Radiation Monitor Troubleshooting and FAQs

This radiation monitor is no longer available. Information is presented for reference only.

Radiation Monitor, order code RM-BTD, \Contact Us
Specifications and User Guide

TROUBLESHOOTING

-Primary Test: Is the 9 V battery good? Are the correct settings chosen on the sensor?
-Primary Test: Are the monitor and source positioned properly for the type of radiation to be detected? Alpha: position the monitor so the suspected source of radiation is next to the GM window. Beta: point the end window toward the source of radiation. Gamma: hold the back of the Radiation Monitor toward the source of radiation. Low-energy gamma radiation (10-40 KeV) cannot penetrate the side of the GM tube, but may be detected through the end window.
-Secondary Test: Some types of radiation are very difficult or impossible for this GM tube to detect. Beta emissions from tritium are too weak to detect using the Radiation Monitor. Americium-241, used in some smoke detectors, can overexcite the GM tube and give an indication of a higher level of radiation than is actually there.

RELATED TIL ENTRIES

-TIL 1019: Where can I buy sources for nuclear radiation activities?
-TIL 28: Can I use the PASCO Radiation Monitor with the ULI or LabPro?
-TIL 779: What are the output signals of the Radiation Monitors?
-TIL 793: Can I monitor the radioactivity of red Fiestaware with your Radiation Monitor?
-TIL 785: When I plug the radiation monitor into LabPro it stops working. (especially if you have been using DCU).

SPECIFICATIONS

-new order code: RM-BTD
-old order code: RM-DG (ULI only)
-Sensor: LND 712 halogen-quenched GM tube with a mica window, 1.5 to 2.0 mg/cm2 thick. Rated at 1000 counts per minute using a Cesium-137 laboratory standard.
-Power: One 9-volt alkaline battery provides a battery life of 2000 hours at normal background radiation levels.
-Accuracy: Noninstrumental aligned, approximately ±20% of full scale. Instrumental aligned, approximately ±10% of full scale.
-Dimensions: 38 X 62 X 145 mm (1.5 X 2.8 X 5.7 in)
-Weight: 245 g (8.8 oz) with battery installed
-Energy Sensitivity: Alpha: Down to 2.5 MeV; typical detection efficiency at 3.6 MeV is greater than 80%. Beta: 50 KeV, typical 35% detection efficiency. Gamma and X-rays: Down to 10 KeV typical through the end window, 40 KeV through the case.
-Audio Output: Audible indication of each count available using the Audio switch position.
-Temperature Range: 0 to 50°C

CALIBRATION

It is not necessary to calibrate this sensor.

RELATED VERNIER PRODUCTS

-Student Radiation Monitor, order code SRM-BTD, \Contact Us