NARDA nardalert S3 User manual

nardalert S3
Personal Monitor
Operating Manual

⚠WARNING
Strong electromagnetic fields
High-level electromagnetic fields may be hazardous to
your health. This monitor cannot protect you from all
electromagnetic hazards that you could encounter.
This Monitor should only be used after you have read this
manual, understood how it operates and consulted with
your company’s safety officer.
Narda Safety Test Solutions GmbH
Sandwiesenstrasse 7
72793 Pfullingen, Germany
® Names and logo are registered
trademarks of Narda Safety Test
Solutions GmbH and L3 Communications
Holdings, Inc. - Trade names are trademarks of
the owners.
© 2019
Order no.: 2270/98.21
Published: 08/2019
Earlier edition: 06/2015
Subject to change.
Our normal guarantee and
delivery terms apply.
Printed in Germany

Nardalert S3 3
Contents
1Useful information ................................................................................................5
1.1 Measuring electromagnetic fields.....................................................................5
1.2 About this monitor .............................................................................................5
Applications..........................................................................................................6
1.3 About this Operating Manual ............................................................................7
Characters and symbols used ..............................................................................7
Symbols and terms used in warnings...................................................................7
Structure of warnings ...........................................................................................7
Symbols and marks used in this document ..........................................................8
2Safety instructions................................................................................................9
2.1 Using this Operating Manual.............................................................................9
2.2Intended use.......................................................................................................9
2.3 Dangers from electromagnetic fields .............................................................10
Measurement errors...........................................................................................10
Sensor is not installed or operating properly.......................................................11
2.4 Dangers from AC mains charger ....................................................................11
3Preparing the Nardalert S3 for use.................................................................... 12
3.1 Unpacking ........................................................................................................12
Packaging ..........................................................................................................12
Items included....................................................................................................13
Transport damage..............................................................................................14
After transport and storage.................................................................................14
3.2 Battery Installation...........................................................................................14
3.3 Instrument overview ........................................................................................15
Top Panel ..........................................................................................................15
Front Panel ........................................................................................................15
Rear Panel.........................................................................................................15
Side Panels........................................................................................................16
3.4 Connecting the sensor ....................................................................................17
Wrong handling of the sensor ............................................................................18
4Getting started .................................................................................................... 19
4.1 Initial display screens......................................................................................19
Normal operation ...............................................................................................20
Alarm indication .................................................................................................20
4.2 Checking monitor functions............................................................................21
Performing a function test: .................................................................................21
Appropriate test sources ....................................................................................21
4.3 Screen navigation ............................................................................................22

Contents
4 Nardalert S3
4.4 Additional capabilities of optioned units........................................................23
Menu selection screens......................................................................................23
Navigating sub-menu screen example ...............................................................24
5Operation overview ............................................................................................ 25
5.1 Normal operation .............................................................................................25
5.2 Nardalert S3 default alarm levels ....................................................................26
5.3 Special environmental operations ..................................................................26
Heavy rain or snow ............................................................................................26
High RF/microwave environments......................................................................27
5.4 Using the Nardalert S3 as an area monitor ....................................................27
6Cleaning, maintenance, repair .......................................................................... 28
6.1 Cleaning............................................................................................................28
6.2 Performing calibration .....................................................................................29
6.3 Repair................................................................................................................29
6.4 Verification overview .......................................................................................29
Simplified block diagram ....................................................................................29
Theory of operation ............................................................................................30
Testing RF/microwave sensors ..........................................................................30
Operational tests ................................................................................................30
6.5 Disposal............................................................................................................31
Disposing of Nardalert S3 ..................................................................................31
Disposing of batteries.........................................................................................31
7Specifications ..................................................................................................... 32
7.1 Monitor specifications .....................................................................................33
7.2 Sensor specifications ......................................................................................34
7.3 Outline drawing................................................................................................34
7.4 Declaration of conformity................................................................................35
7.5 Declaration of origin ........................................................................................36
8Ordering information ......................................................................................... 38
8.1 Nardalert S3 part numbers ..............................................................................39
8.2 Sensor part numbers .......................................................................................39
8.3 Optional accessories .......................................................................................39

