MRC Explorer-9000 User manual

Explorer-9000
User Manual

Contents
1. Product Overview........................................................................................................................... 1
1.1 Introduction.............................................................................................................................1
1.2 Applications............................................................................................................................ 1
1.3 Advantages..............................................................................................................................1
1.4 Unpacking............................................................................................................................... 1
2. Structure and Principle.................................................................................................................. 4
2.1 Instrument Overview.............................................................................................................. 4
2.1.1 Front View....................................................................................................................4
2.1.2 Left view...................................................................................................................... 4
2.1.3 Right view....................................................................................................................5
2.1.4 Front view.................................................................................................................... 6
2.1.5 Rear view..................................................................................................................... 6
2.2 Working Principle................................................................................................................... 6
2.3 System Components................................................................................................................7
2.3.1 Excitation System........................................................................................................ 7
2.3.2 Optics System.............................................................................................................. 7
2.3.3 Detection System......................................................................................................... 7
3. Technical Specifications..................................................................................................................8
3.1 Standard configuration............................................................................................................8
3.2 Specification............................................................................................................................8
3.3 Parameters...............................................................................................................................8
4. Basic operations.............................................................................................................................10
4.1 Battery...................................................................................................................................10
4.1.1 Assembly....................................................................................................................10
4.1.2 Charging.....................................................................................................................10
4.2 Use of adapter....................................................................................................................... 12
4.3 ON/OFF................................................................................................................................ 12
4.4 Conditions............................................................................................................................. 13
4.5 Sample Preparation............................................................................................................... 13
4.6 Sample handling....................................................................................................................14
5.Software introduction.................................................................................................................... 15
5.1 Power on............................................................................................................................... 15
5.2 User mode interface.............................................................................................................. 15
5.3 Test result.............................................................................................................................. 17
5.4 Operation...............................................................................................................................18

5.5 Setup......................................................................................................................................19
6. Sample measurement....................................................................................................................21
6.1 Initialize................................................................................................................................ 21
6.2 Test........................................................................................................................................ 22
6.3 Result analysis...................................................................................................................... 22
6.4 Print.......................................................................................................................................23
7. Care and Maintenance................................................................................................................. 25
7.1 Daily Maintenance................................................................................................................25
7.2 Periodic Maintenance........................................................................................................... 25
7.3 Storage.................................................................................................................................. 25
7.4 Transportation....................................................................................................................... 25
8. Safety.............................................................................................................................................. 26
9. Troubleshooting.............................................................................................................................27
9.1 Radiation indicator off or not flashing during measurement............................................... 27
9.2 Smoke or Unusual Noise...................................................................................................... 27
9.3 Others.................................................................................................................................... 27
Appendix............................................................................................................................................ 28
Packing list..................................................................................................................................28

1
1 Product Overview
Introduction 1.1
This manual describes the portable Explorer series spectrometers manufactured by MRC.,Ltd
Explorer portable series include harmful elements analyzer Explorer-3000, alloy analyzer Explorer-
5000, mineral analyzer Explorer-7000, soil heavy-metal analyzer Explorer-9000,etc.( XRF -X Ray
Fluorescence- refers to X-ray fluorescence analysis). This manual takes Explorer 9000 for example
Applications 1.2
The new generation of Explorer portable X-ray fluorescence spectrometer series is mainly used
for metal materials reliability identification, alloy grades rapid identification, soil heavy-metals
field testing and field in situ multi-element analysis for various geological ore, fully meeting
the market demand from raw materials testing, process control to field online analysis of
various elemental composition in product testing
Advantages 1.3
The introduction of 3 core technologies, miniature low-power end-window integrated
X-ray tube, large area beryllium-window silicon drift detector (SDD) and miniature
multi-channel digital signal processor, has significantly saved test time, improved the
detection accuracy and reduced the errors, which enables the portable analyzers possess
paralleled performance to desktop analyzers.
Small in size and easy to carry
On-site and in situ analysis arbitrarily at any time and any place
Non-destructive testing
1-2 s rapid portable analysis ,longer time fine testing by bench-top measurement
Measurement can be directly carried out on the sample surface in field analysis, without
additional sample preparation, which suits samples of any type, such as electrical and electric
products, alloys, geology and mineral resources, soil, rock, residue, small solid particles, and
liquid sediment.
Built-in HD camera for ease of viewing the testing point
The multiple measurement modes to choose from and unlimited number of modes to add
at will, together with its automatic matching feature, help achieve easy one-button
measurement. Its built-in intensity correction method can correct all deviations from samples
of irregular geometric shape and uneven structure and density.
Innovative software interface and core combining EC with FP software has a wider
application, with high sensitivity, short test time, easy operation, less restriction for the
operator.
12 collimator&filter combination.
Embedded Windows CE system, high resolution LCD touch screen, digital multi-channel
technology and SPI data transmission greatly raise the data transmission and data processing
ability. Wherever you are, the measurement data is all at your reach.
Triple security: auto-sensing, blank test, two-seconds auto-off X-ray tube with radiation
level far below international safety standards, no radiation leakage; thicker protective wall.
Protective safety hood.
Two large-capacity 9000mAH lithium batteries can work for 8 hours continuously.

