Pyxis SP-350 Handheld PTSA Meter User Manual

Warranty Information

Confidentiality
The information contained in this manual is confidential and proprietary to Pyxis Lab, Inc. It shall not be used for manufacturing, construction, or reproduction of described goods, nor disclosed to others or made public without express written consent.

Standard Limited Warranty
Pyxis Lab warrants its products against defects in materials and workmanship. Pyxis Lab will, at its option, repair or replace defective components with new or remanufactured parts. This warranty is exclusive and no other warranty is expressed or implied.

Warranty Term
The Pyxis warranty term is thirteen (13) months ex-works from the original shipment date.

Warranty Service
Damaged or dysfunctional instruments may be returned to Pyxis for repair or replacement. Pyxis warrants labor services for 30 days after authorization, correcting qualifying deficiencies related to the originating event. Repair components are warranted for 90 days ex-works. Incorporation of a warranted component does not extend the instrument's original warranty term.

Warranty Shipping
A Repair Authorization (RA) Number is required for all returns. Pyxis covers freight charges for replacement or repaired products to the customer. Customers pay freight charges for returning products. Products returned without an RA number will be returned to the customer. To receive an RMA, generate a request at https://pyxis-lab.com/request-tech-support/.

Pyxis Technical Support
Contact Pyxis Technical Support at +1 (866) 203-8397, service@pyxis-lab.com, or via the request form at https://pyxis-lab.com/request-tech-support/.

1 Introduction

The Pyxis SP-350 is a handheld multimeter designed to measure PTSA. It is a cuvette-less device requiring less than 5 mL of water sample for proper measurement.

1.1 Main Features

The SP-350 offers the following features:

• Measurement of PTSA concentration in water samples.
• Pre-calibrated for PTSA (pyrenetetrasulfonic acid) in the range of 0 to 300 ppb.
• Automatic compensation for sample color and turbidity interference (up to 60 NTU) without prefiltration.
• User-friendly, menu-driven calibration using a single standard.
• Large color graphic screen readable in direct sunlight.

2 Specifications

*Specifications are subject to change without notice due to Pyxis's continuous improvement policy.
†Batteries excluded.

3 Unpacking Instrument

Carefully remove the instrument and accessories from the shipping container. Inspect each item for any damage that may have occurred during shipment. Verify that all items listed on the packing slip are included. If any items are missing or damaged, please contact Pyxis Customer Service at service@pyxislab.com.

3.1 Standard Accessories

• Four (4) AA alkaline batteries
• Bluetooth/USB Adapter for Desktop (P/N: MA-NEB)
• User Manual available online at https://pyxis-lab.com/support/

3.2 Optional Accessories

The following optional accessories can be ordered from Pyxis Customer Service (order@pyxis-lab.com) or the Pyxis E-Store at https://pyxis-lab.com/shop/.

4 Installation

4.1 Battery Installation

The SP-350 is powered by four alkaline batteries, providing a typical battery life of 10,000 measurements or 10 months. A "LOW BATTERY" warning will display for 5 seconds before the unit automatically turns off when battery capacity is critically low.

NOTE: Do not use rechargeable nickel cadmium (NiCad) or lithium batteries.

Replacing the batteries will allow the SP-350 to resume operation. The unit will automatically turn on in measurement mode after new batteries are installed.

The SP-350 battery compartment is located on the back of the instrument and is secured by a cover with two Phillips-head screws. Batteries are held in place by this cover.

Description of Figure 1 (The SP-350 battery compartment): The figure shows the battery compartment with space for four AA batteries, a sealing O-ring, and screw holes for the cover.

To install batteries:

1. Remove the battery compartment cover by loosening the two screws.
2. Remove old batteries and dispose of them properly.
3. Insert four new AA alkaline batteries firmly into the battery holder, observing the positive (+) and negative (-) terminal signs.
4. Replace the battery compartment cover, ensuring the sealing O-ring lies flat.
5. Fasten the two screws.

NOTE: Failure to properly seat the O-ring may result in water damage to the SP-350.

5 Instrument Overview

5.1 Control Keys

The SP-350 features three control keys: Left (←), Right (→), and OK. These keys are used to activate functions indicated on the LCD display directly above them. Key labels change based on the current operation mode.

Description of Figure 2 (SP-350 device): The figure shows the SP-350 handheld meter with its screen displaying "PTSA 0.0 ppb" and labels pointing to the "Key Functions" and "Keys" (Left, Right, OK buttons).