Nardalert S3 5
1 Useful information
This chapter contains basic information about measuring electromag-
netic fields, about using the Nardalert S3, and about the structure of this
Operating Manual.
1.1 Measuring electromagnetic fields
1.2 About this monitor
1.3 About this Operating Manual
1.1 Measuring electromagnetic fields
In today’s world, many industries utilize equipment that generates
electromagnetic fields. Our modern need for communications as well as
the efficiency of electromagnetic heating systems and the safety that
radar systems provide us are just a sample of the applications that are
benefitted by exploitation of the electromagnetic spectrum. We also have
various engineering considerations as well as regulatory requirements to
use the electromagnetic spectrum wisely. Various authorities have long
defined limit values designed to protect users from the dangers of
exposure to such emissions, and the Nardalert S3 is an effective tool to
help companies and individuals demonstrate compliance.
1.2 About this monitor
The Nardalert S3 (“NS3”) provides virtually everyone concerned with this
subject with an instrument for monitoring non-ionizing radiation that a
body might be exposed to within the frequency range from 100 kHz to
100 GHz (depending on the sensor used). The NS3 has a wide range of
functions, yet it is very easy to use. It also features a handy design,
robust casing, long battery life, and high measurement accuracy.

1Useful information
6 Nardalert S3
The NS3 features multiple types of sensors to accurately monitor human
exposures while worn on the body. It can be used off the body to detect
fields also. Shaped sensors that evaluate the field according to a specific
human safety standard are connected to the NS3 basic unit. These
sensors are calibrated separately from the basic unit and include a non-
volatile memory containing the sensor parameters and calibration data.
They can therefore be used with any NS3 without any loss in calibration
accuracy. The PC software supplied with the monitor allows you to
configure and remote control the NS3, as well as to export saved
measurement data and to analyze the results (if unit is configured for
that option).
Applications
The NS3 performs measurements for human safety purposes,
particularly in workplace environments where high electric or magnetic
field strengths are likely. It can also be configured to function as a stand-
alone area monitor.
Examples:
• Monitoring human exposure field strengths as part of general safety
regulations
• Monitoring the field strengths around transmitting and radar
equipment to establish safety zones and for monitoring personnel
during operations
• Monitoring the field strength emanating from mobile phone base
stations and satellite communications systems to ensure compliance
with human safety limit values
• Monitoring operator exposures in the industrial workplace
environment, such as around plastic welding equipment, RF heating,
tempering, or drying equipment
• Monitoring to ensure the safety of persons using diathermy
equipment and other medical equipment that generates high
frequency radiation
• Field strength monitoring in TEM cells, absorber chambers or test
ranges

1Useful information
Nardalert S3 7
1.3 About this Operating Manual
Characters and symbols used
Various elements are used in this Operating Manual to indicate special
meanings or particularly important passages in the text.
Symbols and terms used in warnings
According to the American National Standard ANSI Z535.6-2006, the
following warnings, symbols, and terms are used in this document:
The general danger symbol warns of risk of serious
injury when used with the signal words CAUTION,
WARNING, and DANGER. Follow all the instructions in
order to avoid injuries or death.
NOTICE Indicates a danger that results in damage to or
destruction of the instrument.
CAUTION Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided,
could result in minor or moderate injury.
WARNING
Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided,
could result in death or serious injury.
DANGER
Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will
result in death or serious injury.
Structure of warnings
All warnings are structured as follows:
⚠SIGNAL WORD
Type and source of danger
Consequences of failure to observe warning
Instructions for preventing danger

1Useful information
8 Nardalert S3
Symbols and marks used in this document
!
Important instruction
Indicates an instruction that must be followed to avoid
danger.
✓
Requirement
Indicates a requirement that must be met before the next
instruction can be carried out, e.g.
✓ The instrument is switched off.

