ChemTron PR5500 / PR5600 / PR5600T Handheld Digital Precision Thermometer
| Brand | ChemTron |
|---|---|
| Origin | Germany |
| Model | PR5500 / PR5600 / PR5600T |
| Temperature Range | Pt100: −200.0 to +850.0 °C |
| K-type Thermocouple | −200.0 to +1372.0 °C |
| Accuracy Class | 0.02 |
| Resolution | 0.001 °C (PR5600/PR5600T), 0.01 °C (K-type), 0.1 / 1 °C (PR5500) |
| Operating Environment | Ambient Temperature |
| Display | Digital LCD |
| Weight | 0.25 kg |
| Sensor Compatibility | Pt100, Pt1000, Cu50, Cu100, K, S, E, T, J, R, B, N thermocouples |
Overview
The ChemTron PR5500 and PR5600 series are handheld digital precision thermometers engineered for metrological-grade temperature measurement in laboratory, calibration, and industrial quality control environments. Based on the principle of resistance temperature detection (RTD) and thermoelectric voltage conversion (thermocouple), these instruments deliver traceable, high-stability readings across an extended operational range. The PR5500 serves as a dedicated high-resolution temperature indicator optimized for Pt100 and K-type thermocouple inputs, while the PR5600 expands functionality with multi-parameter analog signal support—including resistance (Ω), millivolt (mV), and milliampere (mA) inputs—enabling direct integration with process transmitters, bath controllers, and viscosity calibration systems. The PR5600T variant is specifically configured for temperature bath validation and thermometric calibration workflows, supplied with a NIST-traceable calibration certificate and a rigid mounting bracket for stable immersion or surface contact measurements.
Key Features
- Class 0.02 accuracy per IEC 60751 (Pt100) and IEC 60584-1 (thermocouples), supporting ISO/IEC 17025-compliant calibration records
- 0.001 °C resolution on Pt100 and thermocouple channels (PR5600/PR5600T); dual-range display modes for rapid readability
- 13 selectable sensor types: Pt100, Pt1000, Cu50, Cu100, and thermocouples K, S, E, T, J, R, B, N
- Statistical data acquisition: real-time calculation of min/max, relative deviation, peak-to-peak, mean, standard deviation, and sample count (up to 9999 points)
- Rugged ABS housing with IP54-rated ingress protection, ergonomic grip, and low-power consumption for >100 hours of continuous operation on AA batteries
- PR5600T includes factory-installed calibration bracket and accredited certificate conforming to DIN EN ISO/IEC 17025 requirements
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The PR5500/PR5600 series supports direct connection to standardized industrial and laboratory sensors without external signal conditioning. Pt100 and Pt1000 probes comply with ASTM E1137/E1142 and IEC 60751 tolerance classes A and B. Thermocouple inputs adhere to cold-junction compensation standards defined in IEC 60584-1 and NIST ITS-90 reference tables. All models meet CE marking requirements under the EU Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive 2014/30/EU and Low Voltage Directive 2014/35/EU. The PR5600T configuration satisfies GLP and GMP documentation needs through built-in audit trail logging and certificate traceability to national metrology institutes.
Software & Data Management
Data output is supported via RS232 serial interface (optional USB adapter available), enabling seamless transfer to PC-based calibration management software such as MET/CAL, DATACAL, or custom LabVIEW applications. The device stores up to 500 timestamped measurement sets internally, each containing full statistical metadata. Firmware supports user-defined units, offset correction, and linearization tables for non-standard sensors. For regulated environments, optional firmware upgrade enables 21 CFR Part 11-compliant electronic signatures, audit trails, and role-based access control when integrated with validated calibration platforms.
Applications
- Calibration of constant-temperature baths used in viscometry (e.g., ASTM D445, ISO 3104), thermal analysis (DSC/TGA), and rheology
- Verification of environmental chambers, incubators, ovens, and sterilization equipment per ISO 17025 and FDA guidance
- In-process monitoring of chemical reactors, distillation columns, and HVAC ducts requiring simultaneous Ω/mV/mA diagnostics
- Reference-grade temperature mapping studies in cleanrooms and pharmaceutical manufacturing suites
- Field validation of thermocouple-based safety interlocks and overtemperature shutdown circuits
FAQ
What is the difference between PR5500 and PR5600 models?
The PR5500 is a dedicated temperature indicator with Pt100 and thermocouple inputs only. The PR5600 adds universal analog input capability (Ω, mV, mA), making it suitable for transmitter loop checks and multi-signal verification tasks.
Does the PR5600T include a valid calibration certificate?
Yes—the PR5600T ships with a manufacturer-issued, NIST-traceable calibration certificate compliant with ISO/IEC 17025, including uncertainty budgets and measurement conditions.
Can the instrument perform automatic cold-junction compensation?
Yes—integrated CJC sensor ensures automatic compensation for thermocouple measurements across the full operating ambient range (15–30 °C).
Is the device suitable for use in explosive atmospheres?
No—this model is not ATEX or IECEx certified. For hazardous area applications, consult ChemTron’s intrinsically safe variants (e.g., PR-Ex series).
How often should recalibration be performed?
Annual recalibration is recommended for ISO/IEC 17025 compliance; frequency may be adjusted based on usage intensity, criticality of measurement, and internal quality procedures.
