PGT SAM-Lite User manual

Model SAM-Lite
Instruction Manual
Princeton Gamma-Tech Instruments
303C College Road East
Princeton, NJ 08540, USA
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
www.pgt.com

Firmware Release TK.01.00
U. S. Patent No. 5608222
© 2012 All rights reserved.
Printed in U.S.A.
WARRANTY
Princeton Gamma-Tech Instruments warrants all instruments, including component parts, to be free from defects in material and
workmanship, under normal use and service for a period of one year. If repairs are required during the warranty period, contact the
factory for component replacement or shipping instructions. Include the serial number of the instrument. This warranty is void if the
unit is repaired or altered by others than those authorized by Princeton Gamma-Tech Instruments.
IMPORTANT!! PLEASE READ CAREFULLY
NOTIFICATION OF COPYRIGHT
THE FIRMWARE IN THIS DEVICE IS PROTECTED BY COPYRIGHT LAWS AND INTERNATIONAL TREATY. YOU MUST
TREAT THE FIRMWARE LIKE ANY OTHER COPYRIGHTED MATERIAL. COPYRIGHT LAWS PROHIBIT MAKING
ADDITIONAL COPIES OF THE FIRMWARE FOR ANY REASON OTHER THAN SPECIFICALLY DESCRIBED IN THE LICENSE
BELOW. YOU MAY NOT COPY THE WRITTEN MATERIALS ACCOMPANYING THE PRODUCT.

PGT SAM-Lite™ Instruction Manual 1
Table of Contents
1Introduction...................................................................................................3
1.1 Basic Operation Features..............................................................................................4
1.2 Advanced Operation Features.......................................................................................4
1.3 About Your PGT SAM-Lite.............................................................................................4
1.4 Typographic Conventions..............................................................................................4
1.5 Quick Start ....................................................................................................................5
1.5.1 About the Battery ............................................................................................................... 5
1.5.2 Powering On...................................................................................................................... 5
1.5.3 Powering Off...................................................................................................................... 5
1.5.4 Basic Operation: Search and Collect Data........................................................................... 5
1.5.5 Basic Operation: Review Mode........................................................................................... 6
1.6 Description of Keypad ...................................................................................................6
1.7 Self Test........................................................................................................................7
2Charging, Connections & Memory ..............................................................8
2.1 Connecting AC Power or Car Adapter ...........................................................................8
2.2 Battery Status and Charging..........................................................................................8
2.2.1 Low Battery Warning.......................................................................................................... 8
2.2.2 Low Power Auto-Dim Mode................................................................................................ 9
2.2.3 Maximizing Battery Run Time............................................................................................. 9
2.2.4 Servicing the Internal Battery.............................................................................................. 9
2.3 Internal Memory ............................................................................................................9
2.3.1 Memory Capacity............................................................................................................. 10
2.3.2 Clearing Memory.............................................................................................................. 10
2.3.3 Note about Review Mode and Memory.............................................................................. 10
2.4 Wireless Connection for Data Output...........................................................................10
2.4.1 Wireless Signal Strength .................................................................................................. 10
3General Operation.......................................................................................11
3.1 Turning the Power On and Off.....................................................................................11
3.1.1 Powering On.................................................................................................................... 11
3.1.2 Automatic Self-Calibration ................................................................................................ 11
3.1.3 Screen Dimming............................................................................................................... 12
3.1.4 Powering Off.................................................................................................................... 12
3.1.5 Battery for Internal Clock.................................................................................................. 12
3.2 Search Mode...............................................................................................................12
3.2.1 Gray Range ..................................................................................................................... 13
3.2.2 Green Range ................................................................................................................... 13
3.2.3 Red Range ...................................................................................................................... 13
3.2.4 Visual Alarm Warning....................................................................................................... 13
3.2.5 Critical Alarm Warning...................................................................................................... 14
3.2.6 Internal Clock................................................................................................................... 14
3.2.7 Sieverts/Hour Readings.................................................................................................... 14
3.2.8 Audible Beeping............................................................................................................... 14
3.2.9 Automatic Background Readings...................................................................................... 15
3.3 Collect Data Mode.......................................................................................................15
3.4 Reviewing Spectra Data..............................................................................................16
3.4.1 Review Mode................................................................................................................... 16
3.4.2 Current Radioactivity Level Display................................................................................... 17
3.4.3 “Normal” Radioactivity Levels ........................................................................................... 17
3.5 Identifying Sources of Radioactive Radiation...............................................................17
3.5.1 Color Code Options.......................................................................................................... 18
4Software Support........................................................................................19
4.1 Software for first line responders .................................................................................19
4.2 Software for advanced users .......................................................................................19

