Technical Note

How to Choose an Isotope Identifier

A practical framework for matching a radioisotope identification device to your mission: form factor, detector material, neutron capability, library breadth, standards, and reachback.

Berkeley Nucleonics Corporation

Start with the mission, not the spec sheet

A radioisotope identification device, or RIID, does one essential job. It tells a user not just that radiation is present, but which isotope is producing it. That single answer drives everything that follows: whether a flagged container holds harmless ceramic tile glaze, a medical patient who recently had a thallium scan, or special nuclear material that demands an immediate response. Choosing the right instrument starts with the people who will carry it and the decisions they need to make in the field.

Before comparing detectors and resolution figures, write down the operational picture. Who is the operator, a trained health physicist or a first responder in a HAZMAT suit? How far does the source need to be detected, and is the search static or moving? Does the answer have to survive expert review, or is a fast field call enough to act on? The sections below walk each decision in turn, then close with a checklist you can take into a procurement conversation.

Transcript — Ultimate Guide! Perfect Isotope Identifier | Berkeley Nucleonics

Auto-generated transcript, reproduced as spoken and lightly formatted for reading. Timestamps open the video at that point. If you need a corrected transcript, contact us at info@berkeleynucleonics.com.

0:00[Music] Welcome everyone to today's webinar on the perfect isotope identifier I'm thrilled to have you join us as we embark on a very insightful ride into the world of isotope identifiers crucial tools that have revolutionized the way we approach several critical areas including medical research nuclear security and environmental monitoring isotope identifiers are sophisticated devices designed to detect and identify isotopes these tools play a pivotal role in a variety of applications from diagnosing diseases and studying uh metabolic pathways and medical research to ensuring nuclear materials are not misused or diverted from their intended purposes to even monitoring and

1:04Assessing environmental pollution and its sources today we will dive into the main types of isotope identifiers that have been developed to meet the diverse needs of these fields these include lab-based isotope identifiers highly accurate instruments use in controlled environments for detailed analysis handheld isotop bifi portable devices that offer flexibility and immediate results in the field will also go into backpack isotope identifiers compact yet powerful these units provide a balance between mobility and detection capabilities lastly mobile isotope identifiers vehicle mounted systems designed for a wide area surveillance and very rapid response our exploration will not only cover the

2:04Capabilities and applications of these tools but will also shed light on how they contribute to advancements in their respected fields so whether you're a professional in one of these sectors a student eager to learn more or simply fascinated by the cutting edge technology that shapes our world you're in the right place let's get started on this exciting world of radiation and gamma spectroscopy together so before I begin my presentation I'm going to ask the audience have you used an isotope identifier or multi-channel analyzer in the past again some of these terms are interchangeable an isotope identifier multi channel analyzer with uh gamma detector but we want to ask you have you used one in the past are you familiar with one are you looking to replace your old system in the section include the model include how many years you've used it the more feedback the more engagement

3:13We get will kind of allow us to get a better understanding of the audience and if you have it no worries we'll go over all of them but feel free to include if you have or if you haven't used one of these gamma spectroscopy systems within your line of work so quick overview of the presentation the webinar we're going to go over isotope identifiers so what are isotope identifiers they detect and they identify via gamma spectroscopy what specific isotope you have so that's the main differentiator between a pager that will only detect radiation gamma spectroscopy an isotope identifier will actually tell you the specific isotope that you're dealing with that information and itself can greatly determine how you move forward

4:13With a specific situation if you're in a lab chances are you know what that is that's why there's lab based is identifiers there's uh mcas with detectors but if you're out on the field with a handheld the backpack simply detecting won't be enough by identifying it then you'll know whether if it's just medical isotopes you just have to call the hazmat group but if it is special nuclear material that's where you would most likely have to get a state or a federal agency involved so again we're going to go over the types of isotope identifiers that are out there on the market the types of detectors whether you need neutron communication all that we should be able to provide you with exact isotope identifier that you will need for your group but again if you do have any questions by all means include it in the chat once we're done with the presentation we'll get those questions

5:14Answered moving on to our next slide we dive deeper into the world of lab based isotope identifiers these are the cornerstone of precision isotope analysis they're typically housed within a controlled laboratory setting were the most accurate and detailed identification of isotopes is required so lab-based isotope identifiers are designed for use cases where high precision and accuracy are paramount they are the gold standard in applications ranging from forensic science to nuclear physics environmental studies and even advanced medical research the precision of these instruments allows for the detection an analysis of isotopes at very low concentrations making them indispensable in studies where detail matters key features of lab-based isotope identifiers include high precision and accuracy so thanks to advanced detection technologies and controlled settings

