1. INTRODUCTION
The AQUALAB 5TE provides accurate and reliable water activity (aw) measurements.
The instrument uses chilled-mirror dew-point sensor combined with a capacitive sensor to deliver fast and precise water activity readings. Integrated moisture sorption isotherm models allow moisture content to be reported alongside each water activity reading with an active AQUALAB Cloud license. A temperature-controlled sample chamber ensures consistent results in 5 minutes or less. With AQUALAB Cloud and One-Minute Readings, results can be obtained in as little as one minute.
This user manual provides instructions for operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting the AQUALAB 5TE. Please read this manual carefully before using the instrument to ensure proper operation and optimal performance.
Warning
To avoid electrical shock or damage to the instrument, do not remove covers or disassemble.
Warning
The protection provided by this equipment may be impaired if the equipment is used in a manner not specified by the manufacturer. This instrument is designed for water activity measurement in laboratory and food production environments. Use only as directed herein.
1.1 Included Components
- AQUALAB 5TE Water Activity meter
- Wireless adapter (may not be included in all regions)
- USB-Ethernet adapter
- Certificate of Calibration
- Power supply and power cable, including 2.5 mm Ø to 2.1 mm Ø adapter
- USB-A to USB-B cable
1.2 Available Consumables
- AQUALAB disposable sample cups and lids
- AQUALAB cleaning swabs
- AQUALAB verifications standards (0.150, 0.250, 0.500, 0.760, 0.920, 0.984, and 1.000aw)
1.3 Chemical Safety - Verification Standards
Safety Data Sheets are supplied with the standards and are available here.
Observe the following at all times when handling standards:
- Wear eye protection and chemically resistant gloves unless the SDS for the standard in use states otherwise.
- Do not ingest.
- Clean spills immediately and dispose of used standards, cups, and wipes in accordance with the SDS and local regulations.
2. INSTRUMENT OVERVIEW
2.1 Sensor Block Assembly
2.2 Rear Panel
2.3 User Interface
2.3.1 Status Bar
2.3.2 Expanded Status Bar
2.3.3 LED Indicator Lights
2.3.4 Data Entry
On the on-screen keyboard, press and hold the
key to enable caps lock for continuous uppercase input.
2.4 Hardware Specifications
3. OPERATING MODES
3.1 AQUALAB Cloud Connected
- One-Minute readings
- Moisture Content readings
- Automatic Data Backup
- Product and Batch configuration
- Enhanced Data Analysis and Reporting
- Sync Settings across devices
- Over-the-Air (OTA) system updates
- Automatic date and time synchronization
When setting up wireless mode, ensure that the wireless dongle is installed.
3.2 Standalone with Internet
3.3 Standalone Offline
Internet access can be configured later from Instrument Settings > Network.
4. INITIAL SETUP
Warning
To avoid electrical shock or damage to the instrument, do not remove covers or disassemble.
CAUTION
Use only the provided power supply. An incorrectly rated supply may degrade performance or cause damage. Always connect to a grounded outlet or power strip.
4.1 Select Location
Avoid proximity to vents, windows, heaters, and air conditioners. Maintain a clean environment to prevent contamination of the sample chamber.
4.2 Connect to Power
Caution
To prevent instrument malfunction or damage, ensure the barrel adapter is installed before connecting the power cable.
4.3 Power On
4.4 Onboarding Wizard
After boot-up, the Welcome screen appears.
Tap
to begin the guided onboarding process.
To use AQUALAB Cloud or enable features such as OTA updates and automatic time and date synchronization, select an internet connection option.
- If the company already has an account, tap Already registered?.
- To create a new account, tap Create new Account.
- To use the instrument in standalone mode without a cloud connection, tap Skip >.
Caution
Skipping registration will set up this AQUALAB 5TE in Standalone mode, with no connection to AQUALAB Cloud. Connecting your AQUALAB 5TE to AQUALAB Cloud at a later point will require a full system reset, which clears stored readings, so export your data to your computer beforehand.
5. USER ACCESS MANAGEMENT
5.1 Logging In
- Select your name from the user list.
- Enter your PIN.
- Tap [Log In].
5.2 User Roles
- Manage users (add, edit, remove)
- Manage instrument settings
- Create and archive products
- Take readings and perform verifications
- Edit own profile (except role)
- Take readings and perform verifications
5.3 First Admin User
Warning
On standalone instruments, store the first Admin PIN in a secure location. It cannot be recovered if lost. The only recovery is a System Reset, which permanently deletes all data from the instrument.
