LUDLUM MODEL 3

SURVEY METER

February 2010
Serial Number 239543 and Succeeding
Serial Numbers

LUDLUM MEASUREMENTS, INC.

501 OAK STREET, P.O. BOX 810
SWEETWATER, TEXAS 79556
325-235-5494, FAX: 325-235-4672
Model 3 Survey Meter

Ludlum Measurements, Inc. February 2010

Model 3 Survey Meter

Table of Contents

Introduction 1

Getting Started 2
Unpacking and Repacking 2
Battery Installation 3
Connecting a Detector to the Instrument 3
Battery Test 4
Instrument Test 4
Reading the Meter Face Dial 4
Operational Check 9

Specifications 9

Identification of Controls and Functions 11

Safety Considerations 13
Environmental Conditions for Normal Use 13
Warning Markings and Symbols 14
Cleaning and Maintenance Precautions 15

Calibration and Maintenance 16

Calibration 16
Exposure Rate Calibration 16
CPM Calibration 18

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Establishing an Operating Point 19

Maintenance 21
Recalibration 21
Batteries 22

Troubleshooting 23
Troubleshooting Electronics which utilize a
GM Detector or Scintillator 23
Troubleshooting GM Detectors 27
Troubleshooting Scintillators 27

Technical Theory of Operation 28

Low Voltage Supply 28
High Voltage Supply 28
Detector Input 28
Amplifier 28
Discriminator 29
Audio 29
Scale Ranging 29
Meter Drive 29
Meter Reset 30
Fast/Slow Time Constant 30

Recycling 30

Parts List 32
Model 3 Survey Meter 32
Main Board, Drawing 464 × 204 32

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Wiring Diagram, Drawing 464 × 212 35

Drawings and Diagrams 37

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Introduction
The Model 3 is a portable radiation survey instrument with
four linear ranges used with exposure rate or cpm (counts per
minute) meter dials, or a combination of both exposure rate
and count rate (referred to as “combo”) meter face dials. The
instrument features a regulated high-voltage power supply,
unimorph speaker with audio on-off capability, fast-slow meter
response, meter reset button, and a six-position switch for
selecting battery check or scale multiples of ×0.1, ×1, ×10 and
×100. Each range multiplier has its own calibration
potentiometer. The unit body and meter housing are made of
cast aluminum and the can is 0.23 cm (0.090 in.) thick
aluminum.
The audio provides a brief “click” for every radiation event
detected. It also provides a steady tone to warn the user of a
low battery condition. This low-battery warning overrides the
position of the AUD ON-OFF switch.
Any Geiger-Mueller (GM) detector offered by Ludlum
Measurements will operate with this unit as well as any
scintillation type detector. The instrument is typically set at 900
volts for GM tube operation. For special requirements of GM
or scintillation detectors, the instrument high voltage may be
adjusted from 200 to 1500 volts.
The unit is operated with two ˝d˝ cell batteries for operation
from -20 to 50 °C (-4 to 122°F). For instrument operation
below 0 °C (32 °F), either very fresh alkaline or rechargeable
NiCd batteries should be used.

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Getting Started
UNPACKING AND REPACKING
Remove the calibration certificate and place it in a secure
location. Remove the instrument and accessories (batteries,
cable, etc.) and ensure that all of the items listed on the packing
list are in the carton. Check individual item serial numbers and
ensure calibration certificates match. The Model 3 serial
number is located on the front panel below the battery
compartment. Most Ludlum Measurements, Inc. detectors
have a label on the base or body of the detector for model and
serial number identification.

Important!
If multiple shipments are received, ensure that the detectors
and instruments are not interchanged. Each instrument is
calibrated to specific detector(s), and is therefore not
interchangeable.

To return an instrument for repair or calibration, provide

sufficient packing material to prevent damage during shipment.
Also, provide appropriate warning labels to ensure careful
handling. Include detector(s) and related cable(s) for
calibration. Include brief information as to the reason for
return, as well as return shipping instructions:
• return shipping address
• customer name or contact
• telephone number
• description of service requested and all other
necessary information

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BATTERY INSTALLATION
Ensure the Model 3 range selector switch is in the OFF
position. Open the battery lid by pushing down and turning the
quarter turn thumbscrew counterclockwise a quarter of a turn.
Install two ˝D˝ size batteries in the compartment.
Note the (+) and (-) marks inside the
battery door. Match the battery polarity
to these marks. Close the battery box lid,
push down and turn the quarter turn
thumbscrew clockwise a quarter of a
turn.

Note:
The center post of a “D” size battery is positive.

CONNECTING A DETECTOR TO THE INSTRUMENT

Caution!
The detector operating voltage is supplied to the detector
via the detector input connector. A mild electric shock may
occur if you make contact with the center pin of the input
connector. Switch the Model 3 range selector switch to the
OFF position before connecting or disconnecting the cable
or detector.

Connect one end of a detector cable to the detector by firmly

pushing the connectors together while twisting clockwise a
quarter of a turn. Repeat the process in the same manner with
the other end of the cable and the instrument.

