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8552 AND 8554 (Q-TRAK™ PLUS) - This unit has been discontinued.
This unit has been discontinued as of June 30, 2007. To find technical or service information, click on the Service and Support tab above. Other available literature can be found under the Product Literature tab.
See TSI's Q-Trak IAQ Meter Model 7565. There are currently no items for this section.
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TRAKPRO™ Data Analysis Software is a Windows®-based software program that works with a variety of TSI data logging instruments. This unique software helps you pre-program instruments, store and organize your test data, and generate detailed graphs and reports needed to effectively communicate results.
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SERVICE INFORMATION
APPLICATION NOTESCASE STUDIESHANDBOOKSMANUALSFREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONSshow/hide all answers
- Are CO2, temperature, humidity and CO recorded simultaneously?
Yes. If desired, it is possible to disable recording of one, two or three of the parameters to conserve memory.
- Are there special considerations if I want to make outdoor measurements?
The Q-TRAK Plus may be used to make CO2 measurements in ambient temperatures down to 41°F. When moving the instrument from a normal indoor temperature to a cold outdoor temperature, measurements will be correct for about fifteen minutes before the temperature change will begin to impair accuracy. The same fifteen minute period would apply when moving the Q-TRAK Plus from a cool temperature to a warmer temperature. Humidity sensor readings taken in direct sunlight exposure may not be as accurate. Shade the probe to avoid false humidity readings.
- Can I calibrate the CO sensor in the Q-TRAK Plus?
Yes. TSI calibration kit number 8939. Each calibration uses a minimum of 1 minute of each gas (zero gas and span gas). Each of the two cylinders contains approximately 340 minutes of gas. Allowing for gas loss due to normal handling procedures, the TSI calibration kit will provide 100-200 calibrations of the CO sensor in the Q-TRAK Plus.
- Can I calibrate the CO2 sensor in the Q-TRAK Plus?
Yes. Calibration is straightforward and can be performed using a calibration kit available from TSI. Calibration can also be performed with your own equipment and supply of laboratory quality pure nitrogen gas (or zero air containing no CO2) and CO2 gas (500-5000 ppm). A calibration collar is provided with the Q-TRAK Plus to accommodate calibration. Flow rate for calibration should be at least 0.3 L/min but not greater than 3 L/min.
- Can I calibrate the temperature and humidity sensors?
Yes. The procedure is detailed in the Operation and Service Manual. Calibration would require an independent temperature or humidity measuring device with specifications at least as good as the Q-TRAK Plus. Calibration service is also available from TSI with a typical turn-around time of two business days. Yearly factory calibration is recommended.
- Can logged data be transferred to another database or spreadsheet for reporting or data analysis?
Yes. Data can be exported in standard comma-delimited ASCII format. Most spreadsheet and database programs can read this format. (TRAKPRO version 1.1 or higher required.)
- Can the CO sensor be replaced in the field?
- Can we copy the software for use on other computers?
Yes. The software is copyrighted, but may be copied to enable use of TSI products with several computers.
- Does the CO sensor respond to gases other than carbon monoxide?
Other than carbon monoxide, the Q-TRAK Plus CO sensor does not respond to chemicals commonly found in air. This is accomplished by an internal filter designed to remove interfering gases commonly found in air. The filter provides more than two years of interference protection from normal ambient levels of various common constituents as follows:
To assure maximum filter life, avoid using the Q-TRAK Plus in areas with higher than normal concentrations of these compounds for periods longer than necessary. Storage of the Q-TRAK Plus in areas of high concentrations will also cause degradation of the filter even if instrument is turned off.
At very high gas concentrations at the threshold limit value, the Q-TRAK Plus CO sensor responds to other gases as follows:
*TLV not available. Number represents
example concentration
.
- How can I adjust the sampling time when taking air velocity measurements?
In the Q-TRAK Plus, each sensed parameter is measured internally at least once per second and is referred to as an instantaneous value. A single instantaneous value is not the best representation of an accurate IAQ parameter measurement. Rather, an average of several instantaneous values over a period of time (called a "time constant") provides a more accurate measurement. This average is updated once per second and is therefore a moving average calculation.
The Q-TRAK Plus is shipped new from the factory with a default "time constant" setting of one minute. The time constant is the window of time over which the instantaneous values are averaged. For example, with a time constant setting of 10 seconds, the current measurement is the average of all instantaneous values over the previous 10 seconds.
The time constant setting is user-selectable between 2, 5, 10, 15 and 30 seconds and 1 minute. This allows the user to adjust the time dampening effect on the real-time display in the survey mode.
