aw-Messgerät / aw measuring instrument / Appareil de mesure aw E

Operating Instructions
260 0775 Doc. : 004106.02

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© Novasina AG, printed at 2013 in Switzerland
Technische Änderungen vorbehalten
Technical data subject to modification
Sous réserve de modifications techniques

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 INDEX
1. Introduction 4
1.1 You Are Awesome! 4
1.2 Important Notes 4
2. General Product Description 5

English
2.1 System Overview 5
2.2 System Architecture 6
2.3 Instrument Overview 6
2.4 Scope of Delivery 8
2.5 Optional Accessories 8
2.6 License Types 9
3. Putting into Operation 9
3.1 Installation 9
3.2 Putting into Operation 10
3.3 Basic Operations of the Instrument 10
4. Screens and Functions 12
4.1 Measurement Screen 12
4.2 Main Menu Screen 14
4.3 Navigation in Sub-Menus 16
4.4 Menu "Chamber Settings" 16
4.5 Menu "System Settings" 17
5. Temperature Control 18
5.1 Basics 18
5.2 Setting the Measurement Temperature 18
6. How to Perform Measurements 19
6.1 First Measurement 19
6.2 Stability System 20
7. Logging Functions 22
7.1 Automatic Logging of the Last 10 Measurements 22
7.2 Logging on SD-Card 22
8. Sensor Calibration 24
8.1 How to Handle SAL-T Standards Correctly 25
8.2 Values of SAL-T Standards 25
8.3 Factory Calibration, Delivery Status 25
8.4 Calibration and Verification 26
8.5. Deleting Calibration Points 27
8.6 Display Cal Points 27
8.7 Sensor Protection 28
8.8 Automatic Notification for Calibration 28
8.9 Automatic Notification for Filter Exchange 29
9. Additional Functions 29
9.1 Change Acoustic Signals 29
9.2 Reset to Default Values 29
9.3 Update of the System 30
9.4 Intensity of the Backlight 30
9.5 Touch Screen Calibration 30
9.6 Upgrade the LabTouch-aw 31
9.7 Communication Interface 31
10. Maintenance 31
10.1. Cleaning of the instrument 31
10.2. Cleaning of the aw-measurement cell „CM-2“ 32
10.3. Cleaning of the Infrared „IR“ sensor 32
10.4. Periodic Recalibration with Humidity Standards 32
10.5. Replacing Protective Filters 32
10.6. Replacing a CM-2 Sensor Unit 33
10.7. Important Notes About The Sensor 34
11. Error Codes, First Level Support 35
12. LabTouch Menu Structure 38

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 1. Introduction
1.1 You Are Awesome!
English

Thank you for having purchased a Novasina LabTouch-aw system for measuring
water activity. You have opted for a highly accurate and reliable instrument
representing the latest state-of-the-art in electronics and software design when
it comes to highest precision in aw (water activity) measuring.

To get the most out of all the possibilities of your Novasina LabTouch-aw and
to ensure safe and reliable operation, please read these operating instructions
carefully before setting the unit into operation.

Please keep this manual within reach of the installed instrument so that it will
be at hand whenever you need it. If you lose the manual, please contact your
Novasina representative for immediate replacement.

This operating instructions is valid for software versions V1.30 or higher

1.2 Important Notes

Intended use

The Novasina LabTouch-aw is intended to be used for measuring WATER

ACTIVITY under strict adherence to the information and notes given in this
manual. Any use beyond this scope is considered to be a violation of the
intended purpose and may endanger your safety or could result in irreversible
product damage and loss of all warranty claims. Any use of this Novasina
instrument other than intended is at the customer’s own risk and by no means
the manufacturer nor the supplier will be liable for any resulting damage.

Safety instructions
• The Novasina LabTouch-aw system should only be serviced, maintained
and repaired by qualified people who are familiar with the equipment.
• The LabTouch-aw system must not be used in hazardous zones or
similar areas. The design is made for the laboratory use only.
• No explosive materials and no highly inflammable substances may be
measured in the measurement chamber system.
• Just use the original power adaptor from Novasina (part number 2600505)
• Before connecting the unit to the mains, ensure that:
• The mains voltage is within 90...260V, at 50 or 60Hz.
Please check the type plate of the system!
• The power cable between the mains and the instrument is not
damaged.
• The Novasina LabTouch-aw system may only be used under the
specified operating conditions (see chapter 10).
• Observe and strictly adhere to the local regulations regarding the
handling of mains-powered devices.
• Use only genuine accessories and spare parts available from your
Novasina supplier or visit the homepage www.novasina.com.
• This instrument must not be modified in any way without the written
permission of the manufacturer.
• Never open the instrument without removing the mains power cable first

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2. General Product Description
2.1 System Overview
The LabTouch-aw system has been specifically developed for determining the

English
water activity in a test sample like food, cosmetics or pharmaceuticals. Water
activity is defined as the current volume and availability of “free” water in a
sample and should not be directly compared with the water content (g water/
g sample). The water activity is given as the aw – value and ranges between
0 (absolute dryness) and 1 (100% relative humidity) and is a relative, sample-
mass independent measurement. Only this free water takes an active part in
the exchange of moisture with the ambient air and can possibly form the ideal
medium for microbiological growth on the surface and influences the biological
functions of microorganisms which has an impact on the microbiological stability
plus chemical and physical properties of a product.
Special laboratory equipment is required for water activity (aw -value)
determination which quantifies the air humidity directly over a sample in a
closed chamber after reaching the humidity equilibrium between free water in
the sample and water in the surrounding air.
The measured air humidity is directly proportional to the aw -value. An accurate
and reproducible measurement is thereby only possible if the sample temperature
is kept constant (i.e. 25°C) and if the measurement is taken after reaching
the humidity equilibrium. Thus it is obvious that the measurement of water
activity always take some time, means is not finished within a few seconds.
The establishment of the equilibrium is sample-independent and can not be
shortened anyhow due to the fact that it is physics and chemistry.
An inevitable pre-requisite for determining water activity with extreme precision
is the use of an excellent moisture sensor that provides exact, reproducible
response over a very wide range (moisture from 0....100% rH), no hysteresis
and a good chemical robustness. Novasina has been developing special
electrolytic moisture sensors that stand out for such unique properties for more
than 50 years.
The integrated, resistive electrolytic LabTouch-aw sensor is based on the new
chemical substance of the Novasina „Novalyte Technology“, which achieves
the required accuracy and reproducibility for the daily sample measurement
in the lab.
The complete LabTouch-aw system comprises two software options and can
be optimally adapted to customer's needs.

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 2.2 System Architecture

The LabTouch-aw consists of modular assemblies in combination with the

unique resistive-electrolytic Novasina measurement technology, which is part
English

of the aw-sensor. The aw-measurement signal is electronically processed tog-

ether with the IR (infrared)sample temperature measurement and an additional
temperature monitoring in the instrument's body. Recorded data can be stored
on an external, removable SD-card. The mains are supplying the instrument
and optional external chambers.
The touch screen allows intuitive programming of the instrument as well as
easy access to the various menus.
The LabTouch-aw comprises a semi-temperature stabilization of the measu-
rement chamber which allows heating but no cooling.
For checking and adjusting the instrument, humidity standards can be used.

