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Elcometer 331

Half-Cell Meter

Model HM

Operating Instruction

en

T with EU regulations governingE

Note: Re ncy electromagnetic strength ofgreater th© Copyri

of Elcometer Limited.Material S downloaded via our website:Elcometewww.elcoElcometewww.elcoAll other Document may be reproduced,transmitte lated into any language, in anyform or b or otherwise) without the priorwritten peA copy of via www.elcometer.com

Doc.No. TMA-0435 Issue 04Text with Cover No: 20589

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he Elcometer 331 Half-Cell Meter has been tested in accordancelectro-magnetic compliance and it meets the required directives.

adings may be affected if the unit is operated within a radio frequean 3 V/m.

ght Elcometer Limited. 2008-2012.

, CoverMaster® and are registered trademarksafety Data Sheets for the Elcometer 331 Half Cell Probes can be

r 331 Half Cell Probe Copper-Copper Sulphate (Cu-CuS04)meter.com/images/MSDS/elcometer_331_half_cell_copper.pdfr 331 Half Cell Probe Silver-Siliver Chloride (Ag-AgCI)meter.com/images/MSDS/elcometer_331_half_cell_silver.pdftrademarks acknowledged. All rights reserved. No part of this d, transcribed, stored (in a retrieval system or otherwise) or transy any means (electronic, mechanical, magnetic, optical, manualrmission of Elcometer Limited. this Instruction Manual is available for download on our Website

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Page. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

CONTENTS

Section1 About your Half-Cell Meter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Quick-start . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Getting started . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 The menus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Measuring half-cell potential . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Setting limits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Statistics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Batching/Data logging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 A typical survey (using grid batch memory) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Plotting batches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Transferring readings to a computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Half-cell probes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Personalised welcome screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Error messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Technical data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Related equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Index. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

me to Elcometer.pection equipment for concretee range of concrete, and civilcts of coating inspection, from

hase of this Half-Cell Meter your. For more information visit our

nd accurate assessment of the

nique commonly used to assessent acts as a voltmeter which

ncrete structure and a reference

r Model HM.

hical interface which guides thele to suit your requirements.

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Thank you for your purchase of this Elcometer 331 Half-Cell Meter. WelcoElcometer are world leaders in the design, manufacture and supply of insand coatings. Our concrete inspection products include a comprehensivengineering inspection equipment. Our coatings products cover all aspedevelopment through application to post application inspection.The Elcometer 331 Half-Cell Meter is a world beating product. With the purcnow have access to the worldwide service and support network of Elcometewebsite at www.elcometer.com

1 ABOUT YOUR HALF-CELL METER

The Elcometer 331 Half-Cell Meter is a portable Half-Cell Meter for fast apotential for corrosion of concrete reinforcement bars.Your Half-Cell Meter measures half-cell potential - an electrochemical techthe potential for corrosion in reinforced concrete structures. The instrummeasures the potential difference between the steel reinforcement in the coelectrode (the half-cell) placed on the surface of the concrete.The Half-Cell Meter is available in two versions:• Model H (entry level)• Model HM (with data logging)

This manual describes the operation of the Elcometer 331 Half-Cell Mete

Both versions of the instrument feature an easy-to-use menu-driven grapuser during setup and measurement. A range of half-cell probes is availab

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ensure that this packaging isvironmental Authority for further

lease take some time to readour Elcometer supplier if you

lcometer 331 ModelPage

H HM12

-

14

33

35

35

29

27

53

54

49

This instrument is packed in cardboard and plastic packaging. Pleasedisposed of in an environmentally sensitive manner. Consult your Local Enguidance.

To maximise the benefits of your new Elcometer 331 Half-Cell Meter pthese Operating Instructions. Do not hesitate to contact Elcometer or yhave any questions.

1.1 FEATURES

FeatureE

Menu-driven backlit graphical user interface

Weather proof to IP65

Multiple languages

Memory - multiple linear and grid batches, up to 240 000 readings

Text fields for input of user data in each batch

Date and time stamping

Statistical analysis of readings and batches

Alarm if reading is outside limits

Transfer readings and statistics to a computer

CoverMaster® software for batch setup, data transfer and reporting

Plot mode

wing National and International

to be ordered separately - see

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1.2 STANDARDSThe Elcometer 331 Half-Cell Meter can be used in accordance with the folloStandards; ASTM C876, DGZfP:B3, TR60, UNI 10174.

1.3 WHAT THIS BOX CONTAINS• Elcometer 331 Model HM Half-Cell Meter• Rechargeable battery pack and battery charger (UK, EUR & US)• 25 m extension cable on spool• 1.7 m red rebar cable with connecting clip• 1.7 m black half-cell connecting cable• Earphone• Shoulder strap• CD containing CoverMaster® software• Data transfer cable• Plastic carrying case• Operating instructionsNote: Half-Cell probes are not supplied with the main instrument and have“Accessories” on page 61.

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- see “The menus” on page 16.

MENU would be shown in these

Figure 1. Elcometer 331 Half-Cell Meter

1.4 CONVENTIONS IN THESE INSTRUCTIONSA simple menu structure helps you get the most from your Half-Cell MeterThere are many references to this menu structure in these instructions.As an example, the LANGUAGE option which is in SETUP from the MAIN instructions as:

MENU / SETUP / LANGUAGE

ting a language” on page 14.

6 to 23.

Cell Meter. It contains essentiald the display. At the end of this

ck which can be charged inside

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2 QUICK-START

Note: Before switching the Half-Cell Meter on for the first time read “SelecTo configure the Half-Cell Meter quickly and start taking readings:1. Charge the batteries see page 72. Fit half-cell probe and cables see page 103. Switch on see page 124. Select language see page 145. Take readings of half-cell potential see page 246. To use memory see page 33For an overview of your Half-Cell Meter menus and functions, see pages 1

3 GETTING STARTED

This section of the instructions is intended for first-time users of the Half-information about batteries, assembling the Half-Cell Meter, the controls ansection you will be ready to take readings.

3.1 THE POWER SUPPLYYour Half-Cell Meter is powered by a rechargeable Lithium-Iona battery paor outside the Half-Cell Meter.

a. The Half-Cell Meter is not designed to operate using dry cell batteries.

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roductivity on site, Elcometerd while you are using your Half-

61), contact Elcometer or your

Meter for the first time. Use onlyf any other type of charger is ae warranty. Do not attempt to

charger is not covered.

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One battery pack is supplied with the Half-Cell Meter. To increase precommends that you purchase a spare battery pack which can be chargeCell Meter. To order an additional battery pack (see “Accessories” on pagelocal Elcometer supplier.

CHARGING THE BATTERIESThe rechargeable battery must be fully charged before using the Half-Cell the charger supplied with your Half-Cell Meter to charge the battery. Use opotential hazard, may damage your Half-Cell Meter and will invalidate thcharge any other batteries with the supplied charger.Always charge the battery indoors. To prevent overheating, ensure that the1. Unscrew the

retaining screw (1)and open theinterface accesscover (2) on the rearof the Half-CellMeter. 3

the charger will glow orange.ges colour from orange to green

upply before removing the lead

w the two battery pack retainingo charge the battery once it hasttery pack.

the battery terminals; this may.

(battery removed)

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2. Connect the leadfrom the charger intothe socket marked‘Charger Input’behind the interfaceaccess cover.The Half-Cell Meterwill automaticallyswitch off when thelead from thecharger isconnected.

