PM1401К-3 Manual Eng

MULTIPURPOSE HAND-HELD
RADIATION MONITOR/IDENTIFIER
РМ1401К
OPERATION MANUAL
Models:
PM1401K-3
PM1401K-3М
PM1401K-3Р
PM1401K-3A
www.polimaster.com
ТИГР.412114.039-01 РЭ
Copyright
© Copyright 2013-2015 Polimaster Ltd. All rights reserved. Reproduction,
adaptation or translation without prior written permission is prohibited, except
as allowed under the copyright laws.
Trademarks
Polimaster® is registered trademark of Polimaster Ltd.
Third Party Trademarks
Microsoft® and Windows® are U.S. registered trademarks of Microsoft
Corporation. All other product or service names are the property of their
respective owners.
Product Improvements
Continuous improvement of products is a policy of Polimaster Ltd. and its
affiliates. All specifications, operating and maintenance instructions are subject
to changes that do not make substantial effect on the product functionality
and may be not mentioned in the current Operation Manual.
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CONTENTS
WELCOME ....................................................................................................... 5
INSTRUMENT SAFETY..................................................................................... 5
CHAPTER 1: GENERAL DESCRIPTION ............................................................ 6
1.1. Introduction .................................................................................................. 6
1.2. Delivery kit..................................................................................................... 7
1.3. Accessories .................................................................................................... 8
1.4. Design .......................................................................................................... 15
1.5. Display and control buttons .................................................................... 16
CHAPTER 2: OPERATION .............................................................................. 18
2.1. Belt clip installation/removal ................................................................... 18
2.2. Batteries installation .................................................................................. 18
2.3. Powering the PM1401K-3 from external power supply ...................... 19
2.4. Turning the instrument ON/OFF ............................................................. 20
2.5. Alarms........................................................................................................... 22
2.6. Use of the Statistical Error value ............................................................. 23
2.7. “Measure γ” Mode ...................................................................................... 24
2.8. “Search γ (γn)”mode .................................................................................. 29
2.9. “Identify γ” mode ...................................................................................... 35
2.10. “Activity γ” mode ..................................................................................... 41
2.11. “Register n” mode .................................................................................... 48
2.12. “Search αβγ” mode .................................................................................. 49
2.13. “Measure αβ” mode ................................................................................. 52
2.14. “Spectrum γ” mode.................................................................................. 62
2.15. “History” mode ......................................................................................... 70
CHAPTER 3: SETUP ....................................................................................... 72
3.1. “Settings” menu.......................................................................................... 72
3.2. Manufacturer’s defaults ............................................................................ 79
3.3. Language settings...................................................................................... 80
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CHAPTER 4: PC COMMUNICATION .............................................................. 81
CHAPTER 5: MAINTENANCE ......................................................................... 82
5.1. Functionality check.................................................................................... 82
5.2. Energy calibration check .......................................................................... 82
5.3. Manual energy calibration ....................................................................... 84
TROUBLESHOOTING..................................................................................... 87
Appendix A: Detectors’ positions ............................................................... 89
Appendix B: Dependence of measurement time on flux density of α
and β- particles............................................................................................. 90
Appendix C: Typical energy dependence of the PM1401K-3 sensitivity to
- radiation energy ...................................................................................... 91
Appendix D: Technical specifications ......................................................... 92
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WELCOME
Thank you for purchasing the PM1401K-3 Multipurpose Hand-Held Radiation
Monitor/Identifier. Before operating the instrument, please read this guide
thoroughly, and retain it for future reference.
PM1401K-3 belongs to the new family of Polimaster extremely sensitive and
compact multipurpose hand-held radiation monitors.
The user need not be an expert in health physics to operate this instrument;
however, understanding basic parameters and settings is required for proper
operation.
INSTRUMENT SAFETY
Please follow the instrument safety instructions to avoid unintended damage
of the instrument:
 Always select the proper type of batteries in the “Settings” menu
when you install the new batteries. Otherwise the batteries may
overheat or leak, and this may cause inoperability of PM1401K-3
and will void the warranty;
 Handle the PM1401K-3 with extra care when the mica window of
Geiger-Muller detector is opened. The detector is fragile and may
be unintentionally damaged when performing surveys.
 Avoid severe mechanical shocks and submerging the instrument
in water;
 Do not store the instrument with the batteries installed. The
batteries may leak once depleted causing severe damage to the
instrument and voiding the warranty;
 Do not expose the instrument to high temperatures. Environment
operation temperature range of the instrument shall be above -30
and below +50 °C.
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CHAPTER 1: GENERAL DESCRIPTION

1.1. Introduction
PM1401K-3 can continuously measure ambient dose equivalent rate Ḣ*(10)
(hereinafter referred to as “dose equivalent rate”) of gamma and x-ray radiation
in the wide energy range, monitor alpha, beta and neutron radiations, work as
spectrometer of gamma radiation and radioisotope identifier, and measure
food/soil contamination by 137Cs radionuclide.
All operation history is stored in the instrument’s non-volatile memory and
may be downloaded to a personal computer through a USB interface.
PM1401K-3 is also equipped with built-in GPS to enable geocached data
logging.
The instrument can be used in both indoor and outdoor environments and is
intended for everyday and/or emergency use by firefighters, military, police
and other first responding agencies.
There are four models of PM1401K-3 available for the order. They differ in kind
of detector used to register neutron radiation:
 PM1401K-3 is a base model of the instrument. It uses 3He tube for
detection and registration of neutron radiation;
 PM1401K-3P is a model of the instrument that uses 6LiI(Eu)
scintillator based neutron detector which neutron sensitivity is
similar to the base model - PM1401K-3;
 PM1401K-3A is a model of the instrument that uses small volume
6
LiI(Eu) neutron detector. However its neutron sensitivity is
selected to comply with ANSI 42.32 requirements for Personal
Radiation Detectors;
 PM1401K-3M is a gamma-only model of the instrument without
neutron detection capabilities.
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1.2. Delivery kit
The standard delivery kit is shown in the figure below:
6
4
2
5
7
1
The following items are included in the PM1401K-3 standard delivery kit:
1. The PM1401K-3 instrument
2. Protective case
Set of spacer rings (3 pcs.) is used for α and β-

3.
radiation measurement
Set of α-radiation filters (2 sets) is used for α and β-
4.
radiation measurement
USB Power Cable is used for PC-communication

5.
and recharging the rechargeable batteries)
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6. AA-LR6 batteries (2 pcs.)
7. Belt Clip
8. Operation Manual and Software Guide (CD-ROM)
9. Calibration and Warranty Certificates
1.3. Accessories
The following optional accessories can be used with PM1401K-3:
External vibrator with the wristband is used for

operation in noisy environment and/or performing a
hidden search
Calibration cap is used for energy calibration check
and calibration
Telescopic extension pole is used to operate the
instrument in remote and hard-to-reach areas
Additional neutron moderator is used to increase
the instrument’s sensitivity for neutron radiation
Tripod is used to measure the 137Cs activity in

soil/food water
Set of Marinelli beakers is used to measure the 137Cs

activity in soil/food water
Protective holster is used for protection of the

instrument
The optional accessories are not included in the standard delivery kit and can
be ordered separately from the manufacturer.
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1.3.1. External vibrator
The PM1401K-3 is equipped with built-in audible and light alarms. Optionally
the instrument can be supplied with an external alarm vibrator. It allows
searching for radiation sources in highly noisy environment and/or performing
a hidden search, when audible alarm is disabled. The external vibrator is also
equipped with additional wristband to hold it secure on the wrist to perform
hidden search. Please see pictures below for guidance.
a. b.
Fig. 1 - PM1401K-3 external vibrator wristband
Connect the external vibrator’s cable to the instrument. The vibrator’s cable has
a secure push/pull connector to hold into the position. To connect the vibrator,
locate the port on the bottom of the PM1401K-3, as depicted in the figure
below. Guide the connector until it locks to the position.
CAUTION: Do not grasp the cable or rear part of the connector
house, since this may damage the connector.
a. b.
Fig. 2 - PM1401K-3 external vibrator connector
To disconnect the connector, grasp the outer knurled sleeve, and pull straight
back.
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1.3.2. Telescopic extension pole
Optional telescopic extension pole can be used with PM1401K-3 to operate the
instrument in remote and hard-to-reach areas. Adjust the length of telescopic
extension pole by using two clamps located on the handle.
Clamps
Fig. 3 - Telescopic extension pole

It also allows connecting external vibrator to the pole handle and the
instrument’s socket. PM1401K-3 telescopic extension pole also has a shoulder
belt for operational comfort.
Fig. 4 - Connecting the external vibrator to the

telescopic extension pole
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1.3.3. Neutron moderator

Additional neutron moderator can be used to increase the instrument’s
sensitivity for neutron radiation significantly. The PM1401K-3 neutron
moderator is supplied with a shoulder belt for wearing comfort.
Takedown
screws
Fig. 5 - PM1401K-3 Neutron moderator

To install the instrument into the neutron moderator:
 Remove the instrument’s clip;
 Unfasten the takedown screws on the left and right side of the
chamber and open it;
 Place the instrument into the chamber so that the instrument’s
button pad coincides with the chamber’s buttons and the
instrument's LCD is seen through the moderator’s window;
 Close the chamber and tighten the takedown screws.
The PM1401K-3 is now ready to operate.
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1.3.4. Tripod and set of Marinelli beakers
The tripod and the set of Marinelli beakers are used to measure the activity of
137
Cs in various substances (food, soil, water etc.) in the “Activity γ” mode. To
install the instrument to the tripod:
 Assemble the tripod legs and screw them in the corresponding
screw-holes of the holder panel;
1 2
 Unscrew the takedown screw of the instrument holder panel’s

retention bar and pull out the bar;
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 Place the instrument in the holder panel hole as it is shown on the
figure below. Lock the instrument with retention bar and anchor
the position of the bar with takedown screw;
4 5
 Install the Marinelli Beaker on the Scintillation detector of

PM1401K-3.
The PM1401K-3 is now ready to perform the measurement of 137Cs radionuclide

activity.
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1.3.5. Calibration cap
The optional calibration cap is used for in energy calibration check and manual
energy calibration.
Fig. 6 – Calibration cap
1.3.6. Protective holster

Optionally the PM1401K-3 can be equipped with a holster that provides
additional protection for the instrument from weather, dust and occasional
drops. It can also be fixed on the waist belt using a belt loop.
Fig. 7 – Protective holster
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1.4. Design
Fig. 8 – PM1401K-3 design
1. Display;
2. Button pad;
3. Clip holder (both on the front and on the back sides);
4. LEMO outlet for the external vibrator and USB Power cable;
5. Audible alarm buzzer;
6. Visual alarm LED;
7. Batteries compartment;
8. Batteries compartment cover;
9. γ, β-filter;
10. CsI(Tl) scintillation detector (for gamma radiation detection and
spectroscopy);
11. Geiger-Muller detector (for α -,β -,γ – radiation surveys);
12. Neutron detector (for neutron radiation surveys)1).
1)
For gamma-neutron models only
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1.5. Display and control buttons
The instrument’s display has three main information zones that are used to
display the following information:
Zone 1. Service panel. This information zone may display the following
information:
3
Gamma-neutron models Gamma models
Fig. 9 - Display
– External power supply connection icon;
– Batteries charge level icon;
– Low power icon;
, – sound alarm speaker status icons;
– USB communication with PC icon;
– search mode icon;
– “GPS receiver icon is ON and operating” icon;
– “GPS receiver is ON and searches for the satellites” icon;
– current date and time.
Zone 2. Main display area. This information zone indicates instrument’s
readings in various operation modes. Fig. 10 displays an example of the
readings in the “Search γ (γn)” mode.
The area can also display the analog bar. In different modes the bar may be
used to indicate various information, such as time left until completion of self-
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tests or background calibration, or show the current value of radiation
background in excess of the preset alarm threshold.
Zone 3. Buttons’ menu panel. This information zone shows functions that are
currently assigned to the instrument’s buttons. The picture below displays the
reference between button assignment and panel symbols.
LEFT UP
RIGHT
DOWN
Fig. 10 – Buttons’ assignment

