Sabre 4000: Operators Manual

SABRE® 4000
OPERATORS MANUAL
Revision A, September 2004

Part Number 6816734 ROW
This manual describing SABRE® 4000 Detection Systems contains proprietary
concepts and embodiments, which may be the subjects of patents and patents
pending.
No part of this manual may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any
means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without prior
written permission of the publisher. To obtain permission for reprints, or to obtain
additional copies of this manual, please contact your local Smiths Detection office.
Operator’s Manual
Welcome
Welcome to the SABRE® 4000, Smiths Detection’s newest hand-held member of the
successful IONSCAN family of detection systems. The SABRE 4000 offers
• Trace particle and vapour detection of
• narcotic substances
• explosive substances
• chemical warfare agent and toxic industrial chemical substances.
• Detection and identification of up to 40 substances in each mode.
By purchasing the SABRE 4000, the trade name of hand-held detection systems
manufactured by Smiths Detection, you have joined a large number of customers
around the world that have recognized the quality and capability of IONSCAN
systems to assist them in their daily detection operations.
SABRE 4000 is ideally suited for a large number of substance screening applications
such as aviation security, passenger screening by Customs Agents, Security,
correctional institution visitor screening, and roadside inspection by Police Officers
and military in protection and security.
Smiths Detection prides itself on its comprehensive customer service. If any assistance
is needed for scientific, operational or maintenance issues, or if problems arise, please
contact your local Smiths Detection representative, or Smiths Detection directly.
Revision A, September 2004 iii Welcome

SABRE 4000
Smiths Detection Offices
Smiths Detection Offices
Smiths Detection Smiths Detection

30 Technology Drive 30 Hook Mountain Road
Warren, New Jersey 07059 P.O. Box 410
USA Pine Brook, New Jersey 07058
Telephone: +1 (908) 222-9100 USA
Fax: +1 (908) 222-1557 Telephone: +1 (973) 830-2100
North America Service: +1 (800) 297-0955 Fax: +1 (973) 830-2200
1730 Aimco Boulevard 2202 Lakeside Boulevard
Mississauga, Ontario L4W 1V1 Edgewood, Maryland 21040
CANADA USA
Telephone: +1 (905) 238-8837 Telephone: +1 (410) 510-9100
Fax: +1 (905) 238-3018 Fax: +1 (410) 510-9496
Unit 3, Lloyds Court, Manor Royal 459 Park Avenue
Crawley, West Sussex RH10 9QU Bushey, Watford, Herts WD23 2BW
UNITED KINGDOM UNITED KINGDOM
Telephone: +44 (0) 1293-433-100 Telephone: +44 (0) 1923-228-566
Fax: +44 (0) 1293-433-200 Fax: +44 (0) 1293-240-285
Smiths Detection ASIA PACIFIC Smiths Detection
No. 34, Jalan Tun Mohd Fuad 2 Im Herzen 4
Taman Tun Dr. Ismail 65205 Wiesbaden
60000 Kuala Lumpur GERMANY
MALAYSIA Telephone: +49 (611) 9412-0
Telephone: +60 (3) 7725-6488 Fax: +49 (611) 9412-229
Fax: +60 (3) 7725-6459
Smiths Detection EUROPE SARL
4, rue du Te, BP 10 614
95724 Roissy C.D.G.
FRANCE
Telephone: +33 (1) 48.62.54.92
Fax: +33 (1) 48.62.54.96
Smiths Detection Offices iv Revision A, September 2004

Operator’s Manual
Warranty
All equipment sold by Smiths Detection, which is manufactured by them, is

warranted against defects in material and workmanship under normal operation and
following manufacturer’s instructions for a period of twelve (12) months from the date
of delivery. For equipment other than that manufactured by Smiths Detection and sold
in connection with Smiths Detection equipment, the original manufacturer’s warranty
shall apply to the extent any such warranty is assignable by Smiths Detection.
Equipment and parts subject to consumption and normal wear and tear are not
covered by this warranty.
Smiths Detection’s responsibility under this warranty is limited to the repair or

replacement, at Smiths Detection’s option, of defective parts FOB Smiths Detection’s
plant, provided that prompt notice of any defect is given by Purchaser to Smiths
Detection in writing within the applicable warranty period and that upon the
Purchaser’s return of the defective equipment or parts to Smiths Detection, properly
packed and with transportation charges prepaid by Purchaser, and inspection thereof
shall reveal to Smiths Detection’s satisfaction that Purchaser’s claim is valid under the
terms of this warranty.
The delivery of repair or replacement parts shall not interrupt or prolong the term of
the warranty. Smiths Detection’s warranty ceases to be effective if Purchaser fails to
operate and use the equipment sold hereunder in a safe and reasonable manner and in
accordance with Smiths Detection’s written instructions.
Notwithstanding anything in this warranty to the contrary, Smiths Detection shall not
in any event be liable to Purchaser or any other person for any liability, claim, loss,
damage or expense of any nature whatsoever caused directly or indirectly by the
equipment or any inadequacy thereof for any purpose, or any deficiency or defect
therein, or the use or maintenance thereof, or any delay in providing or failure to
provide servicing or adjustments thereto, or any interruption or loss of service or use
thereof, or any loss of business, or any incidental or consequential damages (including
loss of profit), whatsoever or howsoever caused.
Revision A, September 2004 v Warranty

SABRE 4000
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Operator’s Manual
Table of Contents
Chapter 1: Safety Precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1–1

1.1 Radiation Hazard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1–2
Chapter 2: Overview. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–1

2.1 Principles of Ion Mobility Spectrometry. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–2
2.2 SABRE 4000 Main Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–4
2.3 Battery Pack and Charger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–5
2.3.1 Battery Pack Handling Precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–5
2.4 Sampling Options and Analyzing Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–6
2.4.1 Particle Collection and Analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–6
2.4.2 Vapour Collection and Analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–6
2.5 Technical Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–7
2.5.1 Detected Compounds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–8
Chapter 3: Setting Up the SABRE 4000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3–1

3.1 Selecting the Operating Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3–2
3.2 Settings Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3–3
3.2.1 Settings Menu - Clock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3–4
3.2.2 Settings Menu - Audio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3–5
3.2.3 Settings Menu - Results Display Options. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3–6
3.2.4 Settings Menu - RS-232 Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3–8
3.2.5 Settings Menu - Printer Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3–9
3.2.6 Settings Menu - Language . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3–10
3.3 Adjusting the LCD Backlighting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3–11
Chapter 4: Basic Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4–1

4.1 SABRE 4000 User Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4–2
4.1.1 Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4–5
4.2 Starting Up the SABRE 4000. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4–6
4.2.1 Running a Verification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4–7
4.2.1.1 Particle Mode Verification. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4–7
4.2.1.2 CWA/TIC Vapour Mode Verification . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4–8
4.2.1.3 Verification Successful . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4–9
4.2.1.4 Verification Unsuccessful . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4–10
4.2.1.4.1 Verification Troubleshooting Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4–10
4.2.2 Running a Blank . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4–11
4.2.2.1 Blank Successful. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4–11
4.2.2.2 Blank Unsuccessful . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4–12
4.3 Sampling Modes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4–13
Revision A, September 2004 vii

SABRE 4000
4.3.1 Sampling Mode Icons. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4–14

4.3.2 Setting the Sampling Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4–14
4.3.3 Obtaining a Particle Sample . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4–15
4.3.4 Obtaining a Vapour Sample . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4–17
4.4 Analysis Results. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4–19
4.4.1 Pass Result. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4–19
4.4.2 Alarm Result . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4–20
4.4.2.1 Alarm Details Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4–20
4.4.2.2 Clearing an Alarm Result . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4–21
4.4.2.3 Cleaning After an Alarm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4–22
4.5 Function Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4–22
4.5.1 Status . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4–23
4.5.2 Plasmagram . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4–23
4.5.3 View Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4–24
4.5.3.1 To View and Print Stored Alarm Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4–24
4.5.4 Bake-Out. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4–26
4.5.5 Cycle Desorber. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4–26
4.5.6 Sampling Mode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4–27
4.5.7 Password Controls. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4–27
4.5.8 Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4–27
4.5.9 Alarm List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4–27
4.5.10 Version and Serial Number . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4–28
4.5.11 Autocalibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4–28
4.6 Running a Clean Cycle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4–30
4.7 Shutting Down the SABRE 4000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4–31
Chapter 5: Advanced Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5–1

5.1 Accessing the Password Controls Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5–1
5.1.1 Pressure Transducer Reset . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5–2
5.1.2 Alarms. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5–3
5.1.3 Channels. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5–4
5.1.4 Calibrant Reference. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5–6
5.1.5 Erase All Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5–7
5.1.6 Clear Desorber Heater Fault. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5–8
5.1.7 Control Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5–8
5.1.8 Bake-Out Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5–9
Chapter 6: Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6–1

6.1 Maintenance Kit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6–2
6.2 Hazards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6–3
6.3 Cleaning the Inlet Drum and Desorber . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6–3
6.4 Performing a Bake-Out. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6–5
6.5 Replacing the Inlet Drum and Membrane . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6–6
viii Revision A, September 2004

Operator’s Manual
6.6 Replacing the Air Purification Cartridge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6–11

6.7 Perform a Radiation Leak Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6–12
Chapter 7: Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7–1
Appendix A: Instrument Manager Software (IM32) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .A–1

A.1 Starting Instrument Manager. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A–1
A.1.1 Connecting / Disconnecting the SABRE 4000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A–3
A.2 Acquiring a Sample . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A–3
A.2.1 Automatic Sample Collection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A–6
A.2.2 Collecting a Background Plasmagram . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A–7
A.2.3 Annotating a Plasmagram . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A–8
A.2.4 Modifying the Plasmagram Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A–9
A.2.5 Saving a Plasmagram . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A–11
A.2.6 Printing a Plasmagram . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A–12
A.3 Setting IM32 Preferences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A–12
A.4 Viewing and Editing Control Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A–14
A.4.1 Miscellaneous Tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A–14
A.4.2 Calibrant Tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A–15
A.4.3 Det. Alg. Tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A–16
A.4.3.1 Det. Alg. - Alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A–16
A.4.3.2 Det. Alg. - Substances. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A–17
A.4.3.3 Det. Alg. - Channels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A–18
A.4.4 Particle Data Acq. Tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A–18
A.4.5 Vapour Data Acq. Tab . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A–19
A.4.6 Reference Peaks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A–20
A.4.7 Peak Sets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A–21
A.4.8 Printing Control Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A–22
A.4.9 Editing Passwords . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A–22
A.5 Programming New Substances . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A–23
A.5.1 Saving Current Control Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A–23
A.5.2 Preparing IM32 to Program New Substances . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A–25
A.5.3 Acquiring and Saving the New Substance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A–26
A.5.4 Setting the Control Parameters for the New Substance . . . . . . . . . . . A–28
A.5.5 Adjusting the Reduced Mobility of the New Substance . . . . . . . . . . . . A–33
A.6 Changing the Operating Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A–34
A.7 Uploading Saved Alarm Results to IM32 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A–34
Appendix B: Properties of Explosive, Narcotic, Chemical Warfare

Agent and Toxic Industrial Chemical Substances . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .B–1
Appendix C: User Feedback . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .C–1
Revision A, September 2004 ix

SABRE 4000

Operator’s Manual Safety Precautions
Chapter 1 Safety Precautions
Smiths Detection instruments are designed with user safety in mind. Throughout this
manual, the following warnings are prominently displayed followed by a detailed
description of the hazard.
WARNING!
Radiation Hazard
WARNING!
Burn Hazard
WARNING!
Risk of Electrical Shock
WARNING!
Risk of injury to the Operator. Where this symbol is used, the
specific warning will be explained in detail.
Revision A, September 2004 1–1

SABRE 4000
1.1 Radiation Hazard
The SABRE 4000 Detection System contains a sealed nickel-63, 63Ni, foil radioactive
source of 555 MBq (15 mCi) activity. The source is fully enclosed inside the unit
assembly resulting in no direct radiation hazard.
WARNING!
Radiation Hazard - Risk of radiation exposure.
Disassembly of the IMS Detector Cell and removal of the

radioactive source will result in radiation exposure.
To avoid radiation exposure, never disassemble the IMS Detector
Cell and/or remove the radioactive source.
In the event of a fire or explosion involving damage or suspected damage to the

system or any area containing the system
1. cover the system with an appropriate container.
2. return to the manufacturer.
In the event of a malfunction with the system

1. cease use of the device.
2. place the device in an appropriate container.
3. return to the manufacturer for repair.
In the event of suspected damage to the system

1. cease use of the device.
2. cover the device with an appropriate container.
3. arrange for a leak test to be conducted on the system.
4. return to the manufacturer for repair.
The equipment must be handled in accordance with the licensing requirements of the
applicable nuclear regulatory agency.
Should the SABRE 4000 require disposal, return the system to Smiths Detection.
Radiation Hazard 1–2 Revision A, September 2004

Operator’s Manual Overview
Chapter 2 Overview
Smiths Detection’s SABRE 4000 is a reliable, highly sensitive instrument based on a

technology called Ion Mobility Spectrometry (IMS). The SABRE 4000 is a powerful
analytical tool that can detect and accurately identify trace residues of, and vapours
emitted from, a wide variety of substances. It has been optimized for the detection of
• illicit drugs
• explosives
• CWAs and TICs
Identification of many substances by IMS is made possible by a few basic principles:

• Many chemical substances give off vapours or particles that are adsorbed by or
cling to the surfaces of materials they come into contact with (clothing,
luggage, skin, containers, paper, etc.)
• These traces can be collected by wiping the surfaces.
• Even microscopic traces of such chemicals can be desorbed from these particles
(turned into a vapour) by the application of heat.
• These vapourized substances enter the IMS through a membrane that
selectively allows the target substances to pass through.
• The vapours can be collected onto a specially treated adsorbing material,
which can then be released into the IMS.
• The vapours are ionized (converted to electrically charged ions).
• When these ions are allowed to "drift" within a controlled electric field, they
move at different speeds, depending on their molecular size and structure. The
characteristic speed at which an ion moves (the ion mobility) is a distinct
"thumbprint" that identifies the original substance.

