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Tracerco PED Series - User Manual

Tracerco PED Series
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Date: 20 September 2021
Document Reference: MN1010 Rev. I
User Manual
Personal Electronic Dosimeter (PED)
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Summary

Functional Description

Dose and Dose Rate Measurement

Explains how PEDs measure dose equivalent and dose rate.

Dose Rate Overload Handling

Describes behavior and indicators during dose rate overload.

Alarm System Overview

Details how PEDs alert users to alarm conditions.

Dose Alarms Configuration

Explains dose alarm levels, sounder, vibration, and LED indications.

Dose Rate Alarms Configuration

Explains dose rate alarm levels, sounder, vibration, and LED indications.

Dose Rate Overload Alarms

Details the alarm indications and behavior during dose rate overload.

Data Logging Modes

Explains the modes of data logging (periodic, intelligent).

GPS Location Logging

Explains GPS logging functionality for location tracking with data.

Operation

Initial PED Setup

Guides on initial setup using DoseVision™™ and device settings.

Critical Error Handling

Explains how PEDs indicate critical errors and lists common error types.

Maintenance

Standard Battery Charging

Explains the process of charging the PED battery using various methods.

Device Calibration

Explains recommendations and procedures for PED calibration.

Overview

The Tracerco Personal Electronic Dosimeter (PED) is a device designed to measure and record both accumulated dose and dose rate of radiation. It specifically measures the radiation equivalent dose Hp(10), accumulated in X-ray and gamma ray radiation, which represents the equivalent dose at 10 mm below the surface of the upper body. For accurate readings, the PED must be worn on the upper body.

Function Description

The PEDs measure dose rates in a range from 0 to 100 mSv/h (0 to 10 rem/h), with extended range variants capable of measuring up to 1.0 Sv/h (0 to 100 rem/h). The device offers several display modes: Combined dose and dose rate (default), Dose rate only (including peak dose rate), and Dose only (including stay time). The screen can also be flipped for user convenience.

Key information displayed on the readings screen includes:

  • Peak reading: The highest dose rate (µSv/h or mrem/h) detected since the last data transfer to DoseVision™.
  • Stay time: An estimated time (in minutes, 0-999) remaining at the current dose rate until the next dose alarm is triggered.
  • Dose: The total accumulated radiation dose (µSv or mrem) since the last data transfer.
  • Dose body: A graphical representation of accumulated dose, where a body figure fills from the bottom as dose accumulates. Yellow, orange, red, and crimson thresholds indicate dose alarm levels.
  • Bar graph: A linear graphical display of the current dose rate, with orange and red thresholds indicating dose rate alarm levels.
  • Rate: The current dose rate in µSv/h or mrem/h.
  • Status bar: Displays time, date, and battery capacity, alternating with PED status and warning messages. For PED+ and PED-ER+ models, status icons for Bluetooth or GPS features are shown if enabled.

The PEDs are equipped with two configurable dose rate alarms and up to four dose alarm levels. These alarms alert users through:

  • Dose rate alarms: The dose rate LED flashes amber for the first alarm and red for the second, continuing until the dose rate drops below the alarm level.
  • Dose alarms: The dose LED flashes amber for the first two alarms and red for the higher two. For the highest set dose alarm, the LED remains constantly red. A loud beeping noise and vibration also occur. Pressing the button silences the audible alarm and vibration, but the LED remains active until the total dose history is transferred to DoseVision™.

In case of dose rate overload (above 100 mSv/h or 1 Sv/h), the screen displays "Overload" and the dose rate as ">100mSv/h" or ">1 Sv/h". Dose values flash to indicate potential inaccuracies, and a warning symbol with "Dose Error?" appears in the status bar. An alarm sounds continuously until the button is pressed. Once the dose rate falls, the screen returns to normal, but dose values continue to flash, and the warning remains until data is transferred to DoseVision™.

Data logging is a core function, with two modes:

  • Periodic logging: Records accumulated dose at intervals (60s, 30s, 10s, or 5s). Default is 60s. 5s intervals are used for GPS location data. The memory can store up to 125,000 data points, providing approximately 2000 hours of operation at 60s intervals or 167 hours at 5s intervals. Recommended for areas with consistent or slowly fluctuating dose rates.
  • Intelligent logging: Records accumulated dose for every 0.01 µSv change. This mode uses memory most efficiently under normal circumstances and is the default.

The PEDs also support "Tasks," which monitor dose and peak dose rate for specified periods. Tasks are started and stopped manually, with current task dose displayed on the readings screen. Up to 9999 tasks can be recorded, and the four most recent can be reviewed.

Usage Features

The PEDs are operated using a single button for navigation and selection. A long press turns the device on, opens the menu system, and makes selections, while a short press scrolls through options. The button also silences alarms.

