BW GasAlertMicro 5 User manual

User Manual
GasAlertMicro 5 and GasAlertMicro 5 PID
1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 Gas Detectors
O2, CO, H2S, PH3, SO2, Cl2, NH3, NO2, HCN, ClO2, O3, VOC, and Combustibles

Table of Contents
Title Page
Introduction............................................................................................................................................ 1
Contacting BW Technologies................................................................................................................ 2
Safety Information - Read First ............................................................................................................. 2
Getting Started ...................................................................................................................................... 6
Activating the Detector........................................................................................................................ 10
Self-Test............................................................................................................................... 10
Self-Test Pass ..................................................................................................................... 17
Self Test Fail........................................................................................................................ 17
Battery Test.......................................................................................................................... 17
Datalogger Operation .......................................................................................................... 17
Deactivating the Detector.................................................................................................................... 18
User Options Menu ............................................................................................................................. 18
Exit User Options Menu....................................................................................................... 19
Options Menu ...................................................................................................................... 19
Sensor Configuration ........................................................................................................... 22
Logger Option ...................................................................................................................... 27
Clock Option ........................................................................................................................ 28
Language Selection............................................................................................................. 29
Tech Mode ........................................................................................................................... 30
Alarms ............................................................................................................................................. 35
Gas Exposures Computed .................................................................................................. 38
Viewing Gas Exposures....................................................................................................... 38
Clearing Gas Exposures...................................................................................................... 39
Gas Alarm Setpoints............................................................................................................ 39
Viewing the Alarm Setpoints................................................................................................ 39
Resetting Gas Alarm Setpoints ........................................................................................... 40
Stopping a Gas Alarm.......................................................................................................... 41
Sensor Alarm ....................................................................................................................... 41
Pump Alarm ......................................................................................................................... 41

GasAlertMicro 5 and GasAlertMicro 5 PID
User Manual
Low Battery Alarm................................................................................................................42
Automatic Shutdown Alarm .................................................................................................42
Calibration and Setting Alarm Setpoints ............................................................................................. 42
Guidelines ............................................................................................................................42
Diagnostics Protection .........................................................................................................43
Applying Gas to the Sensors ...............................................................................................44
Calibration Procedure ..........................................................................................................44
Attaching the Accessories...................................................................................................................57
Installing the Pump Module .................................................................................................57
Attaching the Sample Probe ................................................................................................58
Datalogger...........................................................................................................................................59
Datalog.................................................................................................................................59
MultiMediaCard (MMC) Compatibility ................................................................................................. 60
Inserting the MMC/SD Card................................................................................................. 60
MMC/SD Troubleshooting...................................................................................................................61
Restoring Datalog Files .......................................................................................................61
Reformatting the MMC......................................................................................................... 62
Import Datalogs to FleetManager........................................................................................................63
Minimum PC Requirements.................................................................................................63
Using MicroDock II to Import to FleetManager ....................................................................63
Using a Card Reader to Import to FleetManager ................................................................63
View Datalog Files in Spreadsheets ...................................................................................................64
Maintenance........................................................................................................................................68
Replacing/Charging the Batteries........................................................................................68
Replacing a Sensor or Sensor Filter....................................................................................69
Photoionization Detector (PID) ............................................................................................ 71
Troubleshooting...................................................................................................................................73
Replacement Parts and Accessories .................................................................................................. 77
Specifications ......................................................................................................................................79
Appendix A PID Correction Library .....................................................................................................82

List of Tables
Table Title Page
1. Gases Monitored ................................................................................................................... 1
2. International Symbols ............................................................................................................ 5
3. GasAlertMicro 5 and GasAlertMicro 5 PID Detector ............................................................. 7
4. Display Elements ................................................................................................................... 8
5. Pushbuttons........................................................................................................................... 9
6. Alarms.................................................................................................................................. 35
7. Computed Gas Exposures .................................................................................................. 38
8. Gas Alarm Setpoints............................................................................................................ 39
9. OSHA Sample Factory Alarm Setpoints.............................................................................. 40
10. Applying Gas to the Sensors ............................................................................................... 44
11. Time Required to Span........................................................................................................ 47
12. Installing the Pump Module ................................................................................................. 57
14. Removing the MMC/SD Card .............................................................................................. 60
15. Datalog Spreadsheet Example............................................................................................ 65
16. Datalog Status Codes.......................................................................................................... 66
17. Datalog Gas and Correction Factor Sensor Codes............................................................. 67
18. Replacing the Batteries ....................................................................................................... 69
19. Replacing a Sensor or Sensor Filter ................................................................................... 70
20. Parts of the PID sensor........................................................................................................ 71
21. Troubleshooting Tips ........................................................................................................... 73
22. Replacement Parts and Accessories .................................................................................. 77
23. PID Corrections Factor (CF) Library.................................................................................... 82

