aw-Messgerät / aw measuring instrument / Appareil de mesure aw E

Operating Instructions
260 0992 / 004666.00

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© Novasina AG, printed at 2013 in Switzerland
Technische Änderungen vorbehalten
Technical data subject to modification
Sous réserve de modifications techniques

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INDEX

English
1. Introduction 4
1.1 Have an Amazing Start!  4
1.2. Important Notes  4

2. General Product Description 5

2.1. System Overview  5
2.2. System Architecture  6
2.3. Why Equilibrium is important  6
2.4. Overview  7
2.5. Scope of Delivery  8
2.6. Optional accessories  8

3. Putting into Operation 9

3.1. Packaging / Installation  9
3.2. Putting into Operation  9

4. Description of Instrument Functions 9

4.1. Starting the instrument  9
4.2. Prepare sample and start a measurement  10
4.2. Configuration menu  11
5. Important Notes About The Sensor  13
5.1 Correct handling of the sensor  13

6. Calibration 14
6.1. Factory Calibration, Delivery Status  14
6.2. Calibration Process  14
6.3. Clear Calibration Points  15

7. Maintenance 15
7.1. Cleaning of the instrument  15
7.2. Cleaning of the aw-measurement cell „CM-4“   15
7.3. Periodic Recalibration with Humidity Standards  16
7.4. How to check operating conditions of SAL-T standards   16
7.5. Replacing Protection Filters   17

8. Technical Specifications LabStart-aw  19

8.1. Equilibrium humidity values of the   20
SAL-T humidity source  20

9. Troubleshooting 20
9.1. Error Messages  21

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 1. Introduction

1.1 Have an Amazing Start!
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Thank you for having purchased the Novasina LabStart-aw for measuring
water activity. You got a basic and robust but accurate aw-meter. A good start
is essential for every project and undertaking. That is why the LabStart-aw
has been developed. This instrument is simple- to- operate, providing basic
measurement functions, yet still having built-in automatic equilibrium detection
and the well-proven resistive-electrolytic sensor technology as employed in all
Novasina water activity meters.

Optional chemical protection filters assist with high solvent – content samples,
as well as true water activity detection with high repeatability.

Although the LabStart-aw is a starter instrument, it offers great value, is simple

and easy-to-use.

VALID FOR FIRMWARE VERSION V 1.00 AND ABOVE

1.2. Important Notes

Intended use
The Novasina LabStart-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
being damaged. Any use of this Novasina instrument other than intended is
at customer’s own risk and by no means will the manufacturer or supplier be
liable for any resulting damage.

Safety instructions

• The Novasina LabStart-aw system should be serviced, maintained and

repaired only by qualified people who are familiar with the equipment.
• The LabStart-aw system must not be used in hazardous zones or similar
areas. The design was made only for laboratory environments.
• No explosive materials and no highly inflammable substances may be
measured in the measurement chamber system.
• Before connecting the unit to the mains, ensure that:
• The mains voltage is within 90...260V, at 50 or 60Hz. Please check the
type plate of the system!
• The power cable between the mains and the instrument is not damaged.
• The Novasina LabStart-aw system may be used only under the specified
operating conditions (see chapter 8).
• Observe and strictly adhere to the local regulations regarding the handling
of mains- powered devices.
• 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.
• Never open the instrument without removing the mains power cable first
to avoid any risk of dangerous currents.

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2. General Product Description
2.1. System Overview

The LabStart-aw system has been specially developed for determining the

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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 aw-value and is within the range
of 0 (absolute dryness) and 1 (condensing humidity).

Only the free water takes actively part to 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 aw-value determination, the equilibrium air humidity over a sample
(water-vapour pressure) is measured . This behaves proportional to the aw-
value. The fundamental requisite for determining water activity quickly and
with extreme precision is equilibrium state between sample's free water and air
humidity and an excellent moisture sensor that allows an exact, reproducible
measurement over a very wide range (moisture from 0....100% RH). Novasina
has been developing special electrolytic moisture sensors that stand out for
such unique properties for more than 50 years.

The integrated, resistive electrolytic LabStart-aw sensor is based on the new

chemical substance of the Novasina „Novalyte Technology“, which achieves
an outstanding accuracy and reproducibility.

