Atago PAL-3 Digital Hand-Held Pocket Refractometer

Introduction

The Atago 3830 PAL-3 is a highly accurate, compact, and portable digital refractometer designed for precise measurement of Brix (sugar concentration) in various solutions. This device is ideal for use in culinary, food and beverage, pharmaceutical, educational, and other industrial applications where quick and reliable Brix readings are essential. Its robust design, including IP-65 dust and water protection, ensures durability and ease of maintenance.

This manual provides comprehensive instructions for the safe and effective operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your Atago PAL-3 refractometer. Please read it thoroughly before first use to ensure optimal performance and longevity of the device.

Safety Information

• Do not immerse the entire unit in water, despite its IP-65 rating. The IP-65 rating protects against water jets, not full submersion.
• Avoid dropping the device or subjecting it to strong impacts, as this may damage internal components.
• Do not attempt to disassemble or repair the unit yourself. Refer to qualified service personnel for any repairs.
• Keep the sample stage clean and free from debris to ensure accurate readings.
• Use only specified AAA alkaline batteries. Ensure correct polarity when inserting batteries.
• Store the refractometer in its protective case when not in use to prevent damage.
• Avoid exposing the device to direct sunlight or extreme temperatures for prolonged periods.

Parts and Components

This image shows the Atago PAL-3 refractometer. It is a compact, white device with a blue and white digital display showing a Brix reading of 26.9% and a temperature of 20.3°C. Below the display are 'START' and 'ZERO' buttons. The device has a sample well at the top.

• 1. Sample Well: Area where the sample is placed for measurement.
• 2. Prism: Located within the sample well, where light interacts with the sample.
• 3. Digital LCD Display: Shows Brix percentage, temperature, and warning messages.
• 4. START Button: Initiates a measurement.
• 5. ZERO Button: Used for calibration (zero-setting).
• 6. Battery Compartment: Located on the back, holds two AAA batteries.

What's in the Box:

• Atago 3830 PAL-3 Refractometer
• (2) AAA Alkaline Batteries
• Plastic Protective Carrying Case
• Instruction Manual (this document)

Setup

1. Battery Installation

1. Locate the battery compartment cover on the back of the unit.
2. Slide the cover open.
3. Insert two (2) AAA alkaline batteries, ensuring correct polarity (+/-) as indicated inside the compartment.
4. Close the battery compartment cover securely.

2. Initial Power On

Press the START button to turn on the device. The LCD display will illuminate.

Operating Instructions

1. Calibration (Zero-Setting)

Calibration should be performed daily or when moving to an environment with a significant temperature change.

1. Ensure the sample well is clean and dry.
2. Place 0.3 mL of distilled water onto the prism in the sample well. Ensure the water covers the entire prism surface without air bubbles.
3. Close the daylight plate gently over the water.
4. Press the ZERO button. The display will show "0.0%" and "END" briefly, indicating successful calibration.
5. Wipe the distilled water from the prism and sample well using a soft, lint-free cloth.

2. Taking a Measurement

1. Ensure the refractometer is calibrated and the sample well is clean and dry.
2. Place 0.3 mL of your sample liquid onto the prism in the sample well. Ensure the sample covers the entire prism surface without air bubbles.
3. Close the daylight plate gently over the sample.
4. Press the START button. The measurement will be displayed on the LCD in approximately 3 seconds.
5. Read the Brix value and temperature from the display.
6. After measurement, clean the sample well and prism thoroughly with water and a soft cloth.

3. Automatic Temperature Compensation (ATC)

The PAL-3 features ATC, which automatically adjusts Brix readings for sample temperatures between 10°C and 100°C. This ensures accurate results regardless of the sample's temperature within this range.

4. External Light Interference (ELI) Warning

If direct light interferes with the measurement, the device will display a warning message. Move to a shaded area or block direct light from the sample well to ensure accurate readings.

Maintenance

1. Cleaning

• Always clean the prism and sample well immediately after each use to prevent sample residue from drying and affecting future measurements.
• Use distilled water and a soft, lint-free cloth or tissue to gently wipe the prism and sample well.
• The body of the unit can be washed under running water due to its IP-65 rating, but avoid strong jets directly into the display or battery compartment. Do not immerse.
• Do not use abrasive cleaners, solvents, or harsh chemicals, as these can damage the prism or casing.

2. Storage

• Store the refractometer in its plastic protective carrying case when not in use.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, high humidity, and extreme temperatures.
• If storing for an extended period, remove the batteries to prevent leakage.

Troubleshooting

Specifications

Warranty and Support

Atago Co., Ltd. products are manufactured to high quality standards. For specific warranty information, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Atago website. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.

For technical support, service, or inquiries regarding your Atago PAL-3 refractometer, please contact Atago customer service or your local authorized distributor. Contact information can typically be found on the Atago official website or in the product packaging.

Atago Co., Ltd. complies with Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP), Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), and Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) system standards, and many International Organization for Standardization (ISO) standards.

Manufacturer: Atago Co., Ltd.
Headquarters: Tokyo, Japan
Founded: 1940