Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Troubleshooting Guide
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
May 2013 2
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
Table of Contents
Introduction ................................................................................................................................................................ 1
Calibration .............................................................................................................................................................. 3
Troubleshooting ..................................................................................................................................................... 5
pH Calibration ...................................................................................................................................................... 11
pH Troubleshooting.............................................................................................................................................. 15
Troubleshooting ................................................................................................................................................... 27
Calibration ............................................................................................................................................................ 29
Correction Factor.................................................................................................................................................. 33
Troubleshooting ................................................................................................................................................... 37
Troubleshooting ................................................................................................................................................... 41
Troubleshooting ................................................................................................................................................... 50
Sensors ................................................................................................................................................................. 66
Notes ........................................................................................................................................................................ 83
May 2013 4
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
Introduction
This document provides general troubleshooting and calibration tips for IQ SensorNet DIQ/S 182,
MIQ/TC 2020XT, and MIQ/MC2 systems and probes. For detailed use and care instructions please
refer to the latest operating manual for your IQ SensorNet system components. The procedures
described are executed in the 2020XT terminal/controller or using the PC Terminal program.
• 1 – Display
• 2 – Arrow keys
• 3 – Function keys
• 4 – Status light
Use the 5 keys <M>, <C>, <S>, <ESC>, <OK> and the arrow keys <> to navigate through
the steps in each procedure as follows:
• Select an item with the arrow keys by highlighting individual elements in menus.
• Confirm a selection or Continue with the <OK> key. Some <OK> steps to Continue are
omitted in the procedures that follow.
• Break off an action and change to the next higher level with the <ESC> key.
• Start a calibration procedure with the <C> key.
• Switch to the settings menu with the <S> key.
• Change to the measured value display and break off current actions with the <M> key.
Example
May 2013 5
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
1) Press the S button to enter the settings menu. Select “Settings of sensors and differential sensors”
and press OK.
2) Highlight the measuring range column, press OK, then highlight the measuring range for the
dissolved oxygen sensor and press OK.
The symbolic description:
1) <S>, <> [Settings of sensors and differential sensors], <OK>, <> [Measuring
range column], <OK>, <> [O2].
Troubleshooting tips are not comprehensive. Instead, some of the most common problems and
remedies are described. Additional troubleshooting is provided in the operating manuals for each
individual sensor.
May 2013 2
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
Calibration
1) When the air temperature is above 5ºC/41ºF the calibration should be performed in water saturated
air. If lower air temperatures exist then air saturated water should be used (water should be >5ºC).
2) Select sensor. <M>, <>; <OK>.
3) Put sensor in to maintenance condition. <C>; <OK>.
4) Clean sensor:
• If necessary, add household liquid dish soap to tap water for cleaning.
• Never use any alcohol for cleaning!
May 2013 3
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
• If salt or lime deposits are present the sensor can be cleaned with aqueous citric acid solution
(10 % weight percent).
5) Prepare sensor:
• Position the sensor approximately 2 cm (≈0.79in.) above a water surface (water saturated air).
A laboratory stand to hold the sensor and a bucket, beaker, or similar container with water can
be used.
• You will see the following message indicating that the sensor should be taken out of
maintenance condition following the calibration. Select continue by pressing <OK>.
• The display will flash “Cal” in place of the measured value and the relative slope will flash as
the secondary measured value.
May 2013 4
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
7) Measured values for oxygen and temperature will be displayed once the calibration is complete.
8) If “----” is displayed instead of a measured value then the sensor could not be calibrated. Possible
causes can be found in the logbook of the sensor.
Troubleshooting
The primary method for verifying proper function of the FDO 70x IQ is the “Test” feature of the IQ
SensorNet controller software which is described in the following pages. If the sensor is reading
“Error” you may refer to the section of this document titled “System and Sensor Communication.”
A reading of “----” on the display typically indicates that an invalid user calibration was performed and
the sensor is blocked from displaying measured values. As a temporary measure the measured value
display can be restored by reverting to the factory calibration. This should always be followed by a
sensor “Test” to ensure proper function of the sensor.
Restoring the factory calibration
When an invalid calibration occurs the measured value is blocked and dashes are displayed.
May 2013 5
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
1) Adjust settings [Calibration]: <S>, <> [Settings of sensors and differential sensors],
<OK>, <> [Measuring range column], <OK>, <> [O2], ”: <>
[Calibration], <OK>, <> [Factory Calibration], <OK>, <> [Save and Quit],
<OK>.
May 2013 6
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
3) Clean sensor:
May 2013 7
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
• If salt or lime deposits are present the sensor can be cleaned with aqueous citric acid solution
(10 % weight percent).
4) Prepare sensor:
• Position the sensor approximately 2 cm (≈0.79in.) above a water surface (water saturated air).
A laboratory stand to hold the sensor and a bucket, beaker, or similar container with water can
be used.
5) Test sensor: <> [TEST], <OK>
5) You will see the following message indicating that the sensor should be taken out of maintenance
condition following the calibration. Select continue by pressing <OK>.
• The display will flash “Cal” in place of the measured value and the relative slope will flash as
the secondary measured value adjacent to “TEST.”
6) Measured values for oxygen and temperature will be displayed once the calibration is complete.
May 2013 8
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
7) The result of the check is entered in the log book of the sensor. If the relative slope is outside the
tolerance range (0.90 ... 1.10) or the intensity is too low the sensor test will show a failed result and
“Error” in the logbook. Note: A negative test result does not block the measured value display.
