Palas Fidas Frog User manual

Fine Dust Measuring Device
Fidas Frog
Operating Manual
For specialized users
3577-en-us_V1.1_08/17 V 1.1

Copyright
For all information in this technical document as well as drawings and technical descriptions provided by us,
Palas GmbH reserves all proprietary and intellectual property rights. Duplication or dissemination to third
parties without our prior written consent is prohibited.
Technical changes reserved.

Table of contents
3577-en-us_V1.1_08/17 3
Table of contents
1 About this manual 5
1.1 Function of the manual 5
1.2 Target group for the manual 5
1.3 Validity of the manual 5
1.4 Related documents 5
1.5 Storage of documents 5
1.6 Presentation rules 5
2 For your safety 7
2.1 Hazards and safety instructions 7
2.2 Warnings 7
2.3 Regulations 8
2.4 Obligations of the user 8
3 Product description 9
3.1 Use 9
3.1.1 Intended use 9
3.1.2 Improper use 9
3.2 Device overview 9
3.3 Functional description 10
3.4 Environmental conditions 11
3.5 Type plate 12
3.6 Conformity 12
3.7 Dimensions 12
3.8 Scope of delivery 13
3.9 Required accessories 13
4 Overview of operating and display elements 14
4.1 Operating element overview 14
4.1.1 Home screen 14
4.1.2 Error message 14
4.1.3 Measuring screen 14
4.2 Symbols, buttons, and navigation 15
4.2.1 Operating system 16
4.2.2 Menu bar overview 16
4.2.3 Keyboard input 16
5 Operation and settings 18
5.1 Transporting the device 18
5.2 Preparing the device 18
5.3 Configuring basic settings 18
5.4 Turning the device on 18
5.5 Selecting measuring range 18
5.6 Taking measurements 18
5.7 Displaying the particle number size distribution 19
5.8 Using limit values 19
5.8.1 Entering limit values separately for each measurement 19
5.8.2 Storing limit values 19
5.8.3 Loading limit values 20
5.8.4 Automatic notification upon exceeding the limit value 20
5.8.5 Displaying the exceeding of limit values 20
5.9 Displaying measurements 20
5.10 Comparing measurements 21
5.11 Adding pictures 21
5.12 Entering comments 21
5.13 Exporting measured values 22
5.14 Creating PDF reports 22

Table of contents
43577-en-us_V1.1_08/17
5.15 Printing measured values 23
5.16 Charging the device 24
5.17 Device calibration 24
5.17.1 Calibrating the particle size 24
5.17.2 Calibrating the volume flow rate 25
5.18 Checking the software version and serial number 25
5.19 Installing updates 25
5.20 Turning the device off, restarting 26
5.21 Analyzing measurements 26
5.22 Installing firmware on computer 26
5.23 What to do when… 27
6 Maintenance 29
7 Packaging and transportation 30
8 Disposal 31
9 Declaration of conformity 32
10 Technical data 33

1About this manual
3577-en-us_V1.1_08/17 5
1 About this manual
1.1 Function of the manual
This manual provides you with information about the Fidas Frog fine dust
measuring device. The device consists of 2 components: the measuring unit
and the operating panel.
Among other things, you will find information on:
• Safety
• Functionality
• Use
• Operation
• Maintenance
1.2 Target group for the manual
This manual is intended for specialized users who are familiar with activi-
ties in the field of particle measuring technology based on their technical ed-
ucation or experience.
1.3 Validity of the manual
This manual applies to the fine dust measuring device Fidas Frog , firmware
versions 1.0.0.327 and higher, beginning in June 2017.
1.4 Related documents
Operating instructions for fine dust measuring device Fidas Frog
Operating instructions for the PDAnalyze software
1.5 Storage of documents
The storage of documents is the responsibility of the owner and/or user to
ensure the documents are available when they are needed. Store the docu-
ments together with the device.
1.6 Presentation rules
The following presentations are used in this manual:
Text Product names and product descriptions
Example: Fidas
Cross-references to other documents
Example: Information about … is found in the manual for
the …
Text Menu items
Example: Shut Down System
Selection and settings
Example: Start measuring with Record
Text > Text Menu paths. The sequence of the menus is indicated by
the “>” character.
Example: Menu > Check for Updates

1About this manual
63577-en-us_V1.1_08/17
“Text” Word compositions and figurative language
Example: “Measuring Unit”
[▷32] Reference to page number
Example: For further information, see the section “Tech-
nical data [▷12]”