SABRE 4000
2.1 Principles of Ion Mobility Spectrometry
The sample of interest is heated to vapourize the compounds collected, which are then
introduced into the reaction region, through the membrane, by a carrier flow of clean,
dry air. The reaction region has a weak radioactive ionizing source, a Nickel 63 (63Ni)
Beta emitter. Both positive and negative ions are formed by collisions of Beta particles
with the gases in the sample stream. Explosive substances form negative ions, while
most narcotics, such as heroin and cocaine, form positive ions.
Purge Exhaust Drift

Flow Flow Drift Tube Flow
Reaction Region
Membrane
Gating Grid Collector
63Ni
Ionizing
Source
Figure 2-1 Basic Ion Mobility Spectrometer
The IMS has an electric field applied along its length. The polarity of this field is either
positive or negative depending on the type of substance tested for. The ions of the
correct polarity are allowed to move from the reaction region into the drift region by
the momentary opening of a gating grid. The various ions travel at different, but
characteristic speeds and arrive at the collector electrode at unique drift times. Thus,
three ions (X, Y and Z) of differing masses will produce the drift spectrum, called a
plasmagram. Refer to Figure 2-2, where ion X arrives first having the lowest mass, and
thus the shortest drift time.
Principles of Ion Mobility Spectrometry 2–2 Revision A, September 2004

Figure 2-2 IMS Detector Output as a Function of Drift Time
The time required for ions of a specific substance to drift down the tube is precisely
known and programmed. A reference substance (the calibrant) of known mobility is
used to ensure the system is operating properly. A microprocessor monitors the
collector electrode signal at the programmed drift times to detect the presence of
target ions using custom-written software for the control and peak identification.
When a substance of interest is detected, the software immediately triggers an alarm
to alert the operator.
Revision A, September 2004 2–3 Principles of Ion Mobility Spectrometry

SABRE 4000
2.2 SABRE 4000 Main Features
The portable SABRE 4000 can operate up to 4 hours on a fully charged battery. The
Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) on the detector, together with the colour coded
backgrounds and messages, provide all relevant data to the Operator. The SABRE
4000 can also be connected to a PC for data viewing and programming using
Instrument Manager (IM32) software, which is discussed in Chapter 5. Additionally,
the SABRE 4000 can be connected to a printer for printing saved sample results.
Refer to Figure 2-3 for a detailed front view of the SABRE 4000.
Audio Alarm Cancel /

Vapour Analysis Start
Button
Sampling Method Selector

in Exp or Nar Mode/
Mode Selector in CWA/
TIC Mode
LCD and
Function Buttons
Swab Slot
Vapour
Sampling
Inlet
Figure 2-3 SABRE 4000
SABRE 4000 Main Features 2–4 Revision A, September 2004

2.3 Battery Pack and Charger
The lithium ion 12 VDC battery pack and charger can provide up to 4 hours of
operation time, and requires approximately 2 hours to fully recharge. Optionally, a
lithium ion 12 VDC 2-hour battery is available. The SABRE 4000 can also be operated
from 110/220 VAC, 50/60 Hz using the charger. The charger can recharge the battery
while simultaneously monitoring its voltage and temperature. The lithium ion
batteries do not contain any hazardous substances and do not require any special
disposal procedures.
Figure 2-4 Battery Packs and Charger
2.3.1 Battery Pack Handling Precautions

• Do not short the battery pack’s terminals at any time.
• Use only the lithium ion battery charger provided by Smiths Detection.
• Check the battery pack’s temperature while charging. Stop charging if the battery
pack becomes very hot.
• Only charge the battery within the temperature range of 32°F to 104°F (0°C to
40°C). Before charging, allow cold batteries to warm up and hot batteries to cool
down.
• Keep battery packs away from fire and excessive heat sources.
• Do not immerse the battery pack in water.
• Keep the battery pack’s terminals clean.
• Always use the battery packs as intended.
Revision A, September 2004 2–5 Battery Pack and Charger

SABRE 4000
2.4 Sampling Options and Analyzing Description
The SABRE 4000 system is capable of analyzing vapour or particulate samples.

Depending upon specific requirements and the physical characteristics of the medium
to be sampled, the Operator can decide on the most suitable operating mode.
Regardless of operating mode, the analysis cycle remains the same. When the analysis
starts, the desorber moves toward the sample and seals it between the desorber heater
and the IMS inlet. As the sample is heated, the sample vapours pass through the
membrane and into the IMS detector, where they are ionized in the reaction region,
forming ions or ionic clusters of specific mobilities. The gating grid opens, letting ions
of the correct polarity enter the drift region. The ions are then focused and accelerated
by the electric field along the drift region of the IMS tube to arrive at the collector
electrode (typically 10 to 20 milliseconds). The magnitude of the collector current, as a
function of time, is proportional to the number of ions arriving at that moment. The
IMS detector is extremely selective because the drift times (ion mobilities) are very
specific for individual chemical compounds.
2.4.1 Particle Collection and Analysis

SABRE 4000 particle analysis consists of two steps. The Operator first collects the
sample, then analyses the sample. Particle samples are collected by wiping suspect
surfaces with a clean swab, which is then inserted into the sampling slot. Analysis
begins automatically upon the swab entering the sampling slot.
2.4.2 Vapour Collection and Analysis

Vapour sample collection and analysis is carried out simultaneously. To initiate a
vapour sample collection, the operator inserts a sealing "vapour card" into the sample
slot and presses the Analysis Start button. The vapours are drawn into the detector
and then transferred to the IMS region where they are analyzed and detected.
Sampling Options and Analyzing Description 2–6 Revision A, September 2004

2.5 Technical Specifications
The SABRE 4000 will operate under most environmental conditions normally
encountered in outdoor operations (14°F to 113°F or -10°C to 45°C) such as airports,
public buildings, offices, laboratories, etc. Relative humidity must not exceed 95%
non-condensing. The SABRE 4000 is splash proof, resistant to salt and UV light, and is
usable in high elevations (>10,000 feet or 3,000 meters). For greater resistance to salt,
UV light and the additional protection from jarring, an optional cover is available. For
operation, ensure the area is not contaminated by any of the substances being
analyzed for. Unless using the special optional cover, do not cover the unit or restrict
air flow, as the system may shut down if the ambient temperature is too high.
Refer to Table 2-1 for operation requirements, as well as performance specifications.
For additional information, please contact your local Smiths Detection office.
Table 2-1 Specifications for SABRE 4000

Specification Requirement
Sample Collection Trace Particle and Vapour
Input Voltage 12VDC, 110 VAC / 220 VAC, 50-60 Hz
(auto switching)
Four Hour Battery1
Plug in power supply allowing for
continuous charging of battery and full
functionality of unit.
Power Requirements:
Cold 60W
Warm 30W
Warm Up Time Up to 30 minutes
Analysis Time Less than 20 seconds
Alarm Type Audio and Visual. Display indicates
detected substance.
False Alarm Rate Less than 1%
Programmable Channels Up to 40
Dimensions (approximate) 13" x 4" x 4.5" (33cm x 10.5cm x 11.5cm)
Weight (approximate) 7 lbs. including battery
(3.2 kg. including battery)
Operating Climate Range 14°F to 113°F (0C to +45C)
Less than 95% humidity, non-condensing
1. Dependant upon compounds analyzed for and required desorber temperature. Optional lead acid longer
life battery is available.
Revision A, September 2004 2–7 Technical Specifications

SABRE 4000
2.5.1 Detected Compounds

The following table is a list of standard compounds. Additional compounds can be
easily programmed into the SABRE 4000.
Explosives
Ammonium Nitrate RDX
DNT SEMTEX
HMTD TATP
HMX Tetryl
Nitroglycerine TNT
PETN
Narcotics
Amphetamine Methylenedioxy Methamphetamine
(MDMA)
Cocaine Methamphetamine
Heroin Phencyclidine (PCP)
Methylenedioxy Amphetamine (MDA) Tetrahydrocannibinol (THC)
Methylenedioxy Ethylamphetamine
(MDEA)
Chemical Warfare Agents

Agent VX (Vx, VsubX) Sarin (GB)
Cyclosarin (GF) Soman (GD)
Mustard (HD) Tabun (GA)
Nitrogen Mustard 3 (HN-3)
Toxic Industrial Chemicals

Ammonia (NH3) Hydrogen Cyanide (HCN)
Chlorine (Cl2) Phosgene (CG)
Ethylene Oxide (ETOX) Sulfur Dioxide (SO2)
Technical Specifications 2–8 Revision A, September 2004

Operator’s Manual Setting Up the SABRE 4000
Chapter 3 Setting Up the SABRE 4000
This section guides the Operator through the setup options available in the
SABRE 4000, as well as provides a basic understanding of SABRE 4000 features.
For detailed information on SABRE 4000 operating functions, refer to Chapter 4.
NOTE: This manual is written using a tri-mode SABRE 4000 for all procedures,
descriptions and diagrams. Although many of the screen captures are
obtained with the SABRE 4000 in explosives mode, the procedures are
applicable for all operating modes unless otherwise specified.
All navigation between the menus and screens is performed by pressing the Function
button directly below the applicable LCD menu button on the user interface.
LCD
Display
Buttons
Function
Buttons
Backlight Left Blank Right Blank Power
Figure 3-1 Relationship Between the LCD Buttons and the Function Buttons
Therefore, as shown in Figure 3-1:

• pressing the Backlight function button will display the Calibrant screen.
• pressing the Right Blank function button will display the Mode screen.
• pressing the Power function button will display the Function menu.

SABRE 4000
3.1 Selecting the Operating Mode
The operating mode is determined by the type and substance the Operator is most
interested in detecting. Two optional miscellaneous modes can be programmed by the
user.
NOTE: This procedure is applicable to SABRE 4000’s with more than one operating
mode available.
Figure 3-2 Ready Screens (typical)
Use the following procedure to set the Operating mode.

1. From the Ready screen, press the Mode button to access the Operating Mode
screen. The Operating Mode menu will appear. Refer to Figure 3-3.
Figure 3-3 Operating Mode Screen (typical)
2. Using the Up or Down button, navigate to the appropriate field to be set, then
press the Enter button to confirm the setting.
3. Press the Escape button to exit the Operating Mode selection screen.
Selecting the Operating Mode 3–2 Revision A, September 2004

3.2 Settings Menu
Figure 3-4 Settings Menu Screen (typical)
Use the following procedure to access the Settings menu.

1. From the Ready screen, press the Function button to access the Function Menu
screen. Refer to Figure 3-5.
Figure 3-5 Ready Screen (typical)
2. Using the Down button, navigate to the Settings option and press the Enter button
to proceed. Refer to Figure 3-6.
Figure 3-6 Function Menu Screens
3. The Settings Menu screen will appear. Using the Up or Down button, navigate to
the desired menu option and press the Enter button to proceed.
Revision A, September 2004 3–3 Settings Menu

SABRE 4000
3.2.1 Settings Menu - Clock
Figure 3-7 Clock Settings Screen (typical)
Use the following procedure to adjust the clock settings.

screen.
to proceed. The Settings Menu screen will appear.
3. Using the Down button, navigate to the Clock option and press the Enter button to
proceed. The Clock Settings screen will appear. Refer to Figure 3-7.
press the Enter button to highlight the field.
5. Using the Up or Down button, adjust the settings. Press the Enter button to
confirm the setting.
NOTE: The clock is in 24-hour format.
6. Press the Escape button to exit the Clock settings screen. The Confirm Changes
dialog box will appear. Refer to Figure 3-8. Press the Enter button to accept the
new settings.
Figure 3-8 Confirm Settings Dialog Box (typical)
Settings Menu 3–4 Revision A, September 2004

3.2.2 Settings Menu - Audio
Figure 3-9 Audio Settings Screen (typical)
Use the following procedure to adjust the audio settings.

screen.
3. Using the Down button, navigate to the Audio option and press the Enter button
to proceed. The Audio Settings screen will appear. Refer to Figure 3-9.
press the Enter button to highlight the field.
5. Using the Up or Down button, adjust the settings. Press the Enter button to
confirm the setting.
6. Press the Escape button to exit the Audio Settings screen. The Confirm Changes
dialog box will appear. Press the Enter button to accept the new settings. Refer to
Figure 3-10.

SABRE 4000
3.2.3 Settings Menu - Results Display Options
Figure 3-11 Results Display Options Screen (typical)
Use the following procedure to adjust the results display options settings.
screen.
3. Using the Down button, navigate to Results Display Options and press the Enter
button to proceed. The Results Display Options screen will appear. Refer to
Figure 3-11.
Option descriptions are as follows:
Option Description
Display Channels
ALL CHANNELS Displays all channels detected, even if no alarm has

resulted from the analysis.
ALL ON ALARM Displays all channels detected if an alarm

occurred, even if a particular channel did not
contribute to the alarm.
ALARM CHANNELS Only displays the channels that led to an alarm.
Selecting Display CumA will display the

cumulative amplitudes of detected channels.
Display CumA NOTE: Cumulative amplitudes is the sum of
amplitudes from all segments in which the
peak was detected.

Option Description
Save Plasmagram
ON DEMAND After performing an analysis and pressing the

Details button on the Alarm screen, the
plasmagram that appears is saved by pressing the
Save button that appears at the far right of the
button row of the Details screen.
NOTE: The SABRE 4000 can store approximately
300 plasmagram files. Stored plasmagrams
can only be viewed using IM32 (refer to
Appendix A).
ON ALARM The detected substance plasmagram is saved in the

event of an alarm.
ALWAYS Always saves the detected substance plasmagram.
5. Press the Escape button to exit the Results Display Options screen. The Confirm
Changes dialog box will appear. Press the Enter button to accept the new settings.
Refer to Figure 3-12.

SABRE 4000
3.2.4 Settings Menu - RS-232 Mode
Figure 3-13 RS-232 Mode Settings Screen (typical)
Use the following procedure to adjust the RS-232 Mode settings.

screen.
3. Using the Down button, navigate to the RS-232 Mode option and press the Enter
button to proceed. The RS-232 Mode screen will appear. Refer to Figure 3-13.
5. Press the Escape button to exit the RS-232 Mode screen. The Confirm Changes
Figure 3-14.

3.2.5 Settings Menu - Printer Controls
Figure 3-15 Printer Controls Screen (typical)
NOTE: The printer option must be selected in the RS-232 Mode screen in order to use
the print function.
Use the following procedure to adjust the Printer Control settings.
screen.
3. Using the Down button, navigate to the Printer Controls option and press the
Enter button to proceed. The Printer Control screen will appear. Refer to
Figure 3-15.
Option descriptions are as follows:
Table 3-1 Printer Control Options
Option Description
MANUAL The printer will only print if the Print Results

option is selected. Select this option if no printer is
connected.
ALARMS ONLY The printer will automatically print the results of

every analysis that resulted in an alarm. If the
printer is not responding, the SABRE 4000 will
display a "Waiting for Printer" message after a few
analyses. Press the Enter button to set up the
printer correctly, or reset the Printer Controls
option to Manual mode.

SABRE 4000
Table 3-1 Printer Control Options
Option Description
ALL The printer will print the results of every analysis.

If the printer is not responding, the SABRE 4000
will display a "Waiting for Printer" message after
an analysis. Press the Enter button to set up the
printer correctly, or reset the Printer Controls
option to Manual mode.
Note Space Determines the number of line feeds after the

analysis results have been printed before a dotted
line appears, marking the end of that analysis’
printout. Adding note space is useful for adding
handwritten comments or signatures.
5. Press the Escape button to exit the Printer Controls Settings screen. The Confirm
Changes dialog box will appear. Press the Enter button to accept the new settings.
3.2.6 Settings Menu - Language
Figure 3-17 Language Mode Settings Screen (typical)
Use the following procedure to select the operating language.

screen.
3. Using the Down button, navigate to the Language option and press the Enter
button to proceed. The Language screen will appear. Refer to Figure 3-17.
4. Using the Up or Down button, navigate to the appropriate language to be set, then
NOTE: If an incorrect language is accidentally selected, return to the default
English menu by pressing the Down button and the Enter button (the two
right-most function buttons) at the same time. The Language menu will
appear. Repeat Step 4 to complete the language selection.
5. Press the Escape button to exit the Language settings screen. The Confirm Changes
Figure 3-18.
3.3 Adjusting the LCD Backlighting
The SABRE 4000 backlighting can be adjusted for indoor or outdoor use. To adjust the
backlight contrast, press and hold the Backlight function soft key. The contrast will
alternate between the two settings, as applicable. Refer to Figure 3-19.
Backlight Function Button
Figure 3-19 Function Soft Keys
Revision A, September 2004 3–11 Adjusting the LCD Backlighting

SABRE 4000

Operator’s Manual Basic Operation
Chapter 4 Basic Operation
This section describes the basic operation of the SABRE 4000 and includes information
about the following topics:
• User interface
• Starting up
• Running a verification
• Running a blank
• Performing an auto calibration
• Operating modes
• Sampling modes
• Analysis results
• Function menu
• Messages
• Running a clean cycle
• Shutting down
NOTE: This manual is written using a tri-mode SABRE 4000 for all procedures,
descriptions and diagrams. Although a selection of the screen captures are
obtained with the SABRE 4000 in explosives mode, the procedures are
applicable for all operating modes unless otherwise specified.

