enElcometer 331

Half-Cell Meter
Model HM

Operating Instructions

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The Elcometer 331 Half-Cell Meter has been tested in accordance with EU regulations governing
Electro-magnetic compliance and it meets the required directives.
Note: Readings may be affected if the unit is operated within a radio frequency electromagnetic strength ofgreater than 3 V/m.
© Copyright Elcometer Limited. 2008-2012.
R, CoverMaster® andare registered trademarks of Elcometer Limited.

Material Safety Data Sheets for the Elcometer 331 Half Cell Probes can be downloaded via our website:
Elcometer 331 Half Cell Probe Copper-Copper Sulphate (Cu-CuS04)
www.elcometer.com/images/MSDS/elcometer_331_half_cell_copper.pdf
Elcometer 331 Half Cell Probe Silver-Siliver Chloride (Ag-AgCI)
www.elcometer.com/images/MSDS/elcometer_331_half_cell_silver.pdf
All other trademarks acknowledged. All rights reserved. No part of this Document may be reproduced,
transmitted, transcribed, stored (in a retrieval system or otherwise) or translated into any language, in any
form or by any means (electronic, mechanical, magnetic, optical, manual or otherwise) without the priorwritten permission of Elcometer Limited.
A copy of this Instruction Manual is available for download on our Website via www.elcometer.com
Doc.No. TMA-0435 Issue 04
Text with Cover No: 20589

Section
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Page

About your Half-Cell Meter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Quick-start . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Getting started . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
The menus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Measuring half-cell potential . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Setting limits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Statistics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Batching/Data logging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
A typical survey (using grid batch memory) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Plotting batches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Transferring readings to a computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Half-cell probes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Personalised welcome screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
Error messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
Technical data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
Related equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Index. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
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CONTENTSR

Thank you for your purchase of this Elcometer 331 Half-Cell Meter. Welcome to Elcometer.
Elcometer are world leaders in the design, manufacture and supply of inspection equipment for concreteand coatings. Our concrete inspection products include a comprehensive range of concrete, and civilengineering inspection equipment. Our coatings products cover all aspects of coating inspection, fromdevelopment through application to post application inspection.
The Elcometer 331 Half-Cell Meter is a world beating product. With the purchase of this Half-Cell Meter you
now have access to the worldwide service and support network of Elcometer. For more information visit our
website at www.elcometer.com

1 ABOUT YOUR HALF-CELL METER
The Elcometer 331 Half-Cell Meter is a portable Half-Cell Meter for fast and accurate assessment of thepotential for corrosion of concrete reinforcement bars.
Your Half-Cell Meter measures half-cell potential - an electrochemical technique commonly used to assess
the potential for corrosion in reinforced concrete structures. The instrument acts as a voltmeter whichmeasures the potential difference between the steel reinforcement in the concrete structure and a referenceelectrode (the half-cell) placed on the surface of the concrete.
The Half-Cell Meter is available in two versions:•

Model H (entry level)•

Model HM (with data logging)This manual describes the operation of the Elcometer 331 Half-Cell Meter Model HM.
Both versions of the instrument feature an easy-to-use menu-driven graphical interface which guides theuser during setup and measurement. A range of half-cell probes is available to suit your requirements.
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This instrument is packed in cardboard and plastic packaging. Please ensure that this packaging is
disposed of in an environmentally sensitive manner. Consult your Local Environmental Authority for further
guidance.
To maximise the benefits of your new Elcometer 331 Half-Cell Meter please take some time to readthese Operating Instructions. Do not hesitate to contact Elcometer or your Elcometer supplier if you
have any questions.
1.1 FEATURES
Elcometer 331 Model
Feature

Page
H

HM

Menu-driven backlit graphical user interface

99Weather proof to IP65

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9

-

Multiple languages

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9

14

12

Memory - multiple linear and grid batches, up to 240 000 readings

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33

Text fields for input of user data in each batch

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35

Date and time stamping

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35

Statistical analysis of readings and batches

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29

Alarm if reading is outside limits

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27

Transfer readings and statistics to a computer

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53

CoverMaster® software for batch setup, data transfer and reporting

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54

Plot mode

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1.2 STANDARDSThe Elcometer 331 Half-Cell Meter can be used in accordance with the following National and International
Standards; ASTM C876, DGZfP:B3, TR60, UNI 10174.
1.3 WHAT THIS BOX CONTAINS•

Elcometer 331 Model HM Half-Cell Meter•

Rechargeable battery pack and battery charger (UK, EUR & US)•

25 m extension cable on spool•

1.7 m red rebar cable with connecting clip•

1.7 m black half-cell connecting cable•

Earphone•

Shoulder strap•

CD containing CoverMaster® software•

Data transfer cable•

Plastic carrying case•Operating instructions

Note: Half-Cell probes are not supplied with the main instrument and have to be ordered separately - see“Accessories” on page 61.

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Figure 1. Elcometer 331 Half-Cell Meter
1.4 CONVENTIONS IN THESE INSTRUCTIONS
A simple menu structure helps you get the most from your Half-Cell Meter - see “The menus” on page 16.
There are many references to this menu structure in these instructions.
As an example, the LANGUAGE option which is in SETUP from the MAIN MENU would be shown in these
instructions as:
MENU / SETUP / LANGUAGE

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2 QUICK-START
Note: Before switching the Half-Cell Meter on for the first time read “Selecting a language” on page 14.
To configure the Half-Cell Meter quickly and start taking readings:
1. Charge the batteries

see page 7

2. Fit half-cell probe and cables

see page 10

3. Switch on

see page 12

4. Select language

see page 14

5. Take readings of half-cell potential

see page 24

6. To use memory

see page 33

For an overview of your Half-Cell Meter menus and functions, see pages 16 to 23.

3 GETTING STARTEDThis section of the instructions is intended for first-time users of the Half-Cell Meter. It contains essential
information about batteries, assembling the Half-Cell Meter, the controls and the display. At the end of thissection you will be ready to take readings.
3.1 THE POWER SUPPLYYour Half-Cell Meter is powered by a rechargeable Lithium-Iona battery pack which can be charged insideor outside the Half-Cell Meter.
a.

6

The Half-Cell Meter is not designed to operate using dry cell batteries.

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One battery pack is supplied with the Half-Cell Meter. To increase productivity on site, Elcometerrecommends that you purchase a spare battery pack which can be charged while you are using your HalfCell Meter. To order an additional battery pack (see “Accessories” on page 61), contact Elcometer or yourlocal Elcometer supplier.
CHARGING THE BATTERIESThe rechargeable battery must be fully charged before using the Half-Cell Meter for the first time. Use only
the charger supplied with your Half-Cell Meter to charge the battery. Use of any other type of charger is apotential hazard, may damage your Half-Cell Meter and will invalidate the warranty. Do not attempt tocharge any other batteries with the supplied charger.
Always charge the battery indoors. To prevent overheating, ensure that the charger is not covered.
1. Unscrew
theretaining screw (1)
and
open
the
interface
accesscover (2) on the rearoftheHalf-Cell
Meter.

3

3

1
2

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2. Connect the leadfrom the charger into
the socket marked‘Charger
Input’
behind the interface
access cover.
The Half-Cell Meterwill
automaticallyswitch off when the
lead
from
the
chargerisconnected.

