Hanna Instruments GroLine pH and conductivity monitor for hydroponics (inline probe) HI981421
The HI981421 unit is a versatile and durable solution for continuously monitoring pH, conductivity and temperature in hydroponics, greenhouses and aquaponics systems. It supports professional users in obtaining precise data about their nutrient solutions at all times. Thanks to its robust housing and inline probe, the device provides a reliable installation option that ensures continuous and automated control. Compared to similar solutions such as the [Hanna Instruments GroLine pH/EC/TDS Monitor HI98131], this model offers more storage options and a USB-C interface for more convenient data evaluation.
Reliable measurements at a glance
The measuring device records pH, EC (conductivity) or TDS and temperature in real time. Thanks to the 3-in-1 probe, all values are measured in one compact component, which reduces the installation effort. Similar to the [Hanna Instruments EC and pH meter HI9814], this probe is designed to work reliably in demanding environments such as greenhouses or hydroponic systems and offers a long service life.
Important features
- Robust IP65 housing: High protection against dust and moisture, ideal for use in warm and humid environments.
- Large LCD: Backlight and automatic brightness adjustment for optimum readability.
- Data logging: Automatic storage of measured values at 15-minute intervals over 30 days.
- USB-C interface: Ensures a fast and uncomplicated data export procedure.
- Intelligent alarm mode: Alerts you if the pH, EC or TDS limits are exceeded or not reached.
- Multiple calibration options: Enables one- or two-point calibrations as well as the Quick-Cal function for rapid results.
- Automatic temperature compensation: Ensures precise measured values in the range from 0 °C to 60 °C.
The integrated memory system for permanent recording of minimum, maximum and average values makes it particularly easy to recognize long-term changes in the nutrient solution. The concentration of nutrients can be monitored at any time using EC or TDS values, which enables targeted control of the addition of fertilizers or additives.
Application areas and special features
Whether you are involved in professional plant cultivation, aquaponics projects or greenhouse cultivation: The reliable measurement of pH and conductivity helps to ensure an optimum nutrient supply. If the pH value or conductivity is outside the specified tolerance range, the device triggers a flashing alarm, making it easier to react quickly. The replaceable fabric diaphragm of the pH electrode ensures that the measurement accuracy is maintained even after prolonged use. In addition, graphite electrodes in the EC sensor enable stable conductivity measurement with reduced polarization effects.
Compliance with relevant standards and directives such as CE conformity is a matter of course with this device. The IP65 certification additionally confirms its resistance in humid, warm and demanding environments.
Technical details at a glance
- pH measuring range: 0.00 to 12.00
- Conductivity: 0.00 to 10.00 mS/cm with automatic temperature compensation
- TDS: Maximum 7000 mg/l (ppm) with conversion factor 0.7
- Temperature range: 0.0 to 60.0 °C
- Data export: Via USB-C in .CSV format
- Dimensions: 125 x 185 x 38 mm (only 333 g weight)
The measuring device also has a large memory that automatically records the values at 15-minute intervals and stores them for up to 30 days. The minimum, maximum and average values can be called up at the touch of a button. This measurement concept provides a clear picture of fluctuations in the composition of the nutrient solution so that corrective measures can be initiated in a targeted and timely manner.
Concrete application scenarios
- Hydroponic vegetable production: Helps to constantly monitor the nutrient composition for tomatoes, cucumbers or leaf lettuce and ensures consistent yields.
- Aquaponics systems: Measures pH and EC to control the delicate balance between fish and plant cycles.
- Greenhouse specialty crops: Ensures that sensitive ornamental plants or exotic orchids always achieve the right pH and salt content in the nutrient solution.
- Research and development: Enables targeted testing of new fertilizer combinations by continuously monitoring the solution in test facilities.
FAQs
How often should you calibrate
?
Calibration is usually carried out once a week or before use in particularly critical applications. Thanks to the Quick-Cal function, an immersion sensor calibration can be completed quickly.
Why is it advantageous to combine pH and EC sensors in one device?
The 3-in-1 probe enables simplified installation and reduces possible measurement errors due to different measuring positions. It also reduces maintenance costs.
What happens if the values are outside the limit ranges?
As soon as the pH, TDS or conductivity values you have set are exceeded or undershot, the alarm flashes and a warning message appears on the display. This allows users to recognize immediately that the nutrient solution needs to be adjusted.
How can the measurement data be further processed on the PC?
A USB-C cable or USB stick can be used to easily export all data in .CSV format. They can then be read into standard programs such as Excel, spreadsheets or databases, evaluated graphically or archived.
Summary
The system is ideal for achieving professional results in hydroponics. With automatic recording, precise measurement technology and clear alarm functions, it makes daily work easier and prevents nutrient deficiencies as well as overdosing. The space-saving design and IP65 certification also make the monitor suitable for demanding environments. Thanks to the comprehensive measurement and storage options, your nutrient balance remains permanently transparent and reliably within the desired range.
