PCE Instruments PCE-PQC 12US, PCE-PQC 10US, PCE-PQC 15US, PCE-PQC 11US, PCE-PQC 13US Users guide

PCE-PQC Series

Handheld Particle Counters

User's Manual

Version 1.0

2

Copyright 2019 by PCE Instruments, GmbH, All Rights Reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a
retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise,
without the prior written permission of PCE Instruments, GmbH The information contained in this document constitutes
proprietary trade secrets of PCE Instruments. You are not allowed to disclose or allow to be disclosed such information except
as allowed by PCE Instruments in writing. No patent liability is assumed with respect to the use of the information contained
herein. While every precaution has been taken in the preparation of this manual, PCE Instruments, GmbH assumes no
responsibility for errors or omissions. Neither is any liability assumed for damages resulting from the use of the information
contained herein.

Neither PCE Instruments, GmbH nor its affiliates shall be liable to the purchaser of this product or third parties for damages,
losses, costs, or expenses incurred by purchaser or third parties as a result of: accident, misuse, or abuse of this product or
unauthorized modifications, repairs, or alterations to this product, or failure to strictly comply with PCE Instruments operating
and maintenance instructions.

PCE Instruments, GmbH shall not be liable against any damages or problems arising from the use of any options or any
products or accessories other than those designated as Original PCE Instruments Products or PCE Instruments Approved.

PCE Instruments is a registered trademark of PCE Instruments, GmbH
MODBUS is a registered trademark of Schneider Automation Inc.
Microsoft™, Windows™ and Excel™ are trademarks of Microsoft Corporation

NOTICE: The contents of this manual are subject to change without notice.

Product Name: PCE Instruments, GmbH PCE-PQC Series Handheld Particle Counters

Model Numbers: PCE-PQC 10EU/US, PCE-PQC 11EU/US, PCE-PQC 12EU/US, PCE-PQC 13EU/US, PCE-PQC 14EU/US,

PCE-PQC 15EU/US

The following standards are applied only to the particle counters that are so labeled. EMC is tested using PCE Instruments
power supplies.

North America: EMI: FCC/ICES-003 Class A
FCC Compliance Statement for American Users
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the

FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is
operated in a commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not
installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications.
Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference, in which case the user will be required

3

Declaration of Conformity

In accordance with EN ISO/IEC 17050-1:2010

Manufacturer’s Name: PCE Deutschland GmbH

Manufacturer’s Address: Im Langel 4,

59872 Meschede, Germany

Application of Council Directives

EMC: 2014/30/EU
RoHS 2: 2011/65/EU
Low Voltage Directive: 2006/95/EC

Application of Council Directives

EMC: EN 61326-1:2013
CISPR 11:2009+A1:2010

RoHS 2 Technical Documentation: EN 50581:2012
Safety Requirements: EN 61010-1:2010

Product Name: Handheld and Remote Particle Counters
Product Model Numbers:

Handheld followed by: PCE-PQC 10EU/US, PCE-PQC 11EU/US, PCE-PQC 12EU/US, PCE­PQC 13EU/US, PCE-PQC 14EU/US, PCE-PQC 15EU/US
Remote followed by: PCE-PQC 20EU/US, PCE-PQC 21EU/US, PCE-PQC 22EU/US, PCE­PQC 23EU/US, PCE-PQC 30EU/US, PCE-PQC 31EU/US, PCE-PQC 32EU/US, PCE-PQC
33EU/US, PCE-PQC 34EU/US, PCE-PQC 35EU/US

We hereby declare that the equipment specified above conforms to the above Directives and
Standards.

Meschede, Germany

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Table of Contents

Contents

1-1 Important Safety Information .............................................................................................................. 6

1-2 Ergonomic Recommendations ........................................................................................................... 7

1-3 Warnings for Use of Wireless Devices .............................................................................................. 7

1-4 Overview ............................................................................................................................................... 8

1-5 Specifications ....................................................................................................................................... 9

1-6 Included Accessories ........................................................................................................................ 11

1-7 Optional Accessories ........................................................................................................................ 12

1-8 Product Views .................................................................................................................................... 14

2-1 Unpacking and Inspecting the Instrument ...................................................................................... 15

2-2 Registering Your Product ................................................................................................................. 15

2-3 Contacting PCE Instruments ............................................................................................................ 15

2-4 Storing and Shipping the Instrument .............................................................................................. 15

2-5 Power Considerations and Connecting to AC Power .................................................................... 15

2-6 Installing Batteries ............................................................................................................................. 16

2-7 Turning the Unit On ........................................................................................................................... 18

2-8 Power and Charging Status LED (on power button) ...................................................................... 19

3-1 Control and Menu Icons .................................................................................................................... 19

4-1 Operational Flow Chart – Menu Map ................................................................................................ 23

5-1 Operation – Initial Power Up – First Time Use ................................................................................ 24

5-2 Display ................................................................................................................................................ 24

5-3 Taking a Sample ................................................................................................................................. 25

5-4 Real-Time Meter, Graphing, and Environmental Screens ............................................................. 26

5-5 Recorded Data .................................................................................................................................... 28

5-6 Reports ............................................................................................................................................... 30

6-1 Settings ............................................................................................................................................... 33

6-2 Sampling Setup .................................................................................................................................. 33

6-3 Channel Management ......................................................................................................................... 34

6-4 Locations & Recipes ........................................................................................................................... 36

6-5 Configuration ...................................................................................................................................... 40

6-6 Printer Setup ....................................................................................................................................... 42

6-7 Communication ................................................................................................................................... 42

6-8 Environment ........................................................................................................................................ 45

6-9 Passwords ........................................................................................................................................... 46

6-10 Screens .............................................................................................................................................. 47

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7-1 Power Management ............................................................................................................................ 47

8-1 Volume Controls ................................................................................................................................. 49

9-1 Instrument Management Software (IMS) .......................................................................................... 49

10-1 Remote Operation ............................................................................................................................. 50

Appendix – A ............................................................................................................................................... 50

Appendix – B ............................................................................................................................................... 50

6

1-1 Important Safety Information

This section presents important information intended to ensure safe and effective use of this product.
Please read this section carefully and store it in an accessible location.

• Do not use near explosive, flammable, or reactive gases

• Do not attach directly to pressurized gases or liquids

• Do not improperly discard electronic instruments, only dispose of in accordance with local

regulatory requirements or contact PCE Instruments for trade-in option

• Defective or non-working Lithium-Ion batteries must be recycled, do not throw in trash

• This device contains a Class I laser product that is not accessible during normal operation, do not

take this device apart, exposure to harmful laser radiation can occur

• Taking the device apart will void all warranties

• Do not use this device for any purpose other than measuring of particles in ambient environments

• Do not operate the instrument with the inlet capped or plugged, as this can cause damage to the

vacuum pump

• Do not allow water or any other liquid to enter the inlet of the particle counter; this will damage the
unit

• Any changes or modifications to PCE Instruments equipment not expressly approved by PCE
Instruments could void the user’s authorization to operate the equipment, can risk serious injury,
and will void all warranties

Key to Symbols

The symbols in this manual are identified by their level of importance, as defined below.
Read the following carefully before handling the product.

WARNING:

Warnings must be observed carefully to avoid serious bodily injury.

CAUTION:

Cautions must be observed to avoid minor injury to yourself or damage to your
equipment.

