User Manual LabSwift-aw water activity Labor
Contents
1. battery module should only be changed or repaird by Novasina dealer No other battery type can be used because the used battery contains security relevant protective circuit Never lay down the battery on a conductive ground or pack it in a conductive packaging material 8 3 Battery life time AN 9 Maintenance 26 The battery should be charged at ambient temperature between 0 C and 40 C Outside of this temperature the charging could be interrupted or the battery might be damaged Due to the fact that after full charge the charging is electronically disconnected the battery can be connected permanently at the mains Note Charge the battery at least every half year to avoid deep discharge 9 1 Cleaning of the instrument Use for the cleaning of the whole instrument a soft and slightly humid cloth If itis necessary to clean the table of the measuring chamber with a damp cloth please consider the kind of you cleaning agent It should not contain any aggressive substances If possible use water as cleaining agent Air the measurement chamber afterwards For the other parts of the instrument you can use cleaning cloth as available on the market Make sure that no liquid goes inside the instrument Also the connectors on the backside has to be clear of wetness Caution Before cleaning switch off the LabSwift aw and disconnect it from the mains WwWW novasina com 9 2 Cleaning of the aw measu2. 17 5 2 Activate the stability observation factor 1 6 6 18 5 3 Important notes about the sensor 19 5 4 Function principle of stability observation 20 5 5 Setting the analysing factor 21 6 Calibration of Eege 21 6 1 Factory settings of the instrument i e Fata sa ek npn REENEN SNE AE 21 oS ME Eee 6211021 1 eet 22 6 3 Clearing of the calibration points 0 23 64 Password seting or die SODISOD EE 23 PERSPICI 24 7 1 Type and format of the SD card mmm nme nennen rennes 24 7 2 Name and format of the files dances atra ert SERO Eats Iba FRU cages 25 8 The Lilon battery option 2 4444 2 25 0 1 Operation with the battery Sa npe eacus Desk tdt 25 Ee E 25 8 3 Life tee EE 25 3 ecu _____ 26 9 1 Cleaning of the MI SUING EE 26 9 2 Cleaning of the CM 2 aw cell 27 9 3 Cleaning of the IR EE 27 9 4 Periodic maintenance and test 20 27 9 5 REplaceing age ed a TIE EE 27 96 Changing of the CM 2 COU EE 29 Techiiical TEE 30 10 1 Technical
3. system carries out a self test S TST Thereby the software version is shown on the upper display line e After the self test the sensor is warming up VVARMUP Has the warm up finished the instrument is ready for the first aw measurements of a sample Note The warm up time mainly depends on the present humidity and the ambient temperature Generally this time is 2 to 3 minutes During the warm up stage the measurement be already started there will be no output of measurement data until the warm up is finished e sample cup with the material to be measured The sample cup must be completely clean and dry rub dry with tissue paper if necessary Ideally always use a fresh cup and dispose of it after use N Important Fill the sample cup to approximately 2 3 with the product to be measured Do not overfill the sample cups Bulkier material must be suitably crushed or manually cut into small pieces Products consisting of several layers or an outer coating must also be crushed e g confectionery products Prolonged hand contact with the product must be avoided falsification of measured value A grinder if used must not warm up the product e While placing the sample in the measuring chamber open the cover and place the sample dish carefully inside Be aware about powder samples that the product will not contact the measuring head or measuring cell N Note Do
4. 15 SIG Actual protocol WWW novasina com 5 5 Setting the Stability Observation Factor 6 Calibration e Goto menu STAB to set the stability observation factor e Inthe menu item STAB you can either select the fix mode 5 and or a selectable stability time with the mode Some experienced data of the factors be found in the table below Examples of products Stability setting fruits jams tomato sauce chocolate salmon pharmaceuticals dried meat bakery products cheese butter diary products Recommendation To find efficiently a suitable setting we recommend to measure the sample for the first time with the mode After the stability signal let the sample in the instrument Switch then after a certain time with the button Actual Stable between the actual and stable value If you see that the stable value deviates too much from the final value then the stability factor may be increased mode S If you require a faster result and thereby wave the highest precision you can select the mode For more complicated samples it could be necessary to select the mode O to reach an adequate observation time The optional PC software NovaLog MC can simplify the setting of the observation time by the graphical illustration of the measurement values 6 1 Factory Calibration Delivery Status Every LabSwift aw as well as e
5. Quit the submenu Display settings 4 2 5 Submenu SD card SD LOG S NUMB Free number setting format 0000 9999 as start number and for generation of a data number in order to match the data to the correspondent measurement After each measurement this number is increased by 1 S The data storage interval on the SD card can be selected in minutes and seconds 0 00 For standard measurements and analysis with the Novalog MC software a 10 seconds 0 10 interval is recommended For data import to Excel longer interval periods might be wiser in order to reduce the data quantity EXIT Quits the submenu SD card 4 3 Reset to factory settings settings are reset to factory settings except the stored calibration values on u the CM 2 measurement cells This function can be performed as following A ri For this purpose keep the button up whilst switching the instrument p message FASET appears display Select YES and the confirmation message appears and the device is switched off If you answer the question with no data are reset and the device is switched off 16 WWW novasina com Water activity measurement 5 1 Carrying out aaw measurements e Switch on the LabSwift aw as described in chapter 3 2 e