2.3 Instrument Overview

Touch screen
Front view: color display

Data storing slot

SD card reader

Ventilation slits
Button to start-up the instrument (do not block)
and open chamber

The measurement cell including infrared temperature measurement is located in the inner part of the
LabTouch-aw
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 White pre-filter in front
of the electrolytic
Infrared temperature sensor

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measurement cell (sensor)
for sample surface temp.
measurement

Sealing to eliminate air ex-

Metal indentation for filled change with environment
sample cup insertion

The inner part of the measurement chamber is equipped with all the characteristic sensors

CH2 socket for

LabClick-aw no.2 USB connector for PC and Nova-
log MC communication

Power supply connector

RS-232 interface for

CH1 socket for connection to PC
LabClick-aw no.1

The connections (external chambers, RS232 etc.) are located on the back-side of the instrument

Chamber 1
cable
Power cable
LabClick-aw to 90...260V AC power supply
no. 1

Chamber 2
cable

LabClick-aw
LabTouch-aw no. 2
ADVANCED (Master)

A maximum of two additional chambers (LabClick-aw) can be connected to the LabTouch-aw advanced

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 2.4 Scope of Delivery
The LabTouch-aw instrument is available in two different versions:
LabTouch-aw basic:
English

• Power supply with different insertion plugs

• 4 pcs of humidity standards : SAL-T: 33, 58, 75 and 84%rH
• 40 pcs standardized disposable sample dishes (ePW)
• Operating manual in English and German on a USB memory stick
• Factory calibration certificate
• SD-card 2 GB
• Tension ring
• 5 pcs pre-filter (white)

LabTouch-aw advanced:

contains all the mentioned LabTouch-aw basic items plus:

• Novalog MC (current version)
• Multi-chamber capability (connection of LabClick-aw)

2.5 Optional Accessories

Mechanical filter
Ther white pre-filter provides mechanical protection of the measurement cell
e.g. in case the sample cup is overfilled, sample will stick on the filter instead
of the measurement cell.
This filter should be replaced when it is dirty or at least on a yearly base,
otherwise it could influence the measurement. 5 units are included in the
delivery of the instrument.

Chemical protection filter

Some samples do have volatiles components / ingredients thus the measuring
cell has to be protected from damaging, gaseous substances. This is done by
various filter systems which are provided by Novasina. To select an appropri-
ate filter system, consult the Novasina protection filter systems data sheet or
contact your local Novasina distribution partner.
Thanks to these filter systems, the lifetime of the measurement cell can be
extended considerably. As most of the filter material do absorb the volatile
component and get saturated by time, a regular check is mandatory to avoid a
contamination of the sensor by an ineffective, saturated filter system

Novalog MC/SD Software

This optional Windows software allows the analysis and graphic design of the
stored data on the SD-card. As it is included in the "advanced" version, you
have to buy it separately if you own a LabTouch-aw basic version

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 2.6 License Types
After the purchase of an upgrade, the new license has to be activated in
the menu "Set option code". Please check chapter 9.6 to get an instruction
how to proceed in such a case. Please be aware that the firmware may be

English
updated as well.
The demo license allows the user to temporarily activate of all possible features.
• A demo license remains active till the instrument is switched of and/or is
valid for 12 hours maximum.
• A maximum of 10 demo licenses are available on the instrument. It is
possible that some of the demo licenses have been already used by
Novasina due to internal testing.
• To activate a demo license, go to system settings -> Set option code
and enter DEMO

Feature License type

BASIC ADVANCED DEMO

Connection of a second chamber 1 X X

Connection of a second chamber 1 X X

Offline software interface by SD-card X X X

Online connection to a PC via RS-232 or

X X
USB interface

Novalog MC, useable as data vizualization software X X X

3. Putting into Operation

3.1 Installation

The LabTouch-aw measurement instrument is delivered with all necessary

accessories to operate the instrument properly. Upon receipt, please double-
check if everything is present according to the scope of delivery and immediately
notify your Novasina sales partner if anything is missing or broken. Do not put
damaged or incomplete measuring instruments into operation.
The equipment must be installed in a laboratory on an planar surface avoiding
vibrations, strong heat radiation, air flow, dust, direct sunlight exposure and
strong electromagnetic sources.
Make sure the power socket is not in too much distance to the instrument. It
is recommended to store the accessories in close proximity to the instrument.

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 3.2 Putting into Operation

• Check if the local mains voltage matches with the identification plate of
the supplied external power supply and plug it to the socket.
English

• Plug the external power supply cable to the instrument socket on the
back of the LabTouch-aw
Note:
The LabTouch-aw is very efficient and requires only little electrical power. The
power supply fits with the latest norms (fulfills „energy star level IV“) so the
instrument can be switched-on permanently and kept ready for measurements
at any time. The LabTouch-aw should only be switched-off, if no measurements
are performed for a longer time period (i.e. more than one week).

3.3 Basic Operations of the Instrument

This chapter describes the basic operations as starting-up and shutting-down

of the LabTouch-aw as well as other functions.

3.3.1 Start-up procedure

To start-up the instrument, proceed as follows:
• Close the instrument if it has been opened
• Power-up the instrument by hitting the black button in front of the instru-
ment which also can be used for opening the instrument. A beep indicates
the initialization of the starting sequence

• The system is started-up which is indicated by two different start-up screens

• The start-up sequence is finished after approx. 1 minute and the measu-
rement screen appears

• The current measurement values are displayed as soon as the sensor

is ready to measure

• The duration of the pre-heating phase depends on the existing humidity

and temperature in the measurement chamber. In general, it takes 2-3
minutes.

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3.3.2 Shut-down procedure
To shut-down just press the red shut-down button on the main menu screen.

English
Confirm the shut-down process with "YES"
Important:
Always shut-down the instrument before you disconnect it from power otherwise
there might be a loss of data and settings.

3.3.3 Adding an Additional Chamber (LabClick-aw)

The LabTouch-aw can be equipped with two additional chambers called LabClick-
aw . To connect a chamber, make sure that you have a LabTouch-aw advanced
version. If this is not the case, upgrade the instrument first (see chapter 9.6).
Please proceed as follows:
• Shut down the instrument
• Connect the first LabClick-aw with the LabTouch-aw using the small con-
nection cable. Plug it into CH1 socket on the back-side of the LabTouch-aw
• Repeat the same with the second LabClick-aw but use the CH2 socket on
the back-side of the LabTouch-aw
• Start-up the LabTouch-aw
The LabTouch-aw should recognize the connected chamber/chambers auto-
matically. If not, please double-check if the cable is connected correctly.

Note:
The connector cable comes with every LabClick-aw. Please use the original
cable to ensure proper function. It works as power supply and data transfer
from and to the LabTouch-aw.

At the beginning, only the RS-232 interface ist active for the communication
between the LabTouch-aw system and the PC with NovaLog MC software.

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 4. Screens and Functions

This chapter describes the main screens which appear on the

English

display of the LabTouch-aw as well as the function of the symbols.

4.1 Measurement Screen

The measurement screen is displayed after the instrument has started up or if

a measurement has been started.

Dynamic
CHAMBER NO

Status LED

Stable RESULTS
Current values
(AW and surface
temperature) Information bar

Status of SD card

At most, three chambers can be displayed on this screen. Chamber 0 corre-

sponds with the internal LabTouch-aw chamber, chamber 1 and chamber 2 for
the optional, external chambers.
• The LED's (yellow or green) indicating the status of the measurement are
displayed in the first line.
• If there is a flashing, yellow-coloured LED beside the "Analy.", a measu-
rement is on-going. If the green LED beside the "Stable" is activated,
measurement has been finished.
• If no measurement has been started, no LED is activated.
• The displayed temperature turn to red colour if temperature control has
been activated and the programmed temperature can not be reached.
• If a measurement has been started, the measurement time is displayed
in addition.
• The sample number is displayed as well below the measurement time if
the logging function is activated or if a protocol was stored. This allows an
allocation of the measured values to a specific sample.
• There is a stable indicator which changes its colour from yellow to green
and indicates the progress of the measurement. The greener the progress
bar, the closer the measurement is to be completed.
• After reaching a stable measurement value, the respective measurement
values at this point are displayed in green colour underneath the yellow,
current measurement information.

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 4.1.1 Information bar
The information bar is located in the footer of the measurement screen and
provides helpful information as operating conditions to the user.
The various information are displayed alternately.