As the time constant setting is increased, more "smoothing" of the instantaneous values occurs. For IAQ measurements like temperature, humidity, CO2 and CO, the one minute setting works very well.
There may be cases, such as when making velocity measurements with the air velocity probe accessory, where the user may want to reduce the dampening or time it takes to record a specific sample. This can be done by setting the time constant to a smaller value.
To change the time constant setting, enter the main menu of the Q-TRAK Plus and highlight "time constant". Use the up/down arrow keys to select a setting between 2 seconds and 1 minute. For acquiring velocity samples, many users prefer a time constant setting of 5 to 15 seconds. TSI recommends re-setting the time constant to the factory default setting of 1 minute after completing your velocity measurements.
- How can non-USA customers get calibration gases?
TSI is not able to ship calibration gases internationally.
How to Obtain Calibration Gas in non-USA Locations
TSI is not able to ship calibration gases internationally due to international transportation regulations. As such we provide a means for our international users to obtain calibration gases through local TSI distributors or directly from the specialty gas manufacturers. The information below contains the calibration gas and regulator specifications for the following TSI instruments;
* Q-TRAK™ and Q-TRAK™ IAQ Monitors
* INSPECTAIR™ CO2 Monitor
* IAQ-CALC™ Indoor Air Quality Meter (Models 8732, 8760 and 8762)
* COMBUCHECK™ CO2 Meter
* CA-CALC™ Combustion Analyzers (all models)
* Q-CHECK™ CO2 and CO Meters
Also, a recommended listing of international gas vendors capable of shipping directly to distributors or users is included.
Note: these calibration gases and accessories must be purchased directly from the listed vendors, not from TSI-USA; and that TSI-USA does not warranty, guarantee the quality or availability of these calibration gases obtained directly from these specialty gas vendors.
Q-Trak™ IAQ Monitors use a 0.3 to 0.75 L/min regulator
Span Calibration Gases
* 1000 ppm CO2 in balance air*
* 5000 ppm CO2 in balance air
* 35 ppm CO and 1000 ppm CO2 in balance air
* 35 ppm CO in balance air
* 200 ppm CO in balance air
Zero Gas
* Zero Calibration Gas (air*) for CO2 and CO sensor calibration
- How fast do the sensors respond to changes?
Sensor |
Response Time |
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CO2
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20 sec1
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Temperature
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30 sec2
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Humidity
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20 sec2
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CO
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<60 sec2
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1 For 63% of final value for 500 ppm step change.
2 For 90% of final value at an air velocity of 2 m/sec.
- How long is the warranty on the Q-TRAK™ indoor air quality monitor?
The Q-TRAK™ indoor air quality monitor is warranted to be free from defects in workmanship and material for a period of twenty-four months from the date of shipment to the customer. Batteries and sensors are excluded from this warranty. See the Operation and Service Manual for complete warranty terms and conditions.
- How many calibrations can be done with the TSI calibration kit?
Each calibration uses a minimum of 1 minute of each gas (zero air and CO). Each of the two cylinders contains approximately 340 minutes of gas. Allowing for gas loss due to normal handling procedures, the TSI calibration kit will provide 100-200 calibrations of the Q-TRAK™ Plus indoor air quality monitor. The TSI calibration kit part number 8938 contains two cylinders to be used in calibrating both the CO2 and CO sensors in the Q-TRAK™ Plus monitor w/CO. One cylinder contains zero air and the other contains both 35 ppm of CO gas and 1000 ppm of CO2 gas. The kit will provide 50-100 calibrations of the CO2 and CO sensors in the Q-TRAK™ Plus indoor air quality monitor w/CO.
- How many calibrations can be performed with one TSI CO2 calibration kit?
Each calibration uses a minimum of 1 minute of each gas (zero gas and span gas). Each of the two cylinders contains approximately 340 minutes of gas. Allowing for gas loss due to normal handling procedures, the TSI calibration kit will provide 100-200 calibrations of the CO2 sensor in the Q-TRAK Plus.
- How much data can be logged before the Q-TRAK Plus runs out of memory?
The data logger can store 63,000 measurements of CO2, temperature, humidity and CO. This means that the Q-TRAK 8550 (without CO) can store 14 days of data taken at 1minute intervals and the Q-TRAK 8551 (with CO) can store 10 days of data taken at 1-minute intervals. Logging intervals may be longer or shorter as set by the user. It is also possible to record only one or two of the measurement parameters if longer logging time is needed.
- How often is calibration required for the CO2 sensor
Calibration of the CO2 sensor is recommended monthly and can easily be done in the field.
