Labconco CApture Portable Fuming System

1. Product Overview

The Labconco CApture Portable Fuming System is designed for quickly fixing latent fingerprints at crime scenes using microburst or traditional CA (cyanoacrylate) fuming methods. This system protects the user from hazardous fumes by combining a heater, a shatter-resistant clear protective chamber, an exhaust blower, and a particulate/carbon exhaust filter into one compact unit. No external ducting is required, making it highly portable and efficient for on-site evidence processing.

An image of the Labconco CApture Portable Fuming System, showing its compact design with a clear polycarbonate chamber open to reveal internal components like a shelf, hook, and a sample. The main unit on the right displays the 'CApture Labconco' logo and a 'Caution Hot surface inside door' warning.

2. Safety Information

Please read all safety instructions before operating the CApture Portable Fuming System to prevent injury or damage to the unit.

• Electrical Safety: This unit operates on 230 Volts, 50/60 Hz and is equipped with a China/Australia power cord and plug. Ensure the power source matches these specifications. Always connect the unit to a properly grounded outlet.
• Hot Surfaces: The heater and internal components can reach temperatures between 120°F to 350°F (50°C to 177°C). A 'Caution Hot surface inside door' warning is present. Avoid direct contact with heated surfaces during and immediately after operation. Allow the unit to cool completely before handling internal components.
• Fume Protection: The system is designed to contain and filter hazardous cyanoacrylate fumes. Always ensure the chamber is properly sealed during fuming cycles. Do not operate the unit if the exhaust blower or filter system is compromised.
• Ventilation: Although no external ducting is required, operate the unit in a well-ventilated area to ensure optimal air quality.
• Chemical Handling: Handle cyanoacrylate adhesives (Super Glue) according to their manufacturer's safety data sheets. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves and eye protection.

3. Setup

Follow these steps to set up your CApture Portable Fuming System:

1. Unpacking: Carefully remove the unit from its packaging. Inspect for any shipping damage.
2. Placement: Place the system on a stable, level surface. The unit features a leveling foot with a locking pin for stability.
3. Chamber Assembly: The system has a patented collapsible design. Ensure the clear polycarbonate chamber is fully extended and securely latched.
4. Internal Components: Install the stainless steel support manifold, hook, and perforated tray as needed for your specific fuming application. The manifold has three control slide slots for customization.
5. Heater Pans: Place one of the ten included aluminum heater pans into a heater receptacle. The unit has two heater receptacles with a heater door.
6. Power Connection: Connect the 6-foot (1.8 meters) power cord to the rear-mounted main power switch/circuit breaker and then to a compatible 230V, 50/60 Hz grounded power outlet.

4. Operating Instructions

Operating the CApture Portable Fuming System involves precise temperature control and fume management:

1. Power On: Flip the rear-mounted main power switch/circuit breaker to the 'ON' position.
2. Load Evidence: Place the evidence to be fumed onto the perforated tray or hang it from the hook within the clear chamber.
3. Add CA: Place the desired amount of cyanoacrylate adhesive (Super Glue) into the aluminum heater pan.
4. Close Chamber: Securely close the polycarbonate chamber door.
5. Set Temperature: Use the control panel with its LCD display, 'Up,' 'Down,' and 'Set' buttons to program the desired heater set point temperature. The heater can be set in one-degree increments between 120°F to 350°F (50°C to 177°C). The LCD will display either the set point or actual heater temperature.
6. Select Mode: Use the three-way heater/off/vent switch to select the desired operation mode:
   • Heater: Activates the heater for fuming.
   • Off: Turns off the heater and blower.
   • Vent: Activates the built-in exhaust blower to clear residual fumes from the chamber after fuming.
7. Fuming Process: Allow the system to operate until latent fingerprints are developed. Monitor the process through the clear chamber.
8. Ventilation Cycle: Once fuming is complete, switch to the 'Vent' mode to clear the chamber of fumes before opening.
9. Remove Evidence: Carefully open the chamber and remove the fumed evidence.

5. Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your CApture Portable Fuming System:

• Filter Replacement: The particulate/activated carbon filter cartridge has a MERV 11 rating and a capacity for approximately 100 development cycles. Replace the filter regularly to maintain effective fume filtration. Refer to the filter replacement instructions provided with the replacement filter.
• Chamber Cleaning: Clean the clear polycarbonate chamber regularly with a mild, non-abrasive cleaner to maintain visibility and prevent residue buildup. Do not use harsh chemicals that could damage the polycarbonate.
• Heater Pan Replacement: Dispose of used aluminum heater pans after each fuming cycle. Use new pans for each operation to ensure consistent heating and prevent contamination.
• General Cleaning: Wipe down the epoxy-coated steel housing with a damp cloth as needed. Ensure the unit is unplugged and cool before cleaning.

6. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your CApture Portable Fuming System, refer to the following common problems and solutions:

• Unit Does Not Power On:
  • Check if the power cord is securely plugged into both the unit and the wall outlet.
  • Verify that the main power switch/circuit breaker is in the 'ON' position.
  • Ensure the power outlet is functional.
• Heater Not Reaching Set Temperature:
  • Confirm the heater/off/vent switch is set to 'Heater'.
  • Ensure the heater pan is correctly seated in the receptacle.
  • Verify the set point temperature on the LCD display.
• Fumes Not Clearing After Cycle:
  • Ensure the heater/off/vent switch is set to 'Vent'.
  • Check if the particulate/activated carbon filter cartridge needs replacement. A saturated filter will reduce ventilation efficiency.
  • Inspect for any obstructions in the exhaust pathway.
• Inconsistent Fingerprint Development:
  • Verify the correct temperature setting for the type of cyanoacrylate used.
  • Ensure the chamber is properly sealed during the fuming process.
  • Check the quality and freshness of the cyanoacrylate adhesive.

For issues not covered here, please contact Labconco customer support.

7. Specifications

8. Warranty and Support

For information regarding product warranty, technical support, or replacement parts, please contact Labconco directly. Ensure you have your model number (3420024) and purchase date available when contacting support.

Labconco Contact Information:
Please refer to the official Labconco website or your purchase documentation for the most current contact details.