List of Figures
Figure Title Page
1. GasAlertMicro 5 and GasAlert Micro 5 PID Detector ............................................................ 7
2. Display Elements ................................................................................................................... 8
3. Applying Gas to the Sensors ............................................................................................... 44
4. Installing the Pump Module ................................................................................................. 57
5. Attaching the Sample Probe................................................................................................ 58
6. Installing and Removing the MMC/SD ................................................................................ 60
7. Replacing the Batteries ....................................................................................................... 69
8. Replacing a Sensor or Sensor Filter ................................................................................... 70
9. Parts of the PID ................................................................................................................... 71

GasAlertMicro 5 and GasAlertMicro 5 PID
User Manual
CAUTION: FOR SAFETY REASONS, THIS EQUIPMENT
MUST BE OPERATED AND SERVICED BY QUALIFIED
PERSONNEL ONLY. READ AND UNDERSTAND THE
INSTRUCTION MANUAL COMPLETELY BEFORE
OPERATING OR SERVICING.
GasAlertMicro 5 Multi-Gas Detector
Standard instrument is equipped with integral concussion-
proof boot and internal vibrator alarm.
GasAlertMicro 5 with User Downloadable Datalogger
Provides full-time continuous datalogging while the
instrument is operating. Data is saved on a convenient
MultiMediaCard (MMC) or secure digital (SD) card and can
be removed and downloaded by the user. Data is imported
into standard office software (Microsoft® Excel, Access etc.).
Wraparound memory ensures the most recent data is always
saved. Datalogging instruments include the Fleet Manager
software.
Accessing Test Results with Fleet Manager
To access and view test results using the Fleet Manager
software application, refer to the Fleet Manager Support CD.

1
GasAlertMicro 5 and GasAlertMicro 5 PID
Introduction
aWarning
To ensure your personal safety, read the
Safety Information before using the detector.
The GasAlertMicro 5 gas detector (“the detector”) warns of
hazardous gas at levels above user-selectable alarm
setpoints.
The detector is a personal safety device. It is your
responsibility to respond properly to the alarm.
Table 1 lists the gases monitored.
Table 1. Gases Monitored
Gas Detected Unit of Measure
Oxygen (O
2
) percent by volume (%)
Combustible gases
field selectable for: a) percent of lower
explosive limit (% LEL)
b) percent by volume
methane 0-5.0% v/v
Carbon monoxide (CO) parts per million (ppm)
Hydrogen sulfide (H
2
S) parts per million (ppm)
Phosphine (PH
3
) parts per million (ppm)
Sulfur dioxide (SO
2
) parts per million (ppm)
Chlorine (Cl
2
) parts per million (ppm)
Ammonia (NH
3
) parts per million (ppm)
Nitrogen dioxide (NO
2
) parts per million (ppm)
Hydrogen cyanide (HCN) parts per million (ppm)
Chlorine dioxide (ClO
2
) parts per million (ppm)
Ozone (O
3
) parts per million (ppm)
Volatile organic compounds (VOC) parts per million (ppm)