Instruction
Indicates a single instruction, e.g.
 Switch the instrument on.
1.
2.
3.
Sequence of instructions
Indicates a sequence of instructions that must be
carried out in the order given.

Result
Indicates the result of carrying out an instruction, e.g.
 The instrument starts a self test.
Bold Type
Control element
Indicates a control element on the instrument, e.g.
 Press the Enter key.
CAPITALS
Menu name
Indicates a menu name, e.g.

Open the MAIN menu.
Blue Type
Cross reference
(in PDF document only)
Indicates a cross reference to another part of the
document.
Click on the blue type in the PDF document to jump
directly to the cross reference.

Nardalert S3 9
2 Safety instructions
This chapter contains important instructions on how to use the Nardalert
S3 safely. Therefore, please read this chapter carefully and follow the
instructions closely.
2.1 Using this Operating Manual
2.2 Intended use
2.3 Dangers from electromagnetic fields
2.4 Dangers from AC mains charger
2.1 Using this Operating Manual
! Carefully read this entire Operating Manual before you start using
the instrument.
! Keep this Operating Manual so that it is available to everyone who
uses the instrument, and ensure that this Operating Manual is with
the instrument if you pass it on to a third party.
2.2 Intended use
! The NS3 is a warning device that gives active notice of the
existence of dangerous fields by means of a visible and audible
warning signal.
! Only use the instrument for the purpose and under the conditions for
which it has been designed.

2Safety instructions
10 Nardalert S3
! In particular, observe the technical data given in the Specifications
on pages 33-34. Proper use also includes:
! Observing any national accident prevention regulations at the
place of use.
! Ensuring that the instrument is used only by appropriately
qualified and trained persons.
! If you remove the unit from your body, it is important that the back of
the unit faces your hand (body) especially at microwave
frequencies. When you remove unit from body, carefully observe the
actual field level displayed when you are approaching an unknown
field source.
2.3 Dangers from electromagnetic fields
⚠WARNING
Strong electromagnetic fields
Very strong electromagnetic fields occur near
many radiation sources.
Observe safety barriers and markings.
In particular, persons with electronic implants must
keep away from dangerous areas.
This monitor is designed to be directional at
microwave frequencies. It cannot warn you about a
microwave exposure behind you if the monitor is
worn on the front of the body.
Measurement errors
Metallic labels (stickers) affixed to the black sensor area of the sensor
can lead to measurement errors, usually an underestimation of the
electromagnetic field strength.
Affix labels of any type only to the yellow housing. Metallic labels
must be affixed to the rear of the monitor.
If the instrument malfunctions, take it out of service and contact your
Narda Sales Partner. The addresses are listed on the Internet at
www.narda-sts.com.

2Safety instructions
Nardalert S3 11
Sensor is not installed or operating properly
The NS3 is designed to monitor the presence of the sensor and that the
sensor is functional.
Ensure that the sensor is attached properly to the basic unit. Sensor
is designed to be even with the surface of the basic unit and to pass
a functional test at turn-on. If in doubt, cycle unit off and then on
again to perform connection test. If the sensor is defective, not
installed or failing pre-test, it will cause the system to not proceed to
measurement mode.
Confidence testing of RF/microwave sensors can be accomplished
with a simple 2-way radio that generates more than 1 Watt. An
upscale indication should be noticed on the display when the radio
is transmitting close to the sensor housing.
Before beginning any RF radiation measurement, always inform
yourself of the frequencies and field strengths that you could be
expected to encounter.
2.4 Dangers from AC mains charger
⚠WARNING
Danger from mains voltage.
You could experience electric shock from the
external power supply.
Do not open the charger as there are no user
serviceable parts inside.
Do not expose or submerse the charger in water at
any time. It is designed to be used in an indoor,
protected environment.
Only use appropriate USB adapter cords. Never
use a damaged USB cord.
Only supply AC voltage that meets the voltage
specified at the AC input on the Charger. The AC
mains charger could be destroyed if the voltage
specification of the charger does not match the AC
line voltage.