The main menu provides access to:

  • Alarm levels: Displays current amber and red alarm thresholds for dose and dose rate (set via DoseVision™).
  • Tasks: Opens the tasks screen.
  • Flip screen: Rotates the screen 180 degrees.
  • Screen saver: Configures the activation period for the screen saver (default 30 seconds). Tracerco recommends shorter periods to conserve battery.
  • Settings menu: Opens the settings menu.
  • Exit menu: Returns to the dose readings screen.
  • Discrete mode: (If enabled in DoseVision™) Disables audible and visual alarm warnings, sets LEDs off, and dims the screen. Vibration alerts and on-screen indications still function.
  • Handheld mode: (PED+ and PED-ER+ only) Allows the device to function as a survey meter, measuring H*(10) dose rate. Personal dose is not accumulated in this mode. The screen automatically flips, encouraging the user to hold the device with the GM-tube window facing forward.
  • Switch off: Shuts down the PED.

The settings menu allows configuration of:

  • Power status: Displays battery information, including estimated remaining life.
  • Monitor details: Shows device information and calibration contact details.
  • Time zone: Sets the local time zone for display (PED data time/date is set via DoseVision™).
  • Language: Sets the displayed text language.
  • Activity sounder: Configures audible 'clicks' for detected radioactive particles (e.g., every count or every 30 counts).
  • Display type select: Chooses between combined, dose rate only, or dose only display modes.
  • Reset logs: (If enabled in DoseVision™) Clears logs from memory.
  • Bluetooth and GPS (PED+ and PED-ER+): Enables Bluetooth for connection to the DoseVision™ Live app and GPS for logging location data alongside dose data. The GPS icon alternates with the battery symbol when enabled, turning green when a location lock is achieved.

PED+ and PED-ER+ specific features:

  • Bluetooth connection: For use with the DoseVision™ Live smartphone app, allowing simultaneous connection with up to seven PEDs.
  • Built-in GPS monitoring: Logs location information with dose data.
  • Wireless battery charging: (Models T414-2 & T414-4 ONLY) Charges wirelessly using a Qi-compatible charger after removing the clip.
  • Customisable pop-up alarm messages: Displays specific messages when an alarm is triggered, aiding user decision-making based on radiation exposure.
  • Handheld mode: Transforms the device into a portable survey meter.

Wearing PEDs:

PEDs should be worn on the upper body with the screen facing outwards for correct personal dosimetry. Wearing it on the outer layer of clothing ensures easy reading and visibility of alarm lights. A clip can be used to secure the PED to a belt or other clothing.

Warning Messages:

PEDs display non-critical warnings and critical error messages in the status bar. Non-critical warnings (e.g., "Battery low," "Calibration Due," "Memory low") require action but do not prevent operation. Critical errors (e.g., "Battery critical," "Clock failure," "Detector failure," "System failure") indicate problems preventing accurate operation, triggering an audible alarm, and displaying an error message on screen.

Maintenance Features

Firmware Upgrading:

Firmware upgrades can be downloaded from the Tracerco website and installed using DoseVision™.

Battery Care:

PEDs contain high-capacity Li-ion batteries. To maintain good battery health:

  • Keep charge between 10% and 90% for frequent use.
  • Charge between 0°C and 40°C, out of direct sunlight.
  • Use only manufacturer-supplied charging docks or cables.
  • For storage longer than two weeks, charge to 50-70%.
  • Store between -20°C and +25°C.
  • Check charge levels after two months of storage and recharge to 50-70% if necessary.
  • Avoid fully discharging the battery to prevent deep discharge.

Charging:

PEDs can be charged via a charger dock or directly using a micro USB connection. The charger dock supports mains, 12Vdc car, or computer USB power. Tracerco recommends using only Tracerco-supplied accessories. PEDs should be charged in a cool environment (below 35°C/95°F) and out of direct sunlight. During charging, estimated battery capacity and a lightning flash icon are displayed, showing "full charge" above 95%. PEDs do not record data while charging.

Cleaning:

The device's mould should be cleaned with a non-abrasive cloth, water, and a mild detergent. The screen of the PED-IS has an antistatic coating, which must be preserved by cleaning only with a non-abrasive cloth, water, and mild detergent. Incorrect cleaning can remove this coating.

Calibration:

Ionising radiation legislation recommends regular inspection, testing, and recalibration. Tracerco PEDs must be calibrated with the display screen facing the radiation beam, with the GM-tube detector window clearly marked. An ISO phantom or correction factor should be used. Calibration is invalid if the PED is not worn on the torso when operating as a dosimeter, unless in handheld mode. Tracerco PEDs are checked and calibrated before dispatch, and the next calibration due date is set in the device.

PED-IS Repairs:

Repairs to PED-IS devices must be performed by suitably trained personnel according to applicable codes of practice (e.g., IEC/EN 60079-19), using only parts supplied by Tracerco.

Accessories:

Various accessories, including transit cases, protective leather holders, travel chargers, and lanyards, are available.

Tracerco PED Series Specifications

General IconGeneral
TypePersonal Electronic Dosimeter
Radiation Type DetectedGamma and X-ray
DisplayLCD with backlight
Operating Temperature-20°C to +50°C
Ingress ProtectionIP67
Dose Range0.01 µSv to 10 Sv
Alarm ThresholdsConfigurable for dose rate and dose
Data LoggingYes
ConnectivityBluetooth

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