6:22These instruments can identify isotopes with unparalleled accuracy controlled environments so there optimal performance is achieved in laboratory settings where variables like temperature humidity and background radiation can be closely monitored and managed and removed uh advanced analysis so they're equipped with very sophisticated software so these identifiers can analyze complex spectra providing detailed insights into the composition and characteristics of the samples so they two common examples of lab based isotope identifiers that we offer uh the model 970 with a 2x two sodium iodide detector and brightspec mca multi-channel analyzer so this system is notable for its versatility and is often highlighted

7:25For its efficient use in various research applications it combines the sensitivity of a 2x two sodium iodide detector with the precision of a bright speec mca making it a powerful tool for detecting and analyzing a wide range of isotopes another upside is lead sh lead shielding options so many lab based systems including like the model 970 offer lead shielding to minimize background radiation and enhance the precision of isotope identification so this feature is especially important when dealing with very lowlevel radiation samples where sensitivity is extremely required so it's an alternative to high purity germanium hpg systems but these lab based identifiers provide a more accessible option without

8:27Compromising on the quality of isotope identification so whether you're measuring environmental samples uh analyzing nuclear materials or conducting advanced medical research a lab-based isotope identifiers like the model 907 970 with its specialized configuration offer the precision and reliability and all the advanced capabilities needed to achieve accurate results so we're going to go over just a brief history of handheld detection and isotope classification gamma detection radiation detection has been around for a lot of years it's the ability to detect radiation abnormal levels using a survey meter or a gagger counter has been around for a long time but the need to actually identify and determine the isotope that was something that

9:34Scientists researched a lot of laboratories not just here in the us but throughout the world it was a huge requirement so with a lot of uh support from a wide range of applications a portable mca with a similator detector came about so the ability to actually check a spectrum look at the lines and determine whether it's cesium whether it's uh k40 or special nuclear material was available as time went on the technology got much better the algorithm the system now allowed you to using the information provided to look and see without having to know spectrum lines and all that what the isotope was with the confidence level and even determine whether there were neutron counts so not all isotope identifiers

10:35Are created equally and that's where we're going to go over now some of them have better resolution some of them have better sensitivity some of them are small but again the need to detect identify assess and then go on that was what drove the industry for isotope identification equipment all right we turn our focus to handheld isotope identifiers where portability meets functionality these devices have transformed how and where isotope identification can be conducted making it possible to perform on the spot analysis in a variety of settings outside the confines of a laboratory I hope identifiers are designed to be lightweight and easy to use allowing for a medium a detection and identification of isotopes directly in the field so

11:35This portability opens up a plethora of applications from emergency response and environmental monitoring to border security and materials verification where quick decision making is crucial applications of these devices include on the spot analysis so immediate identification of unknown materials in emergency situations or during a regulatory inspection field research realtime data collection and analysis in environmental studies uh agriculture uh geology so enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of research projects so the key advantages of handheld isotope identifiers are obviously the portability they're compact so size allows for easy transportation and use in a variety of field conditions uh ease of use so

12:37There's designed for quick deployment and operation these uh devices can be used with very minimal training uh making them accessible to a wide range of users immediate results uh they provide rapid analysis enabling quick decisions based on real-time data however it is important to acknowledge certain features aren't there that would be compared to a lab-based system so lower sensitivity compared to lab based systems while highly effective the compact size and portability of these devices mean they may not match the sensitivity and precision of lab based systems uh battery life being portable uh these devices they do have a limited battery life uh which can be a constraint during extended field operations so among the notable

13:38Models in the market are sam 940 isotope identifier the same 940 plus the same 9950 and the same 945 each of these models offer a unique set of features tailored to meet different needs in the field so for example the c940 plus series is renowned for its reliability and ease of use providing a very quick and accurate isotope identification for a wide range of applications uh the same 950 also known as the rugged red combines the portability of handheld devices with enhanced detection capabilities making it a versatile tool for first responders and safety personnel these handheld isotope identifiers represent a significant advancement in the field providing very critical

14:38Capabilities that enhance safety security and research across the globe again you're not going to be able to reduce the background with the lead shield you are going to get sometimes of abnormal levels of radiation whether you're in california or in denver but the main advantage of these portable isotope identifiers is the ability to give it to haat individual or someone that specializes gam of spectroscopy detect identify on the spot and then transmit it back to what we're going to discuss down the road in this uh presentation or reback center as we progress to our next slide we spotlight the backpack isotope identifier a bridge between the portability of the handheld devices and the enhanced capabilities of a more