You must view the logbook of the sensor to determine whether the test result was positive or
negative.
May 2013 9
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
May 2013 10
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
pH Calibration
SensoLyt pH probes should be calibrated prior to the initial measurement and at regular intervals
thereafter. Calibrating the pH probe determines the current slope of the electrode. The result of a
SensoLyt calibration is stored in the calibration history of the sensor for viewing at a later time.
A two point calibration is required prior to the initial measurement and is recommended over a one
point calibration for subsequent calibrations. Two calibration procedures are available for the two
point calibration. The calibration procedure is selected in the settings of the sensor.
“CAL TEC AUTO” should be used as the procedure when calibrating with YSI pH buffer solutions.
When using YSI pH buffers the pH value for a given temperature is pre-programmed in the controller.
Therefore, the controller automatically determines the calibration value based on the solutions
temperature. The “CAL CON 2P” procedure must be used when pH buffers from another supplier are
to be used for the calibration. This procedure requires input of the pH value based on the current
temperature. The first buffer solution must be pH 7.0 ± 0.5.
pH Calibration – CAL TEC AUTO
1) Select sensor. <M>, <>; <OK>.
2) Put sensor in to maintenance condition. <C>; <OK>.
May 2013 11
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
May 2013 12
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
4) After calibrating the system automatically evaluates the asymmetry and slope of the electrode. The
values must be within the following ranges:
May 2013 13
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
7) After an invalid calibration the sensor is blocked from providing measured values as indicated by
dashes on the terminal display.
May 2013 14
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
8) To view the calibration history at a later time you may highlight the sensor, press OK, then
highlight “Calibration history of selected sensor” and press OK.
pH Troubleshooting
The calibration procedure provides valuable information for evaluating the condition of the pH
electrode. If the result of a calibration is invalid or the pH measurement is otherwise blocked a new
calibration should be performed. In cases where the calibration has failed or implausible measured
values are observed use the following checklist.
Troubleshooting Checklist
Note: The reactivation of the last valid calibration is only a temporary solution. When the last
valid calibration is restored it is very likely that inaccurate measurement values will be
produced. The sensors performance should be evaluated as soon as possible by performing a
new user calibration.
1) Adjust settings: <S>, <> [Settings of sensors and differential sensors], <OK>,
<> [Measuring range column], <OK>, <> [pH], <> [Calibration],
<OK>, <> [last valid], <OK>, <> [Save and Quit], <OK>.Press the S button
to enter the settings menu. Select “Settings of sensors and differential sensors” and press OK.
May 2013 16
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
May 2013 17
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
ORP Calibration
Calibration of the SensoLyt 700 IQ with a SensoLyt PtA electrode is accomplished by establishing a
mV offset. This is done by adjusting the “ORP shift” in the settings of the sensor. To determine the
mV offset that will be used for the ORP shift setting the sensor must be immersed in an ORP standard
solution with a known ORP mV value. YSI recommends using the YSI 3682 Zobell solution for this
purpose.
1) Select sensor. <M>, <>; <OK>.
2) Put sensor in to maintenance condition. <C>; <OK>.
3) Prepare sensor:
• Remove the probe from the process and rinse the probe clean to prevent contamination of the
standard solution.
• Clean the electrode according to the instructions in the following ORP troubleshooting section.
• Prepare the Zobell solution according to the label instructions.
• Immerse the sensor in the solution.
4) Record values: Once stable mV and temperature readings are observed record both values.
May 2013 18
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
5) Compare the mV reading recorded in step 4 to the mV value of the Zobell solution for the
temperature recorded in step 4. Values for the YSI 3682 Zobell solution are provided below.
Excerpt from YSI 3682 Zobell Solution Instructions, item 061386, A35183D
6) Adjust settings: <S>, <> [Settings of sensors and differential sensors], <OK>,
<> [Measuring range column], <OK>, <> [ORP], <> [ORP shift],
<OK>, <> [enter value of shift from -100 mV to +100 mV], <OK>, <> [Save
and Quit], <OK>.
May 2013 19
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
ORP Troubleshooting
To verify proper performance of the SensoLyt PtA electrode the sensor can be immersed in YSI 3682
Zobell solution. Compare the measured value displayed from the SensoLyt 700 IQ to the value of
Zobell solution at the current temperature.
Troubleshooting Checklist
• View the ORP offset and adjust according to the instructions in section 3.3 if necessary.
• View the logbook for the sensor.
• Check the electrode connection to the probe and look for signs of moisture in the connection.
• Review the settings of the sensor to make sure that the measuring mode is set correctly (pH vs.
mV).
• Clean the sensor and attempt a new calibration.
May 2013 20
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
Contamination Cleaning
May 2013 21
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
Matrix Adjustment
This procedure adjusts the online measurement to an independently determined reference value ("lab
value") without adjusting the slope. To determine the reference values, a sample is taken from the
measuring solution and the relevant concentrations are measured by a commercial lab or on-site using
a spectrophotometer.
