WatchGas POLI User manual

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POLI Multi-Gas Detector
User Manual
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Contents
Contents 2
Description 3
Main features 3
Warning 3
Caution 4
Special Conditions for Safe Use 4
Proper Product Disposal at the end of life 5
1 Battery 5
1.1 Battery Charging 5
1.2 Battery Status 5
1.3 Battery Replacement 6
2 Product Overview 6
2.1 Displays and Keys 7
2.2 Status indicator icons 7
2.3 Keys and Interface 7
2.4 Alarm Overview 8
3 Basic Operations 8
3.1 Turning On 8
3.2 Turning O 8
3.3 Active Sensor Displays 9
3.4 Pump Status 9
3.5 Alarm Testing 10
3.6 Main User Menu 10
4 Conguration Mode 11
4.1 Entering Conguration Mode 11
4.2 Exiting Conguration Mode 11
4.3 Navigating Conguration Mode to Edit Parameters 11
4.4 Calibration and bump testing 14
4.5 Measurement 20
4.6 Alarm Settings 21
4.7 Datalog 23
4.8 Monitor Set-up 24
4.9 Wireless Set-up (WatchGas Squad + WatchGas Platoon) 26
5 Data Communication 27
5.1 Connecting and Coniguring 27
5.2 Datalog and Event Retrieval 29
5.3 Real-Time Data 30
6 Maintanance 31
6.1 Replacing Filters 31
6.2 Removing / Cleaning / Replacing Sensor Modules 32
6.3 Replacing Pump or Battery 32
7 Troubleshooting 33
8 POLI MonoDock Operation 34
9 Specications 37
10 Limited Warranty 38

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Description
The POLI multi-gas detectors (MP400 & MP400P) oer 4- or 5-gas monitoring of oxygen (O2),
combustible (LEL) gases, toxic gases, carbon dioxide (CO2), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
The MP400 is a diusion sampling model with standard O2, LEL, carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrogen
sulde (H2S) conguration. A reghter version uses O2, LEL, CO and hydrogen cyanide (HCN) sensors,
and a 5-gas version including sulfur dioxide (SO2) is also available. The MP400P is a standard model
with pump and allows a full selection of sensors, e.g. over 30 dierent electrochemical (EC) sensors,
pellistor for LEL, non-dispersive infrared (NDIR) for hydrocarbons in both %LEL and %Vol ranges and
photo-ionization detector (PID) for VOCs.
The MP400S is an advanced model with pump and a built-in wireless module that sends critical
data including panic, man-down, gas concentration, and battery alarms to supervisors and control
centers on site or at remote locations for faster responses and maximized safety. The MP400S is
used in concert with a head monitor MP400H for teams of up to 8 monitors in an mSquad are up
to 64 monitors in an mPlatoon system. This User Guide covers the basic operation of the individual
MP400S and MP400H instruments; for information on setting up and operating systems of multiple
instruments, see the Poli User’s Guide.
MAIN FEATURES
• 4 models of diusion, pumped and wireless optimized for basic conned space entry (CSE)
compliance, professional, and advanced applications
• Large, graphical display and icon-driven user interface through intuitive, simple, two-button
operation. Auto ip-screen when held up-side down
• Over 30 interchangeable sensor congurations, including PID for VOC, NDIR and catalytic sensor
for combustibles, and NDIR for CO2
• Intelligent sensors store calibration data ready for quick installation in the eld
• Easy access to pump, sensors and lter
• Long battery run time of 16 hours in diusion mode and 12 hours with pump running
• 6 months continuous datalog storage with 4 sensors
• Man-down, panic, gas concentration and battery alarm notication via ISM wireless at no
operating cost
• IP-65/67 water and dust resistant rating
• Durable double-shot outer case
Warning
This manual must be carefully read by all individuals who have or will have the responsibility of
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. The user should
understand how to set the correct parameters and interpret the obtained results.
• Only the combustible gas detection portion of this instrument has been assessed for performance.
• This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two
conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any
interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

