Functional Principle - Merck RCS High Flow Touch Bedienungsanleitung

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Functional Principle

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The RCS High Flow Touch Microbial Air Sampler
employs the centrifugal impaction principle accord-
ing to Reuter (Reuter Centrifugal Sampler, RCS
Here, a quantitative collection of airborne microor-
ganisms in air volumes from 1-2000 L is accom-
plished. The air stream enters the rotor at the front
of the instrument and is set into rotation by the
movements of the rotor. Microorganisms contained
in the air are then separated onto the agar strip
through centrifugal forces. To prevent turbulences
in the air inlet channel, the air outlet passage is
directed to the bottom, in parallel to the instrument.
This design feature avoids recirculation of the air.
Built-in electronic circuits control the speed and
the running time of the motor and simultaneously
monitor the battery capacity. The air flow rate is
constant at approximately 100 L/min at a fixed rotor
speed of 8200 rpm. The sampling head consists of
the rotor (anodized aluminium), the protection cap
(stainless steel) and the air direction ring (APEC
polycarbonate). The rotor, which contains the agar
strip, is installed via a magnetic coupling flange
allowing for easy installation and removal. For
safety reasons, a stainless steel protection cap is
placed over the rotor. To ensure exact sampling
volumes and to allow comparable results between
rotors and instruments, each rotor is calibrated
with a given instrument. Recalibration of the rotor
is recommended once a year.
The RCS ® High Flow Touch Microbial Air Sampler is
operated by using a color touchscreen that is located
in front of the carrying handle, allowing the instru-
ment to be operated with one hand. The intuitve
software contains evident icons that allow fast and
direct interactions with an easy touch.
®
The RCS High Flow Touch Microbial Air Sampler is
constructed with special attention to ergonomics.
The sampler is portable and operates independently
from mains using an integrated, rechargeable
Lithium-ion battery. Alternatively, the instrument
can be operated with a power supply. The power
supply is also used to recharge the integrated
battery. Further, an optional docking station is
available. During battery operation the integrated
software allows for continuous control of the
battery charging status, and the number of remain-
ing measurements per selected sample volume.
Factory settings include preset sampling volumes of
10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500 and 1000 L. In addition,
®
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three individual sampling volumes from 1 to 2000 L
can be programmed. Optional sampling settings
include:
• Definition and selection of sampling volumes
• Definition and activation of a delay time
• Definition and activation of interval sampling/
continuous sampling
• Selection of time and language
• Activation of QA Level Management
• Selection of a rotor, monitoring the expiration
of rotor calibration (calibration reminder), and
calibration data management of up to ten rotors
®
• RCS Management Software (included) for user
defined sampling options
• HYCON-ID Software (optional) for barcode-driven
management of air samples
• Memory function for warnings and error logs
• Automated shut down function
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The RCS High Flow Touch can be used in vertical
or horizontal positions. For sampling in areas difficult
to access, the instrument can be attached to a tripod
using a standard thread at the bottom. During
sampling the instrument should be protected against
strong vibrations.
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