Manual of CS series Potentiostat / Galvanostat

1. Part 1 CS100 Portable potentiostat

1. Overview
The CS100 is internally powered by a
lithium battery, which can be placed in a
glove box or used outdoors. The lithium
battery can be charged in advance, and the
Type-C interface is used for charging and
communication. The circuit adopts a
floating-ground design, and the
electrochemical parameters of the grounding
system can be measured without an isolation
transformer.
CS100 portable potentiostat is mainly used for battery testing, electroanalytical chemistry,
and corrosion electrochemical testing. The voltage control range is 10V, compliance voltage
is 12V, the current output range is 45mA, and the minimum current resolution can reach
100fA.
Applications

- The small and convenient potentiostat can be used for performance testing of battery
materials in the glove box;
- Ultra-low detection limit of heavy metal ions, suitable for water quality testing in
environmental protection;
- High current accuracy, suitable for small current detection in biosensor;
- Comprehensive functions, can be used for the active ingredient detection in food and drug
field;
- Easy to carry, suitable for bridge corrosion and soil corrosion measurements
Features

- Small and light, portable and convenient

- Simple to install and easy to operate.
- High accuracy, current resolution is 100fA, and measurement accuracy is 0.1% of the range.
- Internal lithium battery facilitates the outdoor on-site measurement
- The circuit adopts a floating-ground design
Overview
The CS100 portable potentiostat is composed of DDS digital signal synthesizer, constant
potential control, dual-channel high-speed 16bit/high-precision 24bit AD converter. The
built-in DDS and dual-channel signal correlation integral circuit improves the measurement
accuracy of AC impedance. The EIS frequency range is 10μHz~1MHz. It can automatically
perform electrochemical impedance test under open circuit potential or any DC bias voltage.
Built-in DC offset compensation circuit can effectively improve the measurement accuracy of
AC signals. The amplitude of the exciting sine wave can be set between 0 ~±2.5V. The EIS
data format is compatible with ZView, and ZView can be directly used for impedance
spectrum analysis. CS100 potentiostat can also output sine wave, square wave, triangle wave,
sawtooth wave, pulse wave, etc., and the output frequency is 0~100KHz.

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The command control and data analysis of the CS100 portable potentiostat are realized
through the CS Studio software. The software has multi-coordinate graphic display and
zooming, data/graphic storage/printing, and interactive help. The software has techniques for
materials and corrosion electrochemistry, including automatic or manual reverse sweep of
passivation curve, electrochemical reactivation method, solution resistance (IR drop)
measurement and compensation.
CS Studio software also has a complete data analysis function, which can achieve the
volt-ampere curve smoothing, the peak height and area integration, and the electrochemical
parameters analysis of the polarization curve, including polarization resistance Rp, Tafel slope
ba, bc, and corrosion current density icorr, corrosion rate calculation, etc., noise resistance Rn
and power spectrum can also be calculated, and the graph can be copied to other files in vector
mode.
The CS100 portable can be controlled by either our desktop software or App.

2. Specifications

Communication: USB or Bluetooth

Power supply: built-in li-battery [email protected] / USB
Size / weight:150mm x 90mm x 30mm, 500g
Support 2-, 3-or 4-electrode system
Potential control range: ±10V
Maximum current: ± 45mA
EIS frequency range: 10μHz ~ 1MHz
Compliance voltage: ±12V
Potential accuracy: 0.1%× full range
Minimum potential resolution: 10V
Current accuracy: 0.1%× full range
Minimum current resolution: 100fA
Potential range: ±2.5V, ±5V, ±10V
Current range: 200pA~50mA, 10 ranges
(200pA, 2nA, 20nA, 200nA, 2uA, 20uA, 200uA, 2mA, 20mA, 50mA)
Reference electrode input impedance: 1013Ω||8pF
AC amplitude: 0~±2.5V
Signal response bandwidth: 1MHz

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Max. acquisition rate: 150,000 data points/s
CV and LSV scan rate: 0.001mV~ 10V/s

3. Panels

Electrode cable includes 4 leads：

① WE(green sleeve) - connect to the working electrode

② CE (red sleeve)- connect to the counter electrode
③ RE (yellow sleeve) - connects to the reference electrode
④ The black clamp connects to the Faraday cage (if it’s used) or WEⅡ (if you do
electrochemical noise test）

Power ON/OFF- Press this small button for 2~3 second to power on the potentiostat. The
light is on. When potentiostat is under low power, this light will flickering. Press this button to
shut off the potentiostat.

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Polarization indicator: when this light is on, means the electrode is on the state of
polarization
Type-C interface: This is the communication port. The USB cable will connect the
potentiostat with a computer.
Charging indicator: When the potentiostat is being charged, the indicator is in red light.
When charging is finished, light turns to be green.
4. Schematic diagram

5. Standard supply list

CS100 portable potentiostat*1
Software *1
USB Type-C cable*1
Electrode cable *2
Dummy cell*1

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Part 2 CS Studio6 Software

1. Introduction
CS Studio software shipped with the CS electrochemical workstation is an easy-to-use,
flexible, and versatile electrochemical tool. It can be applied in many research fields such as
corrosion, voltammetry, electroanalysis or battery test, etc. Computer Operating system should
be Windows-based. There is no other requirement for computer. A mainstream/ common one
in the market is OK.

Interface of CS Studio software

1.1 Electrochemical Techniques

# There is the corresponding stripping method.

Stable polarization: Open Circuit Potential (OCP), Potentiostatic (I-T curve), Galvanostatic,
Potentiodynamic (Tafel), Galvanodynamic, Potential Sweep-step
Transient polarization: Multi-Potential Steps, Multi-Current Steps, Potential Stair-Step
(VSTEP), Galvanic Stair-Step (ISTEP)
Chrono Methods: Chronopotentiometry(CP), Chronoamperometry (CA), Chronocoulometry
(CC)
Voltammetry: Cyclic Voltammetry (CV), Linear Sweep Voltammetry (LSV), Staircase
Voltammetry (SCV)#, Differential Pulse Voltammetry (DPV)#, Normal Pulse Voltammetry
(NPV)#, Square wave voltammetry (SWV)#, ACvoltammetry (ACV)#, Differential Normal
Pulse Voltammetry (DNPV)#, 2nd Harmonic A. C. Voltammetry (SHACV), Fourier Transform
AC Voltammetry(FTACV)
Amprometric:Differential Pulse Amperometry (DPA), Double Differential Pulse
Amperometry(DDPA),Triple Pulse Amperometry (TPA), Integrated Pulse Amperometric
Detection (IPAD)
Impedance: EIS vs Frequency (IMP), EIS vs Time (IMPT), EIS vs Potential (IMPE)
Corrosion measurement:Cyclic polarization curve (CPP), Linear polarization curve (LPR),
Electrochemical Noise (EN), Zero Resistance Ammeter (ZRA), Electrochemical
Potentiokinetic Reactivation(EPR)
Battery testing: Battery charge and discharge, Galvanostatic charge and discharge(GCD)

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Bipotentiostat: Hydrogen diffusion (HDT), Rotating ring-disk Electrode(RRDE)
Extensions:Data Logger, Disc machine control, Bulk electrolysis with Coulometry

CS Studio software is also equipped with powerful corrosion analysis module.It can
calculate the corrosion rate of the material by linear polarization and weak polarization, as
well as polarization resistance (Rp), Tafel slope (ba, bc), and corrosion current density (icorr)
through the non-linear fitting of Tafel plots. In addition, by the built-in electrochemical
impedance spectroscopy (EIS)technique, it can measure the double layer capacitance (Cdl) and
the solution/ concrete resistance (Rs). Moreover,CS Studio software provides as a dual-channel
data logger for pH, temperature and some physical quantities records.
1.2 Software Installation
1. Using the USB type-C cable to connect the potentiostat with a computer.
2. Power on the instrument, open the “software installation” folder in the blue USB flash disk.,
right click the “CS studio6 setup”, and run as administrator.

3. Firstly, install the drivers. After finishing it, go to the computer management → device
manager→ Ports (COM & LPT). There, it will appear “STM…virtual COM Port(COM x)”.
As is shown below.

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4. Secondly, install the runtime environment. If your computer has already installed it, there
will be a prompt saying you have already installed.

If it hasn’t been installed in your computer, just follow the steps to finish installation of
runtime.

5. Click “install CS Studio6” to install and create a shortcut is on the desktop.

6. Run the software as administrator. Then the model and serial number will be shown. It
means the instrument has been successfully connected.

For CS100 portable potentiostat, if you choose to run APP on your mobile for CS100
portable potentiostat, you can download the .apk file through the QR code.

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Please make sure that you open Bluetooth on your cell phone if you want to connect the
CS100 Portable potentiostat with your phone.

2. Menu
There are key shortcuts for experiment techniques, such as “F2” for “Open Circuit
Potential”, F4 for technique of “Potentiodynamic”.
There is a toolbar under the main menu, and it can achieve the same function as the main
menu, and there will be a text message tip when you put the mouse on.
the “Experiments” will appear when you right-click the mouse on anywhere of the
window. You can choose one technique to perform. Of course you can clicking main menu of
“Experiments” and then click one technique.

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The button will be activated when a test is running. You can click it to stop the test.
This button will gray out when you finish a test.
2.1 File
2.1.1 Open File
Open a “.cor” data file. You can view data and do analysis.
2.1.2 New Project
Build a new project window. The original project window will not be closed or replaced.
2.1.3 Open Project
Open a project file. You can view the file and do data analysis.
2.1.4 Save Project
Save the project window file in project file format.
2.1.5 Save Project As
Save data file or project file as a new project file.
2.1.6 Close Project
Close an open project window. If no file is open, this menu is disabled.
2.1.7 Page Setup
Set the format for printing output.
2.1.8 Print
Output the graph of the open file to the printer.
2.1.9 Exit
Exit the CS studio software. When a test is being performed, there will be a prompt.

2.2 Setup

Connection
It’s used to modify the communication way of the instrument.
For single channel potentiostat it’s communicated by USB cable.
For bipotentiostat and multichannel potentiostat, it’s Ethernet.

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Settings

Here you can change the default place for data storage.
Fragmentation is used for big amount data. For each fragment the data points can be set.
Default is 1,000,000.

Restore default
This is to restore to the factory default state. The stored experimental data will not be
deleted.

3. Experiment Setting
3.1 Pstat/Gstat(ECS)Setting

Open a technique, and you can do the instrument setting by clicking .

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Potential Range
Potential range can be ±2.5V, ±5V, or ±10V. The default range is ±2.5V. The narrower the
range is, the higher the input signal gain. Normally when the potential signal input is in the
range of ±2.5V, “±2.5V” range is OK. But if the potential of the tested system is over ±2.5V,
you must choose the range to be ±5V, or ±10V.
Current Range
You can choose either “Manual” or “Auto”. If check Manual, the drop-down box is
activated, and you can choose a suitable current range. If the current in the experiment reaches
120% of the set range, then the software will automatically cut off the polarization of the
potentiostat. “Auto” allows the instrument to select the suitable current range according to the
polarization current.
“Min Range” - you can set a limitation for minimum current range to avoid possible extra
noise in some high-resistance systems in case the current range is too small.
“Only Inc” means the current range will be switched only from lower range to higher range,
just in this direction. This is particularly useful for CV experiment.
In the moment of current range switching, noise may be inevitable. Therefore, it is
recommended to choose a fixed current range in fast measurements or when the data
acquisition frequency is high.
OCP Check
If you check the radio button “Use”, the software will judge whether the open circuit
potential is in the range that you set. If yes, the experiment will conduct automatically if you
have set the data file save path.
Quiet Time
Enter a number or drag the slider, you can specify the duration of delay for scan. The
maximum delay time is 1000s. Setting the quiet time can make the measuring current stable,
especially when polarization doesn’t start from OCP. Transient polarization may cause a large
current, and the value will decrease as time goes by. Therefore, there should be a quiet time
before formally recording data.
Before this window appear, the potentiostat is already in the state of polarization, but

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doesn’t start scan. If you think the polarization current is already stable, then you can click
Run anytime to start testing. You can click cancel to quit the experiment.
When the countdown is completed, the scan will start automatically.
If you set “Auto” change current range, during this process, CS studio software will auto
choose the suitable range according to the actual current. If the current range is set to be
“manual”, once the current is overloaded, the software will give you a prompt to change a
larger current range. If you choose “No”, then the software will control the instrument to
change from polarization state to natural state.
IR Compensation
In high-resistance system, the solution resistance (Rs) is large between the working
electrode and the tip of luggin capillary where the reference electrode is put, especially for
concrete or coated samples, so it must be compensated. Rs measurement can be done with
method of Potential Stair-Step (VSTEP). Enter the Rs value in the feedback for IR
compensation in the subsequent measurements.
Ground mode
There are two modes for the working electrode: virtual and real. The “virtual” mode is
suitable for most stable test systems. As for electrochemical noise or galvanic corrosion
measurement, you must choose “virtual” mode. Real mode is suitable for a system where the
working electrode is connected to earth, such as the rebar in the concrete. For EIS test, you
should choose real mode to increase the high-frequency response characteristic.
Low Pass Filter
The frequency response bandwidth of the power amplifier in the potentiostat can be
change by this setting. The higher the capacitance you choose is, the narrower the bandwidth
of the potentiostat is.
If all the filters are closed, then the power amplifier has the best frequency response
characteristics. But for some high-resistance systems, oscillation may appear. If you use the
virtual mode and choose a low capacitance, it is very likely for the instrument to occur
oscillation even positive feedback. You should decrease the bandwidth of the amplifier, i.e.,
increase the capacitance in the low pass filter.
When increasing the capacitance, the response frequency bandwidth will decrease, which
equals to low-pass filtering the signals. Normally, for slow scan experiment, you can choose
10nF~100nF; for fast scan or transient measurements, you can choose 100pF~10nF; For EIS
measurements, you may need to choose 100pF~10nF(virtual) or 0~1nF(real).
Data smooth
When choosing data smooth, the software will do real-time filtering of the data and
automatically get rid of the burrs on the curves. Please note that when you do transient
measurements, you don’t need to use it because it can bring slight distortion for data.
Notch filter
If you check the notch filter and choose the frequency, the interference can be restrained
when the experiment is being conducted.

3.2 Cell Setting

You can enter related information of one or more working electrode(s) and electrolytic
cell(s), eg. surface area, material, and temperature... The electrode area, density and chemical
equivalent will affect the results of experiment and fitting. Temperature or type of RE will not
affect the original data; they are just saved in each data file for info. Meanwhile, these

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parameters are needed for corrosion rate calculation.