SABRE 4000
4.1 SABRE 4000 User Interface
All navigation between the menus and screens is performed by pressing the function
buttons directly below the LCD menu button on the user interface, as explained on
page 3-1.
The SABRE 4000 Ready screen is the primary screen the Operator uses to monitor the
status of the SABRE 4000. Refer to Figure 4-1 for a view of the Ready screen, and
Figure 4-2 and Table 4-1 for a detailed description of the menus, messages and status
fields.
Figure 4-1 Ready Screens (typical)
Sampling Mode Icon

Operating Mode
RS-232 Icon
Battery Level Icon
Icons and Mode on

Background Color
Coding
Information Area
Message Area with

Background Color
Coding
LCD Buttons
Figure 4-2 SABRE 4000 User Interface
SABRE 4000 User Interface 4–2 Revision A, September 2004

Table 4-1 SABRE 4000 User Interface
Feature Description
Background The LCD screen background will illuminate

Color Coding yellow when the SABRE 4000 is performing an
analysis, the system is warming/cooling, or it is
not ready for analysis.
The LCD screen background will illuminate

green when the SABRE 4000 is ready to perform
analyses.
The LCD screen background will illuminate red

if a programmed substance is detected.
LCD Buttons The Escape button has multiple functions,

including cancelling a function, as explained in
detail throughout this manual.
The Up button is used to navigate through the

SABRE 4000 firmware.
The Down button is used to navigate through

the SABRE 4000 firmware.
The Enter button has multiple functions

including cancelling a function and starting up
the SABRE 4000, as explained in detail
throughout this manual.
The Calibrant button is used to open the

Calibrant screen for viewing the calibrant
position, delta, and level.
The Clean Cycle button is used to initiate a

clean cycle for the SABRE 4000.
The Detail button appears in the alarm screen,

and opens the Detail screen, used to view
further details regarding the alarm.
The Function button is used to access the

Function Menu screen.
The Mode button is used to open the Operating

Mode screen from the Ready screen.
The Reset button appears in the APT Reset

window, and is used to reset the APT
parameters.
Revision A, September 2004 4–3 SABRE 4000 User Interface

SABRE 4000
Table 4-1 SABRE 4000 User Interface
Feature Description
Icons Sampling Mode Icons: Sampling mode icons

display the current sampling mode. Refer to
“Sampling Modes” on page 4-13 for a
description of the Sampling Modes.
EXPLOSIVES Operating Modes: The current operating mode

NARCOTICS is displayed. Operating modes are discussed in
detail in “Selecting the Operating Mode” on
CW POSITIVE
page 3-2.
CW
NEGATIVE
TIC POSITIVE
TIC
NEGATIVE
Disk Space Almost Full and Full: Displays

when there is little or no memory remaining for
saving plasmagrams. When the memory is full,
the icon blinks.
RS-232 Icons: The printer icon displays when

the RS-232 mode is set to printer and the
computer icon displays when the RS-232 mode
is set to computer. The computer icon is shown
with a filled screen when the SABRE 4000 is
connected to a computer.
Power Indicator Icons: Power indicator icons

display the power source, and in the case of the
internal battery, the charge status.
SABRE 4000 User Interface 4–4 Revision A, September 2004

4.1.1 Messages
These messages appear in the bottom colored panel of the LCD screen.
Message Description
Desorber Motor Fault Appears if the desorber anvil movement is blocked

or if a fault appeared in the controller. Press the
Enter button to cycle.
If the fault does not clear, shut down and restart
the SABRE 4000.
If the fault does not clear after restarting, contact
your local Smiths Detection Service Engineer.
Waiting for Stable Calibrant Displays during system warm-up. Indicates the
system has found the calibrant, but it’s position is
not acceptable.
Ready for Analysis Displays when the system is ready to analyze a

sample.
Searching for Calibrant Displays during system warm-up. Indicates the

system is searching for the calibrant peak.
Drift Tube Too Hot Displays if the drift tube temperature exceeds 140C
(284°F). Primarily displays after switching
operating modes (i.e. narcotics mode to explosives
mode). Allow time for the drift tube to cool.
Waiting for HV Indicates the high voltage has not yet stabilized.
Waiting to Clear: XXX Often displays briefly after an analysis. Indicates

(where XXX is the name of the system still senses compounds and is waiting
the channel) for the previous sample to be cleared from the IMS
before performing another analysis. Run a clean
cycle to clear the instrument. Refer to “Running a
Clean Cycle” on page 4-30.
Warming At least one of the programmed temperatures is

either too far above or below the set point. Refer to
“Status” on page 4-23 for a description of the
programmed temperatures.
Revision A, September 2004 4–5 SABRE 4000 User Interface

SABRE 4000
4.2 Starting Up the SABRE 4000
Use the following procedure to start up the SABRE 4000.

1. Insert a fully charged battery into the SABRE 4000, or plug in the external power
supply. Refer to Figure 4-3.
Figure 4-3 Inserting the Battery
2. Press the Power function button to turn the SABRE 4000 on. Refer to Figure 4-4.
Power
Figure 4-4 Function Buttons
The SABRE 4000 will begin a self-test and warm up. The warm-up procedure takes
approximately 15 minutes during normal use. If the unit has been stored for any
length of time, or is being started for the first time, warm up may take up to 30
minutes. When the SABRE 4000 is Ready, the screen will change to green and "Ready"
will display on the LCD screen.
NOTE: During operation, the SABRE 4000 continuously monitors its components. In
the event of a component error, the LCD Display will remain yellow and an
error message will be displayed to alert the Operator. (Refer to “Messages” on
page 4-5.) The green Ready screen indicates that all system functions are
correct and set points have been reached.
When the SABRE 4000 becomes Ready, proceed with “Running a Verification” on
page 4-7.
Starting Up the SABRE 4000 4–6 Revision A, September 2004

4.2.1 Running a Verification

Verification should be performed at the beginning of every shift, as well as any time
the Operator needs assurance that the SABRE 4000 is working properly.
4.2.1.1 Particle Mode Verification

Use the following procedure to run a verification in particle mode.
CAUTION!
When running a verification, use caution to ensure the SABRE 4000 detector,
sampling swabs, work area and the Operator do not become contaminated.
1. Analyze a clean swab to ensure the SABRE 4000 is free of contamination. A "Pass"
message must be displayed after the analysis prior to proceeding with this
instruction.
2. Wearing clean powder-free latex gloves, lightly apply the correct verification
standard (yellow for explosives, green for narcotics) to the sample area of a clean
swab, using the notches in the swab as a placement guide. Refer to Figure 4-5.
Figure 4-5 Applying the Verification Standard (Negative Shown)
3. Insert the swab with the side containing the verification standard facing towards
the handle. Refer to Figure 4-6.
Revision A, September 2004 4–7 Starting Up the SABRE 4000

SABRE 4000
Figure 4-6 Inserting a Swab
Analysis will begin automatically and the LCD screen background will change to
yellow.
4.2.1.2 CWA/TIC Vapour Mode Verification

Use the following procedure to run a verification in CWA/TIC vapour mode.
CAUTION!
When running a verification, use caution to ensure the SABRE 4000 detector,
vapour card, work area and the Operator do not become contaminated.
1. Toggle the Sampling Method Selector switch on the handle of the SABRE 4000 to
vapour, if necessary.
2. Insert a clean vapour card and press the Enter button to seal the vapour card.
3. Press the yellow push button on the handle to collect a blank air sample, ensuring
the SABRE 4000 is free of contamination. A "Pass" message must be displayed after
the analysis prior to proceeding with this instruction.
4. Press the Vapour Analysis Start button (yellow push button on the handle) to
begin a vapour analysis, then lift the lid of the verification container and quickly
pass the container in front of the vapour sampling inlet. Refer to Figure 4-5.
NOTE: The CW vapour verification standard can be used in both negative and
positive modes.

Figure 4-7 Performing a Vapour Mode Verification
4.2.1.3 Verification Successful
Figure 4-8 Verification Alarm Screen and Alarm Details Screen (typical)
A successful verification will display an Alarm screen similar to Figure 4-8.

Optionally, an audible alarm may sound. Press the Audio Alarm Cancel button
(yellow push button on the handle) to cancel the audio alarm, if required. Press the
Detail button to open the Detail screen describing the alarm substance.
NOTE: If the Save on Demand option was selected in the Results Display menu, the
right-most button of the Details screen will display Save. Press the Save
button to save the alarm details and plasmagram.
Smiths Detection recommends running a blank sample after performing a successful
verification. Refer to “Running a Blank” on page 4-11.

SABRE 4000
4.2.1.4 Verification Unsuccessful
Figure 4-9 Verification Unsuccessful Screen (typical)
If the verification procedure was unsuccessful, indicated by a green "Pass" screen, re-
apply the verification standard and repeat the verification procedure.
If a successful verification is still not obtained after repeating the verification
procedure, refer to “Verification Troubleshooting Tips” on page 4-10.
4.2.1.4.1 Verification Troubleshooting Tips
Check the Calibrant Delta:

Press the Calibrant button and note the calibrant delta.
If this number is within ±30 µs in narcotics mode, or ±60 µs in explosives mode, and
the SABRE 4000 has been turned on for at least an hour, perform an autocalibration
and try verification again. Refer to “Autocalibration” on page 4-28.
If this number is larger than ±30 µs in narcotics mode, or ±60 µs in explosives mode,
and the SABRE 4000 has been turned on for less than an hour, wait until the calibrant
delta is within the limit and try verification again.
If this number stays outside the range, even after prolonged operation, the absolute
pressure transducer needs re-calibration. Refer to “Pressure Transducer Reset” on
page 5-2. If a successful verification is still unobtainable after re-calibrating the
absolute pressure transducer, perform an autocalibration. Refer to “Autocalibration”
on page 4-28.
Refresh the Verification Standard:

Particle Mode:
Using a clean tissue, wipe the tip of the verification standard to expose a fresh layer
and repeat the verification procedure.
CW/TIC Vapour Mode:
The verification standard may have expired. Repeat the verification procedure using a
fresh CW/TIC verification standard.
Replace the Air Purification Cartridge:

If the air purification cartridge has not been replaced recently, the contents may be
exhausted. Refer to “Replacing the Air Purification Cartridge” on page 6-11.

NOTE: If the desiccant in the air purification assembly was completely exhausted
prior to replacement, the SABRE 4000 will have to purge any possible water
contamination from the system. Run the SABRE 4000 in Ready mode and
intermittently perform a verification. The SABRE 4000 may require 24 hours
to purge a system that has had major water contamination.
If a successful verification is still unobtainable after performing all of the verification

troubleshooting tips, contact your local Smiths Detection Service Engineer.
4.2.2 Running a Blank

Running a blank allows a complete sampling analysis to be performed. It is
recommended that a blank sample be run after running a verification, or after an
alarm.
Use the following procedure to run a blank.
1. Insert a clean swab into the SABRE 4000. Analysis will begin automatically.
2. Check "Pass" displays on the LCD Display.
4.2.2.1 Blank Successful
Figure 4-10 Pass Screen (typical)
Repeat Step 1 with a clean swab until two consecutive "Pass" screens are obtained.

SABRE 4000
4.2.2.2 Blank Unsuccessful
Figure 4-11 Alarm Screen and Analysis Detail Screen (typical)
If the SABRE 4000 alarms, press the yellow push button (on the handle) to turn off the
optional audio alarm. Repeat “Running a Blank” on page 4-11 until a successful blank
is obtained. In the event of a persistent contamination, refer to “Running a Clean
Cycle” on page 4-30.
NOTE: Depending on the unit’s current settings, alarm substance plasmagrams may
not save automatically. In this instance, the right-most button will read "Save".
Press the Save button to save the alarm details and plasmagram. For more
information refer to “Settings Menu - Results Display Options” on page 3-6.

4.3 Sampling Modes
The SABRE 4000 is capable of detecting target analytes as both particulate and
vapours. However, detecting narcotics as vapours is almost never performed because
of the extremely low vapour pressures exhibited by these substances.
Table 4-2 Sampling Modes
Sampling Mode Description
Narcotics Particle Used almost exclusively for all programmed

narcotics.
Vapour Not recommended for most narcotics

because of their low vapour pressure.a
Explosives Particle Highly recommended for all programmed

substances.
Vapour Recommended for Nitroglycerine, DNT and

TNT.
CWA/TIC Particle If CW Agents are present as a mist or

Agents aerosol, or in the case of checking for surface
decontamination or contamination, particle
sampling can be used effectively.
Vapour Highly recommended for all programmed

substances.
Optional Particle User programmable mode for substances

Misc. 1 and selected by the user.
Misc. 2 Vapour
a. Methamphetamine is an exception. It can be detected as a vapour.
Revision A, September 2004 4–13 Sampling Modes

SABRE 4000
4.3.1 Sampling Mode Icons

The current sampling mode is indicated by an icon on the user interface. Refer to
Table 4-3 for a description of each of the sampling icons.
Table 4-3 Sampling Mode Icons
Icon Sampling Mode
Particle Sampling
Particle Sampling with Swab Inserted
Vapour Sampling
4.3.2 Setting the Sampling Mode

Use the following procedure to set the sampling mode.
1. From the Ready screen, press the Function button. The Function menu will appear.
Figure 4-12 Function Menu (typical)
2. Using the Down button, navigate to the Sampling Mode option. Press the Enter
button to confirm. The Sampling Mode screen will appear. Refer to Figure 4-13.
Sampling Modes 4–14 Revision A, September 2004

Figure 4-13 Sampling Mode Screen (typical)
3. Using the Up or Down button, navigate to the desired sampling mode. Press the
Enter button to confirm the setting and return to the Ready screen.
NOTE: The yellow slide button on the handle of the SABRE 4000 is used to switch
between particle and vapour modes while in explosive and narcotics
modes.
In chemical warfare agent, toxic industrial chemical, and the two
miscellaneous modes, the yellow slide button can be used to switch
between positive and negative sampling.
4.3.3 Obtaining a Particle Sample

Particle sampling is highly recommended for all programmed explosives and
narcotics as it is the most effective method of sampling.
In this mode, the Operator samples the area by wiping suspected surfaces with a
"shark skin" swab, then inserts the swab into the desorber slot for analysis.
Particle Sampling Tips:

• Smiths Detection recommends wearing powder-free latex gloves.
• Apply firm pressure using the two forefingers.
• Concentrate the sample within the notches on the sampling swab.
• Sample areas where hands and fingertips would touch, such as handles, carrying
straps, zippers, car door handles, steering wheel, etc.
• The area sampled with one swab should not exceed 4 ft.2 (0.5m2).
• Swabs can be re-used up to ten times, depending on the cleanliness and dryness of
the swab.
• When sampling wet or damp surfaces, allow the swab to dry before performing
the analysis.
Use the following procedure to perform a particle sample.

