Refractometer question

[rtlimpus]

I have been looking for refractometers on-line, and have noticed that there are two types. Looks like a manuel type and a digital type. Obviously the manuel is more cost effective, but I was wondering what you guys use.
Thanks

 

[speg]

Mine is a manuel type.. not like there is much to it.. first you got to use distilled water to calibrate it(been a while since I did it! so may be more steps that I forget) then you take some water from the tank... squirt it on the little thingy... close the little door... look into the light... boom... you know your SG.

 

[rtlimpus]

Originally Posted by Speg
http:///forum/post/3255066
Mine is a manuel type.. not like there is much to it.. first you got to use distilled water to calibrate it(been a while since I did it! so may be more steps that I forget) then you take some water from the tank... squirt it on the little thingy... close the little door... look into the light... boom... you know your SG.
Well that sounds easy enough. I think I will go for it. Thanks.

 

[noah's nemo]

I also use a manual,i don't know why some people think they are so hard to use.I think they are easier than a hydrometer,and a heck of alot more accurate

...i got mine from this site and its been very reliable.

 

[mrdc]

I use a manual unit also. The only difficulty I find sometimes is not getting enough light to shine through so I can read it.

 

[bla403]

I used to have the problem of finding enough light but if I am checking my tanks sg I just bend down and point it at the t5's above my tank and they light it up nice!!.

 

[noah's nemo]

I just step outside and look up at the sky.

 

[speg]

Some refractometers even come with light attachments.. I personally never had a problem with lighting.

 

[mrdc]

I usually step outside or use my surefire flashlight that stays near the tank.

 

[bla403]

my gf hates the flashlight that stays next to my tank ... complains its always cluttered and that I dont need to "inspect" my tank at night but I believe we all do that.

 

[mrdc]

Originally Posted by Bla403
http:///forum/post/3255712
my gf hates the flashlight that stays next to my tank ... complains its always cluttered and that I dont need to "inspect" my tank at night but I believe we all do that.
I always have a flashlight next to the tank. Glad to see I am not the only one.

 

[king_neptune]

Ive never used digital. I don't think I would not trust it as much as a analog/manual.
What if the machine isn't calibrated? how can you tell?
A traditional one is simple....few drops of pure distilled water, and you have something to calibrate it to "0".
As for light. how hard is it to find a light source in the house? SRSLY.