15:43Stationary system like the mobile these identifiers represent a unique blend of mobility and sensitivity packaged in a way that allows for more extended use in the field without sacrificing performance backpack isotope identifiers are designed with the user in mind so wearing a wearable solution that frees up the hands for other tasks while significantly increasing the detection capability in battery life compared to their handheld counterparts that's why you would go with one the design philosophy ensures that users can carry out prolonged monitoring or inv investigation tasks with greater efficiency and comfort the design and functionality of backpack isotope identifiers include ergonomic and durability so they're built to be carried for extended periods of time uh they're the devices are designed with comfort in mind so they're suitable for long days and rugged field work

16:49Uh they're larger detectors so increased sensitivity they by combinating larger detectors in more sophisticated electronics backpacks offer heighten sensitivity allowing for the detection of lower levels of radioactivity or even some rare isotopes and lastly extended battery life they do have much larger batteries so they're designed for prolonged field operations uh they do you can even have swappable batteries that support extended operational periods making them ideal for scenarios where recharging opportunities are limited so typically scenarios where backpack isotope identifiers would be used uh environmental monitoring for uh comprehensive assessment of can contamination in large areas where prolonged handsfree operation is beneficial uh emergency response in scenarios requiring rapid deployment and

17:52Extended operation uh like a nuclear accident uh security and surveillance for cover applications like long duration public monitoring at special sporting events the border or critical infrastructure where the balance between mobility and sensitivity is extremely important a great example of a backpack isotope identifier is our rd120 uh this model exemplifies the categories advantages offering exceptional sensitivity and battery life and design that's both user friendly and robust so its capabilities make it a valuable tool for a broad range of applications from scientific research environmental assessment to security and emergency response so in summary a backpack isotope identifiers like the

18:52Rd120 offer a combination of mobility and performance and user centric design they are essential tools for professionals requiring advanced detection capabilities in the field uh enhancing our ability to respond to and manage radiological threats so environmental contamination and research all that so again just to summarize it's going to be a much larger detector it's going to you're going to be using it for long periods of time it's going to be covert it's going to be in between the handheld to the mobile that we're going to get into but the backpack being able to detect and identify for long periods of time that might be a reason why you would go with the rd120 or uh radiation detection

19:50Backpack transitioning to our following slide we explore the dynamic ro of mobile isotope identifiers for vehicles where technology meets mobility at a grand scale these sophisticated systems are integrated into vehicles or drones extending the reach of isotope identification capabilities far beyond what handhelds or backpacks have ever been able to achieve this integration not only enhances mobility but also operational range opening up new possibilities for monitoring and identifying so mobile I help identifiers are engineered for scenarios requiring rapid wide area surveillance or the need to access remote or otherwise inaccessible locations so by leveraging vehicles or drones these systems can cover vast areas quickly and efficiently

20:51Identifying and analyzing isotopic signatures across different terrains and environments the key highlights of mobile isotope identifiers are extended coverage so they're capable of monitoring large geographical areas these systems are in they're vital for national security border control and environmental surveillance efforts uh another feature accessibility their ability to be mounted on vehicles or drones very large detectors allows them to reach locations that might be challenging or impossible for individuals to access on foot or with with less mobile equipment uh the another great feature is the enhanced mobility and the gamma detection operational range so the

21:49Integration into vehicles or drones significantly extends the operational range and duration so enabling continuous monitoring over extended periods of time and distances a great example of a mobile system within this category is the rg150 so this system uh epitomizes the advanced capabilities of mobile isotope identifiers offering a comprehensive solution for detecting and identifying radioactive materials over large areas or in specific hard-to-reach locations so whether it's for rapid deployment in a response to a nuclear incident uh a routine monitoring of environmental radiation levels or securing large public events I went to sporting events or even critical infrastructure the rd150 delivers unparalleled detection and

22:51Identification that can be done with some of these other systems now that we know what type of isotope identifier we want backpack mobile let's get into the heart of isotop identification technology with gamma detectors these detectors are essential components that enable the isotope identification by detecting and analyzing gamma radiation a type of high energy electromagnetic radiation emitted by radioactive isotopes so understanding the principle of gamma detection and the various types of detectors available is crucial for selecting the right tool for specific applications so gamma detectors detection involves capturing gamma race so it's emitted by the radioactive materials and then converting these interactions into

23:52Electrical signals that can be measured and analyzed the importance of gamma detection in isotop identification lies in its ability to non-invasively determine the composition and activity of radioactive samples providing valuable insights for medical research environmental nuclear security and much more there are several types of gamma detectores each with its unique properties and applications nii sodium iodide one of the most commonly used cation detectors nii is known for its efficiency in detecting gamma rays in its relatively low cost it it's widely used in portable iop identifiers for field applications serum bromide cbr offering improved resolution compared to sodium iodide serum bromide detectors are used