2 PGT SAM-Lite Instruction Manual
5Appendix......................................................................................................20
5.1 The SLReader Wireless PC Connection ......................................................................20
5.1.1 SLReader Installation....................................................................................................... 20
5.1.2 XStick and Driver Installation............................................................................................ 22
5.1.3 Using SLReader............................................................................................................... 23
5.1.4 Administrator Operations.................................................................................................. 24
5.2 Radioactivity Units & Background Radiation ................................................................26
5.2.1 Understanding Radioactivity Radiation Units..................................................................... 26
5.2.2 Background Radioactive Radiation ................................................................................... 26
5.2.3 Normal Sources of Background Radioactive Radiation ...................................................... 26
5.3 Color Codes................................................................................................................28
6Specifications..............................................................................................29

PGT SAM-Lite™ Instruction Manual 3
1 Introduction
The PGT SAM-Lite is an easy-to-use portable radio-isotope identification (RID) system that
detects and identifies multiple nuclides, providing quantified results using time-slice analysis. It is
designed to be easily carried on a belt or in a pocket, and can be readily used by non-technical
workers (such as emergency responders) with minimal training.
Figure 1 - The PGT SAM-Lite
It takes just a few minutes to learn how to use SAM-Lite. SAM-Lite features an easy-to-use three-
button control system and easy-to-understand display.
Figure 2 - PGT SAM-Lite Screen and Control Buttons
If you are operating SAM-Lite for the first time, you may also want to look at the companion
Quick Start Guide, which will get you up and running as quickly as possible. This Instruction
Manual is intended as a reference guide, with more detailed information you may need if
questions come up.

4 PGT SAM-Lite Instruction Manual
1.1 Basic Operation Features
SAM-Lite has two modes of operation:
In Search mode it is constantly taking measurements, and will alert you if an elevated
reading of radioactive radiation is detected.
In Collect Data mode, a suspicious item or area can be measured, and these readings
are recorded.
The device powers up in Search mode. The instrument has a simple, easy-to-learn user interface
(described in Section 1.6.)
1.2 Advanced Operation Features
Advanced features of SAM-Lite include the ability to wirelessly communicate with a PC for more
detailed display and analysis of readings, and the ability for a central administrator to keep track
of and analyze readings from large numbers of SAM-Lite units in the field.
The PGT SAM-Lite can be connected to a remote computer using a wireless DigiMesh
connection. Optional DigiMesh USB dongle and SLReader software provides connectivity to the
PC. The data from PGT SAM-Lite can be accessed with either Quantum™ MCA (standard) or
Quantum™ Gold (quantitative analysis) software.
The Quantum™ software facilitates analysis in 256-channel QCC mode. QCC is Quadratic
Compression Conversion™. It is PGT’s patented signal processing technique that delivers
spectra with uniform channel peak widths.
See Section 4 for more information about available software, and Appendix Section 5.1 for
instructions on connecting the PGT SAM-Lite to your computer.
1.3 About Your PGT SAM-Lite
Included with PGT SAM-Lite:
 The SAM-Lite spectrometer electronics
 A pre-installed lithium-ion battery (factory serviceable)
 An AC power adapter/battery charger
Optional accessories:
 XStick USB dongle adapter with SLReader PC communication software and
DigiMesh wireless networking
 Quantum software
 A car power adapter
1.4 Typographic Conventions
This manual uses the following typographic conventions:
LEFT, ENTER Keypad key names are shown in small capital letters.
E:\spectra File or path names will be shown in typewriter font. Your PC
drive letter may be different; we will use E: by default.
Warning, WARNING Important notes are highlighted in italics.

