Question 1

Which data can be obtained from GPS unit?

rsdyn · Accepted Answer

Data obtained from GPS receiver are WGS 84 coordinates (latitude, longitude and altitude) which are together with “surface meter” coordinates automatically added to the data spreadsheet containing all measured data from the instrument.

Question 2

What is the life expectancy of the PID lamp?

rsdyn · Accepted Answer

Life expectancy varies for different lamps and is dependant upon lamp energy. The 11.7 eV lamp has the shortest life-time. Since the high-quality PID lamp used in ECOPROBE 5 is operated in a cold mode, the real life time is more than 20 times higher than hot-operated lamp in Gas Chromatographs. Experience shows that under standard conditions and everyday use, the 10.6 eV lamp will provide a high-quality output for 8-10 years.

Note: Sucking in of ingressive liquid can destroy the lamp immediately!

Question 3

What is the life expectancy of the instrument battery?

rsdyn · Accepted Answer

The experience shows that the very high quality Lead-Acid battery can supply the instrument (under general conditions) for approximately 10 years without requiring any special care. The battery is not removable and changing the battery is a service operation not available to the clients.

Question 4

What happens if the groundwater enters into the probe and then into the instrument?

rsdyn · Accepted Answer

It is necessary to use the standard ECOPROBE 5 sampling probe that is equipped with an automatic water valve. The automatic water valve prevents water being sucked into the instrument. Anyway you must avoid sampling any liquid without using a standard probe. Sucking in liquid causes serious and expensive damage to the instrument.

Question 5

What GPS unit do you use?

rsdyn · Accepted Answer

ECOPROBE 5 ‘s GPS system is very flexible. Inside the ECOPROBE 5 is an optional hardware & software that enables fully integrated operation with external GPS receiver, which is directly connected to the ECOPROBE 5’s system connector (this is the only connector ECOPROBE 5 is equipped with and serves for all electronic connection). RS DYNAMICS offers mainly GPS Smart Antenna with a 12-channel module. Besides that, ECOPROBE 5’s internal software supports about 8 other types of GPS receivers mostly from Ashtech, the software also supports the “post-processing” systems like DIM, SENSOR2, TRIMBLE and others. It is possible to extend the internal list for virtually any GPS system know on the market.

Question 6

We have used ECOPROBE successfully for many years and we do not want to change it for ECOPROBE 5. Is ECOPROBE 4 still on the market?

rsdyn · Accepted Answer

ECOPROBE 4 is discontinued product. ECOPROBE 4 comprises only PID analyzer and did not offer the advanced features which ECOPROBE 5 provides. Once you learn how to work with ECOPROBE 5, you will never want to return to its previous model. And if you once have worked with ECOPROBE 4, it is easy to make the step to the next model, comprising latest technology, a powerful computer, combination of highly sensitive PID + 3 channel selective Infra-red analyzer capable of selective reading of Methane, CO2 and Hydrocarbon group. ECOPROBE 5 also measures temperature, ambient and sampling pressure, oxygen, includes built-in GPS and much more…

Question 7

Is it possible to use the sampling probe as a tool for making holes?

rsdyn · Accepted Answer

It is not possible at all. The sampling probe may contain a precise thermometer and hammering it into the ground would definitely break the thermometer and the probe itself. A metal rod or a drilling machine may be used to make the holes into the ground.

Question 8

How many hours or days can the ECOPROBE 5 be operated continuously in the field?

rsdyn · Accepted Answer

Depending upon the configuration of the instrument – duration of the integration interval, pumping speed, outside temperature and others the unit can measure from 120 to 200 stations per one charge, in other words it can operate one day for one charge. Charging time varies from 4 to 6 hours to full charge, one to 80% of the full charge. Nevertheless, it is recommended to charge the instrument overnight in order to have it fully charged for the next day measurement.

Question 9

How do I care for the batteries in my instrument?

rsdyn · Accepted Answer

ECOPROBE 5 operates with the high quality Lead-Acid battery which does not need any special attention. There is no memory effect and the battery can be re-charged during the day. It is a good practice to charge the instrument overnight, which will give the whole day operation under the general surveying conditions. During extended storage, the battery should be charged every two to three weeks.

Question 10

For how long is ECOPROBE 5 guaranteed?

rsdyn · Accepted Answer

Question 11

Could you draw up a list of recommended spare parts for 1 year operation?

rsdyn · Accepted Answer

Generally there are no spare parts needed. Everything is included in the instrument and does not require any replacement (if there has not been any severe mechanical damage to the instrument). There are only a few cheap consumable items – dust filters (petrol filters available at the manufacturer or petrol stations) and plastic tubing needed for the field survey. Using dust filters to avoid sucking in dust particles into the analytical units is highly recommended and significantly extends the servicing time of the instrument.