LabStart-aw

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 2.2. System Architecture
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The LabStart-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 NTC-based temperature measurement. Afterwards it is further
processed by a high capacity micro controller. This is handling the LCD display
unit. The mains are supplying the whole electronics with power.

The LabStart-aw does not offer an internal temperature control, but has a
surface temperature sensor based on an infrared measurement. For checking
and adjusting the aW values, humidity standards (see chapter 7.3) can be used.

2.3. Why Equilibrium is important

The basic principle of water activity measurement is the exchange of free water
in your sample with the enclosed, surrounding air in the measurement chamber:

This exchange process ends in equilibrium where the mass transfer of free
water to the air is equal to air humidity diffusing back to sample. At this point
the measurement can be taken. If taken earlier, it might be that more free water
is in the sample than in the air and this results in a wrong value.

2.3.1 How to detect equilibrium?

Novasina's approach is very simple. In equilibrium state, free water mass transfer
is constant, thus, air humidity does not change at all. So, the LabStart-aw is
monitoring th change in air humidity and issues a stable value once the aw-
value does not change more than 0.001aw within two minutes.

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2.4. Overview

2.4.1. Function keys

Each function key has 2 markings. Upper key funtions include main operation

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as starting a measurement or switch screen to see measurement time
Lower functions help the user navigating through the menu .

2.4.2. Function key < Menu >

Measurement mode (upper key funtion)

- With this key the device is switched on
- Access to menu
- Device is switched off if pressed for a long time

Menu mode (lower key function)

- 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

2.4.3. Function key < Actual/Stable >

Measurement mode (upper key function)

- Switches over between the actual measurement value and the

stable value
- By 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 (lower key funtion)

- Switches a menu point downwards

- Decreases a flashing displayed digit

2.4.4. Function key <Start Stop >

Measurement mode (upper key function)

- Starts the measurement

- Interrupts the current measurement

Menu mode (lower key function)

- Switches a menu point upwards

- Increases a flashing displayed digit

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 2.4.5. Display - symbols

Displays the stability progress;

As soon as the measurement has started, the 1st symbol is displayed. When
the stability is reached, all 5 symbols are displayed contemporaneously.
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Actual
Symbol appears, when the actual measurement is displayed.
The symbol is diplayed flashing.
Stable
Symbol appears, when the stable measurement value is displayed.

A LabStart-aw is used as a stand-alone device. The power supply for the

LabStart-aw is done by an external power cord.

2.5. Scope of Delivery

Novasina LabStart-aw Aw- measurement instrument with non-temperature
controlled sample chamber with basic measuremetn functions.

Standard Accessories :
• Power supply with EU and US insert
• 1 unit of humidity standards : SAL-T 75%rH
• 25 pcs standardised disposable sample dishes
• Factory calibration certificate
• Tension ring
• 5 pcs pre-filter (white)

2.6. Optional accessories

Mechanical filter
The white pre-filter protects the measurement cell mechanically from direct
sample contact in case of overfilling of the sample cup. This filter should be
replaced at least once a year or if it became dirty, otherwise there is a risk of
faulty measurement by outgasing material sticked on the filter.

Chemical protection filter for true water activity values

Depending on the application, the LabStart-aw precision measuring cell has
to be protected from damaging, volatile compounds. For this reason, Novasina
provides various protection filters. Please consult the filter data sheet to select
the appropriate protection filter or contact your local Novasina representative
if you need help. Thanks to these filter systems the measurement cell lifetime
can be extended considerably and a true water activity value can be obtained
as the volatiles will be absorbed but water vapour will be passed through.

By this absorption process, the filter will inevitably get saturated by time. A regular
check is mandatory to avoid a contamination of the sensor by an ineffective,
saturated filter system. It is done by calibration intervall surveillance.

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3. Putting into Operation
3.1. Packaging / Installation

The LabStart-aw measurement instrument is delivered in a solid but simple

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packaging including all necessary accessories. Please store this package inc
ase you need to return the instrument to your local Novasina distributor. Upon
receipt, please check first to make sure everything is present, and immediately
notify your Novasina sales partner if anything is 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.