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BATTERY TEST
Check the batteries daily or prior to use, whichever is less
frequent, to assure proper operation of the instrument. Move
the range multiplier switch to the BAT position. Ensure that the
meter needle deflects to the battery check portion on the meter
scale. If the meter does not respond, check to see if the
batteries have been correctly installed. Replace the batteries if
necessary.
INSTRUMENT TEST
After checking the batteries, turn the instrument range switch
to the ×100 position. Place the AUD ON-OFF switch in the ON
position. Expose the detector to a check source. The
instrument speaker should emit “clicks” relative to the rate of
counts detected. The AUD ON-OFF switch will silence the
audible clicks in the OFF position. When the instrument is not
in use, the AUD ON-OFF switch should be kept in the OFF
position in order to preserve battery life.
If the instrument has a cable connection to the radiation
detector, the detector cable can be a source of problems. Test
the detector cable by bending or flexing either end of the cable
and checking for an increase in the rate of counts detected.
Replace the cable if increases in the rate of counts are detected.
Check the meter reset function by depressing the RES
pushbutton switch and ensuring the meter needle drops to 0.
Once this procedure has been completed, the instrument is
ready for use.
READING THE METER FACE DIAL
Reading the meter face is very important for consistent
measurements. There are, in general, three types of meter
faces:

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1) count rate (typically counts per minute [cpm])

2) exposure rate (typically mR/hr)
3) combo (typically cpm and mR/hr)
The following examples are intended to help the user interpret
the correct reading.
The normal procedure is to turn the range selector switch to
the highest range, and if no readings are seen on the meter,
turn the selector switch down to the lower scales until a
reading is seen. The ranges on the instrument selector switch
are multipliers for the meter reading. A typical single scale (one
arc) meter face with a cpm (counts per minute) dial is shown
below.
The count rate scale reads 0-5K counts per minute (kcpm or
thousands of counts per minute) and has BAT TEST on the dial.

If the needle is pointing as indicated below and the instrument

range selection switch is on the ×0.1 scale multiple, then the
reading is 3.5 kcpm (multiplied by) × 0.1 = 350 cpm.

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The same needle indications on successive ranges would be:

×1 = 3.5 kcpm (or 3500 cpm)
×10 = 35 kcpm (or 35,000 cpm)
×100 = 350 kcpm (or 350,000 cpm)
A typical dual scale (two arcs) meter face is shown below. The
top scale reads 0-2 mR/hr. The bottom scale also reads 0-2
mR/hr and is for ×100 only scale. The ×100 ONLY scale WILL
work correctly when the multiplier switch is in the ×100 range.
The meter face also has a BAT TEST position on the dial.

If the needle is pointing as indicated below and the range

selection switch is on the ×0.1 scale, then the reading is 0.1
mR/hr.

The same needle indications on successive ranges would be:

×1 = 1.0 mR/hr (or 1000 µR/hr)

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×10 = 10 mR/hr (or 10,000 µR/hr)

×100 = 70 mR/hr (or 70,000 µR/hr)
The dial shown below has three arcs: a counts per minute scale
(cpm), a linear mR/hr scale, and a non-linear mR/hr scale for
the ×100 range only. The meter face also has a BAT TEST
position.

The top cpm scale is valid for the ×0.1, ×1, ×10, and the ×100
ranges. The linear (middle) mR/hr scale is valid for the ×0.1,
×1 and ×10 ranges. The non-linear mR/hr scale is valid for the
×100 range only. This meter face is commonly referred to as a
“combo” meter face, since it has both, count rate (cpm) and
exposure rate (mR/hr) arcs. Simpler meter faces may only have
a count rate or an exposure rate arc(s) like the previous meter
faces shown.
A combo meter face is specifically designed for a particular
detector. In the example above, the 1.0 mR/hr mark on the
middle arc lines up with 3.3 kcpm on the upper arc. The meter
face in this example works with a detector that receives 3.3
kcpm per mR/hr (the Ludlum Model 44-9 pancake detector).
Additional detectors may be used with this meter face, but only
the cpm dial is valid for these detectors. The mR/hr scale is
not valid for these additional detectors.

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In the following picture, the needle is on the first tick mark

past the 4-kcpm mark. Therefore, if the instrument selector
switch is on the ×0.1 range, the reading is 4.2 kcpm (multiplied
by) × 0.1 = 420 cpm.

The same needle indication on successive ranges would be:

×1 = 4.2 kcpm (or 4200 cpm)
×10 = 42 kcpm (or 42,000 cpm)
×100 = 420 kcpm (or 420,000 cpm)
If you use the mR/hr scales, then the readings would be:
×0.1 = 0.13 mR/hr
×1 = 1.3 mR/hr
×10 = 13 mR/hr
×100 = 180 mR/hr*

Note:
*This reading is using the bottom (non-linear) scale.

Many different dials are available, but each can be used as

described above.

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OPERATIONAL CHECK
To assure proper operation of the instrument and detectors(s)
between calibrations, an instrument operational check
including battery test and instrument test (as described on
pages 2-2 and 2-3) should be performed at least daily or prior
to use, whichever is less frequent. A reference reading (or
readings) with a check source should be obtained with the
detector(s) in a constant and reproducible manner at the time
of calibration or at the time the instrument is received in the
field.
If at any time the instrument fails to read within 20% of the
reference reading when using the same check source, it should
be sent to a calibration facility for recalibration and/or repair.
If desired, multiple readings may be taken at different distances
and/or with different sources so that other ranges or scales are
checked.

