Using the Knick Portavo 907 Multi portable meter, let’s review common sensor troubleshooting tips. The Portavo is an excellent diagnostics tool for in the field or lab use. When paired with Memosens sensors, it provides optimal process management with intelligent diagnostics.
Let’s look at some of the key features that will quickly help you troubleshoot your sensor.

The Sensoface

One of the first things you’ll notice on the main screen of your Portavo is the Sensoface. The Sensoface is a graphical indication of the condition of the connected sensor. The operator can have an idea if the sensor needs attention. A smiley face indicates that all is okay. A neutral face indicates that the sensor should be cleaned and calibrated soon. And lastly, a sad face suggests that the sensor should be visually inspected and cleaned and calibrated, or quite possibly, the sensor needs to be replaced.

Status Messages

Your Portavo may also indicate error or status messages on the main screen. In this instance, you can find further information on the message by pressing enter and then the helps softkey. In most cases, the operator can resolve the issue by performing maintenance on the sensor or sensor replacement. Your Portavo will give you tips on what to do next.

Sensor Diagram

For a more in-depth analysis of the condition of the connected sensor, use the Sensor Diagram when troubleshooting pH and oxygen sensors. The Sensor Diagram provides single-glance information on sensor parameters. The parameter values in the diagram should lie between the outer 100% and inner 50% hexagon. When a value enters the inner hexagon, the corresponding text flashes red, and you should attend to the sensor. The situation may be remedied by cleaning and calibrating the sensor, or sensor replacement.

Sensocheck

The Sensocheck is a continuous monitoring function specific to the connected sensor. For instance, with pH and ORP sensors, Senocheck continuously monitors the the condition of the pH glass membrane in the reference electrode. It also monitors the wiring between the sensor and the meter. A Sensocheck error may indicate a broken sensor or that you have a bad cable. In addition, this feature also continuously evaluates the wear factor on the measuring electrode. Extreme process conditions such as high temperatures and very acidic or very alkaline pH values may accelerate wear on the sensor if the sensor network diagram shows a high level of wear on the sensor. You may need to replace your sensor.

Calibration Menu

One final sensor troubleshooting tip is linked of your Portavo’s calibration setup menu. The Portavo uses a convenient automatic calibration feature called Calmatic. Calmatic ensures a more accurate and precise calibration with automatic buffer recognition and temperature compensation. When you are troubleshooting a sensor that is not accepting or failing calibration, it’s crucial to check for proper calibration settings in your Portavo. Calmatic setups with the wrong buffer set selected is a common cause for failed calibrations. Verify that the buffer set you are using matches the buffer set in the selected menu.

If you’re unfamiliar with setting up your Portavo’s menus, please check out our Portavo Calibration video.