Careful handling of samples is required. Microbial activity will quickly alter the
concentration of ammonium and nitrate in the sample. For best results, immediately filter
Materials
samples through a 0.45 um syringe filter and transport to the measurement device on ice to
stop microbial activity. Acidify sample to a pH < 2.0 for storage in excess of 24 hrs., e.g. for
May 2013
transport to a commercial lab. 22
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
• Long-handle dipper
• 30 mL syringe w/ Luer Lock tip
• 0.45 µm syringe filter w/Luer Lock fitting
• Clean sample bottles free of detergent and residues
• Iced cooler
• Pipettes
• Spectrophotometer
• Test kits for ammonium, nitrate, potassium, and chloride
Time required
1) Conditioning the sensor. If this is the first deployment for a new sensor or an existing sensor is
being moved, wait at least 30 minutes and up to 24 hours before starting to allow electrodes to
stabilize.
2) Clean the electrodes. If this is an existing location, inspect the electrodes and clean using a soft
bristle brush and treated effluent if necessary. Do not use soaps or detergents. Wait 30 minutes.
3) Select sensor. <>; <OK>
4) Put sensor in to maintenance condition. <C>; <OK>.
5) Zero the electrode: <> [Yes] if commissioning a new electrode; [No] for an existing
electrode; <OK>.
6) Select the procedure. <> [MATRIX adjustment (1)].
May 2013 23
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
8) Determine the reference voltage. <OK>, etc. A progress bar will indicate the status of the
reference voltage determination.
May 2013 24
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
9) Store the reference voltage values. <> [manual procedure], <OK> OR, if a YSI or
WTW LabLink-enabled spectrophotometer is available, <> [to USB-storage].
10) Sampling & Measuring. Using the sample dipper take a sample as near as possible to the sensor by
scooping and inverting several times before withdrawing the sample.
A concentration in the sample < 1.0 mg/L increases the potential for inaccuracy and reduces
the quality of the matrix adjustment. Therefore, plan to sample at a time when actual
concentrations of all parameters are anticipated to be > 1.0 mg/L. Matrix adjustment can be
canceled at any time by pressing <Esc>.
11) Filter the sample. Pull sample into the syringe using the plunger, screw on Luer Lock filter, push
plunger to evacuate syringe into a clean, dry sample bottle. Put on lid and place sample bottle into
cooler. <OK> - Step 2 is completed.
While determining the reference concentrations, continue using the sensor for control
purposes again by switching the maintenance condition off and releasing the linked outputs.
The sensor continues to use the data of the previous matrix adjustment (or calibration). The
reference voltages determined in step 1 will not be lost. They remain stored until step 3 of the
May 2013 25
matrix adjustment is completed. Matrix adjustment can be canceled at any time by pressing
<Esc>.
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
12) Enter reference values. <C>, <>, [input ref. conc.], <OK>.
13) Adjust the reference concentration for each parameter. <>, <OK>, repeat as necessary.
14) Matrix adjustment report. The matrix adjustment is successful (“+” in the Res column) if the drift
voltage (DV) is -45 mV to +45 mV. If you zeroed the electrode the drift voltage will be 0. The
slopes (S) are marked by a star (*) as they were not changed by the matrix adjustment.
For each successfully adjusted electrode you can individually decide whether the values
should be stored for measurement. If the matrix adjustment was erroneous due to an incorrect
determination or entry of the reference concentration, you can correct the entry (if necessary
several times). If, by doing so, it is not possible to eliminate the error, the complete matrix
adjustment has to be repeated or discarded for this electrode. If it is discarded, measurement is
continued with the values of the last valid matrix adjustment (or calibration). Values of
successfully adjusted electrodes that were already stored are retained. Matrix adjustment can
be canceled at any time by pressing <Esc>.
May 2013 26
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
Troubleshooting
Routine comparison of measured values with reference values measured in the laboratory is
recommended to maintain highest accuracy. One of the most common errors is misreporting of the
ammonium concentration. The sensor measures ammonium but the total ammonia-nitrogen is the sum
of ammonium (NH4+) and the ammonia (NH3). The relative proportions of each depend on the pH
concentration. At a pH = 7.0 and below, NH4+ is dominant but at higher pH values, the NH3 form
increases.
Potassium and chloride should also be checked regularly to verify proper compensation. Inaccuracies
in the compensation electrodes will have the greatest effect at low concentrations.
The drift voltage reported in the calibration history can provide clues as to which electrode, if any,
might need replacement. A faulty reference electrode will cause all drift voltages to trend in the same
direction by the same amount.
Sensor Check
The check procedure is performed to check the function of the sensor by determining the slope in
standard solutions.
Strict conditions for conditioning and cleanliness must be observed. Make sure the
temperature of all components (sensor, standard solutions, containers, accessories etc.) is
similar and constant. Use containers and accessories (beaker, stirring rod) that are absolutely
clean and without detergent residues. Detergent residues can seriously affect the function of
the electrodes. Check can be canceled at any time by pressing <Esc>.
Materials
Procedure
1) Clean the electrodes. Remove the protective hood, if installed. Inspect the electrodes and clean
using a soft bristle brush and treated effluent if necessary. Rinse multiple times in standard
solution ES-2.
2) Select sensor. <>; <OK>
3) Put sensor in to maintenance condition. <C>; <OK>.
4) Zero the electrode: <> [No] for an existing electrode; <OK>.
5) Select the procedure. <> [CHECK (2)]. Continue through prompts to rinse/clean
electrode.
6) Condition electrode and start measurement (ES-2): Immerse sensor in Standard ES-2 to a
minimum depth of 5 cm. Continue to start conditioning process. A progress bar will display.
Continue to start measurement in fresh standard solution after a stable value is found.
