Operating Instructions DB-033-961017 E

FH 40 G Dose Rate Measuring Unit

Series FH 40 G
FH 40 G-10
FH 40 G-L
FH 40 G-L10
FH 40 G-LΩ

Display unit FH 40 G-X

 Thermo Scientific

Configuration control

Rev. Rev. Verantw. Name Rev. Kat. Erläuterung

Stand Abt. Seite *)
O 01.09.2000 SM-GE Trost all pages K,V,S complete revision
P 13.12.2002 SM-GE Karl from 38 .. V revision for software FH40G.exe
V 4.01
Trost external probes added
Q 07.11.2003 SM-GE Trost cpl. V revision for software FH40G.exe
Karl V 4.10 and Firmware V 2.72
R 25.11.2003 SM-GE Tr 79 K Order no., Dimensions
S 03.02.2005 SM-GE Tr 79 K Order no. FHZ 632 L
T 23.02.2005 SM-GE Tr 79 K Order no, FHZ 302, FHZ 312
U 23.06.2005 RM&P-E Tr 77 V cable under water probes
V 24.08.2005 RM&P-E Ff 2 K WEEE Compliance
W 08.01.2007 RM&P-E Tr 42, 43 S Driver USB, adapter cable
X 23.06.2008 RM&P-E Tr 70; 75 K
Y 21.07.2008 RM&P-E Tr 76 … V

*) Category K: editorial correction

V: explaining improvement
S: substantial change

An explanation is required at least for category S.

 Thermo Scientific

Contents 3.3 Counter Measurement .......................... 28

3.3.1 Setting Measuring Time and Number
1 Characteristics..........................................6 of Impulses ....................................... 29
1.1 Measuring Range ....................................6 3.3.2 Counter Measurement Procedure..... 31
1.2 Operating Modes.....................................6 3.4 Additional Functions ............................. 33
1.3 Operating Conditions...............................6 3.4.1 Dose Rate Mean Value..................... 33
1.4 Functions.................................................7 3.4.2 Maximum Dose Rate Value .............. 34
1.5 Display ....................................................7
1.6 Auxiliary Equipment.................................7 4 Function Overview ................................. 35

2 Getting Started..........................................8 5 FH40G.EXE Software ............................. 37

2.1 Scope of Delivery ....................................8 5.1 Installing the FH40G.exe program ........ 38
2.2 Handling ..................................................8 5.2 Connection to a PC............................... 42
2.3 Commissioning........................................9 5.3 First Program Invocation....................... 43
2.3.1 Description of the Control Elements ....9 5.4 Operator Input and Display Software.... 44
2.3.2 Installing the Batteries .......................10 5.4.1 Creating a Measurement File............ 47
2.3.3 Functional Test ..................................10 5.4.2 Storing Measured Data ..................... 50
2.3.4 Power Up...........................................11 5.4.3 Clearing the History .......................... 53
2.3.5 Sound Generator ...............................11 5.4.4 Automatic Storage ............................ 53
2.3.6 First Measurements...........................12 5.4.5 Reset dose........................................ 53
5.4.6 Configuring the FH 40 G Unit............ 54
3 Measuring................................................13 The Tab control “FH 40 G”................................ 55
3.1 General Information...............................13 The Tab control “External Probe” ..................... 57
3.1.1 Operating Modes ...............................13 Up to FH 40 G version 2.71 .............................. 57
3.1.2 Alarms ...............................................13 FH 40 G version 2.72 or higher ........................ 57
3.1.3 Dose ..................................................19 The Tab control “Functions”.............................. 58
3.1.4 Internal Data Storage (History) ..........20
3.2 Dose Rate Measurement ......................22
3.2.1 Display - Reading the Measured
Values ...............................................22
3.2.2 Chirper mode.....................................23
3.2.3 Evaluating the Measured Values .......25
3.2.4 Manual Storage .................................26
3.2.5 Automatic Storage .............................27
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8.4 Contamination Probes ...........................86

6 Service and Maintenance...................... 59 8.4.1 The α, β, γ Probe FHZ 732 ................88
6.1 Utilization and Cleaning ........................ 59 8.4.2 The α, β, γ Probe FHZ 732 GM .........88
6.2 Changing Batteries ............................... 60 8.4.3 The α, β Probe FHZ 742....................88
6.3 Error Messages..................................... 61 8.5 Compatible Probes of the FH 40 F Unit.90
6.4 Environmental Aspects ......................... 61
6.5 Check Measurements with Test Impressum ...................................................92
Source .................................................. 62
6.5.1 Calibrating the Checking Device ....... 62
6.5.2 Check Measurements ....................... 63
6.5.3 Data of the Checking Device............. 66
WEEE Compliance:
7 Specifications ........................................ 67
This product is required to comply with the European
8 External Probes ..................................... 76 Union’s Waste Electrical & Electronic Equipment (WEEE)
8.1 Gamma Dose Rate Probes ................... 78 Directive 2002/96/EC. It is marked with the following
8.1 Gamma Dose Rate Probes ................... 79 symbol:
8.1.1 FHZ 632 L ......................................... 79
8.1.2 FHZ 612 ............................................ 79
8.1.3 FHT 672 E-10.................................... 79
8.1.4 FHT 402 ............................................ 79
8.1.5 FHZ 312, FHZ 302 ............................ 79
8.2 Neutron Probes FHT 752 and
FHT 752H ............................................. 80
8.3 Tracking Probes.................................... 83 Thermo Electron has contracted with one or more recy-
8.3.1 NBR Probe FHT 672 E...................... 83 cling/disposal companies in each EU Member State, and
8.3.2 FHZ 512, FHZ 502, FHZ 503 this product should be disposed of or recycled through
Tracking Probes ................................ 83 them. Further information on Thermo Electron’s compli-
8.3.3 Neutron Tracking Probes FHT 752 E, ance with these Directives, the recyclers in your country,
FHT 752 EH, FHT 752 S, and information on Thermo Electron products which may
FHT 752 SH ...................................... 83 assist the detection of substances subject to the RoHS
Directive are available at www.thermo.com/WEEERoHS

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Locating radiation, Chapter 2

Measuring radiation, Chapter. 3

Displaying measured values,

Chapters 3, 4

Measurements using the

external probes, Chapter 8

Storing measured values

Changing configuration, Chapter 5

Control via PC, Chapter 5

Figure 1 Where are the procedures explained in this

Manual ?

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Safety Instructions
The following safety icons are used in these Operating Instructions:
Warning The non-observance of a Warning Caution Non-observance of a Caution note
can lead to personal injuries. may cause the unit to be damaged, or
lead to corrupted measured values.

Note Auxiliary information for further explanations.

Never open the unit. A voltage of Please note the error messages in the
approximately 2000 V is generated display.
in the FH 40 G dose rate measuring Malfunctions are detected automatic-
unit. Sensitive persons could suffer ally and shown on the display.
from an electric shock. Stop using the unit if there are any
Any service and calibration work malfunctions. Return it immediately to
may only be performed by autho- the manufacturer for verification.
rized service personnel. Neither the FH 40 G dose rate
During this work, never open the unit measuring unit nor its accessories
when the batteries are installed. may be in direct contact with
radioactive material. There is the risk
of contamination and, consequently,
incorrect measured values. The
FH 40 G dose rate measuring unit
should therefore be used in its
protective case if there is any risk of
contamination.

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Figure 2 Overview of the control elements and device connections

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The calculated and displayed measured values

1 Characteristics include: dose rate, dose rate mean value, maximum
dose rate, and total dose.
The FH 40 G dose rate measuring unit is used for
measuring the photon equivalent dose rate : X, The determined measured values can be stored in
the FH 40 G-10 is used for measuring ambient the unit and be transfered to a PC for further
equivalent dose rate *(10) of gamma- and X- processing.
rays.
1.3 Operating Conditions
1.1 Measuring Range
The unit has been designed for open-air utilization.
A proportional counter tube is used as radiation Its robust waterproof plastic housing makes it
detector. Its measuring range goes from 100 nSv/h suitable for outdoor utilization.
(which corresponds to natural background
radiation) to 1 Sv/h for -G versions and to Its robust buttons can easily be operated with
100 mSv/h for –G-L instrument versions. working gloves.
The unit is able to withstand a brief overload up to a A carrying belt that is attached to the bottom of the
dose rate of 100 Sv/h without suffering any FH 40 G unit permits the unit to be carried
damage. conveniently around your shoulder or neck.
1.2 Operating Modes
The unit can be used inside a temperature range
The FH 40 G unit can be used in rate meter mode between –30 °C and +55 °C.
or in counter mode. Rate meter mode is the default
mode. When the instrument is used at temperatures below zero
Celsius after storage at room temperature there can be
In counter mode, the impulses that are triggered low air pressure inside the housing that causes
inside a previously selected measuring time are malfuction of the keys. Pressure equalisation can be
counted. The dose rate is calculated from these achieved by opening the battery compartment.
values, and displayed.

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1.4 Functions
The FH 40 G dose rate measuring unit features 1.6 Auxiliary Equipment
various functions. To be able to measure different radiation types (α-
rays, β-rays, neutron rays), or to solve special tasks
It permits, for example, alarm thresholds to be (such as locating hidden radiation sources), the unit
selected, the time and data display to be can be combined with various external probes.
activated, or the average value and maximum The measuring instrument automatically
value of the dose rate values that are measured recognizes the probes and adjusts the displays
during a specific time interval to be displayed. accordingly.

All functions can be selected via the four buttons of The FH 40 G-LΩ unit is a special version of the
the unit. Using special software, the unit can also FH 40 G-L radiation meter with connections for
be connected to a PC and configured in an earphones or alarm relay.
application-related way via the PC connection.
The FH 40 G-X does not have an internal counter
1.5 Display tube. It is used as a display unit for all external
In addition to the measured values, the large probes of the FH 40 G system.
illuminated display field shows information
about the status of the unit (e.g. the charging state
of the batteries, the alarm state, or error
messages).

The measured values are displayed as numbers

and in a bar shape. This permits a rapid
classification of numerical values and a swift
assessment of trends.

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2 Getting Started
2.1 Scope of Delivery
Remove the dose rate measuring unit and all
accessories from the package. Check the delivered
items for completeness against Figure 3.

Although PC connecting cable (6) and the program

disc/Program CD (7) do not belong to the base
equipment of the unit, their utilization is
recommended. They permit configuration and data
output to be performed via the PC.

2.2 Handling
The contamination protection case (4) protects the
unit against soiling. This case should always be
used in contaminated areas. If the case is not used,
you must stick the button contamination protection
foil onto the unit.