NOTE: The laser in this product is completely enclosed within a sensor with no user serviceable parts. In
addition, the emission level does not exceed the AEL (Accessible Emission Limit) of Class 1 under all
conditions of operation, maintenance, service and failure.

7

1-2 Ergonomic Recommendations

CAUTION: In order to prevent or reduce the potential risks of ergonomic injury, follow

the recommendations below. Consult with your local Health & Safety Manager to ensure
that you are adhering to your company’s safety programs to prevent employee injury.

• Reduce or eliminate repetitive motion

• Maintain a natural position while holding the instrument

• Reduce or eliminate excessive force

• Keep objects that are used frequently within easy reach

• Perform tasks at correct heights

• Utilize a tripod or the built-in stand with the instrument in a freestanding mode

1-3 Warnings for Use of Wireless Devices

Please observe all warning notices with regard to the usage of PCE Instruments’ particle
counters with optional Wi-Fi communications module installed.

Safety in Hospitals

Wireless devices transmit radio frequency energy and may affect medical electrical
equipment. Wireless devices should be switched off wherever you are requested to do so
in hospitals, clinics, or health care facilities. These requests are designed to prevent
possible interference with sensitive medical equipment.

Pacemakers

Pacemaker manufacturers recommend that a minimum of 15cm (6 inches) be maintained
between a handheld wireless device and a pacemaker to avoid potential interference with
the pacemaker. These recommendations are consistent with independent research and
recommendations by Wireless Technology Research.

Persons with Pacemakers:

• Should ALWAYS keep the device more than 6 inches (15cm) from the pacemaker if
turned ON

• Should not carry the device on your chest

• Should use the arm furthest from the pacemaker to minimize the potential for

interference

• If you have any reason to suspect that interference is taking place, turn OFF your
device

Other Medical Devices

Please consult your physician or the manufacturer of the medical device to determine if
the operation of your wireless product may interfere with the medical device.

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1-4 Overview

Thank you for purchasing a PCE Instruments particle counter, the most advanced handheld instrument
available.

This user manual will provide the detailed explanation and instructions for the proper use and operation
of this feature-rich particle counter.

The PCE Instruments particle counters have a large dynamic range measuring from 0.3 µm to 25.0 µm,
with true variable binning for channel size adjustment settings to 0.01 µm. This instrument utilizes 7 or
more processors to maintain and manage the various functions of operation. The advanced processing
also allows for many operations to take place simultaneously, even while the unit is sampling. This
includes adding annotations to the current sample in progress, or adding annotations to previously
recorded data while sampling is in progress.

The Real-Time Meter function is unique in its ability to fine-tune the instrument's sensitivity in order to
locate particulate sources with visual and audible indications. This versatile particle counter's ability to
count higher than typical particle concentrations allows the Real-Time Meter to find point source
contamination in cleanrooms as well as locating higher particle concentrations being generated in many
industrial environments.

This instrument also has a mass concentration mode, providing for particle mass monitoring of an
environment for industrial health and safety regulatory purposes. The unit can measure all (6) adjustable
particle size channels (3 size channels for the 8303 and 8503) and capture PM levels indicated in µg/m³
with values corrected for particle density and refractive index correction.

The technology designed into these particle counters includes advanced power management functions,

and the industry’s first sleep mode. This permits the instrument to take intermittent samples over the

course of a few months, minimizing power consumption and increasing system life.
The PCE Instruments particle counters have versatile communication methods and protocols including:

Modbus TCP, USB Host, USB Client and (optional) Wi-Fi, (optional) MODBUS RTU and ASCII.

The remote web server hosting feature allows for monitoring and control of the particle counter from any
PC, smartphone or tablet simply by inputting the IP address of the particle counter on the local area
network and entering it into any browser. The main processors allow for multiple connections, all with
simultaneous access to review, monitor and control the operation of the instrument.

Thank you,

9

1-5 Specifications

Size Channels
(Model PCE-PQC 10)

Factory calibrated at 0.3, 0.5, 1.0, 2.5, 5.0, 10.0 μm variable binning

Size Range
(Model PCE-PQC 10)

0.3 to 25μm

Size Channels
(Model PCE-PQC 12)

Factory calibrated at 0.3, 0.5, 5.0 μm variable binning

Size Range
(Model PCE-PQC 12)

0.3 to 25μm

Counting Efficiency
(Models PQC 10 & 12)

50% @ 0.3 μm; 100% for particles >0.45 μm per JIS

Size Channels
(Model PCE-PQC 11)

Factory calibrated at 0.5, 0.7, 1.0, 3.0, 5.0, 10.0 μm variable binning

Size Range
(Model PCE-PQC 11)

0.5 to 25μm

Size Channels
(Model PCE-PQC 13)

Factory calibrated at 0.5, 1.0, 5.0 μm variable binning

Size Range
(Model PCE-PQC 13)

0.5 to 25μm

Size Channels
(Model PCE-PQC 14)

Factory calibrated at 0.5, 0.7, 1.0, 5.0, 10.0, 20.0 μm variable binning

Size Range
(Model PCE-PQC 14)

0.5 to 55 μm

Size Channels
(Model PCE-PQC 15)

Factory calibrated at 0.5, 0.7, 5.0, 10.0, 20.0, 30.0 μm variable binning

Size Range
(Model PCE-PQC 15)

0.5 to 75 μm

Counting Efficiency (Models

(Model PCE-PQC 13, 14, & 15)

50% @ 0.5 μm; 100% for particles >0.75 μm per JIS

Flow rates

0.1 CFM (2.83 LPM)

Light Source

Long life laser diode

Zero Count

<1 count / 5 minutes (<2 particles / ft³) (per ISO 21501-4 & JIS)

Count Modes

Automatic, manual, cumulative/differential, mass concentration, count or
concentration

Count Alarms

1 to 9,999,999 counts

Calibration

NIST traceable

Display

4.3″ (10.9 cm) WQVGA (480×272) color touch screen

Printer (Optional)

External thermal printer

Vacuum Source

Internal pump with automatic flow control

Filtered Exhaust

Internal HEPA filter

Number of Channels

6

10

Please note that specifications are subject to change without notice.

Custom Size Channels

Calibration for custom size channels available

Audible Alarm

Adjustable built-in alarm

Battery

Removable Li-ion
>10 hours continuous operation and >16 hours normal operation

Battery Recharge Time

<2 hours

Reports

ISO 14644-1, EU GMP Annex 1, FS 209E

Recipes

50 user-configurable recipes

Communication Modes

Ethernet and USB

Optional Communication
Modes

Wireless 802.11 b/g, RS485 or RS232

Environmental Sensor

Includes temperature and relative humidity probe 32º to 122ºF (0º to 50ºC)
±1ºF (0.5ºC), 15-90% ±2% relative humidity (Optional for 8303 & 8503)

Alarm

Alarms on counts for all particle sizes, low battery, sensor failure,
environmental sensors and flow

Standards

ISO 21501-4 and JIS B9921

Calibration

Recommended minimum once per year

External Surface

High impact injection molded plastic

Dimensions (L x W x H)

10” x 5” x 4.5” (25.4 cm x 12.9 cm x 11.4 cm) includes handle and does not

include probes

Weight

2.2 lb. (1.0 kg)