May 2013 28
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
7) Condition electrode and start measurement (ES-1): Immerse sensor in Standard ES-1 to a
minimum depth of 5 cm. Continue to start conditioning process. A progress bar will display.
Continue to start measurement with fresh standard solution after a stable value is found.
If values are not stable or within an expected range, you will be prompted to repeat
conditioning and measurement steps before moving on to the next step. Matrix adjustment
can be canceled at any time by pressing <Esc>.
8) Result: At the end of the check, the result for the combination electrodes is shown on the display
with "+" (successful) or "-" (unsuccessful) and the result is entered in the log book as an info
message. There is no entry in the calibration history.
Calibration
VARiON electrodes are calibration free. In special cases, if electrode measurements appear to be in
error even after a careful matrix adjustment, a calibration in standard solutions can be performed to
alter the slope of the electrode. A matrix adjustment is typically required after a calibration. The new
slope will be carried over with the matrix adjustment if electrode zeroing is not performed. The
factory calibration cannot be restored for an electrode after a calibration is performed.
Strict conditions for conditioning and cleanliness must be observed. Make sure the
temperature of all components (sensor, standard solutions, containers, accessories etc.) is
similar and constant. Use containers and accessories (beaker, stirring rod) that are absolutely
clean and without detergent residues. Detergent residues can seriously affect the function of
the electrodes. Matrix adjustment can be canceled at any time by pressing <Esc>.
Materials
May 2013 29
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
• Measurement: 2 minutes
• Programming 2020XT: 5 minutes
Procedure
The calibration procedure is the same as the check procedure except that conditioning times are longer
(15 minutes) and a different report is generated. Only steps that differ from the check procedure are
shown in this section. Calibration can be canceled at any time by pressing <Esc>.
1) Select the procedure. <> [CALIBRATION (3)]. Continue through prompts to
rinse/clean electrode.
If values are not stable or within an expected range, you will be prompted to
repeat conditioning and measurement steps before moving on to the next step.
Matrix adjustment can be canceled at any time by pressing <Esc>.
2) Result: The system automatically evaluates the condition of a combination electrode based on the
data of its characteristic curve. The drift potential and slope are evaluated separately. A valid
calibration requires the slope and drift voltage be within the following ranges:
• Slope: 50 ... 70 mV
• Drift voltage (DV): -45 ... +45 mV
May 2013 30
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
3) Store values: For each successfully calibrated electrode you can individually decide whether the
values should be stored for measurement.
May 2013 31
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
May 2013 32
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
ViSolid 700IQ
The sensor is factory-calibrated and ready to use. A new calibration may be required if the actual level
of total suspended solids determined by a reference measurement (e.g. gravimetric according to
Standard Methods 2540 D) differs from the sensor value.
• Adapting the Correction Factor setting if the values displayed with default calibration deviate
from the actual values by a specific factor.
• Performance of a User calibration if the values displayed with default calibration and
Correction Factor no longer agree with the actual value.
Calibration data that are entered are stored in the controller and, thus, assigned to the measuring
location (and not the sensor). Thus, if the sensor is replaced, a new calibration is not required.
Correction Factor
The setting of the Correction factor provides a simple option for adapting the calibration to the current
conditions. The measured value is the product of the raw value times the correction factor. A change of
the Correction factor setting is practical if the measured values of the ViSolid® 700 IQ (SW) are too
high or too low by a constant factor.
Materials
• Long-handle dipper.
• Sample bottle.
• Iced cooler.
• Consult Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater Method 2540 D for
lab materials required for determination of reference TSS concentration.
Time required
2) Note FA: <S>, <> Settings of Sensors and Differential Sensors, <OK>, <>
Measuring Range, <OK>, <> TSS, <OK> Continue, <OK>.
May 2013 33
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
4) Sample as close to the same time as the TSS reading as possible and as close to the sensor as
possible.
7) Adjust the Correction factor: <S>, <> Settings of Sensors and Differential Sensors,
<OK>, <> Measuring Range, <OK>, <> TSS, <OK> Continue, <OK>,
<> Correction Factor, <> (enter FN), <OK>.
May 2013 34
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
User Calibration
A user calibration curve may be generated in addition to or in place of correction factor adjustment.
Up to 8 value pairs may be entered. Each value pair consists of a raw value from the sensor and a
matching reference measurement performed according to standard procedures. Value pairs are
manually entered in the setting table of the ViSolid® 700 IQ (SW). Below the lowest value, the
calibration curve is extended to the zero point. Above the highest value the calibration curve is
extended to the end of the measuring range.
Materials
• Long-handle dipper.
• 2 L graduated cylinder
• Black container with minimum volume of 10 L
• Mixer: Magnetic stir plate/stir bar, stand mixer, or paint mixer attachment w/ handheld drill.
• Sample bottles.
• Iced cooler.
• Graduated cylinder.
• Consult Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater Method 2540 D for
lab materials required for determination of reference TSS concentration.
Time required
The display shown in this procedure has been configured to show one sensor.
Procedure
2) Adjust settings (mode, range, Signal averaging): <S>, <> Settings of Sensors and
Differential Sensors, <OK>, <> Measuring Range, <OK>, <> Measuring
mode, <OK>, <> g/L TSS, <OK>, <> Measuring Range (AutoRange),
<OK>,<> Save and Quit, <OK>, <M>
Type 1 or Type 2
May 2013 35
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
4) Sample: Take a sample as close to the same time as the SiO2 reading as possible and as close to
the sensor as possible.
