Rae MiniRAE Lite User Manual
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Rae MiniRAE Lite User Manual

Handheld volatile organic compound (voc) monitor
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MiniRAE Lite
User's Guide
Rev. C
July 2010
P/N 059-4022-001

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  • Page 1 MiniRAE Lite User’s Guide Rev. C July 2010 P/N 059-4022-001...
  • Page 2 © Copyright 2009 RAE Systems, Inc.

  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    MiniRAE Lite User’s Guide Contents Standard Contents..............8 General Information..............8 Physical Description ..............9 Specifications................9 Replacing Alkaline Batteries ........... 12 Charging A Lithium Ion Battery..........14 Charging A Spare Rechargeable Battery (Optional Charger Stand Only)..........15 Low Voltage Warning..............16 Clock Battery ................
  • Page 4 MiniRAE Lite User’s Guide Span Calibration................34 Exiting Two-Point Calibration............. 36 Programming Mode ..............36 Entering Programming Mode............36 Programming Mode Menus ............. 38 Zero Calibration ................38 High Alarm .................. 38 Date ....................38 Span Calibration................38 Low Alarm ................... 38 Time .....................
  • Page 5 MiniRAE Lite User’s Guide Uploading Firmware To The instrument From A PC ....51 Maintenance................52 Battery Charging & Replacement ..........52 Replacing The Li-ion Battery Or Alkaline Adapter ....53 PID Sensor & Lamp Cleaning/Replacement........ 54 Cleaning The PID Sensor............. 55 Cleaning The Lamp Housing Or Changing The Lamp....
  • Page 6 MiniRAE Lite User’s Guide Read Before Operating 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...
  • Page 7 MiniRAE Lite User’s Guide Special Notes When the instrument is taken out of the transport case and turned on for the first time, there may be some residual organic or inorganic vapor trapped inside the detector chamber. The initial PID sensor reading may indicate a few ppm. Enter an area known to be free of any organic vapor and turn on the instrument.
  • Page 8 Read and understand instruction manual completely before operating or servicing. Use only a RAE Systems battery pack, part number 059-3051-000. This instrument has not been tested in an explosive gas/air atmosphere having an oxygen concentration greater than 21%.
  • Page 9 Ne pas melanger les anciennes et les nouvelles batteries, ou bien encore les batteries de differents fabriquants. 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.

  • Page 10: Standard Contents

    MiniRAE Lite User’s Guide Standard Contents Instrument Calibration Kit Travel Charger AC/DC Adapter Alkaline Battery Adapter User’s Guide General Information The compact instrument is designed as a broadband VOC gas monitor to work in non-hazardous environments. It monitors Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) using a photoionization detector (PID) with a 10.6 eV gas-discharge lamp.

  • Page 11: Physical Description

    MiniRAE Lite User’s Guide Physical Description The main components of the portable VOC monitoring instrument include: • Three keys for user to interact with the instrument: 3 operation/programming keys for normal operation or programming • LCD display with back light for direct readout and calculated measurements •...
  • Page 12 MiniRAE Lite User’s Guide Measurement range & resolution Lamp Range Resolution 0.1 ppm to 5,000 ppm 0.1 ppm 10.6 eV 2 seconds Response time (T 10 to 2000 ppm: ±5% at calibration point. Accuracy (Isobutylene): Easy access to lamp and sensor for cleaning...
  • Page 13 MiniRAE Lite User’s Guide -20º C to 50º C (-4º to 122º F) Temperature: 0% to 95% relative humidity (non- Humidity: condensing) Polycarbonate, splashproof and dustproof Housing (including Battery can be changed without removing rubber boot): rubber boot.