5.2 Main Module On/Off

• To turn on: Press and momentarily release the OK button.
• To turn off: Press and hold the OK button for approximately three seconds until the LCD display turns off. The SP-350 also turns itself off automatically after 60 seconds of inactivity to conserve battery life.

NOTE: The auto-time off setting can be customized via the uPyxis® Mobile or Desktop App.

6 Measurement

6.1 PTSA Measurement

Upon powering on, the SP-350 defaults to the PTSA measurement mode. Water samples can be transferred to the sample cell using a pipette or by filling directly from a faucet, sample bottle, or sample valve.

NOTE: Exercise caution when pouring samples into the cell to avoid air bubble entrainment, which can affect reading accuracy.

Before measurement, rinse the sample cell at least three times with the sample water. Allow 5–10 seconds for the SP-350 to stabilize. A stable value is indicated by white text on a blue background (as shown in Figure 2). For a sample with 100 ppb PTSA, the measured value should stabilize between 98–102 ppb.

NOTE: The time to reach a stable reading may be longer if the sample temperature differs significantly from the instrument's equilibrated temperature.

6.2 High Color and Turbidity Warning

The SP-350 includes channels to measure sample turbidity and color, automatically compensating for interference. If sample turbidity or color values are too high, a PTSA measurement warning will be displayed. In such cases, filter the sample before measurement.

7 Calibration

7.1 PTSA Calibration (Two-Point with Zero)

1. Rinse the sample cell three times with DI water and fill it with DI water.
2. NOTE: In emergencies, non-PTSA water (e.g., city water) can be used, but recalibrate with DI water for the zero step as soon as possible.
3. Power on the SP-350 by pressing the OK button. Allow 5–10 seconds for stabilization.
4. The unit will display PTSA readings. For DI water, the value should be very low, near zero. A low non-zero value (e.g., 0.2 or 0.4) is acceptable.
5. Press P-Cal (← or →) to access the PTSA CALIBRATION screen (Figure 3).
6. Press Zero (←) to initiate the zero (blank) calibration.
7. If successful, a checkmark (✔) and instructions for slope calibration will appear (Figure 4).
8. Rinse the sample cell three times with the desired PTSA standard and fill it with the standard.
9. Press Cycle (←) to cycle through the PTSA standards (100, 200, 300 ppb). Ensure the selected standard matches the sample in the cell.
10. Press Slope (→) to start the slope calibration.
11. If successful, a checkmark (✔) and a "Calibration Success" message will appear (Figure 5). Otherwise, a warning message is displayed.
12. Calibration is complete. Press Exit (OK) to return to measurement mode.

NOTE: If Exit is pressed before the second checkmark appears, the calibration will not be completed and must be redone.

Description of Figure 3 (PTSA CALIBRATION screen): Shows options to insert DI solution, click Zero Button, and buttons for Zero, Slope, Exit.

Description of Figure 4 (PTSA CALIBRATION screen): Shows options to insert DI solution, click Zero Button, press Cycle to choose solution, click Slope Button, and buttons for Cycle, Slope, Exit.

Description of Figure 5 (PTSA CALIBRATION screen): Shows options to insert DI solution, click Zero Button, press Cycle to choose solution, click Slope Button, and a "Calibration Success" message with buttons for Cycle, Slope, Exit.

8 Device Information and Diagnosis

The DEVICE INFORMATION screen appears when System (OK) is pressed in measurement mode. It displays the device serial number, software version, hardware version (Figure 6), battery status (percentage), and MAC addresses.

Press Diagnosis (←) to access the SYSTEM DIAGNOSIS screen, which shows raw measurement data (Figure 7). This screen is primarily for device troubleshooting. When contacting Pyxis for support, provide images of both the DEVICE INFORMATION and SYSTEM DIAGNOSIS screens.

Description of Figure 6 (DEVICE INFORMATION screen): Displays Serial Number, Hardware Ver, Software Ver, Battery Status, BTLE MAC, PTSA Calib, Date & Time, FCC ID, Humidity, and Error Code.

Description of Figure 7 (SYSTEM DIAGNOSIS screen): Displays various numerical data points labeled [1] through [19], along with "BTLE Started" and "Cleanliness", "Help", "Exit" buttons.