6. 0 33aw 0 58aw 0 75 0 84aw and 0 90aw Humidity sensors are subject to certain ageing phenomena which manifest themselves in deviations from the original value For the most part these deviations can be compensated by recalibration We therefore recommend you to periodically check the accuracy at the humidity reference points and to recalibrate the instrument if required The standards are reusable and have a long lifetime with adequate handling All calibration data are stored on the intelligent sensor Thus a new sensor can be used directly without calibrating the LabSwift aw afterwards Correct handling of the sensor Note Before starting the measurement The Novasina sensor is a highly sensitive precision device Please observe the following rules in orderto avoid measuring errors or even destruction of the sensor e Do not let fall the measurement element or LabSwift aw or physically shock it The sensor may not be moisturized cleaning Do not process a measurement if the white sinter filter 15 not mounted Use Novasina protection filters which can be mounted in front of the sensor if you may measure aggressive substances as acids alcohols or aromas The protection filters help to keep away such substances Otherwise the system might drift away permanently Contact your local Novasina dealer for the suitable filter protection e Sensors that are not used should be stored in a dust free neutral a
7. and the temperature C Beside the temperature on the left the mode of the stability parameter is displayed The top stb symbol appears Automatically the actual value is shown With increasing stability more and more stb symbols appear After the achievement of the selected stability parameter all stb symbols are shown The display indication changes to the stable value A beep sounds for several seconds according to the menu setting The stable protocol is saved automatically on the SD card Exchange of the test sample Read first the measuring value before you open the instrument The stable value indication disappears as soon as the measurement chamber is opened e Open the measuring chamber after termination of the measurement e Remove the measured material from the measurement chamber and close it immediately with the sample cover Close the cover of the instrument Tip If the sample contains high concentrations of glycol glycerine or different acids it would make sense to let open the measuring chamber during hours In this way the sensor can recover WwWW novasina com Let the LabSwift aw running all the time In this way you safe time during the warm up of a restart The energy consumption is very low 5 3 Important Notes About The Sensor The sensor supplied with the Novasina LabSwift aw was factory tested and then calibrated at the following six value reference points 0 11aw
8. be replaced when it is dirty as otherwise it could influence the measurement Chemical protection filter Depending on the application the LabSwift aw precision measuring cell has to be protected from damaging gaseous substances Novasina provides for this various filter systems Please consult the data sheet for Novasina protection filter systems or contact your local Novasina distribution partner Thanks to these filter systems the measurement cell lifetime can be extended considerably Should you use such filter systems please make sure that they are checked and if necessary replaced periodically Especially chemical filters have the property to saturate after a certain operation time and therefore to become ineffective N Note Further information are available from your local distributor or on the Novasina homepage filter systems Lithium lon Battery For the LabSwift aw device a Lithium lon battery is available This allows a mobile use of the instrument for more than 20 hours at places without electric supply The battery can if ordered be delivered already mounted inside the LabSwift aw or can be upgraded later by a Novasina distributor The later battery assembly may only be made by a Novasina distributor Novalog MC SD Software This optional Windows software allows the analysis and graphic design of the stored data on the SD card 8 WWW novasina com 3 Putting into Operation 3 1 Packaging Install
9. cover plate is still connected to the housing cover by a ribbon cable Do not unfix it e Afterwards you unplug the connecting Therfore hold the PCB at the long side and lift it carefully e Remove now the two screws which fix the actual sensor in the measuring head and lift the sensor unit completely out of the head Tip Exchange at the same time the white sinter filter in front of the sensor Press the sinter filter downwards and insert a new one e nsert now the new purchased measuring sensor the same place and fix it with the screws N Warning Never press with fingers or any other item on the top of the measuring cell this might damage the sensor protection filter and leads to the damage of the sensor Always remove the measuring sensor during the exchange of the sinter filter Otherwise there may be the risk that the sensor get dampaged during the removal or mounting of the filter Every measuring sensor is protected with a password The factory setting is 8808 Do not forget to adjust the password according to your requirements otherwise the protection can t be assured WWW hovasina com 29 10 Technical Specifications 10 1 Technical Specifications of the LabSwift aw General Supply Line adapter Permissible ambient Operating temperature Humidity range Dimensions instrument Weight instrument Protection class Temperature measurement
10. e g Excel With the optional PC software NovaLog MC the data can be displayed graphically The measurement protocols contain an electronic signature Consequently the PC software can recognize illegal modifications Handling of the SD card e Never remove the SD card from the instrument as long as the symbol lt SD gt is displayed Otherwise open data files can become unreadable or several MB memory capacity can get lost Note e Always activate EJECT before removing the SD card open the measuring chamber or switch off the instrument e the SD card is regularly removed illegal it can be restored on the full capacity by e g formate the card on a PC Preferably use a SD card with few taken memory capacity The waiting time WAIT to prepare the logging process be considerably reduced a periodic formatting of the SD card the card will get the full Capacity again 7 1 Recommended cards amp formatting LabSwift aw is compatible SD and 50 cards FAT 16 formatted cards enable a better performance than FAT 32 formatted 50 cards Generally the FAT 16 cards should be favoured for speed reasons Sample number To each measurement an unique number 0001 9999 is assigned which is increased by 1 after a new start of a measurement e Correspondent to the Sample also the measurement and protocol data are recorded on the SD card These d