PGT SAM-Lite™ Instruction Manual 5
1.5 Quick Start
Getting Started
Follow these instructions to quickly begin using SAM-Lite. You may start using SAM-Lite directly
out of the box, with no additional preparations needed. SAM-Lite comes with a pre-charged, pre-
installed battery sealed within the unit. SAM-Lite has also been factory calibrated.
1.5.1 About the Battery
The pre-charged battery should have enough power for you to try out SAM-Lite and learn how to
use it before requiring recharging. It should last for several hours, however it is not fully charged.
The recommended charging time is 2 hours. The charger automatically shuts off after the battery
is fully charged, to prevent damage from over-charging. (See Section 2.2 for more info about the
battery.)
1.5.2 Powering On
Turn on the PGT SAM-Lite by briefly pressing the center ENTER key. A logo screen appears
for a couple of seconds while the unit initializes, and then the main Dial Screen appears.
Figure 3 - PGT SAM-Lite Dial Screen
The instrument is ready for use when the Dial Screen appears. Battery status is continuously
displayed in the upper right corner of this Dial Screen.
1.5.3 Powering Off
Turn off the PGT SAM-Lite by pressing and holding down the ENTER button for at least three
seconds.
1.5.4 Basic Operation: Search and Collect Data
There are two main modes for measuring radioactivity:
 Search mode (Auto-Collection), functions as an alarm that alerts you when an
increase in radioactivity is detected.
 Collect Data mode is used to take and record readings about a specific object or
place.
Search Mode:
When the Dial Screen appears, the unit is in Search mode, which is the default. SAM-Lite is
continuously monitoring for radioactivity. The Dial gives radioactive count rate information in the
form of a speedometer. When radioactive material gives an indication in the green region this

6 PGT SAM-Lite Instruction Manual
signals proper source intensity for identification. The other colored regions indicate that the
source is too far (grey) or too close (red).
Important: When the Dial is in the red zone the radioactivity level is dangerously high, and you
should get away immediately!
An audible beep will be heard with increasing frequency as radioactivity levels increase. Note that
a beep or two approximately every half hour is considered a normal background level.
Above the Dial, the unit also provides a numeric display of the radioactivity measurement
converted to Seiverts (providing a basis for comparing threats to human health from various
radioactive sources—see Appendix for more info about the Seivert radioactivity measurement
system.)
Collect Data:
Press ENTER button briefly while in Search mode to launch Collect Data mode. The SAM-
Lite will collect, report, and store an analysis of a possible radioactive substance.
1.5.5 Basic Operation: Review Mode
Review Mode lets you view the dose rate and confidence of each isotope identified as elevated in
the collection. Press the LEFT button to launch Review mode.
See Section 3 - General Operation for more detailed information about these procedures.
1.6 Description of Keypad
Figure 4 shows a rendering of the PGT SAM-Lite keypad. The keypad has been designed to be
extremely easy to use, so that it may be operated with the thumb of the same hand holding the
instrument, and is accessible to people wearing protective gear as well as to both left and right-
handed users.
Figure 4 - PGT SAM-Lite Keypad
Here is a brief description of the keys and how they are used:
ENTER Used to select currently highlighted option, or to continue to next step of
multi-step processes. This key is also used to turn system power on and
off.
and These keys will be referred to as LEFT and RIGHT. They are used to
scroll through and select a reading for review, or to select among items
in a set of measurements, or to make other selections.