Electrode
Electrode Area: the exposed area of the working electrode in the solution. It is the
effective working area. Unit is cm2. Default is 1. If it is 1, the current density will be the same
as the measured current in value.

Density: the density of the material of the working electrode. Unit is g/cm3.
Chemical Equiv = the molar mass/number of electrons transferred in a reaction. Take the
reaction Fe→Fe2+ for example, the molar mass of pure Fe is 55.84g, and the number of
transferred electrons is 2, so the equivalent weight is 55.84g/2=27.92g.
Cell parameters
Reference electrode: in the drop box you can choose SCE, Ag/AgCl, Hg/HgO, Hg/HgSO4,
Cu/CuSO4... You can also choose “Custom” if your RE is not in the list, then you should
specify the value of “V vs NHE”(normal hydrogen electrode).
V vs. NHE: it is the relative potential of the selected reference electrode vs. NHE.
Temperature: it is the temperature for the electrochemical reaction at present.
Stern- Geary Coef.: 20 ~28mV.
Active channel
For single-channel CS potentiostat, there is only 1 channel. For multi-channel potentiostat,
you can set the cell information independently.

4. Combination test
This is a very useful function.
You can add several experiments, for each test you can modify the parameters setting, and
the number of cycles can also be set. After setting the experiments and control instructions,
click the "OK" button, and the instrument will automatically test and save the data according
to the custom requirements. This function can achieve unattended measurements. You don’t
need to wait in the lab and it will complete a series of experiments automatically. It will make
the tests efficient and save your time.

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Build a project

Save the project

Start

Pause

Add an experiment

Modify

Remove
Adjust the order of the instructions and experiments

5. Stable Polarization
5.1 Open Circuit Potential

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Experiments→ Stable Polarization→ Open Circuit Potential
This experiment aims at monitoring the open circuit potential (or free corrosion potential,
i.e., the potential difference between WE and RE without any applied electric field) as a
function of time. The experiment can be performed for a fixed duration or until a particular
potential is reached.
Before test, the OK button is invalid. Only when you enter a file name can this button be
activated. All the data will be saved in this file.

OCP (V) will display the current open circuit potential of the cell (update per second).

File Name
You’re suggested to build up a new folder for all the data files, then enter a file name
before starting the test. You can click “Browse”and find the place where data files to be saved.
If you don’t click browse and directly enter a name and confirm, then the default data
storage path is as follows:

CS Studio will automatically append the suffix “.cor” to a file name. For example, if you

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input “tutor1”, the name of the data file will be shown as “tutor1.cor”.
The info in the Comments box will be saved in the data file. You can input info. such as
the medium, the solution content, etc. Other info. such as the time when you perform the test,
and all the related measurement parameters will be automatically saved in the data file. You
don’t need to enter such information into comments.

Experiment parameters
Total Time: decides the total duration of the experiment.
Data Acquisition
Choose either “Interval” or “Frequency”.
Interval determines the time between each sampled data point. Frequency (Hz) specifies
the data points sampled per second (acquisition rate). Please note that the interval cannot be
set lower than 0.001s, i.e., the points/second cannot be higher than 1000. Otherwise, the
software will automatically set the frequency to be 1kHz (the maximum value allowed).
Experiment Termination
If the Use is checked, the experiment will be automatically terminated once the OCP goes
above the high value (2V in the above dialog box for instance) or below the low value (-2V).
Axis Type
You should set the Axis type for display of each dynamic graph. For OCP, the axis type is
“E-Time”.
Pstat/Gstat (ECS)
See 3.1 Pstat/Gstat (ECS) Setting
Cell Setup
See Cell Setting 3.2.
Click OK to exit the parameter setting dialog box, and enter the “wait…” interface before
testing. Meanwhile, CS Studio will save all the parameters that you set and remain the same
the next time when you run this experiment.
Click “Cancel” also to exit the dialog box, not conducting the experiment. All the set
parameters will be lost.
Click Help to access to the on-line help information on the setup of this experiment.

5.2 Potentiostatic
Experiments → Stable Polarization → Potentiostatic
In this experiment, the potentiostat applies a constant polarization potential on the
working electrode and monitor the polarization current as a function of time. The polarization
duration (Total Time) can be set by the user, or you can also let the experiment be
automatically terminated when the polarization current or quantity of electric charge reaches
to a certain value (change from the polarization state to OCP state).

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OCP (V) will display the current open circuit potential of the cell (update per second).

Experiment Parameters
Applied Potential is the potential applied on the measured system. It can be potential “vs.
OCP” or “vs. RE”.
For CS series potentiostat, choosing potential “vs. OCP”, the input of a positive value
means anodic polarization, negative value means cathodic polarization. Under potential “vs.
OCP”, input of a positive value means anodic polarization, negative value means cathodic
polarization. The actual potential applied on the WE is the algebraic sum of the input value
and the current open circuit potential. For example, enter “0.2”, then the actual potential
applied on the working electrode is “0.2V+OCP”. If selecting “vs. RE”, then the polarization
potential applied on the working electrode is exactly 0.2V.
Total Time determines the total time of potentiostatic polarization. Unit is Second,
minute or hour.
Experiment Termination
If the Use I box is checked, the experiment of potentiostatic will be automatically
terminated once the polarization current goes above the high value (anodic current, 250mA in
above dialog box for instance) or below the low value (cathodic current, -250mA in above
dialog box for instance).
If Use Q is checked, the experiment of potentiostatic will be automatically terminated
once the total integral quantity of electric charge (coulombs) goes over maximum value
(positive charge) or below minimum value (negative charge).
If the Disable is checked, the above two experiment termination prerequisites are
ineffective. The experiment will not be terminated until the total time is reached.
Axis Type
When the experiment is performed, the data will be displayed as specified by the Axis
Type. CorrView can be later used to display the data in other formats. For the experiment of

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Potentiostatic, the axis type is “I-Time”.

5.3 Galvanostatic
Experiments →Stable Polarization →Galvanostatic
In this experiment, the instrument applies a constant polarization current on the working
electrode and monitor the polarization potential as a function of time. The polarization
duration (Total Time) can be set by the user, or you can also let the experiment be
automatically terminated when the polarization potential or quantity of electric charge reaches
to a certain value.

OCP (V) will display the current open circuit potential of the cell (update per second).

Experiment Parameters
Applied Current is the current applied on the measured system. Positive value means
anodic polarization; negative value means cathodic polarization. This is the total current
applied, not the current density. Units of A, mA, A are available.
The Total Time determines the duration of the galvanostatic polarization process.
Experiment Termination
If the Use E box is checked, the experiment of galvanostatic will be automatically
terminated once the polarization potential goes above the high value (2V in above dialog box
for instance) or below the low value (-2V in above dialog box for instance).
If Use Q is checked, the experiment of galvanostatic will be automatically terminated
once the total integral quantity of electric charge (coulombs) goes over maximum value or
below minimum value.
If the Disable is checked, the above two experiment termination prerequisites are
ineffective. The experiment will not be terminated until the total time is reached.

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Axis Type
When the experiment is performed, the data will be displayed as specified by the Axis
Type. CorrView can be later used to display the data in other formats. For the experiment of
Galvanostatic, the axis type is “E-Time”.

5.4 Potentiodynamic
Experiments→ Stable Polarization →Potentiodynamic
For potentiodynamic, there are up to four individual polarization potential set points. The
scan starts from the “initial E” and goes through “vertex E #1”, “vertex E #2”, and finally
reaches “final E”. The “vertex E #1” and “vertex E #2” can be both chosen, partly chosen or
neither chosen. The scan can be stopped or reversed when current reaches to a certain value.
The logarithm of current is recorded as a function of potential.

OCP (V) will display the current open circuit potential of the cell (update per second).

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Experiment Parameters
If you check neither vertex E#1 nor vertex E#2, then the potential is scanned directly from
Initial E towards Final E. For example, if you enter “-0.1” (vs. OCP) in the initial E, and “0.1”
(vs. OCP) in the final E box, then the potential is actually scanned from cathodic polarization
100mV to anodic polarization 100mV. When the polarization current density has already met
the condition to terminate the experiment before the potential reaches 100mV, the scan will
stop, and the polarization state will be cut off. If potential is “vs. OCP”, then negative value
means cathodic polarization, and positive value means anodic polarization.
Scan Rate: It can only be a positive value. Scan direction is determined by the sign of the
applied potential. Scan time =scan amplitude/scan rate. Total measuring time=∑ (|amplitude of
polarization potential of each segment|/scan rate)

Experiment Termination
If check “Stop scan”, when the polarization current density is higher than the maximum
value (e.g. 2mA/cm2) or lower than the minimum set value (e.g.-2 mA/cm2), the experiment
will be stopped automatically.
If check the “Reverse scan”, when polarization current reached the range that you set, the
scan direction will be reversed, from current potential to initial potential. If the current density
is lower than the minimum value you set during cathodic retrace scan, the scan will be
automatically stopped.
If neither is checked, the experiment will be conducted according to the potential settings.
Normally, to protect the working electrode from excessively high current, you can choose Stop
scan and set a maximum anodic current.
Axis Type
In the experiment of potentiodynamic, you can choose “E vs. Logi”.
Passivation curve
In potentiodynamic test, sometimes we need to measure passivation curves of some
metals such as chromium, nickel, cobalt and their alloys in certain medium. It will produce a
layer of passivation film on the surface of these metals when their potential is relatively
positive. At this moment, they are similar to noble metals in behavior, with slight passivation
current flowing. In order to evaluate their anti-corrosion performance, it is necessary to obtain
the cracking potential and protection potential. Therefore, the passivation curve is graphed.

Typical passivation curve

When the polarization potential is scanned towards positive to a certain value, the

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passivation film will be cracked, then the polarization current will increase rapidly, this
polarization potential is called cracking potential φb. When the current exceeds a certain value
(eg. 100A/cm2), the potential will immediately be scanned towards negative, there will be a
hysteresis loop on the polarization curve. The intersection of the positive curve and the flyback
curve is considered to be the protection potential of the metal in this medium φp.

5.5 Galvanodynamic
Experiments → Stable Polarization → Galvanodynamic
For technique of galvanodynamic, there are up to four individual polarization current set
points. The scan starts from the “initial current” and goes through “vertex i #1”, “vertex i #2”,
and finally reaches “final i”. The “vertex i #1” and “vertex i #2” can be both chosen, partly
chosen or neither chosen by the Use box. The scan can be stopped or reversed when potential
reaches a certain value.

OCP will display the current open circuit potential of the cell (update per second).

Experiment Parameters
If you check neither vertex i#1 nor vertex i#2, then the current is scanned directly from
Initial i towards Final i. For example, if you enter “-100” (unit:μA) in the initial i, and “100”
in the final i box, then the current is actually scanned from cathodic polarization 0.1mA to
anodic polarization 0.1mA. Of course when the polarization potential has already entered the
range to terminate the experiment before current reaches 0.1mA, the scan will stop, and cut off
the polarization state of the potentiostat.
Negative value means cathodic polarization, and positive value means anodic
polarization.
Scan Rate: It can only be a positive value. Scan direction is determined by the sign of the
applied current.

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Experiment Termination
If check the “Stop scan”, when the final current is reached or the polarization potential
meets the condition to terminate the experiment, the scan will be automatically stopped.
If check the “Reverse scan”, when polarization potential reaches the range that you set,
the scan direction will be reversed, from current current to initial current, and when the
polarization potential is lower than the minimum value you set, the scan will stop.
If neither is checked, the experiment will be conducted according to the current settings.

Axis Type
When the experiment is performed, the data will be displayed as specified by the Axis
Type. CorrView can be later used to display the data in other formats.

5.5 Multi Potential Steps

Experiments→Stable Polarization→Potential Sweep Steps

In Potential Sweep Steps, the instrument alternates between six potential sweeps and six
potential steps, somewhat like an arbitrary waveform generator. The following diagram shows
the potential waveform applied as a function of time. One can skip any segment by setting
parameters sufficiently small, allowing enhanced flexibility for waveform control. Current is
recorded as a function of time; for sweep segments, it can also be presented as a function of
potential.

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Segment Parameters Range Remarks

1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11 Init E /V -10~+10 Initial potential in sweep segment

Final E /V -10~+10 Final potential in sweep segment

Scan rate /V·s-1 1E-6~50 Potential scan rate in sweep

segment

2, 4, 6, 8, 10,12 Step potential /V -10~+10 potential value in step segment

Step time /s 0~10000 duration of step segment

1~12 Step potential/V vs. RE or vs. choose the potential output mode
OCP

Data Acquisition
If Frequency (Hz) is chosen, the acquisition rate in points/second is specified.
Axis Type
When the experiment is performed, the data will be displayed as specified by the Axis
Type. CorrView can be later used to display the data in other formats.

6. Transient Polarization
6.1 Multi-Potential Steps
Experiments→Transient Polarization→Multi-potential Steps
In the Multi-potential Steps technique, up to twelve potential steps can be applied and
cycled. Current is recorded as a function of time.

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OCP will display the current open circuit potential of the cell (update per second). If the
instrument is turned off, this value will display “Not Available”.

Experiment Parameters
The steps start from the Initial E, then to Step 1E, Step 2E, Step 3E,…towards Final E. If
the time of a step is “0” or the box before it is unchecked, this segment will be skipped.
Potential can be specified as “vs. OCP” or “vs. RE”.
Cycles specifies how many times the potential is stepped between Initial E and Final E.
Time determines the duration of the step potential being held.
Axis Type
Axis Type is I vs. time for multi-potential steps.

6.2 Multi-Current Steps

Experiments→Transient Polarization→Multi-Current Steps
In the Multi-Current Steps technique, up to twelve current steps can be applied and cycled.
Potential is recorded as a function of time.

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OCP will display the current open circuit potential of the cell (update per second). If the
instrument is turned off, this value will be “Not Available”.
Multi-Current Steps Parameters
The steps start from the Initial i, then to Step 1i, Step 2i, Step 3i,…towards Final i. If the
time of a step is “0” or the box before it is not checked, this segment will be skipped.
Cycles specifies how many times the current is stepped between Initial i and Final i.
Time determines the duration of the step current being held.
Data Acquisition
If Frequency (Hz) is chosen, the acquisition rate is set as Points/Second.
Axis Type
Axis type for multi-current steps is E vs time.

6.3 Potential Stair-Step(VSTEP)

Experiment → Transient Polarization→ Potential Stair-Step
Potential Stair-Step can be used to measure the solution resistance Rs and polarization
resistance Rp, it can also be applied to calculate the double-layer capacitance Cdl.
There are up to 3 individual potential setpoints for potential Stair-step. If the Use box is
checked, the mode of the stair step is Initial E→Step1 E→Step2 E to finish two segments of
stair step measurement.

