MKN CENTER-317 Digital Thermohygrometer

Overview

The MKN CENTER-317 Digital Thermohygrometer is a handheld, battery-powered environmental monitoring instrument engineered for reliable and repeatable measurement of ambient temperature and relative humidity in laboratory, industrial, HVAC, storage, and quality control environments. It employs a factory-calibrated capacitive polymer humidity sensor coupled with a precision NTC thermistor to deliver stable readings across its operational range. The device computes derived psychrometric parameters—including dew point temperature and wet-bulb temperature—in real time using standard ASHRAE and ISO 7726 algorithms, enabling users to assess condensation risk and thermal comfort conditions without external calculation tools. Designed for daily field use, the CENTER-317 features a robust ABS housing, low-power consumption architecture, and an intuitive single-button interface—making it suitable for routine spot-checks, environmental validation protocols, and baseline climate logging where high-end data logging is not required.

Key Features

• Real-time dual-parameter display: Simultaneous readout of temperature (°C) and relative humidity (%RH) on a high-contrast backlit LCD screen
• Integrated psychrometric computation: On-device calculation of dew point temperature and wet-bulb temperature based on measured dry-bulb and RH values
• Data capture utilities: Manual hold function to freeze current readings; min/max tracking with automatic timestamp-free memory retention
• User-centric interface: Large, legible digits; backlight activation via dedicated button for low-light operation; audible beep confirmation on function activation
• Power management: Auto-power-off after 15 minutes of inactivity; clear low-battery icon indicator to prevent measurement drift from voltage sag
• Calibration-ready design: Sensor module accessible for periodic verification or field recalibration using traceable reference standards (e.g., saturated salt solutions per ISO 4677)

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The CENTER-317 is intended for ambient air measurement only and is not rated for corrosive, explosive, or particulate-laden atmospheres. It complies with general-purpose EMC requirements per IEC 61326-1 for laboratory and light industrial use. While not certified to GLP or GMP Annex 11 out-of-the-box, its stable sensor response, documented accuracy specifications, and manual calibration traceability support use in non-regulated environmental monitoring tasks—including warehouse temperature mapping (per WHO Technical Report Series No. 961), cleanroom pre-audit checks, and stability chamber qualification support activities. Users performing critical applications are advised to implement supplementary procedural controls, such as scheduled verification against NIST-traceable references at defined intervals.

Software & Data Management

The CENTER-317 operates as a standalone instrument with no built-in USB, Bluetooth, or wireless connectivity. All measurements remain local to the device display and internal min/max registers. For documentation purposes, users must manually transcribe values into electronic lab notebooks (ELNs), LIMS, or spreadsheet-based logs. To ensure data integrity in regulated workflows, laboratories may integrate the CENTER-317 into broader environmental monitoring systems by pairing it with external digital loggers or using its readings as secondary verification points during sensor probe calibration cross-checks. No proprietary software, drivers, or cloud platform dependencies are associated with this model.

Applications

• Environmental verification in pharmaceutical storage areas (cold rooms, ambient warehouses) per EU GDP Chapter 9 guidelines
• Preliminary assessment of HVAC system performance and airflow uniformity in office and educational facilities
• Baseline humidity monitoring in museums, archives, and document preservation spaces
• Field validation of incubator, dryer, or desiccator setpoints prior to formal qualification
• Educational demonstrations of psychrometric relationships in physics and environmental science curricula
• Preventive maintenance checks for moisture ingress in electrical enclosures and control panels

FAQ

Does the CENTER-317 support data export or PC connectivity?
No. It is a self-contained measurement tool with no serial, USB, or wireless interface.
Can the device be calibrated by the user?
Yes—sensor verification can be performed using standard saturated salt solutions or certified humidity generators; full recalibration requires manufacturer service or authorized calibration labs.
What is the recommended recalibration interval?
Annual verification is advised under normal use; more frequent checks are recommended in high-humidity, high-dust, or high-temperature exposure environments.
Is the unit suitable for outdoor use?
It is rated for indoor and sheltered outdoor use only; IP rating is not specified, and prolonged exposure to rain, direct sunlight, or condensation may affect sensor longevity and accuracy.
Does it meet FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements?
No—it lacks audit trail, electronic signature, and secure data storage capabilities required for Part 11 compliance.