11. is simple to handle thanks to the unique Novasina SAL T humidity standards 6 2 The Calibration Process Before calibrating the instrument the following points should be considered e calibration can only be processed between 15 C 30 C e An adequate visual control and the right handling of the SAL T standards has to be done in advance e Please shake the SAL T before you place it in the measuring chamber Thereby the standard is activated and salt crystals which possibly stick at the membrane are released Please place always at first the SAL T 75 or SAL T 58 into the chamber After closing the measuring chamber the analysis starts by pushing the function key Start Stop Set the stability parameter to 5 minutes 5 or MODE 5 or wait for at least 45 minutes before you carry out a calibration at this point This time is necessary to reach the equilibrium in humidity and get a high precision Afterwards you can proceed The calibration function is seleceted the menu CALIB gt CAL SCD TF The system automatically shows you the reference value which is nearby the LIILL L calibration point Check if the displayed value effectively corresponds to the inserted SAL T salt in the chamber If necessary use the button up or down to select the correct reference The deviation between the actual measurement value and the selected reference value calibration point is shown
12. measurement of problematic samples the aw range with the nearest SAL T Further information can be find in the chapter 6 2 9 5 Replacing Protective Filters Always use protection filters to protect the measuring sensor from undesired particles or aggressive substances If your samples could emit volatiles it is necessary to use chemical protection fitlers The filters can be fit with the tension ring and provide protection against different substances in gaseous form ouch chemical protection filters have to be replaced periodically due to the fact that they get saturated Filters can increase the measurement time and they incativate the IR temperature measurement WWW hovasina com 27 28 Novasina provides filters for the protection of the measuring sensor against alcohol aromes acids base etc Please read our special information sheet or contact your local Novasina dealer 9 5 1 General rule for protection Chemical filters have to be used if the admissible workplace concentrations MAK values are exceeded some examples sulphur dioxide formaldehyde hydrogen sulfide ethanol Novasina provides the following protection filters for the LabSwift aw e eVC 21 filter Chemical filter protects against hydrogen peroxide acid gases diluted acetic and formic acid sulfur dioxide chlorine e eVC 26 filter Chemical filter protects against a multitude or aggressive substances e g nitrogen
13. now The temperature influence on the humidity reference is taken into account Activate the calibration by pushing the key If a sensor password is set factory setting 8808 it has to be set on demand otherwise the system ignores the calibration For safety reason you will now be asked again if the calibration at this point really should be carried out Answer this question with Yes by pushing on up or down The system safes now the new calibration on the sensor and shows DONE on the display after successful storage Now you can go forward with the calibration of further points in the same modality A general order of the calibration points is not specified Define internal calibration regulations in your quality process to assure that the procedure is always equal 22 WWW novasina com We recommend to start a new calibration with the SAL T 75 After that go up to 84 and 90 and than forward with 58 33 and finally11 This procedure is reliable Novasina offers additional SAL T humidity standards which are not included in the delivery Further information are provided by your official Novasina dealer or www novasina com 6 3 Clear Calibration Points This function clears all calibration points which are irrevocably saved on the measuring sensor If a calibration point was calibrated wrong a single or all calibration points can be cleared The function is per
14. oxides amines aldehyde solvents aromatic hydrocarbons oil vapours fine dust particles eVALC 1 alcohol filter Chemical mechanical filter protects against fine dust or alcohol 9 5 2 Filter replacement Chemical filters must be periodically replaced Saturated filters falsify the measuring results and the protective effect of chemical filters also deteriora tes No generally valid guidelines can be given concerning the filter service intervals as this mainly depends on the concentration of harmful substances and the operating temperature Replace a new filter carefully into the depression in the measuring head Do not bend or break the filter A tension ring helps to fix the filter at the adequate position Attention Defective or wrong mounted filters do not fullfil their function and endangerthe measuring sensor or instrument Such a filter must be replaced immediately WWW novasina com 9 6 Replacing 2 Sensor Unit Note The LabSwift aw contains susceptible electronic assemblies Please pay attention to protect these items from discharge You can achieve this by discharging yourself at a grounded conductive surface e g radiator before you open the housing of the instrument e Switch off the instrument and disconnect the mains from the system e Open the instrument cover and remove the 4 screws of the cover plate e housing cover can be set or inclined aside carefully e The
15. with the current measurement values is stored on the SD card Per each measurement which means that max 255 protocols can be stored 12 WWW novasina com e Button Actual Stable Switchover of the display Actual Stable switchover is made between the actual measurement values and the stored stable value e Button Actual Stable push button for a longer time Information display On the upper line of the info display the measurement number which ts used for the definition of the data name on the SD card is displayed On the lower line the time since the start of the measurement actual or the time until reaching the stability is displayed from 99 59 59h 15 displayed e Button Menu Switch to configuration menu The various parameters explained the next chapter The configuration menu be quit at any time by pushing the Menu button for a longer time e Button Menu push button for a longer time Switch off the device With this function all SD card data closed and the system is shut down A Note The instrument should not be switched off by just pulling out the power plug as otherwise problems with the SD card file system may happen 4 2 Configuration menu By pushing the button Menu you getto the configuration menu where you can select the single menu points using the button up down Following the menu points are descri
16. 2600195 003529 03 aw Messger t aw measuring instrument Appareil de mesure aw Lab aw Operating Instructions Leading the market thanks to INNOVATIVE solutions and sensor technology novasina The Art of Precision Measurement WWW novasina com Novasina AG printed at 2010 in Switzerland Technische Anderungen vorbehalten Technical data subject to modification Sous r serve de modifications techniques www novasina com INDEX QNI de EEN 4 7 Slanling OUl RN 4 1 25 Imponan EE 4 2 General Product Description EE 5 EC RO SRM E 5 SDV 6 E Ee 6 2 4 Standard scope of delivery a che cte dee EEN Ge 8 2 9 DEELEN 8 3 Putting Into Operation EE 9 3 1 Packaging Installation RR 9 222 5 9 2 25 QUICK MR Deeg 9 4 Description of Instrument Functions ENNEN REENEN ENNEN 12 4 1 Measurement Instrument 12 4 2 TT 13 4 5 V SCING S 16 5 Water activity measurement R KREE ENKER ua ua ua ua aura 17 5 1 Carrying out 5
