GX-3R

Operator’s Manual

Part Number: 71-0477

Revision: A
Released: 1/17/23

RKI Instruments, Inc.

www.rkiinstruments.com
 WARNING
Read and understand this instruction manual before operating
instrument. Improper use of the gas monitor could result in bodily
harm or death.

Maintenance of the gas monitor is essential for proper operation and

correct readings.

Bump test the instrument before each day’s use with a known
concentration of each target gas. A bump test can be done in User
Mode’s BUMP item or by applying gas in Measuring Mode. The
instrument does not need to be calibrated unless it does not pass the
User Mode bump test or does not respond appropriately, as defined by
the user, in Measuring Mode. For more information about bump test
and calibration requirements, see IEC 60079-29-2.

2 • GX-3R Operator’s Manual

Table of Contents
Chapter 1: Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
About the GX-3R . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
About this Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Chapter 2: Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Instrument Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Case . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
LCD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Control Buttons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Alarm LEDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Buzzer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Vibrator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Sensors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Filters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Infrared Communications Port . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Charging Socket and Battery Pack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Included Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Alligator Clip . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Rubber Boot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Wrist Strap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Single-Unit AC Charger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Calibration Cup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Other Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
12 VDC Charger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Multi-Unit AC Charger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Belt Clip . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
SDM-3R . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

GX-3R Operator’s Manual • 3

 RP-3R . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Aspirator Adapter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
IrDA Cable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

Chapter 3: Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Start Up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Turning On the GX-3R . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Performing a Demand Zero . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Turning Off the GX-3R . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Measuring Mode Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Monitoring an Area . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Combustible Gas Detection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Oxygen-Enriched Atmospheres. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
H2-Compensated CO Detection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Interference Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Aspirator Adapter Sampling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Alarm Indications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Responding to Alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
Data Logging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Chapter 4: Display Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

Tips for Using Display Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Peak Screen (PEAK). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
STEL Screen (STEL) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
TWA Screen (TWA) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Combustible Sensor Target Gas Conversion (LIST) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Changing the User ID (USER ID) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Changing the Station ID (STN ID) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Last Successful Calibration Date (CAL DATA) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Last Successful Bump Test Date (BUMP DATA) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Date, Time, and Temperature Screen (TEMP) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Viewing Alarm Settings Screen (ALARM--PT). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

4 • GX-3R Operator’s Manual

Chapter 5: User Mode and Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Overview. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Entering User Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Tips for Using User Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Performing a Bump Test (BUMP) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Performing a Calibration (GAS CAL) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
Setting Calibration Parameters (CAL SET) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
Setting Bump Test Parameters (BUMP SET) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
Alarm Settings (ALARM--PT) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
Updating the Lunch Break Setting (LUNCH) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84
Setting the Confirmation Beep and Non-Compliance Indicator (BEEP) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
Updating the Backlight Time (BL TIME). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87
Turning the Key Tone On/Off (KEY TONE) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87
Display Mode Items (DISP SET) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88
Zero Suppression (ZERO SUP) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88
Zero Follower (ZERO.FLWR) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
Setting the Date/Time (DATE) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
Turning the Password On/Off (PASSWORD) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90
Viewing the ROM/SUM (ROM/SUM). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
Entering Measuring Mode (START) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91

Chapter 6: Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92
Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92
Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92
Instrument Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
Recharging the Batteries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
Replacing the Buzzer Cover . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
Replacing the Sensor Filters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
Combustible Gas Sensor Filter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
Dual CO/H2S Sensor Filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
CO-Only Sensor Filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
H2S-Only Sensor Filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
Replacing the Hydrophobic Dust Filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
Replacing a Sensor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100

GX-3R Operator’s Manual • 5

 Replacing the Battery Board. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102

Chapter 7: Storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106

Chapter 8: General Parts List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107

Appendix A: Maintenance Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110

Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110
Entering Maintenance Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112
Tips for Using Maintenance Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113
Performing a Calibration (GAS CAL) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113
Performing a Gas Test (GAS TEST). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114
Sensor/Battery Replacement Date (SEN DATE) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116
Performing a Bump Test (BUMP) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117
Setting Alarms to Latching or Self-Resetting (LATCHING) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118
Turning the Demand Zero Function On/Off (DEM ZERO) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118
Turning the Auto Zero Function On/Off (AUTOZERO) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119
Turning the ID Display Function On/Off (ID DISP) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119
Turning the Zero Suppression On/Off (ZERO SUP) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120
Turning the Zero Follower On/Off (ZERO.FLWR) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120
User Mode Zero Suppression (ZSUP.DISP). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120
User Mode Zero Follower (ZFLW.DISP) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120
Setting the Date/Time (DATE) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121
Turning the Password On/Off (PASSWORD) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121
Viewing the ROM/SUM (ROM/SUM). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122
Performing a Default (M.DEFAULT). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123
Entering Measuring Mode (START) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124

Appendix B: Gas Select Mode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125

Overview. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125
Entering Gas Select Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125
Tips for Using Gas Select Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126
Changing the Gas Combination (GAS COMB) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127
Saving the Alarm Points (SAVE-AP) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129
Turning Calibration Max Span On/Off (MAX SPAN) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130

6 • GX-3R Operator’s Manual

 Stealth and Vibrator Settings (STEALTH) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130
LEL Definition (CHG LEL) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131
Exiting Gas Select Mode (START). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133

Appendix C: Interference Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134

ESR-A13i-H2S, H2S Detection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134
ESR-A13P-CO, CO Detection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136
ESR-A1CP-COH, H2-Compensated CO Detection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138
ESR-A1DP-COHS, CO Detection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140
ESR-A1DP-COHS, H2S Detection. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142

WARNING: Understand manual before operating. Substitution of components may impair

intrinsic safety. To prevent ignition of a hazardous atmosphere, batteries must
only be changed or charged in an area known to be nonhazardous.

GX-3R Operator’s Manual • 7

Chapter 1: Introduction

Overview
This chapter briefly describes the GX-3R gas monitor. This chapter also describes the
GX-3R Operator’s Manual (this document). Table 1 at the end of this chapter lists the
specifications for the GX-3R.

About the GX-3R

Using an advanced detection system consisting of up to three gas sensors, the GX-3R personal
four-gas monitor detects the presence of combustible gas, oxygen (O2), carbon monoxide (CO),
and hydrogen sulfide (H2S) simultaneously. The GX-3R’s compact size and easy-to-use design
make it ideally suited for a wide range of applications, including sewage treatment plants, utility
manholes, tunnels, hazardous waste sites, power stations, petrochemical refineries, mines, paper
mills, drilling rigs, and fire fighting stations. The GX-3R offers a full range of features, including:
• Simultaneous monitoring of one to four gases
• Liquid crystal display (LCD) for complete and understandable information at a glance
• Ultrabright alarm LEDs
• Distinctive audible/vibrating alarms for dangerous gas conditions and audible alarms for
unit malfunction
• Microprocessor control for reliability, ease of use, and advanced capabilities
• Data logging functions
• Alarm trend data
• STEL, TWA, and over range alarms
• Peak readings
• Built-in time function
• Lunch break feature
• CSA “C/US” classified as intrinsically safe (see Table 2 on page 9)

WARNING: The Model GX-3R detects oxygen deficiency, elevated levels of oxygen,
combustible gases, carbon monoxide, and hydrogen sulfide, all of which can be
dangerous or life threatening. When using the GX-3R, you must follow the
instructions and warnings in this manual to assure proper and safe operation of
the unit and to minimize the risk of personal injury. Be sure to maintain and
periodically calibrate the GX-3R as described in this manual.

8 • Chapter 1: Introduction GX-3R Operator’s Manual

Specifications
Table 1: Standard Sensor Specifications/Alarm Points

Combustible Gas,
Methane Hydrogen Carbon
Oxygen (O2)
(CH4) Calibration Sulfide (H2S) Monoxide (CO)
Standard*
Detection Range 0 - 100% LEL 0 - 40% volume 0 - 200.0 ppm 0 - 2000 ppm

Lowest Detectable n/a n/a 0.5 ppm 3 ppm

Limit (LDL)
Reading 1% LEL 0.1% volume 0.1 ppm 1 ppm
Increment
Warning 10% LEL 19.5% volume, 5.0 ppm 25 ppm
Setpoint decreasing

Alarm 25% LEL 18.0% volume, 30.0 ppm 50 ppm

Setpoint decreasing

Alarm H 50% LEL 23.5% volume, 100.0 ppm 1200 ppm

Setpoint increasing

STEL Setpoint n/a n/a 5.0 ppm 200 ppm

TWA Setpoint n/a n/a 1.0 ppm 25 ppm

* The GX-3R is also available set up for general hydrocarbons and calibrated to a combustible gas other than
methane, such as isobutane. Consult RKI Instruments, Inc. for further information.

Table 2: GX-3R Specifications

Sampling Diffusion
Method
Response Time T90 within 30 seconds

Display Graphics LCD Display

• 3000 meter maximum altitude

Environmental • Operating pressure: 70 - 120 kPa (70 - 110 kPa for explosion proof)
Conditions • Pollution degree 2
• IP 66/68
Operating Continuous environment: -20°C to 50°C/Below 90% RH
Temperature Temporary environment (up to 15 minutes): -40°C to 60°C/Below 95% RH
& Humidity

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Chapter 1: Introduction • 9

 Table 2: GX-3R Specifications

• ATEX: Certificate Number: DEKRA 17ATEX0103 X

II1G Ex da ia IIC T4 Ga/IM1 Ex da ia I Ma (with NCR-6309)
II1G Ex ia IIC T4 Ga/IM1 Ex ia I Ma (without NCR-6309)
• IECEx: Certificate Number: IECEx DEK 17.0050X
Ex da ia IIC T4 Ga/Ex da ia I Ma (with NCR-6309)

Safety/ Ex ia IIC T4 Ga/Ex ia I Ma (without NCR-6309)

Regulatory • CSA classified, “C/US”, as Intrinsically Safe. Class I Division 1 Groups A, B, C, D T4.
Class I, Zones 0, A/Ex da ia IIC T4 Ga (with NCR-6309)
Class I, Zones 0, A/Ex ia IIC T4 Ga (without NCR-6309)

C US
186718

Power Supply Lithium ion battery pack (3.7 VDC, 200 mA)

Continuous With combustible gas sensor: 25 hours in Measuring Mode (non-alarm operation)
Operating Without combustible gas sensor: 60 hours in Measuring Mode (non-alarm operation)
Hours
@ 25 °C
Battery Input: 100 - 240 VAC, 47 - 63 Hz, 2.4 A
Charger Output: 5.99 VDC, 2A max
Ratings
Case High-impact Plastic, RF Shielded, Dust and Weather Proof (IP66/68)

• Alligator clip
• Rubber boot
Included
• Wrist strap
Accessories
• Calibration cup
• Single-unit charger
• 12 VDC adapter
• Multi-unit charger
• Belt clip
Other • SDM-3R
Accessories • RP-3R
• Aspirator adapter
• IrDA/USB Cable for connecting to a computer when using the Data Logger Management
Program (not needed if computer has an infrared port)

Dimensions Approximately 65(H) x 58(W) x 26(D) mm (2.6”H x 2.3”W x 1.0”D)

and Weight Approximately 100 g (3.5 oz.)

10 • Chapter 1: Introduction GX-3R Operator’s Manual

About this Manual
The GX-3R Operator’s Manual uses the following conventions for notes, cautions, and warnings.

NOTE: Describes additional or critical information.

CAUTION: Describes potential damage to equipment.

WARNING: Describes potential danger that can result in injury or death.

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Chapter 1: Introduction • 11

Chapter 2: Description

Overview
This chapter describes the GX-3R instrument and its accessories.

Instrument Description
LEDs LCD Charging
Socket

Threaded
Inserts

POW ER
AIR MODE
GX-3R

CO/H2S LEL O2

Buzzer
Opening Sensor Bottom
Retainer Cover
Front Back

Figure 1: Component Location

Case
The GX-3R’s sturdy, high-impact plastic case is radio frequency (RF) resistant and is suitable for
use in many environmental conditions, indoors and out. The case is dust proof and water resistant.
A clear plastic window on the front of the case allows for LCD viewing. The black bottom cover,
located on the bottom of the case, allows access to the filters and sensors. A sensor retainer and
filter gasket help orient and retain the sensor and filters.
Three threaded inserts on the back of the case allow for installation of an alligator clip or belt clip.

LCD
The digital LCD (liquid crystal display) simultaneously shows the gas reading for all installed
sensors. The LCD also shows information for each of the GX-3R’s operating modes.

12 • Chapter 2: Description GX-3R Operator’s Manual

 WARNING: A thin protective film covers the display to prevent scratches during shipping.
Remove this film before use. Leaving the film installed voids the intrinsically safe
certification.

Control Buttons
Two control buttons, AIR and POWER MODE, are located below the LCD.
Table 3: GX-3R Control Button Functions

Button Function(s)
AIR • turns on LCD backlight
• resets alarm condition if LATCHING is set to ON in Maintenance
Mode
• enters User Mode, Maintenance Mode, and Gas Select Mode when
used with POWER MODE button
• activates the demand zero function (adjusts the GX-3R’s fresh air
reading)
• changes the value of a parameter available for adjustment
• scrolls through parameter options

POWER MODE • turns the GX-3R on and off

• turns on LCD backlight
• enters and scrolls through Display Mode
• enters instructions into the GX-3R’s microprocessor
• resets alarm condition if LATCHING is set to ON in Maintenance
Mode
• enters User Mode, Maintenance Mode, and Gas Select Mode when
used with AIR button

Alarm LEDs
The six alarm LEDs around the edge of the case alert you to gas, low battery, and failure alarms.

Buzzer
One solid-state electronic buzzer is located inside the case. Sound exits the case through a hole in
the middle front of the case. The buzzer sounds for gas alarms, malfunctions, low battery voltage,
and as an indicator during use of the GX-3R’s many display and adjustment options.

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Chapter 2: Description • 13

 Vibrator
A vibrating motor inside the GX-3R case vibrates for gas alarms, unit malfunctions, and as an
indicator during normal use of the various modes of the GX-3R.

NOTE: If STEALTH is set to ON, the vibrator only functions when VIB in the STEALTH Gas
Select Mode item is set to ON. See “Stealth and Vibrator Settings (STEALTH)” on
page 130.

Sensors
The GX-3R uses three sensors to monitor combustible gas, oxygen (O2), carbon monoxide (CO),
and hydrogen sulfide (H2S) simultaneously. The sensors are located inside the GX-3R and are
held in their sockets by the sensor retainer and bottom cover. The sensors use different detection
principles, as described below.
Combustible Gas Sensor
The combustible gas sensor detects combustible gas in the % LEL range using 2 catalytic
elements: a standard element and a poison-resistant element that is resistant to sensor poisons like
silicone. The element’s resistance changes based on the reaction of gas with oxygen. The change
in resistance affects the current flowing through the element. The GX-3R’s circuitry amplifies the
current, converts the current to a gas concentration, and displays the concentration on the LCD.
The standard calibration for the combustible gas sensor is to methane but the sensor will still
detect and respond to a variety of combustible gases.
O2/CO/H2S Sensors
The O2, CO, and H2S sensors are electrochemical cells that consist of two precious metal
electrodes in a dilute acid electrolyte. A gas permeable membrane covers the sensor face and
allows gas to diffuse into the electrolyte. The gas reacts in the sensor and produces a current
proportional to the concentration of the target gas. The GX-3R’s circuitry amplifies the current,
converts the current to a gas concentration, and displays the concentration on the LCD.
There are 4 different types of CO and H2S sensors available:
• CO only (ESR-A13P-CO): A single electrochemical cell that detects CO. Instruments
with this sensor cannot detect H2S.
• H2-compensated CO (ESR-A1CP-CO-H): A single electrochemical cell that detects CO.
This sensor does not respond to or responds minimally to hydrogen (displays H2 RICH
once H2 concentration reaches 2000 ppm). Instruments with this sensor cannot detect H2S.
• H2S only (ESR-A13i-H2S): A single electrochemical cell that detects H2S. Instruments
with this sensor cannot detect CO.
• CO/H2S (ESR-A1DR-COHS): A combination electrochemical cell that detects both CO
and H2S.
Dummy Sensors
A dummy sensor is installed in any units that have less than 3 sensors. Dummy sensors are factory
installed. The flat side of the dummy sensor faces away from the GX-3R and the hollow side faces
toward the GX-3R.

14 • Chapter 2: Description GX-3R Operator’s Manual

 Filters
Combustible Gas Sensor H2S Removal Filter Disk (Dark Red)
An H2S removal filter disk is placed into a recess in the filter gasket over the combustible gas
sensor. The filter disk prolongs the life of the combustible gas sensor by preventing H2S in the
ambient air from reaching the sensor. The H2S filter disk is dark red in color and although it may
darken over time, its color is not indicative of remaining filter life.
The H2S filter disk needs replacing once it’s been exposed to 33 ppm hours of H2S. This means
the filter needs replacing after 80 minutes of exposure to 25 ppm H2S which equates to 40 2-
minute calibrations with a cylinder containing 25 ppm H2S. If H2S exists in the monitoring
environment, the H2S filter disk will have to be replaced more frequently.
CO/H2S Sensor Dual Filter (Black and White)
A dual filter is placed into a recess in the filter gasket over the dual CO/H2S sensor. The black half
is a charcoal filter for the CO sensor. The white half is a humidity filter for the H2S sensor.
Replace the filter if you notice the following:
• Unexplained CO readings
• For users with a 1 ppm H2S alarm setpoint: A drift on the H2S zero reading, unexplained
H2S readings, the filter appears dirty, or every 6 months (whichever is sooner)
CO Sensor Charcoal Filter (Black)
A black charcoal filter is placed into a recess in the filter gasket over the CO sensor. The charcoal
filter disk scrubs H2S and certain hydrocarbons out of the sample to avoid false CO readings. If
false or elevated CO readings are noticed, especially in the presence of H2S, change the charcoal
filter.
H2S Sensor Humidity Filter (White)
A white humidity filter covers the H2S sensor. The filter absorbs humidity in the sampling
environment to prevent unstable readings around 0 ppm H2S. For users with a 1 ppm H2S alarm
setpoint, the filter should be replaced every 6 months, if you notice a drift on the zero reading, or
if the filter appears dirty (whichever is sooner). For users with a 2 ppm or higher H2S setpoint, the
filter does not necessarily need to be replaced.
Hydrophobic Dust Filter
The oval-shaped hydrophobic dust filter is attached to the top of the filter gasket, covering the
sensor ports and the filters. The filter gasket and hydrophobic dust filter get replaced as a set.

NOTE: Some GX-3Rs have a hydrophobic dust filter that is not attached to the filter gasket.
When replacing the hydrophobic dust filter on one of these GX-3Rs, remove the filter
and the gasket and replace it with a filter gasket/hydrophobic dust filter assembly.

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Chapter 2: Description • 15

 Infrared Communications Port
An infrared (IR) communications port is located on the top of the case, near the top LEDs.
Logged data transmits through the port in standard IrDA protocol. A computer’s infrared port or
an IrDA/USB cable connected to a USB port can be used to download data to the GX-3R Data
Logger Management Program. See the GX-3R Data Logger Management Program operator’s
manual for data logging and downloading instructions.

Charging Socket and Battery Pack

A charging socket on the back of the instrument allows for charging cable connection.
A lithium ion (Li-ion) battery pack powers the GX-3R. At 25°C the battery lasts at least 25 hours.
The battery icon in the upper right of the LCD shows remaining battery life.
A low battery warning activates when the GX-3R detects a low battery voltage. The GX-3R
sounds a dead battery alarm when battery voltage is too low for Measuring Mode.
The battery pack can be recharged by using the GX-3R charging cable. The battery pack is not
user-replaceable.

NOTE: Use of batteries or battery chargers not specified by RKI Instruments, Inc. will
compromise the CSA classification and may void the warranty. See “Recharging the
Batteries” on page 93.

WARNING: To prevent ignition of a hazardous atmosphere, batteries must only be changed or

charged in an area known to be nonhazardous.

AVERTISSEMENT: Pour éviter l’inflammation d’une atmosphère dangereuse, les batteries

doivent uniquement être modifiés ou facturés dans une zone connue
comme non dangereuse.

16 • Chapter 2: Description GX-3R Operator’s Manual

Included Accessories
Alligator Clip
An alligator clip is installed on the back of the GX-3R. The alligator clip can be used to attach the
GX-3R to clothing or a belt. Teeth in the alligator clip’s jaws prevent the unit from slipping off.

Alligator Clip

Figure 2: Alligator Clip

Rubber Boot
A black rubber boot is installed on the GX-3R.

Wrist Strap
A wrist strap is included with the GX-3R and can be attached to the wrist strap installation feature
on the left side of the GX-3R’s case.

Single-Unit AC Charger
The charging cable is a 4 foot cable with an AC adapter on one end and a charging plug that
connects to the GX-3R on the other end.

Charging
Plug
AC Adapter

Figure 3: Charging Cable

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Chapter 2: Description • 17

 Calibration Cup
Use the calibration cup to apply gas during a bump test, calibration, or gas test. The calibration
cup has an installation orientation to observe. “Front” and “rear” imprinting on the bottom of the
cup correspond to the front and rear of the GX-3R when the calibration cup is installed. In
addition, a “front” label on the front of the calibration cup should be visible when viewing the
LCD with the calibration cup installed.

FRONT

Figure 4: Calibration Cup

Other Accessories
12 VDC Charger
The 12 VDC charger is a 4 foot cable with a vehicle plug on one end and plug that connects to the
GX-3R’s power jack on the other end.

Multi-Unit AC Charger
The multi-unit charger is a 4 foot wall plug style adapter that plugs into a bar. The bar has five 2-
foot cables coming out one side. The end of each of the five cables has a plug that connects to the
GX-3R’s power jack. The AC adapter is rated 100 - 240 VAC input, 5.99 VDC output.

18 • Chapter 2: Description GX-3R Operator’s Manual

 Belt Clip
A belt clip makes it easy to hook the GX-3R to a utility belt.

Belt Clip

Figure 5: Belt Clip

SDM-3R
The SDM-3R is a calibration station for the GX-3R and GX-3R Pro. The station’s buttons can be
used for operations (Standalone Mode) or a computer can be used to control the docking station
(PC Controlled Mode). See the appropriate SDM-3R manual for more information.

RP-3R
The RP-3R is a pump that draws sample to the GX-3R. See the RP-3R manual for more
information.

Aspirator Adapter
The aspirator adapter is a squeeze-bulb assembly that draws sample to the GX-3R.

IrDA Cable
Unless your computer has a built-in IrDA port, an IrDA cable is needed to establish
communication between the GX-3R and the Datalogging Program or the User Setup Program.

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Chapter 2: Description • 19

Chapter 3: Operation

Overview
This chapter explains how to use the GX-3R to perform confined space entry monitoring or
general area monitoring in Measuring Mode.

Start Up
This section explains how to start up the GX-3R, get it ready for operation, and turn it off.

WARNING: A thin protective film covers the display to prevent scratches during shipping.
Remove this film before use. Leaving the film installed voids the intrinsically safe
certification.

NOTE: The screens illustrated in this section are for a standard 4-gas unit. The screens
displayed by your GX-3R may be slightly different.

Turning On the GX-3R

To illustrate certain functions, the following description of the GX-3R start up sequence assumes
that the following menu items in User Mode are turned on: LUNCH, CAL RMDR, and
BUMP.RMDR in User Mode, and ID DISP and AUTOZERO in Maintenance Mode. If any of
these items are turned off, then the corresponding screens will not appear.
1. Press and briefly hold down POWER MODE. Confirm that the LCD turns on, the LEDs flash,
the buzzer sounds, and the motor vibrates before continuing with operation. Release the
POWER MODE button when you hear a beep.
2. If LUNCH is set to ON (factory setting if OFF, see “Updating the Lunch Break Setting
(LUNCH)” on page 84), the Lunch Break Screen appears. The unit counts down from 5
seconds.
7:49

5
SEC
RESUME
a. Continue Accumulating: To continue accumulating peak and time-weighted average
(TWA) readings from the last time the GX-3R was used, press and release POWER
MODE or allow the countdown to reach 0. The short-term exposure limit (STEL) reading
is reset each time the GX-3R is turned on.
b. Reset Accumulation: To reset the accumulation of peak and time-weighted average
(TWA) readings, press and release AIR before the countdown reaches 0.

