The Atago PAL-1 Refractometer is a digital handheld device designed for measuring Brix levels in food‚ beverages‚ and other liquids․ This manual provides essential guidance for its operation‚ ensuring accurate measurements and proper maintenance․ Understanding its features and functions is crucial for optimal performance in various applications․
1․1 Overview of the Device
The Atago PAL-1 Refractometer is a portable‚ digital handheld device designed for measuring the Brix scale in various liquids and semi-solids․ It offers a wide measurement range of 0․0 to 53․0 Brix‚ making it suitable for food‚ beverages‚ and industrial applications․ The device features automatic temperature compensation‚ ensuring accurate readings‚ and an IP65 rating for durability․ Its compact design allows one-handed operation‚ while the LCD display provides clear results․ This manual is essential for understanding the device’s functionality and ensuring proper usage․
1․2 Importance of the Manual
Reading the manual is crucial for understanding the PAL-1’s functions‚ ensuring accurate measurements‚ and maintaining the device․ It provides essential safety precautions‚ calibration instructions‚ and maintenance tips to prevent damage and ensure longevity․ The manual also helps users troubleshoot common issues and interpret results correctly․ By following the guidelines‚ users can maximize the device’s performance and reliability in various applications‚ from food processing to laboratory settings․ Proper use as per the manual guarantees precise and consistent Brix measurements․
1․3 Intended Use and Applications
The Atago PAL-1 Refractometer is designed for measuring the Brix scale in various liquids‚ including fruit juices‚ soups‚ sauces‚ ketchup‚ and low-sugar jams․ Its portability and ease of use make it ideal for both field and laboratory settings․ The device is widely used in food production‚ quality control‚ and scientific research․ It ensures quick and accurate measurements‚ making it an essential tool for professionals requiring precise Brix level analysis in diverse applications․
Key Features of the Atago PAL-1
The Atago PAL-1 features a wide Brix range (0․0 to 53․0)‚ automatic temperature compensation‚ and an IP65 rating for dust and water resistance‚ ensuring reliable measurements in various conditions․
2․1 Design and Portability
The Atago PAL-1 is compact and lightweight‚ designed for one-handed operation․ Its small size allows easy carrying in a pocket‚ making it ideal for field measurements․ The device features a durable design with an IP65 rating‚ protecting it against dust and water jets․ The LCD display ensures clear readability of measurements‚ while the ergonomic design enhances user comfort during use․ This portability and robust construction make the PAL-1 suitable for various environments‚ from laboratories to outdoor settings․
2․2 Measurement Range and Accuracy
The Atago PAL-1 Refractometer measures Brix levels from 0․0 to 53․0‚ with an accuracy of ±0․2‚ ensuring precise results for various liquids․ It is ideal for testing fruit juices‚ sauces‚ and low-sugar foods․ The device provides reliable measurements for samples with different dissolved solid concentrations‚ making it versatile for food and beverage industries․ Its accuracy is maintained through automatic temperature compensation‚ adapting to environmental conditions for consistent results․ This range and precision make it a reliable tool for quality control and culinary applications․
2․3 Automatic Temperature Compensation
The Atago PAL-1 features automatic temperature compensation‚ ensuring accurate measurements without manual adjustments․ This technology adapts to environmental temperature changes‚ delivering consistent results across various conditions․ It eliminates the need for temperature corrections‚ making it ideal for field and outdoor use․ The device maintains precision even in fluctuating environments‚ providing reliable data for food‚ beverage‚ and industrial applications․ This feature enhances convenience and accuracy‚ allowing users to focus on measurements without worrying about temperature variability․
2․4 IP65 Protection Rating
The Atago PAL-1 has an IP65 protection rating‚ making it dust-tight and resistant to water jets․ This ensures durability in harsh environments‚ protecting internal components from dust and liquid ingress․ The robust design allows for reliable performance in industrial‚ outdoor‚ and food processing settings․ This feature minimizes the risk of damage from accidental exposure to water or dust‚ ensuring long-term functionality and accuracy in various applications․
How to Use the Atago PAL-1
Learn to prepare for measurement‚ apply samples correctly‚ operate the device‚ and interpret results․ Follow these steps for accurate and efficient use of the refractometer․
