Horiba LAQUAtwin Conductivity Meter
Conductivity - measurement of the electrical conductivity of water
A large number of parameters play an essential role in the evaluation of water and drinking water quality. One of these parameters is electrical conductivity, which is considered an indicator value for water quality.
It is the measure of the ability of a solution to conduct electric current and depends on the concentration of ions and their mobility.
Conclusions about the water quality can be drawn from the conductivity of the water. Pure water is (almost) non-conductive. Only through substances dissolved in the water, such as carbonates, chlorides or sulfates, can electricity be conducted.
The value of the conductivity measurement can therefore be used to draw conclusions about the quantity of particles dissolved in the water. The more the water contains of them, the more conductive it is.
In other words, the more polluted the water, the better it conducts electric currents.
However, even clean or pure water has a certain, albeit weak, conductivity.
Conductivity analysis, however, does not replace chemical analysis of water, since other dissolved substances, such as pesticides, drug residues, germs, bacteria or hormones, do not conduct and thus cannot be detected by conductivity measurement.
In water treatment as an example, the TDS value is also measured. It is a quantitative measure of the concentration of dissolved, conductive substances present in a solution - in this case water (Total Dissolved Solids).
The TDS value measured here is a sum parameter that provides information about the quantity of these dissolved substances. The basis of the TDS value is again the conductivity measurement. 1 microS/cm corresponds to 0.640 ppm TDS (or mg/l TDS).
Application examples:
The manual conductivity meter LAQUAtwin from Horiba is used, among other things
- in the drinking and waste water sector or water treatment
- in industrial manufacturing processes, e.g. acrylic paints or solvents
- in general quality control
- in food production
- in agricultureWasserqualitätsanalyse
Conductivity measurement is a valuable method for assessing water quality. Electrical conductivity is a non-specific cumulative parameter that provides information about the amount of dissolved substances in water. Dissolved ion species include salts, acids, bases and some organic substances present in the solution. The measured value is proportional to the combined effect of all ions in the sample solution. Therefore, the EC meter (pocket tester for conductivity) is an important tool for monitoring various types of water for quality.
Examples of conductivity of water:
ultra-purified water: about 0.05 μS/cm (non-conductive)
distilled water: up to 20 μS/cm
rainwater: about 30 μS
drinking water: between 300 to 800 μS/cm
seawater: 56 mS/cm
Effects of tap (drinking) water conductivity on health.
If the ions dissolved in the water are only absorbed in low concentrations, this is harmless and even healthy with regard to the dissolved minerals. It so happens that a higher conductivity does not necessarily represent an increased health risk. However, higher concentrations can indicate contamination, which is why more precise water tests, e.g. in the form of a chemical analysis, are required if the limits are exceeded.
In addition, non-conductive dissolved substances, such as germs, bacteria, hormones or pesticides, cannot be detected accordingly via conductivity.
According to the Drinking Water Ordinance (TrinkV Annex 3 to § 7 and § 14), the conductivity limit in Germany is 2790 µS/cm at a constant water temperature of
25 °C or 2500 μS/cm at 20 °C.
During the measurement, the temperature of the sample solution must not fluctuate. For this reason, Horiba pocket testers for measuring conductivity (EC meters) are equipped with a temperature compensator. A deviation from 1 °C already leads to large deviations with regard to the conductivity measured value.
Application examples:
Electrical conductivity of honey
Unlike in the past, the content of minerals and nutrients in honey today is determined by the electrical conductivity. Since minerals and nutrients belong predominantly to the salts, they exhibit - like all salts - a certain electrical conductivity.
Via the different conductivities of the various types of honey, conclusions can be drawn about geographical or botanical origin. This is worth knowing for quality control. To determine the conductivity, an aqueous honey solution must be prepared, which is then placed on the sensor of the EC meter.
Flower honey may have a maximum conductivity of 0.8mS/cm, while the value for forest honeys must be at least 0.8 mS/cm. Since forest honeys generally have a significantly higher mineral content than other varieties, their conductivity is consequently the highest among honeys.
Thus, conductivity analysis with the individual parameter specifics of the individual varieties lends itself to characterizing them and analyzing them for varietal purity - if desired.
The Horiba pocket testers for conductivity allow you to perform the analysis quickly and easily on site.
pH and conductivity measurements in coconut fiber substrate
Coconut fiber is the fibrous material found between the hard inner shell and the outer husk of the coconut. Mature coconuts have strong brown coconut fibers that are typically used for padding, fabric, or in horticulture. Immature coconuts have fine white or light brown coconut fibers that are made to produce household products such as mats, brushes, and ropes. To harvest coconut fiber conventionally, the fibrous husks are soaked in freshwater or seawater to swell and soften the fiber before extraction.