(battery in the Half-Cell Meter)(battery removed)

3. Plug the charger supplied into the mains supply. The LED indicator on the charger will glow orange.
4. Leave the gauge charging for at least 4 hours. The LED indicator changes colour from orange to green
when charging is complete.
5. When charging is complete, disconnect the charger from the mains supply before removing the leadfrom the Half-Cell Meter.
To remove the battery pack for charging outside the Half-Cell Meter, unscrew the two battery pack retaining
screws (3) at the rear of the Half-Cell Meter and slide out the battery pack. To charge the battery once it has
been removed, connect the lead from the charger into the socket on the battery pack.
Warning: Do not allow metallic objects to come into contact with the battery terminals; this may
cause a short circuit and result in permanent damage to the battery.

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Warning: Do not attempt to connect the supply side of the battery charger to generators or any othermedium to high power source other than the single phase 50 Hz AC mains outlet supplied from anapproved and safe mains switchboard. Connection to other supply sources such as generators or
inverters may have the potential to damage the charger, the battery and/or the gauge, invalidating
warranty.
BATTERY CONDITION INDICATOR

The state of charge of the battery is shown by a symbol on the display:= full charge,= low charge,(flashing + beep every 10 seconds) = charging required

When the battery is completely exhausted the instrument will emit 5 loud beeps and then switch off.

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3.2 FITTING HALF-CELL PROBES
Connect the probe and cables asshown.

Black
cable

Red
cable

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3.3 THE CONTROLSAll functions of the Half-Cell Meter can be controlled using the keypad. There are two types of keys on the
keypad; fixed function keys and ‘soft’ keys (Figure 2).
Switches theHalf-Cell Meter
on or off

Scrolls up/down
through menus
and lists of values
Increases/
decreases
alphanumericvaluesAccesses menus
Escapes frommenus
Discards values
entered on
display

The function of these ‘soft’ keys
varies and is defined by symbols
and text on the screen

Selects menu
items
Toggles tickboxes on/off
Confirms values
entered on
display
Adds reading tostatisticalanalysis
Adds reading tobatch (if batch is
open)

Figure 2. Half-Cell Meter keypad

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3.4 SWITCHING THE HALF-CELL METER ON AND OFF
To switch the Half-Cell Meter on, press [].

To switch the Half-Cell Meter off, press and hold [] for two seconds.

The Half-Cell Meter includes an automatic switch off feature which will help to extend the battery life (timebetween charges). The automatic switch off time can be set to OFF, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 or 10 minutes.
MENU / SETUP / AUTO SWITCH OFF
A countdown timer is displayed on the screen 60 seconds before the Half-Cell Meter switches off
automatically. The timer counts down from 60 to 0 to warn you that the Half-Cell Meter is about to switch
off. Press any key while the countdown timer is displayed to cancel automatic switch off.
3.5 THE DISPLAY
Take some time to familiarise yourself with the information shown on the display of your Half-Cell Meter.
The display shows:•

Welcome information•

Measurement information•

Menus to configure the Half-Cell Meter and control functions•

Help and miscellaneous information

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When the Half-Cell Meter is switched on an opening (welcome) information screenb may be displayedbriefly before the main reading screen appears.
The information shown depends upon whether you are taking measurements, reviewing readings or setting
up the Half-Cell Meter.
The main screen displayed (while you are taking measurements) is the Reading Screen.
READING SCREEN

1. Half-cell potential - bar graph (zero at centre)

1

2. Half-cell potential - numerical
SYMBOLS2

A wide range of symbols is used on the display. The
meaning of all these symbols is stored in the Half-Cell
Meter.
MENU / ABOUT / HELPLCD CONTRAST

Adjust the contrast of the display to suit lighting conditions.
MENU / SETUP / LCD CONTRASTb.

The opening (welcome) screen can be disabled.
MENU / SETUP / OPENING SCREEN.
Customised welcome screens can be created on a PC and downloaded into the gauge - see “Personalised welcome
screen” on page 58.

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BACKLIGHT

The display includes a backlight which illuminates the display for 10 seconds after any key is pressed andduring measurements. Switch the backlight on or off as required. Switching the backlight off will increase
battery life.
MENU / BACKLIGHT
TIME AND DATE

The time and date can be displayed on the top line of the reading screen.
MENU / SETUP / DISPLAY / SHOW TIME
3.6 SELECTING A LANGUAGE
Your Half-Cell Meter has a number of built-in languages. When the
Half-Cell Meter is switched on for the first time after dispatch fromthe Elcometer factory the display will show the language selection
screen (Figure 3).
AT FIRST SWITCH ON

1. Press [×] or [Ø] to locate language required.
2. Press [©] to activate the selected language.
The Half-Cell Meter operates in the new language until changed.
AT ANY TIME

1. Switch the Half-Cell Meter off.
2. Press and hold left hand softkey.
3. Press [14] to switch on Half-Cell Meter.

Figure 3. Language selection
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The display will show the language selection screen with the current language highlighted by the
cursor.
4. Release left hand softkey.
5. Press [×] or [Ø] to locate language required.
6. Press [©] to activate the selected language.
Alternatively, select a language at any time.
MENU / SETUP / LANGUAGE
3.7 COMPUTER INTERFACEYour Half-Cell Meter is fitted with an RS232 interface. The interface is located under the interface accesscover at the rear of the Half-Cell Meter - see page 7.
This 5-pin RS232 interface is used with the data transfer cable to connect the Half-Cell Meter to the RS232
portc of a computer. When the Half-Cell Meter is connected to a computer you can:•Download personalised screens to the Half-Cell Meter (see “Personalised welcome screen” onpage 58).

•

Transfer measurement data to a PC or printer (see “Transferring readings to a computer” on page 53).

3.8 USING THE EARPHONE
To use the earphone, plug the connector into the 3.5 mm socket marked
on the front of the Half-Cell
Meter. Replacement earphones are available as an optional accessory - see “Accessories” on page 61.
c.

An RS232 to USB transfer cable is available which allows you to connect your Half-Cell Meter to a USB port on yourcomputer. For ordering information, see “Accessories” on page 61.

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4 THE MENUS
The menus of your instrument are shown on the next page and a description of each menu item is given in
the following paragraphs.
To access the menus press the MENU softkey.
To return to the reading screen quickly, press and hold the MENU softkey.