3. Plug the charger supplied into the mains supply. The LED indicator on 4. Leave the gauge charging for at least 4 hours. The LED indicator chan

when charging is complete.5. When charging is complete, disconnect the charger from the mains s

from the Half-Cell Meter.To remove the battery pack for charging outside the Half-Cell Meter, unscrescrews (3) at the rear of the Half-Cell Meter and slide out the battery pack. Tbeen removed, connect the lead from the charger into the socket on the ba

Warning: Do not allow metallic objects to come into contact withcause a short circuit and result in permanent damage to the battery

(battery in the Half-Cell Meter)

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arger to generators or any otherC mains outlet supplied from an sources such as generators ory and/or the gauge, invalidating

charging requiredeeps and then switch off.

Warning: Do not attempt to connect the supply side of the battery chmedium to high power source other than the single phase 50 Hz Aapproved and safe mains switchboard. Connection to other supplyinverters may have the potential to damage the charger, the batterwarranty.

BATTERY CONDITION INDICATORThe state of charge of the battery is shown by a symbol on the display:

= full charge, = low charge, (flashing + beep every 10 seconds) = When the battery is completely exhausted the instrument will emit 5 loud b

Black cable

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3.2 FITTING HALF-CELL PROBESConnect the probe and cables asshown.

Red cable

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re are two types of keys on the

Switches the Half-Cell Meter on or off

Selects menu itemsToggles tick boxes on/offConfirms values entered on displayAdds reading to statistical analysisAdds reading to batch (if batch is open)

3.3 THE CONTROLSAll functions of the Half-Cell Meter can be controlled using the keypad. Thekeypad; fixed function keys and ‘soft’ keys (Figure 2).

Figure 2. Half-Cell Meter keypad

Scrolls up/downthrough menus

and lists of valuesIncreases/decreases

alphanumericvalues

Accesses menusEscapes from

menusDiscards values

entered ondisplay

The function of these ‘soft’ keys varies and is defined by symbols

and text on the screen

p to extend the battery life (time, 8, 9 or 10 minutes.

e Half-Cell Meter switches offalf-Cell Meter is about to switchtic switch off.

display of your Half-Cell Meter.

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3.4 SWITCHING THE HALF-CELL METER ON AND OFFTo switch the Half-Cell Meter on, press [ ].To switch the Half-Cell Meter off, press and hold [ ] for two seconds.The Half-Cell Meter includes an automatic switch off feature which will helbetween charges). The automatic switch off time can be set to OFF, 5, 6, 7

MENU / SETUP / AUTO SWITCH OFFA countdown timer is displayed on the screen 60 seconds before thautomatically. The timer counts down from 60 to 0 to warn you that the Hoff. Press any key while the countdown timer is displayed to cancel automa

3.5 THE DISPLAYTake some time to familiarise yourself with the information shown on the The display shows:• Welcome information• Measurement information• Menus to configure the Half-Cell Meter and control functions• Help and miscellaneous information

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tion screenb may be displayed

ts, reviewing readings or setting

ading Screen.

NG SCREEN.gauge - see “Personalised welcome

When the Half-Cell Meter is switched on an opening (welcome) informabriefly before the main reading screen appears.The information shown depends upon whether you are taking measuremenup the Half-Cell Meter.The main screen displayed (while you are taking measurements) is the Re

READING SCREEN1. Half-cell potential - bar graph (zero at centre)2. Half-cell potential - numerical

SYMBOLSA wide range of symbols is used on the display. Themeaning of all these symbols is stored in the Half-CellMeter.

MENU / ABOUT / HELP

LCD CONTRASTAdjust the contrast of the display to suit lighting conditions.

MENU / SETUP / LCD CONTRAST

b. The opening (welcome) screen can be disabled. MENU / SETUP / OPENICustomised welcome screens can be created on a PC and downloaded into the screen” on page 58.

1

2

ds after any key is pressed andg the backlight off will increase

gure 3. Language selection screen

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BACKLIGHTThe display includes a backlight which illuminates the display for 10 seconduring measurements. Switch the backlight on or off as required. Switchinbattery life.

MENU / BACKLIGHT

TIME AND DATEThe time and date can be displayed on the top line of the reading screen.

MENU / SETUP / DISPLAY / SHOW TIME

3.6 SELECTING A LANGUAGEYour Half-Cell Meter has a number of built-in languages. When theHalf-Cell Meter is switched on for the first time after dispatch fromthe Elcometer factory the display will show the language selectionscreen (Figure 3).

AT FIRST SWITCH ON1. Press [ ] or [ ] to locate language required.2. Press [ ] to activate the selected language.The Half-Cell Meter operates in the new language until changed.

AT ANY TIME1. Switch the Half-Cell Meter off.2. Press and hold left hand softkey.

3. Press [ ] to switch on Half-Cell Meter.

Fi

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nt language highlighted by the

ated under the interface access

he Half-Cell Meter to the RS232you can:onalised welcome screen” on

gs to a computer” on page 53).

on the front of the Half-Celle “Accessories” on page 61.

alf-Cell Meter to a USB port on your

The display will show the language selection screen with the currecursor.

4. Release left hand softkey.5. Press [ ] or [ ] to locate language required.6. Press [ ] to activate the selected language.Alternatively, select a language at any time.

MENU / SETUP / LANGUAGE

3.7 COMPUTER INTERFACEYour Half-Cell Meter is fitted with an RS232 interface. The interface is loccover at the rear of the Half-Cell Meter - see page 7.This 5-pin RS232 interface is used with the data transfer cable to connect tportc of a computer. When the Half-Cell Meter is connected to a computer • Download personalised screens to the Half-Cell Meter (see “Pers

page 58).• Transfer measurement data to a PC or printer (see “Transferring readin

3.8 USING THE EARPHONETo use the earphone, plug the connector into the 3.5 mm socket marked Meter. Replacement earphones are available as an optional accessory - se

c. An RS232 to USB transfer cable is available which allows you to connect your Hcomputer. For ordering information, see “Accessories” on page 61.

n of each menu item is given in

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4 THE MENUS

The menus of your instrument are shown on the next page and a descriptiothe following paragraphs.To access the menus press the MENU softkey.To return to the reading screen quickly, press and hold the MENU softkey.