17. ING As long as it is flashing alternately Analizing CH the aw value and the temperature are not stable The result can be read at earliest when the stable value is displayed Depending on the configuration also an acoustic signal may sound The analysis function can be optimised see 5 4 During the analysis the display shows permanently the current a value and on the 2nd display line alternately the sample temperature and stability setting As soon as the analysis function has terminated the stable value is displayed Likewise the stability indicator arrows are displayed Should the measurement chamber be open or not completely closed the analysis function will either not start or will be interrupted immediately 3 3 3 Switching over the measurement display The LabSwift aw has 2 different display modes for the current or stable aw value The mode can be selected by the function button Actual Stable If no stable value is reached the symbol is displayed in the Stable view Also the current measuring time respectively the stability time and sample number can be called up by pushing the Actual Stable button for a longertime The current mode is shown by an arrow in the lower right display area Actual or Stable 3 3 4 Stability parameter setting Forthe measurement speed optimisation it is possible to set the measurement stability criteria according to the sample For that various stability parame
18. If mode 0 is selected the stability time can be set manually The Observation time range is 1 30 min 5 If the Autostart function is selected the measurement starts immediately after closing the measurement chamber No other button has to be pushed The lastly used stability mode is kept Exception see Note under Mode Setting of the duration of the acoustic signal once the stability has been reached Acoustig signal at stability Duration of the acoustic signal 0 10 min 0 OFF WwWW novasina com Quit the submenu Stability factor 4 2 3 Submenu Calibration gt CALIB With this function the LabSwift aw can be checked periodically and if necessary adjusted at different aw points with the Novasina humidity standards oAL T For this purpose various SAL T humidity standards are enclosed to each LabSwift aw This multiple use salt tablets be inserted at place of a sample inside the measurement chamber and generate well defined aw values as for example 0 113 aw 0 328 aw 0 576 aw 0 753 aw 0 843 aw or 0 901 aw For further information please consult chapter 6 2 CAL The deviation between the actual measurement value and the chosen reference value calibration point is displayed The instrument defines automatically the used h
19. Measuring principle Measuring range Accuracy Resolution Humidity measurement Measuring principle Measuring range Measuring accuracy after 5 point calibration Resolution Repeatability SD card Type File system Display Type Dimensions Battery Ooption Type Charging time Running time Instrument standards Tested CE standards 30 oVDC 6 max 4W during charging of battery Normal operation lt 0 5W 90 264 VAC 50 60 Hz output 5VDC Novasina part no 260 0505 can only be operated in the range of 0 40 C 5 45 C during charging max 40 C 5 95 rh not saturated 225x140x85 mm 1 2 kg IP 30 IR infrared surface temperature measurement NTC 5 45 C IR compensated gt 10 0 15 C NTC 0 1 C Resistive elektrolytic sensor 0 003 1 00 aw 0 01aw within the calibration range between 15 30 0 001aw 0 1 rh 0 003 aw SD SDHC FAT 16 recommended FAT 32 reflectible LC Display wiht adjustable contrast 35x69 mm Lithium lon battery 1700 mAh typical 4h at 23 C gt 20 h at 23 C The LabSwift aw instrument fulfills the followed actual CE standards EC 61000 6 1 2005 EN 61000 6 1 2005 IEC 61000 6 3 2006 EN 61000 6 3 2007 Emitted electromagnetic radiatons with frequency in the range of 320 340 Mhz might have an temporary influence on the temperature measurement up to 1 5 K during the radiati
20. a com 11 4 Description of Instrument Functions The LabSwift aw system is a simple to use laboratory measurement instrument which can be powered with a Lithium lon rechargeable battery option The device can be adjusted to the user s needs by the parameter settings explained in this chapter 4 1 Measurement Instrument Operation 4 1 1 Starting the system The system performs an extensive function check of the internal modules as well as of important software function during the start up and operation Observed failures are shown on the display After a warm up phase the device is ready and the display switches over to the measurement mode In the measurement mode the following functions are available Button Start Stop Start the measurement Starts a measurement gt ANALYZE It is recommended to start the ANALYZE function after the insert of each sample N Note The instrument can be configured in order to start ANALYZE automatically after closing the cover See also chapter 4 2 2 oimultaneously with the beginning of the measurement also the LOG function on the SD card get started Stops ongoing measurements without stopping the LOG function Note An ongoing measurement is stopped together with the LOG function as soon as the measurement chamber is opened e Button Start Stop push button for a longer time Storage of the actual protocol A protocol
21. ata be analyzed and printed out with e g Excel a text editor or with the optional Novalog MC software The number for the next sample can be adjusted in the menu SD LOG gt 5 NUMB and be set on any initial value Note The logger will be automatically stopped after opening measuring chamber after the storage or more than 60000 data sets Excel capacity The removing of the SD card will also stop the logger 24 WWW novasina com 8 7 2 File names The battery 8 1 Operation 8 2 Charging LOG files e measuring data are saved as XXXXLOG txt file whereas XXXX correspond to the sample number Protocol files Stable and actual protocols are saved as file The stable protocol is generated automatically as soon as the stability is reached If required the user can generate additional actual protocols For that purpose the Start Stop key has to be pressed longer time whereby the actual protocol is generated The last lines of the protocol contain an electronic signature by what the PC program NovaLog MC is able to prove the authenticity of the protocol A maximum of 255 protocols can be output in the same protocol file Data format Detailed information concerning the data format are available on demand at Novasina AG To the LabSwift aw instrument there is a Lithium lon battery available This allows the operation of the instrumen