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4.1 MENU
DATA LOGGER . . . . . . Opens Data logger menu . . . . . . . . . . . . See 4.2 DATA LOGGERBACKLIGHT . . . . . . . . . Toggles the display backlight on or off
STATISTICS . . . . . . . . . Opens Statistics menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . See 4.3 STATISTICSPRINT/OUTPUT . . . . . . Opens Print/output menu . . . . . . . . . . . . See 4.4 PRINT/OUTPUTSETUP . . . . . . . . . . . . . Opens Setup menu. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . See 4.5 SETUPABOUT . . . . . . . . . . . . . Opens About menu. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . See 4.6 ABOUTRESET . . . . . . . . . . . . . Opens Reset menu. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . See 4.7 RESET
Note: When Backlight is on, the display is lit for 30 seconds after any key press and during measurement.
4.2 DATA LOGGER
EXIT BATCHING. . . . . . Switches off data logger
OPEN NEW BATCH . . . Opens a new memory batch and starts data logger
OPEN EXISTING BATCHOpens existing memory batch and starts data logger
CLONE BATCH. . . . . . . Creates a clone of an existing memory batch and starts data logger
REVIEW BATCH . . . . . . Opens an existing memory batch for viewing of readings
PLOT BATCH . . . . . . . . Plots batch readings on the display
PLOT OPTIONS . . . . . . Sets plot options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . See 4.8 PLOT OPTIONSEDIT BATCH TAGS . . . Opens an existing memory batch for editing of tags
DELETE BATCH . . . . . . Deletes one memory batch
DELETE ALL BATCHES Deletes all memory batches
FREE MEMORY . . . . . . Displays amount of free memory (%)> see “Batching/Data logging” on page 33
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4.3 STATISTICSENLARGE STATS. . . . . Displays statistics in a larger font size
CLEAR STATS . . . . . . . Resets to zero all statistical values
SELECT STATS . . . . . . Opens Select stats menu . . . . . . . . . . . . See 4.9 SELECT STATS> see “Statistics” on page 29
4.4 PRINT/OUTPUTSINGLE BATCH . . . . . . Prints or outputs to PC a single memory batch
ALL BATCHES . . . . . . . Prints or outputs to PC all memory batches
CURRENT STATISTICS Prints or outputs to PC the current statistics> see “Transferring readings to a computer” on page 53
4.5 SETUPUNITS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Opens Units menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . See 4.10 UNITS
LIMITS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . Opens Limits menu. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . See 4.11 LIMITS
CLOCK . . . . . . . . . . . . . Opens Clock menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . See 4.12 CLOCKOUTPUT . . . . . . . . . . . . Opens Output menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . See 4.13 OUTPUTDISPLAY . . . . . . . . . . . . Opens Display menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . See 4.14 DISPLAY
BEEP VOLUME. . . . . . . Use Scroll keys to select beep volume 0 (off) to 5 (maximum), then press EnterLANGUAGE . . . . . . . . . Use Scroll keys to select menu language and then press enter
AUTO SWITCH OFF . . . Use Scroll keys to select auto switch off time, 5 to 10 mins/off, then press EnterOPENING SCREEN . . . Press Enter to toggle the opening screen on or off
LCD CONTRAST . . . . . Use Scroll keys to select LCD contrast, 0 to 8 and then press Enter19

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4.6 ABOUT
GAUGE INFORMATION Press Enter to display technical information about the Half-Cell MeterCONTACT . . . . . . . . . . . Press Enter to display Elcometer offices worldwide and(if programmed) Supplier contact details
HELP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Press Enter to display an explanation of all the symbols used on the display
4.7 RESETINTL GAUGE. . . . . . . . . Press Enter to Reset Half-Cell Meter to International settingsd(DD/MM/YYYY date format, metric units, etc.)
USA GAUGE . . . . . . . . . Press Enter to Reset Half-Cell Meter to USA settingse(MM/DD/YYYY date format, imperial units, etc.)
Note: The Half-Cell Meter will display a Yes/No confirmation screen before reset is activated.
4.8 PLOT OPTIONSGREYSCALE MIN/MAX Sets plot greyscale between the minimum and maximum readings in the batch
GREYSCALE LIMITS . . Sets plot greyscale between the minimum and maximum limits in the batch
THRESHOLD VIEW . . . Sets plot to white, or black below an adjustable threshold
SET THRESHOLD . . . . Press Enter, use Scroll keys to adjust value and then press Enter> see “Plot options” on page 51
d.
e.

20

International settings can also be activated at switch on:
Press and hold third softkey
and switch on gauge.
USA settings can also be activated at switch on:
Press and hold fourth softkey
and switch on gauge.

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4.9 SELECT STATSNO. OF READINGS . . . Press Enter to toggle on or off
MEAN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Press Enter to toggle on or off
STD DEVIATION. . . . . . Press Enter to toggle on or off
COEF OF VARIAT’N . . . Press Enter to toggle on or off
LOWEST READING . . . Press Enter to toggle on or off
HIGHEST READING . . . Press Enter to toggle on or off
UNDER RANGE . . . . . . Press Enter to toggle on or off
BELOW LIMIT . . . . . . . . Press Enter to toggle on or off
ABOVE LIMIT . . . . . . . . Press Enter to toggle on or off
OVER RANGE . . . . . . . Press Enter to toggle on or off
BLANK. . . . . . . . . . . . . . Press Enter to toggle on or off
Note: Only two statistics from the above list can be toggled to ‘on’ at the same time.
4.10 UNITSCELCIUS. . . . . . . . . . . . Press Enter to toggle on or off
FAHRENHEIT . . . . . . . . Press Enter to toggle on or off
4.11 LIMITSLOW LIMIT . . . . . . . . . . Opens Low limit menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . See 4.15 LOW LIMITHIGH LIMIT . . . . . . . . . . Opens High limit menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . See 4.16 HIGH LIMIT
4.12 CLOCK
TIME/DATE . . . . . . . . . . Use Scroll keys and Left/Right softkeys to set time and date, then press Enter
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SET DATE FORMAT. . . Opens Set date format menu . . . . . . . . . See 4.17 SET DATE FORMAT
4.13 OUTPUTBAUD RATE . . . . . . . . . Opens Baud rate menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . See 4.18 BAUD RATE
RS232 BIT IMAGE . . . . Press Enter to toggle on or off
RS232 PLAIN TEXT . . . Press Enter to toggle on or off
Note: RS232 Bit Image and RS232 Plain Text cannot be toggled to ‘on’ at the same time.
> see “Transferring readings to a computer” on page 53
4.14 DISPLAY
SHOW TIME . . . . . . . . . Press Enter to toggle on or off
STATS ON LCD . . . . . . Press Enter to toggle on or off
Note: Time and Stats cannot both be toggled to ‘on’ at the same time.
4.15 LOW LIMITLOW LIMIT ON . . . . . . . Press Enter to toggle on or off
LOW LIMIT . . . . . . . . . . Use Scroll keys to adjust low limit and press Enter> see “Setting limits” on page 27
4.16 HIGH LIMITHIGH LIMIT ON. . . . . . . Press Enter to toggle on or off
HIGH LIMIT . . . . . . . . . . Use Scroll keys to adjust high limit and press Enter> see “Setting limits” on page 27
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4.17 SET DATE FORMAT
DD/MM/YYYY . . . . . . . . Press Enter to toggle on or off
MM/DD/YYYY . . . . . . . . Press Enter to toggle on or off
4.18 BAUD RATE
1200 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Select using Scroll keys and press Enter to select2400 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Select using Scroll keys and press Enter to select4800 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Select using Scroll keys and press Enter to select
9600 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Select using Scroll keys and press Enter to select14400 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Select using Scroll keys and press Enter to select
19200 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Select using Scroll keys and press Enter to select23

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5 MEASURING HALF-CELL POTENTIAL
5.1 BEFORE YOU START•

Are you using the correct half-cell probe?
See “Half-cell probes” on page 56.

•

Do you want statistics?
See “Statistics” on page 29.

•

Do you want to save readings in memory?
See “Batching/Data logging” on page 33.