5.4 Adding Users (Admin Only)
5.5 Removing Users (Admin Only)
Select the user in Manage Users, tap
, and confirm. Removed users remain associated with their previous readings for audit traceability. An Admin cannot remove themselves.
5.6 Editing User Profiles
6. INSTRUMENT SETTINGS
Access settings from the Home screen by selecting Instrument Settings.
Company Profile
Company information included in exports. Read-only on cloud-connected instruments (managed in AQUALAB Cloud). Editable on standalone instruments.
Network
Displays and configures Ethernet or wireless connection.
AQUALAB Cloud License
Displays license status. License management is performed through the AQUALAB Cloud web interface.
Date and Time
Configures date, time, and display format. Internet-connected instruments synchronize automatically.
Temperature Control
Sets the sample chamber control temperature (15–50 °C). Setting this close to typical sample temperature reduces equilibration time.
Verification Frequency
Defines verification interval and enforcement level (“Required” or “Recommended”). Addium recommends daily or once-per-shift verification.
- Recommended: The instrument displays a notification when verification is due. Readings can still be taken.
- Required: The instrument blocks new readings until verification is completed.
Verification Standards
Selects which standards are used during verification. Default standards are 0.500 aw and 0.760 aw. Select at least two standards that bracket the sample water activity range.
For more information on selecting the appropriate standards to ensure accurate verification results, see Selecting Verification Standards.
Verification Threshold
Maximum allowable difference between measured and expected values. Default verification threshold of 0.003 aw is recommended. Adjust to match facility accuracy requirements.
Water Activity (aw) Reading Mode
Four modes are available:
- Single: Reads sample until aw change is less than or equal to 0.0010 aw/min. (default).
- Continuous: Repeated readings until manually stopped.
- ISO 18787: Reads sample until aw change is less than or equal to 0.0003 aw/min. Complies with ISO 18787.
- Low Emitting: Uses relaxed equilibration criteria for faster results with reduced precision. Suitable for process monitoring of slow-equilibrating samples where speed is prioritized over maximum accuracy. Reads sample until aw change is less than or equal to 0.0020 aw/min.
Editable name included in exports. Default: serial number.
Session Timeout
Inactivity period before automatic lock.
Correction Reset
Removes any applied verification correction reverting to the most recent factory water activity calibration. Irreversible; does not affect historical readings. Creates a record in Verification History. Verification is recommended after resetting.
System Reset
Permanently deletes all local data, including readings, verifications, users, and configuration settings. This action cannot be undone.
This is the only operation that removes readings from the instrument. Individual readings cannot be deleted.
7. VERIFICATION
CAUTION
Always clean the sample chamber before verification.
Residual contaminants affect accuracy and reading speed.
7.1 Verification, Correction, and Calibration
Calibration
The controlled procedure that establishes the instrument's baseline measurement accuracy against reference standards. Calibration requires specialized equipment and reference materials and is performed only by Addium or an Addium-authorized service center. It cannot be performed by the user or by third parties. Calibration performed outside Addium's authorized service network is not covered by Addium's accuracy specification or warranty. Your instrument is calibrated before it ships, and recalibration is available through Addium service and authorized distributors. The most recent calibration is documented on the Certificate of Calibration supplied with the instrument.
Verification
The user procedure that confirms measurement accuracy by measuring certified verification standards and comparing the results to their known values. Verification is a check only: on its own it does not alter how the instrument measures. Every verification is recorded in the Verification History.
Correction
An optional adjustment applied after a verification. A correction uses a best-fit calculation across all measured standards to adjust the instrument's calibration values. Corrections affect future readings only and never alter readings already recorded. Applying a correction creates a permanent, time-stamped record in Verification History.
Offset Correction
The numerical values that an applied correction contributes to each sensor. The AQUALAB 5TE applies separate offsets to the chilled-mirror dew point sensor, used for full readings, and to the capacitive sensor, used for One-Minute readings. Current offset values are shown in Diagnostics & Help > Verification. Offset correction is not a separate procedure; it is the result of an applied correction.
Correction Reset
Removes all applied corrections and returns the instrument to its most recent factory calibration. Corrections are not removed individually. Correction Reset is irreversible, does not affect historical readings, and creates a record in Verification History.
See Correction Reset in Instrument Settings.
7.2 Selecting Verification Standards
Verification standards come in seven water activity levels (0.150, 0.250, 0.500, 0.760, 0.920, 0.984, and 1.000 aw) and must be purchased separately on the Addium online store.
Default verification standards are 0.500 aw and 0.760 aw. To change the active standards, navigate to Instrument Settings > Verification Standards.
