AimSafety PM400 User manual

P/N: 34-2900-0211-2 Rev. A
August 2018
AimSafety PM400
Multi-Gas Personal Monitor
User’s Manual

PM400 User’s Manual
Page 2
Contents
1. General Information ...............................................................................................4
2. Different Combustible Gas Sensors........................................................................5
3. Specifications..........................................................................................................7
4. Product Overview...................................................................................................8
5. Charging, Powering Up and Powering Down .........................................................9
6. User Interface.......................................................................................................11
7. Bump Test .............................................................................................................16
8. Calibration ............................................................................................................19
9. Logging .................................................................................................................24
10. Cleaning and Maintenance, and Disposal ............................................................25
11. Certificates............................................................................................................26
12. Limited Warranty..................................................................................................27
13. AimSafety Contact Information............................................................................27

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WARNINGS
Please ensure the device is completely free of dirt and debris before use.
Regularly test the performance of the sensors past the alarm setpoints.
Test the device on a regular basis to ensure that the LED, alarm and vibration function properly.
Use the device under the conditions instructed, including the temperature, humidity and pressure
range. Use in an environment outside the specified range may cause malfunction or failure.
The sensors inside the device may indicate the gas concentration differently according to the
environment such as temperature, pressure and humidity. Please make sure to calibrate the
detector under the same or similar environment to the specification.
Extreme changes in temperature may cause drastic changes of the gas concentration. (e.g. using
the detector where there is a huge gap between the inside and outside temperature) Please use the
device when the concentration becomes stable.
Severe pressure or impact may cause drastic changes of the gas concentration readings. Therefore,
please use the device when the concentration is stable. Severe pressure or impact may cause also
malfunction in the sensor or the device.
The alarms are set according to the international standard and must only be changed by an
authorized expert.
Charging or replacing the battery should be done in a safe area where there is no risk of explosion
or fire. Changing the sensor or battery with improper components, which are not authorized by the
manufacturer, will void the warranty.
IR communication should be done in a safe area where there is no risk of explosion or fire.
Please use only after reading the manual.
The device is not a measurement device, but a gas detector.
Please stop using and consult the manufacturer if the calibration fails continuously.
Please test the device every 30 days under the atmospheric environment of clean air without gases.
Clean the exterior of the device with a soft cloth and do not clean it with chemical detergent.

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1. General Information
The innovative new AimSafety PM400 4-gas portable monitor brings enhanced
convenience and flexibility to gas detection in hazardous environments. The ergonomic
PM400 diffusion gas monitor simultaneously detects up to four gases, including hydrogen
sulfide (H2S), carbon monoxide (CO), oxygen (O2) and combustibles (LEL). AimSafety’s
PM400 is easy to use and delivers continuous visibility of gas concentrations for faster,
more informed decisions that help protect workers and operational assets which can
increase revenue and productivity.
The PM400 LCD display provides real-time gas concentrations and allows plant managers
or workers to set high and low alarm set-points for each sensor, and STEL, and TWA
alarm set-points for toxic gases. The PM400’s audible, visual and vibrating alarms alert
the user of unsafe gas concentrations. The PM400 IR will operate continuously for up to
60 days on a single battery charge. Standard sensors include: Carbon Monoxide,
Hydrogen Sulfide, Oxygen, and either Catalytic Bead or Infrared for combustible gases
(LEL)
1.1 Key Features
•Easy-to-Read LCD display
•Single button operation
•Rugged, high visual housing
•IP67 dust tight & water resistant
•60-day continuous runtime (IR version)
•IR sensor is immune to poisoning
•IR sensor detects LEL gases in inert (O2 deficient) applications
1.2 Programmable options include (via PM Link software)
•Stealth Mode
•Go/No Go display
•Bump Test due
•Calibration due
•Calibration gas concentrations
•Alarm levels
•STEL and TWA levels
•Firmware upgrades
For a full list of programmable options, please consult the PM Link software
manual.