20 • Chapter 3: Operation GX-3R Operator’s Manual

 3. If CAL RMDR is set to ON (factory setting) and a calibration is due, the screen that appears
next depends on how CAL EXPD is set in User Mode (see “CAL EXPD” on page 75). The
three possible screens are described below. If a calibration is not due, the instrument shows
how many days are left until a calibration is due.

CAL EXPD set to CAL EXPD set to CAL EXPD set to

CONFIRM (factory setting) CANT USE NONE

LCD
7:49 7:49 7:49

CAL FAIL
0d
CAL--LMT CAL--LMT NEXT CAL

Sound Buzzer sounds double pulsing Buzzer sounds double pulsing None
tone tone

Action • Option A, Perform • The GX-3R cannot be used • Option A, Perform

calibration: Press and release until a successful calibration calibration: To perform a
POWER MODE to perform a is performed. Press and calibration, press and release
calibration. The instrument release POWER MODE to POWER MODE. The
takes you straight to the perform a calibration. The instrument takes you straight
AUTO CAL CYL A screen in instrument takes you straight to the AUTO CAL CYL A
User Mode’s GAS to the AUTO CAL CYL A screen in User Mode’s GAS
CAL\AUTO CAL item. If screen in User Mode’s GAS CAL\AUTO CAL item. If
Password Protection is set to CAL\AUTO CAL item. If Password Protection is set
On using the SDM-3R PC Password Protection is set to On using the SDM-3R PC
program, you must enter a to On using the SDM-3R PC program, you must enter a
password. See page 62 for program, you must enter a password.
calibration instructions. password. If you don’t press • Option B, Bypass message:
If the calibration is POWER MODE, the To continue without
successful, the screen above instrument automatically performing a calibration,
will not appear again until the goes to the AUTO CAL CYL wait a few seconds for the
unit is due for calibration. If A screen after 6 seconds. If instrument to continue with
the calibration is not Password Protection is set its startup sequence.
successful, the screen above to On using the SDM-3R PC
will again appear in the program, you must enter a
startup sequence. password. See page 62 for
calibration instructions.
• Option B, Bypass message:
To continue without If the calibration is
performing a calibration, successful, the screen above
press and release AIR. will not appear again until
the unit is due for calibration.
If the calibration is not
successful, the screen above
will again appear in the
startup sequence.

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Chapter 3: Operation • 21

 4. If BUMP.RMDR is set to ON (factory setting is OFF) and a bump test is due, the screen that
appears next depends on how BUMP.EXPD is set in User Mode (see “BUMP.EXPD” on
page 80). The three possible screens are described below. If a bump test is not due, the
instrument shows how many days are left until a bump test is due.

BUMP.EXPD set to BUMP.EXPD set to BUMP.EXPD set to

CONFIRM (factory setting) CANT USE NONE

LCD
7:49 7:49 7:49

CAL FAIL
0d
BUMP--LMT BUMP--LMT NEXT BP

Sound Buzzer sounds double pulsing Buzzer sounds double pulsing None
tone tone

Action • Option A, Perform bump The GX-3R cannot be used • Option A, Perform bump
test: Press and release until a successful bump test has test: To perform a bump test,
POWER MODE to perform been performed. Press and press and release POWER
a bump test. The instrument release POWER MODE to per- MODE. The instrument
takes you straight to the form a bump test. The instru- takes you straight to the
BUMP CYL A screen in ment takes you straight to the BUMP CYL A screen in
User Mode’s BUMP item. If BUMP CYL A screen in User User Mode’s BUMP item. If
Password Protection is set Mode’s BUMP item. If Password Protection is set
to On using the SDM-3R PC Password Protection is set to to On using the SDM-3R PC
program, you must enter a On using the SDM-3R PC pro- program, you must enter a
password. See page 55 for gram, you must enter a pass- password.
bump test instructions. word. If you don’t press • Option B, Bypass message:
If the bump test is POWER MODE, the instru- To continue without
successful, the screen above ment automatically goes to the performing a bump test, wait
will not appear again until BUMP CYL A screen after 6 a few seconds for the
the unit is due for bump seconds. If Password Protec- instrument to continue with
testing. If the bump test is tion is set to On using the its startup sequence.
not successful, the screen SDM-3R PC program, you
above will again appear in must enter a password. See
the startup sequence. page 55 for bump test instruc-
• Option B, Bypass message: tions.
To continue without If the bump test is successful,
performing a bump test, the screen above will not
press and release AIR. appear again until the unit is
due for bump testing. If the
bump test is not successful, the
screen above will again appear
in the startup sequence.

22 • Chapter 3: Operation GX-3R Operator’s Manual

 5. The Date/Time Screen appears for a few seconds.
7:49

18 - 12.22
7:49

6. The Battery Voltage Screen appears for a few seconds.

An “AL-L” at the bottom of the screen indicates that the alarms are set to latching. An
“AL-A” at the bottom of the screen indicates that the alarms are set to auto reset. See page
118 for a description of how to change this parameter.
7:49

bAtt
3.8
AL - L V
7. The combustible gas sensor contains 2 separate sensors: a standard catalytic sensor and a
backup, poison-resistant sensor that is resistant to sensor poisons like silicone. An HC Gas
List alarm indicates that the standard sensor has a reduced output, possibly due to one or more
sensor poisons in the environment, and that the poison-resistant sensor is being used to
provide gas readings. The poison-resistant sensor has a limited list of detectable gases. See
Table 10 on page 43 for which gases can and cannot be detected during an HC Gas List
condition.
Depending on the version, one of the following screens appears, the LEDs flash, and the
instrument beeps.
Press and release POWER MODE to confirm the HC Gas List screen and continue to the
Gas Name Screen. If POWER MODE is not pressed after 5 seconds, the GX-3R will
automatically proceed to the next screen.

7:49 7:49

rEAd GAS HC
LISt In GAS LIST
MANUAL LIMITED
ROM versions 07253 or newer ROM versions 07104 or older

NOTE: If your application requires detection of a gas still detectable after an HC

Gas List condition (like methane or isobutane), there is no need to replace
the combustible gas sensor.

However, if your application requires detection of a gas not detectable after

an HC Gas List condition (like methanol or ethanol), you must replace the
combustible gas sensor as soon as possible.

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Chapter 3: Operation • 23

 8. The following screens display for 3 seconds each: the Gas Name Screen, the Full Scale
Screen, the Warning Setpoint Screen, the Alarm Setpoint Screen, the Alarm H Setpoint
Screen, the STEL Alarm Screen, and TWA Alarm Screen.

NOTE: If the combustible gas is set to something other than CH4 or H2 in Gas
Select Mode, the combustible channel is displayed as “HC” and the gas
formula for the combustible gas sensor’s target gas appears during startup.

7:49
CH4 %LEL O2 %

25 18.0
CO ppm H2S ppm
7:49
%LEL %
50 30.0
CH4 O2 ALARM
ppm ppm

CO H2S
7:49
CH4 %LEL O2 %

50 23.5
CO ppm H2S ppm

CH4
7:49
%LEL O2 %
1200 100.0
100 40.0 ALARM H
CO ppm H2S ppm

2000 200.0
7:49
F.S.

CO ppm H2S ppm

CH4
7:49
%LEL O2 %
200 5.0
10 19.5 STEL
CO ppm H2S ppm

25 5.0 7:49
WARNING
CO ppm H2S ppm

25 1.0
TWA

24 • Chapter 3: Operation GX-3R Operator’s Manual

 9. If ID DISP is set to ON (factory setting is OFF, see page 119), the User ID Screen appears for
a few seconds, followed by the Station ID Screen.
7:49 7:49

USEr Id Stn Id

U_ID_001 S_ID_001
10. If the GX-3R experiences a sensor failure during start up, the display shows which sensor
failed and the buzzer sounds a double pulsing tone once per second. In the example below, the
combustible gas sensor failed.
7:49
CH4 %LEL

FAIL

SENSOR
Press and release POWER MODE to acknowledge the failure and continue. “- - - -”
replaces the failed sensor’s gas reading. Replace the failed sensor as soon as possible.
11. If AUTOZERO is set to ON (factory setting is OFF, see page 119), the instrument prompts
you to do an auto zero. An auto zero operation sets the combustible gas, H2S, and CO
channels to zero and the OXY channel to 20.9%.

7:49 7:49 7:49

AUTOZERO YES / MODE NO / AIR

WARNING: Make sure that the instrument is in a known fresh air environment (an
environment free of combustible or toxic gases and of normal oxygen
content, 20.9%) before performing an auto zero operation. If you perform an
auto zero operation in an area with gases present, the adjustment will not be
accurate.

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Chapter 3: Operation • 25

 You must press and release the POWER MODE button to perform an auto zero function. If
you do not press any key, after 15 seconds, the instrument enters Measuring Mode without
performing an auto zero.
If Password Protection is turned On (factory setting is Off) using the SDM-3R PC
program, a user-set password is required to perform an auto zero. When the password
screen appears, adjust each digit with the AIR button and press and release the POWER
MODE button to move on to the next digit. Once the password is entered, the instrument
performs the auto zero.
7:49

0000

PASSWORD

12. At the end of the 45 second warmup, the GX-3R begins monitoring for gas in Measuring
Mode. The Measuring Mode Screen displays the current gas reading for each target gas.
7:49
CH4 %LEL O2 %

0 20.9
CO ppm H2S ppm

0 0.0

Performing a Demand Zero

Perform a demand zero before using the GX-3R. This sets the combustible gas, H2S, and CO
channels to zero and the OXY channel to 20.9%.
1. Find a fresh-air environment. This is an environment free of toxic or combustible gases and of
normal oxygen content (20.9%).
2. Turn on the unit as described above in Turning On the GX-3R.
3. Press and hold AIR. The LCD prompts you to continue holding AIR and the buzzer pulses
while you hold the button (if KEY TONE is set to ON in User Mode).
4. Continue to hold AIR until the LCD prompts you to release it. The GX-3R sets the fresh air
reading for all channels. Start up is complete and the unit is now ready for monitoring.

26 • Chapter 3: Operation GX-3R Operator’s Manual

 5. If Password Protection is turned On (factory setting is Off) using the SDM-3R PC program,
a user-set password is required to perform a demand zero. When the password screen appears,
adjust each digit with the AIR button and press and release the POWER MODE button to
move on to the next digit. Once the password is entered, the instrument performs the demand
zero.
7:49

0000

PASSWORD

Turning Off the GX-3R

1. Press and hold POWER MODE.
2. TURN OFF appears on the display and the buzzer pulses for about five seconds (if KEY
TONE is set to ON in User Mode).
3. Release the button when TURN OFF disappears from the display.
4. If Password Protection is turned On (factory setting is Off) using the SDM-3R PC program,
a user-set password is required to turn off the GX-3R. When the password screen appears,
adjust each digit with the AIR button and press and release the POWER MODE button to
move on to the next digit. Once the password is entered, the instrument shuts off.
7:49

0000

PASSWORD

5. If you plan to leave the instrument off for an extended period of time, see page 106.

Measuring Mode Operation

When the GX-3R completes its startup sequence, it is in Measuring Mode. In Measuring Mode
the GX-3R continuously monitors the sampled atmosphere and displays the target gas
concentrations. The GX-3R is considered to be in Normal Operation if there are no alarm
indications.
S 7:49
CH4 LEL O2 %

0 20.9
CO ppm H2S ppm

0 0.0

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Chapter 3: Operation • 27

 Heart Symbol: The heart symbol in the upper left corner of the LCD indicates the operation status
and blinks when normal. A microprocessor error causes the heart symbol to stop flashing or to
disappear.
Check Mark: If BUMP.RMDR is set to ON and if a bump test is not due, a check mark appears in
the upper left corner of the LCD.
“S”: If the instrument is operating in Stealth Mode, an “S” appears at the top of the LCD.
Backlight: In a low-light environment, press and release either button to turn on the display
backlight. See page 87 to program backlight duration.
Confirmation/Non-Compliance Indicator: If the BEEP menu item in User Mode is set to anything
other than OFF, the GX-3R gives periodic indications to confirm that it’s operating or to indicate
a non-compliance (page 85).

Monitoring an Area
1. Start up the GX-3R as described above in “Start Up” on page 20. It is now in Measuring
Mode.
7:49
CH4 %LEL O2 %

0 20.9
CO ppm H2S ppm

0 0.0

2. Take the GX-3R to the monitoring area.

3. Wait at least 15 seconds and observe the display for gas readings. If a reading is observed,
allow the reading to stabilize to determine the gas concentrations present.
If you are sampling with an aspirator adapter, see page 31.
4. If a gas alarm occurs, take appropriate action. See page 35.
5. Do not expose the GX-3R to rain.
6. The GX-3R’s IP 66/68 ratings do not imply that the GX-3R will detect gas during and after
exposure to those conditions. If exposure occurs, dry the instrument with a cloth and perform
a bump test as described on page 55.
7. If the GX-3R gets exposed to flammable liquids:
a. Wipe the instrument off with a cloth dampened with water.
b. Replace the filters as described on page 96 and page 98 if they become saturated.
c. Perform a bump test as described on page 55.
8. If you suspect that the GX-3R is not operating correctly:
a. Take the GX-3R to a fresh air environment and perform a demand zero as described on
page 26.
b. Perform a bump test as described on page 55.

28 • Chapter 3: Operation GX-3R Operator’s Manual

 Combustible Gas Detection
There are three issues to keep in mind when monitoring for combustible gas.
Response
The combustible gas sensor responds to any combustible gas. The standard calibrated target gas
for the combustible gas channel is methane (CH4). If the instrument is setup for and calibrated to
a different combustible gas, such as hexane or propane, the gas name right above the readings
displays as “HC”.
• Automatic Conversion
The GX-3R can automatically display converted target gas readings if the instrument’s
calibrated target gas is methane or isobutane. See “Combustible Sensor Target Gas
Conversion (LIST)” on page 43.
• Manual Conversion
You can manually calculate a converted target gas reading using Table 4 if the instrument’s
calibrated target gas is methane. The table lists the conversion factors for several
hydrocarbon gases if the GX-3R is calibrated to methane.
To use this table, multiply the display reading on the combustible gas channel by the factor
in the appropriate row to obtain the actual gas concentration. For example, if you are
detecting ethylene and the display reads 10% LEL for the combustible gas channel, you
actually have 10% LEL x 0.83 = 8.3% LEL ethylene present.
Table 4: LEL Hydrocarbon Conversion Factors

LEL Conversion LEL Conversion

Gas Gas
Factor (from CH4 Cal.) Factor (from CH4 Cal.)
Acetone 2.22 IPA 1.64

Acetylene 1.43 Isobutane 1.10

Benzene 2.50 MEK 2.63

Butadiene 1.52 Methane 1.00

Cyclopentane 1.45 Methanol 1.82

DME 1.16 MIBK 4.00

Ethane 0.94 MMA 3.33

Ethanol 1.96 Nonane 9.09

Ethyl Acetate 2.86 Propane 1.12

Ethylene 0.83 Propylene 0.97

Heptane 3.13 THF 2.33

Hexane 1.89 Toluene 4.55

Hydrogen 0.95 Xylene 7.69

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Chapter 3: Operation • 29

 Overscale Protection
The GX-3R protects the combustible gas sensor by temporarily turning off the sensor power if
levels exceeding 100% LEL are detected. Nevertheless, combustible gas concentrations above
100% LEL can still affect the zero level or calibration of the combustible gas sensor.

CAUTION: Do not expose the combustible gas sensor to high concentrations of combustible
gas such as that from a butane lighter. Exposure to high concentrations of
combustible gas may adversely affect the performance of the sensor.

CAUTION: Any rapid increase in the combustible gas reading on the combustible gas channel
followed by a declining or erratic reading may indicate a gas concentration above
the LEL which may be hazardous.

Damaging Gases
Some gases such as silicone vapors, chlorinated hydrocarbons, and sulphur compounds can
contaminate the sensor’s detection elements. This causes sensor damage and/or a reduced
response to combustible gas. Make every effort to avoid these gases.
The H2S scrubber disks protect the combustible sensor from H2S, but you should avoid other
sulphur compounds.
HC Gas List Alarm
An HC Gas List alarm can occur at startup or after a calibration.
The combustible gas sensor actually contains 2 separate sensors: a standard catalytic sensor and a
backup, poison-resistant sensor that is resistant to sensor poisons like silicone. An HC Gas List
alarm indicates that the standard sensor has a reduced output, possibly due to one or more sensor
poisons in the environment, and that the poison-resistant sensor is being used to provide gas
readings. The poison-resistant sensor has a limited list of detectable gases. The table shown on
page 43 shows which gases can and cannot be detected after receiving an HC Gas List alarm.
If your application requires detection of a gas still detectable after an HC Gas List condition (like
methane or isobutane), there is no need to replace the combustible gas sensor.
However, if your application requires detection of a gas not detectable after an HC Gas List
condition (like methanol or ethanol), you must replace the combustible gas sensor as soon as
possible.

Oxygen-Enriched Atmospheres
The GX-3R is not intended for use in oxygen-enriched atmospheres.

WARNING: Do not use the GX-3R in an environment whose oxygen concentration is above
21%.

30 • Chapter 3: Operation GX-3R Operator’s Manual

 H2-Compensated CO Detection
• GX-3R displays CO readings.
• H2 reading is not displayed but “H2 RICH” appears once H2 concentration rises above
2000 ppm.

Interference Information
Some gases interfere with CO and H2S sensors. For a complete list of these gases, see page 134.

Aspirator Adapter Sampling

The aspirator adapter accessory is used when it is necessary to draw sample from an area that
cannot be entered or that must be checked for safety before entry, such as a tank or confined
space.

NOTE: The CSA combustible performance certification for the GX-3R does not include the
aspirator adapter.
PO W E R
MO DE

FRONT
O2
LE L
G X-3 R

CO /H 2S
A IR

Aspirator Bulb
Sample Cup

Hose

Probe

Figure 6: GX-3R Aspirator Adapter

1. Turn on the GX-3R as described on page 20.

2. Attach the sample cup to the GX-3R. Use the label and imprinting to make sure that the
sample cup gets installed in the correct orientation relative to the GX-3R. Be sure the sample
cup is pushed on all the way.

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Chapter 3: Operation • 31

 3. Screw the probe onto the threaded end of the hose.
4. Attached the hose and probe to the aspirator bulb.
5. Insert the end of the probe into the area to be sampled.
6. Squeeze and release the aspirator bulb 15 times.
7. Monitor the readings and note if any alarms occur. The readings will peak shortly after the last
squeeze and may decrease before all the channels can be checked. Use the Peak screen in
Display Mode to see the maximum readings for each channel (see page 41).

NOTE: The peak readings for each channel are saved until a higher peak is recorded,
the peak readings are reset, or the instrument is turned off. If a gas is present
but the level does not exceed the previous peak level, the previous peak will
be displayed on the Peak Screen.

Alarms
This section covers alarm indications in Measuring Mode. It also describes responding to and
resetting an alarm condition.

NOTE: False alarms may be caused by radio frequency (RF) or electromagnetic (EMI)
interference. Keep the GX-3R away from RF and EMI sources such as radio
transmitters or large motors.

Alarm Indications
The GX-3R buzzer sounds an alarm, the LEDs flash, and the vibrator pulses when any sort of
alarm condition or failure occurs. If the GX-3R is operating in Stealth Mode, the buzzer does not
sound and the vibrator’s operation depend on the VIB setting in Gas Select Mode’s STEALTH
menu item. See page 130 for more information.

NOTE: If an alarm condition occurs while you are in Display Mode, the GX-3R automatically
returns to the Measuring Mode screen.

Table 5 summarizes the types of alarms produced by the GX-3R and their indications.
Table 5: Alarm Types and Indications

Alarm Type Visual Indications Other Indications

Warning • Affected channel’s gas reading, gas • High-low tone sounding
Concentration of gas rises name, and units flash once per second
above the Warning setting or • WARNING appears at the bottom of • Vibrator pulses once per
falls below the Warning set- the LCD second
ting for O2. • Alarm LEDs flash in circle sequence
once per second
• Backlight turns on

32 • Chapter 3: Operation GX-3R Operator’s Manual

 Table 5: Alarm Types and Indications

Alarm Type Visual Indications Other Indications

Alarm • Affected channel’s gas reading, gas • High-low tone sounding
Concentration of gas rises name, and units flash twice per second
above the Alarm setting or • ALARM appears at the bottom of • Vibrator pulses twice
falls below the Alarm setting the LCD per second
for O2. • Alarm LEDs flash in circle sequence
twice per second
• Backlight turns on

Alarm H • Affected channel’s gas reading, gas • High-low tone sounding

Concentration of gas rises name, and units flash twice per second
above the Alarm H setting. • ALARM H appears at the bottom of • Vibrator pulses twice
the LCD per second
• Alarm LEDs flash in circle sequence
twice per second
• Backlight turns on

TWA or STEL • Affected channel’s gas reading, gas • High-low tone sounding
Concentration of CO or H2S name, and units flash once per second
rises above the TWA or • TWA or STEL appears at the bottom • Vibrator pulses once per
STEL alarm setting. of the LCD second
• Alarm LEDs flash in circle sequence
once per second
• Backlight turns on

H2 RICH (for GX-3Rs with • H2 and rich alternate in the lower • High-low tone sounding
H2-compensated CO sensor) right corner twice per second
Concentration of hydrogen • OVER appears at the bottom of the • Vibrator pulses twice
rises above 2000 ppm (parts LCD per second
per million). • Alarm LEDs flash twice per second
• Backlight turns on

Over Range • Affected channel’s gas reading is • High-low tone sounding

replaced with a flashing twice per second
• Gas name and units flash • Vibrator pulses twice
• OVER appears at the bottom of the per second
LCD
• Alarm LEDs flash in circle sequence
twice per second
• Backlight turns on

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Chapter 3: Operation • 33

 Table 5: Alarm Types and Indications

Alarm Type Visual Indications Other Indications

Minus Over Range • Affected channel’s gas reading is • High-low tone sounding
replaced with a flashing twice per second
• Gas name and units flash • Vibrator pulses twice
• M OVER appears at the bottom of per second
the LCD
• Alarm LEDs flash in circle sequence
twice per second
• Backlight turns on

Low Battery Warning • The last bar in the battery icon starts None
flashing

Dead Battery Alarm • Gas readings disappear. FAIL Double pulsing tone once
appears in the middle of the screen per second
and BATTERY appears at the
bottom of the screen.
• Alarm LEDs flash once per second

Sensor Failure • SENSOR appears at the bottom of Double pulsing tone once
the screen and the failed sensor(s) are per second
indicated with FAIL under the gas
name.
• Alarm LEDs flash once per second

HC Gas List • For GX-3Rs with ROM version Double pulsing tone once
07104 or older, HC GAS LIST per second
LIMITED appears on the screen.
• For GX-3Rs with ROM version
07253 or newer, READ GAS LIST
IN MANUAL appears on the screen.
• Alarm LEDs flash once per second

Clock Failure • FAIL appears in the middle of the Double pulsing tone once
screen and CLOCK appears at the per second
bottom of the screen.
• Alarm LEDs flash once per second

System Failure • FAIL SYSTEM appears at the Double pulsing tone once
bottom of the screen and an error per second
code displays in the middle
• Alarm LEDs flash once per second

34 • Chapter 3: Operation GX-3R Operator’s Manual

 Responding to Alarms
This section describes response to gas, over range, battery, sensor failure, HC Gas List, clock
failure, and system failure alarms.
Responding to Gas Alarms
1. Determine which gas alarm has been activated.
2. Follow your established procedure for an increasing gas condition or a decreasing oxygen
condition.
3. Reset the alarm as necessary or allowed (buzzer silence is available for instruments with
ROM 07104 or newer).
Buzzer Silence
Buzzer silence is available for instruments with ROM version 07104 or newer.
This feature can be turned on or off using the SDM-3R PC Controller program or the GX-3R
Datalogging Program.
Table 6 summarizes resetting and silencing alarms for all LATCHING and SILENCE setting
combinations.
Table 6: Resetting and Silencing Alarms

LATCHING: ON (factory setting) LATCHING: OFF

• Press and release the POWER • Press and release the POWER MODE
MODE or AIR buttons to silence the or AIR buttons to silence the buzzer.
buzzer. • The POWER MODE or AIR buttons
• If the gas concentration was still will not reset the alarm.
above the alarm level when the • The alarm, LEDs, and vibrator will
button was pressed, the LED arrays automatically reset when gas reading
continue to flash, the vibrator falls below (or rises above for an
continues to pulse, and the GX-3R oxygen low alarm) an alarm setpoint.
continues to display the current
alarm level.
BUZZER • The gas reading must fall below (or
SILENCE: rise above for an oxygen low alarm)
ON an alarm setting before you can reset
the alarm, the LEDs, and the
vibrator using the POWER MODE
or AIR buttons.
NOTE: If Password Protection is ON
(factory setting: OFF) using the
SDM-3R PC program, you must press
POWER MODE and AIR
simultaneously and then enter the
user-set password to reset an alarm
condition.