GasAlertMicro 5 and GasAlertMicro 5 PID
User Manual
Safety Information - Read First
Use the detector only as specified in this manual, otherwise
the protection provided by the detector may be impaired.
International symbols used on the detector and in this
manual are explained in Table 2.
Read the Warnings and Cautions on the following pages
before using the detector.
ecNote
This instrument contains batteries. Do not mix
with the solid waste stream. Spent batteries
should be disposed of by a qualified recycler or
hazardous materials handler.
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GasAlertMicro 5 and GasAlertMicro 5 PID
Safety Information - Read First
aCautions
⇒Warning: Substitution of components may impair Intrinsic Safety.
⇒Caution: For safety reasons, this equipment must be operated and serviced by qualified personnel only. Read
and understand the user manual completely before operating or servicing.
⇒Do not use the detector if it is damaged. Before using the detector, inspect the case. Look for cracks and/or
missing parts.
⇒If the detector is damaged or parts are missing, contact BW Technologies immediately.
⇒Use only sensor(s) that are specifically designed for the GasAlertMicro 5 and the GasAlertMicro5 PID models.
Refer to Replacement Parts and Accessories.
⇒Calibrate the detector before first-time use and then on a regular schedule, depending on use and sensor
exposure to poisons and contaminants. BW recommends at least once every 180 days (6 months).
⇒BW recommends to “bump test” the sensors before each day’s use to confirm their ability and response to gas
by exposing the detector to a gas concentration that exceeds the high alarm setpoints. Manually verify that the
audible and visual alarms are activated. Calibrate if the readings are not within the specified limits.
⇒It is recommended that the combustible sensor be checked with a known concentration of calibration gas after
any known exposure to contaminants/poisons (sulfur compounds, silicon vapors, halogenated compounds,
etc.).
⇒The combustible sensor is factory calibrated to 50% LEL methane. If monitoring a different combustible gas in
the % LEL range, calibrate the sensor using the appropriate gas. High off-scale % LEL or % v/v methane
readings may indicate an explosive concentration.
⇒Only the combustible gas detection portion of this instrument has been assessed for performance by CSA
International.
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GasAlertMicro 5 and GasAlertMicro 5 PID
User Manual
aCautions cont.
⇒Protect the combustible sensor from exposure to lead compounds, silicones, and chlorinated hydrocarbons.
Although certain organic vapors (such as leaded gasoline and halogenated hydrocarbons) may temporarily
inhibit sensor performance, in most cases, the sensor will recover after calibration.
⇒Any rapid up-scaling reading followed by a declining or erratic reading may indicate a gas concentration
beyond upper scale limit, which may be hazardous.
⇒Use only recommended AA alkaline or NiMH batteries that are properly charged and installed in the detector
case. Refer to Replacement Parts and Accessories.
⇒Charge NiMH batteries using the recommended charger only. Do not use any other charger. Failure to adhere to
this precaution can lead to fire and/or explosion.
⇒Protect the PID sensor from exposure to silicone vapors.
⇒The optional BW pump module (M5-PUMP) is certified for use with the GasAlertMicro 5 and the GasAlertMicro 5
PID only.
⇒Read and adhere to all instructions and precautions in the literature provided with the charger. Failure to do so
may result in fire, electric shock, personal injury, and/or property damage.
⇒Extended exposure of the GasAlertMicro 5 and the GasAlertMicro 5 PID to certain concentrations of
combustible gases and air may stress a detector element that can seriously affect its performance. If an alarm
occurs due to high concentration of combustible gases recalibrate the sensor, or if required, replace the
sensor.
⇒Do not test the combustible sensor’s response with a butane cigarette lighter; doing so will damage the sensor.
⇒Do not expose the detector to electrical shock and/or severe continuous mechanical shock.
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GasAlertMicro 5 and GasAlertMicro 5 PID
Safety Information - Read First
aCautions cont.
⇒ Do not attempt to disassemble, adjust, or service the detector unless instructions for that procedure are
provided in the manual and/or that part is listed as a replacement part. Use only BW Technologies Replacement
Parts and Accessories.
⇒ Do not immerse the detector in liquids.
⇒ The detector warranty will be voided if customer, personnel, or third parties damage the detector during repair
attempts. Non-BW Technologies repair/service attempts void this warranty.
Table 2. International Symbols
Symbol Meaning
nApproved to both U.S. and Canadian Standards by the Canadian Standards Association
gEuropean Explosives Protection
X
Conforms to European Union Directives
BAM BAM performance verification to European Performance Standards
ATEX Conforms to European ATEX Directives
IECEx International Electrotechnical Commission Scheme for Certification to Standards for Electrical Equipment for
Explosive Atmospheres
Type approved by ABS America for use aboard cargo vessels
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GasAlertMicro 5 and GasAlertMicro 5 PID
User Manual
Getting Started
The list below provides the standard items included with the
detector. If the detector is damaged or parts are missing,
contact the place of purchase immediately.
• Batteries: three replaceable alkaline cells or one
rechargeable battery pack with the GasAlertMicro 5
Battery Charger
• Sensors: O
2
, combustible (LEL), toxic, H
2
S/CO
(Twintox sensor), or PID
• Calibration hose and cap
• Screwdriver
• Quick reference guide
• Fleet Manager CD (if applicable)
• Manual and training CD
To order replacement parts, refer to Replacement Parts and
Accessories.
The detector is shipped with sensors and alkaline batteries
installed. To replace the sensors and batteries, refer to
Maintenance.
To become oriented with the features and functions of the
detector, refer to the following figures and tables:
• Figure 1 and Table 3 describes the detector’s
components
• Figure 2 and Table 4 describes the detector’s
Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) elements
• Table 5 describes the detector’s pushbuttons
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GasAlertMicro 5 and GasAlertMicro 5 PID
Getting Started
Figure 1. GasAlertMicro 5 and GasAlert Micro 5 PID
Detector
Table 3. GasAlertMicro 5 and GasAlertMicro 5 PID
Detector
Item Description
1Visual alarm bars (LED)
2Sensors
3Audible alarm
4Pushbuttons
5Liquid crystal display (LCD)
6Battery pack
7Alligator clip
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GasAlertMicro 5 and GasAlertMicro 5 PID
User Manual
Figure 2. Display Elements
Table 4. Display Elements
Item Description
1Alarm condition
2Automatically span sensor
3Gas cylinder
4Gas identifier bars
5Battery life indicator
6Pass code lock
7Data transmission
8Clock
9Stealth mode
10 Optional pump indicator
11 Optional datalogger card indicator
12
Alarm condition (low, high, TWA, STEL,
or multi-gas) or view TWA, STEL, and
maximum (MAX) gas exposures
13 Automatically zero sensor
Note
If enabled, the backlight automatically activates for
8 seconds when there is an alarm condition and whenever
there is insufficient light to view the LCD. Any pushbutton
reactivates the backlight in low-light conditions.
8