5.2 PROCEDURE
1. Locate the position of a reinforcing bar (using a metal detector, covermeter or similar instrument).
2. Expose the bar, e.g. by drilling through the cover using a large drill.
3. Drill a small diameter hole into the bar suitable for attachment of the positive (red) cable using a screwor lead plug.
4. Mark out a grid on the concrete. Measurements will be taken at the intersection points of the grid.
Typical grid spacing is 1 m x 1 m, however this may be reduced if localised corrosion is suspected. If
the measured half-cell potential between two adjacent positions differs by more than 100 mV, it isrecommended that the grid spacing is reduced.
5. If necessary, use tap water to wet the whole of the test area, or just the measurement positions.
6. Connect the red cable and extension reel between the exposed reinforcing bar and the red terminal on
the Half-Cell Meter (Figure 4). Connect the black cable between the probe and the black terminal on
the Half-Cell Meter.
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7. Switch on the HalfCell Meter.
8. Remove the end
cap from the probe
and store the cap
safely.
9. Press the electrodeagainsttheconcrete surface.
10. View the reading ofhalf-cell potential on
the display.
11. If you are satisfied
with the reading,either move on tothenextmeasurement
location or press
Enter [©].

Figure 4. Typical instrument configuration for half-cell measurements

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5.3 WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU PRESS ENTER [©]1. The half-cell potential reading is entered into the current statistical analysis.
2. If a batch is open, the reading is saved into a memory location.
3. The Half-Cell Meter will then advance (scroll) to the next memory location. When the last memory
location of a row in a grid is reached, the Half-Cell Meter will advance to the first memory location of
the next row (Figure 5). When the final memory location in a grid or linear batch is filled, the Half-Cell
Meter closes the batch and exits batching.
Refer to “The BATCH softkey” on page 43 for information on how to navigate around a batch andreview, delete, overwrite and skip memory locations while you are taking readings.
4. The Half-Cell Meter will beep:• Single beep - reading taken.
• Double beep - reading taken in last memory locationof a row in a grid.
• Triple beep - reading taken in last memory location of
the grid.
• Triple beep (higher pitch) - reading taken is outside
MENU / SETUP /limitsf if limits have been set (LIMITS).

f.

26

Figure 5. Beeps (*) and scrolling on a
6x3 grid batch

Typically, a low limit will be applied at the threshold that would indicate corrosion e.g. -350 mV. Any readings lower(more negative) than this would then cause an alarm and be tagged as below limit in the statistics and/or the batch.

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5.4 MEASURING CELL-TO-CELL RATHER THAN CELL-TO-BAR
In some instances it will not be possible to make a direct connection to a reinforcing bar. In this situation it
is common practice to use two half-cell probes connected to the inputs of the Half-Cell Meter. One probe is
fixed in position on the concrete surface and the other probe is moved over the surface. In this way thesurface can be ‘mapped’.
Using this method, the absolute value of the reinforcing bar to concrete half-cell will not be measurable,
however changes from one point on the surface to the next can be measured and interpreted.

6 SETTING LIMITS
Low and High limits can be set by the user to monitor whether half-cell potential is within specifications.
MENU / SETUP / LIMITSLOW LIMIT

LOW LIMIT ON
LOW LIMIT

HIGH LIMITmVHIGH LIMIT ON
HIGH LIMITmV

Set the limit value and toggle the tick box to switch the limit on or off.
With limits switched on, when you take a reading which is within the limits, the Half-Cell Meter will beep
once. When you take a reading which is outside the limits, the Half-Cell Meter will beep three times to warn
you of an out-of-limit reading.
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When limits are switched on, any readings taken which are outside a limit are indicated on the reading
screen by an arrow icon;
or .

Reading is less than lower limit

Reading is greater than upper limit

When batching is switched on and limits are switched on, readings in a batch which are outside the limits
are marked as follows:•

Down arrow icon•

Up arrow icon28

if the reading is below the low limit.
if the reading is above the high limit.

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7 STATISTICSYour Half-Cell Meter has a Statistics feature which calculates and displays a statistical analysis of readings
as they are taken.
Statistics values are also calculated for the readings within a batch and these values are stored in the batch.
To enter a reading into the statistical analysis while you are taking measurements, press [©].
Table 1: Calculated statistics values
Number of
Readings

The running value for the number of readings taken in a group.

Mean

The average of a group of readings; the sum of the individual readings
divided by the number of readings.

Standard
Deviation

A statistical measure of the spread of values in a group of readings.

Coefficient of The standard deviation divided by the mean for a group of readings,
Variation
expressed as a percentage.
LowestReading

The value of the lowest reading taken in a group.

HighestReading

The value of the highest reading taken in a group.

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Table 1: Calculated statistics valuesoror

Under range

The number and percentage of readings under range.

Low limit

The number and percentage of readings below the low limit.

Within limits

The number and percentage of readings within limits.

High limit

The number and percentage of readings above the high limit.

Over range

The number and percentage of readings over range (or infinite).

Blankreadings

Number and percentage of blank readings (skipped/not recorded/deleted).

Over range, under range and blank readings are not included in the calculation of mean, standard deviation,coefficient of variation, lowest reading and highest reading (neither are they counted in number of readings
taken).

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To access statistics, open the Statistics menu.
MENU / STATISTICS
7.1 VIEWING STATISTICS
Statistics values can be viewed in a number of ways:

STATISTICSENLARGE STATS
CLEAR STATSSELECT STATS•As you are taking measurements, any two of the statistics
values in Table 1 on page 29 can be displayed on the reading
screen.
MENU / SETUP / DISPLAY / STATS ON LCD•

At any point while taking measurements, any two or all of the statistics values can be displayed inenlarged format.
MENU / STATISTICS / ENLARGE STATS•When a batch has been created, statistics values for the batch can be displayed on the reading review
screen.
MENU / DATA LOGGER / REVIEW BATCH

7.2 ENLARGE STATS
Displays the chosen statistical values as double-height characters.
Press ALL and use [×] and [Ø] to view all statistical values. Press[menu/esc] to return to the Reading Screen.
7.3 CLEAR STATS
Resets to zero all statistical values. Press YES to confirm or NO tocancel. Clear stats is not available while a batch is openg.
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7.4 SELECT STATS
Allows the user to choose which statistics values are displayed on
the reading screen during measurement.
Use [×] and [Ø] to move the cursor and press [©] to select ordeselect the statistics values.
Only two statistics values can be selected and displayed on thereading screen at the same time. To view all statistics values
choose:MENU / STATISTICS / ENLARGE STATS / ALL
MENU / SETUP / DISPLAY / SHOW TIME

g.

32

SELECT STATSNO. OF READINGSMEANSTD DEVIATION
COEF OF VARIAT’N
LOWEST READINGHIGHEST READINGUNDER RANGEBELOW LIMITABOVE LIMITOVER RANGEBLANKOpening a new or existing batch will also cause all current statistical values to be reset to zero.













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8 BATCHING/DATA LOGGINGYour Half-Cell Meter includes internal memory which can be used to save half-cell readings. Use thismemory to save your readings as you take them; this will help to increase your productivity on site andreduce the need to rely on paper and pen to record your results.
All readings saved into the memory of your Half-Cell Meter are stored in ‘batches’. Typically, a single batchis used to store readings from a particular area or location on a site.
There are two types of batch; ‘linear’ and ‘grid’.
The User must define whether a batch is to be in linear (opened (created).