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DATA LOGGER

STATISTICS PRINT/OUTPUT SETUP ABOUT RESET ress and during measurement.

erger starts data logger

eadings

PLOT OPTIONS gs

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4.1 MENUDATA LOGGER . . . . . . Opens Data logger menu . . . . . . . . . . . . See 4.2BACKLIGHT . . . . . . . . . Toggles the display backlight on or offSTATISTICS . . . . . . . . . Opens Statistics menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . See 4.3PRINT/OUTPUT . . . . . . Opens Print/output menu . . . . . . . . . . . . See 4.4SETUP . . . . . . . . . . . . . Opens Setup menu. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . See 4.5ABOUT . . . . . . . . . . . . . Opens About menu. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . See 4.6RESET . . . . . . . . . . . . . Opens Reset menu. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . See 4.7Note: When Backlight is on, the display is lit for 30 seconds after any key p

4.2 DATA LOGGEREXIT BATCHING. . . . . . Switches off data loggerOPEN NEW BATCH . . . Opens a new memory batch and starts data loggOPEN EXISTING BATCHOpens existing memory batch and starts data logCLONE BATCH. . . . . . . Creates a clone of an existing memory batch andREVIEW BATCH. . . . . . Opens an existing memory batch for viewing of rPLOT BATCH . . . . . . . . Plots batch readings on the displayPLOT OPTIONS . . . . . . Sets plot options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . See 4.8EDIT BATCH TAGS . . . Opens an existing memory batch for editing of taDELETE BATCH . . . . . . Deletes one memory batchDELETE ALL BATCHES Deletes all memory batchesFREE MEMORY . . . . . . Displays amount of free memory (%)> see “Batching/Data logging” on page 33

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SELECT STATS

0 UNITS 1 LIMITS 2 CLOCK 3 OUTPUT 4 DISPLAY (maximum), then press Entern press enter

o 10 mins/off, then press Enterffd then press Enter

4.3 STATISTICSENLARGE STATS. . . . . Displays statistics in a larger font sizeCLEAR STATS . . . . . . . Resets to zero all statistical valuesSELECT STATS . . . . . . Opens Select stats menu . . . . . . . . . . . . See 4.9> see “Statistics” on page 29

4.4 PRINT/OUTPUTSINGLE BATCH . . . . . . Prints or outputs to PC a single memory batchALL BATCHES . . . . . . . Prints or outputs to PC all memory batchesCURRENT STATISTICS Prints or outputs to PC the current statistics> see “Transferring readings to a computer” on page 53

4.5 SETUPUNITS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Opens Units menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . See 4.1LIMITS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . Opens Limits menu. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . See 4.1CLOCK . . . . . . . . . . . . . Opens Clock menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . See 4.1OUTPUT . . . . . . . . . . . . Opens Output menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . See 4.1DISPLAY . . . . . . . . . . . . Opens Display menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . See 4.1BEEP VOLUME. . . . . . . Use Scroll keys to select beep volume 0 (off) to 5LANGUAGE . . . . . . . . . Use Scroll keys to select menu language and theAUTO SWITCH OFF. . . Use Scroll keys to select auto switch off time, 5 tOPENING SCREEN . . . Press Enter to toggle the opening screen on or oLCD CONTRAST . . . . . Use Scroll keys to select LCD contrast, 0 to 8 an

t the Half-Cell Metere and

mbols used on the display

nal settingsd

ingse

reset is activated.

aximum readings in the batchaximum limits in the batchreshold

then press Enter

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4.6 ABOUTGAUGE INFORMATION Press Enter to display technical information abouCONTACT. . . . . . . . . . . Press Enter to display Elcometer offices worldwid

(if programmed) Supplier contact detailsHELP. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Press Enter to display an explanation of all the sy

4.7 RESETINTL GAUGE. . . . . . . . . Press Enter to Reset Half-Cell Meter to Internatio

(DD/MM/YYYY date format, metric units, etc.)USA GAUGE. . . . . . . . . Press Enter to Reset Half-Cell Meter to USA sett

(MM/DD/YYYY date format, imperial units, etc.)Note: The Half-Cell Meter will display a Yes/No confirmation screen before

4.8 PLOT OPTIONSGREYSCALE MIN/MAX Sets plot greyscale between the minimum and mGREYSCALE LIMITS . . Sets plot greyscale between the minimum and mTHRESHOLD VIEW . . . Sets plot to white, or black below an adjustable thSET THRESHOLD . . . . Press Enter, use Scroll keys to adjust value and > see “Plot options” on page 51

d. International settings can also be activated at switch on:Press and hold third softkey and switch on gauge.

e. USA settings can also be activated at switch on:Press and hold fourth softkey and switch on gauge.

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me time.

5 LOW LIMIT 6 HIGH LIMIT

e and date, then press Enter

4.9 SELECT STATSNO. OF READINGS . . . Press Enter to toggle on or offMEAN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Press Enter to toggle on or offSTD DEVIATION. . . . . . Press Enter to toggle on or offCOEF OF VARIAT’N. . . Press Enter to toggle on or offLOWEST READING . . . Press Enter to toggle on or offHIGHEST READING. . . Press Enter to toggle on or offUNDER RANGE . . . . . . Press Enter to toggle on or offBELOW LIMIT . . . . . . . . Press Enter to toggle on or offABOVE LIMIT . . . . . . . . Press Enter to toggle on or offOVER RANGE . . . . . . . Press Enter to toggle on or offBLANK. . . . . . . . . . . . . . Press Enter to toggle on or offNote: Only two statistics from the above list can be toggled to ‘on’ at the sa

4.10 UNITSCELCIUS. . . . . . . . . . . . Press Enter to toggle on or offFAHRENHEIT . . . . . . . . Press Enter to toggle on or off

4.11 LIMITSLOW LIMIT . . . . . . . . . . Opens Low limit menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . See 4.1HIGH LIMIT . . . . . . . . . . Opens High limit menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . See 4.1

4.12 CLOCKTIME/DATE . . . . . . . . . . Use Scroll keys and Left/Right softkeys to set tim

7 SET DATE FORMAT

8 BAUD RATE

the same time.

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SET DATE FORMAT. . . Opens Set date format menu . . . . . . . . . See 4.1

4.13 OUTPUTBAUD RATE . . . . . . . . . Opens Baud rate menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . See 4.1RS232 BIT IMAGE . . . . Press Enter to toggle on or offRS232 PLAIN TEXT . . . Press Enter to toggle on or offNote: RS232 Bit Image and RS232 Plain Text cannot be toggled to ‘on’ at> see “Transferring readings to a computer” on page 53

4.14 DISPLAYSHOW TIME . . . . . . . . . Press Enter to toggle on or offSTATS ON LCD . . . . . . Press Enter to toggle on or offNote: Time and Stats cannot both be toggled to ‘on’ at the same time.

4.15 LOW LIMITLOW LIMIT ON . . . . . . . Press Enter to toggle on or offLOW LIMIT . . . . . . . . . . Use Scroll keys to adjust low limit and press Ente> see “Setting limits” on page 27

4.16 HIGH LIMITHIGH LIMIT ON. . . . . . . Press Enter to toggle on or offHIGH LIMIT . . . . . . . . . . Use Scroll keys to adjust high limit and press Ent> see “Setting limits” on page 27

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tttttt

4.17 SET DATE FORMATDD/MM/YYYY . . . . . . . . Press Enter to toggle on or offMM/DD/YYYY . . . . . . . . Press Enter to toggle on or off

4.18 BAUD RATE1200 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Select using Scroll keys and press Enter to selec2400 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Select using Scroll keys and press Enter to selec4800 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Select using Scroll keys and press Enter to selec9600 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Select using Scroll keys and press Enter to selec14400 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Select using Scroll keys and press Enter to selec19200 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Select using Scroll keys and press Enter to selec

eter or similar instrument).

sitive (red) cable using a screw

intersection points of the grid.alised corrosion is suspected. Ifers by more than 100 mV, it is

measurement positions.cing bar and the red terminal onrobe and the black terminal on

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5 MEASURING HALF-CELL POTENTIAL

5.1 BEFORE YOU START• Are you using the correct half-cell probe?

See “Half-cell probes” on page 56.• Do you want statistics?

See “Statistics” on page 29.• Do you want to save readings in memory?

See “Batching/Data logging” on page 33.