2
Equipped with a wide-voltage AC charger or car-loaded charger ensure test at anytime,
anywhere.
Warning indicator system. Powered, the green light is on; testing,the red light flashes to
prevent error.
The instrument is of waterproof, dustproof and works continuously in an environment of
high temperature and high humidity. Its protective box uses high strength military supplies
with good waterproof, shockproof, anti-pressure function.
1.4 Unpacking
Open the sealed packing case and you will see the included items.
①Hygrometer ②Release Valve
Fig.1-1
To open the case, push down the lock switch as below.
Fig.1-2

3
Counter-clockwise rotate the release valve to open the case, as shown below,for the case is
sealed,the pressure inside sometimes lower than the outside:
Fig.1-3
Unpack it,find the following:
⑥ ;Adapter; ②TF reader; ③EXPLORER-9000; ④Mini USB cable; ⑤ Test membrane ①
Charger; ⑦ Car-loaded power cord; ⑧Car-loaded triple ⑨ Radiation shield; ⑩ Rechargeable
battery × 2; ⑪ Power cord; ⑫ Bag
Fig.1-4
Any discrepancies with the product packing list, please contact the nearest MRC office or an
authorized service cente.

4
2 Structure and Principle
2.1 Instrument Overview
2.1.1 Front View
①PDA；②Radiation Indicator；③Power Indicator；④External power port； ⑤ Power switch; ⑥
PDA rotation axis
Fig 2-1
1) PDA - the embedded PDA installed with the dedicated X-ray fluorescence analytical software is
used for instrument control,data processing and result display.
2) Power&Charging indicator -If powered, the power indicator is green. If unpowered, plug in the
battery and adapter,in case the battery is low, the indicator flashes green; under this condition
power the instrument,the power and charging indicator turn orange.
3) Radiation Indicator - when HV power is applied on the X-ray tube, the radiation indicator
flashes red. Otherwise, constantly green .
4) Power Button - turns on/off the power supply .
2.1.2 Left view
1) TF Card Slot - insert a TF card to copy, backup or update software.
2) Mini USB Port - synchronize with the PC via Mini USB cable after install the related divers.
3) Trigger - pull the trigger to start the measurement automatically when the instrument is powered.
4) Battery - power the instrument.

5
①TF Card Slot ②Mini USB Port ③Power and Charging Indicator
④Radiation Indicator ⑤Trigger ⑥Battery
Fig.2-2
2.1.3 Right view
①Power & Radiation Indicator
Fig.2-3
Radiation Indicator - when HV power is applied on the X-ray tube, the radiation indicator flashes
red. Otherwise, constantly green.

6
2.1.4 Front view
①Test window
Fig. 2-4
Test window: where sample is placed
2.1.5 Rear view
①Power Port②HV lock ③Buckle
Fig. 2-5
1) Power Port - adapter power port, for powering the instrument.
2) HV lock-unlocked,HV works properly;lock,HV is in an inactive state.
3) Buckle- for external PDA touch pen and security strap (to avoid instrument falling when testing).
2.2 Working Principle
EDX (Energy Dispersive Spectrometry) X-ray spectrometer is based on the principle of X-ray
fluorescence (XRF).