) or grid () format when the batch is first

8.1 LINEAR BATCHES
A linear batch of memory locations is similar to a single row or column of cells on a spreadsheet:
30 33 29 28 35 30 30 27 28 31 33
Maximum number of readings in a linear batch:

1000

Maximum number of linear batches:

200

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8.2 GRID BATCHES
Grid batches are typically used when you are surveying large areas of concrete.
A grid batch of memory locations is similar to the grid of cells marked out by the rows and columns of a
spreadsheet:
A

B

C

D

E

F

G

H

I

J

K

1

30 33 30 27 28 31 33 35 32 30 30

2

29 27 28 31 33 35 32 30 30 27 28

330 27 28 31 33 35 32 28 30 27 28

435 27 28 31 33 35 32 30 29 27 28

L

5
Maximum size of a grid batch:

255 rows x 255 columns

Maximum number of grid batches:

1000

Maximum total number of readings:

240 000

Memory locations in a grid batch are referred to by their column letter and row number, for instance A1, F4,
etc.
Grid batches are typically used to save readings when surveying a large area of concrete:•

On the concrete, mark out a pre-defined grid of squares, typically of 0.5 m pitch. This is an arbitrary
grid which does not necessarily align with the reinforcement bars.

•

Use a Covermeter or similar instrument to locate and measure the minimum area of cover within eachgrid cell, or the cover to the reinforcement bar nearest to each grid-point, depending upon your survey
procedures.

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•

Create a grid batch on your Half-Cell Meter and store half-cell potential measurements for eachlocation.

8.3 WHAT DOES A BATCH CONTAIN?
Each batch stores three types of information:•

header fields(information entered by the user - see below)•

readings(entered automatically by the 331 as you are taking measurements)•

statistics(entered automatically by the 331 as you are taking measurements)
SymbolSymbol meaning

Typical contents

Batch name001-1 or Survey-01

Batch format (orEntered by
User

331

9
9

)
10 (only displayed forbatches)
10 (only displayed forbatches)nx

Number of columns (nx)nyNumber of rows (ny)nNumber of readings taken (n)

96

Site

Humber Bridge

9
9
9
9

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SymbolTypical contents

Location

North Pier

9

Area

AA/123/4-001

9Grid spacing (size of each grid square)

500 mm9

Batch creation date/time

09:30 17/01/06

9

Batch update date/time

14:15 19/01/06

9

Low limit

20 mm

9

High limit

35 mm

9

Half-cell type

CU/CUSO4
AG/AGCL9

Temperature

20°C

9

Engineer

M. Smith9

Customer

Highways Department

9

Lowest reading
36Entered by

Symbol meaning

User

331

9

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SymbolSymbol meaning

Typical contents

Entered by
User

331

Highest reading

9

Mean

9

Standard deviation

9

Number and percentage of readings below thex (y%) < z mm
lower limit, together with the limit value (if any).
x (y%)
Number and percentage of readings within limits.
Number and percentage of readings above thex (y%) > z mm
upper limit, together with the limit value (if any).
x (y%)
Number and percentage of blank readings (if any).
Number and percentage of under-range readings
x (y%) <<(if any).
Number and percentage of over-range (infinite)
x (y%)
readings (if any).
Notes

9
9
9
9
9
9
Survey top only

9

The following additional symbols may be seen on the reading review screen:
The reading is under range (not measurable)

9

The reading is less than the low limit

9
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Symbol-Symbol meaning

Typical contents

Entered byUser

9

The reading is over range (not measurable)

9

Blank reading (memory location is empty)

98.4 SAVING YOUR READINGS IN MEMORY
To use the memory you will need to understand how to use theData Logger.
MENU / DATA LOGGER
To use a batch of memory it is first necessary to open (create) abatch - see 8.6 below. Once the batch has been opened you canthen save your readings into that batch as you take them.
To save a reading when a batch is open, press [©].
You may exit batching at any time; once you exit batching (andhence the Half-Cell Meter is not data logging), readings will nolonger be saved.
MENU / DATA LOGGER / EXIT BATCHING
The following sections describe how to configure and use the Data
Logger.

38

331

The reading is greater than the high limit

DATA LOGGER

EXIT BATCHING
OPEN NEW BATCH
OPEN EXISTING BATCH
CLONE BATCH
REVIEW BATCH
PLOT BATCH
PLOT OPTIONSEDIT BATCH TAGS
DELETE BATCH
DELETE ALL BATCHESFREE MEMORY

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8.5 EXIT BATCHING
Switches off batching (the data logger). No further readings are saved, the display reverts to the reading
screen and the BATCH softkey disappears.
8.6 OPEN NEW BATCH
Opens (creates) a new memory batch.
The Half-Cell Meter uses the most recently created batch as a template for the new batch. The batch nameis based upon the alphanumeric value of the last batch created, but all other header fields are left blank see “What does a batch contain?” on page 35.
1. Enter information in the header fields (including the batch name) as requiredh - see “How to enter
information into batch header fields” on page 45.
2. When you are happy with the details you have added or changed, press
to create the batch. The
display switches to the reading screen and then starts batching (the BATCH softkey appears on thereading screen).
8.7 OPEN EXISTING BATCH
Opens an existing memory batch.
1. Use Left/Right softkeys [ÍÎ] to scroll to the required batch.

h.

If a new batch is created with a name matching an existing batch, the instrument beeps and returns to the name editing screen.

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2. Press [©] to select the batch. When the batch has been opened, the display switches to the reading
screen and then starts batching (the BATCH softkey appears on the reading screen). Readings in theexisting batch can then be amended, deleted and added.
8.8 CLONE BATCH/COPY BATCH INFORMATION
Creates a clone (a copy) of an existing memory batch.
Cloning a batch allows the contents of an existing batch to be copied (everything is copied except for thereadings). Cloning is typically used on site to create new batches without having to re-enter batch header
details such as the name of the site, the engineer, the customer, etc.
When the new batch has been created by pressing, the display switches to the reading screen and thenstarts batching (the BATCH softkey appears on the reading screen).
1. Use Left/Right softkeys [ÍÎ] to scroll to the batch you want to clone.
2. Press [©] to select the batch.
3. Adjust information in the header fields as required (you must give the batch a nameh which does notalready exist) - see “How to enter information into batch header fields” on page 45.
4. Pressto create the clone.

8.9 REVIEW BATCH
Opens any existing memory batch for viewing of batch header information, readings and statistics. Also
allows individual readings to be deleted.
1. Use Left/Right softkeys [ÍÎ] to scroll to the batch you want to review.
2. Press [©] to select batch.
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3. Review readings using the scroll keys to move around the contents of a batch.
Press and hold the Shift softkey [start or end of line of readings.

] and then press any of the Scroll keys to jump quickly to thePress [©] to toggle between;• REVIEW BATCH - shows header fields and statistics, and• half-cell readings.
To delete a readingi press the Delete softkey [].

4. Press [menu/esc] once to select another batch (using [ÍÎ]), press [menu/esc] again to return to the
Data Logger menu.
As you scroll between batches using the Left/Right softkeys [ÍÎ], the same page of information is shownfor each batch. This feature makes it particularly easy to identify, for example, batches from a particularcustomer/location, or batches with readings outside limits.
A bracketed asterisk [*] next to the batch name indicates that this is the batch currently open (if any).
A complete list of the information given on a review batch screen is given in “What does a batch contain?”on page 35.

i.

When readings are removed (either over-written or deleted) from a very large batch, some statistics values may bereplaced by a ‘-’ until the batch is recalculated. To force a batch to be recalculated, exit batching (MENU / DATA LOGGER / EXIT BATCHING) and then re-open the batch (MENU / DATA LOGGER / OPEN EXISTING BATCH). Invalid
statistics (PLEASE WAIT) will be shown on the display while the recalculation takes place.