The FH 40 G unit is suitable for outdoor utilization. Figure 3 FH 40 G and accessories

With two new 1.5-V AA alkaline manganese 1 FH 40 G dose rate measuring unit
batteries (2), the unit can be used for approximately 2 2 1.5-V AA batteries
3 Carrying belt
250 hours. 4 Contamination protection case
5 Button contamination protection foil
6 PC connecting cable (recommended accessory)
7 Installation disc/Installation CD with additional software
(recommended accessory)

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again, the loudspeaker is switched off

2.3 Commissioning again.

2.3.1 Description of the Control Elements In conjunction with the "Functions" (4)
Figure 2 shows the control elements of the dose button, it is used for setting function
rate measuring unit. The unit is controlled via the parameters.
buttons 1 ... 4.
Although each button has double or multiple The "Functions" (4) button invokes the
functions assigned, incorrect entries that could individual functions of the unit that are
damage the unit are not possible. selected subsequently using the "Sound
generator" (2) or "Illumination" (3)
The "ON/OFF" button (1) switches the button. At the same time, it is used for
unit on and off. setting the selected values.

The "Illumination" (2) button permits the The marks on the top of the unit and on the front of
display area to be illuminated for the detector show the orientation of the detector as
approximately 40 seconds. In the reference point for the measurement. The
conjunction with the "Functions" (4) FH 40 G unit should be aligned such that the
button, it is used for setting function radiation hits the front of the unit perpendicularly.
parameters.
Besides the measured values, the display field
The "Sound generator" (3) button shows information about the state of the unit.
switches the loudspeaker on and off. It
permits the count impulses to be made Brief instructions on the back panel of the unit
audible as brief signals. It is also used inform about the key functions, specific displays on
for acknowledging the audible alarm the display panel, and how the batteries are
signals. On pressing this button a installed.
second time the chirper mode is
activated (3.2.2). On pressing the button

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2.3.2 Installing the Batteries If the test fails, check three possible causes in
conjunction with the battery:
Use a suitable object (a coin, for
example) to open the battery case. • Tighten the lid and press the "ON/OFF" button
Insert the two AA cells such that their again.

Battery case
plus pole points towards the lid, and • Check the correct orientation of the batteries in
screw the battery lid tight. The unit is the battery case.
now ready for operation.
Reversing the battery polarity will not • Check the battery voltage.
damage the unit.
If the battery voltage is low, the unit does not start
2.3.3 Functional Test up or switches off during the selftest.
Press the "ON/OFF" button to check
The battery symbol on the display blinks if the
whether the batteries make good
battery is exhausted during operation.
contact.
The unit automatically switches itself off if the
Once the unit has been switched on, the
battery voltage proves insufficient for safe
microprocessor automatically runs a test
operation.
program. During this test, a loud tone
sounds for approximately 2 seconds and
various values and symbols appear on
the display. Subsequently, the
measuring instrument is ready for
operation.

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2.3.4 Power Up With some faults, the unit switches off

automatically. Other faults are shown on the bottom
line of the display (see also 6.3).

Once the test has been passed successfully, the

program version number is displayed briefly on the
bottom line. The next transient displays are a brief
unit identification text on the bottom line, and the
battery voltage (in volts) on the top line (see Figure
4).

At the end of the power-up procedure, the unit is in

rate meter mode, which is its base mode.
Figure 4 Switching on the unit
The actual dose rate is shown as a numerical value
Press the "ON/OFF" button. The microproces-sor on the top line of the display. A logarithmic scale
immediately and automatically runs a test program appears at the left-hand side of the display,
(see also previous section). showing the measured value in an analogue form
as a segmented bar (see Figure 4).
A loud tone sounds and the scale illumination lights
up briefly during this test. All selectable segments 2.3.5 Sound Generator
of the display are shown briefly. The program and
Pressing the "Sound generator" activates the
data memory is tested during this time. Hold the
speaker icon on the display (see Figure 5).
"ON/OFF" button down if you wish to increase the
duration of the display.

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in the range of approximately 100 nSv/h. Thus, the

unit needs a certain response time (see Table 17)

The number of impulses triggered by the

1x background is very low and fluctuating. To obtain a
reliable measured value at a low radiation level, you
should repeat the reading after a few minutes and
use the mean value of the measurements or use
.. . .. . the MEAN function (see 3.4.1).

Figure 5 Activating the sound generator The measured pulse rate rises and the variation of
the measured values is reduced as the radiation
A clicking signal sounds that corresponds to the becomes stronger (see Diagram 6).
measured dose rate. The frequency at which the
signals follow each other, and the pitch of the Thus, the variations of the measured values are
sound rise with the recognized dose rate. The caused by the measuring technique; they are no
factory default values enable you to measure the device errors.
dose rate of a radiation source at once.
An error message is issued if a counter
2.3.6 First Measurements tube impulse is not measured within 128 s.
Once you have switched on the measuring The unit may be defective and must be
instrument, the top line of the display shows heavily checked.
fluctuating measured values.
If there is no radiation source in the vicinity of the
unit, the displayed values correspond to the natural
background. Depending on the geographical area,
in Germany this is a value

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3 Measuring Alarm limits are related to the integral

proportional counter tube and are not valid
if an external probe is connected.
3.1 General Information
Alarms can occur:
3.1.1 Operating Modes
The FH 40 G dose rate measuring unit can be used • in default mode (rate meter measurement)
in two different operating modes. • during counter measurement

Rate meter mode is the default mode. Counter An alarm can not occur when a menu function is
measurement is the second mode. being processed.
An audible and a visible alarm are triggered when
In this measuring mode, the impulses that are one of the alarm thresholds is exceeded.
triggered within a previously selected measuring
time are counted. The dose rate is calculated from The alarm thresholds of external probes are stored
the sum, and displayed. in the FH 40 G unit. They are retained when a
probe is changed.
The calibration capability of the FH 40 G unit also
permits statutory measurement requirements to be The alarm thresholds of dose rate probes [Sv/h]
fulfilled. and of probes with impulse display [ips] are stored
separately.
3.1.2 Alarms Starting from firmware version V 2.72 and later,
The FH 40 G unit features a dose rate alarm and a there are separate thresholds for gamma- neutron-,
dose alarm. alpha- and beta contamination. For each type of ra-
There are dose rate alarm thresholds for the diation mentioned, there is one alarm threshold
integral counter tube and for a connected external each for calibrated and uncalibrated probes.
probe.
When connecting external probes, the alarm
The dose alarm is always related to the base unit. threshold matching the external probe and radiation
type in question will be enabled automatically.

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Table 1 Audible and visible alarm signals

Alarm Alarm signal
type Audible Visible Display
Dose rate, Continuous tone Top line:
integral counter Measured dose rate
tube Blinking: Sound
generator icon
Bottom line:
"INTERN"

Dose, Group of 4 brief Top line:

integral counter tones, continually Measured dose value
tube repeated. Blinking: Speaker icon
Bottom line: "DOSE"

Dose rate, Continuous tone Top line:

external probe Measured dose rate
Blinking: Sound
generator icon
Bottom line:
"EXTERN"

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Press the "Sound generator" button to acknowledge type you will achieve the following effect:
the alarm. Depending on the alarm

Table 2 Alarm acknowledgement

Alarm type Effect
Audible Visible
Dose rate Alarm OFF Blinking: Sound generator icon
Dose Alarm OFF Base mode
After 40 seconds: Alarm ON Alarm mode
After a few seconds: Alarm OFF Base mode
Continuation of the interval

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When connecting external probes, starting from

The alarm thresholds can be selected via the version V 2.72 and later, always the alarm thres-
function keys of the unit or using the computer hold belonging to the radiation type of the external
software probe in question will be displayed.
Table 3 Displaying and setting the dose rate alarm threshold
Displaying the dose rate alarm threshold

Handling Result
Press the "Functions" button repeatedly to The alarm threshold is displayed.
select the ALARM function. After a few seconds, the FH 40 G switches
back to base mode unless the "Function"
button has again been pressed and held in
the meantime.

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Table 3 (continued) Displaying and setting the dose rate alarm threshold
Setting the dose rate alarm thresholds

Handling Result
Step 1: Function selection The alarm threshold is displayed.
Use the "Functions" button to select the The FH 40 G unit switches back to its base
SET AL function. mode if step 2 does not follow within a few
seconds.
Step 2: Setup mode The FH 40 G unit transitions to setup mode.
Press the "Illumination" or "Sound
generator" button.
Step 3: Setting the values The value of the alarm threshold is incremented
Press the "Illumination" or "Sound or decremented.
generator" button again.
Step 4: Setting the values The selected alarm threshold value is set and
Press the "Functions" button. the FH 40 G unit is switched back in base mode.

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Table 4 Displaying and setting the dose alarm threshold

Displaying the dose alarm threshold
Handling Result
Press the "Functions" button repeatedly to The alarm threshold is displayed.
select the AL DOS function.
After a few seconds, the FH 40 G switches
back to base mode unless the "Function"
button has again been pressed and held in
the meantime.
Setting the dose alarm threshold
Handling Result
Step 1: Function selection First, the alarm threshold is displayed.
Use the "Functions" button to select the SET The FH 40 G unit switches back to its base
DO function. mode and the value remains unchanged if
step 2 does not follow within a few
seconds.
Step 2: Setup mode The FH 40 G unit transitions to setup
Press the "Illumination" or "Sound generator" mode.
button.
Step 3: Setting the values The value of the alarm threshold is
Press the "Illumination" or "Sound generator" incremented or decremented.
button again.
Step 4: Setting the values The selected alarm threshold value is set
Press the "Functions" button. and the FH 40 G unit is switched back in
base mode.

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3.1.3 Dose
Provided that it has been switched on and is not in Thus, the value is incremented upon each
set-up mode, the FH 40 G unit continuously stores measurement. You may have the dose displayed,
the dose of the radiation received since the last or reset it:
reset.

Table 5 Displaying and resetting the dose

Displaying the dose
Handling Result
Press the "Functions" button repeatedly to The unit displays the dose since the last
select the DOSE function. reset.
After a few seconds, the FH 40 G switches
back to its base mode.
Resetting the dose
Handling Result
Step 1: Function selection The unit displays the dose since the last
reset.
Use the "Functions" button to select the
DOSCLR function. The FH 40 G unit switches back to its base
mode and the value remains unchanged if
step 2 does not follow within a few
seconds.
Step 2: Resetting The dose is set to zero and the unit
switches back to base mode.
Press the "Illumination" or "Sound generator"
button.

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3.1.4 Internal Data Storage (History) Date and time can only be set via the PC
There are two different possibilities of storing software. If date and time have not been
measured values in the internal data memory of the set, the unit stores the time that has
unit (as history data). elapsed since it has been switched on.

Either, you store individual values manually. Or, To view the set date or time, press the
you configure the unit via the software such that it "Functions" button until a calendar icon or a
measures continuously, and automatically stores clock icon appears.
the measured results in the internal device memory.
The internal unit memory can accommodate up to
The individual steps of storing the measured values 256 data records. Once the memory is full, no more
are described in the Sections 3.2 Dose rate measured values can be stored manually. In this
measurement and 3.3 Counter measurement. case you must clear the memory.

Besides the numerical value of the measurement, a Prior to recording a new measuring
measured value data record contains additional sequence, use the following procedure to
information, such as date and time of the clear the old values from the memory:
measurement, information about any connected
probes, etc. (see Chapter 5.4.1).