PGT SAM-Lite™ Instruction Manual 7
By pressing the LEFT and RIGHT keys, you can move the highlighting on the SAM-Lite
screen. Pressing the ENTER key will perform the action or make the selection specified by the
currently highlighted item.
1.7 Self Test
When the PGT SAM-Lite is first powered on it performs an initial power-on self-test, or “POST.”
When the unit is functioning properly this occurs very quickly in the background. If the self-test
determines there’s a problem, a message will display along the bottom of the screen. If you see
any message here upon powering up, or subsequently, please bring the unit to the attention of
your supervisor, or your PGT dealer.
Figure 5 - POST Problem Message (in this case the unit needs factory re-calibration)

8 PGT SAM-Lite Instruction Manual
2 Charging, Connections & Memory
The PGT SAM-Lite has one watertight external connector for power, and DigiMesh wireless
connectivity for communications.
The power connector is located on the rear side (TK) of the instrument facing away from screen,
as shown below. Along the rear of the case there is a watertight connector for AC power (or car
power/charger.) There is a flexible gray rubber port cover at the top (shown as partly transparent
here.)
Figure 6 - Watertight connector for charging
2.1 Connecting AC Power or Car Adapter
A universal (110-240V, 50/60Hz) AC power supply is supplied with your SAM-Lite unit.
The car adapter plugs into a 12V accessory outlet or “cigarette lighter” outlet in your vehicle. It
then connects to the same watertight connector on the SAM-Lite.
2.2 Battery Status and Charging
The built-in lithium-ion battery provides approximately 8 hours of operation with SAM-Lite in the
default Search mode.
The battery meter in the upper right corner of the Dial Screen indicates the relative amount of
charge remaining with a 4-segment bar graph, as shown below.
Figure 7 - Bar Graph Battery Indicator (in upper right corner)
2.2.1 Low Battery Warning
When the battery has just a few minutes of operation left, the color of the Battery Indicator
changes. The battery icon is green when the batteries have at least ten minutes of useful life

PGT SAM-Lite™ Instruction Manual 9
remaining. It turns yellow when the batteries have between 5 and 10 minutes remaining, and
then red when the batteries have less than 5 minutes left.
You should connect SAM-Lite to a battery charger immediately when this appears (AC adapter or
car adapter).
Figure 8 - Low Battery Indicator in upper right corner
2.2.2 Low Power Auto-Dim Mode
The SAM-Lite is designed so that it can be worn on a belt, and when the unit is in this belt-
mounted vertical position it automatically enters a low power mode to reduce drain on the battery.
The screen will dim. The unit continues to take measurements, to beep, and to automatically
record measurements when increased radioactivity is detected while in low power mode. Holding
the SAM-Lite in a horizontal position will return the display to full brightness.
2.2.3 Maximizing Battery Run Time
To get the most portable power between battery charges, use AC power when connecting to a
PC or doing other stationary operations in the office. The unit will automatically run from AC
power if it is available. (The battery charging function shuts off automatically when the battery is
fully charged, so you can leave the AC or car adapter plugged in indefinitely.)
2.2.4 Servicing the Internal Battery
After fully charging the battery, SAM-Lite is designed to typically operate for 8 hours before
needing to be charged again.
The battery is sealed within SAM-Lite and is not user serviceable. Over time, the amount of
runtime the battery provides before needing a charge may gradually decrease. If you think the
battery needs to be replaced, please contact your PGT dealer for more information on service
and repair. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO REPLACE THE INTERNAL BATTERY YOURSELF!
2.3 Internal Memory
Your PGT SAM-Lite incorporates a secure internal memory module that saves data from each set
of measurements that are taken. The memory is sealed within SAM-Lite and information from it
can be copied using the wireless connection. Your PGT SAM-Lite memory does not require
power to retain data. Even with the battery fully discharged for an extended length of time the
data will be safely stored in memory.