The four buttons of PM1401K-3 will be referred hereinafter in the text of the
Manual as UP, DOWN, LEFT and RIGHT.
The following symbols may be displayed in this zone:
, - backlight timeout disabling \ enabling icons;
- accessing a submenu icon;
- moving the cursor up and down icons;

, - audible alarm disabling \ enabling icons (see “Alarms” paragraph);
, - assignment description textboxes for RIGHT and LEFT buttons.
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CHAPTER 2: OPERATION
2.1. Belt clip installation/removal
The instrument comes with a clip, which may be used to fasten the instrument
to a waist belt or a pocket. The clip is installed on one of the clip holders on the
front or on the back panels and pushed in the white arrow’s direction (see
Fig. 11) until a click.
Fig. 11 - PM1401K-3 clip installation
To remove the clip press the clip locker panel (the panel is marked with the red
arrow) and move the clip in the direction of the white arrow.
2.2. Batteries installation

РМ1401K-3 is packaged without batteries installed. To install the batteries,
open the batteries compartment cover with a coin or screwdriver. Once
opened, insert two AA batteries loading the positive (+) end first.
Reinstall the batteries compartment cover and tighten it. When the batteries
are properly installed, the audible and vibrating alarms are initiated for a short
period of time and the instrument goes through startup procedures.
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Fig. 12 – Batteries installation
The PM1401K-3 can be powered with either regular alkaline or rechargeable

NiMh batteries.
CAUTION: Always select the proper type of batteries in the
“Settings” menu when you install new batteries. Otherwise the
batteries may overheat or leak when the instrument is
connected to a Power / USB outlet. This may cause malfunction
of PM1401K-3 and will void the warranty.
2.3. Powering the PM1401K-3 from external power supply

The instrument may be also powered from an USB socket of a PC with the USB
Power cable included into the standard delivery kit. In this case, no batteries
are required to run the instrument.
The installed in the PM1401K-3 rechargeable batteries may be charged if the
instrument is powered from an active USB outlet and the type of batteries is set
to “NiMH rechargeable” in the instrument’s settings. The red light of the visual
alarm LED indicates that charging is in process. The LED will go off and enter its
routine indication mode when the batteries are completely charged.
The icons: – external power; – USB communication with PC are
displayed in the Service panel when the instrument is connected to an active
USB socket.
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2.4. Turning the instrument ON/OFF
Once the batteries have been installed or PM1401K-3 has been connected to a
PC, the instrument will turn ON automatically. If the batteries was already
installed and the instrument is OFF, press and hold the DOWN button for 3
seconds to turn it ON.
If the batteries charge is not sufficient to start the instrument the visual alarm
LED will start blinking orange and the “low batteries” image will be displayed
on the screen. The instrument also may not react to the pressing the “Down”
button if the batteries are discharged completely. In such cases replace the
batteries with the fresh ones and repeat the procedure.
Once the instrument is ON, all alarms are activated for 1 second and the LCD
will show the boot screen. Subsequently, the instrument switches to the self-
test mode:
a. b.
Fig. 13 - PM1401K-3 self-testing
and background calibration:
a. b.
Fig. 14 - Background calibration
When calibration is completed the instrument is ready for operation.
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NOTE: During background calibration the PM1401K-3 adjusts alarm

thresholds in the search mode to the current radiation background.
Therefore keep the instrument away from any radiation sources until
calibration is completed.
NOTE: You may also leave the calibration menu at any time and switch
to other instrument’s menus and modes. In this case the background
calibration will be continued and finished in the background mode.
To turn the instrument OFF, go to the main MENU and select “Power Off”. After
a couple of seconds the LCD goes blank. The instrument is off now.
NOTE: PM1401K-3 will not turn OFF when it is powered by the USB Power
Cable. In this case to turn the instrument OFF disconnect it from the USB
outlet and repeat the procedure described above.
Selecting language
When the instrument is turned ON after a long period of storage without
batteries, it will offer you to select the interface language before switching to
operation modes.
Setting current date / time
The instrument will also offer you set the current date and time after a long
period of storage. The setup is described in “3.1.6 Date/Time” paragraph.
Selecting batteries type
The PM1401K-3 can be powered by either regular alkaline or rechargeable
NiMh batteries. Therefore, after the first time the instrument is turned ON, the
user must select the proper batteries type in the instrument “Settings” menu
(see “3.1.5 Power” paragraph).
Low batteries indication
When the instrument is ON, it continuously controls the batteries charge level.
The batteries charge level is indicated in the upper right corner of the LCD.
When batteries voltage drops below a critical level, the Low Batteries warning
sign is displayed. The instrument will produce sound and light (orange
LED) alarms if the batteries charge is low. When the discharge reaches the
critical level the instrument will turn OFF. In such case replace or recharge the
batteries.
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2.5. Alarms
The PM1401K-3 continuously compares the radiation background to the preset
alarm thresholds. When a radioactive source is detected (the calculated
threshold is exceeded), the instrument’s visual, audible and/or vibrating alarms
are triggered.
Audible alarm is provided with the buzzer at the bottom of the instrument’s
body. Visual alarm is provided with flashing LED light at the bottom of the
instrument’s body. Vibrating alarm is provided with the special accessory –
external vibrator. It may be fastened to your wrist with a special belt or any
other place of clothes with the clip.
If alarms of the instrument are activated the icon in the bottom of
the screen is replaced with the icon and you are provided with the
option of temporarily disabling them by pressing the DOWN button.
After that the icon will turn into the icon indicating that the
alarms are temporarily disabled. Press the DOWN button one more
time to enable the alarms. For safety reasons they are automatically
enabled when the radiation background drops below the preset
thresholds so as PM1401K-3 could warn you about the next potentially
dangerous increase in radiation background.
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2.6. Use of the Statistical Error value
The statistical error value is used to determine the moment when the
instrument gathers enough statistical data to measure with the specified
accuracy. It plays the key role in PM1401K-3 measurements in “Measure γ”,
“Search γ (γn)”, “Search αβγ”, “Measure αβ” modes.
a. b. c.
Fig. 15 – Statistical error value
The statistical error value decreases over time when the amount of counts,
which were registered with a PM1401K-3 detector for calculation of a
measured value, increases.
The measurement results are acceptable if the Statistical Error value
equals or lower 10%. The lower the Statistical Error is the more accurate are
the measurement results. However, it may take a lot of time to accumulate
enough statistical data at low radiation background to drop the error to the
lowest possible level. Therefore, “10%” threshold is recommended as an
optimal value, which may be reached within acceptable period and ensures the
specified accuracy of the measurements.
NOTE: The Statistical Error is not the Accuracy of the instrument.
Moreover these two values have different nature and cannot be
summed up.
The speed of statistical error reduction depends on the type of detector
(Scintillation detector acquires the statistical information faster than He-3
Neutron and Geiger-Muller detectors) and the current radiation background
level (the higher radiation background is the sooner PM1401K-3 will finish the
accumulation of the statistics).
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2.7. “Measure γ” Mode
“Measure γ” mode is used for accurate measurement of the
dose equivalent rate of gamma radiation within the
instrument’s measurement and energy range.
In this mode the energy compensated Geiger-Mueller
detector is used to measure gamma radiation. The
Scintillation and Neutron detectors are also active and the
instrument will alarm if the radiation background exceeds
the preset count rate thresholds.
To switch to this mode, please select “Measure γ” in the main MENU.
NOTE: the γβ-filter must be installed on the instrument for correct
measurement of the gamma radiation dose equivalent rate in the
“Measure γ” mode.
The following information is displayed on the LCD in the “Measure γ” mode:
Current γ dose
equivalent rate
with statistical
error in “%”
Analog
bar
Current neutron count
rate with statistical
error in “%”

Fig. 16 - “Measure γ” mode
1. Current value of gamma radiation dose equivalent rate in sieverts per
hour (μSv/h, mSv/h or Sv/h) or rem per hour (μR/h, mR/h or R/h);
2. Average neutron count rate in counts per second (CPS)1);
3. Statistical errors values of the average gamma dose equivalent and
neutron count rates in “%”;
1)
For gamma neutron models only
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4. Analog bar showing the relative value of the current gamma radiation
dose equivalent rate in excess of the preset threshold.
The buttons in “Measure γ” mode perform the following functions:
 UP button – opening the “Measure γ” settings submenu;
 DOWN button – enabling \ disabling the backlight timeout and
alarms of the instrument;
 LEFT button – entering the main MENU of the instrument;
 RIGHT button – saving the measured values.
If the PM1401K-3 is exposed to radiation intensities greater than the upper
measurement ranges (200 mSv/h for gamma radiation and 999 cps for
neutrons1)) it will display the overload readings: “-OvL-”.
When one of the alarms is triggered the color of the readings changes to red
and the following messages may be displayed:
a. b. c.
Fig. 17 – Gamma radiation dose equivalent rate measurement
mode alarms
 “Alarm γ” if Scintillation detector gamma radiation search channel
threshold is triggered (see Fig.17a);
 “Alarm DER” if Geiger-Muller detector gamma radiation dose
equivalent rate measurement channel threshold is triggered (see
Fig.17b);
 “Alarm” if neutron radiation detector channel is triggered (see
Fig.17c).
The instrument also saves the alarm as a separate record in the memory, which
may be viewed from the “History” menu.
1)
For gamma neutron models only
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To save the measurements in the “Measure γ” mode press the RIGHT button.
The following information will be recorded in the instrument’s memory:
a. b. c.
Fig. 18 - Saving with different statistical error values
 Gamma radiation dose equivalent rate value (with the Statistical
Error in “%”);
 Gamma radiation radiation background countrate value (with the
Statistical Error in “%”);
 Neutron radiation background countrate value1) (with the
Statistical Error in “%”);
 Date and time of measurement;
 GPS coordinates (if GPS module is turned ON).
The record can be viewed from the “History” section of the main MENU.
If the value of the statistical error for gamma dose equivalent rate is larger than
10% as it is shown on the Fig. 18a, the instrument displays the warning
message window (see Fig. 18c). You can still save the results of measurements
by pressing the RIGHT button one more time or press the LEFT button to return
to the “Measure γ” mode menu.
NOTE: to be sure that the measurements were made with the specified
measurement error they shall be saved only when the statistical error is
lower than 10%.
1)
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2.7.1. Settings of “Measure γ” mode
To enter the settings submenu press the UP button when in the “Measure γ”
mode:
a. b.
Fig. 19 - “Measure γ” Mode Settings
The following options are available in this submenu:
“1. Search Off” (“Search On”) line is used to enable or disable the search
mode in the “Measure γ” Mode.
If the Search mode is enabled, “1. Search Off” line is indicated in the submenu,
the icon is present at the top of the instruments screen and the instrument
produces alarms when the scintillation detector search channel threshold is
triggered in the “Measure γ” mode. If the Search mode is disabled the
“1. Search On” line is indicated in the submenu, there is no search icon in the
Service information panel and the scintillation detector search channel is Off.
“2. Reset statistics” command allows manual restarting of the gamma
radiation dose equivalent and neutron count rate measurements.
“3. Threshold gamma” submenu is used to enter the gamma radiation dose
equivalent rate alarm threshold.
2.7.2. Resetting statistics (starting new measurement)