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Table 6 Displaying and Clearing stored measured values

Displaying the memory
Handling Result
Step 1: Function selection The consecutive number and the numerical
value of the message last saved are
Use the "Functions" button to select the MEM displayed.
function.
The FH 40 G unit switches back to its base
mode if step 2 does not follow within a few
seconds.
Step 2: Scrolling The FH 40 G scrolls back by one value.
Press the "Illumination" button briefly. The FH 40 G scrolls back by several
values.
Press the "Illumination" or "Sound generator"
button longer.
Clearing the memory
Handling Result
Step 1: Function selection The MEMCLR function is displayed.
Press the "Functions" button repeatedly to The FH 40 G unit switches back to its base
select the MEMCLR function. mode if step 2 does not follow within a few
seconds.
Step 2: Clearing The memory is cleared. The FH 40 G unit
transitions to base mode.
Press the "Illumination" or "Sound generator"
button.

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3.2 Dose Rate Measurement 3.2.1 Display - Reading the Measured Values
Dose rate measurement is the base mode of the
FH 40 G unit. The unit automatically transitions to
base mode
• after the unit has been powered up and the
self-test has been completed;
• after parameters have been set;
• after the "Functions" button has been pressed if
no other button is pressed for a few seconds;
Figure 6 Display of base mode and trend
• after the "Functions" button has been pressed
during a metering process (aborts metering); Only use the digital display to read the
results of statutory measurements. This
• after any button except the "ON/OFF" button display type provides a higher reading
has been pressed while the metering result accuracy.
(dose rate) was displayed.
To be able to signal any significant change of the
The FH 40 G unit displays the measured value radiation field, the unit features a trend indicator in
simultaneously as a numerical value and as an the form of arrows that point in the direction of the
analog value in the form of a bar of a variable trend (Figure 6).
length (see Figure 6). If possible, the measured value should only be read
The FH 40 G unit automatically selects the required after all the arrows have disappeared.
display range. Thus, you must note the related
dimension when you read the measured value.

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searching is possible at applications where the eye

has to concentrate on the examined objects and not
3.2.2 Chirper mode on the display.

If single acoustic pulses can no more distinguished The chirper frequency changes in a range over 3
at high pulse rates you can switch to chirper mode decades below the alarm threshold.
pressing the “sound generator” button again. This A convenient behaviour of the chirper is achieved, if
mode is especially interesting with searching the alarm threshold is set 3 decades over the
probes FHZ 512, -502, -503, -672, though it background level of the used probe.
operates also with all other probes and with the
built in detector. If the chirper signal has to be even more significant
with small changes in dose rate close to
In this mode the number of acoustic pulses per background level it is recommended to activate
second depends on the ratio of doserate to the background subtraction by means of the PC-
alarm threshold. With increasing dose rate acoustic program and to set the alarm threshold only two
pulse frequency increases and becomes a constant decades over the background rate of the used
tone when dose rate reaches the threshold. The probe.
acoustic signal of dose rate is switched off by The relation between detector pulse rate and chirp
pressing the “sound generator” button again. frequency is shown in Diagramm 1. The shown
example settings are convenient for NaI Szintillation
From firmwareversion V 2.52 and up with the PC- probes FHZ 512 and FHZ 502.
program a background subtraction for the chirper
mode can be activated. From firmwareversion
V 2.63 and up the relation between chirper
frequency and dose rate is no more linear but
logarithmic.

By choosing the alarm threshold one can achieve a

very significant increase in chirper frequency near
background level. Thus an extremely effecient

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16
15 Alarm bei 2.000 Ips mit
Chirpfrequenz in Pulse / Sekunde

14
Nulleffektabzug 20 Ips Alarm bei 20.000 Ips
13
12 kein Nulleffektabzug
11 Abnahme der
10
9 Tonimpulslücke
8
7 Zunahme der
6
Chirpfrequenz
5
4
3 Alarm bei 100.000 Ips
2 kein Nulleffektabzug
1
0
10 100 1000 10000
Ton alle 20 Sek unterhalb Angezeigte Impulsrate in Ips
des Chirpbereichs

Diagram 1 Relation between chirper frequency and pulse rate

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3.2.3 Evaluating the Measured Values 3.2.3.3 Variation of the Measured Values
3.2.3.1 Background The individual measured values vary too. Here, too,
the variations increase as the displayed dose rate
The FH 40 G unit indicates the "background" if decreases.
there is no source in the vicinity of the unit.
Depending on the geographical area, the In order to reduce the measuring inaccuracy, you
background is a value of approximately 100 nSv/h. better calculate the mean value from the individual
3.2.3.2 Response time readings. It is recommended to perform six or more
The dose rate is determined on the basis of the individual readings at a time interval of twice the
impulses supplied by the proportional counter tube. effective damping time constant (see Diagrams 4
The number of impulses vs. the time (impulse rate) and 5 in Section 7 Specifications).
is subject to statistical variations that increase as 3.2.3.4 Directional Dependence
the impulse rate decreases. To obtain accurate measuring results, the radiation
To determine a measured value, the impulse rate is must hit the square mark on the end face of the
therefore smoothed in the unit via a time constant FH 40 G perpendicularly.
(digital filter). Good measured values can also be obtained up to
The filter time constant used for smoothing an angle of incidence of 75° with respect to the
depends on the impulse rate. The unit adjusts it unit's longitudinal axis (see Diagrams 3a and 3b in
automatically during measurement. This results in a Section – Specifications).
certain time interval (response time) that elapses
when the unit is switched on and after significant
changes of the impulse rate have occurred.
Consequently, you should read measured values
only after the response time has elapsed or after
there are no more significant changes (see also
Table 17 – Response time).

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3.2.4 Manual Storage

To store individual measured values manually, use
the following procedure:
Table 7 Manual storage of measured values
Storing measured values
Handling Result
Step 1: Function selection The display field shows STORE.
Use the "Functions" button to select the The function remains active until the
STORE function. "Functions" button is pressed again.
Step 2: Storing Storing the value
Press the "Illumination" or "Sound generator" The consecutive number of the stored data
button. record is displayed briefly on the bottom
line of the display field.
Or
The message OVERFL appears on the
bottom line of the display field.
The memory is full. A new measured value
can only be stored after the memory has
been cleared.
Or the automatic cyclic counter
measurement is active (see 3.2.5)

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Continuation of Table 7 Manual storage of measured values

Clearing measured values
Handling Result
Step 1: Function selection The MEMCLR function is displayed.
Press the "Functions" button repeatedly to The FH 40 G unit switches back to its base
select the MEMCLR function. mode if step 2 does not follow within a few
seconds.
Step 2: Clearing The memory is cleared. The FH 40 G unit
transitions to base mode.
Press the "Illumination" or "Sound generator"
button.

3.2.5 Automatic Storage Automatic storage of measured values must be

With automatic storage of measured values, the activated via the PC software.
unit does not store the displayed dose rate
automatically. Instead, it continually starts counter If automatic data storage is active,
measurements in the background and calculates measured values cannot be stored
the dose rate values from there. Thus, the settings manually. The message OVERFL appears
for counter measurement are valid (see next in the display field.
Section).
A total of 256 measured values can be stored. The
first measured values are overwritten as soon as
the memory is full.

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3.3 Counter Measurement

To obtain a more precise measured value, counter
measurement is expedient in the case of small
dose rates.
In counter measurement,
• either all impulses that occur during a specific
measuring time are counted, or
• the time is measured during which a given
number of impulses has arrived.

The dose rate is calculated from these values, and

displayed at the end of the measurement.
The measuring time and the number of impulses
can either be selected manually via the keys of the
unit, or through the PC software (see Chapter –
Configuring the FH 40 G Unit)
The statistical variations of the measured values
require the measuring time and/or the number of
impulses to be set to a value that is high enough to
provide useful measured values. This is particularly
important for small count rates. It takes at least 400
impulses to obtain a standard deviation of the
measured values of 5 %.

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3.3.1 Setting Measuring Time and Number of

Impulses
Use the following procedure to set the measuring
time and the number of impulses:
Table 8 Setting the measuring time and the number of impulses
Measuring time
Handling Result
Step 1: Function selection The current measuring time is displayed.
Press the "Functions" button repeatedly to The FH 40 G unit switches back to its base
select the TIMSET function. mode and the value remains unchanged if
step 2 does not follow within a few
seconds.
Step 2: Setup mode The unit transitions to setup mode.
Press the "Illumination" or "Sound generator"
button.
Step 3: Selecting the values The response time is increased or
Press the "Illumination" or "Sound generator" decreased.
button again.
Step 4: Setting the values The selected value is set and the FH 40 G
Press the "Functions" button. unit is switched back in base mode.
Number of impulses
Handling Result
Step 1: Function selection The currently selected number of impulses
Press the "Functions" button repeatedly to is displayed.
select the PRCNT function. The FH 40 G unit switches back to its base
mode and the value remains unchanged if
step 2 does not follow within a few
seconds.
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Continuation of Table 8 Setting the measuring time and the number of impulses
Number of impulses
Handling Result
Step 2: Setup mode The FH 40 G unit transitions to setup
Press the "Illumination" or "Sound generator" mode.
button.
Step 3: Selecting the values The number of impulses is increased or
Press the "Illumination" or "Sound generator" decreased.
button again.
Step 4: Setting the values The selected value is set and the FH 40 G
Press the "Functions" button. unit is switched back in base mode.

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3.3.2 Counter Measurement Procedure

Table 9 Counter measurement procedure
Counter measurement

Handling Result
Step 1: Function selection The message START appears in the
display field.
Press the "Functions" button repeatedly to The FH 40 G unit switches back to its base
select the START function. mode if step 2 does not follow within a few
seconds.
Step 2: Start The unit starts counter measurement.
The number of counted impulses is
Press the "Illumination" or "Sound generator" displayed on the top line of the display
button. field. The elapsed time in seconds is
displayed on the bottom line.
The dose rate and the message STORE
are displayed once the measuring time has
elapsed or the selected number of
impulses reached.
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Continuation of Table 9 Counter measurement procedure

Handling Result
Step 3: Saving the measured value The measured value is saved and the
START message is displayed.
Press the "Illumination" or "Sound generator"
button. The unit is now ready for the next counter
measurement.
Or
The OVERFL message appears on the
bottom line of the display field. The
memory is full. Additional measured values
can only be saved after the memory has
been cleared.

You may abort counter measurement any time.

Table 10 Aborting counter measurement

Aborting counter measurement
without exiting "counter measurement" mode
Handling Result
Press the "Illumination" or "Sound generator" The message START appears in the
button. display field.
Press the "Illumination" or "Sound generator" Counter measurement is restarted.
button again.
with exiting "counter measurement" mode
Press the "Functions" button. The unit returns to base mode.

