Ludlum Model 3 Operation Manual - Feb2013

LUDLUM MODEL 3
SURVEY METER
February 2013
Serial Number 294605 and Succeeding
Serial Numbers
LUDLUM MODEL 3
SURVEY METER
February 2013
Serial Number 294605 and Succeeding
Serial Numbers
Table of Contents
Introduction 1
Getting Started 2
Unpacking and Repacking 2-1
Battery Installation 2-1
Connecting a Detector to the Instrument 2-2
Battery Test 2-2
Instrument Test 2-2
Reading the Meter Face Dial 2-3
Operational Check 2-6
Specifications 3
Identification of Controls and Functions 4
Safety Considerations 5
Environmental Conditions for Normal Use 5-1
Warning Markings and Symbols 5-1
Cleaning and Maintenance Precautions 5-2
Calibration and Maintenance 6

Calibration 6-1
Exposure Rate Calibration 6-1
CPM Calibration 6-2
Establishing an Operating Point 6-3
Maintenance 6-5
Recalibration 6-5
Batteries 6-5
Troubleshooting 7
Troubleshooting Electronics which utilize a
G-M Detector or Scintillator 7-1
Troubleshooting GM Detectors 7-3
Troubleshooting Scintillators 7-4
Ludlum Measurements, Inc. February 2013

Model 3 Technical Manual
Technical Theory of Operation 8

Low-Voltage Supply 8-1
High-Voltage Supply 8-1
Detector Input 8-1
Amplifier 8-1
Discriminator 8-2
Audio 8-2
Scale Ranging 8-2
Meter Drive 8-2
Meter Reset 8-2
Fast/Slow Time Constant 8-2
Recycling 9
Parts List 10
Model 3 Survey Meter 10-1
Main Board, Drawing 464 × 204 10-1
Wiring Diagram, Drawing 464 × 212 10-3
Drawings and Diagrams 11
Ludlum Measurements, Inc. February 2013

Model 3 Technical Manual Section 1
1
Section
Introduction
T
he 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 400 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.
Ludlum Measurements, Inc. Page 1-1 February 2013

2
Section
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 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
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 thumb screw 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.
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 X100
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 if in the OFF position. In order to preserve battery life, it is
recommended to keep the AUD ON/OFF switch in the OFF position

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 of
counts detected. Replace the cable if increases in the rate of counts are
detected.
Check the meter reset function by depressing the RESET 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:
1) count rate (typically cpm [counts per minute])
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/MINUTE (kcpm or 1000’s 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.

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.
×1 = 1.0 mR/hr (or 1000 µR/hr)
×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.)
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.

×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.
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.

3
Section
Specifications
0
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 0-5 kcpm, BAT TEST (others available)
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˝ (other 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 the 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), including handle
Weight: 1.6 kg (3.5 lb), including batteries
Construction: cast and drawn aluminum with beige powder coat

4
Section
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, 0-5 kcpm 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 BAT 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 an overall range of 0 to
500,000 cpm. 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 0.
AUD ON-OFF Switch: In the ON position, operates the unimorph speaker,
located on the left side of the instrument. The frequency of the clicks is
relative to the rate of the 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 22
seconds. In ˝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.

5
Section
Safety Considerations
Environmental Conditions for Normal Use
Indoor or outdoor use
No maximum altitude
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.
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:
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 section 9, “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.

6
Section
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 megаohm 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.
Caution!
The instrument input operates at a high potential.
Connect the pulse generator through a 0.01 µF, 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, 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.

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 0.01 µF, 3,000-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 better 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.
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 final 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 G-M 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. 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.
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 should be accomplished after maintenance or adjustments
have been performed on 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 as well. Calibration procedures are
available upon request for customers who choose to calibrate their own
instruments.
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).

7
Section
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 that utilize a

GM Detector or Scintillator
SYMPTOM POSSIBLE SOLUTION
no power (or meter 1. Check batteries and replace if weak.

does not reach BAT
TEST or BAT OK 2. Check polarity (See marks inside
mark) batter lid). Are the batteries installed
backwards?

no power (or meter 3. Check battery contacts. Clean them

does not reach BAT with rough sandpaper or use an
TEST or BAT OK engraver to clean the tips.
mark) (continued)
4. Remove the can and check for loose
or broken wires.
1. Check the high voltage (HV) using a

nonlinear readings 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.
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 1. Replace the detector cable to

or “pegs out” determine whether or not the cable
has failed, causing excessive noise.
2. Check the HV, and if possible, the

input threshold for proper setting.

meter goes full scale 3. Remove the can and check for loose
or “pegs out” or broken wires.
(continued)
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, interfer-
ence between the speaker and the
input preamplifier may cause noise.
no response to 1. Substitute a “known good” detector

radiation 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.
1. Ensure that the AUD ON-OFF switch

no audio 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.
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.
Note:
When replacing the window, make sure to use a window made
with the same thickness Mylar and the same number of layers
as the original window.
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. If the

end of the PMT is clear (not brownish), this indicates a loss of
vacuum, which will render the PMT useless.