Specifications
High Voltage: adjustable from 400 to 1500 Vdc
Threshold: fixed at 40 mV ± 10 mV
Response: toggle switch for fast (4 seconds) or slow (22
seconds) from 10% to 90% of final reading
Range: typically 0-200 mR/hr, or 0-500,000 cpm
Linearity: reading within 10% of true value with detector
connected
Meter: 6.4 cm (2.5 in.) arc, 1 mA analog type
Meter Dial: 0-2 mR/hr, or 0-5k cpm, BAT TEST (others
available)

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Multipliers: ×0.1, ×1, ×10, ×100

Calibration Controls: individual potentiometers for each range;
accessible from front of instrument (protective cover provided)
End-of-Battery Life Warning: At 2.1 Vdc, the meter needle will
drop to the edge of the bat test or bat ok area when the meter
selector switch is moved to the bat position. At 2.0 Vdc, a
steady audible tone will be emitted to warn the user of the low
battery condition.
Battery Dependence: less than 3% change in readings to
battery failure indication
Reset: pushbutton to zero the meter
Audio: built-in unimorph speaker with on-off switch (greater
than 60 dB at 2 feet)
Connector: series ˝C˝ (others available)
Cable: one-meter (39-inch) with ˝C˝ connector (others
available)
Power: two “D” cell batteries housed in a sealed externally
accessible compartment.
Battery Life: typically greater than 2000 hours with alkaline
batteries and with aud on-off switch in the off position
Size: 16.5 x 8.9 x 21.6 cm (6.5 x 3.5 x 8.5 in.) (H x W x L)
Weight: 1.6 kg (3.5 lb), including batteries
Construction: cast and drawn aluminum with beige powder
coat

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Identification of Controls and Functions

See the Model 3 FRONT PANEL drawing at the beginning of
this manual to reference the following controls:

Meter: 6.4 cm (2.5 in.) arc, 1 mA analog type with pivot-and-

jewel suspension. Typical meter dials are 0-2 mR/hr, 0-20
µSv/h, 0-5k cpm or combination of exposure rates (0-2 mR/hr
or 0-20 µSv/h) and cpm and BAT TEST.
Connector: Used to connect the detector to the instrument.
Series ˝C˝ is typically used, but “BNC,” “MHV,” “UHF,” or
others can be used as well.
Range Selector Switch: A six-position switch marked OFF,
BAT, ×100, ×10, ×1, ×0.1. Turning the range selector switch
from OFF to BAT provides the operator with a battery check of
the instrument. A battery check scale on the meter provides a
visual means of checking the battery charge status. Moving the
range selector switch to one of the range multiplier positions
(×100, ×10, ×1, ×0.1) provides the operator with four decades
of ranges. Multiply the scale reading by the multiplier to
determine the actual scale reading.
Calibration Controls: Recessed potentiometers that are used to
calibrate the individual range selections and allow for high
voltage adjustment from 400 to 1500 volts. A protective cover
is provided to prevent tampering.
Battery Compartment: Sealed compartment to house two ˝D˝
cell batteries.
RESET Button: When depressed, this switch provides a rapid
means to drive the meter to zero.
AUD ON-OFF Switch: In the ON position, operates the
unimorph speaker, located on the left side of the instrument.

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The frequency of the clicks is relative to the rate of incoming

pulses. The higher the rate, the higher the audio frequency. The
audio should be turned OFF when not required, in order to
reduce battery drain.

Note:
A low-battery condition results in a steady audio tone
regardless of the position of the AUD ON-OFF switch.

F-S Toggle Switch: Provides meter response. Selecting the

fast, ˝F˝ position of the toggle switch provides 90% of full-scale
meter deflection in four seconds. In the slow, ˝S˝ position, 90%
of full-scale meter deflection takes approximately 22 seconds.
In the ˝F˝ position there is fast response and large meter
deviation. The ˝S˝ position should be used for slow response
and damped, meter deviation.

Note:
The slow response position is normally used when the
instrument is displaying low numbers that require a more
stable meter movement. The fast response position is used
at high rate levels.

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Safety Considerations
ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS FOR NORMAL USE
Indoor or outdoor use
No maximum altitude (the detector may be affected by altitude,
refer to the detector manual for more information.)
Temperature range of -20 to 50 °C (-4 to 122 °F). May be
certified for operation from -40 to 65 °C (-40 to 150 °F).
Maximum relative humidity of less then 95% (non-condensing)
Pollution Degree 3 (as defined by IEC 664). (Occurs when
conductive pollution or dry nonconductive pollution becomes
conductive due to condensation. This is typical of industrial or
construction sites.)
Water resistance is achieved by the use of rubber seals on all
front-panel switches and gaskets on the battery lid, meter bezel,
and between the instrument can and front panel.