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Chapter 3: Operation • 35

 Table 6: Resetting and Silencing Alarms

• Pressing POWER MODE or AIR • Pressing POWER MODE or AIR will

BUZZER will not silence buzzer. not silence buzzer.
SILENCE: • The gas reading must fall below (or • The alarm condition will
OFF rise above for an oxygen low alarm) automatically reset when the gas
(factory an alarm setting before you can reset reading falls below (or rises above for
setting) the alarm condition using the an oxygen low alarm) an alarm
POWER MODE or AIR buttons. setpoint.

Responding to an H2 RICH Alarm (H2-Compensated CO Sensor Only)

The H2 RICH alarm automatically clears once the hydrogen level decreases below 2000 ppm
(parts per million).
Responding to Over Range Alarms

WARNING: An over range condition may indicate an extreme combustible gas, toxic gas, or
oxygen concentration. Confirm the gas concentration with a different GX-3R or
with another gas detecting device.

CAUTION: High off-scale readings may indicate an explosive concentration.

PRUDENCE: Des lectures élevées hors échelle peuvent indiquer une concentration explosive.

1. Determine which channel is in alarm.

2. Follow your established procedure for an extreme gas condition.
3. If LATCHING is set to ON (factory setting) in Maintenance Mode, reset the alarm using
POWER MODE or AIR once the alarm condition clears.
If Password Protection is turned On (factory setting is Off) using the SDM-3R PC
program, you must press POWER MODE and AIR at the same time and then enter a user-
set password to reset an alarm condition. When the password screen appears, adjust each
digit with the AIR button and press and release the POWER MODE button to move on to
the next digit. Once the password is entered, the alarm condition resets.
7:49

0000

PASSWORD

4. Calibrate the GX-3R as described on page 50.

5. If the over range condition continues or if you are not able to successfully calibrate the unit,
you may need to replace the sensor that has triggered the over range alarm.

36 • Chapter 3: Operation GX-3R Operator’s Manual

 6. If the over range condition continues after you have replaced the sensor, contact RKI
Instruments, Inc. for further instructions.
Responding to Battery Alarms

WARNING: The GX-3R is not operational as a gas monitoring device during a dead battery
alarm. Take the Model GX-3R to a non-hazardous area and replace or recharge
the batteries as described in “Recharging the Batteries” on page 93.

The GX-3R is fully functional during a low battery warning. However, only 1-2 hours of
operating time remain. The amount of operating time left depends on LCD backlight use and the
alarm frequency. Recharge the battery as soon as possible as described in “Recharging the
Batteries” on page 93.

NOTE: Alarms and the LCD back light consume battery power and reduce the amount of
operating time remaining.

Responding to Sensor Failure Alarms

1. Determine which sensor triggered the sensor failure alarm.
2. Calibrate the failed sensor, as described on page 50.
3. If the sensor failure continues or if the sensor could not be calibrated, replace the sensor as
described on page 100.
4. If the sensor failure condition continues after you have replaced the sensor, contact RKI
Instruments, Inc. for further instructions.
Responding to an HC Gas List Alarm
An HC Gas List alarm can occur at startup or after a calibration.
1. Press and release POWER MODE to acknowledge the alarm.
The combustible gas sensor actually contains 2 separate sensors: a standard catalytic sensor and a
backup, poison-resistant sensor that is resistant to sensor poisons like silicone. An HC Gas List
alarm indicates that the standard sensor has a reduced output, possibly due to one or more sensor
poisons in the environment, and that the poison-resistant sensor is being used to provide gas
readings. The poison-resistant sensor has a limited list of detectable gases. Table 10 on page 43
shows which gases can and cannot be detected after receiving an HC Gas List alarm.
If your application requires detection of a gas still detectable after an HC Gas List condition (like
methane or isobutane), there is no need to replace the combustible gas sensor.
However, if your application requires detection of a gas not detectable after an HC Gas List
condition (like methanol or ethanol), you must replace the combustible gas sensor as soon as
possible.

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Chapter 3: Operation • 37

 Responding to Clock Failure Alarms
A clock failure alarm occurs if the unit’s internal clock malfunctions. A clock failure alarm might
also occur if the battery becomes too drained during storage. See page 106 for storage
information.
7:49

FAIL

CLOCK
1. Press and release POWER MODE to continue into Measuring Mode.
CAUTION: If you operate the instrument after a clock failure, data will still be
logged but the date/time will be incorrect. Set the date/time as described
on page 89 as soon as possible to ensure logged data uses the correct
date/time.

2. Attempt to set the date using the DATE menu item in User Mode. See page 89.
3. If the date cannot be set correctly, contact RKI Instruments, Inc. as soon as possible.
Responding to System Failure Alarms
1. If a system failure occurs, the system failure screen displays an error code as shown below:
7:49

FAIL
031
SYSTEM
2. The error code meanings are shown in Table 7:
Table 7: Error Code Explanation

Error Code Explanation

000 ROM failure

010 RAM failure

021 FRAM failure

031 FLASH memory failure

080 Acceleration sensor failure

081 PCB failure

082 Temperature sensor failure

38 • Chapter 3: Operation GX-3R Operator’s Manual

 3. If the error code is anything but 031 as shown above, the instrument cannot be used. Contact
RKI Instruments, Inc. as soon as possible.
If the error code is 031, you may press and release POWER MODE to continue into
Measuring Mode if the instrument must be used temporarily.
CAUTION: There will be no datalogging function if you operate the instrument after
a 031 system failure. Contact RKI Instruments, Inc. as soon as possible.

Data Logging
The GX-3R logs Measuring Mode gas readings, alarm data, and calibration data to its internal
memory. Logged data can be download it to a computer via the infrared communications port on
the front of the unit.
To utilize the GX-3R’s downloading capability, you will need the GX-3R Data Logger
Management Program and a computer with an infrared port or a USB port that runs one of the
following operating systems: Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 10, or Windows 11. If your
computer has an infrared port, then no additional accessories are needed to download data from
the GX-3R. If your computer does not have an infrared port but does have a USB port, a USB/
IrDA adapter cable can be used to download data from the GX-3R. The GX-3R Data Logger
Management Program is available at www.rkiinstruments.com/gx3r. The USB/IrDA adapter
cable is available from RKI Instruments, Inc.
The data logging capacity depends on how often the GX-3R stores data, how many channels are
active, and how often the GX-3R is turned on and off. Table 8 illustrates how much data logging
time is available for the various interval times. It assumes that the unit has three sensors, is only
turned on once, and there are no alarm occurrences. The data logging interval time must be set
using the GX-3R Data Logger Management Program.
Table 8: Data Logging Capacity

Data Logging
Interval Time
Time
10 seconds 10 hours

20 seconds 20 hours

30 seconds 30 hours

1 minute 60 hours

3 minutes 180 hours

5 minutes (factory setting) 300 hours

10 minutes 600 hours

For a complete description of the Data Logger Management Program and procedures for
downloading data to a computer, see the GX-3R Data Logger Management Program Operator’s
Manual.

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Chapter 3: Operation • 39

Chapter 4: Display Mode
This section describes Display Mode which is accessible from Measuring Mode. See Table 9 for a
list of Display Mode’s menu items, a short description of each item, and the page number for
further description.
Table 9: Display Mode Menu Items

Display Mode Menu

Description
Item
PEAK (page 41) Displays each sensor’s Peak reading.

STEL (page 42) Displays the STEL readings (CO and H2S only).

TWA (page 42) Displays the TWA readings (CO and H2S only).

LIST (page 43)A Change the target gas for the catalytic sensor.

• CH4 (methane) • C6H6 (benzene)

• i-C4H10 (isobutane) • n-C6H14 (hexane)
• H2 (hydrogen) • C7H8 (toluene)
• CH3OH (methanol) • n-C7H16 (heptane)
• C2H2 (acetylene) • C8H10 (xylene)
• C2H4 (ethylene) • n-C9H20 (nonane)
• C2H6 (ethane) • EtAc (ethyl acetate)
• C2H5OH (ethanol) • IPA (isopropyl alcohol)
• C3H6 (propylene) • MEK (methyl ethyl ketone)
• C3H6O (acetone) • MMA (methyl methacrylate)
• C3H8 (propane) • DME (dimethyl ether)
• C4H6 (butyne) • MIBK (methyl isobutyl ketone)
• C5H10 (cyclopentane) • THF (tetrahydrofuran)
USER ID (page 45)B View and/or change the User ID.

STN ID (page 46)B View and/or change the Station ID.

CAL DATA (page 47)C Displays each sensor’s last calibration date.

BUMP DATA (page 48)D Displays each sensor’s last bump test date.

TEMP (page 48) Displays the current date, time, and temperature.

ALARM--PT (page 49) View alarm points

A
Only appears if DISP SET is set to ON in User Mode (factory setting) and if CH4 or i-C4H10 is selected for the
combustible gas in Gas Select Mode.
B Only appears if DISP SET is set to ON in User Mode (factory setting) and if ID DISP is set to ON in Mainte-

nance Mode (factory setting is OFF).

C
Only appears if CAL RMDR is set to ON in User Mode (factory setting).
D Only appears if BUMP.RMDR is set to ON in User Mode (factory setting is OFF).

40 • Chapter 4: Display Mode GX-3R Operator’s Manual

Tips for Using Display Mode
• To enter Display Mode and scroll from one menu item to the next or skip an item when a
question is asked, press and release POWER MODE.
• To enter an item, press and release AIR.
• To change a flashing parameter, press and release AIR. To reverse the direction of movement
in a list (ie. from down to up or vice versa):
a. Press and hold AIR.
b. Immediately press POWER MODE and then release both buttons.
• To exit from an entered-information screen and go back to the main menu, press and release
POWER MODE.

NOTE: Each screen displays for 20 seconds. If you do not press a button within 20 seconds, the
GX-3R automatically returns to Measuring Mode.

Peak Screen (PEAK)

The peak screen displays the highest (lowest for oxygen) concentrations detected since the GX-
3R was turned on. Peak readings are stored in the GX-3R’s memory until a higher level is
detected (lower for oxygen), the peak reading is cleared, or the GX-3R is turned off.
The lunch break feature enables the GX-3R to save peak readings when it is turned off so it can
continue with the same peaks when it is turned on again. See page 84 for instructions to turn the
lunch break feature on (default is off).
To clear the peak readings, do the following:

NOTE: If Password Protection is set to On using the SDM-3R PC program, the peak reading
cannot be cleared.

1. After entering Display Mode, press and release POWER MODE until PEAK appears.
7:49
CH4 %LEL O2 %

24 17.3
CO ppm H2S ppm

135 37.5
PEAK

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Chapter 4: Display Mode • 41

 2. Press and hold AIR until the screen prompts you to release it.
7:49 7:49

CLEAr CLEAr

HOLD AIR RELEASE

3. The peak readings are reset and the unit returns to the Peak Screen.
If you do not want to clear the peak readings, release AIR before the above screen
sequence occurs. The unit returns to the Peak Screen.

STEL Screen (STEL)

The STEL Screen displays the short term exposure limit (STEL) readings for H2S and CO only.
The STEL reading is the average reading over the last 15 minutes.
7:49

CO ppm H2S ppm

10 2.0
STEL

TWA Screen (TWA)

The TWA Screen displays the time weighted average (TWA) readings for H2S and CO only.
7:49

CO ppm H2S ppm

5 0.5
TWA
The TWA reading is the average reading over the last 8 hours. If 8 hours have not elapsed since
the last time the TWA reading was cleared, the average is still calculated over 8 hours. The
missing readings are assigned a 0 value. If LUNCH is set to OFF (factory setting), the TWA is
cleared when the GX-3R is turned off.
If LUNCH is set to ON, the GX-3R remembers TWA readings when it is turned off so it can
continue them when it is turned on again. See page 84 for instructions to turn the lunch break
feature on (default is off).

42 • Chapter 4: Display Mode GX-3R Operator’s Manual

Combustible Sensor Target Gas Conversion (LIST)
NOTE: This screen only appears if DISP SET in User Mode is set to ON (factory setting) and if
the instrument’s calibrated target gas is CH4 or iC4H10 (select target gas in Gas Select
Mode’s GAS COMB item, calibrate with target gas in User Mode’s GAS CAL item).

The LIST screen allows you to select a converted target gas based on a CH4 or iC4H10
calibration. It does not change the calibrated target gas. You must go to Gas Select Mode’s GAS
COMB item to change the calibrated target gas.
Selecting a converted target gas in LIST (based on a CH4 or iC4H10 calibration) does not
provide the same reading accuracy as selecting a calibrated target gas in Gas Select Mode’s GAS
COMB item and calibrating with that target gas in User Mode.
Selecting a converted target gas in LIST does not mean that the combustible gas sensor will
respond only to that gas. The combustible gas sensor responds to a number of gases regardless of
the target gas selection.

NOTE: If H2 is selected as the target gas in LIST, the sensor will only respond to H2 and will
not respond to any other gas, regardless of the gas listings in Table 10.

If you select a new converted target gas, the change is saved after you turn the instrument off and
on.
Table 10: Available HC Gas Conversions

Available Converted
Target Gases Based on
Calibrated Target Gas Available
(Selected in Gas Select Converted Target
Gas
Mode) Gases During HC
Gas List Condition
CH4 i-C4H10
(methane) (isobutane)
CH4 (methane) - x O

i-C4H10 (isobutane) O - O

H2 (hydrogen) O O O

CH3OH (methanol) O O x

C2H2 (acetylene) O O O

C2H4 (ethylene) O O O

C2H6 (ethane) O x O

C2H5OH (ethanol) O O x

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Chapter 4: Display Mode • 43

 Table 10: Available HC Gas Conversions

Available Converted
Target Gases Based on
Calibrated Target Gas Available
(Selected in Gas Select Converted Target
Gas
Mode) Gases During HC
Gas List Condition
CH4 i-C4H10
(methane) (isobutane)
C3H6 (propylene) O O O

C3H6O (acetone) O O x

C3H8 (propane) O x O

C4H6 (butyne) O O O

C5H10 (cyclopentane) O O O

C6H6 (benzene) O O x

n-C6H14 (hexane) O O O

C7H8 (toluene) O O x

n-C7H16 (heptane) O O O

C8H10 (xylene) O O x

n-C9H20 (nonane) O O x

EtAc (ethyl acetate) O O x

IPA (isopropyl alcohol) O O x

MEK (methyl ethyl ketone) O O x

MMA (methyl methacrylate) O O x

DME (dimethyl ether) O O x

MIBK (methyl isobutyl ketone) O O x

THF (tetrahydrofuran) O O x

x = not available
O = available

44 • Chapter 4: Display Mode GX-3R Operator’s Manual

 1. After entering Display Mode, press and release POWER MODE until LIST appears.
7:49

HC GAS

LIST
2. Press and release AIR to enter the screen. The current gas flashes at the bottom of the screen.
7:49

HC GAS
SELECT
CH4
3. Use AIR to scroll through the list of gases.
4. When the desired gas is displayed, press and release POWER MODE. The changes are saved
and the instrument returns to the LIST screen.
5. The gas formula displays at the bottom of the Measuring Mode screen. The gas selection
remains selected if you turn the instrument off and on again.

Changing the User ID (USER ID)

This screen only appears if DISP SET in User Mode is set to ON (factory setting) and if ID DISP
in Maintenance Mode is set to ON (factory setting is OFF).
Use this screen to select a user ID from the 128 user IDs that are stored in the GX-3R’s memory.
Before a user ID is selected on a brand new instrument, the user ID is “----------”. The factory-
installed user IDs have a “U_ID_XXX” format.
The user ID provides a way to identify the GX-3R user during a data logging session.
User IDs can only be selected in this menu item. In order to edit the 128 user IDs, you must use
the GX-3R Datalogging Program.
1. After entering Display Mode, press and release POWER MODE until the USER ID screen
sequence appears.

7:49 7:49 7:49

USEr Id USEr Id USEr Id

U_ID_002 CHG / AIR NO / MODE

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Chapter 4: Display Mode • 45

 2. To change the User ID, press and release AIR. The current User ID flashes.
7:49

USEr Id

U_ID_002
3. Use AIR to scroll to the desired User ID.
4. Press and release POWER MODE to save the User ID and return to the USER ID screen in
Display Mode.

Changing the Station ID (STN ID)

This screen only appears if DISP.SET in User Mode is set to ON (factory setting) and if ID DISP
in Maintenance Mode is set to ON (factory setting is OFF).
Use this screen to select a station ID from the 128 station IDs that are stored in the
GX-3R’s memory. Before a station ID is selected on a brand new instrument, the station ID is “---
-------”. The factory-installed station IDs have a “S_ID_XXX” format.
The station ID provides a way to identify the GX-3R location during a data logging session.
Station IDs can only be selected in this menu item. In order to edit the 128 station IDs, you must
use the GX-3R Datalogging Program.
1. After entering Display Mode, press and release POWER MODE until the STN ID screen
sequence appears.

7:49 7:49 7:49

Stn Id Stn Id Stn Id

S_ID_002 CHG / AIR NO / MODE

2. To change the station ID, press and release AIR. The current Station ID flashes.
7:49

Stn Id

S_ID_002
3. Use AIR to scroll to the desired station ID.

46 • Chapter 4: Display Mode GX-3R Operator’s Manual

 4. Press and release POWER MODE to save the station ID and return to the STN ID screen in
Display Mode.

Last Successful Calibration Date (CAL DATA)

The CAL DATA screen shows the date of each installed sensor’s last successful calibration. This
screen only appears if CAL.RMDR is set to ON in User Mode.
1. After entering Display Mode, press and release POWER MODE until CAL DATA appears.
7:49

dISP

CAL DATA
2. Press AIR to enter the CAL DATA screen and to scroll through the installed sensors.

7:49 7:49
AIR
18- 12. 20 18- 12. 20
CH4 H2S
CAL DATA CAL DATA
AIR AIR

7:49 7:49

18- 12. 20 18- 12. 20

O2 CO
CAL DATA CAL DATA
AIR

3. When you are done viewing the last calibration date for the sensors, press and release
POWER MODE to return to the CAL DATA screen in Display Mode.

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Chapter 4: Display Mode • 47

Last Successful Bump Test Date (BUMP DATA)
The BUMP DATA screen shows the date of each installed sensor’s last successful bump test. This
screen only appears if BUMP.RMDR is set to ON.
1. After entering Display Mode, press and release POWER MODE until BUMP DATA appears.
7:49

dISP

BUMP DATA
2. Press AIR to enter the BUMP DATA screen and to scroll through the installed sensors.

7:49 7:49
AIR
18- 12. 20 18- 12. 20
CH4 H2S
BUMP DATA BUMP DATA
AIR AIR

7:49 7:49

18- 12. 20 18- 12. 20

O2 CO
BUMP DATA BUMP DATA
AIR

3. When you are done viewing the last bump test date for the sensors, press and release POWER
MODE to return to the BUMP DATA screen in Display Mode.

Date, Time, Temperature Screen (TEMP)

The TEMP screen shows the instrument’s date and time and the surrounding area’s temperature.
7:49

18- 12. 26
7:49
22°C

48 • Chapter 4: Display Mode GX-3R Operator’s Manual

Alarm Points Screen (ALARM--PT)
The Alarm Points Screen shows the gas alarm settings for all active channels.
1. After entering Display Mode, press and release POWER MODE until ALARM--PT appears.
7:49

dISP

ALARM--PT
2. Press and release AIR. The Full Scale Settings screen appears and shows full scale settings for
each channel.
3. Use AIR to scroll through the Warning, Alarm, Alarm H, STEL, and TWA settings.

7:49 7:49
CH4 %LEL O2 %
AIR CH4 %LEL O2 %

100 40.0 50 23.5

CO ppm H2S ppm CO ppm H2S ppm

2000 200.0 1200 100.0

F.S. ALARM H
AIR AIR

7:49 7:49
CH4 %LEL O2 %

10 19.5
CO ppm H2S ppm CO ppm H2S ppm

25 5.0 200 5.0

WARNING STEL
AIR AIR

7:49 7:49
CH4 %LEL O2 %

25 18.0
CO ppm H2S ppm CO ppm H2S ppm

50 30.0 25 1.0
ALARM TWA
AIR

4. While viewing the alarm settings for a particular alarm point, press and release AIR and
POWER MODE at the same time to simulate the alarm conditions. The buzzer will sound, the
LEDs will flash, and the instrument will vibrate just as it would if the displayed condition was
actually happening.
5. Press and release POWER MODE to return to the Alarm Points Screen.

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Chapter 4: Display Mode • 49

Chapter 5: User Mode and Calibration

Overview
This section describes the GX-3R in User Mode. See Table 11 for a list of the items found in User
Mode, the page that the menu item’s instructions can be found on, and a short description of the
menu item.
Table 11: User Mode Menu Items

User Mode
Description
Menu Item
BUMP (page 55) Perform a bump test.

BUMP Perform a bump test on the gases selected for Cylinder X

CYL X (A-E cylinders available)

START Begin the warmup sequence and enter Measuring Mode.

ESCAPE Return to the BUMP menu item.

GAS CAL (page 62) Perform a fresh air adjustment, perform a span adjustment, change the calibration gas
concentration, set the cylinder group.

AIR CAL Perform a fresh air adjustment.

(page 62)

AUTO CAL AUTO Perform an automatic span adjustment on the gases

(page 63) CAL CYL selected for Cylinder X (A-E cylinders available).
X

START Begin the warmup sequence and enter Measuring

Mode.

CAL-P Set the calibration gas concentration for each gas.

CYL SEL Assign a cylinder (A-E) to each gas (all 4 gases set
to Cylinder A is the default). For single cal opera-
tion, you would assign each gas its own cylinder.

ESCAPE Return to the AUTO CAL menu item.

ESCAPE Return to the GAS CAL menu item.

50 • Chapter 5: User Mode and Calibration GX-3R Operator’s Manual

 Table 11: User Mode Menu Items

User Mode
Description
Menu Item
CAL SET (page 74) Change calibration parameters.

CAL RMDR ON (factory setting): The instrument notifies the user upon startup
(page 74) when a calibration is due. Notification type depends on CAL
EXPD setting below.
OFF: No notification upon startup when a calibration is due.

CAL INT How often the instrument needs to be calibrated.

(page 75) Options: 1 - 1000 days (factory setting is 90 days)

CAL EXPD Defines what action must be taken if a calibration is due upon
(page 75) startup.
CONFIRM (factory setting): Press and release AIR to acknowl-
edge that calibration is due and continue to Measuring Mode.
CANT USE: Cannot enter Measuring Mode until a successful cal-
ibration is performed.
NONE: A screen indicates that calibration is due but warmup
sequence continues.

ESCAPE Return to the CAL SET menu item in User Mode.

BUMP SET (page 76) Change bump test parameters.

SETTINGS GAS How long gas is applied during a bump test.

(page 77) TIME Choices: 30 (factory setting), 45, 60, 90 seconds

CHECK Percentage of calibration gas concentration that the

bump test reading must be within in order to pass
bump.
Options: 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50% (factory set-
ting)

CAL How long gas is applied during a calibration. GAS

TIME TIME is deducted from this time.
Options: 90 (factory setting) or 120 seconds

AUTO ON (factory setting): If a bump test fails, a calibra-

CAL tion automatically starts.
OFF: If a bump test fails, a calibration does not
automatically start.

ESCAPE Return to the SETTINGS menu item in BUMP

SET.

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Chapter 5: User Mode and Calibration • 51

 Table 11: User Mode Menu Items

User Mode
Description
Menu Item
BUMP SET (page 76) BUMP.RMDR ON: The instrument notifies the user upon startup when a bump
(cont’d) (page 79) test is due. Notification type depends on BUMP.EXPD setting
below.
OFF (factory setting): No notification upon startup when a bump
test is due.

BUMP INT How often the instrument needs to be bump tested.

(page 79) Options: 0 - 30 days (factory setting is 30 days)

BUMP.EXPD Defines what action must be taken if a bump test is due upon
(page 80) startup.
CONFIRM (factory setting): Press and release AIR to acknowl-
edge that bump test is due and continue to Measuring Mode.
CANT USE: Cannot enter Measuring Mode until a successful
bump test is performed.
NONE: A screen indicates that bump test is due but warmup
sequence continues.

