July 11th, 2018 - Newly Released Smartphone App and Updated RIID Electronics pack features into SAM 950-X Isotope Identifier

Berkeley Nucleonics (BNC) offers the SAM 950-X, it’s third generation Isotope Identifier, with embedded smartphone technology for a broad range of applications. The new design is hardened for field applications and includes significant updates to the library and identification algorithm. In addition, the high-performance electronic package and efficient power management tools provide users with versatility and performance. The front-end interface and much of the data processing is handled by a powerful Android-based computing module, much like the latest smartphones on the market.

BNC offers a free app, PeakAbout, which provides the operator with a host of exciting features to speed up training and field work, deliver quality data sets to reachback and educate the field operator on mitigation routines. The latest release of PeakAbout, version 2.0.3, includes user-friendly updates on data storage and retrieval, sleep mode options, local XML support, wifi-assist and video annotation support. The SAM 950 is also the first and only RIID to integrate seamlessly with the FEMA / RadResponder network; this gives end users the ability to log, transmit, analyze, and store data in a secure cloud environment. The transmissions can be sent on-demand or 24/7 in “livestream” mode. The update to 2.0.3 also includes a larger library (now 57 isotopes) and an adaptive filter for better peak smoothing. Updates are always free.

The enclosure for the SAM 950 is our most rugged to date, offering shock resistance (1M drop) and water/sand resistance (IP65).  Batteries can be replaced in the field in the case of prolonged monitoring activities. New networking functionality will allow for a smoother and more efficient flow of data and information. The bright display allows all-angle viewing in daylight or indoor applications. The SAM 950 also offers several detector options including a solid-state neutron detector and NaI, LaBr or CeBr gamma detectors. All SAM 950’s include a GM-Tube for accurate high count rate measurements.  For applications requiring performance spectroscopy, the 2x2 CeBr-3 delivers high sensitivity and well defined spectral data, eliminating any uncertainty in isotope identification. (4.5% @662 KeV)

“The app is unique to BNC, and a great vehicle for us to deliver new features and address library updates and customer requests,” remarks Allan Gonzalez, VP of Sales. “When new medical isotopes become common, or users want a social media integration, we can roll out updates to PeakAbout in a few days.”

About Berkeley Nucleonics

Berkeley Nucleonics Corporation is a leading manufacturer of precision electronic instrumentation for test, measurement and nuclear research. BNC has its corporate headquarters in San Rafael, California with several additional manufacturing facilities and sales offices located throughout the United States. Founded in 1963, BNC has been a recognized leader in the field of isotope identification and conducts hundreds of short courses on radiation detection and isotope identification for Federal and State agencies.