- The FC2320 is a digital PVDF body, gel filled pH electrode with a built-in temperature sensor for temperature compensated measurements in a single probe design. This probe connects to the meter with a 3.5 mm connector. The 3.5 mm connector is proprietary to meters that use digital electrodes. The FC2320 electrode features a built-in microchip that stores sensor type, serial number, and calibration information. It also features an open junction design with viscolene gel electrolyte, a sensing bulb made of low temperature glass, and a conical tip shape. This design consideration is ideal for pH measurements in samples such as meat and semi-frozen food samples. The recommended operating temperature range is from 0 to 60°C.
- Built-In Microchip
- The built-in microchip stores sensor type, serial number and calibration information including date, time, offset, slope, probe condition and buffers used. This information is automatically retrieved by edge® once the electrode is plugged in. The ability to transfer information allows for hot swapping of probes without having to recalibrate. All pH measurements are performed within the electrode and transferred digitally to the meter. This overcomes any noise issues associated with the traditional high impedance analog measuring system. Electrical noise can be generated from a built in temperature sensor and while working in a humid environment.
- Conical Glass Tip
- The conical shaped tip design allows for penetration into solids, semi solids, and emulsions for the direct measurement of pH in food products including meat, cheese, yogurt, and milk. The FC2320 utilizes Hanna’s general purpose (GP) glass formulation, which has a resistance of approximately 100 megaohms. This means that measuring conditions are optimal around ambient temperatures. Use of high temperature or low temperature glass around ambient temperatures would not be optimal due to a long response time or a shortened lifespan of the electrode.
- Open Junction Reference
- Suspended solids and proteins found in food products will clog a conventional ceramic reference junction. This clogging will impede the measurement circuit between the indicating electrode and the internal reference resulting in slower response time, erratic readings, and frequent electrode replacement. The open junction design consists of a solid gel interface (viscolene) between the sample and internal Ag/AgCl reference. This interface not only prevents silver from entering the sample, but also makes it impermeable to clogging, resulting in a fast response and stable readings.
- PVDF Body
- Polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) is a food grade plastic that is resistant to most chemicals and solvents, including sodium hypochlorite. It has high abrasion resistance, mechanical strength and resistance to ultraviolet and nuclear radiation. PVDF is also resistant to fungal growth.
- Stainless Steel Blade
- An optional stainless steel blade is attached to the probe for easy meat penetration, even in frozen samples. Slicing into the meat will allow for the pH glass and reference junction to be in contact with the sample, allowing for a direct pH measurement without extensive sample preparation. The FC098 (20 mm; 0.75”) and the FC099 (35mm; 1.38”) are a set of two stainless steel penetration blades to be used with the FC2320.