5.2 PROCEDURE1. Locate the position of a reinforcing bar (using a metal detector, coverm2. Expose the bar, e.g. by drilling through the cover using a large drill.3. Drill a small diameter hole into the bar suitable for attachment of the po

or lead plug.4. Mark out a grid on the concrete. Measurements will be taken at the

Typical grid spacing is 1 m x 1 m, however this may be reduced if locthe measured half-cell potential between two adjacent positions diffrecommended that the grid spacing is reduced.

5. If necessary, use tap water to wet the whole of the test area, or just the6. Connect the red cable and extension reel between the exposed reinfor

the Half-Cell Meter (Figure 4). Connect the black cable between the pthe Half-Cell Meter.

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for half-cell measurements

7. Switch on the Half-Cell Meter.

8. Remove the endcap from the probeand store the capsafely.

9. Press the electrodeagainst theconcrete surface.

10. View the reading ofhalf-cell potential onthe display.

11. If you are satisfiedwith the reading,either move on tothe nextmeasurementlocation or pressEnter [ ].

Figure 4. Typical instrument configuration

lysis.

cation. When the last memory to the first memory location ofear batch is filled, the Half-Cell

navigate around a batch andg readings.

n e.g. -350 mV. Any readings lowerit in the statistics and/or the batch.

Beeps (*) and scrolling on a 6x3 grid batch

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5.3 WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU PRESS ENTER [ ]1. The half-cell potential reading is entered into the current statistical ana2. If a batch is open, the reading is saved into a memory location.3. The Half-Cell Meter will then advance (scroll) to the next memory lo

location of a row in a grid is reached, the Half-Cell Meter will advancethe next row (Figure 5). When the final memory location in a grid or linMeter closes the batch and exits batching.Refer to “The BATCH softkey” on page 43 for information on how toreview, delete, overwrite and skip memory locations while you are takin

4. The Half-Cell Meter will beep:• Single beep - reading taken.• Double beep - reading taken in last memory location

of a row in a grid.• Triple beep - reading taken in last memory location of

the grid.• Triple beep (higher pitch) - reading taken is outside

limitsf if limits have been set ( MENU / SETUP /LIMITS).

f. Typically, a low limit will be applied at the threshold that would indicate corrosio(more negative) than this would then cause an alarm and be tagged as below lim

Figure 5.

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27

einforcing bar. In this situation ite Half-Cell Meter. One probe is

ver the surface. In this way the

alf-cell will not be measurable,ed and interpreted.

ential is within specifications.

s, the Half-Cell Meter will beepter will beep three times to warn

IMIT

mV

5.4 MEASURING CELL-TO-CELL RATHER THAN CELL-TO-BARIn some instances it will not be possible to make a direct connection to a ris common practice to use two half-cell probes connected to the inputs of thfixed in position on the concrete surface and the other probe is moved osurface can be ‘mapped’.Using this method, the absolute value of the reinforcing bar to concrete hhowever changes from one point on the surface to the next can be measur

6 SETTING LIMITS

Low and High limits can be set by the user to monitor whether half-cell potMENU / SETUP / LIMITS

Set the limit value and toggle the tick box to switch the limit on or off.With limits switched on, when you take a reading which is within the limitonce. When you take a reading which is outside the limits, the Half-Cell Meyou of an out-of-limit reading.

LOW LIMITLOW LIMIT ONLOW LIMIT mV

HIGH LHIGH LIMIT ONHIGH LIMIT

it are indicated on the reading

tch which are outside the limits

than upper limit

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When limits are switched on, any readings taken which are outside a limscreen by an arrow icon; or .

When batching is switched on and limits are switched on, readings in a baare marked as follows:• Down arrow icon if the reading is below the low limit.• Up arrow icon if the reading is above the high limit.

Reading is less than lower limit Reading is greater

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a statistical analysis of readings

e values are stored in the batch.ements, press [ ].

s taken in a group.

of the individual readings

s in a group of readings.

for a group of readings,

roup.

group.

7 STATISTICS

Your Half-Cell Meter has a Statistics feature which calculates and displays as they are taken.Statistics values are also calculated for the readings within a batch and thesTo enter a reading into the statistical analysis while you are taking measur

Table 1: Calculated statistics values

Number of Readings The running value for the number of reading

Mean The average of a group of readings; the sumdivided by the number of readings.

Standard Deviation A statistical measure of the spread of value

Coefficient of Variation

The standard deviation divided by the meanexpressed as a percentage.

Lowest Reading The value of the lowest reading taken in a g

Highest Reading The value of the highest reading taken in a

ion of mean, standard deviation, counted in number of readings

der range.

low the low limit.

thin limits.

ove the high limit.

er range (or infinite).

skipped/not recorded/deleted).

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Over range, under range and blank readings are not included in the calculatcoefficient of variation, lowest reading and highest reading (neither are theytaken).

Under range The number and percentage of readings un

or Low limit The number and percentage of readings be

Within limits The number and percentage of readings wi

or High limit The number and percentage of readings ab

Over range The number and percentage of readings ov

Blank readings Number and percentage of blank readings (

Table 1: Calculated statistics values

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tics values can be displayed in

displayed on the reading review

STATISTICSLARGE STATSEAR STATSLECT STATS

To access statistics, open the Statistics menu.MENU / STATISTICS

7.1 VIEWING STATISTICSStatistics values can be viewed in a number of ways:• As you are taking measurements, any two of the statistics

values in Table 1 on page 29 can be displayed on the readingscreen.

MENU / SETUP / DISPLAY / STATS ON LCD• At any point while taking measurements, any two or all of the statis

enlarged format.MENU / STATISTICS / ENLARGE STATS

• When a batch has been created, statistics values for the batch can be screen.

MENU / DATA LOGGER / REVIEW BATCH

7.2 ENLARGE STATSDisplays the chosen statistical values as double-height characters.Press ALL and use [ ] and [ ] to view all statistical values. Press[menu/esc] to return to the Reading Screen.

7.3 CLEAR STATSResets to zero all statistical values. Press YES to confirm or NO tocancel. Clear stats is not available while a batch is openg.

ENCLSE

reset to zero.

SELECT STATS. OF READINGSAND DEVIATIONEF OF VARIAT’NWEST READINGHEST READING

DER RANGELOW LIMITOVE LIMITER RANGEANK

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7.4 SELECT STATSAllows the user to choose which statistics values are displayed onthe reading screen during measurement.Use [ ] and [ ] to move the cursor and press [ ] to select ordeselect the statistics values.Only two statistics values can be selected and displayed on thereading screen at the same time. To view all statistics valueschoose:

MENU / STATISTICS / ENLARGE STATS / ALL

MENU / SETUP / DISPLAY / SHOW TIME

g. Opening a new or existing batch will also cause all current statistical values to be

NOMESTCOLOHIGUNBEABOVBL

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ve half-cell readings. Use thise your productivity on site and

tches’. Typically, a single batch

) format when the batch is first

ells on a spreadsheet:

8 BATCHING/DATA LOGGING

Your Half-Cell Meter includes internal memory which can be used to samemory to save your readings as you take them; this will help to increasreduce the need to rely on paper and pen to record your results.All readings saved into the memory of your Half-Cell Meter are stored in ‘bais used to store readings from a particular area or location on a site.There are two types of batch; ‘linear’ and ‘grid’.The User must define whether a batch is to be in linear ( ) or grid (opened (created).

