RadComm RC2PLUS User manual

RC2PLUS User Manual
HANDHELD PORTABLE
RADCOMM SYSTEMS CORP.
150-85-002 REVISION 9.0 – AUGUST 21,2020

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Revision History
Revision Date ECO Description
Rev 1 Apr 12, 2013 - Initial Release
Rev 2 May 8, 2013 703 Minor changes – Maggie Gao
Rev 3 Aug 14, 2013 739 Added Docking station info
Rev 4 Feb 19, 2014 777 Added Memory Storage, changed ROI to SD
Rev 5 May 28, 2014 799 Added Configuration screen mods
Rev 6 Jul 6, 2016 866,1004 Change the configuration page for Basic Mode
Rev 7 Jun 29, 2017 1079 Change High Dose Rate switching point
Change Alarm Threshold algorithm for Basic Mode
Rev 8 Nov 28, 2019 1236 Remove nSv/h and nR/h unit for dose rate/exposure rate
display
Rev 9 Aug 20, 2020 1260 Change ROI Alarm default settings to 5SD
Product Manual - Disclaimers:
Due to our efforts to continuously improve this product; specifications, dimensions,
operating features and procedures described in this manual are subject to frequent
changes. The printed version of this manual reflects only the configuration current at
the time of printing. The most current version of the manual is provided in electronic
format on the Product Support CD supplied with the instrument. Please refer to the
electronic version of the manual for the most accurate interpretation. Contact
RadComm Radiation Detection Systems at www.radcommsystems.com
CONFIDENTIAL DISCLOSURE
USERS ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT THIS MANUAL CONTAINS TECHNICAL INFORMATION OF A
PROPRIETARY NATURE. THIS INFORMATION IS NECESSARY FOR TECHNICALLY KNOWLEDGEABLE
USERS TO UNDERSTAND SYSTEM OPERATION AND TO SATISFY THEMSELVES THAT THE SYSTEM IS
PERFORMING CORRECTLY.
RADCOMM ACCEPTS THAT IT IS THE RIGHT OF SUCH USERS TO BE PRIVY TO THIS INFORMATION.
HOWEVER THIS DOCUMENTATION IS PROVIDED SOLELY FOR THE BENEFIT OF OWNERS OF THE
SYCLONE PORTABLE DETECTOR AND DISSEMINATION OF THE DETAILED TECHNICAL INFORMATION
PROVIDED MAY BE CONSIDERED AS LEGALLY CONTRAVENING THE NORMAL SUPPLIER/CUSTOMER
RELATIONSHIP.
UNAUTHORIZED RELEASE OF DETAILED TECHNICAL INFORMATION TO A THIRD PARTY WILL BE
CONSIDERED AS A CONTRAVENTION OF USER AGREEMENTS.
Manufactured by RadComm, 2931 Portland Dr, Oakville, Ontario, Canada, L6H 5S4

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Table of Contents
1.0 INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................................. 5
2.0 GETTING STARTED ........................................................................................................................ 6
2.1 4 Way Joystick .............................................................................................................................. 7
2.2 Enter and Exit Functions ........................................................................................................... 7
2.2.1 Exit ............................................................................................................................................ 7
2.2.2 Enter ......................................................................................................................................... 7
2.3 Power On ........................................................................................................................................ 7
2.4 Mode Selection ............................................................................................................................ 8
2.5 Power Off ........................................................................................................................................ 8
3.0 STARTING SELF-TEST ................................................................................................................... 9
3.1 Background Learn ....................................................................................................................... 9
3.2 LED Test Check ............................................................................................................................. 9
3.3 Calibration Required ............................................................................................................... 10
4.0 RC2Plus BASIC MODE OPERATION ........................................................................................ 11
4.1 RC2Plus Basic Status Bar ........................................................................................................... 12
4.1.1 SCANNING .......................................................................................................................... 12
4.1.2 CPS EXCEEDS THRSH! ..................................................................................................... 12
4.1.3 DOSE RATE EXCEEDS THRSH! ..................................................................................... 12
4.1.4 HIGH DOSE RATE. MOVE AWAY! ............................................................................... 12
4.1.5 SYSTEM IS OUT OF RANGE! ......................................................................................... 12
4.2 RC2Plus Basic Configuration ................................................................................................... 12
4.2.1 Sensitivity ............................................................................................................................ 13
4.2.2 Unit ........................................................................................................................................ 14
4.2.3 Date/Time ........................................................................................................................... 14
4.2.4 LCD Mode ........................................................................................................................... 14
4.2.5 AaBbCc ................................................................................................................................. 14
4.2.6 Information ......................................................................................................................... 14
4.2.7 Dose Threshold ................................................................................................................. 14
5.0 RC2Plus ADVANCED MODE OPERATION ............................................................................ 15
5.1 Main Menu .................................................................................................................................. 15
5.2 Search ........................................................................................................................................... 16
5.2.1 Search Alarm ...................................................................................................................... 17
5.2.2 RC2Plus Advanced Status Bar......................................................................................... 18
5.2.2.1 SCANNING .................................................................................................................. 18
5.2.2.2 CALIBRATION REQUIRED ...................................................................................... 18
5.2.2.3 ALARM: ROI1 or 2/3/4 or Total! .......................................................................... 18
5.2.2.4 HIGH DOSE RATE. MOVE AWAY! ....................................................................... 18
5.2.2.5 SYSTEM IS OUT OF RANGE! ................................................................................. 18

