Let’s Dive into WTW Conductivity Depth Armature 301980
The WTW Conductivity Depth Armature 301980 from WTW promises to be a robust and reliable solution for conductivity and temperature measurement in challenging aquatic environments. At a price point of $2849.00, it’s an investment aimed at professionals requiring accurate and dependable data acquisition in the field. This review will dissect its features, explore its performance, and determine if it lives up to its hefty price tag.
My work often takes me to remote locations where water quality is critical, whether it’s assessing the impact of runoff on a mountain stream or evaluating the health of a coastal estuary. The need for a precise and durable instrument that can withstand the rigors of field work is paramount. I need an instrument that can measure conductivity and temperature at various depths reliably.
Unboxing the WTW Conductivity Depth Armature 301980, the immediate impression is one of ruggedness. The build quality feels substantial, with a reassuring weight that suggests durability. The waterproof plug inspires confidence for deployment in wet environments.
Compared to other conductivity meters I’ve used, like the YSI Professional Plus or the Hanna Instruments HI 98194, the WTW Conductivity Depth Armature 301980 appears to be more focused on depth measurement and long-term deployment. The YSI offers a wider range of parameters, while the Hanna is more portable. Ultimately, the WTW won me over with its specific focus on conductivity and depth, coupled with what appears to be a truly robust design built for demanding field conditions.
Initial excitement is mixed with a healthy dose of skepticism, given the price. It is important to see if it can measure up to its claims of reliability and accuracy under real-world conditions.
Real-World Testing: Putting WTW Conductivity Depth Armature 301980 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first field test involved deploying the WTW Conductivity Depth Armature 301980 in a local reservoir to profile conductivity and temperature at different depths. The reservoir has varying levels of stratification due to thermal differences. The testing day was overcast, with a light drizzle, presenting a good opportunity to test the “waterproof” claim.
The WTW Conductivity Depth Armature 301980 performed flawlessly in the wet conditions, showing no signs of water ingress or malfunctioning. The data obtained aligned with expected profiles, confirming the accuracy of the readings. While the unit is easy to use, getting familiar with the specific software for data download took a little time.
There were no initial surprises, the instrument worked as expected and felt solid in hand.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the WTW Conductivity Depth Armature 301980 continues to impress. It has been deployed in various freshwater environments, from murky rivers to clear lakes. The unit has consistently provided reliable data.
Despite being dragged through mud, banged against rocks, and exposed to prolonged sunlight, the armature shows minimal signs of wear and tear. Cleaning is simple; a rinse with fresh water after each use is usually sufficient. The WTW Conductivity Depth Armature 301980 significantly outperforms my previous conductivity meters in terms of durability and accuracy at depth.
Breaking Down the Features of WTW Conductivity Depth Armature 301980
Specifications
- The WTW Conductivity Depth Armature 301980 uses a 4-electrode measuring cell. This configuration minimizes polarization effects, ensuring accurate conductivity readings across a wide range.
- It features a built-in temperature sensor. This is essential for temperature compensation of conductivity measurements, and for understanding the thermal stratification of water bodies.
- The cable is 82 feet (25 meters) long. This allows for profiling of relatively deep water columns, expanding the range of applications.
- It has a waterproof plug (IP 67). This protects the instrument from water damage during deployment and ensures reliable operation in wet environments.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the accuracy, reliability, and versatility of the instrument. The 4-electrode cell provides superior accuracy compared to 2-electrode designs. The IP67 rating guarantees worry-free deployment in harsh conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The WTW Conductivity Depth Armature 301980 excels at accurately measuring conductivity and temperature at varying depths. Its performance is consistent and reliable.
The only significant weakness is the lack of integrated GPS for location tagging of measurements; this has to be done separately. The unit far exceeds expectations in terms of robustness and ease of data retrieval.
Design & Ergonomics
The WTW Conductivity Depth Armature 301980 is built with high-quality materials that can withstand the rigors of field use. The weight of the unit feels appropriate, not too heavy to handle easily but substantial enough to feel durable.
The design is straightforward, with a focus on functionality. The armature is easy to deploy and retrieve.
Durability & Maintenance
The WTW Conductivity Depth Armature 301980 is built to last. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is minimal, primarily consisting of rinsing the unit with fresh water after use and occasionally checking the cable for damage.
Accessories and Customization Options
The product details do not mention any included accessories. However, the standard cable length should be sufficient for most applications.
While the core function of the WTW Conductivity Depth Armature 301980 is relatively fixed, one could consider using different data logging solutions for integration with other sensors or GPS data.
Pros and Cons of WTW Conductivity Depth Armature 301980
Pros
- Highly accurate conductivity and temperature measurements. Ensures reliable data for critical water quality assessments.
- Robust and durable construction. Withstands the rigors of demanding field conditions, minimizing downtime.
- Waterproof design (IP67). Allows for worry-free deployment in wet environments.
- Long cable (82 feet / 25 meters). Enables profiling of deeper water columns.
- Easy to clean and maintain. Simplifies field operations and reduces maintenance costs.
Cons
- Lack of integrated GPS. Requires separate GPS data logging for location tagging of measurements.
- High price point. Represents a significant investment for smaller organizations or individual researchers.
Who Should Buy WTW Conductivity Depth Armature 301980?
The WTW Conductivity Depth Armature 301980 is perfect for environmental scientists, water resource managers, and researchers who need accurate and reliable conductivity and temperature data at depth. It is ideal for those working in challenging field conditions where durability and waterproofness are essential.
Those on a very tight budget or who only need occasional shallow-water measurements might find a less expensive option sufficient. A separate GPS unit or data logger would be a must-have accessory to fully utilize the data collected by this instrument.
Conclusion on WTW Conductivity Depth Armature 301980
The WTW Conductivity Depth Armature 301980 is a high-quality instrument that delivers on its promises of accuracy, reliability, and durability. While the price is a significant investment, the robust construction and dependable performance justify the cost for professionals who require accurate data in demanding environments.
I would recommend the WTW Conductivity Depth Armature 301980 to anyone who needs a reliable tool for conductivity and temperature profiling in diverse aquatic environments. Invest in confidence and quality – get the WTW Conductivity Depth Armature 301980.