10 PGT SAM-Lite Instruction Manual
2.3.1 Memory Capacity
The internal memory stores up to 32,000 spectra measurements. At the extraordinary rate of
1,000 measurements per day, this provides room for over a month’s worth of data. At the more
typical rate of 5 or 10 readings per day, many years’ worth of readings can be stored.
2.3.2 Clearing Memory
The memory can be cleared using the SLReader software with the XStick wireless connection.
You must be an Administrator to clear memory. See Appendix 5.1 for more information.
2.3.3 Note about Review Mode and Memory
The SAM-Lite Review Mode enables quick viewing of the last ten recorded measurements of
elevated levels. For ease-of-use, only the ten most recent readings are available in Review Mode.
However, the internal memory continues to store all readings, even after they are no longer
viewable in Review Mode. You may use the wireless connection, described in the next section, to
access readings after they are no longer visible in Review Mode.
2.4 Wireless Connection for Data Output
The wireless connection is easy to use, enables networking of multiple SAM-Lite units in the
same vicinity, and helps keep SAM-Lite environmentally sealed (by eliminating the need for a
mechanical connection). This connection employs the versatile DigiMesh networking protocol.
With this connection, you will be able to access data on the unit. The SLReader PC software
application enables access to all readings of elevated levels. You can also analyze this data
using optional Quantum™ software.
Connecting to most PCs will require the use of a USB-dongle style XStick wireless transceiver,
available as an accessory along with the software that enables it. See Appendix for more
information.
2.4.1 Wireless Signal Strength
The upper left corner of the display indicates the strength of the wireless signal.
Figure 9 - Wireless Signal Strength Indicator in upper left corner

PGT SAM-Lite™ Instruction Manual 11
3 General Operation
The following sections describe the standard operating procedures for the SAM-Lite system
including use of the different operating modes.
3.1 Turning the Power On and Off
3.1.1 Powering On
Turn on the PGT SAM-Lite by briefly pressing the center ENTER key. A logo screen appears
for a few seconds while the unit initializes and conducts a self-test, and then the main Dial Screen
appears.
Figure 10 - PGT SAM-Lite Dial Screen
The instrument is ready for use when the Dial Screen appears. However, during the first few
minutes of operation the unit continues to automatically calibrate itself.
To start taking readings, see Section 3.2, “Search Mode” below and Section 3.5, “Identifying
Sources of Radioactive Radiation” on page 17.
3.1.2 Automatic Self-Calibration
During the first few minutes of operation SAM-Lite performs a series of automatic calibrations,
intended to maximize accuracy as well as develop a profile of “normal” background levels for that
area. A complete recalibration is usually complete within about three minutes. During this time,
SAM-Lite may display an informational message at the bottom of the screen indicating that a
calibration is needed (see figure TK). Although in an emergency data can still be collected while
the unit is stabilizing, the built-in analytical software may not make correct identifications during
this time. When the informational message at the bottom of the screen goes away, the system is
ready to use.
Figure 11 - Dial Screen indicating calibration is needed (code letters may vary)

12 PGT SAM-Lite Instruction Manual
3.1.3 Screen Dimming
To save power and extend the available battery run time, the backlight on SAM-Lite’s display is
automatically dimmed when the unit is held vertically for a period of time, as would occur when
worn on a belt. While dimmed the unit continues to take readings in Search mode, and beeping
will continue.
3.1.4 Powering Off
Turn off the PGT SAM-Lite by pressing and holding down the center ENTER key for at least
three seconds. A message/countdown will appear at the bottom of the screen indicating that
Power Down will occur in 3, then 2, then 1 second. This feature is designed to help prevent
accidentally turning the unit off: You can cancel the shutdown during these 3 seconds by briefly
pressing the ENTER key again.
Figure 12 - Power Down countdown indicator
3.1.5 Battery for Internal Clock
The real-time clock has a separate internal lithium battery that keeps it running even when there
is no other power source. (This battery is not user serviceable, please refer to your PGT dealer if
it needs service.)
3.2 Search Mode
The Search mode (also called Auto-Collect) is the mode normally used to detect the presence of
radioactivity and determine its location. It responds quickly and makes it easy to tell if something
has changed, but provides less detailed analytical results. In this mode, the instrument
continuously takes readings, searches for isotopes, and analyzes them for dose rate and other
measurements.
Search mode is the default mode, it is the Dial Screen that you see after powering on SAM-Lite.
The main purpose of the Dial screen is to provide a quick visual indication, similar to that given by
a handheld dose meter or Geiger counter, showing the amount of radioactivity being measured.
The Dial screen is divided into three main ranges, indicating relative degree of radioactive
danger. There are:
 Gray Range - relatively low level, background
 Green Range - unusually high level
 Red Range - very dangerously high level