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5.2.2.6 DOSE RATE EXCEEDS THRSH! ............................................................................. 18
5.2.2.7 DOSE MEMORY IS FULL! ....................................................................................... 18
5.3 Histogram .................................................................................................................................... 18
5.3.1 Histogram Screen Overview ......................................................................................... 19
5.3.2 Histogram Scaling ............................................................................................................ 20
5.3.3 Histogram Saving ............................................................................................................. 20
5.3.4 Histogram Cancel ............................................................................................................. 20
5.3.5 RC2Plus Advanced Histogram Status Bar .................................................................. 20
5.3.5.1 SCANNING .................................................................................................................. 20
5.3.5.2 CALIBRATION REQUIRED ...................................................................................... 20
5.3.5.3 HISTOGRAM MEMORY IS FULL .......................................................................... 20
5.4 Memory Storage ....................................................................................................................... 21
5.4.1 Status .................................................................................................................................... 21
5.4.2 Erase ...................................................................................................................................... 21
5.5 Configuration ............................................................................................................................. 22
5.5.1 Search Setup ...................................................................................................................... 22
5.5.2 Dose Setup ......................................................................................................................... 23
5.5.2.1 UNIT .............................................................................................................................. 23
5.5.2.2 AVERAGING: ............................................................................................................... 23
5.5.2.3 ALARM THRESHOLD: .............................................................................................. 23
5.5.3 ROI Setup ............................................................................................................................ 23
5.5.4 ROI Alarm Threshold Setup .......................................................................................... 24
5.5.5 Date and Time Setup ...................................................................................................... 25
5.5.6 Miscellaneous Setup ....................................................................................................... 25
5.6 Information ................................................................................................................................. 25
6.0 RADIATION SAFETY PROCEDURE ........................................................................................ 26
7.0 OPTIONAL DOCKING STATION ............................................................................................ 27
8.0 SPECIFICATIONS ......................................................................................................................... 30

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1.0 INTRODUCTION
The RC2PLUS portable radiation detector utilizes advanced spectral techniques to
enhance sensitivity for reliable detection of isotopes with extremely low Dose Rates.
The RC2PLUS is available in two versions; the Total Count Basic version and the Advanced
ROI Analyses version. The Basic version tracks the total count rate produced by all of
the measured gamma energies during the scanning period and automatically sets an
alarm threshold over the total background count rate average.
The Advanced ROI Analyses version allows the operator to see the distributed
measured gamma energies in a histogram form which specific ROIs can be selected for
the desired energy ranges applicable to the requirement. Once the ROI ranges are
selected, a specific alarm threshold can be set for each ROI. This unique technology
provides extremely high sensitivity while decreasing the interference from ambient
background radiation including situations where high background levels are measured.
The RC2PLUS is supplied with default parameters which have been selected for the
Metals Recycling industry. There are several commonly found isotopes in scrap metal
cargos that have resulted in the vast majority of radiological detections. The RC2PLUS
selected ROI energy ranges and alarm thresholds have been factory preset to enhance
the detection of these isotopes. The RC2PLUS allows users the ability to change the
factory defaults as required to enhance the detection capability for any selected
isotopes. All parameter changes can then be saved in non-volatile memory to as not to
lose them when the power has been turned off. The RC2PLUS will automatically return to
normal operation with the previously stored parameters when the unit power has been
restored.
The RC2PLUS provides many additional features such as the display of gamma energy
response in a histogram form, data storage, selected ROI count rate viewing and dose
rates.
The RC2PLUS stores operator selected histograms which can be downloaded via USB
to RadComm’s PC software for further analysis and archiving purposes. Reports can
also be saved in PDF format. Remote servicing/ diagnostics and software updates
can be performed via a network connection with RadComm’s PC software
application.

