ChemTron Lab 865 Benchtop pH Meter
| Brand | ChemTron |
|---|---|
| Origin | Germany |
| Model | Lab 865 |
| Instrument Type | Benchtop |
| Parameter Types | Multi-parameter |
| pH Accuracy | ±0.1 pH (range –2.0 to 20.0) / ±0.01 pH (range –2.00 to 20.00) / ±0.005 pH (range –2.000 to 19.999) |
| pH Resolution | 0.001 pH |
| mV Accuracy | ±0.3 mV (±1200.0 mV range) / ±1 mV (±2500 mV range) |
| Temperature Accuracy | ±0.1 °C (–5.0 to 105.0 °C) |
| Temperature Compensation | Automatic or Manual |
| Calibration Points | Up to 5-point pH, 2- to 7-point ISE |
| Calibration Memory | 10 calibrations |
| Calibration Timer | Built-in |
| Data Storage | 500 or 5000 readings* |
| Communication Interface | Mini USB-B |
| GLP/AQS Compliance | Yes |
| Display | Graphic monochrome backlit LCD |
| Electrode Interface | DIN |
| Power Supply | AC adapter or battery operation |
| CMC Measurement | Supported |
Overview
The ChemTron Lab 865 Benchtop pH Meter is a high-precision, multi-parameter electrochemical analyzer engineered for routine and regulated laboratory environments in chemistry, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and quality control. Based on potentiometric measurement principles, the instrument determines hydrogen ion activity via a glass pH electrode coupled with a reference system, delivering stable, reproducible readings across extended pH ranges (–2.000 to 19.999). Its triple-range pH display—supporting 0.001 pH resolution—enables fine-grained differentiation of weakly acidic or highly alkaline samples, while integrated temperature compensation (automatic or manual) ensures thermodynamic accuracy per Nernst equation requirements. Designed and assembled in Germany, the Lab 865 adheres to stringent manufacturing tolerances and electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) standards compliant with IEC 61326-1, ensuring robust performance in shared lab infrastructure.
Key Features
- Triple-resolution pH display: selectable ranges of –2.0…20.0 (±0.1 pH), –2.00…20.00 (±0.01 pH), and –2.000…19.999 (±0.005 pH) for method-specific precision
- Intelligent Auto-Read function with configurable stability criteria, minimizing operator-induced variability and enhancing inter-operator reproducibility
- Graphic monochrome backlit LCD with intuitive icon-driven interface and tactile keyboard feedback—optimized for gloved-hand operation and long-duration use
- DIN-compatible electrode port supporting standardized pH, ORP, ISE, and combination electrodes from major manufacturers
- Onboard calibration timer and full calibration history (up to 10 sessions), including date/time stamps, electrode IDs, slope, offset, and buffer values
- Battery-operated or AC-powered flexibility—ideal for mobile QC stations or permanent benchtop deployment without dedicated power routing
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The Lab 865 accommodates aqueous, non-aqueous, and low-ionic-strength samples typical in API synthesis, buffer preparation, and cell culture media testing. Its extended pH range supports measurements in aggressive media such as concentrated NaOH solutions, phosphoric acid buffers, and ethanol-water mixtures. The instrument meets GLP (Good Laboratory Practice) and AQS (Analytical Quality System) requirements through mandatory audit trails: all calibrations, measurements, and configuration changes are time-stamped and user-logged. Data export via Mini USB-B generates CSV files containing measurement timestamp, sample ID (user-defined), pH/mV/°C values, electrode serial number, and calibration metadata—fully traceable for FDA 21 CFR Part 11 compliance when paired with validated laboratory information management systems (LIMS).
Software & Data Management
- Direct data export to spreadsheet-ready .csv format without proprietary software dependency
- Export includes: date, time, measured pH/mV/temperature, electrode identification, calibration status, and operator ID (if configured)
- No driver installation required—recognized as standard USB mass storage device on Windows, macOS, and Linux
- Internal memory stores up to 500 readings (standard) or 5000 (with optional firmware upgrade), each with full contextual metadata
- CMC (Conductivity-Matched Calibration) support enables accurate pH measurement in low-conductivity samples (e.g., deionized water, rainwater), mitigating junction potential errors
Applications
The Lab 865 serves critical roles across analytical workflows: verification of buffer pH prior to HPLC mobile phase preparation (per USP ); real-time monitoring of fermentation broth pH in bioprocess development; stability-indicating assays for pH-sensitive drug substances (ICH Q5C); and raw material release testing per ISO 8655-4 and ASTM E70. Its ISE capability extends utility to fluoride, chloride, nitrate, and calcium quantification in environmental and clinical labs. In GMP environments, its GLP-compliant data handling supports inspection readiness for EMA, PMDA, and WHO pre-approval audits.
FAQ
Does the Lab 865 support automatic temperature compensation (ATC)?
Yes—via integrated Pt1000 sensor or external ATC probe (optional), with configurable compensation algorithms per DIN 19263 and ISO 7027.
Can I validate the instrument’s performance using certified reference materials?
Absolutely—the Lab 865 accepts NIST-traceable pH buffer standards (e.g., NIST SRM 186, 187, 188) and supports dual-point verification with slope and offset reporting.
Is firmware update capability available?
Yes—updates are distributed via ChemTron’s secure customer portal and applied via USB drive; version history and change logs are retained in device memory.
What electrode types are compatible with the DIN interface?
Standard single-junction, double-junction, refillable, gel-filled, and solid-state pH electrodes—including those with integrated temperature sensors (e.g., pH/Temp combo electrodes).
How does the Lab 865 handle low-conductivity samples like ultrapure water?
Through CMC (Conductivity-Matched Calibration) mode, which dynamically adjusts junction potential correction based on sample conductivity input—reducing drift and improving accuracy below 10 µS/cm.