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Caution
• Remove monitor cover only in area known to be non-hazardous.
• Recharge only in area known to be non-hazardous.
• Use only WatchGas rechargable lithium battery.
• Use of non WatchGas components will void the warranty an can compromise the safe performance
of this product.
• Sustitution of components may impact intrinsic safety.
• High-o scale readings may indicate an explosive concentration. 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.
• Before each day’s use, the sensitivity of the combustible gas sensor must be tested on a known
concentration of Methane gas equivalent to 20 to 50% of full scale concentration. Accuracy must
be within 0 and 20% of actual. Accuracy may be corrected by a calibration procedure.
• Changes or modications to this unit not expressly approved by the party responsible for
compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device,
pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection
against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can
radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may
cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference
will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio
or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment o and on, the user is
encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit dierent from that to which the receiver is
connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
Special Conditions for Safe Use
• The POLI multi-gas detector must be calibrated if it does not pass a bump test, when a new sensor
has been installed, or at least once every 180 days, depending on use and sensor exposure to
poisons and contaminants
• No precautions against electrostatic discharge are necessary for portable equipment that has an
enclosure made of plastic, metal or a combination of the two, except where a signicant static-
generating mechanism has been identied. Activities such as placing the item on a belt, operating
a keypad or cleaning with a damp cloth, do not present a signicant electrostatic risk. However,
where a static-generating mechanism is identied, such as repeated brushing against clothing,
then suitable precautions shall be taken, e.g., the use of anti-static footwear.
NOTE: Users are recommended to refer to ISA -RP12.13, Part II-1987 for general information on
installation, operation, and maintenance of combustible gas detection instruments.

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Proper Product Disposal at the End of Life
The Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) directive (2002/96/EC)
is intended to promote recycling of electrical and electronic equipment and
their components at end of life. This symbol (crossed-out wheeled bin) indicates
separate collection of waste electrical and electronic equipment in the EU
countries. This product may contain one or more Nickel-metal hydride (NiMH),
Lithium-ion, or Alkaline batteries. Specic battery information is given in this
user guide. Batteries must be recycled or disposed of properly. At the end of its
life, this product must undergo separate collection and recycling from general or
household waste. Please use the return and collection system available in your
country for the disposal of this product.
1. Battery
Fully charge the POLI battery upon receiving the instrument and before each day’s use. The Li-ion
battery is preferably charged by the WatchGas USB Charger.
NOTE: Any USB A to Micro B USB cable works for (partial) charging, but does not work for
communication with WatchGas Suite conguration and data transfer software. The WatchGas USB
cable P/N M011-3003-W00 is required for a PC to recognize the instrument and communicate with
WatchGas Suite.
WARNING
To reduce the risk of ignition of hazardous atmospheres, recharge, remove or replace the
battery only in an area known to be non-hazardous!
1.1 BATTERY CHARGING
Plug the mini end of WatchGas USB charger cable into the charging port
of POLI, and plug the power plug into a 220-250V power socket. The
screen will display a battery icon from empty to full and one alarm LED
will remain yellow. When the battery is fully charged, the icon displays full
grid status (see Section 3.1), and the alarm LED turns green.
NOTE: The communication cable can also be used for (partial) charging.
1.2 BATTERY STATUS
The battery icon on the display shows how much charge is in the battery, and alerts of any charging
problem.
When the battery’s charge falls below a preset voltage, the instrument warns by beeping once and
When the battery’s charge falls below a preset voltage, the instrument warns by beeping once and

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ashing once every minute. The instrument automatically powers down within 10 minutes, after
which the battery must be recharged. When a low-battery alarm occurs, we recommended promptly
switching instruments to a fully charged POLI, and/or charging the battery in a non-hazardous
location.
NOTE: For best preformance it’s strongly recommended to fully charge the POLI before each use.
1.3 BATTERY REPLACEMENT
The POLI Lithium-ion battery pack is free of maintenance. In case of a battery failure or end of
operating life, please contact the WatchGas Service Department or an authorized service center for a
battery replacement.
2. Product Overview
The POLI user interface consists of two keys, four sensor sockets, one large Liquid Crystal Display (LCD),
eight alarm LEDs, one buzzer, and two vibration alarms.
GAS INLET PUMP MODELS
LED ALARM
BUZZER
SENSOR
GAS INLET/OUTLET
DIFFUSION MODELS
POWER / CURSOR NAVIGATOR
LED ALARM
LCD
CONFIRM/
NUMBER/
INCREASE
CHARGE / COMM PORT

