What can I do if my Calibration Check Standard fails? How to clean my CyanoFluor if I spill my sample and want to verify the instrument works?
To clean the CyanoFluor, wipe the optical windows in the sample compartment with a clean dry end of a Q-tip to lightly wipe away any debris or residue from moisture that may be interfering with the measurement. Then perform a calibration check to ensure the instrument has not been affected following the steps below or by following along our video demonstration: How to verify calibration using the calibration check standard
Rerun the Calibration Check Standard 5 times while on a flat surface. If the Calibration Check passes 3 out of 5 times, the instrument is ready for use.
If the Calibration Check fails 3 out of 5 times, repeat the cleaning procedure
Rerun the Calibration Check Standard 5 times while on a flat surface. If the Calibration Check passes 3 out of 5 times, the instrument is ready for use.
If the Calibration Check fails 3 out of 5 times, contact our Turner Designs Technical Support Team.
What is the PC:CHL (phycocyanin to chlorophyll ratio) on the CyanoFluor?
The CyanoFluor monitors for cyanobacterial populations, not PC specifically. The ratio provided phycocyanin to chlorophyll ratio (PC:CHL) is actually representing the cyanobacterial fraction of the total population of algae in the sample measured, and therefore in the environment.
Is there any guidance on what values you would expect that could indicate early detection of a bloom?
As an example, if the background readings for your system are 0.2, 0.3, 0.24, 0.25, 0.31, then your normal or background cyanobacterial population is roughly 25%, if we took a mental average. If you see this number start to drift upward, lets say to about 0.35 then 0.45 onto 0.5 or higher, that is a good indication that cyanobacteria in that system are now more productive and headed towards a bloom, which is represented by ratios of 1.0 or higher. When you reach those ratios, that’s full bloom, so you would detect the rise early on and start mitigating techniques to prevent full blooms from occurring.
Is the CyanoFluor ready to use out of the box? Do I need to calibrate it like what I have to do with an AquaFluor?
The CyanoFluor package is ready to use right out of the box, no calibration necessary and all accessories are included so you can start sampling right away. I suggest looking at our online videos for a quick start guide on what to do.
I have trouble understanding the Fluorescence Capability of the CyanoFluor, what exactly is it measuring?
The CyanoFluor fluorometer utilizes fluorescence technology to accurately detect cyanobacteria. The method of detection uses the phycocyanin molecule’s absorption characteristics and ability to shuttle light energy to chlorophyll, which is then emitted as chlorophyll fluorescence. This fluorescence is detected and quantified, and ratioed against total fluorescence to estimate cyanobacterial abundance within mixed algal populations with a high degree of sensitivity and accuracy.
My CyanoFluor won’t turn on?
If the CyanoFluor won't turn on, check and see if the batteries are inserted properly. Align the negative end/flat part of the battery with the spring. Lightly press the on button. You should feel feedback of the button going down. If this does not work after 5 tries, contact Turner Designs Technical Support.
The CyanoFluor won’t upload data to the computer or it does but it stops in the middle?
To have readings from the CyanoFluor uploaded to the computer, ensure battery levels are not low and the cable is inserted firmly in the instrument. It is recommended to use fresh batteries before a data download to ensure no data interruption occurs.
The CyanoFluor readings say OVER on the screen?
If the CyanoFluor has a message on the screen that says "OVER": take sample readings with the cover lid covering the cuvette or if using a test tube, hold hand over to create shade so the photo diode is not overloaded with ambient light.
What is the upper limit of RFU on the CyanoFluor?
Upper limit of RFU is 160,000 for the CyanoFluor. It will give measurement error if the sample concentration is above the upper limit of the tool. Highly unlikely anyone needs to read that high, for at that point, you can see an algal bloom with the naked eye.
How to clean the CyanoFluor?
Use a soft cloth like a microfiber to wipe up the interior optical well on the CyanoFluor. Any resulting spills inside of here should be cleaned up immediately to prevent damage to the photo diodes and electronics.
What happens if I spill solvents inside the CyanoFluor?
If your unit and subsequent readings are no longer reading as expected, the only option is to reach out to support@turnerdesigns.com for information on repairs if possible or purchase a new unit.
What can I do if my CyanoFluor's Calibration Check Standard fails?
Wipe the windows in the sample compartment of the CyanoFluor with a clean dry end of a Q-tip to lightly wipe away any debris or residue from moisture that may be interfering with the measurement of the calibration check standard.
Rerun the Calibration Check Standard 5 times while on a flat surface.
If the Calibration Check passes 3 out of 5 times, the instrument is ready for use.
If the Calibration Check fails 3 out of 5 times, repeat the cleaning procedure. Rerun the Calibration Check Standard 5 times while on a flat surface.
If the Calibration Check passes 3 out of 5 times, the instrument is ready for use.
If the Calibration Check fails 3 out of 5 times, contact our Technical Support team. Technical Support | Turner Designs | United States