ESCAPE Return to the BUMP SET menu item in User Mode.

ALARM-PT (page 81) Set alarm points for all channels (WARNING, ALARM, ALARM H, STEL, TWA) or
reset all alarms to their default settings.

LUNCH (page 84) ON: Lunch break feature is on. Instrument asks if you want to resume TWA and
PEAK readings at startup.
OFF (factory setting): Lunch break feature is off. Instrument resets TWA and PEAK
readings every time it’s turned on.

BEEP (page 85) Set confirmation beep parameters.

BEEP SEL LED: LEDs flash and instrument vibrates based on interval
(page 85) defined in BEEP INT to confirm instrument is still operating.
BUZZER: Buzzer sounds and instrument vibrates based on inter-
val defined in BEEP INT to confirm instrument is still operating.
LED+BUZZ: LEDs flash, buzzer sounds, and instrument vibrates
based on interval defined in BEEP INT to confirm instrument is
still operating.
BUMP/CAL: LEDs flash based on interval defined in BEEP INT
if bump test or calibration is due.
ALM ALRT: LEDs flash based on interval defined in BEEP INT
if instrument goes into a gas alarm.
B/C/ALM: LEDs flash based on interval defined in BEEP INT if
a) bump test is due, b) calibration is due, or c) instrument goes into
a gas alarm.
OFF (factory setting): No alerts to confirm instrument is still oper-
ating or that a bump test or calibration is due.

52 • Chapter 5: User Mode and Calibration GX-3R Operator’s Manual

 Table 11: User Mode Menu Items

User Mode
Description
Menu Item
BEEP (page 85) BEEP INT Confirmation alert interval. Confirmation type defined in BEEP
(cont’d) (page 86) SEL.
Options: 0.5 minute and 1 to 99 minutes in 1 minute increments.
The factory setting is 5 minutes.

ESCAPE Return to the BEEP menu item in User Mode.

BL TIME (page 87) How long the back light stays on after the last button press.
Options: 0 - 255 seconds or OFF. The factory setting is 30 seconds.

KEY TONE (page 87) ON (factory setting): Buzzer sounds when button is pressed.
OFF: Buzzer does not sound when button is pressed.

DISP SET (page 88) OFF: LIST, USER ID, and STN ID screens do not appear in Display Mode.
ON (factory setting): LIST item appears in Display Mode. USER ID and STN ID
screens appear if ID DISP in Maintenance Mode is also set to ON.

ZERO SUP (page 88)* ON (factory setting): Not intended for field adjustment. The suppression values are:
Combustible Gas: 2% LEL
O2: 0.5% volume
H2S: 0.3 ppm
CO: 2 ppm

ZERO.FLWR (page 89)** ON (factory setting): Not intended for field adjustment. Oxygen channel does not
support zero follower functionality.

DATE (page 89) Set the instrument’s date and time.

PASSWORD (page 90) ON: User Mode is password-protected. Factory-set password is 0405.
OFF (factory setting): User Mode is not password-protected.

ROM/SUM (page 91) View the firmware information for the GX-3R’s sensor board and main board.

START (page 91) Press and release POWER MODE to begin the warmup sequence and enter Measur-
ing Mode.

* Only appears if ZSUP.DISP is set to ON in Maintenance Mode.

** Only appears if ZFLW.DISP is set to ON in Maintenance Mode.

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Chapter 5: User Mode and Calibration • 53

Entering User Mode
WARNING: The GX-3R is not in operation as a gas detector while in User Mode.

1. Take the GX-3R to a non-hazardous location and turn it off if it is on.

2. Press and hold AIR, then press and hold POWER MODE. When you hear a beep, release the
buttons.
3. The screen that appears will depend on the setting of User Mode’s PASSWORD item.
If PASSWORD is set to OFF (factory setting), continue with Step 6.
If PASSWORD is set to ON, continue with Step 4.

M 7:49 M 7:49

0000

BUMP PASSWORD
PASSWORD set to OFF PASSWORD set to ON

4. If PASSWORD has been set to ON in User Mode, a password screen appears. The first digit
is flashing.
5. Use AIR to select each password number then press POWER MODE to save it and move on
to the next number. To go back a number, press and hold AIR and POWER MODE for a few
seconds. To reverse the direction of change (ie. from increasing to decreasing or vice versa):
a. Press and hold AIR.
b. Immediately press POWER MODE and then release both buttons.
6. The BUMP menu item appears.
M 7:49

BUMP
7. M at the top of the screen indicates that the GX-3R is in User Mode.
8. Use AIR to move through the User Mode menu items.

54 • Chapter 5: User Mode and Calibration GX-3R Operator’s Manual

Tips for Using User Mode
• To scroll from one menu item to the next, press and release AIR. To reverse the scrolling
direction:
a. Press and hold AIR.
b. Immediately press POWER/MODE and then release both buttons.
c. The scrolling direction returns to the original direction when you exit and reenter a menu.
• To skip an item when a question is asked, press and release AIR.
• To enter an item and to save any changes, press and release POWER MODE.
• To change a flashing parameter, press and release AIR. To reverse the direction of change (ie.
from increasing to decreasing or vice versa):
a. Press and hold AIR.
b. Immediately press POWER MODE and then release both buttons.
• To exit an entered menu item without saving a change, press and hold AIR and POWER
MODE for a few seconds.

Performing a Bump Test (BUMP)

Bump test the instrument before each day’s use with a known concentration of each target gas.
The instrument does not need to be calibrated unless it does not pass the bump test.
To bump test the GX-3R, you will need:
• Known calibrating samples of the gases being detected.
Table 12: Calibration Concentration Limits

Min. Cal. Gas Max. Cal. Gas

Channel
Concentration Concentration
Combustible Gas 5% LEL 75% LEL

Oxygen 0.0% 18.0%

Hydrogen Sulfide 1.0 ppm 200.0 ppm

Carbon Monoxide 15 ppm 2,000 ppm

• 0.25 LPM fixed flow regulator

• Non-absorbent tubing
• Calibration cup
1. Confirm that the GX-3R’s calibration gas values match the concentrations listed on the
calibration gas cylinder(s) as described on page 69.
2. Confirm that your cylinder selections are appropriate as described on page 72.

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Chapter 5: User Mode and Calibration • 55

 3. Install the calibration cup onto the GX-3R. Use the label and imprinting to make sure that the
calibration cup gets installed in the correct orientation relative to the GX-3R. Be sure the
calibration cup is pushed on all the way.

POW ER
AIR MO DE
GX-3R

CO/H2 S LEL O2

FRONT

Inlet

Figure 7: Calibration Cup Installation

4. Use the tubing to connect the regulator to the inlet of the calibration cup.
5. While in User Mode, press AIR to scroll to BUMP.
M 7:49

BUMP
6. Press and release POWER MODE. The display shows the gases assigned to Cylinder A and
their assigned calibration values (see page 69 if the calibration values do not match the
calibration gas cylinder’s concentrations). The bottom of the screen alternates between “CYL
A” and “BUMP”.
M 7:49 M 7:49
CH4 %LEL O2 % CH4 %LEL O2 %

50 12.0 50 12.0
CO ppm H2S ppm CO ppm H2S ppm

50 25.0 50 25.0
CYL A BUMP
7. If necessary, use AIR to scroll to the Bump screen for the gas(es) you want to bump test. As
shipped from the factory, combustible gas, O2, H2S, and CO are assigned to Cylinder A. If a
H2-compensated CO sensor is installed, H2 is assigned to Cylinder D but there is no reason to
bump test the H2 response.

56 • Chapter 5: User Mode and Calibration GX-3R Operator’s Manual

 8. Make sure the GX-3R has been turned on for at least 45 seconds before continuing.
9. For toxic gas cylinders (like cylinders containing H2S), it is important to vent the regulator
while installing it onto the cylinder. Venting the regulator during installation helps prevent air
from getting into the cylinder and degrading the gas. Open the regulator by turning the knob
counterclockwise and install it onto the cylinder.
10. Press and release POWER MODE.
11. The gas readings flash, the bottom of the screen alternates between “APPLY” and “BUMP”,
and the top of the screen counts down from the time set in BUMP SET\SETTINGS\GAS
TIME.
M 29 M 29
CH4 %LEL O2 % CH4 %LEL O2 %

0 20.9 0 20.9
CO ppm H2S ppm CO ppm H2S ppm

0 0.0 0 0.0
APPLY BUMP

NOTE: To back out of the gas application screen without performing the bump test,
press and release AIR and POWER MODE together.

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Chapter 5: User Mode and Calibration • 57

 12. At the end of the countdown, the instrument analyzes the results. Follow the flow chart to
determine the bump test outcome.

Y N
Bump test passed?

Multiple Cylinders AUTO CAL On?

Assigned? (default is on)
Y N Y N

A D
Auto start after successful bump
Calibration passed?
set to on? (default is on)
Y N Y N

B C E
Multiple Cylinders
Assigned?
Y N

F
Auto start after successful cal
set to on? (default is on)
Y N

G H
*NOTE: Auto start after successful bump/cal parameters set using Datalogging or SDM-3R PC Programs.

Figure 8: Bump Test Flow Chart

58 • Chapter 5: User Mode and Calibration GX-3R Operator’s Manual

Option A from Flow Chart Option B from Flow Chart Option C from Flow Chart
• Bump test passed • Bump test passed • Bump test passed
• Multiple cylinders assigned • One cylinder assigned • One cylinder assigned
• Auto Start After Successful Bump set • Auto Start After Successful Bump set
to ON (factory setting) to OFF (factory setting is ON)
1. The instrument indicates that all 1. The instrument indicates that all 1. The instrument indicates that all
channels passed the bump test. Use channels passed the bump test. Use channels passed the bump test. Use
AIR to scroll between the bump test AIR to scroll between the bump test AIR to scroll between the bump test
results and the bump test gas results and the bump test gas results and the bump test gas
readings. readings. readings.
M 7:49 M 7:49 M 7:49
CH4 %LEL O2 % CH4 %LEL O2 % CH4 %LEL O2 %

P P P P P P
CO ppm CO ppm H2S ppm CO ppm H2S ppm

P P P P P
BUMP/CAL BUMP/CAL BUMP/CAL
AIR AIR AIR

M 7:49 M 7:49 M 7:49

CH4 %LEL O2 % CH4 %LEL O2 % CH4 %LEL O2 %

47 11.9 47 11.9 47 11.9

CO ppm CO ppm H2S ppm CO ppm H2S ppm

47 47 22.0 47 22.0
BUMP/ BUMP/ BUMP/
2. Close the regulator. 2. Close the regulator. 2. Close the regulator.
3. Press and release POWER MODE 3. Unscrew the regulator. 3. Unscrew the regulator.
to move to the BUMP CYL X 4. Remove the calibration cup. 4. Remove the calibration cup.
screen for the next cylinder. 5. Press and release POWER MODE 5. Press and release POWER MODE
4. Unscrew the regulator from the first to enter Measuring Mode. to return to the START item in the
cylinder and screw it into the next BUMP menu.
cylinder. 6. Press and release POWER MODE
5. Repeat Step 9 through Step 12. to enter Measuring Mode.
6. After the last cylinder is bump
tested, press and release POWER
MODE to go to the START item in
the BUMP menu.
7. Remove the calibration cup.
8. Press and release POWER MODE
to enter Measuring Mode.

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Chapter 5: User Mode and Calibration • 59

Option D from Flow Chart Option E from Flow Chart Option F from Flow Chart
• Bump test failed • Bump test failed • Bump test failed
• A-CAL set to OFF (factory setting is ON) • A-CAL set to ON (factory setting) • A-CAL set to ON (factory setting)
• Calibration failed • Calibration passed
• Multiple cylinders assigned

1. The instrument shows which channels 1. A calibration immediately and 1. A calibration immediately and
passed or failed the bump test. The automatically starts. Continue to apply automatically starts. Continue to apply
LEDs flash and the buzzer sounds. Use the calibration gas. the calibration gas.
AIR to scroll between the results and 2. The calibration time is the difference 2. The calibration time is the difference
the readings. between the GAS TIME and the CAL between the GAS TIME and the CAL
M 7:49 TIME values defined in the BUMP TIME values defined in the BUMP
CH4 %LEL O2 % SET\SETTINGS item in User Mode. SET\SETTINGS item in User Mode.
P P M 59
CO ppm H2S ppm M 59
CH4 %LEL

P F
CH4 %LEL

30 30
BUMP/CAL H2S ppm

2.0
AIR AUTO CAL AUTO CAL
3. The instrument shows which channels 3. The instrument shows which channels
M 7:49 passed or failed the bump test/ passed or failed the bump test/
CH4 %LEL O2 %
calibration. The LEDs flash and the calibration. Use AIR to scroll between
47 11.9 the results and the readings.
CO ppm H2S ppm buzzer sounds. Use AIR to scroll
47 2.0 between the results and the readings.
CH4
M 7:49
%LEL O2 %
BUMP/ M 7:49 F P P
CH4 %LEL O2 %
2. Close the regulator. F P P
CO ppm

3. Unscrew the regulator. CO ppm H2S ppm

P
4. Remove the calibration cup. P F F BUMP/CAL
5. Press and release POWER MODE to BUMP/CAL AIR
return to the BUMP CYL A item in the
BUMP menu. AIR M 7:49
6. Use AIR to scroll to START and press CH4 %LEL O2 %

and release POWER MODE to enter CH4

M 7:49
%LEL O2 %
30 11.9
CO ppm
Measuring Mode. 30 11.9
7. Calibrate the GX-3R as soon as CO ppm H2S ppm
47
possible. 47 2.0 BUMP/
BUMP/ AIR

AIR M 7:49
CH4 %LEL

CH4
M 7:49
%LEL
42
42
H2S ppm

2.5 /CAL
/CAL 4. Close the regulator.
5. Press and release POWER MODE to
4. Close the regulator.
move to the BUMP CYL X screen for
5. Unscrew the regulator.
the next cylinder.
6. Remove the calibration cup.
6. Unscrew the regulator from the first
7. Press and release POWER MODE to
cylinder and screw it into the next
return to the BUMP CYL A item in the
cylinder.
BUMP menu.
7. Repeat Step 9 through Step 12.
8. Use AIR to scroll to START and press
8. After the last cylinder is bump tested,
and release POWER MODE to enter
press and release POWER MODE to
Measuring Mode.
go to the START item in the BUMP
menu.
9. Remove the calibration cup.
10. Press and release POWER MODE to
enter Measuring Mode.

60 • Chapter 5: User Mode and Calibration GX-3R Operator’s Manual

 Option G from Flow Chart Option H from Flow Chart
• Bump test failed • Bump test failed
• A-CAL set to ON (factory setting) • A-CAL set to ON (factory setting)
• Calibration passed • Calibration passed
• One cylinder assigned • One cylinder assigned
• Auto Start After Successful Cal set to ON • Auto Start After Successful Cal set to
(factory setting) OFF (factory setting is ON)

1. A calibration immediately and 1. A calibration immediately and

automatically starts. Continue to apply automatically starts. Continue to apply
the calibration gas. the calibration gas.
2. The calibration time is the difference 2. The calibration time is the difference
between the GAS TIME and the CAL between the GAS TIME and the CAL
TIME values defined in the BUMP TIME values defined in the BUMP
SET\SETTINGS item in User Mode. SET\SETTINGS item in User Mode.
M 59 M 59
CH4 %LEL CH4 %LEL

30 30
H2S ppm H2S ppm

2.0 2.0
AUTO CAL AUTO CAL
3. The instrument shows which channels 3. The instrument shows which channels
passed or failed the bump test/ passed or failed the bump test/
calibration. Use AIR to scroll between calibration. Use AIR to scroll between
the results and the readings. the results and the readings.
M 7:49 M 7:49
CH4 %LEL O2 % CH4 %LEL O2 %

F P P F P P
CO ppm H2S ppm CO ppm H2S ppm

P F P P F P
BUMP/CAL BUMP/CAL
AIR AIR

M 7:49 M 7:49
CH4 %LEL O2 % CH4 %LEL O2 %

30 11.9 30 11.9
CO ppm H2S ppm CO ppm H2S ppm

47 12.0 47 12.0
BUMP/ BUMP/

AIR AIR

M 7:49 M 7:49
CH4 %LEL CH4 %LEL

42 42
H2S ppm H2S ppm

20.5 20.5
/CAL /CAL
4. Close the regulator. 4. Close the regulator.
5. Unscrew the regulator. 5. Unscrew the regulator.
6. Remove the calibration cup. 6. Remove the calibration cup.
7. Press and release POWER MODE to 7. Press and release POWER MODE to
enter Measuring Mode. return to the START item in the BUMP
menu.
8. Press and release POWER MODE to
enter Measuring Mode.

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Chapter 5: User Mode and Calibration • 61

Performing a Calibration (GAS CAL)
Calibration Notes
• To fully calibrate the sensors, you must do a fresh air adjustment (AIR CAL) and a span
adjustment (AUTO CAL).
• Bump test the instrument before each day’s use with a known concentration of each target
gas. A bump test can be done in User Mode’s BUMP item or by applying gas in
Measuring Mode. The instrument does not need to be calibrated unless it does not pass the
User Mode bump test or does not respond appropriately, as defined by the user, in
Measuring Mode.
• The hydrogen response for the H2-compensated CO sensor needs to be set both monthly
and when the sensor is replaced.

AIR CAL
1. Find a fresh air environment, an environment of normal oxygen content (20.9%) that is free of
toxic and combustible gases.
2. While in User Mode, press AIR to scroll to GAS CAL.
M 7:49

GAS CAL
3. Press and release POWER MODE. The AIR CAL menu item appears.
M 7:49

AIR CAL
4. Press and release POWER MODE to enter the AIR CAL menu.
M 7:49
CH4 %LEL O2 %

0 20.9
CO ppm H2S ppm

0 0.0
AIR CAL

5. Make sure the GX-3R has been turned on for at least 45 seconds before continuing.

62 • Chapter 5: User Mode and Calibration GX-3R Operator’s Manual

 6. Press and hold AIR until the screen prompts you to release it.
M 7:49 M 7:49

Air CAL Adj

HOLD AIR RELEASE

7. If the fresh air adjustment passes, the instrument returns to the GAS CAL menu.
8. If the fresh air adjustment fails, “FAIL AIR” displays. Press and release POWER MODE to
acknowledge the failure. See “Troubleshooting” on page 92.

Performing a Span Adjustment in AUTO CAL

Preparing for a Span Adjustment
To adjust the span on the GX-3R, you will need the following:
• Known concentrations of the gases being detected
Table 13: Calibration Concentration Limits

Min. Cal. Max. Cal.

Channel
Concentration Concentration
Combustible Gas 5% LEL 75% LEL

Oxygen 0.0% 18.0%

Hydrogen Sulfide 1.0 ppm 200.0 ppm

Carbon Monoxide 15 ppm 2,000 ppm

Hydrogen (for H2-compensated CO 25 ppm 2,000 ppm

sensor); sensor needs monthly calibration

• 0.25 LPM fixed flow regulator

• Non-absorbent tubing
• Calibration cup
1. Confirm that the GX-3R’s calibration gas values match the concentrations listed on the
calibration gas cylinder(s) as described on page 69.
2. Confirm that your cylinder selections are appropriate as described on page 72.

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Chapter 5: User Mode and Calibration • 63

 3. Install the calibration cup onto the GX-3R. Use the label and imprinting to make sure that the
calibration cup gets installed in the correct orientation relative to the GX-3R. Be sure the
calibration cup is pushed on all the way.

POW ER
AIR M O DE
GX-3R

CO/H2 S LEL O2

FRONT

Inlet

Figure 9: Calibration Cup Installation

4. Use the tubing to connect the regulator to the inlet of the calibration cup.
Performing a Span Adjustment
1. While in User Mode, press AIR to scroll to GAS CAL.
M 7:49

GAS CAL
2. Press and release POWER MODE. The AIR CAL menu item appears.
3. Use AIR to scroll to the AUTO CAL menu item.
M 7:49

AUTO CAL

64 • Chapter 5: User Mode and Calibration GX-3R Operator’s Manual

 4. Press and release POWER MODE. The display shows the gases assigned to Cylinder A and
their assigned calibration values (see page 69 if the calibration values do not match the
calibration gas cylinder’s concentrations). The bottom of the screen alternates between “CYL
A” and “AUTO CAL”.
M 7:49 M 7:49
CH4 %LEL O2 % CH4 %LEL O2 %

50 12.0 50 12.0
CO ppm H2S ppm CO ppm H2S ppm

50 25.0 50 25.0
CYL A AUTO CAL

5. If necessary, use AIR to scroll to the Auto Cal screen for the gas(es) you want to calibrate. As
shipped from the factory, combustible gas, O2, H2S, and CO are assigned to Cylinder A. If a
H2-compensated CO sensor is installed, H2 is assigned to Cylinder D.
6. Make sure the GX-3R has been turned on for at least 45 seconds before continuing.
7. Press and release POWER MODE.
8. The gas readings flash and the bottom of the screen alternates between “APPLY” and “AUTO
CAL”.
M 7:49 M 7:49
CH4 %LEL O2 % CH4 %LEL O2 %

0 20.9 0 20.9
CO ppm H2S ppm CO ppm H2S ppm

0 0.0 0 0.0
APPLY AUTO CAL

NOTE: To back out of the gas application screen without performing the bump test,
press and release AIR and POWER MODE together.

9. For toxic gas cylinders (like cylinders containing H2S), it is important to vent the regulator
while installing it onto the cylinder. Venting the regulator during installation helps prevent air
from getting into the cylinder and degrading the gas. Open the regulator by turning the knob
counterclockwise and install it onto the cylinder.
10. Allow the gas to flow for 1 minute.
11. Press and release POWER MODE.

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Chapter 5: User Mode and Calibration • 65

 12. Follow the flow chart to determine the calibration outcome.

Y N
Calibration passed?

Multiple Cylinders
Assigned?
D
Y N

A
Auto start after successful cal
set to on? (default is on)
Y N

B C
*NOTE: Auto start after successful cal parameter set using Datalogging or SDM-3R PC Programs.

Figure 10: Calibration Flow Chart

66 • Chapter 5: User Mode and Calibration GX-3R Operator’s Manual

Option A from Flow Chart Option B from Flow Chart
• Calibration passed • Calibration passed
• Multiple cylinders assigned • One cylinder assigned
• Auto Start After Successful Cal set to ON (factory setting)

1. The instrument indicates that all channels passed the 1. The instrument indicates that all channels passed the
calibration. calibration.
M 7:49 M 7:49

PASS PASS

AUTO CAL AUTO CAL

2. The instrument shows the current gas readings. 2. The instrument shows the current gas readings.
M 7:49 M 7:49
CH4 %LEL O2 % CH4 %LEL O2 %

51 11.9 51 11.9
CO ppm CO ppm H2S ppm

50 50 25.2
AUTO CAL AUTO CAL
3. If MAX SPAN is set to ON (default is OFF, see page 130), 3. If MAX SPAN is set to ON (default is OFF, see page 130),
the response reading’s max adjustment is displayed. A max the response reading’s max adjustment is displayed. A max
span of 100% LEL on the combustible channel indicates that span of 100% LEL on the combustible channel indicates that
the reading could have been adjusted up to 100% LEL. If the the reading could have been adjusted up to 100% LEL. If the
max span value is close to the calibration gas value, the max span value is close to the calibration gas value, the
sensor should be replaced soon. The max adjustment is either sensor should be replaced soon. The max adjustment is either
twice the calibration value or full scale, whichever is lower. twice the calibration value or full scale, whichever is lower.
The max adjustment indicated for the oxygen channel is The max adjustment indicated for the oxygen channel is
25.0% volume. 25.0% volume.
M 7:49 M 7:49
CH4 %LEL O2 % CH4 %LEL O2 %

100 25.0 100 25.0

CO ppm CO ppm H2S ppm

70 70 48.5
MAX SPAN MAX SPAN
4. If the combustible gas sensor is nearing expiration, Display 4. If the combustible gas sensor is nearing expiration, Display
Mode’s LIST item becomes limited. Press POWER MODE Mode’s LIST item becomes limited. Press POWER MODE
to acknowledge. See page 37 for a description of the HC Gas to acknowledge. See page 37 for a description of the HC Gas
List condition and page 43 for the limited conversion list. List condition and page 43 for the limited conversion list.
M 7:49 M 7:49

rEAd GAS rEAd GAS

LISt In LISt In
MANUAL MANUAL
5. Close the regulator. 5. Close the regulator.
6. The instrument continues to the AUTO CAL CYL X screen. 6. Unscrew the regulator.
7. Unscrew the regulator from the first cylinder and screw it 7. Remove the calibration cup.
into the next cylinder. 8. The instrument automatically begins its warmup sequence
8. Press and release POWER MODE to start the next cylinder’s and enters Measuring Mode.
calibration.
9. Repeat Step 9 through Step 12.
10. After the last cylinder is calibrated, the instrument continues
to the START item in the AUTO CAL menu.
11. Remove the calibration cup.
12. Press and release POWER MODE to enter Measuring Mode.