5) Determine TSS: Measure TSS according to Standard Methods 2540D and note it down together
with the measured value of SiO2 as the TSS/SiO2 value pair in g/l.
May 2013 36
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
For highest accuracy repeat steps 1) – 5) to provide more calibration points. Additional
calibration points can be obtained through dilution or concentration of the sample using the
graduated cylinder and pouring into the black container. The reading for Step 3) can be
obtained by carefully placing the sensor and mixer in the black container and immersing the
sensor a minimum of 10 cm below the water level and a minimum of 10 cm from the walls
and bottom. The sensor will accept up to 8 calibration points. 3 calibration points including
one undiluted sample, and 1 sample each at 0.5 x and 2.0 x the undiluted sample will be
sufficient for most applications.
6) Sort the value pairs in descending order and check the form of the calibration curve for
conformance with gradient > 0.
7) Enter reference values is descending order: <S>, <> Settings of Sensors and Differential
Sensors, <OK>, <> Measuring Range, <OK>, <> TSS Autorange, <OK>
Continue, <OK>, <> Calibration data, <OK>, User calibration <OK>, <>
Menu selection <OK>, <> Value pairs 1..3 <OK>, <> TSS Value 1,
<> (enter highest value), <OK>, <> TSS Value 2, <> (enter 2nd highest
value)….and so on.
8) Enter Raw values in descending order: Repeat Step 9 to enter values for raw value 1, Raw value 2,
etc.
Troubleshooting
The relationship between solids concentration and signal is not linear. Therefore, it is not likely that an
accurate calibration can be achieved at the time of deployment with only one measurement. It is
recommended that TSS be monitored daily for at least one week before performing a user calibration.
May 2013 37
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
Measured values that are too high or that fluctuate could be caused by accumulation of air bubbles on
the sensor face. The remedy is to relocate the sensor to a location with good mixing where fewer air
bubbles occur.
VisoTurb 700IQ
The sensor is factory-calibrated and ready to use. A new calibration may be required if the actual level
of turbidity or total suspended solids determined by a reference measurement differs from the sensor
value.
• Entering an Application offset value to correct turbidity for local interferences due to the
measurement environment.
Calibration data that are entered are stored in the controller and, thus, assigned to the measuring
location (and not the sensor). Thus, if the sensor is replaced, a new calibration is not required.
Application offset
The Application Offset is a constant offset applied to the measured value determined by comparing the
measured value to a reference measurement in an ideal environment.
Materials
• Long-handle dipper.
• Black container with minimum volume of 10 L (covered)
• Mixer: Magnetic stir plate/stir bar, stand mixer, or paint mixer attachment w/ handheld drill.
• Sample bottles.
• Iced cooler (for storage if laboratory measurement cannot be performed immediately).
• Consult Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater Method 2130 for lab
materials required for determination of reference Turbidity concentration.
Time required
May 2013 38
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
3) Place sensor in ideal measuring environment using sample dipper, black bucket, and mixer
assuring a minimum 10 cm separation from bottom and walls of bucket
5) Calculate Application Offset = turbidity value (reference) - turbidity value (actual). This is
typically a negative value.
6) Enter Application Offset value: <S>, <> Settings of Sensors and Differential Sensors,
<OK>, <> Measuring Range, <OK>, <> Turb, <OK>, <> Application
Offset, <OK>, <> (enter calculated offset value), <> Save and Quit.
May 2013 39
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
User Calibration
The User Calibration is used to correlate turbidity in FNU with Total Suspended Solids (TSS).
Materials
• Long-handle dipper.
• Sample bottles.
• Iced cooler (for storage if laboratory measurement cannot be performed immediately).
• Consult Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater Method 2540 D for
lab materials required for determination of reference TSS concentration.
Time required
The display shown in this procedure has been configured to show one sensor for the
Procedure
2) Adjust settings (mode, range, Signal averaging): <S>, <> Settings of Sensors and
Differential Sensors, <OK>, <> Measuring Range, <OK>, <> Measuring
mode, <OK>, <> g/L TSS, <OK>, <> Measuring range, <OK>, <>
Autorange <> <> Signal Averaging, <OK>, <> (10 s or less), <OK>,
<> Save and Quit.
May 2013 40
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
4) Record FNU value: Read and record the FNU when the measured value is stable.
6) Enter reference value: <S>, <> Settings of Sensors and Differential Sensors, <OK>,
<> Measuring Range (TSS Autorange), <OK>, <> TSS range (select range for
measured value), <OK>, <> TSS value (input measured value).
7) Enter turbidity value: <> Turbidity range (select range for recorded value), <OK>,
<> Turbidity value (input recorded value), g/L TSS, <OK>, <> Save and Quit.
Troubleshooting
Adjust the signal averaging time to reduce fluctuation in the measured value at low values of turbidity
as follows: <S>, <> Settings of Sensors and Differential Sensors, <OK>, <>
[Measuring Range column], <OK>, <> Turb, <OK>, <> Signal averaging, <OK>,
<> (enter desired signal averaging up to 600 s), <OK>, <> Save and Quit.
May 2013 41
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
• A Sensor check/Zero adjustment to compensate for changes of the sensor. The calibration data
for the Zero adjustment is stored in the sensor.