3.2. Putting into Operation

• Check if the local mains voltage matches with the identification plate of the
supplied external power supply and plug it to the socket.
• Plug the external power supply cable to the instrument socket on the back
of the LabStart-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 LabStart-aw is very efficient and requires only little electrical power.
The power supply fits with the latest standards (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 measurements, the instrument
should be in a temperature equilibrium. For this reason the LabStart-aw should
be only switched off, when no measurements are performed for a period of one
month or more.

4. Description of Instrument Functions

The LabStart-aw system is a simple to use laboratory measurement instrument.
It can be adjusted to the user’s needs by parameter settings explained in this
chapter.

4.1. Starting the instrument

After switching on, the LabStart-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 changes automatically to the measu-
rement mode. During the warm up, an extensive function check of the internal
modules as well as of important software function is performed. Observed fai-
lures are shown on the display. During this 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.

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 4.2. Prepare sample and start a measurement

Fill the sample cup with sample. As water activity is not mass depended, the
amount you fill-in does not affect the result. Most appropriate is filling it by half.
Bulkier material must be suitably crushed or manually cut into small pieces.
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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. Do not compress the sample or pinch it out, it would reduce the
surface area. The larger the surface area, the faster the aw value detection.
Put the sample cup in the measurement chamber. Be carful not contacting
the measurement head or measuring cell, especially if powder samples are
measured. Most of them are electrostatically charged and stick to surfaces.
Close the chamber by pushing the upper part of the instrument down until you
hear a click (lock in place of black button). You can now read the actual value
in „aw / %RH“ or „°C / °F“ on the display.

Important!

After closing the instrument, an IR temperature measurement is done right

away. Is the sample 4°C hotter than the system, the information „OPEN CH“
is shown on the 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 LabStart-aw to prevent a condensation inside
the chamber. Otherwise this could lead to a limitation of the measurement
accuracy for a longer period.
Put the cover on the sample dish and let it 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 measurement is started by pressing the „Start/Stop“ button. Once pressed,

the analysis function is initiated and the display shows „ANALIZING“.
As long as it is flashing alternately (Analizing/ ...°C) the aw-value and the tem-
perature are not stable. The result can be read at earliest when the „stable“-
value is displayed. An acoustic signal indicates the end of the measurement .

During the analysis the display shows permanently the current aw-value and on
the 2nd display line alternately the sample temperature. As soon as the measure-
ment has reached stability, the stable value is displayed. on the right side of the
display, a stable indicator is helping the user to determin whether it is close or
far away from stable conditions thus completion of measurement. This indicator
consists of 5 bars which will get fuller as more the stable conditions are fulfiled.
If the measurement chamber is opened or not completely closed, the measu-
rement will either not start or will be interrupted immediately.

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 4.1.2. Switching over the measurement display

The LabStart-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.

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Also the current measuring time respectively the stability time and sample
number can be called up by pushing the Actual/Stable button for a longer time.

The current mode is shown by an arrow in the lower right display area („Actual“
or „Stable“).

4.1.3. Stability parameter setting

Different than other Novasina aw-meters, the LabStart-aw does not offer a
stable time selection. There is just one mode (F (fast)) available which is equal
to a stability time of 2mins.

4.1.4. 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.
Switch-off the LabStart-aw before power supply is interrupted.

4.2. Configuration menu

By pushing the button [Menu] you get to the configuration menu, where you
can select the single menu points using the button (up) or (down) to navigate.

4.2.1. 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 < 0.001 aw can be optimised for each sample. This is, together with a con-
stant temperature during the measurement, the most important criteria for
an accurate, reliable and stable value. The LabStart-aw has just one pre-set
mode (F). If you need a selectable stability time or different modes, opt-in for
another instrument.

BEEPDUR
Setting of the duration of the acoustic signal once the stability has been reached.
Acoustig signal („beep“) at stability :
Duration of the acoustic signal („beep“) : 0...10 min; 0 = OFF

EXIT
Quit the submenu „Stability factor“.

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 4.2.2 Submenu „Calibration“ - * CALIB

With this function the LabStart-aw can be checked periodically and if neces-
sary adjusted at two points with the Novasina humidity standards „SAL-T“. One
standard (75%rH) is supplied with each LabStart-aw. This re-usable salt tablets
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can be inserted into the measurement chamber and generates well defined
aw values. Please refer to chapter 6.2. if you need a step by step guidance
through the calibration process.