PGT SAM-Lite™ Instruction Manual 13
3.2.1 Gray Range
When the dial pointer is in the gray area, there is little radioactivity present – most of the counts
are coming from either cosmic rays or naturally occurring sources (such as potassium-40). Beeps
will typically be heard several times per hour.
3.2.2 Green Range
Once the pointer moves up into the green area there is an indication of some unusual activity.
Beeping will increase to several times per minute, or more.
When the dial moves into the green area, SAM-Lite will automatically take measurements, the
same readings it would take if you manually began a Collect Data operation (described in
Section 3.5). A blue progress bar will appear at the bottom of the screen, indicating the progress
of the collection, as shown below.
Figure 13 - Progress bar during automatic collection
3.2.3 Red Range
If the pointer moves into the red area, the activity is too high for a correct identification by SAM-
Lite. It is strongly advised that you move back from the radioactive source, if at all possible,
before attempting to identify it.
THE RED RANGE INDICATES A HIGH LEVEL OF DANGER!
3.2.4 Visual Alarm Warning
When a measurement exceeds pre-determined thresholds for safety within the green range, the
reading will appear with a yellow background to warn you of dangerous radiation levels (see
below). You should move away from the source quickly.
Figure 14 - Alarm indication

14 PGT SAM-Lite Instruction Manual
3.2.5 Critical Alarm Warning
When a measurement exceeds the threshold of the red range, the reading will appear with a red
background to warn you of dangerous radiation levels (see below). You should move back from
the radioactive source immediately!
Figure 15 - Critical alarm indication
3.2.6 Internal Clock
SAM-Lite incorporates a highly accurate battery backed-up clock/calendar which is used to
automatically time stamp all readings taken. This clock is pre-set at the factory and should not
require any adjustment over the life of the unit. (If any problem with clock/calendar settings
occurs, please contact your Administrator, or PGT authorized dealer for service.)
3.2.7 Sieverts/Hour Readings
SAM-Lite displays an overall radioactivity measurement at the top of the screen, in units called
Sieverts/hour (Sv/hr).
Depending on detected levels, the range on SAM-Lite may automatically switch to display
Sv/hour (millionths), or nSv/hour (billionths).
1 mSv/hr = 0.001 Sv/hr (one thousandth)
1 Sv/hr = 0.000001 Sv/hr (one millionth)
1 nSv/hr = 0.000000001 Sv/hr (one billionth)
See Appendix for more information about Sieverts, radioactive radiation measurements, and
background levels.
3.2.8 Audible Beeping
There may be times when watching the display screen is inconvenient, either because you need
both your hands free for other activities, or because you need a more inconspicuous way to
monitor for radiation. In addition, the human ear is surprisingly sensitive to changes in rate, so
you may find that you can better tell whether you are seeing abnormal radioactivity by listening to
the audible beeping.

PGT SAM-Lite™ Instruction Manual 15
3.2.9 Automatic Background Readings
Background radioactivity levels vary widely from place to place. To ensure accurate results while
providing a highly automated user experience, SAM-Lite employs a fully automated background
level reading system. SAM-Lite dynamically self-adjusts for these changes in background level.
The unit is intended to measure spot-localized radiation, and the confidence level displayed when
increased radioactivity is detected represents the confidence level (in percentage) that there is a
statistically significant increase over the current background level.
3.3 Collect Data Mode
With Collect Data you instruct the unit to take measurements immediately.
To activate Collect Data press the center ENTER button while in Search mode. A set of
measurements (a spectra) will immediately begin. While the measurements are being taken, a
progress bar appears along the bottom of the Dial Screen, as shown below:
.
Figure 16 - Progress Bar During Collect Data
Recording Data
After the progress bar completes and data collection has concluded, a message will appear if the
radioactivity measured exceeds predetermined threshold levels. The message asks if you want to
record this data. Click Yes (RIGHT button) to record the data, or No (LEFT button) to skip this
step. (Warning: If you click No, you will have no record of this higher-than-normal measurement.)
Figure 17 - Record Data After Collecting Data