Accessories

Operating manual on USB flash drive, isokinetic probe, temperature
relative humidity sensor, purge filter, battery, data download software, USB
cable, power supply & cable (Temperature & Relative Humidity Sensor is
optional for Models PCE-PQC 12 & PCE-PQC 13)

Optional Accessories

Printed manual, carrying case, spare battery, external battery charger,
external printer and isokinetic probes

Buffer Memory

45,000 sample records (rotating buffer) including particle count data,
environmental data, locations and times. Scrollable on screen or printout

Sample Locations

Up to 1,000 locations 20 characters long

Sample Time

1 second to 99 hours

Power

110 to 240 VAC 50/60 Hz universal in-line power supply

Operating Conditions

41º to 104ºF (5º to 40ºC) / 20% to 95% non-condensing

Storage Conditions

32º to 122ºF (0º to 50ºC) / Up to 98% non-condensing

Warranty

1 Year. Extended warranties available.

11

1-6 Included Accessories

Description

Part Number

Image

Isoprobe Threaded 0.1 CFM Nickel Plated
Aluminum

PS-12041

Purge Filter Assembly 0.1 CFM (2.83 LPM)

AS-99002A

Rechargeable Battery 55Wh

EE-80003A

Temperature / RH Probe 32-122°F (0-60°C)
±1°F (0.5°C), 15 - 90% ±2%
NOTE: This probe is optional for 8303 & 8503

EE-80014A

Power Supply 15V ~2amp 100-240VAC
(Select adapter -US, -EU, -UK or -CN)

EE-80127-XX

USB Cable 6' (1.8m)

AS-99010

Handheld User Manual and Instrument
Management Software (USB Key)

MN-24001

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1-7 Optional Accessories

Description

Part Number

Image

Handheld Carrying Case

AS-99023

External Battery Charger 55Wh

AS-99005A

Rechargeable Battery 55Wh

EE-80003A

External Thermal Printer with 2 rolls of paper

AS-99011

External Thermal Printer Paper - 1 Roll

AS-99012

External Thermal Printer Cleanroom Paper -
10 Pack

AS-99013

Isoprobe Threaded 0.1 CFM (2.83 LPM)
Stainless Steel

PS-12070

Isoprobe Barbed 0.1 CFM (2.83 LPM)
Stainless Steel

PS-12022

1/8" Inlet Barbed Fitting Stainless Steel

PS-12005

13

Description

Part Number

Image

Handheld User Manual (Printed)

MN-24001P

Handheld Validation Manual

MN-24003

Certificate of Origin

MN-24000

14

1-8 Product Views

Connecting Ethernet Cable

Connecting USB - B Client

Connecting USB - A Host

Temperature & RH Probe

Universal Sensor Port

Isokinetic Probe

4.3” Color Touch Screen

Power Switch & One
Touch Sample Button

Touch Screen Stylus

Left Side View – Input / Output Connections

Front View

Rear View

¼-20 Threaded Tripod

Mounting Adapter

Kickstand

Battery Compartment

15

2-1 Unpacking and Inspecting the Instrument

Careful consideration was given to our packing material to ensure that the PCE

Instruments instrument will reach you in perfect condition. If the instrument has been
subject to excessive handling during shipping, there may be visible damage to the
shipping carton. In the event of damage, keep the shipping container and packing
material for the carrier’s inspection. Carefully unpack the instrument from its shipping
container and inspect the contents for damaged or missing items. If the instrument
appears damaged or something is missing, contact the carrier and PCE Instruments
immediately. Please save the container and packing material in case you have to return
the instrument.

2-2 Registering Your Product

All PCE Instruments units are automatically registered upon sale for the warranty period
and tracked by Serial number.

2-3 Contacting PCE Instruments

To order accessories, receive technical assistance, report damaged or missing items
from your shipment, or get contact information for your nearest PCE Instruments
authorized reseller, call - Germany: [phone] / USA: [phone]

2-4 Storing and Shipping the Instrument

This instrument utilizes a high quality advanced Lithium Ion Power Cell. This must be
removed from the device prior to shipping the unit. If the instrument needs to be packed
and shipped for annual calibration or service, it is recommended to use the original
packing materials. If they are not available, please insure that the instrument is packaged
in a box that is sturdy and that the instrument is well protected with proper packing
materials to cushion and protect it from harm during transit.

To store the instrument, place it in its optional case or in a box, under cover, in an
environment as stated in the Specifications in Section 1-5.

2-5 Power Considerations and Connecting to AC Power

The PCE Instruments instrument comes with a power adapter line cord for AC powered
operation and battery charging. The power adapter is designed to operate with line
voltage from around the world. The correct plug adapter must be used to match your
local AC power adapter standard. If the instrument power adapter does not have the
proper plug configuration, please contact PCE Instruments or an authorized reseller for
service.

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To install the country specific plug adapter, simply slide the adapter into the power supply
as shown.

2-6 Installing Batteries

CAUTION - The PCE Instruments’ rechargeable battery is an intelligent battery pack with

onboard processing to ensure proper cell loading and other functions that support the
advanced power management features of this instrument. To ensure a long life for the
batteries and for adherence to any local regulatory guidelines for the use, storage and
disposal of Lithium Ion batteries, please follow these instructions carefully.

WARNING – Do not plug in or charge the PCE Instruments Lithium-Ion rechargeable
battery with any other power source other than the approved PCE Instruments
Rechargeable External Battery Charger Model SPCAS-99005A or the PCE Instruments
Power Supply Model SPCEE-80128. Using any other charger can cause fire, shock or
serious injury.

Caution: Dispose of PCE Instruments Lithium-Ion
batteries at an approved local battery recycling
center.

17

Install the PCE Instruments Battery pack into the instrument using the following steps:

Step 3 – Push down latch while pulling
battery compartment cover out and away

Step 4 – Insert battery connector plug
into matching socket on PCB board in
battery compartment

NOTE: Red and black lead
should be on bottom edge of
connector

Step 1 - Remove security screw
with Phillips screwdriver

Step 2 – Pull out kick-stand

18

2-7 Turning the Unit On

The External one-touch power and sample button on the handle will power the instrument
on and off and will turn sampling on and off.

The one-touch external power button is conveniently located on the particle counter
handle to allow for easy one touch operation. Holding the handle, place thumb over the
button and press and hold until the particle counter turns on.

Pressing the button momentarily starts the
pump and begins sampling.

Pressing the one-touch button again for 1
second stops sampling.

Holding the button for 2.5 seconds turns the
instrument off.

The unit can also be turned off from the
power management screen.

Step 5 – Carefully push battery into the
compartment using an upward motion until
bottom of battery clears edge of the
compartment and drops in freely

Step 6 – Seat the battery’s compartment cover into
bottom slot and push inward until the locking latch
clicks. The security screw can be reinstalled with a
screw driver or it can be removed for optional battery
replacement use

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2-8 Power and Charging Status LED (on power button)

Power and charging status is indicated externally on the instrument in the middle of the
one-touch power and sample button. The indication provides information on the charging
rates and status (shown on right).

3-1 Control and Menu Icons

Function Name

Location/Screen

Description of Function

PCE logo Icon

Home Screen

Press the logo and the product information
screen will appear displaying your model number,
serial number, manufacture date, last calibration
date, next calibration due date, and number of
channels activated on the unit. Press the Back
Arrow icon on bottom left corner of the display to
return to Home screen.