CAL XX

The deviation between the actual measurement value and the chosen reference
value (=calibration point) is displayed. The instrument recognises automatically
the used humidity reference as soon as the menu is activated. The temperature
influence on the humidity reference is also taken into account. With the buttons
[up] or [down] the second calibration point can be selected. If a value has not
been calibrated, the display flashes. If then „Enter“ is pressed, the value is
calibrated after a query.

CAL CLR

Single or all calibration points can be cancelled int his menu

CLR Cxx = cancels a single point (xx)

ALL = cancels all calibration points
no = no calibration point is cancelled

„EXIT“
Quit the submenu „Calibration“

4.2.3. Submenu „Display settings“- * LCD

Set contrast and displayed units in this menu.

CONTR
For an comfortable reading, the display contrast can be adapted individually.

LC-Display contrast: 0....9

UNIT

The LabStart-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
Quit the submenu „Display settings“

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5. Important Notes About The Sensor

The sensor supplied with the Novasina LabStart-aw was factory tested and then
calibrated at the following two aw-value reference points : 0.33aw and 0.75aw.

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Humidity sensors are subject to certain ageing phenomena, which manifest
themselves in deviations from the original value. These deviations can be com-
pensated by recalibration. We therefore recommend you to periodically check
the accuracy at the humidity reference points by verification and to recalibrate
the instrument if deviation is more than +/-0.01aw to the theoretical value at
given temperature.
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 LabStart-aw afterwards.

5.1 Correct handling of the sensor

Please read this information carefully, especially if you have purchased

a replacement sensor and you are going to install it.
The Novasina sensor is a highly sensitive precision device. Please observe
the following rules in order to avoid measuring errors or even destruction of
the sensor :

• Do not let fall down either the measurement cell nor the LabStart-aw or
physically shock it.
• Do not process a measurement if the white pre-filter is not mounted.
• Use Novasina protection filters, which can be mounted in front of the sensor,
if you measure samples containing volatiles as acids, glycerin, PEG, alcohols
or aroma. The protection filter absorbs the volatile compound but let water
vapor passing thru. This way you will get a true water activity value even
if volatiles are present in the sample. Ask your local supplier to get more
info about filters.
• Sensors that are not used should be stored in the original plastic case in a
dust free, neutral atmosphere at room temperature and ambient humidity.
• If the LabStart-aw is not in use, keep the measurement chamber empty
and closed.
• Do not clean the sensor, you will detroy it! Clean the measurement chamber
from time to time but do not use aggressive or abrasive chemicals.
• Never connect the sensor to an Ohmmeter or other anaylzing equipment.
This may damage the sensor and will expire the warranty of the sensor!

Note:
If possible always leave the LabStart-aw switched ON. The integrated heating
system protects the sensor from saturation and the instrument is always ready
for the next measurement.

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 6. Calibration
6.1. Factory Calibration, Delivery Status
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Every LabStart-aw , as well as every new replacement sensor „CM-4“ is delivered

factory calibrated at 0.33aw and 0.75aw which is confirmed on the included
factory certificate. A LabStart-aw has its full accuracy even after exchange
of a new sensor, No initial calibration by the customer is required as sensor
is shipped pre-calibrated. Best practice is verifying the sensor after mounting.
For the verification and a possible calibration of the LabStart-aw there is one
SAL-T salt tablet (75%rH) included. If required, a 33%rH SAL-T standards is
available as accessory. These reusable salt standards generate defined and
reproducible humidity- respectively aw- values.
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. Experience in the field have shown
that a calibration once a month is more than sufficient.

6.2. Calibration Process

Before calibrating the instrument, the following points should be considered:

• The calibration can only be processed between 15°C - 30°C.

• An adequate visual control and the right handling of the SAL-T standards
has to be done in advance.
• 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 first the SAL-T 75 into the chamber. Close the chamber and
wait at least 45mins before you proceed. This time is necessary to reach the
equilibrium in humidity and get a high precision. Afterwards you can proceed:

The calibration function is seleceted in the menu: „* CALIB“ -> „CAL xx““.