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Chapter 5: User Mode and Calibration • 67

Option C from Flow Chart Option D from Flow Chart
• Calibration passed • Calibration failed
• One cylinder assigned
• Auto Start After Successful Cal set to OFF (factory setting is
ON)

1. The instrument indicates that all channels passed the 1. The instrument indicates which channels failed the
calibration. calibration.
M 7:49 M 7:49
CH4 %LEL O2 %

PASS FAIL 11.9

CO ppm H2S ppm

50 25.2
AUTO CAL AUTO CAL
2. The instrument shows the current gas readings. 2. Close the regulator.
M 7:49 3. Unscrew the regulator.
CH4 %LEL O2 %
4. Remove the calibration cup.
51 11.9 5. Press and release POWER MODE to return to the AUTO
CO ppm H2S ppm
CAL CYL X screen in the AUTO CAL menu.
50 25.2
6. See “Troubleshooting” on page 92.
AUTO CAL
3. If MAX SPAN is set to ON (default is OFF, see page 130),
the response reading’s max adjustment is displayed. A max
span of 100% LEL on the combustible channel indicates that
the reading could have been adjusted up to 100% LEL. If the
max span value is close to the calibration gas value, the
sensor should be replaced soon. The max adjustment is either
twice the calibration value or full scale, whichever is lower.
The max adjustment indicated for the oxygen channel is
25.0% volume.
M 7:49
CH4 %LEL O2 %

100 25.0
CO ppm H2S ppm

70 48.5
MAX SPAN
4. If the combustible gas sensor is nearing expiration, Display
Mode’s LIST item becomes limited. Press POWER MODE
to acknowledge. See page 37 for a description of the HC Gas
List condition and page 43 for the limited conversion list.
M 7:49

rEAd GAS
LISt In
MANUAL
5. Close the regulator.
6. Unscrew the regulator.
7. Remove the calibration cup.
8. The instrument continues to the START item in the AUTO
CAL menu.
9. Press and release POWER MODE to enter Measuring Mode.

68 • Chapter 5: User Mode and Calibration GX-3R Operator’s Manual

 Setting the Calibration Values in CAL--P
1. While in User Mode, press AIR to scroll to GAS CAL.
M 7:49

GAS CAL

2. Press and release POWER MODE. The AIR CAL menu item appears.
3. Use AIR to scroll to the AUTO CAL menu item.
M 7:49

AUTO CAL
4. Press and release POWER MODE. The Auto Cal screen for gases assigned to Cylinder A
appears.
5. Use AIR to scroll to CAL--P.
M 7:49

CAL--P
6. Press and release POWER MODE. The combustible gas channel appears.
M 7:49
CH4 %LEL

---

CAL--P

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Chapter 5: User Mode and Calibration • 69

 7. Use AIR to scroll to the channel whose calibration gas value you want to change.
M 7:49
AIR
H2S ppm
M 7:49
CH4 %LEL ---
--- CAL--P
AIR
CAL--P M 7:49

AIR
CO ppm
M 7:49
O2 % ---
--- CAL--P
AIR

CAL--P M 7:49

AIR
ESCAPE

8. Press and release POWER MODE. The calibration value begins to flash. In the example
below, the combustible gas channel is selected.
M 7:49
CH4 %LEL

50

CAL--P

70 • Chapter 5: User Mode and Calibration GX-3R Operator’s Manual

 9. Use AIR to adjust the calibration gas value. The calibration gas value in the instrument must
match the value listed on the calibration gas cylinder you are using for that channel. Limits on
the calibration gas value are shown in Table 14.
Table 14: Calibration Concentration Limits

Min. Cal. Max. Cal.

Channel
Concentration Concentration
Combustible Gas 5% LEL 75% LEL

Oxygen 0.0% 18.0%

Hydrogen Sulfide 1.0 ppm 200.0 ppm

Carbon Monoxide 15 ppm 2,000 ppm

Hydrogen (for H2-compensated CO 25 ppm 2,000 ppm

sensor); sensor needs monthly calibration

10. Press and release POWER MODE to save the change. The calibration gas value stops flashing
and the unit returns to the channel selection screen.
11. Repeat Step 7 through Step 10 for any other channels that need to be changed.
12. Use AIR to scroll to ESCAPE.
13. Press and release POWER MODE. The instrument returns to the CAL--P menu item in the
Auto Cal Menu.
14. Press AIR to scroll to ESCAPE.
15. Press and release POWER MODE. The instrument returns to the AUTO CAL menu item in
the GAS CAL Menu.
16. See “Exiting the GAS CAL Menu” on page 74 to return to User Mode.

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Chapter 5: User Mode and Calibration • 71

 Making Cylinder Selections in CYL SEL
The CYL SEL menu item allows you to group channels together for calibration. As shipped from
the factory, the standard 4 channels (combustible gas, O2, H2S, and CO) are assigned to Cylinder
A. As shipped from the factory, the H2 response for the H2-compensated CO sensor is assigned to
Cylinder D. There are 5 cylinder assignments available: A, B, C, D, and E. To calibrate each
channel separately, assign each channel to a different cylinder (ie. Cylinder A: combustible gas,
Cylinder B: O2, Cylinder C: H2S, Cylinder D: CO).
1. While in User Mode, press AIR to scroll to GAS CAL.
M 7:49

GAS CAL

2. Press and release POWER MODE. The AIR CAL menu item appears.
3. Use AIR to scroll to the AUTO CAL menu item.
M 7:49

AUTO CAL
4. Press and release POWER MODE. The Auto Cal screen for gases assigned to Cylinder A
displays.
5. Use AIR to scroll to CYL SEL.
M 7:49

CYL SEL
6. Press and release POWER MODE. The combustible gas channel displays.
M 7:49
CH4 %LEL

---

CYL SEL

72 • Chapter 5: User Mode and Calibration GX-3R Operator’s Manual

 7. Use AIR to scroll to the channel whose cylinder assignment you want to change.

M 7:49
AIR

H2S ppm
M 7:49
CH4 %LEL ---
--- CYL SEL
AIR
CYL SEL M 7:49
AIR
CO ppm
M 7:49
O2 % ---
--- CYL SEL
AIR
CYL SEL M 7:49

ESCAPE

8. Press and release POWER MODE. The current setting flashes. In the example below, the
combustible gas channel is selected.
M 7:49
CH4 %LEL

CYL SEL
9. Use AIR to change the cylinder assignment. The choices are A, B, C, D, and E.
10. Press and release POWER MODE to save the change. The cylinder assignment stops flashing
and the unit returns to the channel selection screen.
11. Repeat Step 7 through Step 10 for any other channels that need to be changed.
12. Use AIR to scroll to ESCAPE.
13. Press and release POWER MODE. The instrument returns to the CYL SEL menu item in the
Auto Cal Menu.
14. Press AIR to scroll to ESCAPE.

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Chapter 5: User Mode and Calibration • 73

 15. Press and release POWER MODE. The instrument returns to the AUTO CAL menu item in
the GAS CAL menu.
16. See “Exiting the GAS CAL Menu” on page 74 to return to User Mode.

Exiting the GAS CAL Menu

1. While in the GAS CAL menu, press AIR to scroll to ESCAPE.
2. Press and release POWER MODE. The instrument returns to the GAS CAL menu item in
User Mode.
3. See “Entering Measuring Mode (START)” on page 91 to enter Measuring Mode.

Setting Calibration Parameters (CAL SET)

The CAL SET menu item has 4 items: CAL RMDR, CAL INT, CAL EXPD, and ESCAPE.
1. While in User Mode, press AIR to scroll to CAL SET.
M 7:49

CAL SET

2. Press and release POWER MODE. The CAL RMDR menu item appears.
M 7:49

CAL RMDR

CAL RMDR
ON (factory setting): The GX-3R gives an indication at start up if it is due for calibration. The
type of indication depends on the CAL EXPD setting (see page 75).
OFF: The GX-3R does not give an indication at start up if it is due for calibration.
1. After entering the CAL SET menu, press AIR to scroll to CAL RMDR.
M 7:49

CAL RMDR

2. Press and release POWER MODE. The current setting flashes.

74 • Chapter 5: User Mode and Calibration GX-3R Operator’s Manual

 3. Use AIR to display the desired setting.
4. Press and release POWER MODE to save the setting and return to the CAL RMDR menu
item.
5. See “Exiting the CAL SET Menu” on page 76 to return to User Mode.

CAL INT
This setting defines the amount of time between calibrations. The time can be set in 1 day
increments. The minimum setting is 1 day and the maximum setting is 1000 days. The factory
setting is 90 days.
1. After entering the CAL SET menu, press AIR to scroll to CAL INT.
M 7:49

CAL INT

2. Press and release POWER MODE. The current setting flashes.

3. Use AIR to display the desired setting.
4. Press and release POWER MODE to save the setting and return to the CAL INT menu item.
5. See “Exiting the CAL SET Menu” on page 76 to return to User Mode.

CAL EXPD
This item defines what indication is given during start up when calibration is due and CAL
RMDR is set to ON.
CONFIRM (factory setting): The GX-3R gives an indication at start up if calibration is past due.
Press and release AIR to continue without calibrating or press and release POWER MODE to
perform a calibration.
CANT USE: The GX-3R gives an indication at start up if calibration is past due. Press and
release POWER MODE to enter User Mode and perform a calibration. Pressing AIR has no
effect. A successful calibration must be performed in order to use the instrument.
NONE: The GX-3R gives an indication at startup if calibration is past due. If desired, press
POWER MODE to perform a calibration but it is not necessary to acknowledge the calibration
due indication. The warm-up sequence will continue on its own.
1. After entering the CAL SET menu, press AIR to scroll to CAL EXPD.
M 7:49

CAL EXPD

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Chapter 5: User Mode and Calibration • 75

 2. Press and release POWER MODE. The current setting flashes.
3. Use AIR to display the desired setting.
4. Press and release POWER MODE to save the setting and return to the CAL EXPD menu
item.
5. See “Exiting the CAL SET Menu” on page 76 to return to User Mode.

Exiting the CAL SET Menu

1. While in the CAL SET menu, press AIR to scroll to ESCAPE.
2. Press and release POWER MODE. The instrument returns to the CAL SET menu item in
User Mode.
3. See “Entering Measuring Mode (START)” on page 91 to enter Measuring Mode.

Setting Bump Test Parameters (BUMP SET)

The BUMP SET menu item has 5 items: SETTINGS, BUMP.RMDR, BUMP INT,
BUMP.EXPD, and ESCAPE.
1. While in User Mode, press AIR to scroll to BUMP SET.
M 7:49

BUMP SET
2. Press and release POWER MODE. The SETTINGS menu item appears.
M 7:49

SETTINGS

76 • Chapter 5: User Mode and Calibration GX-3R Operator’s Manual

 SETTINGS
The SETTINGS menu item has 5 items: GAS TIME, CHECK, CAL TIME, AUTO CAL, and
ESCAPE.
1. After entering the BUMP SET menu, press AIR to scroll to SETTINGS.
M 7:49

SETTINGS
2. Press and release POWER MODE. The GAS TIME menu item appears.
GAS TIME
The GAS TIME is the amount of time that the instrument is exposed to gas during a bump test.
The available choices are 30 seconds (factory setting), 45 seconds, 60 seconds, and 90 seconds.
1. After entering the BUMP SET\SETTINGS menu, press AIR to scroll to GAS TIME.
M 7:49

GAS TIME
2. Press and release POWER MODE. The current setting flashes.
3. Use AIR to display the desired setting.
4. Press and release POWER MODE to save the setting and return to the GAS TIME menu
item.
5. See “Exiting the SETTINGS Menu” on page 79 to return to the BUMP SET menu.
6. See “Exiting the BUMP SET Menu” on page 80 to return to User Mode.
CHECK
CHECK is the bump test tolerance value and is represented as a percentage of the calibration gas
concentration. It is the percentage that the bump test reading can differ from the actual gas
concentration and still be considered a passed bump test. If the bump test reading differs more, the
bump test will fail. The available values are 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, and 50% (factory setting).
1. After entering the BUMP SET\SETTINGS menu, press AIR to scroll to CHECK.
M 7:49

CHECK

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Chapter 5: User Mode and Calibration • 77

 2. Press and release POWER MODE. The current setting flashes.
3. Use AIR to display the desired setting.
4. Press and release POWER MODE to save the setting and return to the CHECK menu item.
5. See “Exiting the SETTINGS Menu” on page 79 to return to the BUMP SET menu.
6. See “Exiting the BUMP SET Menu” on page 80 to return to User Mode.
CAL TIME
The CAL TIME is the total time the instrument is exposed to calibration gas when a bump test
fails if AUTO CAL is set to ON. The bump test time is deducted from the calibration time. For
example, if the CAL TIME is set to 90 seconds and the GAS TIME is set to 30 seconds, if the
bump test fails, the GX-3R will only be exposed to gas for an additional 60 seconds. The available
values are 90 seconds (factory setting), and 120 seconds.
1. After entering the BUMP SET\SETTINGS menu, press AIR to scroll to CAL TIME.
M 7:49

CAL TIME
2. Press and release POWER MODE. The current setting flashes.
3. Use AIR to display the desired setting.
4. Press and release POWER MODE to save the setting and return to the CAL TIME menu
item.
5. See “Exiting the SETTINGS Menu” on page 79 to return to the BUMP SET menu.
6. See “Exiting the BUMP SET Menu” on page 80 to return to User Mode.
AUTO CAL
ON (factory setting): If a bump test fails, the unit automatically begins a calibration.
OFF: If a bump test fails, the unit does not automatically begin a calibration.
1. After entering the BUMP SET\SETTINGS menu, press AIR to scroll to AUTO CAL.
M 7:49

AUTO CAL
2. Press and release POWER MODE. The current setting flashes.
3. Use AIR to display the desired setting.

78 • Chapter 5: User Mode and Calibration GX-3R Operator’s Manual

 4. Press and release POWER MODE to save the setting and return to the AUTO CAL menu
item.
5. See “Exiting the SETTINGS Menu” on page 79 to return to the BUMP SET menu.
6. See “Exiting the BUMP SET Menu” on page 80 to return to User Mode.
Exiting the SETTINGS Menu
1. While in the BUMP SET\SETTINGS menu, press AIR to scroll to ESCAPE.
2. Press and release POWER MODE. The instrument returns to the SETTINGS menu item of
the BUMP SET menu.

BUMP.RMDR
ON: The GX-3R gives an indication at start up if it is due for bump testing. The type of indication
depends on the BUMP.EXPD setting (see page 80).
OFF (factory setting): The GX-3R does not give an indication at start up if it is due for bump
testing.
1. After entering the BUMP SET menu, press AIR to scroll to BUMP.RMDR.
M 7:49

BUMP.RMDR
2. Press and release POWER MODE. The current setting flashes.
3. Use AIR to display the desired setting.
4. Press and release POWER MODE to save the setting and return to the BUMP.RMDR menu
item.
5. See “Exiting the BUMP SET Menu” on page 80 to return to User Mode.

BUMP INT
This setting defines the amount of time between bump tests. The time can be set in 1 day
increments. The minimum setting is 0 days and the maximum setting is 30 days (factory setting).
1. After entering the BUMP SET menu, press AIR to scroll to BUMP INT.
M 7:49

BUMP INT
2. Press and release POWER MODE. The current setting flashes.

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Chapter 5: User Mode and Calibration • 79

 3. Use AIR to display the desired setting.
4. Press and release POWER MODE to save the setting and return to the BUMP INT menu
item.
5. See “Exiting the BUMP SET Menu” on page 80 to return to User Mode.

BUMP.EXPD
This item defines what indication is given during start up when a bump test is due and
BUMP.RMDR is set to ON.
CONFIRM (factory setting): The GX-3R gives an indication at start up if a bump test is past due.
Press and release AIR to continue without bump testing or press and release POWER MODE to
perform a bump test.
CANT USE: The GX-3R gives an indication at start up if a bump test is past due. Press and
release POWER MODE to enter User Mode and perform a bump test. Pressing AIR has no effect.
A successful bump test must be performed in order to use the instrument.
NONE: The GX-3R gives an indication at startup if a bump test is past due. If desired, press
POWER MODE to perform a bump test but it is not necessary to acknowledge the bump test due
indication. The warm-up sequence will continue on its own.
1. After entering the BUMP SET menu, press AIR to scroll to BUMP.EXPD.
M 7:49

BUMP.EXPD
2. Press and release POWER MODE. The current setting flashes.
3. Use AIR to display the desired setting.
4. Press and release POWER MODE to save the setting and return to the BUMP.EXPD menu
item.
5. See “Exiting the BUMP SET Menu” on page 80 to return to User Mode.

Exiting the BUMP SET Menu

1. While in the BUMP SET menu, press AIR to scroll to ESCAPE.
2. Press and release POWER MODE. The instrument returns to the BUMP SET menu item in
User Mode.
3. See “Entering Measuring Mode (START)” on page 91 to enter Measuring Mode.

80 • Chapter 5: User Mode and Calibration GX-3R Operator’s Manual

Alarm Settings (ALARM--PT)
The ALARM--PT menu item has 3 items: ALARM--PT, DEF--ALMP, and ESCAPE.
1. While in User Mode, press AIR to scroll to ALARM--PT.
M 7:49

ALARM--PT

2. Press and release POWER MODE. The first channel displays.

M 7:49
CH4 %LEL

---

ALARM--PT

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Chapter 5: User Mode and Calibration • 81

 Setting the Alarm Points
1. After entering the Alarm Points menu item, press AIR to scroll through to the instrument
channel whose alarm points you want to change.

M 7:49 M 7:49
CH4 %LEL
AIR
---
CO ppm

---
ALARM--PT ALARM--PT
AIR AIR

M 7:49 M 7:49
O2 %

---

ALARM--PT DEF--ALMP
AIR AIR

M 7:49 M 7:49

H2S ppm

---
ALARM--PT ESCAPE
AIR

2. Press and release POWER MODE.

82 • Chapter 5: User Mode and Calibration GX-3R Operator’s Manual

 3. The Warning setpoint for the channel flashes. In the example below, the CO channel is
selected.

7:49

CO ppm

7:49 1200
ALARM H
CO ppm

25 7:49
For all settings: WARNING
1) AIR to adjust
2) POWER MODE CO ppm
to save and
continue 7:49 200
STEL
CO ppm

50 7:49
ALARM
CO ppm

25
TWA

4. Use AIR to adjust the Warning setpoint. Alarm setpoint limitations are shown below.
Channel Alarm Point Limitations
Combustible Gas 1% LEL WARNING ALARM ALARM H 60% LEL

O2 • 0.0% ALARM WARNING 20.0%

• 21.8% ALARM H 40.0%

H2S 0.5 ppm WARNING ALARM ALARM H 200.0 ppm

CO 12 ppm WARNING ALARM ALARM H 2000 ppm

5. Press and release POWER MODE to save the setting.

6. Repeat Step 4 and Step 5 for the Alarm, Alarm H, STEL (CO and H2S only), and TWA (CO
and H2S only) settings.
7. The instrument returns to the channel selection screen.
8. Repeat Step 1 - Step 7 to change the alarm points for other channels.
9. See “ESCAPE” on page 84 to return to User Mode.

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Chapter 5: User Mode and Calibration • 83

 Defaulting the Alarm Points
Defaulting the alarm points defaults them back to factory settings as outlined in Table 1 on page 9
or to the settings saved in the SAVE-AP menu item in Gas Select Mode if you have performed a
SAVE-AP operation.
1. After entering the Alarm Points menu item, press AIR to scroll to DEF-ALMP.
M 7:49

DEF--ALMP

2. Press POWER MODE to enter the DEF-ALMP menu item.

3. Press POWER MODE to perform an alarm default. Press AIR to return to the DEF-ALMP
menu item.
4. The instrument asks if you’re sure you want to default the alarm points. Press POWER
MODE to default the alarm points. Press AIR to return to the DEF-ALMP menu item.
5. See “ESCAPE” on page 84 to return to User Mode.

ESCAPE
1. While in the ALARM-P menu, press AIR to scroll to ESCAPE.
2. Press and release POWER MODE. The instrument returns to the ALARM--PT menu item.
3. See “Entering Measuring Mode (START)” on page 91 to enter Measuring Mode.

Updating the Lunch Break Setting (LUNCH)

OFF (factory setting): The GX-3R automatically starts new TWA and PEAK reading collection
and resets the time in operation at startup.
ON: The Lunch Break Screen displays during startup. From this screen, you can choose to
continue accumulating TWA and PEAK readings and the time in operation from the last time the
GX-3R was used or start collecting new readings and reset the time in operation.
1. While in User Mode, press AIR to scroll to LUNCH.
M 7:49

LUNCH
2. Press and release POWER MODE. The current setting flashes.
3. Use AIR to display the desired setting.

84 • Chapter 5: User Mode and Calibration GX-3R Operator’s Manual

 4. Press and release POWER MODE to save the setting and return to the LUNCH menu item.
5. See “Entering Measuring Mode (START)” on page 91 to enter Measuring Mode.

Setting the Confirmation Beep and

Non-Compliance Indicator (BEEP)
The BEEP menu item has 3 items: BEEP SEL, BEEP INT, and ESCAPE.
1. While in User Mode, press AIR to scroll to BEEP.
M 7:49

BEEP

2. Press and release POWER MODE. The BEEP SEL menu item appears.
M 7:49

BEEP SEL

BEEP SEL
BEEP SEL defines what kind of confirmation or non-compliance indication you want to occur in
Measuring Mode. The available choices are:
OFF (factory setting): The GX-3R does not provide a confirmation alert or non-compliance
indicator.
LED: The GX-3R’s LEDs double flash as often as defined by the BEEP INT parameter to verify
that the instrument is operating.
BUZZER: The GX-3R’s buzzer double beeps as often as defined by the BEEP INT parameter to
verify that the instrument is operating.
LED+BUZZ: The GX-3R’s LEDs double flash and the buzzer double beeps as often as defined
by the BEEP INT parameter to verify that the instrument is operating.
BUMP/CAL: If a bump test or a calibration is due and if BUMP.EXPD or CAL EXPD is set to
CONFIRM or NONE, the GX-3R’s LEDs double flash as often as defined by the BEEP INT
parameter to indicate a non-compliance. Once a bump test or calibration (depending on which is
due) is done, the LEDs stop flashing.

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Chapter 5: User Mode and Calibration • 85

 ALM ALRT: If the instrument goes into any gas alarm, the LEDs double flash as often as defined
by the BEEP INT parameter to indicate a non-compliance. Once a successful bump test or
calibration is done, the LEDs stop flashing.

NOTE: Depending on the Need to get Bump Log setting (only accessed via SDM-3R
program), a data download may also be needed to clear the non-compliance.

B/C/ALM: The LEDs double flash to indicate a non-compliance if any of the following happens.
a. BUMP.EXPD is set to CONFIRM or NONE and a bump test is due (cleared by
successful bump test).
b. CAL EXPD is set to CONFIRM or NONE and a calibration is due (cleared by
successful calibration).
c. The instrument goes into any gas alarm (cleared by successful bump test or calibration).

NOTE: Depending on the Need to get Bump Log setting (only accessed via SDM-3R
program), a data download may also be needed to clear the gas alarm non-compliance.

1. While in the BEEP menu, press AIR to scroll to BEEP SEL.

M 7:49

BEEP SEL
2. Press and release POWER MODE. The current setting flashes.
3. Use AIR to display the desired setting.
4. Press and release POWER MODE to save the setting and return to the BEEP SEL menu item.
5. See “ESCAPE” on page 87 to return to User Mode.

BEEP INT
The BEEP INT parameter defines how often the confirmation alert or non-compliance indicator
selected in BEEP SEL occurs. This setting only applies if the BEEP SEL parameter is set to
something other than OFF. The available choices are 0.5 minutes and 1-99 minutes in 1 minute
increments. The factory setting is 5 minutes.
1. While in the BEEP menu, press AIR to scroll to BEEP INT.
M 7:49

BEEP INT

2. Press and release POWER MODE. The current setting flashes.

86 • Chapter 5: User Mode and Calibration GX-3R Operator’s Manual

 3. Use AIR to display the desired setting.
4. Press and release POWER MODE to save the setting and return to the BEEP INT menu item.
5. See “ESCAPE” on page 87 to return to User Mode.

