Rae Q-RAE User manual

Q-RAE
MULTI-GAS MONITOR
OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE
MANUAL
(Document No.:027-4001)
Rev. B
RAE SYSTEMS INC.
1339 Moffett ParkDrive
Sunnyvale, CA 94089
November 2001

§Gas Detection Tubes & Pumps
§SampleRAE Electronic Sampling Pump
§MultiRAE PLUS Multi-gas Monitors
§MultiRAE IR Multi-gas Monitors w/CO2
§MultiRAE Confined Space Monitor
§QRAE PLUS Multi-gas Monitors
§QRAE Confined Space Monitor
§VRAE Five-Gas Monitors
§DRAE Two-Gas Monitors
§MiniRAE 2000 Portable VOC Monitor (PID)
§ppbRAE Portable ppb-Level VOC Monitor (PID)
§UltraRAE Specific Compound Monitor
§CDRAE Corona Discharge VOC Monitor
§ToxiRAE PLUS PID Monitor
§ToxiRAE PLUS Single Gas Monitors
§ToxiRAE PLUS Oxygen Monitor
§ToxiRAE PLUS Combustible Gas Monitor
§MiniRAE PLUS Classic PID
§ModuRAE Fixed System PID
§AreaRAE Wireless Multi-point, Multi-gas Systems
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Table of Contents
1. GENERAL INFORMATION ........................... 1-1
1.1 General Specifications........................................1-2
2. OPERATION OF Q-RAE................................. 2-1
2.1 Physical Description ...........................................2-2
2.2 Keys and Display................................................2-4
2.3 Power On/Off......................................................2-7
2.4 Operations.........................................................2-10
2.5 Alarm Signals ...................................................2-18
2.6 Backlight...........................................................2-21
2.7 Preset Alarm Limits and Calibration ................2-22
2.8 Integrated Sampling Pump................................2-23
2.9 Datalogging.......................................................2-24
3. OPERATION OF ACCESSORIES.................. 3-1
3.1 Battery Charging Operation................................3-2
3.2 Alkaline Battery Adapter....................................3-4
3.3 Water Trap Filter ................................................3-5
3.4 Remote Sampling Probe or Tygon Tubing.........3-6
3.5 Dilution Fitting ...................................................3-7
3.6 Calibration Adapter.............................................3-8
4. PROGRAMMING OF Q-RAE......................... 4-1
4.1 Programming Mode............................................4-2
4.2 Keys for Programming Mode .............................4-4
4.3 Entering into Programming Menu......................4-5
4.4 Calibration of Q-RAE Monitor...........................4-7
4.4.1 Fresh Air Calibration.......................................4-9
4.4.2 Multiple Sensor Calibration ..........................4-10
4.4.3 Single Sensor Calibration..............................4-13
4.4.4 Modify Span Gas Value.................................4-16
4.4.5 Change LEL Span Gas...................................4-17
4.5 Change Alarm Limits........................................4-18

ii
4.6 View or Change Datalog...................................4-20
4.6.1 Reset Peak and Minimum..............................4-21
4.6.2 Clear All Data…………………………… …4-22
4.6.3 Change Datalog Period..................................4-23
4.6.4 Select Data Type............................................4-24
4.6.5 View Datalog………………………………..4-25
4.6.6 Enable / Disable Datalog...............................4-26
4.7 Change Monitor Setup......................................4-27
4.7.1 Change Site ID...............................................4-28
4.7.2 Change Alarm Mode .....................................4-29
4.7.3 Change User Mode........................................4-30
4.7.4 Change Real Time Clock...............................4-31
4.7.5 Change Back Light Mode..............................4-32
4.7.6 Change Password...........................................4-33
4.7.7 Change Pump Speed......................................4-34
4.7.8 Change Averaging Method............................4-35
4.8 Change Sensor Configuration...........................4-36
4.8.1 Change LEL Gas Selection............................4-38
4.8.2 Enable / Disable Sensor.................................4-40
4.9 Exit Programming Mode ..................................4-42
5. COMPUTER INTERFACE FOR Q-RAE....... 5-1
5.1 Install ProRAE-Suite Software...........................5-2
5.2 Connect Q-RAE to PC........................................5-4
5.3 Start ProRAE-Suite Software .............................5-5
5.4 Setup Communication Port.................................5-7
5.5 Processing the Configuration Data.....................5-8
5.5.1 Editing the Configuration Data........................5-9
5.5.2 Send Configuration to Q-RAE ......................5-20
5.5.3 Saving Configuration Data............................5-21
5.5.4 Configuring All Settings................................5-22
5.6 Processing the Logged Data .............................5-24
5.6.1 Receive Data from Q-RAE............................5-25
5.6.2 View Logged Data in Text Mode..................5-26
5.6.3 View STEL/TWA/AVG Value .....................5-28

