A microcomputer-based system for potentiometric measurements with ion-selective electrodes

A comparison, on completely equal terms, of a microcomputer-based system with manual measurements is described in detail. The main features compared are the precision and accuracy of the results and the number of determinations per time unit. The example used is a standard addition measurement of fluoride in toothpaste. The microcomputer system and its interfacing to the peripheral units are also described. The microcomputer system for control, supervision and evaluation of the measurements results in a significant gain in precision and speed. Accuracy requires the use of a non-theoretical value of the Nernstian slope. The memory effect of the ion-selective electrode is large when the type of sample is changed.