1、 Preparation before use

Instrument inspection: Confirm that the host, probe, and data cable are connected properly, and the battery is fully charged (or powered on). Check if the optical window of the probe is clean. If there are stains, gently wipe them with lens paper dipped in pure water.

Power on preheating: Preheat for 1 minute after power on (some high-precision instruments require longer time) to ensure stable light source.

2、 Sample measurement steps

Sample processing: If measuring live algae (such as phytoplankton), keep the sample in the dark for 5 minutes to avoid light adaptation affecting the results.

Quick detection mode: directly reading real-time fluorescence values (RFU), suitable for rapid screening in the field.

Probe immersion in sample: Immerse the probe vertically into the water sample to avoid bubbles adhering to the optical window (gently shake the probe to eliminate bubbles).

Depth suggestion: 10-15 cm away from the water surface (avoid interference from surface oil film or bottom sediment).

Data collection: Record the fluorescence value after stabilization (usually 5-10 seconds for the instrument to display stability).

If multi parameter measurement is required, trigger the Actinic Light and Saturating Pulse in sequence according to the program.

3、 Data storage and analysis

Manual recording: directly read the chlorophyll a concentration (μ g/L) or fluorescence parameters (such as Fv/Fm) displayed on the screen.

Automatic storage: Connect to a computer or built-in memory and set the sampling interval (e.g. once every 5 minutes).

Result conversion: Some instruments output relative fluorescence units (RFU), which need to be converted to chlorophyll-a concentration through calibration curves.

Formula example: Chlorophyll a (μ g/L)=slope x RFU+intercept (slope/intercept determined by calibration).

4、 Post use maintenance

Probe cleaning: Rinse the probe with pure water and dry it with a soft cloth to avoid residual algae or organic matter from adhering.

Shutdown: First shut down the measurement program, then disconnect the power to avoid circuit shock.

Long term storage: Place the probe in a dry box to avoid moisture and dust.

5、 Precautions and common questions

6、 Examples of Applicable Scenarios

Lake/Ocean Monitoring: Continuous measurement of surface water algae biomass by ship.

Laboratory research: Evaluating the photosynthetic activity of algae (such as stress response in toxicity experiments).

Aquaculture: Real time warning of algal blooms (sudden increase in chlorophyll-a concentration).