2For your safety
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2 For your safety
2.1 Hazards and safety instructions
Electric shock Mains voltage is applied to the electrical connections. This can lead to elec-
tric shock.
1. Work on the electrical installation may only be performed by special-
ized personnel.
2. Ensure that live components do not get wet.
3. Observe the applicable regulations.
Safe operation of the de-
vice
1. Only operate the device with the insulation and/or casing fully installed.
2. Make sure that the insulation and/or casing on the device is undam-
aged, complete, and correctly installed.
Environment Excessively low or high temperatures and excessively high relative humidity
can damage the device.
1. Install the device in rooms with an ambient temperature of 0°C to
40°C.
2. Protect the device against liquids and permanently high relative humid-
ity.
3. Protect the device against contact with open flames and heat sources.
The housing is combustible.
2.2 Warnings
The warnings in this manual are highlighted with pictograms and signal
words. The severity of a hazard is indicated by the pictogram and signal
word.
Layout of the warnings
The warnings that precede each action are shown as follows:
DANGER
Type and source of the hazard
Explanation of the type and source of the hazard/consequences
4Measures to avert the hazard
Meaning of the signal words
DANGER Immediate danger to life or risk of severe physical in-
jury if this hazard is not avoided.
WARNING Possible risk of severe physical injury if this hazard is
not avoided.
CAUTION Possible risk of minor physical injury if this hazard is
not avoided.
NOTICE Damage to property if this hazard is not avoided.

2For your safety
83577-en-us_V1.1_08/17
Meaning of the pictograms
DANGER
Warnings with information about the severity of the hazard
DANGER
Danger to life due to electric shock
NOTICE
Damage to property
2.3 Regulations
Observe the following regulations and directives:
Legal requirements • Legal regulations for Health and Safety at Work
• Legal regulations for environmental protection
• Employer's Liability Insurance Association provisions
Standards and directives • The applicable safety requirements according to DIN, EN, and VDE
2.4 Obligations of the user
To ensure the proper functioning of the device, observe the following:
1. Carefully read through the manual before using the device.
2. Keep the manuals in the vicinity of the device to ensure that informa-
tion can be checked at all times.
3. Only carry out activities described in the manual intended for you.
4. Make sure that the required inspections and maintenance tasks are
carried out.
5. Have the device maintained by the manufacturer.
6. Have damage to the device repaired promptly by the manufacturer.

3Product description
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3 Product description
3.1 Use
3.1.1 Intended use
The device was manufactured and inspected according to the state of the art
and accepted safety-related rules. In order to avoid hazards to yourself or
third parties and damage to the device and other assets, only use the device
properly and as intended.
The Fidas Frog fine dust measuring device is intended exclusively for mea-
suring fine dust. The device is primarily suited for taking indoor measure-
ments:
• For indoor air pollution control, for example in homes, schools, offices,
gymnasiums, passenger compartments of vehicles, airplanes, and ships
• For health, safety, and environmental protection monitoring in the work-
place
The device can also be used outdoors in roofed areas protected against the
weather. The manufacturer assumes no liability for damage caused by expo-
sure to the weather.
The device is not intended for use by the following persons:
• Persons with limited physical, sensory, or mental abilities
• Persons lacking experience or knowledge
• Children under 16 years of age
These persons must be supervised by a person responsible for their safety
or previously instructed in the use of the device.
Children must be supervised to prevent them from playing with the device.
Any use other than the intended use is prohibited. The manufacturer is not li-
able for any resulting damages. All warranty claims are voided if changes
are made to the device, also in the course of assembly and installation.
All corresponding documentation must be observed for all work on the de-
vice.
In case of improper actions, the manufacturer is not liable for resulting dam-
ages.
3.1.2 Improper use
The manufacturer or supplier assumes no liability for damages due to im-
proper use.

3Product description
10 3577-en-us_V1.1_08/17
3.2 Device overview
1
2
3
456
7
8
Device overview (side view)
1 Control LED, measuring unit
on/off
2 Sample collection tube
3 Charging cable/mains cable
connection
4 Measuring unit on/off switch
5 Opening to insert the sample
collection tube for transporta-
tion and storage
6 Mini USB serial port
7 Measuring unit 8 Operating element (removable
tablet)
1
2
Device overview (rear view)
1 Docking/charging station for
operating element
2 Operating element switch (tablet)
on/off