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8.10 PLOT BATCH
see “Plotting batches” on page 49
8.11 PLOT OPTIONS
see “Plotting batches” on page 49
8.12 EDIT BATCH TAGS
Same as ‘Review batch’ but allows editing of some of the batch contents.
A moveable cursor is shown next to any entries which can be modified. Pressing Enter opens that tag forediting.
8.13 DELETE BATCH
Deletes one memory batch.
1. Use Left/Right softkeys [ÍÎ] to scroll to the batch you want to delete.
2. Press [©] to delete batch.
The Half-Cell Meter displays a confirmation screen.
3. Press Yes to confirm deletion, No to cancel.
8.14 DELETE ALL BATCHES
Deletes all batches from the Half-Cell Meter and stops batching.
1. The Half-Cell Meter displays a confirmation screen.
2. Press Yes to confirm deletion, No to cancel.
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8.15 FREE MEMORY
Displays the amount of free memory (%) and then returns to the reading screen after 2 seconds.
8.16 THE BATCH SOFTKEY
The BATCH softkey provides rapid access to the readings in abatch as you are taking them.
The BATCH softkey is only displayed on the reading screen whena batch is open.
Once the BATCH softkey has been pressed, you can then;•scroll around the contents of a batch,•

review, delete and overwrite readings,•

skip memory locations,•and then return to the reading screen ready to take more measurements in the same batch.

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Pressing BATCH displays the Reading Review Screen.
REVIEW readings using the scroll keys to move around thecontents of a batch.
Press and hold the Shift softkey [] and then press any of the
Scroll keys to jump quickly to the start or end of a line of readings.
When you have finished reviewing, press [©] to return to thereading screen at the current memory location or press [menu/esc]
to return to the reading screen at the original memory location.
DELETE readings by pressing the Delete softkey [to confirm deletion or No to cancel.

Figure 6. Reading review screen grid batch]. Press Yes

When you have finished deleting, press [©] to return to the reading
screen at the current memory location or press [menu/esc] to returnto the reading screen at the original memory location.
You can OVERWRITE any of the readings.
1. Use the scroll keys to move to the reading you want to
overwrite.
2. Press [©].
The display switches to the reading screen.
3. Take a new measurement and press [©] to enter reading.
4. Press Yes to confirm overwrite or No to cancel.

44

Figure 7. Reading review screen linear batch

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SKIP OVER memory locations in a grid batch using the scroll keys to move around the contents of thebatch. This facility is useful when surveying in a grid around obstructions. The memory locations in thevicinity of the obstructions can be skipped over and left blank. When you are ready to return to the reading
screen, press [©].
8.17 HOW TO ENTER INFORMATION INTO BATCH HEADER FIELDS
You can enter information into the header fields when you first open (create) a new batch or clone a batch
and when editing batch tags.
There are two methods of entering information into the header fields of a batch;•

use the keypad on the Half-Cell Meter, or•

use a computer and then transfer the information to the Half-Cell Meter using CoverMaster® software see “CoverMaster software” on page 54.

Which method you use depends upon your circumstances. Typically, on a large measuring project, the best
method is to design batches on your computer and then transfer the information to the Half-Cell Meter. The
keypad can be used on site for minor changes and the addition of notes, etc. during cloning or editing of abatch.
ENTERING INFORMATION USING THE KEYPAD

Text and numbers can be entered into header fields using the Half-Cell Meter keypad. The function of thekeys is shown below:

45

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1. Scrolls
upthroughalphanumeric characters.
2. Scrolls
down
throughalphanumeric characters.
3. Moves cursor left. Hold down todelete a character.
4. Select character setj
ABC, 123, #$!, etc.)(abc,

5. Moves cursor right. Hold down
to insert a character.
6. Enters text into header field.
Press Yes to confirm or No tocontinue editing.
To delete an alphanumericcharacter, press and hold key 3.
To insert an alphanumeric character, press and hold key 5.
The screen displays the number of spare characters remaining in the field and the maximum total numberof characters allowed.

j.

46

The following symbols are not permitted in the Batch Name field because they are illegal in Windows filenames:\/:*?\"<>|. They may be used in the other alphanumeric fields.

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The text fields can be entered/displayed using up to 256 different character codes. These include European
accented characters and a few additional accented vowels used in the Chinese phonetic Pinyin system.
When the Japanese language is selected, the European characters codes are substituted to represent thephonetic Katakana symbols which are shown at double-height.

9 A TYPICAL SURVEY (USING GRID BATCH MEMORY)This section leads you step-by-step through taking measurements, saving half-cell readings in batches andproducing a report.
1. Mark out your survey area (in this example a 14 x 14 grid).
2. Fit the half-cell probe and cables and then switch on the
instrument.
3. Create a 14 x 14 grid batch.
4. Measure the half-cell potential over the entire survey area andrecord the measurements in the batch created in step 3 (press
Enter [©] to store a reading in the batch).
5. Connect your Half-Cell Meter to a PC and download the batchusing CoverMaster software - see “Transferring readings to acomputer” on page 53.

47

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6. You can now produce an easy-to-read report which shows half-cell potential over the survey area - seeexample below.

48

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10 PLOTTING BATCHESYour Half-Cell Meter can plot on its display a ‘map’ of the readings in a batch. Use this feature to locate
potential trouble spots quickly and easily.
The map can be plotted in pseudo greyscale or in black and white:
Greyscale: The lowest (worst) readings are displayed as dark regions on the map; the highest readings aslight regions. 16 levels of greyscale indicate readings between these extremes.
Black and white: A threshold value is set by the user. All readings below the threshold are displayed as
black; all readings above the threshold are displayed as white.
In both instances, blank and over-range readings are shown as white and under-range readings are shownas black. To select greyscale or black and white, see “Plot options” on page 51.

49

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10.1 PLOT BATCH
MENU / DATA LOGGER / PLOT BATCH
1. Light area (9)2. Dark area (8) - potential trouble spot
3. Cursor position
4. Cursor scrollk left
5. Shift scrolll
6. Zoomm (0.5x, 1x, 2x, 4x)
7. Cursor scroll right
8. Zoom level
9. Upper limit
10. Lower limit/Threshold
11. Units
12. Voltage
13. Batch memory location

Figure 8. Typical greyscale plot

Use the arrows to scroll the cursor around the plot; as the cursor moves the current memory location andreading are shown at the top right of the display. Large batches will scroll when the cursor reaches the edgeof the display.
k. To scroll up or down, use the up [×] and down [Ø] keys.
l.
Press with cursor scroll keys to jump to end or start of row/column
m. When a batch is first plotted, the initial zoom is set automatically to the highest level that allows the whole batch to be
seen (or to x0.5 if the batch does not fit on the display at minimum zoom).

50

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Use the Zoom softkey to zoom in to areas of interest.
Press [©] at any time to view a key of the greyscale levels.
10.2 PLOT OPTIONS
Use this menu to select how readings will be displayed on the plot.
MENU / DATA LOGGER / PLOT OPTIONSGREYSCALE MIN/MAX•Black is set to the minimum reading in the batch.

•

White is set to the maximum reading in the batch.

•

Readings between the minimum and maximum are indicatedby decreasing levels of grey.

