Product Description
The Forensics Detectors CAR, Vehicle & Aircraft CO Detector (Model FD-CAR002) is a portable device designed to detect carbon monoxide (CO) gas, which is a colorless, odorless, and poisonous gas produced by the incomplete combustion of carbon-containing fuels. This detector is crucial for alerting users to potentially dangerous CO levels in vehicles and aircraft, helping to prevent impaired coordination, fatigue, dizziness, and disorientation.
The device features a large digital display for CO concentration readings, LED indicators for alarm status, and an audible buzzer. It is powered by two CR2032 batteries and offers features like a MAX value display and temperature-based alarm disabling.
WARNING
- PRODUCT DOES NOT COMPLY WITH UL2034.
- REPLACE THIS PRODUCT ONCE DATE HAS EXCEEDED END OF LIFE DATE (see detector back).
- KEEP DETECTOR AWAY FROM ELECTROMAGNETIC & MAGNETIC INTERFERENCES.
- DO NOT EXPOSE PRODUCT TO HARSH ENVIRONMENTS nor CLEANING AGENTS.
- PLACE AWAY FROM DIRECT SUNLIGHT.
- ENSURE SENSOR HOLE IS NEVER BLOCKED.
- CO ALARMING INDICATES PRESENCE OF CARBON MONOXIDE WHICH MAY KILL YOU.
- IF UNIT ALARMS TAKE PRECAUTIONS AND SEEK CLEAN AIR. IF UNWELL, SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION.
- IF UNIT ALARMS, REMEDY CO LEAKAGE ISSUES.
- DO NOT ATTEMPT TO OPEN THE ALARM UNIT.
- ENSURE DETECTOR IN LINE OF SIGHT FOR VISUAL ALARM IN CASE BUZZER ALARM CANNOT BE HEARD.
- DO NOT LEAVE DETECTOR IN HOT ENVIRONMENT FOR PROLONGED PERIODS (>2 days).
- AVOID DIRECT EXHAUST EXPOSURE: Visit the Forensics Detectors YouTube Channel for the proper test procedure.
Introduction
You have purchased the original "FORENSICS" low level Vehicle & Aircraft CO Gas Alarm, Model: CAR002 (Version 2.0). This product detects carbon monoxide and alarms at low levels. Such alarming is crucial for vehicle and aircraft operators/occupants as it can impair hand-eye coordination, create fatigue, dizziness, and disorientation.
The first LED alarm triggers at 9ppm (aligning with WHO, EPA, and ASHRAE recommendations). The second alarm (buzzer) triggers at 25ppm (aligning with Cal/OSHA). The third alarm triggers at 50ppm (aligning with OSHA's eight-hour recommended CO exposure limits).
Operation
ON: Press the POWER button for 3 seconds. A warm-up period of approximately 3 minutes will display with a countdown. Ensure this process takes place at room temperature and in fresh air for accuracy.
OFF: Press the POWER button for 3 seconds.
MAX: Quick press the POWER button. The BLUE LED will turn ON, and the display will show the MAX CO value recorded from the time the device was powered on until the present. The memory clears when the device is turned off. This feature is useful for checking missed alarms or instantaneous CO readings.
DIASABLE: When the detector exceeds 122°F (50°C), it will disable alarm functionality to prevent false readings and display "- - -". When the temperature falls below 122°F, the detector will resume normal operation.
Detector Placement
- Ensure the detector is NOT in direct sunlight and the display is VISIBLE.
- DO NOT mount on air vents.
- Be careful where the detector is stick-on mounted to avoid damage when removing (e.g., on leather, synthetic leathers, or other fragile surfaces).
Alarm Sequence
| CO Level | Display | Alarm |
|---|---|---|
| 0 to 8ppm | ZERO | NO ALARM |
| 9 to 24ppm | ppm Level | LED flash + buzzer after 60 seconds |
| 25 to 49ppm | ppm Level | Fast LED flash + buzzer after 60 seconds |
| > 50ppm | ppm Level | Immediate rapid LED flash + buzzer |
Specifications
- Size: 71 x 49 x 18 mm (2.8 x 1.9 x 0.7 inches)
- Weight: 50g (1.8oz)
- Sensor: Electrochemical sensor, Made in Japan
- Battery: 2 x CR2032
- Battery life: 6-8 months on standby (shorter if alarms occur)
- LED Indicators: BLUE/RED LED: max level indicator/CO alarm indicator
- Buzzer: Sound alarm, 70dB at 1 meter
- Working temperature: -10°C to 50°C (14°F to 122°F)
- Working humidity: 15%-90%RH
- CO Detection Range: 9ppm to 999ppm
- Resolution: 1ppm with 0.5 secs averaging & refresh rate
- CO Accuracy: ±10% of CO reading
- Lifetime: See detector back for END OF LIFE Date Sticker.