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OCP will display the current open circuit potential of the cell (update per second). If the
instrument is turned off, this value will be “Not Available”.
Experiment Parameters
The steps start from Initial E, to Step E1, and then to Step E2. If “Use” box is unchecked,
the segment of the Step E2 will be skipped.
Time determines the holding time of a step potential.
Data Acquisition
If Frequency (Hz) is chosen, the acquisition rate in points/second is specified. Because
the step process is fast, the data acquisition rate is also fast, 1~3KHz is recommended.
Axis Type
Axis Type is I vs. time.
Pstat/Gstat(ECS)
In step test, because the measuring time is very short, the current range should only be
chosen manually in advance, not determined by the software automatically.
.
6.4 Galvanic Stair-Step (ISTEP)
Experiments→ Transient Polarization→ Galvanic Stair-Step
There are up to 3 individual current setpoints for galvanic Stair-step. If the Use box is
checked, the mode of the stair step is Initial current→Step1 E→Step2 E to finish two segments
of stair step measurement.

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OCP will display the current open circuit potential of the cell (update per second). If the
instrument is turned off, this value will be “Not Available”.
Scan Parameters
The steps start from the Initial Current, to Step i#1, and then to Step i#2. If “Use” is not
checked, the segment of the Step i #2 will be skipped.
The Time determines how long the current will be held at each step.
Data Acquisition
If Frequency (Hz) is chosen, the acquisition rate in points/second is specified. Owing to
the fast process of step, the data acquisition rate is fast too. The frequency is normally set
between 1~3KHz.
Axis Type
When the experiment is performed, the data will be displayed as specified by the Axis
Type. CorrView can be later used to display the data in other formats.

7. Chrono Techniques
7.1 Chronopotentiometry
Experiments → Chrono Techniques → Chronopotentiometry
In Chronopotentiometry (CP), two current levels can be specified to pass through the
working electrode, with the switching between the two dictated by time or potential. Potential
is recorded as a function of time.

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OCP will display the current open circuit potential of the cell (update per second). If the
instrument is turned off, this value will display “Not Available”.

Experiment Parameters
Cathodic/anodic current is applied on the working electrode during the test. You can
choose the unit of the current.
Cathodic/anodic time is the duration of the applied cathodic / anodic current. Second,
minute and hour can be selected.
“Num. of segments” specifies how many times the current is cycled between cathodic and
anodic current. When the number of current polarity switches (segments) is reached, the
experiment will stop.
Parameters Range Description

Cathodic current -45mA~+45mA The cathodic current applied on the working electrode

Anodic current -45mA~+45mA The anodic current applied on the working electrode

Cathodic time >0 Duration of cathodic current

Anodic time >0 Duration of anodic current

Initial polarity Anode/ The polarity at the beginning of the experiment

cathode

Num. of segment >0 The number of applied cathodic and anodic current
Current Polarity Switching
It’s used to switch the anodic and cathodic polarization process. For example, as shown in
above parameters setting dialog box, if the potential reaches 1V in less than 10s, the polarity

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 Manual of CS series Potentiostat / Galvanostat
will be switched, proceeding the cathodic polarization. If the potential reaches -1V in less than
10s, anodic polarization is triggered.
Data Acquisition
If Frequency (Hz) is chosen, the acquisition rate in points/second is specified.
Axis Type
When the experiment is performed, the data will be displayed as specified by the Axis
Type. CorrView can be later used to display the data in other formats.

7.2 Chronoamperometry
Experiments→ Chrono Techniques → Chronoamperometry
Chronoamperometry method measures the current response as a function of time after
applying a single or dual potential step on the working electrode. Electrodes of fixed area are
often used in this method. This method is used to study the electrode process of coupling
chemical reaction, especially the reaction mechanism of organic electrochemistry.
In Chronoamperometry (CA), the potential is stepped from Init. E to either High E or Low
E depending on the Init. P/N and may then be stepped back.

OCP will display the current open circuit potential of the cell (update per second). If the
instrument is turned off, this value will display “Not Available”.

Parameters setting
The experiment starts at the Initial E, sweeps to High E, and then to Low E. The potential
can be specified in several ways. If “vs. OCP” is chosen, the specified potential is added to the
open circuit potential of the cell. If “vs.RE” is chosen, an exact potential is applied.
“Pulse width” specifies how long the potential is sustaining.
Number of Steps specifies how many potential cycles are formed between High E and Low E.

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Parameters Range Description

Initial E (V) -10~+10 Initial potential

High E (V) -10~+10 Upper limit of potential step applied on the WE

Low E (V) -10~+10 Lower limit of potential step applied on the WE

Pulse width (s) >0 potential pulse width

Number of steps >0 Number of potential steps

.
Axis Type
When the experiment is performed, the data will be displayed as specified by the Axis
Type. CorrView can be later used to display the data in other formats.

7.3 Chronocoulometry
Experiments → Chrono Techniques → Chronocoulometry
Chronocoulometry is a method to measure the quantity of electric charges as a function of
time after a potential step is applied on the working electrode. It can study electrode process in
all kinds of coupling reactions. It can also study the electroactive substance adsorption.
A fast-rising potential pulse is applied on the working electrode of an electrochemical cell.
The current flowing through this electrode is measured and integrated, reporting coulombs as a
function of time. Technique is also referred to as CC.

OCP will display the current open circuit potential of the cell (update per second). If the
instrument is turned off, this value will display “Not Available”.

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Parameters setting
Parameters Range Description
Initial E (V) -10~+10 The potential applied on the working electrode

Final E (V) -10~+10 The potential applied on the working electrode

Pulse width(s) 0.001~10 Duration of the applied potential pulse

Number of steps >0 Number of potential steps

The potential may be swept between up to 2 separate setpoints in this experiment. The
experiment starts from the initial potential, and then to the final potential. A potential can be
specified in several ways. If “vs. OCP” is chosen, the specified potential is added to the open
circuit potential of the cell. “vs.RE” is chosen to select an exact potential to be applied.
Pulse width specifies how long the potential is sustaining.
Number of steps specifies how many times the potential is cycled between Initial E and
Final E.
Data Acquisition
If Frequency(Hz) is chosen, the acquisition rate in points/second is specified.
Axis Type
When the experiment is performed, the data will be displayed as specified by the Axis
Type. CorrView can be later used to display the data in other formats.

8. Voltammetry
8.1 Cyclic Voltammetry
Experiments → Voltammetry → Cyclic Voltammetry
CV technique is used for the theoretical study of redox couples. Cyclic Voltammetry is a
special LSV that performs a triangular wave scanning on the working electrode. The potential
is linearly swept from Initial E to High E (or Low E, depending on the Initial P/N polarity
parameter). The potential is then swept back in the reverse direction.
CV curve usually consists of two parts: 1) the lower reduction/cathode part where the
reduction waveform is generated from reduction process of the oxidation state of the
electroactive material, 2) and the upper oxidation/anode part where the oxidation waveform is
generated from oxidation process of reduction products. CV technique can directly measure
the ratio of anodic peak current/cathodic peak current and the difference between anodic peak
potential and cathodic peak potential.
CV technique is mainly used for basic electrochemical theoretical study, such as the
electrode process, the absorption phenomenon of electrode etc.
For reversible system, if the cathodic reduction products are stable, then ipc / ipa=1.
To judge the reversibility of electrode process, the following formulas are employed:
28.25
E pa = E1/ 2 +
n
Where Epa = anodic peak potential
28 .25
E pc = E1 / 2 −
n

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Epc= cathodic peak potential.
56 .5
E p = E pa − EPC =
n
Note:△Ep is related to the reversing potential during CV scan. If n=1, and the reversing
potential is -100mV vs. Epc, the △Ep will be 59mV. △Ep is also associated with the experiment
environment, the value is in the range of 55~65mV(n=1), we can judge it as a reversible
process.
There are three individual setting points of potential. If use “initial E”, then the potential is
scanned from “initial E” to “step 1 E”, to “step 2E”, and back to initial E, cyclically.

Parameters setting dialog box

OCP displays the current open circuit potential of the cell (update per second).

Scan Parameters

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Parameters Range Description

Initial E(V) -10~+10 Initial potential of scan

Step 1E(V) -10~+10 Initial potential of the scan(not checking “Use”)

or the first vertex potential

Step 2 E(V) -10~+10 the second vertex potential of the scan

Scan rate (mV/s) 10-3~107 The scan rate of the potential

Cycles >0 The number of the cycles

Interval (mV) > 0.001 Potential difference between two sampling points

Frequency (Hz) 0.01~1000 Sampling as per frequency,

Either Interval or Frequency should be chosen.

The potential may be swept between up to 3 separate setpoints in this experiment. The
experiment starts at the Initial E, sweeps to Step 1E, to Step 2 E, and then back to the Initial E.
Check “Use” to turn on or turn off the Initial E setpoint.

CV curve of glassy carbon electrode in K4[Fe(CN)6] solution

Axis Type:
When the experiment is performed, the data will be displayed as specified by the Axis
Type. CorrView can be later used to display the data in other formats.

8.2 Linear Sweep Voltammetry

Experiments→ Voltammetry → Linear Sweep Voltammetry
In Linear Sweep Voltammetry (LSV), the potential is scanned from Initial E toward Final
E. The following diagram shows the potential waveform applied as a function of time. Current
is recorded as a function of potential. Normally, the scan rate of the instrument can be from
several mV to 1V per second.

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OCP will display the current open circuit potential of the cell (update per second). If the
instrument is turned off, this value will be “Not Available”.
Scan Parameters
Parameters Range Description

Initial E(V) -10~+10 Initial potential of scan, “vs. OCP” can be chosen.

Final E(V) -10~+10 Final potential

Scan rate(mV/s) 10-3~107 The scan rate of the potential

Interval (mV) > 0.001 Potential difference between two sampling points

Frequency (Hz) 0.01~1000 Sampling as per frequency,

Either Interval or Frequency should be chosen
Up to 2 separate potentials can be set during the experiment. The scan starts at the Initial
E, and to the Final E.
If the Initial/Final E is “vs. OCP”, and you enter “0.2” in initial E, it means the scan is

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 Manual of CS series Potentiostat / Galvanostat
from the potential OCP+0.2V. Positive value means anodic polarization, and negative value
means cathodic polarization.
If the Initial/Final E is “vs. RE”, and you enter “0.2” in initial E,it means the scan starts
from0.2V, which has nothing to do with OCP.
Axis Type
When the experiment is performed, the data will be displayed as specified by the Axis
Type. CorrView can be later used to display the data in other formats.

8.3 Staircase Voltammetry

Experiments→ Voltammetry→ Staircase Voltammetry
In Staircase Voltammetry (SCV), the potential is incremented from Initial E toward Final
E, and it may be scanned back. Current is sampled after every potential increment and
recorded as a function of potential. The following diagram shows the potential waveform
applied as a function of time.

OCP will display the current open circuit potential of the cell (update per second). If the

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 Manual of CS series Potentiostat / Galvanostat
instrument is turned off, this value will display “Not Available”.

Scan Parameter

Parameters Range Description

Initial E(V) -10~+10 Initial potential of scan.

Final E(V) -10~+10 Final potential

Inc. E(V) 0.001~0.05 Incremented potential of each step

Cycles 1~10,000 The number of cyclic staircase waveform

Sample 1~ half of step period Data sampling width for each point
width(ms)

Step period(s) 0.001~100 Potential step period or dropping time

Initial E and Final E should be at least 0.01 V apart. If the sampling width is over half of
the step period, there will be prompt from the software to adjust the sampling width within
range. Data will be acquired at the end of each step. In general, potential is chosen to be vs.
RE.
Data Acquisition
If Frequency (Hz) is chosen, the acquisition rate in points/second is specified.
Axis Type
When the experiment is performed, the data will be displayed as specified by the Axis
Type. CorrView can be later used to display the data in other formats.

8.4 Square Wave Voltammetry

Experiments → Voltammetry → Square Wave Voltammetry
In Square Wave Voltammetry (SWV), the base potential is incremented from Init E
towards Final E. A square wave potential is superimposed onto the base potential, which
increments after each cycle of the square wave. Current is sampled at the second half of the
forward and reverse steps. The current difference is recorded as a function of the base
potential. The following diagram shows the potential waveform applied as a function of time
and the current sampling scheme.

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OCP will display the current open circuit potential of the cell (update per second). If the
instrument is turned off, this value will be “Not Available”.

SWV curve in K3Fe(CN)6system

Scan Parameters
Parameters Range Description

Initial E (V) -10~+10 Initial potential of scan.

Final E (V) -10~+10 Final potential

Inc. E (V) 0.001~0.05 Incremented potential of adjacent two square wave

Amplitude (V) 0.001~0.5 The amplitude of each square wave

Frequency (Hz) 1~100,000 Square wave output frequency

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 Manual of CS series Potentiostat / Galvanostat
Initial E and Final E should be at least 0.01V apart. “vs.RE”is usually chosen to specify
the exact potential range.
Inc.E is the increment potential of each pulse; it can be chosen from 0.001V to 0.05V.
Amplitude can be chosen from 0.001V to 0.5V.

Axis Type
When the experiment is performed, the data will be displayed as specified by the Axis
Type. CorrView can be later used to display the data in other formats.

8.5 Differential Pulse Voltammetry

Experiments → Voltammetry → Differential Pulse Voltammetry
In Differential Pulse Voltammetry (DPV), the base potential is incremented from Init E
toward Final E.A potential pulse is applied. Current is sampled before the potential pulse and
at the end of the pulse. The difference between these two current samples is recorded as a
function of potential. The following diagram shows the potential waveform applied as a
function of time and the current sampling scheme.

For the reversible system, the curve is symmetric, and the peak current and the measured
substance concentration is proportional. When the amplitude of the pulse is small, the
relationship can be expressed by the following equation:
n2 F 2 D
IP = AE C
4 RT t m
Where, E is the amplitude, A is the electrode area, tm is the interval of pulse applying
and current sampling. D is the diffusion coefficient of the measured material. From the
equation, it can be seen that the peak current is related to pulse amplitude. But too large
amplitude will influence the resolution. Generally speaking, 25~50mV in amplitude and
5mV/s in scan rate are suitable.
DPV technique can effectively eliminate the effect of the background current, which
enhances sensitivity dramatically. The minimum measured concentration can be as low as
10-8mol/L.
There is relationship between peak potential (Ep) of DPV curve and polarograph
half-wave potential(E1/2) as follows:
E
Ep = E1 −
2 2

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There is a useful parameter, the half-peak width(W1/2) when I=IP/2. When the amplitude is
relatively small,
E
W 1 = 3.52 ,
2 nF
Measuring the W1/2 can be a supporting measure to calculate the number of transferred
electron in reactions.

