BTMETER BT-886A

Contents

BTMETER Nuclear Radiation Detector User Manual

Model: BT-886A

1. Introduction

1.1 Product Description

This BTMETER Nuclear Radiation Detector utilizes a Geiger-Miller counter to detect the intensity of ionizing radiation, specifically beta particles, gamma rays, and X-rays. It employs a gas tube or a small chamber as a probe. When the voltage applied to the probe reaches a certain range, each time a ray ionizes in the tube, it produces a pair of ions, which are then amplified to generate an electric pulse of the same size. This process allows for the measurement of the number of rays per unit time. The alarm threshold measurement rate can be customized by the user.

1.2 Key Features

  • Detects X-rays, Gamma rays, and Beta rays.
  • High sensitivity, suitable for various environments.
  • Data is saved automatically during shutdown.
  • Features a high-definition LCD display for clear status indication.
  • Offers three combined alarm modes: Light, Vibration, and Sound.
  • Includes a real-time clock display.
  • Allows for presetting of dose rate and cumulative dose alarm thresholds.

1.3 Safety Notice

Please read this instruction manual and operation instructions carefully to ensure the detector functions fully. Keep this manual for future reference. Do not use this equipment in flammable or explosive environments. Replaced used batteries and discarded instruments must be disposed of according to relevant national or local laws, not with household waste.

2. Package Contents

The package for your BTMETER Nuclear Radiation Detector includes the following items:

  • BTMETER Nuclear Radiation Detector (Main Unit)
  • USB Type-C Charging Cable
  • User Manual
  • Protective Pouch
Contents of the BTMETER Nuclear Radiation Detector package, including the detector, USB cable, user manual, and protective pouch.
Figure 2.1: Package Contents

3. Specifications

ParameterValue
Product NameNuclear Radiation Detector
Size163mm × 85mm × 35.5mm
Detection TypeGamma rays, X-rays, Beta rays
Detector TypeEnergy-compensated Geiger-Müller Tube
Dose Rate Range0.00-10000 µSv/h (10 mSv/h)
Cumulative Dose Range0.00 µSv - 500.0 mSv
Energy Range48 keV - 1.5 MeV ≤ ±30% (for 137Cs)
LanguagesChinese / English (Switchable)
Sensitivity80 CPM/µSv (for Co-60)
Dose UnitsµSv/h, µGy/h, mR/h, cps, cpm (Switchable)
Battery Capacity1100 mAh Lithium Battery
Alarm ModesLight, Vibration, Sound
Battery IncludedNo (Internal rechargeable battery)
High-concerned chemicalNone
OriginMainland China

4. Setup and Operation

4.1 Controls Overview

The device features a user-friendly interface with a central navigation cluster and a clear LCD display.

BTMETER Nuclear Radiation Detector showing its LCD screen and control buttons, including navigation and OK button.
Figure 4.1: Device Overview with Controls

Button Functions:

  • Left / Back Key: Returns to the upper menu from the current lower menu.
  • Right Key / Setting Key: Enters the setting menu or navigates to the lower menu.
  • Power On/Off / OK Key: Short press to switch on/off, or confirm selections within menus.
  • Up Key: Scrolls up through options.
  • Down Key: Scrolls down through options.

4.2 Power On/Off

  • To Power On: Short press the Power On/Off / OK key.
  • To Power Off: Long press the Power On/Off / OK key.

4.3 Monitoring Interface

Upon booting, the device automatically enters the monitoring page, displaying real-time radiation data and environmental parameters.

Multiple screenshots of the detector's LCD display showing various measurement units, alarm settings, system clock, and alarm modes.
Figure 4.2: Monitoring Interface Examples

The display includes:

  • Real-time detection quantity: Shown in the upper left corner.
  • Average/Maximum: Displays average and maximum dose rates.
  • Current Alarm: Shows the current dose alarm value.
  • Lifetime: Cumulative measurement time.
  • Environmental data: Temperature and humidity.

4.4 Settings Menu

To access the settings menu, long press the Right Key / Setting Key. Use the Up and Down keys to navigate through options. Long press the Left / Back button to return to the monitoring page.

The settings options include:

  • Unit settings
  • Alarm settings
  • System clock
  • Alarm mode
  • Display settings
Video 4.1: Product Introduction and Basic Operation. This video demonstrates the physical appearance, included accessories, and how to navigate the device's menu to change settings like measurement units, alarm values, system clock, alarm modes, and language.

4.4.1 Unit Settings

From the settings menu, select "Set Unit" and press the Right Key to enter. You can choose from five measurement units:

  • µSv/h
  • µGy/h
  • mR/h
  • CPS (Counts Per Second)
  • CPM (Counts Per Minute)

4.4.2 Alarm Settings

Select "Set Alarm" from the settings menu and press the Right Key. Here you can set or change the values for:

  • Current dose alarm value
  • Cumulative dose alarm value
  • Reset the accumulated dose to zero

4.4.3 System Clock Settings

Select "Sys Clock" from the settings menu and press the Right Key. You can adjust the date and time settings.

4.4.4 Alarm Mode Settings

Select "Ala Mode" from the settings menu and press the Right Key. You can enable or disable the following alarm indicators:

  • LED (Light)
  • Shake (Vibration)
  • Voice (Sound)
Image showing the detector emitting light, vibration, and sound, illustrating its three alarm modes.
Figure 4.3: Three Types of Alarm

4.4.5 Display Settings

Select "Set disp" from the settings menu and press the Right Key. Here you can adjust:

  • Screen brightness
  • Switch between Chinese and English languages

4.5 Radiation Source Testing

The detector can be used to test various radiation sources. Place the detector near the suspected source to measure the radiation levels.

