Leici PHB-5 Portable pH Meter
| Brand | Leici |
|---|---|
| Origin | Shanghai, China |
| Model | PHB-5 |
| Instrument Type | Portable |
| Parameter Types | Multi-parameter |
| pH Accuracy | ±0.01 pH |
| pH Range | −2.00 to 18.00 pH |
| pH Resolution | 0.01 pH |
| mV Range | −1999 to +1999 mV |
| mV Resolution | 1 mV |
| mV Accuracy | ±0.1% FS |
| Temperature Range | −5.0 to 110.0 °C |
| Temperature Resolution | 0.1 °C |
| Temperature Accuracy | ±0.2 °C |
| Calibration Buffers | GB Standard pH 4.00, 6.86, and 9.18 |
| Power Supply | Rechargeable Li-ion battery |
| AC/DC adapter (Input | AC 100–240 V, Output: DC 5 V) |
| Dimensions | 80 × 225 × 35 mm |
| Weight | 0.4 kg |
Overview
The Leici PHB-5 Portable pH Meter is a compact, field-deployable electrochemical instrument engineered for high-reproducibility pH, mV, and temperature measurements in diverse laboratory, environmental, educational, and industrial settings. Built upon potentiometric measurement principles, the PHB-5 determines hydrogen ion activity via a glass electrode coupled with a reference electrode—generating a Nernstian potential difference proportional to pH. Its extended pH range of −2.00 to 18.00 enables reliable operation in strongly acidic or alkaline media, including process streams, wastewater effluents, and aggressive cleaning solutions. The meter’s 0.01-pH resolution and ±0.01-pH accuracy meet the performance criteria of a Class 0.01 pH instrument per Chinese national metrological standards (JJG 119–2018), supporting applications requiring trace-level acidity/basicity verification under non-laboratory conditions.
Key Features
- High-contrast LCD display with backlight for legible readings in low-light or outdoor environments
- Intuitive button-based interface with dedicated function keys for calibration, measurement mode selection, and unit toggling
- Auto-diagnostic startup sequence verifying electrode connection integrity, battery status, and sensor signal stability
- Programmable auto-power-off (default: 10 min idle) and configurable power-saving modes to extend battery life
- Firmware upgradability via USB connection—enabling future protocol support, language localization, and compliance enhancements
- Robust mechanical design with IP67-rated enclosure (dust-tight and immersion-resistant up to 1 m for 30 min), validated per IEC 60529
- Integrated temperature compensation using an integrated NTC thermistor (−5.0 to 110.0 °C), supporting both automatic (ATC) and manual (MTC) modes
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The PHB-5 is compatible with standard BNC-input combination pH electrodes (e.g., Leici E-201-C, E-201-F) and separate reference/glass electrode configurations. It supports two- or three-point calibration using certified GB-standard buffer solutions (pH 4.00, 6.86, and 9.18 at 25 °C), traceable to NIM (National Institute of Metrology, China). While not pre-certified for FDA 21 CFR Part 11, its calibration log storage, timestamped measurement records, and password-protected configuration settings facilitate GLP-compliant documentation when deployed in quality-controlled workflows. The instrument complies with electromagnetic compatibility requirements per GB/T 18268.1–2010 (equivalent to IEC 61326-1) and safety standards per GB 4793.1–2007 (IEC 61010-1).
Software & Data Management
Measurements are stored internally (up to 500 data points) with automatic time/date stamping and associated calibration IDs. Data export is supported via micro-USB to PC using Leici’s proprietary LeiciLab software (Windows-compatible), enabling CSV export, trend visualization, and statistical analysis (mean, SD, min/max). The software enforces audit-trail functionality—including user login tracking, calibration history archiving, and immutable record timestamps—supporting internal QA/QC review and regulatory readiness. Firmware updates are delivered as signed binary packages with version rollback capability and checksum validation.
Applications
- Field monitoring of surface water, groundwater, and municipal wastewater for EPA Method 150.1 and ISO 10523 compliance
- On-site verification of cleaning-in-place (CIP) rinse cycles in food & beverage and pharmaceutical manufacturing
- Student laboratory instruction in general chemistry and environmental science curricula
- Quality assurance of buffer stock solutions, culture media, and reagent preparations
- Calibration verification of fixed-installation pH sensors in pilot-scale bioreactors or electroplating baths
- Rapid screening of soil leachates and agricultural runoff in extension service operations
FAQ
What calibration buffers are required for routine operation?
The PHB-5 requires GB-standard pH 4.00, 6.86, and 9.18 calibration solutions at 25 °C. These are traceable to national primary standards and recommended for two- or three-point calibration across the full measurement range.
Does the instrument support automatic temperature compensation (ATC)?
Yes—when used with a compatible ATC probe (e.g., Leici T-818-B-6), the PHB-5 applies NIST-referenced temperature coefficients to correct pH readings in real time. Manual temperature entry is also supported.
How long does the rechargeable battery last on a single charge?
Under typical intermittent use (10 measurements/hour), the integrated Li-ion battery provides ≥120 hours of operational life. Full recharge time is ≤4 hours via the included 5 V DC adapter.
Can the PHB-5 measure ORP (oxidation-reduction potential)?
Yes—the instrument measures mV in the range −1999 to +1999 mV with 1 mV resolution, suitable for direct ORP assessment using a platinum or redox electrode.
Is the device suitable for measuring pH in non-aqueous or low-ionic-strength samples?
While optimized for aqueous systems, the PHB-5 may be used with non-aqueous solvents or deionized water when paired with specialized electrodes (e.g., double-junction or sleeve-type reference electrodes); however, users must apply appropriate junction correction and verify response stability empirically.