Support Contact
WEB: www.forensicsdetectors.com
Email: sarah@forensicsdetectors.com
Please visit www.forensicsdetectors.com to order additional supplies.
Product Designed in California, USA. Product Tested, QA/QC in California, USA. Product Packaged in California, USA. Product Made in China.
For proper test procedures, visit the Forensics Detectors YouTube Channel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Carbon Monoxide Detectors for Vehicles?
Carbon monoxide (CO) gas poses a serious risk if it enters or leaks into your vehicle. CO typically enters vehicles through leakage pathways and is produced by the combustion engine. A portable CO detector designed for vehicles, capable of alarming at 9 ppm, is recommended.
Why Carbon Monoxide Detectors for Aircraft?
Carbon monoxide can infiltrate confined aircraft spaces due to exhaust system failures or heat exchanger cracks. A Carbon Monoxide Detector for Airplane is essential to alert the pilot to take corrective action. Aircraft occupants may not be aware of its presence until major symptoms develop, as CO can impede a pilot's flying ability and have fatal consequences. The problem creeps up slowly as CO accumulates within the cabin, often without the pilot's immediate perception.
Are There Any FAA Requirements for Carbon Monoxide Detector for Airplanes?
The FAA standard for CO in an aircraft cabin is no more than 1 part in 20,000 parts (or 50 ppm), as mentioned in 14 CFR Part 23, Airworthiness Standards, Section 831, Ventilation (1999). Currently, there are no requirements to monitor CO in the cabin or have a CO detector installed. However, the NTSB recommends "installing electrochemical CO detectors with aural and visual alerts in the cockpit."
Can I take my Gas Detector on the Plane?
Yes. All gas detectors sold by Forensics Detectors can be taken on a plane and are approved by the FAA.
How do I Store My Gas Detector?
Optimal storage conditions for gas detectors are at a temperature between 50°F to 72°F (10°C to 22°C) and a relative humidity between 40-60%. Avoid subjecting the detector to excessively cold or hot temperatures. Store it away from chemicals, avoid volatiles, particularly acids or bases, and keep it in a clean, dust-free environment.
What Are Dangerous Levels of Carbon Monoxide in My Vehicle?
There are no definitive standards for CO levels within vehicle cabins. It can be confusing as various agencies and organizations have different recommended exposure levels. Below is a summary of carbon monoxide exposure guidelines:
| Organization | Recommended Exposure Level |
|---|---|
| WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION (WHO) | 9 ppm average over 8 hours |
| ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (EPA) | 9 ppm average over 8 hours |
| THE AMERICAN SOCIETY OF HEATING, REFRIGERATING AND AIR-CONDITIONING ENGINEERS (ASHRAE) | 9 ppm average over 8 hours |
| NATIONAL INSTITUTE FOR OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH (NIOSH) | 35 ppm average over 10 hours |
| OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH ADMINISTRATION (OSHA) | 50 ppm average over 8 hours |
| AMERICAN CONFERENCE OF GOVERNMENTAL INDUSTRIAL HYGIENISTS (ACGIH) | 25 ppm average over 8 hours |
| CO DETECTOR ALARMING PROTOCOL (Home CO Alarms) UL2034 (USA) | > 70 ppm (60 to 240 minutes) > 200 ppm (10 to 50 minutes) > 400 ppm (4 to 15 minutes) |
| FORENSICS LOW LEVEL CO DETECTOR ALARM ALGORITHM | > 25 ppm (60 secs) |
Can you Test a Carbon Monoxide Detector with Car Exhaust?
No, using vehicle exhaust gas for testing is not recommended. Firstly, the concentration of carbon monoxide and other gases in exhaust is inconsistent and varies based on engine tuning, temperature, load, and catalyst age, making it unreliable. Secondly, exhaust gas contains high humidity and is expelled at high temperatures, which can damage the sensor and yield false readings. The high temperature and humidity can also cause moisture condensation on the sensor, affecting accuracy. Lastly, exhaust gas contains acidic components like NO2, which can interfere with the CO sensor's output. Visit the Forensics Detectors YouTube Channel for the proper test procedure.
Can I Breathe on my Gas Detector?
No. Exhaling onto a gas detector may cause a reaction because the sensor is exposed to high humidity and temperature, leading to erroneous data. While breathing on the sensor will not cause permanent damage, it will produce inaccurate readings due to the excessive humidity in breath, which exceeds the detector's acceptable limits. Therefore, avoid breathing on the gas sensor to prevent false data.