  • Page 14: Replacing Alkaline Batteries

    MiniRAE Lite User’s Guide Replacing Alkaline Batteries An alkaline battery adapter is supplied with each instrument. The adapter (part number 059-3052-000) accepts four AA alkaline batteries (use only Duracell MN1500 or Energizer E91) and provides approximately 12 hours of operation. (An optional rechargeable lithium-ion battery pack, part number 059-3051-000, is also available.)
  • Page 15 MiniRAE Lite User’s Guide 2. Insert four fresh AA batteries as indicated by the polarity (+/-) markings. 3. Replace the cover. Replace the three screws. IMPORTANT! Alkaline batteries cannot be recharged. The instrument’s internal circuit detects alkaline batteries and will not allow recharging. If you place the instrument in its Travel Charger or Charger Stand, the alkaline battery will not be recharged.

  • Page 16: Charging A Lithium Ion Battery

    MiniRAE Lite User’s Guide Charging A Lithium Ion Battery Always fully charge the battery before using the instrument. The instrument’s Li-ion battery is charged by attaching the instrument to the Travel Charger (or by placing the instrument in the optional Charger Stand).

  • Page 17: Charging A Spare Rechargeable Battery (Optional Charger Stand Only)

    Try changing the battery and make sure the contacts on the instrument are meeting the Travel Charger’s (or Charger Stand’s) contacts. If the message is still shown, consult your distributor or RAE Systems Technical Services. Charging A Spare Rechargeable Battery (Optional Charger Stand...

  • Page 18: Low Voltage Warning

    This long-life battery keeps settings in memory from being lost whenever the Li-ion battery or alkaline batteries are removed. This backup battery should last approximately five years, and must be replaced by an authorized RAE Systems service technician. It is not user-replaceable.

  • Page 19: User Interface

    MiniRAE Lite User’s Guide User Interface The instrument’s user interface consists of the display, LEDs, an alarm transducer, and four keys. The keys are: MODE Flashlight on/off The LCD display provides visual feedback that includes the reading, time, battery condition, and other functions.
  • Page 20 MiniRAE Lite User’s Guide menu, each key controls a different parameter or makes a different selection. Three panes along the bottom of the display are “mapped” to the keys. These change as menus change, but at all times the left pane corresponds to the [Y/+] key, the center pane corresponds to the [MODE] key, and the right pane corresponds to the [N/-] key.

  • Page 21: Display

    MiniRAE Lite User’s Guide Display The display shows the following information: Concentration of gas as measured by the Reading instrument Indicates that calibration should be Calibration needed performed Indicates battery level in 3 bars Battery Indicates that pump is working Pump Y/+ key’s function for this screen...

  • Page 22: Operating The Instrument

    1. With the instrument turned off, press and hold [MODE]. 2. When the display turns on, release the [MODE] key. The RAE Systems logo should appear first. (If the logo does not appear, there is likely a problem and you should contact your distributor or RAE Systems Technical Support.) The instrument is...

  • Page 23: Turning The Instrument Off

    MiniRAE Lite User’s Guide Turning The Instrument Off 1. Press and hold the Mode key for 3 seconds. A 5-second countdown to shutoff begins. 2. Once the countdown stops, the instrument is off. Release the Mode key. 3. When you see “Unit off...” release your finger from the [MODE] key.

  • Page 24: Calibration Status

    MiniRAE Lite User’s Guide During duty cycling (PID lamp cleaning), the display shows these icons in alternation: If there is a pump failure or obstruction that disrupts the pump, you will see this icon blinking on and off: If you see this blinking icon, consult the Troubleshooting section of this guide.

  • Page 25: Basic Operation

    MiniRAE Lite User’s Guide Basic Operation The instrument is programmed to give you the most commonly needed information quickly. Pressing [N/-] steps you from one screen to the next, and eventually return to the main display. If you do not press a key within 60 seconds after entering a display, the instrument reverts to its main display.

  • Page 26: Alarm Signals

    MiniRAE Lite User’s Guide Alarm Signals During each measurement period, the gas concentration is compared with the programmed alarm limits (gas concentration alarm limit settings). If the concentration exceeds any of the preset limits, the loud buzzer and red flashing LED are activated immediately to warn you of the alarm condition.