Speaker Icon

Home Screen

Press the speaker icon to adjust volume using a
pop-up slider bar. Press the cross bar on slider
and move up and down for volume control. Icon
will have red prohibited symbol when sound is
turned off or muted.

Temperature &
RH Indicator

Home Screen

Press the temperature and RH value indicator, to
open a larger screen that displays Temperature,
Relative Humidity, and the current Barometric
Pressure. Press the Back Arrow icon on bottom
left corner of the display to return to Home
screen.

Time and Date
Indicator

Home Screen

Press the time and date to change the current
time and date.

Unit plugged into AC (instrument screen on or off)

Charging: Red LED on
Charging Complete: Green LED on

Unit not plugged into AC (instrument screen on)

Battery Charge <10%: Red LED blinks every 3 seconds

Unit not plugged into AC (instrument screen off)

All LED’s off

20

Function Name

Location/Screen

Description of Function

Power
Management
Icon

Home Screen

Press the battery/power adapter indicator to
display the battery power management screen,
as well as the current battery status.

USB Icon

Home Screen

If a USB drive is connected, the USB Icon will
appear. Press the USB Icon to save the current
record to the USB drive.

Printer
Indicator

Home Screen

If the PCE Instruments Printer is connected to
USB Port, press the Printer Icon to print the
current record.

System
Warning
Indicator

Home Screen

When the System Warning Indication Icon
appears, press to display additional information.
Please contact PCE Instruments technical
service for assistance should the Icon remain
visible.

Alarm Indicator

Home Screen

Visual indication that the instrument has
exceeded the user-defined thresholds. Press
icon to silence the alarm.

Run Icon

Home Screen

Press the Run icon to start sampling. Once
pressed the Run icon will be replaced by the
Stop icon.

Stop Icon

Home Screen

Press the Stop icon to stop the instrument from
sampling.

Display Mode
Icon

Home Screen

Press the Display Mode icon to switch between
the Main Screen, Real-Time Meter, Graphing,
and PM screen (must enable Mass Mode by
going to Settings, then Channel Management
for PM Screen).

Recorded Data
Icon

Home Screen

Press the Recorded Data icon to display the
saved data records page. All saved records can
be accessed from this screen.

21

Function Name

Location/Screen

Description of Function

Reports Icon

Home Screen

Press the Reports icon to display ISO 14644-1,
EU-GMP Annex 1, or Federal Standard 209E.

Particle Icon

Home Screen

Press the Particle icon to change the indicated
values from particle count to count per cubic
meter, count per cubic foot, or particle mass
concentration (must enable Mass Mode by going
to Settings, then Channel Management to
display particle mass concentration).

Differential
Mode Icon

Home Screen

Press the Differential Mode icon to toggle the
differential data values on and off.

Cumulative
Mode Icon

Home Screen

Press the Cumulative Mode icon to toggle the
differential data values on and off.

Location Menu
Icon

Home Screen

Press the Location Menu icon to display the
Location and Recipe set-up page. This feature
allows for the input of up to 1,000 locations and
up to 50 unique user-defined recipes.

Mode Indicator

Home Screen

The Mode Indicator displays the current mode of
operation for the instrument. Modes include
automatic, manual, and continuous.

Sample
Indicator

Home Screen

The Sample Time indicator displays the current
sample time duration (Hours:Minutes:Seconds).
This value will count down from the set value for
the sample time, displaying the amount of time
left in the current sample (go to Settings, then
Sampling Setup to change Sample Timing).

Hold Indicator

Home Screen

The Hold Time indicator displays the current
hold time as an interval between samples. The
maximum hold time is 99 hours, 59 minutes and
59 seconds (go to Settings, then Sampling
Setup to change Hold Time).

Cycle Indicator

Home Screen

The Cycle indicator displays the number of
count samples that will be taken at a location in
automatic mode. The maximum number of
possible cycles is 9,999. The value is displayed
as the sample number vs. the total number of
samples to be completed in this cycle (go to
Settings, then Sampling Setup to change
Cycles).

22

Function Name

Location/Screen

Description of Function

Record
Indicator

Home Screen

The Record indicator displays the total number
of sampling records saved in the instrument.
The instrument is capable of storing 45,000
records in a rotating buffer.

Settings Menu
Icon

Home Screen

Press the Settings Menu icon to open the
Settings Screen. All aspects of the instrument’s
set-up can be managed from the icon driven
sub-menus.

Annotation
Icon

Home Screen

Press the Annotation icon to notate up to 32
characters for each record. This action can be
performed during sampling or after a sample has
been taken. The green pencil indicates an
annotation exists for any record (go to Settings,
then Configuration to enable Annotations).

Plus and Minus
Buttons

Home Screen

Press the Plus or Minus icons to scroll through
1,000 possible locations that can be saved and
uniquely identified in the Locations setup screen.
Locations can have set recipes assigned to
them in advance for ease-of-use during
sampling.

Flow & No
Flow Indicator

Home Screen

The three horizontal arrows indicate that the
pump is working and that the internal flow
sensor is detecting the correct flow rate through
the instrument. If a red line appears diagonally
through the arrows, it is an indication of a flow
error.

Back Arrow
Icon

Various Screens

Press Back Arrow icon to return to the previous
screen.

Record: 1 / 45000

23

4-1 Operational Flow Chart – Menu Map

Main

Information

Environment

Date / Time

Set

Power

Management

Audio Volume

Set

Location &

Recipes

Location

Advance

Charts

Recorded

Data

Reports

Settings

Annotate

Record

Print

Information

Print Current

Record

Shut Down

Zoom

Sampling

Setup

Channel

Management

Locations &

Recipes

Configuration

Printer

Setup

Communications

Setup

Environment

Setup

Password

Setup

Clear

Samples

Channel Alarm

Setup

Real-Time

Meter

A

A

ISO 14644-1

Room

Definition

Report

Generate

EU-GMP

Annex 1

Room

Definition

Report

Generate

Print

Report

FS 209E

Room

Definition

Report

Generate

Modbus

Setup

Configuration

Load/Save

Print

Records

Factory

Restore

Admin Password Not Required

Admin Password Required to Edit

Admin Password Required to View

24

5-1 Operation – Initial Power Up – First Time Use

After the Particle Counter turns on for the first time, a window will appear stating “Time of Day
Clock Not Set”. Press OK to Set Clock.

Date Format Select
Button

Choose format for Month/Day/Year, Day/Month/Year, or
Year/Month/Day by selecting the corresponding button on the screen.

Numeric Keypad

Press Date within the window and a numeric keypad will appear to
change the date. To change the values, use the < or > to move cursor.
When complete press OK button.

Time Format Select
Button

Choose 12 hour or 24 hour clock indication by selecting the
corresponding button on the touchscreen.

Numeric Keypad

Press Time within the window and a numeric keypad will appear to
change time. Use 24 hour clock format for time entry to properly
indicate AM or PM. To change the values, use the < or > to move
cursor. When complete press OK button. Time will display AM or PM or
24 hour format based on the selection.

Back Arrow Icon

Press Back Arrow icon to return to the previous screen.

