Refractometer

[Gubernaculum86]

Recently bought a used refractometer. However I lost the instructions some where in my house. :-/. Im pretty sure it's this one.
http://item.mobileweb.ebay.com/viewitem?itemId=180671292664&index=1&nav=SEARCH&nid=48187473505

I think several people on AA have the same one. Can anyone tell me how to calibrate it and what to use, if it needs calibrating at all?

 

[denwhite16]

There should be a little screw or nut somewhere. Put a few drops of distilled water on there and then look through (Helps if there is light in front of you so you can see better). Then just turn that screw or nut so that it is at zero, and kazaam, your calibrated.

 

[ccCapt]

To accurately calibrate it for saltwater, you should use calibration fluid. Using distilled water calibrates it for fresh water and the reading will be off by aprox 2-3ppt when measuring saltwater.
PINPOINT® Salinity Calibration Fluid - English

 

[denwhite16]

Why would you need a refractometer for fresh water? JW.

My instructions said use distilled...guess I should get some calibration fluid and see how far I'm off.

 

[Gubernaculum86]

I knew about the screw and screwdriver. I just wasn't sure if I should use distilled water or calibration fluid. I'd seen both used online. Maybe I'll give both a shot.