  • Page 27: Preset Alarm Limits & Calibration

    MiniRAE Lite User’s Guide Preset Alarm Limits & Calibration The instrument is factory calibrated with standard calibration gas, and is programmed with default alarm limits. Cal Gas Unit High (Isobutylene) Span MiniRAE Lite Testing The Alarm You can test the alarm whenever the main (Reading) display is shown.

  • Page 28: Backlight

    MiniRAE Lite User’s Guide Backlight The LCD display is equipped with an LED backlight to assist in reading the display under poor lighting conditions. Standard Accessories The following accessories are included with the instrument: • 10.6 eV lamp • Flex-I-Probe •...

  • Page 29: External Filter

    MiniRAE Lite User’s Guide 2. Insert four fresh AA batteries as indicated by the polarity (+/-) markings. 3. Replace the cover. Replace the three screws. To install the adapter in the instrument: 1. Remove the Li-ion battery pack from the instrument by sliding the tab and tilting out the battery.

  • Page 30: Calibration Regulator

    MiniRAE Lite User’s Guide insert the metal adapter into the regular gas inlet probe of the instrument and the tubing to the gas regulator on the gas bottle. Calibration Regulator The Calibration Regulator is used in the calibration process. It regulates the gas flow rate from the Span gas cylinder into the gas inlet of the instrument during calibration process.
  • Page 31 MiniRAE Lite User’s Guide Therefore, if the instrument has been in storage or has not been charged for several days or longer, check the charge before using it. The factory-supplied battery is designed to last for 12 hours of normal operation (no alarm), for a new battery under the optimum circumstances.

  • Page 32: Standard Two-Point Calibration (Zero & Span)

    MiniRAE Lite User’s Guide Standard Two-Point Calibration (Zero & Span) The following diagram shows the instrument’s calibrations.

  • Page 33: Entering Calibration

    MiniRAE Lite User’s Guide Entering Calibration 1. Press and hold [MODE] and [N/-] until you see the Password screen. 2. You do not need a password to perform calibrations. Instead of inputting a password, enter calibration by pressing [MODE]. Note: If you inadvertently press [Y/+] and change any of the numbers, simply press [MODE] and you will be directed to the calibration menu.

  • Page 34: Zero (Fresh Air) Calibration

    MiniRAE Lite User’s Guide Zero (Fresh Air) Calibration This procedure determines the zero point of the sensor calibration curve. To perform a fresh air calibration, use the calibration adapter to connect the instrument to a “fresh” air source such as from a cylinder or Tedlar bag (optional accessory).
  • Page 35 MiniRAE Lite User’s Guide 3. Zero calibration starts a 30-second countdown and displays this message: Zeroing... During the zeroing process, the instrument performs the Zero calibration automatically and does not require any action on your part. Note: To abort the zeroing process at any time and proceed to Span calibration, press [N/-] at any time while zeroing is being performed.

  • Page 36: Span Calibration

    MiniRAE Lite User’s Guide Span Calibration This procedure determines the second point of the sensor calibration curve for the sensor. A cylinder of standard reference gas (span gas) fitted with a 500 cc/min. flow-limiting regulator or a flow-matching regulator is the simplest way to perform this procedure. Choose the 500 cc/min.
  • Page 37 MiniRAE Lite User’s Guide 1. Turn on your span calibration gas. 2. Press [Y/+] to initiate calibration. Note: You may press [MODE] if you decide that you do not want to initiate calibration. This will abort the span calibration and take you directly to the Calibration menu for Zero calibration.

  • Page 38: Exiting Two-Point Calibration

    MiniRAE Lite User’s Guide Exiting Two-Point Calibration When you are done performing calibrations, press [MODE], which corresponds with “Back” on the display. You will see the following message: Updating settings… The instrument updates its settings and then returns to the main display.
  • Page 39 MiniRAE Lite User’s Guide Note: The default password is 0000. When you have successfully entered Programming Mode, you see this screen: Note: The password can only be changed by connecting the instrument to a PC running ProRAE Studio software. Follow the instructions in ProRAE Studio to change it.The Calibration label is...