5-2 Display

Press any blank space on the screen to zoom in or out on the Home page

Zoomed View

Standard View

25

5-3 Taking a Sample

Main Sampling Home Screen

Taking a
Sample

Using the one touch
power/sample button
on the handle or the
Run icon on the
display begins the
sample

To take a sample, press the one touch power/sample
button on the handle or the Run icon on the screen.
This will begin the sample according to the sampling
setup parameters displayed on the right side of the
Home screen (go to Settings, then Sampling Setup to
change Sample Timing).

Stopping
the
Sample

Using the one touch
power/sample button
on the handle or the
Stop icon on the
display stops the
sample

To stop a sample, press the one touch power/sample
button on the handle or the Stop icon on the screen.

Data Unit of Measure
Selection

Press the Particle icon to change the indicated values
from particle count to count per cubic meter, count per
cubic foot, or particle mass concentration (must enable
Mass Mode by going to Settings, then Channel
Management to display particle mass concentration).

NOTE:
Models PCE-PQC 12 &
PCE-PQC 13 only display
3 size channels

26

5-4 Real-Time Meter, Graphing, and Environmental Screens

The instrument will display a bar graph visualization that rises and falls with the
increase of pulses counted per second, per channel. This can be used to pinpoint the
source of particles within an area. The closer the instrument is to the source, the
higher the indication appears on the bar graph.

Real-Time Meter Operation

Start/Stop Sampling
while on Real-Time
Meter or Graphing
Screen

The Sampling can be started or stopped from these screens
using the Run or Stop icons or by using the one touch
button on the handle.

Channel Select –
Radio Button

Select the channel size that is the focus of the particles
being investigated by clicking on the radio select button
below each channel. The channel selected also represents
the data being displayed in pulses per second on the
Graphing screen.

Range – Sensitivity
Adjustment Slider

Press and slide the Range slider bar up towards the top of
the slider to increase sensitivity and down towards the
bottom of the slider to decrease sensitivity. As the
instrument gets closer to the particle source the visual signal
can increase and hit 100% of the indicated scale long before
the actual source of the contamination is found. By moving
the Range slider bar down, the sensitivity is reduced, and
the indication is scaled down. This action can be repeated
until the source is identified.

Switching between
Main Screen, Real-Time
Meter, Graphing, and
Environmental Screens

Press the Real-Time Meter icon to switch between the Main
screen, Real-Time Meter, Graphing, and Environmental
screens (must enable Mass Mode by going to Settings, then
Channel Management to display Environmental screen).
NOTE: Go to Settings, then to Screens to select which
screens will be available.

Range slider lowered to reduce Channel 3 value

Channel 3 selected and signal at maximum value

Range

27

Real-Time Graph Operation

If the Graph function is chosen, this feature graphically displays the pulses per second, making the

graph’s historical information useful in point source detection.

Environmental Screen

This screen displays specific PM size, temperature and humidity.

Real-Time Graph

Pressing the PM value

accesses the Select PM
To Display screen

(shown below)

Environmental Screen Size Select

Press Back Arrow to

return to the previous

screen

Select the PM size

channel to be

displayed

28

Home Screen Mass Concentration

5-5 Recorded Data

The instrument stores up to 45,000 records that can be accessed by selecting the
recorded data icon. The Recorded data page uses a horizontal slider bar for scrolling left
and right through all records. Press white arrows for fine control in locating a specific
record. Press the slider button with the stylus and drag left or right to navigate through
large amounts of records quickly.
NOTE: After the 45,000th sample is recorded, the software deletes one block of 250

records. After the block is deleted the next record number will become 44,751. The
instrument will then store data to record 45,000 before repeating this process. Each
block removed is from the oldest record first, following a first in / first out method.

Recorded Data
Screen

Print or Save the
Current Record
being displayed

If a Printer or USB thumb drive is attached to the instrument,
the current record on the Recorded Data Screen can be
downloaded or printed by pressing the corresponding Printer
or USB icon.

Turn off
Cumulative or
Differential
Columns

All displayed channel values can be turned off or back on from
the recorded sample record by toggling the mode icons.

µg/m³ is displayed in the

first column for that
particle size up to the
next size as a value

PM is the sum of all

previous channels not
including that channel

size value

29

Data Units

Data Units can be changed to the corresponding calculated
values by pressing the Particle icon. Press the icon to change
between particle count, count per cubic meter, count per cubic
foot, or µg/m³ (if enabled).

Adding
Annotations to
Recorded Data

Press the Annotation icon to notate up to 32 characters for
each record. This action can be performed during sampling or
after a sample has been taken. The green pencil indicates an
annotation exists for any record (go to Settings, then
Configuration to enable Annotations).

Annotations
Keyboard

Saved Annotation
Icon

The green pencil over a document icon denotes that an
annotation exists on that record. The annotation can be
accessed, edited or deleted.

Caps Lock, ?123,
and Delete Keys

Statistics

Pressing the Shift Key will activate or deactivate the Caps
Lock function. Pressing the ?123 Key will toggle the use of
numbers and symbols. Pressing the Backspace Key will
delete all text entered on the text line.

Pressing the Statistics icon will provide an onscreen display of
the minimum, maximum, and average values for the records
selected. This function is disabled if a printer or USB stick is
connected to the instrument.

30

5-6 Reports

ISO 14644-1

Press the ISO 14644-1 icon to generate a report based on
the parameters and guidelines of the ISO standard.

EU-GMP Annex-1

Press the EU-GMP ANNEX 1 icon to generate a report
based on the parameters and guidelines of the EU-GMP
standard.

FS 209E

Press the FS 209E icon to generate a report based on the
parameters and guidelines of the US Federal standard 209E.

Room parameters can be defined by pressing the Room Definition button. To generate a report, select
the Generate button. This creates a report document that can be saved to an external thumb drive, or
printed to a connected printer.

Press the Create Report button for 5 seconds to display a sample report with the current test records.
These records will be added to the recorded data so the values and information can be reviewed prior to
completing the report and saving to an external source.

Create Report

Press the Start and End Windows to enter the Start and End dates and times.
Press the Create Report button to generate the report. If the values of the count or
sampling set-up are incorrect, the report will indicate the errors prior to the report
being generated.

Create Report

Generate

Report Functions

Press the
Generate button to
display the Report
Generation screen

31

To exclude an outlier measurement from the report, go to Recorded Data, find the
specific recorded data to be excluded and annotate the record by writing

“EXCLUDED” or “EX”. A brief description must be added after the “EXCLUDED” or
“EX” explaining why the data is being excluded. Example Annotations: “EXCLUDED
Sample Stopped Early” or “EX Equipment Failure”

Room Definition

Each Report has a Room Definition page to input data that defines the output of the
report. The inputs include Room Size, Class, Allowed (Channel) Sizes, Room
Status and Air Flow.

Sample Report
Screen

32

Sample Report
(Printed)

Printing or
Saving a Report

With a thumb drive or printer connected, press the Printer icon
to print a report, or press the USB icon to save a report.
NOTE: A thumb drive or printer must be connected to the
instrument to display these icons.

33

6-1 Settings

Settings Screen Press the Settings Menu icon to open the Settings Screen. All

aspects of the instrument’s set-up can be managed from the
icon driven sub-menus. When the administrator password is in
use, this screen is not available and may only be accessed and
settings modified by the administrator.

6-2 Sampling Setup

Sampling Setup
Screen Press the Sampling icon to display the Sample Setup screen.