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3.4 Additional Functions If the unit is in standby mode (can be

activated via the computer software), the
3.4.1 Dose Rate Mean Value
mean value will not be reset when the unit
The FH 40 G unit continually calculates the dose is switched off.
rate mean value, and stores it. The calculation of To display or delete the mean value, use the
the mean value starts when the unit is switched on following procedure:
or after the stored mean value has been reset.
Table 11 Displaying and resetting the dose rate mean value
Displaying the mean value
Handling Result
Press the "Functions" button repeatedly to The unit displays the mean value since the
select the MEAN function. last reset.
After a few seconds, the FH 40 G switches
back to its base mode.
Clearing the mean value
Handling Result
Step 1: Function selection The unit displays the mean value since the
last reset.
Use the "Functions" button to select the
MEANCL function. The FH 40 G unit switches back to its base
mode and the value remains unchanged if
step 2 does not follow within a few
seconds.
Step 2: Resetting The mean value is set to zero and the unit
switches back to base mode.
Press the "Illumination" or "Sound generator"
button.

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3.4.2 Maximum Dose Rate Value If the unit is in standby mode (can be
During a measuring sequence, the FH 40 G unit ac|ivated via the PC software), the
stores the maximum value of the measured dose maximum value will not be reset when the
rates. Storage begins when the unit is switched on unit is switched off.
or after the existing maximum value has been reset. To display or delete the maximum value, use the
following procedure:
Table 12 Displaying and deleting the maximum dose rate value
Displaying the maximum value
Handling Result
Press the "Functions" button repeatedly The unit displays the maximum value since the
to select the MAX function. last reset.
After a few seconds, the FH 40 G switches back
to its base mode.
Clearing the maximum value
Handling Result
Step 1: Function selection The unit displays the maximum value since the
last reset.
Use the "Functions" button to select the
MAXCLR function. The FH 40 G unit switches back to its base
mode and the value remains unchanged if step 2
does not follow within a few seconds.
Step 2: Resetting The maximum value is set to zero and the unit
switches back to base mode.
Press the "Illumination" or "Sound
generator" button.

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4 Function Overview
Table 13 Overview of the available functions
Function Description
ALARM Displaying the alarm threshold for the dose rate alarm
ALDOS Displaying the alarm threshold for the dose alarm
DOSE Displaying the dose since the last reset
MAX Displaying the maximum dose rate value since power-up / reset
MEAN Displaying the dose rate mean value since power-up / reset
MEM Displaying the stored measured values; scrolling with the arrow keys
TIME Displaying the time-of-day or the time elapsed since power-up
DATE Displaying the set date or time
DOSCLR Resetting the dose value
MAXCLR Resetting the maximum value
MEANCLR Resetting the mean value
MEMCLR Resetting the measured data memory
SETAL Setting the dose rate limit for the audible alarm
SETDO Setting the dose limit for the audible alarm
TIMSET Setting the measuring time for counter measurement
PRCNT Setting number of impulses for counter measurement (min. 400 pulses)
START Starting counter measurement; start/stop measurement via arrow keys
STORE Storing measured values in the internal data memory
CAL672 Starting separating probe calibration (only avail. with separating probe)
SET AB Setting α and β threshold (only available with separating probe)
SEND In conjunction with optional radio data transfer

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Continuation of Table 13 Overview of the available functions

Function Description
INTERN Displaying the FH 40 G-measured value with the external probe being
connected
DOSE TOT Displaying the total dose (see figure 7)
DOSE NTR Displaying the neutron dose (see figure 8)
NETTO Setting/resetting a background subtraction for contamination probes

Figure 7 Figure 8

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5 FH40G.EXE Software ƒ After extraction the ID of a data set can

manually be modified and stored.
The FH 40 G unit features an infrared interface. ƒ FH 40 G can be configured so that the alpha
Using a special interface cable, the infrared value is displayed if a FHZ 742 detector has
interface enables the unit to be connected to a PC. been connected as external probe.
The FH40G.EXE operator input and display ƒ The window 'Menu functions' has been
software can be used for transferring measured improved. The sequence of selected functions
data from the unit to the computer, and for can be modified and functions not required may
configuring the unit. The following functions are be removed.
available: ƒ Setting up to 8 alarm thresholds for external
ƒ Displaying current measured values in probes (program version V 4.10 or later and FH
numerical and graphical form 40 G starting from firmware version V 2.72 and
ƒ Direct transfer of measured values in a later).
measurement file
In this text, we use the following conventions to
ƒ Displaying and transferring measured data that
make understanding easier:
is stored in the unit to the PC (history)
ƒ The menus in the menu bar and in open menus
ƒ Configuring the unit are in bold print.
To configure FH 40 G units with firmware Example: File / Close means that you must first
versions higher than V 2.72, program ver- click the mouse button on the File menu. Next,
sion V 4.01 or higher is required. Program you click the left-hand mouse button on the
version V 4.10 is required to configure all Close menu, that is displayed amongst other
new alarm thresholds that have been intro- menus.
duced in V 2.72. ƒ The keys on the keyboard are shown in
brackets and with their designation.
With the new 32 bit version program version V 4.01 Example: [Enter]
some functions have been modified or added. ƒ Buttons in the active windows are shown in a
The display and storage of measured values now frame.
has 2 channels. The internal and external detector Example: Abort
data can be simultaneously displayed.
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ƒ Entries in test fields are shown in italics. executed and the „Select Language“ window
Example: a:\setup appears on the screen. Please select the respective
ƒ The names of the windows or fields are shown language you wih to use during installation
in quotation marks. (Englisch or German) and press OK to confirm
Example: "FH 40 G Setup" window the selected language.

5.1 Installing the FH40G.exe program

To install the program on PC, xou will need the
setup program for FH 40 G. For installation, the
operation systems WINDOWS 9x or WINDOWS NT
are required.
Start Windows. On the start menu bar, click on
Start , to open the start menu. Select Run...
and enter in the command line „Open d:\setup, if
your CD-ROM disk drive is D:
Otherwise, replaye the character „d“ by the
character of the respective disk drive you use (e.g.
„g:\setup.exe“). To cancel the setup and to close
the window, press Cancel .

Figure 10 Installation, „Select Language“ window

Figure 9 Installation, „Run“ window

After confirmation of your entry by pressing the
OK button, the installation program will be
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After selection the installation language the By pressing the Next button, the „Chose
„Welcome“ window will appear on the screen, installation folder“ window opens. You may now
stating some useful general and legal information. either select an installation folder to your
convenience by pressing the Browse button or
you simply adopt the installation folder suggested
by the program. To that end, press eht Next
button.

Figure 11 Installation, „Welcome“ window

Figure 12 Installation „Choose Destination Location“

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Once you have chosen the installation folder, the Once the name for the program group has been
„Select Program Manager Group“ window will defined the "Start Installation“ window opens. Here,
appear on the screen. You may now enter a name you have the chance to change your settings, if not
for the program group under which the FH 40 G appropriate, by clicking the Back button or you
program appears in the program manager. If you may proceed with the installation by pressing the
wish to adopt the name suggested by the program, Next button.
press Next . In other case, you can simply
overwrite the suggested name by a program name
you prefer.

Figure 14 Installation, „Start Installation“ window

Figure 13 Installation, „Select Program Manager

Group“ window

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Once the installation has been started (by pressing Updating System Configuration
the Next button), the „Installing“ window will
keep you up to date about the installation process. After the update has been completed, the final
installation window „Installation Complete“ opens.
To compelte the installation process, press the
Finish button. The FH40G.exe program is now
ready for operation.

Figure 15 Installation „Installing“ window

After successful installation of all files, the following

message appears on your screen and remains for
some time (depending on your processor type): Figure 16 Installation “Installation Complete“ window

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5.2 Connection to a PC
The connection of the FH 40 G to a PC requires an
adapter cable.
Adapter cable Order No. 42540/29 is used to
connect to a COM1…COM4 RS232 port of a PC.
Adapter cable Order No. 42540/26 is used to
connect to an USB port. Using the USB port
requires installation of driver software first.

Using the hardware provided and without exerting

too much force, attach the connections of the
adapter cable to the PC and to the FH 40 G unit.

The following steps will show how to install the

USB-driver under Windows XP. Wait until the InstallShield Wizard informs you that
driver installation is successfully installed. Click the
Power on your computer and boot to Windows. Finish button to close the InstallShield program. If
you have plugged the adapter into the PC while
Run the driver setup program “FH40G-USB.exe”. running the setup installation, please unplug and
Click Next to continue and start the installation. replug the adapter for the system to detect the de-
vice.

FH 40 G.exe software will access the USB port via

the next unused COM port.

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Figure 17 Start display

5.3 First Program Invocation

Do connect the FH 40 G unit to the COM or
USB port of your PC and switch it on.
Now start the FH40G.exe program by pressing the
Windows Start button. Subsequently, select the
menu point Programs / FH40G / FH 40 G. The
program FH40G.exe is started automatically.

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The program searches at serial interfaces COM1 to

COM4 for a connected FH 40 G.
If no connected FH 40 G is recognised, an error
message is issued after 15 ... 20 seconds (Figure
18) since no FH 40 G unit has been connected to
the serial interface of the PC.

Figure 19 Window “FH 40 G”

Figure 18 Error message: The unit is not connected or
switched off. 5.4 Operator Input and Display Software
Connect the FH 40 G measuring instrument with
Press OK to acknowledge the error message. In
the computer and switch on the unit.
the large "FH 40 G" window, that is displayed now,
Start / Programs /FH40G / FH 40 G in WIN95/98
you can exit the program by clicking the left-hand
to start the program.
mouse button on File / Exit. Connect the
If there is a faultless connection between the unit
instrument correctly, switch it on and start the
and the computer, the program opens the
program again.
"FH 40 G" window (Figure 19).
Now the start up window of the program should
An error message (Figure 20) is displayed if the
appear.
connection is faulty.

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Another window is opened from which you

may select the corresponding interface. An
error message (Figure 21) is displayed if
the interface is not available.

Figure 20 Error message: The unit is not properly

connected.
Figure 21 Error message: A wrong interface was
selected.
In this case, you must check whether:
ƒ the unit has been connected;
The "Value" display field in the active "FH 40 G"
ƒ the unit has been switched on and is in dose window shows the actual dose rate the unit is
rate measurement mode; currently measuring.
The measured value is read from the unit at a
ƒ the infrared transmission window at the unit and certain time interval. Use the scroll bar or the
at the transmission cable are clean; buttons beneath the "Scan interval" field to define
ƒ the correct serial interface COM1 … COM4 has the scan interval. You can select a value between 1
been selected. and 3600 seconds.

To select the interface, press OK to The dose rate can be displayed numerically or
acknowledge the error message. In the graphically. Click on the Graphics button in the
window that is displayed now, select the bottom right-hand corner of the screen. A diagram
Configuration / Com settings... menu. is displayed that gives a representation of the dose
rate values versus the time.

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The current measured value is added at the right-

hand side, and the diagram is shifted to the left. Up
to 100 measured values can be represented. The
graduation of the ordinate is automatically adjusted
to the measured values supplied by the unit.

Furthermore, various unit-related specifications are

made in the "Instrument" display field.

The "Ident. Text" field contains a user-defined

device name (identification text) that can be used
for distinguishing several units.

