Model 3030 Alpha/Beta Sample Counter

model 3030 alpha beta sample counter model 3030 software

Features

The Model 3030 Alpha-Beta Sample Counter incorporates an internally housed ZnS(Ag) plastic scintillator detector with shielded 5.1 cm (2 in.) diameter stainless steel sample tray into the Ludlum Model 3030 Scaler. This combined system supplies independent backlit LCD readouts to support discriminated alpha and beta sample counting. Key features include background subtraction, crosstalk correction, separate alpha/beta alarms, cpm/dpm operating modes, and a pre-scripted QC function with automatic reminder timer.

The instrument supports both 110 and 220 Vac operation, and includes a trickle charged gel-cell battery for portable offsite use for up to eight hours. A wide-range high voltage power supply supports virtually any detector. Status indicators located along the front panel inform the operator when a QC check is required, if the detector is non-functional, if it is operating in dpm or cpm mode, and if either an alpha or beta alarm setpoint has been exceeded.

The count time is selected via a front-panel rotary switch that enables count times ranging from 0.1 to 60 minutes, or some other prescribed value as set up via a link to a PC. Other controls include a start count button, audio volume rotary adjustment, and instrument on/off switch. An RS-232 output from the rear panel supports connection to either a printer or PC. Included in the price is PC-control software, which is a Windows application that supports setup of the system, as well as collecting and logging all count results from the 3030.

Indicated Use Simultaneous alpha-beta sample counting
Detector ZnS(Ag) adhered to plastic scintillation material
Tube 5.1 cm (2 in.) diameter magnetically shielded photomultiplier
Window
0.4 mg/cm2 aluminized mylar
Active and Open Area 20.3 cm2
Sample Holder Brass housing with nickel plated brass sample tray capable of holding up to a 5.1 cm (2 in.) diameter sample
Shielding Thickness: 19 mm (0.750 in.)
Alpha Efficiency (4π)
239Pu 37%
230Th 32%
238U 39%
Beta Efficiency (4π)
14C 8%
99Tc 27%
137Cs 29%
90Sr/90Y 26%
Cross Talk
Alpha to Beta ≤ 10%
Beta to Alpha ≤ 1%
Background
Alpha 3 cpm or less
Beta-Gamma typically 50 cpm or less (10 μR/hr field)
Audio Built in unimorph-type speaker with volume control to provide a dual tone click-per-event audio
Status Indicators

Scalers Two each six-digit LCD displays with backlights providing a range of 0 to 999999 counts
Scaler Linearity Reading within 2% of true value
Count Timer Settings 0.1, 0.5, 1, 2, 5, 10, and 60 minutes. PC position facilitates other user-defined values set by software program.
High Voltage Adjustable from 200 to 2500 Vdc
Thresholds
Alpha -120 mV
Beta -4 mV
Beta Window 50 mV
Data Output 9-pin RS-232 port for connection to PC for data download and adjustment of setup parameters. A one meter RS-232 to USB adapter cable is included. PC interface software is available for download here.
Power 250 watts at 95 to 250 Vac, 50–60 Hz single phase
Internal 12 Vdc, 1.2A/hr, trickle charged battery provides power up to eight hours.
Construction Aluminum housing with gray powder coat paint and sub-surface printed front panel
Temperature Range -20 to 50 °C (-4 to 122 °F)
Size (H x W x L) 29.2 x 19.1 x 26.7 cm (11.5 x 7.5 x 10.5 in.)
Weight Approximately 13.2 kg (29 lb)
Software Computer based software to perform setup and calibration routines including: background subtract, crosstalk correction, cpm/dpm modes, daily QC check parameters, alarm levels, and automatic plateaus.
All parameters are stored in the instrument in non-volatile memory. The supplied software is capable of logging and storing the following: Sample Number, Sample Date, Sample Time, Alpha Count, Beta Count, Sample Type, Comments.