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WIRELESS SIGNAL STRENGTH AT 05 LEVEL
PUMP STATUS PUMP VERSIONS ONLY
DATALOGGING ENABLED CANNOT TURN OFF
BATTERY VOLTAGE STATUS
MANDOWN ALARM ENABLED
ALL SENSORS HAVE BEEN BUMP TESTED AND CALIBRATED; NO SENSOR
IS OVERDUE FOR A BUMP TEST OR CALIBRATION ACCORDING TO THE
INTERVALS CONFIGURED ON THE INSTRUMENT.
LEFT +/OK KEY
CONFIRM OPERATION/INCREASE
NUMBER
RIGHT  / KEY
CONFIRM OPERATION/INCREASE
NUMBER POWER ONOFF/MOVE CURSOR
2.1 DISPLAYS AND KEYS
The LCD provides visual information that
includes real-time gas readings, sensor
types, datalog / battery / pump / wireless
status, and others.
2.2 STATUS INDICATOR ICONS
Along the top of most screens are status icons that indicate whether a function is operating and/or its
strength or level.
2.3 KEYS AND INTERFACE
The POLI has two keys:
These two keys are marked as [+/OK] to Conrm Operations or Increase Number and [ / ] to Power
On-O / Move Cursor. They also act as ‘soft keys’mapped to two text or symbol boxes at the LCD
bottom that change numbers and make selections under various menus.
In addition to the functions described above, the Left [+/OK] key can be used to manually activate the
LCD backligh when it is o, and to manually test the LED, audio and vibration alarms from the main
display.
Press and hold the left key to activate the Panic Alarm.
The LCD provides visual information that

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2.4 ALARM OVERVIEW
The POLI provides an unmistakable ve-way alarm notication that combines local alarms on the
device with real-time remote wireless alarm notication to enhance worker safety up to the next level.
Device alarms include audible buzzer, visible bright LED lights, vibration, and alarm notication on the
display. These can be programmed or selectively turned on or o.
During each measurement period, the gas concentration is compared with the programmed alarm
limits for Low, High, TWA and STEL alarms. If the concentration exceeds (or goes below, in the case of
oxygen) any of the preset limits, the alarms are activated immediately to warn both the POLI user and
a remote safety officer (if wireless is enabled) of the alarm condition.
A major new feature is the Man-Down detection, which can be enabled to activate local and remote
alarms when the user has collapsed or stopped moving. This feature can also be initiated manually by
initiating a Panic Alarm if the worker nds themself in distress. In addition, the POLI alarms when the
battery voltage is low, pump is blocked, and in other fault conditions.
To activate the Panic alarm, press and hold the left key.
3. Basic Operation
3.1 TURNING ON
Press and hold the [ / ] Key for 3 seconds, until the buzzer beeps and the red LED turns on. As the
unit is powers on, it will display information such as:
• WatchGas logo and Company name
• Product type, Model No. and Serial No.
• Firmware version, Build date and time
• Battery type and Voltage
• Datalog interval
• Alarm Limits for each Sensor type
• The POLI’s main reading screen then appears. It usually takes 1 to 2 minutes for sensors to show
meaningful readings. For some sensors not fully warmed up by the time, the main screen shows
‘- -’ instead of numerical values until the sensor is stabilized, typically in a few more minutes. It then
displays instantaneous readings similar to the screens shown in Section 2.2 (depending on the
sensors installed) and is ready for use.
NOTE: If the battery has insufficient power, the LCD briey shows the message ‘Battery Low’ and the
POLI shuts o automatically. The battery should then be recharged or replaced with a fully charged
battery before turning on again.
IMPORTANT
If a major error that prevents the POLI from functioning occurs during startup, the message
‘Contact Service’ is displayed. The instrument should be shut o and sent for service.
3.2 TURNING OFF
In normal reading mode, press and hold the [ / ] key. The unit will show a 5-second count down, with
red LED ashes and buzzer beeps once per second. After the last long ash and beep, the unit displays
‘Power O’, and turns o.

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CAUTION
The alarm is loud. During startup, one can The alarm is loud. During startup, one can mute
most of the sound by temporarily holding a nger over the buzzer opening hole. Do not put
tape over the buzzer opening as it permanently mutes and causes a serious safety concern.
mute most of the sound by temporarily holding a nger over the buzzer opening hole. Do not
put tape over the buzzer opening as it permanently mutes and causes a serious safety concern.
3.3 ACTIVE SENSOR DISPLAYS
The POLI is a exible platform with four sensor sockets that allows use of anywhere between one and
ve sensors, the latter with a dual toxic sensor. When one or more sensors is either not installed or
turned o, the display only shows the installed, active sensors:
3.4 PUMP STATUS
During normal operation, the pump icon alternately shows inow and outow. If
there is a pump failure or obstruction, the alarm sounds and the pump stall icon
blinks on and o. If this occurs, clear the obstruction and press the Left [+/OK] key
to restart the pump.
One Sensor Two Sensors Three Sensors
Five SensorsFour Sensors
IMPORTANT
Obstructions can cause premature wear on the pump and false readings. If the pump does
not restart after pressing [+/OK], consult the Troubleshooting section of this guide or
contact WatchGas for technical support.
NOTE: Pump status is not indicated on diusion versions of the POLI.