22. ation The LabSwift aw measurement instrument is delivered in a solid carrying case including all necessary accessories Please use this carrying case for the transport of the device Upon receipt please check first to make sure everything is present and immediately notify your Novasina sales partner if anything 15 missing or broken Do not put damaged or incomplete measuring instruments into operation The equipment must be installed in a laboratory on an even surface avoiding vibrations strong heat radiation air flow and dust The LabSwift aw device shall be put on a sufficiently big and even surface Chose an installation place without any vibrations heat and cold radiation air flow and dust 3 2 Putting into Operation e Check if the local mains voltage matches with the identification plate of the supplied external power supply and plug it to the socket e Plug the external power supply cable to the instrument socket on the back of the LabSwift aw Afterwards you can switch on the instrument by pushing the right function key A start display self test appears shortly and the software version is displayed on the upper display line Note The LabSwift aw is very efficient and requires only little electrical power The power supply fits with the latest norms fulfills energy star level IV That s why the instrument can be switched on permanently and kept ready for measurements at any time For accurate aw value m
23. bed in detail 4 2 1 Submenu SD Eject EJECT SD card data files are closed so that the card can be taken out The display symbol SD disappears and the SD card can be removed safely Note Do take out the SD card whilst the SD symbol is displayed www novasina com 13 14 4 2 2 Submenu Stability factor STAB After starting a measurement the analysis phase of the aw measurement is activated The observation time during which the aw value variation has to be lt 0 001 a can be optimised for each sample This is together with a constant temperature during the measurement the most important criteria for an accurate reliable and stable value MODE S slow Mode for samples with slow humidity exchange Stability time is fixed at 6 min setting A average Mode for samples with average humidity exchange Stability time is fixed at 4 min setting F fast Mode for samples with fast humidity exchange Stability time is fixed at 2 min setting 0 Mode for manual stability factor setting The observation time can be set between 1 and 30 min under the submenu OSBTIME No mode defined When the measurement starts the user is asked about the mode to be used Note If the Autostart function is activated the user is asked about the wanted stability mode immediately after closing the measurement chamber OBSTIME
24. d like to thank you for your confidence and hope you will enjoy and obtain successful measurements with the new LabSwift aw for high performance quality measurement of the water activity and its manifold options You have now a powerful water activity meter with outstanding options simple handling and best reproducebility for your special application in quality measurements In case of any further questions Novasina and its agencies will be happy to advise you at any time your Novasina team MORE THAN 50 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE Consulting Sales and Service Manufacturer Novasina AG Neuheimstrasse 12 8853 Lachen Switzerland Telephone 41 55 642 67 67 Fax 41 55 642 67 70 e mail info novasina ch www novasina com novasina The Art of Precision Measurement
25. easurements the instrument should be in a temperature equilibrium For this reason the LabSwift aw should be only switched off when no measurements are performed for a longer period 3 3 Quick Introduction 3 3 1 Putting into operation After switching on the LabSwift aw needs a certain time before the sensor is heated up During this time the display shows the WARMUP message After this time normally 2 minutes the display switched automatically to the measurement mode During the warm up period the device can be configured or measurements can be activated by pushing the Start Stop button The measurement though starts only after the termination of the warm up period WwWW novasina com 9 10 3 3 2 Starting measurement Fill the sample dish with the sample Make sure that the sample dish is well filled but never above the upper rim Do not grout in no case the sample material As bigger the overall surface as faster and more accurate is the aw detection Put the sample dish in the measurement chamber Close the chamber by pushing it down until the fastener engages You can now read the actual value in RH or on the display The measurement is started by pushing the Start Stop button When the device is in the Autostart mode the measurement analysis starts after closing the measurement chamber With that the analysis function starts and the flashing display shows ANALIZ
26. ew LabSwift aw The LabSwift aw system has been specially developed for determining the fraction of free water in a test sample like food cosmetics or pharmaceuticals This fraction is also Known as water activity in the foodstuffs industry and may not be confused with the water content g water g substrate The water activity of a sample is indicated by the so called a value and is within the range of 0 absolute dryness and 1 condensing humidity Only this part takes actively partto the exchange with the ambient humidity and has a big importance regarding the microbiological stability respectively the biological functions of microorganisms The water activity is also influencing considerably the chemical properties of foodstuff For the a value determination the equilibrium air humidity over a sample water vapour pressure is measured This behaves proportional to a value The fundamental requisite for determining water activity quickly and with extreme precision is an excellent moisture sensor that reaches an exact reproducible measurement over a very wide range moisture from O 10096 RH Further important properties are an exact reproducible measurement result and a good chemical robustness Novasina has been developing special electrolytic moisture sensors that stand out for such unique properties for more than 50 years The integrated resistive electrolytic LabSwift aw sensor is based on the new chemical
27. formed when you enter the menu CALIB gt CAL CLR By selection of the adequate menu point the function is carried out 6 4 Set Sensor Password be Au P EC fA Factory setting 8808 Every sensor unit CM 2 Sensor has the possibility to protect the internal calibration points by a password This prevents the sensor to be adjusted by unauthorized or not qualified persons a sensor password is set factory setting 8808 it has to be entered for the calibration of one or more calibration points A forgotten password can only be set back at the factory The measuring sensor can be protected under the menu point PSW a 4 digit numerical code This code is directly stored on the sensor If the password is set it will be required before the changing of the calibration data or for the modification clear of the calibration values To deactivate the password protection the settings be set on 0000 TIP Store the password on a secured place Attention A forgotten password means to send the sensor or the instrument back to Novasina Switzerland There is no way to reset the sensor www novasina com 23 7 The 50 Memory as information memory The LabSwift aw allows the recording of measurement data and measurement protocols on a commercial SD card These recorded data files can be viewed using a text editor and subsequently be imported to
