BIOS Defender 500 Series

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Summary

1.0 Introduction

Your Defender

Lists the items included with the Defender device.

2.0 Operation

2.1 Battery

Charging, installing, and monitoring the Defender battery.

2.2 Activation

Steps to turn the Defender device on and off.

2.3 Connections

How to attach the Defender to a device using ports and tubing.

2.4 Display Screen

Explains the components of the Defender's display screen.

2.5 Menu Navigation

Guidance on navigating through the Defender's operational menus.

2.6 Set-up

Customizing Defender settings through the setup menu.

Readings Configuration

Sets average measurements and time delay.

Units Configuration

Configures flow, pressure, and temperature units.

Preferences Configuration

Selects preferred measurement mode for initial startup.

Default Settings

Resets the Defender to its factory default settings.

Data Port Configuration

Configures the data port interface for Optimizer or CalCheck.

Magnification Control

Controls display data density and font size on Defender 520.

Diagnostics

Explains the Defender Leak Test for internal integrity.

Out of Range Warning

Explains "Out of Range!" warning and how to clear it.

2.7 Measurements

Details single, burst, and continuous measurement modes.

3.0 Data Port

Optimizer Software

Details the Bios Optimizer Collect light software for data capture.

SKC CalCheck Interface

How to set up the Defender for SKC Airchek calibration.

Defender Firmware Upgrades

Information on upgrading the Defender's firmware.

4.0 Annual Maintenance and Calibration

Assuring Performance and Accuracy

Recommends annual verification by an accredited laboratory.

5.0 Shipping

Shipping Guidelines

Guidelines for packaging and shipping the Defender safely.

6.0 Storage

Protecting Defender During Storage

Guidelines for storing the Defender for extended periods.

7.0 Defender Specifications

Models and Flow Ranges

Lists available Defender models and their flow ranges.

Measurement Specifications

Details accuracy, time per measurement, and units.

Physical and Configuration Basics

Provides dimensions, weight, configuration, and port details.

8.0 Default Settings

Original Factory Settings

Lists the default settings configured at the factory.

9.0 Limited Warranty

Warranty Responsibilities and Limitations

Defines the warranty period and limitations of Bios International Corporation.

10.0 Troubleshooting

Common Operational Questions

Addresses common operational issues and provides solutions.

Leak Protection and Testing

Advice on preventing leaks and handling failed leak tests.

Piston and Temperature Issues

Explains temperature increases and piston return problems.

Understanding Dead Volume

Defines Dead Volume and its impact on measurement accuracy.

Overview

The Defender™ 500 Series is a user-friendly device designed for measuring gas flow, with specific models offering additional temperature and pressure measurement capabilities. It utilizes proven DryCal® technology to ensure accurate volumetric gas flow measurements.

Function Description

The Defender 500 Series measures volumetric gas flow. The Defender 510 measures volumetric gas flow with an accuracy of +/- 1% of reading. The Defender 520 model extends this functionality by also measuring gas flow temperature and pressure, with the same +/- 1% accuracy for volumetric gas flow. These instruments are produced in an accredited laboratory in Butler, N.J.

Important Technical Specifications

Models

510L/520L: 5-500 mL/min
510M/520M: 50-5,000 mL/min
510H/520H: 300-30,000 mL/min

Measurements

Volumetric Accuracy: ±1% of reading
Time per Measurement: 1-15 seconds (approximate)
Type: Single, Continuous, or Burst
Volumetric Flow Units: cc/min, mL/min, L/min, cf/min
Pressure Units (Defender 520): mmHg, PSI, kPa
Temperature Units (Defender 520): °C, °F

Basics

Dimensions (H x W x D): 5.5 x 6 x 3 in / 140 x 150 x 75 mm
Weight: 29 oz / 820 g
Configuration: Integrated flow measuring cell, valve, and timing mechanism
Temperature & Pressure Sensors (Defender 520 model only): In the flow stream
Press Accuracy: 3.5 mmHg (typical), 7.0 mm (max)
Temp Accuracy: 0.8° C (typical), 1.3° C (max)
AC Power Adapter/Charger: 12VDC, 250ma, 2.5 mm, center positive
Port Tube Diameter: 1/4 in / 6.35 mm

Battery

Type: 6V rechargeable, sealed lead-acid
Typical Operation: 6-8 hours
Operational Time (5 cycles/min): 3 hrs (backlight on), 8 hrs (backlight off)

Usage

Flow Modes: Suction or Pressure
Operating Pressure (Absolute): 15 PSI
Operating Temperature: 0-50° C
Ambient Humidity: 0–70%, non-condensing
Storage Temperature: 0–70 °C

Bios Optimizer Software

Requirements: Windows Vista, Windows XP-SP2 or Windows 2000-SP3 compatible PC and RS-232 (serial) connection
Included: Bios Optimizer installation CD, RS-232 cable for Defender 500 Series data port to PC RS-232 (serial) port connection
Optional: PC Card to create an RS-232 port on your PC
Upgrade: Licensed upgrade to Bios Optimizer Collect is available

Usage Features

Activation and Operation

Turning On: Press the On/Off button for 1 second. An opening screen displays product name, model number, and flow range.
Turning Off: Press the On/Off button for 3 seconds.
Connections: Use 1/4 inch diameter tubing. Connect to the top outlet (suction fitting) for devices that draw air (e.g., samplers). Connect to the bottom inlet (pressure fitting) for devices that push air in (pressure devices). Do not cap the unused port.