iii
5.6.4 View Summary Information..........................5-29
5.6.5 View Logged Data in Graph Mode................5-30
5.6.6 Export the Displayed Data to a Text File......5-34
5.6.7 Export Graphic to a File................................5-35
5.6.8 Print the Logged Data....................................5-36
5.7 Upgrade the Datalog Option.............................5-37
5.8 Upgrade the Firmware......................................5-39
6. THEORY OF OPERATION............................. 6-1
7. MAINTENANCE ............................................... 7-1
7.1 Battery Replacement...........................................7-2
7.2 Sensor Replacement............................................7-4
7.3 Sampling Pump Replacement.............................7-7
8. TROUBLESHOOTING .................................... 8-1
8.1 Special Diagnostic Mode....................................8-2
8.2 Troubleshooting Table........................................8-8
APPENDIX A. QUICK REFERENCE GUIDE.........A-1
APPENDIX B. CORRECTION FACTORS...............B-1
APPENDIX C. Q-RAE DATA CONVERSION
TO MICROSOFT EXCEL...............C-1
APPENDIX D. RAE TECHNICAL NOTES..............D-1
APPENDIX E. RAE APPLICATION NOTES ..........E-1
APPENDIX F. LITERATURE REQUEST................F-1
APPENDIX G. REQUEST FOR RETURN
AUTHORIZATION FORM............... G-1
Main Contact Numbers .......................Outer Back Cover

iv
! WARNING !
-DONOT proceed before reading -
This manual must be carefully read by all
individuals who have or will have the responsibility
for using, maintaining, or servicing this product.
The product will perform as designed only if it is used,
maintained, and serviced in accordance with the
manufacturer's instructions.
CAUTION!!
To reduce the risk of electric shock, turn off power
before removing the monitor cover. Disconnect the
battery before removing sensor module for service.
Never operate the monitor while the cover is
removed. Remove monitor cover and sensor
module only in an area known to be non-hazardous.
The model PGM-50Qequipment is classified as to
intrinsic safety for use in class I, division 1, groups
A, B, C, D, or non-hazardous locations only.

v
Special Notes
-1-
When the Q-RAE monitor is taken out from the
transport case and turned on for the first time, there
may be some residual organic or inorganic vapors
trapped inside the detector chamber. The initial toxic
sensor reading may indicate a few ppm. Place the unit
in an area free of organic or toxic vaporsand turn on
the monitor. After running for several minutes, the
residual vaporsin the detector chamber will be cleared
and the reading should return to zero.
-2-
The battery of the Q-RAE monitor will discharge slowly
even if it is turned off. If the monitor has not been
charged for 5-7 days, the battery voltage will be low.
Therefore, it is a good practice to always charge the
monitor before using it. It is also recommended to fully
charge the monitor for AT LEAST 10 HOURS before
initial use. See Section 7 for more information on
battery charging and replacement.

vi
WARNINGS:
Use only RAE Systems battery packs, part numbers
500-0028, 500-0029, 500-0037, or500-0039. This
instrument has not been tested in an explosive gas/air
atmosphere having an oxygen concentration greater
than 21%. Substitution of components may impair
intrinsic safety. Recharge batteries only in non-
hazardous locations.
AVERTISSEMENT:
Utiliser seulement l'ensemble de batterie RAE Systems,
les references500-0028, 500-0029, 500-0037, ou 500-
0039. Cet instrument n’a pas été essayé dans une
atmosphère de gaz/air explosive ayant une
concentration d’oxygène plus élevée que 21%. La
substitution de composants peut compromettre la
sécurité intrinsique. Ne charger les batteries que dans
l’emplacements désignés non-dangereux.
STATIC HAZARD:
Clean only with a damp cloth.
DANGER RISQUE D'ORIGINE
ELECTROSTATIQUE:
Nettoyer uniquement avec un chiffon humide.
CAUTION:
For safety reasons this equipment must be operated and
serviced by qualified personnel only. Read and
understand instruction manual completely before
operating or servicing.

