Gasman II Instruction Manual
Gasman II Instruction Manual
Gasman II Instruction Manual
Content s Page
1. Quick Operating Guide 4
2. Unpacking 4
3. Introduction
4. Specification 6
4.1 Instrument Settings g
4.2 Battery Lifetime g
4.3 General Assembly 10
5. Operation 11
5.1 Switch-on sequence 11
5.2 Display Symbol Guide 12
6. Batteries 15
6.1 Recharging 15
6.2 Changing the batteries 16
6.3 Charger Supplies 16
7. Alarm Types 16
8. Keypad Adjustments 18
8.1 Viewing settings 18
8.2 Adjusting settings 19
8.3 Zeroing 2p
8.4 Calibration 20
9. Accessories 21
9.1 Calibration Adaptor 21
9.2 Universal Clip 21
9.3 Rubber Boot 22
10. Routine Checking 22
10.1 General 22
10.2 Sensor filter 22
10.3 Zero & Calibration 23
10.4 Sensor Replacement 23
11. Troubleshooting Guide 24
11.1 Error Codes 25
12. Datalogging and Datacomms 26
12.1 Hardware Interface 27
13. Sensor Limitations 27
14. Accessories and Spare Parts 28
14.1 Accessories List 28
14.2 Spare Parts List 29
If configured to do so, the instrument will give an intermittent audible blip and/or visual
red flash to indicate correct functioning of the instrument. Selection of these 'confidence'
signals will affect battery life according to the table in Section 4.2. Pressing both buttons
together will switch the instrument off. The instrument may be configured in such a way
that it is not possible to turn it off via the push buttons. In this case, only a supervisor with
a computer link can switch the instrument off
5.2 Display Symbol Guide
Peak hold
Indicates that the reading displayed is the highest level recorded since the instrument
was switched on or reset. For oxygen, Peak Hold records the lowest value encountered.
Peak Hold values can be toggled on and off by pressing the small button when the unit
is on. The symbol will come on if Peak Hold is operational. The large button is used to
reset the peak value when the symbol is displayed.
Battery low
When this symbol flashes and the sounder emits an intermittent blip, it is an indication
that there is less than 10% of battery life remaining. A
toxic/oxygen instrument may run for weeks in this condition allowing time to schedule a
battery replacement service. A flammable instrument will run for 'h hour at most and
should therefore be recharged immediately.
Zero
Indicates unit is in adjust zero mode. See Section 8.3.
Calibrate
Indicates unit is in adjust calibration mode. See Section 8.4.
Alarm 1
When the first alarm level is reached, this symbol will flash and the visual and audible
alarms will be activated. See Section 7, Alarm types.
Alarm 2
When the second alarm level is reached, this symbol will flash and the visual and audible
alarms will be activated. See Section 7, Alarm types.
6.1 Recharging
Flammable gas versions are normally supplied with rechargeable batteries, though a non-
rechargeable type using alkaline batteries is available.
To recharge, connect power to the charger and place the instrument in the cradle. The
charger's red LED will light while the instrument is being charged. Full recharge from flat
takes 15 hours, with the instrument switched off. When fully charged, the green LED will
illuminate on the charger. Once the charge cycle is complete, the red LED will
occassionally light for a minute or so to ensure the batteries are kept topped up.
If the instrument is not in use, it should be charged once per fortnight, or it can be stored
permanently in its charger without damage. If it is left uncharged for 3 weeks or more, the
batteries may self-discharge to a point where the battery charger cannot supply enough
charge current to restore the batteries to a fully charged state. If this occurs, a "boost-
charge" can be provided by pressing the button which is mounted on the rear of the
charger. This can be accessed through the top-left mounting hole with a blunt object such
as a ball-point pen.
The charger also acts as a comms interface for all instrument types. Non-rechargeable
units will not be recharged in this instance.
The charger makes contact with the instrument via the two side fixing screws. As these
are electronically protected, no harm will come from these contacts being short circuited
during use.
6.2 Changing the batteries
Toxic gas and oxygen versions are supplied with alkaline batteries which should power
the instrument for a year.
• Disassemble in a clean, dry environment and observe anti-static handling precautions.
• Remove side fixing screws
• Remove calibration adjuster cover.
• Slide lower case section from top section.
• Remove batteries from clips.
• Replace batteries using only approved types* ensuring correct polarity orientation.
• Refit lower case section and screws ensuring seals are correctly fitted in grooves.
