The eXact iDip Smart Photometer System from Industrial Test Systems is designed for quick and accurate water-quality testing in the field or in the lab. The hand-held meter pairs with a smartphone or tablet, enabling the user to test over 40 water-quality parameters, including iron and manganese, through a four-step process.

“Let’s say your typical testing procedure calls for free and total chlorine, calcium hardness and pH,” says Andrew Roberts, assistant sales manager, Industrial Test Systems. “However, something new has been introduced where you now need to test for hydrogen peroxide, iron, copper and phosphate. Instead of having to source a new test kit and learn different testing methods, all you need to do is unlock the test with the app and purchase the reagent. The testing procedure for the most part is going to be the same. No training is required.”

The app-driven system operates on an iOS or Android platform and offers an array of capabilities, including GPS location, date/time tagging as well as the ability to email results or export a spreadsheet and map.

Two-way wireless communication with Bluetooth Smart (4.0) allows for instantaneous software updates, upgrades and customization. Using the eXact iDip app, data can be stored or shared in real time.

“Data management is a big part in the product,” Roberts says. “The application is a free download. It comes with four free tests: free and total chlorine, pH and alkalinity. Any of the other 40 tests have a one-time purchase of $4.99 plus reagent. Reagent costs typically are between 8 1/2 and 16 cents a test.”

Designed to improve efficiency and reduce cost, the meter features Industrial Test System’s reagent strip technology. “Instead of using the meter with powders, tablets or liquid reagents, we dried the same chemistries onto a strip,” Roberts says. “This allows the dispersion of reagents to be less of a mess and less technical. You don’t need to count drops to ensure all the particulars have dissolved into the water sample.”

The photometer also meets the IP-67 waterproof standard.

“The unit is very rugged and can be used in wet environments,” he says. “It floats. There’s no glass or moving pieces, allowing it to be very useful on site.” 800/861-9712; www.sensafe.com.