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2.0 GETTING STARTED
PVT
DETECTOR
VIBRATOR
FOR TACTILE
NOTI
FICATION
GM TUBE
RC2PLUS
ADVANCED MODEL ONLY
AUDIO ALARM
20 HOUR RECHARGEABLE
BATTERY
4 WAY JOYSTICK
DAY/NIGHT LCD
COLOR DISPLAY
COLOR LED
ALARM/BATTERY
CHARGING
STATUS
USB CONNECTOR

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2.1 4 WAY JOYSTICK
The RC2Plus is operated with a four way joystick located on
top of the handle.
• Up
• Down
• Right
• Left
2.2 ENTER AND EXIT FUNCTIONS
In some menu screens there will be an option to Enter or
Cancel. The following explains how to Enter or Exit using
the joystick.
2.2.1 EXIT
The Exit/Cancel function is triggered when the joystick is
held in the Up position for 1 second.
2.2.2 ENTER
The Enter function is triggered when the joystick is held in the Down position for 2
seconds. Enter also saves selections or settings on certain screens.
2.3 POWER ON
Starting with the unit OFF, to POWER ON, Push the
joystick Down.
On power on the RC2PLUS initializes and does a self-test.
When complete it displays the main screen.

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2.4 MODE SELECTION
The RC2PLUS is delivered fully powered and in
BASIC Mode. To change the Mode setting,
startup the unit and hold down the joystick
when the cover page appears, the mode
selection screen will then appear and the user
can use the joystick to choose from BASIC or
ADVANCED MODE. The RC2PLUS is ready to
be used for the selected mode by the operator
or technician.
2.5 POWER OFF
1. To power off Push UP and Hold the joystick for 3 seconds.
2. When the joystick is held in the Up position a 3
second countdown begins.
3. The RC2PLUS turns off.
MODE SELECTION
ADVANCED
BASIC

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3.0 STARTING SELF-TEST
Every time when the RC2PLUS is power on it does a self-test and learns the
background.
3.1 BACKGROUND LEARN
During startup, the RC2PLUS learns its background. This background is displayed in
the RC2PLUS System Test screen.
3.2 LED TEST CHECK
LED test checks the alarm algorithms to ensure the RC2PLUS is ready to search.

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3.3 CALIBRATION REQUIRED
For the Basic Mode, if the system requires calibration, ‘CALIBRATION REQUIRED’ will
be displayed on the bottom of the System Test screen. This message will appear
after one year or LED test fails.

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4.0 RC2PLUS BASIC MODE OPERATION
The RC2Plus offers two operation models: the Basic model and the Advanced model.
Only the Advanced Model allows toggling back to Basic mode and back to
Advanced mode on every startup.
When you purchase the RC2Plus Basic model, the Advanced option is NOT
included.
This document explains both Basic and Advanced operation modes.
GM tube is only available in Advanced Model. When the dose rate reading is higher
than 40µSv/h, the RC2Plus switches to GM for better accuracy.
There is no GPS for Basic Model. For Advanced Model, GPS is optional.
STATUS BAR
CURRENT PVT
READIN
GS
BACKGRO
UND
ALARM
THRESHOLD