Delay

Press the Delay window to open the Enter Time screen. To select
the value to change, use the < or > to move cursor. The entry is
made in Hours:Minutes:Seconds (HH:MM:SS). The maximum
Delay time is 99 hours, 59 minutes and 59 seconds. When
complete press OK button.
NOTE: This allows the operator to leave an area before
sampling begins.

34

6-3 Channel Management

This screen provides control of many rich features such as enabling or disabling
channels, setting custom channel sizes, enabling or disabling alarms by channel, and
the setting of the alarm thresholds. The mass concentration mode may also be
activated to allow entry of particle density and refractive index values by channel.

Clear All Samples

Press Clear Samples icon to open the Clear Samples
window. All records on the instrument can be cleared with
this function. NOTE: This action is not reversible and all
data will be cleared by pressing the Yes button.

Back Arrow Icon

Press the Back Arrow icon to return to the previous screen.

Sample

Press the Sample window to open the Enter Time screen.
To select the value to change, use the < or > to move
cursor. The entry is made in Hours:Minutes:Seconds
(HH:MM:SS). The maximum Sample time is 99 hours, 59
minutes and 59 seconds. When complete press OK button.

Volume

Press the Volume window to open the Enter Sample
Volume screen. To select the value to change, use the
< or > to move cursor. The volume value entered will control
the length of time per sample to achieve the desired sample
volume.

Sample or Volume
Selection Buttons

Selecting the Sample button will cause the sample to be
time based. Selecting the Volume button will cause the
sample to be based on the volume of air to be measured.

Hold

Press the Hold window to open the Enter Time screen. This
controls the amount of time the instrument will hold between
samples in automatic mode. To select the value to change,
use the < or > to move cursor. The entry is made in
Hours:Minutes:Seconds (HH:MM:SS). The maximum Hold
time is 99 hours, 59 minutes and 59 seconds. When
complete press OK button.

Channel
Management
Screen

35

Cycles

Press the Cycles window to open the Enter Cycles screen.
This controls the number of sampling cycles to be taken at a
specific location when the unit is in automatic mode. To
select the value to change, use the < or > to move cursor.
When complete press OK button.

NOTE: Enter (0000) to activate Continuous Sampling
Mode.

Mode

Press the Mode window to open the Select Sample Mode
screen. Select Automatic or Manual. When complete press
OK button.

Sample Volume

Units

Select Cubic Feet (ft^3), Cubic Meters (m^3) or Liters.

Use Recipes

Button

The Use Recipes button activates Recipes on the Select
Location & Recipe screen. Recipes associated with
locations will be utilized in place of the general settings from
the Sample Setup screen.

Enable Channel

Each channel can be turned on or off by pressing the

corresponding radio button. When the channel is turned

off all values related to that channel are ignored and will

not be displayed or recorded.

Size µm

Press the Size µm window to open the Enter Channel

Size screen. This controls the particle size measured and

recorded for the selected channel. This feature is also

known as variable binning, and is ideal for focusing on

specific particle sizes. To select the value to change, use

the < or > to move cursor. When complete press OK

button.

Enable Alarms

Each channel can have an alarm enabled or disabled by

pressing if the User Recipes button is not selected. If

enabled, Press the Alarm Threshold window to open the

Enter Alarm Threshold screen. To select the value to

change, use the < or > to move cursor. When complete

press OK button.

Alarm On

Press the Alarm On button to open the Channel Alarm

Setup screen. Select Δ (Differential Count), Δft³

(Differential Cubic Feet), Δm³ (Differential Cubic Meter),

Σ (Cumulative Count), Σft³ (Cumulative Cubic Feet Count),

Σm³ (Cumulative Cubic Meter Count), PM (µg/m³).

36

Mass Mode
Settings

Mass Mode

Enable

Press the Mass Mode button to enable Mass Mode. The

instrument will now display particle count data as

calculated particle mass concentration in weight/volume

units. The international SI unit for mass is (kg/m³), which

can be translated to micro grams per milliliter (µg/ml).

Density g/ml

Press the Density g/ml window to open the Enter Density

Factor screen. To select the value to change, use the

< or > to move cursor. When complete press OK button.

Refractive

Index

Press the Refractive Index window to open the Enter

Refractive Index screen. To select the value to change,

use the < or > to move cursor. When complete press OK

button.

Calculation of displayed Values on Main Screen for Mass Concentration Mode

µg/m3

Indicated

Values

When Mass Concentration Mode is selected, µg/m³ is the

measured value in the first column. The mass value for a

channel size is the particle count between that channel and

the next larger channel, calculated using the average

particle size of the two channels. For example, the value in

the 0.50 µm data field represents the mass of all particles

counted between this channel and the next highest

channel, calculated as the mass of a particle that is 0.75

µm.

Particle Mass

Indicated

Values

When Mass Concentration Mode is selected, µg/m³ is the

measured value in the first column. The column labeled

PM shows the total particle mass of particles that are less

than the displayed channel size. For example, the value

displayed in the PM column for the 2.5 µm channel is the

particle mass (µg/m³ column) of all particles with a size

less than 2.5 µm, generally referred to as PM2.5.

6-4 Locations & Recipes

Press the Locations & Recipes icon to open the Select Location & Recipe screen.
Up to 1,000 unique location names can be created. Pressing the User Recipes
button allows the creation of location specific recipes which utilize preset sample
Delay, Sample or Volume, Hold, Cycles, Mode and Channel Alarm.50 unique
recipes can be created and assigned to any number of locations.

37

Select Location &
Recipe Screen

Location Auto

Advance

Select the Location Auto Advance button to auto advance

to the next location.

Slider

The Select Location & Recipe screen uses a vertical

slider bar for scrolling through all locations. Press white

arrows for fine control. Press the slider button with the

stylus and drag to navigate through large amounts of

locations quickly.

Change

Sequence of

Locations

Press the silver and green up and down arrow buttons on

the left side of the locations list to change the sequence

of locations.

New Location

Entry

Press the New button to open the Enter Name For New

Location screen. Use the keyboard to enter the name of

the new location. Press OK to save the new location

name or ESC to return to the previous screen.

Edit Location

Press the Edit button to open the Enter Name For New

Location screen. Use the keyboard to edit the name of

the location. Press OK to save the new location name or

ESC to return to the previous screen.

Remove Location

Press the Remove button to delete the currently

highlighted location.

Use Recipes

Press the Use Recipes button to display the recipes

settings. Select the Location in the Location box and the

recipe in the Recipe box to assign the recipe to that

location. The location can have one of 50 possible

recipes assigned to it.

38

Edit Recipe for

Selected Location

Press the Edit button on lower righthand side of the

screen to open the Edit Recipes screen.

New Recipe Entry

Press the New button to create a new recipe. The Enter

Name For New Recipe screen will appear. Use the

touchscreen keyboard to enter the name of the new

recipe. Press OK to return to the previous screen.

Edit Recipe

Press the Edit button to modify the existing recipe

highlighted on the Location list. Pressing this button will

display the Enter New Name For Recipe screen. Use

the touchscreen keyboard to modify the name of the

existing recipe. Press OK to return to the previous

screen.

Remove Recipe

Press the Remove button to delete the recipe that is

highlighted on the Location list.

Used By Tab

The Used By window displays all locations currently set

for the current recipe.