May 2013 42
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
A Zero adjustment is used to compensate for changes in the sensor. It should be performed only if the
Sensor check (H2O dest.) cannot successfully restore an acceptable rating number even after thorough
and careful cleaning.
May 2013 43
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
A Sensor check (standard) is used to check the sensor with a standard solution.
Materials
• Calibration sleeve
• Distilled water
• Cleaning solutions (warm tap water, soapy water, 70% ethanol, 5% HCl)
• Cleaning cards
Time required
Procedure
4) Clean sensor: Remove sensor from sampling location and pour warm tap water through the
measuring gap. Clean as required (Section 6.4. )
5) Position the sensor. Remove bumpers and detach air supply tubing (if supplied). Wipe sensor
body with warm water and a rag. Slide on calibration sleeve and tighten over measuring gap as
shown. Position sensor horizontal on a firm vibration-free surface.
May 2013 44
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
< 90°
6) Select function: <> Sensor Check (H20 dest.), zero adjustment, sensor check (standard);
<OK>
May 2013 45
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
10) Result:
• Sensor check (H2O dest.): “OK” if rating number is between -25 and +25. Otherwise, clean
and repeat measurement.
• Zero adjustment: Successful – “OK” or “Error”. Repeat cleaning procedure if “Error”.
• Sensor check (standard): “OK” or “Error”. Try new standard solution if “Error”.
May 2013 46
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
11) Redeploy sensor: Remove sleeve, install bumpers and air hose (if supplied), and place in
measuring position.
12) Return to measurement window. <OK>, <M>.
May 2013 47
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
13) Switch off maintenance condition. <OK>, <> [Switch maintenance condition on/off],
<M>.
User calibration
A user calibration compensates for the characteristics of the sample. The user calibration requires a
successful Sensor check (H2Odest.) and a valid Zero adjustment (factory or user).
Materials
• Long-handle dipper
• 30 mL syringe w/ Luer Lock tip
• 0.45 µm syringe filter w/Luer Lock fitting
• Clean sample bottles free of detergent and residues
• Iced cooler
• Pipettes
• Spectrophotometer
• Test kits for COD or nitrate
Time required
Minor contamination can significantly influence the measured value. Therefore, proper and
thorough cleaning of the sensor is the basis for reliable measurement data.
Procedure
2) Adjust settings (Response time, Signal smoothing): <S>, <> Settings of Sensors and
Differential Sensors, <OK>, <> Measuring Range, <OK>, <> Response time
t90, <OK>, <> 1 min, <OK>, <>, Signal smoothing, <> off, <OK>,
<> Save and Quit, <OK>, <M>.
May 2013 48
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
4) Sample: Take a sample as close to the same time as the raw value reading as possible and as close
to the sensor as possible.
5) Filter: Filter using syringe and syringe filter. Put sample on ice. Note, this step is only necessary
if a soluble parameter is being measured, e.g. CODsoluble, NO3-N.
6) Determine reference value: Measure according to Standard Methods. For best results analyze in
triplicate. Note the reference value together with the raw value of as a value pair.
7) Enter value pairs: <S>, <> Settings of Sensors and Differential Sensors, <OK>,
<> Measuring Range, <OK>, <>, <OK> Continue, <OK>, <> Cal –
raw value 2, <OK>, <> (enter raw value), <OK>. Repeat for reference value 2. <OK>,
<> Save and Quit, <OK>, <M>.
May 2013 49
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
A single point calibration is sufficient for most situations. In this case, value pair 1 is the zero
value and remains unchanged. A two-point calibration can be performed in situations that
require covering a wide range of concentrations. Value pairs must be entered low value to
high value if two value pairs are used.
8) Switch off maintenance condition. <OK>, <> [Switch maintenance condition on/off],
<M>.
9) Adjust settings (Response time, Signal smoothing): <S>, <> Settings of Sensors and
Differential Sensors, <OK>, <> Measuring Range, <OK>, <> Signal
smoothing, <> on, <OK>, <> Response time t90, <OK>, <> (enter
desired response time), <OK>, <> Save and Quit, <OK>.
Troubleshooting
It may not be possible to get an accurate calibration with one measurement. It is recommended that
measurement values be compared with reference values over a period of at least one week before
attempting to input a user calibration.
Accuracy can often be improved by routine cleaning of the measuring gap and window.
May 2013 50
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
Under most conditions, basic cleaning is sufficient to eliminate fouling and restore the sensor
to a Sensor check rating number between -25 and +25. In unusual circumstances, additional
cleaning with ethanol (for removing organic contamination) and/or acid cleaning (for
removing mineral build-up) is required.
Ethanol cleaning
• Fill the measuring chamber with 70% ethanol and soak for 15 minutes. Ethanol is rubbing
alcohol. It is commonly supplied as a 70% solution.
• Dump out ethanol and loosen and slide down sleeve.
• “Floss” the top and bottom measuring windows with the cleaning card or microfiber cloth
suitable for glass.
• Slide, tighten, and re-align the sleeve
• Rinse the measuring chamber.
• Fill the measuring chamber with distilled or deionized water and rotate to dump.
• Repeat 3 times.
Acid cleaning
• Fill the measuring chamber with 5% HCl and allow to soak for 15 minutes. . HCl can be
purchased in most hardware stores as muriatic acid
• Dump out acid and loosen and slide down sleeve
• “Floss” the top and bottom measuring windows with the cleaning card or microfiber cloth
suitable for glass.