8.1 Sample Cell Cleanliness Check

The SP-350 is designed for reliable PTSA measurements. Heavy fouling can obstruct the sensor, leading to inaccurate readings. It is recommended to check and clean the SP-350 monthly, or more frequently for heavily contaminated waters.

To perform a Cleanliness Check:

1. Power on the SP-350 by pressing the OK button.
2. Press System (OK) to launch the DEVICE INFORMATION screen.
3. Press Diagnosis (←) to launch the SYSTEM DIAGNOSIS screen.
4. Wait 5–10 seconds for the message in the top-right corner to change from "Starting BTLE..." to "BTLE Started".
5. Press Cleanliness (←). A prompt will appear asking the user to add DI water to the sample cell (Figure 8).
6. Pour DI water into the sample cell.
7. Press Confirm (←, →, or OK). The prompt disappears, and a countdown appears at the bottom of the display.
8. Upon completion, a "Clean" message (Figure 9) or "Sample cell fouled" message (Figure 10) will appear.
9. Press Exit (OK) to return to measurement mode.

Description of Figure 8 (SYSTEM DIAGNOSIS screen): Shows the "BTLE Started" status and the "Put DI into sample cell" prompt with "Confirm", "Cleanliness", "Help", "Exit" buttons.

Description of Figure 9 (SYSTEM DIAGNOSIS screen): Shows the "BTLE Started" status and the "Clean" result with "Confirm", "Cleanliness", "Help", "Exit" buttons.

Description of Figure 10 (SYSTEM DIAGNOSIS screen): Shows the "BTLE Started" status and the "Sample cell fouled" result with "Confirm", "Cleanliness", "Help", "Exit" buttons.

8.2 Bluetooth Connection to Devices

The SP-350 utilizes Bluetooth Low Energy (BTLE) for wireless connection to a smartphone via the uPyxis® Mobile App or to a computer via the included Bluetooth Adapter (P/N: MA-NEB) and the uPyxis® Desktop App.

To connect via Bluetooth:

1. Power on the SP-350 by pressing the OK button.
2. Press System (OK) to launch the DEVICE INFORMATION screen.
3. Press Diagnosis (←) to launch the SYSTEM DIAGNOSIS screen.
4. Allow 5–10 seconds for the message in the top-right corner to change from "Starting BTLE..." to "BTLE Started" (Figure 7).
5. Choose one of the following connection options:
   • The uPyxis® Mobile App (refer to the "Use with uPyxis® Mobile App" section).
   • The uPyxis® Desktop App (refer to the "Use with uPyxis® Desktop App" section).

8.2.1 Calibrate an ST-500 Series Sensor with the SP-350 via Bluetooth

The SP-350 can verify and calibrate inline Pyxis ST-500 Series sensors by measuring sample water from the inline sensor's sample line.

To calibrate an inline sensor via Bluetooth:

1. Power on the SP-350 by pressing the OK button.
2. Press System (OK) to launch the DEVICE INFORMATION screen.
3. Press Comm (→) to launch the COMMUNICATION screen (Figure 11).
4. Press Scan (←) to begin scanning for Bluetooth devices.
5. Discoverable devices will appear with their name and MAC address (Figure 12).
6. If multiple devices are listed, press › (→) to cycle through them.
7. If no devices or the incorrect device appears, press Scan (OK) to re-scan.
8. Press Connect (OK) to pair with the selected sensor.
9. Once connected, the SP-350 displays the latest PTSA measurement from the connected sensor (Figure 13).
10. Fill the SP-350's sample cell with the same sample water the sensor is measuring.
11. Press Read (→) to view the SP-350's PTSA measurement alongside the sensor's measurement (Figure 14).
12. Press Calib (OK) to begin sensor PTSA calibration.
13. The SP-350 will take three PTSA measurements to verify calibration (Figure 15).
14. NOTE: It takes about one minute for the sensor to approach the calibrated reading. The verifying readings may differ slightly from the SP-350's measurement. Press Read (→) again for more readings if necessary.
15. If calibration is successful, a "Verify calibration - OK" message will appear (Figure 16).
16. Calibration is complete. Long press Calib (OK) to return to measurement mode.

Description of Figure 11 (COMMUNICATION screen): Shows "Click Scan to search device" with Scan, Read, Calib buttons.

Description of Figure 12 (COMMUNICATION screen): Shows a "Device list" with a device name and MAC address, and "Click Connect to link device" with Scan, ›, Connect buttons.