8.1 LINEAR BATCHESA linear batch of memory locations is similar to a single row or column of c

Maximum number of readings in a linear batch: 1000Maximum number of linear batches: 200

30 33 29 28 35 30 30 27 28 31 33

crete.t by the rows and columns of a

columns

ow number, for instance A1, F4,

rea of concrete:0.5 m pitch. This is an arbitrary

imum area of cover within eachnt, depending upon your survey

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8.2 GRID BATCHESGrid batches are typically used when you are surveying large areas of conA grid batch of memory locations is similar to the grid of cells marked ouspreadsheet:

Maximum size of a grid batch: 255 rows x 255Maximum number of grid batches: 1000Maximum total number of readings: 240 000Memory locations in a grid batch are referred to by their column letter and retc.Grid batches are typically used to save readings when surveying a large a• On the concrete, mark out a pre-defined grid of squares, typically of

grid which does not necessarily align with the reinforcement bars.• Use a Covermeter or similar instrument to locate and measure the min

grid cell, or the cover to the reinforcement bar nearest to each grid-poiprocedures.

A B C D E F G H I J K L1 30 33 30 27 28 31 33 35 32 30 302 29 27 28 31 33 35 32 30 30 27 283 30 27 28 31 33 35 32 28 30 27 284 35 27 28 31 33 35 32 30 29 27 285

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tential measurements for each

ents)ents)

al contentsEntered byUser 331

or Survey-01

nly displayed foratches)nly displayed foratches)

er Bridge

• Create a grid batch on your Half-Cell Meter and store half-cell polocation.

8.3 WHAT DOES A BATCH CONTAIN?Each batch stores three types of information:• header fields(information entered by the user - see below)• readings(entered automatically by the 331 as you are taking measurem• statistics(entered automatically by the 331 as you are taking measurem

Symbol Symbol meaning Typic

Batch name 001-1

Batch format ( or )

Number of columns (nx) 10 (o b

Number of rows (ny) 10 (o b

Number of readings taken (n) 96

Site Humb

nx

ny

n

Pier

3/4-001

m

17/01/06

19/01/06

USO4GCL

ith

ays Department

al contentsEntered byUser 331

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Location North

Area AA/12

Grid spacing (size of each grid square) 500 m

Batch creation date/time 09:30

Batch update date/time 14:15

Low limit 20 mm

High limit 35 mm

Half-cell type CU/CAG/A

Temperature 20°C

Engineer M. Sm

Customer Highw

Lowest reading

Symbol Symbol meaning Typic

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y top only

en:

al contentsEntered byUser 331

Highest reading

Mean

Standard deviation

x (y%) < z mm Number and percentage of readings below the lower limit, together with the limit value (if any).

x (y%) Number and percentage of readings within limits.

x (y%) > z mm Number and percentage of readings above the upper limit, together with the limit value (if any).

x (y%) Number and percentage of blank readings (if any).

x (y%) << Number and percentage of under-range readings (if any).

x (y%) Number and percentage of over-range (infinite) readings (if any).

Notes Surve

The following additional symbols may be seen on the reading review scre

The reading is under range (not measurable)

The reading is less than the low limit

Symbol Symbol meaning Typic

al contentsEntered byUser 331

DATA LOGGERIT BATCHINGEN NEW BATCHEN EXISTING BATCHONE BATCHVIEW BATCH

T BATCHT OPTIONS

IT BATCH TAGSLETE BATCHLETE ALL BATCHESEE MEMORY

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8.4 SAVING YOUR READINGS IN MEMORYTo use the memory you will need to understand how to use theData Logger.

MENU / DATA LOGGERTo use a batch of memory it is first necessary to open (create) abatch - see 8.6 below. Once the batch has been opened you canthen save your readings into that batch as you take them.To save a reading when a batch is open, press [ ].You may exit batching at any time; once you exit batching (andhence the Half-Cell Meter is not data logging), readings will nolonger be saved.

MENU / DATA LOGGER / EXIT BATCHINGThe following sections describe how to configure and use the DataLogger.

The reading is greater than the high limit

The reading is over range (not measurable)- Blank reading (memory location is empty)

Symbol Symbol meaning Typic

EXOPOPCLREPLOPLOEDDEDEFR

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e display reverts to the reading

the new batch. The batch nameer header fields are left blank -

requiredh - see “How to enter

ss to create the batch. TheBATCH softkey appears on the

beeps and returns to the name edit-

8.5 EXIT BATCHINGSwitches off batching (the data logger). No further readings are saved, thscreen and the BATCH softkey disappears.

8.6 OPEN NEW BATCHOpens (creates) a new memory batch.The Half-Cell Meter uses the most recently created batch as a template foris based upon the alphanumeric value of the last batch created, but all othsee “What does a batch contain?” on page 35.1. Enter information in the header fields (including the batch name) as

information into batch header fields” on page 45.

2. When you are happy with the details you have added or changed, predisplay switches to the reading screen and then starts batching (the reading screen).

8.7 OPEN EXISTING BATCHOpens an existing memory batch.1. Use Left/Right softkeys [ ] to scroll to the required batch.

h. If a new batch is created with a name matching an existing batch, the instrumenting screen.

display switches to the readingading screen). Readings in the

rything is copied except for thehaving to re-enter batch header

s to the reading screen and then

batch a nameh which does not on page 45.

n, readings and statistics. Also

.

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2. Press [ ] to select the batch. When the batch has been opened, the screen and then starts batching (the BATCH softkey appears on the reexisting batch can then be amended, deleted and added.

8.8 CLONE BATCH/COPY BATCH INFORMATIONCreates a clone (a copy) of an existing memory batch.Cloning a batch allows the contents of an existing batch to be copied (evereadings). Cloning is typically used on site to create new batches without details such as the name of the site, the engineer, the customer, etc.When the new batch has been created by pressing , the display switchestarts batching (the BATCH softkey appears on the reading screen).1. Use Left/Right softkeys [ ] to scroll to the batch you want to clone.2. Press [ ] to select the batch.

3. Adjust information in the header fields as required (you must give thealready exist) - see “How to enter information into batch header fields”

4. Press to create the clone.

8.9 REVIEW BATCHOpens any existing memory batch for viewing of batch header informatioallows individual readings to be deleted.1. Use Left/Right softkeys [ ] to scroll to the batch you want to review2. Press [ ] to select batch.

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a batch.

croll keys to jump quickly to the

enu/esc] again to return to the

e page of information is shownmple, batches from a particular

tch currently open (if any).n “What does a batch contain?”

atch, some statistics values may be, exit batching (MENU / DATA LOG-/ OPEN EXISTING BATCH). Invalides place.

3. Review readings using the scroll keys to move around the contents of

Press and hold the Shift softkey [ ] and then press any of the Sstart or end of line of readings.Press [ ] to toggle between;• REVIEW BATCH - shows header fields and statistics, and• half-cell readings.To delete a readingi press the Delete softkey [ ].