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PVT Displays the current readings.
BACKGROUND Displays the background value learned during Power
On.
ALARM THRESHOLD
Displays the alarm threshold. This threshold can be
changed in the configuration screen. The RC2PLUS Basic
has 3 Alarm Threshold settings.
4.1 RC2PLUS BASIC STATUS BAR
4.1.1 SCANNING
The RC2PLUS is in normal operation. Ready for search and find.
4.1.2 CPS EXCEEDS THRSH!
This message is displayed when the RC2PLUS is alarming. The RC2PLUS alarms when
the current PVT readings are higher than the ALARM SET.
4.1.3 DOSE RATE EXCEEDS THRSH!
This is an alarm message displayed when the dose rate value exceeds its threshold
setting. The unit warns the user with the audio, visual and tactile notifications. This
setting is configurable through the Configuration screen for Basic Mode.
4.1.4 HIGH DOSE RATE. MOVE AWAY!
When the dose rate reading is higher than 10µSv/h this message is displayed.
4.1.5 SYSTEM IS OUT OF RANGE!
This message is displayed when the dose rate is higher than 50mSv/h the unit has
overloaded its scanning capacity.
4.2 RC2PLUS BASIC CONFIGURATION
To enter into the configuration screen, hold the joystick
down for 2 seconds. After 2 seconds it displays the
Configuration screen.
The configuration screen displays settable options. To
navigate these options use the joysticks UP/DOWN. Moving

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the joystick UP/DOWN highlights the setting to change.
Using the joysticks RIGHT/LEFT on the selected options changes the setting.
Once the changes are made HOLD DOWN to save.
The configuration screen displays the following:
4.2.1 SENSITIVITY
There are 3 alarm thresholds, which correspond to the level of sensitivity, normally
LOW, MED and HIGH. Low level threshold equals to 12 Standard Deviation of
ambient background (12√𝐵𝐺)+ambient background.
LOW
𝐵𝐺
+
12
√
𝐵
𝐺
MED
𝐵𝐺
+
8
√
𝐵𝐺
HIGH
𝐵𝐺
+
4
√
𝐵𝐺

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4.2.2 UNIT
Unit toggles between R/h or Sv/h
4.2.3 DATE/TIME
Changes the Date and Time
DATE/TIME
DATE FORMAT
MM – DD - YY
DATE 07 - 08 - 11
HH : MM : SS
TIME 16 ： 50 ： 29
NA
07 /0 8/2 01 1
16 :5 6:5 0
4.2.4 LCD MODE
Toggles the display between NIGHT and DAY.
4.2.5 AABBCC
Changes the language displayed.
4.2.6 INFORMATION
Displays system information i.e. Calibration Date, Operating temperature and Serial
number.
4.2.7 DOSE THRESHOLD
If the Dose Rate exceeds this value, the audio will alarm to warn the user.

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5.0 RC2PLUS ADVANCED MODE OPERATION
The RC2PLUS Advanced Mode offers a Total and ROIs search and find functions.
5.1 MAIN MENU
The Main Menu displays the following:
 SEARCH
 HISTOGRAM
 MEMORY STORAGE
 CONFIGURE
 INFORMATION
To navigate the menu, use the Joystick’s UP/DOWN
To make a selection, HOLD DOWN the joystick for 2 seconds.
2 SECONDS

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5.2 SEARCH
In Search mode the RC2PLUS Advanced
gives the user 5 selectable options.
1. Total Counts
2. ROI 1
3. ROI 2
4. ROI 3
5. ROI 4
The 5 options can be toggled by
switching the joystick RIGHT/LEFT.
Each option is presented with a Red Line Threshold. This threshold can be adjusted
using the joysticks UP and DOWN. When the ROI Alarm Threshold for a certain ROI
is set to OFF, the red line doesn’t appear.
Red Line Threshold
Use the joysticks
UP/DOWN to adjust
the threshold.
HOLD the joystick
DOWN to save the
threshold setting.
Current ROI Selected.
Use the joystick’s
RIGHT/LEFT to toggle
the options
ROI selected detailed
information.
GPS and Bluetooth
indicators.
SEARCH
SCANNING!
07/08/2011
16:56:50
TOTAL PVT 169 CPS
DOSE RATE 0.142 uSv/h
ACC.DOSE 0.018 uSv
0
256
TOT.
SEARCH
SCANNING!
07/08/2011
16:56:50
ROI4 PVT 169 CPS
DOSE RATE 0.142 uSv/h
ACC.DOSE 0.018 uSv
0
256
ROI4