1. Check the sampling mode is set to particle mode. Refer to “Setting the Sampling
Mode” on page 4-14.

SABRE 4000
2. Using a clean swab and wearing latex gloves, wipe the sample area of the swab on
a suspect surface. Refer to Figure 4-14.
Figure 4-14 Obtaining a Particle Sample
3. Insert the swab into the desorber slot. Refer to Figure 4-15.
NOTE: Place the sample side towards the handle.
Notches in Swab
Figure 4-15 Inserting the Swab
4. Analysis will begin automatically. At the completion of the sample analysis, the
analysis results will display on the user interface. Refer to “Pass Result” on
page 4-19 and “Alarm Result” on page 4-20 for a detailed description of analysis
results.

4.3.4 Obtaining a Vapour Sample

Vapour sampling is only recommended for substances with high vapour pressures,
such as nitroglycerine (NG), dinitrotoluene (DNT), trinitrotoluene (TNT), CW agents
and TICs. Vapour sampling is not recommended for most narcotics with the exception
of methamphetamine.
Use the following procedure to perform a vapour sample.
1. Check the sampling mode is set to Vapour. Refer to “Setting the Sampling Mode”
on page 4-14. The SABRE 4000 will beep and the message "Load Vapour Card" will
appear. Refer to Figure 4-16.
Figure 4-16 Load Vapour Card Message (typical)
If the "Load Vapour Card" message does not appear, press the Function button to
open the Function menu. The Function menu appears. Refer to Figure 4-17.
Use the Up or Down button to navigate to the Vapour Card Loading/Unloading
option and press the Enter button to select. The "Load Vapour Card" message will
now appear.
Figure 4-17 Function Menu for Vapour Sampling Mode (typical)
2. While wearing powder-free latex gloves, insert a clean vapour card into the
desorber slot. Refer to Figure 4-18. The message "Vapour Card Loaded" will
3. Press Enter to seal the vapour card in the desorber slot.

SABRE 4000
Vapour Card
Vapour
Sampling Inlet
Figure 4-18 Loading a Vapour Card
Figure 4-19 Vapour Card Loaded Message (typical)
4. Remove the cap from the vapour sampling inlet.

5. Place the vapour sampling inlet as close as possible to the suspect surface.
NOTE: The vapour sampling inlet can be placed inside an enclosed space, if
necessary.
6. Press the Vapour Analysis Start button (yellow push button on the handle).
Sample collection and analysis will begin automatically.
7. At the completion of the sample analysis, check the analysis results on the user
interface. Refer to “Pass Result” on page 4-19 and “Alarm Result” on page 4-20 for
a detailed description of analysis results.

4.4 Analysis Results
4.4.1 Pass Result
Figure 4-20 Pass Result Screen (typical)
Particle Sampling Mode: In the event of a Pass result, the SABRE 4000 will beep twice
and return to Ready mode after the approximately 15 second purge cycle. Remove the
swab from the desorber slot and re-use for the collection of the next sample. Repeat
Step 2 to Step 4 of "Obtaining a Particle Sample" for additional analyses.
Vapour Sampling Mode: In the event of a Pass result, the SABRE 4000 will beep twice
and return to Ready mode after a brief purge cycle. The vapour card remains in the
desorber slot to be re-used for the next sample collection. Repeat Step 5 to Step 7 of
"Obtaining a Vapour Sample" for additional analyses.
Revision A, September 2004 4–19 Analysis Results

SABRE 4000
4.4.2 Alarm Result

If the analysis returns an alarm result, the audible alarm will sound (optional), the red
Alarm screen will appear stating the alarm substance(s) detected, and the magnitude
of the detected substance(s) will be indicated by a bar graph.
• Press the Audio Alarm Cancel button to cancel the audio alarm, if enabled.
• Press the Detail button to display the Alarm Details screen. Refer to “Alarm Details
Screen” on page 4-20.
• To view the calibrant position after an alarm, refer to “Status” on page 4-23.
• Clear the alarm. Refer to “Clearing an Alarm Result” on page 4-21.
Figure 4-21 Alarm Result Screens (typical)
4.4.2.1 Alarm Details Screen

V
Figure 4-22 Alarm Details Screens (typical)
Table 4-4 Alarm Details Screen Description
Detail Description
Channel Displays the name of the identified channel.
MaxA Displays the maximum amplitude(s) of the

channel(s). The larger the amplitude, the larger the
magnitude of substance was detected.
Analysis Results 4–20 Revision A, September 2004

Table 4-4 Alarm Details Screen Description
Detail Description
Delta Delta is a measure of how close the detected peak

was to its programmed position in microseconds.
Delta varies from ±50 in the course of normal
operation.
#Seg Indicates the number of segments in which a peak

was detected.
Typically:
• Explosives Mode - 24 segments are scanned
over 20 seconds.
• Narcotics Mode - 16 segments are scanned over
20 seconds.
• CW/TIC Positive - 40 segments are scanned
over 20 seconds.
• CW/TIC Negative - 12 segments are scanned
over 10 seconds.
4.4.2.2 Clearing an Alarm Result

Press the Audio Alarm Cancel button (yellow push button) on the handle of the
SABRE 4000, if applicable.
Particle Mode:
1. Remove the swab.
2. Record the alarm results.
3. To view and print alarm results, refer to “View Results” on page 4-24.
4. Run blank samples until the SABRE 4000 responds with two consecutive "Pass"
results. Refer to “Running a Blank” on page 4-11. In the event of a persistent
contamination, refer to “Cleaning After an Alarm” on page 4-22.
Vapour Mode:
1. Record the alarm results.
2. To view and print alarm results, refer to “View Results” on page 4-24.
3. Obtain a clean sample of ambient air until one "No Alarms" result is obtained. In
the event of a persistent contamination, refer to “Cleaning After an Alarm” on
page 4-22.
Revision A, September 2004 4–21 Analysis Results

SABRE 4000
4.4.2.3 Cleaning After an Alarm

Run a blank analysis to remove the alarm substance from the system. Check a Pass
result is obtained. If the blank analysis returns an alarm result, repeat the blank
analysis procedure up to three times. Should the blank analysis return an alarm result
after three attempts, perform the following steps until the alarm substance is cleared.
1. Run up to three clean cycles (refer to “Running a Clean Cycle” on page 4-31), and
perform a blank analysis after the last clean cycle to test for decontamination.
Continue to Step 2 if a blank analysis alarms after the third clean cycle.
2. Clean the inlet drum and desorber (refer to “Cleaning the Inlet Drum and
Desorber” on page 6-3), then perform up to three blank analyses to test for
decontamination. Continue to Step 3 in the event of an alarm result.
3. Perform a bake-out (refer to “Performing a Bake-Out” on page 6-5), then perform
up to three blank analyses to test for decontamination. Continue to Step 4 in the
event of an alarm result.
4. Replace the inlet drum and membrane (refer to “Replacing the Inlet Drum and
Membrane” on page 6-6), then perform up to three blank analyses to test for
decontamination. Continue to Step 5 in the event of an alarm result.
5. If all attempts to clean the SABRE 4000 of an alarm substance, as described above,
are unsuccessful call your local Smiths Detection Service Engineer.
4.5 Function Menu
The Function Menu can be accessed from the Ready screen by pressing the Function
button. Refer to Figure 4-23.
Figure 4-23 Function Menu - Status Screens (typical)
Function Menu 4–22 Revision A, September 2004

4.5.1 Status
In the Status menu, pressing the Down button toggles between the three screens. If a
parameter’s value is highlighted, the parameter has not reached its set point. Analysis
will not be available until the set point is reached, and the SABRE 4000 Ready screen
appears.
Access to the Status Menu is gained using the following procedure.
1. From the Ready screen, press the Function button. The Function Menu screen will
appear.
2. Use the Up or Down button to select the Status option. Press Enter to proceed.
Figure 4-24 Function Menu Screens (typical)
Pressing the Down button toggles between the three screens.
4.5.2 Plasmagram
To view the real-time plasmagram, use the following procedure.
appear.
2. Use the Up or Down button to select the Plasmagram option. Press Enter to
proceed. Refer to Figure 4-25.
Figure 4-25 Plasmagram Screens (typical)
Revision A, September 2004 4–23 Function Menu

SABRE 4000
3. Use the Up or Down button to select a control parameter and adjust the view scale
of the plasmagram.
Parameter Description
Cursor Adjusts the drift time position of the vertical bar.
V Scale Adjusts the vertical scale of the plasmagram.
V Offset Adjusts the vertical offset of the plasmagram.
Average Turns averaging of plasmagrams on or off.
H Scale Adjusts the horizontal scale of the plasmagram.
H Offset Adjusts the horizontal offset of the plasmagram.
4.5.3 View Results

The View Results menu is used for viewing and printing stored alarm results. SABRE
4000 analysis results are stored in the system memory and can be viewed or printed at
any time. The unit can store up to 300 alarm results.
4.5.3.1 To View and Print Stored Alarm Results

Use the following procedure to view or print alarm results.
1. Printing Only:
a. Select the Printer option in the RS-232 Mode screen. Refer to “Settings Menu -
RS-232 Mode” on page 3-8. The computer icon at the top right of the screen
changes to a printer icon.
b. Connect the RS-232 cable from the printer to the serial interface port on the rear
of the SABRE 4000. Refer to Figure 4-26.
RS-232 Serial
Interface Port
Figure 4-26 Rear View of the SABRE 4000

2. Printing and Viewing:

a. From the Ready screen, press the Function button. The Function Menu screen
will appear.
b. Using the Up or Down button, navigate to the View Results option and press
the Enter button to proceed. Refer to Figure 4-27 for a view of the Results
screen.
Figure 4-27 Settings Menu (typical)
c. Using the Up or Down button, define the parameters relating to the desired
analysis results to be viewed and/or printed. Refer to Table 4-5.
Table 4-5 Viewing Options
Option Description
Result type All

Alarm Only
No Alarm
Sample type All

Vapour
Particle
Not uploaded All

No
Yes
Sampled after Date specified
Sampled before Date specified
Results filtered Displays the total number of analysis results which

have been filtered and are available for viewing
and saving.

SABRE 4000
Table 4-5 Viewing Options
Option Description
Total samples Displays the total number of samples which have

been analyzed.
View Opens the analysis results screen.
d. After setting the View options, highlight View and press the Enter button to
proceed to the desired analysis results.
e. Press the View button to select the "Last Result", "First Result", or "Print
Current Result" options. Refer to Figure 4-28.
Figure 4-28 View Options Screen (typical)
4.5.4 Bake-Out
As part of routine maintenance or after a large hit, the SABRE 4000 may require a
bake-out. Refer to “Performing a Bake-Out” on page 6-5.
4.5.5 Cycle Desorber

Occasionally, the desorber may need to be cycled from a closed position to an open
position, or from an open position to a closed position.
Use the following procedure to cycle the desorber.
appear.
2. Using the Down button, navigate to the Cycle Desorber option and press the Enter
button to proceed. The desorber will automatically begin to cycle.

4.5.6 Sampling Mode

For information on Sampling modes, refer to “Setting the Sampling Mode” on
page 4-14.
4.5.7 Password Controls

The Password Controls menu contains menus for setting parameters for the SABRE
4000. The Password Controls Menu options are described in “Accessing the Password
Controls Menu” on page 5-1.
4.5.8 Settings
The Settings Menu contains options for basic configuration of the SABRE 4000. Some
of the options in the Settings menu include clock, audio, and language controls. For a
description of the set up options available in the Settings menu, refer to “Settings
Menu” on page 3-3.
4.5.9 Alarm List

The Alarm list contains the list of alarm substances programmed in the SABRE 4000.
The Alarms screen lists the alarm status of all programmed substances. Alarms
indicated by an "[X]" are turned on, while alarms with "[ ]" are turned off.
Figure 4-29 Alarms List Screens (typical)

SABRE 4000
Alarms for all programmed substances can be turned on or off through the Password
Controls Menu. Refer to “Alarms” on page 5-3.
4.5.10 Version and Serial Number

Selecting the Version and Serial Number option of the Function menu opens the
Version and Serial Number screen. Refer to Figure 4-30.
Figure 4-30 Version and Serial Number Screen (typical)
4.5.11 Autocalibration
Autocalibration is designed to compensate for small variations in the calibration that
may occur, and is a temporary correction. Autocalibration will adjust the parameters
controlling the alarms in the SABRE 4000.
Autocalibration should rarely be necessary, and should only be performed when
• the delta values of any detected substances are very high.
• running a verification fails to alarm after performing all verification
troubleshooting tips.
Use the following procedure to perform an autocalibration.

appear.
2. Using the Down button, navigate to the Autocalibration option and press the Enter
button to proceed. The Autocalibration screen will appear. Refer to Figure 4-31.

Figure 4-31 Autocalibration Screen (typical)
3. Using clean powder-free latex gloves, apply the correct verification standard for
the current operating mode to a blank swab, as explained in “Running a
Verification” on page 4-7.
4. The SABRE 4000 will complete the analysis and display the "Sample 1 Pass" screen.
NOTE: If an autocalibration analysis results in a "Fail", repeat the procedure until
two "Pass" results are obtained within five attempts. These "Pass" results
do not have to happen consecutively.
If two "Pass" results cannot be obtained within five attempts, contact your
local Smiths Detection Service Engineer.
5. Repeat Step 3.
6. The SABRE 4000 will complete the analysis and display the "Sample 2 Pass" screen.
7. Press the Enter button to accept the autocalibration.
NOTE: Autocalibration remains active until the SABRE 4000 is shut down.
8. After obtaining a successful autocalibration, run a verification to ensure the
SABRE 4000 will alarm correctly. Refer to “Running a Verification” on page 4-7.
9. Check the delta values of the target substance after a verification are now close to
zero.