English
Text or Symbol Description Remarks
Date / Time Current date and time
Please touch display to access the Please touch display to access the
menu! menu!
Press icon for more information! To gather more information about a
displayed symbol, press on it. Symbol
descriptions see further down
Press icon to abort beep! Press on the speaker symbol to stop The beep appears once the mea-
the beep surement is finished
The SD card is write protected. This text is displayed in light red
SD Card is write protected!
Please unlock the card by moving the colour
little bar on the left side of the SD card

SD Card is not ready! The SD card is not ready for operation This text is displayed in light red
colour
Calibration validity expired The sensor of the respective chamber This information appears only, if
(chamber X) needs to be recalibrated a warning for next calibration has
been activated (see chapter 8.7).
This text is displayed in light red
colour
Filter exchange required The protection filter of the respective This text is displayed in light red
(chamber X) chamber has to be exchanged colour
Demo license expires in Demo license expires in The instrument will be rebooted
XX:XX h XX:XX h once the time has expired

4.1.2 Symbol SD-Card

The status of the SD card is displayed as a symbol on the right side of the
measurement screen footer
Symbol Description Remarks
No symbol SD card is not inserted
SD card is inserted correctly It is allowed to remove the SD card in this status
and ready for operation
SD card is accessed by the SD card must no be removed, otherwise the file
system system and structure could be damaged
-> loss of data
A problem with the SD card has Remove SD card and re-insert the card after 10
being recognized by the system sec. A re-initialization may solve the problem. If
not, replace the card
SD card has been write protec- SD card can be removed without problems
ted by the small bar on the left
side of the card

Important:
Before a SD card is removed, always switch to the measurement screen and double-check, if it is safe to
remove the SD card. Please do not remove, if is displayed!

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 4.1.3 Symbols
Instead of the current measurement information in yellow colour, some symbols
might be displayed. Please double-check, which chamber is affected before you
try to solve the problem so that you do not stop an on-going measurement in
English

another chamber accidentally.

Those symbols have the following meaning:

Symbol Description Remarks

The system detected a problem with Press on the symbol to gather more specific
the respective chamber information

• Press on the symbol to gather more

specific information
Sensor will be put into operating condi- • A measurement can be started even
tions if the symbol is present but data will
just be analyzed once the symbol has
disappeared
• Press on the symbol to gather more
Based on a specific situation, no mea- specific information
surement values can be established • A dew protection can as well be activa-
(i.e. activated dew protection of the ted, if the sensor has been calibrated
sensor) improperly and measures a much high-
er aw-value than the real one.
• Remove the sample as soon as possi-
Danger of water condensation in the ble from the chamber
chamber
• In addition, there is a warning beep
which lasts till the opening of the cham-
ber or for 30 sec.

4.2 Main Menu Screen

The main menu screen provides easy access to programming and measurement
functions. If additional, external chambers (LabClick-aw) are connected to the
instrument, each individual one can be programed but a chamber selection has
Start
functions to be done

Chamber Switch OFF Switch Chamber

Status the instrument Settings to measurement selection
screen

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 Functions of the icons on the main menu screen once the icons are pressed:

English
Symbol Description Remarks
Start a measurement and switch automati- If a measurement is on-going or finished
cally to the measurement screen and the "Start" icon is pressed again, the
instrument will ask if you really want to start
a new one as the current data will no longer
be displayed
Abort a measurement and switch auto- • A query is issued if the measurement
matically to the measurement screen should really be stopped.
• Opening the chamber will immediately
stop an on-going measurement
Release a test protocol and switch auto-
matically to the measurement screen.

Adjustment of the way the chamber(s) are Individual chamber view is changed au-
displayed on the measurement screen tomatically to all chambers view in case a
and switches to it afterwards: measurement has been finished in a non-
- Individual chamber: displayed chamber.
The currently active chamber
will be displayed. As this option is only available in the ad-
- All chambers: vanced version this icon will not be dis-
Multiple chambers will be played in the basic version
displayed.

Switch from the main menu to the measu- This function is available in the sub-menus
rement screen as well

Access the submenu "system settings"

where all system parameters can be
programmed

Access the sub-menu "chamber settings"

where all chamber parameters can be
programmed

Shut-down / switch-off the instrument Please switch-off the instrument only by

using this function to avoid loss of data
(logging data etc.)
Status of each chamber at a glance (flas- This icon changes its size depending on
hing LED's): the number of connected chambers
- Analyzing: Measurement is on-going
- Stable: Measurement is finished

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 4.3 Navigation in Sub-Menus
Navigation through the sub-menus is simple and only 4 different icons are
available to do it:
English

Symbol Description Remarks

Close a sub-menu and return to
the menu above
Close all sub-menus and return to
the measurement screen
This icon is only displayed, if there are menu
Move one menu point upwards
points upwards the visible area

This icon is only displayed, if there are menu

Move one menu point downwards
points downwards the visible area

4.4 Menu "Chamber Settings"

All chamber related settings as stable observation time or calibration can

be done in this menu. If multiple chambers are connected, each chamber is
preseted via this submenu, just choose the respective chamber as active and
program the set-up afterwards.

The table below should give an overview about the available functions. Detailed
descriptions will be given thereafter.

Menu point Description Remark Factory default setting

Temperature Setting of measurement tempera-
Details see chapter 5.2. Off
control ture control (or switch off)
Settings / Mode for stability obser-
Stable mode Details see chapter 6.2 A (Average)
vation time
Programmable stability time, only
Stability
available if stable mode "Manual" Details see chapter 6.2.2 5 min
observation time
and "Query" have been selected
Monitoring of adherence of nomi-
Stability check
nal temperature, only available if Details see chapter 5.2 On
temperature
stemperature control is activated
Sub-menu for programming the Sample number: 0000
Data logger Details see chapter 7
logger and/or logging functions. Interval recording: 10 sec
Sensor Enter sub-menu for sensor
Details see chapter 8
calibration calibration

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 Menu point Description Remark Factory default
setting

The following information will be displayed:

CHAMBER (number)

English
Instrument:
Measurement chamber tag
Serial number:
Serial number of the measurement chamber
Firmware:
Firmware version

SENSOR
Info Version:
Sensor version
Serial number:
Serial number of the sensor
Firmware:
Info about the cability of the file system
Last calibration:
Date and time of the latest calibration.

PROTECTION FILTER
Last exchange:
Date of the last protection filter exchange if option activated

4.5 Menu "System Settings"

All system related settings as display settings, changing units etc can be done
in this menu. If multiple chambers are connected, each chamber can be pro-
grammed via this submenu, just choose the respective chamber as active and
program the set-up afterwards.

Menu point Description Remark Factory default setting

It is mandatory to set
the correct date and time,
otherwise the calibration
Date, Time Set current date and time aw, °C, DD.MM.YYYY
points management is
disturbed and reminders do
not work properly
Sub-menu for changing units
Units
(i.e. aw or %rH etc.).
Sub-menu for adjustments of
acoustic signals (as beep) for
Acoustic signals
end of measurement notifica-
tion.
Sub-menu for protocol printout
Printout protocol see chapter 7.2 - 7.6
configuration.
Sub-menu to perform mainte-
Maintenance
nance tasks.
Info about the firmware of the
Info instrument and display of the
license type

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 5. Temperature Control
This chapter describes how the temperature control works on the LabTouch.
English

5.1 Basics

Most of the samples are significantly influenced by temperature. For this reason,
the instrument is equipped with a simple temperature-controlled measurement
chamber. As opposed to the LabMaster-aw, the LabTouch-aw does not offer
a cooling function which just allows measurement temperatures at least +2°C
but max. +10°C above environmental (lab) temperature
Furthermore, the instrument does not have an thoroughly isolated measurement
chamber. Thus the accuracy can get worse if the temperature inside the chamber
is significantly higher than the environmental one, especially if the infrared
sensor is covered by an installed sensor protection filter.

5.2 Setting the Measurement Temperature

• Press "Chamber settings" on the main menu screen and select "Temperature
control afterwards, then enter the requested measurement temperature
there. If no value is entered, the temperature control is switched-off.
• A warning notice is displayed if the programmed temperature is less than
the required 2°C above the environmental one. In addition, the displayed
temperature in the measurement screen turns red in this case and the user
will be noticed in the status bar by a respective hint.
• If the environmental temperature is changing during an on-going measurement
in a way that the programmed temperature can not be reached, the displayed
temperature turns red as well and the instrument will not reach stability,
means the measurement can not be finished.
The notice "retarded (temp)" appears below the stable indicator.
• Stability is foreclosed if nominal temperature cannot be reached plus if
"Stability check temperature" is activated . Retarded (temp) is displayed
in this case as well.