The "Serial num." field contains the unit's serial

number. The last figure is the serial number of a Figure 22 Configuration Display
connected external probe. The "Version" field
specifies the version number of the software. Following options are available:
• Internal Value
If only the internal or the external value shall be
• External Value
displayed you can open a selection window with
• Internal and external value
Configuration / Display ....
With OK the selection is confirmed.

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Open the File / View Logfile... menu to view the

measurement file.
5.4.1 Creating a Measurement File
The actual measured values that are shown in the The measurement file is an ANSI text file with
"Value" display field can be stored in a columns that are separated by <TAB>. This
measurement file. enables this file to be read easily into other
programs (such as Excel) where the data can be
To do this, open the File menu, click on Open processed.
Logfile..., and enter path and name. The file is
stored with the file name extension ".log".

If another file of the same name exists, the system

asks whether that file shall be overwritten or the
new measured data shall be appended to the
existing data.

Once you have pressed OK to confirm the entries,

the measurement file is created and the actual
measured data is stored in the scan interval you
have defined. An open measurement file is
indicated by the name and the path of the
measurement file that appear in the top right-hand
corner of the "FH 40 G" window.

To terminate data storage, open the File menu and

select the Close Logfile menu item. No further
data is recorded.

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The measurement file up to program version 4.00 is The data in the "Dim" and "Status" columns are
of the following structure: encoded as follows:
FH 40 G: Measurement file: C:\FH40G\TEST.LOG
Ident. Text: TR0199 Serial num.: 11109 0

Start
yy.mm.dd hh:mm:ss Value Dim Status
99.04.14 14:33:25 0.5697E-1 0 00
99.04.14 14:33:30 0.5577E-1 0 00

Column Code Meaning Comment

The first line of the measurement file contains the Dim 0 μSv/h
unit name, the file name, and the path. Device 1 μGy/h
identification and serial number are specified on the 2 μR/h
second line. 3 cpm if ext. αβ
probe is
Date and time of the measurement are specified in connected
the columns under the field names "yy.mm.dd" and 4 1/s
"hh:mm:ss". The time setting corresponds to the PC 5 cps
system time.
Status 00 Integral probe
The "Value" column contains the numerical value of 01 External probe
the measurement. The "Dim" and "Status" columns 02 Display range
inform about the unit of the measured data and of exceeded
the alarm status during the measurements. 04 Dose rate alarm

Adding the figures listed above permits the

combination of states to be displayed.

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The measurement file with program version 4.01 or

higher has the following structure:
FH40G: Logfile: C:\FH40G\LogFile\Test.log
Ident .Text:FH40GL Serial No. int./ext.: 13024 0

Start
yy.mm.dd hh:mm:ss Value int. Unit Value ext. Unit Status
02.06.14 09:57:28 0.6673E-1 µSv/h 0.0000E+0 cps 00
02.06.14 09:57:33 0.6488E-1 µSv/h 0.0000E+0 cps 00
The first line of the measurement file contains the Accordingly the column 'Value ext.' holds data of an
unit name, the file name, and the path. Device external detector and the column 'Unit' at he right
identification and serial number are specified on the side displays the physical unit valid for the external
second line. detector.
Date and time of the measurement are specified in
Column Code Meaning Comment
the columns under the field names "yy.mm.dd" and
"hh:mm:ss". The time setting corresponds to the PC Status 00 Integral probe
system time. 01 External probe
02 Display range
The column 'Value int.' contains the measured exceeded
value of the internal detector and the neighbouring 04 Dose rate alarm
column the associated unit.
Adding the figures listed above permits the
combination of states to be displayed.

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5.4.2 Storing Measured Data Exactly like the measurement file, this file (referred
During an examination with the FH 40 G unit, you to as "History" in the text below) is an ANSI text file
can use the STORE function to store individual with columns that are separated by <TAB>.
measured values in the internal device memory
(manual storage). Stored data is known as History. When a history is displayed as a table in the
"History" window, the window contains a large
Alternatively, you can configure the unit such that it number of items that are explained below.
continuously performs counter measurements The table proper contains 11 columns of the
during an examination, and stores the determined following contents:
measured values (automatic storage). Remember
that only a maximum of 256 measured values can No. Number of the data record (0 ... 255).
be stored. The most recent data record is always
The first measured values are overwritten as soon at the top.
as the memory is full. Date Date of the measurement
Time Time of the measurement
To retrieve the data stored in the unit, use the int. value Measured value of the internal probe
Functions / History... menu to open the "History" Dim. int. Physical dimension of the measured
window (Figure 23) in the "FH 40 G" window. value from the internal probe
FH40G / History read reads the stored data ext. value Measured value of the external probe
records from the FH 40 G unit and displays them as Dim. ext. Physical dimension of the measured
a table on the screen. value from the external.
From firmware version V 2.72 up the
Using File / Save as..., this table with a maximum unit of values measured by an external
of 256 measured values can be stored as a file with ABG probe is read from the ABG
the file name extension ".his". probe. Possibly an invalid unit is indi-
cated with values of the history if the
history measurements are made using
another ABG probe.

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Status Device status The ID for a measured value may be

with the following meanings: manually added or edited in the table ,
1 α measurement after the history has been extracted.
2 Alarm triggered by integral probe Manual changes will be stored with the
3 Not available table.
4 Alarm triggered by external probe
5 Alarm triggered by external α probe Manual changes, however, will not be
Type Type of the external probe sent to FH 40 G! When extracting the
with the following meanings: history data again the IDs of FH 40 G
00 Internal probe will be used.
01 Any type of external FH 40 F probes,
no calibration possible In addition, several display fields can be seen to the
02 Ext. probe, proportional counter tube right of the table.
03 External probe with high-/low doserate ƒ The "Ident. Text" display field contains the
detectors device name.
04 Scintillation detector, FHZ 5xx ƒ The "Serial num." display field contains the
05 α β γ probe FHZ 732/-742 serial number of the FH 40 G unit and of the
06 Neutron detectors FHT 752 external probe.
09 Type not recognized ƒ There is a free area beneath the "Serial num."
10 NBR probe FHZ 672 display field. If the selected alarm thresholds
Measuring time Measuring time in seconds were exceeded during measurement, alarm
(with counter measurement > 0). The messages are displayed here when you click
statistical variations are very high if the on the status.
measuring time is short and the count ƒ Clicking on the probe number in the "Type"
rates low. (see also Chapter 4.3) column specifies the detector designation in
ident. no. A code that can be selected via a bar the "Info" display field.
code reader. It is used as an additional Click on the OK button to exit the "History"
identification of a measured value or a window.
measuring location.
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Figure 23 "Display History" window

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5.4.3 Clearing the History To activate automatic data storage, select the
"Auto. History ON" check box in the "History"
To clear the data memory of the FH 40 G unit you window and enter the measuring time for counter
can use either the MEMCLR key function or the PC measurement in the "Interval" field.
software.
To clear the data memory, select the FH 40 G Next, click on the OK button. Automatic storage is
/ History clear menu from the "History" window. active. The unit issues a continuous tone to
Next, click on the OK button. This clears the data acknowledge the request.
memory in the unit.
The measured values vary heavily if the
selected measuring time is too short for
5.4.4 Automatic Storage measuring at least 400 impulses.
Automatic data storage can only be selected via the In probes with background subtraction,
FH40G.EXE software. This mode is not available there can even be negative measured
via a key combination. values (see Chapter – Counter
Measurement)
Once automatic data storage has been
activated, the STORE key function can no
5.4.5 Reset dose
longer be used for storing individual data.
Only the software can be used for You can open the Dose window with Functions /
deactivating automatic data storage. Dose.... The "Dose" window that shows the amount
Consider carefully the memory mode you of the internal gamma dose, of the external neutron
wish your unit to be in. dose (if a Biorem FHZ 752 neutron detector is
connected), and of the total dose (Figure 24).

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To reset the gamma or neutron dose, click on

Reset gamma dose or Reset neutron dose and To save these settings, select the File / Save as...
click on OK to confirm the entry. menu, enter a name, and click on OK . The
settings will then be saved in the specified target
directory in a file with the file name extension ".par".

To retrieve a file that was saved in this way you

must activate the File / open... menu and select the
corresponding file.

Figure 24 "Dose" window

5.4.6 Configuring the FH 40 G Unit

In the "FH 40 G" window, click on the
Configuration\Parameters FH40G... menu.
The "Configuration" window is displayed (Figure
25). This window enables you to

ƒ interrogate the existing actual device

configuration;
ƒ modify the device settings;
ƒ save various device configurations.

To interrogate the existing device configuration,

click on the Read from FH 40 G button. The
current settings of the unit are displayed in the
individual fields.

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To change the device settings, enter the values into

the individual configuration fields.

To activate the configuration, first click on

the Send to 40 G button. The unit issues a
continuous tone to acknowledge the data.

The individual configuration fields are explained in

the following sections.

An identification name of up to six characters can

be entered in the "Ident. text" field of the "Ident.
name" area. This name is used for distinguishing
several units. Besides the serial number of FH 40 G
and of the external probe ( 0 if no probe is Figure 25 "Configuration – FH 40G" window
connected) as well as the version number of the FH
40 G is displayed. To transfer the current PC values of date and time
to the FH 40 G unit, you must first activate the
The Tab control “FH 40 G” "Synchronize FH 40 G time with PC" check box in
The tab control contains all settings concerning the the "Date and time" configuration area.
FH 40 G except the menu functions. Press the Send to 40 G button to include the
current date and time values automatically when
the parameters are transferred to the FH 40 G unit.
The specifications correspond to the computer's
system time.
Press the Synchronize now button to send current
PC date and time values directly.

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The "Alarms" field permits an alarm threshold to be In standby mode the external probes are
set for the dose and for the dose rate. This field is still connected to the power supply even if
related to the internal probe. the unit is switched off. This can cause bat-
tery discharge!
A signal sounds at the FH 40 G if the value of dose
or dose rate exceeds the respective alarm If the Standby check box is not active, all
threshold. A dose alarm is signalled by an saved values including the date and time
intermittent tone, a dose rate alarm by a continuous settings will be lost when the unit is
tone (see also Section 3.1.2 Alarms). switched off.

Activate the "Alarm is displayed until For counter measurement, the number of impulses
acknowledged" check box in the "Dose rate alarms" to be measured and the measuring time can be set
area if you wish to display a dose rate alarm even in the "Preset count" and "Preset time" field in the
after the value has fallen below the alarm threshold. "Counter" configuration area.
The number of impulses measured during a
If the check box is not active, the alarm will counter measurement process should not
automatically be reset after the value has fallen be less than 400. The measured values
below the alarm threshold. vary too much if a smaller value is selected.
On PTB-approved units the measurement
In the “Interval for cyclic store [s]” field of the “Mis- process ends principally not until 400
cellaneous” configuration area you can enter the pulses are counted.
period (seconds) between history entries. The
chirper mode can be activated by clicking the Activate the "Auto store when measurement
“Chirper offset” box (see also 3.2.2). finished" check box in the same configuration area
if you want to save the measured value
Activate the "Standby" check box in the "Shut automatically at the end of the counter
down" configuration area if you wish the unit to run measurement.
in standby mode. Date, time, and stored values are
retained in this mode, even if the unit is switched This function cannot be invoked via the
off. keys of the unit.