Due to its high lignin content, brown coir fiber has become a popular growing medium in gardening and landscaping because it can store a lot of water and does not shrink when dry. Most commercially available coconut fiber is thoroughly washed to reduce its high sodium and potassium content, as it can be harmful to plants. Then, on the other hand, the substrate is re-enriched with calcium to balance their cation exchange capacity, making the substrate resistant to sudden changes in pH. Good quality coconut fiber is essential to achieve optimal growth for plants. To determine if the coconut substrate is the right quality for its intended use, the conductivity and pH should be checked before use.
Horiba's handheld conductivity meter (EC meter) enables direct analysis within seconds. The dustproof and waterproof pocket meters all feature the automatic calibration function and temperature compensation to ensure accurate and stable measurements.
The EC-22 and EC-33 pocket testers also show the temperature of the measured solution on the display, while the EC-33 pocket tester also measures the solids dissolved in a solution (TDS), which is why it is often used in research, laboratories and universities.
All Horiba Pocket Testers can be stored dry without the highly sensitive sensor drying out.
Application information
- Minimum sample volume: 0.12 ml
- EC-11: 2 calibration points
- EC-22: 3 calibration points, temperature display
- EC-33: 5 calibration points, temperature display and TDS measurement
- Automatic range selection
- Automatic calibration
- Automatic standard detection:
- 1413μS / cm, 12.88mS / cm, 111.8mS / cm
- Automatic temperature compensation: 2% / ºC fixed
- Temperature calibration: 5 to 40.0 ºC
- Automatic stability / auto hold measurement
- Auto power off: 30 minutes.
- Low battery indicator
- IP67 rating dust and waterproof
- Replaceable sensor
- 400 hours battery life: continuous operation without backlighting
- Materials: ABS epoxy body & titanium coated with platinum black sensor
- Display: custom (monochrome) LCD with backlighting
- Operating conditions: 5 to 40 °C, 85% or less relative humidity
- Warranty: 2 years - meter, 6 months - sensor
- Packed in convenient carrying case
- Supplied with 1413μS/cm & 12.88mS/cm conductivity standards (14ml each), conditioning solution (4ml), 2 x CR2032 batteries, dropper, operating instructions and quick reference guide
Suitable HORIBA measuring instruments
Find out more about the accuracy of HORIBA’s pocket conductivity testers: your ideal choice for precise conductivity measurements. The EC-11, EC-22 and EC-33 models, manufactured in Japan, represent the pinnacle of quality in pocket testers. They offer numerous benefits for users in laboratories, industry, aquaculture, water treatment, schools and universities, as well as amateur gardeners. An overview of the HORIBA Conductivity Pocket Tester series: Model EC-11: Water resistance, micro-sample analysis from 0.12 ml and a conductivity measurement range of up to 19.99 mS/cm are the key features of these instruments. They are straightforward to use and maintain, ensuring long-term reliability. Model EC-22: Offers a larger temperature display and a wider measurement range. Perfect for advanced applications where the temperature of the medium must be determined for detailed analysis. Model EC-33: With the widest measurement range, TDS measurement capability and advanced features, this model sets new standards. For professionals who need to carry out the most precise measurements under varying conditions. Applications and benefits for the user: ‘Immersion’: Direct measurement is possible in solutions. For example, you can immerse the tester in a beaker and determine the value. ‘Scoop’: The hinged lid, which acts as a scoop here, allows you to easily take a sample from a hard-to-reach area. ‘Drops’: Efficient analysis of the smallest volumes. Thanks to their user-friendliness, durability and ‘Made in Japan’ quality, HORIBA pocket conductivity testers are a reliable solution for a variety of measurement applications. Manufacturer’s item number: 3999960126 LAQUAtwin EC-22: The world’s first pocket-sized conductivity meter Your mobile laboratory – for on-site use: Ideal for water quality testing in aquariums, foodstuffs and many other applications. HORIBAs unique compact analyser integrates the electrode, display and sample chamber to enable simple, effective on-site testing through direct measurement using a single drop. Minimum sample volume: 0.12 ml Up to 3 calibration points Conductivity and temperature display Automatic range Automatic calibration Automatic standard recognition: 1413 µS/cm, 12.88 mS/cm, 111.8 mS/cm Automatic temperature compensation: 2%/°C fixed Temperature calibration: 5 to 40.0 °C Automatic stabilisation / automatic hold measurement Automatic switch-off: 30 mins Low battery indicator IP67 rating: dust and water resistant Replaceable sensor 400-hour battery life: continuous operation without backlight Materials: ABS-epoxy housing and titanium coating with platinum-black sensor Display: custom (monochrome) LCD with backlight Operating conditions: 5 to 40°C, 85% or less relative humidity Warranty: 2 years – meter, 6 months – sensor Packaged in a handy carrying case Supplied with 1413 µS/cm & 