28. g damaged Any use of this Novasina instrument other than as intended is at the customer s own risk and by no means will the manufacturer or supplier be liable for any resulting damage Safety instructions e Novasina LabSwift aw system should be serviced maintained and repaired only by qualified people who are familiar with the equipment e LabSwift aw system must not be used in hazardous zones or similar areas The design was made only for the laboratory field e explosive materials and no highly inflammable substances may be measured in the measurement chamber system e Before connecting the unit to the mains ensure that e mains voltage is within 90 260V at 50 or 60Hz Please check the type plate of the system e power cable between the mains and the instrument is not damaged he Novasina LabSwift aw system may be used only under the specified operating conditions See chapter 10 e Observe and strictly adhere to the local regulations regarding the handling of mains powered devices e Use only genuine accessories and spare parts available from your Novasina supplier or visit the homepage www novasina com This instrument must not be modified in any way without the written consent of the manufacturer e Never open the instrument without removing the mains power cable first to avoid any risk of dangerous currents Wwww novasina com 2 General Product Description 2 1 System Overvi
29. nction if activated observes the changes over a time unit Stability will be shown when the change of the value within a selected time frame is less than lt 0 001aw The shortest time window 5 is 1 minute This window be increased up to 30 minutes or a fix stability mode S A and F can be selected The optimal observation time depends on the product sample and can be optimized stepwise HO V 5 HO V 5 Water activity meter Water activity meter Instrument Sottware SensorTy pe Serial number Duration Temperature Stable protocol LabSwiftt aw 0000000 Instrument LabS5wift aw 0000000 01 VU 01 Sot VU CM 2 09 special SensorTy pe CM 2 09 special 0605538 Serial number 0605538 STABLE VALUES ACTUAL VALUES 00 06 25 1 C Duration freli 00 00 04 Temperature za D U b29aw SIG
30. not move the instrument while a sample is in it to avoid overflow Close the cover of the LabSwift aw instantly again www novasina com 17 18 Important only if no protection filter is inserted After the closure of the instrument an IR temperature measurement is done right away Is the sample 4 C hotter than the system the information OPEN is shown display Simultaneously a beep sounds for 30 seconds That can be interrupted by pushing any key In this case the sample should be removed as quick as possible from the measurement chamber of the LabSwift aw to prevent a condensation inside the chamber Otherwise this could lead to a limitation of the measurement accuracy for a longer period Let the sample cool down before you start another measurement Note This warning function is not working if the IR measurement is inactivated due to an inserted protection filter option The Display of the LabSwift aw The Novasina LabSwift aw instrument shows on a big LC display continuously the actual water activity value aw and the temperature C of the probe 5 2 Activation of the stability function Depending on the configuration the measurement will start automatically after the closing of the cover Otherwise the measurement starts manually by pushing the Start Stop function key The analysis function is activated and the display shows alternating the indication Analyzing
31. on WWW novasina com 10 2 Equilibrium humidity values of the SAL T humidity source Bez des Novasina EU Gef Chemische relative Feuchte in Relation Literatur Standards Typ Klasse Symbole zur Remperatur x 100 in a Referenz 15 20 25 C 30 C SAL T 4 weiss CsF 22596 SAL T 6 weiss LiBr SAL T 11 weiss LiCl SAL T 33 blau MgCl 6H O SAL T 53 gr n Mg NOj 6H O SAL T 75 violett SAL T 90 weiss Ba Cl 2H O SAL T 97 gelb K SO gt 20 SAL T 98 orange K Cr O Lit Greenspan Humidity Fixed points of Binary Saturated Aequeous Solutions Journal of Research of the National Bureau of Standards Vol 81A No1 01 02 1977 Robinson R A and Stokes Electrolyte Solutions Butterworths London 1959 Wexler Humidity and Moisture Vol 3 Fundamentals and Standards Robert E Krieger 11 Troubleshooting 11 1 What is wrong when The calibration of the aw value The sensor is protected by a password is not possible The sensor is defective or contaminated and has to be repalced You have a drift of the aw value The stability obsevation factor is set too short after completing the analyzing The temperature of the probe is not in equilibrium process probe has a second sorption step Reading of the LCD screen The contrast of the screen is very low is very bad 2 The ambient light is bad Please change the place of the instrument www nova
32. played The symbol is diplayed flashing Stable oymbol appears when the stable measurement value is displayed SD rec The logger function is activated The SD card must not be removed The symbol flashes if the SD card is not disposable A LabSwift aw is used as a stand alone device The power supply for the LabSwift aw is done by an external power cable or by an optional Lithium lon battery This allows a versatile employment with continuous operation as well as in places without electric supply LabSwift aw stores measurement data and protocols on SD card These data may be readout and processed on a PC or Notebook by an optional Windows based software www novasina com 7 2 4 Standard scope of Delivery Novasina LabSwift aw measurement instrument with accurate sample chamber This instrument stands out by its new design and its intuitive handling Using the integrated SD card measurement results can be stored and processed Standard accessories e Carrying case Power supply EU or USA e 3 pcs various humidity standards SAL T 11 58 84 e 40 pcs standardised disposable sample dishes e Operating manual in English and German e Factory calibration certificate e SD card 2 GB e Tension ring 5 pcs pre filter white 2 5 Optional accessories Mechanical filter Pre filter white which protects the measurement cell mechanically e g when the sample cup is overfilled This filter should