OCP will display the current open circuit potential of the cell (update per second). If the
instrument is turned off, this value will display “Not Available”.

DPV curve in K3Fe(CN)6system

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Scan Parameters
Parameters Range Description

Initial E(V) -10~+10 Initial potential

Final E(V) -10~+10 Final potential

Inc. E(V) 0.001~0.05 Incremented potential of adjacent two pulses

Amplitude(V) 0.001~0.5 Potential pulse amplitude

Pulse width(s) 0.001~10, or less than Potential pulse width

half of the pulse
period

Pulse period(s) 0.01~50 Potential pulse period or dropping time

Sample width(ms) 1~ half of pulse width Data sampling width

Axis Type
When the experiment is performed, the data will be displayed as specified by the Axis
Type. CorrView can be later used to display the data in any of the other formats.

8.6 Normal Pulse Voltammetry

Experiments → Voltammetry → Normal Pulse Voltammetry
In Normal Pulse Voltammetry (NPV), the base potential is held at Init. E, and a sequence
of potential pulses with increasing amplitude is applied. The current at the end of each
potential pulse is sampled and recorded as a function of the pulse potential. The pulse always
starts from the initial potential. In such a way a discrete, digitized curve is obtained. The initial
potential is a very important parameter. It determines the electrode surface state before the
Faraday current flows.

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OCP will display the current open circuit potential of the cell (update per second). If the
instrument is turned off, this value will be“Not Available”.

Scan Parameters
Parameters Range Description

Initial E(V) -10~+10 Initial potential

Final E(V) -10~+10 Final potential

Inc. E(V) 0.001~0.05 Incremented potential of adjacent pulses

Pulse width(s) 0.001~10, or less than half Potential pulse width

of the pulse period

Pulse period(s) 0.01~50 Potential pulse period or dropping time

Sample width(ms) 1~ half of pulse width Data sampling width

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Axis Type
When the experiment is performed, the data will be displayed as specified by the Axis
Type. CorrView can be later used to display the data in any of the other formats.

8.7 Differential Normal Pulse Voltammetry

Experiments → Voltammetry →Differential Normal Pulse Voltammetry
In DNPV, the base potential is held at Initial E, and a sequence of dual potential pulses is
applied. The magnitude of the first pulse increments after every iteration, and the second pulse
has a constant amplitude relative to the first. Current is sampled at the end of both potential
pulses, and the difference of these two values is recorded as a function of the first pulse
potential. The following diagram shows the potential waveform applied as a function of time
and the current sampling scheme:

OCP will display the current open circuit potential of the cell (update per second). If the
instrument is turned off, this value will be “Not Available”.

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 Manual of CS series Potentiostat / Galvanostat

Scan Parameters
Parameters Range Description

Initial E(V) -10~+10 Initial potential

Final E(V) -10~+10 Final potential

Inc. E(V) 0.001~0.05 Incremented potential of adjacent pulses

Amplitude(V) 0.001-0.5 Potential pulse amplitude

1st pulse width(s) 0.001~0.02 First potential pulse width

2nd pulse width(s) 0.001~0.02 Second potential pulse width

Pulse period(s) 0.05~50 Potential pulse period or dropping time

Sample width(ms) 1~half of pulse width Data sampling width

Init E and Final E should be at least 0.01V apart.

Axis Type
When the experiment is performed, the data will be displayed as specified by the Axis
Type. CorrView can be later used to display the data in other formats.

8.8 A.C. Voltammetry

Experiments→ Voltammetry → A.C. Voltammetry
In A.C. Voltammetry, the base potential is incremented from Initial E to Final E, and a
sequential sine waveform is superimposed. Current is sampled when the AC signal is applied,
and it is analyzed by using a software lock-in amplifier. During the experiment, only the
absolute AC current is displayed.

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OCP will display the current open circuit potential of the cell (update per second). If the
instrument is turned off, this value will display “Not Available”.
Scan Parameters
Parameters Range Description

Initial E(V) -10~+10 Initial potential

Final E(V) -10~+10 Final potential

Inc. E(V) 0.001~0.05 Potential difference between adjacent waves

Amplitude (mV) 1~500 AC amplitude of each waveform

AC frequency (Hz) 0.1~10000 AC frequency

Bias DC Off-range-On Enable DC current bias during run

Sample period (s) 1~50 Data sampling period or dropping time

Initial E and Final E should be at least 0.01V apart.
Inc.E is the increment potential of each pulse; it can be chosen from 0.001V to 0.05V.
When the AC frequency is 2Hz or lower, the sample period parameter should be at least 2
seconds.

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Bias DC Current, check off or on, enables DC current bias during run.
Data Acquisition
If Frequency (Hz) is chosen, the acquisition rate in points/second is specified.
Axis Type
When the experiment is performed, the data will be displayed as specified by the Axis
Type. CorrView can be later used to display the data in other formats.

8.9 2nd Harmonic A.C. Voltammetry

Experiments→Voltammetry→2nd Harmonic A.C. Voltammetry
In Second Harmonic AC Voltammetry, the base potential is incremented from Initial E
toward Final E, and a sequential sine waveform is superimposed. Current is sampled when the
AC signal is applied, and its second harmonic component is analyzed by using a software
lock-in amplifier. During the experiment, only the absolute second harmonic AC current is
displayed.

OCP will display the current open circuit potential of the cell (update per second). If the
instrument is turned off, this value will display “Not Available”.

Scan Parameters
Parameters Range Description

Initial E(V) -10~+10 Initial potential

Final E(V) -10~+10 Final potential

Inc. E(V) 0.001~0.05 Potential difference between adjacent waves

Amplitude (mV) 1~500 AC amplitude of each waveform

AC frequency(Hz) 0.1~5000 AC frequency

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Bias DC current Off-range-On Enable DC current bias during run

Sample period(s) 1~50 Data sampling period or dropping time

8.10 Fourier Transform AC Voltammetry (FTACV)

Experiments→Voltammetry →Fourier Transform AC Voltammetry
For FTACV, the way of testing, parameters setting and data acquisition are the same as
ACV. The difference lies in post-processing of the data. After the test, the software will
automatically do the Fourier conversion with the original data, meanwhile obtaining the 2nd,
3rd, 4th, 5th, and 6th harmonics ACV data.

Experiment parameters
Parameter Range Description
Initial E(V) -10~+10 Initial potential
Final E (V) -10~+10 Final potential
Inc. E (V) 0.001~0.05
Potential difference between adjacent waves
Amplitude (mV) 1~2500
AC amplitude for every waveform
AC frequency (Hz) 0.1~5000
AC frequency
Bias DC current Off-range-On
Superimpose bias DC current on AC signal
Sample period (s) 1~50
Time of sampling
Initial E and Final E should be at least 0.01 V apart.

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For parameter of Bias DC current, the user can choose among Off, Below 1Hz, Below
100Hz, On.

9. Amperometric
9.1 Differential Pulse Amperometry (DPA)
Experiments→ Amperometric→Differential Pulse Amperometry (DPA)
In Differential Pulse Amperometry (DPA), a conditioning potential can be applied for
electrode conditioning, during which current is not sampled. Two potential pulses are applied
after the conditioning step, and the current at the end of each pulse is recorded as a function of
time.

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Parameter setting window for DPA
Experiment parameters

Parameters Range Description

Initial E(V) -10~10 initial potential
Initial pulse width (s) ≥0 The duration of the initial potential. No data acquisition
Conditioning E(V) -10~10 The electrode conditioning potential
Time(s) ≥0 The duration of the conditioning potential. Current is not
sampled.
1st pulse potential(V) -10~10 The 1st pulse potential in each cycle.
1stpulse width (s) 0.01~100 The duration of the 1st pulse potential. Current is sampled.
2ndpulse potential (V) -10~10 The 2nd pulse potential in each cycle.
2ndpulse width (s) 0.01~100 The duration of the 2nd pulse potential. Current is sampled.
Cycles 10~100,000 The total number of cycling.
Sample width(ms) 1~ half of The sampling width of the 1st and 2nd pulse potential in each
pulse width pulse.

9.2 Double Differential Pulse Amperometry (DDPA)

Experiments→Amperometric→Double Differential Pulse Amperometry (DDPA)
Double Differential Pulse Amperometry (DDPA) alternates between two instances of
differential pulse amperometry, with two sets of data recorded and displayed. In each instance,
a conditioning potential applied for electrode conditioning, during which current is not
sampled. Two potential pulses are applied after the conditioning step, and the current at the
end of each pulse is recorded as a function of time. During the experiment, only the difference
between the two current samples is displayed.

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Parameter setting window for DDPA

Experiment parameters
Parameter Range Description
Initial E(V) -10~10 Initial potential
Initial pulse width (s) ≥0 Duration of the initial potential. The current is not sampled.

1st Conditioning E(V) -10~10 the 1st cleaning potential

1st Conditioning T(s) ≥0 The duration of the 1st cleaning potential. Current is not
sampled.
1st pulse E (V) -10~10 The 1st pulse potential in each cycle
1st pulse width(s) 0.01~100 The duration of the 1st pulse potential. Current is sampled.
2nd pulse E (V) -10~10 The 2nd pulse potential in each cycle
2nd pulse width(s) 0.01~100 The duration of the 2nd pulse potential in each cycle. Current is
sampled.
2nd Conditioning E(V) -10~10 The 2nd cleaning potential of the experiment
2nd Conditioning T(s) ≥0 The duration of the 2nd cleaning potential. In this process the
current is not sampled
3rd pulse E(V) -10~10 the 3rd pulse potential in each cycle
3rd pulse width (s) 0.01~100 The duration of the 3rd pulse potential in each cycle. Current is
sampled.
4th pulse E (V) -10~10 The 4th pulse potential in each cycle
4th pulse width(s) 0.01~100 The duration of the 4th pulse potential in each cycle. The
current is sampled in this process.
Cycles 10-100,000 Total number of cycling
Sample width(ms) 1~half of The sampling width of pulse potential 1,2,3,4.
pulse width

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9.3 Triple Pulse Amperometry (TPA)
Experiments→Amperometry→Triple Pulse Amperometry (TPA)
In Triple Pulse Amperometry (TPA), three potential pulses are applied. The first two
pulses are for electrode conditioning. Current is sampled at the end of the third potential pulse
and recorded as a function of time. The third potential pulse can be constant or incremented
after each cycle.

8.3.1 Experiment parameters

Parameter setting window for TPA

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Parameter Range Description
Initial E(V) -10~10 The initial potential
Initial pulse width (s) ≥0 The duration of the initial potential. The current is not
sampled.
Final E(V) -10~10 The final potential
st
1 pulse E(V) -10~10 the 1st pulse potential in each cycle
1st pulse width(s) ≥0 The duration of the 1st pulse potential in each cycle.
2nd pulse E(V) -10~10 The 2nd pulse potential in each cycle
2nd pulse width(s) ≥0 The duration of the 2nd pulse potential in each cycle.
The current is not sampled.
3rd pulse E(V) -10~10 the 3rd pulse potential in each cycle
3rd pulse width(s) 0.01~100 The duration of the 3rd pulse potential in each cycle.
The current is sampled.
Pulse inc. E(V) 0~0.02 Potential difference of the 3rd pulse of adjacent cycles

Cycles 10-100,000 Total number of cycling

Sample width(ms) 1~ half of 3rd The sampling width of the 3rd pulse potential in each
pulse width cycle

9.4 Integrated Pulse Amperometric Detection (IPAD)

Experiments→Amperometric→Integrated Pulse Amperometric Detection(IPAD)
In Integrated Pulse Amperometric Detection (IPAD), six segments of potential sweeps or
steps are applied. Current is sampled and integrated during the first four segments. Electrode
conditioning or cleaning occurs during the last two steps. The integrated current is averaged
and recorded as a function of time.

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8.4.1 Experiment parameters

Parameter setting window for IPAD

Parameters Range Description

Initial E(V) -5~5 The initial potential

Initial pulse 0.05~1 Duration of initial potential (current is sampled and

integrated for the last 10ms)
width(s)

Peak E(V) -5~5 Peak potential

1st scan time(s) 0.1~1 Scan time from Initial E to peak E; The current is
sampled and integrated.

Return E(V) -5~5 Return potential in each cycle

2nd scan time(s) 0.1~1 Scan time from peak E to Return E; The current is
sampled and integrated.

Hold E(V) -5~5 Hold potential of each cycle

Hold Time(s) 0.05~1 Duration of hold potential (current is sampled and

integrated for the first 10ms)

Oxd. E(V) -5~5 Oxidation potential for electrode treatment

Oxd. Time(s) 0.05~1 Oxidation time duration; The current is not sampled

Red. E(V) -5~5 Reduction potential for electrode treatment

Red. Time(s) 0.05~1 Reduction time duration. The current is not sampled

Cycles 5-100,000 Total number of cycling

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10. Stripping Voltammetry

10.1 Potentiostatic Stripping
Experiments → Stripping Voltammetry → Potentiostatic Stripping
In Potentiostatic Stripping, a constant potential deposition step is first applied, after which
the species accumulated at the electrode surface are stripped out by applying a constant current.
Potential is recorded as a function of time.

OCP will display the current open circuit potential of the cell (update per second). If the
instrument is turned off, this value will display “Not Available”.

Parameters Range Description

Conditioning E(V) -10~10 Cleaning/conditioning potential

Conditioning T(s) ≥0 Cleaning potential duration; the current is not sampled

Deposition E(V) -10~10 Deposition potential is usually 0.3~0.5V more negative than the
redox standard potential, which makes it easy to reduce the
tested metal ions.

Deposition Time(s) ≥0 The time of the deposition process

Quiet Time(s) ≥0 Waiting time between deposition and stripping

Stripping I (mA) Constant current is applied on the working electrode.

Deposition Time(s) >0 the time of potentiostatic stripping process

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Data Acquisition
If Frequency(Hz) is chosen, the acquisition rate in points/second is specified.
Axis Type:
When the experiment is performed, the data will be displayed as specified by the Axis
Type. CorrView can be later used to display the data in other formats.

10.2 Linear Stripping Voltammetry

Experiments → Stripping Voltammetry → Linear Stripping
Voltammetry stripping technique is a high-sensitivity electrochemical method for trace
elements analysis. In Linear Stripping, a constant potential deposition step is first applied.
After that, the species accumulated on the electrode surface are stripped out by applying a
linear potential, which is scanned from an initial potential to a final potential that progresses at
a defined scan rate.

OCP will display the current open circuit potential of the cell (update per second). If the
instrument is turned off, this value will display “Not Available”.