vii
ATTENTION:
Pour des raisons de sécurité, cet équipment doit être
utilisé, entretenu et réparé uniquement par un
personnel qualifié. Étudier le manuel d’instructions en
entier avant d’utiliser, d’entretenir ou de réparer
l’équipement.
CAUTION:
Before each day’s usage,sensitivity must be tested on a
known concentration of methane gas equivalent to 20-
50% of full scale concentration. Accuracy must be
within -0-+20% of actual. Accuracy may be corrected
by calibration procedure.
ATTENTION:
Avant chaque utilisation journaliere verifier la
sensibilitéavec une concentration connue de methane
equivalente a 20 -50% de la pleine échelle. La précision
doit être comprise entre 0 -20% de la valeur vraie et
peut être corrigée par une procédure diétalonnage.
CAUTION:
Any rapid up-scale reading followed by a declining or
erratic reading may indicate a gas concentration beyond
upper scale limit which may be hazardous.

viii
AVERTISSEMENT:
Toute lecture rapide et positive, suivie d’une baisse
subite au erratique de la valeur, peut indiquer une
concentration de gaz hors gamme de détection qui peut
être dangereux.
WARNING:
The calibration of all newly purchased RAE Systems
instruments should be tested by exposing the sensor(s)
to known concentration calibration gas before the
instrument is put into service for the first time.
For maximum safety, the accuracy of the Q-RAE should
be checked by exposing the sensor(s) to known
concentration calibration gas before each day’s use.
AVERTISSEMENT:
La calibration de toute instruments de RAE Systems
doivent être testé en exposant l’instrument a une
concentration de gaz connue par une procédure
diétalonnage avant de mettre en service l’instrument
pour la première fois.
Pour une securite maximale, la sensibilité du Q-RAE
doit être verifier en exposant l’instrument a une
concentration de gaz connue par une procédure
diétalonnage avant chaque utilisation journalière.

GENERAL INFORMATION
1 -1
1. GENERAL INFORMATION
Q-RAE is a programmable Multi-gas monitor designed to
provide continuous exposure monitoring of oxygen,
hydrogen sulfide, carbon monoxide and combustible gases
for workers in hazardous environments. It monitors with
two types of sensors:
(1) Combustible gases are monitored with catalytic
bead sensors.
(2) Oxygen, hydrogen sulfide and carbon monoxide are
monitored with electrochemical sensors.
Other features include:
•Lightweight and Compact
-16 oz (454 g), hand-held size.
•Dependable and Accurate
-10 hours monitoring with micro-controller.
•User Friendly
-Menu driven, intuitive end-use operation.
•Programmable Alarm Thresholds
-Audio buzzer & flashing display alarm.
Q-RAE consists of: Amulti-gas monitor, a battery
charger, rubber boot, alkaline battery adapter, water and
dust filter,plus calibration accessories.

GENERAL INFORMATION
1 -2
1.1 General Specifications
Table 1.1
Multi-gas Monitor Specification
Configuration: Pumped four-gas; datalogging option
Dimensions:4.65”L x 3.0”W x 1.9”H
(11.8 cm x 7.6 cm x 4.8 cm)
Weight:16 oz (454 g) with battery.
Attachment: Rubber boot, wrist strap, belt clip.
Sensors:Four sensors (oxygen, combustible,
hydrogen sulfide and carbon
monoxide),electrochemical sensors
for toxic gases and oxygen, catalytic
sensorsfor combustible gases.
Battery:Rechargeable, 4.8V/1100 mAh Li ion
or 4.8V/1700 mAh, Ni-Cd battery
pack with built-in charger (8-hour
charge time) or a 4 AA alkaline
battery adapter.
Operating Time:Up to 10 hours continuous operation.
Display:2 line, 16 digit LCD with LED back
light automatically in dim light.
Keypad:1 operation and 2 programming keys.
Direct Readout:Four instantaneous value readings,
sensor names, high and low values for
all detectors, battery voltage and
elapsed time.
(Continued)

GENERAL INFORMATION
1 -3
Multi-gas Monitor Specification
(Continued)
Range, Resolution and Response Time (t90):
LEL 0-100 %1 %15 sec
O20-30 %0.1 % 15 sec
CO 0-500 ppm 1 ppm 20 sec
H2S0-100 ppm 1 ppm 30 sec
Alarm:90 dB buzzer and flashing red LED to
indicate exceeded preset limits, low
battery, or sensor failure.
Alarm Settings: Separate alarm limit settings for
TWA, STEL, Low and High alarm.
Calibration:Two-point field calibration for fresh
air and standard reference gas.
Sampling Pump:Internal integrated with 250 cc/min
flow rate (high setting).
Protection:Password protected calibration
settings, alarm limits, and data.
Intrinsic Safety: UL & cUL Class 1, Division I, Group
A, B, C, D (US & Canada), EEx ia IIC
T4 (Europe). Class T3c with Li-ion
500-0037 battery pack.
EM Immunity: No effect when exposed to
0.43mW/cm2RF interference (5-watt
transmitter at 12 inch).
Data Storage: 20,000 readings (64 hours, 5 channels
at 1 minute interval) in non-volatile
memory.
(Continued)