SABRE 4000
4.6 Running a Clean Cycle
Clean cycle is designed to remove persistent contamination after a particle analysis

that contained excessive amounts of sample. During clean cycle the SABRE 4000
flushes the sample introduction system and the inlet region with clean air.
Use the following procedure to run a clean cycle.
1. From the Alarm screen, press the Clean Cycle button. Refer to Figure 4-32.
Figure 4-32 Alarm Screen (typical)
2. Clean cycle will begin automatically. After a successful clean cycle, the SABRE
4000 will automatically return to the Ready screen and "Pass" will display. In the
event the clean cycle was unsuccessful, the screen will display "Not Clean" and the
display will remain red. Refer to Figure 4-33.
Press the Escape button to exit the clean cycle function, or press the Start button to
repeat the clean cycle.
NOTE: Clean cycle can be repeated up to three times. If the system is still
contaminated after the third clean cycle, refer to “Cleaning After an
Alarm” on page 4-22.
Figure 4-33 Clean Cycle Screens (typical)
Running a Clean Cycle 4–30 Revision A, September 2004

4.7 Shutting Down the SABRE 4000
CAUTION!
The SABRE 4000 must be free of contamination prior to shutting down at the end of
a shift or to perform routine maintenance. Should the SABRE 4000 alarm or a
verification procedure be performed at the end of a shift or prior to performing a
routine maintenance procedure, always run a clean cycle prior to shutting down
the SABRE 4000.
Use the following procedure to shut down the SABRE 4000 at the end of a shift, or to
perform routine maintenance.
1. Press and hold the Power button.
2. In the confirmation window, select "Yes" to continue shutting down the

SABRE 4000.
Revision A, September 2004 4–31 Shutting Down the SABRE 4000

SABRE 4000

Operator’s Manual Advanced Features
Chapter 5 Advanced Features
The SABRE 4000 has the provision for advanced Operators to gain access to the
functions that control system operation and calibration. These important parameters
are called Password Controls, and they reside in the SABRE 4000 electronics. Every
SABRE 4000 shipment also contains a printout of the default control parameters and
the unique password. Should the parameters in the SABRE 4000 become
compromised, it is possible to reload the correct parameters via the IM32 software. If
certain parameters need to be changed in the field, and there is no access to a
computer connection, follow the procedures described below.
5.1 Accessing the Password Controls Menu
The Password Controls menu is a password protected menu.

Use the following procedure to access the Password Controls menu.
1. From the Ready screen, press the Function button. The Function menu will appear.
2. Using the Up or Down button, navigate to the Password Controls option and press
the Enter button to proceed. The Enter Password screen appears. Refer to
Figure 5-1.
Figure 5-1 Enter Password Screen (typical)
3. Using the function buttons, enter the password.

NOTE: The password is typically up to 6 digits in length.
4. The Password Controls menu will appear. Refer to Figure 5-2.
Revision A, September 2004 5–1 Accessing the Password Controls Menu

SABRE 4000
Figure 5-2 Password Controls Menu (typical)
5.1.1 Pressure Transducer Reset

The SABRE 4000 contains an automatic calibration system which eliminates the need
for manual calibration, as described in “Autocalibration” on page 4-28. In order for
autocalibration to be performed successfully, the calibrant delta must have stabilized
(this could take up to an hour), and the calibrant delta must be within ±60 µs in
explosives mode, or ±30 µs in narcotics mode. If autocalibration is unsuccessful and
changing the air purification cartridge did not resolve the problem, then proceed with
resetting the absolute pressure transducer (which is needed in the calculation of the
calibrant delta).
NOTE: Prior to starting this procedure, check the air purification cartridge is not
exhausted. Refer to “Replacing the Air Purification Cartridge” on page 6-11.
Use the following procedure to reset the absolute pressure transducer.
1. Select Pressure Transducer Reset from the Password Controls menu, then press the
Enter button to proceed. The APT Reset screen will appear.
The APT Reset screen displays the current values of the Absolute Pressure,
Calibrant Position, Reference Pressure and Reference Position. Refer to Figure 5-3.
Figure 5-3 APT Reset Screen (typical)
2. Press the Reset button to automatically reset the reference pressure to the same
value as the absolute pressure and the reference position to the same value as the
calibrant position.
Accessing the Password Controls Menu 5–2 Revision A, September 2004

3. Press the Enter button to confirm the changes.

4. Press the Escape button to return to the Password Controls menu.
5.1.2 Alarms
Alarms for all programmed substances can be turned on or off through the Alarms
screen. The Alarms screen lists the alarm status of all programmed substances. Alarms
indicated by an "[X]" are turned on, while alarms with "[ ]" are turned off.
Use the following procedure to turn substance alarms on or off.
1. Select Alarms from the Password Controls menu, then press the Enter button to
proceed. The Alarm Control screen will appear. Refer to Figure 5-4.
Figure 5-4 Alarms List Screens (typical)
2. Using the Up or Down button, navigate to the applicable alarm. Press the Enter
button to turn the alarm on or off, as desired.
3. Press the Escape button to exit the Alarm Control screen.
5. Press the Escape button to return to the Password Controls menu.

SABRE 4000
5.1.3 Channels
The Channels screen displays all programmed channels and their status. All channels
with a "U" status have been used to define an alarm, but the alarm has been turned off.
Channels with an "A" status indicate the alarms defined using these channels are
active. Channels are discussed in detail in “Det. Alg. - Channels” on page A-18.
Use the following procedure to modify a channel.
1. Select Channels from the Password Controls menu, then press the Enter button to
proceed. The Channel screen will appear. Refer to Figure 5-5.
Figure 5-5 Channels Screens (typical)
2. Using the Up or Down button, navigate to the appropriate channel. Press the Enter
button to proceed. The Channel Control Parameters screen will appear. Refer to
Figure 5-6

Figure 5-6 Channel Control Parameters Screen (typical)
3. Using the Up or Down button, navigate to the appropriate field and press the
Enter button. Input the new value. Press the Enter button to confirm the changes.
Field Definition
Amplitude Threshold The amplitude threshold is the minimum height (in

du) a peak must have to be detected. Increasing the
amplitude threshold value results in decreased
sensitivity of the SABRE 4000.
Variability The time interval on either side of the expected

position in which a peak must appear to be accepted
as the target ion. The Variability is adjustable
between 10 and 200 µs. The default value works
reliably under normal operating conditions.
4. Press the Escape button to exit the Channel Control screen.

6. Press the Escape button to return to the Password Control menu.

SABRE 4000
5.1.4 Calibrant Reference

If the SABRE 4000 has moved between sites with a large difference in altitude (large
change in atmospheric pressure) the system may not become ready for operation, and
the message "Searching for Calibrant" may display.
If this occurs, the Pressure Transducer Reset option will not be accessible. Reset the
calibrant reference manually by entering the current absolute pressure and the current
calibrant position.
NOTE: Prior to starting this procedure, check the SABRE 4000 has warmed up for at
least 30 minutes. Check the air purification cartridge is not exhausted. Refer to
“Replacing the Air Purification Cartridge” on page 6-11.
Use the following procedure to reset the calibrant reference.
1. From the Status menu (refer to “Status” on page 4-23), obtain the absolute pressure
value, as this will become the reference pressure value for setting the calibrant
reference.
2. In the Plasmagram screen (refer to “Plasmagram” on page 4-23), place the cursor
in the center of the calibrant peak (for example 11.45ms or 11,450 µs in Figure 5-7).
This value becomes the reference position.
Figure 5-7 Cursor In Plasmagram
3. From the Password Controls screen, use the Up or Down button to navigate to the
Calibrant Reference option. Press Enter to confirm.
4. The Calibrant Reference screen will appear. Refer to Figure 5-8.

Figure 5-8 Calibrant Reference Screen
5. Use the Up or Down button to adjust the reference pressure and reference position
to the values found in Step 1 and Step 2.
6. Press the Enter button again to confirm the settings.
7. Press the Escape button to exit the Calibrant Reference screen.
8. Perform a Pressure Transducer Reset when the system becomes Ready. Refer to
“Pressure Transducer Reset” on page 5-2.
5.1.5 Erase All Results

The SABRE 4000 can store a limited number of alarm results in the system. Smiths
Detection recommends printing all alarm results or uploading them to a computer via
IM32 prior to deleting. Refer to “Uploading Saved Alarm Results to IM32” on
page A-34.
Use the following procedure to erase all alarm results.
1. Select Erase All Results from the Password Controls menu, then press the Enter
button to proceed. The confirmation dialog box will appear. Refer to Figure 5-9.
Figure 5-9 Erase All Results Dialog Box (typical)

SABRE 4000
2. Press the Enter button to erase all alarm results. The SABRE 4000 will display "All
Results Deleted". Press the Enter button to return to the Password Controls menu.
5.1.6 Clear Desorber Heater Fault

In particle sampling mode, the desorber heats the swab to release the explosive,
narcotic, chemical warfare or toxic industrial chemical samples collected on the swab
and to introduce the samples into the IMS. The desorber temperature quickly
increases to approximately 190C (374ºF) when analysis starts. If the desorber cannot
reach a temperature within 15C (59ºF) of the programmed setting, the Desorber
Heater Fault message will appear.
Use the following procedure to clear the Desorber Heater Fault message.
1. Select Clear Desorber Heater Fault from the Password Controls menu, then press
the Enter button to proceed. The Desorber Heater Fault Cleared dialog box will
Figure 5-10 Clear Desorber Heater Fault Dialog Box (typical)
2. Press the Escape button to return to the Ready screen.

NOTE: This fault message is usually due to a hardware problem. Accessing this
option clears the fault message but does not fix the problem. If the error
persists, contact your local Smiths Detection Service Engineer.
5.1.7 Control Parameters
WARNING!
These are factory preset values and are for viewing only. Changing
these settings could affect the performance of the unit, and may
potentially damage the equipment.
The Vapour Mode Controls menu contains parameters which are factory preset by
Smiths Detection to ensure optimum performance of the SABRE 4000. These
parameters should not be modified. Refer to Figure 5-11.

Figure 5-11 Vapour Control Menu
5.1.8 Bake-Out Controls

As part of routine maintenance or after a large hit, the SABRE 4000 may require a
bake-out longer or shorter than the default duration of 120 minutes.
Use the following procedure to modify the bake-out duration.
1. Select Bake-out Controls from the Password Controls menu, then press the Enter
button to proceed. The Bake-out Controls screen will appear. Refer to Figure 5-12.
Figure 5-12 Bake-out Controls Screen (typical)
2. Using the Up or Down button, select the Bake-out time field and press the Enter
button. Modify the default bake-out time in increments of one minute.
NOTE: The maximum bake-out time is eight hours.
4. Press the Escape button to return to the Password Controls screen.

SABRE 4000

Operator’s Manual Maintenance
Chapter 6 Maintenance
WARNING!
All maintenance activities described in this section must be
performed with the power switched OFF, the main power supply
disconnected and the unit at room temperature. NEVER attempt
service of any component until the main power supply has been
disconnected and the unit has cooled to room temperature.
This section includes routine preventive and corrective maintenance procedures for
the SABRE 4000.
Failure to perform preventive maintenance may cause severe malfunctions, resulting
in non-warranty system restoration repairs.
The following table outlines Smiths Detections recommended preventive maintenance
tasks and schedule. The maintenance task frequency is based on an average SABRE
4000 usage of 30 hours per week.
NOTE: To keep the system clean and in optimum working order, it is recommended
that the SABRE 4000 remain turned on overnight after a shift. This is
particularly important after analyzing a large number of dirty samples. If the
unit is turned off immediately after running a number of dirty field samples, it
may take longer than the usual 15 minutes warm up time for the unit to
become ready due to contamination.
Table 6-1 Maintenance Schedule
FREQUENCY TASK REFER TO
After a Heavy Clean the inlet drum and desorber. “Cleaning the Inlet Drum
Alarm and Desorber” on
page 6-3
Weekly Perform a system bake-out. “Performing a Bake-Out”

on page 6-5
Replace the inlet drum and “Replacing the Inlet

membrane. Drum and Membrane” on
page 6-6

SABRE 4000
Table 6-1 Maintenance Schedule
FREQUENCY TASK REFER TO
As Required Replace the membrane. “Replacing the Inlet

Drum and Membrane” on
page 6-6
Replace the air purification “Replacing the Air

cartridge. Purification Cartridge” on
page 6-11
Perform a radiation leak test. “Perform a Radiation

Leak Test” on page 6-12
6.1 Maintenance Kit
A maintenance kit is included with the SABRE 4000 and contains the following items:
Table 6-2 SABRE 4000 Maintenance Kit - Part Number 6815035
Re-Order
Item Description Quantity
Part Number
7041492 Screwdriver, Slotted, 1/8" x 4" 1
7043309 Hex Key Driver, 3/32" 1
19022 Tweezer, Prime-X 1
7041488 Scissors, Precision, 5" SST, Right/Left 1
2813610 Drum Cleaning Kit 1
2815030 Drum Removal Tool 1
7043324 Alcohol Swabs 10
Maintenance Kit 6–2 Revision A, September 2004

6.2 Hazards
The SABRE 4000 contains a sealed nickel-63, 63Ni, foil radioactive source of 555 MBq
(15 mCi) activity, as explained in “Radiation Hazard” on page 1-2.
In the event of fire, explosion, malfunction, damage or suspected damage, contact a
Smiths Detection Service Engineer.
WARNING!
Radiation Hazard - The SABRE 4000 detector contains a sealed
radiation source. UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES should an attempt be
made to open or clean the IMS detector or drift tube.
WARNING!
Burn Hazard - The SABRE 4000 operates at high temperatures.
NEVER service the SABRE 4000 until it has cooled to room
temperature. Turn the unit off and allow it to cool down before
performing service or maintenance duties.
WARNING!
Risk of Electrical Shock - Observe the same precautions as for any
electrically-powered appliance. NEVER attempt service of any
component until the main power supply has been disconnected.
6.3 Cleaning the Inlet Drum and Desorber
The inlet drum and desorber should be cleaned after a heavy alarm that has not been
cleared by running a clean cycle.
1. Assemble the following tools and replacement parts:
• powder-free latex gloves
• chem swabs (or swabs dipped in isopropanol)
WARNING!
Risk of electrical shock and/or burn - This procedure must be
performed with the AC power disconnected. the DC battery removed
and the unit at room temperature.
Revision A, September 2004 6–3 Hazards

SABRE 4000
2. Check the main power supply to the SABRE 4000 is disconnected, and the
SABRE 4000 has cooled to room temperature.
3. Loosen the set screws and open the front end of the SABRE 4000. Refer to
Figure 6-1.
Set Screw
Set Screw
Figure 6-1 Opening the front end of the SABRE 4000
4. Cover the membrane with the drum cleaning tool. Using a clean Chem Swab, wipe
the perimeter of the membrane, inlet drum and desorber area. Discard the Chem
Swab. Refer to Figure 6-2.
Inlet Drum and

Membrane
Desorber
Figure 6-2 Cleaning the Inlet Drum and Desorber
5. Close the front end of the SABRE 4000. Hand-tighten the set screws to secure.
6. Run a Verification to ensure the SABRE 4000 will alarm appropriately. Refer to
“Running a Verification” on page 4-7.
Cleaning the Inlet Drum and Desorber 6–4 Revision A, September 2004
6.4 Performing a Bake-Out
NOTE: The SABRE 4000 cannot perform analysis and detection functions during a
bake-out.
Bake-out and Cancel Bake-out are mutually exclusive commands, initiating a bake-
out, or aborting one in progress. A bake-out cycle heats the IMS Tube to a pre-set
temperature to vaporize any contaminants that have accumulated on the IMS Tube
over time. Bake-out should be performed on a weekly basis, as well as after a heavy
alarm that has not been cleared by running a clean cycle and cleaning the inlet drum
and desorber.
NOTE: Bake-out can be performed using a fully charged 4-hour battery however,
Smiths Detection recommends that external power be used as bake-out may
completely exhaust the battery’s power supply.
Use the following procedure to perform a bake-out.
1. From the Ready screen, press the Function button. The Function menu appears.
Refer to Figure 6-3 for a view of the Function Menu screen.
Figure 6-3 Function Menu Screen (typical)
2. Using the Down button, navigate to the Bake-out option and press the Enter
button to proceed.
The "Use of external power recommended" message may briefly appear, followed
by the Bake-Out In Progress screen. Refer to Figure 6-4 for a view of the Bake-Out
In Progress screen.
Revision A, September 2004 6–5 Performing a Bake-Out