Description of Figure 13 (COMMUNICATION screen): Shows "Read PTSA value - OK" with the device name and "Click Read to measure PTSA" with Scan, Read, Calib buttons.

Description of Figure 14 (COMMUNICATION screen): Shows "Measuring PTSA - OK" with device name and "Click Calib to calibrate device" with Scan, Read, Calib buttons.

Description of Figure 15 (COMMUNICATION screen): Shows "Verify calibration ... 2" with device name and "Click Calib to calibrate device" with Scan, Read, Calib buttons.

Description of Figure 16 (COMMUNICATION screen): Shows "Verify calibration - OK" with device name and "Click Calib to calibrate device" with Scan, Read, Calib buttons.

8.3 Factory Reset

Follow these steps to restore all device parameters to factory default:

1. Power on the SP-350 by pressing the OK button.
2. Press System (OK) to launch the DEVICE INFORMATION screen.
3. Press Diagnosis (← or →) to launch the SYSTEM DIAGNOSIS screen.
4. Allow 5–10 seconds for the message in the top-right corner to change from "Starting BTLE..." to "BTLE Started".
5. Press Help (→) to launch the HELP screen (Figure 17).
6. Press Factory Reset (← or →). The display will update as shown in Figure 18, offering three options:
   • Press OK to start the factory reset.
   • Press Cancel (←) to return to the HELP screen.
   • Press Exit (→) to abandon the factory reset.
7. After a successful reset, the message "Factory reset done." will appear.
8. Press Exit (OK) to return to measurement mode.

Description of Figure 17 (HELP screen): Shows "Scan QR Code" and "Factory Reset", "Exit" buttons.

Description of Figure 18 (HELP screen): Shows "Restore Factory Settings?" with "Cancel", "Exit", "OK" buttons.

9 Use with uPyxis® Mobile App

9.1 Download uPyxis® Mobile App

Download the uPyxis® Mobile App from the Apple App Store or Google Play.

Description of Figure 19 (uPyxis® Mobile App installation): Shows the Pyxis logo, a smartphone displaying the uPyxis app interface with a connected SP-350, and QR codes for app download.

9.2 Connecting to uPyxis® Mobile App

Connect the SP-350 sensor to a smartphone using the uPyxis® Mobile App by following these steps:

1. Follow the steps in the "Bluetooth Connection to Devices" section to make the SP-350 discoverable.
2. Open the uPyxis® Mobile App.
3. On the app, pull down to refresh the list of available Pyxis devices.
4. If the connection is successful, the SP-350 and its Serial Number (SN) will be displayed (Figure 20).
5. Tap on the SP-350 image.

Description of Figure 20 (uPyxis mobile app screenshot): Shows the uPyxis app interface with a connected SP-350, its serial number, and status.

9.3 Setting Screen

When connected, the uPyxis® Mobile App defaults to the Setting screen. Here, users can configure the Power off time and Screen off time in seconds.

Description of Figure 21 (uPyxis mobile app Setting screen): Displays product name and settings for Power off time and Screen off time, with an "Update Settings" button.

9.4 System Screen

From the System screen, users can change the Device Name, view the Serial Number, Hardware Version, and Firmware Version, and update the firmware by pressing "Check Update". If an update is available, press "Get Firmware", then "Upgrade Firmware".

NOTE: The firmware update process takes time and requires the SP-350 to remain within approximately 10 ft (without obstructions) for its duration. After completion, the SP-350 will reboot, disconnecting it from the uPyxis® Mobile App.

Description of Figure 22 (uPyxis mobile app System screen): Shows device name, serial number, hardware version, firmware version, and options to check for, get, and upgrade firmware.

10 Use with uPyxis® Desktop App

10.1 Install uPyxis® Desktop App

Download the latest version of the uPyxis® Desktop software package from https://pyxis-lab.com/upyxis/. This package includes the Microsoft .Net Framework 4.5 (if not already installed), USB drivers for Bluetooth (MA-NEB) and RS485 (MA-485) adapters, and the uPyxis® Desktop application. Install by double-clicking the uPyxis.Setup.exe file.

Description of Figure 23 (uPyxis® Desktop App installation): Shows the uPyxis setup window with "Install" and "Close" buttons.

Click "Install" to begin the installation process and follow the on-screen instructions for USB driver and uPyxis installation.