3․1 Preparing for Measurement
Before measuring‚ clean the sample stage thoroughly with a soft cloth and ensure it is dry․ Verify the device is calibrated and the battery is fully charged․ Place the refractometer on a stable‚ flat surface and ensure adequate lighting․ Remove any protective covers and allow the device to acclimate to ambient temperature․ Refer to the manual for specific calibration instructions if needed․ Always handle the device with care to maintain accuracy and longevity․
3․2 Sample Application and Handling
Apply a few drops of the sample to the prism using a clean‚ disposable pipette․ Ensure the sample covers the entire measurement area without air bubbles․ For viscous liquids‚ gently spread the sample with a plastic spatula․ Avoid touching the prism surface to prevent contamination․ If the sample is corrosive‚ use protective gloves and eyewear․ After measurement‚ immediately clean the prism with distilled water and dry it thoroughly to prevent residue buildup and maintain accuracy․
3․3 Operating the Device
Turn on the PAL-1 by pressing the START button․ Ensure the device is calibrated before use․ Apply the sample to the prism and close the sample stage gently․ Press START again to begin measurement․ The LCD display will show the result in a few seconds․ For stable readings‚ keep the device steady and avoid direct sunlight․ If no buttons are pressed for 3 minutes‚ the device automatically shuts off to conserve battery life․ Use the device in an upright position for accurate measurements․
3․4 Reading and Interpreting Results
The PAL-1 displays measurements on an LCD screen‚ showing the Brix value and battery status․ A stable reading is indicated when the value stops changing․ If the result flashes‚ reapply the sample or clean the prism․ The device automatically shuts off after 3 minutes of inactivity․ Refer to the manual for error codes and troubleshooting․ Ensure measurements are taken in optimal conditions for accuracy․ Proper interpretation is key for reliable results in food‚ beverage‚ and quality control applications․
Maintenance and Care
Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance․ Clean the sample stage after use‚ store in a dry place‚ and manage batteries properly to prolong device longevity and accuracy․
4․1 Cleaning the Sample Stage
Clean the sample stage thoroughly after each use to ensure accurate measurements․ Use a soft‚ dry cloth to wipe away residue․ For stubborn substances‚ dampen the cloth with distilled water‚ but avoid harsh chemicals․ Gently scrub the prism and stage‚ then dry completely․ Regular cleaning prevents contamination and maintains instrument performance․ Always follow the manual’s guidelines to avoid damaging the sensitive components․ Proper maintenance ensures longevity and reliable results․
4․2 Storing the Device Properly
Store the Atago PAL-1 in a dry‚ cool place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures․ Keep the device in its protective case when not in use to prevent dust and physical damage․ Ensure the sample stage is clean and dry before storage․ Proper storage maintains the instrument’s accuracy and longevity‚ ensuring reliable performance for future measurements․
4․3 Battery Management
The Atago PAL-1 operates on three AAA batteries․ Replace them by removing the battery case cover and inserting new batteries‚ ensuring correct polarity․ Store batteries separately when the device is not in use for extended periods to prevent leakage․ Dispose of used batteries properly‚ following environmental guidelines․ The LCD will display a low-battery indicator when replacement is needed․ Use high-quality batteries to maintain optimal performance and avoid damage to the device․
Technical Specifications
The Atago PAL-1 features a Brix range of 0․0 to 53․0‚ automatic temperature compensation‚ and an IP65 protection rating․ It offers portable design and rapid 3-second measurements․
5․1 Measurement Parameters
The Atago PAL-1 measures Brix levels from 0․0 to 53․0 with an accuracy of ±0․2․ It features automatic temperature compensation‚ ensuring precise readings across various conditions․ The device offers a fast measurement time of approximately 3 seconds‚ making it ideal for quick testing․ Designed for portability‚ it fits easily in a pocket‚ allowing for on-the-go use․ The LCD display provides clear results‚ and the battery life supports up to 200 hours of continuous operation‚ enhancing its reliability in the field․
5․2 Display and User Interface
The Atago PAL-1 features a compact LCD display that clearly shows Brix measurements and battery status․ Designed for one-handed operation‚ it ensures ease of use in various settings․ The interface includes a START key for initiating measurements and indicators for low battery and measurement stability․ These features enhance usability and provide quick‚ accurate results․