ESCAPE
1. While in the BEEP menu, press AIR to scroll to ESCAPE.
2. Press and release POWER MODE. The instrument return to the BEEP menu item.
3. See “Entering Measuring Mode (START)” on page 91 to enter Measuring Mode.

Updating the Backlight Time (BL TIME)

This setting defines how long the LCD backlight stays on when you press any button. The
minimum setting is OFF; the maximum setting is 255 seconds. The factory setting is 30 seconds.
1. While in User Mode, press AIR to scroll to BL TIME.
M 7:49

BL TIME
2. Press and release POWER MODE. The current setting flashes.
3. Use AIR to display the desired setting.
4. Press and release POWER MODE to save the setting and return to the BL TIME menu item.
5. See “Entering Measuring Mode (START)” on page 91 to enter Measuring Mode.

Turning the Key Tone On/Off (KEY TONE)

ON (factory setting): The instrument beeps when a button is pressed.
OFF: The instrument does not beep when a button is pressed.
1. While in User Mode, press AIR to scroll to KEY TONE.
M 7:49

KEY TONE
2. Press and release POWER MODE. The current setting flashes.

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Chapter 5: User Mode and Calibration • 87

 3. Use AIR to display the desired setting.
4. Press and release POWER MODE to save the setting and return to the KEY TONE menu
item.
5. See “Entering Measuring Mode (START)” on page 91 to enter Measuring Mode.

Display Mode Items (DISP SET)

OFF: LIST, USER ID, and STN ID items do not appear in Display Mode.
ON (factory setting): LIST item appears in Display Mode. USER ID and STATION ID screens
appear in Display Mode if ID DISP in Maintenance Mode is also set to ON (factory setting is
OFF).
1. While in User Mode, press AIR to scroll to DISP SET.
M 7:49

DISP SET
2. Press and release POWER MODE. The current setting flashes.
3. Use AIR to display the desired setting.
4. Press and release POWER MODE to save the setting and return to the DISP SET menu item.
5. See “Entering Measuring Mode (START)” on page 91 to enter Measuring Mode.

Zero Suppression (ZERO SUP)

This menu item only appears if ZSUP.DISP is set to ON in Maintenance Mode (factory setting is
OFF).
The ZERO SUP setting is not intended for field adjustment. The default setting for each sensor is
ON.

Zero Suppression
Sensor
Value
Combustible Gas 2% LEL

O2 0.5% volume

H2S 0.3 ppm

CO 2 ppm

88 • Chapter 5: User Mode and Calibration GX-3R Operator’s Manual

Zero Follower (ZERO.FLWR)
This menu item only appears if ZFLW.DISP is set to ON in Maintenance Mode (factory setting is
OFF).
The ZERO.FLWR setting is not intended for field adjustment. The default setting is ON. The
oxygen channel does not support zero follower functionality.

Setting the Date/Time (DATE)

1. From the main menu, place the cursor next to DATE.
M 7:49

DATE
2. Press and release POWER MODE. The date and time display with the year flashing.
M 7:49

18 - 12.20
7:49

3. Use AIR to display the desired year.

4. Press and release POWER MODE to save the setting. The month setting flashes.
5. Repeat Step 3 and Step 4 to enter the month, day, hours, and minutes settings. The date and
time are saved and the instrument returns to the DATE menu item.
6. See “Entering Measuring Mode (START)” on page 91 to enter Measuring Mode.

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Chapter 5: User Mode and Calibration • 89

Turning the Password On/Off (PASSWORD)
ON: The GX-3R prompts you for a password when you enter User Mode. The factory-set
password is 0405 but it can be changed as desired.
OFF (factory setting): No password is required to enter User Mode.
1. While in User Mode, press AIR to scroll to PASSWORD.
M 7:49

PASSWORD
2. Press and release POWER MODE. The current setting flashes.
3. Use AIR to display the desired setting.
4. If you selected OFF, press and release POWER MODE to save the setting and return to the
PASSWORD item in User Mode.
If you selected ON, continue with Step 5.
5. Press and release POWER MODE. The Set Password Screen appears. The current password
appears and the first digit flashes.
M 7:49

0405

PASSWORD
6. Use AIR to display a number from 0 to 9.
7. Press and release POWER MODE to enter the selection and advance to the next number. To
go back a number, press and hold AIR and POWER MODE for a few seconds.
8. Repeat Step 6 and Step 7 to select the remaining numbers. When you press and release
POWER MODE to enter the last number, the password is saved and you return to the
PASSWORD item in User Mode.
9. See “Entering Measuring Mode (START)” on page 91 to enter Measuring Mode.

90 • Chapter 5: User Mode and Calibration GX-3R Operator’s Manual

Viewing the ROM/SUM (ROM/SUM)
The ROM/SUM screen shows the instrument’s firmware version and firmware checksum.
1. While in User Mode, press AIR to scroll to ROM/SUM.
M 7:49

ROM / SUM
2. Press and release POWER MODE. The screen cycles through the main board’s ROM/SUM
and the sensor board’s ROM/SUM. The ROM is the top value and the SUM is the bottom
value.
M 7:49 M 7:49

35709 35707
2E86 C1E3
MAIN ROM SENS. ROM
3. Press and release POWER MODE to return to the ROM/SUM menu item in User Mode.
4. See “Entering Measuring Mode (START)” on page 91 to enter Measuring Mode.

Entering Measuring Mode (START)

1. While in User Mode, press AIR to scroll to START.
M 7:49

START
2. Press and release POWER MODE. The instrument begins its warmup sequence.

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Chapter 5: User Mode and Calibration • 91

Chapter 6: Maintenance

Overview
This chapter describes troubleshooting procedures for the GX-3R. It also includes procedures for
instrument cleaning, recharging the batteries, and replacing various consumable parts.

WARNING: RKI Instruments, Inc. recommends that service, calibration, and repair of RKI
Instruments be performed by personnel properly trained for this work. Replacing
sensors and other parts with original equipment does not affect the intrinsic
safety of the instrument.

Troubleshooting
Table 15 describes error messages, symptoms, probable causes, and recommended action for
problems you may encounter with the GX-3R.
Table 15: Troubleshooting the GX-3R

Symptoms Probable Causes Recommended Action

• The LCD is blank. • The unit may have been 1. To turn on the unit, press and briefly
turned off. hold POWER MODE.
• The batteries may need to be 2. If the unit does not turn on, recharge
recharged. the batteries.
3. If the difficulties continue, contact
RKI Instruments, Inc. for further
instruction.
• The LCD shows • The filters may need to be 1. Replace the filters.
abnormally high or replaced. 2. Recalibrate the unit.
low readings but • The GX-3R may need to be 3. If the difficulties continue, replace
other gas detection recalibrated. the sensor for the affected
instruments do not. • The sensor for the affected channel(s) and calibrate the affected
channel(s) may need channel(s).
replacement. 4. If the difficulties continue, contact
RKI Instruments, Inc. for further
instruction.

92 • Chapter 6: Maintenance GX-3R Operator’s Manual

 Table 15: Troubleshooting the GX-3R

Symptoms Probable Causes Recommended Action

• Calibration fails. • The calibration values may 1. Make sure the GX-3R has been
not match the cylinder gas properly set up for calibration.
concentrations. 2. Change the charcoal filter or the
• The charcoal filter or dual filter.
charcoal half of the dual filter 3. Check all calibration tubing for
is saturated causing an leaks or for any bad connections.
elevated CO reading. 4. Verify that the calibration cylinder
• The sample gas is not contains an adequate supply of fresh
reaching the sensors because test sample.
of a bad connection. 5. If the fail condition continues,
• The calibration cylinder may replace the sensor(s).
be out of gas or is outdated. 6. If the difficulties continue, contact
• The sensor for the affected RKI Instruments, Inc. for further
channel(s) may need instruction.
replacement.
• Heart symbol at the • A microprocessor error has • Contact RKI Instruments, Inc. for
top of the screen occurred. further instruction.
becomes steadily on
or disappears
• Charge LED • Charging environment is • Move the charger to a location that is
alternates between outside the allowed 0 - 40°C within the allowed 0 - 40°C charging
green and orange charging temperature range. temperature range.

Instrument Cleaning
Clean the GX-3R with a cloth dampened with water if it becomes excessively dirty. Do not use
alcohol or other cleaning solvents.

Recharging the Batteries

WARNING: To prevent ignition of a hazardous atmosphere, batteries must only be charged in
an area known to be nonhazardous. Charge only with RKI charger p/n 49-0133
or 49-0134. Use of other chargers will void the warranty.

AVERTISSEMENT: Pour éviter l’inflammation d’une atmosphère dangereuse, les batteries

doivent uniquement être modifiés ou facturés dans une zone connue
comme non dangereuse. Chargez uniquement avec le chargeur RKI réf.
49-0133 ou 49-0134. L'utilisation d'autres chargeurs annulera la
garantie.

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Chapter 6: Maintenance • 93

 Recharge the batteries when the battery icon indicates that the unit is in low battery warning.
When in low battery warning, the lowest battery level indication bar disappears and the battery
icon flashes.
1. Make sure the GX-3R is off.
2. Plug the AC adapter into an electrical outlet.
3. Plug the charging jack straight into the GX-3R’s charging socket from the top. When properly
connected, a green LED turns on at the top of the GX-3R.

OR

Figure 11: Connecting the Charging Cable

4. The LED at the top of the GX-3R turns orange while charging. When a full charge has been
reached, approximately 3 hours, the LED turns green.

94 • Chapter 6: Maintenance GX-3R Operator’s Manual

 5. Pull the charging jack straight out of the GX-3R’s charging socket.

OR

Figure 12: Removing the Charging Cable

6. Turn on the GX-3R and confirm that it starts up.

Replacing the Buzzer Cover

The buzzer cover may need to be replaced if it becomes saturated or clogged with particles.
1. Remove the rubber boot from the GX-3R.
2. Peel off the old buzzer cover located between the AIR and POWER MODE buttons.
3. If necessary, clean any remaining residue from the case.
4. Peel the backing off of the new buzzer cover.

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Chapter 6: Maintenance • 95

 5. Install the new buzzer cover between the AIR and POWER MODE buttons as shown below.

Figure 13: Buzzer Cover Replacement

6. Reinstall the rubber boot.

Replacing the Sensor Filters

CAUTION: The buzzer cover, sensors, and filters are the only user-serviceable parts in the GX-
3R. Do not replace or modify any other part.

Combustible Gas Sensor Filter

The H2S filter disk is dark red in color and although it may darken over time, its color is not
indicative of remaining filter life. The H2S filter disk can absorb H2S for 33 ppm hours and
should be replaced after that much exposure. With this many ppm hours of absorption, the H2S
filter disk should be replaced after 80 minutes of exposure to 25 ppm H2S. This equates to
replacing the H2S filter disk after 40 2-minute calibrations with a cylinder containing 25 ppm
H2S. If H2S exists in the monitoring environment, the H2S filter disk will have to be replaced
more frequently.

Dual CO/H2S Sensor Filter

The dual CO/H2S sensor has a half black/half white filter installed over it. The filter should be
replaced if you notice either 1) unexplained CO readings or 2) For users with a 1 ppm H2S alarm
setpoint: a drift on the H2S channel’s zero reading, unexplained H2S readings, the filter appears
dirty, or every 6 months (whichever is sooner).

CO-Only Sensor Filter

A black charcoal filter is installed over CO-only sensors. The filter should be replaced if you
notice unexplained CO readings.

96 • Chapter 6: Maintenance GX-3R Operator’s Manual

 H2S-Only Sensor Filter
A white humidity filter is installed over H2S-only sensors. The filter absorbs humidity in the
sampling environment to prevent unstable readings around 0 ppm H2S. For users with a 1 ppm
H2S alarm setpoint, the filter should be replaced if you notice: a drift on the H2S channel’s zero
reading, unexplained H2S readings, the filter appears dirty, or every 6 months (whichever is
sooner). For users with a 2 ppm or higher H2S alarm setpoint, the filter does not necessarily ever
need to be replaced.

Replacement Procedure
1. Verify that the GX-3R is off.
2. Turn the GX-3R upside down.
3. Use a small Phillips screwdriver to unscrew the two screws holding the bottom cover to the
rest of the GX-3R’s case. Only unscrew them until the heads are flush with the edge of the
bottom cover.
4. Using a small flat blade screwdriver, gently pry each side of the bottom cover away from the
rest of the GX-3R’s case.
5. Remove the bottom cover from the rest of the GX-3R’s case.
6. Remove the filter gasket/sensor retainer assembly.
7. Remove the filter gasket/hydrophobic dust filter assembly.
8. Gently pry out the filter you want to replace.
9. Install the new filters.
a. Dark red H2S scrubber disk for combustible gas sensor: The brown side of the filter case
should face toward the GX-3R.
b. Black and white combo filter for CO/H2S dual sensor: The red side of the filter case
should face toward the GX-3R. The black filter material should face the edge of the GX-
3R while the white filter material should face the H2S scrubber disk.
c. Black filter for CO-only sensor: The red side of the filter case should face toward the GX-
3R.
d. White filter for H2S-only sensor: The white side of the filter case should face toward the
GX-3R.

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Chapter 6: Maintenance • 97

 Bottom Cover

Filter Gasket/Hydrophobic Dust

Filter Assembly,
gasket tabs on opposite side of this view

LEL Toxic Sensor Filter, See Table

Sensor
Filter
O2 LEL CO /H2S
NOTE: All filters installed black-side-up.
GX-3R
Toxic Sensor Filters
M O DE AIR
POW ER

Black
Filter
For CO-only M ater ial
sensor

W hite B lack
Filter Filter
For dual M aterial M ater ial
CO/H2S sensor

Sensor W hite
For H2S-only Filter
Retainer M aterial
sensor
Side View Top View

Figure 14: Replacing the Sensor Filters

10. Reinstall the filter gasket/hydrophobic dust filter assembly onto the sensor retainer. The
gasket tabs face down.
11. Reattach the bottom cover to the GX-3R. Push it onto the GX-3R until it snaps into place.
12. Reinstall the two screws that were loosened in Step 3.
13. Perform a bump test as described on page 55 to confirm good operation.

Replacing the Hydrophobic Dust Filter

Some GX-3Rs have a hydrophobic dust filter that is not attached to the filter gasket. When
replacing the hydrophobic dust filter on one of these GX-3Rs, remove the filter and the gasket and
replace it with a filter gasket/hydrophobic dust filter assembly.
1. Verify that the GX-3R is off.
2. Turn the GX-3R upside down.
3. Use a small Phillips screwdriver to unscrew the two screws holding the bottom cover to the
rest of the GX-3R’s case. Only unscrew them until the heads are flush with the edge of the
bottom cover.
4. Using a small flat blade screwdriver, gently pry each side of the bottom cover away from the
rest of the GX-3R’s case.

98 • Chapter 6: Maintenance GX-3R Operator’s Manual

 5. Remove the bottom cover from the rest of the GX-3R’s case. The filter gasket/sensor retainer
assembly may come out.
6. Remove the filter gasket/hydrophobic dust filter assembly.
7. Install the new filter gasket/hydrophobic dust filter assembly with the gasket tabs facing
down.

Bottom Cover

O2 LEL CO/H2 S

GX-3R
MODE AIR
P OW ER

Filter Gasket/Hydrophobic Dust

Filter Assembly,
gasket tabs on opposite side of this view

Sensor Retainer

Side View Top View

Figure 15: Replacing the Hydrophobic Dust Filter

8. Reattach the bottom cover to the GX-3R. Push it onto the GX-3R until it snaps into place.
9. Reinstall the two screws that were loosened in Step 3.

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Chapter 6: Maintenance • 99

Replacing a Sensor
CAUTION: The CO and H2S sensors contain an electrolyte solution. If contact with the
electrolyte occurs, wash the area immediately.

CAUTION: The buzzer cover, sensors, and filters are the only user-serviceable parts in the GX-
3R. Do not replace or modify any other part.

1. Verify that the GX-3R is off.

2. Turn the GX-3R upside down.
3. Use a small Phillips screwdriver to unscrew the two screws holding the bottom cover to the
rest of the GX-3R’s case. Only unscrew them until the heads are flush with the edge of the
bottom cover.
4. Using a small flat blade screwdriver, gently pry each side of the bottom cover away from the
rest of the GX-3R’s case.
5. Remove the filter gasket/sensor retainer assembly from the GX-3R. The sensors will be
exposed.
6. Locate the sensor you want to replace and remove it from its socket.
7. Carefully insert the replacement sensor in the correct socket. Be sure that the new sensor is
installed in the same position as the old sensor and that it is aligned correctly. The toxic and
oxygen sensors have slots to orient the sensor. The combustible gas sensor has tabs to orient
the sensor. Do not force a sensor into its slot.

100 • Chapter 6: Maintenance GX-3R Operator’s Manual

 Bottom Cover

Filter Gasket/Hydrophobic Dust

Filter Assembly,
gasket tabs on opposite side of this view

LEL Toxic Sensor Filter, See Table

Sensor
Filter
NOTE: All filters installed black-side-up.

Oxygen Combustible Gas Sensor

O2 LE L C O /H2 S Sensor Toxic Sensor
O2 H 2S
GX-3R CO
M O DE
AIR
P OW E R
Toxic Sensor Filters
Bl ack
Filter
For CO-only Materi al
sensor

W hite Bl ack
Filter Filter
For dual Materi al Materi al
CO/H2S sensor

W hite
Filter
For H2S-only
Sensor sensor
Materi al
Side View Top View Retainer

Figure 16: Replacing a Sensor

8. If your instrument has a factory installed dummy sensor, ensure that it is still installed
correctly. Make sure that the flat side is facing away from the GX-3R.
9. Reinstall the filter gasket/sensor retainer assembly. The black and white filter goes over the
CO/H2S sensor with the black half of the filter facing the edge of the GX-3R. Be sure the filter
gasket/sensor retainer is oriented correctly.
10. If the filter gasket/hydrophobic dust filter assembly came out, reinstall it with the gasket tabs
facing down.
11. Reattach the bottom cover to the GX-3R. Push it onto the GX-3R until it snaps into place.
12. Reinstall the two screws that were loosened in Step 3.

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Chapter 6: Maintenance • 101

 13. Calibrate the new sensors as described on page 62. If a new H2-compensated CO sensor was
installed, you need to calibrate with CO and set the H2 response.

Replacing the Battery Board

Replace the battery board when the GX-3R doesn’t hold a charge anymore.
1. Verify that the GX-3R is off.
2. Remove the rubber boot, if installed.
3. Place the GX-3R LCD-side-down.
4. Unscrew the 4 screws that hold the two case halves together. The alligator or belt clip does not
need to be removed.

Figure 17: Removing Case Screws

5. Separate the two case halves. You may need to pry them apart.
6. The rear half of the case has the battery board.

102 • Chapter 6: Maintenance GX-3R Operator’s Manual

 7. Unscrew the 3 screws that hold the battery board.

Figure 18: Removing Battery Board Screws

8. Gently remove the battery board. A black rectangular gasket may come out with the battery
board.

Black Gasket

Rear Case Battery Board

Figure 19: Removing the Battery Board

9. Place the black rectangular gasket flat in the rear case.

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Chapter 6: Maintenance • 103

 10. Place the new battery board battery-side-down in the rear case. The case has protrusions that
fit in holes on the battery board.
Side View

Top View

Black Gasket

Rear Case Battery Board

Figure 20: Reinstalling the Battery Board

11. Secure the battery board using the screws removed in Step 7.

Figure 21: Reinstalling Battery Board Screws

104 • Chapter 6: Maintenance GX-3R Operator’s Manual

 12. Be sure the gasket along the edge of the rear case is seated correctly. The flat side of the gasket
faces away from the case.

Gasket, flat-side-up

Figure 22: Reinstalling Battery Board Screws

13. Reinstall the rear case to the front case using the screws removed in Step 4.

Figure 23: Removing Case Screws

14. Reinstall the rubber boot, if being used.

15. Turn on the GX-3R.
16. If the instruments goes into a clock failure, set the date/time as described on page 89.

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Chapter 6: Maintenance • 105

Chapter 7: Storage and Disposal

Storage
• Store away from direct sunlight
• Store in a location with normal temperature and humidity
• Store in a location free of gases, solvents, and vapors
• Store away from dust and dirt
• Discharge the battery to 1 bar in the battery icon to help prolong battery life and prevent
battery deterioration
• The GX-3R draws a small amount of power even while it is shut off. A GX-3R with a full
battery can be stored for 3 years without losing power. A GX-3R with a battery in low battery
alarm can be stored for about 3 months without losing power. If a GX-3R completely loses
power during storage, the date/time must be reset as described on page 89.

Disposal
• Remove the batteries
• Dispose in accordance with local regulations

106 • Chapter 7: Storage and Disposal GX-3R Operator’s Manual

Chapter 8: General Parts List
Table 16: General Parts List

Part Number Description

06-1248RK-03 Calibration kit tubing, 3 foot length

10-1083 Screw for belt clip

10-1086 Screw with flat and lock washers, for alligator clip

10-1087 Screw, for bottom cover and for battery pack

13-0112RK Wrist strap

13-0124 Alligator clip with 3 installation screws

13-0125 Belt clip with 3 installation screws

20-0332 Rubber boot, black

20-0333 Leather case

20-0334 Heat-resistant case

21-1950 Screen protector

21-1962 Bottom cover

21-1963 Sensor retainer

33-0183 Filter gasket/hydrophobic dust filter assembly, 1 set (to replace hydrophobic
dust filters that are separate from the filter gasket and to replace filter gasket/
hydrophobic dust filter assemblies)

33-0183-10 Filter gasket/hydrophobic dust filter assembly, 10 sets (to replace hydrophobic
dust filters that are separate from the filter gasket and to replace filter gasket/
hydrophobic dust filter assemblies)

33-0553 Buzzer cover

33-7130 Charcoal filter/humidity filter disk (black and white), for dual CO/H2S sensor,
5 pack

33-7131 H2S scrubber disk (dark red), for combustible gas sensor, 5 pack

33-7132 Charcoal filter disk (black), for CO and H2-compensated CO sensors, 5 pack

33-7133 Humidity filter (white), for H2S sensor, 5 pack

47-1019 Charging cable for multi-unit charger, 2 feet

47-5084RK USB/IrDA adapter module, no USB cable (for all premier portables)

47-5084RK-01 USB/IrDA adapter module, with USB cable (for all premier portables)

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Chapter 8: General Parts List • 107

 Table 16: General Parts List (Continued)

Part Number Description

47-5085RK USB A to USB mini cable, 6 feet, for 47-5084RK

47-5102 5 47-1019 charging cables with connector bar, no AC adapter

49-0133 Single-unit AC adapter, with 4 foot cable

49-0134 Multi-unit AC adapter, with 2 foot cables

49-2021 Single-unit DC adapter, with 4 foot cable

57-2098 Replacement Li-ion battery with board

65-7004 Dummy sensor

71-0477 Operator’s Manual, GX-3R (this document)

71-0491 Operator’s Manual, GX-3R Datalogging Program

81-0000RK-51 Calibration cylinder, 200 ppm H2 in air, 34 liter steel

81-0090RK-01 Calibration cylinder, 3-gas (CH4/O2/CO), 34 liter steel

81-0090RK-03 Calibration cylinder, 3-gas (CH4/O2/CO), 103 liter

81-0154RK-02 Calibration cylinder, 4-gas (CH4/O2/ H2S/CO), 58 liter

81-0154RK-04 Calibration cylinder, 4-gas (CH4/O2/ H2S/CO), 34 liter aluminum

81-1050RK-25 Regulator, fixed flow, 0.25 LPM, with gauge and knob, for 17 liter and 34 liter
steel cylinders (cylinders with external threads)

81-1051RK-25 Regulator, fixed flow, 0.25 LPM, with gauge and knob, for 34 liter aluminum,
58 liter, and 103 liter cylinders (cylinders with internal threads)

81-1161 Aspirator assembly: Sample cup, aspirator bulb, 10 foot hose, and probe

81-1192 Calibration cup/sample cup for aspirator assembly

81-GX3RCO Calibration kit: 103 liter 3-gas (CH4/O2/CO) cylinder, 0.25 LPM regulator, cal-
ibration tubing, and case

81-GX3RCO-LV Calibration kit: 34 liter steel 3-gas (CH4/O2/ CO) cylinder, 0.25 LPM regulator,
calibration tubing, and case

81-GX3RHSCO Calibration kit: 58 liter 4-gas (CH4/O2/ H2S/CO) cylinder, 0.25 LPM regulator,
calibration tubing, and case

81-GX3RHSCO-LV Calibration kit: 34 liter aluminum 4-gas (CH4/O2/ H2S/CO) cylinder, 0.25 LPM
regulator, calibration tubing, and case

81-GX3RHSCO- Calibration kit: 116 liter aluminum 4-gas (CH4/O2/ H2S/CO), 0.25 LPM
116 regulator, calibration tubing, and case

108 • Chapter 8: General Parts List GX-3R Operator’s Manual

 Table 16: General Parts List (Continued)

Part Number Description

ESR-A13i-H2S Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) sensor

ESR-A13P-CO Carbon monoxide (CO) sensor

ESR-A1CP-CO-H Hydrogen-compensated carbon monoxide (CO) sensor

ESR-A1DP-COHS Dual carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrogen sulfide (H2S) sensor

ESR-X13P-OXY Oxygen sensor

NCR-6309 Combustible gas sensor, catalytic

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Chapter 8: General Parts List • 109

Appendix A: Maintenance Mode

Overview
This appendix describes the GX-3R in Maintenance Mode. The GX-3R is factory-set to suit most
applications. Update settings in Maintenance Mode only if required for your specific application.
Maintenance Mode items and their factory settings are listed in Table 17.
Table 17: Maintenance Mode Menu Items

Maintenance
Mode Menu Description
Item
GAS CAL (page Perform an air adjust, perform a span adjustment, change the calibration values,
113) set the cylinder group.