33. rement cell 2 Please do NEVER clean the sensor CM 2 itself The sensor is a very sensitive element with a chemical filter protection on the top Every cleaning with chemical or mechanical means touch blow by air pressu re etc will destroy the measuring sensor inevitably Possible warranty demands expire instantly 9 3 Cleaning of the Infrared IR sensor Clean the IR sensor with a slight humid cotton bud Do not press strongly on the window of the IR sensor A contaminated leads to longer measurement times but not to wrong measurements 9 4 Periodic Recalibration with Humidity Standards _ Like all precision measurement instruments the LabSwift aw must be 1 gt checked periodically and if necessary recalibrated This procedure was already described the chapter 6 Only in this way you secure the accuracy of your measurements The Novasina SAL T humidity standards applicable for this procedure If required the standards can be provided with an international accredited certificate There are no general rules for the periodic control of the system This mainly depends on the product character the frequency of measurement further ambient conditions and the aging of the sensor Novasina recommends the following steps e Verify the instrument monthly at the beginning Increase the interval step by step dependent on the correspondent results e Check before and after the
34. ror of the instrument occurs Exchange the sensor or update the instrument software Install a humidity sensor and switch off and restart recognized the instrument Switch off and restart the instrument If the error repeats please contact Novasina D vt jac LUXS 5 00 20 0 7 v laco 5 ou SAA NGC NON 6666 0000 MSSEd e nuauiqns MEN 6666 0000 55 WG HINA HY HUN nueulqns 1X3 AINLLSHO OF 33 www novasina com www novasina com 9 9 HEBES WEE pti tT tT tT te ey te ET ET ET EE TTT TT CT O lt O lt N 35 www novasina com 83 5 225 209 5 140 125 5 The Novasina team woul
35. sina com 31 11 2 Error report DEW ERROR ERROR PASSW ERROR RANGE ERROR ERROR TEMP ERROR SENSOR ERROR NO SENS FATAL 32 Error message screens If any error message appears on the LabSwift aw screen please proceed as follows Please write down the error message carefully Switch the instrument off and restart If the error message recurs please follow the instructions on the table and or contact your Novasina representative Error description The reference sample is too hot SD card can t be written A wrong password was The measuremnt point is outside Calibration point lays to close The temperature for calibration Error of the humidity sensor The humidity sensor is not An intenal error occured WwWW novasina com Www novasina com Needed action Pay attention that at high humidities the reference is not hotter than the instrument Push up the write protection slide of the oD card and formate it new A forgotten password can only be set back at entered Novasina Check the humidity standard Check if the right of the calbiration range humidity point was choosen Replace the sensor Check if the right humidity point was selected Only calibrate in the temperature range of 15 C is outside of the required range to 30 C Consider the ambient temperature The used humidity sensor is not compatible or an er
36. specification of 5 30 10 2 Humidity water acitvity SLANG ANOS ens 31 11 Troubleshooting WEE 31 Whal is wrong occas pete e Naas 31 MZ EEE E CIN 5 32 12 Menu structure of the 33 WWW novasina com 1 Introduction 1 1 Starting out Thank you for having purchased an instrument of the Novasina LabSwift aw system for measuring water activity You have opted for a highly accurate and reliable instrument representing the latest state of the art in electronics and software design when it comes to highest precision in aw water activity measuring To get the most out of all the possibilities of your Novasina LabSwift aw and to guarantee safe reliable operation please read these operating instructions before setting the unit into operation carefully Please keep this manual in a safe place where it will be at hand whenever you need it If you lose the manual please contact your Novasina representative for immediate replacement 1 2 Important Notes Intended use The Novasina LabSwift aw is exclusively intended for measuring WATER ACTIVITY under strict adherence to the information and notes given in this manual Any use beyond this scope is considered to be a violation of the intended purpose and may endanger your safety or could result in the product bein
37. ssing the key during the measurement mode approx 15 2 3 2 Function key lt Menu gt Measurement mode With this key the device is switched on Access to menu Device is switched off if pressed for a long time Menu mode Carries out the selected function or enables the parameter setting Adapts the set parameters By pressing for a long time you get from each menu point directly to the measurement mode Wwww novasina com 2 3 3 Function key lt Actual Stable gt Measurement mode Switches over between the actual measurement value and the stable value pressing for a long time you get the following view upper display line number of measurement lower display line actual measuring time actual and stability time stable Menu mode Switches a menu point downwards Decreases a flashing displayed digit 2 3 4 Function key Start Stop gt Measurement mode Starts the measurement nterrupts the current measurement By pressing for along time the protocol of the actual measurement actual is generated Menu mode Switches a menu point upwards ncreases a flashing displayed digit 2 3 5 Display symbols Displays the stability grade As soon as the measurement has started the 1st symbol is displayed When the stability is reached all 5 symbols are displayed contemporaneously Actual oymbol appears when the actual measurement is dis
38. substance of the Novasina Novalyte Technology which achieves an outstanding accuracy and reproducibility The complete LabSwift aw system comprises various software options and can be optimally adapted to the customer and his requirements www novasina com 5 2 2 System Architecture 2 3 Overview Actual Menu ii Sensor electronic Thermopile RH and temp 1 temp 2 A S pg The LabSwift aw consists of modular assemblies in combination with the unique resistive electrolytic Novasina measurement technology which is built inside the aW sensor The aW measurement signal is electronically processed together with the IR infrared measurement and an additional temperature measurement Afterwards it is further processed by a high capacity micro controller This is handling the LCD display unit and stores data on an external removable SD card The mains are supplying the whole electronics with power The LabSwift aw does not dispose of an internal temperature control but has a surface temperature sensor based on an infrared measurement For che cking and adjusting the aW values humidity standards see chapter 6 can be used 2 3 1 Function keys Each function key has 3 markings On top the measurement mode function standard operation The central mark shows the configuration menu function The lower green symbol shows the function which can be selected by pre
