View unanswered posts | View active topics It is currently Thu Mar 28, 2024 8:04 am



Reply to topic  [ 8 posts ] 
 Geiger Counter Recommendations? 
Author Message

Joined: Fri Sep 26, 2014 3:20 pm
Posts: 22
I'm considering purchasing the Mazur PRM-8000 http://www.mazurinstruments.com/

I've been doing some studying on various tube types, reliability/durability, cost, and pretty much anything else I can think of in order to make an informed decision on which unit to purchase.

My main concern is reliability/durability. Second on my list is accuracy. Price is a concern as well, but I do believe that you get what you pay for...in most cases

Due to the fact that I'm very new to the radiation field and most of you are probably much more knowledgeable and more experienced, I was hoping to get some advice so I can make the wisest purchase.

I found this list while doing some reading, I've researched the units listed and come to the conclusion that the PRM-8000 should do what I want it to. Obviously there are no guarantees the unit will stay functional a year from now but...all things being equal...

http://www.survival-lists.com/4-best-geiger-counters/

If any of you have any information about Mazur or any reliability concerns I should be aware of in regards to this unit, or if you have any other recommendations for a 'best bang for the buck' type unit that will give me the same durability/accuracy as the PRM-8000 I would be grateful. I've already decided against the PRM-9000 for reliability/durability concerns. I'd rather trade off a bit of sensitivity in favor of reliability.

Thank you kindly for any help you can offer,

Jason


Some additional tube information for anyone interested.

https://sites.google.com/site/diygeiger ... -supported


Tue Sep 30, 2014 1:53 am
Profile

Joined: Fri Sep 26, 2014 3:20 pm
Posts: 22
I found these older posts concerning recommendations...

https://www.netc.com/bb/viewtopic.php?f=7&t=751

https://www.netc.com/bb/viewtopic.php?f=23&t=919


Tue Sep 30, 2014 11:50 am
Profile

Joined: Sat May 17, 2014 1:08 pm
Posts: 20
Hi Manomynous,
My PRM-9000 is a fine product and totally reliable.
I'm using a lithium battery and it has lasted more than 6 months so far.
I agree the battery replacement is a bit tricky but that can be avoided with an external power source/ or a good lithium battery. The unit is well designed and I'm sure the PRM-8000 is just as good. I don't find it to be exceptionally bulky in fact it fits snugly into my rear pants pocket or coat pocket no problem. It's an awsome instrument/computer and it will give you a very accurate picture of what the conditions really are around you. I especially like the idea that I can compare what I read on the EPA's site for instance to what MY readings are, or compare my CPM count with the NETC map. You'll find out the government's limits are far above what you'll find in the field. I also like how I can switch the units it diplays easily. I don't have other Gieger counters but the old style ones with the needle meters are not too accurate. Have fun


Tue Sep 30, 2014 5:47 pm
Profile
User avatar

Joined: Sat Dec 14, 2013 1:11 am
Posts: 119
Check out this guy! http://www.inmed.com.au/products/radiat ... m1401k-km/

It will tell you what isotopes you are detecting and self calibrates. If a counter could be sexy...

Otherwise, get one with USB so you can easily upload your data to the 'net.


Tue Sep 30, 2014 7:03 pm
Profile

Joined: Fri Sep 26, 2014 3:20 pm
Posts: 22
For owners of the PRM-9000...

https://www.wrbishop.com/radiation/lnd- ... -detector/

"The rapid change in pressure from the careless slam of a car door could rupture the thin mica membrane (it’s almost 1.5″ in diameter). LND mails the sensors in a small sealed “coffee can”. This isn’t an issue for GM tubes with a small or no mica window. Be careful if you live at a high altitude (see Atomic Dave’s blurb)."

I was considering changing my mind and going with the PRM-9000 but...I need durability first and foremost, plus I am planning on some higher elevation trekking. I do need a unit that is able to take at least a little hiking related abuse.

I'm still researching units...if you have any additional models you'd suggest looking into, I would appreciate the input.

J.


Tue Sep 30, 2014 11:48 pm
Profile

Joined: Sat May 17, 2014 1:08 pm
Posts: 20
Thanks for the info M. which applies to all G. C.'s with pancake GM tubes. I highly doubt a slamming car door would damage the instrument my friend. If you travel above 10,000 feet then don't take it with you. The Mazur products are excelent period. You need to consider how much information you get from whatever unit you buy. The unit that Morellio suggested looks amazing, I'm just wondering what the price is? Unless you're doing combat crawling I'd imagine whichever pocket sized unit you buy will be fine. Also my G.c came with a very durable zippered belt bag to carry it around in. I also bought small ziplock bags to put the instrument in to. It's always protected inside a ziplock bag. Best of luck with your journey and have a nice day.


Wed Oct 01, 2014 10:34 am
Profile

Joined: Fri Sep 26, 2014 3:20 pm
Posts: 22
The Pelican waterproof/pressure resistant case would seem to be a must with the PRM-9000. The Mazur Pelican is an extra $80 on top of the already $100 more price tag over the PRM-8000, unless you get a budget Pelican case and pad it yourself.

The budget Pelican 'insurance' solution...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4wXngi75pZk

I did decide on and purchase the 8000 today after drooling over a few other units that aren't that much more sensitive/useful. Yes, I'd like to have the 9000 but I really can't justify having both units, and if I can only have one, it has to be the 8000.

I also happened across an interesting GM phone hack for those who have iPhones but don't have the money to invest in a GM yet. I haven't tested the hack and don't plan to so I cannot comment on it's validity but I'm throwing it out there for anyone interested.

http://hackaday.com/2012/01/15/turn-you ... r-counter/

And now for some drooling...

http://www.kicanadastore.com/product.php?id_product=111

http://www.dosimeter.com/mirion-technologies-mgp/

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c8LUvwLR7s0

The last video is a comparison between the Mirion and the Mazur regarding HEPA filter contamination.

Pricing of approximately $500 vs. $6000. It seems that the Mazur is one of the the best bang for the buck units without going for a 'pro' model. I can think of a lot of other toys I'd rather have for $6000. :)

I did find another radiation monitoring site today. Their readings are strangely...different. I'm guessing you guys already know about the site but just in case...

http://radiationnetwork.com/

Thank you all kindly for your input, if I come across any other PRM-8000/9000 relevant information I'll add it to this thread, please feel free to do the same!

:)

J.


Wed Oct 01, 2014 6:27 pm
Profile
User avatar

Joined: Sat Dec 14, 2013 1:11 am
Posts: 119
Just got a quote for the Polimaster PM1401K-3P variant. Total cost of $7,236. Will probably get it in the coming weeks.


Thu Oct 16, 2014 2:45 pm
Profile
Display posts from previous:  Sort by  
Reply to topic   [ 8 posts ] 

Who is online

Users browsing this forum: No registered users and 64 guests


You cannot post new topics in this forum
You cannot reply to topics in this forum
You cannot edit your posts in this forum
You cannot delete your posts in this forum
You cannot post attachments in this forum

Search for:
Jump to:  
cron
Powered by phpBB® Forum Software © phpBB Group
Designed by STSoftware.