SABRE 4000
Figure 6-4 Bake-Out In Progress Screen (typical)
Bake-out begins automatically and displays the time remaining until completion.
Upon completion, check the message area of the Bake-out In Progress screen to ensure
the bake-out was completed successfully.
NOTE: Bake-out may be cancelled at any time by pressing the Escape button.
6.5 Replacing the Inlet Drum and Membrane
The inlet drum should be cleaned and replaced, and the membrane should be checked
for visible damage such as tears or holes as part of routine weekly maintenance.
In the event of a heavy alarm that has not been cleared by running a clean cycle,
cleaning the inlet drum and desorber, and running a bake-out, the inlet drum and
membrane should be replaced.
Use the following procedure to replace the inlet drum, as well as the membrane, if
necessary.
• Allen Screw Driver
• Drum Removal Tool
• Chem Swabs
• Powder-Free Latex Gloves
• Teflon Gasket - Replacement Part Number 1811538
• Tweezers
• Membrane - Replacement Part Number 3811784
Replacing the Inlet Drum and Membrane 6–6 Revision A, September 2004
WARNING!
Risk of electrical shock and/or burn - This procedure must be
performed with the AC power disconnected. the DC battery removed
and the unit at room temperature.
2. Check the AC power supply and DC battery power supply to the SABRE 4000 are
disconnected, and that the SABRE 4000 has cooled to room temperature.
3. Wearing powder-free latex gloves, loosen the set screws and open the front end of
the SABRE 4000. Refer to Figure 6-5.
Set Screw
Set Screw
Figure 6-5 Opening the front end of the SABRE 4000
Revision A, September 2004 6–7 Replacing the Inlet Drum and Membrane
SABRE 4000
4. Alternating between the 3 allen screws, loosen each screw in a clockwise rotation,
a half rotation at a time, until the drum is loose. Refer to Figure 6-6.
Figure 6-6 Loosen the Allen Screws
5. Insert the tips of the drum removal tool into the holes in the drum, as shown. Turn
the drum counter-clockwise to align the screws with the screw keyholes and
remove the drum. Set the drum on a clean surface. Refer to Figures 6-7 and 6-8.
Figure 6-7 Removing the Drum
Membrane Drum
Figure 6-8 Drum and Membrane
6. Replacing the inlet drum only:

Cover the membrane with the drum cleaning tool. Using a Chem Swab, wipe the
perimeter of the membrane. Discard the used swab.
Replacing the inlet drum and membrane only:
CAUTION!
The membrane can be damaged by a buildup and release of
static electricity. The Operator should be grounded prior to
continuing this procedure.
a. Using tweezers, remove the damaged or dirty membrane and o-ring under the
membrane.
b. Insert a new membrane and o-ring. Check the membrane and o-ring is flush
and centred in the inlet.
7. Using tweezers, place a new teflon gasket on a clean spare drum. Refer to
Figure 6-9.
Revision A, September 2004 6–9 Replacing the Inlet Drum and Membrane
SABRE 4000
Teflon Inner
Gasket Ring
Figure 6-9 Teflon Gasket and Drum
8. Using the drum removal tool, insert the spare drum with the teflon gasket into the
SABRE 4000, noting the correct orientation and aligning the screw keyholes with
the allen screws.
Drum hole is in the

bottom position
Figure 6-10 Drum Alignment
9. Turn the drum clock-wise to secure, then reassemble the SABRE 4000.
10. Using tweezers, remove the teflon gasket from the dirty drum. Place the drum in a
container of isopropanol and soak for 15 minutes.
11. Using a brush with soft bristles, clean all surfaces of the dirty drum.
12. Allow the drum to air dry, then place the drum in a clean sealed bag and store in
the SABRE 4000 travelling case. It is now ready for re-use.
13. Run a blank analysis to ensure the SABRE 4000 is clean and ready to perform
analysis functions. Refer to “Running a Blank” on page 4-11.
6.6 Replacing the Air Purification Cartridge
The air purification cartridge removes moisture from the air flow. Factors such as
humidity and air contaminants affect the life expectancy of the air purification
cartridge, therefore some cartridges may last longer than others. If a successful
verification cannot be obtained (refer to “Running a Verification” on page 4-7), the
cartridge contents may be exhausted.
Use the following procedure to replace the air purification cartridge.
• Air Purification Cartridge - Replacement Part Number 3816001
2. Check the main power supply and battery power supply to the SABRE 4000 is off,
and the battery is removed.
3. Slide the air purification cartridge cover down to expose the air purification
cartridge. Refer to Figure 6-11.
Air Purification
Cartridge
Air Purification
Cartridge Cover
Figure 6-11 Rear of the SABRE 4000
4. Remove the air purification cartridge. Check the cartridge contains two o-rings.
Revision A, September 2004 6–11 Replacing the Air Purification Cartridge

SABRE 4000
O-Ring
Figure 6-12 Air Purification Cartridges
5. Insert a new air purification cartridge, slide the air purification cartridge cover up
to cover the cartridge and insert the battery.
6.7 Perform a Radiation Leak Test
WARNING!
Radiation Hazard - The SABRE 4000 Detector, which includes the
Inlet, Radiation Source and IMS Drift Tube, must never be opened by
untrained personnel.
UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES should an attempt be made to open or

clean the IONSCAN Detector, Inlet or Drift Tube.
WARNING!
Burn Hazard - The IMS Detector Inlet operates at high temperatures.
Check the SABRE 4000 has cooled to room temperature prior to
performing this procedure.
Radiation leak testing must be carried out at regular intervals in accordance with the
rules proscribed by the local nuclear regulatory agency. The laboratory that performs
this service will provide a kit with instructions and cotton swabs for taking samples.
Samples are obtained from two locations; the IMS detector inlet and the exhaust port,
as shown in Figure 6-13 and Figure 6-14.
Perform a Radiation Leak Test 6–12 Revision A, September 2004

Figure 6-13 IMS Detector Inlet
Figure 6-14 SABRE 4000 Exhaust Port
Revision A, September 2004 6–13 Perform a Radiation Leak Test

SABRE 4000

Operator’s Manual Troubleshooting
Chapter 7 Troubleshooting
This section contains some common fault symptoms and their troubleshooting
procedures. Only experienced Operators should attempt to perform the following
troubleshooting tips and techniques.
Fault Symptom Troubleshooting Procedure(s)
System does not go "Ready" • Check the SABRE 4000 has had sufficient time
"Searching for calibrant" to warm up and complete the self-test.
"Waiting for stable calibrant" • Replace the air purification cartridge. Refer to
“Replacing the Air Purification Cartridge” on
page 6-11.
• If the SABRE 4000 has been exposed to a large
shift in atmospheric pressure, the pressure
transducer may have to be reset. Refer to
“Pressure Transducer Reset” on page 5-2.
• Ambient air may be leaking into the system.
Check the membrane for signs of damage or
puncture. Refer to “Replacing the Inlet Drum
and Membrane” on page 6-6.
• Check if the signal is lost (i.e. plasmagram flat
on display). If the signal is lost the preamplifier,
HVPS or IMS may be faulty. Contact a Smiths
Detection Service Engineer.
• Check the preset temperatures and flows have
been achieved. Refer to “Status” on page 4-23.
"Waiting for flow" • Remove the air purification cartridge and check
there are no missing or extra o-rings.
• Shake the cartridge. Using sharp tweezers or a
paper clip, check the two air holes in the
cartridge are clear.
Persistent Contamination A large hit may contaminate the membrane and

"Waiting to Clear" drum. Refer to “Cleaning After an Alarm” on
page 4-22.
Unable to obtain a successful • Refer to “Verification Troubleshooting Tips” on

verification page 4-10.
• Check the membrane for tears or holes.
• Perform a bake-out.

SABRE 4000
Fault Symptom Troubleshooting Procedure(s)
Nitrate (NO3) Alarm in NO3 is present in the atmosphere as a pollutant.

Explosives Mode Pollutant levels vary depending on location.
• NO3 amplitude threshold may be adjusted to a
level higher than the background level to reduce
the nuisance alarms. Refer to “Channels” on
page 5-4.
Battery does not retain charge A fully charged battery should provide up to 240
or the battery life is short. minutes of operation, or 220 sample analyses. Li
ion batteries will slowly discharge while installed
in the SABRE 4000 if not being used. Check the
battery pack is fully charged prior to use if the unit
hasn’t been used for a period of time.
Battery indicator light at the The green light at the rear of the battery pack
rear of the battery pack is illuminates while the battery is charging. The light
illuminated. will turn off when the battery is approximately
85% charged.
The red light illuminates if there is a fault with the
battery pack. Refer to “Battery Pack and Charger”
on page 2-5.
Air purification cartridge has If the air purification cartridge rapidly becomes
a short life (i.e. 1 or 2 days) exhausted, there could be a leak in the air flow.
• Remove the air purification cartridge. Check
there is one o-ring for each hole. Additional, or
missing o-rings will cause a leak.
• Check the membrane for damage or punctures.
Refer to “Replacing the Inlet Drum and
Membrane” on page 6-6.
Unable to access Observe the calibrant delta value. If the calibrant

Autocalibration delta is stable but outside the acceptable range, the
ACAL:NO Autocalibration will not be acceptable.
• Check the SABRE 4000 has warmed up for at
least 30 minutes.
• Check the air purification cartridge is not spent.
Refer to “Replacing the Air Purification
Cartridge” on page 6-11.
• Reset the pressure transducer to bring the
calibrant delta close to zero. Refer to “Pressure
Transducer Reset” on page 5-2.
Desorber doesn’t cycle Occasionally, the desorber may remain closed or

remain open instead of cycling to the desired
position. Refer to “Cycle Desorber” on page 4-26.
Display is too light or too Press and hold the Backlight button. The SABRE
dark 4000 will cycle between the on and off setting.
7–2 Revision A, September 2004

Operator’s Manual Instrument Manager Software (IM32)
Appendix A Instrument Manager Software (IM32)
This section introduces the Instrument Manager Software (IM32), describes the
Operator interface, and provides procedures for uploading plasmagrams from the
SABRE 4000 to the IM32 PC and exporting control parameters from the IM32 PC to the
SABRE 4000.
NOTE: These operations are only available to Operators who have the optional
Instrument Manager (IM32) software. These functions cannot be accessed
from the integral SABRE 4000 firmware.
To connect the SABRE 4000 to a computer for communication with IM32 software,
plug one end of the RS-232 cable into the back of the SABRE 4000, then connect the
opposite end into a free communication port on the computer.
Navigate to the Settings menu in the SABRE 4000 firmware and select the RS-232
option. Check the Computer option is selected. The SABRE 4000 is now ready to
communicate with the computer.
A.1 Starting Instrument Manager
From the Microsoft Windows® Desktop, double-click on the Instrument Manager icon
to launch Smiths Instrument Manager (IM32) program. Refer to Figure A-1.
Figure A-1 Instrument Manager Icon (typical)
If the PC is connected to a SABRE 4000 when IM32 is launched, the Status Bar
indicator at the bottom of the Operator’s screen will change from OFFLINE to BUSY to
IDLE. IDLE indicates that the SABRE is ready to analyze a sample. Refer to Figure A-2.
Figure A-2 IM32 Status Bar (Typical)
The Acquire Sample button in the tool bar will also change from grey to white,
indicating the system is ready to obtain a sample. Refer to Figure A-3.
Revision A, September 2004 A–1 Starting Instrument Manager

SABRE 4000
Figure A-3 IM32 Toolbar (Typical)
NOTE: If IM32 was launched before connecting a SABRE 4000 to the computer, or the
SABRE 4000 was turned off when IM32 was launched, use the Connect option
in the Instrument pull-down menu to establish the connection. Refer to
Figure A-4.
Figure A-4 Instrument Menu (Typical)
If this is the first start-up of IM32 after installation, the program will start in Basic
mode. To ensure that IM32 is in Basic mode after start-up, select Preferences in the
File pull-down menu. On the Layout tab, click the Basic Defaults button to ensure
that Advanced defaults is not selected. Refer to Figure A-5.
Figure A-5 Preferences - Layout Tab (Typical)
Starting Instrument Manager A–2 Revision A, September 2004

A.1.1 Connecting / Disconnecting the SABRE 4000

When a SABRE 4000 is connected to the computer using the RS-232 cable, select the
Connect option from the Instrument menu to initiate communication. Refer to
Figure A-6.
Figure A-6 Instrument Menu
When initiating, the status bar indicator at the bottom of the screen will change from
OFFLINE to BUSY, with IDLE displaying after a successful connection is made. The
Acquire Sample button in the tool bar will change from grey to white to indicate that
the software is ready to collect plasmagrams. During the connection process, IM32
checks the validity of the connection and tests the cable. Any errors encountered will
change the status bar indicator to display OFFLINE. Also, if the SABRE 4000 is not
powered on, the indicator will return to OFFLINE. To end the communication
between the Operator’s PC and the SABRE 4000, select the Disconnect option from the
Instrument menu. The status bar indicator will return to OFFLINE, and the Acquire
Sample button in the tool bar will turn to grey.
A.2 Acquiring a Sample
When a computer is connected to a SABRE 4000, a sample can be acquired by clicking

on the Instrument menu, then selecting the Acquire Sample option. Refer to
Figure A-7.
NOTE: Alternatively, the Operator can type Ctrl+Q or click on the Acquire Sample
button on the tool bar.
Revision A, September 2004 A–3 Acquiring a Sample

SABRE 4000
The Acquire Sample box appears in the upper right corner of the Operator’s screen,
indicating that the IM32 is ready to acquire data. The sample acquisition can be
cancelled by clicking on the Cancel button. Refer to Figure A-8.
Figure A-8 Acquire Sample Box Ready to Sample (Typical)
During a SABRE 4000 analysis, the Acquire Sample box will change, as shown in
Figure A-9.
Figure A-9 Acquire Sample Box Sampling (Typical)
After the sample has been analyzed, the corresponding plasmagram will display on
the PC screen. Refer to Figure A-10.
Figure A-10 Alarm Plasmagram - TNT Detected (Typical)
Acquiring a Sample A–4 Revision A, September 2004

The IM32 results display includes the plasmagram on the right side of the Operator’s
screen (channels leading to an alarm are shown in red others in green). The
plasmagram (the graphical representation of the detector output) is shown as a white
trace on a blue background. Positions of active channels are indicated by their labels;
channel labels on green background indicate active channels which have not been
found in the analysis, whereas channels on red labels have been detected. The internal
calibrant is indicated by a label with yellow background.
To the left of the plasmagram is a list of active channels, with the channel names in
alphabetical order. The green background indicates no detection, whereas the detected
channels are displayed at the top of the list in alphabetical order on red background. If
the full results table display width is selected, as shown in Figure A-10, the channel list
will also display the detection data of the detected channels (Maximum Amplitude,
Delta, and number of hits [#]. If the number of active channels exceeds the display, the
scroll arrows and button to the right of the list will become active and can be used to
view the complete list.
Above the channel list, the alarms list is displayed. If any alarms are indicated they
will be displayed on red background. If no alarms have been detected this list will
remain empty. The scroll arrows and button to the right of the alarms list will become
active if the number of alarms exceeds the space.
Above the alarms list, the date/time stamp is shown which indicates the time the
plasmagram was collected. The date/time shown refers to the date/time settings of the
SABRE 4000.
To the right of the time/date stamp is the Status button. Clicking on this opens the
Instrument Status at Analysis Time window. Refer to Figure A-11.
Figure A-11 Instrument Status at Analysis Time Window (Typical)
To the right of the Status button is the Channel drop-down menu.Click on the drop-
down arrow to see the list of possible channels to view in the plasmagram.