- How often should the CO sensor be calibrated?
TSI recommends monthly calibration of the CO sensor. Calibration frequency should be modified by the user based on accuracy needs and experienced data.
- How should I dispose of empty calibration gas cylinders?
Calibration gas cylinders supplied by TSI are disposable. You may be required to dispose of these cylinders as hazardous waste. Refer to local, state, or federal regulations.
- I have calibration quality CO2, but the concentration isn't exactly 1000 ppm. Will I be able to use it to calibrate the Q-TRAK Plus?
Yes. The Q-TRAK Plus allows you to enter the concentration of the calibration gas and will automatically calibrate to that concentration.
- I like the portability of the Q-TRAK Plus, but I am concerned about the possibility of tampering or theft during unattended monitoring.
The Q-TRAK Plus is equipped with an inconspicuous display/keypad lockout switch which prevents unauthorized or accidental tampering during unattended operation. To prevent theft, some customers have hidden the main body of the instrument in the area above a suspended ceiling with the probe hanging down. Other ideas include a file cabinet, locked box, drawer, or other secured area.
- I'm not a computer expert. What is the easiest way to understand the software?
TRAKPRO software includes example data files. These files contain test examples useful for learning how the software operates independent of the instrument.
- Is CO2 dangerous at a concentration of 800 or 1000 ppm?
No. CO2 concentrations above 800-1000 ppm are an indication of insufficient fresh air supply in a building's HVAC system and may result in reduced occupant comfort and efficiency. Lack of proper ventilation is often associated with the accumulation of other pollutants which may have more harmful effects on building inhabitants.
- Is it possible to change the temperature readout between Fahrenheit and Celsius?
Yes. Simply highlight TEMP using the up and down arrows. Then use the left or right arrow to toggle between fahrenheit and celcius.
- Is it possible to improve the response time of the temperature sensor?
Yes. Waving the probe to increase air flow through the sensors can significantly improve the response time.
- Is it possible to lengthen the cable between the probe and the instrument?
No. Lengthening the cable would cause a decrease in instrument accuracy.
- Is the CO sensor life affected by temperature and humidity?
Temperature - The operating life of the CO sensor is not greatly affected by temperature when kept within the rated operating temperature range. Prolonged operating or non-operating exposure to temperatures outside the rating may damage the sensor. Humidity - Continuous operating or non-operating exposure (months) to humidity above 90% can cause damage to the sensor. Continuous operating or non-operating exposure (months) to humidity below 10% can shorten the life of the sensor.
- Is the Q-TRAK™ Indoor Air Quality Monitor intrinsically safe?
- What are the computer requirements for TRAKPRO Data Analysis Software?
- What are the differences between Log 1, Log 2, and Log 3 modes?
Log 1 mode requires a manual start/stop action. Logging interval and time constant may be set from the keypad. Log 2 and Log 3 modes provide automatic start/stop logging for unattended operation. The two modes are identical in their basic operation, but may be programmed individually using a PC compatible computer and TRAKPRO software. The following items may be defined: Start date Start time Test length Logging interval Number of tests Time delay between tests After Log 2 and Log 3 protocols have been defined using TRAKPRO software, the Q-TRAK Plus/DUSTTRAK will retain the programmed information.
- What are the measurement ranges of the Q-TRAK™ Indoor Air Quality Monitor?
- What are the pertinent U.S. standards for CO2 levels in buildings?
ASHRAE standard 62-1989 recommends a maximum CO2 level of 1000 ppm.
- What are the U.S. standards for CO levels?
According to ASHRAE Standard 62-1989:
- Maximum of 35 ppm of CO for 1-hour exposure (not to be exceeded more than once per year)
- Maximum of 9 ppm of CO for 8-hour exposure (not to be exceeded more than once per year)
- What does the TRAKPRO software allow me to do?
TRAKPRO Data Analysis Software has numerous functions: Download (receive) stored data from the Q-TRAK Plus, DUSTTRAK, PROTECTAIR, and P-TRAK data logger. Store test data to disk. Display data in table or graphical form. Send table or graphical information to a monochrome or color printer. Combine multiple data sets into a single graph for comparison purposes. Up to six channels of data may be presented from tests run at the same time or at different times. Create graph titles, annotate graphs, change scales. Print graphs on monochrome or color printers. Export data to other database or spreadsheet software via comma-delimited ASCII data file. Set date and time functions in the Q-TRAK Plus, DUSTTRAK, PROTECTAIR, and P-TRAK. Alter the selection of logging intervals and time constants available for Log 1 in the Q-TRAK Plus/DUSTTRAK/P-TRAK. Define & upload data logging protocols (log 2 & log 3) used by the Q-TRAK Plus/DUSTTRAK/P-TRAK for unattended operation.