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WARNING
If any of the alarms do not respond to this test, check the Alarm Settings in Conguration
Mode to see if the alarms have been turned o. If any of the alarms is enabled but not
functional, do not use the instrument. Contact WatchGas for technical support.
3.5 ALARM TESTING
Under normal operation mode and non-alarm conditions, the audible (buzzer) alarm, vibration alarm,
LED, and backlight can be tested at any time by pressing [+/OK] once.
3.6 MAIN USER MENU
The user menu in the reading mode is simple to go through using the [ / ] and [+/OK] keys. The
information sequence is shown below. The Peak, Minimum, STEL and TWA for each sensor since turn-
on are displayed, with the option to clear and re-start Peak or Minimum. In addition, If the POLI is tted
with a PID or Pellistor LEL sensor, the corresponding Calibration Gas and Measurement Gas (and its
Correction Factor) are displayed (after Battery information).
REALTIME READINGS
PEAK  CLEAR PEAK? +/OK
[ / ]
MINIMUM  CLEAR MIN? +/OK
[ / ]
STEL
BATTERY TYPE, VOLTAGE, RUN TIME, LAST RUN
[ / ]
[ / ]
TWA
[ / ]
[ / ]
DATE, TIME, TEMPERATURE
[ / ]
RIGHTCYCLE MAIN MENU
PID CAL GAS, MEASUREMENT GAS, CORRECTION FACTOR IF INSTALLED
START COMM?
[ / ]
LEL CAL GAS, MEASUREMENT GAS, CORRECTION FACTOR IF INSTALLED
REALTIME READINGS
[ / ]
[ / ]

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[ / ]
• Increase the number from 0 through 9 by pressing [+/OK] (mapped to ).
• Step from digit to digit using [ / ] (mapped to ).
• After entering all four digits, Press [ / ] again and changes to ‘ ’.
• Press [+/OK] to register the password and enter Cong Mode.
If the password is not correct, the message ‘Incorrect!’ is displayed and the unit returns to the reading
mode automatically. If a wrong digit is entered, use the [ / ] key to move the cursor among four
digits and press [+/OK] to change the input.
4.2 EXITING CONFIGURATION MODE
To exit, scroll through the main Confg Mode Menu using the [ / ] key until the door
symbol is highlighted and press [+/OK]. Or simply wait, and the unit will return to normal
operating mode automatically if no buttons are pressed for one minute.
4.3 NAVIGATING CONFIGURATION MODE TO EDIT PARAMETERS
After entering Cong Mode, the calibration menu is displayed rst. Press [ / ] to step through
the menus and[+/OK] (Enter) to enter a menu to edit the parameters in its submenu.
[+/OK]
4. Conguration Mode
The Conguration Mode (Cong Mode) is used to adjust the POLI’s operation settings and calibrate
sensors. Remember that the two text/symbol boxes at the bottom of the display are mapped to the
Left [+/OK] and Right [ / ] keys and will vary with the menu.
4.1 ENTERING CONFIGURATION MODE
Press and hold both the [+/OK] and [ / ] keys simultaneously for 3 seconds until the password screen
appears. The default password is‘0000’ and can only be changed using WatchGas Suite software. By
default, the password is needed only the rst time Cong Mode is entered after the device is turned
on. This can be changed using WatchGas Suite software.
The last display before returning to Real time readings is“Start Comm?”. Pressing the check box stops
the pump and readings, and waits for communication with a PC using WatchGas Suite to transfer data
or update the instrument conguration (see Section 5).