  • Page 40: Programming Mode Menus

    MiniRAE Lite User’s Guide Programming Mode Menus The Programming Mode allows anyone with the password to change the instrument’s settings, calibrate the instrument, enter user information, etc. Programming Mode has three menus. Each menu includes several sub-menus to perform additional programming functions.

  • Page 41: Exiting Programming Mode

    MiniRAE Lite User’s Guide Exiting Programming Mode To exit Programming Mode and return to normal operation, press [MODE] once at any of the programming menu displays. You will see “Updating Settings…” as changes are registered and the mode changes. Navigating Programming Mode Menus Navigating through the Programming Mode menus is easy and consistent, using a single interface format of “Select,”...

  • Page 42: Calibration

    MiniRAE Lite User’s Guide Calibration Two types of calibration are available: Zero (fresh air) and Span. Select Zero or Span Calibration by pressing [N/+]. Once your choice is highlighted, press [Y/+]. Zero Calibration The procedure for performing a zero calibration is covered on page...

  • Page 43: Alarm Setting

    MiniRAE Lite User’s Guide Alarm Setting During each measurement period, the gas concentration is compared with the programmed alarm limits (gas concentration alarm limit settings: Low and High). If the concentration exceeds any of the preset limits, the loud buzzer and red flashing LED are activated immediately to warn of the alarm condition.

  • Page 44: High Alarm

    MiniRAE Lite User’s Guide When all alarm types have been changed or bypassed, press [MODE] to exit to the Programming Menu. High Alarm You can change the High Alarm limit value. The value is typically set by the instrument to match the value for the current calibration gas. It is expressed in parts per billion (ppb).

  • Page 45: Alarm Type

    MiniRAE Lite User’s Guide Repeat this process until all numbers are entered. When you have completed your selections, press [MODE]. You will see two choices: Save and Undo. You have the opportunity to register the new settings or to change your mind and revert to your previous settings.
  • Page 46 MiniRAE Lite User’s Guide • Press [N/-] to undo the changes and revert to the previous settings.

  • Page 47: Buzzer & Light

    MiniRAE Lite User’s Guide Buzzer & Light The buzzer and light alarms can be programmed to be on or off individually or in combination. Your choices are: • Both on • Light only • Buzzer only • Both off 4. Press [N/-] to step from one option to the next.

  • Page 48: Time

    MiniRAE Lite User’s Guide Press [N/-] to undo the change and move to the next sub-menu. Time The Time is expressed as Hours/Minutes/Seconds, with two digits for each. The time is in 24-hour (military) format. • Press [Y/+] and the display shows the current time. Note that the left-most digit flashes to indicate it is selected.

  • Page 49: Power On Zero

    MiniRAE Lite User’s Guide Power On Zero When Power On Zero is on, the instrument performs a zero calibration when it is turned on. 1. Press [N/-] to step from one option to the next. 2. Press [Y/+] to make your selection (the dark circle in the “radio button”...

  • Page 50: Diagnostic Mode

    MiniRAE Lite User’s Guide Diagnostic Mode IMPORTANT! Diagnostic Mode is designed for servicing and manufacturing, and therefore is not intended for everyday use, even by advanced users. It provides raw data from sensors and about settings, but only allows adjustment of pump stall parameters, which should only be changed by qualified personnel.

  • Page 51: Adjusting The Pump Stall Threshold

    MiniRAE Lite User’s Guide Adjusting The Pump Stall Threshold If the gas inlet is blocked but the pump does not shut down, or the pump shuts down too easily with a slight blockage, the pump stall threshold value may be set too high or too low.

  • Page 52: Exiting Diagnostic Mode

    MiniRAE Lite User’s Guide Use the [Y/+] or [N/-] key to increase or decrease the stall value until it is the average of the maximum block count and the maximum idle count. Press the [MODE] key to exit this display.