Parameter Range Description

Conditioning E(V) -10~10 Cleaning/conditioning potential

Conditioning T(s) ≥0 Cleaning potential duration; the current is not

sampled.

Deposition E(V) -10~10 Deposition potential is normally 0.3~0.5V more

negative than the redox standard potential, which
makes it easy to reduce the tested metal ions.

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Deposition Time(s) >0 The time of the deposition process

Quiet Time(s) >0 Waiting time after deposition and before stripping

Initial E(V) -10~10 Initial potential in stripping

Final E(V) -10~10 Final potential in stripping

Scan Rate(mV/s) 0.01~1000 Scan rate in stripping process

Deposition Parameters
Before the experiment, the surface of working electrode needs cleaning by this
conditioning step.
A constant potential deposition step is applied to accumulate species on the working
electrode surface. This potential can be specified to choose either “vs. OCP” or “vs. RE”.
The deposition time determines how long the potential will be held at this step. After
deposition, the experiment can be quiet for some time.
Linear Stripping Parameters
A potential can be specified in several ways. If “vs. OCP” is chosen, the specified
potential is added to the open circuit potential of the cell. “vs.RE” means selecting an exact
potential.
Data Acquisition
If Frequency(Hz) is chosen, the acquisition rate in points/second is specified.
Axis Type
When the experiment is performed, the data will be displayed as specified by the Axis
Type. CorrView can be later used to display the data in other formats.

10.3 Staircase Stripping Voltammetry

Experiments → Stripping Voltammetry → Staircase Stripping
In Staircase Stripping, a constant potential deposition step is applied. After that the species
accumulated on the electrode surface are stripped out by applying a staircase potential, which
is incremented from Initial E toward Final E that progresses at a defined increment. It’s similar
to linear stripping. Staircase stripping is considered to be a derivative of linear sweep
stripping.

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OCP will display the current open circuit potential of the cell (update per second). If the
instrument is turned off, this value will display “Not Available”.
Staircase Stripping Parameters
Before the experiment, the surface of working electrode needs cleaning by this
conditioning step.
A constant potential deposition step is applied to accumulate species on the working
electrode surface. This potential can be specified to choose either “vs. OCP” or “vs. RE”.
The deposition time determines how long the potential will be held at this step. After
deposition, the experiment can be quiet for some time.
Data Acquisition
If Frequency (Hz) is chosen, the acquisition rate in points/second is specified.
Axis Type
When the experiment is performed, the data will be displayed as specified by the Axis
Type. CorrView can be later used to display the data in other formats.

10.4 Square wave stripping Voltammetry

Experiments → Stripping Voltammetry → Square Wave Stripping
In square wave stripping voltammetry, the potential applied on the working electrode is
linearly varied in the mode of square-wave in stripping process. The stripping process applies
the technique of substantial differential, and the potential applied on the working electrode is
in the mode of a symmetric square wave being superimposed on a base step potential. High
sensitivity and fast scanning are its advantages, which reduces the analysis time.

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OCP will display the current open circuit potential of the cell (update per second). If the
instrument is turned off, this value will display “Not Available”.
.
Deposition Parameters
Conditioning E: Before deposition, the conditioning potential is applied on the working
electrode to remove impurities. The working electrode surface state is automatically updated.
Conditioning T: the duration of conditioning potential.
Deposition E: Deposition potential is normally 0.3 ~ 0.5V more negative than the redox
standard potential, which makes it easy to reduce the tested metal ions.
Deposition time: the duration of deposition potential.
Quiet time: Stop stirring, the potential is not applied on the working electrode.
Square wave stripping Parameters
Initial E: the minimum potential for stripping process to begin.
Final E: final potential is generally higher than the oxidation potential of analyte ions.
Inc.E: the incremental potential of each step.
Amplitude: Square wave amplitude
The potential can be specified in several ways. If “vs. OCP” is chosen, the specified
potential is added to the open circuit potential of the cell. For example, “0.1V vs. OCP” means
applying a potential 0.1V above the open circuit potential. “vs.RE” means selecting an exact
potential.
Data Acquisition
If Frequency(Hz) is chosen, the acquisition rate in points/second is specified.
Axis Type
When the experiment is performed, the data will be displayed as specified by the Axis
Type. CorrView can be later used to display the data in other formats.

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10.5 Differential Pulse Stripping Voltammetry
Experiments → Stripping Voltammetry→Differential Pulse Voltammetry Stripping

OCP will display the current open circuit potential of the cell (update per second). If the
instrument is turned off, this value will display “Not Available”.
Data Acquisition
If Frequency(Hz) is chosen, the acquisition rate in points/second is specified.
Axis Type
When the experiment is performed, the data will be displayed as specified by the Axis
Type. CorrView can be later used to display the data in other formats.

10.6 Normal Pulse Stripping Voltammetry

Experiments → Stripping Voltammetry→Normal Pulse Voltammetry Stripping

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OCP will display the current open circuit potential of the cell (update per second). If the
instrument is turned off, this value will display “Not Available”.

Data Acquisition
If Frequency (Hz) is chosen, the acquisition rate in points/second is specified.
Axis Type
When the experiment is performed, the data will be displayed as specified by the Axis
Type. CorrView can be later used to display the data in other formats.

10.7 Differential Normal Pulse Stripping Voltammetry

Experiments → Stripping Voltammetry→Differential Normal Pulse Voltammetry
Stripping

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OCP will display the current open circuit potential of the cell (update per second). If the
instrument is turned off, this value will display “Not Available”.

Data Acquisition
If Frequency (Hz) is chosen, the acquisition rate in points/second is specified.
Axis Type
When the experiment is performed, the data will be displayed as specified by the Axis
Type. CorrView can be later used to display the data in other formats.

11. Impedance(EIS)
11.1 EIS vs. Frequency (IMP)
Experiments → Impedance → EIS vs. Frequency
In EIS vs. Frequency technique, it measures the impedance spectroscopy of the
electrochemical system in difference frequency. Nyquist and Bode plot is obtained.

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OCP will display the current open circuit potential of the electrolytic cell (update per
second). It is useful for the users to judge whether the working electrode is stable for
impedance test.
File Name
The user should enter a file name to save data before starting the test. At the first time,
when You input a name and click OK, you will see the default data storage path on the top of
the testing window. Or you can click the Browse, and choose the storage path as you want.
This is particularly useful if you forget the file names that you already use.
CS Studio will automatically append the suffix “.z60” to a file name. For example, if you
input “tutor1”, the name of the data file will be shown as “tutor1.z60”.
Polarization
DC potential: the DC polarization potential of the working electrode during impedance
test. If the test needs to be conducted under open circuit potential, the user should enter “0”
and select “vs. OCP” here. At this moment, the potentiostat will automatically give an output
of OCP+ DC potential on the working electrode. For example, if you need to do the
impedance test under 50mV DC potential of anodic polarization, you can enter “0.05”.
If the test needs to be carried out at a certain potential (such as-0.5V vs. SCE), you can
select “vs. RE” and enter “-0.5”, then the potentiostat will polarize the working electrode to be
-0.5V.
AC amplitude is the amplitude of the electrochemical impedance excitation signals. For
example, E=0.012sin(t) V means AC signal amplitude is 12mV. Under high frequency, the
actual polarization amplitude of the working electrode may be lower than this value due to rate
limitation of the amplifier and high-frequency transmission loss of the conducting wires.
Frequency Sweep
The user should choose the mode of frequency sweep. Frequency sweep starts from the
initial frequency to the final frequency, and the mode can be both linear and logarithmic.
If you choose linear mode, the measured points will be evenly distributed between the
initial frequency and final frequency. For example, if the frequency range is from “1kHz to

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1Hz”, and you set “10” measured points, the frequencies will be “1Hz, 99.9Hz, 2×99.9Hz ...”
Generally speaking, this mode is not usually selected unless for special requirements.
If you choose logarithmic, the sampling data points will be evenly distributed in
frequency logarithmic axis (Bode plot). It is particularly useful when frequency range is
between 2 to 5 orders of magnitude. For example, if the frequency range is from100kHz to
0.01Hz, and you set 10 points/10 decade, then the measured points will be evenly distributed
between initial and final frequency, 70 points in total. The users usually choose this mode.

Pstat/Gstat(ECS)
For regular electrochemical impedance system, in ground mode the “real” mode is
recommended. The bandwidth of filter can be 2.2pF~1μF.

Analyzer

For stable system, you

can select “off”. For
high impedance system
(e.g. coating), you can
choose 22~100pFto
reduce the noise of the
plot. But there may be a
small additional
capacitor ring in the
high impedance region
of the spectroscopy.

For low impedance

system, you can choose
2mA. For high
impedance system, you
can choose
20μA~200μA. If the
range is not properly set,
noise may appear on the
EIS plot.

Current range
The user can set current range automatically/manually. If select “auto”, you need to set a
minimum current range in high frequency. In the above dialog for example, when the
measuring frequency is over 1000Hz, the auto current range will be no lower than 2mA.
The high frequency is defined by the user. In the above picture, f >1000Hz is high
frequency region, f <10Hz is low frequency region, and 10Hz ~1000Hz is middle frequency
region.
If auto current range cannot meet the need, then manual setting is recommended. For
example, in above picture, under manual setting, the current range is 2mA(f >1000Hz), 200μ
A (f <10Hz and f =10Hz ~1000Hz )
To improve measurement accuracy, the setting for current range should be varied. The
user should select suitable current range according to frequency band. In general, current
range at low frequency should be smaller than that at high frequency. If the current range is set

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inappropriately, the EIS plot may appear large noise. If the current range is changed frequently,
there will be obvious bent points on the curve. By observing signal amplitude of the waveform,
the user can judge if the current range is suitable.

Bandwidth
The higher the selected capacitance value is, the narrower the bandwidth of the
potentiostat will be. The performance in high-frequency will weaken, but stability will be
improved.
Bandwidth is set based on the critical frequency fc. If the measurement frequency is
higher than fc, normally you should choose a small capacitance (or turn it off) to avoid false
impedance spectra in high frequency region. But for high impedance system, it may result in
oscillation. You may have to increase the capacitance. To check if oscillation occurs, you can
observe the signal amplitude of the waveform.
Integration Time
The impedance measurement accuracy can be improved by increasing the integration time.
You can set the integration time to be the number of cycles or seconds. It specifies the time
spent on each frequency point. The longer the integration time is, the higher the measurement
accuracy will be, and the more time it will take.
Delay time is the waiting time between measurement of two frequency points.

The impedance spectroscopy analyzing

Impedance data file (.z60) is fully compatible with Zview software which is the tool to
analyze impedance spectroscopy and draw graphics. After data acquisition in impedance test,
you can click “Tools”→“EIS Analysis” or directly click Zview icon to analyze data.

11.2 EIS vs Time (IMPT)

Experiments → Impedance → EIS vs. Time (IMPT)
IMPT measures the impedance characteristics of the electrochemical system as a function
of time at a fixed frequency. It tracks the dynamic processes of some systems, such as
conductivity.

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OCP will display the current open circuit potential of the electrolytic cell (update per
second). This is particularly useful for the user to judge whether the working electrode is
stable for impedance test.

Polarization
DC potential is the DC polarization potential of the working electrode during impedance
test. If the test needs to proceed under open circuit potential (OCP), then you can enter “0” and
select “vs. OCP”. At this moment the potentiostat will automatically give an output of the sum
of OCP and the DC potential to the working electrode. If you do the impedance test at anodic
polarization50mV DC potential, you can enter “0.05” here.
If the test needs to be carried out at a certain potential (such as-0.5V vs. SCE), you can
select “vs. RE” and enter “-0.5”. The potentiostat will polarize the working electrode to be
“-0.5V”, instead of “-0.5+OCP”.
AC amplitude is the amplitude of the electrochemical impedance excitation signals. For
example, E = 0.012 sin (t) V means AC signal amplitude is 12mV. At high frequency, the
actual polarization amplitude of the working electrode may be lower than this value due to rate
limitation of the amplifier and high-frequency transmission loss of the conducting wires.
Time Scan
In Impedance~ Time scan, frequency of sine wave is constant. It measures the impedance
of some electrochemical systems at a frequency point as a function of time.
Interval - interval for measurement at each frequency point.
Total time- the total time of measurement.
Pstat/Gstat(ECS)
Click this button, and open the window for instrument setting. You can choose the
instrument model, set the switching way of current range, signal gain/loss, ground mode, filter
bandwidth, digital smoothing, quiet time (scan delay). For regular electrochemical impedance
measurement system, real ground mode is recommended, and 2.2pF~1μF is OK for filter
bandwidth.

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Cell Setting
You can enter related information of one or more working electrode(s) and electrolytic
cell(s), eg. surface area, material, and temperature... The electrode area, density and chemical
equivalent will affect the results of experiment and fitting. Temperature or type of RE will not
affect the original data; they are just saved in each data file for info. Meanwhile, these
parameters are needed for corrosion rate calculation.

11.3 EIS vs Potential(IMPE)

Experiments→ Impedance → EIS vs. Potential
This method is used to measure impedance characteristics at different DC polarization
potential. The potential is stepped from initial potential to final potential. It can obtain
Mott-Schottky (M-S) plot which has been widely used to study the semiconductor
characteristics of passivation film on the metal. It can determine the carrier type, concentration
and the flat band potential of the semiconductor passivation film.
When the passivation film is in contact with the solution and the space charge of the
semiconductor passivation film is in the state of depletion, for the space charge capacitance
(Csc) and the measured voltage (Vm), there is the following linear relationship:

Where, Vfb is flat band potential, Nd and Na are the carrier concentration of donor and
acceptor respectively, ε is the relative permittivity, ε0 is the vacuum permittivity, A the
electrode surface area, k is Boltaman constant, T is absolute temperature, e is the quantity of
electric charge.
Passivation film is of a double layer structure. Because the composition and crystal
structure are different for the inner and outer layer of the passivation film, semiconductor type
is also different. Therefore, two space charge layers are formed inside the passivation film,
that is, the space charge layer on solution /passivation film interface, and the inner layer /outer
layer interface pn junction capacitance. Because pn and passivation film capacitance are small,
in the impedance ~ potential sweep, high-frequency sine wave is generally used for
measurement.