3Product description
3577-en-us_V1.1_08/17 11
3.3 Functional description
The Fidas Frog is a fine dust measuring device for indoor fine dust measure-
ment. It is a portable, hand-held device. You can use the device at various
measuring sites. The device can operate on battery or on a mains connec-
tion. The device consists of two components: the measuring unit and the op-
erating element.
Operating element The wireless operating element communicates with the measuring unit via a
wifi connection. Measurements can be taken at a physical distance from the
measuring site. Furthermore, the device can be integrated into an existing
network such as a company LAN. The operating element and measuring unit
are considered clients.
Sensors The device contains sensors that measure the temperature, air pressure and
relative humidity. The air pressure sensor is installed inside the device.
Volume flow rate The FidasFrog operates with a volume flow of 1.4l/min.
Measuring method A counting measuring method is used. The measuring sensor is an optical
spectrometer.
Individual particles pass through an optical detection zone, the optical mea-
suring volume. The optical measuring volume is evenly illuminated. Light
scatter is generated as the particle passes through the optical measuring
volume. The scattered light pulse is recorded by the device.
• Number of scattered light pulses = number of particles
• Signal intensity of the scattered light pulse = size of particles
Particle sizes between 0.18 µm and 40 µm can be measured.
Conversion to mass The measured data for the individual particle sizes is converted to mass by
an algorithm. This algorithm takes into account that the environmental
aerosol is composed of various sources depending on the particle size, for
instance tire abrasion, pollen and combustion.
Several separation curves are also applied to the particle size in order to de-
termine the fractions. Multiple particle size classes are combined into frac-
tions.
The device indicates the following fractions simultaneously:
• PM1, PM2.5, PM4, and PM10
• TSP (total suspended particles): Sum of all airborne particles in the air-
borne particulate matter
The device also provides the quantity size distribution featuring second by
second resolution.
Data export The measurement data can be stored. The following file formats are sup-
ported:
• Text file (.txt)
• PDF
• System file (.data.frog)
Use the micro USB serial port to transfer the files to a USB data medium.
If a printer is connected, you can also print the data directly.
Calibration The measuring device can be checked with the help of test dust and ad-
justed if required.

3Product description
12 3577-en-us_V1.1_08/17
3.4 Environmental conditions
Environmental conditions affect the functionality of the device.
The following environmental conditions apply for the operation and storage
of the device:
• Temperature range: 0 to 40 °C
• Relative humidity: non-condensing, meaning that moisture in the air is
not permitted to condense as water on or in the device
• Air pressure: atmospheric pressure
Operation and storage under other environmental conditions, for instance in
corrosive or explosive environments, powerful electrical or electromagnetic
fields, areas with ionizing radiation or areas subject to shocks and vibrations
is prohibited.
3.5 Type plate
The type plate is on the rear of the device.
123
Type plate
1 Product designation 2 Serial number
3 Manufacturer with address
3.6 Conformity
As the manufacturer, we hereby declare that this product meets the funda-
mental directives for bringing it to market in the EU.

3Product description
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3.7 Dimensions
260 160
140
Front view/side view [mm]
3.8 Scope of delivery
4Inspect the delivered equipment for damage and completeness.
The scope of delivery includes:
• Fine dust measuring device Fidas Frog
• Operating instructions
•MonoDust 1500 test dust
• Bag
• Other small parts such as the charging cable
3.9 Required accessories
A flow meter that measures volume flow is needed to be able to calibrate the
device.

4Overview of operating and display elements
14 3577-en-us_V1.1_08/17
4 Overview of operating and display
elements
4.1 Operating element overview
4.1.1 Home screen
1
2
3
Home screen
1 Charge level status, operat-
ing panel and measuring unit
2 Menu bar
3 Signal strength of the WiFi
connection between the op-
erating panel and measuring
unit
4.1.2 Error message
1
Error message
A red dot (1) appears in the status line if the device is not functioning prop-
erly.
The affected device components are shown in the menu Settings > De-
vice Status , e.g. the battery or the aerosol sensor.

4Overview of operating and display elements
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4.1.3 Measuring screen
1
4
6
7
89101112
32
5
Measuring screen
1 PM values (fractions) 2 Particle mass concentration
Current value
3 Particle mass concentration
Mean value since the start of
the measurement
4 Notification
Indicates exceeding the limit
value
5 Particle number concentra-
tion
Current value
6 Particle number concentration
Mean value since the start of the
measurement
7 Weather data
Weather data are not rele-
vant for the measurement.
They are displayed for infor-
mational purposes.
8 Information
General data for the measure-
ment, such as the start and dura-
tion of the measurement, estab-
lished limit values
9 Camera
• Procedure for taking pic-
tures related to the mea-
surement (brief instruc-
tion)
• Displays the pictures for
the measurement
10 Comments
• Comments can be entered for
the measurement
• Displays the pictures for the
measurement
11 Shows or hides the lines for
the limit values
12 Shows or hides the lines for the
measuring curves and, if applica-
ble, the corresponding limit val-
ues