- What happens if my batteries die during operation?
Low battery charge is indicated by a battery symbol on the display. The Q-TRAK™ Plus Indoor Air Quality Monitor will continue to operate for approximately 60 minutes before measurement and logging functions stop. Power will shut off automatically, but the logged data will be retained by an internal backup battery.
- What is the cost of the TRAKPRO software?
TRAKPRO Data Analysis Software is provided at no additional charge.
- What is the difference between the Q-TRAK Model 8552 and Model 8554?
The Q-TRAK Model 8554 also measures CO levels.
- What is the expected CO2 sensor life?
The sensor should last for many years barring physical damage. There are no membranes or elements which might fail and require sensor replacement. In the unlikely event of sensor failure, other instrument sensors are unaffected.
- What is the expected life of the CO sensor?
Although electro-chemical sensors often last for many years in a laboratory environment, exposure to certain field conditions may reduce life to 2 years or less. Sensor life may be reduced by low or high humidity, dust, or oil vapors. The most common signs of sensor degradation are indicated by drift in the zero reading or by inability to calibrate successfully. Despite its variable life, the electro-chemical sensor remains the best method of measuring low levels of carbon monoxide in a practical portable instrument. For this reason, TSI has chosen to develop, manufacture, and provide an electro-chemical sensor for this application. In the event of CO sensor failure, other instrument sensors are unaffected.
- What is the expected life of the temperature and humidity sensor?
Both sensors should last for many years barring physical damage. There are no membranes or elements which might fail and require sensor replacement. In the unlikely event of a sensor failure, other instrument sensors are unaffected.
- What is the warm-up time of the Q-TRAK™ Indoor Air Quality Monitor?
When the Q-TRAK™ Indoor Air Quality Monitor is first turned on, it takes about a minute for the instrument to settle down to a stable reading. When taking measurements from one area to another, stable readings can be obtained in 20 seconds. If there are significant variations in temperature from one area to another, it may take up to five minutes for a stable temperature reading.
- What is the warranty period of the CO sensor?
The warranty for the CO sensor is two (2) years.
- What levels of CO are considered dangerous?
Health Effects Of CO Exposure
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At 10 ppm
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Fatigue |
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At 25 ppm for 24 hours
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Vision impairment |
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At 50 ppm for 24 hours
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Headache and irregular heartbeat |
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At 500 ppm for 1 hour
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Nausea and mental confusion |
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At 1500 ppm for 1 hour
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May lead to death |
- What type of battery is used in the Q-TRAK Plus? How long will they last?
The Q-TRAK Plus is shipped with four standard size AA alkaline batteries required for operation. Alkaline batteries will provide about 13.5 hours of operation. NiCd batteries may be used in the Q-TRAK Plus, but must be recharged in an external charger provided by the user. Operating time using fully charged NiCd batteries will be about 4.75 hours.
- Why are two CO2 calibration kits available from TSI (1000 ppm and 5000 ppm)?
Most people interested in indoor air quality calibrate at about 1000 ppm since the primary range of interest is between about 500 ppm and 1000 ppm. The 5000 ppm calibration kit is available for people interested in maintaining the highest possible accuracy when measuring higher concentrations.
- Why during battery charging operations does the carbon monoxide sensor show high carbon monoxide readings?
Most rechargeable large commercial or industrial batteries used are lead acid batteries. These batteries are used in forkifts, golf type carts, etc. When charging these lead acid batteries hydrogen (H2) gas is produced. Hydrogen gas is a by-product from the electrolysis reaction (charging) of the lead acid battery. Hydrogen gas can interfere with the carbon monoxide sensor. The carbon monoxide sensor is sensitive to and will respond to hydrogen gas at about a 10 to 15 % of it's actual concentration. If you find you are getting high carbon monoxide readings around battery charging operations do not be alarmed, but be cautious. The Lower Explosive Limit (LEL) for hydrogen 4.0 % by volume (40,000 ppm by volume).
- Will the CO sensor deteriorate while in storage?
While in the original package, the usable life of the CO sensor is unaffected by storage. Once the sensor is removed from the package and put into service, the total usable life of the sensor includes the operating and non-operating time.
- Will the instrument measure temperature or humidity in an air stream?
The temperature and humidity sensors are designed to allow measurement in moving air or still air. No special procedures are required.
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