24:54In applications requiring precise energy resolution such as very advanced medical imaging and other environmental uh applications we have click cesium lithium atrium chloride click detectors can discriminate between gamma rays and neutrons making them highly valuable for application nuclear security and neutron gamma discrimination labr lanum bromine known for its high resolution and efficiency lanin and bromide detectors are ideal for high precision applications including research and specialized industrial use and then lastly gm gyer mu tubes these detectors are simple end durable and capable of detecting a wide range of radiation levels and upper limit detection so they're commonly used

25:55For general purpose radiation monitoring and safety um but for upper limit more so with dose rate with regards to size we offer one by one or 2 by two or even 3 by3 sizes when choosing a gamma detector for a specific isotope identifier several factors come into play so like sensitivity and resolution the ability to detect low levels of radiation and disting distinguish between closely spaced energy peaks so another thing application needs whether the priority is portability for field use precision for laboratory analysis or discrimination capabilities for those special nuclear material security applications another uh reason another gamma detector to decision to consider is environmental conditions the operational environment including temperature ranges and exposure to elements like elevation or temperature can impact the detector

27:06Choice and then lastly cost and durability so balancing the need for advanced capabilities with budget constraints and the expected lifespan of the specific device so gamma detectors are vital are the backbone of isotope identification sy systems with each typee offering unique advantages for different applications so understanding these detectors and their characteristics and how they align with the needs of specific tasks ensures the effective and accurate identification of radioisotope isotopes uh reinforcing their critical role in a wide array of fields in our next slide we shift our focus now to neutron detectors a critical tool for confirming nuclear activity and also identifying specific isotopes unlike gamma rays which are

28:12Emitted by a wi range of isotopes neutrons are typically emitted during specific nuclear reactions or decay processes this makes neutro neutron detection a key technique in verifying the presence of radioactive materials particularly those used in nuclear weapons or reactors so new neutron detectors function by capturing neutrons emitted from radioactive sources and then converting these uh into detectable signals so this process often involves materials that undergo a nuclear reaction upon neutron absorption releasing charged particles that can be detected and measured the ability to detect neutrons alongside gamma ray provides a more complete picture of nuclear materials so this allows for precise identification and assessment of potential threats or also research materials here lawrence berkeley or lawrence livermore but the main

29:20Difference is between neutron detectors and gamma detectors include detection principle right detect neutron detectors rely on materials that interact specifically with neutrons while gamma detectors capture gamma rays through cellation or ionizing radiation so neutrons are uncharged particles making them more challenging to detect compared to the charged particles or electromagnetic radiation detected by the gamma detectors application focused neutron detection is particularly valuable in identifying special nuclear materials snm like plutonium or enriched uranium which emit neutrons during a spontaneous or induced uh vision examples of neutron detectors used in various isotope identifiers include h3 helium 3 detectors once the gold

30:26Standard for new tron detection helium 3 detectors offer high efficiency and are used in a wide range of applications from nuclear security to scientific research but however due to supply limitations alternative technologies are increasingly important so we also use bnc domino solid state neutron detectors this innovative approach uses lithium 6 to capture neutrons then converting them to like a tridium and helium which can be then detected so it offers a viable uh alternative to helium 3 with similar efficiency and sensitivity another one is click so cesium lithium itr chloride as mentioned earlier click can detect both gamma rays and neutrons making it an excellent dual mode detector for a

31:35Comprehensive nuclear material in identification and then lastly we have clbc so the cesium lithium lannum bromide detector so these are high resolution detectors that are capable of dual mode detection and are used in applications requiring neutron and gamma ray detection capabilities so these neutron detectors play an indispensable role in the identification of nuclear materials so providing crucial information that can confirm and complement gamma detection so whether for security or research or industrial applications understanding the function and application of neutron detectors in enhances our capability to detect and manage radioactive materials effectively there are many others but

32:37For our webinar helium 3 domino click clbc those are the ones as of right now that we will recommend to the people in this webinar as we advance to our next slide we explore the pivotal role of communication technologies in isotope identifiers in today's interconnector world the ability to transmit data seamlessly and to conduct real-time analysis is crucial communication technologies like wi-fi bluetooth and gps significantly enhance the functionality of isotope identifiers so enabling them to deliver timely accurate information critical for decision- making processes in various fields wi-fi facilitates the transfer of data over short distances without physical