10.2 Connecting to uPyxis® Desktop App

Connect the SP-350 to a Windows computer using a Bluetooth/USB adapter (P/N: MA-NEB) as follows:

1. Follow the steps in the "Bluetooth Connection to Devices" section to make the SP-350 discoverable.
2. Plug the Bluetooth/USB adapter into a USB port on the computer.
3. Launch the uPyxis® Desktop App.
4. In the uPyxis® Desktop App, navigate to Device → Connect via USB-Bluetooth (Figure 24).
5. Upon successful connection, the SP-350 and its Serial Number (SN) will be displayed in the left pane of the uPyxis® window.

Description of Figure 24 (uPyxis Desktop App connection): Shows the Device menu with options like "Connect via USB-Bluetooth", "Connect via USB-RS485", etc., and information about connection accessories.

10.3 System Screen

Once connected, the uPyxis® Desktop App defaults to the System screen, showing a picture of the device. Users can upgrade the firmware by selecting a firmware file (contact service@pyxis-lab.com for files) and clicking "Upgrade Firmware".

NOTE: The firmware update process takes time and requires the SP-350 to remain within approximately 10 ft (without obstructions) for its duration. After completion, the SP-350 will reboot, disconnecting it from the uPyxis® Mobile App.

Description of Figure 25 (uPyxis Desktop App System screen): Shows the device picture, device name, serial number, firmware version, and options to select a firmware file and upgrade.

10.4 Datalog Screen

From the Datalog screen, users can view, delete, and export internal log files. Click "Read Datalog List" and select the desired datalog (separated by month). Log events can be viewed in detail by clicking "Read Datalog", deleted by clicking "Delete", or exported as a .CSV file by clicking "Export as .CSV File".

Description of Figure 26 (uPyxis Desktop App Datalog screen): Shows a list of datalogs, record counts, and buttons for "Clear Datalog", "Read Datalog List", "Delete", "Read Datalog", "Export as .CSV File".

10.5 Setting Screen

From the Setting screen, users can set the Power off time and Screen off time in seconds.

Description of Figure 27 (uPyxis Desktop App Setting screen): Displays product name, product factor, and settings for Power Off Time and Screen Off Time, with "Apply Settings" buttons.

11 Device Maintenance and Precaution

11.1 Maintenance Best Practices and Quick Tips

To ensure a long working life and ease of use for the SP-350, follow these maintenance best practices:

• Rinse the sample cell at least three times with the desired solution before turning on the instrument.
• After a successful calibration, the unit does not automatically return to measurement mode. Holding the Exit button down too long will power down the unit instead of returning to measurement mode.
• After returning to measurement mode post-calibration, rinse the cell several times with the first sample. The unit will continue to display sample values without further key presses if it has not powered off. If no keys are pressed for 20 seconds, the screen darkens. After another 20 seconds of inactivity, the unit powers down. Pressing any key while the screen is dark will reset the timer and re-light the screen. This press does not advance the calibration process; the next required press will still be needed.
• Always rinse the unit with clean water after use and dry it with a clean tissue or paper towel.

11.2 Methods to Cleaning the SP-350

Light deposits on the quartz glass inside the conductivity cell can be cleaned with a Q-tip. Aged heavy deposits, especially iron oxide, can be removed using a cleaning solution capable of removing iron. The Pyxis Handheld Device Cleaning Solution Kit (P/N: SER-02) is available from the Pyxis online E-Store at https://pyxis-lab.com/product/handheld-device-cleaning-kit/.

Description of Figure 28 (Handheld Device Cleaning Solution Kit): Shows the Pyxis Handheld Meter Cleaning Solution bottle and the SP-350 meter.

To clean the SP-350, pour the cleaning solution into the sample cell and let it sit for 10 minutes. Rinse the sample cell with distilled water. Use the Cleanliness Check (see "Sample Cell Cleanliness Check" section) to confirm the SP-350 is clean. Repeat the process as needed until the Cleanliness Check shows "Clean".

11.3 Storage

Do not expose the SP-350 to extreme high or low temperatures, such as leaving it inside an unattended automobile.

12 Contact Us

Pyxis Lab, Inc
1729 Majestic Dr. Suite 5
Lafayette, CO 80026 USA
www.pyxis-lab.com
Phone: +1 (866) 203-8397
Email: service@pyxis-lab.com