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WARNING MARKINGS AND SYMBOLS

Caution!
The operator or responsible body is cautioned that the
protection provided by the equipment may be impaired if
the equipment is used in a manner not specified by Ludlum
Measurements, Inc.

The Model 3 Survey Meter is marked with the following

symbols:

CAUTION, RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK (per ISO

3864, No. B.3.6) – designates a terminal (connector)
that allows connection to a voltage exceeding 1 kV.
Contact with the subject connector while the
instrument is on or shortly after turning off may result in
electric shock. This symbol appears on the front panel.

CAUTION (per ISO 3864, No. B.3.1) – designates

hazardous live voltage and risk of electric shock.
During normal use, internal components are
hazardous live. This instrument must be isolated or
disconnected from the hazardous live voltage before accessing
the internal components. This symbol appears on the front
panel. Note the following precautions:

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Warning!
The operator is strongly cautioned to take the following
precautions to avoid contact with internal hazardous live
parts that are accessible using a tool:
1. Turn the instrument power off and remove the
batteries.
2. Allow the instrument to sit for one minute before
accessing internal components.

The “crossed-out wheelie bin” symbol notifies the

consumer that the product is not to be mixed with
unsorted municipal waste when discarding; each
material must be separated. The symbol is placed on
the battery compartment lid. See Recycling for further
information.

The “CE” mark is used to identify this instrument as

being acceptable for use within the European
Union.

CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE PRECAUTIONS

The Model 3 may be cleaned externally with a damp cloth,
using only water as the wetting agent. Do not immerse the
instrument in any liquid. Observe the following precautions
when cleaning or performing maintenance on the instrument:
1. Turn the instrument OFF and remove the batteries.
2. Allow the instrument to sit for one minute before cleaning
the exterior or accessing any internal components for
maintenance.

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Calibration and Maintenance

CALIBRATION
Calibration controls are located on the front of the instrument
under the calibration cover. The controls may be adjusted with
a 0.32 cm (one-eighth inch) blade screwdriver.

Note:
Local procedures may supersede the following

The instrument may be calibrated using exposure rate

calibration or cpm calibration, (both methods are described
below.) Unless otherwise specified, the instrument is calibrated
to exposure rate at the factory.

Note:
Measure high voltage with a Model 500 pulser or a high-
impedance voltmeter with a high-meg probe. If one of
these instruments is not available, use a voltmeter with a
minimum of 1000 megohm input resistance.

Calibration shall include response evaluations and adjustment

for two points of each scale of the instrument. The points
should be separated by at least 40% of the full-scale value and
should be represented by points of approximately equal
distance from the mid-point of the scale. For example, 25%
and 75%, or 20% and 80% could be used.
 EXPOSURE RATE CALIBRATION
Connect the input of the instrument to a negative pulse
generator, such as a Ludlum Model 500 Pulser.

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Caution!
The instrument input operates at a high potential. Connect
the pulse generator through a 0.01µF, 3000-volt capacitor,
unless the pulse generator is already protected.

Adjust the HV control for the proper operation voltage of the

detector to be used. Disconnect the pulser and connect the
detector to the instrument.
Turn the range selector switch to the ×100 position. Expose
the detector to a calibrated gamma field, which corresponds to
approximately 80% of full-scale meter deflection. Adjust the
×100 calibration control for the proper reading.
Reposition the detector so the field corresponds to
approximately 20% of full-scale meter deflection. Confirm that
the meter reading is within 10% of the field.
Repeat this process for the ×10, ×1, and ×0.1 ranges.
If your gamma exposure range cannot calibrate two positions
on each scale, the pulser may be used to “electronically
calibrate” the remaining points. Reconnect the pulser to the
instrument and determine the count rate conversion at a
previous range calibration point. Then use that conversion rate
to calibrate other points or scales.
If, for example, you can exposure rate calibrate the 400 µR/hr
point, but not the 40 µR/hr point, first use the pulser to get the
count rate equivalent to the calibrated 400 µR/hr point. Then
switch the pulser multiplier switch to the next lower setting,
and adjust the appropriate calibration control on the Model 3
for the meter to read 40 µR/hr.

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 CPM CALIBRATION
Connect the input of the instrument to a negative pulse
generator, such as a Ludlum Model 500 Pulser.

Caution!
The instrument input operates at a high potential. Connect
the pulse generator through a 0.01µF, 3000-volt capacitor,
unless the pulse generator is already protected

Adjust the HV control for the proper operating voltage of the

detector to be used. Adjust the pulser negative pulse frequency
to provide a meter deflection of approximately 80% of full-
scale on the ×100 range. Adjust the ×100 calibration control
for the proper reading.
Check the 20% scale indication of the Model 3 by reducing the
Pulser count rate by a factor of 4. The Model 3 should read
within 10% of the actual pulse rate. Decrease the pulse rate of
the Model 500 by one decade and turn the Model 3 range
selector to the next lower range. Repeat the above procedure
for the remaining lower ranges.

Note:
In the event that any reading is not within 10% of the true
value on any scale after any of the above calibration
methods is performed, a reading within 20% of true value
shall be acceptable. It is acceptable if a calibration graph or
chart is provided with the instrument. Instruments that
cannot meet these criteria are defective and require repair.