12 Nardalert S3
3 Preparing the Nardalert S3 for use
This chapter describes all you need to do before starting to use the
Nardalert S3.
3.1 Unpacking
3.2 Battery Installation
3.3 Instrument overview
3.4 Connecting the sensor
3.1 Unpacking
Packaging
The packaging is designed to be re-used as long as it has not been
damaged.
Keep the original packaging and use it whenever the instrument
needs to be shipped or transported.

3Preparing the Nardalert S3 for use
Nardalert S3 13
Items included
Check that all the following items have been delivered:
•Carrying Case (2270/90.02)
•Nardalert S3 Mainframe (2270/01)
•Silicon Sleeve (2270/90.03), attached to the mainframe
•Lanyard Clip, non-conductive (2270/90.04)
•Belt Clip, non-conductive (2270/90.05)
•Screwdriver Phillips 0 (2270/90.06)
•User's Guide and CD-ROM with Software NS3-TS (2270/90.07)
•Car Charger Adapter, USB 5V (2259/92.20)
•Battery, rechargeable (2259/92.25)
•Cable, USB2.0 Master/Slave - A/B mini, 0.9m (2260/90.58)
•Power Supply, USB 5VDC, 100V-240VAC (2259/92.24, packed
separately)
•Calibration Certificate, Mainframe
•Sensor Module with Calibration Certificate (2271/XX, packed
separately)
USB cable
Software
and manuals
Mainframe and clips
Space for AC
power supply
Battery
Car charger
adapter
Screwdriver
Space for a detached
sensor module

3Preparing the Nardalert S3 for use
14 Nardalert S3
Transport damage
Instrument/accessories damaged during transportation
Check for completeness and damages:
Remove device and accessories from the case and check for
completeness as well as any transport damages.
CAUTION! Do not operate a damaged device.
In the event of an incomplete delivery and damages to the device or
accessories, please contact your Narda sales partner. You can find
the Narda sales partner responsible for you on the Narda website at
www.narda-sts.com.
After transport and storage
Condensation on an instrument can lead to damage
Condensation can form on an instrument that has been stored at a low
temperature when it is brought into a warm room. It may be damaged if
used.
Wait until all visible condensation has evaporated from the
instrument surface to avoid damaging the instrument.
Note: The instrument is not ready for use until it has reached a
temperature within the operating range of -10 °C to +50 °C.
3.2 Battery Installation
The main operating battery (Narda P/N 2259/92.25) is a 3.6 Volt, lithium-
ion rechargeable battery, Type RCR123A. The battery needs to be
inserted into the NS3 before charging.
1. Unscrew battery door screw and insert battery with the positive (+)
side towards the battery door. See picture below.
2. Hold battery door closed while tightening screw.
3. Charge unit with supplied AC or DC chargers and verify operation
before attempting to use.
Insert battery with
positive (+) side
towards battery door
! Do not insert battery backwards.
You could damage the battery door
and/or the system will not charge.

3Preparing the Nardalert S3 for use
Nardalert S3 15
3.3 Instrument overview
Top Panel
Front Panel
Rear Panel
Power On/Off
and Enter Key
Down Arrow
(Decrease)
Up Arrow
(Increase)
Alarm LEDs
Interchangeable
Sensor
Alarm LEDs
Calibration
Label
Sensor
Removal
Screws (2)

3Preparing the Nardalert S3 for use
16 Nardalert S3
Side Panels
Mini-USB port for
charging and data
transfer.
Fiber Optic port for
data transfer only.
Rechargeable and
replaceable battery
located under door.
Silicon sleeve for
Nardalert
protection