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2. Different Combustible Gas Sensors
The PM400 P and the PM400 IR are identical units with one exception: The Combustible
gas (LEL) sensors are different in each model. The PM400 P is equipped with a Catalytic
Bead (Pellistor) sensor. The PM400 IR is equipped with a Non-Dispersive Infra-Red
(NDIR) sensor.
Be sure to understand the strengths and limitations of the sensor that’s inside the unit.
They directly affect the usage and the lifespan of your detection device.
2.1 Over Range Alarm Function
Because of the nature of each sensor, the device will behave differently when exposed
to high gas levels which exceed their sensor ranges this is known as an Over Range
Alert.
2.1.1 PM400 P
In the event of an Over Range alarm, the Catalytic Bead sensor will prompt Over Range
alarms and then turn off the sensor to avoid damaging the sensor elements.
If an Over Range Alarm sounds, exit to a safe area immediately.
The alarm will continue to sound because the sensor is disabled. To silence the alarm,
the monitor will need to be turned off and back on again, thus re-enabling the sensor.
2.1.2 PM400 IR
In the event of an Over Range alarm, the NDIR sensor continues to function normally.
If an Over Range Alert Alarm, exit to a safe area immediately.
A simple press of the [Function] key acknowledges and silences the alarm. The sensor
continues to stay active even though the level has exceeded 100% LEL.
2.2 Catalytic Bead technology (PM400 P) Overview
2.2.1 Advantages of Catalytic Bead technology
The Catalytic sensor detects a wide range of combustible (LEL) gasses:The PM400 P is
the device that should be used if hydrogen and acetylene are among the gases in your
environment that require detection.
Make careful note of the disadvantages of this sensor listed below; they have
a direct effect user safety and on the function of the device.

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2.2.2 Disadvantages of Catalytic Bead technology
The Catalytic sensor can be “poisoned”: Certain chemicals will damage the internal
elements and cause the sensor to lose sensitivity. Common poisons are chemicals
which contain silicon (found in hand lotions and industrial lubricants) and Sulfur
compounds, which can be released with gases. Chlorine (found in many cleaning
products) and heavy metals can also poison a catalytic sensor. This list is by no means
comprehensive.
The Catalytic Bead sensors require oxygen to detect gases: Because a Catalytic Bead
sensor burns the sample of gas, oxygen is required for the monitor to detect the
presence of combustible gases.
The Catalytic Bead sensor can burn out:Exposure to high concentrations of gas can
completely disable the sensor. See section 2.1 Over Range Alert Function
The Catalytic Bead sensor is more prone to sensor drift: These sensors typically
require more frequent calibration. See section 8. Calibration
The Catalytic sensor requires more power: Due to the sensor design, the Catalytic
Bead sensor requires more power to operate, thus shortening the runtime of the
monitor.
2.3 Non-Dispersive Infra-Red (NDIR) technology (PM400 IR)
Overview
2.3.1 Disadvantages of NDIR technology
Doesn’t detect certain combustible (LEL) gasses: Gases such as hydrogen and
acetylene go undetected by NDIR sensors.
Be sure the safety of your users isn’t dependent on detecting hydrogen
and/or acetylene. The PM400 IR does NOT detect these gases.
2.3.2 Advantages of NDIR technology
The NDIR sensor does not require oxygen to detect gases: Because the NDIR sensor
uses absorbed light spectrum technology to detect combustible gases, the sensor does
not require oxygen to operate, making it ideal for inert and oxygen deficiency
applications.
The NDIR is more durable:Cannot be inhibited, poisoned by external chemicals and
gases.
The NDIR sensor is more stable: Requires minimal recalibration and is typically stable
even after extended storage.
The NDIR sensor has a longer lifespan: The sensor has a life expectancy of up to 10
years.
The NDIR sensor requires less power: Due to the sensor design the NDIR sensor
requires less power to operate, thus allowing for extended runtimes compared to the
Catalytic Bead sensor.

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3. Specifications
3.1. PM400 Specifications
Gas type LEL O2CO H2S
Detection method Diffusion
Measurement type
Catalytic Bead
(PM400 P)
Infrared (PM400 IR)
Electrochemical Electrochemical Electrochemical
Range 0-100 %LEL 0-30 % by Volume 0-500 ppm 0-100 ppm
Sensor life > 5 years 2 years > 2 years > 2 years
Resolution 1%LEL 0.1% by Volume 1 PPM 1 PPM
Menu navigation Single button ([Function] key)
Display
Backlit digital LCD display
Real-time readings of gas concentrations
Battery status
Alarm notifications
Alarm display
LCD Alarm Icon display, LCD Backlight
Indicator LED
Audible: 90 dB at 4 in. (10 cm)
Alarm level settings User Selectable via PM Link and PC Software or Bump Test-Calibration Station
Event & data logging Two months - Continuous at 1 - minute intervals, 24 hours a day, 7 - days a week
Mount type Clip
Operating Temperature -4°F to 122°F (-20°C to 50°C)
Operating Humidity 10 to 95% RH (Non-condensing)
Battery Type Rechargeable 3.7V Li-ion
Battery Duration PM400 P: 24 hours, PM400 IR: 60 days
Case material Polycarbonate and rubber
Size 4.6” (L) x 2.4” (W) x 1.6” (H) (11.8 cm x 6 cm x 4 cm)
Weight 8.5 oz. (240 g.)
Options PM Link, PM400 Bump and Calibration Station
Ingress rating IP67 dust tight & water resistant
Certification See Certifications section

