1
1.0 GENERAL
DESCRIPTION
The
personal
DataRAM
™
(for
Personal
Data-logging Real-time Aerosol Monitor) is
a technologically advanced instrument designed to measure the concentration of
airborne particulate matter (liquid or solid), providing direct and continuous readout
as well as electronic recording of the information.
The
personal
DataRAM is available in two versions: model
p
DR-1000AN and model
p
DR-1200. The model
p
DR-1000AN operates as a passive air sampler whereas the
model
p
DR-1200 uses active air sampling. The user can convert from one to the
other of these two versions by means of optional conversion kits offered (see
Sections 4.2 and 15.0 of this manual).
The model
p
DR-1000AN passively samples (i.e., without a pump) the air
surrounding the monitor; air freely accesses the sensing chamber of the instrument
by means of convection, diffusion, and adventitious air motion. The model
p
DR-
1200, on the other hand, requires a separate vacuum pump (not included) such as the
p
DR-PU, a personal-type pump for its operation.
In addition, the model
p
DR-1200 includes a particle size-selective inlet cyclone
which permits size segregated measurements (i.e., PM
10
, PM
2.5
, respirable, etc.) as
well as enabling the user to perform aerodynamic particle sizing by varying the
sampling flow rate. The model
p
DR-1200 incorporates, downstream of its
photometric sensing stage, a standard 37-mm filter holder on which all sampled
particles are collected for subsequent analysis or gravimetric referencing/calibration,
if so desired.
The
personal
DataRAM is the result of many years of field experience acquired with
thousands of units of its well known predecessor, the MIE MINIRAM, and embodies
many technological advances made possible by the latest electronic hardware and
software. The
personal
DataRAM is also a worthy miniaturized companion to the
DataRAM 4, a recognized paragon of portable aerosol monitors.
The
personal
DataRAM is a high sensitivity nephelometric (i.e. photometric) monitor
whose light scattering sensing configuration has been optimized for the measurement
of the respirable fraction of airborne dust, smoke, fumes and mists in industrial and
other indoor environments.
The
personal
DataRAM is an ultra-compact, rugged and totally self-contained
instrument designed for hand-held, belt-worn, as well as unattended operation. It
is powered either by its internal replaceable 9V battery, or by an optional attachable
rechargeable battery pack, or by an AC supply (included as standard accessory). For
the model
p
DR-1200, power to an adjunct pump must be provided separately.