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[ / ] [ / ] [ / ] [ / ]
[/ ][ / ][ / ][ / ]
4.3.1 MENUS AND SUBMENUS
Conguration Mode menus and sub-menus are organized as shown here:
Calibration Measurement Alarm Datalog Monitor Setup Wireless Exit
Fresh Air Calib Enable/Disable High Limit Clear All LCD Contrast Register Devices
Multi Span PID Meas. Gas Low Limit Interval Pump Speed* Assign Worker
Single Zero (for
O2/CO2only)
Set Custom CF
(for PID only)
STEL Limit Sensor Select Pump Stall* Register (for
400H only)
Single Span Gas Unit TWA Limit Exit Temperature
Unit
Host Module ID
Bump Test Exit Alarm Device Language Channel
Set Span Value Heart Beat Light Back Light Mode Exit
Set Span2 Val* M-D†On/O LCD Auto Flip
3-Point Cal
Enable*
Man-Down Warn
Time
Policy Check
Exit Man-Down
Threshhold
Real-Time Clock
Set-up
Man-Down
Tmotionless
Exit
Exit
* Pump versions only. **Wireless versions only. †M-D = Man-Down
4.3.2 NAVIGATING LISTS
There are two types of menus in Conguration Mode: 1) those that ask for selection from a list and
2) those that ask for a numerical value to be entered. Simple lists and those with radio buttons are
used when only one option can be selected. Check [X] boxes are used when multiple options can be
selected at the same time.

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MAIN CONFIG MENU
1 2 3 14 5
MAIN CONFIG MENUSIMPLE LIST SIMPLE LIST
[ / ][ / ]
[ / ]
[+/OK] [+/OK] [+/OK]
[+/OK]
[+/OK][+/OK]
4.3.2.1 SIMPLE LISTS
When a simple list is shown, use the [ / ] down-arrow key to highlight the desired item and then
press [+/OK] (Enter) to enter the sub-menu. To exit the simple list, scroll down until Exit is highlighted
and the Enter key changes to‘ ’ then press [+/OK].
4.3.2.2 CHECK X BOX LISTS
When a Check [X] Box list appears as shown above, follow the numbered sequence in RED above. If
no change is desired, simply press [+/OK] ‘ ’ to exit. To make changes, 1 press[ / ] and the rst item
is highlighted. 2Use [+/OK] to toggle the item checked or unchecked, and 3use the arrow [ / ] to
move to the next item or end of the list where (Toggle) changes to ‘ ’.
Finally, 4press [+/OK] ‘ ’ to exit and 5press [+/OK] ‘ ’ again to save. If Save is not acknowledged, no
changes will be made and the unit will revert back to the previous settings.
4.3.2.3 RADIO BUTTON LISTS
Radio buttons are used when only a single item in the list can be selected, and there are no further
sub-menus. When a radio button list appears, follow the numbered sequence in RED as shown below.
If no change is desired, simply press [+/OK] ‘ ’ to exit. To make changes, 1press [ / ](Change) and
the rst item is highlighted. 2Use the down arrow [ / ]] to move to the desired item, 3use [+/OK]
(Select) to choose the highlighted item, and 4use the down arrow [ / ] to move to the next item or
end of the list where (Select) changes to ‘ ’’. Finally, 5 press [+/OK] ‘ ’’ to exit.

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RADIO BUTTON LIST
5[+/OK]
3[+/OK]
2
[ / ]
1[ / ]
4
[ / ]
4.3.3 ENTERING NUMERICAL VALUES
To enter numerical values in a list, proceed as shown below. If no change is desired, simply press
[+/OK] (Done) to exit. To make changes, press [ / ] (Change) and the rst item is highlighted. Use
the arrow [ / ] to move to the desired item(s), use [+/OK] (Inc/+) to increase the numerical value.
Then use the arrow [ / ] to move to the next item or end of the list where (Inc/+) changes to (Done).
Finally, press [+/OK] (Done) to exit and press [+/OK] (Done) again to save. If Save is not acknowledged,
no changes will be made and the unit will revert back to the previous settings.
4.3.3.1 DECREASING NUMERICAL VALUES
To switch the Left soft key function from increasing to decreasing, hold both keys down
simultaneously for about 2 seconds until changes to . After exiting the menu, the Left key
will automatically revert to increasing numbers again.
4.4 CALIBRATION AND BUMP TESTING
Use this menu to perform zero or span calibration for one or more sensors, bump test the sensors and
alarms for function, and change the span gas concentration.
The POLI should be calibrated on the rst day of use and at regular intervals not to exceed 180 days,
depending on use and exposure to particulates, contaminants and sensor poisons. A daily bump test
should be performed to ensure a functional response of all sensors and alarms.
• BUMP TEST is dened as a brief exposure to sensor gases, typically 30 seconds, just long enough
to indicate that the sensors are responsive and the alarms are functional, without concern for a
quantitative measurement.
• CALIBRATION is dened as exposing the sensor(s) to a known concentration standard gas for the
full calibration time (typically 60 to 90 seconds) and setting the reading of the sensor(s) equal to
the concentration of the calibration gas.
Calibration intervals and bump test procedures may vary due to sensor type, ambient conditions, local
regulations and/or the user’s company policies.* Automatic reminders for calibration and bump tests
can be set up using the WatchGas Suite software (see Section 6.1). When a calibration or bump is due,