33:37Connections allowing isotope identifiers to send detailed spectral information to centralized analysis systems or cloud-based platforms for immediate evaluation so this capability is especially beneficial you're sending it to laboratory settings or within a secure wi-fi en enabled parameter or rapid data analysis can inform research directions or uh immediate secretary decisions but uh bluetoo technology is another one it offers uh connectivity over short distances with minimal power consumption is ideal for personal or portable isotope identifiers it allows device to communicate with smartphones tablets or local computers enabling operators to receive immediate feedback and control devices directly from their

34:40Personal gadgets so this particularly is useful in field applications where e of use and portability parameters are a must next a gps global positioning that provides precise location data crucial for mapping radioactive sources or contamination and environmental monitoring and security options so by tagging isotopic readings with exact geographical coordinates gps enables effective tracking and management of radiological materials and it facilitates rapid response and informed decision making in emergency situations or routine monitoring so examples of use

35:36Cases where tech each technology is particularly efficient wi-fi enabled isotope identifiers can instantly transmited detection data to a central monitoring system so that enables real time analysis and swift response to any uh irregularities bluetooth dr during field research scientists use handheld isotope identifiers compare these devices with a mobile app like ours pe about for on thepot data analysis and storage streamlining the collection and review process gps and an example would be in environmental monitoring gps enabled isotope identifiers can map contaminated areas over large um locations and then in that effective planning can help with decontamination efforts and public safety measures so

36:36Together wi-fi bluetooth and gps not only enhance the capabilities of isotope identifiers but also ensure that these tools can operate more effectively in a network world so addressing these needs uh of a wide range of applications from scientific to national security all that combined will stack upon itself to provide you with the most effective isotope identifier for your application moving on to our next slide we dive into the concept of reach back methods for isotope identification a critical aspect of modern-day isotope detection that leverages the power of communication and expertise to enhance the decision making and responsibilities reback methods refer to the process of sending collect data from

37:33Isotope identifiers to remote experts or databases for further analysis interpretation this system enables operators in the field to access advanced analytical capabilities and expert knowledge even from very distant location so we're going to go over the reach back process and involves several steps number one data collection so data collection operators use the isotope identifiers to collect the spectral data from materials or environments and then data transmission this data is then transmitted via communication technologies like the wi-fi bluetooth to satellite to a central database or directly to experts after that analysis interpretation so gamma specialist or advanced analytical software review

38:32The data they'll consider the context and compare it against known isotopic signatures to then identify the materials for or the contamination present and lastly feedback the results and recommendations are sent back to the field operators providing them with the information needed to make informed decisions the importance of reback methods cannot be overstated especially in scenarios where rapid and accurate identification of isotopes is crucial so emergency response in the event of a nuclear or radiological reach back incident these methods ensure that first responders can quickly understand the nature of the threat and then make informed decisions about evacuation uh containment and mitigation even if

39:32They're not specialized even if they have no understanding the knowledge on site will allow them to make good decisions research sometimes the scientist conducting field work can benefit from reback methods by sending complex data back to laboratories for detailed analysis allowing them to continue their work without the need for immediate access to sophisticated lab equipment examples of reback systems include rad responder a networked crisis response system that provides standardized approach to collecting managing and sharing data during radiological incidents all of our systems have rad responder triage a software tool designed for rapid data assessment and decision support helping operators

40:30To quickly determine the significance of detected isotopes and email to a central hub although more basic than specialized software email still remains a vital tool for sending data to experts who can provide analysis and guidance especially in less urgent research contents or even uh sometimes they're doing experiments or tests reback methods represent a fusion of technology expertise and communication providing a powerful tool set for enhancing the capabilities of field operators and researchers alike by enabling access to remote analysis and expert advice research methods significantly expand the potential of isotope identifiers ensuring that users can respond to ch challenges with the

41:28Highest level of information and support so again it doesn't matter if you have triage rad responder email by sending this information back to specialists the users will greatly and efficiently be able to determine what to do what not to do and how to move as we reach our final slide titled crafting the perfect isotope identifier let's distill the essence of what makes an isotope identifier not just functional but perfect throughout this webinar we've explored the various facets and types of identifiers each catering to specific needs and scenarios so the spe the perfect isotope identifier therefore is not a one siiz fits-all device instead it embodies a balance of key features intended

42:28To its specific application the ideal isotope identifier would seemlessly integrate portability accuracy while handheld devices offer unmatched portability lab based and uh maybe handheld models provide the accuracy and sensitivity for precise identification the perfect isotope identifier would find an optimal balance uring the ease of transport without significantly compromising on detection capabilities another thing would be communication capabilities with the integration of wi-fi bluetooth and gps the ideal device ensures data can be shared in real time supporting reback methods and facilitating immediate analysis and decision making another important factor is user interface a userfriendly

