Pocket Conductivity, TDS and Salinity Tester
Portable handheld conductivity meter measuring conductivity, TDS, salinity, resistivity, and temperature with three-range resolution and single-point calibration.
Louise Corscadden, PhD
Director of Science · ConductScience
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Key Specifications
Full details →- Model fit
- 1 selectable configuration
- SKU family
- BIO-0375
- Shipping box
- 19.5 × 3.8 × 3.6 cm
- Ordering
- Online checkout and quote request available
- Category
- pH Meters
- Build notes
- Confirm accessories, station layout, and support needs before purchase
The Pocket Conductivity Tester is a portable multiparameter instrument designed for field and laboratory measurement of water quality parameters. This handheld device simultaneously measures conductivity, total dissolved solids (TDS), salinity, resistivity, and temperature in aqueous solutions. The instrument features a compact design at 195mm length with 147g weight, making it suitable for field sampling and routine laboratory monitoring applications.
The device provides three-range resolution capabilities (0.1/1μS/cm, 0.01mS/cm) with temperature accuracy of ±0.2°C. Single-point calibration ensures measurement reliability, while the adjustable TDS factor (0.40 to 1.00) allows customization for specific sample matrices. Battery operation using 4×1.5V AAA alkaline batteries provides extended field use without external power requirements.
How It Works
Conductivity measurement operates through the principle of electrical conductance in aqueous solutions. The instrument applies a known alternating current voltage between two electrodes immersed in the sample solution. Dissolved ions in the solution facilitate current flow, with higher ion concentrations producing greater conductance. The meter measures the resulting current and calculates conductivity as the reciprocal of electrical resistance, expressed in microsiemens or millisiemens per centimeter.
Temperature compensation ensures accurate readings across varying thermal conditions, as conductivity exhibits temperature dependence. The instrument simultaneously calculates derived parameters: TDS through a user-adjustable conversion factor, salinity based on sodium chloride equivalence, and resistivity as the inverse of conductivity. Multiple measurement ranges accommodate samples from ultrapure water to concentrated solutions.
Features & Benefits
Shipping weight
- 1.0 lb
Shipping box
- L: 19.5 cm
- W: 3.8 cm
- H: 3.6 cm
| Feature | This Product | Typical Alternative | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parameter Range | Measures conductivity, TDS, salinity, resistivity, and temperature | Basic models often measure only conductivity and temperature | Eliminates need for multiple instruments during water quality assessment procedures. |
| Resolution Options | Three-range resolution: 0.1/1μS/cm, 0.01mS/cm | Fixed resolution models limit measurement precision | Adapts measurement precision to sample concentration for optimal accuracy across diverse sample types. |
| TDS Factor Adjustment | Adjustable from 0.40 to 1.00 | Fixed TDS conversion factors in entry-level models | Enables accurate TDS calculations for different ionic compositions encountered in research applications. |
| Temperature Accuracy | ±0.2°C accuracy | Lower-cost models often provide ±0.5°C or ±1.0°C accuracy | Improves conductivity temperature compensation reliability for precise measurements. |
| Calibration System | Single-point calibration | Some models require multi-point calibration procedures | Reduces calibration time and complexity while maintaining measurement reliability for routine applications. |
| Form Factor | 147g weight, 195mm length | Larger handheld models may exceed 200g | Reduces operator fatigue during extended field sampling sessions and fits in standard lab coat pockets. |
This conductivity tester provides multiparameter measurement capability in a compact portable design with adjustable resolution and TDS factor customization. The combination of measurement versatility, temperature accuracy, and lightweight construction addresses field measurement requirements while maintaining laboratory-grade precision.
Practical Tips
Perform calibration at the beginning of each measurement session and when transitioning between significantly different sample types.
Why: Ensures measurement accuracy and compensates for electrode drift over time.
Match calibration standard conductivity to expected sample range for optimal accuracy.
Why: Single-point calibration is most accurate when the standard approximates sample conductivity levels.
Rinse electrode thoroughly with distilled water between samples and store with protective cap containing distilled water.
Why: Prevents cross-contamination and electrode degradation that would affect measurement precision.
Replace batteries when low battery indication appears to prevent measurement drift.
Why: Insufficient power affects electronic stability and can compromise measurement accuracy.
Allow readings to stabilize for 30-60 seconds, especially when measuring low-conductivity samples.
Why: Ensures complete electrode equilibration with sample solution for stable, accurate measurements.
Adjust TDS factor based on known sample composition: 0.5 for NaCl, 0.7 for mixed ionic solutions.
Why: Optimizes TDS calculation accuracy for specific sample matrices encountered in research applications.
If readings appear unstable, check for air bubbles around the electrode and ensure complete sample immersion.
Why: Air bubbles or partial immersion interfere with electrical conductivity measurement pathways.
Record both conductivity and temperature values, as conductivity varies significantly with temperature changes.
Why: Temperature documentation enables post-measurement calculations and validates temperature compensation accuracy.
Setup Guide
What’s in the Box
- Pocket Conductivity Tester main unit
- Conductivity electrode probe (typical)
- Protective electrode cap (typical)
- User manual and quick start guide (typical)
- Calibration certificate (typical)
Warranty
ConductScience provides a standard one-year manufacturer warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Technical support includes calibration guidance and troubleshooting assistance for optimal instrument performance.
Compliance
What calibration standards are recommended for different sample types?
Single-point calibration should use standards matching expected sample conductivity range. Use 1413 μS/cm KCl for general applications, 84 μS/cm for low-conductivity samples, or 12.9 mS/cm for high-conductivity solutions. Consult product datasheet for complete standard recommendations.
How does the adjustable TDS factor affect measurement accuracy?
The TDS factor (0.40-1.00) converts conductivity to total dissolved solids based on solution ionic composition. Use 0.5 for NaCl solutions, 0.7 for mixed ionic solutions, and adjust based on known sample matrix. Factor selection significantly impacts TDS calculation accuracy.
What is the measurement stability time for different sample types?
Reading stabilization typically requires 30-60 seconds depending on sample conductivity and temperature. High-conductivity samples stabilize faster than ultrapure water. Allow additional time when transitioning between samples with significantly different ionic strengths.
Can the instrument measure conductivity in non-aqueous solutions?
The device is designed specifically for aqueous solutions. Non-aqueous solvents may damage the electrode or provide invalid readings. Organic solvents and alcohols should not be measured without consulting manufacturer compatibility guidelines.
How should the electrode be maintained between measurements?
Rinse electrode with distilled water between samples and store in protective cap with distilled water. For long-term storage, use electrode storage solution. Replace electrode when response time increases or calibration becomes unstable.
What temperature range limitations affect field measurements?
Consult product datasheet for specific operating temperature range. Temperature accuracy of ±0.2°C applies within the specified range. Extreme temperatures may affect battery performance and measurement accuracy.
How does this compare to laboratory benchtop conductivity meters?
This portable unit provides field measurement capability with reduced precision compared to laboratory benchtop models. Benchtop meters typically offer higher accuracy, multiple calibration points, and advanced temperature compensation, while this unit prioritizes portability and ease of use.
What data recording capabilities are available?
Consult product datasheet for data logging and storage features. The compact design suggests manual recording of displayed values, though some models may include basic data storage functionality.
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