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OCP will display the actual open circuit potential of the electrolytic cell (update per
second). This is particularly useful for the user to determine whether the working electrode is
stable for impedance test.
EIS Parameters
Frequency and AC Amplitude specify the frequency and amplitude of sine wave during
the impedance measurement.
Potential Parameters
Initial E is the initial DC level of the working electrode in impedance ~ potential sweep.
Final E is the final potential in impedance ~ potential sweep.
Inc. E is the potential increment. Potential is increased with the form of steps.
Pstat/Gstat(ECS)
Click on this button, and open the window for instrument setting. You can choose the
instrument model, set the switching way of current range, signal gain/loss, ground mode, filter
bandwidth, digital smoothing, quiet time (scan delay). For regular electrochemical impedance
measurement system, real ground mode is recommended, and 10pF~100pF is OK for filter
bandwidth.
Cell Setting
You can enter related information of one or more working electrode(s) and electrolytic
cell(s), eg. surface area, material, and temperature... The electrode area, density and chemical
equivalent will affect the results of experiment and fitting. Temperature or type of RE will not
affect the original data; they are just saved in each data file for info. Meanwhile, these
parameters are needed for corrosion rate calculation.

12. Charging/Discharging
12.1 Battery Charging/Discharging
Experiments → Charging/Discharging → Battery Charging/Discharging
It is used to test the charge and discharge characteristics of rechargeable battery and its
lifetime.

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Experiment parameters
Charge current --According to different connecting ways of the electrodes, the sign of
charge current will be different. Connect the working electrode to anode, and the reference &
counter electrodes to the cathode, if the open circuit potential is positive, then a positive value
entering means charging process.
E-Threshold for C-V Conv. is the critical voltage where charge process is changed from
constant current mode to constant voltage mode. Normally in the early stage of charge, it is
constant current charge mode. Once the battery voltage is higher than the critical voltage, it
will convert to constant voltage mode. At this moment, the charge current will gradually
decrease with time. When it falls to the trickle current (usually 10% ~ 20% of the charge
current), the software will automatically stop charging.
Discharge current - Connect the working electrode to anode, and the reference & counter
electrode are connected to cathode, if the OCP is a positive value, then it means discharging if
you enter a negative value here.
Discharge threshold voltage - During discharge process, when the voltage drops to this
threshold voltage, the battery will stop discharge.
Quiet time - it specifies the interval from the state of charging to discharging. The battery
is in the open circuit during this time.
Charge/ Discharge time -When the charge/discharge time is reached, even the specified
threshold voltage hasn’t been reached yet, the charge / discharge process will stop, and turn to
discharge/charge. You can select second, minute or hour.
Cycles - a complete cycle includes a charging & discharging process. This parameter
specifies the total number of cycles throughout the experiment. When the number is reached,
the experiment will be stopped.

12.2 Galvanostatic Charging/Discharging (GCD)

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Experiments→ Charging/Discharging → Galvanostatic Charging/Discharging
It measures cyclic charge-discharge characteristics of the electrode materials, such as
secondary battery or supercapacitor electrode material, under a constant current. It tests the
cycle lifetime of the electrode material.

Charge/Discharge Current
Charging I- if the anode is connected to the working electrode, entering a positive value
means charge.
Discharging I- if the anode is connected to the working electrode, entering a negative
value means discharge.

Condition for switch of Charging/Discharging

Based on Time
It specifies the duration of the process of charge /discharge. Charging process will be
stopped and it will turn to discharge if the charging time reaches the set value. After the time
of discharging, a cycle is finished. It will go to the charging process again. You can select
“seconds”, “minute” and “hour.”
Based on Time and E
Either condition is met, the charge/discharge process switch.
Cycles- a complete cycle includes a charge and a discharge process. It specifies the total
number of cycles conducted throughout the experiment. When this number is met, the
experiment will be stopped.
Capacity calculation
Specific capacitance is calculated according to the following formula:

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I t
C=
mV
Where I is charging(discharging) current. t is discharging(charging) time, V is
discharging(charging) potential difference, m is the mass of electrode active materials (note: m
cannot be 0, otherwise the software will give an error prompt.)
Through many times of cyclic measurement, we can evaluate the lifespan of the
capacitors. By symmetry of the charging and discharging curve, we can judge whether
capacitor charging and discharge, and the electrochemical reactions are reversible or not.
Charge-discharge efficiency () is calculated according to:
C t
 = dis 100%  = dis 100%
Cch ,
tch
Where, Cch, Cdis is the charging capacitance and discharging capacitance, respectively.
tch,tdis is charging time and discharging time, respectively, they are displayed on the
software.
Excl. the first cycle - Normally error is relatively big for the data of the first cycle. You
can check it to not save the data of the first cycle.

12.3 Potentiostatic charge and discharge (PCD)

This technique aims to checking the charge and discharge characteristic of the battery,
and test the service life of the battery.

Charging Voltage (V): charge under a constant voltage.

Discharging Voltage (V): discharge under a constant voltage. You can check the First
discharge to let the system be under discharge.
Charge / discharge switch conditions

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Based on Time: You can set the time for each process. When the time is up it will change
from charge to discharge or from discharge state to charge.
Based on Current: When current meets the conditions for switch, it will go to a different
process.
Quiet time: the intervals when battery turns to discharge from charge. During the quiet
time the battery is under open circuit state.
Cycles: A cycle includes a charge and discharge process. When the number of
charge-discharge process reaches this number you set, the whole battery test will end.
Capacity calculation: Specific capacitance and specific energy not check as default.
After the test, you can find the related calculation result in the data .dat

13. Misc.Techniques
13.1 Electrochemical Noise (EN)
Experiments→Misc.Techniques→Electrochemical
Noise
This method is mainly used to monitor noise
potential and the noise current (zero resistance current or
galvanic current) as a function of time. Monitoring
duration can be set.
For CS series electrochemical workstation, the noise
signals (or galvanic current) measurement is different
from other methods in that it doesn’t need to be in the state of polarization. In the
noise/galvanic current measurement, the working (galvanic) electrodeⅠis connected to the
green clamp of the electrode cable, and working (galvanic) electrodeⅡis connected to the
black clamp, and the reference electrode is connected to the yellow clamp. (See the picture on
the right.)
Run the CS Studio software, select electrochemical noise measurement, on the software
dialog box, it will appear coupling potential and galvanic current. If the current value is
positive, it means the working /galvanic electrode Ⅰ is anode and the working (galvanic)Ⅱ is
cathode. The current flows from electrode Ⅰ to electrode Ⅱ.
During measurement, the potentiostat will automatically switch current range according to
the current.

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Data Acquisition
If Frequency(Hz) is chosen, the acquisition rate in points/second is specified.
Axis Type
When the experiment is performed, the data will be displayed as specified by the Axis
Type. CorrView can be later used to display the data in other formats.

13.2 Electrochemical Stripping/Deposition

Experiments → Misc.Techniques → Electrochemical Stripping/Deposition
A constant polarization potential is applied on the working electrode, and monitor the
polarization current as a function of time. The polarization total time can be specified by the
user, and it can also be set as that when the polarization current achieves a certain value, test is
automatically terminated.

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Deposition Parameters
Applied potential (V)—it is the potential applied to the measured system. For CS series
electrochemical workstation, if the polarization potential is “vs. OCP”, then negative value
means cathodic polarization, and positive value means anodic polarization. By clicking on the
drop-down box, users can choose the applying way of polarization potential.
Total time— you can specify the duration of potentiostatic polarization; time unit can be
“second”, “minute” or “hour”.
Experiment Termination
If you select “Use I” and set the quiet time and current sampling interval, the software will
automatically terminate potentiostatic polarization test once the polarization current is higher
than the specified maximum value (anodic current) or lower than the specified minimum value
(cathodic current).
If you choose “Based on Di/Dt”, the program will automatically terminate potentiostatic
polarization test once the Di/Dt is higher than the set value.
If you choose “Disable”, neither of the two conditions to terminate the test works.
Data Acquisition
If Frequency (Hz) is chosen, the acquisition rate in points/second is specified.
Axis Type
When the experiment is performed, the data will be displayed as specified by the Axis
Type. CorrView can be later used to display the data in other formats.
13.3 Electrochemical Potentiokinetic Reactivation (EPR)
Experiments → Misc.Techniques → Electrochemical Potentiokinetic Reactivation
This technique can be applied to evaluate susceptibility to intergranular corrosion. It can
be determined by Ia/Ir(activation peak current/reactivation peak current). It can also be
obtained by the ratio Qa /Qr. When the experiment is finished, the measured data can be
analyzed and obtain the value of Ir, Ia, Qr, and Qa through“EPR index calculation” of

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voltammetric analyzing &fitting.

Parameters setting
Initial E/Final E/Scan Rate: please refer to the parameter setting in technique
Potentiodynamic.
Sleeping Time: the time staying at final potential.
Cycles: The number of cycles can be set. A complete cycle is finished scanning from the
initial E to final E.

13.4 Bulk Electrolysis with Coulometry (BE)

Experiments→Misc.Techniques→Bulk Electrolysis with Coulometry
In Bulk Electrolysis with Coulometry (BE), a constant potential is applied and the
integrated charge is recorded as a function of time.

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Parameters setting
Preelec E(V): the potential in pre-electrolysis process.
Preelec T: duration of the pre-electrolysis process.
Electrolysis E(V): the potential in electrolysis process.
Electrolysis T: duration of the process of electrolysis.
End current ratio (%): One condition to terminate the electrolysis process.
Electrolysis T and End current ratio jointly determine the termination of electrolysis.
Data Acquisition
If Frequency (Hz) is chosen, the acquisition rate in points/second is specified.
Axis Type
When the experiment is performed, the data will be displayed as specified by the Axis
Type. CorrView can be later used to display the data in other formats.

13.5 Solution resistance Rs measurement

Set the AC amplitude and test frequency, and click "Start". After the test, the software
will display the value of the solution resistance Rs. Repeat three times to get the average value
of the solution resistance.

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13.6 Cyclic Polarization Curve (CPP)

Initial E, final E and scan rate: you can refer to contents in potentiodynamic
Return potential: the reverse scan final potential
Reverse scan rate: the scan rate from final potential to initial potential
Constant potential conditions
When you check the first condition, it means, when the response current is higher than
your set value, the instrument will apply a constant potential. You can set this constant
potential and the duration/keep time. The logic is similar for second condition.
If you don’t choose any condition, it will not proceed the potentiostatic process.
Potentiostatic: if you set vs. Meas, the potential the instrument actually apply is the sum
of the instantaneous potential when potentiodynamic stage turns to potentiostatic and the
setting value here in potentiostatic. If vs. OCP, the potential the instrument actually apply is
the sum of OCP and the setting value. If vs. RE, the potential the instrument actually apply

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is the setting value.

13.7 Multi potentiostatic

It aims to achieving custom measurement that multi potentials, multi duration for each
potential can be set.

Set the value of the potential and applied duration/step time

Modify potential and step time

Remove the selected project
Remove all
move up and down to adjust the order
You can import several parameter settings at one time
14. Timing measurement

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It aims to setting the running mode of a certain experiment. This function allows the user
to perform automatic measurement at a set time interval after a specified time. It facilitates the
user to track the time change characteristics of a certain testing system.
After a file name is specified, the start will be activated.
You can specify the exact time the experiment will run from and the intervals for each
measurement and the total cycles of the measurement. It also displays the current cycles it has
run.
For the experiment involves polarization (such as potentiodynamic, cyclic voltammetry,
EIS), after each cycle, the instrument will automatically cut off the polarization and let the cell
be in the status of OCP till the next measurement/cycle.
When the times of the measurement reach the total cycles, the window will exit
automatically to end the project. The user can judge the measurement time according to the
serial number at each data file name.

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15. Graph Display
15.1 “.cor” Data file Graphing
Data file format:
EIS: .z60
Others: .cor
The data file can be open by notepad in txt format. And it can be copied and pasted to
Excel for drawing.

Double-click to import a data file

For all the techniques based on constant potential, constant current, galvanic current, the
window displays real-time data in the form of graphs, and can “stop”, “pause”, or “reverse”.

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dynamic graph display window

The file name is shown at the top of the window. The techniques such as potentiostatic,
potentiodynamic, parameters such as the scan rate, measuring time, working status, total data
amount, etc , and test completion percentage will be shown at the bottom.
CS Studio will automatically find the best beginning and end point in the coordinate and
refresh the graph in real time.

Coordinate

E vs. time- the abscissa is time in “second”; the Y- axis is potential of the electrode.
I vs. time- the abscissa is time in “second”; the Y- axis is current.
E vs. I- the abscissa is current; the Y- axis is the potential of the electrode.
I vs. E- the abscissa is the potential of the electrode; the Y- axis is current.
E vs. Log I- the abscissa is the logarithm of the absolute current; the Y- axis is the
potential of electrode.
E+I vs. time- The abscissa is time, and the Y- axis is electrode’s potential and polarization

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(galvanic) current.
Q vs. Time - the abscissa is time and the Y- axis is the integral quantity of electric charges.

Zoom In
If you want to zoom in a local position, you can left-press the mouse button on the target
area, and drag it to the lower- right side, and then release the button. The selected graph will
be immediately zoomed in and fill up the entire window. The graph will not be updated, but
CS studio is still scanning and acquiring data signals. If you want to go back to the previous
state , please just double click the mouse anywhere on the graph or click “zoom out”.

Buttons
Stop

Click to stop the ongoing test.

Pause/Start
Click to pause the test, re-click to resume the testing.
Reverse
Click button then the scan direction will be reversed. It is only used in potentiodynamic
and cyclic voltammetry test. A single click will let the scan direction reverse, and the scan rate
keeps unchanged. Click again, then the direction will be returned to the original.
Polar off
Click then you can change the state of the electrode polarization anytime.
Print
Click , then the real-time graph in the window will be output to the printer immediately.
Copy

Click then the real-time graph in the window can be copied and pasted.
Auto zoom

Click then the real-time graph will zoom in and fill up the entire graph window.
Data reader
It shows the real -time data, from left to right they are: data points, time(s), potential(V),
current(A). If you want to know the value of a certain point, you can click the icon and
move the mouse cursor on that specific point on the graph. The value will be displayed
immediately. For example, if you set coordinate to be “E-T”, then the text will be the time and
potential; and if you select “E-I”, then the text will be current density and potential.
Show Grid
Click , the coordinate grids will be shown, click it again not to show the grids.
Show Parameters

Click then the testing parameters can be shown, click it again not to display.
Show Mark

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Click button to display the mark. Click it again to cancel display.

Help
Click to get help info. of the test at present.

15.2 “.z60” Impedance Data

CS studio will display the real-time impedance data. The real part, the imaginary part, the
impedance modular, phase angle and frequency will be displayed. The measuring data will be
automatically saved.
Data reader
If you want to know the value of a certain data point on the graph, you can click and
move the cursor to the graph area, then the data will be displayed immediately. You can read
the real part, imaginary part, frequency, impedance modular and phase angle of a data point in
“Nyquist” or “Bode” plot, as shown in below.

