Air airborne particle counter PCASP-100X

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Overview
The PCASP-100X is an aircraft-mounted optical spectrometer for in-flight measurement of aerosol particles in the 0.1–3.0 µm diameter range. Designed for integration with aircraft probes and cannister-based sampling systems, it provides real-time single-particle sizing and counting data.

Features and benefits

• Single-particle resolution — high sensitivity and specificity for real-time aerosol characterization.
• Direct measurement — measures the sampled airstream directly via aircraft probe/cannister configuration.
• Continuous operation — elimination of dead-time losses with continuous monitoring of instrument housekeeping variables.
• Advanced control — user-programmable sample rates, channel count and channel size thresholds.
• Lifecycle Care Program — optional maintenance and support program to preserve instrument integrity and performance.

Technology
Particle light-scattering detection: an optical bench collects light scattered by individual particles passing through a HeNe 0.6328 µm laser beam. A three-stage amplification system covers the full particle-size range and supports high counting rates.

Main applications

• Visibility and fog studies
• Climate models and radiative forcing research
• Weather modification and atmospheric research

PADS – Particle Analysis and Display System
PADS is optional software that provides a virtual instrument panel to control the PCASP-100X, display real-time data and logs, and perform post-processing.

• Sample and record data
• View particle volume and number concentrations, Median Volume Diameter (MVD) and Effective Diameter (ED)
• Monitor instrument parameters such as laser reference voltage and health indicators
• Play back data for post-flight review
• Reprocess datasets with revised parameters for additional analysis

Accessories

• PADS software and laptop
• Data acquisition system
• Aerosol generator

Technical specifications

• Measured parameters: particle size (from light-scattering), ambient temperature, standard and volumetric sample and sheath flows
• Derived parameters: particle concentration, Median Volume Diameter (MVD), Effective Diameter (ED)
• Particle size range: 0.1–3.0 µm
• Maximum count rate: 3,000 particles/cm3
• Counting efficiency: ~50% at minimum threshold, reaching ~100% by the fourth size channel
• Sampling frequency: 0.1–25 Hz (selectable)
• Flow rates: sample flow 1 cc/sec; sheath flow 15 cc/sec
• Air speed range: 0–250 m/sec
• Number of size bins: standard 30 channels
• Laser: HeNe multi-mode passive cavity, 0.6328 µm
• Light collection angle: nominally 35°–120°
• Data interface: RS-422 (34,800 baud); USB
• Power requirements: probe 115 VAC or 230 VAC, 50–60 Hz, <120 W (specify voltage when ordering); anti-ice 28 VDC, 215 W
• Weight: 40 lbs (18.2 kg)
• Dimensions: 40" × Ø7" (102 cm × Ø18 cm)
• Operating conditions: temperature −30 to +40 °C; altitude 0–30,000 ft (≈9.1 km); relative humidity 0–90% RH (non-condensing)