PLOT OPTIONSGREYSCALE MIN/MAX
GREYSCALE LIMITSTHRESHOLD VIEW
SET THRESHOLD

GREYSCALE LIMITS•Black is set to the batch low limit.

•

White is set to the batch high limit.

•

Readings between the low and high limits are indicated by decreasing levels of grey.
(To set limits, see “Setting limits” on page 27.)

If limits have not been set, the minimum and maximum readings in the batch will be used and this option
will show the same plot as ‘Greyscale min/max’.
THRESHOLD VIEW

A threshold value is set by the user. All readings below the threshold are displayed as black; all readings
above the threshold are displayed as white.
51

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SET THRESHOLD

Set threshold values for half-cell (in mV),
as required.
The thresholds are applied to all batches
and are independent of any other limits
which may be set.
1. Light area (9) - readings are above
threshold value
2. Black area (8) - readings are below
threshold value
Figure 9. Typical threshold plot52

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11 TRANSFERRING READINGS TO A COMPUTER
Statistics and readings data can be transferred from the memory of your Half-Cell Meter to a computer. The
data can then be used in reports, analysed to produce graphs, etc.
Connect your Half-Cell Meter to a computer, using the cable supplied - see “Connecting the data transfer
cable” on page 56.
There are two methods of transferring statistics and readings:•

Print/output•

CoverMaster® software (to store, analyse and report)

11.1 PRINT/OUTPUT
Use the PRINT/OUTPUT function of the Half-Cell Meter to output data over the RS232 interface direct to a
printer or to communications software such as Hyperterminal.
Choose between outputting a single batch, all batches or just the current statistics.
MENU / PRINT/OUTPUT / SINGLE BATCH
MENU / PRINT/OUTPUT / ALL BATCHESMENU / PRINT/OUTPUT / CURRENT STATISTICS
Note: Before you use PRINT/OUTPUT, you must first select the correct output baud rate and output format.
MENU / SETUP / OUTPUT
Baud Rate. This can be set at values from 1200 to 19200. The default value is 9600 baud.
RS232 Bit Image. Toggle tick box to activate/deactivate. All images and characters are output as bit-maps.
This allows printing on the Elcometer Miniprinter (see “Accessories” on page 61).
53

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RS232 Plain Text. Toggle tick box to activate/deactivate. The Half-Cell Meter sends standard ASCII
characters from the Courier New font setn. This allows printing on RS232 printers and data transfer to a PC
using software such as HyperTerminal.
11.2 COVERMASTER SOFTWARE
CoverMaster® software supplied on the CD enclosed with the gauge is designed specifically for your HalfCell Meter. CoverMaster® is powerful but easy-to-use software which simplifies setting up and using yourHalf-Cell Meter:•

Design batch templates on your PC and download theseto your Elcometer 331 Half-Cell Meter, ready for use on
site.

Batch templates•

Download half-cell readings data from your Half-Cell
Meter to the CoverMaster® data management system.

•

Keep your survey notes, inspection reports, photographs
and all your other inspection information in one place CoverMaster®.

•

Create accurate and professional reports configured toallow your data to be understood easily at all levels.

•

Create PDF versions of your reports and e-mail direct from CoverMaster®.

Batch readings

For complete instructions on how to install and use CoverMaster® software, please refer to the instructions
supplied with the software.
n.

54

When RS232 Plain Text is selected the following languages will be output as English: Chinese, Japanese.

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55

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11.3 CONNECTING THE DATA TRANSFER CABLE
1. Plug the 9-pin female D-type connector on one end of the data transfer cable into the COM port on the
PC (an RS232 to USB transfer cable is available which allows you to connect your Half-Cell Meter to a
USB port on your computer - see “Accessories” on page 68 for ordering details).
2. Plug the 5-pin connector on the other end of the data transfer cable into the RS232 connector at therear of the Half-Cell Meter located under the access cover - see “Computer interface” on page 15.
3. Switch on the Half-Cell Meter and ensure that the Reading Screen is displayed.

12 HALF-CELL PROBES
Two types of half-cell probe are available for your Half-Cell Meter. The probes can be easily identified bycolour:•Copper-Copper Sulphate (Cu-CuSO4): Yellow•

Silver-Silver Chloride (Ag-AgCl): Blue12.1 WETTING YOUR PROBE
For your probe to function properly the ceramic sensing end (the electrode) must be wet. To get a good wetelectrode, just place the electrode in tap water for two to three minutes; usually this will be sufficient to keep
the sensor going all day. Keeping the plastic end cap on the sensor when it is not being used will also help
to keep the electrode wet. During periods of extended storage, place a small amount of water in the end
cap before pushing the cap onto the probe.

56

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12.2 CARE OF YOUR PROBE AND CABLES
The probes do not require any maintenance; they do not need recharging and are sealed for life. Any mud
or grit should be removed from the electrode by swirling the electrode back and forth in a container of warm,
soapy water and then brushing with a wet rag. The soapy water will not harm or contaminate the electrode.
Always check that the connecting cables are free of damage such as cuts and tears in the sheathing before
use.
The Copper-Copper Sulphate half-cell probe is intentionally filledwith a reserve of saturated Cupric Sulfate solution combined withsolid Cupric Sulfate crystals to ensure a minimum 10-year design life.
Under certain circumstances a very small percentage of this reserve
can leach out from the ceramic sensing tip of the half-cell producing
crystals as shown in the photograph.
This does not affect the performance of the cell. The crystals should
be removed by washing in distilled water.
12.3 TEMPERATURE
Do not allow the probe to freeze. Although freezing will not damage your probe, it will be impossible to obtainreliable measurements while in this state. All measurements are affected by temperature; if you take tworeadings in identical conditions, one in the summer at 29°C (85°F) and the other in the winter at 1°C (34°F),
the half-cell potential readings will be different.
Each probe is tested at 25°C to be within ±10 mV of a standard Calomel reference cell. The following values
relative to a standard Calomel cell are used as the test limits during manufacture:57

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Reference value for Calomel

Upper limit

Copper-Copper Sulphate (Cu-CuSO4) +50 mV

Lower limit+60 mV+70 mV

Silver-Silver Chloride (Ag-AgCl)-40 mV-30 mV-50 mV12.4 SHELF LIFE
Your probe does not degrade when stored.

13 PERSONALISED WELCOME SCREEN
A personalised welcome screen can be designed on a computer and then downloaded into the Half-Cell
Meter. Screen dimensions are 128 pixels x 64 pixels. The welcome screen is typically used to personalise
the Half-Cell Meter with a logo, serial number, user name, etc. This is the first screen displayed when the
Half-Cell Meter is switched on.
13.1 CREATING THE SCREEN
1. Download Elcometer ‘Welcome Screen Wizard’ software. This software is available free of charge
from the downloads section of the Elcometer website, www.elcometer.com
2. Connect Half-Cell Meter to PC using Data Transfer Cable.
3. Switch on the Half-Cell Meter.
4. Ensure that the reading screen is displayed.
5. Run ‘Welcome Screen Wizard’ software and follow the on-screen instructions.
13.2 DELETING THE SCREEN
1. Run the ‘Welcome Screen Wizard’ software.
58

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2. Click ‘Next’.
3. Select ‘Create a new screen setup’.
4. Click ‘Next’.
5. Select ‘Disabled’.
6. Click ‘Next’.
Follow the remaining on-screen instructions to delete the welcome screen.