Note:
The programmed temperature must be between 15°C and 30°C!

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6. How to Perform Measurements
Information about starting a measurement can be found in this chapter.

English
6.1 First Measurement
Prepare the sample by cutting it into small pieces and fill the sample cup till the
visible first rim. This is approximately 2/3 of the sample cup. As the water activity
is a relative measurement, the amount of sample is negligible, means, it does
not matter how much sample is placed in the sample cup, the result will be the
same. Just note that the bottom of the sample cup should be covered at least
to achieve reasonable performance. Do not overfill the sample cup, otherwise
some sample will be pressed into the white sensor protection filter which can
cause wrong measurements, thereby requires immediate filter replacement.

6.1.1 Insert a Sample

Place the prepared sample cup into the metal indentation of measurement
chamber and close it.

• If the sample is too hot (more than 4°C above environmental temperature),
an alarm is issued and the chamber has to be opened as soon as possible
to avoid condensation within the same. At the same time, a respective
symbol is displayed.

Condensation has to be avoided as water droplets are formed in the mea-

surement chamber and wrong measurement results for the current and the
following samples will be the consequence. The sensor itself is actively and
reliably protected by a dew protection as long as the instrument is switched on.

If the instrument is switched-off and hot sample is placed into the chamber,
the sensor might be destroyed, especially if additional vibrations are present.
Please do not place any sample into the measurement chamber while the
instrument is switched-off!

Note:
The condensation alarm does not work properly if the infrared temperature
sensor is blocked by an inserted, chemical sensor protection filter.

6.1.2 Start a Measurement

Program the respective stability parameters, depending on the sample proper-
ties (see chapter 6.2).

Start a measurement as follows:

• Switch to the main menu screen
• Press the "Start" button. If external chambers (LabClick) are connected,
a chamber selection window appears.
-> The measurement is started and the measurement screen is displayed

End of measurement :
If stability is reached, the instrument takes the reading which is as well the end
of the measurement. A "beep" indicates it acoustically.

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 Note:
• If the stability times are set in an inappropriate way, the readings might be
taken too early (stability not completely accomplished) or measurement
time is extended unnecessarily.
English

• Always remove the sample before shutting-down the instrument. The dew
protection is not active once the instrument is switched off and the sensor
might be damaged in this case. In addition, volatile substances in low
concentration can accumulate and deteriorate the sensor's performance.
To it, the warm-up phase is remarkably longer if a sample with high water
activity is not removed after finishing the measurement.

6.2 Stability System

The key to a successful and reliable water activity measurement is the fact
that the reading has to be taken once the equilibrium between the free water
in the sample and the surrounding air has been established. Even as different,
more or less successful approaches are present in the market, Novasina has
its own, unique equilibrium detecting system which is the most accurate and
reliable one, proven by hundreds of satisfied customers.
Theoretically, a full established equilibrium is reached after endless time period.
Of course, there must be a tradeoff as the measurement results have to be
available within reasonable time. For that reason, the LabTouch-aw is equipped
with a so called stability indicator, which supports the user in finding the best
compromise between measurement duration and sufficient accuracy.

6.2.1 Stable Indicator

What is a stable indicator? Well, it is not the same as a predictor which "predicts"
the residual measurement time in minutes and seconds. It is more a tool which
takes the previous measurement history of the sample into the account and
graphically outputs the progress. This can lead to the fact that the green bar is
getting smaller even if the measurement is developped if the establishment of
the equilibrium is interrupted by the evaporation of additional free water coming
from the inner part of the sample or if environmental temperature is changed
dramatically and temperature-control of the chamber is switched off.

How is it working? In simple terms, the system observes the change of the
measurement value within a programmable time. The maximal allowed deviation
in aw is 0.001aw. The programmable time is the one which can be set as "sta-
bility observation time" in minutes or which can be selected as "stability mode"
The progress bar indicates the already reached stability. The programed stability
parameters are displayed underneath the progress bar.

Thus, as closer the deviation comes to 0.001aw within the programmed stability
observation time frame, the greener the bar will get.

If the equilibrium has been established and thereby the values considered
as stable but questionable due to a remarkable temperature difference bet-
ween sample surface (IR-sensor) and the second temperature sensor in the
instrument's body, the display of the stability values is retarded. A respective
notification below the stable indicator is shown.

A similar notification is issued if the values are considered as stable but the
programed temperature could not be reached and stability check temperature
has been activated.
If temperature control is switched-off, so will be "retarded (temp)".

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6.2.2 Program Stability Time
The required stability time for a reliable water activity measurement is specific for
each product. To make your decision easier, you can find some recommended
settings in the table below

English
Please feel free to contact the responsible Novasina distributor in your area
or Novasina AG in Switzerland (www.novasina.com or [email protected]) if
you need assistance in selecting an appropriate stability time for your sample.
Please provide as much information as possible about the ingredients, inclu-
ding volatiles.

You can choose from three pre-settings and two manual ones. To program the
stability time, respectively to select one of the predefined stability settings, press
"chamber settings" on the main menu screen and select the menu "Stable mode

Pre-settings:
F Fast, stability observation time is set to approximately 2 minutes
A Average stability observation time is set to approximately 4 minutes
S Slow, stability observation time is set to approximately 6 minutes

Product Recommended settings

Powders, Jam, Tomato Sauce F
Dried Meat, Fruits, Cereals A
Chocolate, Fish, Cheese, S
Bakery Products, Fresh Meat, Butter

The determination of the most appropriate stability time can be done as following
• Choose a suitable pre-set stability mode (F, A or S)
• Start a measurement with the sample which you want to optimize or find out the
stability time. After stability is reached, do not open the chamber and take out
the sample, let it in for another 30-60 minutes. Now compare the stable value
with the current one (both values can be seen on the measurement screen)

• If the deviation is more than 0.005aw, choose the next higher stability
pre-setting level.
• If the measurement takes too long (more than 120 minutes), choose
the next lower stability pre-setting level.

Note:
The optional "Novalog MC" software offers the capability to read-out and
display the stored measurement values on the SD-card on a computer. With
the help of the graph it is easier to find the most appropriate stability time for
a specific product.

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 Manual setting and query

Beside the pre-settings, the instrument offers the ability to enter a stability time
manually. This feature should only be used by experienced users as the cor-
relation between water activity and product properties have to be understood.
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• "Manual":
While selecting Manual in the menu "stable mode", an additional menu
"Stability observation time" appears right underneath. A stability time from
1-30min. can be entered there.

• "Query":
If "Query" is chosen in the stable mode menu, the user is asked every time
about the desired stability mode while starting a measurement. This option is
only useful, if various samples are measured with the instrument, so that the
operator does not have to change this parameter everytime and adjust the unit.

7. Logging Functions

This chapter describes the logging functionalities of the LabTouch-aw

7.1 Automatic Logging of the Last 10 Measurements

The last 10 measurements are logged automatically. This feature is very use-
ful if the measurement value has not been written down before opening the
chamber since opening leads to a display refresh.

7.1.1 Displaying of Stable Measurement Values

• Select the "Chamber settings" menu which can be found on the main menu
screen and choose "Data logger..." -> "Display last results".
• From the appearing list of the last 10 measurements, the respective one
can be selected and the detailed information as measurement result (aw),
time etc. is displayed.

7.1.2 Erasing of Logged Stable Measurement Values

• Select the "Chamber settings" menu which can be found on the main menu
screen and choose "Data logger..." -> "Display last results".
• Scroll to the end of the list by pressing the "arrow down" symbol.
• Then press on "Clear all results" and confirm the appearing query with [Yes].

7.2 Logging on SD-Card

There is a possibility to log various data on a SD-card which comes with the
instrument and has to be inserted on the right-hand side of the instrument.
The measurement values can be logged in arbitrary intervals between 2 till 60
seconds. In addition, it is possible to store the recorded values (stable, actual)
as digitally signed text file.

