Refractometer - $31.50 - Delivered

Discussion in 'General Reef Topics' started by ALW, May 2, 2008.

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  1. ALW

    ALW Sea Dragon

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  3. matt s

    matt s Flamingo Tongue

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    Forgive me if this is a silly question but I've never used a refractometer, considering buying one after hearing bad things about the swingarm I have now.

    The scale on that says 20 degrees Celsius, but the text notes automatic temperature compensation. Can you say how this works? Do you have to refer to a conversion chart or something or ???
     
  4. ALW

    ALW Sea Dragon

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    Actually, it is quite easy. The first thing I did (as per the instructions) was to calibrate it.

    To do that I simply put about five drops of RO water on the "Lens", closed the "flapper" and looked into the eyepiece near a good light. I then turned a small adjustment screw until the blue and white met (creating a clear line) at Zero.

    Then I did the same thing with my tank water. Put on a few drops, closed the flapper and looked through the eyepiece. The Blue met the white at 1.028 :shocked2: (this was just before a top off) so I added the RO.

    I waited a little while and took another reading and it read 1.024

    It is fast and easy.
     
  5. ALW

    ALW Sea Dragon

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    This will help

    [​IMG]




    [​IMG]
     
  6. nemo1991

    nemo1991 Millepora

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    looks good, i might have to get one, nice price too!
     
  7. omard

    omard Gnarly Old Codfish

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    Don't know brand...but very good price.

    Get calibrated before using/trusting. One of easiest ways is to take down to LFS and have them check out for you...

    I stick mine in backback whenever going to Seattle Aquarium (couple of times a year - we have annual family pass of course) === and they are always happy to check out mine for me.

    On sale at DFS also...but a bit more pricey.


    No reef keeper should be without one of these.
     
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  9. Reefkeeper

    Reefkeeper Spanish Shawl Nudibranch

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    Took all your advice and got a refractometer from Drs Foster & Smith paid alittle more 44.99 But you were right, it is the way to go !!