Hanna HI702 High Range Copper Checker – Digital Copper Colorimeter
The Hanna HI702 High Range Copper Checker provides fast, digital copper testing for freshwater and saltwater aquariums, fish quarantine systems, aquaculture facilities, water-treatment applications, and other situations where accurate copper measurement is important.
Unlike traditional aquarium test kits that require the user to compare sample colors against a printed chart, the HI702 uses colorimeter technology to display the copper concentration directly on its LCD screen. This helps reduce uncertainty caused by lighting conditions, color perception, and differences between printed color blocks.
The HI702 measures copper from 0.00 to 5.00 ppm with a resolution of 0.01 ppm. Its high-range format makes it particularly useful for monitoring copper-based treatments in fish-only quarantine and hospital aquariums when the selected medication requires concentrations within the checker’s measurement range.
Key Features
- Digital Copper Results: Displays the copper concentration directly in ppm
- High Measurement Range: Measures from 0.00 to 5.00 ppm copper
- Fine Resolution: Displays results in 0.01 ppm increments
- Freshwater and Saltwater Compatible: Suitable for aquarium and aquaculture testing
- Single-Button Operation: Simple handheld testing procedure
- Built-In Reaction Timer: Helps maintain consistent test timing
- Portable Design: Compact enough for fish rooms, stores, service kits, and quarantine areas
- Automatic Shutoff: Turns off after ten minutes of inactivity to conserve battery power
- Replaceable Reagents: Uses Hanna HI702-25 Copper High Range reagent packets
- Calibration Check Available: Compatible with the optional HI702-11 calibration-check set
Product Information
- Brand: Hanna Instruments
- Product: High Range Copper Checker HC
- Model: HI702
- Parameter: Copper as Cu²⁺
- Measurement Range: 0.00–5.00 ppm
- Resolution: 0.01 ppm
- Accuracy at 77°F: ±0.05 ppm ±5% of the reading
- Method: Adaptation of an EPA-approved bicinchoninate method
- Light Source: LED at 575 nm
- Light Detector: Silicon photocell
- Display: Digital LCD
- Power: One 1.5V AAA battery
- Automatic Shutoff: After ten minutes of non-use
- Dimensions: Approximately 3.4 × 2.4 × 1.5 inches
- Weight: Approximately 2.3 ounces
- Warranty: One year
Included with the HI702
- Hanna HI702 Copper High Range Checker
- Two sample cuvettes with caps
- Six Copper High Range reagent packets
- One 1.5V AAA battery
- Instruction manual
- Quick-start guide
- Protective carrying case with fitted insert
Best Used For
- Marine fish quarantine aquariums
- Freshwater fish treatment systems
- Hospital and observation tanks
- Aquarium stores and fish rooms
- Aquaculture facilities
- Public aquariums
- Pond and water-quality applications
- Environmental and wastewater testing
- Educational laboratories
- Water-treatment applications
Why Accurate Copper Testing Matters
Copper-based medications are commonly used in fish-only quarantine and treatment systems. Their effectiveness and safety depend on maintaining the concentration specified by the medication manufacturer.
Too little copper may fail to maintain the intended treatment concentration. Too much copper may expose fish to unnecessary toxicity. The appropriate target depends on the exact copper medication, its formulation, the fish species, water chemistry, and the manufacturer’s treatment protocol.
The Hanna HI702 measures copper concentration but does not determine which copper medication should be used or what treatment level is appropriate. Always follow the directions supplied with the selected medication.
Measurement Range
The HI702 measures copper from 0.00 to 5.00 ppm.
- Minimum Displayed Value: 0.00 ppm
- Maximum Measurement Range: 5.00 ppm
- Resolution: 0.01 ppm
If the measured copper concentration exceeds the checker’s range, the maximum value will blink. Hanna instructs users to verify the sample is free from debris and dilute the sample when an appropriate laboratory dilution procedure is available.
Diluting aquarium samples can introduce calculation and measurement errors. For treatment decisions, it is generally better to keep copper within the checker’s direct measurement range and follow the medication directions carefully.
Accuracy
Hanna lists the HI702 accuracy as:
±0.05 ppm ±5% of the reading at 25°C, or 77°F.
This means the total possible measurement variation depends partly on the concentration being tested. Consistent sample preparation, clean cuvettes, correct timing, and fresh reagents are important for dependable results.
How the HI702 Works
The checker uses a bicinchoninate reagent method. When the reagent is added to a water sample containing copper, the reaction produces a purple color.
The HI702 shines light through the reacted sample and measures the amount absorbed. It then converts the result into a digital copper concentration displayed in parts per million.
Basic Testing Procedure
- Press the button to turn on the HI702.
- Fill a clean cuvette with 10 mL of the untreated water sample.
- Replace the cap and wipe the outside of the cuvette completely clean and dry.
- Insert the cuvette into the checker and close the lid.