  • Page 53: Updating Firmware From A Computer

    Uploading new firmware to your instrument requires connecting the instrument and PC via the Travel Charger or optional Charger Stand. It also requires RAE Programmer 7000 software, which is available by downloading ProRAE Studio version 1.12 from the RAE Systems website (www.raesystems.com).

  • Page 54: Maintenance

    MiniRAE Lite User’s Guide Maintenance The major maintenance items of the instrument are: • Battery pack • Sensor module • PID lamp • Sampling pump • Inlet connectors and filters Note: Maintenance should be performed by qualified personnel only. NOTE: The printed circuit board of the instrument is connected to the battery pack even if the power is turned off.

  • Page 55: Replacing The Li-Ion Battery Or Alkaline Adapter

    MiniRAE Lite User’s Guide Replacing The Li-ion Battery Or Alkaline Adapter 1. Turn off the instrument. 2. Located on the rear of the instrument is a battery tab. Slide it down to unlock the battery. 3. Remove the battery pack from the battery compartment by tilting it out.

  • Page 56: Pid Sensor & Lamp Cleaning/Replacement

    MiniRAE Lite User’s Guide PID Sensor & Lamp Cleaning/Replacement The sensor module is made of several components and is attached to the lamp-housing unit as shown below. Inlet Probe Assembly PN 023-3012-000 Sensor Cover Assembly O-ring, 35mm x 2mm Filter Fixer Porous Metal Filter Lamp 1/2"...

  • Page 57: Cleaning The Pid Sensor

    MiniRAE Lite User’s Guide the metal filter all together. Then hold the PID sensor and pull it straight out. A slight, gentle rocking motion helps release the sensor. Cleaning The PID Sensor Place the entire PID sensor module into GC grade methanol. It is highly recommended that an ultrasound bath to be used to clean the sensor for at least 15 minutes.
  • Page 58 MiniRAE Lite User’s Guide 2. If the lamp does not turn on, remove the lamp from the lamp housing. Place the lamp O-ring onto the new lamp. Insert the new lamp, avoiding contact with the flat window surface. 3. Reinstall the PID sensor module.

  • Page 59: Sampling Pump

    If they are not, wipe them with a soft, dry cloth. Never use solvents or cleaners. Ordering Replacement Parts If you need replacement parts, contact your local RAE Systems distributor. A list is available online: http://www.raesystems.com In the U.S., you can order sensors, replacement batteries, and other accessories online at: http://istore.raesystems.com/...

  • Page 60: Special Servicing Note

    MiniRAE Lite User’s Guide Special Servicing Note If the instrument needs to be serviced, contact either: The RAE Systems distributor from whom the instrument was purchased; they will return the instrument on your behalf. The RAE Systems Technical Service Department. Before returning the instrument for service or repair, obtain a Returned Material Authorization (RMA) number for proper tracking of your equipment.

  • Page 61: Troubleshooting

    MiniRAE Lite User’s Guide Troubleshooting Problem Possible Reasons & Solutions Cannot turn on power Discharged battery. Reasons: after charging the Defective battery. battery Charge or replace battery. Solutions: Lost password Call Technical Support at +1 Solutions: 408-752-0723 or toll-free at...

  • Page 62: Technical Support

    Turn the unit off and back Solutions: Replace UV lamp Technical Support To contact RAE Systems Technical Support Team: Monday through Friday, 7:00AM to 5:00PM Pacific (US) Time Phone (toll-free): +1 888-723-4800 Phone: +1 408-952-8461 Email: tech@raesystems.com Life-critical after-hours support is available:...