*Duracell MN1500 LR6
Ever Ready Energizer LR6BA
7. Alarm Types
There are two instantaneous alarms; level 1 and 2. For toxic gas instruments, there are
also two time weighted average (TWA) alarms which operate at short term (15 minute)
and long term (8 hour) exposure limits. All alarm thresholds can
be adjusted from the instrument keypad (see Section 8) by means of a screwdriver. Alarm
thresholds may also be set via the computer interface (see Section 12) and the following
parameters may be set for instantaneous alarms: • Normally triggered on a rising level,
alarms
may be set to trigger on a falling level as with oxygen deficiency alarms.
• Alarms may be latching, requiring manual reset, or self clearing when the hazard has
passed.
• Normal alarms cannot be cleared whilst the gas hazard persists. It is possible to set level
1 so it may be silenced (the red LEDs will continue to flash). This allows the user to set a
'pre-alarm' warning at a low gas level and a non-silenceable alarm at a higher level.
• Unused alarms may be deactivated.
• The level 1 alarm may be set to be visual only (not oxygen units).
If any alarm event is triggered, the red LEDs will flash and the sounder will emit aloud
tone. Each alarm type has a different tone sequence which can be selected from a menu if
using
SetPortable software (Section 12). Alarm 2's tone takes precedence over alarm 1's tone.
The alarm type will be indicated by a flashing symbol on the LCD (see Section 5.2). If
either of the TWA (time weighted average) symbols appear on the
display, this indicates that the cumulative exposure to toxic gas has been reached for an 8-
hour shift or a 15 minute 'window'. UK Health & Safety regulations require that workers
should leave the hazardous area once they have exceeded this dose. A TWA alarm cannot
be
Gasman ll Instruction Manual
manually reset. The 15 minute TWA alarm will self clear when the average exposure
over the previous 15 minutes falls below the set threshold. The 8 hour TWA alarm will
self clear when the average exposure over the previous 8 hours falls below the set
threshold. Average exposure values are cleared when the instrument is switched off. A
worker should not resume work where the risk of gas exposure persists until the Safety
Officer declares it safe.
The large button may be used to silence or clear certain instantaneous alarms as the
configuration permits.
8. Keypad Adjustments
When the instrument is off, calibration and alarm settings can be viewed and adjusted if
required. 8.1 Viewing settings
8.4 Calibration
As with zeroing, the reading will flash until the sensor has stabilised. Additionally, time
must be allowed for the reading to level off once calibration gas has been applied. The
final reading can then be adjusted. A 'short-cut' calibration to 20.9% on oxygen units is
provided by pressing the large button whilst the small button is held down in calibrate
mode.
Gas connection for calibration requires the use of the Calibration Adaptor (Section 9.1).
The sample tube should be connected to a gas bag filled with calibration gas. Use the
hand bulb to draw the gas over the sensor. If using a cylinder of calibration gas, connect
it via a pressure regulator and flowmeter to the adaptor inlet. Disconnect the hand bulb
and allow waste gas to vent to atmosphere or a collection bag. A flowrate of 0.5 - 1 I/min
is required for an accurate calibration. Gas readings can be adjusted via the keypad
(Section 8.4) or with the SetPortable computer interface (Section 12).
9. Accessories
10.1 General
If used in dirty conditions, a regular wipe with a damp cloth will help in viewing the
display and maintaining operation of the pushbuttons. This is also recommended for the
side fixing screws to maintain good contact for battery charging or data communication.
10.2 Sensor Filter
Dirt should be removed from the sensor apertures as this may impede diffusion. For
access to the sensor filter, remove the fixing screws and top moulding (Section 10.4).
10.3 Zero and Calibration
Because all gas sensors change their performance characteristics over time, the
following checks are recommended:
• Zero Every 1 month • Gas response' Every 1 month • Calibration Every 6 months
Instructions on how to make zero and calibration
adjustments from the instrument keypad are in Section 8. Refer to the manual supplied
with SetPortable software for use of a PC to make adjustments (see Section 12).
*Due to the safety nature of gas detection instruments, it is recommended that
sensors are regularly gas checked. Instrument sensors may be adversely affected by
certain environments (Section 13). A monthly test with a known gas mixture will
ensure that the instrument responds with appropriate indications and alarms.
10.4 Sensor Replacement
Required when instrument fails to calibrate due to low sensor output.
Key
:
1 Top moulding
2 Fixing screw
3 Gas sensor
4 Sealing ring
5 Sounder `O'
ring
6 Main `O' rings
Figure 10.1
On toxic and oxygen instruments, it is practical to replace the alkaline batteries at the
same time (Section 6.2).
If the instrument is reading low levels of gas in fresh air, it needs to be zeroed (Section
8.3). Replace or recharge batteries if unit will not switch on. If rechargeable instruments
do not seem to be charging, force some charge into
them by using the hidden button at the back of the charger, then reset the instrument by
removing and re-inserting a battery. (If rechargeable batteries are left uncharged for
many weeks, they gradually self-discharge until the normal charging methods do not
work).