AIR CAL Perform a fresh air adjustment.

AUTO CAL Perform a span adjustment, set the calibration gas concentration,
and set the cylinder for each gas.

AUTO Perform an automatic span adjustment on the

CAL CYL gases selected for Cylinder X (A-E cylinders
X available).

START Begin the warmup sequence and enter Measuring

Mode.

CAL-P Set the calibration concentration for each gas.

CYL SEL Assign a cylinder (A-E) to each gas (all 4 gases set
to Cylinder A is the default). For single cal opera-
tion, you would assign each gas its own cylinder.

ESCAPE Return to the AUTO CAL menu item.

ESCAPE Return to the GAS CAL menu item.

GAS TEST Apply gas to test sensor response and observe alarm indications without an alarm
(page 114) event being recorded.

SEN DATE View the replacement date for each sensor and the battery and/or set the replace-
(page 116) ment date for each sensor or the battery to the current date.

110 • Appendix A: Maintenance Mode GX-3R Operator’s Manual

 Table 17: Maintenance Mode Menu Items

Maintenance
Mode Menu Description
Item
BUMP (page Perform a bump test.
117)
BUMP Perform a bump test on the gases selected for Cylinder X
CYL X (A-E cylinders available)

START Begin the warmup sequence and enter Measuring Mode.

ESCAPE Return to the BUMP menu item.

LATCHING ON (factory setting): The GX-3R remains in alarm until the alarm condition
(page 118) passes and POWER MODE is pressed.
OFF: The GX-3R automatically resets an alarm when the alarm condition passes.

DEM ZERO ON (factory setting): You can manually perform a fresh air adjust in Measuring
(page 118) Mode by pressing AIR.
OFF: You cannot manually perform a fresh air adjust in Measuring Mode by
pressing AIR.

AUTOZERO ON: The GX-3R asks if you want to perform a fresh air adjustment at the end of
(page 119) the startup sequence.
OFF (factory setting): The GX-3R does not ask if you want to perform a fresh air
adjustment at the end of the startup sequence.

ID DISP (page ON: User ID and Station ID screens appear in startup sequence. IDs can be
119) changed in Display Mode if DISP.SET in User Mode is also set to ON.
OFF (factory setting): User ID and Station ID screens do not appear in startup
sequence. IDs cannot be changed in Display Mode.

ZERO SUP ON (factory setting): Not intended for field adjustment. The suppression values
(page 120) are:
Combustible Gas: 2% LEL
O2: 0.5% volume
H2S: 0.3 ppm
CO: 2 ppm

ZERO.FLWR ON (factory setting): Not intended for field adjustment. Oxygen channel does not
(page 120) support zero follower functionality.

ZSUP.DISP ON (factory setting): Zero suppression menu item appears in User Mode.
(page 120) OFF: Zero suppression menu item does not appear in User Mode.
(Zero suppression menu item is always available in Maintenance Mode)

ZFLW.DISP ON: Zero follower menu item appears in User Mode.

(page 120) OFF (factory setting): Zero follower menu item does not appear in User Mode.
(Zero follower menu item is always available in Maintenance Mode)

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Appendix A: Maintenance Mode • 111

 Table 17: Maintenance Mode Menu Items

Maintenance
Mode Menu Description
Item
DATE (page Set the current date and time.
121)

PASSWORD ON (factory setting): Maintenance Mode is password-protected. Factory-set

(page 121) password is 8102.
OFF: Maintenance Mode is not password-protected.

ROM/SUM View the firmware information for the GX-3R’s sensor board, main board, and
(page 122) gas list.

M.DEFAULT Set all parameters back to their RKI factory settings.

(page 123)

START (page Press and release POWER MODE to begin the warmup sequence and enter Mea-
124) suring Mode.

Entering Maintenance Mode

WARNING: The GX-3R is not in operation as a gas detector while in Maintenance Mode.

1. Take the GX-3R to a non-hazardous location and turn it off if it is on.

2. Press and hold AIR, then press and hold POWER MODE. You will hear a beep after one
second. Continue to hold the buttons down.
3. When you hear a second beep, release the buttons.
4. The screen that appears depends on the setting of Maintenance Mode’s PASSWORD item.
If PASSWORD is set to OFF, continue with Step 8.
If PASSWORD is set to ON (factory setting), continue with Step 5.

M 7:49 M 7:49

0000

BUMP PASSWORD
PASSWORD set to OFF PASSWORD set to ON

5. If PASSWORD is set to ON in Maintenance Mode, a password screen appears. The first digit
flashes. The factory-set password is 8102 but it can be changed as desired.

112 • Appendix A: Maintenance Mode GX-3R Operator’s Manual

 6. Use AIR to select each password number then press POWER MODE to save it and move on
to the next number. To go back a number, press and hold AIR and POWER MODE for a few
seconds. To reverse the direction of change (ie. from increasing to decreasing or vice versa):
a. Press and hold AIR.
b. Immediately press POWER MODE and then release both buttons.
7. Continue to Step 6.
8. The GAS CAL menu item displays.
M 7:49

GAS CAL
9. M at the top of the screen indicates that the GX-3R is in Maintenance Mode.
10. Use AIR to move through the Maintenance Mode menu items.

Tips for Using Maintenance Mode

• To scroll from one menu item to the next, press and release AIR. To reverse the scrolling
direction:
a. Press and hold AIR.
b. Immediately press POWER/MODE and then release both buttons.
c. The scrolling direction returns to the original direction when you exit and reenter a menu.
• To skip an item when a question is asked, press and release AIR.
• To enter an item and to save any changes, press and release POWER MODE.
• To change a flashing parameter, press and release AIR. To reverse the direction of change
(i.e. from increasing to decreasing or vice versa):
a. Press and hold AIR.
b. Immediately press POWER MODE and then release both buttons.
• To exit an entered menu item without saving a change, press and hold AIR and POWER
MODE for a few seconds.

Performing a Calibration (GAS CAL)

See “Performing a Calibration (GAS CAL)” on page 62 for a description of the GAS CAL menu
item.

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Appendix A: Maintenance Mode • 113

Performing a Gas Test (GAS TEST)
The GAS TEST menu item allows you to apply gas to the instrument and see all alarm
indications except for the buzzer indication. There is no buzzer indication in the GAS TEST
menu even though the buzzer will sound in the event of a real gas alarm condition while in
Measuring Mode.

Preparing for a Gas Test

To perform a gas test on the GX-3R, you will need:
• A calibration cylinder. The concentrations should be above the alarm condition you want
to check. Standard alarm points are listed on page 9.
• 0.25 LPM fixed flow regulator
• Non-absorbent tubing
• Calibration cup
1. Install the calibration cup onto the GX-3R. Use the label and imprinting to make sure that the
calibration cup gets installed in the correct orientation relative to the GX-3R. Be sure the
calibration cup is pushed on all the way.

POW ER
AIR MO DE
GX-3R

CO/H2 S LEL O2

FRONT

Inlet

Figure 24: Calibration Cup Installation

2. Use the tubing to connect the regulator to the inlet of the calibration cup.

114 • Appendix A: Maintenance Mode GX-3R Operator’s Manual

 Performing a Gas Test
1. While in Maintenance Mode, press AIR to scroll to GAS TEST.
M 7:49

GAS TEST

2. Press and release POWER MODE. The current gas readings display. The bottom of the LCD
alternates between “GAS TEST” and “BUZZ OFF”.
M 7:49 M 7:49
CH4 %LEL O2 % CH4 %LEL O2 %

0 20.9 0 20.9
CO ppm H2S ppm CO ppm H2S ppm

0 0.0 0 0.0
GAS TEST BUZZ OFF
3. For toxic gas cylinders (like cylinders containing H2S), it is important to vent the regulator
while installing it onto the cylinder. Venting the regulator during installation helps prevent air
from getting into the cylinder and degrading the gas. Open the regulator by turning the knob
counterclockwise and install it onto the cylinder.
4. The instrument initiates alarm indications except for the buzzer. There is no buzzer indication
in the GAS TEST menu even though the buzzer will sound in the event of a real gas alarm
condition.
5. Turn the regulator knob clockwise to close the regulator.
6. Unscrew the regulator from the calibration cylinder.
7. Remove the calibration cup from the GX-3R.
8. Store the calibration kit in a safe and convenient place.
9. Press and release POWER MODE to return to the GAS TEST menu item in Maintenance
Mode.
10. See “Entering Measuring Mode (START)” on page 124 to enter Measuring Mode.

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Appendix A: Maintenance Mode • 115

Sensor/Battery Replacement Date (SEN DATE)
The SEN DATE menu item allows you to keep track of when the sensors and the battery were
replaced.
1. While in Maintenance Mode, press AIR to scroll to SEN DATE.
M 7:49

SEN DATE
2. Press and release POWER MODE. The combustible gas sensor’s replacement date displays.
M 7:49

19- 2.11

CH4

116 • Appendix A: Maintenance Mode GX-3R Operator’s Manual

 3. Use AIR to scroll to the item whose replacement date you want to view or change.

M 7:49 M 7:49
AIR
19- 2.11 19- 2.11

CH4 CO
AIR AIR

M 7:49 M 7:49

19- 2.11 19- 2.11

O2 BATTERY
AIR AIR

M 7:49 M 7:49

19- 2.11

H2S ESCAPE

4. To change the replacement date:

a. With the desired item displayed, press and release POWER MODE.
b. Press and release POWER MODE again to set the replacement date to the current date.
5. Use the AIR button to scroll to the ESCAPE menu item.
6. Press and release POWER MODE to return to the SEN DATE menu item in Maintenance
Mode.
7. See “Entering Measuring Mode (START)” on page 124 to enter Measuring Mode.

Performing a Bump Test (BUMP)

See “Performing a Bump Test (BUMP)” on page 55 for a description of the BUMP menu item.

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Appendix A: Maintenance Mode • 117

Setting Alarms to Latching or Self-Resetting (LATCH-
ING)
ON (factory setting): The GX-3R remains in alarm until the alarm condition passes and POWER
MODE is pressed.
OFF: The GX-3R automatically resets an alarm when the alarm condition passes.
1. While in Maintenance Mode, press AIR to scroll to LATCHING.
M 7:49

LATCHING
2. Press and release POWER MODE. The current setting flashes.
3. Use AIR to display the desired setting.
4. Press and release POWER MODE to save the setting and return to the LATCHING menu
item.
5. See “Entering Measuring Mode (START)” on page 124 to enter Measuring Mode.

Turning the Demand Zero Function On/Off (DEM

ZERO)
ON (factory setting): You can manually perform a fresh air adjust in Measuring Mode by pressing
AIR.
OFF: You cannot manually perform a fresh air adjust in Measuring Mode.
1. While in Maintenance Mode, press AIR to scroll to DEM ZERO.
M 7:49

DEM ZERO
2. Press and release POWER MODE. The current setting flashes.
3. Use AIR to display the desired setting.
4. Press and release POWER MODE to save the setting and return to the DEM ZERO menu
item.
5. See “Entering Measuring Mode (START)” on page 124 to enter Measuring Mode.

118 • Appendix A: Maintenance Mode GX-3R Operator’s Manual

Turning the Auto Zero Function On/Off (AUTOZERO)
ON: The GX-3R asks if you want to perform a fresh air adjustment at the end of the startup
sequence.
OFF (factory setting): The GX-3R does not ask if you want to perform a fresh air adjustment at
the end of the startup sequence.
1. While in Maintenance Mode, press AIR to scroll to AUTOZERO.
M 7:49

AUTOZERO
2. Press and release POWER MODE. The current setting flashes.
3. Use AIR to display the desired setting.
4. Press and release POWER MODE to save the setting and return to the AUTOZERO menu
item.
5. See “Entering Measuring Mode (START)” on page 124 to enter Measuring Mode.

Turning the ID Display Function On/Off (ID DISP)

ON: The User ID and Station ID screens appear in startup sequence. If DISP.SET in User Mode
is also set to ON, then the IDs can be changed in Display Mode.
OFF (factory setting): The User ID and Station ID screens do not appear in startup sequence and
the IDs cannot be changed in Display Mode.
1. While in Maintenance Mode, press AIR to scroll to ID DISP.
M 7:49

ID DISP

2. Press and release POWER MODE. The current setting flashes.

3. Use AIR to display the desired setting.
4. Press and release POWER MODE to save the setting and return to the ID DISP menu item.
5. See “Entering Measuring Mode (START)” on page 124 to enter Measuring Mode.

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Appendix A: Maintenance Mode • 119

Turning the Zero Suppression On/Off (ZERO SUP)
The ZERO SUP setting is not intended for field adjustment. The default setting for each sensor is
ON.
Zero Suppression
Sensor
Value
Combustible Gas 2% LEL

O2 0.5% volume

H2 S 0.3 ppm

CO 2 ppm

Turning the Zero Follower On/Off (ZERO.FLWR)

The ZERO.FLWR setting is not intended for field adjustment. The default setting is ON. The
oxygen channel does not support zero follower functionality.

User Mode Zero Suppression (ZSUP.DISP)

ON (factory setting): Zero suppression menu item appears in User Mode.
OFF: Zero suppression menu item does not appear in User Mode. The zero suppression menu
item is always available in Maintenance Mode.

User Mode Zero Follower (ZFLW.DISP)

ON: Zero follower menu item appears in User Mode.
OFF (factory setting): Zero follower menu item does not appear in User Mode. The zero follower
menu item is always available in Maintenance Mode.
It is not normally necessary to have the zero follower menu item appear in User Mode. Contact
RKI Instruments before turning this setting on.

120 • Appendix A: Maintenance Mode GX-3R Operator’s Manual

Setting the Date/Time (DATE)
1. From the main menu, place the cursor next to DATE.
M 7:49

DATE
2. Press and release POWER MODE. The date and time display with the year flashing.
M 7:49

18 - 12.20
7:49

3. Use AIR to display the desired year.

4. Press and release POWER MODE to save the setting. The month setting flashes.
5. Repeat Step 3 and Step 4 to enter the month, day, hours, and minutes settings. The date and
time are saved and the instrument returns to the DATE menu item.
6. See “Entering Measuring Mode (START)” on page 124 to enter Measuring Mode.

Turning the Password On/Off (PASSWORD)

ON (factory setting): The GX-3R prompts you for a password when you enter Maintenance
Mode. The factory-set password is 8102 but it can be changed as desired.
OFF: No password is required to enter Maintenance Mode.
1. While in Maintenance Mode, press AIR to scroll to PASSWORD.
M 7:49

PASSWORD
2. Press and release POWER MODE. The current setting flashes.
3. Use AIR to display the desired setting.

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Appendix A: Maintenance Mode • 121

 4. If you selected OFF, press and release POWER MODE to save the setting and return to the
PASSWORD item in Maintenance Mode.
If you selected ON, continue with Step 5.
5. Press and release POWER MODE. The Set Password Screen appears. The current password
appears and the first digit flashes.
M 7:49

3000

PASSWORD

6. Use AIR to display a number from 0 to 9.

7. Press and release POWER MODE to enter the selection and advance to the next number. To
go back a number, press and hold AIR and POWER MODE for a few seconds.
8. Repeat Step 6 and Step 7 to select the remaining numbers. When you press and release
POWER MODE to enter the last number, the password is saved and the instrument returns to
the PASSWORD item in Maintenance Mode.
9. See “Entering Measuring Mode (START)” on page 124 to enter Measuring Mode.

Viewing the ROM/SUM (ROM/SUM)

The ROM/SUM screen shows the instrument’s firmware version and the firmware checksum.
1. While in Maintenance Mode, press AIR to scroll to ROM/SUM.
M 7:49

ROM / SUM

122 • Appendix A: Maintenance Mode GX-3R Operator’s Manual

 2. Press and release POWER MODE. The screen cycles through the main board’s ROM/SUM,
the sensor board’s ROM/SUM, and the gas list’s ROM/SUM. The ROM is the top value and
the SUM is the bottom value.

M 7:49 M 7:49 M 7:49

35709 35707 06110

2E86 C1E3 950E
MAIN ROM SENS. ROM GAS ROM

3. Press and release POWER MODE to return to the ROM/SUM menu item in Maintenance
Mode.
4. See “Entering Measuring Mode (START)” on page 124 to enter Measuring Mode.

Performing a Default (M.DEFAULT)

Performing a default operation in Maintenance Mode returns all parameters to their RKI factory
settings.
1. While in Maintenance Mode, press AIR to scroll to M.DEFAULT.
M 7:49

M.DEFAULT

2. Press and release POWER MODE to continue. Press and release AIR to return to the
M.DEFAULT menu item in Maintenance Mode.

M 7:49 M 7:49 M 7:49

M.DEFAULT YES / MODE NO / AIR

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Appendix A: Maintenance Mode • 123

 3. Press and release POWER MODE to perform a default operation. The instrument asks if you
are sure you want to perform a default operation.

M 7:49 M 7:49 M 7:49

SURE? YES / MODE NO / AIR

4. Press and release POWER MODE to perform a default operation. Press and release AIR to
return to M.DEFAULT menu item in Maintenance Mode.
5. The instrument beeps twice and returns to the M.DEFAULT menu item in Maintenance
Mode.
6. See “Entering Measuring Mode (START)” on page 124 to enter Measuring Mode.

Entering Measuring Mode (START)

1. While in Maintenance Mode, press AIR to scroll to START.
M 7:49

START
2. Press and release POWER MODE. The instrument begins its warmup sequence.

124 • Appendix A: Maintenance Mode GX-3R Operator’s Manual

Appendix B: Gas Select Mode

Overview
This appendix describes the GX-3R in Gas Select Mode. The GX-3R is factory-set to suit most
applications. Update settings in Gas Select Mode only if required for your specific application. A
description of the Gas Select Mode items is shown in Table 18.
Table 18: Gas Select Mode Menu Items

Menu Item (Page # of

Description
Description)
GAS COMB (page 127) Turn channels on or off and change target gas for each channel.

SAVE-AP (page 129) Set the current alarm points as the default alarm points.

MAX SPAN (page 130) ON: Maximum span screen appears after a successful calibration.
OFF (factory setting): No maximum span screen appears.

STEALTH (page 130) STEALTH ON: No backlight, LED, or buzzer operation.

STEALTH OFF (factory setting): Backlight, LED, and buzzer operate
normally.

This setting has no effect unless STEALTH is set to ON.

VIB ON: Vibrator activates for alarm conditions.
VIB OFF (factory setting): Vibrator does not activate in any situation.

CHG LEL (page 131) STANDARD (factory setting): Apply standard settings for lower explo-
sive limit’s ppm level.
IEC: Apply IEC standards for the lower explosive limit’s ppm level.
ISO: Apply ISO standards for the lower explosive limit’s ppm level.

START (page 133) Enter Measuring Mode

Entering Gas Select Mode

WARNING: The GX-3R is not in operation as a gas detector while in Gas Select Mode.

1. Take the GX-3R to a non-hazardous location and turn it off if it is on.

2. Press and hold AIR, then press and hold POWER MODE. You will hear a beep after one
second. Continue to hold the buttons down.
3. You will hear a second beep. Continue to hold the buttons down.
4. When you hear a third beep, release the buttons.

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Appendix B: Gas Select Mode • 125

 5. A password screen appears. The first digit flashes. The password is 2014.
M 7:49

0000

PASSWORD
6. Use AIR to select each password number then press POWER MODE to save it and move on
to the next number. To go back a number, press and hold AIR and POWER MODE for a few
seconds. To reverse the direction of change (ie. from increasing to decreasing or vice versa):
a. Press and hold AIR.
b. Immediately press POWER MODE and then release both buttons.
7. The GAS COMB menu item displays.
M 7:49

GAS COMB
8. M at the top of the screen indicates that the GX-3R is in Gas Select Mode.
9. Use AIR to move through the Gas Select Mode menu items.

Tips for Using Gas Select Mode

To scroll from one menu item to the next, press and release AIR. To reverse the scrolling
direction:
1. Press and hold AIR.
2. Immediately press POWER/MODE and then release both buttons.
3. The scrolling direction returns to the original direction when you exit and reenter a menu.
To skip an item when a question is asked, press and release AIR.
To enter an item and to save any changes, press and release POWER MODE.
• To change a flashing parameter, press and release AIR. To reverse the direction of change
(i.e. from increasing to decreasing or vice versa):
a. Press and hold AIR.
b. Immediately press POWER MODE and then release both buttons.
• To exit an entered menu item without saving a change, press and hold AIR and POWER
MODE for a few seconds.

126 • Appendix B: Gas Select Mode GX-3R Operator’s Manual

Changing the Gas Combination (GAS COMB)
The GAS COMB menu item allows you to turn channels on and off and change each channel’s
target gas.
If you want the combustible gas channel to be calibrated to a specific target gas, select that target
gas here and then calibrate to it in User Mode (see page 62).
1. While in Gas Select Mode, press AIR to scroll to GAS COMB.
M 7:49

GAS COMB
2. Press and release POWER MODE. The first channel displays.
M 7:49
CH4 %LEL

---

GAS COMB
3. Press AIR to scroll through to the instrument channel whose target gas you want to change.

M 7:49
CH4 %LEL

---

M 7:49
GAS COMB AIR

AIR CO ppm

M 7:49
---
O2 % GAS COMB
---
AIR

M 7:49
GAS COMB
AIR

M 7:49
ESCAPE
H2S ppm AIR
---
GAS COMB

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Appendix B: Gas Select Mode • 127

 4. Press and release POWER MODE.
5. The target gas for the selected channel flashes. In the example below, the combustible gas
channel is selected.
M 7:49

SELECT

CH4

6. Use AIR to change the target gas or turn the channel off.
Table 19: Target Gas Options for Each Channel

Channel Target Gas Options

Combustible • CH4 (methane) • n-C6H14 (hexane)
Gas • i-C4H10 (isobutane) • C7H8 (toluene)
• H2 (hydrogen) • n-C7H16 (heptane)
• CH3OH (methanol) • C8H10 (xylene)
• C2H2 (acetylene) • n-C9H20 (nonane)
• C2H4 (ethylene) • EtAc (ethyl acetate)
• C2H6 (ethane) • IPA (isopropyl alcohol)
• C2H5OH (ethanol) • MEK (methyl ethyl ketone)
• C3H6 (propylene) • MMA (methyl methacrylate)
• C3H6O (acetone) • DME (dimethyl ether)
• C3H8 (propane) • MIBK (methyl isobutyl ketone)
• C4H6 (butyne) • THF (tetrahydrofuran)
• C5H10 (cyclopentane) • CH4_VOL (methane %volume)*
• C6H6 (benzene) • ---------- (off)

O2 • O2 (oxygen)
• ---------- (off)

H2S • H2S (hydrogen sulfide for dual CO/H2S sensor)

• H2S SING (hydrogen sulfide for single-gas H2S sensor)
• H2_CO-H2 (hydrogen compensated CO)
• ----------- (off)

CO • CO (carbon monoxide for dual CO/H2S sensor or single-gas CO sensor)

• CO_CO-H2 (hydrogen compensated CO)
• ----------- (off)

* If CH4_VOL is selected, the CHG LEL item in Gas Select Mode has no effect on operation.