- Press the button to zero the instrument.
- Remove the cuvette and add one full packet of HI702-0 Copper High Range reagent.
- Replace the cap and shake gently for approximately 15 seconds.
- Remove any visible bubbles by gently swirling or tapping the cuvette.
- Wipe the cuvette again so it is dry and free from fingerprints.
- Insert the cuvette into the checker and close the lid.
- Press and hold the button to begin the built-in countdown, or wait 45 seconds and press the button.
- Read the copper concentration displayed in ppm.
- Discard the reacted sample immediately after testing.
Follow the complete Hanna instruction manual included with the checker.
Reagents Required
Each copper test requires one packet of Hanna Copper High Range reagent.
- Starter Reagents: Six tests included with the checker
- Replacement Reagents: HI702-25
- Replacement Package: 25 tests
Reagents are consumable and must be replaced as they are used. The checker cannot measure copper accurately without the correct Hanna HI702 reagent.
Optional Calibration Check Set
The optional Hanna HI702-11 Copper High Range Calibration Check Set allows users to verify that the checker is reading within its expected performance range.
The calibration check is particularly useful for aquarium stores, aquaculture facilities, service technicians, laboratories, and customers who regularly make treatment decisions based on copper measurements.
The HI702-11 set validates checker performance but does not replace the reagent packets required for testing aquarium water.
Tips for Accurate Results
- Use exactly 10 mL of sample water
- Use one complete reagent packet per test
- Keep the sample free from suspended debris
- Make sure the cuvette exterior is completely dry
- Remove fingerprints, oil, salt, and dust from the glass
- Use a lint-free or microfiber cloth
- Insert the cuvette in the same orientation for zeroing and testing
- Shake gently rather than aggressively
- Remove bubbles before placing the cuvette into the checker
- Follow the reaction timing precisely
- Do not allow the reacted sample to sit longer than instructed
- Discard the sample immediately after the reading
Why Cuvette Cleanliness Matters
The HI702 measures light passing through the sample. Fingerprints, water droplets, salt deposits, scratches, residue, or dust on the outside of the cuvette may interfere with the optical reading.
Before every zero and final measurement, wipe the cuvette using a clean lint-free cloth. Avoid touching the clear sides of the cuvette after cleaning.
Use the same cuvette and orientation for both the initial zero and reacted measurement whenever possible.
Avoiding Bubbles
Aggressive shaking can create bubbles in the sample. Bubbles may interfere with the checker’s optical path and produce inaccurate or falsely elevated readings.
After mixing the reagent, remove bubbles by gently swirling the cuvette or lightly tapping it. Do not open the cap or allow sample loss while removing bubbles.
Sample Disposal
Discard the reacted sample immediately after the measurement. Hanna warns that leaving the reacted sample inside the cuvette may permanently stain the glass.
Never pour the reacted test sample back into the aquarium.
Follow the reagent safety information and local disposal requirements. Wash hands after handling test reagents and keep them away from children and pets.
Freshwater Aquarium Use
Hanna identifies the HI702 as suitable for freshwater aquarium testing. It may be used in freshwater quarantine, hospital, aquaculture, and water-treatment systems when copper is being monitored.
Copper is highly toxic to many freshwater invertebrates and may affect certain fish species differently. Do not use copper medication in a display aquarium unless the medication manufacturer specifically approves the livestock, substrate, filtration, and aquarium setup.
Saltwater Aquarium Use
The HI702 is officially compatible with saltwater samples and is commonly used by marine fish keepers to monitor copper in quarantine or treatment aquariums.
Copper treatments are generally intended for fish-only quarantine systems rather than reef displays. Corals, shrimp, crabs, snails, echinoderms, and many other marine invertebrates can be extremely sensitive to copper.
Do not treat a reef aquarium with copper unless a qualified treatment protocol and product labeling specifically support that use.
Copper and Aquarium Substrates
Calcium-based substrates, porous rock, decorations, filter media, and other surfaces may absorb or bind copper. This can cause copper concentrations to change after dosing and may make it difficult to maintain the intended level.
For that reason, copper treatment is commonly performed in a simple quarantine aquarium with limited décor and inert equipment.
Test regularly during treatment instead of assuming that the concentration remains stable after one dose.
Copper and Water Conditioners
Some water conditioners, reducing agents, organic binders, medications, and filtration products may affect copper chemistry or test interpretation.
Follow the copper medication manufacturer’s compatibility instructions. Do not combine products unless their directions clearly state they may be used together.
The HI702 reports the copper concentration produced by its test method, but it cannot determine whether another aquarium additive has changed the medication’s biological availability.
Testing Frequency During Copper Treatment
Testing frequency should follow the copper medication manufacturer’s instructions. In many treatment systems, copper should be checked:
- During the initial dosing period
- After adding each portion of medication
- After water changes
- After replacing filter media
- When adding new water or livestock
- If fish show signs of stress
- At regular intervals throughout treatment
Do not rely on the amount of medication added alone. Actual copper levels may change because of water volume, adsorption, water changes, décor, filtration, and measurement errors.