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4.4.1 CALIBRATION SETUP
4.4.1.1 SPAN GAS SELECTION
The gas concentration chosen for span calibration and bump testing should be near the middle to
upper range of the concentrations expected to be measured. If the possible gas concentrations are
unknown, choose a gas concentration near the upper end of the sensor’s range, or near the highest
exposure limit (e.g., TWA, STEL or Ceiling) of concern. Standard 4-gas mixtures allow calibration of 4
sensors at the same time. 18 vol% O2, 50 %LEL CH4(2.2 vol%), 50 ppm CO, 10 ppm H2S as a standard
4-gas calibration mixture for such monitors.
Span gas recommendations for other gases are listed at the end of this manual and in TA Note 4. Some
sensors can be calibrated with surrogate gases when the gas they are designed to measure is highly
reactive, expensive or otherwise difficult to obtain.
Note that some common sensor combinations use calibration gases that are incompatible and
therefore must be applied separately, for example chlorine (Cl2) & ammonia (NH3) and chlorine dioxide
(ClO2) and hydrogen sulde (H2S). For such cases it is important to allow a few minutes between
calibrations to allow one interfering gas to clear out before the other is applied.
the sensor name alternates with a highlighted ‘CAL’or ‘BUMP’ as shown below:
Calibration is also required if:
• The sensor module has been replaced with one whose calibration is overdue.
• The user has changed the calibration gas type without recalibrating the instrument.
• The sensor has failed in a previous calibration. There’s reasonable doubt one or more sensor(s) are
displaying incorrect values.
For more on calibration frequency see Tech/App Note 3 “How Often to Calibrate Gas Detectors”.*
* The calibration frequency must be dened by the user’s company policy because each application is different and may cause a sensor’s sensitivity
loss for various reasons out of WatchGas’s control, such as liquids, dirt or corrosion preventing gas from reaching a sensor, or exposure to chemicals
that poison a sensor’s function. Exotic gas sensors tend to need more frequent calibration than common O2, LEL, CO and H2S sensors. In general
we recommend a bump test before each day’s use to test sensor response and alarm function. A calibration check can be performed by applying a
known concentration gas to see if the sensors still respond within typical limits. Cal check intervals can be increased as the user gains experience in
the application. If a bump or cal check fails, the instrument should be given a full calibration. We recommend no more than one month between full
calibrations, but this can be extended for up to 6 months if company policy allows.

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4.4.1.2 CALIBRATION COMPOUNDS FOR PID AND LEL SENSORS
Because PIDs and LEL sensors are broadband detectors, they can be calibrated with many possible
gases. The type of calibration gas is selected from a list of several hundred compounds in WatchGas
Suite (Section 5.1), typically 100 ppm isobutylene for PID and 50 %LEL (2.2 vol%) for methane.
The measurement gas is also selected in WatchGas Suite. Correction factors are calculated and
automatically applied to make the display read in equivalents of the Measurement Gas.
4.4.1.3 GAS CONNECTORS AND REGULATORS
Calibration gas is most easily supplied from a pressurized cylinder controlled by a regulator.
• Fixed-ow Regulators are pre-set to deliver a consistent ow rate regardless of the gas pressure
remaining in the cylinder. We recommend 0.3 LPM regulators for diusion POLI
versions and 0.5 LPM regulators for pumped POLI versions.
• Demand-ow Regulators are more expensive but save gas by allowing only the amount of gas to
ow that the POLI pump withdraws. These regulators cannot be used with diusion
instruments since they have no pump.
• Gas Generators provide their own ow and are required for a few gases like ozone (O3) and chlorine
dioxide (ClO2) that are too unstable to be stored in a cylinder.
• Trigger Regulators supply a pu of gas at an undened ow and are useful for quickly doing a
functional bump test without entering Cong Mode to record the test.
Pumped Instruments
We recommend calibrating the POLI with the pump on the High Flow setting, where it typically
draws between 350 cc/min (0.35 LPM) and 450 cc/min (0.45 LPM) with a 0.45 µm lter in place. In this
case the instrument can be connected directly to the gas cylinder tted with either a demand-ow
regulator or a 0.5 LPM xed ow regulator. If the xed-ow regulator supplies more than 0.5 LPM, a
T-connector, as illustrated below, must be used in the gas supply line to allow excess gas to escape
without being forced through the POLI pump and sensor chambers. Even when using a T-connector,
we recommend no more than 1.0 LPM total ow.
NOTE: Adjusting the pump stall value is recommended each time the detector is calibrated.
Make sure the pressure in the gas cylinder is >100 psi when using a T-connector.

