PhycoProbe

Quick analysis of chlorophyll and phycocyanin

Depth-profile with quick analysis of chlorophyll and unbound phycocyanin concentrations as well as algae classes

The bbe PhycoProbe* is a highly sensitive measuring instrument for the in vivo analysis of chlorophyll-a in real microalgae and blue-green algae (cyanobacteria). Individual profiles for the different algal classes are created during the measurement. The algal content is determined by evaluating the chlorophyll fluorescence in real time. Without the necessity of using a laboratory, it is possible to completely analyse the occurrence and distribution of algae in different water bodies, if necessary at different depths. Individual profiles during the measurements are taken for green algae, blue-green algae/cyanobacteria, diatoms/dinoflagellates and cryptophytes (others can be added e.g. Planktothrix rubescens).


Additionally, the PhycoProbe measures the amount of unbound phycocyanin (free PC) which reflects the release of blue-green algae contents like toxins as well as flavours and odorous substances. Interference from e.g. humic substances is compensated using the integrated yellow substances measurement.

PhycoProbe | bbe moldaenke©

*patented

Depth-profile with quick analysis of chlorophyll and unbound phycocyanin concentrations as well as algae classes

Features & Information

Advantages of the bbe PhycoProbe

  • Quick, simple chlorophyll measurement with algal class differentiation
  • Indicator for cyanotoxins as well as flavours and odorous substances by phycocyanin measurements
  • Yellow substances measurement and compensation of disturbances via UV-LED excitation
  • Up to 4 measurements per second
  • PC software bbe++ for data analysis
  • Reduces the number of microscopic laboratory analyses
  • Internal rechargeable batteries for independent measurement
  • Internal data logger
  • Options: Temperature measurements, Measuring cables: 2 – 100 m, Hydro-Wiper unit, Bluetooth-Set

Applications

  • Reservoir monitoring
  • Process tracking in waterworks
  • Drinking water monitoring for blue-green algae
  • Monitoring of bathing water for blue-green algae
  • Environmental monitoring
  • Cooling and production water control
  • Limnological work
  • Research and teaching
  • Oceanography

Software

Databased bbe++ Software

The bbe PhycoProbe software supplied with the instrument facilitates detailed data analysis. All measurement data can be displayed numerically or graphically. Sections of data measurements can be recorded and printed using the zoom function. Data can also be exported to a spreadsheet program (e.g Excel). All settings and calibrations are performed by the software.

Hydro-Wiper unit to prevent biofouling

The FluoroProbe can now be operated on moored platforms, submersed from buoys or fixed measuring stations using the Hydro-Wiper (made by Zebra-Tech Ltd, NZ). The wiper brushes can be set to periodically clean the lenses of the measuring chamber to remove biofilms and dirt which builds up over long periods of operation.

Technical specifications of the PhycoProbe

Description Value
Measurands
  • Total chlorophyll [μg chl-a/l]
  • green algae [μg chl-a/l]
  • blue-green algae [μg chl-a/l]
  • diatoms [μg chl-a/l]
  • cryptophyceae [μg chl-a/l]
  • yellow substances correction
  • unbound phycocyanin [μg /l]
  • depth
  • turbidity
  • water temperature - optional
Measuring range 0 - 500 µg chl-a/l
Resolution 0.01 μg chl-a/l, 0.01 μg free PC/l
Turbidity 0 - 200 FTU
Dimensions (H x Ø) 550 x 140 mm
Weight 7.5 kg
Protection class IP 68
Voltage 12 V
Battery capacity 3900 mA h
Water temperature -2 to 40 °C
Operating time continually approx. 7 hrs; interval approx. 27 days
Interface RS485 and USB
Max. Depth
  • 0 - 100 m (standard)
  • 0 - 200 m (extended range)
Options
  • Temperature measurements
  • Measuring cabless: 2 – 100 m
  • Hydro-Wiper unit
  • Bluetooth-Set

Subject to change!

Accessories for PhycoProbe

Temperature Sensor (FPIII / PP)

Itemnumber: BG0030.0056

This sensor measures the water temperature while the probe is in use.