SetPortable page20
Like Alarm 1 and Alarm 2 above, the noise generated when the alarm is activated can be selected. There
is also the option to try the sound on the computer.
Range and Units These are factory settings used for labelling data In LogManager and setting calibration
Iimits. They correspond to the sensor and gas label fitted to the Instrument. Changes should only be made
if a sensor type is changed. Such an operation may only be carried out by a Crowcon approved service
centre.
Click Finished when alarm configuration has been completed
5.3.2 Edit/Optlons
This screen allows SetPortable to be customized. It controls what operations are possible. This is useful,
for example, to allow a site office to upload logged data, whilst preventing them from accidentally
changing instrument configurations.
The options available are self explanatory, and no further description will be given. (See Fig 5.7)
6.4 Adjust Menu
This menu consists of the following options:
Zero A dialog box (s displayed allowing you zero the gas sensor This operation should only be
performed when the instrument is in clean air. See Fig 5.9.
A confirmation message will report the outcome of the operation.
Callbrate This allows the instrument's span to be calibrated. See Fig 5.10. Type fn the calibration gas
value; this should be given on the gas cylinder label. When the gas has been flowing for at least 30
seconds, and the reading has stabiIized, click OK. A confirmation message will report the outcome of the
operation.
Note: Refer to the instrument's manual for more Information on the Zero and Calibrate functions. Clear
Log A warning box Is displayed before the data log is cleared. Acknowledge that the data log is to be
cleared by clicking on Yes. Cal Due This allows you to override the calibration due date in the
Instrument. Enter the number of days before you want the cal due
warning to appear on the instrument, Only use this facility if you know the instrument responds correctly
to gas, or if you employ other systems to ensure that instruments are regularly calibrated. See Fig 5.11.
8 CUSTODIAN
6.1 Files menu Fig 6.1 This menu allows data to be saved and restored from the computer's disk, and
printing out of instrument configurations.
New This allows a new setup file to be created. To do this select New, then Edit from the main menu
bar. When editing is complete, select Save As... from the files menu, and type in a file name, making sure
the .set file extension is saved.
Open... This allows you to open an existing file already saved on the PC. This can be edited, or copied to
another instrument.
Save As... This allows you to save edited files with a different name or to a different drive or directory.
Print This produces a hard copy record
of the setup Information created in Edit (this will be similar to the Configuration Report originally
supplied with the instrument). This will be printed on the default printer connected to the PC.
Quality Print If a high quality font (similar to the original Configuration Report) is required for a better
presentation, click on Quality Print before selecting
Print. Whilst Quality Print is selected there will be a tick (pipa ) next to the quality Print
option.
B.2 Datalink Menu Fig 6.2 The Datalink menu manages communications between the computer and
instrument.
Upload Transfers setup data from the Instrument to the PC. This data can then be edited to modify the
way in which the Instrument operates.
Download This allows edited data to be transferred from the PC to the instrument.
Read Gas This produces a "snap shot" of the Instrument gas readings This can be used, for example, to
check that the sensors have returned to zero after a calibration.
Show Values This is like a continuous Read Gas option. Select Read Gas to stop the continuous update
of the display.
Next Cal This indicates the number of days left before the next calibration is due. After calibration, the
instrument will count down in days from a pre-set time (normally 26 weeks) and when the time has
elapsed the instrument will display the Calibration Due warning during the switch on routine.
Upload Log This transfers logged data stored In the instrument to the PC for viewing In LogManager
(see Section e). The Save File screen prompts you to name the log file. Either create a name by typing it
into the File Name box (replacing the asterisk) or by selecting an existing file (this will overwrite the old
tile). Click OK to proceed. The log should be saved with the file name extension of .log.
B.3 Edit Menu
The edit menu allows the instrument configuration (which has been loaded Into SetPortable either via the
Files or Datalink menu) to be modified, and for SetPortable options to be set.
Config This allows instrument configuration to be modified. See below and Fig 6.4.
Optlons This screen allows SetPortable to be customized. See below and Fig 6.8.
6.3.1 Edit/Config
This brings up the SetParametere dialog (Fig 6.4). In brief,
the check boxes and drop down menus select the following options. Consult the instrument manual for
details.
Alarm Sound
A menu of alarm tones is available for each alarm. A "silent" alarm (visual only 'pre alarm') is available
only on level 1 alarms for safety reasons. Click Test for a computer simulation of the sound selected for
level 1.