SABRE 4000
A.2.1 Automatic Sample Collection

Select the Auto Sample... option from the Instrument pull-down menu to initiate
automatic analysis data collection and saving of the results by the IM32 software.
Refer to Figure A-12.
This feature allows the Operator to concentrate on their sampling and analysis work,
with the computer carrying out the necessary steps to capture and save the data. After
selecting this option, the Automatic Sample Labelling dialog box will appear. Refer to
Figure A-13.
Figure A-13 Automatic Sample Labelling Dialog Box (Typical)
There are two boxes for the File Name; the first box can contain up to three characters
(i.e. smp) of the Operator’s choice which will apply to all analyses of this run. The
second box contains a four digit number (if the Operator enters less than four digits,
IM32 fills in zeros at the beginning) which indicates the last analysis run. The
following analysis will be assigned the next sequential number; the default setting is
0000, with the next analysis named 0001. The Operator can change the default in case
the Operator is continuing a previous automatic sampling series.
The Directory box allows the Operator to change the drive and folder where the
samples will be saved. The Save Mode option determines which samples IM32 will
save. The default setting is to save all analyses, however the option to save only
analyses that led to an alarm, or not to save any analyses can be selected.
The Sample and Context boxes allow the Operator to enter information about the
object(s) that the Operator is sampling, and to add information (i.e. location) that
pertains to all analyses. In the Reference box at the bottom of the dialog box, the path
and file name will display, according to the choices made above. The last (eighth) digit

of the file name is shown as a question mark in this box; IM32 will append that digit to
the file name according to the outcome and type of the analysis (A for alarm, P for
pass, V for verification).
After the automatic sampling parameters have been set, click on the OK button to
apply the settings. The Automatic Sampling dialog box will appear in the upper right
corner of the computer screen, and the status bar indicator at the bottom of the screen
will change to BUSY.
Figure A-14 Automatic Sampling Confirmation Box (Typical)
The Save button will be greyed out before collection of the first sample. After the first
sample has been collected, the Save button will display with the appropriate file name.
In addition, the sample analysis will be saved if it meets the criteria of the Save Mode.
The Help and View pull-down menus will be active, and can be used to take a closer
look at analysis results. If the analysis was not automatically saved, or the Operator
would like to enter additional information to the file, click on the Save button in the
Automatic Sampling box. This will open the Save Sample dialog box where the
Sample description and Context can be edited, and comprehensive Comments can be
added before saving (or re-saving).
To quit the automatic sampling mode or to change any of its parameters, select the
Cancel option, which will return to the main IM32 screen.
A.2.2 Collecting a Background Plasmagram

If the Background option is selected from the Instrument pull-down menu, the
Background Sample box will display to indicate that IM32 is in the process of
collecting the current data output from the SABRE 4000 detector.
Figure A-15 Background Sample Confirmation Box (Typical)
This option allows the Operator to monitor the current detector signal, and is usually
implemented to gain information about the calibrant signal.
In the event of technical difficulties with the SABRE 4000, a Smiths Detection Service
Engineer might ask the Operator to carry out a background analysis to help interpret
the status of their SABRE 4000.

SABRE 4000
A.2.3 Annotating a Plasmagram

Descriptive comments can be added to a plasmagram before saving. This allows the
Operator to quickly identify the plasmagram and the context under which it was
generated. Selecting the Sample ID... button from the Menu bar opens the Sample
Identification dialog box. Refer to Figure A-16.
Figure A-16 Sample Identification Dialog (Typical)
The sample field entry displays next to the tool bar on the main IM32 screen.
Additionally, more detailed comments can be added into the Comments and Context
fields, if desired.

A.2.4 Modifying the Plasmagram Display

The Operator can toggle between three-dimensional (3D), two-dimensional (2D),
Plasmagram Amplitudes views or combinations of these views of the plasmagram by
selecting the applicable viewing option from the View pull-down menu. Refer to
Figure A-17.
Figure A-17 View Menu (Typical)
The Operator can also type Ctrl+1 for a 3D view (refer to Figure A-18), Ctrl+2 for a 2D
view (refer to Figure A-19), or Ctrl+3 for a Plasmagram Amplitudes view (refer to
Figure A-20). Another method is to drag the Horizontal Splitter Bar (the line that
frames the plasmagram display) into an alternate position (if in 2D view from top to
bottom opens the 3D view, and from bottom to top opens the plasmagram amplitudes.
Independently from the change in view, the Operator can also change the size of the
plasmagram display on their screen by moving the Vertical Splitter Bar (the line
forming the left border of the plasmagram display). In its right-most position, the
screen shows the full list of channels, complete with Amplitudes, Deltas, and Number
of Hits, as well as the time and date of the analysis. Drag the splitter bar (place the
cursor directly on the line until the cursor arrow changes, then press down the left
mouse button and move the cursor) to its middle position to enlarge the plasmagram
display, and the channel list is reduced to the actual channel names, and the time/date
display has disappeared.

SABRE 4000
Figure A-18 3D View of Plasmagram (Typical)
Figure A-19 2D View of Plasmagram
Figure A-20 Plasmagram Amplitudes View of Plasmagram

A.2.5 Saving a Plasmagram

To save analysis results, click on the Save button located in the Tool Bar, type Ctrl+S,
or select Save from the File pull-down menu. Refer to Figure A-21.
Figure A-21 File Menu (Typical)
The Save Sample dialog box appears if the Operator types Ctrl+S from their
keyboard, or if the Operator selects the Save option from the IM32 File pull-down
menu. Refer to Figure A-22.
Figure A-22 Save Sample Dialog (Typical)
The Save Sample dialog box allows the Operator to define the File Name, and to add
a sample description in the Sample field and more detailed information in the
Comments and Context fields if the Operator hasn't done so earlier. At the bottom of
the dialog box, the selected file name and path are displayed for the Operator’s
reference; the Operator can change the path using the File Path... button which will
display the File Save As dialog box.

SABRE 4000
A.2.6 Printing a Plasmagram

To print a plasmagram and the corresponding analysis results, click on the Print
button located in the IM32 tool bar. Select the desired plot view, whether or not to
include the channel summary or comments, the printer, and the number of copies.
Refer to Figure A-23.
Figure A-23 Plasmagram Print Dialog (Typical)
Alternatively, the Operator can type Ctrl+P on their keyboard, or select the Print
option from the IM32 File pull-down menu.
A.3 Setting IM32 Preferences
NOTE: This option is only available if a plasmagram is not being displayed and a
SABRE 4000 is not connected; otherwise it is greyed out.
Selecting Preferences in the File pull-down menu will display the Preferences dialog
box, where the Operator can select IM32 Advanced mode by clicking the Advanced
Defaults button on the Layout tab. Refer to Figure A-24
Setting IM32 Preferences A–12 Revision A, September 2004

Figure A-24 Preferences Dialog - Layout Tab
On the Preferences General tab, the Operator can synchronize the SABRE 4000 to the
PC clock, set IM32 to use the instrument sample count as the default file name, invoke
auto sampling on connecting to the unit, select the default folder where IM32 will
search or store files, select the instrument specific help (use the default of
SABRE 2000), and set when IM32 will automatically close active documents.
To set the default folder, type the desired folder location into the Working Folder field,
or use the Browse button to display the Select Working Folder dialog box.
The Preferences General tab also allows the Operator to select the desired date format
for display and print; options always include the year as a four digit number (yyyy)
and the day as a two digit number (dd). The month can be displayed either as a two
digit number (mm) or as a three letter name (MMM). Refer to Figure A-25
Figure A-25 Preferences - General Tab (Typical)
Revision A, September 2004 A–13 Setting IM32 Preferences

SABRE 4000
A.4 Viewing and Editing Control Parameters
CAUTION!
Each SABRE 4000 is programmed with factory settings to ensure optimum
performance. Any modifications to the parameters should be made by qualified
personnel, and only upon the guidance of a Smiths Detection Service Engineer.
To view the control parameters of the SABRE 4000 that is connected to the PC, or of a
saved sample file, select the Control Parameters option from the View menu.
To view and edit the control parameters of the SABRE 4000 connected to the PC, select
the Control Parameters option from the Setup menu. Control parameters can be
viewed and edited on their respective tabs. The tabs of the Control Parameters
window are Miscellaneous, Calibrant, Det. Alg., Particle Data Acq., Vapour Data Acq.,
Ref. Pks. and Peak Sets.
A.4.1 Miscellaneous Tab
Figure A-26 Control Parameters Window - Miscellaneous Tab Shown (Typical)
The Miscellaneous tab contains all information relevant to drift tube, inlet and
desorber temperatures as well as available gas flows, bake-out and purge parameters.
This tab allows editing the control parameters for temperatures, moisture control,
flow rates and bake-out settings of the SABRE 4000. To change a value, double-click on
it and type in the new value. Press Enter, or click on a different entry in the same table,
or use the up/down arrow keys to set the change. Click on the OK button to
implement the changes. To exit this dialog box without changes, press the Cancel
button.
Viewing and Editing Control Parameters A–14 Revision A, September 2004

A.4.2 Calibrant Tab
Figure A-27 Control Parameters - Calibrant Tab (Typical)
The Calibrant tab displays all parameters and settings which can be edited for
calibrant search, monitoring, reference and recovery. Parameters are listed in two
tables: detection parameters on the left, and reference parameters on the right.
Revision A, September 2004 A–15 Viewing and Editing Control Parameters

SABRE 4000
A.4.3 Det. Alg. Tab
Figure A-28 Control Parameters Detect Algorithm Tab (Typical)
The Detection Algorithm tab displays how the detection algorithm is structured
(channels, substances, alarms), and which alarms are activated. Information can be
viewed and edited.
A.4.3.1 Det. Alg. - Alarms
Figure A-29 Alarms Context Menu (Typical)
The left column lists all programmed alarms in alphabetical order. Alarms with a
check mark are active alarms.

To access the alarms context menu, highlight an alarm substance from the alarm list
and right-click. The context menu options for alarms are: turn alarm off, modify alarm
name, add substance(s), remove substance, mandatory substance, optional substance,
substance must be absent, min optional substances, highlight usage, simplify list,
create alarm, delete alarm, delete all alarms, use in vapour mode, and use in both
modes.
A.4.3.2 Det. Alg. - Substances
Figure A-30 Substances Context Menu (Typical)
The center column lists all programmed substances in alphabetical order. Substances
with a check mark are active substances.
To access the substances context menu, highlight a substance from the list and right-
click. The context menu options for substances are: add to alarm, modify substance
name, add channel(s), remove channel, mandatory channel, optional channel, channel
must be absent, min optional channels, highlight usage, simplify list, create substance,
delete substance, and delete all substances.

SABRE 4000
A.4.3.3 Det. Alg. - Channels
Figure A-31 Channels Context Menu (Typical)
The right column lists all programmed channels in alphabetical order. Channels with a
check mark are active channels.
To access the channels context menu, highlight a channel from the list and right-click.
The context menu options for channels are: add to substance, modify channel name,
view channel parameters, highlight usage, create channel, delete channel, and delete
all channels.
A.4.4 Particle Data Acq. Tab
Figure A-32 Control Parameters Particle Data Acquisition Tab (Typical)

Selecting the Particle Data Acquisition tab enables a Operator with high-level access to
set the parameters for collecting particle samples for analysis. Operators with low-
level access have view-only access to this information.
Parameters can be modified by double-clicking on them and entering a new value. The
valid range for the parameter is displayed at the bottom of the screen. Press Enter, or
click on a different entry in the same table, or use the up/down arrow keys to set the
changes. Some of the parameters are linked to one or more other parameters, and
therefore can only be changed within certain limits. Click on the OK button to
implement changes, or click on the Cancel button to exit without saving changes.
A.4.5 Vapour Data Acq. Tab
Figure A-33 Control Parameters Vapour Data Acquisition Tab (Typical)
Selecting the Vapour Data Acquisition tab enables an Operator with high-level access
to set the parameters for collecting vapour samples for analysis. Operators with low-
level access have view-only access to this information.
Parameters can be changed by double-clicking on them and entering a new value. The
valid range for the parameter is displayed at the bottom of the screen. Press Enter, or
click on a different entry in the same table, or use the up/down arrow keys to set the
changes. Some of the parameters are linked to one or more other parameters, and
therefore can only be changed within certain limits. Click on the OK button to
implement changes, or click on the Cancel button to exit without saving changes.

SABRE 4000
A.4.6 Reference Peaks
Figure A-34 Control Parameters - Reference Peaks Tab (Typical)
The Reference Peaks tab displays parameters of the programmed reference peaks and
of all programmed channels.
Channel and reference peak parameters can be defined and changed. Parameters that
have not been defined are displayed on a red background.The populated upper list
box shows the defined target channels which the unit may be programmed to detect.

A.4.7 Peak Sets
Figure A-35 Control Parameters - Peak Sets Tab (Typical)
The Peak Sets tab displays all programmed peak sets.

Selecting this tab allows the Operator to edit the definitions of up to four peak sets.
The channels and reference peaks are listed with their reduced mobilities in
alphabetical order. Available characters are "*" (shown in both plasmagram and
growth curve), "P" (shown in plasmagram only), "G" (shown in growth curve only; not
available for channels), and "blank" (not shown). Settings can be changed by double-
clicking on a field and deleting or adding a character.