GasAlertMicro 5 and GasAlertMicro 5 PID
Getting Started
Table 5. Pushbuttons
Pushbutton Description
A
• To turn on the detector press A.
• To turn off the detector, press and hold Auntil the countdown is complete (from normal operation only).
G
• To increment the displayed value or scroll up, press G.
• To enter the user options menu, press Gand Hsimultaneously and hold until the countdown is complete.
• To clear the TWA, STEL, and MAX gas exposure readings, press Cand Gsimultaneously and hold until
the countdown is complete.
• To view the date and time, alarm setpoints (TWA, STEL, low, and high) of all sensors, and the LEL/PID
correction factor (if applicable), press G.
H
• To decrement the displayed value or scroll down, press H.
• To initiate calibration and setting alarm setpoints, press Cand Hsimultaneously and hold until the
countdown is complete.
C
• To view the TWA, STEL, and MAX hold readings, press C.
• To acknowledge latched alarms press C.
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GasAlertMicro 5 and GasAlertMicro 5 PID
User Manual
Activating the Detector
Attach all of the accessories prior to activating the detector
(e.g., pump module, sampling probe, hose, etc.). For
illustrations and procedures, refer to Attaching the
Accessories.
To activate the detector, press Ain a normal atmosphere
(20.9% oxygen).
Self-Test
Once the detector is activated, it performs several self-tests.
Confirm the following tests occur.
Note
If an error message displays during the self-test,
refer to Troubleshooting.
The detector performs a battery test during start-up.
If the battery has insufficient power to operate, the following
screen displays before deactivating.
Replace the batteries and reactivate the detector.
1. All of the LCD elements display simultaneously as
the detector beeps, flashes, vibrates, and briefly
activates the backlight.
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GasAlertMicro 5 and GasAlertMicro 5 PID
Activating the Detector
2. The version and serial number of the detector
displays.
3. The date and time displays.
Datalogging Unit (Optional)
4. If the detector is a datalogging unit, it determines if
• a MultiMediaCard (MMC) or secure digital (SD)
card is inserted,
• the detector can communicate with the card,
• the detector supports the size of the card, and
• the card requires formatting.
Note
If there is a problem with the MMC/SD, Datalogger
disabled displays. The detector then automatically
continues with the self-test.
If the card requires formatting, the following screen
displays as the card is automatically formatted.
5. The detector then runs a self-test to verify the
sensors and power supply.
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GasAlertMicro 5 and GasAlertMicro 5 PID
User Manual
Self-test Successful: If successful, the following screen
displays.
Self-test Unsuccessful: If a sensor fails the self-test, a
warning displays indicating which sensor(s) has failed.
6. If correction factors are set in the user options, the
LEL or PID (custom) correction factors display.
7. The TWA, STEL, low, and high alarm setpoints
then display in the following order.
Note
The alarm setpoints may vary by region. Refer to
Resetting Gas Alarm Setpoints.
12

GasAlertMicro 5 and GasAlertMicro 5 PID
Activating the Detector
Pump Test (Optional)
8. If the pump module is attached to the detector, the
following screens display.
When the following screen displays, block the pump
inlet.
If the pump inlet is not blocked within 10 seconds or
the pump test fails, the following screens display.
If Cis not pressed or the pump is not removed
within 25 seconds, the detector performs the pump
test again.
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GasAlertMicro 5 and GasAlertMicro 5 PID
User Manual
If the pump test is successful, the following screen
displays and the self-test continues.
9. Unless disabled in user options, the oxygen (O
2
)
sensor is calibrated automatically.
If the span is successful, the detector beeps twice.
Note
If the automatic O
2
calibration feature has been
disabled, Automatic O
2
span disabled displays.
10. Lastly, the number of days remaining before
calibration is due displays for all sensors.
If any sensor is past due for calibration, the name of
the sensor and the number of days past due
display.
Note
If any sensor is overdue,
Y displays continually
until calibration is performed.
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