CAUTION
Handle standards according to the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for the standard in use. Hazards differ between standards.
7.3 Preparation
- Clean the instrument. (For detailed information, see Cleaning the Sample Chamber.)
- Check standard expiration dates. Do not use expired standards. Dates are printed on the tube end and standards box.
- Use a new sample cup for each standard. Do not reuse cups.
CAUTION
Ensure the cup rim and exterior are free of solution. Clean up spills immediately using a KIMWIPE® tissue or swabs – verification standards are corrosive.
7.4 Performing Verification
- Insert the filled cup into the sample chamber when prompted. Optionally use a barcode scanner or manually enter the lot number for traceability.
- Close the lid and move the lever to READ. The reading starts automatically. A preliminary value displays as “In Progress.” The final result displays as “Completed.”
- Remove the sample and proceed to the next standard. Repeat for all selected standards.
NOTE
If sample temperature differs from chamber temperature by >2 °C, the instrument adjusts the temperature first.
If the sample exceeds the chamber temperature by >4 °C, the instrument prompts sample removal for cooling, as inserting hot samples into the instrument can cause condensation within the chamber and affect instrument performance.
Single reading: Open the sensor block during the reading. The instrument returns to the insert-sample prompt for that standard.
Entire verification: Tap
. Confirming discards all progress.
7.5 Verification Results
Verification Successful
All standards are within the configured threshold. Options: Tap
(no correction) or
(apply optional adjustment).
Verification Failed – Correctable
At least one standard exceeded the threshold, but a correction can bring all within range. Tap
to apply or
to leave the instrument unverified.
Verification Failed – Not Correctable
At least one standard exceeded the threshold, and no correction can resolve it.
Tap
or
.
7.6 Correction
Addium recommends re-verifying after applying a correction. Corrections can be removed at Instrument Settings > Correction Reset.
7.7 Troubleshooting Failed Verification
- Was the sample chamber properly cleaned?
- Was a new, unused cup used for each standard?
- Are the standards within their expiration dates?
- Were contents from a freshly opened tube used?
7.8 Verification Results Detail Screen
Tap
on the results screen to view per-standard data: corrected value, measured value, target value, temperature, duration, lot number, and expiration date.
8. TAKE A READING
8.1 Prerequisites
- The instrument is warmed up for at least 30 minutes after powering on
- The sample chamber is clean (see cleaning the sample chamber)
- The instrument has been verified (see verification)
8.2 Sample Preparation
8.2.1 Use Clean Sampling Practices
- Use a new cup for each sample. Fill the cup so that the base is fully covered, to no more than half the cup height. Underfilling extends reading time; overfilling risks contaminating the sensor block.
- If there is any debris on the cup edges, wipe with a KIMWIPE® tissue before putting the cup into the instrument.
caution
Do not reuse cups. Residual contamination or moisture from washing causes inaccurate readings.
8.2.2 Preparation Best Practices
- Select a representative subsample that maintains the original components and proportions.
- Improve equilibration by cutting or crushing samples to increase surface area.
- Avoid grinding, as it introduces heat and may adversely affect measurements.
8.2.3 Sample Protection
- If preparation takes longer than a few minutes, cover the cup with a lid.
- For preparation times longer than 30 minutes, seal the cup and lid with parafilm.
8.2.4 Manage Sample Temperature
NOTE
A temperature equilibration plate minimizes this delay, particularly for One-Minute readings.
8.2.5 Difficult Samples
8.3 Reading Procedure
Start a reading
Insert the sample
Temperature adjustment
The control temperature can be configured in Instrument Settings to any value between 15 °C and 50 °C (59 °F and 122 °F).
Reading in progress
During the reading, the water activity value updates until stability criteria are met.
For AQUALAB Cloud connected instruments with the feature enabled, a One-minute Water Activity Reading
may be displayed first. The full reading continues until equilibrium is reached to provide the final confirmed result. If a full reading is not required, the chamber may be opened after the one-minute reading is complete, and the next reading can be taken.
NOTE
One-Minute readings is an AQUALAB Cloud powered feature that provides a reliable estimated sample-specific water activity value within approximately one minute. This is achieved by using a proprietary algorithm that predicts the final water activity based on product-specific data collected and stored in the AQUALAB Cloud.
One-Minute readings require at least three prior full readings of the same product.
NOTE
If readings begin taking longer than previous measurements of the same sample type, clean the instrument and ensure the sample temperature is within ±2 °C of the instrument control temperature to minimize additional temperature adjustment time.