12.88 mS/cm conductivity standards (14 ml each), conditioning solution (4 ml), 2 x CR2032 batteries, dropper, instructions and quick start guide Additional information We would like to inform you of an upcoming product update for the LAQUAtwin pocket-sized analysers. To enhance product safety and prevent accidental swallowing of the batteries by infants and young children, HORIBA will be introducing a new battery cover on all LAQUAtwin pocket-sized analysers. Overview of the product change Change: Battery cover for increased safety. Reason: To prevent accidental swallowing of batteries. Production date: from January 2026 in Japan Deliveries to EMEA distribution partners: from March 2026 As this change is currently being rolled out, you may receive mixed deliveries of the current and updated versions during the transition period. Please note: The EC4 replacement sensors, both old and new, are not compatible with each other. Similarly, the conditioning solutions for the old and new versions are not compatible with the respective device variants. How can you tell if you have an older or a new device? If your Pocket Tester is marked ‘4-cell’, you have the latest version of this device. In this case, you will need the replacement sensors listed in the cross-selling section, as well as the standard and conditioning solutions. These have been specially optimised for the new Pocket Testers and are not suitable for the older models.
HORIBA pH Handheld Tester – Ideal for Water and Environmental Analysis Precise pH measurements on-site – compact, reliable, and easy to use The Horiba LAQUAtwin pH tester is ideal for water quality testing in rivers, drinking water, and process water. With a measurement range of 0.0 to 14.0 pH and a 2-point calibration, the tester is suitable for a wide range of pH analyses. Just a single drop of sample provides quick and reliable measurement results. The tester combines electrode, display, and sample container in a robust IP67-rated housing that is dust- and waterproof. The digital display with backlight shows both pH and mV values. Features such as automatic stability detection and Auto-Hold simplify operation. With up to 400 hours of battery life, the tester is suitable for extended measurement series. Included are calibration buffer solutions (pH 4.01 & 7.00), batteries, pipette, instruction manual, and a carrying case. Handheld pH tester for fast and precise results With its wide measurement range and 2-point calibration, the Horiba LAQUAtwin pH tester is suitable for a variety of pH analyses. Even a single drop of sample is enough to obtain fast and accurate results. Its compact design makes the mobile pH tester highly user-friendly and allows on-site measurements without complex sample preparation or laboratory infrastructure. Robust, waterproof design with comprehensive features The tester integrates the electrode, display, and sample container in a robust IP67-rated housing that is dust- and waterproof. The digital backlit display clearly shows pH and mV values. Features like automatic stability detection and Auto-Hold simplify daily use. With a battery life of up to 400 hours, the tester is suitable for long measurement series. The package includes calibration buffer solutions (pH 4.01 & 7.00), batteries, pipette, instruction manual, and a practical carrying case. Typical applications of the Horiba LAQUAtwin pH Pocket Tester Aquaculture and corals Aquariums Beer, beverages, and food Heating systems Laboratories and schools Horticulture Water treatment Additional information We would like to inform you of an upcoming product update for the LAQUAtwin handheld analysers. To enhance product safety and prevent infants and young children from accidentally swallowing the batteries, HORIBA will be introducing a new battery cover on all LAQUAtwin pocket-sized analysers. Overview of the product change Change: Battery cover for enhanced safety. Reason: To prevent accidental swallowing of batteries. Production date: From January 2026 in Japan Deliveries to EMEA distribution partners: From March 2026 As this change is currently being rolled out, mixed deliveries of the current and updated versions may occur during the transition period. Frequently asked questions How long is the warranty period for HORIBA pocket testers? The warranty period is two years from delivery for commercial customers. How many measurements can be taken before the sensor needs to be replaced? This varies depending on the application, use and storage of the Horiba tester. As a rule, the sensor should be replaced after one year. How long is the warranty period for replacement sensors for pocket testers? The warranty period is 12 months after delivery for commercial customers. How do you clean the pocket tester? The pocket tester can be rinsed under water. We recommend cleaning with DI water (deionised). Tissue paper is recommended for drying after cleaning. How can the pocket tester be reset to factory settings? (e.g. in the event of an incorrect measurement result) This information can be found in the operating instructions. These can be found in the download area of the shop and on the product. Is calibration necessary before each measurement? Basically, yes. Further information can be found in the operating instructions.