5․3 Environmental Requirements
The Atago PAL-1 operates effectively in environments with temperatures between 10°C and 40°C and relative humidity up to 80%; It is designed to function in various conditions‚ thanks to its IP65 rating‚ which protects against dust and water jets․ Avoid exposing the device to direct sunlight or extreme temperatures during storage to maintain its accuracy and longevity․ Ensure the environment is stable and dry to optimize performance and reliability․
Accessories and Optional Equipment
The PAL-1 includes a battery‚ manual‚ and calibration report․ Optional accessories like a carrying case‚ cleaning cloth‚ and replacement batteries enhance portability and maintenance․
6․1 Included Items in the Package
The Atago PAL-1 Refractometer package includes the main unit‚ a set of AAA batteries‚ an instruction manual‚ and a calibration report․ These items ensure proper setup and operation․
6․2 Recommended Accessories
Recommended accessories for the Atago PAL-1 include a cleaning cloth for the prism‚ a carrying case for portability‚ and calibration solutions to ensure accuracy․ These enhance functionality and longevity‚ supporting precise measurements across various applications․
Safety Precautions
Adhere to safety guidelines to avoid injury and device damage․ Handle corrosive samples carefully‚ avoid direct sunlight‚ and store the refractometer in a stable environment for optimal performance․
7․1 General Safety Guidelines
Always read the manual thoroughly before use to ensure safe operation․ Avoid exposing the device to direct sunlight or extreme temperatures․ Handle the sample stage and prism with care to prevent damage․ Store the refractometer in a dry‚ stable environment when not in use․ Follow proper cleaning procedures to maintain accuracy and longevity․ Use only recommended batteries and avoid overcharging․ Keep the device out of reach of children and ensure all safety precautions are observed to prevent injury or device malfunction․
7․2 Handling Corrosive Samples
When handling corrosive samples‚ ensure the glass prism and metal sample stage are protected‚ as certain acids may cause damage․ Use a plastic sample stage for such samples to prevent corrosion․ After measurement‚ rinse the sample stage with distilled water and dry thoroughly․ Avoid prolonged exposure to corrosive substances․ Always wear protective gloves and eyewear when handling potentially harmful samples․ If unsure about sample compatibility‚ consult the manual or contact Atago support for guidance to ensure safe and accurate measurements․
Calibration and Adjustment
Calibration ensures accurate measurements․ Use standard calibration solutions and follow manual instructions․ Adjustments may be needed for optimal performance in various environments and sample types․
8․1 Calibration Process
Calibration is essential for accurate measurements․ Prepare the device by turning it on and ensuring the sample stage is clean․ Apply a few drops of calibration solution (standard Brix value) to the prism․ Gently close the cover and wait for the reading to stabilize․ Use the adjustment screw to align the displayed value with the known Brix standard․ Repeat the process with additional calibration solutions if required․ Once complete‚ the device is ready for precise measurements across various samples․
8․2 Troubleshooting Calibration Issues
If calibration issues arise‚ check for error messages or inconsistent readings․ Ensure the sample stage is clean and free of contamination․ Verify that the calibration solution is within its expiration date and applied correctly․ If the device shows incorrect values‚ recalibrate using a known standard․ Environmental factors like temperature fluctuations may also affect accuracy․ Consult the manual for specific error codes and solutions․ Proper calibration ensures reliable measurements‚ so address any issues promptly to maintain device performance․
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Identify common issues like error messages or inaccurate readings․ Clean the prism‚ check sample consistency‚ and ensure proper calibration․ Refer to the manual for specific solutions․
9․1 Error Messages and Solutions
Common error messages include “E-01” for faulty prism detection and “E-02” for inconsistent samples․ Clean the prism with soft cloth and ensure samples are homogeneous․ If issues persist‚ restart the device or refer to the manual for detailed troubleshooting steps․ Addressing these errors promptly ensures accurate measurements and prolongs the device’s lifespan․ Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for resolving errors to maintain performance and reliability․