43:33Interface that accommodates both novice operators and season experts is essential so this interface should provide clear actionable information enabling users to make informed decisions quickly and lastly versatility and adaptability the ability to adapt to various scenarios whether in a research lab field investigation or emergency response situation this will make it a versatile tool across disciplines so to illustrate consider the sam 950 and rd120 as examples of devices that embody many of these ideal qualities for fire departments the sam 950 represents an excellent blend of rugged portability ease of use efficient accuracy for rapid on-site analysis during emergency responses and its communication

44:36Capabilities allow for realtime data sharing and analysis so these are crucial for making informed decisions during radiological incidents for law enforcement the backpack radiation detector the rd120 that exemplifies the balance between enhanced sensitivity large detector and portability so it's designed for situations requiring mobility without sacrificing the depth of analysis uh so that's ideal for operations that may involve extended surveillance or investigation in uh a wide environmental area so in crafting the perfect isotope identifier the key lies in understanding the specific needs and challenges of the user so be they first responders or research searchers or security personnel and understanding a tool that not only meets but anticipates these needs so by achieving the right balance between portability accuracy communication capability size and userfriendly

45:47Interface we can equip these professionals with a device that enhances their ability to protect public health safety and the environment so the the major advantage of berkeley nucleonics is that when it comes to isotope identifiers we have them all we are the experts in this field so if you have any questions by all means reach out to us we have the experts all right time to get some of these questions answered so again if you do have any questions please use the q&a section on there we're looks like we have a lot so I'm going to try to get them get through them fairly quickly so we can get them all answered so first question is there an ide 129 identifier so to answer your question on that we do identify idine 129 uh 130 uh and several of those so it would be considered a medical isotope so we do offer item 129 123 125 and 131 so that

47:00Would be pretty much standard with our isotope identifiers next what is the neutron detector that you use again we use helium we use domino we use click clbc so again depending on your application and depending on your budget uh we should be able to provide you with a neutron detector that will meet your requirements uh next oh these devices are only for gamma detection right so again the units will detect and identify gamma and if you do add on a neutron detector then it will also confirm that there are neutron counts some of these isotopes or special nuclear materials they [music] Do have a you will be able to identify it but for confirmation having that neutron detector will greatly kind of

48:01Give you uh confirmation that there is that this is really kind of uh uranium or plutonium so sometimes there might be misidentification but if it does identify as uranium and then you're getting neutron counts chances are that you do have this type of special nuclear material uh next kristen what is the highest rate the isotope identifiers uh detect and operate that's a great question so with regards to dose rate typically the cators they'll go up to 10 millam per hour like sodium iodide and then it will oversaturate so our cm9940 uh only has a cator so at that point that's the dose rate range but with some of our newer units we do also have a gager mu tube so then it will allow you to hit those upper limit dose rate ranges so once the culator

49:07Saturates then the gager mu detector will kick in and then you will be able to get dose rates up to 10 r per hour and next alejandro can any of the mobile detectors transfer data to a remote computer yes so sam 940 plus the sam 950 9945 rd120 and the rd150 all of them can transfer data to remote computer uh if you are connected to a hotspot via rad responder triage email uh lees can this be used for norm identification yes so are all of our isotope identifiers will be able to detect and identify your most common norm like k40 thorium uranium so those are in the isotope library and you can adjust your isotope if those are the only isotopes that you're looking to identify uh next can the user edit or

50:13Add to the nuclear library yes you can um it's a and I say this very general but again we recommend that you contact our specialist first before you start adding or editing library list because some of these isotopes have very specific energy lines or peaks so we want to make sure that we're not adding on all of them because having all of them will kind of create misidentification so if you are looking to edit or add isotopes feel free to check in with our specialists and we might be able to do it for you or we could guide you through the process do the port aable detectors require a regular maintenance so we recommend for new newer units two to three years but again we also rely on our customers because some customers are obligated to do yearly

51:15Calibrations some are agencies that they are the ones that do uh maintenance and they are responsible for state regulation so they have their own process es so they're able to do their own maintenance uh just having check sources and updating the units they'll be able to make sure that the systems are working properly without having to send them in so as long as you're checking to make sure that it's identifying season 137 you update the software it's detecting you're pretty much good to go I'm kind of a rookie I'm installing a company radon detector soil water on a variety of situations would like to know which isotope identifier would be the best for my needs so this is a good question so obviously you are this you're new it's a company radon detection we would recommend a handheld detector uh you don't necessarily need a

