Thermo Fisher Scientific recently re-launched the RIIDEye, a handheld radiation isotope identifier that uses patented Quadratic Compression Conversion technology to provide real-time gamma source identification. The unit was designed for first responders operating in rugged environments tasked with testing and measuring radioactive areas.
The 3-pound handheld identifier alerts users of radioactive dangers through color-coded peaks illustrated on the GUI, which show the presence of either benign or radioactive material. The color-coded display lets users have at-a-glance identification, said Jim Monde, the company's director of homeland security. It also shows the fingerprint of the radiation.
"One of the benefits that the user will get is that they can see the type and intensity in real-time of the source as it is collecting [the data]," Monde said. "But because it shows the spectrum continuously, if there is any additional radiation that may be masked due to shielding the users would see that, too."
Real-time data recording embedded into the identifier supports the processing and transmission of substance data for reach-back analysis. All spectra are time-stamped and stored on a removable compact flash disk. The flash disk can be used on any computer and no software is needed to review it, Monde said.
"You don't need to download software onto your computer to talk to the device," he said. "You just pull out the card, plug it into your computer and attach it to an e-mail."
For remote detection, the RIIDEye display unit also can be separated from the detector and reconnected with an extender cable, Monde added.
RIIDEye instruments are available in three configurations: the RIIDEye G, for gamma identification; RIIDEye GN for gamma neutron identification; and RIIDEye G Hi-Res with a lanthanum bromide detector for high-resolution readings. The instruments start at $9,000.
Key Features and Benefits
- Performance for ID of low activities
- Patented QCC algorithm enables faster IDs
- Color-coded peaks provide source data during and after completion of ID
- Continuous gain stabilization with natural potassium enables accurate results in changing environment
- Two-hand operation for more remote detector use while display and controls are still at hand
- Weight balanced at midpoint of handle
- No integral Cs-137 source, which produces fewer false IDs and higher Cs-137 detection sensitivity and shielded Am-241 sensitivity
- Variety of scintillation detectors available
- Integrated non He-3 neutron scintillation detector option
- High-resolution LaBr3 detector option
- Easy spectrum reach-back in ANSI N42.42 format
- Ethernet and removable memory card
- Commercial AA batteries
Source: Thermo Scientific
