uRADMonitor model D uses the
BME680 from Bosch to measure air temperature, barometric pressure, humidity and
volatile organic compounds, or VOC. A Sharp photoelectric sensor is used to detect the
Particulate Matter PM2.5 concentration in air. A high quality
LND712 Geiger Tube Made in the USA allows this dosimeter to detect alpha, beta, gamma and x-ray ionising radiation.
| Sensor | Parameter | Minimum value | Maximum value |
| Bosch BME680 | Temperature | -40 °C | +85 °C |
| Pressure | 300 hPa | 1100 hPa |
| Humidity | 0% RH | 100% RH |
| VOC | 0 mg/m³ | 100 mg/m³ reducers
10 mg/m³ oxidizers |
| Sharp GP2Y1010AU0F | PM2.5 | 0 μg/m³ | 800 μg/m³ |
| LND LND712 * | α,β,γ,x-rays | 0.005μSv/h | 5000.00μSv/h |
* Each Model D dosimeter is subjected to a final test: the tested device must be in a confidence interval of 5% in comparison to a master. This master is adjusted to a gauged reference Cs-137 emitter.
The purpose of the model D detector and that of the entire uRADMonitor network is to monitor chemical and physical factors that can have a negative impact on our health or on the environment. Using its advanced sensors, the model D monitors against the following potentially hazardous parameters:
Picture: Air pollution can shorten our lifespan, this is why we need uRADMonitor
VOC or volatile organic compounds, are a class of substances that evaporate at room temperature. Being different substances, may be responsible for a broad category of disorders, including respiratory problems, allergic or weakening immunity in children. Some VOC 's are responsible for the formation of smog, irritation of eyes, nose and throat, headaches and concentration problems. In extreme circumstances, more severe complications can occur, such as damage to liver, kidney and central nervous system or cancer [1].
Ionizing radiation is harmful to living organisms because it can cause damage to cells that can result in multiple disorders , the most common of which is cancer. Ionizing radiation is naturally occurring from cosmic and terrestrial sources, but there are also artificial generators related to nuclear activities or x-ray devices . Worldwide global average dose is 3.01mSv [2].
Particulate matter PM2.5 refers to small particles with a diameter of up to 2.5 microns. These particles can penetrate deep into the lungs , causing allergies, respiratory and cardiovascular diseases [3].
[1]
Volatile Organic Compounds' Impact on Indoor Air Quality, US Environmental Protection Agency
[2]
Radiation Health Effects, US Environmental Protection Agency
[3]
Health and Environmental Effects of Particulate Matter (PM), US Environmental Protection Agency
These are mobile units powered by a high capacity Lithium Ion rechargeable battery, with a GPS receiver for location mapping and Wifi connectivity, but also with a SDCard slot to store all readings when WLAN is not available. This not only addresses radioactivity in a similar way to existing top-notch dosimeters, but it also measures the air pollution, contributing with valuable data to the uRADMonitor network. The model D also features an Alarm built in and has a touchscreen to provide visual and audible indications, keeping you informed all the time. Using the uRADMonitor backend infrastructure and model D's wireless data sharing capabilities, the global readings provide useful data on pollution, its geographical distribution, and evolution in time.
Picture: Complex uRADMonitor motherboard front and bottom view
| Module | Parameter | Ratings |
| Battery | Lithium Ion | 1500mAh |
| GPS | Channels | 50 |
| First fix | 27s / 1s |
| Accuracy | 2m |
| LCD | Size | 2.4" |
| Touchscreen | resistive | - |
| Wifi | Protocols | 802.11b/g/n |
| SDCard | Type | MicroSD SDHC |
| Microcontroller | Atmega2561 | 8 bit |
| Real Time Clock | GPS synced | - |
| Enclosure | Rugged aluminium | 110x70x24 mm |
While intended exclusively as a portable dosimeter, there's nothing against using the model D as a fixed monitoring station. You will only need to keep the power cable inserted and make sure the WLAN is connected. If left outdoors, make sure the unit is protected from the elements. The LCD dims after a certain amount of time to conserve power.