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5.2.1 SEARCH ALARM
The Total and ROIs have % above background thresholds. Each can be set through
the configuration screen.
The Red Line displays the alarm threshold for this total window.
When a radioactive source is in proximity, its counts and graph will increase.
The alarm triggers when the increased counts cross the Red line. In this event the
user is notified with:
 Audio Alarm
 Visual Alarm (RED LED)
 Tactile Alarm (Handle Vibrates)
RED LED Visual Alarm
Introduced source
increases the counts.
Audio Alarm
(( ))
Tactile notification

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5.2.2 RC2PLUS ADVANCED STATUS BAR
5.2.2.1 SCANNING
The RC2PLUS is in normal operation. Ready for search and find.
5.2.2.2 CALIBRATION REQUIRED
This message is displayed when the RC2PLUS needs to be recalibrated. This message
will appear after one year or LED test fails.
5.2.2.3 ALARM: ROI1 or 2/3/4 or Total!
This message is displayed when the RC2PLUS is alarming. The unit warns the user
with the audio, visual and tactile notifications. The RC2PLUS will display the ROI# or
Total window where the current reading value is above its alarm threshold.
5.2.2.4 HIGH DOSE RATE. MOVE AWAY!
When the dose rate reading is higher than 10µSv/h this message is displayed.
5.2.2.5 SYSTEM IS OUT OF RANGE!
This message is displayed when the dose rate is higher than 50mSv/h. The unit has
overloaded its scanning capacity.
5.2.2.6 DOSE RATE EXCEEDS THRSH!
This is an alarm message displayed when the dose rate value exceeds its threshold
setting. The unit warns the user with the audio, visual and tactile notifications. This
setting is configurable through the Dose Setup in the Configuration screen.
5.2.2.7 DOSE MEMORY IS FULL!
This message is displayed when the memory for Dose
data is full.
5.3 HISTOGRAM
The Histogram function in the RC2PLUS allows the user to
accumulate the histogram of a radioactive source.
The accumulation begins the moment the user enters the
Histogram mode.
The Histogram also includes 4 ROI windows highlighted
in different colors.

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5.3.1 HISTOGRAM SCREEN OVERVIEW
ROI1 ROI counts for ROI1 Blue region
ROI2 ROI counts for ROI2 Magenta region
ROI3 ROI counts for ROI3 Black region
ROI4 ROI counts for ROI4 Khaki region
TOTAL Total counts for the full histogram
TIME Accumulation time in seconds since the histogram
star
t
ed
CURSOR CHANNEL Channel Number where the cursor is currently
position
ed
CURSOR COUNTS Counts where the current cursor is positioned
Cursor. Use the joystick LEFT/RIGHT to move the
cursor. Holding the LEFT/RIGHT moves the
cursor faster.
Current ROI selected
Each ROI is
highlighted when the
cursor falls into the
ROI area. Move the
joystick LEFT/RIGHT.
Current Information

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5.3.2 HISTOGRAM SCALING
Auto scaling is enabled by default.
Scaling the graph is achieved by momentarily moving the
joystick UP/DOWN.
Note: Once the joystick is moved UP/DOWN the auto
scaling is disabled for this histogram accumulation.
5.3.3 HISTOGRAM SAVING
When you are ready to stop and store the accumulated
histogram, HOLD the joystick DOWN for 2 seconds.
The RC2PLUS can store 300 histograms.
5.3.4 HISTOGRAM CANCEL
When you want to exit without saving the Histogram,
HOLD the joystick UP for 2 seconds and release.
5.3.5 RC2PLUS ADVANCED HISTOGRAM STATUS BAR
5.3.5.1 SCANNING
The RC2PLUS is in normal operation and accumulating a histogram.
5.3.5.2 CALIBRATION REQUIRED
This message is displayed when the RC2PLUS needs to be recalibrated. This message
will appear after one year or LED test fails.
5.3.5.3 HISTOGRAM MEMORY IS FULL
The RC2PLUS can store up to 300 histograms. Use the RadView PC software to
download and save the histograms in memory. An erase function is available with
the RadView software to erase the memory and clear the message.
2 SECONDS
2 SECONDS