9․2 Resolving Measurement Inaccuracies
Measurement inaccuracies can occur due to improper calibration‚ dirty prisms‚ or incorrect sample preparation․ Ensure the device is calibrated correctly using distilled water․ Clean the prism regularly with a soft cloth and avoid using harsh chemicals․ Verify that the sample stage is dry and free from residue․ For consistent results‚ prepare samples according to the manual’s guidelines․ Regular maintenance and adherence to proper measurement techniques will help maintain accuracy and reliability․ Always refer to the manual for detailed troubleshooting steps․
Compliance and Certifications
The Atago PAL-1 Refractometer meets HACCP standards and holds ISO and JSA certifications‚ ensuring compliance with international quality and safety requirements for precise and reliable measurements․
10․1 HACCP Approval
The Atago PAL-1 Refractometer is HACCP-approved‚ ensuring compliance with food safety standards․ This certification confirms its suitability for use in food processing and hygiene-sensitive environments․ The device’s design‚ including its IP65 rating and automatic temperature compensation‚ aligns with HACCP requirements for safe and sanitary measurements․ This approval reassures users of its reliability in maintaining high food safety standards across various applications‚ from fruit juices to sauces and jams‚ ensuring accurate and contamination-free results․
10․2 ISO and JSA Certifications
The Atago PAL-1 Refractometer holds ISO and JSA certifications‚ ensuring adherence to international quality and safety standards․ These certifications validate the device’s reliability and performance‚ meeting rigorous testing criteria․ ISO certification guarantees compliance with global quality management standards‚ while JSA certification confirms its safety and operational excellence in Japan․ These accreditations enhance the PAL-1’s credibility‚ making it a trusted tool for professionals requiring precise measurements in regulated environments․ They also underscore Atago’s commitment to delivering high-quality‚ standards-compliant products for global markets․
Warranty and Support
The Atago PAL-1 is backed by a limited warranty covering manufacturing defects․ Dedicated customer support is available for inquiries‚ repairs‚ and troubleshooting‚ ensuring reliable assistance worldwide․
11․1 Manufacturer’s Warranty
The Atago PAL-1 Refractometer is covered by a limited manufacturer’s warranty‚ ensuring protection against defects in materials and workmanship․ The warranty period varies by region‚ typically covering one year from the date of purchase․ It includes repairs or replacements for faulty components‚ excluding damages caused by misuse or improper maintenance․ For specific details‚ refer to the warranty terms provided with the device or contact Atago’s customer support․ Proper registration and adherence to guidelines may extend warranty benefits․
11․2 Customer Support Options
Atago offers comprehensive customer support for the PAL-1 Refractometer‚ ensuring users receive assistance when needed․ Support options include phone‚ email‚ and online inquiries through the official Atago website․ Regional offices provide localized support‚ addressing specific customer needs․ Additionally‚ the website offers downloadable resources‚ such as manuals and troubleshooting guides‚ to help users resolve common issues independently․ For further assistance‚ users can contact certified distributors or refer to the provided customer support contact details in the manual․
The Atago PAL-1 Refractometer is a reliable‚ portable tool for precise Brix measurements․ Follow the manual for optimal use and refer to customer support for any inquiries․
12․1 Summary of Key Points
The Atago PAL-1 Refractometer is a reliable‚ portable device for measuring Brix levels in food and beverages․ It offers a wide range of 0․0 to 53․0 Brix‚ automatic temperature compensation‚ and an IP65 rating for durability․ Designed for ease of use‚ it is ideal for various applications‚ including fruit juices‚ sauces‚ and jams․ Proper maintenance‚ such as cleaning and storing‚ ensures longevity․ Always refer to the manual for detailed instructions and safety guidelines to maximize performance and accuracy in your measurements;
12․2 Final Tips for Optimal Use
For optimal performance‚ calibrate the PAL-1 regularly and handle samples carefully to avoid contamination․ Clean the sample stage thoroughly after each use to prevent residue buildup․ Store the device in a cool‚ dry place‚ away from direct sunlight․ Always use fresh batteries and ensure the LCD is clear for accurate readings․ Refer to the manual for specific guidelines on measuring various liquids and follow safety precautions to ensure longevity and reliability in your measurements․