CO₂ calibration: a cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative to fyrite

If you’ve relied on Fyrite for CO₂ calibration, you know its strengths—but you’ve likely encountered its limitations too. Fyrite, with its chemical-absorption method, has been a trusted tool for years. However, the reality of dealing with corrosive liquids, finite usage, and the increasing difficulty of sourcing replacements has left many scientists and engineers questioning whether it’s still the best solution for today’s needs.

The good news is that there is an alternative. Digital CO₂ meters offer a modern approach to calibration—one that’s precise, efficient, and practical for both occasional and frequent use.

The limitations of fyrite

Fyrite’s CO₂-absorbing liquid was an ingenious solution in its time, but it comes with clear drawbacks. The liquid can only handle a limited number of measurements before it needs to be replaced. If you only calibrate your equipment once a year, this may not be a concern. However, for frequent measurements—say, weekly or more often—it quickly becomes cumbersome.

The liquid itself is corrosive, requiring careful handling, proper storage, and compliance with disposal regulations. This is time-consuming and adds unnecessary complexity to what should be a straightforward task.

There’s also the practical issue of availability. Many users have told us how difficult it has become to find replacement Fyrite liquids, with suppliers phasing them out. It’s a frustrating reality that leaves many searching for a reliable alternative.

Why a USB-connected CO₂ instrument is a better solution

Digital technology has evolved to address these challenges, and USB-connected CO₂ meters like the DXC220 are leading the way. They eliminate consumable chemicals entirely, giving you a calibration tool that’s ready to use whenever you need it—whether that’s once a year or multiple times a week.

With no hazardous materials involved, safety concerns are minimized. There’s no need to worry about spills, disposal, or handling corrosive substances. This makes USB-connected meters not only safer but also far simpler to integrate into your routine.

What’s more, these meters provide precise, real-time readings with minimal effort. Just connect the device to your computer, and you’ll have instant data you can trust. Many models, including the DXC220, are designed to integrate seamlessly with data logging software, enabling automated calibration processes and eliminating the risk of human error.

Cost-effective and environmentally friendly

When you switch to a USB-connected meter, you’re not just saving time—you’re saving money. While Fyrite may seem less expensive initially, the ongoing cost of replacement liquids, waste disposal, and the time required for manual calibration add up quickly. A digital meter is an investment that pays off over time.

And let’s not overlook the environmental benefits. By moving away from chemical-based calibration, you’re reducing waste and adopting a more sustainable approach to your work.

A smarter way to calibrate

As scientists and engineers, we are always looking for tools that improve precision, reduce inefficiencies, and align with modern standards. USB-connected CO₂ meters do just that. They’re not just a replacement for Fyrite—they’re a step forward, offering a cleaner, safer, and more efficient way to handle CO₂ calibration.

If you’ve been looking for a solution that matches the demands of today’s scientific and industrial workflows, this is it. It’s a time to move beyond the limitations of the past and embrace the advantages of modern technology.

 

Conclusion

Fyrite has served the scientific community well, but its time is clearly passing. USB-connected CO₂ meters represent the next evolution in calibration tools, combining accuracy, convenience, and sustainability in one package.

For those who value precision, safety, and efficiency, the choice is clear. The tools we use should keep pace with our needs—and a USB-connected meter like the DXC220 is built to do just that.

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Free data logging and monitoring software

  • Get up-and-running in less than 3 minutes
  • Operates under Windows, Mac OS X and Linux
  • Real-time on-screen graphing and logging
  • Configurable log file format
  • Log interval down to 0.5 second
  • Configurable units (°C, °F, K…)
  • Simultaneous use of unlimited Dracal sensors supported
  • Simple user-calibration (products with the CAL option)
  • Connectivity with SensGate Wi-Fi/Ethernet gateway

Easy to integrate in your own application!

  • One portal page to easily get started
  • Easily switch between USB CLI and Wi-Fi/Ethernet CLI
  • Code samples available for many programming languages
  • Usable with LabView (Guide here)
  • All command-line tools (CLI) are packaged with DracalView

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