  • Page 63: Rae Systems Contacts

    MiniRAE Lite User’s Guide RAE Systems Contacts RAE Systems World Headquarters 3775 N. First St. San Jose, CA 95134-1708 USA Phone: +1 408.952.8200 Fax: +1 408.952.8480 E-mail: customerserv@raesystems.com Web Site: www.raesystems.com RAE Systems Technical Support Monday through Friday, 7:00AM to 5:00PM Pacific Time Phone: +1.408.952.8461...
  • Page 64 MiniRAE Lite User’s Guide RAE Systems UK Ltd D5 Culham Innovation Centre Culham Science Centre Abingdon, Oxon OX14 3DB United Kingdom Phone: +44 1865408368 Fax: +44 1235531119 Mobile: +44 7841362693 raeuk@raeeurope.com Email: RAE Systems France 336, rue de la fée des eaux...
  • Page 65 MiniRAE Lite User’s Guide RAE Systems Middle East Lot 7, Ground Floor, Office 19 Jebel Ali Free Zone Dubai United Arab Emirates Phone: +971 4 887 5562 Fax: +971 4 887 5563 Email: mesales@raesystems.com RAE Systems (Hong Kong) Ltd. Room 8, 6/F, Hong Leong Plaza 33 Lok Yip Road Fanling, N.T, Hong Kong...

  • Page 66: Controlled Part Of Manual

    MiniRAE Lite User’s Guide Controlled Part of Manual US and Canada: Class I, Division 1, Intrinsic Safety: Group A, B, C, D, T4 0575 II 2G EEx ia II C T4 KEMA 07 ATEX 0127 -20º C to 50º C (-4º to 122º F)
  • Page 67 MiniRAE Lite User’s Guide Note: You must hold your finger on the key for the entire shutoff process. If you remove your finger from the key during the countdown, the shutoff operation is canceled and the instrument continues normal operation.
  • Page 68 MiniRAE Lite User’s Guide Alarm Signals During each measurement period, the gas concentration is compared with the programmed alarm limits (gas concentration alarm limit settings). If the concentration exceeds any of the preset limits, the loud buzzer and red flashing LED are activated immediately to warn you of the alarm condition.
  • Page 69 MiniRAE Lite User’s Guide Preset Alarm Limits & Calibration The instrument is factory calibrated with standard calibration gas, and is programmed with default alarm limits. Cal Gas High STEL unit Span (Isobutylene) ppbRAE 3000 MiniRAE 3000 MiniRAE Lite UltraRAE 3000...

  • Page 70: Charging The Battery

    MiniRAE Lite User’s Guide Charging The Battery Always fully charge the battery before using the instrument. The instrument’s Li-ion battery is charged by placing the instrument in its cradle. Contacts on the bottom of the instrument meet the cradle’s contacts, transferring power without other connections.
  • Page 71 This long-life battery keeps settings in memory from being lost whenever the Li-ion battery or alkaline batteries are removed. This backup battery should last approximately five years, and must be replaced by an authorized RAE Systems service technician. It is not user-replaceable.
  • Page 72 MiniRAE Lite User’s Guide WARNING To reduce the risk of ignition of hazardous atmospheres, recharge battery only in area known to be non-hazardous. Remove and replace battery only in an area known to be non-hazardous. Replacing The Rechargeable Li-Ion Battery Caution: Turn off the instrument before removing or replacing the battery.
  • Page 73 MiniRAE Lite User’s Guide Troubleshooting Problem Possible Reasons & Solutions Cannot turn on power Discharged battery. Reasons: after charging the Defective battery. battery Charge or replace battery. Solutions: Lost password Call Technical Support at Solutions: +1 408-752-0723 or toll- free at...
  • Page 74 MiniRAE Lite User’s Guide Inlet flow too low Pump diaphragm damaged Reasons: or has debris. Flow path leaks. Check flow path for leaks; Solutions: sensor module O-ring, tube connectors, Teflon tube compression fitting. Call Technical Support at +1 408-752-0723 or toll-free at +1 888-723-4800 “Lamp”...
  • Page 76 Web Site: www.raesystems.com RAE Systems Europe Kristinehøj 23A, Boulevard 69, DK-2770 Kastrup • Denmark Tel: +45.8652.5155 • Fax: +45.8652.5177 RAE Systems (Hong Kong) Ltd. Units 1516-18, 15/F, Delta House, 3 On Yiu Street Shatin, N.T. Hong Kong Web: www.raesystems.cn • Email: asiasales@raesystems.com Phone: +852.2669.0828...

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