When the instrument measures the gamma dose rate it displays the average
value of several readings over time to improve accuracy. Therefore, the
displayed on the LCD dose rate will change very slowly when there are small
changes in background radiation. In order to start the new measurements
select “2. Reset statistics” command in the in “Measure γ” mode settings
submenu.
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After resetting statistics the instrument’s readings for gamma detector are set
to 0.10 µSv/h and readings of the neutron detector are set to 0.01 CPS. At that
the value the statistical error for both of the readings is set to “99%”.
NOTE: the instrument requires couple of seconds to measure the new
radiation background value and compare it with the alarm threshold after
resetting the statistics. Therefore in such case despite the gamma
radiation background may be higher than the alarm threshold the alarm
will not be triggered immediately.
2.7.3. Setting-up gamma radiation dose equivalent rate threshold

When in the in “Measure γ” mode settings submenu select “3. Threshold
gamma” to enter the gamma radiation dose equivalent rate alarm threshold
settings submenu.
In this submenu pressing the RIGHT button will toggle between changing the
threshold measurement units μSv/h, mSv/h or Sv/h (μR/h, mR/h or R/h),
moving the decimal point, and increasing/decreasing the corresponding digit
of the threshold value. To change a particular unit or value press UP or DOWN
when the corresponding position is highlighted (see Fig. 20).
a. b.
Fig. 20 - “Measure γ” Mode threshold
To accept the changes and (or) move to the next unit or value press the RIGHT
button. Press the LEFT button to return to the “Measure γ” mode menu. In any
of the abovementioned cases the threshold levels will be stored in the memory
of the instrument.
NOTE: Manufacturer default dose equivalent rate threshold value is

0.1 mSv/h.
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2.8. “Search γ (γn1))”mode
“Search γ (γn)” is used to search for gamma and neutron radiation sources. In
this mode, the instrument displays the current value of gamma and neutron
radiation1 count rate in counts per second (CPS) and automatically compares
the current count rate with the threshold value. The
threshold value is based on measured during calibration
background radiation and the “n coefficient” set by the user.
To switch to this mode, select “Search γ (γn)” in the main
MENU. The instrument is also switched to the “Search γ (γn)”
mode automatically when self-tests and background
calibration are completed.
When the PM1401K-3 is in the “Search γ (γn)” mode the
Scintillation detector is used to measure gamma radiation background count
rate, therefore the instrument is fast in response to changes in background
radiation. In addition, the neutron detector is used for measurement of neutron
radiation background count rate. The Geiger-Mueller detector is also active and
the instrument will alarm if the radiation background exceeds the preset dose
equivalent rate threshold.
The following information is displayed on the LCD in the “Search γ (γn)” mode:
Current γ
count rate with
statistical error
in “%”
Analog bar
Current neutron count

error in “%”
Fig. 21 - “Search γ (γn)” mode
1)
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ТИГР.412114.039-01 РЭ
1. Current value of gamma radiation count rate in counts per second
(CPS);
2. Current value of neutron radiation count rate in counts per second
(CPS);
3. Statistical errors of of the gamma and neutron count rate values
in “%”;
4. Analog bar showing the relative value of the current gamma
radiation count rate in excess of the preset threshold.
The buttons in “Search γ (γn)” mode perform the following functions:
 UP button – opening the “Search γ (γn)” mode settings submenu.
 DOWN button – enabling \ disabling the backlight timeout and
alarms of the instrument;
 RIGHT button – saving the measured values.
The instrument produces visual, vibrating or audible signals when a radioactive
source is detected in this mode (when the calculated during the background
calibration alarm threshold is exceeded). As the PM1401K-3 moves closer to the
radiation source, the frequency of signals increases and thus enables the user
to determine the direction toward the source location.
When the alarms signals reach their maximum frequency it is recommended to
run the background calibration procedure (see “2.8.3 False alarms paragraph”).
During this process it is important to keep the instrument in the same place if
possible. Once the background calibration is completed, the user may then
continue to search for the radiation source. If necessary, this procedure may be
repeated as many times as necessary until the gamma radiation source is
located.
To operate the instrument or locate a neutron radiation source in mixed
gamma and neutron radiation fields, it is recommended to turn OFF the
audible and vibrating alarms and manually monitor the numerical values of
gamma and neutron count rates on the display. The closer the instrument is to
the radiation source, the larger the count rate value is. It is not necessary to run
the background calibration in this scenario.
indication ranges it will display the overload readings: “-OvL-”.
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To save the measurements in the “Search γ (γn)” mode press the RIGHT button.
2.8.1. Alarms in “Search γ (γn)” mode

and the following messages may be displayed:
 “Alarm γ” message if Scintillation detector gamma radiation search
channel threshold is triggered (see Fig. 22a);
 “Alarm DER” if Geiger-Muller detector gamma radiation dose
equivalent rate measurement channel threshold is triggered (see
Fig. 22b);
 “Alarm” if neutron radiation search channel is triggered (see
Fig. 22c).
a. b. c.
Fig. 22 - “Search γ (γn)” mode alarms
Alarm levels in the “Search γ (γn)” mode are derived from the ambient
background. When the instrument runs through background calibration, it
acquires a background reading and calculates the alarm thresholds
automatically based on the value of “n coefficients” set by the user.
2.8.2. Getting a new background

The user may run background calibration to adjust the alarm threhsold for the
new background during the normal operation of the instrument. It is
recommended to run the background calibration any time the radiation
background significantly changes, e.g. upon entry or exit from the building,
changing locations, etc.
If the instrument’s background radiation level is not updated, the alarm may be
set off more frequently in the “Search γ (γn)” mode even without the presence
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of any radioactive sources. Or conversely, the instrument’s ability to alarm to
the presence of a radiation source may become worse. Under these
circumstances it is necessary to run the background calibration so that the
instrument recalculates the alarm thresholds based on the new environment.
To update the background radiations levels and recalculate the gamma and
neutron countrate alarm thresholds select “2. Calibration” command in the
“Search γ (γn)” mode settings submenu. The instrument will switch back to the
main screen of the “Search γ (γn)” mode and the “Calibration” message will be
displayed at the top of the screen. In gamma-neutron models the “Calibr.”
message will also be displayed in the lower part of the screen:
a. b.
Fig. 23 - “Search γ (γn)” mode calibration
In total, the calibration process requires no more than 1 minute. When

calibration messages disappear, the unit has the new background reading and
is ready for normal operation.
The PM1401K-3 can also adjust to gradually changing levels of
radiation background automatically to make operation with the
instrument more convenient. This function is enabled by default.
2.8.3. False alarms

The PM1401K-3 may occasionally produce random “chirp” signals, called “false
alarms”. Such alarms are irregular and may be easily distinguished from
genuine alarms, which are triggered by radiation sources. Genuine alarms are
repeated continuously and their rate is increased when the instrument is
moved closer to a radioactive source. The number of false alarms depends
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upon many factors including changes in ambient radiation background as well
as system set-up.
2.8.4. Settings in “Search γ (γn)” mode

When in the “Search γ (γn)” mode, press the UP button to enter the mode’s
settings submenu:
a. b.
Fig. 24 - “Search γ (γn)” mode settings
The following options are available in this submenu:

“1. Reset statistics” command allows manual restarting of the gamma and
neutron radiation count rate measurements;
“2. Calibration” command is used to manually run background calibration;
“3. Threshold gamma” submenu is used to enter the gamma radiation count
rate alarm threshold;
“4. Threshold neutron” submenu is used to enter the neutron radiation count
rate alarm threshold.

The resetting statistics procedure is similar to the described for “Measure γ”
mode. To reset the statistics select “1. Reset statistics” command in the “Search
γ (γn)” mode settings submenu.
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2.8.6. Setting-up gamma and neutron radiation count rate thresholds
To adjust gamma or neutron radiation count rate thresholds select
“3. Threshold gamma” or “4. Threshold neutron” lines in “Search γ (γn)” mode
settings submenu.
The threshold is represented by the “n coefficient” which is to be changed to
adjust the sensitivity of the instrument to the gamma radiation background
fluctuations.
The value of “n coefficient” may be set in the range of 1.0 to 9.9 through every
0.1. The smaller is the value of “n coefficient”, the more sensitive is the
instrument to changes in background radiation, however this also increases
the rate of “false alarms” (see the “2.5.2 False alarms” paragraph). The larger is
the value of “n coefficient”, the less sensitive unit becomes to minor changes in
radiation background and responds only to large radiation field variations
(intensive radiation sources nearby) and probability of false alarms decreases.
When in the “3. Threshold gamma” or “4. Threshold neutron” submenu press
the RIGHT button to toggle between increasing/decreasing the two digits of
the threshold value. To change a particular unit or value press UP or DOWN
buttons when the corresponding position is highlighted.
a. b.
Fig. 25 - “Search γ (γn)” mode thresholds
To accept the changes press the RIGHT button when the buttons’ menu pannel
indicates “Ok” icon.
Press the LEFT button to return to the “Search γ (γn)” mode menu. The
instrument will run background calibration to acquire the new alarm threshold.
Manufacturer’s default count rate thresholds values (“n coefficients”) are given
in the “3.2 Manufacturer’s defaults” chapter.
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2.8.7. Automatic identification in the “Search γ (γn)” mode
If a gamma radiation source is detected when the PM1401K-3 is in the “Search γ
(γn) mode, the radionuclide identification can be started automatically over the
specified period of time - automatic identification start timeout. The timeout
may be configured in the instrument’s Settings in the “9. Identification”
submenu by setting the value in ““Start timeout, sec” field.
5 sec.
a. b. c.
Fig. 26 – Automatic identification
To disable the automatic identification in the “Search γ (γn)” mode set the
timeout value to “0”.
2.9. “Identify γ” mode

“Identify γ” mode is used for radioisotope identification.
PM1401K-3 is capable to identify a number of radionuclides
by analyzing their radiation spectrum which is registered
with the Scintillation detector of the instrument.
The instrument may be switched to “Identify γ” mode from
the main MENU or automatically over the specified period of
time from the “Search γ (γn)” mode.
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The following information is displayed on the LCD in “Identify γ” mode:
Current γ
radiation count
rate
Detector load icon
Time left till

completion of
identification, in
seconds
Fig. 27 – “Identify γ” mode

1. Current value of gamma radiation count rate in counts per second (CPS);
2. Detector load icon, indicating whether the current gamma radiation
count rate is optimal for spectra acquisition;
3. Time left till the completion of identification in seconds.
The buttons in “Identify γ” mode perform the following functions:
 UP button – opening the “Identify γ” settings submenu;
 RIGHT button – radionuclide identification.
The alarms are disabled in the “Identify γ” mode. However if gamma radiation
dose equivalent rate threshold is triggered the color of count rate readings will
change to red.
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2.9.1. Settings of the “Identify γ” mode
To enter the settings submenu of the press the UP button when in the
“Identify γ” mode:
a. b.
Fig. 28 - “Identify γ” mode settings

Use UP and DOWN to move the cursor. Press the RIGHT button to select the
appropriate field and then press the UP and DOWN buttons to set the selected
parameter or value:
 Absorber, mm/cm  thickness of the
absorber (in millimeters or
centimeters) placed between the
source’s center and PM1401K-3
Scintillation detector’s center. The
default value of the absorber thickness
is “0”;
 Type  material of the absorber.
“None” is set by default;
 Matrix, mm/cm  thickness of the
material (in millimeters or centimeters),
in which the source is dispersed along
the line connecting the center of mass of the material (matrix) and
the PM1401K-3 Scintillation detector’s center. The default value
is “0”.
 Type  type of the matrix material. “None” is set by default;
Thickness and the type of the absorber and (or) matrix influence
the form of the spectrum acquired by the PM1401K-3. Therefore it
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ТИГР.412114.039-01 РЭ
is important to select their proper type and thickness for correct
identification results;
 Library – the list of radionuclides which may be identified with
PM1401K-3. Five libraries are available in PM1401K-3: “full”, “itrap”,
“short”, “user”, “test”. The most complete list of radionuclides is
given in “full” nuclide library. The only library which may be edited
by a PM1401K-3 user is “user” library. The libruary may be edditted
in the “Library Editor” of the “1401К3 Built-In Software” when the
instrument is connected to a PC;
 Distance, cm – distance to the source in centimeters. The default
value is 10 cm. This parameter is only required for correct
measurement of the activity of the identified radionuclides in
spectrum identification in “Spectrum γ” mode (see “2.14.4
Completion of the spectrum acquisition” paragraph).
To accept the changes press the RIGHT button. Press the LEFT button to return
to the “Identify γ” mode menu.
2.9.2. Radioisotope identification