7
XRF principle: the atoms illuminated by high-energy X-ray emit X-ray spectra with a certain
characteristics, the wavelength of which is only related to the atomic number of element, not X-ray
excitation energy. Therefore, by determine the wavelength, we find what contained in the sample
and start the qualitative analysis; by measuring the line intensity and comparing with a known
standard, we know the content of the element and start the quantitative analysis.
Explorer-7000 working principle: Integrated miniature X-ray source provides tube voltage and tube
current, the light tube emits continuous X-spectral lines, X-rays irradiating to the sample produce
X-ray fluorescence with sample characteristics, transforming into voltage signals through the
detector, the signal,after being amplified and data acquisition, is sent for computer processing to get
the required test data.
2.3 System Components
The instrument is constructed mainly by three systems: excitation system, optics system and
detection system.
2.3.1 Excitation System
The excitation system, including miniature X-ray source, filter and collimator, is used to generate
X-rays.
2.3.2 Optics System
Here is the schematic diagram of optics system.
Fig.2-6
Switch the combination of filter and collimator by software.
2.3.3 Detection System
Mainly include:
1) AMP and digital multi-channel data acquisition system - Get the signal and digitalize it
by amplifying the counter.
2) Embedded PDA - Equipped with dedicated X-ray fluorescence analytical software, it can
control the instrument operations, process info. and display results.

8
3 Technical Specifications
3.1 Standard configuration
1) AMP and digital multi-channel system
2) Power and control system
3) Embedded PDA
4) Dedicated XRF analytical software(PDA version)
5) Laboratory test bracket (optional)
6) 110V/220V universal adapter
7) 2× 9000mAh li-ion battery, 1 li-ion charger(27000mAh large-capacity battery is optional)
8) Large-capacity TF storage card and TF reader
9) Anti-shock, anti-pressure, water-proof lockable portable case
3.2 Specification
Analysis method: ED-XRF
Detector: 25mm2, 0.3mil，SDD, resolution≥139eV
Excitation source: 50KV/200uA micro-Ag target and end-window integrated X-ray tube
and HV power supply
Element range: all elements from Mg to U
Measurement time:1-15 s
Sample type: solid, liquid, powder
Detection limit: down to ppm level
Concentration range: 1ppm～99.99%
Calibration method: Ag
CPU:1 GHz
Memory:1G, extended memory for 32G max. (standard 4G)
Control:One-touch test,no need to select a specific test mode
Ambient humidity: ≤90%
Ambient temperature: -20℃～+50℃
3.3 Parameters
No.
Item
Parameter
1
Weight
1.7kg
2
Size
244mm(L)×90mm(W)×330mm(H)
3
Excitation Source
X-ray tube (Ag target),max. 50kV,200μA
4
Detector
SDD, 25 mm2, 0.3mil, resolution<150eV
5
OS
Windows CE 7.0, embedded PDA
6
Software
Brand new FP and EC software
7
GPS, WiFi
Inbuilt

9
8
Video
HD CMOS camera
9
Power
Consumption
DC9V 12W Max (working)
8W Max (standby)
2W Max (sleep)
10
Power Source
Chargeable li-ion battery, 9000mAH, 12 hours continuous
running
110V/220V universal adapter for AC power
11
Charger
DC charger: car charger
AC charger: 110/220V, 50/60HZ
12
Monitor
Transflective LCD touch screen (resolution 1080×720)
13
Collimator and
Filter
φ4.0/2.0 mm collimator, 6 kinds of filters, 12 switchable
combinations, for various samples test
14
Data Transmission
Digital multi-channel technology, SPI data transmission,
fast analysis, high count rate, waterproof mini-USB,
external PC
16
Storage Card
2G
17
Safety
auto-sensing; no sample, no work; max. radiation <5μSv/hr.
18
Warnings
Powered,the green indicator is on; testing, red radiation
warning indicator flashes .
20
Package
Vacuum packing, lockable anti-pressure, waterproof, shock
absorption
21
Applications
Qualitative,semi-quantitative analysis of environmental soil

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4 Basic operations
4.1 Battery
4.1.1 Assembly
Take the instrument out of the packing case. Insert the battery into the handle of the instrument as
below.
Fig.4-1
Fig.4-2
4.1.2 Charging
To charge the battery when out of power:
1）Take out the battery charger.