The stored data can be analyzed using the Novalog MC software or Excel on
the SD-card, separate folders are issued for each chamber (named as Ch0,
Ch1, Ch2) depending on how much chambers are installed. Within those
directories, the files XXXXLOG.txt (log-files) und XXXXPRO.txt (protocol) are
stored. XXXX corresponds to the sample number .

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7.2.1 Handling of the SD-Card
Both, SD and SD-HC cards can be used but they need to be FAT-formatted.
Please note the following, important notices:
• SD-cards must only be removed while the measurement screen is displayed.

English
Please take care that the symbol (SD-card is accessed by the system) is
not displayed in the information bar.
• Mount or dismount SD- Micro cards always together with the respective
adapter otherwise there might be a loss of data or a complete hang-up
of the system (in this case remove the power supply, plug it in again and
restart the instrument.
• If an SD-card is recognized as faulty (respective symbol is issued), remove
the card from the instrument for at least 5 sec. and re-insert it again. If the
problem persist, reformat the card with the help of a computer.

Note:
Reformatting deletes all the recorded values on the SD-card.

7.2.2 Record a Measurement

• Please configure the following parameters in the menu point "data

logger" which can be found in the menu "Chamber settings":
• "Product name"
Name of the sample. This name is as well listed in the head of the
logging file.
• "Sample number" (number for the next measurement)
The number is used to allocate a protocol to a sample. The sample
number is displayed in the measurement screen as well as integra-
ted into the file name of the logging file (i.e.0034LOG.TXT).
• If there is already a file with the same name on the SD-card, it
will be overwritten as soon as the measurement is started.
• It will be automatically adopted at the first start of the measure-
ment and the number will be increased by +1 for the next measu-
rement ( i.e. 0034 will become 0035)

• "Interval recording"
Program the recording interval. If no value is entered the logger is
turned off and values are transferred to the SD-card.

Note:
If a interval recording time or sample number is changed during an
on-going measurement, it affects only the following but not the current
measurement.

Insert a sample and start the measurement. "(rec)" in front of the sample
number indicates that the recording is active.The recording will be conti-
nued till the chamber is opened or the SD-card is removed.

Note:
If a logging has been stopped it can just be restarted after the chamber
has been opened as by the sample number is just increased in this case.

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 7.2.3 Measurement Protocol
Finished and on-going measurements can be protocolled on the SD-card. These
protocols can be read-out by using the Novalog MC software or a standard
text editor. The use of the Novasina Novalog MC software has the advantage
that a digital signature is used on the protocol which allows the recognition of
English

unauthorized changes of the data.

Enter lab name :
• Go to "System settings" -> "Printout protocol..." -> "Laboratory" and enter the
name of a respective lab. This name will be as well listed on the protocol.
• If there is no entry in the "Laboratory" field in the instrument, it can be
entered afterwards into the protocol by using the Novalog MC software.
The original protocol will not be changed by this action as there are a few
editable fields in the protocol and "Laboratory" is one of it.

Automatic saving of the "Stable protocol" once a measurement has been finished
• Go to "System settings" -> "Printout protocol..." -> "Automatic output of
stable protocol" and select "SD". Thus, the protocol will be stored automa-
tically on the SD-card.
• The saving process has to be initiated manually if "Automatic output of
stable protocol" is set to "Off".
• Transmittance to the Novalog MC software can be done by selecting "PC" or
"SD+PC". This way, a automatic print-out of the protocol on any connected
PC printer (incl. pdf) can be achieved . "PC" or "SD+PC" are only displayed
if the the instrument has been licensed for NovalogMC.

Manual saving of a protocol

• A protocol of the current values ("Actual protocol") can be saved anytime
and even during an on-going measurement on the SD-card by pressing the
printer symbol on the main menu screen. Just select "Actual to SD-Card"
on the appearing pop-up window.
• A "Stable protocol" can only be stored this way, if stable values are present,
respectively if a measurement value had been considered as stable. If these
pre-requisites are fulfilled, a pop-up appears after pressing the print button
and you have to select "Stable to SD-card" to initiate the saving process.
• The protocols can be transfered directly to a PC if the instrument has been
recognized by the optional NovalogMC software by selecting "Actual to PC"
respectively "Stable to PC" after pressing the printer symbol
• "Actual to PC" and "Stable to PC" are not displayed without a connection
to NovalogMC

8. Sensor Calibration
The electrolytic sensor can be verified at any time by using the Novasina SAL-T
standards which are included in the delivery or which have been bought through
the local Novasina distributor. These reusable standards generate defined and
reproducible humidity, respectively aw-values. If verification fails, a calibration
can be performed in an easy way.

Note:The calibration values will be stored in a small memory located on the

sensor board. It is not required that a calibration is performed at all available
calibration points. Perform a two-point calibration with one point below and one
above of the normal measurement range (bracket calibration).

24 www.novasina.com
 For example: Your samples are always around 0.700aw. It is sufficient if you
use the 58%rH und die 75.%rH SAL-T standards for calibration. If verifica-
tion is requested, calibrate at 58%rH and 84% rH and use the 75%rH SAL-T
standards for verification.

English
8.1 How to Handle SAL-T Standards Correctly

The Novasina SAL-T standards are not labeled with a due date. The shelf-life
itself depends on the handling and storage conditions. Experiences in the field
have proven that those standards can be good for 3-5 years if handled correctly.
To achieve the best possible shelf-life, please

• Shake all SAL-T standards twice a month for one minute, nevertheless if
you have used them or not. There is no need to take it out of the plastic
container.
• Always store the standards in the plastic container (closed cover) and not
exposed to direct sunlight.
• Do not expose the salt tablet to environmental air for longer than necessa-
ry; thus, put it back if calibration has been finished at the particular point.

Please always double-check, if the SAL-T standards below 33%rH contain no

or just few water and all the others are present as slurries (salt/water mixture).
Contact the local representative if you feel unsure, how to handle the SAL-T
standards correctly or feel uncertain if the existing ones are still in good shape.

8.2 Values of SAL-T Standards

Type of Novasina EU Toxic Color Chem. % relative humidity in relation Literature
Hum.check type classe of salt symbols of temperature (x / 100 in aw) Reference
15°C 20°C 25°C 30°C

SAL-T / 6 SC-6 Xn white LiBr 6.9 6.6 6.4 6.2 A

SAL-T / 11 SC-11 Xn white LiCl 11.3 11.3 11.3 11.3 A

SAL-T / 33 SC-33 -- blue MgCl2-6H2O 33.3 33.1 32.8 32.4 A

SAL-T / 53 SC-53 O green Mg(NO3)2-6H2O 55.9 54.4 52.9 51.4 A

SAL-T / 58 SC-58 -- white NaBr 60.7 59.1 57.6 56.0 A

SAL-T / 75 SC-75 -- purple NaCl 75.6 75.5 75.3 75.1 A/B

SAL-T / 84 SC-84 -- white KCl 85.9 85.1 84.3 83.6 A

SAL-T / 90 SC-90 T white Ba(Cl)2-2H2O 90.9 90.5 90.1 89.9 C

SAL-T / 97 SC-97 -- yellow K2SO4 (>20%) 97.9 97.6 97.3 97.0 A

Lit : A : Greenspan, Humidity Fixed points of Binary Saturated Aequeous Solutions

Journal of Research of the National Bureau of Standards Vol. 81A, No1 01/02 1977
B : Robinson R.A. and Stokes R.H. Electrolyte Solutions, Butterworths London 1959
C : Wexler, Humidity and Moisture Vol.3, Fundamentals and Standards, Robert E.Krieger,
Publishing Company Huntingon, New York

8.3 Factory Calibration, Delivery Status

Every LabTouch-aw as well as every new replacement sensor "CM-2" is de-

livered with a factory calibration at 7 points: 0.11, 0.33, 0.58, 0.75, 0.84, 0.90
and 0.97, including a factory certificate. For verification and possible calibration
there are 4 different SAL-T salt tablets included in the delivery but additional
ones can be bought if necessary.