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The Tab control “External Probe” The alarm threshold of probes (such as scintillation
This tab control contains all settings concerning ex- detectors) that display impulses/second (s-1 or cps)
ternal probes. must be set in the "External probe" field (see also
3.1.3).

FH 40 G version 2.72 or higher

There are eight distinct alarm thresholds for ex-
ternal probes to be set (see also chapter 8 – Ex-
ternal probes.

Dose Rate:
Four alarm thresholds for calibrated and uncali-
brated probes for photon- and neutron radiation.

ABG probes:
Four alarm thresholds for calibrated and uncali-
Figure 26 "Configuration – External Probe" window brated contamination probes, each time sepa-
rately for alpha- and beta contamination.
Up to FH 40 G version 2.71 Attention: with calibrated contamination probes,
the unit and the calibration factor are saved in
There are two different alarm thresholds for the probe. In the FH 40 G, only the numerical
external probes (see Chapter 8 – External Probes): value of the alarm threshold is saved.

The alarm threshold of probes that display dose

rate values in µSv/h must be set in the "Dose Rate
[µSv/h]:” field.

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If a NBR probe ist connected to the FH 40 G and

the „Beep with NBR Alarm“ box is checked a tone The Tab control “Functions”
will sound if a NBR alarm occurs. The tab control contains all available control func-
tions and all control functions that are currently ac-
The “Other configuration” field allows you to choose tive in the unit (Figure 23).
the unit of measure for probes which give out
pulses per second (s-1 or cps, e.g. scintillation de-
tectors) between “cpm”, “cps” and “1/s”.

If the "Acknowledge if external Probe is removed"

check box in the "Other" field is activated, the
"EXT.OFF" message appears and a continuous
tone sounds when an external probe is
disconnected from the unit.

Press the "Sound generator" button or connect the

probe to acknowledge the message.

If "Start FHZ 742 with alpha display" is checked the

FH 40 G will display the alpha value if a FHZ 742 is
connected..
Figure 27 "Configuration – Function" windows

The tab control contains all available control

functions and all control functions that are currently
active in the unit (Figure 27).

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Use the arrow keys on the keyboard or click the Once the "Select menu functions" window has been
mouse button to select one or more functions in the closed, press OK or confirm the Send to 40 G
"Available functions" functions. Press the → button in the "Configuration" window to activate the
button to move selected functions into the "Active selected functions.
functions" field.
To terminate the program, select the File / End
The same way functions may be removed from the menu from the "FH 40 G" window.
"Ative functions" list with the ← button.

The sequence of functions within the "Active 6 Service and Maintenance

functions" list can be modified. Select the function
with a mouse click and modify the position with the 6.1 Utilization and Cleaning
↑ and ↓ buttons. The FH 40 G is equipped with a robust waterproof
enclosure and is therefore easy to maintain. Still,
Clicking on the Clear all button clears all the active you should observe the following instructions:
functions.
The order of functions in the FH 40 G will be the Avoid heavy vibrations that could damage
same as in the “Active functions” field. the unit.
Thus the user or the responsible health physisist
can configure the instruments with the required Ensure that the unit does not get into
functions in the order of the frequency of usage. contact with contaminated material. To
protect the unit, use the contamination
Irrespective of the settings, all functions can usually protection case provided or a foil bag that
be reached when the function key is pressed during can be closed tight.
power-up (known as expert mode). This can be
prevented by activating the "Expert mode disabled" To guarantee faultless data transfer, ensure
check box. that the red filters of the infrared interface
This permits certain functions to be protected between the FH 40 G unit and the adapter
against inadvertent changes during operation. cable to the PC are always clean.
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Switch off the unit before you start cleaning The batteries should be replaced when the battery
it. icon blinks during operation (low voltage) or when
the unit is switched off automatically because the
voltage proves insufficient for operation.
To clean the unit, use a cloth or a piece of
leather dampened with water or a special Usually, two 1.5-V alkaline manganese batteries
plastic cleaner. type LR6, AA are used.
Do not use any other cleaners, solvents,
white spirit, thinner, etc.; these materials For temperatures below – 20 °C, the utilization of
could attack and damage the surface of the 1.5-V lithium batteries is recommended (FR6, AA).
enclosure.
To insert new batteries, please follow the brief
instructions on the back panel of the unit, or the
instructions in Chapter 3.3.2 - Inserting the
6.2 Changing Batteries Batteries and Functional Test.
Ensure that the battery voltage is
sufficiently high to bring the planned
measurement to an end. The current values
of date and time and the history are deleted
when the batteries are changed.

When the unit is switched on, the actual battery

voltage can be checked via the automatic voltage
display.

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6.3 Error Messages 6.4 Environmental Aspects

An error has occurred if one of the The unit consists of materials that can be reused by
following messages appears in the display specialized recycling companies.
field of your unit:
ER.AMP ER.CMP Please inform yourself how you can dispose of old
ER.EEP ER.CAL units and/or empty batteries according to the local
regulations.
FAIL I ER.OSC

Stop using the unit if there are any

malfunctions.
Contact the manufacturer for fault
elimination.

FAIL E
The connected external probe does not
supply any impulse within a probe-type-
related interval.
Probe fault!

Never attempt to repair the unit yourself.

Any warranty claim and conformity
certificate will be void if the unit is
tampered with.

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6.5 Check Measurements with Test Source If a check measurement value of a dosimeter is
With a calibrated dose rate measuring unit, the outside the defined limits, it must be assumed that it
calibration error limits of + 20 % must be met at the no longer stays inside the working error limits. This
time of a calibration. At any other time of its means that the calibration of this unit is void. It can
utilization (outside a calibration), the working error again be presented for calibration after it has been
limits of + 24 % (i.e. 1.2 times the calibration error repaired or recalibrated at the certificate holder's
limits) must not be exceeded. (mostly the manufacturer).

6.5.1 Calibrating the Checking Device

The unit can only be expected to stay within the
working error limits at a sufficient reliability if the A checking device that is intended to be used for
calibration of the FH 40 G unit is repeated at two- extending the validity of the calibration must be
year intervals (duration of calibration validity). type-tested and approved by the PTB (German
Physical-Technical Federal Office). The device will
If, every six months after calibration, check then be calibrated together with the dosimeter.
measurements are performed in an approved test
device (the FH 35 D test source), the validity of the The check reading of the calibrated dosimeter is
calibration can be extended to 6 years without a 2- measured using the checking device that belongs
year recalibration. The determined check to the dosimeter. In the calibration certificate, the
measurement values must be inside limits that were calibration authority specifies the limits within which
defined for the combination of the check device and the check reading may move without exceeding the
the related FH 40 G dosimeter during the working error limits or making the calibration void.
calibration.

The check measurement values must be recorded

and shown upon request to the public authority
responsible.

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6.5.2 Check Measurements ƒ Insert the FH 40 G unit into the source support
A checking device is available that can be used for and push the unit fully home towards the
carrying out the check measurements that are source.
required for the functional check of the FH 40 G ƒ Perform 10 readings of the display at fixed
dosimeters and/or for measuring the check reading intervals of at least 10 seconds, and note down
according to the calibration validity regulation. the readings.
The checking device consists of a support ƒ The mean value of these 10 readings is the raw
(approval no. 42 540/1050) and a (notifiable) test check reading M'k.
source FH 35 D to DIN 44 427.
Figure 28 Measuring set-up for check measurement
Other test radiators to DIN 44 427, PTB have
approved for the use in checking devices, may also
be used for this purpose.

The following instructions must be followed for 1 = FH 40 G

check measurement: 2 = Sourcesupport
3 = Test source
ƒ Switch on the FH 40 G unit. 4 = Display
ƒ Take the source head from the source pot.
Screw the source head home into the threaded
hole of the support. A dose rate between 20
and 100 µSv/h is displayed if the unit works
properly.

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The comparison of check readings that are

measured at different times with a dosimeter in the
same checking device and under the same
conditions requires the diminution of the dose rate
at the measuring location to be eliminated. This
diminution is caused by the radioactive decay that
leads to a reduction in the source Handling.

A multiplication by the correction factor kz converts

the check reading M'k(t), that was measured at the
time t, into the value Mk(0) that would have resulted
at the reference time t = 0.

Thus: Mk(0) = kz * M'k(t)

The reference point t = 0 is the time of the

calibration at which the check reading Mk0 was
determined.

The values kz must be taken from the following

table:

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Table 14 Correction factor kz for check reading

Years Months kz Years Months kz Years Months kz
0 0 1.000 10 0 1.260 20 0 1.587
0 6 1.012 10 6 1.275 20 6 1.606
1 0 1.023 11 0 1.289 21 0 1.625
1 6 1.035 11 6 1.304 21 6 1.643
2 0 1.047 12 0 1.320 22 0 1.662
2 6 1.059 12 6 1.355 22 6 1.682
3 0 1.072 13 0 1.350 23 0 1.701
3 6 1.084 13 6 1.366 23 6 1.721
4 0 1.097 14 0 1.382 24 0 1.741
4 6 1.110 14 6 1.398 24 6 1.761
5 0 1.122 15 0 1.414 25 0 1.782
5 6 1.136 15 6 1.431 25 6 1.803
6 0 1.149 16 0 1.447 26 0 1.823
6 6 1.162 16 6 1.464 26 6 1.845
7 0 1.176 17 0 1.481 27 0 1.866
7 6 1.189 17 6 1.498 27 6 1.892
8 0 1.203 18 0 1.516 28 0 1.910
8 6 1.217 18 6 1.533 28 6 1.932
9 0 1.231 19 0 1.551 29 0 1.954
9 6 1.245 19 6 1.569 29 6 1.977
30 0 2.000

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The corrected value Mk(0) agrees with the check intervals (t – 3) months and (t + 3) months.
value Mk0, that was determined during the
calibration, if the conditions during the check The check value Mk(0) must be compared with the
measurement agree with the calibration conditions check limit values that were recorded during
and if the unit has not changed its properties since. calibration, and be noted down.

A table value kz specified for the time t must also be If the check limit values are exceeded, the unit must
used for times that are inside the time newly be calibrated or be repaired and calibrated.