7. Press and release POWER MODE to save the setting.

8. The instrument returns to the channel selection screen.

128 • Appendix B: Gas Select Mode GX-3R Operator’s Manual

 9. Repeat Step 3 - Step 8 to change the target gas for other channels.
10. Use AIR to scroll to ESCAPE and press and release POWER MODE.
11. The instrument returns to the GAS COMB menu item.
12. See “Exiting Gas Select Mode (START)” on page 133 to enter Measuring Mode.

Saving the Alarm Points (SAVE-AP)

Performing a SAVE-AP operation saves the current alarm setpoints.
Performing a DEF ALMP operation in the ALARM-PT User Mode menu item sets the
instrument’s alarm points to those saved during the SAVE-AP operation (if performed).
Performing a SAVE-AP operation has no effect on an M.DEFAULT in Maintenance Mode. An
M.DEFAULT operation returns all instrument settings to the RKI default regardless of if a
SAVE-AP operation was performed.
1. While in Gas Select Mode, press AIR to scroll to SAVE-AP.
M 7:49

SAVE-AP

2. Press and release POWER MODE. The display cycles through the following screens.

M 7:49 M 7:49 M 7:49

SELECT SELECT SELECT

SAVE-AP YES / MODE NO / AIR

3. Press and release POWER MODE to save the current alarm point settings as the default.
4. The instrument returns to the SAVE-AP menu item.
5. See “Exiting Gas Select Mode (START)” on page 133 to enter Measuring Mode.

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Appendix B: Gas Select Mode • 129

Turning Calibration Max Span On/Off (MAX SPAN)
ON: After a passed calibration, the GX-3R displays the maximum possible adjustment it could
have made to the response reading. So if the combustible gas channel was calibrated with 50%
LEL gas and the maximum indicated span is 95% LEL, this means that there was enough
adjustment left on that channel to set the reading to 95% LEL when the detector was exposed to
50% LEL gas. If the maximum span value is close to the calibration gas value, for example if it is
53% LEL when exposed to 50% LEL gas, the sensor should be replaced soon. The upper limit on
the maximum adjustment indicated for all channels except for oxygen is either twice the
calibration value or full scale, whichever is lower. The upper limit on the maximum adjustment
indicated for the oxygen channel is 25.0% volume.
OFF (factory setting): There is no maximum span indication at the end of a calibration.
1. While in Gas Select Mode, press AIR to scroll to MAX SPAN.
M 7:49

MAX SPAN
2. Press and release POWER MODE. The current setting flashes.
3. Use AIR to display the desired setting.
4. Press and release POWER MODE to save the setting and return to the MAX SPAN menu
item.
5. See “Exiting Gas Select Mode (START)” on page 133 to enter Measuring Mode.

Stealth and Vibrator Settings (STEALTH)

STEALTH
ON:
• The instrument’s backlight does not come on, regardless of the BL TIME setting.
• The instrument’s LEDs do not come on for any reason, even alarm conditions.
• The instrument’s buzzer does not sound for any reason, even alarm conditions.
• An “S” appears at the top of the LCD.
OFF (factory setting): The instrument’s backlight and LEDs operate normally.

130 • Appendix B: Gas Select Mode GX-3R Operator’s Manual

 VIB
The VIB setting only affects instrument operation if STEALTH is set to ON.
ON: The vibrator activates for alarm conditions. It can be useful to have this feature turned on if
you have also turned STEALTH on.
OFF (factory setting): The vibrator does not activate for any reason.
1. While in Gas Select Mode, press AIR to scroll to STEALTH.
M 7:49

STEALTH
2. Press and release POWER MODE. The current STEALTH setting flashes.
3. Use AIR to display the desired setting.
4. Press and release POWER MODE. The current VIB setting flashes.
5. Use AIR to display the desired setting.
6. Press and release POWER MODE to save the setting and return to the STEALTH menu item.
7. See “Exiting Gas Select Mode (START)” on page 133 to enter Measuring Mode.

LEL Definition (CHG LEL)

NOTE: If CH4_VOL is selected for the combustible gas sensor in the GAS COMB menu item,
the CHG LEL setting has no effect on operation.

The CHG LEL menu item defines what standard the instrument follows in determining the LEL
(lower explosive limit) for the combustible channel’s target gas.
STANDARD: Apply the standard settings for the lower explosive limit’s ppm level.
IEC: Apply the IEC settings (per IEC 60079-20-1 2010[ed1.0]) for the lower explosive limit’s
ppm level.
ISO: Apply the ISO settings (per ISO 10156 2017) for the lower explosive limit’s ppm level.

Standard
Gas IEC (ppm) ISO (ppm)
(ppm)
Methane (CH4) 50,000 44,000 44,000

Isobutane (i-C4H10) 18,000 13,000 15,000

Hydrogen (H2) 40,000 40,000 40,000

Methanol (CH3OH) 55,000 60,000 60,000

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Appendix B: Gas Select Mode • 131

 Standard
Gas IEC (ppm) ISO (ppm)
(ppm)
Acetylene (C2H2) 15,000 23,000 23,000

Ethylene (C2H4) 27,000 23,000 24,000

Ethane (C2H6) 30,000 24,000 24,000

Ethanol (C2H5OH) 33,000 31,000 31,000

Propylene (C3H6) 20,000 20,000 18,000

Acetone (C3H6O) 21,500 25,000 25,000

Propane (C3H8) 20,000 17,000 17,000

Butadiene (C4H6) 11,000 14,000 14,000

Cyclopentane (C5H10) 14,000 14,000 14,000*

Benzene (C6H6) 12,000 12,000 12,000

N-hexane (n-C6H14) 12,000 10,000 10,000

Toluene (C7H8) 12,000 10,000 10,000

N-heptane (n-C7H16) 11,000 8,500 8,000

Xylene (C8H10) 10,000 10,000 10,000*

N-nonane (n-C9H20) 7,000 7,000 7,000

Ethyl acetate (EtAc) 21,000 20,000 20,000

Isopropyl alcohol (IPA) 20,000 20,000 20,000*

Methyl ethyl ketone (MEK) 18,000 15,000 15,000

Methyl methacrylate (MMA) 17,000 17,000 17,000*

Dimethyl ether (DME) 30,000 27,000 27,000

Methyl isobutyl ketone 12,000 12,000 12,000*

(MIBK)

Tetrahydrofuran (THK) 20,000 15,000 15,000*

* Values are actually IEC because no ISO definition exists for these gases.

132 • Appendix B: Gas Select Mode GX-3R Operator’s Manual

 1. While in Gas Select Mode, press AIR to scroll to CHG LEL.
M 7:49

CHG LEL
2. Press and release POWER MODE. The current setting flashes.
3. Use AIR to display the desired setting.
4. Press and release POWER MODE to save the setting and return to the CHG LEL menu item
will be displayed.
5. See “Exiting Gas Select Mode (START)” on page 133 to enter Measuring Mode.

Exiting Gas Select Mode (START)

1. While in Gas Select Mode, press AIR to scroll to START.
M 7:49

START
2. Press and release POWER MODE. The instrument begins its warm-up sequence.

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Appendix B: Gas Select Mode • 133

Appendix C: Interference Information
All interference response values shown in this appendix are approximate. Response may vary
between sensors.

ESR-A13i-H2S, H2S Detection

Table 20: Interference Chart for ESR-A13i-H2S, H2S Detection

Chemical Indication
Gas Concentration
Formula Value
Acetone C3H6O 0.54 vol% 0.0 ppm

Acetylene C2H2 100 ppm 0.0 ppm

Ammonia NH3 38.6 ppm 0.0 ppm

Benzene C6H6 0.30 vol% 0.0 ppm

Carbon Dioxide CO2 20.0 vol% 0.0 ppm

Carbon Monoxide CO 100.0 ppm 0.2 ppm

Chlorine CL2 2.0 ppm 0.0 ppm

Cyclopentane C5H10 0.35 vol% 0.0 ppm

Ethane C2H6 0.75 vol% 0.0 ppm*1

Ethanol C2H5OH 0.83 vol% -0.5 ppm*1

Ethyl Acetate C4H8O2 0.53 vol% -0.1 ppm*1

Fluorine F2 1.6 ppm 0.0 ppm

Hydrogen H2 500 ppm 0.2 ppm

Hydrogen Bromide HBr 9.0 ppm 0.0 ppm

Hydrogen Chloride HCl 3.2 ppm 0.0 ppm

Isobutane i-C4H10 0.45 vol% 0.0 ppm

Isobuten C4H8 1000 ppm 0.1 ppm

Isopropyl Alcohol C3H8O 2.0 vol% -0.5 ppm

Methane CH4 1.26 vol% 0.0 ppm

Methanol CH3OH 1.38 vol% -0.6 ppm*1

Methyl Ethyl Ketone C4H8O 0.45 vol% 0.0 ppm

134 • Appendix C: Interference Information GX-3R Operator’s Manual

 Table 20: Interference Chart for ESR-A13i-H2S, H2S Detection

Chemical Indication
Gas Concentration
Formula Value
Methyl Isobutyl Ketone C6H12O 0.30 vol% 0.0 ppm

Methyl Methacrylate C5H8O2 0.43 vol% 0.1 ppm*1

n-Hexane n-C6H14 0.30 vol% 0.0 ppm

Nitrogen Dioxide NO2 5.0 ppm -0.4 ppm

Nitrogen Monoxide NO 99.2 ppm 2.6 ppm

Nonane n-C9H2O 0.18 vol% 0.0 ppm

Ozone O3 0.48 ppm 0.0 ppm

Phosphine PH3 2.51 ppm 1.0 ppm

Propane C3H8 0.49 vol% 0.0 ppm

Propylene C3H6 0.5 vol% -0.2 ppm

Sulfur Dioxide SO2 25.0 ppm 0.0 ppm

Tetrahydrofuran C4H8O 0.50 vol% -0.4 ppm

Toluene C7H8 1.0 vol% 0.0 ppm

Xylene C8H10 0.25 vol% 0.0 pm

*1 The indicated value may fluctuate when exposed to this gas.

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Appendix C: Interference Information • 135

ESR-A13P-CO, CO Detection
Table 21: Interference Chart for ESR-A13P-CO, CO Detection

Chemical Indication
Gas Concentration
Formula Value
Acetone (CH3)2CO 5380 ppm 0 ppm

Acetylene C2 H2 99.6 ppm 50 ppm

Ammonia NH3 255 ppm 1 ppm

Arsine AsH3 1.1 ppm 4 ppm

Benzene C6 H6 0.3 vol% -1 ppm

Carbon Dioxide CO2 100 vol% 8 ppm

Chlorine Cl2 0.8 ppm 0 ppm

Cyclopentane C5H10 0.35 vol% 0 ppm

Diborane B 2 H6 5.25 ppm 2 ppm

Ethane C2 H6 0.75 vol% -1 ppm

Ethanol CH3CH2OH 0.825 vol% 2 ppm*1

Ethyl Acetate CH3COOH2CH3 0.525 vol% -1 ppm

Fluorine F2 1.6 ppm -1 ppm

Gelmane GeH4 10.2 ppm 3 ppm

Hydrogen H2 100 ppm 11 ppm

Hydrogen Chloride HCl 11.7 ppm -1 ppm

Hydrogen Cyanide HCN 1.8 ppm -1 ppm

Hydrogen Selenide H2Se 1 ppm 1 ppm

Hydrogen Sulfide H2 S 30 ppm 0 ppm

Isobutane C4H10 0.45 vol% -1 ppm

Isobuten (CH3)2C=CH2 1000 ppm 2 ppm

Isopropyl Alcohol (CH3)2CHOH 0.5 vol% -1 ppm

Methane CH4 1.25 vol% 0 ppm

Methanol CH3OH 1000 ppm 3 ppm

Methyl Ethyl Ketone C4H8O 0.45 vol% -1 ppm

136 • Appendix C: Interference Information GX-3R Operator’s Manual

 Table 21: Interference Chart for ESR-A13P-CO, CO Detection

Chemical Indication
Gas Concentration
Formula Value
Methyl Isobutyl C6H12O 3000 ppm -1 ppm
Ketone

Methyl Methacrylate C5H8O2 0.425 vol% 0 ppm

n-Heptane CH3(CH2)5CH3 0.275 vol% -1 ppm

n-Hexane CH3(CH2)4CH3 0.3 vol% 0 ppm

Nitrogen Dioxide NO2 50.5 ppm 1 ppm

Nitrogen Monoxide NO 99.2 ppm 53 ppm

Nonane CH3(CH2)7CH3 0.175 vol% 0 ppm

Ozone O3 1.8 ppm 0 ppm

Phosphine PH3 2.5 ppm 3 ppm

Propane C3 H8 0.5 vol% 0 ppm

Propylene C3 H6 5000 ppm 16 ppm

Silane SiH4 29.9 ppm 27 ppm

Sulfur Dioxide SO2 30 ppm 0 ppm

Tetrahydrofuran C4H8O 0.5 vol% 0 ppm

Toluene C6H5CH3 3000 ppm 0 ppm

Xylene C6H4(CH3)2 2500 ppm 0 ppm

*1
The indicated value may fluctuate when exposed to this gas.

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Appendix C: Interference Information • 137

ESR-A1CP-COH, H2-Compensated CO Detection
Table 22: Interference Chart for ESR-A1CP-COH, H2-Compensated CO Detection

Chemical Indication
Gas Concentration
Formula Value
Acetone C3 H6 O 0.54 vol% 1 ppm

Acetylene C2 H2 100 ppm 109 ppm

Ammonia NH3 38.6 ppm 0 ppm

Benzene C6 H6 0.30 vol% 0 ppm

Carbon Dioxide CO2 20.0 vol% 0 ppm

Chlorine Cl2 2.0 ppm -1 ppm

Cyclopentane C5H10 0.35 vol% 1 ppm

Ethane C2 H6 0.75 vol% 0 ppm

Ethanol C2H5OH 0.83 vol% 4 ppm*1

Ethyl Acetate C4 H 8 O 2 0.53 vol% 1 ppm

Fluorine F2 1.6 ppm -1 ppm

Hydrogen H2 500 ppm 7 ppm

Hydrogen Bromide HBr 9.0 ppm 0 ppm

Hydrogen Chloride HCl 15.8 ppm 0 ppm

Hydrogen Sulfide H2 S 24.2 ppm 0 ppm

Isobutane i-C4H10 0.45 vol% 0 ppm

Isobuten C4 H8 O 1000 ppm 3 ppm

Isopropyl Alcohol C 3 H8 O 0.50 vol% 0 ppm

Nitrogen Monoxide NO 99.2 ppm 53 ppm

Nitrogen Dioxide NO2 50.5 ppm 0 ppm

Methane CH4 1.26 vol% 1 ppm

Methanol CH3OH 1.38 vol% 131 ppm*1

Methyl Ethyl Ketone C4 H8 O 0.45 vol% 0 ppm

Methyl Isobutyl Ketone C6H12O 0.30 vol% 0 ppm

138 • Appendix C: Interference Information GX-3R Operator’s Manual

 Table 22: Interference Chart for ESR-A1CP-COH, H2-Compensated CO Detection

Chemical Indication
Gas Concentration
Formula Value
Methyl Methacrylate C5H8O2 0.43 vol% 1 ppm

n-Hexane n-C6H14 0.30 vol% 1 ppm

Nonane n-C9H2O 0.18 vol% 0 ppm

Ozone O3 0.48 ppm 0 ppm

Phosphine PH3 2.51 ppm 3 ppm

Propane C3 H8 0.49 vol% 0 ppm

Propylene C3 H6 0.50 vol% 78 ppm*1

Sulfur Dioxide SO2 25.0 ppm 1 ppm

Tetrahydrofuran C4 H 8 O 0.50 vol% 1 ppm

Toluene C7 H8 0.30 vol% 1 ppm

Xylene C8H10 0.25 vol% 0 ppm

*1 The indicated value may fluctuate when exposed to this gas.

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Appendix C: Interference Information • 139

ESR-A1DP-COHS, CO Detection
Table 23: Interference Chart for ESR-A1DP-COHS, CO Detection

Chemical Indication
Gas Concentration
Formula Value
Acetone (CH3)2CO 0.538 vol% -1 ppm

Acetylene C2 H 2 99.6 ppm 84 ppm

Ammonia NH3 255 ppm 2 ppm

Arsine AsH3 1.1 ppm 4 ppm

Benzene C6 H6 0.3 vol% -1 ppm

Carbon Dioxide CO2 100 vol% 8 ppm

Chlorine Cl2 0.8 ppm -1 ppm

Cyclopentane C5H10 0.35 vol% 0 ppm

Diborane B2 H6 5.25 ppm 2 ppm

Ethane C2 H6 0.75 vol% 0 ppm

Ethanol CH3CH2OH 0.825 vol% 25 ppm*1

Ethyl Acetate CH3COOH2CH3 0.525 vol% 9 ppm*1

Fluorine F2 1.6 ppm 0 ppm

Gelmane GeH4 10.2 ppm 7 ppm

Hydrogen H2 100 ppm 17 ppm

Hydrogen Chloride HCl 11.7 ppm -1 ppm

Hydrogen Cyanide HCN 1.8 ppm -1 ppm

Hydrogen Selenide H2Se 1 ppm 2 ppm

Hydrogen Sulfide H2 S 30 ppm 2 ppm

Isobutane C4H10 0.45 vol% 0 ppm

Isobuten (CH3)2C=CH2 1000 ppm 9 ppm

Isopropyl Alcohol (CH3)2CHOH 0.5 vol% 15 ppm*1

Methane CH4 1.25 vol% -1 ppm

Methanol CH3OH 1000 ppm 10 ppm*1

Methyl Ethyl Ketone C 4 H8 O 0.45 vol% -1 ppm

140 • Appendix C: Interference Information GX-3R Operator’s Manual

 Table 23: Interference Chart for ESR-A1DP-COHS, CO Detection

Chemical Indication
Gas Concentration
Formula Value
Methyl Isobutyl Ketone C6H12O 0.3 vol% 0 ppm

Methyl Methacrylate C5H8O2 0.425 vol% 2 ppm

n-Heptane CH3(CH2)5CH3 0.275 vol% -1 ppm

n-Hexane CH3(CH2)4CH3 0.3 vol% 0 ppm

Nitrogen Dioxide NO2 50.5 ppm 1 ppm

Nitrogen Monoxide NO 99.2 ppm 38 ppm

Nonane CH3(CH2)7CH3 0.175 vol% 0 ppm

Ozone O3 1.8 ppm 0 ppm

Phosphine PH3 2.5 ppm 3 ppm

Propane C3 H8 0.5 vol% 0 ppm

Propylene C3 H6 0.5 vol% 42 ppm*1

Silane SiH4 29.9 ppm 46 ppm

Sulfur Dioxide SO2 30 ppm 3 ppm

Tetrahydrofuran C4 H 8 O 0.5 vol% 21 ppm

Toluene C6H5CH3 0.3 vol% 0 ppm

Xylene C6H4(CH3)2 0.25 vol% 0 ppm

*1
The indicated value may fluctuate when exposed to this gas.

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Appendix C: Interference Information • 141

ESR-A1DP-COHS, H2S Detection
Table 24: Interference Chart for ESR-A1DP-COHS, H2S Detection

Chemical Indication
Gas Concentration
Formula Value
Acetone CH3COCH3 0.538 vol% -0.1 ppm

Acetylene C2H2 99.6 ppm -0.1 ppm

Ammonia NH3 250 ppm -0.1 ppm

Arsine AsH3 1.1 ppm 0.5 ppm

Benzene C6H6 0.3 vol% -0.1 ppm

Carbon Dioxide CO2 100 vol% -0.1 ppm

Carbon Monoxide CO 1000 ppm 2.6 ppm

Chlorine Cl2 0.8 ppm -0.1 ppm

Cyclopentane C5H10 0.35 vol% -0.1 ppm

Diborane B2H6 5.25 ppm 0.2 ppm

Ethane C2H6 0.75 vol% 0.0 ppm

Ethanol CH3CH2OH 0.825 vol% 0.5 ppm

Ethyl Acetate CH3COOH2CH3 0.525 vol% -0.1 ppm

Fluorine F2 1.6 ppm -0.1 ppm

Gelmane GeH4 10.2 ppm 0.3 ppm

Hydrogen H2 2000 ppm 1.3 ppm

Hydrogen Chloride HCl 11.7 ppm -0.2 ppm

Hydrogen Cyanide HCN 1.8 ppm 0.0 ppm

Hydrogen Selenide H2Se 1 ppm 0.3 ppm

Isobutane C4H10 0.45 vol% -0.1 ppm

Isobuten CH2CH(CH3)2 1000 ppm 0.1 ppm

Isopropyl Alcohol CH3C(OH)CH3 0.5 vol% 0.0 ppm

Methane CH4 1.25 vol% -0.1 ppm

Methanol CH3OH 1.375 vol% 0.5 ppm

142 • Appendix C: Interference Information GX-3R Operator’s Manual

 Table 24: Interference Chart for ESR-A1DP-COHS, H2S Detection

Chemical Indication
Gas Concentration
Formula Value
Methyl Ethyl Ketone C4H8O 0.45 vol% 0.3 ppm

Methyl Isobutyl Ketone C6H12O 0.3 vol% -0.1 ppm

Methyl Methacrylate C5H8O2 0.425 vol% -0.1 ppm

n-Heptane CH3(CH2)5CH3 0.275 vol% -0.1 ppm

n-Hexane CH3(CH2)4CH3 0.3 vol% -0.1 ppm

Nitrogen Dioxide NO2 50.5 ppm -4.6 ppm

Nitrogen Monoxide NO 99.2 ppm 6.0 ppm

Nonane CH3(CH2)7CH3 0.175 vol% 0.2 ppm

Ozone O3 1.8 ppm -0.1 ppm

Phosphine PH3 2.5 ppm 1.5 ppm

Propane C3H8 0.5 vol% -0.1 ppm

Propylene C3H6 0.5 vol% -0.1 ppm

Silane SiH4 29.9 ppm 0.6 ppm

Sulfur Dioxide SO2 30 ppm -0.1 ppm

Tetrahydrofuran C4H8O 0.5 vol% 0.1 ppm

Toluene C6H5CH3 0.3 vol% -0.1 ppm

Xylene C6H5(CH3)2 0.25 vol% -0.1 ppm

GX-3R Operator’s Manual Appendix C: Interference Information • 143

Warranty
RKI Instruments, Inc. warrants the GX-3R sold by us to be free from defects in materials,
workmanship, and performance for a period of three years from the date of shipment from RKI
Instruments, Inc. This includes the instrument and the original sensors. Replacement parts are
warranted for 1 year from the date of their shipment from RKI Instruments, Inc. except for
replacement sensors which are warranted for 3 years. Any parts found defective within their
warranty period will be repaired or replaced, at our option, free of charge. This warranty does not
apply to those items which by their nature are subject to deterioration or consumption in normal
service, and which must be cleaned, repaired, or replaced on a routine basis. Examples of such
items are:
• Absorbent cartridges
• Fuses
• Pump diaphragms and valves
• Batteries
• Filter elements, disks, or sheets
Warranty is voided by abuse including mechanical damage, alteration, rough handling, or repair
procedures not in accordance with the instruction manual. This warranty indicates the full extent
of our liability, and we are not responsible for removal or replacement costs, local repair costs,
transportation costs, or contingent expenses incurred without our prior approval.
THIS WARRANTY IS EXPRESSLY IN LIEU OF ANY AND ALL OTHER WARRANTIES AND
REPRESENTATIONS, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, AND ALL OTHER OBLIGATIONS OR
LIABILITIES ON THE PART OF RKI INSTRUMENTS, INC. INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO
THE WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. IN NO
EVENT SHALL RKI INSTRUMENTS, INC. BE LIABLE FOR INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, OR
CONSEQUENTIAL LOSS OR DAMAGE OF ANY KIND CONNECTED WITH THE USE OF ITS
PRODUCTS OR FAILURE OF ITS PRODUCTS TO FUNCTION OR OPERATE PROPERLY.

This warranty covers instruments and parts sold to users only by authorized distributors, dealers,
and representatives as appointed by RKI Instruments, Inc. We do not assume indemnification for
any accident or damage caused by the operation of this gas monitor and our warranty is limited to
replacement of parts or our complete goods.

144 • Warranty GX-3R Operator’s Manual