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 8.4 Calibration and Verification
To ensure the integrity of the LabTouch-aw, please set-up a defined standard
verification interval. Best case is if it is done before each measurement batch
or every morning. A one point verification is fairly enough. Please make sure
that verification is done at least every week. It helps to see first contamination
English

issues, sensor pollution or aging effects and supports the user in making the
right corrective measures.

Before you start a calibration, make sure:

• Environmental or preseted temperature is between 15°C (59°F) and 30°C

(86°F).
• Adequate visual control and right handling of the SAL-T standards has
been done in advance
• SAL-T standard has to be shaken before placed in the measurement
chamber. This is required to activate the salt/water slurry and to release
salt crystals which might stick on the membrane.

Calibration can now be performed:

Place the respective SAL-T humidity standard into the measurement cham-
ber and close it. Do not press start, just let it in for at least 45min. so that the
humidity equilibrium can be established perfectly.

Note:
Please keep in mind which SAL-T has been placed into the chamber.

• Go to "Chamber settings" -> "Sensor calibration..." -> "Calibrate sensor"

• Possible calibration points will be displayed thereby the most probable one
is green colored. The pink colored value is the deviation of the actual aw
value in the chamber compared to the reference value or in other words,
how much the measured value will be corrected by the calibration at this
point once executed.
• Select now the appropriate, displayed aw-value according to the inserted
SAL-T standard. A pop-up window appears asking for confirmation if the
calibration should really be performed. Double-check if you have selected
the correct reference value and press [Yes].
• If the sensor is password protected, enter it with the help of the displayed
keyboard (see chapter 8.7).

Important:
There is a default password (8808) installed from factory.

• An information screen appears if the calibration has been performed and

stored correctly. Press [OK] to confirm. Afterwards, the instrument switches
to the main measurement screen.

26 www.novasina.com
8.5. Deleting Calibration Points

Note that a deletion of one calibration point just deletes the stored value, not
the point itself. Thus, if the respective SAL-T standard is placed into the mea-
surement chamber, the system recognizes the point again. This procedure

English
is normally not required but makes sense if one of the following situations is
present or happened:

• If there is a requirement to calibrate a sensor completely. It is then useful

to delete the stored calibration points to see the ones which had been
already calibrated during this run, otherwise, "cal" is still displayed behind
every calibrated value.
• If a complete calibration is required but you do not have all of the supplied
SAL-T standards available. Keep in mind that a deleted point is much
better than one calibrated the wrong way. The LabTouch-aw calculates
the missing point from the two nearest ones (mostly one above and one
below of the deleted point).

8.5.1 Perform a Deletion of a Cal Point

• Go to "Chamber settings" -> "Sensor calibration..." -> "Clear calibration
point". A list with all calibrated points is displayed.
• Select the point to be deleted and confirm the request with [Yes].

Note:
At the end of the list (move down by using the arrow down key), there is the
option to clear all points at once ("Clear all cal. points").

• You will be asked to enter the sensor password if one is set.

• Afterwards, "Clear cal. point successful" confirms the deletion .

8.6 Display Cal Points

Go to "Chamber settings" -> "Sensor calibration..." -> "Info calibration points"
and select the requested calibration point. The following information is dis-
played. Important: Please provide this information as well if you ask Novasina
to support a calibration problem.
• "Last calibration "
Date and time of the last save or deletion of a cal. point.
• "Instrument "
Instrument and serial number of the same which had been used for
calibration / deletion.
• "Reference value "
Reference value including temperature consideration.
• "Correction value "
Correction of a cal. point, compared to the unchangeable baseline of the
sensor.
• "Temperature "
Temperature at which the calibration had been performed.

Note:
A sensor drift by time can easily be detected if the correction value is always
noted while calibrating the sensor. The absolute amount of this value does
not say anything about the quality of the sensor!

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 8.7 Sensor Protection
The sensor can be protected against unauthorized changes (calibration etc.).

Important:
English

If the sensor password got lost (forgotten etc), the sensor has to be returned to
Novasina in Switzerland as special equipment is required to unlock it. Please
be careful while protecting a sensor!

8.7.1 Set a Sensor Password

• Go to "Chamber settings" -> "Sensor calibration..." -> "Set sensor password".
• Enter the requested password. Capital or non-capital letters have to be
respected!
• If no password is requested, just leave the field empty

Note:
If you perform the calibrations on a LabSwift but use the sensor on a Lab-
Touch, do only enter a number in the range from 0000 to 9999 as the
LabSwift just allows entering numbers as password.

• If a sensor protection password has already been set, it has to be ente-

red ("Please enter previous password!").

Note:
• The factory set password is 8808.
• A successful change of the password is confirmed by the instrument.

8.8 Automatic Notification for Calibration

This feature offers to possibility to indicate the user of a required calibration.

It is very useful if a specific calibration interval is listed in an SOP (standard
operating procedure). Once a calibration has been performed, the indication
disappears. The same happens if the automatic warning has been disabled.

• Go to "Chamber settings" -> "Sensor calibration..." -> "Warning expired

calibration" and enter the amount of days after which a new calibration
must be performed.
• No indication is issued if no value is programmed here
• If a calibration is required, a pop-up window is issued once a measurement
is started
• In addition, the user is noticed in the infromation bar in the measurement
display

Important:
The indication works only as expected if the date and time is set correctly in
the systems settings menu.
• The user is noticed if a calibration date is in the future (may happened
by mistyping the current date and time in system settings). In this case,
please double-check the time and date and set them correctly if required.
It is necessary to delete all calibration points and recalibrate the same if
date and/or time has been changed as the programmed date is taken into
the account.

28 www.novasina.com
 8.9 Automatic Notification for Filter Exchange
The working principle of this function is similar to the one described in chapter
8.8 "Automatic Notification for Calibration".
Once the filter exchange interval had been recorded, it can be programmed Go

English
to "Chamber settings" -> "Sensor calibration" - > "Warning filter exchange..."
->"Warning filter exchange". This is as well the procedure if this option has to
be deactivated later.
If a filter has been exchanged, it is mandatory that the system will be notified
about it. Select "Chamber settings" -> "Sensor calibration" - > "Warning filter
exchange..." -> "Reset filter warning" and the counter will be reseted.

9. Additional Functions
This chapter describes all the additional functions as system settings which
can be found in the menu structure of the LabTouch-aw.

9.1 Change Acoustic Signals

• Go to "System settings" -> "Acoustic signals..." and select one of the

options to adjust the acoustic signal:
• "Key beep"
Switch on or off the haptic key feedback.
• "Duration stability signal beep"
Enter the duration of the beep which is issued if stability is reached.
If you want to switch off the beep, just delete any entered value.

9.2 Reset to Default Values

Chose "System settings" -> "Maintenance..." -> "Reset to factory settings"

->[Yes], ->[No] to set the instrument back to factory default values.

Note:
• The storage of the last 10 stable measurement values will be deleted as well.
• The calibration values and other data (i.e. sensor password) stored on the
sensor will remain and are not deleted by this process.

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 9.3 Update of the System

Updates of the firmware are distributed by Novasina representatives. Once you

got the update file, copy the folder "Update" into the main directory of the SD-
card by using a PC. Please do not compress it to a .zip, just use the file as it is.
English

• Please double-check, if the folder contains three different files: "LabTouchC.

bin", "LabTouchM.bin" and "LabTouchS.bin"
• Prior to starting the process, make sure that all external chambers are
connected if some are available
• Go to "System settings" -> "Maintenance" -> "System update" and con-
firm with [YES].
• The update is performed in various steps. Please note that the system is
restarted during the update process. Do not touch anything or discon-
nect anything during this procedure!

Note:

• The system is designed in a way that an update can be re-initialized in

case it is aborted by incident (i.e. loss of power etc.)..
• Please use only files which are distributed by your official Novasina repre-
sentative. The use of other files can irreversibly damage the instrument
and cause loss of warranty.