High Range vs. Low Range Copper Checkers
- HI702 High Range: Measures 0.00–5.00 ppm copper
- HI747 Low Range: Designed for lower copper concentrations and different applications
The HI702 is generally the more relevant checker when copper concentrations are expected to fall within aquarium medication or high-range water-testing levels.
Select the checker based on the expected concentration and required resolution rather than product name alone.
Battery and Automatic Shutoff
The HI702 uses one 1.5V AAA battery. Hanna states that a fresh battery can provide a minimum of approximately 5,000 measurements under normal conditions.
The checker automatically turns off after ten minutes of inactivity to conserve battery life.
When the battery is too low for dependable operation, the checker displays a battery warning and must be fitted with a new AAA battery.
Cleaning and Storage
- Rinse cuvettes promptly after every test
- Do not allow reacted copper samples to dry inside the cuvette
- Use aquarium-test or laboratory-quality cuvette-cleaning solution when needed
- Keep the checker dry
- Store reagents tightly sealed and away from excessive heat or moisture
- Keep the checker and accessories in the supplied case
- Protect cuvettes from scratches
- Remove residue before storing the equipment
Important Copper-Treatment Note
The Hanna HI702 is a measuring instrument, not a medication. It does not treat parasites, infections, or aquarium water by itself.
Do not select a target copper concentration based only on general internet recommendations. Different products may contain ionic, chelated, or complexed copper and may specify different therapeutic ranges.
Always use the target range, dosing schedule, safety information, and treatment duration provided by the exact copper medication manufacturer.
Copper can be dangerous to fish when overdosed and is highly toxic to many invertebrates. Test carefully and keep copper treatment separate from reef and invertebrate display aquariums unless expressly approved.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Hanna HI702 measure?
It measures high-range copper concentrations in water and displays the result in ppm as Cu²⁺.
What is the measurement range?
The HI702 measures from 0.00 to 5.00 ppm copper.
What is the resolution?
The digital display reports copper in increments of 0.01 ppm.
How accurate is the HI702?
Hanna lists accuracy as ±0.05 ppm ±5% of the reading at 77°F.
Can it be used with freshwater?
Yes. Hanna officially identifies it as suitable for freshwater aquarium testing.
Can it be used with saltwater?
Yes. Hanna officially states that the HI702 is compatible with saltwater.
Is it suitable for marine quarantine tanks?
Yes. It is commonly used to monitor copper in fish-only marine quarantine and treatment systems.
Can it be used in reef aquariums?
The checker can test a saltwater sample, but copper medication is generally unsafe for corals and other invertebrates. Copper treatment is normally performed in a separate fish-only quarantine aquarium.
Does the checker include reagents?
Yes. The package includes reagent packets for six tests.
What replacement reagent does it use?
It uses Hanna HI702-25 Copper High Range reagents, sold in packages of 25 tests.
How much water is required for each test?
Each test uses a 10 mL water sample.
How long does the test take?
After adding and mixing the reagent, the checker uses a 45-second reaction period before taking the final reading.
Does it eliminate color matching?
Yes. The checker reads the reacted sample electronically and displays a digital result.
Can it tell me how much copper medication to add?
No. It measures copper concentration. Follow the dosing directions for the exact medication being used.
Does it work with every type of copper medication?
The checker measures copper using its specified bicinchoninate method. Always confirm compatibility and interpretation with the medication manufacturer, particularly when using chelated or complexed copper formulations.
Why might the reading change after dosing?
Copper may bind to substrate, rock, decorations, filter media, and organic material. Water changes and additives can also alter the concentration.
Why must the cuvette be clean?
Fingerprints, water droplets, salt, dirt, and scratches can interfere with light passing through the sample and affect the reading.
Why should bubbles be removed?
Bubbles may disrupt the optical measurement and produce inaccurate results.
Can the reacted sample be left in the cuvette?
No. Hanna recommends discarding it immediately because the glass may become permanently stained.
Does the checker need calibration?
Routine user calibration is not performed like a probe meter, but the optional HI702-11 standard set can verify checker performance.
What battery does it use?
It uses one 1.5V AAA battery.
Does it turn off automatically?
Yes. It shuts off after ten minutes of inactivity.
Available at Tropical Treasures Wyo
The Hanna HI702 High Range Copper Checker provides accurate digital copper measurements from 0.00 to 5.00 ppm for freshwater and saltwater aquariums, fish quarantine systems, aquaculture applications, and professional water testing.
Visit Tropical Treasures Wyo in Cheyenne, Wyoming, to shop Hanna Instruments Checkers, HI702 replacement reagents, aquarium medications, quarantine supplies, test kits, and water-quality equipment.
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