which of these is the most accurate way to measure salt?

[kevensquint]

Hi, I have been looking to back up my current refactometer with either another or a different device completly. I have access to these two seemingly accurate devices. The Deltec refractometer ,supposidly designed for salt in saltwater aquariums or the pin point digital salinity meter. I'm looking for something that is accurate and won't be affected too much by other elements in the water. Thank-you

[redadeath]

pin point digital salinity meter.
some time those things are not accurate
i still attached to the old way

refractometer is the best

[MarkGP]

I actually use both. I calibrate the salinity meter every time I change the battery and I always double check the reading with a refractometer. Been doing it this way for years.

[Randy Holmes-Farley]

I think both are appropriately accurate for reef purposes if properly calibrated.

FWIW, I prefer to measure salinity by conductivity, although I do not currently use the Pinpoint. I have one and it seems fine. :)

I discuss them in these articles:


Refractometers and Salinity Measurement
http://reefkeeping.com/issues/2006-12/rhf/index.php

Temperature Corrections for Hydrometers
http://reefkeeping.com/issues/2004-07/rhf/index.htm

Reef Aquarium Salinity: Homemade Calibration Standards
http://reefkeeping.com/issues/2004-06/rhf/index.htm

Specific Gravity Measurement
http://www.advancedaquarist.com/2002/1/chemistry

Using Conductivity to Measure Salinity
http://web.archive.org/web/20040604034508/http://www.aquariumfish.com/aquariumfish/detail.aspx?aid=1804

[kevensquint]

Thanks for the replies, and the helpful articles.

[Randy Holmes-Farley]

:thumbsup:

FWIW, the Pinpoint can measure limewater potency and the refractometer cannot, if that is useful for you.

Happy Reefing. :)