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 ESTABLISHING AN OPERATING POINT

The operating point for the instrument and detector is
established by setting the instrument high voltage (HV). The
proper selection of this point is the key to instrument
performance. Efficiency, background sensitivity, and noise are
fixed by the physical makeup of the given detector and rarely
vary from unit to unit. However, the selection of the operating
point makes a marked difference in the apparent contribution
of these three sources of count.
In setting the operating point, the result of the adjustment is to
establish the system gain so that the desirable signal pulses
(including background) are above the discrimination level, and
the unwanted pulses from noise are below the discrimination
level and are therefore not counted. The system gain is
controlled by adjusting the high voltage.

Note:
Measure the high voltage with a Ludlum Model 500 Pulser.
If the Pulser does not have a high-voltage readout, use a
high-impedance voltmeter with at least 1000 megohm input
resistance to measure the high voltage.

GM Detectors: In the special case of GM detectors, a

minimum voltage must be applied to establish the Geiger-
Mueller characteristic. The output pulse height of the GM
detector is not proportional to the energy of the detected
radiation. Most GM detectors operate at 900 volts, although
some miniature detectors operate at 400-500 volts.

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Refer to the detector operating manual for specific

recommendations. If a recommended setting is unavailable,
plot an HV-versus-count-rate curve to produce a plateau graph
similar to the one displayed below. Adjust the HV for 25-50
volts above the knee or start of the plateau. For mixed detector
use, the high voltage may be tallied for both, as long as the GM
detector is operated within the recommended voltage range.
Scintillators: Scintillation type detectors have a wide gain
spectrum, typically 1000:1 at a single operating point. An
operating-voltage-versus-count-rate curve (plateau) must be
established to determine the proper operating voltage. The
operating voltage is typically set above the knee of the plateau.
Plot the HV-versus-background and source count to produce a
plateau graph similar to the one in the figure below. Adjust the
HV to 25-50 volts above the knee or start of the plateau. This
provides the most stable operating point for the detector.

Note:
If more than one detector is to be used with the instrument
and the operating voltages are different, the HV will have to
be readjusted for each detector substitution.

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MAINTENANCE
Instrument maintenance consists of keeping the instrument
clean and periodically checking the batteries and the
calibration. The Model 3 instrument may be cleaned with a
damp cloth (using only water as the wetting agent). Do not
immerse instrument in any liquid. Observe the following
precautions when cleaning:
1. Turn the instrument OFF and remove the batteries.
2. Allow the instrument to sit for one minute before
accessing internal components.
 RECALIBRATION
Recalibration is required after any repairs or adjustments have
been made to the instrument. Recalibration is not normally
required following instrument cleaning, battery replacement, or
detector cable replacement.

Note:
Ludlum Measurements, Inc. recommends recalibration at
intervals no greater than one year. Check the appropriate
regulations to determine required recalibration intervals.

Ludlum Measurements offers a full-service repair and

calibration department. We not only repair and calibrate our
own instruments but most other manufacturer’s instruments.
Calibration procedures are available upon request for
customers who choose to calibrate their own instruments.

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 BATTERIES
The batteries should be removed any time the instrument is
placed into storage. Battery leakage may cause corrosion on the
battery contacts, which must be scraped off and/or washed
using a paste solution made from baking soda and water. Use a
spanner wrench to unscrew the battery contact insulators,
exposing the internal contacts and battery springs. Removal of
the handle will facilitate access to these contacts.

Note:
Never store the instrument over 30 days without
removing the batteries. Although this instrument will
operate at very high ambient temperatures, battery seal
failure may occur at temperatures as low as 37.8 °C (100
°F).

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Troubleshooting

O ccasionally, you may encounter problems with your

LMI instrument or detector that may be repaired or
resolved in the field, saving turnaround time and
expense in returning the instrument to us for repair. Toward
that end, LMI electronics technicians offer the following tips
for troubleshooting the most common problems. Where
several steps are given, perform them in order until the
problem is corrected. Keep in mind that with this instrument,
the most common problems encountered are: 1) detector
cables, 2) sticky meters, and 3) battery contacts.
Note that the first troubleshooting tip is for determining
whether the problem is with the electronics or with the
detector. A Ludlum Model 500 Pulser is invaluable at this
point, because of its ability to simultaneously check high
voltage, input sensitivity or threshold, and the electronics for
proper counting.
We hope these tips will prove to be helpful. As always, please
call if you encounter difficulty in resolving a problem or if you
have any questions.
TROUBLESHOOTING ELECTRONICS WHICH UTILIZE A G-M
DETECTOR OR SCINTILLATOR
SYMPTOM POSSIBLE SOLUTION

no power (or meter does not 1. Check batteries and

reach BAT TEST or BAT OK replace if weak.
mark) 2. Check polarity (See marks
inside batter lid). Are the
batteries installed
backwards?

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SYMPTOM POSSIBLE SOLUTION

no power (or meter does not 3. Check battery contacts.

reach BAT TEST or BAT OK Clean them with rough
mark) (continued) sandpaper or use an
engraver to clean the tips.

