CENTER 316 Pocket-Sized Hygrometer-Thermometer
| Brand | MKN |
|---|---|
| Origin | Zhejiang, China |
| Model | CENTER 316 |
| Temperature Range | -4 to 140°F (-20 to 60°C) |
| Humidity Range | 0–99% RH |
| Accuracy | ±0.8°C (±1.6°F), ±3% RH |
| Resolution | 0.1°C / 0.1°F / 0.1% RH |
| Response Time | 10 sec (temperature), 180 sec (humidity) |
| Operating Environment | 0–40°C, <80% RH |
| Storage | -10–60°C, <70% RH |
| Power | 9V battery |
| Dimensions | 240 × 54 × 34 mm |
| Weight | ~220 g |
| Features | Dual-display, auto power-off, REL mode, hold/freeze, MAX/MIN tracking |
Overview
The CENTER 316 Pocket-Sized Hygrometer-Thermometer is a compact, handheld environmental monitoring instrument engineered for reliable simultaneous measurement of ambient temperature and relative humidity (RH). Designed around capacitive humidity sensing and precision NTC thermistor technology, the device delivers traceable readings compliant with standard laboratory and industrial field-use requirements. Its dual-line LCD display enables real-time side-by-side visualization of temperature and RH values, while integrated calculation functions—such as dew point and wet-bulb temperature—provide immediate insight into thermodynamic moisture conditions without external computation. The instrument operates on a single 9V alkaline battery and features an automatic power-off function to extend operational life, making it suitable for extended spot-checking in HVAC maintenance, warehouse environmental audits, cleanroom verification, and educational laboratory settings.
Key Features
- Pocket-sized ergonomic design (240 × 54 × 34 mm; ~220 g) optimized for one-handed operation and portability
- Dual-parameter measurement: temperature (–20 to 60°C / –4 to 140°F) and relative humidity (0–99% RH)
- High-resolution display with 0.1°C / 0.1°F / 0.1% RH resolution for granular environmental assessment
- Calculated outputs: dew point temperature and wet-bulb temperature derived in real time from measured RH and dry-bulb temperature
- REL (relative) mode for differential measurement against a user-defined reference value
- HOLD/FREEZE function to lock current readings for documentation or comparison
- MAX/MIN tracking with manual reset to capture thermal and hygric excursions over observation periods
- Auto power-off after 15 minutes of inactivity to conserve battery life
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The CENTER 316 is intended for ambient air measurement only and is not designed for immersion, pressurized, or corrosive gas environments. It complies with general-purpose environmental monitoring requirements under ISO 7726 (Ergonomics of the thermal environment — Instruments for measuring physical quantities) for portable thermohygrometers. While not certified to metrological standards such as ISO/IEC 17025, its performance specifications align with typical acceptance criteria for non-critical indoor environmental monitoring per ASHRAE Guideline 1-2022 and ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 55-2023. The device is suitable for use in GLP-aligned workflows where documented environmental baseline data supports process validation, though formal calibration certificates are recommended for regulated applications requiring audit trails.
Software & Data Management
The CENTER 316 operates as a standalone, battery-powered instrument with no embedded Bluetooth, USB, or wireless connectivity. All data acquisition and analysis occur locally on-device; no proprietary software or PC interface is required. Readings are retained only during active operation—no internal memory or data logging capability is provided. Users intending to archive measurements must manually record values or integrate the unit into external documentation systems. For environments requiring electronic records compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 or EU Annex 11, the device may serve as a secondary verification tool when paired with validated procedural controls (e.g., defined SOPs for reading transcription, observer sign-off, and timestamped logbooks).
Applications
- Field verification of HVAC system output and duct air quality
- Environmental condition checks prior to material storage (e.g., hygroscopic chemicals, pharmaceutical packaging materials)
- Classroom demonstrations of psychrometric relationships and moisture dynamics
- Baseline surveys in archives, museums, and libraries for preventive conservation planning
- Pre-shipment inspection of climate-controlled transport containers
- Supporting ISO 14644-1 cleanroom classification by documenting background RH stability during unoccupied holds
FAQ
Does the CENTER 316 provide NIST-traceable calibration?
No—the device ships with factory calibration only. Users requiring traceable calibration should engage an accredited third-party laboratory using ISO/IEC 17025 procedures.
Can this unit measure surface temperature or material moisture content?
No—it measures only ambient air temperature and relative humidity. It does not support contact surface probes or dielectric moisture analysis.
Is the sensor replaceable or field-serviceable?
The humidity and temperature sensors are integrated into the main PCB and are not user-replaceable. Physical damage or long-term drift beyond specification requires unit replacement.
What is the recommended recalibration interval?
For non-regulated use, annual verification against a reference hygrometer and dry-well calibrator is advised. In GxP environments, follow internal quality protocols aligned with risk-based assessment.
Does the unit meet IP rating requirements for dust or water resistance?
No—its enclosure provides basic protection against incidental splashes only (IP20 equivalent). It is not rated for outdoor or high-humidity condensing environments.