9.4 Intensity of the Backlight

• Go to "System settings" -> "Maintenance" .> "Display settings" -> "Back-

light brightness" to adjust the intensity of the backlight according to the
environmental light conditions.

9.5 Touch Screen Calibration

• The touch screen is factory calibrated and a readjustment is normally not

necessary. If a touch is not recognized at the place it should, a readjust-
ment might correct it.
• Go to "System settings" -> "Maintenance" -> Display settings..."
->"Adjust touch panel"
• Touch the screen at exactly those positions indicated with a cross.
Use a soft-tip pen (no ball-pen)
• The system accepts the adjustment only, if you touch the white area
within 30 seconds after activation of the last cross.

30 www.novasina.com
 9.6 Upgrade the LabTouch-aw

As different versions with more or less features are available, the user has the
possibility to upgrade the system making those new features accessible. Please

English
contact the Novasina representative to learn more about the different features of
the basic and the advanced version.

• To activate the new features, please proceed as follows:

• Go to "System settings" -> "Maintenance" -> "Set options code"

• Take a picture of the screen showing the set option code and send it
together with the license upgrade order to your local Novasina represen-
tative.
• Press [No] to close the active window.
• As soon as you have received the new option code, select again the
menu point "Set options code". Now press [Yes] and enter the new code.
• Afterwards mount the little sticker with the new license code (included in
the delivery of the needed license code) on the bottom of the LabTouch-
aw and keep the new license in a safe place where it can be found
whenever needed. The new license code is needed again if the option
has to be reactivated after a complete loss of data (i.e. exchange of main
board).

9.7 Communication Interface

Note: This function requires the "advanced" version of LabTouch-aw. If you have a
basic version, please contact your local Novasina distributor to purchase a license
update.
• Factory default setting for the communication with the optional NovalogMC
software is the USB interface
Note: USB functionality is implemented in NovalogMC version V2.20 and higher

• Please change settings as follows if a communication via RS-232 interface is

required. Go to "System settings" -> "Maintenance" -> "Interface for computer
connection" an choose RS-232
10. Maintenance
The following chapter describes the main maintenance task which can be perfor-
med by the user himself.

10.1. Cleaning of the instrument

For cleaning the instrument just use a soft tissue and pure water. If necessary
use mild detergents in addition. NEVER use cleaners containing aggressive and/
or oxidizing chemicals . Make sure you dry the chamber thoroughly dried after
cleaning to avoid wet residuals and hence an influence on the coming water activity
measurements. If the outer parts need to be cleaned, be aware that some areas
of the instrument are not sealed and water can enter the instrument. Best way is
to use a wet tissue as well to remove dirt and dust.

Caution !
Before cleaning, switch off the LabTouch-aw and disconnect it from the mains.

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 10.2. Cleaning of the aw-measurement cell „CM-2“

Please do NEVER clean the sensor CM-2 itself, neither the black protection
filter in front of it. The sensor is a very sensitive element with a chemical filter
protection on the top. Every cleaning with chemical or mechanical means
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(touching, pressurized air cleaning, etc.) will destroy the measuring sensor
inevitably. Possible warranty claims expire instantly.

10.3. Cleaning of the Infrared „IR“ sensor

Clean the IR sensor with a humid cotton bud. Watch out not using strong forces
on the window of the IR-sensor. A contaminated IR-sensor leads to longer
measurement times but not to wrong measurements.

10.4. Periodic Recalibration with Humidity Standards

Like all precision measurement instruments, the LabTouch-aw must be chek-

ked periodically and if necessary recalibrated. This procedure was already
described in the chapter 8. Only in this way you can secure the accuracy of
your measurements. The Novasina SAL-T humidity standards are applicable
for this procedure. If required the standards can be provided with an certificate
issued by international accredited lab.

10.5. Replacing Protective Filters

Always use protection filters to protect the measuring sensor from contamina-
tion by unwanted particles or volatile components. Various filters are available
for different type of volatiles. Please consult the filter selection data sheet or
contact your local Novasina agent if you need help.

Such chemical protection filters have to be replaced periodically due to the fact
that they get saturated. Filters can increase the measurement time and they
incativate the IR-temperature measurement.

Novasina provides the following protection filters for the LabTouch-aw :

• eVC-21 filter :
Chemical filter: protects against short-chained organic acids as acetic and
formic acid and other carboxylic acids (butyric acid etc) and oxidizing agents
as hydrogen peroxide and chlorine and as well againts diluted sulfur dioxide

• eVC-26 filter :
Chemical filter : protects against various substances as nitrogen oxides,
amines, aldehyde solvents, aromatic hydrocarbons, oil vapours, fine dust
particles.

32 www.novasina.com
 • Redox filter :
Chemical filter : protects against volatiles containing primary and secondary
alcohols (attention, ethanol is an exception, eVALC filter or special alcohol
cell has then be used), gylcerin, glycols, aroma, perfumes, flavours etc.

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• eVALC-1 alcohol filter :
Chemical-mechanical filter : protects against fine dust or alcohol (ethanol)
till a content of 0.5% (mass percent) in the sample.

10.5.1. How to check protection filters for saturation

All filters are apsorption-type, thus they will become saturated after some time
and loose their functionality. It is of crucial importance to check the filter for
saturation. Please proceed as follows:

1. Select a SAL-T standard which has an aw-value close to the procudts

which are normally measured with the instrument.
2. Shake the standard and place it into the measurement chamber. Close the
chamber and wait for 45 minutes. Take the reading.
3. Compare the reading with the theoretical value at this point and at the
measurement temperature.
4. If the deviation is more than +/- 0.005aw, do a calibration. Note the date
of calibration.
5. If the calibration interval gets shorter (i.e. from 30 days to 20 days) at least
two times in a row, replace the filter. The more frequent calibration is an
indication for sensor contamination.
6. By replacing the filter, you get an idea about the exchange internval (install
date to exchange date) and you can define a standard filter exchange interval.

Attention !
Defective or wrong mounted filters do not fullfil their function and provide the
risk of instrument or sensor damage. Such filters must be replaced immediately.

10.6. Replacing a CM-2 Sensor Unit

Note:

The LabTouch-aw contains sensitive electronic assemblies. Please protect

these items from electrostatic discharge (esd) by discharging yourself at a
grounded, conductive surface (e.g. radiator) before you open the housing of
the instrument.

• Switch off the instrument and disconnect the mains from the system.
• Open the measurement chamber and dismount the 4 screws of the cover
plate using the hexagon wrench which was delivery with the instrument
• The housing cover can now be separated from the upper measurement
chamber plate
NOTE: The upper measurement chamber plate is still connected to the lower
housing by a ribbon cable. Do not loosen or remove the ribbon!
• Look for the board which covers the sensor and remove it by grabbing the
PCB on the side walls and firmly lifting it.
• Remove now the two screws which fix the actual sensor in the measuring
head and remove the sensor unit completely out of the head.

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 Note:
It is recommended to exchange the white sensor protection filter as well. Press
the sinter filter downwards and insert a new one.
English

• Insert now the new measuring sensor in the respective place and fix it with
the two screws.

Warning !

• Never apply any pressure with any item on the top of the measuring cell.
This might damage the sensor protection filter and makes the sensor uesless
• Always remove the measuring sensor while exchanging the sinter filter,
otherwise you risk that the sensor and a purchase of a new one would be
required.

Every measuring sensor is protected with a password. The factory-setting is

„8808“. Do not forget to adjust the password according to your requirements,
otherwise the protection can’t be assured.

Important: Make sure you mount back the cover correctly. Special care has to
be taken for the 4 screws fixing the cover to the cover plate. Screw them tightly.
If cover is not closed properly, measurement problems can occur

10.7. Important Notes About The Sensor

The sensor supplied with the Novasina LabTouch-aw is factory tested and fully
calibrated at the following seven aw-value reference points : 0.11aw, 0.33aw,
0.58aw, 0.75aw, 0.84aw and 0.90aw and 0.97aw.