Reading result
NOTE
A note can be added to a reading record to document additional context, such as sample conditions, preparation details, or observations made during measurement.
Remove sample
Warning
Always remove samples immediately after readings. Material left in the chamber may corrode or damage sensor components.
9. VERIFICATION & READING HISTORY
Readings and verification records cannot be deleted or removed from the AQUALAB 5TE. A reading may be voided in AQUALAB Cloud to exclude it from evaluation, but the original record is retained permanently.
9.1 Verification History
Entries appear in chronological order. Tap any entry for detail: measured, target, and corrected values; temperature; duration; lot number; and expiration date.
9.2 Reading History
To search, tap
in the upper right corner.
9.3 Voiding a Reading
Voiding is performed in AQUALAB Cloud and requires an active AQUALAB Cloud license. It cannot be performed on the instrument.
Voiding does not remove the record. The original reading is retained permanently, including its measured water activity, moisture content (if applicable), temperature, duration, timestamp, product assignment, and the user who took it. Voided readings remain visible and are identified as Voided.
To learn how to void a reading, refer to the AQUALAB Cloud User Manual.
9.4 Exporting
NOTE
Direct export to USB thumb drives is not supported. For cloud-connected instruments, data can also be exported from the AQUALAB Cloud web interface via the “Create Report” feature. This supports both manual report generation and automated report scheduling. Refer to the AQUALAB Cloud documentation for additional details.
On the Verification History or Reading History screen, tap
in the upper right corner.
Select the date range.
Tap
.
Select the file format (.pdf or .csv).
Tap
.
10. PRODUCTS
Products are created and managed through AQUALAB Cloud and require an active AQUALAB Cloud license and internet connection.
On the instrument, products appear as a selectable list when starting a reading. Selecting a product applies its configured limits and targets to the result and enables moisture content and One-Minute readings for that product. Readings can be taken without assigning a product; in that case no pass/fail evaluation is applied and moisture content and One-Minute readings are unavailable.
To learn how to create and manage products, please refer to the AQUALAB Cloud User Manual.
11. SYSTEM UPDATE
Warning
Do NOT power off, unplug, or disconnect the instrument from its power source while a system update is in progress.
11.1 Over-the-Air (Internet Connected)
11.2 USB Update (Offline)
- Download the system update file (.upd) from the AQUALAB 5TE Resource Center.
- Copy to a USB drive (FAT32 formatted).
- Insert into a USB-A port on the AQUALAB 5TE rear panel.
- Follow the on-screen "System Update Available" prompt on the Home screen.
12. MAINTENANCE
12.1 Cleaning the Sample Chamber
12.1.1 Required Materials
- Three or more new cleaning swabs
- Deionized water
- Isopropyl alcohol (IPA)
NOTE
Both solvents are required to dissolve different contaminant types. Do not omit either step.
12.1.2 Procedure
CAUTION
Always wash hands or use gloves before cleaning to avoid contamination.
1. Open the sample chamber
To expose the sensor block and sample chamber, open the sample chamber lid:
Move the lever
to the OPEN position and lift the block up
.
2. Clean with deionized water
CAUTION
Do not touch the capacitive sensor filter (may require replacement if contaminated). Do not damage the fan blades. Never re-dip a used swab into the cleaning solution.
3. Clean with isopropyl alcohol
CAUTION
Isopropyl alcohol is flammable. Keep away from ignition sources and ensure adequate ventilation. Refer to the manufacturer's Safety Data Sheet before use.
4. Dry
5. Inspect
12.2 Sensor Block Replacement
12.2.1 Sensor Block Removal
Warning
Power off the instrument before removing or installing a sensor block.
Unscrew the connector lock ring counter-clockwise
and pull the cable straight out
.
CAUTION
Do not twist or angle the cable when disconnecting. This may damage the connector.
Move the lever to OPEN
and open up the sensor block
.
12.2.2 Sensor Block Installation
Warning
Power off the instrument before removing or installing a sensor block.
Close the sensor block.
Insert the cable straight into the port
. Tighten the lock ring clockwise
. Hand-tighten only.
NOTE
Verification is recommended – though not required – after a sensor block change.
13. DIAGNOSTICS & HELP
System Update
Informs when a new system update is available.
About Instrument
Provides basic reference information about the AQUALAB 5TE, including device identification, versions, storage usage, and any connected USB devices.
Verification
Provides verification information, including the applied dew-point and capacitive sensor offset correction.
Sensors
Lists live readouts for all instrument sensors.
Help
Provides guided tutorials for common tasks.
14. TROUBLESHOOTING