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4.4.1.4 PTFE CONNECTING TUBING FOR REACTIVE GASES
For reactive gases including ozone, chlorine, chlorine dioxide, hydrochloric acid, hydrouoric acid,
and absorbable gases such as most VOCs, it is critical to use inert connecting tubing such as WatchGas
Last-o-more hose and make connections as short as practical. More exible variants such as PTFE-lined
Norprene or PTFE-lined Tygon are suitable alternatives. For most other gases, including standard 4-gas
mixes with carbon monoxide, hydrogen sulde and methane, other tubing can be used.
4.4.1.5 OTHER ATTACHMENTS
It is always most accurate to calibrate the POLI with all attachments in place in the same manner as
in the eld measurements. For example, normally a lter should be used on the POLI inlet for both
measurements and calibration. However, if a lter is not used during measurement (as preferred
in a few cases of highly reactive gases) then no lter should be used during calibration. Similarly, if
extension tubing is being used during sampling, a more accurate calibration is obtained if the tubing
is also attached during calibration. This method accounts for any small changes made to the gas
concentration by the attachment(s).
4.4.2 FRESH AIR ZERO CALIBRATION
Zero calibration should precede span calibration and be done in clean air with 20.9% oxygen. This
procedure determines the zero points of most sensors and the span calibration for the oxygen sensor.
No gas connections are required if the ambient air contains no detectable contaminants.
In Conguration Mode, enter the Calibration menu and select ‘Fresh Air Calib’ to show the selected
sensor list. De-select any sensor(s) not wanted to be zeroed ([ / ](Change)). Start the zero calibration
by pressing [+/OK] ‘ ’ to initiate the 30-second zero calibration count-down.
NOTE: The POLI also oers the option for a zero calibration every time the instrument is powerd on.
Select the Zero at Start option in WatchGas Suite
Diusion Instruments
Diusion instruments have a black cap covering the Luer connector to protect the unit from dirt and
moisture. This cap must be removed to attach the Luer tting and connected tubing leading to the
gas supply. (Internal channels distribute the gas to each sensor, even though during measurements
the gas enters and leaves through the four lters on the face of the POLI.) The gas ow should be low,
between 0.2 and 0.3 LPM to avoid pressure build-up in the sensor channels. Do not use a T-connector
or demand-ow regulator with diusion sampling.

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The zeroing process can be aborted at any time during this count-down by pressing[ / ]. When the
zero calibration is complete, the ‘Pass’ or ‘Fail’ result is shown for each sensor.
4.4.3 NITROGEN CALIBRATION
Nitrogen calibration is used to set the baseline for the oxygen sensor only. This calibration is needed
only for applications in rather low oxygen concentrations below about 5 Vol%, because the oxygen
baseline is usually quite stable. It is not normally needed for breathing air applications near 20.9 Vol%
oxygen.
To perform an oxygen zero calibration, enter the ‘Single Zero’ menu, apply 99.9 vol% Nitrogen to the
POLI inlet, and proceed as described for Fresh Air Calibration above. The nitrogen count- down time is
60 seconds. Other inert gases such as argon or helium could also be used.
4.4.4 SPAN CALIBRATION
In Conguration Mode, enter the Calibration menu and select ‘Multi Span’. Depending on the
conguration of the POLI, multiple sensors may be calibrated simultaneously. The Single Span option
can also be used when only calibrating one sensor at a time. Select the desired sensors and press [+/
OK] ‘ ’. Verify that the span gas concentrations match those of the gas cylinder. If not, abort and go to
the Span Value menu to adjust. If OK, turn on the gas ow, connect the gas to the POLI, and press Start
to initiate the 60-second count-down. The When complete, the display shows the sensor readings
alternately with a‘Pass’ or ‘Fail’ message. The span calibration can be aborted at any time during the
count-down by pressing [ / ] (Abort).
NOTE: If the sensor calibration fails, try again. If calibration fails again, turn o the power and contact
WatchGas Service Center.