39. t at places without power supply for over 20 hours If the battery is low the information LOW is displayed and the instrument gives 5 short beep In this state there is normally enough time to finish the current measurement Certainly the charging can be directly started by connecting the line adapter Is the battery totally discharged the message will be displayed for 2 seconds followed by a permanent beep and the instrument is switched off Note Do not let the instrument in this status with discharged battery standing around for longer time The battery might be damaged The charging can be done while the instrument is switched on or off Ideally the charging is made when the instrurment is switched off to prevent a heating of the chamber temperature The charge of battery is indicated with a 2 colour LED on the backside of the LabSwift aw red the battery is charging green the battery is fully charged WWW hovasina com 25 Akku LED Stays the LED switched off during the charging of the battery there could be the following reasons There is no voltage at the power jack tolerable temperature range was left The battery module is defective The maximum charging time of the battery is 4 hours Warning I By ignoring one of the remarks below there can be the risk of fire or explosion The instrument is always energized if a battery is mounted
40. ter settings are available On the one hand 3 fix settings are defined mode S slow A average or F fast On the other hand the stability parameter can be set manually from 1 30 min mode O During the defined stability time the measurement value variation must lt 0 001 aw Otherwise a stable value won t never be reached The LabSwift aw announces as soon as the measurement is stable For more information please see chapter 5 4 WwWW novasina com MODE functions S Slow measurement stability time 6 min A Average measurement stability time 4 min F Fast measurement stability time 2 min 0 The stability time can be set between 1 and 30 min under the menu point OBSTIME Stability time The stability is shown when during the stability time the value variation is lower than 0 001 aw Note When the measurement is started the last set stability parameter is taken over 3 3 5 Switching off the system Remove the sample from the measurement chamber if applicable and switch off the device by pushing the Menu Enter button by a longer time In order to avoid any loss of data stored on the SD card switch always off the LabSwift aw before the power supply is interrupted Note Thanks to the use of modern technology the power consumption is extremely low Therefore we recommend to always keep the LabSwift aw switched on when connected to the power supply www novasin
41. tmosphere at room temperature and ambient humidity e At non use of the LabSwift aw the measurement chamber should be kept empty and closed e Never open or take the measuring cell apart or clean the sensor with any chemical or mechanical parts The sensor itself cannot be cleaned All attempt will expire the warranty e Under no circumstances connect the sensor to an Ohmmeter or such like This may damage the sensor and will expire the warranty of the sensor WWW hovasina com 19 20 Any warranty will expire if one or more of the previous mentioned points counteracts Measurements up to 1 000 aw The new sensor of the LabSwift aw is capable of measurements up to 1 00 aw 100 rh A built in heating system protects the measuring cell from saturation and therefore against destruction e The instrument must be switched on before a product sample is placed into the measuring chamber Always first remove the sample from the measuring chamber before the instrument is switched off Note If possible always leave the LabSwift aw switched ON The integrated heating system protects the sensor from saturation and the instrument is always ready for the next measurement 5 4 Function Principle of Stability Observation The stability observation fu
42. umidity reference as soon asthe menu is activated The temperature influence on the humidity reference is also taken into account With the buttons up or down other calibration points be selected If a value has not been calibrated the display flashes If then is pressed the value is calibrated after a query A Note If a password is set it will be asked prior to the calibration CAL Under this menu point single or all calibration points can be cancelled CLR Cxx cancels a single point xx ALL cancels all calibration points no no calibration point is cancelled SET PSW It is possible to protect the calibration values stored on the sensor by a 4 digit number code With setting 0 0 0 0 the password is deactivated N Attention A forgotten password can only be reset by Novasina Factory sensor setting 8808 Quit the submenu Calibration Www novasina com 15 4 2 4 Submenu Display settings LCD XLL T Under this menu point the contrast and displayed units can be defined CONTRA For an optimal display reading the contrast can be adapted individually LC Display contrast 0 9 UNIT The LabSwift aw can display the measured values results in various units UNIT H Humidity AW aw value or relative humidity in RH UNIT T Temperature C or F EXIT
43. very new replacement sensor 2 is delivered already factory calibrated at 6 points 0 11 0 33 0 58 0 75 0 84 and 0 90 with a factory certificate A LabSwift aw has its full accuracy after the exchange of a new sensor without calibration by the customer Nevertheless for the best performance of your instrument we recommend you to verify the sensor after the mounting For the verification and a possible calibration of the LabSwift aw there are 3 SAL T salt tablets included If required up to 3 additional SAL T standards are available as accessories These multiple use standards generate defined and reproducible humidity respectively a values Please consult the enclosed data sheet for the correct handling and the visual self control of the standards Novasina recommends a periodic verification of the system and if necessary a recalibration You don t need to calibrate any point of the instrument overthe whole aw range each time If you measure your product only in small ranges it will be enough to control the instrument within the measurement range minimum 2 3 aw values www novasina com 21 N Note Define a standard quality process for your aw measurements and start first with shorter verification intervals Afterwards you increase it according to the results and deviation Possible deviations occur by contamination pollution vibration or general aging of the sensor Generally a recalibration at several aw value points
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