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4. Product Overview
4.1. Monitor
Display symbols
High Alarm Display Zero Calibration Display
Low Alarm Display
Device Stabilization &
Calibration Succeeded
Alarm Condition
Standard Gas Calibration
Display
STEL Alarm Display
Remaining Battery Display
TWA Alarm Display
3.2 Display

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5. Charging, Powering Up and Powering Down
5.1. Charging the Device
The PM400 ships with a power supply that plugs into a standard wall socket and with all common
international interfaces. The other end connects to the device.
To Charge the Device:
5.1.1 Ensure that the power supply is equipped with the interface that matches your
wall’s power outlet. You can change these by pushing the button at the rear of
the power supply and clicking the correct one into place.
5.1.2 Locate the charging socket at the bottom-rear of the device.
5.1.3 Align the guides of the adapter to the plastic slot on the device and push until
the top of the adapter is completely inserted.
5.1.4 Plug the other end into a standard wall socket.
The battery meter appears on the right side of the display and repeatedly cycles
upward to the top and the LEDs will flash continuously.
Note: If your device is set to Stealth Mode, the LEDs will not flash during
charging.
5.1.5 The device is fully charged when the battery stops cycling.
5.2. Power Up the Monitor
To power up the monitor
5.2.1 Press and hold the [Function] key. A three second count-up displays.
Note: Release the [Function] key at any time during the count-up to prevent it from
powering up.
5.2.2 Release the [Function] key when Power On displays.
The display cycles through gas types: LEL 02 CO H2S (H2S), firmware version: VER #.#,
display tests and alarm tests, followed by a ten-second count-up, followed by Warming Up
notifications (WUP) for each sensor.
Startup Display Flow

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Note: The IR LEL sensor takes approximately an extra 90 seconds to warm up, during which
time, the unit continues to display WUP in the upper-left (LEL) quadrant of the display.
5.2.3 When real-time gas readings are displayed.
Note: If your device is in Safe Zone mode, the display will read SAFE ZONE when it
is ready. See Display Modes for more information.
5.3 Powering Down the Monitor
To power down the monitor:
5.3.1 From the main screen (Measurement or Safe Zone), press and hold the [Function]
button. A three-second countdown timer displays.
Note: Release the button during the countdown to prevent it from powering down.
5.3.2 When Power Off displays, release the button.
Measuring Mode
Safe Zone Mode

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6. User Interface
The PM400 has two operational modes:
•Measuring Mode – Standard display operation with real-time gas readings always
displayed
•Safe Zone Mode – Displays Safe Zone unless one or more gas concentrations exceeds
an alarm set point.
Gas concentrations are displayed with gas specific units of measure based on the type of
gas to be detect. Combustible(LEL) concentrations are displayed in % LEL, oxygen
concentrations are displayed in percent by volume (%Vol), and toxic concentrations are
displayed in parts per million. (PPM)
6.1. Display Modes
6.1.1 Measuring Mode is the default mode. Once the monitor is activated the meter
displays the battery level and gas concentrations in real-time unless gas
concentrations exceed an alarm setpoint. Should this happen, alarms will activate.
Exit the area and proceed to clean air immediately.
6.1.2 Safe Zone Mode enables use as a go/no-go monitor. SAFE ZONE is displayed, unless
gas concentrations exceed an alarm setpoint. Should this happen, alarms will
activate normally.
Exit the area and proceed to clean air immediately.

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6.2. Menu Screens
From the Measurement screen, pressing the [Function key] will step to the next screen.
Note: If you do not press the [Function key] within 10 seconds, the display reverts to the
Measurement screen.
Note: Pressing the [Function] key too quickly my not advance the screen.
Stealth Mode: Press the [Function key] to advance to Stealth Mode (if
enabled). Stealth Mode is added to the menu to indicate that the audible and
vibrating alarms are disabled. Display flags function normally.
Peak MIN: Press the [Function key] again to advance to Peak MIN indicated by
the LOW! icons on the display with the numerical value displayed. The Peak
MIN is the lowest concentration of gas that the oxygen sensor has detected
since the peaks were last cleared.
Peak MAX: Press the [Function key] to advance to Peak MAX indicated by the
HIGH! icons on the display, with the peak max concentration displayed. The
Peak MAX is the highest concentration of gas that each sensor has detected
since the peaks were last cleared.
TWA: Press the [Function key] to advance to the TWA (Time Weighted
Average) screen. The TWA screen displays the average level of concentration of
each toxic gas for the past eight hours.
STEL: Press the [Function key] to advance to the STEL (Short Term Exposure
Limit) screen. The STEL screen displays the average level of concentration of
each gas for the past 15 minutes.
Clear Peaks: Press the [Function key] to advance to Clear Peaks indicated by
“CLR” on the display. To clear the peaks, press and hold the [Function key] for
three seconds. The unit will beep once, then display OK. Peaks are now cleared.
Press the [Function] key to continue through the menu screens or wait ten
seconds for the unit to return to Measuring mode.

