface without air bubbles.
- Close the daylight plate gently.
- Press the "ZERO" button. The display will show "0.0%" or "CAL" briefly, then return to "0.0%". This indicates successful calibration.
- Wipe the distilled water from the prism surface with a soft, clean cloth.
2. Taking a Measurement
- After calibration, ensure the prism surface is clean and dry.
- Apply 0.3 to 0.5 mL (approximately 1-2 drops) of the sample liquid onto the prism surface. Ensure the sample covers the entire surface.
- Close the daylight plate gently.
- Press the "START/OFF" button. The measurement will be displayed in approximately 3 seconds.
- Read the % Brix value from the digital display. The temperature of the sample will also be displayed briefly or can be toggled using the "TEMP" function (if available, based on OCR "TEMP-" button).
- After measurement, clean the prism surface thoroughly with a soft, damp cloth and dry it.
3. User-Scale Function
The user-scale function allows for custom concentration calculations based on a specific coefficient. This is useful for samples where the Brix reading needs to be converted to a different concentration unit using the formula: Concentration = Brix × Coefficient.
- Press the "SCALE" button to access the user-scale setting.
- Follow the on-screen prompts (if any) or refer to the detailed user-scale programming section in the full manual for specific steps to input your desired coefficient.
- Once set, measurements will be displayed according to your custom scale.
Maintenance
- Cleaning the Prism: Always clean the prism surface immediately after each use. Use a soft, lint-free cloth dampened with water. Avoid abrasive materials or solvents that could damage the prism.
- Cleaning the Body: Wipe the instrument body with a soft, dry cloth. Do not immerse the unit in water.
- Storage: Store the refractometer in its carrying case in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- Battery Replacement: Replace the 9V battery when the low battery indicator appears on the display.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Inaccurate readings | Prism not clean; improper calibration; sample not covering prism; air bubbles in sample. | Clean prism thoroughly; recalibrate with distilled water; ensure sufficient sample volume; remove air bubbles. |
| Device does not power on | Dead battery; incorrect battery installation. | Replace 9V battery; check battery polarity. |
| "ERR" or error message on display | Measurement outside range; sensor issue; extreme temperature. | Ensure sample is within 0.0-60.0% Brix range; allow device to acclimate to ambient temperature; if persistent, contact customer support. |
Specifications
- Model: PR-201a (ATA-3452)
- Measurement Scale: Brix
- Measurement Range: 0.0 to 60.0% Brix
- Minimum Detection Scale: 0.1% Brix
- Accuracy: ±0.1% Brix
- Sample Measurement Temperature Range: 10 to 40 °C (ATC)
- Ambient Temperature: 10 to 40 °C
- Measurement Time: Approximately 3 seconds
- Power Source: 9V battery
- Protection Rating: IP-64 (Dust and splash resistant)
- Dimensions: 4 x 17 × 9 cm (H x W x D)
- Weight: 300g
- Standards Met: ISO 9001
Safety Information
- Do not attempt to disassemble or modify the instrument.
- Avoid dropping or subjecting the instrument to strong impacts.
- Do not use the instrument in environments with corrosive gases or high humidity.
- Keep out of reach of children.
- Dispose of batteries according to local regulations.
Warranty and Support
For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please contact your authorized Atago dealer or visit the official Atago website. Please have your model number (PR-201a) and purchase date available when contacting support.
