Magnetic Field Monitor handles 50 Hz - 40 GHz frequencies.

L-3 Narda-MITEQ Apr 08, 2002

Press Release Summary:

Area Monitor System 2600 provides continuous remote monitoring of electrical and magnetic field strength at 1 or multiple sites. Self-powered outdoor instrument station measures ambient E- or H-field levels then stores and transmits measurement data to remote PCs. Alarm circuitry triggers immediate wireless notification. Solar-powered, weatherproof unit incorporates sensing probe, data acquisition circuitry, and GSM (wireless) communications terminal.

Original Press Release:

FIRST REMOTE SYSTEM FOR MONITORING ELECTRICAL AND MAGNETIC FIELD STRENGTH INTRODUCED BY NARDA STS

GSM Capability Links One or More Remote Stations With PC

HAUPPAUGE, N.Y., March 11 - Addressing the public safety interests of companies and agencies that evaluate sites for communications and electrical equipment, Narda Safety Test Solutions has introduced the first system to provide continuous remote monitoring of electrical and magnetic field strength at a single site or multiple sites in almost any location.

The new Narda Area Monitor System 2600 employs a small, self-powered outdoor instrument station which measures ambient E- or H-field levels and then stores and transmits measurement data to a remote PC. The station's alarm circuitry can trigger immediate wireless notification to a PC or multiple pagers if field measurements exceed pre-set conditions or if the system is not operating properly.

"There is significant interest from companies, environmental agencies and the public in documenting electrical and magnetic field strength in areas where electrical and communications equipment is in use or is planned," said Richard Strickland, Director of Business Development for Narda STS. "Until now, there's been no reliable, accurate method to measure and systematically collect data on individual or multiple remote sites."

The System 2600 remote monitor can be equipped with one of nine different isotropic probes, enabling coverage of either electrical or magnetic fields over a wide spectrum of frequencies and energy levels. The system provides PC software for downloading and analyzing data, and for remote programming of the monitoring station's alarm levels, transmission intervals, and other controls.

Remote 2600 Monitoring Station
The heart of the new system is the Remote 2600 Monitoring Station, a small, solar-powered, weatherproof unit which incorporates the sensing probe, data acquisition and alarm circuitry, and GSM (wireless) communications terminal. With a footprint of only eight inches by eight inches (200 mm x 200 mm), measuring 28 inches (710 mm) tall and weighing 11 pounds (5kg), the 2600 Monitoring Station is easily transported and readily mounted on a rigid plastic mast.

Depending on the probe utilized, the station can monitor electrical or magnetic field strength in frequencies ranging from 50 Hz to 40 GHz. Its operating range for electrical field strength is 0.03 V/m to 100 kV/m, and its operating range for magnetic field strength is 0.1 nT to 0.1 mT. As with frequency range, sensitivity and dynamic range are also dependent on the probe used.

The Remote 2600 offers four selectable detection modes: average (RMS), composite (RSS), maximum (RSS), and X, Y, Z. Alarm messages can be triggered by field levels exceeding or recovering a threshold level, or by conditions including high internal temperature, low battery reserve, probe failure, or an open housing. Alarm indications can sent to the central PC or to individuals by SMS message.

Data storage can be set at intervals of 5 seconds to 6 minutes, and storage capacity can range from 45 minutes to 18 months, depending on the length of storage interval.

The unit's power supply integrates the top-mounted solar panels with an internal rechargeable battery. A fully-charged battery will operate the unit through seven days of total darkness including periodic downloading of stored data.

System 2600 PC Software
The System 2600 PC workstation communicates with the monitoring stations via a GSM telephone connected to a modem; for all practical purposes, the number of monitoring stations that can be covered from one PC is unlimited. The System 2600 software provides control, reporting, and analysis functions. Features include download scheduling, field monitor status, field data analysis, ASCII data export, and programming of alarm thresholds, alarm messages, and alarm notification procedures.

Additional information, including details on the full selection of sensing probes and system accessories, is available by contacting Robert Johnson, Narda Safety Test Solutions, 435 Moreland Ave., Hauppauge, NY 11788 (Phone 631-231-1700; email NardaSTS@L-3COM.com), or visiting www.narda-sts.com.