6.5.3 Data of the Checking Device

Table 15 Specifications of the checking device to DIN 44 427

Test source FH 35 D
Nuclide Cs-137
Half-life 30.0 years
Nominal Handling 333 kBq
Handling decay 0.97716 a-1
Support assy. Approval no. 42 540/1050
Material Aluminium
Weight (without test source) Approximately 160 g
Check reading 20 ... 100 µSv/h
Correction of the check reading due to kz (see Table)
Handling decay

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7 Specifications
Values without tolerances are for
Only values with tolerances or limit values
information and are not guaranteed.
are guaranteed.
Table 16 Specifications
Measured variable FH 40 G FH 40 G-L FH 40 G-LΩ FH 40 G-10 FH 40 GL-10
Ambient equivalent dose rate
Photon equivalent dose rate [ X]
[ *(10)]
Measuring Range 10 nSv/h – 10 nSv/h – 10 nSv/h –
10 nSv/h – 100 mSv/h
1 Sv/h 1 Sv/h 100 mSv/h
Overload capacity Transient, min. at 50 Sv/h
Effect Error due to after-effect of transient radiation with max.
50 Sv/h (DIN 6818 ) is negligible.
Energy range 36 keV - 1.3 MeV 33 keV - 3 MeV
Angular Less than 20 % at an angle of incidence between – 75° and + 75°
dependency with respect to the unit's longitudinal axis.
Reading error Typical < 5 %, max. 20 %; at 137Cs radiation ( E = 662 keV )
Size 195 mm x 73 mm x 42 mm
Weight Approximately 410 g (without batteries)
Colour gray
Enclosure Polycarbonate (Makrolon)
Protection rating IP 67 (waterproof up to 1 m depth)
Batteries 2 AA/ LR6 cells to IEC86-2 (1.5 V)
or 2 Lithium batteries 1.5 V
Battery service life >250 h (AA/ LR6 cells) > 500 h (Lithium cells, FR6)
> 4000 h in standby mode, with external probes see Table 19

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Continuation of Table 16 Specifications

FH 40 G FH 40 G-L FH 40 G-LΩ FH 40 G-10 FH 40 G-L10
Ambient
-30 °C ... +55 °C
temperature
Temperature
< 20 % to DIN 6818
dependency
Storage
-40 °C ... +70 °C
temperature
Atmospheric
300 hPa ... 1300 hPa
pressure
Relative humidity
10 % ... 95 %

Electromagnetic
IEC 1000-4-3, EN61000-4-3, 10V/m, 80 MHz – 1GHz
susceptibility
Spurious radiation
EN 55011 (Class B),
less than
Electrostatic
8 kV, IEC 801-2
Discharge (ESD)
Detector type Proportional counter tube
Detector sensitivity
2.0 Imp/s per µSv/h
Detector
25 mm; Ø 25.8 mm length
dimensions
Location of Centre marked by the corner of a triangle on the upper side of the unit
detector and a square mark at the front end.

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Continuation of Table 16 Specifications

FH 40 G FH 40 G-10 FH 40 G-L FH 40 G-LΩ FH 40 GL10
Dose measuring
100 nSv ... 10 Sv 100 nSv ... 1 Sv
range
Alarm threshold
0 ... 999 mSv/h 0 ... 100 mSv/h
dose rate
Dose 0 ... 10 Sv
PTB apprvd.
500 nSv/h ... 500 nSv/h ...
alarm threshold
999 mSv/h - 100 mSv/h -
dose rate
Dose 100 nSv ... 100 nSv ... 1 Sv
10 Sv
Audible
85 db(A) at 30 cm distance
signal
Dose rate alarm Warning tone "INTERN" or "EXTERN" (for external probes)
blinking symbol in the display
Dose alarm Intermittent warning tone, blinking symbol and "DOSE" in the
display, automatic after-warning every 40 s
Measured value ƒ LCD with backlight
display ƒ Display value as a 3-digit decimal number with related unit
ƒ Analog display, logarithmic scale with bar across three
decades
ƒ Automatic range selection
Battery check Blinking battery symbol at low voltage and
voltage indication upon power-up.
Automatic shutdown if voltage is too low for proper operation.
PTB approval Z23.03/95.26 Z23.01/96.06
FB approval DL/FW/IdF029819 DL/FW/IdF029820

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——— Hx FH 40 g / FH 40 G-L
⋅⋅⋅⋅⋅⋅⋅⋅⋅⋅⋅⋅.H*(10) FH 40 G 10 / FH40 G-L10
2

1,8

1,6

1,4

1,2

0,8

0,6

0,4

0,2

0
10 100 E(keV) 1000 10000

Diagram 2 Relative response depending on photon energy

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48 keV 65 keV 83 keV

100 keV
1.6
1.4
1.2
1
0.8
0.6
0.4
0.2
0
-90 -75 -60 -45 -30 -15 0 15 30 45 60 75 90

Diagram 3a Angular dependence of response for various photon energies

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118 keV 161 keV

205 keV 248 keV
1332 keV

1.6
1.4
1.2
1
0.8
0.6
0.4
0.2
0
-90 -75 -60 -45 -30 -15 0 15 30 45 60 75 90

Diagram 3b Angular dependence of response for various photon energies

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Table 17 Response time as a function of the dose rate

Change of dose rate Response time
Internal detector [μSv/h] External probe [cps] [s]
0 – 1 0-2 60
0 – 3 0-6 30
0 – 10 0 – 20 3
0 – 30 0 – 60 3
0 – 100 0 – 200 3
0 – 300 0 – 600 3
0– 1000 0 – 2,000 3
0 – 3000 0 – 6,000 3
0 – 10000 0 – 20,000 2
0 – 30000 0 – 60,000 2
0 – 100000 0 – 100,000 2
0 – 300000 2
0 – 1000000 2

Table 18 Measuring times

Measuring time in counter mode 1 – 64.000 s
Measuring time of automatic history 1 – 60.000 s
Meanvalue with function MEAN 231 s

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200

150

tau in s
100

50

0
0,1 1 10 100 1000 uSv/h

Diagram 4 Time constant at constant dose rate, internal counter tube

200

150
tau in s

100

50

0
0,1 1 10 100 1000 1/s

Diagram 5 Time constant at constant count rate, depending on count rate, internal and external probes

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20
FH 40 G
15

Sigma [%]
PTB-Limit
10

0
0,01 0,1 1 10 100 1000 10000 uSv/h

Diagram 5a Relative standard deviation of the measured values, depending on dose rate

1000
Sigma 2,5%
800

600
Sigma 5%
400 Sigma 14%
200

0
uSv/h
0,05
0,07
0,08

0,11
0,13
0,14
0,16
0,17

11,5

100
115
0,1

8,5
10

85
Diagram 5b Distribution of 1000 readings at dose rates 0.1 μSv/h, 10 μSv/h and 100 μSv/h

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8 External Probes Additionally to measurement of the external probe

the internal detector continues measurement of
A variety of additionally available external probes
dose- and dose rate. Internal and external Alarm
enhance the functionality of the FH 40 G unit.
thresholds are monitored simultaneously.
Only type-approved and calibrated probes
The display switches to the internal measurement
may be used for legally relevant dose rate
value if the internal alarm threshold is exceeded
measurements.
until the alarm is acknowledged pressing the alarm
Only external probes that are approved
key.
within the scope of the calibration obligation
may be connected for measurements that
The alarm source is marked with the text DOSE
are performed within the scope of the
(always internal detector), INTERN or EXTERN.
calibration obligation.
The measurement value of the internal detectors
The external probes are connected via a cable to
may be shown at the display any time using the
the probe connecting socket of the FH 40 G unit.
functions DOSE and INTERN.
Only the corresponding connecting cable (see
There is no dose measurement for external probes
Technical Specifications ZT-002) may be used for
except for neutron probes (8.2).
connecting external probes to the FH 40 G unit.
If an external probe is connected the
When an external probe is used for measurement,
instrument displays overload if the
the display is automatically switched over to the
measurement range of the internal or
corresponding external probe, and the display
external detector is exceeded.
shows "ext.".

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Mean value and Max value functions (MEAN, MAX)

are with respect to the external probe. The time
inverval for MEAN- MAX measurement restarts
when an external probe is connected.

With external probes that are not calibrated in Sv/h

and only show the measured impulses, the display
shows the corresponding physical unit "cps", " s-1"
(impulses/second).
The functions displaying and setting the dose rate
alarm (ALARM and SET AL) are now related to the
alarm threshold of the corresponding external
probe.
An additional alarm threshold in cps
(impulses/second) is available for probes that show
impulses only (e.g. FHZ 732, FHZ 742).

Starting from firmware version V 2.72, up to four

alarm thresholds are available, namely gamma-,
neutron-, contamination alpha- and contamination
beta alarm.

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The external probes can be classified by their

application.

Dose rate meter

FH 40 G

Gamma Gamma Contamination Neutron dose Neutron

detection dose rate probes rate probes detection
probe probes probes

FHT 672 FHZ 312 FHZ 732 FHT 752 FHT 752 S
NBR HD-UW 44 mm ∅ BF 3 -ZR BF3 -ZR

FHZ 512 FHZ 302 FHZ 742 FHT 752 S FHT 752 SH
1" NaI MD-UW 125 cm 2 3
He-ZR 3He-ZR

FHZ 502 FH 40 TG FHT 752 E

2" NaI Tele 3He-ZR

FHZ 503 FHZ 632L FHT 752 EH

3" NaI MR-Prop BF3 -ZR

FHZ 612
WR-GM

8.1
Figure 29 Overview of the external probes for the FH 40 G unit
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Gamma Dose Rate Probes With NBR technology this probe is able to quickly
The probes FHZ 632 L, FHZ 612 and FHZ 672 E detect radiation of artificial sources within the
are in Hx and H*(10) versions available. fluctuations of natural background level.
See Chapter 8.3.1 and operating instruction
8.1.1 FHZ 632 L DB-047E
The external FHZ 632 L probe is used for dose rate
measurements in the range between the ambient
8.1.4 FHT 402
radiation level and a maximum of 100 mSv/h. There
is an additional telescopic extension (1700 mm ... This probe is an ionisation chamber with window.
3000 mm, Order No. 42540/55) and the telescope It can be used for measurement of low energy
FH 40 TG (1000mm to 4000mm, Order No. gamma and X-ray radiation down to less than
42540/51??) available for this probe that permits 10keV and Beta radiation.
measurements to be made at inaccessible
8.1.5 FHZ 312, FHZ 302
locations.
The under water probes FHZ 312 and FHZ 302
8.1.2 FHZ 612 can be used for measuring gamma radiation up to a
The gamma dose rate probe FHZ 612 has a wide dose rate of 100 Sv/h (312) or 1 Sv/h (302) and a
detection range from 10nSv/h to 10Sv/h. This is maximum water depth of 20 m.
achieved with two GM tubes. At dose rates of more The probes comes with a watertight 20-m probe
than 8 mSv/h indication is automatically switched to cable.
the high dose rate detector.
This probe is suited for use with telescopic
extension and telescope.

8.1.3 FHT 672 E-10

The gamma dose rate probe FHZ 672 E-10 is due
to it’s high sensitivity especially suited for the
detection of hidden sources. The probe measures
ambient equivalent dose rate H*(10).
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8.2 Neutron Probes FHT 752 and FHT 752H

Neutron radiation can be measured with the
FHT 752 (Biorem) neutron detector. If the FHT 752
neutron detector is connected to the FH 40 G unit,
the additional symbol "n" for neutron radiation
appears on the display. The dose rate is shown in
Sv/h.

Corresponding preselections permit either the

neutron dose (DOSE and "n") or the total dose of
the measured neutron radiation and the gamma
radiation (DOSETOT and "γ n") to be displayed in
Sv.