Image showing the detector being used to test various environments and materials, including radioactive rock, nuclear power plant accidents, contaminated food, and contaminated water.
Figure 4.4: Wide Range of Testing Applications

5. Advanced Information

5.1 Conversion of Radioactive Units (International Standards 1990)

The following conversions are based on international standards:

  • Radioactive staff: 20 mSv/year (10 µSv/hour)
  • General public: 1 mSv/year (0.52 µSv/hour)

Unit Conversions:

  • 1 µSv/h = 100 µR/h
  • 1 nc/kg.h = 4 µR/h
  • 1 µR = 1y (The unit used for prospecting in the pronuclear industry)

Radioactivity:

  • 1 Ci = 1000 mCi
  • 1 mCi = 1000 µCi
  • 1 Ci = 3.7 × 1010 Bq = 37 GBq
  • 1 mCi = 3.7 × 107 Bq = 37 MBq
  • 1 µCi = 3.7 × 104 Bq = 37 KBq
  • 1 Bq = 2.703 × 10-11 Ci = 27.03 pCi

Exposure:

  • 1 R = 103 mR = 106 µR
  • 1 R = 2.58 × 10-4 C/kg

Absorption Metering:

  • 1 Gy = 103 mGy = 106 µGy
  • 1 Gy = 100 rad
  • 100 µrad = 1 µGy

Radon Unit:

  • 1 Bq/L = 0.27 em = 0.27 × 10-10 Ci/L

Metering Equivalent:

  • 1 Sv = 103 mSv = 106 µSv
  • 1 Sv = 100 rem = 100 µrem = 1 µSv

Other:

  • 1 Sv is equivalent to 1 Gy (1 gradium ≈ 0.97 Ci ≈ 1 Ci)

5.2 Calculation of Radioisotope Decay Values

The formula for calculating radioisotope decay is A = A0e-λt, where t = T1/2. A0 represents the known source strength, and 't' is the elapsed time. For specific calculations, refer to a radioactive decay calculation table.

5.3 Relationship between Radioactive Source and Distance

The intensity of a radioactive source is inversely proportional to the square of the distance. The formula is X = A·r/R2, where:

  • A: Activity of the point source
  • R: Distance from the source
  • r: Exposure rate constant

Note on Exposure Rate Constants:

  • Ra-226 (t 1608): r = 0.825 ren·m2/hour·curie
  • Cs-137 (t 29.9 years): r = 0.825 ren·m2/hour·curie
  • Co-60 (t 5.23 years): r = 1.32 ren·m2/hour·curie

5.4 Radioactive Shielding

The following table provides values for halving and reducing to 1/10th the value (in cm) for different substances, according to the radioactive decay calculation table:

Radioactive SourcePencilIronConcrete
Halving (cm)1/10 (cm)Halving (cm)1/10 (cm)Halving (cm)1/10 (cm)
Cesium-1370.652.21.65.44.916.3
Iridium-1920.551.91.34.34.314.0
Cobalt-601.104.02.06.76.320.3

6. Maintenance

Nuclear radiation detectors are sophisticated instruments. Proper maintenance will facilitate instrument longevity and performance.

  • Keep Dry: Store and use the instrument in a dry environment. Excessive humidity can cause malfunction and damage.
  • Handle with Care: Avoid dropping, knocking, or subjecting the instrument to violent vibration. Such actions can cause damage.
  • Battery Management: If the power display is too low, the instrument is in an undervoltage state and should be charged promptly. Severe undervoltage can prevent the instrument from turning on/off and may cause screen blurring.
  • Cleaning: Keep the instrument dry and wipe off dirt from its surface with a soft cloth. Do not use detergents or solvents.
  • Environmental Responsibility: Please recycle and dispose of damaged instruments, accessories, and packaging materials in an environmentally friendly manner.
  • Storage: Shut down the device when not in use for extended periods. Store in a dry place.
  • No Disassembly: Do not disassemble or replace components without permission to avoid damage or malfunction.

7. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your BTMETER Nuclear Radiation Detector, consider the following common troubleshooting steps:

  • Device Not Turning On: Ensure the battery is sufficiently charged. Connect the device to a power source using the provided USB cable and allow it to charge for some time before attempting to power it on again.
  • Inaccurate Readings: Verify that the device is used in an appropriate environment and away from strong electromagnetic interference. Ensure the correct measurement unit is selected in the settings.
  • Screen Issues (e.g., Blurred Screen): This can be a symptom of low battery. Charge the device fully. If the issue persists after charging, contact support.
  • Buttons Unresponsive: Try restarting the device by powering it off and on. If buttons remain unresponsive, ensure no debris is obstructing them.

For persistent issues, please refer to the Warranty and Support section for contact information.

8. Warranty and Support

For any problems or concerns, please contact us for prompt response. To ensure you receive an immediate solution and your requests are processed quickly, please email us with the following information:

  • Order Number
  • Platform of Your Purchase
  • Full Model Number (BT-886A)
  • Description of the Problem (Attaching videos or photos can help us troubleshoot the problems even faster)

Email: AFTERSALES1010@HOTMAIL.COM

The above product images and contents are for reference only. In case of any discrepancies or updates, please refer to the actual product without prior notice.

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