Autostart Plug for FP/PP

Item number: BG0030.0348

The autostart plug enables interval measurements with the FP III and the PhycoProbe submerged in the water without the use of a cable and PC.

Underwater Cable for bbe FluoroProbe/PhycoProbe

Item number: BG0030.0196 - BG0030.0201

The new lighter, thinner and stiffer cables for the FluoroProbe III and PhycoProbe are available in standard lengths from 10 to 100 metres.

Cable reel with Bluetooth-adapter (for FP/PP-cables)

Item number: BG0030.0442

Up to 100m (50m) of cable can be transported more easily using this cable reel. (The measureing cable is not included)

The Bluetooth-adapter is stored in the small chamber at the front of the reel. The FluoroProbe/PhycoProbe is connected to the Bluetooth-adapter via the measureing cable. The data will be transmittet via Bluetooth to your PC or Laptop.

BlueTooth-Adapter

BG0030.0340-A

The BlueTooth adapter can be connected to the upper end of the measuring cable so that the data can be transmitted wirelessly to a laptop or PC

Hydro-Wiper for FluoroProbe/PhycoProbe

Item number: BG0030.0204 (30m) / BG0030.0233 (100m)

The Hydro-Wiper has been developed for bbe by Zebra-Tech of New Zealand. It enables the instrument to remain submersed for longer periods of time without the need of being cleaned at regular intervals. The wiper brushes periodically clean the lenses of the measuring cell to remove and avoid the build-up of biofilms and dirt which can effect the accuracy of the measurements.

Protective Cage for FP

Item number: F0030.0170

A steel cage to protect the FluoroProbe underwater from rocks, the quayside or the boat in rough seas or stormy weather. Weight approx. 5 Kg

Protocoll Coverter SDI12 and serial

Itemnumber: BG0036.0900

Translates the measurement results from the bbe protocol to SDI12 etc.

position of switch: bbe device: protocol of data logger:
0 FluoroProbe SDI-12
1 AlgaeGuard EMC-1
2 AlgaeTorch AOA-Protocol
3 AOA SDI-12
4 AlgaeTorch SDI-12
5 PhycoProbe SDI-12
6 AlgaeTorch EMC-1
7 AlgaeGuard SDI-12

Dimensions: 16 x 9.5 x 5.5 cm, ~440g

Voltage: 100 – 240 V / 50 – 60 Hz (power supply unit)

 

Workstation25 for FP and PP

Itemnumber: BG0030.0099/BG0030.0000

Workstation25 benchtop unit:

  • workstation to hold the 25ml cuvette/sensor in position (horizontal operation)
  • optically sealed cover
  • cuvette for 25 ml capacity (outer dimensions 70x30x30 mm)
  • optional: with incl. stirrer unit (BG0030.0000)

Hard plastic carry case (for FP/PP-cables)

Item number: E15614

This thin hard plastic case is for the transport of FluoroProbe/PhycoProbe cables, without foam cut-out. Dimensions: 60 x 50 x 15 cm. Weight approx. 4 Kg.

Hard plastic carry case

Item number: E15615

This thick hard plastic case is for easy transport of the FluoroProbe or the PhycoProbe instrument, with foam cut-out for cable adapter and charger, and lid compartment for smaller accessories and the manual. Dimensions: 60 x 50 x 21. Weight: 5 Kg. Supplied free-of-charge with any new FluoroProbe.

Measuring Cylinder FluoroProbe/PhycoProbe

Item number: F0030.0069

The measuring cylinder can be used with a small amount of algae solution (approx. 3l).

RS 485/USB converter cable (supplied with FP/PP)

Itemnumber: BG0030.0103

The sensor works with a USB to RS 485 interface for the connection to the measuring PC.

USB cable connector (supplied with FP III /PP)

Itemnumber: BG0030.0173

A short USB cable for connection to a USB stick/flashdrive and download all data automatically.

Downloads & Information about the PhycoProbe

Manuals, software and further informations for this product may be available in the internal area for registered users.