For PM1401K-3, as for the majority of identifiers, it is very important to have
count rate readings on the display within a certain interval, between 100 cps
and 500 cps to acquire good quality spectra.
If the count rate is below the bottom limit of the optimum detector load (100
cps), the instrument shows the low count rate icon (see Fig. 29a). In this
case, it is necessary to move the instrument closer to the radioactive source to
increase the count rate value on the display.
If the count rate is above the upper limit of the optimum detector load
(500 cps), the instrument shows the high count rate icon (see Fig. 29c). In
this case, it is necessary to move the instrument away from the radioactive
source to decrease the count rate value on the display.
If the count rate is within the optimal interval the optimal count rate icon
(see Fig. 29b) is displayed.
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Keep the distance from the source so that during the identification the value of
the count rate would be within the optimal range (100 – 500 cps) and the
optimal count rate icon is displayed on the screen.
a. b. c.
The time left till completion of identification may be set to the certain value in
the “9. Identification” settings submenu. To do so, go to the “Settings” menu
and select “9.Identification” section. Then set the value in the “Acquisition, sec”
field (see CHAPTER 3 “Setup”).
If this time is set to a different from “0” value the instrument will identify
radionuclides over the specified period of time. If this value is set to “0” the
PM1401K-3 will automatically calculate the required period of time and identify
the radionuclides when it has enough data.
An identification attempt may also be done manually by pressing the RIGHT
button when in this mode.
Upon completion of identification, the LCD displays the following information:
 Type of the radioisotope(s), e.g., “Th232”;
a. b. c.
Fig. 30 – Identification results
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 Amount of peaks identified by the instrument;
 Category of identified radioisotope according to ANSI: Special
Nuclear Materials (SNM); Medical Isotopes (MED); Industrial
Isotopes (IND); Natural Isotopes (NORM);
 Confidence level of identification results, e.g., 59%.
The identification results given on the Figure 30 should be read as follows:
 “Th232 5/7 NORM 100%” - the instrument identified 5 of 7 peaks of
Th232. The certainty of identification is 100%. The radionuclide
belongs to the Natural isotopes group (NORM).
 “Th228 3/3 NORM 59%” - the instrument identified 3 of 3 peaks of
Th228. The certainty of identification is 59%. The radionuclide
belongs to the Natural isotopes group (NORM).
 “Cs137 1/1 IND 100%” - the instrument identified the single peak
of Cs137. The certainty of identification is 100%. The radionuclide
belongs to the Industrial isotopes group (IND).
At that, identification results are automatically saved as new spectrum file that
can be viewed from “Spectrum γ” mode “Open” submenu.
The instrument may also show “Unable to identify” message if the “Identify”
button is pressed too soon before PM1401K-3 finishes the spectrum
acquisition, or the inspected radionuclides are not included in the selected
radionuclide library.
Spectrometric parameters of the instrument (energy resolution) get
worse at ambient temperatures above 32–35о С. It is recommended to
avoid conduction of spectrometric surveys at high temperatures
(especially, identification of the nuclides with multiply energy peaks
and mixtures of radionuclides).
To exit this mode, press the LEFT button. The instrument will return to the
screen main MENU.
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2.10. “Activity γ” mode
“Activity γ” mode is used to measure the activity of 137Cs
in a sample. The special accessories kit, which consists of
the tripod and the set of Marinelli beakers, is required to
use PM1401K-3 mode in this mode.
Scintillation detector of PM1401K-3 is used to measure
137
Cs activity in this mode. The measured value is
compared with the preset maximum permissible activity
of 137Cs and the instrument displays the result of
comparison on the LCD in form of statements:
“Contaminated” or “Clear”.
To switch to this mode, please select “Activity γ” from the main MENU.
a. b.
Fig. 31 – “Activity γ” mode
To measure the activity of a sample do the following steps:
1. Set up the instrument for activity measurement:
 set the volume and weight of the sample;
 set the maximum permissible activity of 137Cs in the tested sample.
2. Measure or check the background radiation from 137Cs at the place of
measurement:
 the radiation background measurement (“3. Background meas.”) is
required each time PM1401K-3 is placed in the environment with
the new radiation background (e.g., it was moved to another
place);
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 the radiation background checking (“2. Background monitoring”)
is recommended after a series of the surveys in a presumptively
constant radiation environment to make sure it didn’t change.
3. Install the instrument on the tripod;
4. Prepare the sample in accordance to the instructions given in this
paragraph, put it into the Marinelli beaker and place the beaker on the
Scintillation detector of PM1401K-3;
5. Measure the activity of the sample.
All alarms are disabled in the “Activity γ” mode.
2.10.1. Settings in “Activity γ” mode

To enter the settings submenu of the mode select the “4. Settings” in the
“Activity γ” mode main menu.
a. b.
Fig. 32 – Settings of the “Activity γ” mode
Pressing the RIGHT button toggles between the options in this submenu. To
change a particular option or value press the UP and DOWN buttons when the
corresponding position is highlighted.
Volume of liquid samples may be determined with a measuring cup. Weight of
the sample should be measured by means of the scales (weighing accuracy
shall be ± 5 %).
“Threshold, Bq/kg (I)” is the maximum permissible activity of 137Cs in the tested
sample. Please refer to your local standards to determine this value for various
substances.
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2.10.2. Background measurement in the “Activity γ” mode
When in this mode the PM1401K-3 measures the count rate value of 137Cs in
natural background radiation at the place of activity measurement. This
procedure should be done if operation conditions had changed (e.g., the
instrument had been moved to another location).
To start the background measurement select “3. Background meas.” in the
“Activity γ” mode main menu.
Estimated time left

until the end of
background
measurement
Current background
count rate value
from Cs-137
Established minimal
detectable activity
of Cs-137
a. b.
Fig. 33 – “Activity γ” mode background measurement
The LCD will display the estimated time left until the end of background
measurement in “hh:mm:ss” format, current background count rate value from
137
Cs with the statistical error in “%”, and the established minimal detectable
activity of 137Cs (“Est. threshold”) in Bq/kg(l) (see Figure 33b).
In case the previously measured background value had
been already saved, the instrument will offer to select
either to continue the previously started measurement
or to start the new measurement. Select “1. Continue
measurement” in case the background measurement is
done because the settings of the “Activity γ” had been
changed (e.g. a lower maximum permissible activity of
137
Cs was selected) but the environmental conditions
had not changed (i.e. the instrument was not moved to
another location). Or select “2. New measurement” to
start the new background measurement.
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Once the LCD displays “Completed” (see Figure 34 a) the background
measurement is finished. Press the RIGHT button to stop the measurement and
save the measured value. After the value is saved it will be used in activity
measurement algorithm until it is updated during the next background
measurement. The instrument will return to the “Activity γ” mode main menu.
а. b.
Fig. 34 - Background measurement
results in the “Activity γ” mode
2.10.3. Background monitoring in the “Activity γ” mode

The background monitoring mode is used to check if the gamma radiation
background from 137Cs had changed since the last time the background
measurement was performed. The procedure takes less time and therefore
may be done instead of background measurement prior to each activity
measurement provided the measurements are performed in the same
conditions.
To start the background monitoring select the “2. Background monitoring”
option (Fig. 35а) in the “Activity γ” mode main menu. The LCD will display time
a. b.
Fig. 35 – Background monitoring mode
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ТИГР.412114.039-01 РЭ
left until the end of background measurement in “hh:mm:ss” format and
current background count rate value from 137Cs with the statistical error in “%”
(Figure 35b).
Once the procedure is completed following messages will be displayed:
 “Completed” – the gamma radiation background didn’t change.
The user can measure the activity of 137Cs;
 “Bg changed” – the background has changed. The new
background measurement is required prior to measurement of
137
Cs activity.
a. b.
Fig. 36 – Background monitoring results
Press the LEFT button to leave the background monitoring mode.
2.10.4. Preparation of sample

Observe the following rules to provide the best accuracy of the measurement:
 wash fruits, vegetables, herbs, meat, etc. with running water;
 wash and gut fish;
 remove the food wrap from the inspected foodstuff;
 cut the sample in the small pieces (or grind it) to provide the
densest filling of the Marinelli beaker;
 thoroughly mix liquid and bulk samples prior to measurement;
 the Marinelli beaker should be filled completely up to the mark;
 samples should be placed only into a clean Marinelli beaker.
2.10.5. Activity measurement

To start the measurement of 137Cs activity select the “1. Activity meas.” in the
the “Activity γ” mode main menu.
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ТИГР.412114.039-01 РЭ
The measurement will be started and the LCD will display:
 estimated time left until the end of measurement in “hh:mm:ss”
format;
 estimated 137Cs activity value in Bq/kg(l);
 absolute statistical error of measurement (“Act. Intolerance”) in
Bq/kg(l).
Estimated time left

until the end of Cs-
137 activity
measurement
Estimated activity
of Cs-137
Statistical error of
measurement
a. b.
Fig. 37 – Activity measurement
The activity measurement is completed when the LCD displays one of the
following:
Contaminated – this result is displayed if the sum of the 137Cs activity and
absolute statistical measurement values is higher than the preset maximum
permissible activity (Fig. 38a);
a. b.
Fig. 38 – Background monitoring results
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ТИГР.412114.039-01 РЭ
137
Clear – this result is displayed if the sum of the Cs activity and absolute
statistical measurement values is lower than the preset maximum permissible
activity (Figure 38b).
To save the measurements in the “Activity γ” mode press the RIGHT button
when the PM1401K-3 finishes the measurement.
 Conclusion: “Clear” or “Contaminated”;
 137Cs activity value in Bq/kg(l);
 Statictical error of measurement in “%”;
The record may be viewed from the “History” section of the main MENU.
To exit the mode, press the LEFT button.
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2.11. “Register n” mode1)

The “Register n” mode is used to display the total amount of neutrons which
were registered with PM1401K-3 neutron detector over the specified period of
time.
The instrument is switched to this mode from the main MENU.
The following information is displayed on the LCD in the “Register n” mode:
 Counts - the amount of neutrons registered since the last reset of
the statistics in this mode;
 Time, sec - the total time of neutron registeration from the
moment of last statistics reset in this mode in seconds.
Amount of
neutrons
registered by the
instrument
Total time of
neutron
registration
a. b.
Fig. 39 – “Register n” mode
The instrument stops neutron registration once it reaches the maximum

number of registered neutrons (131070 counts) or the maximum value of the
time of registration (86400 seconds).
The instrument will alert the user if any of the preset radiation detection
thresholds are exceeded with Audible/Visual or Vibrating2) alarms.
The Settings of the mode allow restarting the neutron registering. To do so,
press the UP button and select “1. Reset statistics”.
The instrument will reset the “Counts” and “Time, sec” values to zeroes.
To exit the “Register n” mode settings menu, press the LEFT button.
1)
2)
The vibrating alarm is provided with the special accessory – external vibrator
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2.12. “Search αβγ” mode
“Search αβγ” mode is used for search of α-, β- and γ-radiation sources. It allows
using the PM1401K-3 as a surface contamination meter. In this mode α-, β- and
γ-radiation particles are registered with the Geiger-Muller detector’s mica
window.
γβ-filter
Mica window
NOTE: the γβ-filter must be removed to open Geiger-Muller detector’s

mica window to register α-, β- and γ-radiation particles in “Search αβγ”
mode.
To switch to this mode select “Search αβγ” from the main MENU (see Fig. 40).
The following information is displayed on the LCD in “Search αβγ” mode:
1. Current value of average α-, β- and γ-radiation radiation flux count rate
in counts per second (CPS);
Current αβγ-
radiation flux count
error in “%”
Analog bar
a. b.
Fig. 40 – “Search αβγ” mode
2. Statistical error value of the average α-, β- and γ-radiation count

rate in “%”;
3. Analog bar showing the relative value of the current α-, β- and γ-
radiation count rate in excess of the preset threshold.
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ТИГР.412114.039-01 РЭ
indication range of “Search αβγ” mode it will display the overload
reading.
and the following message is displayed:
Fig. 41 - “Search ” mode alarm
Press the “Save” button to save the measured values in the instruments history.
NOTE: so as the value were measured with the specified accuracy they
should be saved only when the statistical error is lower than 10%.
2.12.1. Settings in “Search  ” mode

