THEORY OF OPERATION
5-1
5.0 Theory of Operation
The AreaRAE uses one to five different sensors to measure a
variety of gases. A newly developed electrodeless discharge
UV lamp is used as the high-energy photon source for the PID
sensor (see Figure 5-1). The patented PID sensor detects a
broad range of organic vapors. Up to two electrochemical toxic
gas sensors can be installed in the monitor to measure
inorganic toxic gases. Many different types of toxic sensors are
offered. They can be plugged into these two sensor sockets
and are interchangeable. A catalytic bead sensor is used to
measure combustible gases. An electrochemical sensor is
used to measure oxygen concentration. In the AreaRAE
Gamma and AreaRAE Gamma Steel, a gamma radiation
sensor is used in place of the second toxic gas sensor.
Microprocessor
LCD Display
Keypad
Serial
Port
Battery
PID
TOX1
TOX2
or
Gamma
LEL
OXY
UV Lamp
Pump
Light
Sensor
LED
Buzzer
Charger
Figure 5-1
Block Diagram of the AreaRAE Monitor