4Overview of operating and display elements
16 3577-en-us_V1.1_08/17
4.2 Symbols, buttons, and navigation
4.2.1 Operating system
A Windows operating system is installed on the operating panel. You have
access to the standard Windows system functionality, such as:
• Setting the date and time
• Adjusting the brightness
• Localizing files in the Explorer structure
4.2.2 Menu bar overview
1 2 3 4 5
Menu bar
1 Measurements
• Start
2 Measured data
• Display
• Compare
• Export
• Delete
3 Limit values
• Set
• Store
• Load
• Reset
4 Settings
• Device calibration
• General settings, such as the
storage location of the mea-
surement file
• Show particle number size
distribution during the mea-
surement
5 Menu
• Turn off device
• Update
• Software version
• Serial number

4Overview of operating and display elements
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4.2.3 Keyboard input
12
Keyboard input
1 Adds the time to the title field,
hour-minute-second (hh-mm-
ss)
2 Adds the date to the title field,
year-month-day (YYYY-MM-DD)

5Operation and settings
18 3577-en-us_V1.1_08/17
5 Operation and settings
5.1 Transporting the device
Protect the device against severe impacts during transportation.
5.2 Preparing the device
Note the following to prepare the device for use:
1. Charge the device and operating element
2. Set the date and time (Windows operating system)
3. Screw in the sample collection tube
5.3 Configuring basic settings
Settings such as the storage location for the measured data can be config-
ured centrally.
Proceed as follows to configure the settings:
1. Select Settings > General
2. Enter basic settings:
- Data Location: Standard file storage location (measured data,
etc.)
- User: Specify the user
- Moving Average: Time period for the moving average. By default,
the average is calculated over 120 seconds. We recommend a value of
at least 60 seconds.
- Measuring Range: Specify the measuring range (optional)
- Distribution Interval: Interval at which the measured data is
saved. The following intervals can be selected: 60, 30, 10 or 5 sec-
onds. The shorter the interval, the larger the saved file.
5.4 Turning the device on
Press the button on the measuring unit up until the control LED lights up
blue.
Press the button on the operating panel for approximately 3 seconds until a
logo appears. Wait until the home screen is displayed. This may take a few
seconds.
5.5 Selecting measuring range
There are two measuring ranges available:
• 0.15 - 18 µm (standard)
• 0.15 - 93 µm (extended measuring range)
To select the measuring range, proceed as follows:
1. Select Settings > General
2. Select the measuring range in the field Measuring Range
Note The extended measuring range has to be calibrated when it is used for the
first time.

5Operation and settings
3577-en-us_V1.1_08/17 19
5.6 Taking measurements
When you are taking measurements, the measured values are stored simul-
taneously.
To take a measurement, proceed as follows:
1. Select the Measurement menu
2. Start Recording… Tap this menu item
The dialog window for describing the measurement opens.
3. Enter a description:
- Title: Name for the measurement
- Operator: Name of the person taking the measurement
- Comment: General comment about the measurement
- Notifications: Limit values for the measurement, see Using
limit values [}19]
4. Start measuring with Record
The measuring data are displayed continuously.
5. If necessary, stop the measurement with Stop Recording
5.7 Displaying the particle number size
distribution
To display the particle number size distribution, proceed as follows:
1. Select the Settings menu
2. Select Distributions
The graphic shows the particle number size distribution.
The diagram is automatically adapted to the measuring range.
5.8 Using limit values
You can set a limit value for each PM value. The limit value can be set indi-
vidually or according to corresponding legal requirements.
5.8.1 Entering limit values separately for each
measurement
You can enter limit values individually for each measurement.
Proceed as follows to enter the limit values for a measurement:
1. Select the Notifications menu
2. Activate the limit value display by tapping Active Notification
- or -
reset to reset the existing limit values
3. Enter limit values
ðThe limit values are displayed when you start a measurement

5Operation and settings
20 3577-en-us_V1.1_08/17
5.8.2 Storing limit values
Limit values that you need repeatedly can be stored in a file and loaded
when they are needed for a measurement.
To store limit values, proceed as follows:
1. Select the Notifications menu
2. Activate the limit value display by tapping Active Notification
3. Activate PM value
4. Enter limit values
5. Store the limit values in a file with save
6. Enter a file name
7. Save the file with OK
5.8.3 Loading limit values
You can load limit values from a file.
Proceed as follows to load the file:
1. Select the Notifications menu
2. load Tap this menu item
3. Select and open the file
ðThe limit values are displayed when you start a measurement
5.8.4 Automatic notification upon exceeding the limit
value
1
Notification of exceeding the limit value
When the limit value is exceeded during the measurement, the system
stores the corresponding date and time. Exceeding the limit is indicated next
to the PM value. The number shows how many times the limit value was ex-
ceeded during the measurement.
5.8.5 Displaying the exceeding of limit values
After the system flags that a limit value has been exceeded, you can view
the detailed data.
4Tap the symbol.