The system automatically shows you the reference value, which is nearby the
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 selec-
ted reference value (= calibration point) is shown now.

The temperature influence on the humidity reference is taken into account.

Activate the calibration by pushing the „enter“ key.

For safety reason you will now be asked again, if the calibration at this point
really should be carried out - „SAVE ?“. 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.

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 Now you can go forward with the calibration of the 33%rH point if you have
purchased this salt standard from Novasina. Please note that only those two
points (75%rH and 33%rH) are available on the LabStart-aw. All other SAL-
T standards will not be recognized but can be used for verification purpose.
Define internal calibration routines in your quality process to assure that the

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procedure is always performed equally.

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 performed when you enter
the menu:

„* CALIB“ -> „CAL CLR““. By selection of the adequate menu point the func-
tion is carried out.

7. Maintenance

7.1. Cleaning of the instrument

Before cleaning, switch off the LabStart-aw and disconnect it from the mains.

For cleaning of the whole instrument, use a soft and slightly humid cloth. If you
consider using a cleaning or desinfecting agent, please verify that it should not
contain any aggressive substances. Whenever possible, use water. Air the
measurement chamber afterwards to remove residual humidity, otherwise it
might lead to wrong results.
Make sure that no liquid find its way inside the instrument. Protect as well the
connectors on the backside from any cleaning liquid.

7.2. Cleaning of the aw-measurement cell „CM-4“

Please do NEVER clean the sensor CM-4 itself. The sensor is a very sen-
sitive element with a chemical filter protection on the top. Every cleaning
with chemical or mechanical means (wiping, use pressuirzed air etc.)
will destroy the measuring sensor inevitably. Possible warranty claims
expire instantly.

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 7.3. Periodic Recalibration with Humidity Standards

Like all precision measurement instruments, the LabStart-aw must be chec-

ked periodically and if necessary recalibrated. This procedure was already
described in the chapter 6. Only in this way you can secure the accuracy of
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your measurements. The Novasina SAL-T humidity standards are applicable

for this procedure.

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:

• Verify the instrument weekly with the SAL-T 75% or 33%. For that purpose,
please the SAL-T standard in the chamber, close it and wait 45mins
• Compare the current value with theoretical one at given temperature
• If deviation is more than +/-0.01aw, calibrate the instrument. Just go to
*CAL menu and perform without opening the chamber. This way you can
profit from the already established equilibrium.

7.4. How to check operating conditions of SAL-T standards

There is no expiry date defined for the humidity standards. We can only refer
to past experience of customers regarding the length of time for which these
can be used for, which is between 2 to 5 years before they have to renew them.
However, this is not guaranteed since it depends on the handling, storage,
the frequency of use and also on the type of humidity standards themselves.
Clumps are not an issue as long as there is always some small salt crystalls
are present in the tablet. Please make sure that all SAL-T standrads are shaken
twice a month for approx. 1 minute, nevertheless if used or not.

The check of operationality has to be done visually. Below you can find pictures
and information regarding the two SAL-T standards which can be used with
the LabStart-aw. To proceed with the visual check, remove salt tablet from
plastic container, shake it and place it on a table with white membrane facing
towards the table.

SAL-T 75%
Solid white cristals in pink colored solution.
Ratio of solid crystals and water is approx. half/half.
Standard is no longer in good shape if water amount
is less than 1/3 or if just salt crystals are left.

SAL-T 33%
Sticky blue water/salt mixture.
Ratio of solid crystals and water is approx. half/half.
Standard is no longer in good shape if water
amount is less than 1/3 or if just salt crystals are left.

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7.5. Replacing Protection Filters

Always use protection filters to protect the measuring sensor from contamina-
tion by unwanted particles or volatile components. Various filters are available
for different type of volatiles. Please consult the filter selection data sheet or

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contact your local Novasina agent if you need help.

Such chemical protection filters have to be replaced periodically due to the fact
that they get saturated. Filters can increase the measurement time.