Edit 1 Tab

Press the Edit 1 tab to adjust the settings for Delay,
Sample, Volume, Hold, Cycles, and Mode for the
selected recipe.

39

Edit 1 Sample

Press the Sample window to open the Enter Time

screen. To select the value to change, use the < or > to

move cursor. The entry is made in

Hours:Minutes:Seconds (HH:MM:SS). The maximum

Sample time is 99 hours, 59 minutes and 59 seconds.

When complete press OK button.

Edit 1 Volume

Press the Volume window to open the Enter Sample

Volume screen. To select the value to change, use the

< or > to move cursor. The volume value entered will

control the length of time per sample to achieve the

desired sample volume.

Sample or Volume

Selection Buttons

Selecting the Sample button will cause the sample to be

time based. Selecting the Volume button will cause the

sample to be based on the volume of air to be measured.

Edit 1 Hold

Press the Hold window to open the Enter Time screen.

This controls the amount of time the instrument will hold

between samples in automatic mode. To select the value

to change, use the < or > to move cursor. The entry is

made in Hours:Minutes:Seconds (HH:MM:SS). The

maximum Hold time is 99 hours, 59 minutes and 59

seconds. When complete press OK button.

Edit 1 Cycles

Press the Cycles window to open the Enter Cycles screen.

This controls the number of sampling cycles to be taken at

a specific location when the unit is in automatic mode. To

select the value to change, use the < or > to move cursor.

When complete press OK button.

NOTE: Enter (0000) to activate Continuous Sampling

Mode.

Edit 1 Mode

Press the Mode window to open the Select Sample Mode

screen. Select Automatic or Manual. When complete

press OK button.

Edit 2 Tab

Press the Edit 2 tab to enable alarms for each channel

size.

40

Back Arrow Icon

Press the Back Arrow icon to return to the previous

screen.

6-5 Configuration

Press the Configuration icon to select Language, Store Partial Samples, Alarm
Acknowledgement, Enable Annotations, Number Format, Save Configuration to a USB
thumb drive, and Factory Restore.

Configuration
Screen

Language

Select and highlight the language to be used with your

device.

Store Partial

Samples

Select the Store Partial Samples button to save values from

a prematurely ended sampling. If this option is left

unchecked, the instrument will ignore partial sampling

events.

Alarm Acknowledge

Select the Alarm Acknowledge button and the visual alarm

bell and the audible sounder will continue to sound until the

alarm bell icon is pressed on the Main screen.

Enable Annotations

Select the Enable Annotations button to allow annotations to

be entered for each sample record. These annotations will

be included in downloaded record data.

Number Format

Select between 1,000.0, 1.000,0 or 1 000,0

Factory Restore

Press the Factory Restore button to open the Confirm

Factory Restore screen. Select Settings to Restore and

press the Confirm button.

41

USB Icon

When a USB thumb drive is plugged into the USB host port,

the USB icon will appear on the Configuration screen. Press

the USB icon to open the Configuration Load/Save screen.

Select Settings to Load/Save and press Load Settings or

Save Settings.

NOTE: This feature can be used to load the instrument’s

configuration to any other PCE Instruments Particle

Counter.

Configuration
Load/Save
Screen

Settings to

Load/Save

Select the check boxes to choose Locations and Recipes

and/or User Settings to load or save to a USB thumb drive.

Load Settings

Press the Load Settings icon to initiate loading a previously

saved settings configuration into the instrument.

Save Settings

Press the Save Settings icon to initiate saving the current

configuration to a USB thumb drive.

Back Arrow Icon

Press the Back Arrow icon to return to the previous screen.

42

6-6 Printer Setup

Press the Printer Setup icon to open the Printer Setup screen.

Include in Printout

Select each item to be included in printed values and

reports.

Automatic Printing

Select Print Options Automatic button to enable automatic

printing On Sample or On Alarm.

6-7 Communication

The instrument has multiple modes of communication for uploading or downloading
data or configurations for operation. The modes of communication include Ethernet,
RS485, RS232, USB Host or Client, and Optional Wi-Fi. Press the Communication icon
to open the Communications screen.

Communications
Screen

Ethernet

Communication

Select the Ethernet radio button for Ethernet connection.

Use DHCP

When the DHCP button is selected the instrument will

obtain an IP address, subnet mask and gateway

information from the router automatically.

43

Wi-Fi

Communication

The instrument can support an optional Wi-Fi

communication module. Select the Wi-Fi radio button for

Wi-Fi connection.

Use DHCP

When the DHCP button is selected the instrument will

obtain an IP address, subnet mask and gateway

information from the router automatically.

Wi-Fi IP Address,

Subnet Mask, &

Gateway

If the DHCP button is not selected Press the IP Address,

Subnet Mask and Gateway windows to enter the desired

values for your router. A numeric keypad will be displayed

for entering these values. To select the value to change,

use the < or > to move cursor. When complete press OK

button.

Wi-Fi SSID

Press the Wi-Fi SSID window to enter the Wi-Fi SSID and

press OK.

NOTE: Case Sensitive.

Wi-Fi Password

Press the Wi-Fi Password window to enter the Wi-Fi

Password and press OK.

NOTE: Case Sensitive.

IP Address, Subnet

Mask, & Gateway

If the DHCP button is not selected Press the IP Address,

Subnet Mask and Gateway windows to enter the desired

values for your router. A numeric keypad will be

displayed for entering these values. To select the value

to change, use the < or > to move cursor. When

complete press OK button.

44

Modbus Setup

Press the Modbus Setup icon to open the Modbus Setup

screen.

Modbus Address

Press the Modbus Address window to open the Enter

Modbus Address (0-247) screen. A numeric keypad will be

displayed for entering these values. To select the value to

change, use the < or > to move cursor. When complete

press OK button.

TCP Port

Press the TCP Port window to open the Enter Modbus TCP

Port screen. A numeric keypad will be displayed for

entering these values. To select the value to change, use

the < or > to move cursor. When complete press OK button.

TCP Link Timeout

The TCP Link Timeout is useful when a connection to a

remote computer is absent for longer than the expected

time (perhaps due to a router connection drop). This could

allow the connection to be automatically reestablished.

Press the TCP Link Timeout window to open the Enter

Modbus TCP Link Timeout screen. A numeric keypad will

be displayed for entering the number of timeout seconds.

To select the value to change, use the < or > to move

cursor. When complete press OK button.

NOTE: Setting the TCP Link Timeout to 0 disables the

timeout function.

Mode

Select ASCII, RTU, or TCP.

Baud

Select 9600, 19200, 38400, 57,600, or 115200.

Parity

Select Parity, Odd, Even, or None.

Register Set

Select Register Set.

RS-232 or RS-485

Select RS-232 or RS-485 radio button.

NOTE: The Baud, Parity, and RS-232 or RS-485 are not

used if TCP is selected.

Apply Settings

Press the Apply Settings icon to apply Modbus Setup
settings.

45

Back Arrow Icon

Press the Back Arrow icon to return to the previous screen.

MODBUS Register

Map

The MODBUS register map can be found in the Appendix at
the back of this manual.

Internet of Things

(IOT)

The instrument can communicate to remote servers over a
network or the Internet. The setup of this JSON protocol for
IOT can be found in the IMS Manual.