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Alarm Values: Press the [Function key] to advance to the Setpoints screen. The
Alarm Values screen displays the low alarm, high alarm, TWA, and STEL
thresholds (Setpoints) for each gas. Press and hold the [Function] key for the
seconds to enter the Alarm Values menu. Press the [Function] key to advance
the display through each of these in order.
Firmware: Press the [Function key] to advance to the Firmware screen. Press
and hold the [Function] key for three seconds to initiate a self-test. The device
tests audible alarm, LEDs, LCD, vibration, memory, and temperature. When
complete, the device returns to Measuring mode. See Self-Test for more details.
Also displays LEL sensor type: N (NDIR) or P (Pellistor, aka Catalytic Bead)
Calibration: Press the [Function key] to advance to the Calibration screen. Press
and hold the [Function] key for five seconds to enter the Calibration menu
where you can perform Zero calibrations, Span calibrations, and Bump tests.
Press the [Function] key to advance through each of these in order.
Date/Time: Press the [Function key] to advance to the Date/Time screen. Press
and hold the [Function] key for three seconds to toggle back and forth between
the Date and the Time.
Menu Flow Chart
If enabled

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6.3. Alarm and Alerts
When the gas concentration exceeds an alarm set point the alarms will activate: The display will
show the appropriate alarm icon(s) – High, Low, TWA, STEL, Over Range(OVL) -- and the gas
level. The monitor will vibrate, the buzzer will sound, and the LEDs will flash.
When an alarm activates, immediately exit the area to clean air.
The alarms will clear once the gas concentrations go below the alarm set points.
Alarm and Alert Indicators
Alarm
Alarm Standard
LCD Display
Alarms and Alerts
Low Alarm Exceeds 1st
alarm set point
Icons and gas
concentration
High Alarm Exceeds 2nd
alarm set point
Icons and gas
concentration
TWA Alarm Exceeds TWA
alarm set point
Icons and gas
concentration
STEL Alarm Exceeds STEL
alarm set point
Icons and gas
concentration
Over Range
Alarm
Detected gas(es)
exceed
maximum sensor
range.
Press the [Function] key or re-
start your device to clear.
See LEL Sensor Types for
more information.
Bump test
Bump test due.
Displays the
specific sensor(s)
which require a
bump.
Perform a successful bump
test to clear.

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Alarm
Alarm Standard
LCD Display
Alarms and Alerts
Calibration
Calibration due
Displays the
specific sensor(s)
which require
calibration.
Perform a successful
calibration to clear.
Calibration
Failed
Failed calibration
Displays the
specific sensor(s)
which failed
calibration.
Perform a successful
calibration to clear
6.4. Default Alarm Set Points
Alarm levels can only be changed using the PM Link and software, or the Bump Test-
Calibration Station.
Gas Type
Combustible (LEL)
CO
H2S
O2
Low Alarm
10% LEL
35 PPM
10 PPM
19.5%
High Alarm
20% LEL
100 PPM
20 PPM
23.5%
TWA Alarm
35 PPM
10 PPM
STEL Alarm
200 PPM
15 PPM
6.5. Bump Test Reminder
The Bump Test due reminder option can be enabled using the PM Link and software or the
Bump Test-Calibration Station. The Bump Test reminder can be configured from n/a (Off) to
365 days. The default configuration is set to “Off”, so no Bump Test reminder will be
displayed.
Do not use the monitor until a successful Bump Test or calibration is performed.