• Slide, tighten, and re-align the sleeve
• Rinse the measuring chamber.
• Fill the measuring chamber with distilled or deionized water and rotate to dump.
• Repeat 3 times.
May 2013 51
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
Many utilities prefer to measure biochemical oxygen demand (BOD). BOD is a correlated parameter
of the UV Vis sensors. The actual measured data is based on chemical oxygen demand (COD). A
BOD parameter, e.g. BOD5, can be displayed accurately only if the relationship with COD is nearly
constant.
May 2013 52
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
IFL 700/701 IQ
May 2013 53
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
• Vertical
• Sufficient distance from the basin wall (minimum distance, see formula in figure below).
• If the distance to the wall of the basin is small, the wall should be rather smooth.
• Sensor face must be in the water at a minimum immersion depth of 0.05 m (2 in). Maximum
immersion depth is 3 m (~ 10 ft.). The default immersion depth is 0.1 m as indicated by the
opposing triangles on the side of the sensor, is provided to simplify settings.
• Minimum distance between the sensor bottom and sludge blanket = 0.4 m ("dead zone").
• Ideally, the ultrasonic cone should be free of barriers at the installation location that move the
sensor from its position or cross the measuring cone and thus cause interfering echoes.
Additional measures are required in order to minimize negative impacts (see section c).
Permanently installed fixtures in the vicinity of the measuring cone reflect the ultrasonic
waves transmitted and thus cause interfering echoes. If there are permanently installed
fixtures in the expectation range of the sludge blanket level, it is not possible to clearly
assign an echo to a sludge level. In this case, a different installation location must be
selected (e.g. with a greater distance from the wall). Alternatively, the evaluation range can
be adjusted.
• Gas bubbles and suspended particles reduce the propagation of ultrasonic waves. A high
concentration of gas bubbles and suspended particles can in extreme cases lower the range
of the sensor. If there are range problems, the sensor must be immersed deeper (note the
dead zone and maximum depth of immersion). With the IFL 700 IQ sensor, the mechanical
wiper removes gas bubbles and dirt from the surface of the ultrasonic transducer.
• Certain events may for a short period of time affect or interrupt the measurement. In waste
water treatment plants, these events are normally:
Moving scrapers that displace an installed sensor from its measuring position or cross its
measuring cone.
Fixtures permanently installed in the basin such as pipes or scrapers that are touched by the
measuring cone of a sensor on a scraper bridge when rotating.
Interferences due to obstacles can be suppressed with the aid of certain settings (see setting
table). The default settings may have to be adjusted as necessary.
A tilting armature is available for installation in basins with a chain scraper or linear scraper for
scum removal. Thus the sensor is temporarily pulled out of the basin by the moving scraper.
In addition to the standard measuring window display, there is an extended display, also
referred to as the “IFL plugin”, shows the echo profile, measured value, and settings menus.
May 2013 54
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
2) Activate the extended display: <M>, <> [IFL sensor], <OK>, <> [Extended
sensor functions], <OK>.
May 2013 55
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
• Immersion depth
• Water depth (water depth to the bottom of the basin at the measuring location)
The water depth setting should be as consistent with reality as possible. Therefore, we
recommend determining the water depth at the measuring location with an appropriate
measuring device.
May 2013 56
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
May 2013 57
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
6) The “Display/Extras” menu allows provides display options for display of the echo profile.
May 2013 58
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
7) To exit the IFL plugin and keep it active for quicker viewing in the future press the <M> button.
• When the plugin is left active the echo profile can be recalled by highlighting the sensor in the
measured value display and pressing <M>.
8) Adjust settings (main settings menu without aid of the echo profile): <S>, <> [Settings
of sensors and differential sensors], <OK>, <> [Measuring range column], <OK>,
<> [SLH] or [SLD].
May 2013 59
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
9) The sensor settings can then be adjusted in the same way as in the IFL plugin.
When adjusting the settings in the IFL plugin the settings are transferred to the
“settings of sensors and differential sensors” menu by choosing save and quit. In
addition, adjustments of settings through the “settings of sensors and differential
sensors” menu will update the settings in the IFL plugin when save and quit is
selected.
May 2013 60
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
May 2013 61
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
May 2013 62
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
May 2013 63
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
May 2013 64
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
May 2013 65
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
A probe reading Error will usually indicate that the probe was previously recognized by the system but
communication with the probe has since been lost. If communication is not established between the
controller and a probe during the initial commissioning of a probe then the probe will not be shown in
the measured value display, in the list of all components, or in the list of sensors. There are a number
of potential causes for this type of communication failure and the cause may not always be isolated to
the probe reading “Error” or the immediately connected components in the system. One example
would be communication issues caused by incorrect settings for the SensorNet terminator switches.
Below is a checklist which may be helpful in determining the cause of a probe that is reading “Error”
or a probe that is not recognized by the controller.
Sensors
Sensor shows “Error” or sensor is not seen by controller
1) Check the logbook for the affected sensor and the system. The logbook can be helpful in providing
information regarding the cause and timing of a communication failure.
• To view the logbook of the system on the 2020XT terminal press the OK button, highlight
“logbook of entire system” and press OK. You will then be presented with a list of the logbook
entries. Each entry can be viewed by highlighting it and pressing OK.
• Refer to Appendix A for information related to proper settings of the terminator switches.