Novasina provides the following protection filters for the LabStart-aw :

• eVC-21 filter :
Chemical filter: protects against short-chained organic acids as acetic and
formic acid and other carboxylic acids (butyric acid etc) and oxidizing agents
as hydrogen peroxide and chlorine and as well againts diluted sulfur dioxide

• eVC-26 filter :
Chemical filter: protects against various substances as nitrogen oxides,
amines, aldehyde solvents, aromatic hydrocarbons, oil vapours, fine dust
particles.

• Redox filter :
Chemical filter : protects against volatiles containing primary and secondary
alcohols (attention, ethanol is an exception, eVALC filter or special alcohol
cell has then be used), gylcerin, glycols, aroma, perfumes, flavours etc.

• eVALC-1 alcohol filter :

Chemical-mechanical filter : protects against fine dust or alcohol (ethanol)
till a content of 0.5% (mass percent) in the sample.

7.5.1 How check protection filters for saturation

All filters are apsorption-type, thus they will become saturated after some time
and loose their functionality. It is of crucial importance to check the filter for
saturation. Please proceed as follows:

1. Select a SAL-T standard which has an aw-value close to the procudts

which are normally measured with the instrument.
2. Shake the standard and place it into the measurement chamber. Close the
chamber and wait for 45 minutes. Take the reading.
3. Compare the reading with the theoretical value at this point and at the
measurement temperature.
4. If the deviation is more than +/- 0.01aw, perform a calibration. Note the
date of calibration.
5. If the calibration interval gets shorter (i.e. from 30 days to 20 days) at least
two times in a row, replace the filter. The more frequent calibration is an
indication for sensor contamination.
6. By replacing the filter, you get an idea about the exchange internval (install
date to exchange date) and you can define a standard filter exchange interval.

Attention !
Defective or wrong mounted filters do not fullfil their function and provide the
risk of instrument or sensor damage. Such filters must be replaced immediately.

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 7.6. Replacing a CM-4 Sensor Unit

The LabStart-aw contains sensitive electronic assemblies. Please protect these

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items from electrostatic discharge (esd) by discharging yourself at a grounded,

conductive surface (e.g. radiator) before you open the housing of the instrument.

• Switch off the instrument and disconnect the mains from the system.
• Open the measurement chamber and dismount the 4 screws of the cover
plate using the hexagon wrench which was delivery with the instrument
• The housing cover can now be separated from the upper measurement
chamber plate

NOTE: The upper measurement chamber plate is still connected to the lower
housing by a ribbon cable. Do not loosen or remove the ribbon!
• Look for the board which covers the sensor and remove it by grabbing the
PCB on the side walls and firmly lifting it.
• Remove now the two screws which fix the actual sensor in the measuring
head and remove the sensor unit completely out of the head.

Note:
It is recommended to exchange the white pre-filter (sinter filter) as well. Press
the sinter filter downwards and insert a new one.

• Insert now the new measuring sensor in the respective place and fix it with
the two screws.

Warning !

• Never apply any pressure with any item on the top of the measuring cell.
This might damage the sensor protection filter and makes the sensor uesless
• Always remove the measuring sensor while exchanging the sinter filter,
otherwise you risk that the sensor and a purchase of a new one would be
required.

Important: Make sure you mount back the cover correctly. Special care has to
be taken for the 4 screws fixing the cover to the cover plate. Screw them tightly.
If cover is not closed properly, measurement problems can occur

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8. Technical Specifications LabStart-aw
General :

Supply : 5VDC +/- 6%, max. 4W (during charging of battery)

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Normal operation < 0.5W
Line adapter* : 90 - 264 VAC, 50/60 Hz, output 5VDC
(Novasina part no. 260 0505)
* can only be operated in the range of 0...+40°C

Operating ambient conditions:

Operating temperature : 5 ... 45 °C (during charging max. 40°C)
Humidity range : 5 ... 95%rh, not saturated
Dimensions (instrument) : 225x140x85 mm
Weight (instrument) : 1.2 kg
Protection class : IP 30

Temperature measurement :
Measuring principle : NTC
Measuring range : 5 ... 45 °C
Accuracy : +/- 0.15 °C
Resolution : 0.1 °C

Humidity measurement :
Measuring principle : Resistive-electrolytic sensor
Measuring range : 0.03 ... 1.00 aw
Measuring accuracy after : +/- 0.03aw (within the calibration range)
2-point-calibration : between 15 ... 30 °C
Resolution : 0.01aw (1%rh)
Repeatability : +/- 0.01 aw

Display :
Type : Reflectible LC-Display wiht adjustable contrast
Dimensions : 35x69 mm

Instrument standards :
Tested CE standards : The LabStart-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 (IR) measurement up to 1,5 K during the radiation!