Mobile pH Tester with 3-Point Calibration for On-the-Go Use Horiba LAQUAtwin pH Tester – ideal for water and environmental analysis The Horiba LAQUAtwin pH Tester pH-22 is compact, robust, and designed for mobile use. With up to three calibration points and a measurement range of 0.00 to 14.00 pH, this device delivers high precision and reliability. Direct measurement with just a single drop of sample provides fast results. Features such as automatic buffer recognition, temperature compensation, and Stabil/Hold functionality make daily operation simple and convenient. Mobile precision pH tester for reliable on-site measurements The tester combines electrode, display, and sample container in a dust- and waterproof IP67 housing, making it ideal for field and laboratory applications. The digital backlit display shows pH and mV values clearly and accurately. Automatic shut-off and battery status indicators ensure convenient operation. The package includes calibration buffer solutions (pH 4.01 and 7.00), batteries, a pipette, and a quick-start guide. Why accurate pH measurement is critical – and why a handheld tester is ideal pH is a key parameter in water, environmental, and process analysis because it significantly influences chemical reactions, biological processes, and material stability. Even small deviations can substantially impact water quality, product quality, or process safety. A mobile handheld pH tester allows fast, reliable measurements directly on site. Changes can be detected immediately, and corrective actions implemented without delay. The Horiba LAQUAtwin pH-22 combines this flexibility with high measurement precision, making it ideal for field, laboratory, and routine applications. Typical applications for the Horiba LAQUAtwin pH handheld tester Aquaculture and coral monitoring Beer, beverage, and food production Heating systems Laboratories and schools Environmental analysis Water treatment Horticulture Additional information We would like to inform you of an upcoming product update for the LAQUAtwin handheld analysers. To enhance product safety and prevent infants and young children from accidentally swallowing the batteries, HORIBA will be introducing a new battery cover on all LAQUAtwin pocket-sized analysers. Overview of the product change Change: Battery cover for enhanced safety. Reason: To prevent accidental swallowing of batteries. Production date: From January 2026 in Japan Deliveries to EMEA distribution partners: From March 2026 As this change is currently being rolled out, mixed deliveries of the current and updated versions may occur during the transition period. Frequently asked questions How long is the warranty period for HORIBA pocket testers? The warranty period is two years from delivery for commercial customers. How many measurements can be taken before the sensor needs to be replaced? This varies depending on the application, use and storage of the Horiba tester. As a rule, the sensor should be replaced after one year. How long is the warranty period for replacement sensors for pocket testers? The warranty period is 12 months after delivery for commercial customers. How do you clean the pocket tester? The pocket tester can be rinsed under water. We recommend cleaning with DI water (deionised). Tissue paper is recommended for drying after cleaning. How can the pocket tester be reset to factory settings? (e.g. in the event of an incorrect measurement result) This information can be found in the operating instructions. These can be found in the download area of the shop and on the product. Is calibration necessary before each measurement? Basically, yes. Further information can be found in the operating instructions.
Manufacturer Part No. 3999960124 LAQUAtwin PH-33: The world's first pocket-sized PH meter Your mobile laboratory - for use on site: Ideal for water quality testing in aquatic, drinking and process water and many other applications. HORIBA's unique compact meter integrates electrode, display and sample container to enable simple, effective on-site testing by direct measurement with a single drop. Minimum sample volume: 0.1 ml (0.05 ml with sampling sheet B) Up to 5 calibration points pH, mV and temperature display Automatic calibration Automatic buffer recognition: USA & NIST pH buffers Automatic temperature compensation Temperature calibration: 5 to 40.0 ºC Automatic stable / automatic hold measurement Automatic switch off: 30 min. Low battery indicator IP67 rating dust and waterproof Replaceable sensor 400 hours battery life: continuous operation without backlight Material: ABS epoxy Display: customised (monochrome) LCD with backlight Operating conditions: 5 to 40°C, 85% or less relative humidity Warranty: 2 years - meter, 6 months - sensor Packed in a practical carrying case Supplied with pH 4.01 & 7.00 buffers (14ml each), 2 x CR2032 batteries, dropper, instructions and quick reference guide Additional information We would like to inform you of an upcoming product update for the LAQUAtwin handheld analysers. To enhance product safety and prevent infants and young children from accidentally swallowing the batteries, HORIBA will be introducing a new battery cover on all LAQUAtwin pocket-sized analysers. Overview of the product change Change: Battery cover for enhanced safety. Reason: To prevent accidental swallowing of batteries. Production date: From January 2026 in Japan Deliveries to EMEA distribution partners: From March 2026 As this change is currently being rolled out, mixed deliveries of the current and updated versions may occur during the transition period.