3) Check the LEDs to verify that an appropriate voltage is being supplied to power each module. LEDs
indicating whether the proper operating voltage is supplied can be found on the right hand side on the
exterior of each MIQ module as shown below.
May 2013 66
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
Yellow lights= Operational voltage OK. The operational voltage supplied is constant
and is max. 24 V.
Red lights= Operational voltage with power limitation. The operational voltage
supplied is adjusted to the load conditions.
No LED lights= Operational voltage too low. The operational voltage supplied is too
low or the MIQ power supply module is defective.
• Dock any existing MIQ/TC 2020 XT mobile terminals on the system as far away as possible
from a MIQ power supply module (i.e. test of the power supply in the most unfavorable
possible conditions)
• Check the status of the LEDs on all MIQ modules (except for the MIQ power supply modules,
see step 1).
Red lights= Operational voltage in warning range. The component is fully functional.
However, any further slight drop in voltage can lead to failure
4) If communication or power between modules is suspected, check the connection (contacts) between
modules in each module stack. Proper installation of the contacts is shown below. Ensure that the
recessed side of the contact base is facing towards the screws so that the screws are countersunk when
installed. The closed end of the gold contacts should be facing downward.
May 2013 67
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
5) Check the wiring of sensor cables to terminals in the modules and connection of the cables to the
sensors.
6) After checking items in the previous steps components can be isolated as described in the following
steps to narrow down the potential cause of a communication failure.
• Install the suspect probe on a different SACIQ cable and observe whether it is now recognized
by the system.
8) If the previous steps do not result in a solution, disconnect all distributed mounted module stacks from
main stack w/controller. Keep in mind the proper terminator switch settings throughout the following
steps (they will change as components are added or removed).
• See if sensors on the main stack are in error and troubleshoot the main module stack if needed.
• Add one distributed mounted module stacks back into system one at a time and observe
whether the connection of one particular module stack causes the error.
• Once the module stack causing the error is located take sensors off of the stack and see if the
error is resolved.
• Add one sensor back at a time if no error is seen in the previous step.
• The above steps are intended to isolate the problem. Once the suspect component(s) are
identified troubleshoot the component(s) individually.
• Suspect components can be installed alone with MIQ/PS and MIQ/TC 2020XT.
May 2013 68
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
At times an MIQ module may lose communication with the controller due to issues with the
installation. The following steps can be taken to determine whether an MIQ module is being
recognized by the system. Troubleshooting steps specific to each MIQ module may also be found in
the component user manual or by contacting YSI technical support.
MIQ modules
If an MIQ module is not recognized by the system:
1) Check the status of the module in the list of all components of the 2020XT or MC2 system.
• A list of the system components is then displayed as shown below. A question mark (?) next to
the component number in the “No.” column indicates that communication is not established
between the controller and the component.
4) Proceed to step 8 of the sensor checklist above. Isolate the module on a stack with the MIQ/PS
and the controller to see if it is then recognized.
May 2013 69
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
Main line= Longest cable section with terminator switches at its ends. The terminator switches on
both ends of the main line must be set to ON. If all MIQ modules are at one location, i. e. in a module
stack, the length of the main line is zero (star-shaped wiring).
Branch line= All lines that branch from the main line. Branch lines can be branched further.
Example of determining the main line: The following figure shows the length of the main line, L,
which are made up of the partial lengths L1, L2 and L3 since the cable section L4 is shorter than L3.
Therefore, the length of the main line = L1 + L2 + L3
May 2013 70
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
Setting the Terminator Switches: A terminator switch is located in each MIQ module between the two
SENSORNET connections on the right side of the terminal strip. These are labeled "SN
TERMINATOR" as shown in the figure below.
May 2013 71
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
Special cases with configurations including MIQ/Blue PS modules and DIQ/S 182 controllers:
The use of MIQ/Blue PS modules results in more than one “IQ SensorNet island.” An IQ SensorNet
island consists of all components with physical connections through distributed mounting using
SNCIQ cable or stack mounting.
When using MIQ/Blue PS modules for wireless system communication between two or more IQ
SensorNet islands two terminating resistors must be present in each IQ SensorNet Island. If no other
terminator switch is available on the IQ SENSOR NET island except in the one terminator switch in
the MIQ/Blue PS it must be set to ON. In addition, a terminating resistor (included in the scope of
delivery) must be connected to one of the three SENSORNET connectors.
When using an additional terminating resistor on the MIQ/Blue PS it is connected to one of the three
SENSORNET connectors. The terminating resistor must bridge the two outside terminals of the
SENSORNET connector as shown in the figure below. The SENSORNET connector can still be used
to connect a sensor.
May 2013 72
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
The figure below demonstrates several examples of IQ SensorNet islands with correctly set terminator
switches and terminating resistors.
The terminator switch on the terminal strip of all MIQ modules in the System 182 must be set to "Off".
If a DIQ/S 182 Universal Transmitter is installed on an IQ SensorNet island all terminator switches on
the IQ SensorNet island must be set to “Off.”
May 2013 73
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
May 2013 74
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
May 2013 75
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
May 2013 76
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
May 2013 77
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
May 2013 78
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
May 2013 79
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
May 2013 80
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
May 2013 81
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
Email: environmental@ysi.com
Internet: www.ysi.com
May 2013 82
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
Notes
May 2013 83
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
May 2013 84
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
May 2013 85
IQ SensorNet Calibration and Troubleshooting Guide
May 2013 86