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Fig.4-3
2) Insert the battery
Fig. 4-4
3) Connect the charger and adapter, and connect to the utility power to charge power (red light is
on).
①To utility power socket (AC 110 / 220V)
Fig.4-5

12
4.2 Use of adapter
Adapter is optional for powering the instrument,connected as below.
①To utility power socket (AC 110 / 220V)
Fig.4-6
For security, be sure to use the supplied adapter and battery charger. Using a different power
cord or battery charger could cause malfunctions or danger.
4.3 ON/OFF
Before turn on the instrument, please make sure the instrument has been properly connected to
battery or A/C adapter. By pressing the power button for about 3s, the green power indicator is on,
then enter the login interface.
Similarly, to turn off the instrument, press the power button for about 3s and release, the green
power indicator turns off.
In case the instrument is turned on, idle the instrument for 5 minutes, the instrument will enter
Sleep state.
①Power Button ②Power Indicator
Fig.4-7

13
NOTE: Gently press the power button. Do not force too much to avoid damaging the button.
4.4 Conditions
1) Ambient temperature& humidity requirements:
Operating temperature: -20℃~ + 50℃
Operating humidity: ≤90% (non-condensing)
2) Keep the installation, use environment clean to prevent corrosive gas;
3) Prevent static damage and strong electromagnetic interference on the instrument.
4.5 Sample Preparation
For qualitative analysis of the elements in the sample ,whether it is a natural one or in strange shape,
this instrument can be directly used for test. But for accurate quantitative analysis, we need to do
some sample processing.
X-ray fluorescence analysis is sort of a comparative measurement which needs standard sample as
reference, the geometry conditions of both need to be consistent. Therefore, the measurement for
the natural sample in the field will be comparatively less accurate,while in the lab, we get better
results.
Sample Shape
Main Factors Leading to Measurement Errors
Solid
A. Segregation inside the sample
B. Rough surface
C. Sample surface deterioration (e.g. oxidation)
Powder
A. Coarse Particles
B. Sample changes (e.g. oxidation and moisture adsorption)
Liquid
A. Concentration changes due to precipitation and crystallization
B. Bubbles
1. Solid Sample
To make solid samples, such as steel, copper alloys, aluminum alloys and precious metals, the
method is to lathe them to cylinders and have one end polished
Before analysis, do not touch the polished surface to avoid oil stains which would affect the
accuracy of measurement. If it has been stained, wipe it clean with a soft clean cloth.
2. Powder Sample
Including slag, dust, ash, cement and lime,etc.. Typical sample preparation order: Batch -> Multiple
particles ->Bulks -> Pulverization and splitting -> Sample preparation -> Measurement. For
optimum measurement results, the size of powder samples should be preferably below 200 Mesh..
Generally, directly place the powder sample in the cups for analysis. Another method is to make
tablets, which will bring accurate results.
3. Liquid Sample
There are three preparation methods for liquid samples.
1) Direct - pour liquid samples directly into the cups for analysis.
2) Enrichment - enrich the elements to be analyzed by using copper reagent or ion-exchange
resin method,etc.
3) Drip - drip drops of liquid sample on the filter paper for analysis.

14
We sometimes intentionally add some element into the sample as an internal standard, which is
known as internal standard method.
4.6 Sample handling
You can measure directly by placing the nosepiece near the sample during mobile operation (ie,
real-time mobile detection by holding the instrument in hand) But be careful not let the irregular
barbed samples pierce the test film, which may cause damage to the beryllium window.
During stationary operation (i.e. install the instrument on a bracket), note the following points:
1) Avoid splashing liquid or dropping foreign objects into the instrument. Otherwise, it
might cause inaccuracies, even malfunctions.
2) Handle gently. Better use tools(e.g. tweezer) to avoid damaging the test film.

15
Software introduction 5
Software interface appears after booting. Explorer-9000 software is fitted in the embedded PDA,
.bind with WIN CE 7.0 platform, no need for installation
5.1 Power on
Press switch button for 3 seconds to enter Starting interface, the interfaces switching as shown in
Figure 5-1. After booting, the software automatically starts and enters the software user mode
(Figure 5-2).
Fig.5-1
Fig.5-2
5.2 User mode interface
Enter user mode interface, as shown in Figure 5-3, icon functions are listed in Table 5-1.

16
Fig.5-3
Icon
Function
Display the remaining power
View the current time, double-click to change the date and time
Camera area, double click to control the camera switch
Click Start Test button to test the samples
Table 5-1
Date &Time settings is as shown in Figure 5-4, slide the Date & Time display column to
change value, then click OK .

17
Fig. 5-4
5.3 Test result
The Test results interface displays the test values (Figure 5-5 left),the users can view multiple
test statistics(Figure 5-5 right), etc... Icon functions are listed in Table 5-2.
Fig. 5-5
Icon
Function
Initialization button, click to start initialization