To enter the settings of the “Search αβγ” mode press the UP button:
a. b.
Fig. 42 - “Search ” mode settings
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When in the “Search αβγ” mode settings submenu press UP and DOWN
buttons to move the cursor. Press the RIGHT button to select the appropriate
option:
“1. Reset statistics” command allows manual restarting of the α-, β-, γ-radiation
count rate measurements;
“2. Threshold αβγ” submenu is used to enter the α-, β-, γ- radiation count rate
alarm threshold.

mode. To reset the statistics select “1. Reset statistics” command in the “Search
αβγ” mode settings submenu.
2.12.3. Setting-up “Search  ” mode alarm threshold

When in the in “Search αβγ” mode settings submenu select “2. Threshold αβγ”
to enter the α-, β-, γ-radiation count rate alarm threshold settings submenu.
In this submenu pressing the RIGHT button will toggle between the threshold
value fields. To change a particular unit or value press UP or DOWN button
when the corresponding position is highlighted (see Fig. 43).
a. b.
Fig. 43 - “Search ” mode threshold settings
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ТИГР.412114.039-01 РЭ
NOTE: The value of the threshold is represented in scientific notation (“E

notation”) form. The “e” is used to represent "times ten raised to the
power of". Therefore “X.XXeN CPS” should be read as "X.XX × 10N CPS")
To accept the changes and (or) move to the next unit or value press the RIGHT
button.
Press the LEFT button to return to the “Search αβγ” mode menu.
NOTE: Manufacturer default threshold value is 1.00e1 CPS
2.13. “Measure αβ” mode

“Measure αβ” mode is used to measure the value of α- and β-radiation flux
density. In this mode α- and β-particles are registered with the Geiger-Muller
detector’s mica window.
The instrument is switched to the “Measure αβ” mode from the main MENU.
a. b.
Fig. 44 - “Measure αβ” mode
The main menu has two options: “Measure α” and “Measure β” which may be
selected to switch the instrument to one of these modes (Fig. 44b).
When in “Measure α” or “Measure β” modes if the Search mode is enabled in
the settings of the mode the PM1401K-3 will alarm if the Scintillation detector
search threshold is exceeded.
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2.13.1. α-radiation flux density measurement
To measure the α-radiation flux density select “1. Measure α” in the main menu
of the “Measure αβ” mode and follow the instructions displayed on the
instrument’s LCD:
1. Remove (unscrew) the γβ-filter;
Mica window
γβ-filter
Fig. 45 – Removal of the γβ-filter
2. Install (screw up) the Spacer ring №1 instead of the γβ-filter and press
the RIGHT button to proceed to the next step;
Spacer ring №1
Fig. 46 – Installation of Spacer ring №1

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3. Place the mica window of Geiger-Mueller detector against the surveyed
surface and press the RIGHT button to proceed to the next step;
Fig. 47 – PM1401K-3 on the surveyed surface
NOTE: α- particles are capable to go only through several centimeters of

the air. Therefore, the distance between the surface of the mica window
and the surveyed surface should be no more than 5 mm. The Spacer
ring No 1 should be used to establish the proper distance.
4. The instrument will start measurement of the value of α-, β-, γ-radiation
flux average count rate.
Current αβγ-
radiation flux count
error in “%”
Analog bar
Fig. 48 - - - -radiation flux measurement

in “Measure ” mode
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5. Press the RIGHT button when the statistical error is less than 10% to
save the measured α-, β-, γ-radiation flux count rate value into the
instrument’s memory. It will be used in the next step for calculation of
the α-radiation flux density. If the statistical error exceeds 10% the
instrument displays a “HIGH STAT. ERROR” message. In this case press
the LEFT button and save the measured value only after the statistical
error is less than 10%.
6. Install the -filter №1 or №2:
 α-filter №1 is a polyethylene bag. Place the instrument with the
installed Spacer ring №1 inside the plastic bag;
 α-filter №2 is a polyethylene circle. It should be installed between
the mica window and Spacer ring №1;
α-filter № 2
Spacer ring №1
Fig. 49 – PM1401K-3 with installed -filter №2

and Spacer ring №1
7. Place the mica window of Geiger-Mueller detector against the surveyed
surface and press the RIGHT button to proceed to the next step;
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8. The instrument will start the measurement of the α-radiation flux
density and the following information will be displayed on the main
display area:
Current α-radiation
flux density value
with statistical error
in “%”
Analog bar
Fig. 50 - “Measure ” mode
 Current value of α-radiation flux density in cpm/cm2;

 Statistical error value of the α-radiation flux density measurement
in “%”;
 Analog bar showing the relative value of the α-radiation flux
density in excess of the maximum value of the measurement
range.
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2.13.2. β-radiation flux density measurement
To measure the β-radiation flux density select “2. Measure β” in the main menu
of the “Measure αβ” mode and follow the instructions displayed on the
instrument’s LCD:
1. Remove (unscrew) the γβ-filter;
Mica window
γβ-filter
Fig. 51 – Removal of the γβ-filter
2. Install the one of the α-filters on the instrument:

 α-filter №1 is a polyethylene bag.
Prior to installation of the α-filter №1 install the Spacer ring №1
instead of the γβ-filter onto the instrument, and then install the
Spacer ring №2 on the Spacer ring №1. Turn the Spacer ring №2
until the it is fixed. Put the instrument with the installed Spacer
rings №1 and №2 inside the α-filter №1.
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 α-filter №2 is a polyethylene circle. Place the α-filter №2 on the
mica window and screw the Spacer ring №1 onto it. Install the
Spacer ring №2 onto the Spacer ring №1 and turn it until the
Spacer ring №2 is fixed.
Spacer
ring №1
Spacer ring №2
Fig. 52 – Installation of - filter № 2 and Spacer rings № 1 and №2

on PM1401K-3
NOTE: the distance between the detector and the surveyed surface
should be no more than 10 mm. Use the Spacer ring №2 from PM1401K-
3 standard delivery set to ensure the proper distance.
3. Place the PM1401K-3 with installed α-radiation filter and spacer rings on
the surveyed surface.
Fig. 53 – PM1401K-3 on the surveyed surface
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4. Press the RIGHT button to start measurement of the β, γ-radiation flux
value:
Current βγ-radiation flux

count rate with statistical
error in “%”
Analog bar
Fig. 54 - β, γ-radiation flux measurement

in “Measure β” mode
Press the RIGHT button when the statistical error of the measured value
is less than 10%. The measured value will be recorded into the
instrument’s memory and used in the next step for calculation of the
β-radiation flux density. If the statistical error exceeds 10% the
instrument displays a “HIGH STAT. ERROR” message. In such case press
the LEFT button and save the measured value only after the statistical
error is lower than 10%.
5. Remove the spacer rings and α-radiation filter and Install (screw up) the
γβ -filter and Spacer ring №3;
γβ-filter
Spacer ring №3
Fig. 55 – Installation γβ-filter and Spacer ring № 3
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6. Place the spacer ring on the surface and press the RIGHT button;
7. The instrument will start the measurement of the β-radiation flux
density and the following information will be displayed on the main
display area:
Current β-radiation
flux density value
with statistical error
in “%”
Analog bar
Fig. 56 - “Measure β” mode
 Current value of β-radiation flux density in cpm/cm2;

 Statistical error value of the β-radiation flux density measurement
in “%”;
 Analog bar showing the relative value of the β-radiation flux
density in excess of the maximum value of the measurement
range.
To save the measurements in the “Measure ” or “Measure β” modes press the
RIGHT button when the Statistical Error of measurement is lower than 10%.
 Current α-radiation (β-radiation) flux density value in cpm/cm2;
 Current α-radiation (β-radiation) countrate value in counts per
second (CPS) with the Statictical error of measurement in “%”;
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2.13.3. Settings of the “Measure αβ” mode
The settings are available in the “α+β+γ”, “β+γ”, “Measure α” and “Measure β”
modes by pressing the UP button:
a. b.
Fig. 57 - “Measure ” mode settings
When in the settings submenu press UP and DOWN buttons to move the
cursor. Press the RIGHT button to select the appropriate option:
“1. Search Off” (“Search On”) line is used to enable or disable the search mode
in the “Measure γ” Mode.
If the Search mode is enabled, “1. Search Off” line is indicated in the submenu,
the icon is present at the top of the instruments screen, and the instrument
alarms when the scintillation detector search channel threshold is triggered in
the “Measure αβ” mode. If the Search mode is disabled the “1. Search On” line is
indicated in the submenu, there is no search icon in the Service information
panel, and the scintillation detector search channel is Off.
“2. Reset statistics” command allows manual restarting the measurements.

mode. To reset the statistics select “1. Reset statistics” command in the settings
submenu.
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2.14. “Spectrum γ” mode
“Spectrum γ” Mode is used for gamma radiation scintillation spectra acquisition
and analysis. The spectra are acquired with Scintillation detector of the
instrument. They are displayed on the LCD and may be saved in form of
ANSI42.42-2011 / ANSI42.42-2006 files with .XML extension for further analysis.
This mode is also used for manual energy check and calibration of PM1401K-3
Scintillation detector.
a. b.
Fig. 58 - “Spectrum γ” mode
To switch to this mode select “Spectrum γ” in the main MENU.

There following options are available in “Spectrum γ” mode menu:
 New option allows acquisition of the scintillation spectra;
 Open option allows viewing the saved scintillation spectra;
 Settings option allows selecting the output format of the
accumulated spectra (*.xml ANSI42.42-2006 or *.xml ANSI42.42-
2011);
 Calibration option allows calibration of the instrument with the
reference source (calibration cap1)).
When switched to one of the abovementioned menus the instrument will
promptly alert the user if the dose equivalent rate and (or) count rate
thresholds are exceeded with Audible/Visual or Vibrating2) alarms (see the
“2.5 Alarms” paragraph for the details).
1)
May be ordered separately
2)
The vibrating alarm is provided with a special accessory – external vibrator
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2.14.1. Acquiring new spectrum
To start the new spectrum acquisition, select the “New” option in the
“Spectrum γ” mode menu.
The LCD will display the average count rate value of the registered gamma
radiation impulses (the instrument update the value every 10 seconds) along
with the detector load icon.
NOTE: For PM1401K-3, as for the majority of radionuclide identification
devices, it is important to have the count rate readings on the display
within a certain interval, between 100 cps and 500 cps to acquire good
quality spectra.
If the count rate is below the lower limit of the optimum detector load
(100 cps), the instrument shows the low count rate icon (see Fig. 59a). In
this case it is necessary to move the instrument closer to the radioactive source
to increase the count rate value on the display.
If the count rate is above the upper limit of the optimum detector load
(500 cps), the instrument shows the high count rate icon (see Fig. 59c). In
this case it is necessary to move the instrument away from the radioactive
source to decrease the count rate value on the display.
If the count rate is within the required interval the optimal count rate icon
(see Fig. 59b) is displayed.
a. b. c.