52:22Rugged backpack or a mobile so we would recommend either a lab based system like the 970 with a detector and maybe a laptop or the 940 plus small handheld and that should be able to allow you to detect uh radium 226 but again radon it's if it's just radon it might be difficult but I would send us a message and we'll work through your requirements next will the riz detector systems identify uh cf 252 sources so I'm pretty sure I would have to double check I think those are heavy neutron sources so our units will be able to detect the neutron counts but with regards to identification I would have to double check but I don't I don't think he would be able to actually identify the californium so we'll get back to you on

53:20That one william are you using iridium for reach back we have had some customers that use it uh we don't specifically offer it but we can work within your system and your application to get that done so we've have had customers that already work with that platform and we just provide them with the 950 and then we work alongside them to use that as a reach back what is the gps resolution it's pretty much like a foot but we do in the past we have had more high resolution gps systems like the trimble but right now we heavily especially with like the nine the rd120 it does incorporate a pda so the gps resolution as you all know by using like google maps the resolution has greatly improved so it's about like a foot or two resolution given uh the rd120 uh and the rd150 and even with the 940 plus

54:28All right do you have a data sheet for the rd150 installed on a drone the rd150 has a very large detector it's a 2x4 by6 so I'm not sure if it would be able to withstand or work within a drone but it has been used in helicopters and planes but if you are looking to maybe use it on a drone we would recommend maybe like the rd120 or the 940 plus or even a one of our lab based systems with a detector and then using either remote computer so that might be a better option for that okay so we're going to we're going to answer the we have a lot of questions we're going to get those answered we're going to we have your contact information so we'll send that to you but again just to summarize and kind of conclude this

55:36Presentation every situation every application is going to be different every user will have their own goals uh but with regards to radiation detection and isotope identification that's our expertise that's what we're here for that's what we've been doing for the last uh three decades so if you do have any questions if you need a demo or if you want to go more in depth and what you are looking to accomplish within your team whether it's this month or down the road by all means let us know by working with our experts by going through your requirements your budget we can definitely provide you with the perfect isotope identifier so feel free to reach out any questions go to our website www

56:36Berkeley.Com we're located here in california again thank you so much for stopping by feel free to send this to your colleagues to your friends it's it's a great resource to be able to determine what you need with regards to ice fope identification and everything that encompasses right thank you so much [music] Everyone

Berkeley Nucleonics walks through the full selection process in this video guide. Watch the complete version: The Guide to Choosing Your Isotope Identifier.

Form factor: match the platform to the search

Form factor is usually the first hard constraint, because it follows directly from how the instrument is deployed. Berkeley Nucleonics builds the line around four broad platforms, and most procurement decisions land on one of them quickly.

Handheld RIID. The classic choice for inspection, adjudication, and one-hand field use. The SAM 940+, SAM 945, and SAM 950 are purpose-built handhelds. The SAM 940+ is the re-engineered next-generation unit with an internal detector and onboard camera. The SAM 945 leverages smartphone technology and the PeakAbout app for an all-in-one design. The SAM 950 is the ruggedized, water- and shock-resistant model built to meet ANSI N42.34. Pick a handheld when an operator walks up to a target, makes a call, and moves on.

Backpack. When the operator needs both hands free and wants to search discreetly while walking, a backpack system fits. The SAMpack 120 (RD-120) is a human-portable backpack for clandestine gamma and neutron monitoring, with an optional Rad-Compass directional feature and reachback built in. It reconfigures to stanchion or doorway use, so the same hardware covers a moving sweep and a fixed choke point.

Vehicle and mobile. For wide-area coverage at speed, a vehicle system trades portability for sensitivity. The SAMmobile 150 (RD-150) is a plug-and-play vehicle-mounted detection system that scales to multiple large NaI modules, with GPS color-contour mapping for freeway monitoring, choke points, and covert surveillance. Marine, aerial, and crane variants extend the same architecture beyond the road.

Personal radiation detector. A PRD is a small, always-on alarming device worn on the belt, sized for nontechnical personnel rather than spectroscopic analysis. The Model 951 nukeALERT and the PM1703GNA-II MBT fill this role. A PRD tells a wearer that radiation is present so a RIID can then identify it. Many programs pair the two: PRDs for broad coverage, a handheld RIID for the follow-up.

Detector material: resolution versus cost and ruggedness

The scintillator crystal sets how cleanly the instrument can separate one isotope from another. Energy resolution, expressed as full width at half maximum (FWHM) at the 662 keV cesium-137 line, is the headline number. Lower is better. A coarse detector blurs neighboring peaks together; a sharp one resolves them, which matters most when a real threat hides behind a naturally occurring background.