4. Press [menu/esc] once to select another batch (using [ ]), press [mData Logger menu.

As you scroll between batches using the Left/Right softkeys [ ], the samfor each batch. This feature makes it particularly easy to identify, for exacustomer/location, or batches with readings outside limits.A bracketed asterisk [*] next to the batch name indicates that this is the baA complete list of the information given on a review batch screen is given ion page 35.

i. When readings are removed (either over-written or deleted) from a very large breplaced by a ‘-’ until the batch is recalculated. To force a batch to be recalculatedGER / EXIT BATCHING) and then re-open the batch (MENU / DATA LOGGER statistics (PLEASE WAIT) will be shown on the display while the recalculation tak

ressing Enter opens that tag for

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8.10 PLOT BATCHsee “Plotting batches” on page 49

8.11 PLOT OPTIONSsee “Plotting batches” on page 49

8.12 EDIT BATCH TAGSSame as ‘Review batch’ but allows editing of some of the batch contents.A moveable cursor is shown next to any entries which can be modified. Pediting.

8.13 DELETE BATCHDeletes one memory batch.1. Use Left/Right softkeys [ ] to scroll to the batch you want to delete.2. Press [ ] to delete batch.

The Half-Cell Meter displays a confirmation screen.3. Press Yes to confirm deletion, No to cancel.

8.14 DELETE ALL BATCHESDeletes all batches from the Half-Cell Meter and stops batching.1. The Half-Cell Meter displays a confirmation screen.2. Press Yes to confirm deletion, No to cancel.

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reen after 2 seconds.

ts in the same batch.

8.15 FREE MEMORYDisplays the amount of free memory (%) and then returns to the reading sc

8.16 THE BATCH SOFTKEYThe BATCH softkey provides rapid access to the readings in abatch as you are taking them.The BATCH softkey is only displayed on the reading screen whena batch is open.

Once the BATCH softkey has been pressed, you can then;• scroll around the contents of a batch,• review, delete and overwrite readings,• skip memory locations,• and then return to the reading screen ready to take more measuremen

re 6. Reading review screen - grid batch

re 7. Reading review screen - linear batch

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Pressing BATCH displays the Reading Review Screen.REVIEW readings using the scroll keys to move around thecontents of a batch.Press and hold the Shift softkey [ ] and then press any of theScroll keys to jump quickly to the start or end of a line of readings.When you have finished reviewing, press [ ] to return to thereading screen at the current memory location or press [menu/esc]to return to the reading screen at the original memory location.

DELETE readings by pressing the Delete softkey [ ]. Press Yesto confirm deletion or No to cancel.When you have finished deleting, press [ ] to return to the readingscreen at the current memory location or press [menu/esc] to returnto the reading screen at the original memory location.You can OVERWRITE any of the readings.1. Use the scroll keys to move to the reading you want to

overwrite.2. Press [ ].

The display switches to the reading screen.3. Take a new measurement and press [ ] to enter reading.4. Press Yes to confirm overwrite or No to cancel.

Figu

Figu

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ove around the contents of thes. The memory locations in there ready to return to the reading

e) a new batch or clone a batch

atch;

using CoverMaster® software -

rge measuring project, the bestation to the Half-Cell Meter. Thetc. during cloning or editing of a

ter keypad. The function of the

SKIP OVER memory locations in a grid batch using the scroll keys to mbatch. This facility is useful when surveying in a grid around obstructionvicinity of the obstructions can be skipped over and left blank. When you ascreen, press [ ].

8.17 HOW TO ENTER INFORMATION INTO BATCH HEADER FIELDSYou can enter information into the header fields when you first open (creatand when editing batch tags.There are two methods of entering information into the header fields of a b• use the keypad on the Half-Cell Meter, or• use a computer and then transfer the information to the Half-Cell Meter

see “CoverMaster software” on page 54.Which method you use depends upon your circumstances. Typically, on a lamethod is to design batches on your computer and then transfer the informkeypad can be used on site for minor changes and the addition of notes, ebatch.

ENTERING INFORMATION USING THE KEYPADText and numbers can be entered into header fields using the Half-Cell Mekeys is shown below:

and the maximum total number

y are illegal in Windows filenames:

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1. Scrolls up throughalphanumeric characters.

2. Scrolls down throughalphanumeric characters.

3. Moves cursor left. Hold down todelete a character.

4. Select character setj (abc,ABC, 123, #$!, etc.)

5. Moves cursor right. Hold downto insert a character.

6. Enters text into header field.Press Yes to confirm or No tocontinue editing.

To delete an alphanumericcharacter, press and hold key 3.To insert an alphanumeric character, press and hold key 5.The screen displays the number of spare characters remaining in the fieldof characters allowed.

j. The following symbols are not permitted in the Batch Name field because the\/:*?\"<>|. They may be used in the other alphanumeric fields.

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codes. These include Europeanhinese phonetic Pinyin system. are substituted to represent the

alf-cell readings in batches and

The text fields can be entered/displayed using up to 256 different character accented characters and a few additional accented vowels used in the CWhen the Japanese language is selected, the European characters codesphonetic Katakana symbols which are shown at double-height.

9 A TYPICAL SURVEY (USING GRID BATCH MEMORY)

This section leads you step-by-step through taking measurements, saving hproducing a report.1. Mark out your survey area (in this example a 14 x 14 grid).2. Fit the half-cell probe and cables and then switch on the

instrument.3. Create a 14 x 14 grid batch.4. Measure the half-cell potential over the entire survey area and

record the measurements in the batch created in step 3 (pressEnter [ ] to store a reading in the batch).

5. Connect your Half-Cell Meter to a PC and download the batchusing CoverMaster software - see “Transferring readings to acomputer” on page 53.

ntial over the survey area - see

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6. You can now produce an easy-to-read report which shows half-cell poteexample below.

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atch. Use this feature to locate

he map; the highest readings asmes.

the threshold are displayed as

nder-range readings are showne 51.

10 PLOTTING BATCHES

Your Half-Cell Meter can plot on its display a ‘map’ of the readings in a bpotential trouble spots quickly and easily.The map can be plotted in pseudo greyscale or in black and white:

Greyscale: The lowest (worst) readings are displayed as dark regions on tlight regions. 16 levels of greyscale indicate readings between these extre

Black and white: A threshold value is set by the user. All readings belowblack; all readings above the threshold are displayed as white.In both instances, blank and over-range readings are shown as white and uas black. To select greyscale or black and white, see “Plot options” on pag

e current memory location anden the cursor reaches the edge

vel that allows the whole batch to be

al greyscale plot

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10.1 PLOT BATCHMENU / DATA LOGGER / PLOT BATCH

1. Light area ( )2. Dark area ( ) - potential trouble spot3. Cursor position4. Cursor scrollk left5. Shift scrolll

6. Zoomm (0.5x, 1x, 2x, 4x)7. Cursor scroll right8. Zoom level9. Upper limit10. Lower limit/Threshold11. Units12. Voltage13. Batch memory locationUse the arrows to scroll the cursor around the plot; as the cursor moves threading are shown at the top right of the display. Large batches will scroll whof the display.

k. To scroll up or down, use the up [ ] and down [ ] keys. l. Press with cursor scroll keys to jump to end or start of row/columnm. When a batch is first plotted, the initial zoom is set automatically to the highest le

seen (or to x0.5 if the batch does not fit on the display at minimum zoom).

Figure 8. Typic

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levels of grey.

tch will be used and this option

displayed as black; all readings

PLOT OPTIONSEYSCALE MIN/MAXEYSCALE LIMITSRESHOLD VIEWT THRESHOLD

Use the Zoom softkey to zoom in to areas of interest.Press [ ] at any time to view a key of the greyscale levels.