EIS vs. Frequency testing window

Zoom in
If you want to zoom in a local position, you can left-press the mouse button on the target
area, and drag it to the lower- right side, and then release the button. The selected graph will
be immediately zoomed in and fill up the entire window. The graph will not be updated, but
CS Studio is still scanning and acquiring data signals. If you want to go back to the previous
state, please just double click the mouse anywhere on the graph or click “zoom out”.
Note: Due to the large amount of data during the test, you’d better use the zoom in
function after the measurement.
Stop
Click button to stop the testing and change from polarization status to natural status.
Waveform
The waveform window shows the acquired potential and current waveform during EIS
test, and guide the user to choose the suitable “Min. High Freq. range” and “Bandwidth” in the

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analyzer setting. If the noise is big, you should probably increase capacitance of the bandwidth
filter, and prevent measuring system oscillation.
For EIS test of high-impedance system, if you don’t open the bandwidth response
capacitor in analyzer setting, oscillation may happen, as shown in below. In this picture, you
can’t see sine signals, and the amplitude is not 10mV, meaning there is oscillation in the
testing system.

(close bandwidth capacitor) acquired potential / current waveform (oscillation appears)

Choose the bandwidth capacitance to be “22pF” in analyzer setting, then you can see the
normal sine wave signals, suggesting that the instrument can response to the applied sine wave
signals, and works properly. As shown in below picture, the amplitude of the potential signals
is 10mV, in accordance with the amplitude of the applied signals. Meanwhile, the current
signal is around 100μA, matching the selected current range 200μA. If the current amplitude is
too big or too small, there will be relatively big error in the measured impedance spectroscopy.
You should re-adjust the min. high freq. range in analyzer setting.

(selecting 22pF capacitor) acquired potential/current waveform (normal sine wave signals)
If just current signals noise is big, the cause may be high input impedance of the reference
electrode loop (eg. high-impedance coating). You should increase the capacitance of the
bandwidth filter to improve the stability.

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16. Tools
16.1 Data Export

This command is to export the data file of the active window, and save as data file
suffixed with “.cor”. The data format is “.csp” if you choose “save project as”.
16.2 Data fitting
There are: Tafel fitting, linear fit, integration, Noise, cell information, modify data, Rp fit,
Least square method etc.

Data Fitting

Modify Data
This is used to change the original data for data / graph offset and flipping. After
modification, all data is changed. During switch, there will be a prompt to ask if you want to
save the data.
If you want to do subtraction, you only need to enter a negative value in Addition. If you
want to do division, you just need to change the corresponding relationship.

Cell info.
See Cell Setting 3.2.
Electrode area is the area of the working electrode. If it is 1, the current density will be the
same as the measured current in value.
CS Studio employs material density or the chemical equivalent for corrosion rate
calculation. Chemical equivalent= atomic weight/the number of electrons transferred in the
reaction. For example, for reaction Fe-2e →Fe2+, the number of transferred electrons is 2,
then the chemical equivalent is 55.8/2=27.9.
If such values are not entered, then the software only calculate the polarization resistance

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Rp or the Tafel slope, and cannot calculate corrosion rate.
“Polarity” determines how the positive/negative potential/current is interpreted. When
choose the normal “O2+”, a more positive potential will produce a bigger oxidation driving
force, meanwhile the generated current is positive. If you choose “O2-”, a more negative
potential will produce a bigger oxidation driving force, the oxidation current value is negative.

Rp fitting
Polarization resistance is the slope of the E-I curve near the open circuit potential.
If the data range is set to be “auto”, CS Studio will automatically find the open circuit
potential (current is around 0), and choose data range of 20mV at each side of the OCP. If you
don’t think this is an appropriate range, you can re-position the mouse on the curve to select a
desired data range, or directly enter a max. and min. potential.
Fitting results:
Rp (Ohms/cm2): slope of the curve
E0(V): The potential where polarization current changes direction. They usually keep in
accordance with the OCP of the system.
I0(A/cm2): current density is computed based on the Stern-Geary equation (Stern-Geary, J.
Electrochem. Soc. 104,561957)
𝛽𝑎 × 𝛽𝑐 1
𝑖𝑐𝑜𝑟𝑟 = ×
𝛽𝑎 + 𝛽𝑐 𝑅𝑝
Because the Tafel slope (Ep&bc) cannot be obtained directly in linear polarization area,
CS studio program assume it to be 0.12V/dec, thus for Stern Geary coefficient:
𝛽𝑎 × 𝛽𝑐 𝑏𝑎 × 𝑏𝑐
𝐵= =
𝛽𝑎 + 𝛽𝑐 2.303(𝑏𝑎 + 𝑏𝑐 )
Normally, assign the B to be 18mV (it can also be set in cell info.), then,
18mV
𝐼𝑐𝑜𝑟𝑟 (mA/cm2 ) =
RP
Corrosion rate is calculated according:
MPY =Icorr(A/cm2)×chemical equivalent (g/mol)×393.7(mil/cm)÷density(g/cm3)×365
×24×3600(s/Y)÷96500(C/mol);
mm/a = MPY÷39.37(mil/mm).
For carbon steel,1mm/a = 11.73×Icorr (mA/cm2), 1MPY = 462.2×Icor r(mA/cm2)
Therefore, only after the electrode parameters are set can the corrosion rate of metal be
calculated.

Tafel fitting
It provides four methods. The anodic/cathodic fitting is based on linear fitting principle:
𝐸−𝐸0 −(𝐸−𝐸0 )
𝑖 = 𝑖0 [10 𝐵𝑎 − 10 𝐵𝑐 ]

If fit Ba, then i = i0×[10(E-Eo)/Ba] can be simplified as: lgi = E/Ba + lg i0– E0/Ba. Then it
becomes a standard linear equation. i0and Ba can be calculated.
Using the same method, you can calculate Bc. If fit the Ba and Bc respectively, then we can
calculate E0and i0 more accurately.

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Auto fitting
By auto fitting, the software will automatically find the data in range of 200mVaround
open circuit potential, and then do the anodic and cathodic fitting respectively, obtaining two
equations and the intersection of the two lines. The more accurate i0and E0will be obtained,
then we can calculate the corrosion rate.

Least square method

This method is usually used to do fitting of multi parameters, such as 4-, or 5- parameters
fitting. It employs Levenberg-Marquardt fitting. If iL is not used, then the equation is:
𝐸−𝐸0 −(𝐸−𝐸0 )
𝑖 = 𝑖0 [10 𝐵𝑎 − 10 𝐵𝑐 ]

If using the iL, then the fitting equation is as follows:

𝐸−𝐸0
−
𝐸−𝐸0 𝑒 𝛽𝑐
𝑖 = 𝑖𝑐𝑜𝑟𝑟 [𝑒 𝛽𝑎 − 𝐸−𝐸0 ]
𝑖0 −
1− (1 − 𝑒 𝛽𝑐 )
𝑖𝐿

During fitting, you must assign an initial value to the program.

After obtaining Ba, Bc, Stern-Geary coefficient is calculated according to the following
formula:
𝛽𝑎 × 𝛽𝑐 𝑏𝑎 × 𝑏𝑐
𝐵= =
𝛽𝑎 + 𝛽𝑐 2.303(𝑏𝑎 + 𝑏𝑐 )
If the data range is set “Auto”, CS studio software will automatically find the OCP, then
choosing 250mV range for anodic and cathodic part. If you don’t think it’s a suitable range,
you can re-choose a range by locating the cursor in the curve. Then only data points between
the two cursors are involved in the computing. You can also enter max. and min. value to
directly specify the range.

Linear fit
There are six types of fitting we provide, but the latter five methods are based on the first
type, i.e., according to linear equation: y = a + bx.
Linear fit principle
The linear fitting is based on the least square method.
𝑛

θ(a, b) = ∑(𝑦𝑘 − 𝑎 − 𝑏𝑥𝑘 )2

𝑘=1

By computing the acquired data points, we can obtain the value of a,b to make the
minimum θ(a,b).
𝑛
𝜕𝜃(𝑎, 𝑏)
= −2 ∑(𝑦𝑘 − 𝑎 − 𝑏𝑥𝑘 ) = 0
𝜕𝑎
𝑘=1
𝑛
𝜕𝜃(𝑎, 𝑏)
= −2 ∑(𝑦𝑘 − 𝑎 − 𝑏𝑥𝑘 )𝑥𝑘 = 0
{ 𝜕𝑏 𝑘=1

Expand the equation:

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𝑛 𝑛

𝑛𝑎 + (∑ 𝑥𝑘 ) 𝑏 = ∑ 𝑦𝑘
𝑘=1 𝑘=1
𝑛 𝑛 𝑛

(∑ 𝑥𝑘 ) 𝑎 + (∑ 𝑥𝑘2 ) 𝑏 = ∑ 𝑥𝑘 𝑦𝑘
{ 𝑘=1 𝑘=1 𝑘=1

Other linear fittings

Take the function:i=i0×10E/B for an example:
Firstly you should judge the sign of the i;it can be either all positive or all negative.
Convert the equation to be lgi = lgi0 + E/B. Assume lgi = y, lgi0 = a, 1/B = b, then it’s
simplified to be a standard linear equation. Find the value of lgi0and 1/B, then calculate the
i0andB indirectly. The value of i0 is determined by the sign of i.

Integration
There are two kinds of integration, with background and without background. The
calculation way is basically the same, using trapezoidal integration.
Q (Quantity of electric charges)
Trapezoidal integration means to calculate the area of the trapezoid constituted by two
adjacent points, that is, to do trapezoidal integration for every data point on the I-T graph. The
current value is the bottoms, and the time difference (Δt) is the height (see the picture as
below). The sum of each trapezoidal area is the quantity of electric charges.

Q integration area diagram

Q (with background)
If the Q is with background, then we should find the area between two points and the
connection line of them. As shown in below picture, the area of the gird is to be obtained. It
equals to the difference between the area constituted by points collection and the area of the
lines.

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Q integration(background) area

Noise
We can use the method of root-mean-square (RMS) to calculate the noise between cursors,
and show the results.
E_RMS represents the RMS value of the potential noise after removing the background
drift.
I_RMS represents the RMS value of the current noise after removing the background
drift.
The formula is as follows:
∑n x 2
RMS = √ i=1 i
n

Where, n is the number of data involved in the calculation, xi is the #i data value.
Note: The results of the calculation strongly depend on the quality of data, sampling rate,
influence of filter and ambient noise etc. The validity of results depends entirely on the user’s
judgment.
16.3 Voltammetry Analysis

In the menu of voltammetry analysis, there are: CV, DPV, NPV and EPR index
calculation.

Cyclic Voltammetry
CV graph Display
In the data file, there is mark of cycle, so it can display each cycle. If the number of cycles
is more than 2, then there is a radio button “Show”. Check it, you can adjust the graph display,
from which cycle to which cycle, as you wish.

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Auto
The program provides a method to find the peak: divide the data points cycle by cycle,
then find the peak and valley of each cycle, and find a baseline which parallels to the X axis
most, obtaining the peak height and half-peak area. You can also find the peak and baseline
manually.

CV auto analysis
Anodic peak between cursors
By swapping cursor , you can locate the beginning and end position for the anodic
peak. The software will make the scan direction as baseline, and find the highest point as the
peak. The peak height and half-peak area can be calculated.

Anodic peak interface between cursors

Cathodic peak between cursors
Through swapping cursor , you can locate the beginning and end position for the
cathodic peak. Then the software will find the peak height and the half-peak area according to
the baseline and the bottom point.

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Cathodic peak interface between cursors

In CV analysis, in order to show the height line, the coordinate axis must be I vs. E.
Capacitance calculation
For CV graph, you can calculate the capacitance according to the following formula:
𝐸
∫𝐸 2 𝑖𝑑𝐸
1
C=
2𝜈∆𝐸
WhereE1, E2 is the minimum, maximum potential value in CV scan;
ΔE=E2-E1, v is the scan rate
The result is shown like this:
Segment 2:
Area = 1.6438E-05 W
ΔE = E2-E1 = 0.79803 V
Scan rate=0.05 V/s
C = 0.00020598F

Differential Pulse Voltammetry (DPV)

It provides two methods: Auto and Peak between cursors.
Two methods are supplied for DPV: auto and peak value between the cursors.
Auto
The software will automatically find the maximum current value as the peak height, and
find the place where the slope is near to zero to be the baseline, then calculate the peak
height and half-peak area.

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DPV curve in K3Fe(CN)6 system

Peak between cursors
Because there will be error or what you obtain is not what you want by auto method, we
supply manual method. By swapping the cursors to determine the beginning and ending points,
the software will then find the peak height and half-peak area based on the baseline and
highest point.
In voltammetric analysis, in order to show the height line, the coordinate must be I-E.

Normal Pulse Voltammetry(NPV)

It supplies two methods: Auto and Peak between the cursors.
Auto
Firstly you should find the median current, and then make the line that most parallels to
X-axis as the baseline, then calculate the height.

NPV curve in K3Fe (CN)6 system

Peak between the cursors(manual)
Find the median current of the data points of a whole segment, and make the baseline of
the point where the cursor is on, then calculate the height between two baselines.

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16.4 M-Scurve analysis

“Tools ”→M-S curve analysis

The generated EIS data file (.z60) is compatible to ZView software, but ZView cannot do
Mott-Schottky analysis. After data acquisition, you should click “Tools”→M-S curve analysis

to open the M-Scurve analysis. Click to import a data file, click to open M-S curve
fitting interface.

M-S curve analysis interface

Click to get the following M-S curve fitting interface:

16.5 Filter

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Two different digital filtering methods are available to eliminate burrs or noise in the data
file. You should find the suitable method according to the type of noise.
The first type is “Remove burrs”. It is especially suitable to data file that includes
abnormal burrs. For every data point in the file, you can firstly choose 5 points(current point,
the 2 points before it, and 2 points after it), delete the maximum and minimum one, then make
the average of the left three points as the new value. Using this method to handle every data
point, you can effectively remove the burrs resulted from range change of the potentiostat and
the interference noise caused by repeated on-off of the temperature controller, or the discrete
noise signals.
The second type is “5 to 25 point smoothing”. This method employs Savitzky Golay(SG)
smoothing algorithm to remove the random noise. (“Smoothing and Differentiation of Data by
Simplified Least Squares Procedures”, Analytical Chemistry, Vol. 36, No. 8, July 1964, page
1627).
If you need to use both of the two methods, you must first use “Remove burrs”.
These smoothing methods do not change the saved data file. But if you use filter and then
switch to another data file (via the active data selection box) , you will be prompted to save the
modified data as a new file.
If you need to return to the original data, you can select the same file from the active data
selection box. When the software prompts you to save the modified data file, click “No”.
Note: Please use the filter with cautiousness. The better way is to resolve the noise problem
instead of covering it. Improper usage of the filter may lead to missing of some important
information (such as the potential and current peak formed by passivation film rupture on the
surface of the electrode). Before using the digital filter, it is suggested that you check the
actual noise level of the potentiostat output signals by an oscilloscope so as to determine
whether to use the filter.
16.6 Delete Data

It supplies three methods: delete data point, delete data between cursors, and delete data
outside cursors. After the data is deleted, the source file will be unchanged. The data after
modification can also be saved via “Tools” → “Data Export”.