Make sure the count rate is within the optimal range (100 – 500 cps) and the
optimal detector load icon is displayed on the screen and press the RIGHT
button to switch the instrument to the spectrum acquisition mode.
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The following information will be displayed on the LCD:
acquisition time
quantity of impulses
in a channel
channel number
marker
Y axis mode
(logarithmic / linear ) detector load
scale
X axis scale and
channel / energy
representation X axis end point
value
X axis start point
Fig. 60 – “Spectrum γ”
 Acquired spectrum;
 Number of the channel which is currently selected with the
marker;
 Quantity of impulses in the selected channel;
 Y axis display mode (logarithmic or linear);
 X axis scale and display mode (channel / energy);
 X axis start and end points
 Spectrum acquisition time in seconds;
 Current position of the marker;
 Detector load scale.
The user can control the current detector load level by observing the position
of the  arrow on the vertical color scale (see Fig. 60). The arrow should be
within the yellow part of the scale.
Press the DOWN button to toggle between the modes of work with the
spectrum.
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The first mode allows moving the marker along the X axis of the spectrum by
pressing the RIGHT and LEFT buttons (see Fig. 61).
Fig. 61 – Moving the marker
Press the DOWN button one more time to switch to the spectrum zooming
mode.
Fig. 62 – Spectrum zooming

When in spectrum zooming mode press the LEFT button to decrease the
spectrum scale, or press the RIGHT button to increase it. The X axis scale and
endpoint values will be changed accordingly.
Press the DOWN button one more time to return to the spectrum acquisition
mode.
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2.14.2. Completion of spectrum acquisition
PM1401K-3 accumulates spectra with 1024 channels. The capacity of each
channel is 65535 impulses. It is necessary to accumulate at least 104 impulses in
the channel with the maximum amount counts to obtain the high quality
spectrum. The spectrum acquisition also may be finished can be when the
peaks are visually distinguishable.
To stop the spectrum acquisition press the RIGHT button. The following
options will be available:
a. b.
Fig. 63 - Completion of the spectrum acquisition
 Identify option runs radionuclide identification algorythm for the
accumulated spectrum. The identification results with the list of
the identified nuclides will be displayed (see Fig. 64).
a. b.
Fig. 64 - “Spectrum γ” identification results
The identification results display is similar to the described in the

“Identify γ” mode. In addition the “Spectrum γ” mode
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identicication results also include the list with nuclides which were
identified with the lowest percentage of certainty.
Press the RIGHT button to go to the next page with the
identification results information. The PM1401K-3 will display the
activity of each identified radionuclide in Bq with statistical error of
the activity measurement.
NOTE: It is important to select an appropriate distance to the source
for correct measurement of radionuclide activity (see the “Settings
of the “Identify γ” mode” paragraph).
Press the LEFT button to return to the “Spectrum γ” main menu.
 Save option allows saving the spectrum into the instrument’s
memory. The instrument will automatically generate the name of
the saved spectrum file. The data format (*.xml ANSI42.42-2006 /
*.xml ANSI42.42-2011) of the created spectrum file is selected by
the user in the “Spectrum γ” mode settings. To view the saved
spectrum, go the “Spectrum γ” mode main menu and select
“Open” option.
 Restart option restarts the spectrum acquisition process and
switches the instrument back to the “Spectrum γ” mode main
menu.
 Back option swithes the PM1401K-3 back the spectrum
acquisition menu without interruption of the current spectrum
acquisition process.
NOTE: Spectrometric parameters of the instrument (energy
resolution) get worse at ambient temperatures above 32–35о С. It is
recommended to avoid conduction of spectrometric surveys at high
temperatures (especially, identification of the nuclides with multiply
energy peaks and mixtures of radionuclides).
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2.14.3. Settings of the “Spectrum γ” mode
When in spectrum acquisition mode press the UP button to access the settings
submenu (see Fig. 65):
a. b.
Fig. 65 - “Spectrum γ” mode settings
There following settings are available in the submenu:

 Marker auto option places the marker onto the channel with the
highest quantity of impulses on the displayed spectrum area;
 Scale X option changing the scale of X axis of the displayed
spectrum (1/1, 1/2, 1/4, 1/8);
 Scale Y option allows toggling between the linear (default) and
logarithmic mode of Y axis;
 Channel/Energy option allows toggling between “Energy” and
“Channnel” modes of X axis.
 Identification option allows to enter the identification settings.
The detailed description of work with this submenu is given in the
“2.9.3 Settings of the “Identify γ” mode” paragraph.
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2.14.4. Viewing saved scintillation spectra
To view the list of spectra saved in the PM1401K-3 memory select “Open” in the
“Spectrum” gamma mode main menu. The instrument will display the table
with the list of the spectra (see Fig. 66b) with following columns:
a. b.
Fig. 66 - “Spectrum γ” mode
 Spectrum name;
 Current page number / total number of pages;
 Date of a saving of a spectrum.
Press the UP and DOWN buttons to move the cursor and press the RIGHT
button to view the selected spectrum in the spectrum display mode:
Fig. 67 – Spectrum zooming

When in this mode press the RIGHT button to identify the displayed spectrum.
The functions of UP, DOWN and LEFT buttons are described in the “2.14.3.
Acquiring the new spectrum” paragraph.
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2.15. “History” mode
“History” mode allows displaying the saved in PM1401K-3 data. To switch to
this mode select “History” in the main MENU (see Fig. 68a):
a. b.
Fig. 68 – History menu
The saved data is displayed in the form of records which are grouped by the
date when they were made.
Press UP and DOWN buttons to move the cursor. Press the RIGHT button to
select the appropriate record or group of records (see fig. 68b).
When a record is selected, the instrument will display the window with the
detailed information (name of the record, date and time of measurement,
measured value, GPS coordinates).
NOTE: the history of the instrument may be deleted from the “Settings”
menu. To do so, select “2. History” section and then mark select “Clear
history” chackbox and press theRIGHT button to confirm your action.
Press LEFT button to return to the previous menu.
When the “Filter” textbox is displayed in the buttons menu panel press RIGHT
button to enter the filter settings submenu. The submenu allows selecting the
types of events, which will be displayed in the current group of records:
Press the RIGHT button to move the cursor. Press UP and DOWN buttons to
mark or unmark one of the following checkboxes:
 Alarm events checkbox allows displaying the records which were
made when one of PM1401K-3 alarms was triggered;
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 System events checkbox allows displaying the list of the system
records (turning the instrument ON/OFF, calibration, PC
connection);
 Scheduled recording checkbox allows displaying the list of
records which were made with automatic data logging function;
 Manual recording checkbox allows displaying the list of records
which were made manually in one of the measurement modes.
Fig. 69 – Filter settings submenu
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CHAPTER 3: SETUP
3.1. “Settings” menu
Select the “Settings” section in the instrument’s main MENU to enter the
settings of PM1401K-3.
a. b.
Fig. 70 – History menu
When in the “Settings” menu (see Fig. 70b.) press UP and DOWN buttons to
move the cursor. Press the RIGHT button to select the appropriate option.
When in any of the submenus of this mode use the RIGHT button to move the
cursor. Press the UP and DOWN buttons to change the settings and press the
LEFT button to exit the submenu.
3.1.1. About
The “1. About” submenu displays the version information for the instrument.
Model Serial number of

the instrument
Scintillation detection
assembly serial number Firmware version
and firmware version
Neutron detector Geiger-Muller detector

firmware version firmware version
Fig. 71 – Instrument version information

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When in “1. About” submenu press the UP button to switch to the “Tools”
submenu.
When in the “Tools” submenu press the RIGHT button to move the cursor and
press the UP and DOWN buttons to change the selected option:
Select “1. Firmware update” to switch to the “Firmware update” mode. In this
mode a user can update the instrument’s firmware to the newest version.
Select “2. Disc utility” to enter the “Disc utility” mode. In this mode a user can
check the capacity of PM1401K-3 “DATA” and “SOFT” flash-drives and format
them.
Fig. 72 – Disk utility mode

CAUTION: Do not format the PM1401K-3 drives without
consulting the manufacturer’s technical support. This may
result in inevitable loss of the data.
3.1.2. History
Data logging
interval
Used memory
indication bar
History deleting
checkbox
Fig. 73 – History settings

The “2. History” submenu allows setting the automatic data logging interval (1-
999 minutes), displays the status of instrument’s memory and allow clearing
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the history with selecting “Clear history?” checkbox and consequent pressing
the LEFT button.
3.1.3. Alarm
The “3. Alarm” submenu allows enabling or disabling audible, visual and
vibrating alarms;
Fig. 74 – Alarms settings
3.1.4. Display
The submenu allows:
Brightness
control
Backlight
Checkboxes for timeout
enabling/disabling duration
the backlight setting fields
timeout
Fig. 75 – Display settings

 Adjusting the LCD brightness;
 Adjusting the duration of user inactivity (in seconds; within the
range of “1-100”) after which the LCD backlight is turned OFF
(“Backlight timeout”). The backlight timeout may be set separately
for modes when the instrument is powered from batteries
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(“Battery” checkbox) or from an external power supply (“Ext.
power” checkbox).
Unmarking the checkboxes will disable the LCD backlight timeout;
3.1.5. Power
The submenu allows selecting the type of the power element: “Battery (non-
rechargeable)” or “NiMH (rechargeable)”. When “NiMH (rechargeable)” is
selected and rechargeable batteries are installed in the instrument’s batteries
compartment it is possible to recharge the instrument by connecting it to the
USB charger.
Fig. 76 – Power settings
CAUTION: Please make sure the proper type of batteries is

selected in the “Settings” menu. Otherwise, the batteries may
overheat or leak, and this will void the warranty.
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3.1.6. Date/Time
The submenu allows changing date and time settings;
Fig. 77 – Date and time settings
3.1.7. Location
The submenu allows switching the GPS module On and Off.
When the GPS is On the PM1401K-3 saves each record in the history with the
coordinates of the location (see “2.15 History mode” paragraph);
Fig. 78 – Location settings
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3.1.8. Measurement
The submenu allows enabling and disabling the search mode in the “Measure
γ” mode and toggling between the dose equivalent rate measurement units
(Sieverts \ rems);
Fig. 79 – Dose equivalent rate measurement settings
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3.1.9. Identification
The submenu allows:
 Selecting the nuclide library which is used for identification in
“Identify γ” and “Spectrum γ” mode. The list of included in the
PM1401K-3 libruaries radionuclides is available at
www.polimaster.com;
 Setting the automatic identification start timeout (“Start
timeout, sec”) - the period over which the PM1401K-3
automatically switches from “Search γ (γn)”” mode to the “Identify
γ” mode after a gamma radiation source is detected (see “2.8.9
Automatic identification in the “Search γ (γn)” mode” paragraph).
Change the
timeouts to “0” to
disable them
Fig. 80 – Settings: “9. Identification”
The timeout may be set within 0-99 sec. Set the timeout value to
“0” to disable it.
 Setting the spectra acquisition timeout (“Acqusition, min”) – the
period over which the instrument automatically makes an attempt
to identify radionuclides in “Identify γ” mode. The timeout may be
set within “0-10” minutes interval.
When the timeout is disabled (set to “0 min”) the PM1401K-3 automatically
performs identification once it has enough data. In this case the
approximate time left till the end of identification process is calculated and
displayed in “Time left:” field in the “Identify γ” mode in seconds.
When the spectra acquisition time is set to a value above “0” the instrument
will accumulate data and make an identification attempt over the specified
period of time.
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3.2. Manufacturer’s defaults
Name of the parameter Path Manufacturer’s default
MENU → “Settings” →
Data logging interval “2. History” 60 min
Gamma radiation search MENU → “Search γ (γn)”→ 5.0
channel n-coefficient press the UP button →
“3. Threshold gamma”
Neutron radiation search MENU → “Search γ (γn)”→ for PM1401K-3 - 5.3
channel n-coefficient press the UP button → for PM1401K-3A - 3.6
“4. Threshold neutron” for PM1401K-3P - 4.2
Gamma radiation measurement MENU → “Measure γ” → 0,1 mSv/h
threshold press the UP button → “3.
Threshold gamma”
αβγ search mode threshold MENU → “Search αβγ” → 1.00e1 CPS
press the UP button → “2.
Threshold αβγ”
Audible alarm MENU → “Settings” → On
“3. Alarm”
Vibrating alarm MENU → “Settings” → On
“3. Alarm”
Visual alarm MENU → “Settings” → On
“3. Alarm”
Backlight timeout: MENU → “Settings” → “Battery” - 10 sec.
“3. Display” “Ext. power” - 0 sec.
Type of the power element MENU → “Settings” → Battery
“5. Power” (Non-rechargeable)
Date and time format MENU → “Settings” → dd/mm/yy
“6. Date/Time” 24h
Identification settings MENU → “Settings” → Library: “itrap”;
“9. Identification” Start timeout, sec: 0;
Acquisition, min: 0.
“Identify γ” mode settings MENU → “Identify γ” → Absorber: 0 mm, Type: none;
press the UP button Matrix: 0 mm, Type: none;
Library: “itrap”
Distance, cm: 10
“Activity γ” mode settings MENU → “Activity γ” → Volume of the sample: 500 ml;
“4. Settings” Mass of the sample: 400 g;
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3.3. Language settings
The language of the menu is changed with “PM1401K-3 Built-in Software” or
with the language settings menu of PM1401K-3 firmware.
3.3.1. Changing language with “PM1401K-3 Built-in Software”