3Preparing the Nardalert S3 for use
Nardalert S3 17
3.4 Connecting the sensor
⚠WARNING
Strong electromagnetic fields
If the Sensor is not operating properly, or if the
proper sensor is not chosen, you could be
exposed to high field levels without your
knowledge.
Refer to Sensor Specifications on page 34 to
select appropriate sensor(s).
Follow instructions below to properly connect
sensor.
The NS3 is designed to monitor the presence of the sensor and that the
sensor is functional. In order to simplify the turn-on procedure, it is
recommended that the sensor be connected to the NS3 and the battery
fully charged before beginning.
Ensure that the sensor is attached properly to the basic unit. The
sensor is positioned so that it easily can be inserted and secured to
the basic unit by tightening the two screws shown on page 15 (Rear
Panel). Sensor is designed to be even with the surface of the basic
unit and to pass a functional test at turn-on. If in doubt, cycle unit off
and then on again to perform connection test. If the sensor is
defective, not installed or failing pre-test, it will cause the system to
not proceed to measurement mode.
Charging of the monitor is accomplished by attaching the proper AC
mains plug to the charger and then the supplied USB cable to the
charger and NS3. The unit will be rapidly charged when using the
supplied USB charger and at a slower rate (longer time) if plugged
into a computer. Charging time is approximately 4 hours for a full
charge. Note the battery Icon in the top right of the display when the
unit is energized, indicating the amount of charge.
Confidence testing of RF/ microwave sensors can be accomplished
with a simple 2-way radio that generates more than 1Watt. An
upscale indication should be noticed on the display when the radio
is transmitting close to the sensor housing. The NS3 provides a
menu screen "Self Test", to evaluate the output from the three
detectors used in the RF/ microwave sensors.
Before beginning any RF radiation measurement, always try to
verify the frequencies and field strengths that you could be expected
to encounter.

3Preparing the Nardalert S3 for use
18 Nardalert S3
There are different sensors available for different applications and use
with the NS3. You can find more information about the order numbers
and specifications of the sensors under Ordering Information on page
38, as well as in the data sheet of the NS3. These documents can also
be downloaded from the Narda website on the internet at
www.narda-sts.com.
Wrong handling of the sensor
Damage of the sensor antennas
Always try to store the sensor in the carrying case when not
installed in the NS3. This should help protect it from excessive
shock and vibration, as well as environmental extremes.

Nardalert S3 19
4 Getting started
This chapter describes how to switch on the Nardalert S3 and verify it is
operating properly.
4.1 Initial display screens
4.2 Checking monitor functions
4.3 Screen navigation
4.4 Additional capabilities of optioned units
4.1 Initial display screens
The NS3 is switched on by depressing and holding the On/Off button on
the left side of the display. The alarm LEDs will illuminate and the
vibrator will activate before the splash screen (Figure 1) is displayed.
Figure 1:
Splash Screen Figure 2: Self Test
Screen
Figure 3:
Configuration
Screen
The NS3 shows each screen for a few seconds as it performs a self test,
verifies the monitor and sensor’s information and date of calibration
before beginning to measure and display detected fields.

4Getting started
20 Nardalert S3
If the sensor is defective or not attached to the basic unit, the start-
up sequence will be stopped – screens in Figures 4 and 5 will not be
displayed
If the calibration is more than 2 years old for the sensor, or 4 years
old for the basic unit the calibration screen (Figure 4) will have a red
background and one of the buttons needs to be depressed to
continue.
Figure 4: Calibration
and Date Screen
Figure 5: Normal
Operation Display
Figure 6: Alarm levels
and color changes
(not actual screen)
Normal operation
The operation screen (Figure 5) displays the detected fields from the low
and high frequency sensors separately to provide information to the
wearer about the type of source creating the display. The display
considers 1 GHz (approximately) as the separator between low and high
frequencies.
Alarm indication
If an alarm threshold is exceeded (Figure 6) the top color bar will change
from Green to Yellow (Alarm 1) and from Yellow to Red (Alarm 2), if two
alarms are used. If only one alarm is used, then the color bar will change
from Green to Red (Alarm). The wearer also receives audible, vibrate
and LED visual indications when alarm thresholds are exceeded (factory
defaults).