PASCO PS-2102 pH Sensor

Introduction

The pH Sensor (PS-2102) measures the pH of a solution. The measurement is recorded and displayed by a connected computer or datalogger. The pH Sensor is well-suited for both continuous recording and discrete measurements.

Components

The pH Sensor package includes:

• 1 pH amplifier
• 2 pH electrode
• 3 Storage bottle containing storage solution

Visual Description: The image displays the PASCO pH Sensor. It shows the main sensor unit with a PASPORT connector, a separate pH electrode attached via a cable, and a small plastic bottle containing storage solution. The components are labeled with numbers: '1 pH amplifier', '2 pH electrode', and '3 Storage bottle containing storage solution'.

Required Additional Components

• PASPORT-compatible interface
• PASCO Capstone or SPARKvue data collection software

Related Products

• Replacement electrode (PS-2573)
• pH Buffer Capsule Kit (SC-2321)

Quick Start

1. Connect the amplifier to your PASPORT-compatible interface. If using a computer, connect the PASPORT interface to it.
2. Connect the pH electrode to the amplifier.
3. Start the PASCO data collection software.
4. Remove the electrode from the storage bottle.
5. Rinse the electrode with distilled water and blot dry.
6. Immerse the end of the electrode in the solution to be measured.
7. Begin recording data.

Get the Software

The sensor can be used with SPARKvue or PASCO Capstone software. For guidance on choosing software, visit pasco.com/products/guides/software-comparison.

SPARKvue is available as a free app for Chromebook, iOS, and Android devices. A free trial of SPARKvue and Capstone is offered for Windows and Mac. Download software at pasco.com/downloads or search for SPARKvue in your device's app store.

Set-up

Connecting the components

1. Plug the sensor's PASPORT connector into any port of a PASPORT-compatible interface. Turn on the interface if needed.
2. Push the connector at the end of the electrode cable onto the sensor's electrode connector. Twist the connector to lock it into place.
3. If using a computer, connect the PASPORT interface to it and start PASCO Capstone or SPARKvue. Refer to the PASPORT interface manual for more details. The software should automatically recognize and connect to the pH sensor.

Diagram Description: A diagram illustrates the connection process. It shows a pH electrode with a cable, with the cable connector being pushed onto the sensor's electrode connector. An arrow points from the electrode connector to a PASPORT interface, indicating the connection.

For more information on using SPARKvue or PASCO Capstone, consult the Capstone or SPARKvue online help.

Software Update Check:

• SPARKvue: Go to Main Menu > Check for Updates
• PASCO Capstone: Go to Help > Check for Updates.

Removing the storage bottle

1. Hold the electrode vertically to prevent the solution from spilling out of the bottle.
2. Unscrew the bottle cap and pull the bottle down to remove it. Keep the storage solution for later use.
3. Push the bottle cap up the electrode shaft to keep it out of the way of measurements.

Collecting data

Once the sensor is connected to PASCO Capstone or SPARKvue, follow these steps to collect pH measurements:

1. Rinse the electrode with distilled water and blot dry.
2. Immerse the electrode in the solution to be measured. Ensure the bulb-shaped glass membrane is entirely immersed.
3. Using the data collection software, create a display measuring pH and begin recording data.
4. Wait for the reading to stabilize.
5. After collecting the reading, remove the electrode from the solution. Rinse the electrode again before placing it in any other solutions.

Calibration

Calibration is not always necessary, especially when measuring pH changes rather than absolute values. However, calibrating the sensor using SPARKvue or PASCO Capstone can improve accuracy. For calibration procedures, see the PASCO Capstone or SPARKvue online help and search for "Calibrate a pH Sensor".

Maintenance

Electrode storage

When storing the electrode, rinse it with distilled water and place it back in the storage bottle filled with storage solution. Additional storage solution (SC-3507) can be ordered from PASCO. Users can also create their own storage solution following instructions on the pH Storage Solution product page. Do not store the electrode dry for extended periods, as this reduces its responsiveness.

Restoring the electrode

Follow this procedure to improve the response of a slow electrode or to rehydrate a dried membrane:

1. Clean the electrode using one or more of these methods:
   • For protein contamination: Soak the electrode in a solution of 1% pepsin with 0.1 M hydrochloric acid (HCl).
   • For inorganic deposits: Rinse the electrode with 0.1 M Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) solution.
   • For oil or grease contamination: Wash the electrode with a mild detergent or solvent known to be effective for the specific film.
   • For slow response: Soak the electrode alternately in 0.1 M sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and 1 M HCl (hydrogen chloride). Leave it in each solution for one minute, rinse completely between soakings, and end with HCl.
2. Soak the electrode in 0.1 M hydrochloric acid (HCl) for 15 minutes.
3. Soak the electrode in a pH 7 buffer solution for 30 minutes.

If this procedure does not improve the electrode's response, replace the electrode.

Replacement and Alternative Electrodes

A replacement pH Electrode (PS-2573) is available for purchase from PASCO. The PASPORT pH Sensor is also compatible with other PASCO combination pH electrodes featuring BNC connectors, such as the Oxidation Reduction Potential Probe (PS-3515) or various Ion Selective Electrodes. For more information, visit the PASCO website at www.pasco.com.

Software Help

The SPARKvue and PASCO Capstone Help resources provide additional information on using the product with the software. Access help within the software or online:

• SPARKvue: Software: Main Menu > Help; Online: help.pasco.com/sparkvue
• PASCO Capstone: Software: Help > PASCO Capstone Help; Online: help.pasco.com/capstone

Specifications and Accessories

Visit the product page at pasco.com/product/PS-2102 to view specifications and explore accessories. Experiment files and support documents can also be downloaded from the product page.

Experiment Files

Download student-ready activities from the PASCO Experiment Library, including editable student handouts and teacher notes. Visit pasco.com/freelabs/PS-2102.

Technical Support

For assistance, contact PASCO's Technical Support staff:

• Chat: pasco.com
• Phone: 1-800-772-8700 x1004 (USA); +1 916 462 8384 (outside USA)
• Email: support@pasco.com

Regulatory Information

Limited Warranty

For warranty details, see the Warranty and Returns page at www.pasco.com/legal.

Copyright

This document is copyrighted. Permission is granted to non-profit educational institutions for reproduction within their laboratories and classrooms, provided reproductions are not sold for profit. Other reproduction requires written consent from PASCO scientific.

Trademarks

PASCO and PASCO scientific are registered trademarks of PASCO scientific. Other brand and product names may be trademarks of their respective owners. For more information, visit www.pasco.com/legal.

Product End-of-Life Disposal

Electronic products are subject to varying disposal and recycling regulations by country and region. Users are responsible for recycling electronic equipment according to local environmental laws and regulations to protect human health and the environment. Contact local waste services or the place of purchase for recycling drop-off locations. The European Union WEEE symbol indicates that this product must not be disposed of in standard waste containers.