16 PGT SAM-Lite Instruction Manual
3.4 Reviewing Spectra Data
SAM-Lite can store thousands of data collections in its internal memory. Each data collection set,
also called a “spectra,” represents radioactivity detected at a particular moment in time. Each
spectra is stamped with date and time information. Using a PC with the wireless connection to
SAM-Lite, you can see all stored spectra information.
SAM-Lite can store approximately 30,000 spectra in internal memory. Spectra are automatically
saved whenever a Collect Data process is completed. Spectra are also saved for each
background taken and for certain other calibration operations. Each stored data set consists of a
spectrum and all the information necessary to analyze it. They are stored in a standard format
designed to comply with ANSI N42.42. You can review and (when desired) erase these spectra
using a PC with the XStick wireless connection, described in detail in Appendix Section 5.1.
3.4.1 Review Mode
In Review mode all readings that exceed background levels, representing increased radioactivity,
are displayed. Each set may contain from one to several specific radioactive substances that
have been identified as elevated in radiation level.
SAM-Lite conveniently displays the 10 most recent sets of elevated readings in its Review mode.
(You can view all stored spectra, not just the 10 most recent, by connecting to a PC with the
wireless connection.)
To begin Review mode, press the LEFT button. You will see the most recent stored reading.
Figure 18, for example (below), shows that we are looking at the first of 10 sets of data
collections. The display shows that an increased level of Cs137 was detected as well as one
more radioactive substance. Click the ENTER key briefly to see more detailed info about
both the Cs137 and the “+1more” substance (see next section, Identifying Sources of Radioactive
Radiation.)
Figure 18 - Review screen showing the first of ten sets of measurements. In addition to
CS137, one more radioactive substance has also been identified.
To see the next set of readings (the second of ten), press the the LEFT button again. You can
keep pressing the LEFT button to move through the past 10 readings. After this, pressing the 
LEFT button again will return the unit to Search mode.
In the example below (Figure 19), we are reviewing the tenth of ten data collection sets. The Dial
icon in the lower left corner indicates that pressing the LEFT button will end Review mode and
return to Search mode.

PGT SAM-Lite™ Instruction Manual 17
Figure 19 - Review screen showing the tenth of ten sets of measurements. In addition
Tc99m, four more radioactive substances have also been identified.
3.4.2 Current Radioactivity Level Display
Current Radioactivity Level Display
While in Review mode SAM-Lite continues to display the current radioactivity level at the top of
the screen (In figure 19, for example, it is 200nSv/hr.)
3.4.3 “Normal” Radioactivity Levels
Normal readings will have significant variations based on location. Only with experience can the
user determine what "normal" Sv/hr readings are.
The most likely causes for high background readings are:
 The presence of radioactive materials near the system in the form of samples
or standards.
 High concentrations of natural radioactive material such as K40 in the
building materials.
Less likely causes include:
 High radon levels.
See Radioactivity Units & Background Radiation in Appendix section 5.2 for more information.
3.5 Identifying Sources of Radioactive Radiation
SAM-Lite can help you determine the specific radioactive material(s) that is(are) present. The
system has an internal library of many nuclides.
In Review mode, pressing the ENTER button brings up the identification screen(s) on the
display.
Figure 20, below, shows an example of what the display would look like when 5 different
radioactive substances are detected at elevated levels in the same reading. For each radioactive
nuclide identified, the display shows:
 The substance (such as Uranium 235, or Cesium 137)
 The statistical confidence level that it has been properly identified (in percent)
 The amount of radioactivity measured in Sieverts per hour (Sv/hr), micro-
Sieverts per hour (SV/hr), or nano-Sieverts per hour (nSv/hr).

18 PGT SAM-Lite Instruction Manual
Figure 20 - Five different radioactive substances have been detected at elevated levels.
Pressing the LEFT and RIGHT keys moves through these nuclide Identification screens.
When the last screen is reached in either direction, the arrow icon will disappear from the lower
left or right corner of the display.
3.5.1 Color Code Options
As you can see from the examples above, different types of radioactive substances may be
identified by different colors on the display. The specific colors that appear on your SAM-Lite, and
what they may represent, are a factory-customizable feature, as explained in more detail in
Appendix 5.3.