6-8 Environment

Press the Environment icon to open the Environment screen to set Barometric
Pressure (BP) Units, Temperature (Temp) Units, Enable Low and High Alarm, Setting
Low and High Alarm and Show on Home.

Environment
Setting Screen

Units

Select Barometric Pressure (BP) Units in Inches of Mercury

(inHg) or Millibar (mbar).

Select Temperature (Temp) Units in Fahrenheit (°F) or

Celsius (°C).

Show on Home

Select Show on Home Button to display the selected value

on the Main screen.

Enable Alarms

Select the Enable Alarm button to Enable Alarms.

Low Alarm

Press the Low Alarm window to open the Enter Low

Threshold screen. A numeric keypad will be displayed for

entering these values. To select the value to change, use

the < or > to move cursor. When complete press OK

button.

High Alarm

Press the High Alarm window to open the Enter High

Threshold screen. A numeric keypad will be displayed for

entering these values. To select the value to change, use

the < or > to move cursor. When complete press OK

button.

46

6-9 Passwords

Press the Password Setup icon to open the Passwords screen.

Password Setup
Screen

User Password

Select the User Password button to enable User Password,

preventing any unauthorized use of the instrument. The

User Password allows the use of the instrument in its

current configuration and saving samples.

New Password

Confirm

New Password

Press the New Password window to open the Enter New

User Password (4-15 Chars) screen. Press the Confirm

New Password window to open the Confirm New User

Password (4-15 Chars) screen. Press Confirm Change

Button to save changes.

NOTE: The default User Password is 1234.

Admin Password

Select the Admin Password button to enable Admin

Password, preventing access to Settings screens,

Time/Date, and configurations by Users.

New Password

Confirm

New Password

Press the New Password window to open the Enter New

Admin Password (4-15 Chars) screen. Press the Confirm

Admin Password window to open the Confirm New Admin

Password (4-15 Chars) screen.

NOTE: The default Admin Password is 4321.

Password

Timeout

Press the Password Timeout window to enter the number

of minutes (1-99) the instrument will timeout due to

inactivity. A numeric keypad will be displayed for entering

these values. To select the value to change, use the < or >

to move cursor. When complete press OK button.

NOTE: The default is five (5) minutes.

Lock Now

Press the Lock Now icon to immediately lock the

instrument.

LOST PASSWORD: Please call or email PCE Instruments

for a temporary password that will be valid for the day the

password is requested.

NOTE: This unique password will automatically expire at

the end of the day it is issued.

47

6-10 Screens

Press the Screens icon to open the Config. Screens window. Select Particles, Real­time meter, Graph, and/or PM Environmentals to activate the screens shown when
repeatedly pressing the Screens icon on the Main page.

7-1 Power Management

Press the AC Adapter icon or Battery Indicator icon to open the Power Management
screen.

AC Adapter Icon

The AC Adapter icon is visible when the instrument is plugged

into AC mains power.

Battery

Indicator

Icon

The Battery Indicator icon is visible when the instruments is

operating with battery power. The icon also serves as a visual

indication of the battery’s power level. The battery power level

icon will display differently depending on the amount of battery

power remaining. The power level indications are as follows:

100% 80% 60% 40% 20%

Battery State

Remaining

Charge

Percent of battery charge remaining.

Battery State

Estimated

Idle Time

Estimated amount of time remaining if the instrument is

powered on without sampling.

Battery State

Estimated

Sampling Time

Estimated amount of time remaining if the instrument is

sampling.

48

Battery State

Remaining

Battery Life

Percent of battery life remaining.

On AC Power

On Battery

Select the radio button to choose the settings for On AC Power

and ON Battery.

Sleep Between

Samples

Selecting the Sleep Between Samples button activates the

feature for powering down the instrument between samples to

conserve battery life. Press the Sleep Between Samples Wait

window to open the Enter Wait Time screen. A numeric keypad

will be displayed for entering the Wait Time in seconds from 0

to 65,535. To select the value to change, use the < or > to

move cursor. When complete press OK button.

NOTE: A Hold Time has to be set for a minimum of 38 seconds

in order to activate Sleep Between Samples.

Sleep When

Idle

Selecting the Sleep When Idle button activates the feature for

powering down the instrument when idle. Press the Sleep

When Idle Wait window to open the Enter Wait Time screen. A

numeric keypad will be displayed for entering the Wait Time in

seconds from 10 to 65,535. To select the value to change, use

the < or > to move cursor. When complete press OK button.

Dim Screen

When Idle

Selecting the Dim Screen When Idle button activates the

feature for dimming the instrument’s screen when idle. Press

the Dim Screen When Idle Wait window to open the Enter Wait

Time screen. A numeric keypad will be displayed for entering

the Wait Time in seconds. To select the value to change, use

the < or > to move cursor. When complete press OK button.

NOTE: The minimum Dim Screen When Idle Wait Time is 10

seconds.

Brightness Slider

Press and slide the Brightness Slider to increase and decrease

screen brightness.

Shut Down Icon

Press the Shutdown Icon to immediately Shut Down the

instrument.

Back Arrow Icon

Press the Back Arrow icon to return to the previous screen.

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8-1 Volume Controls

9-1 Instrument Management Software (IMS)

The instrument includes a PC based software utility for real-time graphing, downloading data from the
instrument, field calibration of sensors, firmware updates, remote diagnostics direct to a service
technician, and more.
NOTE: Detailed instructions for the use of the IMS software are contained in the IMS Software Manual
on the included USB thumb drive.

Software

Installation

Plug the provided thumb drive into your Windows PC and

select the IMS Install web installer application file. Follow the

installation prompts.

Start Software

Use the IMS Icon in the program folder or on the desktop to

start the program.

Connection

Indication

Connect the instrument to a PC with the provided USB cable to

establish a connection between IMS and the instrument. When a

connection has been established the Green USB Connection

indication will appear.

Volume
Control Icon

Press the Volume Control icon to enable the Volume Control
Slider. Slide the Volume Control Slider Bar to adjust the
volume. A numeric value appears at the bottom of the slider to
indicate relative volume. Moving the Volume Control Slider Bar
to 0 mutes the instrument.

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10-1 Remote Operation

The instrument may be accessed with a web browser via Ethernet (wired or Wi-Fi), using the instruments
IP address found in the Communications screen. The following functions can be performed remotely:
Start and Stop sampling, change Data Units, select Locations and turn on/off displayed channel values.

The Instrument must be placed in Ethernet or optional Wi-Fi mode and the unit must also be connected
to a working router on the same network as the PC.

In the Communications screen, select the Use DHCP button and the unit will automatically display the
router issued settings. Enter the displayed IP address into any device browser to access the remote
screen.

NOTE: The URL address is the IP address that the DHCP Router assigned to the instrument. A static IP
address can be provided for the device through the Communications screen by deselecting the Use
DHCP button and entering the IP address.

Appendix – A
Modbus Register Map

The MODBUS Register Map can be found on the USB thumb drive.

Appendix – B
Environmental Sensor Data Logging

Environmental sensor data can be logged without running the pump or laser by deselecting all particle
channels on the Channel Management screen. An All Channels Are Disabled screen will appear when
the Back Arrow button is pressed. Press Yes to confirm and No to cancel.

PCE Americas Inc.

711 Commerce Way, Suite 8

Jupiter, FL 33458

USA: [phone]

www.pce-instruments.com