10.2 PLOT OPTIONSUse this menu to select how readings will be displayed on the plot.

MENU / DATA LOGGER / PLOT OPTIONS

GREYSCALE MIN/MAX• Black is set to the minimum reading in the batch.• White is set to the maximum reading in the batch.• Readings between the minimum and maximum are indicated

by decreasing levels of grey.

GREYSCALE LIMITS• Black is set to the batch low limit.• White is set to the batch high limit.• Readings between the low and high limits are indicated by decreasing

(To set limits, see “Setting limits” on page 27.)If limits have not been set, the minimum and maximum readings in the bawill show the same plot as ‘Greyscale min/max’.

THRESHOLD VIEWA threshold value is set by the user. All readings below the threshold are above the threshold are displayed as white.

GRGRTHSE

Typical threshold plot

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SET THRESHOLDSet threshold values for half-cell (in mV),as required.The thresholds are applied to all batchesand are independent of any other limitswhich may be set.1. Light area ( ) - readings are abovethreshold value2. Black area ( ) - readings are belowthreshold value

Figure 9.

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lf-Cell Meter to a computer. The

e “Connecting the data transfer

r the RS232 interface direct to a

tatistics.

put baud rate and output format.

e is 9600 baud.aracters are output as bit-maps.e 61).

11 TRANSFERRING READINGS TO A COMPUTER

Statistics and readings data can be transferred from the memory of your Hadata can then be used in reports, analysed to produce graphs, etc.Connect your Half-Cell Meter to a computer, using the cable supplied - secable” on page 56.There are two methods of transferring statistics and readings:• Print/output• CoverMaster® software (to store, analyse and report)

11.1 PRINT/OUTPUTUse the PRINT/OUTPUT function of the Half-Cell Meter to output data oveprinter or to communications software such as Hyperterminal.Choose between outputting a single batch, all batches or just the current s

MENU / PRINT/OUTPUT / SINGLE BATCHMENU / PRINT/OUTPUT / ALL BATCHESMENU / PRINT/OUTPUT / CURRENT STATISTICS

Note: Before you use PRINT/OUTPUT, you must first select the correct outMENU / SETUP / OUTPUT

Baud Rate. This can be set at values from 1200 to 19200. The default valuRS232 Bit Image. Toggle tick box to activate/deactivate. All images and chThis allows printing on the Elcometer Miniprinter (see “Accessories” on pag

ll Meter sends standard ASCIIrinters and data transfer to a PC

igned specifically for your Half-lifies setting up and using your

er®., please refer to the instructions

lish: Chinese, Japanese.

Batch templates

Batch readings

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RS232 Plain Text. Toggle tick box to activate/deactivate. The Half-Cecharacters from the Courier New font setn. This allows printing on RS232 pusing software such as HyperTerminal.

11.2 COVERMASTER SOFTWARECoverMaster® software supplied on the CD enclosed with the gauge is desCell Meter. CoverMaster® is powerful but easy-to-use software which simpHalf-Cell Meter:• Design batch templates on your PC and download these

to your Elcometer 331 Half-Cell Meter, ready for use onsite.

• Download half-cell readings data from your Half-CellMeter to the CoverMaster® data management system.

• Keep your survey notes, inspection reports, photographsand all your other inspection information in one place -CoverMaster®.

• Create accurate and professional reports configured toallow your data to be understood easily at all levels.

• Create PDF versions of your reports and e-mail direct from CoverMastFor complete instructions on how to install and use CoverMaster® softwaresupplied with the software.

n. When RS232 Plain Text is selected the following languages will be output as Eng

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Use the CoverMaster® Page Designer...

...to create your own reports

cable into the COM port on theonnect your Half-Cell Meter to ag details).nto the RS232 connector at theuter interface” on page 15.

isplayed.

obes can be easily identified by

must be wet. To get a good wetally this will be sufficient to keept is not being used will also help

all amount of water in the end

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11.3 CONNECTING THE DATA TRANSFER CABLE1. Plug the 9-pin female D-type connector on one end of the data transfer

PC (an RS232 to USB transfer cable is available which allows you to cUSB port on your computer - see “Accessories” on page 68 for orderin

2. Plug the 5-pin connector on the other end of the data transfer cable irear of the Half-Cell Meter located under the access cover - see “Comp

3. Switch on the Half-Cell Meter and ensure that the Reading Screen is d

12 HALF-CELL PROBES

Two types of half-cell probe are available for your Half-Cell Meter. The prcolour:• Copper-Copper Sulphate (Cu-CuSO4): Yellow• Silver-Silver Chloride (Ag-AgCl): Blue

12.1 WETTING YOUR PROBEFor your probe to function properly the ceramic sensing end (the electrode)electrode, just place the electrode in tap water for two to three minutes; usuthe sensor going all day. Keeping the plastic end cap on the sensor when ito keep the electrode wet. During periods of extended storage, place a smcap before pushing the cap onto the probe.

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and are sealed for life. Any mudand forth in a container of warm,m or contaminate the electrode.nd tears in the sheathing before

be, it will be impossible to obtainby temperature; if you take twother in the winter at 1°C (34°F),

rence cell. The following valuesacture:

12.2 CARE OF YOUR PROBE AND CABLESThe probes do not require any maintenance; they do not need recharging or grit should be removed from the electrode by swirling the electrode back soapy water and then brushing with a wet rag. The soapy water will not harAlways check that the connecting cables are free of damage such as cuts ause.The Copper-Copper Sulphate half-cell probe is intentionally filledwith a reserve of saturated Cupric Sulfate solution combined withsolid Cupric Sulfate crystals to ensure a minimum 10-year design life. Under certain circumstances a very small percentage of this reservecan leach out from the ceramic sensing tip of the half-cell producingcrystals as shown in the photograph.This does not affect the performance of the cell. The crystals shouldbe removed by washing in distilled water.

12.3 TEMPERATUREDo not allow the probe to freeze. Although freezing will not damage your proreliable measurements while in this state. All measurements are affected readings in identical conditions, one in the summer at 29°C (85°F) and the othe half-cell potential readings will be different.Each probe is tested at 25°C to be within ±10 mV of a standard Calomel referelative to a standard Calomel cell are used as the test limits during manuf

alomel Upper limit+70 mV-30 mV

downloaded into the Half-Cell is typically used to personalisefirst screen displayed when the

are is available free of chargecom

uctions.

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Lower limit Reference value for CCopper-Copper Sulphate (Cu-CuSO4) +50 mV +60 mVSilver-Silver Chloride (Ag-AgCl) -50 mV -40 mV

12.4 SHELF LIFEYour probe does not degrade when stored.

13 PERSONALISED WELCOME SCREEN

A personalised welcome screen can be designed on a computer and thenMeter. Screen dimensions are 128 pixels x 64 pixels. The welcome screenthe Half-Cell Meter with a logo, serial number, user name, etc. This is the Half-Cell Meter is switched on.

13.1 CREATING THE SCREEN1. Download Elcometer ‘Welcome Screen Wizard’ software. This softw

from the downloads section of the Elcometer website, www.elcometer.2. Connect Half-Cell Meter to PC using Data Transfer Cable.3. Switch on the Half-Cell Meter.4. Ensure that the reading screen is displayed.5. Run ‘Welcome Screen Wizard’ software and follow the on-screen instr

13.2 DELETING THE SCREEN1. Run the ‘Welcome Screen Wizard’ software.

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These messages are normally indicated by the message and

eter or your Elcometer Supplier.