NaI(Tl) sodium iodide is the field workhorse, with roughly 7 percent FWHM, high light output, and a favorable cost. It handles the great majority of identification tasks. LaBr3 lanthanum bromide and CeBr3 cerium bromide deliver high resolution, near 3 to 4 percent, for cleaner separation of closely spaced lines and better confidence on special nuclear material. They carry a higher cost, and LaBr3 has a small internal background that CeBr3 largely avoids. The SAM 950 offers NaI, LaBr3, and CeBr3 options; the SAM 940+ offers NaI alongside CLYC and CLLBC dual-mode crystals. For the full tradeoff, see the companion note, NaI vs LaBr3 vs CeBr3 Detectors.

Crystal size matters too. A larger volume, such as a 3 by 3 inch NaI, gathers more counts and improves sensitivity at distance, at the expense of weight. The SAM 950 spans 1.5 by 1.5, 2 by 2, and 3 by 3 inch options so the same platform can be tuned toward portability or reach.

Neutron capability: do you need to find shielded SNM?

Gamma identification answers most field questions, but a determined adversary can shield a gamma source heavily. Neutrons pass through that shielding far more readily, so a neutron channel is the practical way to interdict shielded special nuclear material such as plutonium. If your mission includes counter-smuggling, border security, or SNM safeguards, neutron detection moves from optional to essential.

Across the line, the SAM 940+ integrates a solid-state neutron detector, the SAM 945 and SAM 950 offer optional neutron detection, and the SAMpack 120 and SAMmobile 150 support gamma and neutron together. The neutron decision interacts with the detector choice: CLYC and CLLBC crystals on the SAM 940+ detect neutrons and gammas in one crystal. The companion note Neutron Detection Explained covers the methods and tradeoffs in depth.

Library breadth and standards

An identifier is only as good as the library it matches against. A broad, well-curated library covers special nuclear material (SNM), industrial sources (IND), medical isotopes (MED), and naturally occurring radioactive material (NORM), and lets an analyst expand or edit entries. The SAM 945 ships with 115 isotopes and expands to 393 through the PeakAbout app. Larger libraries reduce unknown results, but the categorization and confidence reporting matter as much as raw count.

ANSI N42.34 is the U.S. performance standard for handheld radionuclide identifiers, and many programs require compliance. The SAM 950 is built specifically to meet it, and the SAM 940+ meets all ANSI N42.34 requirements. Confirm the exact standard, type, and any IEC or ITRAP testing that your program mandates against the current datasheet for the configuration you intend to buy (verify).

Reachback: getting an expert on the spectrum

Field operators are rarely spectroscopy experts, and they should not have to be. Reachback connects a captured spectrum to a remote analyst who can confirm or overturn a field call within minutes. The standardized ANSI N42.42 data format makes that transfer interoperable. Several models support RadResponder, the FEMA network used for reporting, and the SAM 945 uses the PeakAbout app for data management and reporting. If your operation answers to a command center or a national lab, prioritize one-click reachback and confirm the destination network is supported (verify).

Decision checklist

Run these questions before you request a quote. Each one narrows the field, and together they point to a specific configuration.

Decision pointWhat to confirm
Operator and form factorHandheld, backpack, vehicle, or personal PRD? Trained analyst or first responder?
Search modeStatic inspection, walking sweep, or moving vehicle coverage?
Detector materialNaI for cost and ruggedness, or LaBr3 / CeBr3 / CLYC for high resolution?
Crystal sizePortability versus sensitivity at distance.
Neutron needRequired for shielded SNM interdiction; optional otherwise.
Library breadthSNM, IND, MED, NORM coverage and editable, expandable lists.
StandardsANSI N42.34 compliance and any IEC / ITRAP requirements (verify).
ReachbackANSI N42.42 export, RadResponder or PeakAbout, command-center integration.
EnvironmentIP rating, operating temperature, drop and water resistance for the deployment.
A note on configurations: Most models in the line are configurable across detector type, crystal size, and neutron option. The right answer is often a base platform plus the options that fit your mission, not a different product. A short scoping call usually settles it faster than a spec comparison.

Talk to a BNC specialist

The fastest path to the right configuration is a short conversation about your mission. A Berkeley Nucleonics specialist can map your operational picture to a specific platform, detector, and option set, and flag any standard or reachback requirement before you commit. Reach the team at info@berkeleynucleonics.com or 800-234-7858.

To compare every model in the line, browse the Isotope ID & Radiation Detection documentation index, then dig into the two companion technical notes on detector materials and neutron detection.