4. Remove the can and check

for loose or broken wires.

1. Check the high voltage

nonlinear readings (HV) using a Ludlum
Model 500 Pulser (or
equivalent). If a
multimeter is used to
check the HV, ensure that
one with high impedance
is used, as a standard
multimeter could be
damaged in this process.

2. Check for noise in the

detector cable by
disconnecting the detector,
placing the instrument on
the lowest range setting,
and wiggling the cable
while observing the meter
face for significant
changes in readings.

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Model 3 Survey Meter

SYMPTOM POSSIBLE SOLUTION

nonlinear readings (continued) 3. Check for “sticky” meter

movement. Does the
reading change when you
tap the meter? Does the
meter needle “stick” at any
spot?
4. Check the “meter zero.”
Turn the power OFF. The
meter should come to rest
on “0”.
meter goes full scale or “pegs
out” 1. Replace the detector cable
to determine whether the
cable has failed, causing
excessive noise.

2. Check the HV, and if

possible, the input
threshold for proper
setting.

3. Remove the can and check

for loose or broken wires.

4. Ensure that the

instrument’s “can” is
properly attached. When
attached properly, the
speaker will be located on
the left side of the
instrument. If the can is on
backwards, interference

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Model 3 Survey Meter

SYMPTOM POSSIBLE SOLUTION

between the speaker and

the input preamplifier may
cause noise.

1. Substitute a “known good”

no response to radiation detector and/or cable.

2. Has the correct operating

voltage been set? Refer to
the calibration certificate or
detector instruction manual
for correct operating
voltage. If the instrument
uses multiple detectors,
confirm that the high
voltage is matched to the
current detector being
used.
no audio 1. Ensure that the AUD ON-
OFF switch is in the ON
position.

2. Remove the instrument

housing and check the
connection between the
circuit board and the
speaker. Plug in the 2-pin
connector if necessary.

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Model 3 Survey Meter

TROUBLESHOOTING GM DETECTORS
1. If the tube has a thin mica window, check for window
breakage. If damage is evident, the tube must be
replaced.
2. Check the HV. For most GM tubes, the voltage is
normally 900 Vdc, or 460-550 Vdc for “peanut” tubes
(Ludlum Model 133 series).
3. If the input sensitivity is too low, the user could see
some double pulsing (where the instrument “counts”
a single pulse from the detector multiple times.)
4. Wires to the tube may be broken, or the crimped
connector could have a loose wire.
TROUBLESHOOTING SCINTILLATORS
1. Alpha or alpha/beta scintillators are prone to light
leaks. They can be tested for this problem in a dark
room or with a bright light. If a light leak is
determined, changing the Mylar window assembly will
usually fix the problem.
2. Verify that the HV and input sensitivity are correct.
Alpha and gamma scintillators typically operate from
10-35 mV. High voltage varies with the
photomultiplier tubes (PMT) from as low as 600 Vdc,
to as high as 1400 Vdc.
3. On a gamma scintillator, visually inspect the crystal
for breakage or humidity leakage. Water inside the
crystal will turn it yellow and gradually degrade
performance.
4. Check the PMT to see if the photocathode still exists.

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Model 3 Survey Meter

If the end of the PMT is clear (not brownish), this

indicates a loss of vacuum, which will render the
PMT useless.

Technical Theory of Operation

LOW VOLTAGE SUPPLY
Battery voltage is coupled to U11 and associated components
(a switching regulator) to provide 5 volts at pin 8 to power all
logic circuits. A voltage divider (R27 and R32) located at pin 1
of U11 sets the end-of-battery-life squeal at 2.0 Vdc.
Components R12 and C30 provide filtering to create +5 VA
used by the amplifier and discriminator circuits.
HIGH VOLTAGE SUPPLY
High voltage is developed by pulses from the switching
regulator U13 to transformer T1. High voltage is multiplied by
the ladder network of diodes CR3 through CR7 and capacitors
C18 through C27. High voltage is coupled back through R39
to pin 8 of U13. High voltage output is set by front-panel
potentiometer R42, which sets the voltage feedback of 1.31
Vdc to pin 8 of U13. R38 and C28 provide filtering.
DETECTOR INPUT
Detector pulses are coupled from the detector through C6 to
amplifier input pin 2 of U4. CR1 protects U4 from input
shorts. R37 couples the detector to the high voltage supply.
AMPLIFIER
A self-biased amplifier provides gain in proportion to R15
divided by R14, with some gain loss due to feedback capacitor
C4. A transistor (pin 3 of U4) provides amplification. U6 is
configured as a constant current source to pin 3 of U4. The
output self-biases to 2 Vbe (approximately 1.4 volts) at the

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Model 3 Survey Meter

emitter of Q1. This provides just enough bias current through

pin 3 of U4 to conduct all of the current from the current
source. Positive pulses from the emitter of Q1 are coupled to
the discriminator.