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 8.1. Equilibrium humidity values of the
SAL-T humidity source
Type of Novasina EU Toxic Color Chem. % relative humidity in relation Literature
Hum.check type classe of salt symbols of temperature (x / 100 in aw) Reference
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15°C 20°C 25°C 30°C

SAL-T / 33 SC-33 -- blue MgCl2-6H2O 33.3 33.1 32.8 32.4 A

SAL-T / 75 SC-75 -- purple NaCl 75.6 75.5 75.3 75.1 A/B

Lit : A : Greenspan, Humidity Fixed points of Binary Saturated Aequeous Solutions

Journal of Research of the National Bureau of Standards Vol. 81A, No1 01/02 1977
B : Robinson R.A. and Stokes R.H. Electrolyte Solutions, Butterworths London 1959
C : Wexler, Humidity and Moisture Vol.3, Fundamentals and Standards, Robert E.Krieger,
Publishing Company Huntingon, New York

9. Troubleshooting

The calibration of the aw-value is not possible?

1. Check if SAL-T standards are in good shape or not. If not, replace.
2. Sensor is defective or contaminated and has to be replaced

You have a drift of the aw-value after completing the measurement

1. Temperature of the probe is not in equilibrium process
2. Sample has a second sorption step. In this case, the LabStart-aw is not appropriate

Reading of the LCD screen is very bad

1. Contrast of the screen is not set properly
2. Ambient light is bad. Please change the place of the instrument

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 9.1. Error Messages

If any error message appears on the LabStart-aw screen, please proceed as

follows:

Please write down the error message carefully or take a picture. Switch

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the instrument off and restart. If the error message persists, please follow
the instructions on the table and/or contact your Novasina representative
(www.novasina.com)

Error report Error description Needed action

„DEW“ SAL-T standard or sample is too Immediately open the chamber, take out sample,
hot put cover on it and let cool down. Then take away
cover and restart measurement.
„RANGE“ Measurement value is outside Check humidity standard.
calibration range Check if correct calibration range of SAL-T stan-
dard has been choosen.
Replace sensor
„TEMP“ Calibration temperature is outside Check ambient conditions and replocate instrument
allowed range of 15°C....30°C if temperature requirwements can not be met.
„XX SENSOR“ Error given by measurement cell The installed humidity sensor is either not compa-
tible or not accepted by the instrument. restart the
instrument. If error persists, please contact your
local distributor
„NO SENS“ Measurement cell was not reco- Double-check, if a measurement cell (CM-4) is
gnized installed. If error persists, please contact your local
distributor
„FATAL“ An internal error occured If error persists, please take a picture of the error
code and send it to your local distributor

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English

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 English
Novasina – Swiss Quality, Flexibility and Competence
Since its establishment almost 50 years ago, the Novasina company has specialised in the accu-
rate measuring of air and material humidity. The basis of this was the world’s first, self-developed
electronic measuring sensor for measuring humidity. This technology is based on the resistive
electrolytic measurement principle. This was further developed and optimised over decades. This
measuring principle is generally the most demanding and most accurate. Modern substances and
materials allow continuous optimisation and expansion of the area of application of this measuring
sensor. Today the highly accurate humidity measurement is among our core competences and
forms an important pillar of our success. Intensive research and development further ensures a
decisive advantage for us. Novasina sensors and measuring instruments are mainly applied to the
area of air and material humidity. This is almost exclusively used in industrial applications as well
as in research and development.

We fully develop and produce Novasina precision measuring instruments in which our Know-how
of many years is always included. We are proud of the „SWISS MADE“ label, which guarantees
the highest quality, innovation and longevity.

The diversity of our customers, business partners and applications as well as our international
orientation makes Novasina the competent partner for demanding humidity measurements in the
industrial area!

Your Novasina Team

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: [email protected], www.novasina.com

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