Particulate Monitoring at Astronomical Oberservatories

Current systems in use or under consideration:
Arecibo, European Southern Observatory, USGS Hawai'i Observatory, Ligo Hanford, Lick Observatory, National Radio Observatory, Las Cumbres, Palomar Observatory, Aura Gemini, W.M. Keck, Geronimo Creek, Big Bear Solar Observatory, Ligo Livingston, University of Texas McDonald, Lamont Doehrty, Australian Astro Observatory

Model 212 Eight Channel Particle Counter

		Ambient profiling of aerosol particulates has been simplified by the Met One Instruments Model 212 Ambient Particulate Profiler. The 212 sizes and counts particles in eight digital bins, and reports the information on command. Each of the eight channels may be field configured to customer requirements. A Remarkably Flexible, Higher Performance Instrument Featuring: Eight Real–Time Channels Simple operation Self–Contained Weatherproof package Low Power Sheath air technology Low Cost 0.5μm to 10μm(typical) range, extended ranges available Applications Include: Air Quality Surveys Ambient Monitoring Emissions Sampling Remote Monitoring Work Place Monitoring Two Models Two models of the 212 Profiler are available, each with specific features. For general purpose outdoor applications the Model 212–1 is recommended. The 212–1 has a minimum sensitivity of 0.5 microns and will size particles up to 10 microns. Particles larger than 10 microns are counted, but sized as 10 microns. The 212–1 uses an extended life Laser Diode that provides 30,000 hours of life, three times the life of standard lasers. Additionally the 212–1 will operate reliably in elevated temperatures. For special applications the Model 212–2 has a minimum sensitivity of 0.3 microns. A lower wavelength Laser Diode is used in the 212–2 and will produce 10,000 hours of life. Special size ranges are available. Consult factory for details.
	Model 212 Eight Channel Particle Profiler Literature: Data Sheets Manual

HOW IT WORKS
Using a laser-diode based optical sensor, the 212 uses light scatter technology to detect, size and count particles. This detected information is output as particles per size range.
INSTALLATION
Installation is quick and easy with the 212 particle counter. It can be mounted on a tripod, wall mounted, bench mounted or on a pole. Due to its rugged weatherproof enclosure, the 212 can be installed in most outdoor environments.
Data is calculated every sample period and downloaded through the serial cable. The data can be captured by any serial device (Laptop, Palm top, Serial printer, etc.). The data can then be analyzed using standard programs such as excel.
With the included software package, data is automatically saved and graphed in realtime. This software allows the remote control of the 212. Sample time, date/time, unit ID, rolling averages, alarm levels, start and stop, and reset commands can all be made from a laptop with the software.

Specifications

Measurement Principle	Optical, Light-Scatter using a Laser Diode
Flow Rate	1.0 LPM
Measuring Ranges
212–1	0.5 μm to 10 μm (eight selectable sizes)
212–2	0.3 μm to 10 μm (eight selectable sizes)
Concentration	0-9,000,000 Particles per cubic ft.
Sample Flow Rate	1 LPM
Sample Interval	1 – 60 seconds
Accuracy	± 10% to calibration aerosol
Communication	RS232 Output
Power	12 VDC 240 mA maximum Inlet Heater, additional 750 mA
Temperature	212–1 0 to +70°C 212–2 0 to +40°C
Weight	3 lb (1.2 kg)
Size	Diameter 4.0 in, Length 7.5 in +12” for inlet tube
INCLUDED OPTIONS
Software	Real Time Datalogging and Graphing, Remote Operation
Software requirements	Pentium, 100mhz, 16MB Ram

Whatever your particular needs, the right choice is only natural.

Applications:
Controlled Environments Indoor Air Quality Process Control	Filter Testing Compliance Testing Emission Sourcing	Remote Sampling QA Programs