DISCRIMINATOR
Comparator U8 provides discrimination. The discriminator is
set by a voltage divider (R21 and R23), coupled to pin 3 of U8.
As the amplified pulses at pin 4 of U8 increase above the
discriminator voltage, 5-volt negative pulses are produced at
pin 1 of U8. These pulses are coupled to pin 5 of U9 for meter
drive and pin 12 of U9 for audio.
AUDIO
Discriminator pulses are coupled to univibrator pin 12 of U9.
The front-panel audio ON-OFF selector controls the reset at
pin 13 of U9. When ON, pulses from pin 10 of U9 turn on
oscillator U12, which drives the housing-mounted unimorph
speaker. Speaker tone is set by R31 and C14. Tone duration is
controlled by R22 and C7.
SCALE RANGING
Detector pulses from the discriminator are coupled to
univibrator pin 5 of U9. For each scale, the pulse width of pin
6 of U9 is changed by a factor of 10 with the actual pulse width
being controlled by the front panel switch, the analog switches
U1 and U2, and the related potentiometers. This arrangement
allows the same current to be delivered to C9 by 1 count on
the ×0.1 range as 1000 counts on the ×100 range.
METER DRIVE
Pulses from pin 6 of U9 charge capacitor C9. A constant
current driver (op amp U10 and transistor Q2) delivers
proportional current to the meter. For battery test (BAT

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Model 3 Survey Meter

TEST), the meter is directly coupled by the analog switch U3

to the batteries through resistor R8.
METER RESET
Ratemeter reset is initiated by changing the voltage differential
at C9 to 0 when the RESET button is depressed.
FAST/SLOW TIME CONSTANT
For the slow time constant, C17 is switched from the output of
the meter drive to parallel C9.

Recycling

L udlum Measurements, Inc. supports the recycling of

the electronic products it produces for the purpose of
protecting the environment and to comply with all
regional, national, and international agencies that promote
economically and environmentally sustainable recycling
systems. To this end, Ludlum Measurements, Inc. strives to
supply the consumer of its goods with information regarding
reuse and recycling of the many different types of materials
used in its products. With many different agencies – public and
private – involved in this pursuit, it becomes evident that a
myriad of methods can be used in the process of recycling.
Therefore, Ludlum Measurements, Inc. does not suggest one
particular method over another, but simply desires to inform
its consumers of the range of recyclable materials present in its
products, so that the user will have flexibility in following all
local and federal laws.

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Model 3 Survey Meter

The following types of recyclable materials are present in

Ludlum Measurements, Inc. electronic products, and should be
recycled separately. The list is not all-inclusive, nor does it
suggest that all materials are present in each piece of
equipment:
• Batteries
• Glass
• Aluminum and Stainless Steel
• Circuit Boards
• Plastics
• Liquid Crystal Display (LCD)

Ludlum Measurements, Inc. products that have been placed on

the market after August 13, 2005 have been labeled with a
symbol recognized internationally as the “crossed-out wheelie
bin.” This notifies the consumer that the product is not to be
mixed with unsorted municipal waste when discarding; each
material must be separated. The symbol will be placed near the
AC receptacle, except for portable equipment where it will be
placed on the battery lid.
The symbol appears as such:

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Model 3 Survey Meter

Parts List
Model 3 Survey Meter

Reference Description Part Number

Main Board, Drawing 464 × 204

UNIT Completely Assembled

Model 3 Survey Meter 48-1605

BOARD Completely Assembled

Main Circuit Board 5464-204
CAPACITORS:
C1 47pF, 100V 04-5660
C2 0.1µF, 35V 04-5755
C3 0.0047µF, 100V 04-5669
C4 10pF, 100V 04-5673
C5 0.01µF, 50V 04-5664
C6 100pF, 3KV 04-5735
C7 0.022µF, 50V 04-5667
C8 1µF, 16V 04-5701
C9 10µF, 25V 04-5655
C10 100pF, 100V 04-5661
C11 68µF, 10V 04-5654
C12 10µF, 25V 04-5728
C14 470pF, 100V 04-5668
C15 220pF, 100V 04-5674
C16 68µF, 10V 04-5654
C17 47µF, 10V 04-5666
C18-C27 0.01µF, 500V 04-5696

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Model 3 Survey Meter

C28 0.001µF, 2KV 04-5703

or 100pF, 3KV 04-5735
C29 10µF, 25V 04-5655
C30-C31 1µF, 16V 04-5701
C32 470pF, 100V 04-5668

TRANSISTORS:
Q1 MMBT3904LT1 05-5841
Q2 MMBT4403LT1 05-5842
Reference Description Part Number
INTEGRATED CIRCUITS:
U1-U3 MAX4542ESA 06-6453
U4-U5 CMXT3904 05-5888
U6 CMXT3906 05-5890
U7 MAX4541ESA 06-6452
U8 MAX985EUK-T 06-6459
U9 CD74HC4538M 06-6297
U10 LMC7111BIM5X 06-6410
U11 LT1304CS8-5 06-6434
U12 MIC1557BM5 06-6457
U13 LT1304CS8 06-6394

