Instrument Operation and Calibration
Starting Materials:
FluoroSense
Calibration Solutions
Deionized water or sample water devoid of organics
Darkened Container
To calibrate the FluoroSense for chlorophyll, you should use the calibration solution with part number 6500-220, which is Rhodamine WT dye at a concentration of 800 ppb in a 1-liter volume. For calibrating the FluoroSense for phycocyanin, use the calibration solution with part number 6500-020, which is Rhodamine WT dye at 200 ppb, also in a 1-liter volume. These solutions are specific to the FluoroSense CHLOROPHYLL and FluoroSense PHYCOCYANIN respectively. Ensure you follow the calibration procedures as outlined in the instrument's manual or provided documentation to achieve accurate results. 998-2852.pdf (turnerdesigns.com)
Instrument Power Up and Sample analysis
To turn on the FluoroSense, press the power button.
Insert the sensor in the sample at an angle with the cap fully submerged.
Example below:Shake gently to make sure all bubbles are purged from the cap. Then vertically straighten the device.
Press the READ button.
Calibration Procedure
Note: FluoroSense is calibrated when shipped. Only re-calibrate if unit does not read 100 ± 3% for the appropriate Standard Solution. Use P/N 6500-220 (Rhodamine 800 ppb) for in vivo Chlorophyll and P/N 6500-020 (Rhodamine 200 ppb) for in vivo Phycocyanin (PC).
Calibrating to standard solution (Calibrating 100)
Prepare a 500 mL darkened beaker with the Rhodamine standard solution.
To calibrate, press and hold the READ button while unit is off. If taking measurements with the cap, ensure cap is still on the FluoroSense while doing all calibrations. If you choose to measure without the cap, then have calibrations with the cap off.
While holding the READ button, press and hold the Power button until 100 appears on the screen. Release both buttons.
Insert the sensor in the standard at an angle with the cap fully submerged, shake gently to make sure all bubbles are purged from the cap, straighten sensor vertically from an angle, and press the READ button.
The display will flash “td” four times and then the unit will automatically turn off.
At this point the FluoroSense is calibrated. You can confirm the calibration by turning the unit on and pressing the READ button while the unit is in the standard solution. Readings should be 100 ± 3%.
Calibrating the blank (Calibrating 0)
Repeat Step 2 from Calibration 100 to begin calibration for 0.
Repeat Step 3 of continuing to hold both buttons, the 100 will appear and after 15 seconds, the 0 will now display. Release both buttons.
Hold sensor away from yourself at least 4 feet away from any reflective surfaces, direct sunlight, or the ground and press the READ button.
The display will flash “td” four times and then the unit will automatically turn off.
You can confirm the calibration by turning the unit on and pressing the READ button while the unit is facing away from reflective surfaces and the ground. Display should show 0.
Troubleshooting with Calibration
Our FluoroSense performs optimally when the cap is on during readings. However, if you need to perform a calibration without the cap, please keep the following key points in mind:
Accuracy: Calibration without the cap may affect the accuracy of your readings. Ensure that the environment is consistent and controlled.
Consistency: Always calibrate under the same conditions to maintain reliable results. Any changes in lighting or temperature can impact calibration. We recommend calibration at room temperature.
Documentation: Record the calibration conditions and any deviations from standard procedures for future reference and troubleshooting.
Safety: Handle the device carefully to avoid contamination or water damage during the calibration process without the cap.
Following these guidelines will help ensure that your FluoroSense remains accurate and reliable, even when calibrating without the cap. To maintain accuracy and reliability of your FluoroSense, calibrate it in a 1-liter container, which offers sufficient space for optimal sensor function. Ensure the sensor face is positioned at least 3 inches from any surface to achieve the best readings.
An example of an issue with calibrating without the FluoroSense cap is using a clear glass beaker or a fluorescent plastic container. Light emitted by the sensor can reflect back into it, leading to inconsistent or variable readings.
It is advisable to use a darkened beaker, or one wrapped with black electrical tape to minimize ambient light and fluorescent light reflections. The images below illustrate how the FluoroSense shows minimal reflected orange light, demonstrating the effectiveness of this approach.