14 ERROR MESSAGES
Under certain conditions the Half-Cell Meter will display error messages. These messages are normally
cleared by pressing any one of the softkeys. The cause of the error will be indicated by the message andshould be corrected before proceeding. If any error persists, contact Elcometer or your Elcometer Supplier.

15 STORAGE
This Half-Cell Meter incorporates a Liquid Crystal Display (LCD). If the display is heated above
50°C (120°F) it may be damaged. This can happen if the Half-Cell Meter is left in a car parked
in strong sunlight. Always store the Half-Cell Meter in its case when it is not being used.

59

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16 MAINTENANCE
You own one of the finest Half-Cell Meters in the world. If looked after, it will last a lifetime.
Regular calibration checks over the life of the Half-Cell Meter are a requirement of quality management
procedures, e.g. ISO 9000, and other similar standards. For checks and certification contact Elcometer oryour Elcometer supplier.
The Half-Cell Meter does not contain any user-serviceable components. In the unlikely event of a fault, theHalf-Cell Meter should be returned to your Elcometer supplier or directly to Elcometer. The warranty will be
invalidated if the gauge has been opened.
Contact details can be found:•

Stored in the Half-Cell Meter (MENU / ABOUT / CONTACT).

•On the outside cover of these operating instructions.

•

At www.elcometer.com

17 TECHNICAL DATA
Range:-999 mV to +999 mV

Accuracy:±5 mV

Half-cell probe stability:

10 mV with 3 µA load

Weight:

1.6 kg (3.5 lb)

Dimensions:

230 mm x 130 mm x 125 mm (9" x 5.1" x 4.9")oOperating temperature :60

0°C to 50°C (32°F to 120°F)

R

Case:

High impact ABS

Power supply:

Internal rechargeable Lithium Ion batteryp.

Fuse rating of charger:

3A

Battery life:

Up to 48 hours continuous use without backlight.
Up to 20 hours with backlight.

18 ACCESSORIESYour Half-Cell Meter is complete with all the items required to get started.
The following optional accessories are available from Elcometer, or your Elcometer supplier. To place anorder please quote the sales part number which follows the description of each accessory.
Rechargeable battery pack:

TW33119038

Earphone:

TW99912220

Data transfer cableq (Half-Cell Meter to PC):

T99916217

RS232 to USB transfer cable:

T99916716

Half-Cell probe, Copper-Copper Sulphate (Cu-CuSO4):

TW33119668-1

o.
p.
q.

Operation outside these limits depends upon climatic conditions.
Battery packs must be disposed of carefully to avoid environmental contamination. Please consult your local environmental authority for information on disposal in your region. Do not dispose of the battery pack in a fire.
A 9-pin to 25-pin adapter may be required for certain PC RS232 ports.

61

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Half-Cell probe, Silver-Silver Chloride (Ag-AgCl):

TW33119668-2

Half-cell probe kit, Copper-Copper Sulphate (Cu-CuSO4):(probe, 2 x connecting cables, 1 x 25 m cable reel, carry case)

TW331CUKIT

Half-cell probe kit, Silver-Silver Chloride (Ag-AgCl):(probe, 2 x connecting cables, 1 x 25 m cable reel, carry case)

TW331AGKIT

Half-cell probe cable reel, extendable to 100 m, with carry handle:

TW33119683

Calibration Certificates traceable to National Standards including UKAS and NIST are available at the timeof order, or alternatively, the gauge must be returned to Elcometer for certification. Calibration Certificates
cannot be issued retrospectively.

19 RELATED EQUIPMENT
Elcometer produces a wide range of concrete and coatings inspection equipment. Users of the
Elcometer 331 Half-Cell Meter may also benefit from the following Elcometer products:•

Elcometer 331 Concrete Covermeter•

Elcometer Adhesion and Bond Strength Testers•

Elcometer Concrete Crack Microscopes•

Elcometer Concrete Moisture Meters•

Elcometer Concrete Test Hammers

For further information contact Elcometer, your Elcometer supplier or visit www.elcometer.com

62

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1 INDEXA
Accessories

61

Battery condition indicator
Battery pack
Baud rate
Beeping

14
43

C

B
Backlight
BATCH
Batch
Cloning
Copying
Deleting all
Deleting one
Opening existing
Opening new
Recalculation
BatchesGrid
LinearWhat they contain
Batching
Exiting
Batteries
Charging
Life of

40
40
42
42
39
39
41
33
34
33
35
33
39
7
61

9
6
53
26

Entering information
Error messages
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45
59
39

F
Calibration
Calibration certificates
Charger
Charging the batteries
Cloning a batch
ComputerConnection cableComputer, transferring data to
Copying a batch
CoverMaster software

60
62
7
7
40
61
53
40
54

D
Data logging
Data transfer cable
Delete batch
Deleting all batches
Dimensions

33
56, 6142
42
60

E
Earphone
Elcometer 331
Features
Overview

15
32

Features
Free memory

343

G
Grey Scale Levels
Grid batches

49
34

H
Half-cell
Taking a measurement
Half-cell probes
Care of
Fitting to gauge
SparesStorage and Shelf life
Wetting
Header fields
Entering information

24
56
57
10
62
57
56
45

I
Interface
Access cover
RS232

15
7
15

61

R

K
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L
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LCD contrast
LimitsBatch icons
Linear batches
Liquid Crystal Display

14
13
27
28
33
59

M
MaintenanceMaximum/Minimum limits
MemoryCapacity
Free
Memory location
Advancing
Menu items
ABOUT
ALL BATCHES
AUTO SWITCH OFF
BACKLIGHT
BATCH
BAUD RATE
CLEAR STATS
CLOCK
CLONE BATCH
CONTACT
CURRENT STATISTICSDATA LOGGER
DELETE ALL BATCHESDELETE BATCH

62

60
27
33
43
26
20
53
12
14
43
23, 53
31
21
40
60
53
18, 3842
42

DISPLAY
ENLARGE STATSEXIT BATCHINGFREE MEMORY
HELP
HIGH LIMITLCD CONTRAST
LIMITS
LOW LIMIT
MENU
OPEN EXISTING BATCH
OPEN NEW BATCHOUTPUT
PLOT BATCH
PLOT OPTIONSPRINT/OUTPUTRESETREVIEW BATCH
RS232 BIT IMAGE
RS232 PLAIN TEXTSELECT STATSSETUPSHOW TIMESINGLE BATCH
STATISTICSSTATS ON LCD
UNITS

22
31
38
43
13
22
13
21, 2722
16
39
39
22, 5350
20, 51
19, 5320
31, 4053
54
21, 32
19
14, 32
53
19, 31
31
21

Menus

16

O
On/off
Open existing batch
Open new batch
Opening screen

12
39
39
58

P
PC
Data transfer cable
Plotting batches
GreyscaleThresholdPower on/off
Power supply

61
49
51
51
12
6

Q
Quick-start

6

R
Reports

54

S
Saving your readings in memory
ScreenWelcome information
Screen symbols
Battery condition
SoftwareCoverMaster

38
13
13
9
54

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Sound
Standards
Statistics
Choice ofClearing
Increasing size on display
Overview
Values calculated
Storage
Surveying large areas of concrete
Switching on/off

26
4
32
31
31
29
29
59
34
12

T
Time and date
14
Transferring data to computer 53, 54

WWeightWelcome screen

60
58

Z
Zoom

50

63