Humidity sensors are subject to certain ageing phenomena, which manifest

themselves in deviations from the original value. Due to this reason, every
sensor undergoes a 3 month ageing proces at Novasina so that the drift can
be reduced to the lowest level possible. Nevertheless, slight deviations by
time are inevitable but they can be compensated by recalibration. Thus it is
recommended to periodically check the performance of the sensors by ve-
rifying the current value taken at the humidity reference points, compare it to
the reference value and recalibrate the instrument if required. The standards
are reusable and a shelf-life of approx. 3-5 years depening on the handling
and storage conditions. All calibration data are stored on the intelligent sensor.
Thus a new sensor can be inserted into the LabTouch-aw and measurements
can be performed without any calibration .

34 www.novasina.com
 Correct handling of the sensor :

Note :

Before starting the measurement. The Novasina sensor is a very sensitive,

English
high precision device. Please observe the following rules in order to avoid
measuring errors or even destruction of the sensor :

• Do not let fall either the sensing element nor the LabTouch-aw and strictly
avoid shock vibrations
• Do not perform a measurement if the white pre-filter is not mounted.

• Use Novasina protection filters, which can be mounted in front of the sensor,
if your product contains volatiles and/or aggressive substances as acids,
polyols, alcohols or aroma. Make sure you have inserted the correct filter
once such components are present in the sample
• Sensors that are not used should be stored in a clean, sun protected
environment at room temperature and ambient humidity.
• If LabTouch-aw is not in use, keep the measurement chamber empty and
closed.
• Never clean the sensor nor the instrument using agressive chemicals or
mechanical abrassive media. If the instrument is contaminated with product,
use a soft towel and water to clean it. Dry it well afterwards.
• Under no circumstances connect the sensor to an Ohmmeter or another
measuring device. This may damage the sensor and will expire the warranty
of the sensor!

Any warranty will expire if one or more of the

previous mentioned points counteracts !!

Measurements up to +/- 1.000 aw

The new sensor of the LabTouch-aw is capable to perform measurements

up to 1.00 aw (100%rh). A built-in heating system protects the measuring cell
from saturation and therefore against destruction. Just note that a calibration
is only possible up to 0.97aw (97%rH).

11. Error Codes, First Level Support

The most important error codes are described in this chapter. Please
take a picture of the instrument and describe exactly what you have
done previously if problems occur and error codes not listed below are
displayed or if the problem can not be easily fixed on-site. Send those
information to your local Novasina distributor.
• Please send us as well a picture about the currently installed firmwa-
re version: It can be found in "System settings" -> "Info".
• Send as well a picture of the displayed values once "Chamber set-
ting -> Info" has been selected

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 Message / Problem Cause / Reason Measure(s)
(explanation see
next page)
Error message during system See chapter 9.3
English

update #1
A protocol print-out by pressing the print button Insert a SD-card or
has been performed but no media (SD-Card or connect the instru-
direct connection to a computer with NovalogMC) is ment to a PC with
available to store or print-out the data. running Nova-
logMC software

There is a problem with the sensor: The displayed

number after "Sensor Error" has the following me-
anings:
1. Data structure of the sensor is damaged (CRC #2, #3, #4
error)
2. The required heating voltage can not be estab- #2, #5
lishes.
3. Capability Sensor : #5
The programming of the sensor is outdated and
does not provide the functionality as requested
by the instrument.
4. Capability Instrument : #6
The currently installed sensor is not supported
by the instrument
5. Sensor data can not be read-out during #2, #3, #6, #4
operation.
6. Error IR-temperature measurement #11, #2, #4
7. Error NTC temperature measurement #4
8. AD Over- or Underflow of humidity measure- #2, #4
ment.
10. Requested scanning instance can not be #2, #5
adjusted.
20. Sensor (data structure) is not compatible #2, #6, #5
99 Unknown error #2, #3, #6, #5, #4
No response from the measurement chamber! #7, #1, #8, #4

A firmware update of the chamber is required as #9

the current settings are outdated which results in
communication failure.

The master firmware is outdated and needs to be #9

updated, thus no communication with the measure-
ment chamber possible

36 www.novasina.com
Message / Problem Cause / Reason Measure(s)
Due to a CRC error, the system was booted from #9, #4
a reserve partition, thus the currently running firm-
ware is not up-to-date

English
Sensor calibration is not possible as the actual va- #10, #3, #4
lue is out of the calibration window of the respecti-
ve humidity standard.
The sensor might be contaminated or defective.

There was a change to a license with less options.

Settings which are no longer available with the
current license were adjusted

If this error message appears, please restart the

instrument to have the USB port available and
activated
If the USB interface is not used, a restart is not
necessary. In this case the activation is done auto-
matically dsuring the next restart

Instrument does not react any- There is a fatal error present. System needs to be #2
more to inputs (press icons etc.) rebooted.
if it occurs several
Sometimes, it is accompanied by
error messages of the operating times a month):
system #1, #4

The measures should be performed according the sequence as listed in the row "Measure(s)"

#1: Send a picture of the displayed message and firmware version to your local Novasina representative
#2: Turning the instrument off and then on again. If an ordinary turn-off is not possible, please disconnect
the power connector from the instrument for at least 5 seconds.
#3 Use another, appropriate sensor cell.
#4 Error in the instrument. Please contact your local Novasina representative.
#5 The used sensor is not compatible with the instrument.
#6 Perform a firmware update, if latest version is not currently installed. See chapter 9.3
#7 Double-check connection to the external chamber: Is the connecting cable plugged-in properly?
#8 External chamber is defective. Please contact your local Novasina representative.
#9 Perform an update as described in chapter 9.3.
#10 Double-check if the used SAL-T standards are in good shape (check chapter 8.1).
Make sure, you have waited at least 45 min. after inserting the SAL-T into the chamber before you
performed the calibration
#11 Temperature difference between chamber and sample is too big. Wait till sample temperature is lower

www.novasina.com 37
 English

38
12. LabTouch Menu Structure
Chamber Settings System Settings

Temperature control Date, time

15....30°C - Set date
- Set time

Stable mode Units

- F (Fast) - Humidity units
- A (Average) - Temperature unit
- S (Slow) - Date format
- Manual
- Query

Stability observation time Acoustic signals

(only if Manual or Query in stable mode )
1...30 min - Key beep

www.novasina.com
- Duration stability signal beep

Data logger Printout protocol

- Display last results - Automatic output of stable
- Product name protocol
- Sample number - Laboratory
- Interval recording

Sensor calibration Maintenance

- Calibrate sensor - Display settings
- Clear calibration point - Reset to factory settings
- Info calibration point - System update
- Set sensor password - Set options code
- Warning expired calibration

Info Info
- Chamber - System info
- Sensor
Notizen/Notes/Notes

English

www.novasina.com 39
Novasina – Swiss Quality, Flexibility and Competence
Since its establishment almost 50 years ago, the Novasina company has specialised in the accu-
rate measuring of air and material humidity. The basis of this was the world’s first, self-developed
electronic measuring sensor for measuring humidity. This technology is based on the resistive
electrolytic measurement principle. This was further developed and optimised over decades. This
measuring principle is generally the most demanding and most accurate. Modern substances and
materials allow continuous optimisation and expansion of the area of application of this measuring
sensor. Today the highly accurate humidity measurement is among our core competences and
forms an important pillar of our success. Intensive research and development further ensures a
decisive advantage for us. Novasina sensors and measuring instruments are mainly applied to the
area of air and material humidity. This is almost exclusively used in industrial applications as well
as in research and development.

We fully develop and produce Novasina precision measuring instruments in which our Know-how
of many years is always included. We are proud of the „SWISS MADE“ label, which guarantees
the highest quality, innovation and longevity.

The diversity of our customers, business partners and applications as well as our international
orientation makes Novasina the competent partner for demanding humidity measurements in the
industrial area!

Your Novasina Team

Consulting, Sales and Service:

Manufacturer :
Novasina AG, Neuheimstrasse 12, 8853 Lachen, Switzerland
Telephone +41-55-642-67-67, Fax +41-55-642-67-70, e-mail: [email protected], www.novasina.com

ISO 9001 : P 2001 certified since 1996