APERA INSTRUMENTS AI316 Premium Series PC60 5-in-1 Waterproof pH/EC (Conductivity) /TDS (ppm) /Salinity (ppt) /Temp. Multi-Parameter Pocket Tester Kit

I’ve been using the Apera PC60 for a few weeks now, and it has significantly improved my ability to manage my indoor hydroponic garden. I’m growing vegetables for my guinea pigs, and providing fresh, high-quality greens is a vital part of their diet. I chose this model because I wanted a reliable tester that could measure both EC and pH. While combining both functions into one device does create a single point of failure, I trusted Apera’s reputation for quality and accuracy. I previously used inexpensive $10–20 testers for pH and TDS, but they were inaccurate and lacked calibration support. I also prefer working with the raw EC values rather than calculated TDS, so the PC60’s direct EC readings were a big plus. Since switching to the PC60, I’ve been able to dial in both my nutrient concentration and pH with confidence. My plants are clearly doing great, and I’m optimistic about achieving higher yields. A few tips and lessons I’ve learned that might help others: • Calibration for RO Water Users: If you’re using reverse osmosis (RO) water, be sure to purchase 84 μS calibration fluid. The included 1,413 μS and 12,880 μS (12.88 mS) solutions don’t cover the low EC range of RO water. Without 84 μS fluid, my tester initially showed about 600 μS for pure RO water. After a proper three-point calibration, it correctly read near 0 μS. • pH Agitation Tip: When measuring pH, gently agitate the water by moving the tester in small circles. This helps the reading stabilize much faster—around 15 seconds compared to several minutes if left still. • Beakers Make Life Easier: Having a few small beakers makes sampling and rinsing more efficient, especially when pulling water from a larger reservoir. • Track Your Calibrations: I keep a notecard in the carrying case to record the date of my last calibration and how many times I’ve used each solution. Most calibration fluids can be reused up to five times before they should be discarded. • Proper Storage Tip: Unlike some pH meters, the PC60 probe shouldn’t be stored in 3M KCl unless it’s being stored for a long period or has dried out. For regular use, just add a few drops of clean water (distilled or tap) to the cap to keep the probe hydrated. Avoid soaking it in KCl long-term, as it may shorten the lifespan of the sensor. All in all, the Apera PC60 is a fantastic investment if you’re serious about hydroponics. It’s accurate, convenient, and far more reliable than cheaper alternatives. Highly recommended.

The Apera Instruments AI316 PC60 is an exceptionally versatile and reliable tool. It accurately measures pH, conductivity, TDS, salinity, and temperature quickly and simultaneously, making it ideal for both professional and discerning hobbyists. The multiparameter probe is easy to replace, and calibration is intuitive. It is undoubtedly an excellent investment for anyone requiring accurate measurements in the field or laboratory.

I recently ordered this Apera pc60 pen. I received it the next day, this came with a basic starter kit with solutions for 2 point calibration on both ph and conductivity (which is all I need personally, although this pen does allow for 3 point calibration) . It’s very easy to setup/calibrate once you receive it and before you use the first time. (Also this meter like many high end meters will come with a few drops in the cap, this is intentional. It doesn’t mean it was used prior, meters can’t/shouldn’t be shipped dry)the meter has some decent weight to it that’s one of the first things you’ll notice, it reads very quickly giving a smiley face when it’s complete, it functions very nicely through the different readings ph, tds, etc(after each calibration it will give a letter circled like (M), (L), (H)-it also gives temperature readings. This meter not only feels good in your hand you also looks great as well. I can’t speak about the battery life(i haven’t had long enough)or the product longevity but Apera has an excellent warranty on their products this meter comes with a 2yr warranty and 6mon warranty on the probe. Overall i think this was a good purchase on a high quality all in one meter. If anything issues problems come up, i will update. Ohh yeah never store your pens dry, be sure to follow the instructions about calibration just incase maybe you have been doing differently. It’s important that once you start the calibration (always starting with 7) that the pen is NOT shutoff before completing the entire calibration.

First Impressions... Calibration was super simple. Accuracy seems to be spot on (my RODI water measured 7.02). Being multipurpose allows me to use this with both my Aquariums and Hydroponic Systems. Great custom carrying case. I do wish the documentation was a bit more clear around re-use & replacement of calibration and storage solutions.

Ne ho provati tanti, ma questo è l'unico strumento che restituisce valori precisi e soprattutto ripetitivi, cosa che non è assolutamente scontata. Apera pc60 è davvero un ottimo strumento, fornito con tutti i liquidi neccessari per la sua taratura e mantenimento dell'elettrodo quando non si usa. Lo strumento permette la taratura su 3 punti, ph 4, ph 7 e ph 10, questo assicura una precisione assoluta. Misura tutto e lo fa bene! È caro senza nessun dubbio, ma il prodotto è davvero ottimo. Consiglio l'acquisto

Buen producto y muy buena precisión. Lo recomiendo.

Read that lots of people were saying the conductivity probe would stop working after weeks to months of use. This did make me hesitate buying the product however I thought if it fails, I will just return it. 2 weeks in, I start getting the 0.00 readings like i've read so much about but the PH worked fine.. Im not going to lie I thought it was time to send it back but I thought to myself. I wonder if it's running out of battery. The batteries this instrument is supplied with are of extreme poor quality. The buy a pack of 100 for a pound type.. SWAP THE BLOODY BATTERYS! The testers are fine, keep the probes moist and follow the guidelines. For god sake people, if something that runs of batteries starts to act faulty, don't start kicking off at the manufacturer before making this simple check. To me this is common sense.

J'utilise cette appareil pour l'eau de mon aquarium. L'appareil est arrivé propre, sonde bien hydraté, pas de fuite de produit dans la valise. Valise de bonne qualité. L'appareil paraît de très bonne qualité. Je l'ai utilisé pour l'eau de mon aquarium et les résultats sont précis et tout à fait cohérent par rapport à mes résultats habituellement mesuré avec des tests en gouttelettes JBL. Ce serait vraiment un plus d'avoir une notice en français quand le produit est destiné à la livraison en France. Ou bien une vidéo en français accessible sur internet.

Muy completo. El aparato tiene muy buena pinta, se le ve robusto. Funciona bien. Viene en un maletín muy funcional para trabajar y para protegerlo. Muy contenta. El pero es que las instrucciones no están en castellano, les recuerdo que es OBLIGATORIO.