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

PM400 User’s Manual
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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.

PM400 User’s Manual
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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.

PM400 User’s 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.

PM400 User’s Manual
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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.

PM400 User’s Manual
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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

PM400 User’s Manual
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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

PM400 User’s Manual
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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

PM400 User’s Manual
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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