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Gases that are not available as mixtures must calibrated individually by de-selecting all other sensors.
When calibrating sensors for cross-reactive gases such as chlorine and ammonia or chlorine dioxide
and hydrogen sulde, be sure to allow a few minutes between calibrations for the previous gas to clear
and toxic gas sensor readings to return to zero.
4.4.5 BUMP TEST
Enter the Calibration menu and select ‘Bump Calib’. Most commonly the same gas is used for bump
testing as for a full calibration. Perform the bump test in the same manner as for Span Calibration,
ensuring that the test gas concentration values match those of the gas supply cylinder. The Bump
Test lasts 30 seconds, or as long as it takes to pass, whichever is shorter. It can be aborted at any time
during the 30 seconds. When the bump test is complete, the ‘Pass’ or ‘Fail’ result is shown for each
sensor. Be sure to calibrate any sensor that fails a bump test.
4.4.6 SET SPAN VALUE
To change the calibration gas concentrations, enter the Calibration menu and select ‘Span Value’.
Update the values as need and press Done to exit and acknowledge any changes when asked to
‘Save?’To switch the Left soft key function from increasing to decreasing, hold both keys down
simultaneously for about 2 seconds until changes to .
WARNING
Do not replace sensors in hazardous locations!
IMPORTANT
Make sure all of the sensors have warmed up before performing the bump test. The
instrument will display three dashes (‘--’) next to the sensor name during warm up. Once a
sensor has warmed up it will show a concentration reading and a bump test can proceed.

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4.5 MEASUREMENT
Use this menu to enable or disable sensors and to set gas concentration units. Note that the
Measurement Gas type for PID and LEL sensors can only be selected using WatchGas Suite.
4.5.1 ENABLE/DISABLE SENSOR
Sensors can be disabled if they are not needed for a particular application, or if a sensor fails but the
other sensors still provide useful readings. In Cong Mode, enter the Measurement menu and select
‘Enable/Disable’. Press ‘Change’ and select or de-select sensors as needed. Then scroll to and press on
the ‘ ’ box. Acknowledge ‘Save’ for any changes made, or press X to discard.
4.5.2 PID MEASUREMENT GAS
Enter the ‘PID Meas. Gas’ menu to view a list of chemicals with stored correction factors (CFs) for the
10.6 eV lamp. Scroll down the list using the[ / ] key. For fast scrolling, hold the [[ / ] key down to
skip by alphabetic rst letter groups. To change scrolling directions, press both keys simultaneously for
about 2 seconds. When the desired gas is found, press ‘ ’ to select and ‘ ’ again to save and exit. The
Measurement Gas can also be set in WatchGas Suite (see Section 5).
4.5.3 SET CUSTOM CF
In this menu the user can dene up to 15 Custom Gas PID correction factors for compounds not in
the pre-existing gas library. Scroll down and select the desired Custom Gas number, and press
to increase the CF. To change to , press both keys simultaneously for about 2 seconds. When the
desired value is entered, press‘Done’to accept and‘ ’ to save and exit. A Custom Gas name can be
entered using WatchGas Suite (see Section 5). Custom CFs for LEL measurements can only be entered
using WatchGas Suite (Section 5).
4.5.4 GAS UNIT
From the Measurement menu select ‘Gas Unit’ and press ‘Change’ to alter the concentration unit for
any sensor. Then scroll to and press ‘Done”and ‘Save’ to save changes. Options include:
Gas Unit Options
ppm (parts per million)
mg/m3 (mg per cubic meter)
µmol/mol (micromole per mole ) 10-6 (1 millionth mole fraction)
%(Volume %)
% LEL (% of Lower Explosive Limit
The units ppm, µmol/mol (micromole per mole) and 10-6 are essentially the same unit expressed
with a dierent label. Conversion from ppm to mg/m3 is done automatically using the gas molecular
weight stored in the rmware. Units for sensors reading in % Vol or %LEL cannot be changed.