1. Connect PM1401K-3 to a PC;
2. The OS will identify 3 flash drives of PM1401K-3. Find and run
“PM1401K3SW.exe” in the root directory of the “SOFT” drive of the
instrument;
3. Go to “Settings” tab and select “Instrument’s settings”;
4. Enter the password (the default password is “1”);
5. Select “General”;
6. Click on the “Language” dropdown list and choose the appropriate
language;
7. Press “Apply” button and close the “PM1401K-3 Built-in Software”;
8. Disconnect the instrument from the PC.
3.3.2. Changing language from PM1401K-3 “Language settings” menu

To change the language of PM1401K-3 reboot the instrument. When the
Firmware loading screen is displayed press and hold the UP button until you
enter the Language settings menu.
Press the UP and DOWN buttons to move the cursor in the menu. To select the
language press the RIGHT button or press the LEFT button to exit the menu.
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CHAPTER 4: PC COMMUNICATION
PM1401K-3 models have wired USB data communication capabilities with a
personal computer (Windows® based PC) for using built-in data collection and
processing software. When the instrument is connected to a PC via USB Power
cable, the instrument’s LCD displays the “ ” icon to indicate that the
PM1401K-3 is in the PC-communication mode.
In addition the “ ” icon indicates that the instrument is powered from an

external power source.
The software allows the user setting advanced instrument parameters,
enable/disable operation modes, download the events stored in the
instrument memory to the database and more.
When connected to a PC, the operating system identifies PM1401K-3 as three
new flash memory drives:
“PM1401 SOFT” – contains PM1401K-3 built-in user software and manual;
“PM1401 DATA” – contains saved spectra and history events;
“PM1401 INFO” – contains service information.
To start “PM1401K-3 Built-in Software”, go to the new PM1401 SOFT drive and
run the “PM1401K3SW.exe” application.
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CHAPTER 5: MAINTENANCE
5.1. Functionality check
To check the functionality of the PM1401K-3 turn ON the instrument. After
testing and calibration are completed, the РМ1401К-3, РМ1401К-3Р and
РМ1401К-3А instruments will switch to the “Search γn” mode, and the
РМ1401К-3М instrument  into the “Search γ” mode.
The gamma radiation count rate in the “Search γ (γn)” mode (at normal
radiation background from 0.05 to 0.2 μSv/h) should be from 15 to 50 s-1 when
the statistical error is less than 10 %.
The dose equivalent rate value in the “Measure γ” mode (at the normal
radiation background) should be within 0.05 - 0.2 μSv/h range after the
statistical error is less than 10 %.
Enter the neutron radiation registration mode (in the РМ1401К-3, РМ1401К-3Р
and РМ1401К-3А instruments) and reset the statistics and read the number of
the registered neutrons after about 600 s. At the normal background level the
instruments shall register during this time as follows:
 РМ1401К-3, РМ1401К-3А – no less than two neutrons;
 РМ1401К-3Р – no less than 15 neutrons.
Enter the menu and activate all instrument modes in succession to check that
PM1401K-3 is operating normally in each of them.
5.2. Energy calibration check

To guarantee correct isotope identification it is required to perform energy
calibration check of PM1401K-3 in the following cases:
 before the first field use;
 once in every 3 month;
 after long storage;
 after transportation of the instrument;
 after instrument had been exposed to a high levels of radiation
(exceeding 200 mSv/h OVL level);
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ТИГР.412114.039-01 РЭ
Failure to perform this procedure will not result in severe

malfunctioning of the unit, however may lead to poor isotope
identification performance, while not influencing any detection
capabilities of PM1401K-3 and/or performance against ANSI N42.32
requirements.
The energy calibration check is to be performed with the Calibration cap. The cap
contains 5 kBq 232Th radioactive source and may be ordered separately.
Calibration cap radioactive emission is harmless provided proper handling in
accordance to this manual. When it is not used keep the calibration cap in a
safe storage place.
The procedure should be performed at the ambient temperature not
exceeding 30°C (85°F). Isotope identification library shall be set to “itrap”.
Use the following guidelines to perform energy calibration check:
1. Select “New” section in the “Spectrum γ” mode main menu;
2. Install the calibration cap and make sure the detector load is optimal
(100-500 cps);
3. Collect the reference source spectra for at least 5 minutes and run the
identification procedure;
Fig. 81 - Installation of the calibration cap
NOTE: It is important to keep detector load during spectra acquisition

within a range from 100 to 500 counts per second.
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In case the instrument functions properly the following identification results
will be displayed:
Th228 is the decay

The PM1401K-3 shall product of Th232
identify at least 5
peaks of Th232
spectrum
Fig. 82 – Energy calibration check results

4. Make sure that the number of peaks identified for Th232 is at least 5
out of 7. The PM1401K-3 will also identify the decay product of Th232 –
Th228 as well as uncertaintly identified isotopes. These results are irrelevant
for the purpose of energy calibration check procedure.
If number of peaks of Th232 spectrum is lower than 5, the instrument shall
be recalibrated (see the next paragraph “Manual energy calibration”).
5.3. Manual energy calibration

Each PM1401K-3 is extensively tested and calibrated on the factory. Performing
Manual Energy Calibration may overwrite the factory calibration and lead to
the instrument malfunctioning if not done properly. Please follow procedure
very carefully, and consult the manufacturer or authorized technical center in
case of any questions.
CAUTION: Do not perform Manual energy calibration in a
preventive manner in case the PM1401K-3 successfully passed
energy calibration check.
The PM1401K-3 Calibration cap should be used to perform manual energy
calibration.
The procedure must be performed at the ambient temperature of about 21°C
(70°F) and in no case exceeding 30°C (85°F).
Use the following guidelines to perform the manual energy calibration:
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ТИГР.412114.039-01 РЭ
1. Select “Calibration” the “Spectrum γ” mode main menu:
a. b.
Fig. 83 – Manual energy calibration
2. Install the calibration cap and make sure the countrate is within
optimal range (100-500 CPS) (see Fig. 84a);
3. Press the RIGHT button and collect the reference source spectra for at
least 5 minutes (300 seconds) (see Fig. 84b).
4. After 5 minutes of spectrum acquisition press the RIGHT button to
finish the calibration procedure.
The acquisition time

shall be at least 300
seconds
a. b
Fig. 84 – Manual energy calibration
spectrum acquisition
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5. The new calibration coefficients will be displayed on the screen.
Fig. 85 – The new calibration quotients
Press the RIGHT button to apply the new calibration coefficients and
complete the manual energy calibration. Or press the LEFT button to leave
the “Calibration” mode without applying the new calibration coefficients.
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TROUBLESHOOTING
If PM1401K-3 does not seem to be working properly, follow the instruction in
the table below to see if you can identify the problem.
Problem Possible cause Instructions
PM1401K-3 doesn’t Batteries are low Replace the batteries (recharge

turn ON the rechargeable batteries);
Make sure the batteries are
Batteries are installed
installed properly (see “2.2
improperly
Batteries installation” paragraph;
Check the batteries
Contacts of the batteries compartment for oxidizing
compartment are signs. If oxidizing confirmed
oxidized contact the supplier for technical
support.
Instrument is Contact the supplier for
malfunctioned technical support
PM1401K-3 doesn’t Firmware glitch Remove and reinstall the
respond to pressing batteries (disconnect and
the buttons or the reconnect the USB Power cable)
response to pressing to reboot the instrument.
the buttons is different Instrument is Contact the supplier for
from the normal; malfunctioned technical support
PM1401K-3 Optimal detector’s load When doing the identification
radionuclide was not reached keep the count rate value
identification results between 100 – 500 CPS (see
are incorrect “2.9.4 Radioisotope
identification”)
The identification survey Change the place of
is carried in identification survey to the one
inappropriate thermal with appropriate environment (t
environment < 32о С). Place the instrument in
the new environment for at least
1 hour prior to starting the new
identification.
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ТИГР.412114.039-01 РЭ
Instrument requires Check the instrument in
recalibration accordance to the “5.2 Energy
calibration check” paragraph. If
necessary recalibrate it in
accordance to the “5.3 Manual
energy calibration” paragraph
and check it one more time after
the recalibration.
Instrument is Contact the supplier for

malfunctioned technical support
Scintillation or Geiger- Inspect the detector for signs of
PM1401K-3 readings
Muller detectors are mechanical damage. Unscrew
are abnormal when
damaged. the γβ-filter and check the
another instrument has
Geiger-Muller detector mica
normal readings in the
window. If the mechanical
same conditions
damage signs are confirmed
contact the supplier for technical
support.
Instrument is Inspect the PM1401K-3 with
contaminated another instrument and
decontaminate it if necessary.
Instrument displays Instrument is Contact the supplier for
error messages malfunctioned technical support
Improper work in PC- The USB or instrument’s Inspect the cable and
communication mode socket are damaged. instruments socket for signs of
mechanical damage. If the
mechanical damage signs are
confirmed contact the supplier
for technical support.
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APPENDIX A: DETECTORS’ POSITIONS
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APPENDIX B:
DEPENDENCE OF MEASUREMENT TIME ON
FLUX DENSITY OF
α AND β- PARTICLES
Table B.1 - Dependence of measurement time on - particles flux density
Approximate
Measurement range of the
measurement time of Statistical error value,
- particles flux density,
the -particles flux %, no more than
min-1cm-2
density, sec
2 - 15 3600 30
15 -100 1000 15
100 - 1000 1000 10
1000 –5000 100 5
5000 - 100000 10 5
Table B.2 - Dependence of measurement time on - particles flux density