Delete Data Point

Considering that there may be an abnormal data point in a data file, you can use this

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 Manual of CS series Potentiostat / Galvanostat
command to delete it. After the data point is deleted, the source file will be unchanged. The
data after modification can be saved via “Tools”→ “Data Export”.
Delete data between cursors
You can use this command to delete all data points between two cursors. After the data
segment is deleted, the source file will be unchanged. The data after modification can also be
saved via “Tools” → “Data Export”.
Delete Data outside cursors
In an experiment (eg. Voltammetry stripping test), it is possible that there is only a
segment of data that is valid, then using this command, all the invalid data points (outside the
two cursors) can be selected and deleted. After deletion, the source file will be unchanged. The
data after modification can also be saved via “Tools” → “Data Export”.
16.7 EIS Analysis

ZView is a powerful EIS analysis and graphing software. It can do various

electrochemical parameters computing, and do smoothing and digital filtering to the original
potential and current data. It can also compensate solution resistance by software. ZView
interface is clear, and the data, graphs can be easily printed and saved, and output to Word in
vector mode.

ZView impedance analysis interface

Toolbar is the shortcut keys of the menu. If you locate the mouse cursor on the icon, there
will be explanation of the icon.

Open data files

Click “File” → “Data Files”(or directly )to import the EIS data file, as shown in
below:

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 Manual of CS series Potentiostat / Galvanostat

ZView data import window

Activate data
Choose the data file which is to be analyzed (marked 1).

ZView: choose the active data file

Delete data range
Select the unwanted data range (the part cannot be fitted by ZView) by the mouse cursor,
and then delete them through Tools →Delete Data Range.

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 Manual of CS series Potentiostat / Galvanostat

ZView : delete data range

Instant fit
Instant fit is to obtain the initial value, a preparation for the formal fitting afterwards.

(1) Choose the element one by one for instant fitting individually.
(2) Click for instant fitting.
(3) Choose the suitable equivalent element (eg. the one marked 2), and obtain the initial
value of the equivalent circuit.

Complex equivalent circuit fitting

Build the suitable equivalent circuit based on the instant fit (see the below picture as an
example). It depends on the actual testing system.

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 Manual of CS series Potentiostat / Galvanostat

Choose the suitable equivalent circuit from ZView for formal fitting
Drag the data in place “1” to place “2”, as shown below:

Drag the data from the instant fit window to the initial value entering box

Change “fixed” to “free”, shown in the following picture:

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 Manual of CS series Potentiostat / Galvanostat

Data fitting based on equivalent circuit

And change the mode from “Simulation”to “Fitting”

Parameters setting dialog box

The place marked with “1” are the fitting results. If you want to re-graph for the results,
choose “fit result” in place “2”, and click to show the data. After copying them to the
clipboard, they can be copied to Excel or Origin software.

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 Manual of CS series Potentiostat / Galvanostat

Fitting results and fitting curve

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 Manual of CS series Potentiostat / Galvanostat
17. Windows
This option is used to manage all current project subforms.
Cascade
All project subforms are displayed in the form of Cascade
Tile
All project subforms are displayed in the form of Tile
Arrange
All project subforms are rearranged.
Close all
Close all project subforms.
18. Help
Index and search: manual
Language: English and Chinese optional
Contact us: click to go to our company website, showing the contact info.
Check for update: click to update the software to the latest version
About: the version of the software, hardware, the serial no. etc of the instrument.

19. FAQs

1. How to use dummy cell to check the instrument?

Connect the green clamp to WE, the yellow clamp to RE, and the red one to CE.

Open the software, Click setup→Reset Workstation. During experiment, the potential and
current value should always obey the Ohm law: I= E / R

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 Manual of CS series Potentiostat / Galvanostat

Click Experiments→Potentiostatic, set the applied voltage to be 1.1V, start the test. If the
displayed potential value is 1.1V, and the current is 1mA, it means the instrument potential
output is normal.

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 Manual of CS series Potentiostat / Galvanostat
The same way, click Experiments→Galvanostatic, set the applied current to be 1mA, start the
test. If the displayed current value is 1mA, and the potential value is 1.1V, it means the
instrument current output is normal.

Combining the results, we can say the electrode cable is no problem.

2. How can I use the data to graph in Excel
The data file can be open directly in “notepad” ( txt format). And data can be copied and
pasted into Excel. You can find the demonstration in Training video file “Open data and paste
into Excel”.

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 Manual of CS series Potentiostat / Galvanostat
3. How can I save the data during experiment and how to find data file after experiment?
After you enter a name for your test here in “file name”, and click “browse” to choose a
place, then the data will be saved in that place automatically during test. After the test, you can
find the data file and open it in notepad (.txt format) You can copy the data into Excel.

If you didn't click “Browse” to choose a path for saving of data, then the data will be
saved in the default place “Setup→Settings”.

4. How can I connect my actual testing system by the electrode cable?

Three electrode system Cable connection
Greed clamp (WE) connects to working electrode (WE)
Red clamp (CE) connects to counter electrode (CE)
Yellow clamp (RE) connects to reference electrode (RE)
Black (GND) connects to galvanic electrode WEⅡ in
electrochemical noise experiment. If use a Faraday cage, black
GND and Shield connect the cage together.

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 Manual of CS series Potentiostat / Galvanostat
Two electrodes system Cable connection
The green lead connects to WE or anode;
red lead & yellow lead together connect to another electrode or cathode.

5. How to reduce the noise in electrochemical experiment?

(1). Make sure the solution in salt bridge is conductive, and that the tip of the RE is drown in
the agar and connected well with the working solution. To make sure the microporous ceramic
is well socked, so as to reduce the RE impedance.
(2). Open the filter to improve system stability.
(3). Give a serial capacitor (100nF) between the RE and CE if the noise resulted from the
solution resistance is unavoidable.
(4). For corrosion test, add a 1μF capacitor between WE and machine shell of the
potentiostat.
(5). For impedance test, make a parallel connection of a Pt wire and RE. Dip one end of the Pt
wire into solution and connect the other end to RE output port by a 100nF capacitor.
(6). All of the equipment in the experiment incl. the PC must be connected to the ground using
individual ground wire. If there is no suitable ground wire, you can use a thick copper wire to
connect the PC with a nearby metal conductive water tap.
(7). Shut down all the possible environmental interference source, such as high-power power
supply, computer monitor, stirrer, and fluorescence light etc.
(8). Use the Faraday cage, and connect it to the ground.

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 Manual of CS series Potentiostat / Galvanostat
20. Contact us

After-sales Service:
1. Warranty period: 5 years. During this period, all service including repair is FREE.
2. Provide installation guidance and manual, software installation video.
3. Lifetime free software upgrading of the same model and technical service

Technical Support Center

Email: [email protected]
Tel.: (+86) 18086482080, (+86) 18086482081

Sales Center
Email: [email protected]
[email protected]
Tel.: (+86)13971066778, (+86)13469965984

Address: Room 505, Jinfeng Building A, International Enterprise Center, Optics valley
Ave.,East Lake High-tech Development Zone, Wuhan, China, 430074

Website: www.corrtest.com.cn/en
www.corrtestinstruments.com/en

22. Appendix-electrochemical accessories

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 Appendix
Electrochemical Accessories

Model Product Picture Specification

CS900 CS900 Saturated Calomel Saturated KCl refilling
Electrode solution

CS901 Ag/AgCl reference electrode Ø4mm/Ø6mm

3.5M KCl refilling solution

CS902 Hg/HgO reference electrode Suitable for alkaline/base

solution
1M KOH refilling solution

CS903 Mercury/Mercurous sulfate suitable in acid solution

electrode Saturated K2SO4 refilling
solution

CS905 Non-aqueous Ag/Ag+ Ø4mm/Ø6mm

reference electrode

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CS910 Platinum conductivity
electrode

99.95%,10x10x0.1mm
99.95%,10x10x0.2mm
Platinum plate electrode
CS911 99.95%,20x20x0.1mm
**Size can be customized
99.95%,20x20x0.2mm
99.95%,20x20x0.3mm
99.95%, Ø
0.5x37mm(wire)
Platinum wire counter
CS912 electrode

Platinum mesh electrode 10*10mm

CS913 20*20mm

Graphite rod Φ4 / 6mm, length 150mm

CS915

Ø2~ Ø5mm
Graphite electrode

CS916

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 Ø3mm
Ø2mm
Glassy carbon working Ø4mm/Ø5mm
CS920 Electrode
Ø6mm

Ø3mm
L-shape glassy carbon
CS920L Ø2mm
working electrode
Ø4mm/Ø5mm

Carbon steel, stainless

steel, copper
Metal Electrode
CS921 Working area: 0.5cm2

Platinum working electrode 99.95%, Ø2mm

99.95%, Ø3mm
CS922

99.95%, Ø2mm

99.95%, Ø3mm
CS923 Gold working electrode

Silver working electrode Ø2mm / Ø3mm

Titanium WE Ø2mm / Ø3mm
Copper WE Ø2mm / Ø3mm
CS924
Aluminum WE Ø2mm / Ø3mm
Nickel WE Ø2mm / Ø3mm
Zinc WE Ø2mm / Ø3mm

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 Cadmium WE Ø2mm
Iron WE Ø2mm
Ø2mm/ Ø3mm

Palladium WE

10μm/25μm
Pt micro electrode
CS925

12.5μm/25μm

Gold micro electrode

CS926

Electrode is
internal-screw type.
Compatible to PINE's
PINE RDE RDE equipment with
external-screw rod
Glassy carbon disk electrode
Pt/Au disk electrode
3mm/4mm/5mm
also available
Electrode is
external-screw type.
Compatible to PINE's RDE
CS927
equipment with
internal-screw rod.
Pt/Au disk electrode
also available

RRDE- Glassy carbon

disk, Pt ring electrode
PINE RRDE Compatible to PINE's
RRDE equipment

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 Glassy carbon disk
electrode- Disk diameter
3mm, Insulator diameter
ALS RDE 12mm, length 25mm

Glassy carbon disk working

electrode OD of ring
electrode7mm, Inner
diameter 5mm; disk
ALS RRDE
diameter 4mm, Insulator
diameter 12mm, length
25mm

ALS Pt Wire Platinum counter electrode

φ 0.5*230mm

150ml
Glass electrolytic Cell, 4 ports 250ml

CS930 500ml
**Include salt bridge and gas
inlet/outlet pipe 1000ml

CS9305 Corrosion Cell, 5 ports The cell kit includes:

500mL A specimen holder (1cm2

working area) * 1
Includes all the electrodes
Graphite rods *2
Pt plate electrode*2
(10*10*0.1mm)
Saturated calomel electrode *1
Salt bridge*1
F-shape gas inlet and outlet*1

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 Jacketed glass cell 50ml
(None-sealed) 100ml
150ml
CS931 **Holes on the lid can be
tailored. No include the
electrodes shown in the pic.

50ml
CS931S Jacketed glass cell
(Sealed) 100ml

150ml
**Holes on the lid can be
tailored. No include the
electrodes shown in the pic.

CS932 H- cells None-sealed

(None-sealed) Volume:50~250mL
(each cell,
PTFE caps. The two cells
are separated by ion
membrane which is
prepared by user.
CS932S H- cells (sealed) Sealed
50~250 mL (each cell)
**Holes on the lid can be PTFE caps
tailored. No include the The two cells are separated
by ion membrane which is
electrodes shown in the pic.
prepared by user.

30*30*30mm

Photoelectrochemical 35*15*45mm
cell(quartz)
CS933
**Holes on the lid can be 40*40*40mm
tailored.
50*50*50mm

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 Photoelectrochemical cell
CS9331
**Holes on the lid can be
None- tailored. No include the
sealed *Glass cell, Teflon cap,
electrodes shown in the pic.
Quartz light window (dia.
24mm).
For working electrode, you’re
recommended to use
CS9331S
L-shape electrodes, or the
(Sealed) CS945 electrode clamp.
50ml 100ml 150ml Sealed

This kit includes:

Quartz cuvette
12.5*12.5*42mm,
Teflon cap,
Spectroelectrochemical cell Pt mesh(WE),
CS9330 Pt wire counter
(cuvette cell kit)
electrode(CE), Ag/AgCl
reference electrode(RE),
Purge tube
optical path: 8*6.5*1mm

10mL
Working area is 1cm2
Coating evaluation cell
CS934
(Paint test cell)

50mL/100mL
Electrolytic cell
CS935 (None-sealed)

**Holes on the lid can be

tailored. No include the 150mL/200mL/250mL
electrodes shown in the pic.

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 50mL

Seal electrolytic cell 100mL

** Holes on the lid can be 150mL

CS935S
tailored. No include the
electrodes shown in the pic.
250mL

working area is 1cm2

including:

Flat corrosion cell Ag/AgCl reference

electrode
-None-jacketed
Counter electrode: Pt
mesh*1 (20*20mm)

CS936
Jacketed, water circulation
for temperature control
working area is 1cm2
Flat corrosion cell including:
-Jacketed Ag/AgCl reference
electrode *1
counter electrode: Pt mesh
*1 (20*20mm)

Glass cell: 10ml

Diameter of the three
CS937 Glass cell + Teflon cap holes:
φ6.35mm, φ6.35mm,
φ6mm

Match CS930 glass cell

Base material: carbon steel.
Not included the cell and
CS940 Cell stand 1
electrodes which are for
demonstration

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 Base material: PTFE
provide 2 pieces cells
CS941 Simple Cell Stand
(30ml)

Alpha alumina powder

0.05µm,0.3µm,1µm, 10g each
Nylon polishing
pad (Ø200mm) *1
Microcloth polishing
CS942 Electrode polishing kit
pad (Ø200mm)*1
Carbimet disks
(1200-4000 grit, Ø200mm)*1
-Glass plate*2

25*25*30cm
CS942 Faraday cage

Specimen clamp Suitable for plate

specimen with thickness:
**The price is for one
CS945 < 1mm.
electrode

Effective Working area is

1cm2.
Round specimen:
diameter: 11.5~15mm,
CS946 Specimen holder Thickness 0.1 ~ 5mm.
Only One face of the sample
contacts with the solution.
PVDF rod diameter 10mm,
length 100mm

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