). If the display is heated aboveell Meter is left in a car parked

hen it is not being used.

2. Click ‘Next’.3. Select ‘Create a new screen setup’.4. Click ‘Next’.5. Select ‘Disabled’.6. Click ‘Next’.Follow the remaining on-screen instructions to delete the welcome screen.

14 ERROR MESSAGES

Under certain conditions the Half-Cell Meter will display error messages.cleared by pressing any one of the softkeys. The cause of the error will beshould be corrected before proceeding. If any error persists, contact Elcom

15 STORAGE

This Half-Cell Meter incorporates a Liquid Crystal Display (LCD50°C (120°F) it may be damaged. This can happen if the Half-Cin strong sunlight. Always store the Half-Cell Meter in its case w

ill last a lifetime.irement of quality managementertification contact Elcometer or

the unlikely event of a fault, the Elcometer. The warranty will be

.9")

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16 MAINTENANCE

You own one of the finest Half-Cell Meters in the world. If looked after, it wRegular calibration checks over the life of the Half-Cell Meter are a requprocedures, e.g. ISO 9000, and other similar standards. For checks and cyour Elcometer supplier.The Half-Cell Meter does not contain any user-serviceable components. InHalf-Cell Meter should be returned to your Elcometer supplier or directly toinvalidated if the gauge has been opened.Contact details can be found:• Stored in the Half-Cell Meter (MENU / ABOUT / CONTACT).• On the outside cover of these operating instructions.• At www.elcometer.com

17 TECHNICAL DATA

Range: -999 mV to +999 mV

Accuracy: ±5 mV

Half-cell probe stability: 10 mV with 3 µA load

Weight: 1.6 kg (3.5 lb)

Dimensions: 230 mm x 130 mm x 125 mm (9" x 5.1" x 4

Operating temperatureo: 0°C to 50°C (32°F to 120°F)

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klight.

lcometer supplier. To place anach accessory.

TW33119038

TW99912220

T99916217

T99916716

TW33119668-1

n. Please consult your local environ- battery pack in a fire.

Case: High impact ABS

Power supply: Internal rechargeable Lithium Ion batteryp.

Fuse rating of charger: 3 A

Battery life: Up to 48 hours continuous use without bacUp to 20 hours with backlight.

18 ACCESSORIES

Your Half-Cell Meter is complete with all the items required to get started.The following optional accessories are available from Elcometer, or your Eorder please quote the sales part number which follows the description of e

Rechargeable battery pack:

Earphone:

Data transfer cableq (Half-Cell Meter to PC):

RS232 to USB transfer cable:

Half-Cell probe, Copper-Copper Sulphate (Cu-CuSO4):

o. Operation outside these limits depends upon climatic conditions.p. Battery packs must be disposed of carefully to avoid environmental contaminatio

mental authority for information on disposal in your region. Do not dispose of theq. A 9-pin to 25-pin adapter may be required for certain PC RS232 ports.

TW33119668-2

TW331CUKIT

TW331AGKIT

TW33119683

d NIST are available at the timeification. Calibration Certificates

tion equipment. Users of theer products:

www.elcometer.com

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Half-Cell probe, Silver-Silver Chloride (Ag-AgCl):

Half-cell probe kit, Copper-Copper Sulphate (Cu-CuSO4): (probe, 2 x connecting cables, 1 x 25 m cable reel, carry case)

Half-cell probe kit, Silver-Silver Chloride (Ag-AgCl):(probe, 2 x connecting cables, 1 x 25 m cable reel, carry case)

Half-cell probe cable reel, extendable to 100 m, with carry handle:

Calibration Certificates traceable to National Standards including UKAS anof order, or alternatively, the gauge must be returned to Elcometer for certcannot be issued retrospectively.

19 RELATED EQUIPMENT

Elcometer produces a wide range of concrete and coatings inspecElcometer 331 Half-Cell Meter may also benefit from the following Elcomet• Elcometer 331 Concrete Covermeter• Elcometer Adhesion and Bond Strength Testers• Elcometer Concrete Crack Microscopes• Elcometer Concrete Moisture Meters• Elcometer Concrete Test HammersFor further information contact Elcometer, your Elcometer supplier or visit

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Entering information 45Error messages 59Exit batching 39

FFeatures 3Free memory 43

GGrey Scale Levels 49Grid batches 34

HHalf-cell

Taking a measurement 24Half-cell probes 56

Care of 57Fitting to gauge 10Spares 62Storage and Shelf life 57Wetting 56

Header fieldsEntering information 45

IInterface 15

Access cover 7RS232 15

1 INDEX

AAccessories 61

BBacklight 14BATCH 43Batch

Cloning 40Copying 40Deleting all 42Deleting one 42Opening existing 39Opening new 39Recalculation 41

Batches 33Grid 34Linear 33What they contain 35

Batching 33Exiting 39

BatteriesCharging 7Life of 61

Battery condition indicator 9Battery pack 6Baud rate 53Beeping 26

CCalibration 60Calibration certificates 62Charger 7Charging the batteries 7Cloning a batch 40Computer

Connection cable 61Computer, transferring data to 53Copying a batch 40CoverMaster software 54

DData logging 33Data transfer cable 56, 61Delete batch 42Deleting all batches 42Dimensions 60

EEarphone 15Elcometer 331

Features 3Overview 2

Menus 16

OOn/off 12Open existing batch 39Open new batch 39Opening screen 58

PPC

Data transfer cable 61Plotting batches 49

Greyscale 51Threshold 51

Power on/off 12Power supply 6

QQuick-start 6

RReports 54

SSaving your readings in memory 38Screen

Welcome information 13Screen symbols 13

Battery condition 9Software

CoverMaster 54

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KKeypad 11

LLanguage, selecting 14LCD contrast 13Limits 27

Batch icons 28Linear batches 33Liquid Crystal Display 59

MMaintenance 60Maximum/Minimum limits 27Memory

Capacity 33Free 43

Memory locationAdvancing 26

Menu itemsABOUT 20ALL BATCHES 53AUTO SWITCH OFF 12BACKLIGHT 14BATCH 43BAUD RATE 23, 53CLEAR STATS 31CLOCK 21CLONE BATCH 40CONTACT 60CURRENT STATISTICS 53DATA LOGGER 18, 38DELETE ALL BATCHES 42DELETE BATCH 42

DISPLAY 22ENLARGE STATS 31EXIT BATCHING 38FREE MEMORY 43HELP 13HIGH LIMIT 22LCD CONTRAST 13LIMITS 21, 27LOW LIMIT 22MENU 16OPEN EXISTING BATCH 39OPEN NEW BATCH 39OUTPUT 22, 53PLOT BATCH 50PLOT OPTIONS 20, 51PRINT/OUTPUT 19, 53RESET 20REVIEW BATCH 31, 40RS232 BIT IMAGE 53RS232 PLAIN TEXT 54SELECT STATS 21, 32SETUP 19SHOW TIME 14, 32SINGLE BATCH 53STATISTICS 19, 31STATS ON LCD 31UNITS 21

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Sound 26Standards 4Statistics

Choice of 32Clearing 31Increasing size on display 31Overview 29Values calculated 29

Storage 59Surveying large areas of concrete 34Switching on/off 12

TTime and date 14Transferring data to computer 53, 54

WWeight 60Welcome screen 58

ZZoom 50