8
Section
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 switching the 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
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
(opamp U10 and transistor Q2) delivers proportional current to the meter.
For battery test (BAT 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.

9
Section
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.
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:

Section
10 Parts List
Reference Description Part Number

Model 3
Survey Meter UNIT Completely Assembled
Model 3 Survey Meter 48-1605
Main Board,
Drawing 464 × 204 BOARD Completely Assembled
Main Circuit Board 5464-204
CAPACITORS
C1 47pF, 100V 04-5660
C2 0.1F, 35V 04-5755
C3 0.0047F, 100V 04-5669
C4 10pF, 100V 04-5673
C5 0.01F, 50V 04-5664
C6 100pF, 3KV 04-5735
C7 0.022F, 50V 04-5667
C8 1F, 16V 04-5701
C9 10F, 25V 04-5655
C10 100pF, 100V 04-5661
C11 68F, 10V 04-5654
C12 10F, 25V 04-5728
C14 470pF, 100V 04-5668
C15 220pF, 100V 04-5674
C16 68F, 10V 04-5654
C17 47F, 10V 04-5666
C18-C27 0.01F, 500V 04-5696
C28 0.001F, 2KV 04-5703
or 100pF, 3KV 04-5735
C29 10F, 25V 04-5655
C30-C31 1F, 16V 04-5701
C32 470pF, 100V 04-5668

TRANSISTORS Q1 MMBT3904LT1 05-5841

Q2 MMBT4403LT1 05-5842
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
POTENTIOMETERS /
TRIMMERS
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
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

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
M1 METER ASSEMBLY METER
BEZEL W/GLASS
W/O SCREWS 4363-188
* METER MOVEMENT (1 mA) 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 in.]) 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

Section
11 Drawings and Diagrams
MAIN CIRCUIT BOARD, Drawing 464 × 204 (3 sheets)
MAIN CIRCUIT BOARD LAYOUT, Drawing 464 × 205 (2 sheets)
CHASSIS WIRING DIAGRAM, Drawing 464 × 212

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LUDLUM MODEL 3

Identification of Controls and Functions 4

Calibration and Maintenance 6

Ludlum Measurements, Inc. February 2013

Technical Theory of Operation 8

Drawings and Diagrams 11

Ludlum Measurements, Inc. February 2013

Any Geiger-Mueller (GM) detector offered by Ludlum Measurements will

Ludlum Measurements, Inc. Page 1-1 February 2013

To return an instrument for repair or calibration, provide sufficient packing

 return shipping address

Ludlum Measurements, Inc. Page 2-1 February 2013

counterclockwise a quarter of a turn. Install two ˝D˝ size batteries in the

Connecting a Detector to the Instrument

Ludlum Measurements, Inc. Page 2-2 February 2013

Reading the Meter Face Dial

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

2) exposure rate (typically mR/hr)

3) combo (typically cpm and mR/hr.)

The count rate scale reads 0-5K COUNTS/MINUTE (kcpm or 1000’s of

If the needle is pointing as indicated below and the instrument range

Ludlum Measurements, Inc. Page 2-3 February 2013

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)

The same needle indications on successive ranges would be:

×1 = 1.0 mR/hr (or 1000 µR/hr)

×10 = 10 mR/hr (or 10,000 µR/hr)

×100 = 70 mR/hr (or 70,000 µR/hr)

Ludlum Measurements, Inc. Page 2-4 February 2013

Ludlum Measurements, Inc. Page 2-5 February 2013

The same needle indications 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)

×0.1 = 0.13 mR/hr

×100 = 180 mR/hr*

Ludlum Measurements, Inc. Page 2-6 February 2013

High Voltage: adjustable from 400 to 1500 Vdc

Linearity: reading within 10% of true value with detector connected

Meter: 6.4 cm (2.5 in.) arc, 1 mA analog type

Multipliers: ×0.1, ×1, ×10, ×100

Calibration Controls: individual potentiometers for each range; accessible

Audio: built-in unimorph speaker with ON-OFF switch (greater than 60 dB at

Cable: one-meter (39-inch) with ˝C˝ connector (others available)

Power: two ˝D˝ cell batteries housed in a sealed externally accessible

Ludlum Measurements, Inc. Page 3-1 February 2013

Weight: 1.6 kg (3.5 lb), including batteries

Construction: cast and drawn aluminum with beige powder coat

Ludlum Measurements, Inc. Page 3-2 February 2013

Identification of Controls and

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

Connector: Used to connect the detector to the instrument. Series ˝C˝ is

Ludlum Measurements, Inc. Page 4-1 February 2013

Ludlum Measurements, Inc. Page 4-2 February 2013

Warning Markings and Symbols

The Model 3 Survey Meter is marked with the