Display Screen and Menu Navigation

The device features a backlit graphical LCD display. Four directional arrow buttons and an ENTER button on the control panel allow navigation through operational menus. Highlighted selections indicate the current menu location. Angle brackets (<...>) denote multiple options, which can be cycled using left/right arrow buttons. Changes are saved by highlighting CONFIRM and pressing ENTER.

Setup Menu

The Setup menu allows customization of the Defender. It includes eight submenus:

Readings: Choose the number of measurements in an average (1-100) and set a time delay between consecutive measurements (1-60 minutes).
Units: Set gas flow in cubic centimeters, milliliters, liters, or cubic feet (all per minute). For Defender 520, set pressure in mmHg, kPa, or PSI, and temperature in Celsius or Fahrenheit.
Time: Set current time and format (PM, AM, or 24H).
Date: Set current date and format (DD-MM-YYYY or MM-DD-YYYY).
Preferences: Select a preferred measurement mode (Read Default) when the Defender is turned on.
Default Settings: Reset the Defender to factory default settings.
Data Port: Set the data port interface to for Bios Optimizer software or for SKC CalCheck® Interface.
Magnification (Defender 520 only): Select for larger font flow measurements only, or for simultaneous flow, temperature, and pressure in a smaller font.

Measurement Modes

Single Measurement: Each press of the ENTER button takes one measurement. The current flow and average of prior readings are displayed.
Burst Measurement: Measurements continue automatically for a preset number of sequences, then cease. The last reading and average are displayed. Press ENTER to begin another sequence.
Continuous Measurement: New sequences automatically repeat until stopped by the user.
Pause/Reset: In Continuous or Burst mode, PAUSE terminates the current flow measurement but retains the average and previous flow measurements. RESET terminates the flow measurement and clears the screen.

Data Port Interface

The Defender includes a data port for digital interface with Bios Optimizer Software or the SKC CalCheck® Interface. Bios Optimizer Collect light captures flow data to a Microsoft Excel® spreadsheet. Upgraded versions offer more features like hot key commands and instrument libraries. Firmware upgrades are available online via the Data Port.

Leak Test

The Defender Leak Test verifies internal integrity and alerts to internal leaks. It's recommended as an intermediate quality control check.

Procedure: Invert the unit, cap the port under test (leaving the other port uncapped), press ENTER, then return the unit upright.
Troubleshooting: If the leak test fails, check the cap, perform the test on both pressure and suction sides, and contact Bios Technical Support if issues persist.

Out of Range Warning

If the measured flow is outside the Defender's specified range, an "Out of Range!" warning appears. Reduce or disconnect the flow. Select RESET to clear the last measurement once the flow is within range.

Maintenance Features

Battery Charging and Monitoring

The battery is factory-charged, but a full charge (approx. 8 hours) is recommended before initial use.
The Defender can remain connected to the AC power adapter indefinitely.
Charge the battery every three months to maintain life.
The LCD display shows battery charge condition; a shaded icon indicates a full charge, emptying in 20% increments as voltage drops.

Annual Maintenance and Calibration

Bios recommends annual verification by an ISO 17025-accredited laboratory to ensure measurement accuracy due to environmental factors, product wear, sensor drift, or damage.

Recertification Program: An annual, non-mandatory service package offered by Bios. It includes product refurbishment, testing, available upgrades, calibration, and NIST-traceable calibration certificates.
Warranty: Recertification includes a 90-day service warranty for related labor or parts replacements.
Turnaround Time: Generally two weeks from receipt, with expedited 48-hour turnaround available.

Storage

Store in a clean, dry place.
If possible, keep connected to the AC power adapter/charger.
If storing disconnected, fully charge the battery beforehand to prevent permanent damage.
Fully charge at least once every three months.
Recharge for at least 8 hours before reusing after storage.

Troubleshooting

Device won't turn on: Verify battery charge. A small green indicator light should be visible when connected to the AC power adapter/charger if power is present.
Device unresponsive to commands: Perform a hard reset by inserting a paper clip into the reset opening at the back of the unit.
Improper connection: Ensure the flow source is connected to the pressure port for pressure sources or the suction port for suction pumps. The unused port should be at atmospheric pressure. If an exhaust line is needed, ensure tubing diameter prevents pressure drop greater than 5 inches of water.
Protecting against leaks: Ensure hose and tube fittings are tight. Keep tubing connecting the flow source to the meter as short as possible (no more than 0.5 meters/20 inches).
Temperature increase (Defender 520): Normal during initial or full battery charging. For best accuracy, fully charge before measurements or disconnect from AC adapter and run gas through for 10 minutes before measuring.
Piston not returning to bottom of cell: Could be due to a discharged battery (try charging), bright light overloading internal optical sensors (operate in a shaded location), or moisture/dirt in the cell (return to Bios for service).

Warranty

The Bios Defender 500 Series is warranted to the original end user for one year from the purchase date against defects in materials and workmanship under normal use. The battery is warranted for six months. Bios International Corporation's obligation is limited to repair or replacement (at their option) of defective parts, provided the product is returned prepaid.

The warranty does not cover damage from improper electrical voltages/currents, defacement, misuse, abuse, neglect, accident, fire, flood, terrorism, acts of God, use in violation of instructions, altered/removed serial numbers, or repairs by unauthorized personnel. This warranty is in lieu of all other warranties, expressed or implied, including merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose. Bios is not liable for special, incidental, or consequential damages.