SABRE 4000
A.4.8 Printing Control Parameters
Figure A-36 Control Parameters Print Dialog (Typical)
To print the control parameters, click on File and select the Print option. The Print
dialog box will appear. Select the items to print, the printer, and the number of copies.
Click on the OK button to start printing.
A.4.9 Editing Passwords
Figure A-37 Instrument Password Dialog Box (Typical)

The Instrument Passwords dialog box allows the Operator to modify low-level and
high-level passwords for the SABRE 4000.
The Authorized Operator(s) of password field is descriptive only and has no
influence on the password. Date and time of the last update are displayed. Click on the
Change Password button to launch the Set New Password dialog box, where the new
password can be entered and confirmed.
Figure A-38 Set New Password Dialog Box (Typical)
Click on the OK to implement, or click on the Cancel button to leave with without
saving changes.
A.5 Programming New Substances
Before attempting this procedure, please contact Smiths Detection, as the necessary
data might already be available. To add new substances to the SABRE 4000 control
parameters, please follow the instructions below.
NOTE: Ensure that the chemical(s) being used for this procedure are as pure as
possible. Do not use materials where the composition is not known.
A.5.1 Saving Current Control Parameters

1. Save the current control parameters of the SABRE 4000 by selecting Control
Parameters from the Setup menu. Refer to Figure A-39.
Figure A-39 Setup Menu (typical)
2. Type the password, check the Apply for duration of IONSCAN connection option,
and then select OK to open the Save window. Refer to Figure A-40.
Revision A, September 2004 A–23 Programming New Substances

SABRE 4000
Figure A-40 Signon Password Dialog (typical)
3. In the Save window, check the File box under the Destination heading and select
OK. Enter a filename, or use the suggested default name, then save the control
parameter file. Exit back to the main display. Refer to Figure A-41.
Figure A-41 Save Control Parameters Window (typical)
Programming New Substances A–24 Revision A, September 2004

A.5.2 Preparing IM32 to Program New Substances

1. With the SABRE 4000 disconnected from IM32 and no plasmagrams being viewed,
select Preferences from the File menu. The Preferences window appears. Refer to
Figure A-42.
Figure A-42 Preferences General Tab (typical)
2. Select the General tab. Check the "Synchronize instrument clock to PC clock" check
box is selected.
3. Select the Layout tab. Check the Advanced Features checkbox is selected. Refer to
Figure A-43.
Figure A-43 Preferences Layout Tab (typical)

SABRE 4000
A.5.3 Acquiring and Saving the New Substance

1. Select the Acquire Sample option from the Instrument menu, or click on the
sampling icon. Refer to Figure A-44.
Figure A-44 Instrument Menu (typical)
2. Analyze a small sample of the new substance with the SABRE 4000, using a
toothpick or a syringe with a dilute solution.
3. Identify the peak(s) associated with the new material. Make sure that the new peak
(when compared with a blank analysis) is actually derived from the new
substance. Save the analysis result.
4. Double-click with the pointer on a selected peak to display the crosshair cursor;
then right-click and select the Gaussian Fit option. Refer to Figure A-45.
Figure A-45 Peak Right Click Menu
5. Right-click on the highlighted peak and select the New Ref Peak option. Refer to
Figure A-46.

Figure A-46 Highlighted Peak and Peak Right-click Menu
6. Enter a peak name in the Create Peak dialog box and click on OK. Refer to
Figure A-47.
Figure A-47 Create Peak Dialog
The new peak appears in the reference peak list in the lower left corner of the
display.

SABRE 4000
A.5.4 Setting the Control Parameters for the New Substance

1. Select Control Parameters from the View pull-down menu and click on the
Ref. Pks tab. Refer to Figure A-48.
Figure A-48 Control Parameters Window (Typical)
2. Right-click on the new peak and select the Promote to Channel option. Confirm
with OK when prompted. The new peak now appears in the channel list. Refer to
Figure A-49.
Figure A-49 New Ref. Peak Right-click Menu (Typical)

3. Enter suitable values into the red fields of the new peak. Refer to Figure A-50.
Figure A-50 Highlighted Fields in the Ref. Pks Tab (typical)
Suggested values are:

Vrblty 50
Blok Th 1.5
Amp Th 25 (dependent upon sensitivity)
Seq Hits 2
Ext Amp Th __ (3x the Amp Th)
Min Seg 1
Max Seg 999
Bar FS __ (dependent upon the dynamic range)
Click OK to return to the Control Parameters dialog box.
4. Select the Det. Alg. tab. Right-click on the title of the new substance in the
Channels list and select the Create Substance option. Enter a new substance name
in the dialog box and click OK. Refer to Figure A-51.
Figure A-51 Create Substance Dialog (Typical)
5. Right-click on the new substance and select the Add Channel(s) option.

SABRE 4000
Figure A-52 Add Channels to a Substance Right-Click Menu (typical)
6. Right-click on the new channel in the Channel list and select the Add to Substance
option. Repeat for every channel to be used in the substance definition. Refer to
Figure A-53.
Figure A-53 New Channel Right-click Menu (typical)
7. Right-click on a channel in the substance definition to change its status. The status
options are Mandatory channel, Optional channel, and Channel must be absent.
Mandatory channel is the default status for the new substance. Refer to
Figure A-54.

Figure A-54 Substance Definition Right-click Menu (typical)
8. Right-click in the alarms list; select the Create Alarm option. Enter an alarm name
and click OK.
9. Right-click the alarm and select the Add Substance(s) option. Refer to Figure A-55.
Figure A-55 Alarms Context Menu (typical)
10. Right-click on the new substance in the Substance list, and select the Add to Alarm
option. Repeat for every substance to be used in the alarm definition. Refer to
Figure A-56.

SABRE 4000
Figure A-56 Substances Context Menu (typical)
11. Right-click on a substance in the alarm definition to change its status. The status
options are Mandatory substance, Optional substance, and Substance must be
absent. Mandatory substance is the default. Refer to Figure A-57.
Figure A-57 Change the Status of a Substance (typical)
12. Click Apply and then select Save from the File menu.
Check both the File and Instrument check boxes under the Destination heading in
the Save window, enter a name for the new control parameter file and then click
Save. Refer to Figure A-58.

Figure A-58 Control Parameter Save Window (typical)
A.5.5 Adjusting the Reduced Mobility of the New Substance

1. Analyze the new material three times with the SABRE 4000 and record the Delta
values.
2. Calculate the average Delta and adjust the new channel reduced mobility (K0)
accordingly. Subtract 0.001 from the K0 value for every +1 µs of Delta; add 0.001 to
the K0 value for every -1 µs of Delta.
3. Re-analyze the material and repeat K0 adjustment, if necessary, to obtain Delta
values within 15µs.
4. To adjust the K0 value, select the Control Parameters option from the Setup menu.
5. In the Control Parameters window, select Detection Algorithm and right-click in
the channels list. Select Modify Channel Parameters to bring up the Channel
Parameters dialog box.
Figure A-59 Channel Parameters Dialog Box (typical)

SABRE 4000
6. Click in the box of the parameter to be edited and enter the new parameter. Click
OK to apply the changes.
7. Save the edited Control Parameters to the Instrument and to File.
A.6 Changing the Operating Mode
Operating modes are changed via the SABRE 4000 firmware, as explained in
“Selecting the Operating Mode” on page 3-2. The HVPS is dual mode and auto-
switching. The SABRE 4000 firmware controls all aspects of this option.
A.7 Uploading Saved Alarm Results to IM32
Use the following procedure to upload saved alarm results from the SABRE 4000 unit
to the IM32 PC.
1. Turn the SABRE 4000 on, then select the Connect option from the Instrument
menu.
2. Close all active sample files in the IM32 window, then select the Import Sample
Files… option from the Instrument menu.
3. In the Select Working Folder browse window, select a folder to save the alarm
results files to.
4. In the Import Sample Files window, select whether to restrict the import to
samples that have not previously been reported or to alarmed samples only. Click
OK to begin the transfer of sample files. Refer to Figure A-60.
4
Figure A-60 Import Sample Files Window (Typical)
The window displays the total number of plasmagrams available for download,
the number that have not been downloaded previously, and the number that are
alarm samples.
Changing the Operating Mode A–34 Revision A, September 2004

Operator’s Manual Properties of Explosive, Narcotic, Chemical Warfare Agent and Toxic Industrial Chemical
Appendix B Properties of Explosive, Narcotic,

Chemical Warfare Agent and Toxic
Industrial Chemical Substances
Explosive Substances
SUBSTANCE DESCRIPTION
RDX Incorporated into curable plastic materials to make

Hexogen and Cyclonite plastic explosives.
PETN Used in high-efficiency blasting cap fillings and

Pentaerythritol Tetranite detonation cords. Relatively high sensitivity to
impact. Usually used with wax.
SEMTEX Used in commercial blasting and demolition and

certain military applications. Contains ethylene
glycol dinitrate to produce a distinctive odor to aid
in detection.
NG Extremely sensitive to shock, impact and friction.

Nitroglycerine Widely used in industrial explosives. Main
component in dynamite.
TNT TNT is the most widely used military explosive.

Trinitrotoluene TNT is very stable, neutral, and does not attack
metals. Commonly used in mixture with other
high explosives to make Amatols, Tritonal,
Cyclonite Composition B, HBX, Torpex and
Trialene.
Ammonium Nitrate Odorless, transparent crystals or white granules.

Important material in the manufacture of AN-
based explosives. Also a common fertilizer.
DNT n/a
Tetryl Generally used in the form of pressed pellets, also

used in blasting caps. Yellow crystalline solid
powder.
Revision A, September 2004 B–1

SABRE 4000
HMX Normally mixed with TNT. Very stable, requiring a

powerful detonator or booster charge to detonate.
TATP Sensitive and unstable peroxide explosive. Often

homemade with easy to obtain common household
ingredients.
HMTD Sensitive and unstable peroxide explosive. Often

homemade with easy to obtain common household
ingredients.
Narcotic Substances
Cocaine Prepared from the leaf of the erythroxylon coca

bush. Fine crystalline powder or small
crystalline rocks.
Heroin Processed from morphine or codeine from the

(Diacetyl Morphine) poppy flower. White or brownish powder.
Amphetamines Powerful synthetic stimulants of the central

nervous system with effects similar to those of
cocaine. Can be in crystals, chunks or fine to
loose powders. Supplied loose in capsules or
tablets of various sizes and colors.
Methamphetamine Derivative of amphetamines.

MDA
MDMA (Ecstasy)
MDEA
PCP Can be in the form of pills, capsules, or white

(Phencyclidine) crystalline powder.
THC Marijuana is the leaves and flower pods.

Tetrahydrocannabinol (Delta 9) Hashish is the extracted resin.
B–2 Revision A, September 2004

Operator’s Manual Properties of Explosive, Narcotic, Chemical Warfare Agent and Toxic Industrial Chemical
Chemical Warfare Agent and Toxic Industrial Chemical

Substances
VOLATILITY / RATE OF
AGENT CLASS SYMPTOMS
PERSISTENCE ACTION
Tabun GA Nerve Semi- Immediate • Salivation

Persistent • Pinpoint Pupils
Military • Difficulty Breathing
Agent • Muscle Twitching
Sarin GB Nerve Non- Immediate • Salivation

Cyclo Sarin Nerve Semi- Immediate • Salivation

GF Persistent • Pinpoint Pupils
Soman GD Nerve Semi- Immediate • Salivation

VX, Vx Nerve Persistent Immediate • Salivation

• Pinpoint Pupils
Mustard Blister Persistent Delayed • Burning Eyes

HD • Coughing
Military • Skin Blistering After
Agent 4 - 24 Hours
• Pain
Nitrogen Blister Persistent Delayed • Burning Eyes

Mustard • Coughing
HN Military • Skin Blistering After
Agent 4 - 24 Hours
• Pain
Revision A, September 2004 B–3

SABRE 4000
VOLATILITY / RATE OF
AGENT CLASS SYMPTOMS
PERSISTENCE ACTION
Hydrogen Blood Non- Rapid • Gulping or Gasping

Cyanide Persistent for Air
HCN Industrial • Reddish Skin and
Chemical Lips
Chlorine Choking Non- Rapid in • Eye Irritation

C12 Persistent High • Coughing
Industrial Concentra- • Gasping for Air
Chemical tions
Phosgene Choking Non- Rapid in • Acts Solely on Lungs

CG Persistent High • Lungs Fill With
Industrial Concentra- Water
Chemical tions
Ammonia Industrial Non- Rapid in • Irritation to Eyes

NH3 Chemical Persistent High and Throat
Concentra- • Skin Irritation
tions • Coughing
Sulfur Industrial Non- Rapid in • Nose and Throat

Dioxide SO2 Chemical Persistent High Irritation
Concentra- • Coughing
tions
Formal- Industrial Non- Rapid in • Irritation of Skin and

dehyde Chemical Persistent High Eyes
tions
Hydrogen Industrial Non- Rapid in • Irritation of Skin and

Fluoride HF Chemical Persistent High Eyes
tions
Ethylene Industrial Non- Rapid in • Irritation of Skin and

Oxide EO Chemical Persistent High Eyes
tions
B–4 Revision A, September 2004

Appendix C User Feedback
Smiths Detection
Technical Documentation Department
1730 Aimco Blvd.
Mississauga, Ontario
Canada, L4W 1V1
Fax: 905-238-3018
Product SABRE 4000
Version Revision A, September 2004
Customer
Product Serial Number
To help us continually improve the quality of this manual, we appreciate your input.
Please answer the following questions, and fax or mail the completed questionnaire
back to the address above.
1. Is this manual easy to use?
2. Is the information presented in a clear and logical way?
3. Is the information accurate?
4. Would you like to see instructions for any additional procedures? Please list them
in the space below.
5. Is there something you do not like about this manual?
Please use the space on the back of this page to add any additional comments you may
have about this manual.

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SABRE® 4000

Revision A, September 2004

Revision A, September 2004 iii Welcome

Smiths Detection Offices

Smiths Detection Offices

Smiths Detection Smiths Detection

Smiths Detection Offices iv Revision A, September 2004

All equipment sold by Smiths Detection, which is manufactured by them, is

Smiths Detection’s responsibility under this warranty is limited to the repair or

Revision A, September 2004 v Warranty

This page intentionally left blank

Revision A, September 2004

Chapter 1: Safety Precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1–1

Chapter 2: Overview. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2–1

Chapter 3: Setting Up the SABRE 4000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3–1

Chapter 4: Basic Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4–1

Revision A, September 2004 vii

4.3.1 Sampling Mode Icons. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4–14

Chapter 5: Advanced Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5–1

Chapter 6: Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6–1

viii Revision A, September 2004

6.6 Replacing the Air Purification Cartridge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6–11

Chapter 7: Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7–1

Appendix A: Instrument Manager Software (IM32) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .A–1

Appendix B: Properties of Explosive, Narcotic, Chemical Warfare

Appendix C: User Feedback . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .C–1

Revision A, September 2004 ix

This page intentionally left blank

Revision A, September 2004

Chapter 1 Safety Precautions

Revision A, September 2004 1–1

1.1 Radiation Hazard

Disassembly of the IMS Detector Cell and removal of the

In the event of a fire or explosion involving damage or suspected damage to the

In the event of a malfunction with the system

In the event of suspected damage to the system

Radiation Hazard 1–2 Revision A, September 2004

Smiths Detection’s SABRE 4000 is a reliable, highly sensitive instrument based on a

Identification of many substances by IMS is made possible by a few basic principles:

Revision A, September 2004 2–1

2.1 Principles of Ion Mobility Spectrometry

Purge Exhaust Drift

Figure 2-1 Basic Ion Mobility Spectrometer

Principles of Ion Mobility Spectrometry 2–2 Revision A, September 2004

Figure 2-2 IMS Detector Output as a Function of Drift Time

Revision A, September 2004 2–3 Principles of Ion Mobility Spectrometry

2.2 SABRE 4000 Main Features

Audio Alarm Cancel /

Sampling Method Selector

Figure 2-3 SABRE 4000

SABRE 4000 Main Features 2–4 Revision A, September 2004

2.3 Battery Pack and Charger

Figure 2-4 Battery Packs and Charger

2.3.1 Battery Pack Handling Precautions

Revision A, September 2004 2–5 Battery Pack and Charger

2.4 Sampling Options and Analyzing Description

The SABRE 4000 system is capable of analyzing vapour or particulate samples.

2.4.1 Particle Collection and Analysis

2.4.2 Vapour Collection and Analysis

Sampling Options and Analyzing Description 2–6 Revision A, September 2004

2.5 Technical Specifications

Table 2-1 Specifications for SABRE 4000

Revision A, September 2004 2–7 Technical Specifications