1. Introduction
The Hanna Instruments HI96701 is a portable photometer designed for the accurate measurement of free chlorine (Cl2) content in water samples. This device provides precise readings within the 0.00 to 5.00 mg/L (ppm) range, making it an essential tool for various applications including water treatment, environmental monitoring, and quality control. This manual provides detailed instructions for the proper setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your HI96701 photometer to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
2. Safety Information
Please read all safety information before operating the HI96701 photometer. Failure to do so may result in injury or damage to the instrument.
- Always handle chemical reagents with care. Refer to the Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for specific reagent safety information.
- Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves and eye protection, when handling reagents.
- Do not immerse the photometer in water or other liquids. The instrument is designed for splash resistance but is not waterproof.
- Ensure the battery compartment is securely closed to prevent moisture ingress.
- Dispose of used reagents and samples according to local environmental regulations.
- Keep the instrument away from strong magnetic fields and extreme temperatures.
3. Product Overview
The HI96701 photometer is designed for ease of use and accurate measurements. Familiarize yourself with the components shown below.

Figure 1: Hanna Instruments HI96701 Portable Free Chlorine Photometer. This image displays the blue handheld device with a digital LCD screen showing a reading of '0.80'. Below the screen are several control buttons, including 'ON/OFF', 'ZERO/CAL', and 'READ'. A sample cuvette holder is visible on the right side, covered by a black cap.
Key Components:
- LCD Display: Shows measurement readings, messages, and status indicators.
- ON/OFF Button: Powers the instrument on or off.
- ZERO/CAL Button: Used to zero the instrument with a blank sample or for calibration.
- READ Button: Initiates the measurement of a treated sample.
- Cuvette Holder: Compartment for inserting the glass cuvette containing the sample.
- Battery Compartment: Located on the underside, holds the power source.
4. Setup
Before first use, follow these steps to prepare your HI96701 photometer.
- Battery Installation:
- Locate the battery compartment cover on the bottom of the photometer.
- Remove the cover by sliding or unscrewing it.
- Insert a 9V alkaline battery, ensuring correct polarity (+/-).
- Replace the battery compartment cover securely.
- Initial Power On:
- Press the ON/OFF button to power on the instrument.
- The display will show all segments for a few seconds, followed by the model number and then '— — —'.
- Cuvette Preparation:
- Ensure cuvettes are clean and free from scratches or fingerprints. Use a lint-free cloth to wipe the outside of the cuvette before insertion.
- Avoid touching the optical surfaces of the cuvette.
5. Operating Instructions
Follow these steps for accurate free chlorine measurements.
- Power On: Press the ON/OFF button to turn on the photometer.
- Zeroing the Instrument:
- Fill a clean glass cuvette with 10 mL of unreacted water sample (the blank).
- Insert the cuvette into the holder, ensuring the cap is securely closed.
- Press the ZERO/CAL button. The display will show 'SIP' (Sampling In Progress) and then '0.00'. The instrument is now zeroed.
- Sample Preparation:
- Remove the blank cuvette.
- Add the appropriate free chlorine reagent (e.g., DPD Free Chlorine Reagent) to a new 10 mL water sample in a clean cuvette. Refer to the reagent instructions for exact quantities and mixing procedures.
- Cap the cuvette and gently shake to mix.
- Wait for the specified reaction time (typically 1 minute for free chlorine).
- Measurement:
- Insert the reacted sample cuvette into the holder, ensuring the cap is securely closed.
- Press the READ button. The display will show 'SIP' and then the free chlorine concentration in mg/L (ppm).
- Power Off: Press the ON/OFF button to turn off the photometer after use.
6. Maintenance
Proper maintenance ensures the longevity and accuracy of your HI96701 photometer.
- Cleaning the Cuvette: Always clean cuvettes thoroughly after each use with deionized water and a mild detergent, then rinse well. Dry with a lint-free cloth.
- Instrument Cleaning: Wipe the exterior of the photometer with a soft, damp cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
- Battery Replacement: Replace the 9V battery when the low battery indicator appears on the display. Always dispose of used batteries responsibly.
- Storage: Store the photometer in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Keep the cuvette holder clean and covered when not in use.
- Reagent Storage: Store reagents according to their specific instructions to maintain their effectiveness.
7. Troubleshooting
Refer to this section for common issues and their solutions.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Instrument does not power on. | Dead or incorrectly installed battery. | Check battery polarity; replace with a new 9V alkaline battery. |
| Erratic or inconsistent readings. | Dirty cuvette, air bubbles, scratched cuvette, incorrect zeroing. | Clean cuvette, remove air bubbles, use a new cuvette, re-zero the instrument with a fresh blank. |
| Display shows '---' after pressing READ. | Sample concentration is outside the measurement range. | Dilute the sample if concentration is too high, or ensure proper reagent addition if too low. |
| Low battery indicator appears. | Battery is low. | Replace the 9V battery. |
8. Specifications
- Range: 0.00 to 5.00 mg/L (ppm) Free Chlorine (Cl2)
- Resolution: 0.01 mg/L (0.00 to 3.50 mg/L); 0.10 mg/L (above 3.50 mg/L)
- Accuracy: ±0.03 mg/L ±3% of reading @ 25°C
- Light Source: Tungsten lamp with narrow band interference filter @ 525 nm
- Light Detector: Silicon photocell
- Method: Adaptation of the EPA DPD method 330.5 and Standard Method 4500-Cl G.
- Environment: 0 to 50°C (32 to 122°F); max 95% RH non-condensing
- Battery Type: 1 x 9V alkaline
- Auto-off: After 10 minutes of non-use
- Dimensions: 192 x 104 x 69 mm (7.5 x 4.1 x 2.7")
- Weight: 360 g (12.7 oz)
9. Warranty and Support
The Hanna Instruments HI96701 photometer is warranted for a period of two years against defects in workmanship and materials when used for its intended purpose and maintained according to instructions. Reagents are not covered by this warranty.
For technical support, service, or warranty claims, please contact Hanna Instruments customer service. Visit the official Hanna Instruments website for contact information and additional resources.
Website: www.hannainst.com