DIODES:
CR1 CMPD2005S 07-6468
CR2 RECTIFIER CMSH1-40M 07-6411
CR3-CR7 CMPD2005S 07-6468
CR9 RECTIFIER CMSH1-40M 07-6411

SWITCHES:
SW1 D5G0206S-9802 08-6761
SW2 TP11LTCQE 08-6770
SW3-SW4 7101SDCQE 08-6781

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Model 3 Survey Meter

POTENTIOMETERS:
R33 250K, 64W254, ×100 09-6819
R34 250K, 64W254, ×10 09-6819
R35 500K, 64W504, ×1 09-6850
R36 250K, 64W254, ×0.1 09-6819
R42 1.2M, 3296W, HV 09-6814

RESISTORS:
R1-R5 200K, 1/8W, 1% 12-7992
R6 8.25K, 1/8W, 1% 12-7838
R7 10K, 1/8W, 1% 12-7839
R8 2.37K, 1/8W, 1% 12-7861
R9-R11 10K, 1/8W, 1% 12-7839
R12 200 Ohm, 1/8W, 1% 12-7846
R13 10K, 1/8W, 1% 12-7839
R14 4.75K, 1/8W, 1% 12-7858
R15 200K, 1/8W, 1% 12-7992
R16 10K, 1/8W, 1% 12-7839
R17 1K, 1/8W, 1% 12-7832
R18 4.75K, 1/8W, 1% 12-7858
R19 2K, 1/8W, 1% 12-7926
R20-R21 100K, 1/8W, 1% 12-7834
R22 1M, 1/8W, 1% 12-7844
R23 2.49K, 1/8W, 1% 12-7999
R24 14.7K, 1/8W, 1% 12-7068
R25 200K, 1/4W, 1% 12-7992
R26 100K, 1/4W, 1% 12-7834
R27 68.1K, 1/8W, 1% 12-7881
R28 100K, 1/8W, 1% 12-7834
R29 1K, 1/8W, 1% 12-7832
R30 100K, 1/8W, 1% 12-7834
R31 475K, 1/8W, 1% 12-7859
R32 100K, 1/8W, 1% 12-7834
R37 100K, 1/8W, 1% 12-7834

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Model 3 Survey Meter

R38 2.2M, 1/8W, 1% 12-7002

R39 500M, 3KV, 2% 12-7031
R40 402K, 1/8W, 1% 12-7888
R44 1K, 1/4W, 1% 12-7832
CONNECTORS:
P1 640456-5 - MTA100 13-8057

P2 640456-6 - MTA100
(installed as required) 13-8095

P3 640456-2 - MTA100 13-8073

INDUCTOR:
L1 22 µH 21-9808

TRANSFORMER:
T1 31032R 21-9925

Wiring Diagram, Drawing 464 × 212

CONNECTORS:
J1 MTA100×5, MAIN
BOARD 5464-204 13-8140
J2 OPTIONAL (M3 overload)
MTA100×6, 5464-204 13-8171
J3 MTA100×2, MAIN
BOARD 5464-204 13-8178

AUDIO:
DS1 UNIMORPH TEC3526-PU 21-9251

BATTERIES:
B1-B2 ˝D˝ DURACELL BATTERY 21-9313

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Model 3 Survey Meter

MISCELLANEOUS:
* PORTABLE BATTERY
CONTACT ASSEMBLY 2001-042
* MODEL 3 CASTING 7464-219
* MODEL 3 MAIN HOUSING 8464-035
* PORTABLE CAN
ASSEMBLY (MTA) 4363-441
* PORTABLE KNOB 08-6613
Reference Description Part Number

M1 METER ASSEMBLY METER

BEZEL W/GLASS
W/O SCREWS 4363-188
* METER MOVEMENT (1mA) 15-8030
* PORTABLE METER FACE 7363-136
* HARNESS-PORT CAN WIRES 8363-462
* BATTERY LID W/O LATCH
KIT MODEL 3 2363-191
* PORTABLE LATCH KIT W/O
BATTERY LID 4363-349
* PORTABLE HANDLE(GRIP)
W/SCREWS 4363-139
* PORTHANDLE FOR CLIP
W/SCREWS 4363-203
* REPLACEMENT CABLE
(STD 1 meter [39 inches]) 40-1004
* CLIP (44-3 TYPE) W/SCREWS 4002-026-01
* CLIP (44-6 TYPE) W/SCREWS 4010-007-01
* LABEL-M3 CALIBRATION 2310602
* LABEL-M3 BATTERY LID 2310601
* LABEL-M3 FACEPLATE 2310603

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Model 3 Survey Meter

Drawings and Diagrams

MAIN CIRCUIT BOARD, Drawing 464 × 204 (3 sheets) located in

Center Insert

MAIN CIRCUIT BOARD LAYOUT, Drawing 464 × 205 (2 sheets)

CHASSIS WIRING DIAGRAM, Drawing 464 × 212

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Model 3 Survey Meter

Model 3 Main Circuit Board Layout, Drawing 464 × 205 Sheet 1

Ludlum Measurements, Inc. page 38 February 2010

Model 3 Survey Meter

Model 3 Main Circuit Board Layout, Drawing 464 × 205 Sheet 2

Ludlum Measurements, Inc. page 39 February 2010

Model 3 Survey Meter

Model 3 Main Wiring Diagram Drawing 464 × 212

Ludlum Measurements, Inc. page 40 February 2010