The dose alarm (alarm threshold) is always related

to the total dose (gamma plus neutron radiation).

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Table 19 Overview of the gamma dose rate probes

Name Unit FHZ 302 FHZ 312 FHZ 612-10 FHZ 612 FHZ 632 L FHZ 672E-10
Order no. 42540/41 42540/44 42540/54 42540/52 42540/56 42540/66
Display range μSv/h 1 - 1 x 106 10 - 100 x 106 0.1 - 9.99 x 106 0.01 - 999 x
103
Energy range keV 80 - 3,000 80 - 3,000 83 - 3,000 36 - 1,300 60 – 3,000
Sensitivity for 137Cs cps 0.3 0.001 Low: 1.7 2.2 2200
μSv/h High:0.03
Probe type GM counter GM counter GM GM proportional plastic-
tube tube C300 ZP 1301 counter scintillator
ZP 1202 ZP 1201 tube*
Photon radiation Sv/h 50 1000 100 50 0,02
Overload
Dimensions mm Ø 45 Ø 45 Ø 35 Ø 35 Ø 110
Length mm 155 155 185 162 415
Weight kg 1.35 1.35 0.25 0.185 4.1
Operating time on h 200 200 200 120 30
FH 40 G with LR6
1.5V AA battery set
Supported from
software version 1.18 1.18 2.42 1.18 2.2
Recommended
software version 1.18 1.18 2.43 2.1 2.42
from

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Continuation of Table 19 Overview of the neutron dose rate probes

Name Unit FHT 752 FHT 752 H
Order no. 42540/20 42540/21
Display range μSv/h 0.0001 – 400,000 0.0001 – 110,000
Energy range keV 0.025 x 10-3 - 10,000 0.025 x 10-3 - 10,000
252
Sensitivity for Cf cps/μSv/h
Hmade acc. to ICRP21 0.53 2.0
H*(10) acc to ICRP60 0.49 1.79
3
Probe type BF3 neutron detector He neutron detector
with moderator with moderator
Radiation Overload - -
Dimensions mm Ø 208 Ø 208
Length mm 435 435
Weight kg 11.5 11.5
Operating time on FH 40 G h 120 120
with LR6 1.5V AA battery set

Supported from
software version 2.1 2.1
Recommended
software version from 2.44 2.44

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The large 2" x 2" NaI detector makes the FHZ 502
8.3 Tracking Probes probe particularly sensitive. Even more sensitive is
the FHZ 503 probe with a 3" x 3" NaI detector.
8.3.1 NBR Probe FHT 672 E
The high sensitivity of the scintillation detector, the An additional telescopic extension (1700 ...
ADF algorithm in the FH 40 G unit, and the NBR 3000mm; Order No.: 42540/55) is available for the
technology enable the FHT 672 E probe to swiftly FHZ 512 probe. It permits the location of
distinguish between natural and artificial radioactive sources in inaccessible areas.
radioHandling.
8.3.3 Neutron Tracking Probes FHT 752 E,
Natural radiation is indicated by the green LED on
FHT 752 EH, FHT 752 S, FHT 752 SH
the probe; artificial radiation by the red one.

The "γ" and the speaker symbols on the display of These probes are intended for locating radioactive
the FH 40 G unit start blinking when the set limit neutron sources. –H versions have a 3He tube with
value is exceeded (i.e. an artificial radiation source better sensitivity to neutrons but also with higher
was detected). In addition, a warning signal sounds. cross sensitivity to gamma radiation.
-S probes are very compact and have only a small
Please refer to the Description "FHT 40 NBR 7mm polyethylene moderator. They are suited for
system" (DB-040-980317) for a detailed description telescopic extensions 42540/55 and /51.
of the FHT 672 E separating probe. -E versions have a bigger moderator and are more
sensitive than –S versions.

8.3.2 FHZ 512, FHZ 502, FHZ 503

Tracking Probes
These probes are intended for locating radioactive
gamma sources.

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Table 20 Overview of the detector probes

Name Unit FHZ 672E FHZ 512
Order no. 42540/61 42540/32
Display range cps 0.01 - 100,000
μSv/h 0.01 - 100
Background cps ≈ 80 ≈ 20
Energy range keV > approximately 60 > approximately 30
Sensitivity for 137Cs Cps/μSv/h 2,800 300
Probe type plastic scintillation 1" × 1" NaI scintillation
3
probe 750 cm probe
Photon radiation up to 100-fold up to 10-fold
Overload
Dimensions mm ∅ 110 ∅ 48
Length mm 410 332
Weight kg 4.15 0.5
Operating time on h 30 80
FH 40 G with LR6 1.5V
AA battery set
Supported from software
version 2.2 1.18
Recommended
software version from 2.42 2.31

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Continuation of Table 20 Overview of the detector probes

Name Unit FHZ 502 FHZ 502P/E FHZ 503
Order no. 42540/3301 42540/33 42540/63
Display range cps 0.01 - 100,000 0.01 - 100,000 0.01 - 100,000
nSv/h
Background cps ≈ 90 ≈ 90 ≈ 350
Energy range keV > approx. 30 > approx. 30 > approx. 30
Sensitivity for 137Cs cps 1,400 1,400 7.000
μSv/h
Dimension of NaI(Tl) 2" × 2" 2" × 2" 3" × 3"
crystal
Photon radiation up to 10-fold up to 10-fold up to 10-fold
Overload
Dimensions mm ∅ 66 ∅ 90 ∅ 80 ∅ 110
Length mm 345 380 410
Weight kg 1.2 1.5
Operating time on h 60 60 60
FH 40 G with LR6 1.5V
AA battery set
Supported from software
version 1.18 1.18 1.18
Recommended
software version from 2.31 2.31 2.31

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For improved detection of contamination, starting

from the FH 40 G-firmware version V 2.72 and
8.4 Contamination Probes later, as to the beta value a background may be
Checking surfaces for contamination by α and/or β subtracted from the measured value. The subtrac-
radiation sources can be performed by direct tion value is the mean value that has been calcu-
measurement or using the wipe test procedure. lated by using the MEAN function (3.4.1)

The contamination probes have a very thin A background learning phase may be started by
radiation entry window so that α and β radiation can switching on the unit, connecting a contamination
safely be detected. probe or by selecting the MEANCL function.

By using the NETTO function, the mean value that

Starting from version V 2.72 and later, the FH 40 G has been calculated by MEAN may be enabled as
supports the calibration of contamination probes in background subtraction. The character „n“ is dis-
Bq or Bq/cm2. Besides, separate alarm thresholds played next to α β γ as long as the background sub-
are available for alpha- and beta measurements. traction is active.

Table 21 Displaying the subtracted background

Handling Result
Select the NET function by repeatedly pressing The background that is subtracted from the
the „Functions“ button measured value will be displayed.
After some seconds, the FH 40 G switches back
to its base mode.

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Table 22 Setting the background

Handling Result
Step 1: Selecting the function The unit displays the background that is sub-
tracted from the measured value .
Use the „functions“ button to select the NETTO The FH 40 G unit switches back to its base
function mode and the value remains unchanged if step 2
does not follow within a few seconds.
Step 2: Setting The current MEAN-value has been adopted as
Press the „Illumination“ or the „Sound genera- background and will be subtracted from now on
tor“ button once or twice until the „n“ symbol from the measured values.
will be displayed next to „α β γ “.

Table 23 Resetting the background

Handling Result
Step 1: Selecting the function The unit displays the background that is sub-
Use the „Functions“ button to select the tracted from the measured value.
NETTO function . The FH 40 G unit switches back to its base
mode and the value remains unchanged if step 2
does not follow within some seconds.
Step 2: Resetting The background has been deleted. New meas-
Press the „Illumination“ or the „Sound genera- ured values will be given without background
tor“ button once or twice until the „n“ symbol subtraction again.
will be no longer displayed next to „α β γ “.

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8.4.3 The α, β Probe FHZ 742

8.4.1 The α, β, γ Probe FHZ 732 Due to its large surface and its capability of
The α β γ probe FHZ 732 is used for overview distinguishing between α and β radiation, the α, β
measurements. probe FHZ 742 is particularly suitable for checking
the contamination of surfaces.
The probe is able to safely detect the contamination
of surfaces by α, β and/or γ radiation.

With it’s proportional counter tube and amplidude

discrimination it can separate between α and β / γ
contamination.

8.4.2 The α, β, γ Probe FHZ 732 GM

This very reasonable priced probe is used for the
same purpose as FHZ 732.

It uses a GM-tube. Discrimination between α, β

and/or γ is not possible.
The function SET AB is not available.

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Table 24 Overview of the contamination probes

Name Unit FHZ 732 FHZ 732 GM FHZ 742
Order no. 42540/34 42540/36 42540/37
Display range cps 0.01 - 100,000 0,01 - 10.000 0.01 – 100,000
Sensitivity cps / Bq 0.25 for 204Tl 0,25 für 204Tl 0.16 for 204Tl
Probe type proportional GM tube ZnS / plastic
counter tube scintillator
LND 4313
Radiation Overload up to 50-fold up to 50-fold up to 50-fold
2
Window area window Ø44 window Ø44 100 cm
mm mm
Dimensions mm Ø 68 ×30 Ø 68 ×30
Length mm 245 245
Weight kg 0.320 0,320 0.680
Operating time on h 120 200 60
FH 40 G with LR6 1.5V AA
battery set
Supported from
software version 2.1 2.1 2.1
Recommended
software version from 2.36 2.1 2.36
Independent alarm
thresholds
software version from 2.72 2.72 2.72

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8.5 Compatible Probes of the FH 40 F Unit unit via a special adapter cable (Order No.
The FHZ 310, FHZ 131, FHZ 130, FHZ 120 42540/40).
and FH 40 FE for the FH 40 F unit, that The probe is not recognized without the adapter.
were available earlier, can be connected to
the FH 40 G

Table 25 Compatible probes of the FH 40 F units

Name Unit FHZ 310 FHZ 131
Order no. 42482/40 42489/39
Probe type Eurosys 4G15 ZP 1310
Display range μSv/h 300 - 30 x 106 3 - 0.999 x 106
Energy range keV 80 - 3,000 80 - 3,000
Photon radiation Sv/h 1000 50
Overload
Dimensions mm ∅ 45 ∅ 45
Length mm 155 155
Weight kg 1.350 1.350

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Continuation of Table 25 Compatible probes of the FH 40 F unit

Name Unit FHZ 130 FHZ 120 FH 40 FE-G
Order no. 42482/31 42482/33 42540/50
Probe type ZP 1300 ZP 1200 ZP 1301 and
ZP 1201*
Display range μSv/h 100 - 9.99 x 106 0.01 -9.99 x 103 1 - 9.99 x 106
Energy range keV 50 45 - 1,300 83 – 3,000
Photon radiation up to 100-fold up to 100-fold up to 100-fold
Overload
Dimensions mm ∅ 35 ∅ 35 ∅ 208
Length mm 110 140 800 - 4,000
Weight kg 0.100 0.130 2.000

* Adapter is integrated

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