Display mode
Select Full or No display. Selecting No Display will cause the LCD to remain blank at all times. Note: if
No Display is selected It is advised that the Confidence blip Is selected on: With both these options
selected as Off the user has only the
flashing green LED, under normal conditions, to indicate that the instrument is operating.
Password 1 and 2 These are used to prevent unauthorized adjustments being made to the instrument
(refer to the instrument manual for details on entering passwords). The adjustments which may be
protected are zero, calibrate, alarm levels and instrument switch off. Check the boxes for which the
relevant password is required.
The default passwords are:
To change the
password, click
Note that a single button can be clicked on more than once.
Logging Period This sets the sample rate at which the instrument stores logged data. The log operates on
a rolling basis, so that when ft becomes full the oldest data in the log will be deleted and replaced by the
current data. See the instrument manual for further details on data logging.
on Password 1 or Password 2, as required. This will bring up a picture of the instrument (Fig 6.6). Click
on four buttons in the password sequence required.
Next calibrate This defines the period between an instrument warning, and the generation of the
Calibration Expired warning (normally 26 weeks). Changing the value in this box will have no effect
until the instrument Is calibrated.
Functions timeout When this option is selected the instrument Is locked In Run mode 2 minutes after
switch on. This is to prevent accidental adjustments being made during normal operation.
Confidence blip This switches the audible confidence blip off and on.
Display alarm When selected, this causes the Instrument to lock its display on the first channel to go Into
alarm.
To configure the instrument channel, click on the Channels button. Once all configuration has been
completed, click on the Finish button.
When Channels is clicked on, the dialog in Fig 6.7 appears. Select the channel to be viewed or edited by
clicking on the channel tab at the top of the screen.
For each channel, the following options are available:
Gas, Range and Units These are selected from pull down menus. Note: These are factory settings used
for labeling data in LogManager and setting calibration limits. They correspond to the sensor and upper
label fitted to the Instrument. Changes should only be made if a sensor type is changed. Such an
operation may only be carried out by a Crowcon approved service center.
Time Weighted Averages The TWA levels only apply to toxic gas channels. The Short term level is the
15 minute cumulative exposure level and the Long term level is the 8+ hour exposure level. These alarm
levels are factory set to reflect the Health and Safety requirements of the country to which the instrument
Is delivered.
Alarm 1, 2 and 3 These determine the operating modes of each of the instantaneous gas alarms
available for each channel. Each alarm has several options which may be toggled off/on and an alarm
value:
Active This determines whether the alarm is active (i.e. is in use) or not. Rising alarm Always selected
On, except for oxygen deficiency alarms, which are triggered on falling gas concentrations.
Latching When this option is selected R requires the alarm to be manually reset, by pressing the
Main button, once the alarm condition has passed.
Can mute When this is elected an audible alarm to be silenced whilst the alarm condition is still present.
Value This sets the gas concentration at which the alarm will trip. Note: The number entered In the
Value box should be between 5% and 100% of the number in the Range box and can be entered to one
decimal place. (e.g. If the Range is 0-50,
the Value can be between 2.5 and 50.0).
It is not advisable to set alarm Values higher than 60.0 for flammable channels. Only Alarm 1 and Alarm
2 values can be accessed from the instrument front panel. For oxygen units, the enrichment alarm (rising)
is therefore set as Alarm 2.
Click on the Finish button when sensor channel configuration has been completed. 6.3.2 Edit/Options
This screen allows SetPortabie to be customized. It controls what operations are possible. This is useful,
for example, to allow a site office to upload logged data
whilst preventing them from accidentally changing instrument configurations. The options available are
self explanatory, and no further description will be given. See Fig 6.8
6.4 Adjust Menu
This menu consists of the following options: Zero A dialog box Is displayed which has a drop down
menu, allowing one channel (selected by name) or all channels to be selected for zeroing. This operation
should only be carried out In clean air. A confirmation message will report the outcome of the operation.
See Fig 6.10.
Calibrate This allows an Individual channel in instrument to be calibrated. See Fig 6.11. Select the gas
channel to be calibrated from the drop down menu. Type
in the gas value; this should be given on the gas cylinder label. When the gas has been flowing for at
least 30 seconds and the reading has stabilized, click OK. A confirmation message will report the
outcome of the operation.
Note: Refer to the instrument's manual for
more information on the Zero and Calibrate functions. Fig 6.11 Clear Log A warning box is
displayed before the data log is cleared. Acknowledge that the data log is to be cleared by clicking on
Yea.
Cal Due This allows you to override the calibration due date in the Instrument. See Fig 6.12. Enter
the number of days before you want the calibration due waning to appear on the instrument. Only use this
facility if you know the instrument responds correctly to gas, or if you employ other systems to ensure
that the instruments are calibrated regularly.