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7. Bump Test
A bump test is used to test that the monitor is working properly. During a bump test, a
known concentration of gas is applied to the sensors to verify that the sensors respond to
the gas, and the alarms activate. This is the only way to effectively confirm that all
characteristics of the monitor and the sensor are working correctly.
A bump test should be conducted before each day’s use.
Ensure that you are in a clean environment before performing a Bump Test.
7.1 To perform a Bump Test:
7.1.1 On the Measuring screen, make sure the oxygen sensor reads 20.9 and the other
gases read zero.
7.1.2 Clip the calibration cap to the unit. The cap attaches to the recesses in either side
of the unit. You should hear a click when the cap is secure. Note: Be sure that the
word “Calibration” is right-side-up.
7.1.3 Ensure that the regulator is firmly attached to the gas bottle and that the hose is
securely attached to the regulator and to the calibration cap. Note: Do not turn
on the gas at this time.
7.1.4 From the Main screen, press the [Function] key to advance to the Calibration
screen. The calibration icon and the Calibration gas settings are displayed. Typical
readings clockwise from the upper-left are 50,18.0,25, and 100. Note: Pressing
the key too quickly may not advance the display.

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7.1.5 Press and hold the [Function] key for three seconds to enter the Calibration
menu. CAL ZERO displays
7.1.6 Press the [Function] key twice to advance to the Bump Test screen. Bump test
displays.
7.1.7 Press and hold the [Function] key for three seconds to initiate the bump test.
GAS NO and a 45-second countdown timer are displayed.
7.1.8 Turn on the gas regulator.
A new 45-second countdown timer appears in the lower-right corner while the
rest of the display alternates between GAS IN and real-time gas measurements.
7.1.9 Watch the display as the timer counts down.
Results should appear within roughly 20 seconds. If the test is successful, OK
appears in all four corners of the display.
7.1.10 Turn off the gas regulator, disconnect the calibration cap, and wait for the gas to
dissipate.

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7.1.11 Clear peaks before proceeding. See Clear Peaks in the Menu Screens section for
instructions.
If the test fails, the gas(es)/sensor(s) that failed are displayed.This failed bump test
message continues to flash on the display until a successful bump test or calibration is
performed.
Check the calibration gas concentrations, cylinder expiration date, and the monitor gas
settings and re-test the unit. If everything looks correct and the unit fails, perform a Zero
calibration followed by a Span calibration. Do not use the monitor until the reason for the
discrepancy for the test has been determined and corrected.
The monitor must be calibrated if it fails a Bump Test.
Bump Test Success
Bump Test Failure

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8. Calibration
Calibration is the process of adjusting the sensor’s response by using a specific
concentration of calibration gas. Sensors will drift for a variety of reasons, so it is important
to perform a full calibration periodically to ensure that the sensors response to the target
gas are accurate. A full calibration consists of two points, a Zero calibration and a Span
calibration.
Zero calibration adjusts the zero offset of the toxic and LEL sensors and sets the oxygen
sensor to 20.9% Vol.
Span calibration adjusts the sensors response to gas to account for sensor drift. It is
recommended to perform a Zero calibration prior to a Span calibration.
CAUTION: For O2units: Initial calibration is performed on all devices prior to
shipment. Once received, calibration should be performed regularly, depending on
frequency of use
All alarms are muted during calibration.
8.1. Accessing the Calibration Menu
To access the calibration menu:
8.1.1 From the Main screen, press the [Function key] to navigate to the Calibration
screen. Note: Pressing the key too quickly may not advance the display.
8.1.2 While the Calibration screen is displayed, press and hold down the [Function key]
for 5 seconds to access the Calibration menu.
8.1.3 Press the [Function] key to cycle through the menu.
Fresh Air Cal.
Span Cal.
Bump Test
Exit

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8.2. Zero Calibration (aka Fresh Air Calibration)
Zero calibration adjusts the zero offset of the toxic and LEL sensors and sets the oxygen sensor
to 20.9% Vol.
Zero calibration must be performed in a clean environment that is free from other gases
(calibration is assumed to be performed in an environment with an Oxygen concentration
of 20.9% Vol.). Zero calibration should not be performed in a confined space.
To perform a Zero calibration
8.2.1 From the Main screen, press the [Function] to cycle to the Calibration screen.
The calibration icon and the Calibration gas settings are displayed. Typical
readings clockwise from the upper-left are 50, 18.0, 25, and 100.
8.2.2 Press and hold the [Function] key for five seconds to enter the Calibration menu.
The first item in the submenu is Fresh Air (Zero) calibration; CAL ZERO displays.
8.2.3 Press and hold the [Function] key for five seconds to begin calibrating.
A ten-second countdown displays in the lower-right corner of the display while
the device cycles through displaying detected gas levels.
Upon a successful calibration, your device displays the Calibration Success screen (OK displays in
each corner of the screen) for five seconds, then returns to the Calibration submenu. Press the
[Function] key to cycle through the Calibration menu or wait ten seconds for the device to
return to the Main screen.