GENERAL INFORMATION
1 -4
Multi-gas Monitor Specification
(Continued)
Alarm Settings: Separate alarm limit settings for
TWA, STEL, Low and High alarm.
Datalog Interval: Programmable 1-3600 sec.
External Alarm: Optional plug in pen size vibration
alarm or earphone.
Communication: Upload data to PC and Download
monitor setup from PC through RS-
232 link to serial port on PC.
Temperature: -20oto 45oC (-4oto 113oF).
Humidity: 0 % to 95% relative humidity.
(non-condensing)

OPERATION
2 -1
2. OPERATION OF Q-RAE
The Q-RAE is a hand-held, portable Multi-gas chemical
exposure monitor. It gives real time measurements and
activates alarm signals whenever the exposure exceeds
preset limits or oxygen is depleted. Prior to factory
shipment, the Q-RAE is preset with default alarm limits
and the sensors are pre-calibrated with standard calibration
gas. However, the user should calibrate the instrument
before the first use. After the monitor is fully charged and
calibrated, it is ready for immediate operation.

OPERATION
2 -2
2.1 Physical Description
Figure 2-1 shows the main components of the Q-RAE
Multi-gas Monitor, which include:
Figure 2-1 Major parts of the Q-RAE
Multi-gas Monitor
•3 keys for the user to interact with the monitor: 1
operation key and 2 programming keys for normal
operation or programming of the monitor.
•LCD display with backlight to show real time and
calculated measurements.
Gas entry port
B
uzzer
Charge contact
Serial port
Wrist strap
Key
LCD display
LED alarm

OPERATION
2 -3
•Buzzer and red LED for alarm signal whenever the
exposures exceed preset limits.
•Wrist strap.
•Charge contact for plugging directly to the charging
station.
•Gas entry port.
•Serial communication port for PC interface.

OPERATION
2 -4
2.2 Keys and Display
Figure 2-2 shows the LCD display and the keypad on the
front panel of the monitor. The functionsof the 3 keys
during normal operation are summarized in Table 2.1 on
the next page:
Figure 2-2 Key-pad and display of the Q-RAE
Multi-gas Monitor
Light
sensor
0.1
0.0
0.0
20.9
MODE
ON
Y/+ N/-
OXY
H2S
LEL
CO
LED alarm/
charge status
[Mode]
Key
[Y/+] Key
[N/-] Key

OPERATION
2 -5
Table 2.1
Key Function in Normal Operation
[MODE]:Turn on/off the power* and choose
different display mode.
[N/-]: Toggle on/off the back light. Answer as
“No.”
[Y/+]: Alarm test and alarm acknowledgment
(turn off latched alarm, turn on pump or
LEL sensor). Answer as “Yes.”
* Pressing and holding [MODE] for 5 seconds turns off the
power to the monitor. Monitor will beep once per second
during power-down sequence. Press [MODE] momentarily
to choose different display modes (see Section 2.4 for
details).

OPERATION
2 -6
The Multi-gas Monitor includes a 2-line, 16-digit dot
matrix LCD display. The LCD shows the following eight
types of displays during normal operation if the [MODE]
key is pressed:
•Real time instantaneous gas concentration in ppm
for H2S and CO, % by volume for oxygen and
%LEL for combustible gases.
•Sensor names.
•Peak and minimum gas concentrationsfor H2S and
CO, oxygen and combustible gases.
•15 minute Short Term Exposure Level (STEL)
values of H2S and CO in ppm and 8-hour Time
Weighted Average (TWA).
•Battery voltage and shut off voltage in volts.
•Real time clock, run time and temperature.
•Datalogging mode or “Start /Stop Datalog?” menu
to enable/disable datalogging if manual datalogging
mode is selected.
•LEL gas names (if the LEL sensor is installed).
•“Print Reading?” menu to print the reading to the
RAE Printer (only shown when enabled; normally
this function is disabled and not shown).
•“Communicate with PC?” menu to send or receive
data between PC and the Q-RAE monitor.