Approximate
Measurement range of the
measurement time of Value of the statistical
- particles flux density,
the - particles flux error, %, no more than
min-1cm-2
density, s
6 - 50 1000 20
50 - 100 1000 10
100 - 1000 1000 5
1000 - 10000 100 5
10000 - 100000 10 5
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APPENDIX C:
TYPICAL ENERGY DEPENDENCE OF THE
PM1401K-3 SENSITIVITY TO - RADIATION
ENERGY
1,2 
1
0,8
0,6
0,4
0,2
0 Emax
100 1000 10000
Fig. C.1 - Typical energy dependence of the PM1401K-3 sensitivity fo β-

radiation energy
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APPENDIX D:
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Gamma radiation dose equivalent from 0.01 μSv/h to 200 mSv/h
rate indication range
Accuracy of gamma radiation dose (15 + 0.0015 / Ḣ) %;
equivalent rate measurement in the where Ḣ  measured dose equivalent rate value in mSv/h.
range from 0.1 μSv/h to 100 mSv/h
Gamma radiation dose equivalent 0.015 – 15 MeV

rate measurement energy range
Energy dependence relative to
0.662 MeV (137Cs) energy in the dose
equivalent rate measurement
mode, no more:
- within the range of energies from  40 %;
0.015 to 0.045 MeV
- within the range of energies from  30 %
0.045 to 15.0 MeV
Anisotropy of the instrument when measuring dose equivalent rate is within the ranges, given
in the Table D.1 when the instrument is rotated in the horizontal plane and shall not exceed the
values given in the Table D.2 when the instrument is rotated in the vertical plane relative to the
direction of radiation.
Table D.1
Detection angle relative Energy of γ-radiation, MeV

to graduation direction,  0.059 0.662 1.25
Anisotropy of the sensitivity (, %)
0 0 0 0
30 5/-15 10 5/-10
60 -15/-60 0/-25 0/-20
90 -20/-60 -10/-40 -10/-35
120 -40/-99 -20/-60 -10/-50
150 -50/-98 -15/-50 -10/-40
180 -50/-95 -10/-35 -10/-30
-30 -5/-20 15 5/-10
-60 -15/-50 0/-25 -5/-25
-90 -40/-85 -20/-60 -15/-40
-120 -60/-98 -15/-55 -15/-45
-150 -60/-95 -15/-40 -15/-35
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Table D.2
Detection angle relative γ-radiation energy, MeV

to graduation direction,  0.059 0.662 1.25
Anisotropy of the sensitivity (, %)
0 0 0 0
30 5/-20 5/-10 10
60 -20/-50 0/-25 0/-20
90 -40/-85 -20/-45 -20/-45
120 -60/-98 -30/-60 -30/-50
150 -60/-98 -20/-45 -20/-35
180 -60/-95 -15/-35 -10/-30
-30 5/-25 10 10
-60 -10/-50 -10/-25 0/-20
-90 -20/-60 -15/-55 -15/-55
-120 -60/-98 -30/-50 -15/-40
-150 -60/-98 -20/-40 -10/-30
Sensitivity to gamma radiation in ≥ 200.0 s-1/(μSv/h) – for 241Am;

the “Search  ( n)” mode ≥ 200.0 s-1/(μSv/h) – for 137Cs
Indication range (search mode)

gamma 1 – 9999 CPS
neutron1) 0.01 – 999 CPS
Neutron count rate measurement from thermal to 14MeV

energy range1
РМ1401К-3 sensitivity ≥ 0.09 cpscm2 – for Pu--Be;

to neutron radiation in the “Search ≥ 4.0 cpscm2 – for thermal neutrons;
 n” mode ≥ 0.6 cpscm2 – for Pu--Be (with neutron moderator)
РМ1401К-3Р sensitivity to neutron ≥ 0,1 cpscm2 – for Pu--Be;

radiation in the “Search  n” mode ≥ 3,5 cpscm2 – for thermal neutrons;
≥ 0.6 cpscm2 – for Pu--Be (with neutron moderator)
РМ1401К-3A sensitivity to neutron ≥ 0.06 cpscm2 – for Pu--Be;

radiation in the “Search  n” mode ≥ 1.0 cpscm2 – for thermal neutrons;
≥ 0.1 cpscm2 – for Pu--Be (with neutron moderator)
-, -, - radiation flux count rate 1.00 – 2.7105 s-1

indication range in “Search   ”
mode
1)
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ТИГР.412114.039-01 РЭ
-radiation flux density 15.0 to 105 min-1cm-2

measurement range
Accuracy of -radiation flux density (20 + 450 / ) %
measurement on 239Pu in the range where   measured -radiation flux density, min-1 cm-2
from 15.0 to 105 min-1 cm-2
Sensitivity to ≥ 0.5 cpscm2

-radiation (for 239Pu)
Limits of complementary
permissible measurement error of
the - radiation flux density:
- in 200 µR/h gamma radiation field  30 %;
- in 3.0  103 s-1 β-radiation field from
 15 %;
the 90Sr+90Y source placed at 50 mm
from the mica window of the detector
- radiation flux measurement 6.0 to 105 min-1cm-2

range
Energy range of the measured of β- 0.15 – 3.5 MeV
radiation flux
Accuracy of β-radiation flux density (20 + 60 / ) %

measurement (on 90Sr+90Y) in the where   measured -radiation flux density, min-1 cm-2
range from 6.0 to 105 min-1 cm-2
Sensitivity to ≥ 3.5 cpscm2

-radiation (for 90Sr+90Y), shall be no
less than
Energy dependence of the  30 %
sensitivity during measurement of
the flux density of the - particles
shall differ from the typical one
(Appendix C) no more than by
Limits of permissible additional  15 %

error during measurement of the -
radiation flux density on exposure
to 0,5 mR/h gamma radiation field
137
Cs activity indication range in 1– 99999 Bq/kg(l)
“Activity Y” mode
Accuracy of the 137Cs nuclide activity ± 30 + 2000 А %,

measurement in the range from 102 where А – measured activity value, Bq/kg(l)
to 105 Bq/kg(l)
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ТИГР.412114.039-01 РЭ
137
Sensitivity for Cs in the activity ≥ 0,003 cps·kg/s(cps·l/s)·Bq
measurement mode
Activity measurement sample 0.2 – 1.6 g/cm3

density range
Energy resolution when acquiring ≤ 9.0 %

the scintillation spectra for 0.662
MeV (137Cs) line, no more than
Relative intrinsic error of the ≤ 1.0 %

transformation characteristic
(integral nonlinearity (INL)) when
acquiring the scintillation spectra
Maximum quantity of the γ-radiation up to 1000

scintillation spectra saved in the
instrument’s memory
Gamma radiation scintillation 1024

spectra acquisition channels
Limits of permissible complementary relative error of dose equivalent, -, - radiation flux
density measurement:
- when ambient air temperature  10 %;

changes from normal to -20 and from
normal to +50 С;
- at ambient air humidity 95 % at  10 %;
35 °С;
- when power supply changes from  10 %;
nominal to extreme values during
dose equivalent rate measurement;
- when power supply changes from 5 % of the permissible main error limit;
nominal to extreme values during
measurement of the - and -
radiation flux density;
- when exposed to 400 A/m magnetic  5 %;
field;
- when exposed to the radio  5 %.

frequency electromagnetic fields.
Variation coefficient (deviation of  10 %

the instrument readings caused by
statistic fluctuations) with 0.95
confidence probability
Readings instability during 5%
continuous operation (24h) in the
“Search  n” and “Measure  ” modes
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ТИГР.412114.039-01 РЭ
PC communication USB interface
Power supply :
- voltage 3.0 (+ 0.2; -0.4) V
- power supply type two AA batteries or USB
Battery life time (in normal ≥ 300 hours for РМ1401К-3, РМ1401К-3М and РМ1401К-3A;
radiation background and provided ≥ 210 hours for РМ1401К-3Р
LCD backlight, sound and light
alarms are used no more than 5
minutes/day), at least
Ingress protection code IP65
Environmental - ambient air temperature variations from -30 to up to +50

°С (NOTE: at ambient air temperature from -30 to -20 °С only
“Search γ(γn)” mode is avalable);
- ambient air relative humidity up to 95 % at 35 °С;
- atmospheric pressure from 84 to 106.7 kPa
Physical protection The instrument can also withstand:
- sinusoidal vibration in the frequency range from 5 to 35 Hz
and shift amplitude for frequencies lower than 0.75 mm;
- shocks with acceleration 100 m/s2, and duration of shock
pulse 2-50 ms, shock pulse repetition rate 60-180 pulses per
minute
Drop test (concrete floor) 0.7 m
Magnetic field interference The instrument is resistant to static and variable magnetic
protection fields of up to 400 A/m
Radio-frequency electromagnetic The instrument is resistant to radio-frequency

fields protection electromagnetic fields of up to:
- 30 V/m (test level 4) in the frequency range from 80 to 1000
MHz, from 800 to 960 MHz,
- from 1.4 to 3.0 GHz (wireless phone emission), performance
criterion A according to IEC 61000-4-3
Electrostatic discharges protection The instrument is resistant to electrostatic discharges:8 kV

air discharge, 6 kV contact discharge (performance criterion
B according to IEC 61000-4-2)
Certification for use in explosive The instrument is not certified for use in explosive
atmospheres atmospheres
Environmental protection of In the shipping package the instrument is resistant to:

PM1401K-3 in shipping package - temperatures from -50 to +50 °С;
- humidity up to 100 % at 40 °С;
- shocks with 98 m/s2 acceleration and duration of shock
pulse 16 ms
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ТИГР.412114.039-01 РЭ
Warm-up time: < 1 minute
the instrument becomes fully
functional from a dead start within
Net weight of the instrument ≤ 0.82 kg
Overall dimensions 262х60х65 mm
Average service life ≥ 10 years
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MULTIPURPOSE HAND-HELD

CHAPTER 1: GENERAL DESCRIPTION

1. The PM1401K-3 instrument

Set of spacer rings (3 pcs.) is used for α and β-

USB Power Cable is used for PC-communication

6. AA-LR6 batteries (2 pcs.)

8. Operation Manual and Software Guide (CD-ROM)

9. Calibration and Warranty Certificates

External vibrator with the wristband is used for

Tripod is used to measure the 137Cs activity in

Set of Marinelli beakers is used to measure the 137Cs

Protective holster is used for protection of the

Fig. 3 - Telescopic extension pole

Fig. 4 - Connecting the external vibrator to the

1.3.3. Neutron moderator

Fig. 5 - PM1401K-3 Neutron moderator

 Unscrew the takedown screw of the instrument holder panel’s

 Install the Marinelli Beaker on the Scintillation detector of

The PM1401K-3 is now ready to perform the measurement of 137Cs radionuclide

Fig. 6 – Calibration cap

1.3.6. Protective holster

Fig. 7 – Protective holster

Fig. 8 – PM1401K-3 design

Fig. 10 – Buttons’ assignment

- moving the cursor up and down icons;

Fig. 11 - PM1401K-3 clip installation

2.2. Batteries installation

Fig. 12 – Batteries installation

The PM1401K-3 can be powered with either regular alkaline or rechargeable

2.3. Powering the PM1401K-3 from external power supply

and background calibration:

NOTE: During background calibration the PM1401K-3 adjusts alarm

Fig. 15 – Statistical error value

The following information is displayed on the LCD in the “Measure γ” mode:

Gamma-neutron models Gamma models

2.7.2. Resetting statistics (starting new measurement)

2.7.3. Setting-up gamma radiation dose equivalent rate threshold

NOTE: Manufacturer default dose equivalent rate threshold value is

Current neutron count

Gamma-neutron models Gamma models

Fig. 21 - “Search γ (γn)” mode

2.8.1. Alarms in “Search γ (γn)” mode

2.8.2. Getting a new background

In total, the calibration process requires no more than 1 minute. When

2.8.3. False alarms

2.8.4. Settings in “Search γ (γn)” mode

The following options are available in this submenu:

2.8.5. Resetting statistics (starting new measurement)

2.9. “Identify γ” mode

Detector load icon

Time left till

Fig. 27 – “Identify γ” mode

Fig. 28 - “Identify γ” mode settings

2.9.2. Radioisotope identification

2.10.1. Settings in “Activity γ” mode

Estimated time left

2.10.3. Background monitoring in the “Activity γ” mode

2.10.4. Preparation of sample

2.10.5. Activity measurement

Estimated time left

2.11. “Register n” mode1)

The instrument stops neutron registration once it reaches the maximum

NOTE: the γβ-filter must be removed to open Geiger-Muller detector’s

2. Statistical error value of the average α-, β- and γ-radiation count