NM01RANGEREXP

The SE INTL Rate Meter RANGER EXP is a sophisticated and versatile handheld digital radiation survey meter designed for the comprehensive detection and measurement of ionizing radiation, encompassing alpha, beta, gamma, and x-rays. This particular configuration, denoted as RANGER with external pancake probe and cable, significantly enhances the instrument's sensitivity, especially for detecting lower energy beta and alpha particles, making it an invaluable tool for a wide range of radiation detection and safety applications.  

The core of this system is the robust RANGER EXP meter, featuring a clear digital LCD display that presents readings in various user-selectable units, including µR/hr, mR/hr, CPM (counts per minute), CPS (counts per second), µSv/hr, and total accumulated counts. The intuitive user interface allows for easy navigation and configuration of the instrument's features.

A key advantage of the RANGER EXP in this package is the inclusion of an external pancake probe. This Geiger-Müller (GM) detector is specifically designed with a thin mica window, which is far more permeable to alpha and low-energy beta radiation compared to the internal detectors found in many standard survey meters. This external probe, connected to the RANGER EXP meter via a durable cable, allows for more efficient and accurate detection of surface contamination and low-penetrating radiation types.  

The full kit provides a comprehensive solution for radiation monitoring and includes several essential accessories:

• Rubber Boot: A custom-molded rubber protective casing that enhances the meter's durability, provides a more secure grip, and helps to protect it from minor impacts and splashes.  

• Stand: A small, convenient stand that allows the RANGER EXP to be positioned upright for hands-free operation during stationary monitoring or data logging.  

• USB Cable: A standard USB cable is included for connecting the meter to a computer, enabling data download and communication with the accompanying software.  

• Software (Observer USB Software): The kit includes a license for the Observer USB Software, a user-friendly program compatible with Windows operating systems. This software allows users to download the stored radiation data from the RANGER EXP, set customized alarm parameters, perform instrument calibration procedures, and generate detailed reports for record-keeping and analysis.  

• Batteries: The RANGER EXP is typically powered by two standard AA alkaline batteries, which are included in the kit, providing immediate operational capability.  

Key features and functionalities of the RANGER EXP include:

• Broad Radiation Detection: Capable of detecting alpha particles (energies > 3 MeV), beta particles (energies > 50 keV), gamma rays (energies > 10 keV), and x-rays (energies > 10 keV).

• Enhanced Alpha and Low-Energy Beta Sensitivity: The external pancake probe significantly improves detection efficiency for these less penetrating radiation types.  

• User-Adjustable Alert Levels: The instrument allows users to set custom alarm thresholds for both the radiation count rate (in CPM) and the dose rate (in mR/hr or µSv/hr). When these levels are exceeded, the meter provides both audible and visual alerts.  

• Audible and Visual Event Indication: Each detected radiation event is indicated by a brief audible beep and a flashing red LED, providing immediate feedback on the presence of radiation (this feature can be muted if desired).  

• Isotope Efficiency Calibration: The RANGER EXP features built-in efficiency factors for a range of common radioactive isotopes, enabling the user to directly calculate the approximate activity of a sample in Becquerels (Bq) or Disintegrations Per Minute (DPM).  

• Integrated Data Logging: The meter has internal memory capable of storing a substantial number of radiation measurements along with timestamps, allowing for subsequent data retrieval and analysis.  

• Adjustable Timer Function: A built-in timer allows for precise timed measurements, useful for collecting data over specific intervals.

• Computer Connectivity and Software Integration: The included USB cable and Observer USB Software provide a seamless interface for downloading stored data, configuring instrument settings, and generating reports on a connected computer.  

• Optional Wireless Connectivity: Some configurations of the RANGER EXP, or with the addition of an optional Bluetooth module, may offer wireless connectivity to Android devices via the Observer BLE app. This allows for real-time data viewing, GPS tagging of measurements, and convenient data sharing.  

• Rugged and Portable Design: The RANGER EXP is built to withstand the demands of field use, featuring a durable housing and the added protection of the included rubber boot.  

Typical applications for the RANGER EXP with the external pancake probe include:

• Comprehensive surveying for various types of radioactive contamination, including alpha and beta emitters.  

• Monitoring for Naturally Occurring Radioactive Material (NORM) in various industries.

• Contamination screening of packages, equipment, personnel, and environmental samples.  

• Regulatory compliance inspections and radiation safety surveys.

• Scrap metal screening for the presence of radioactive materials.

• Detection of low-energy radionuclides that may be difficult to detect with standard internal detectors.

• Environmental radiation monitoring and research.

USER MANUAL