1Overview
The MetRad 1 gives inspectors a dual-function scanner for fast localization of both metal and radioactive material. The device is small and light, so an operator can sweep baggage and people quickly without fatigue. Sensitivity stays high even when the threat is heavily shielded nuclear material, the case where a single-purpose detector often comes up short.
An efficient 3 cc CsI(Tl) detector with SiPM readout drives the radiation response, paired with rugged construction for daily field use. Auto-calibration and a choice of disposable or rechargeable batteries keep deployment quick. When the device alarms, a three-color LED tells the operator whether the cause is metal or radiation, so the response is immediate and unambiguous.
2Key Features
- High sensitivity for both radiation and metal in a single handheld unit.
- Self-calibrating to different backgrounds for reliable response as conditions change.
- Rugged and lightweight construction suited to repeated daily scanning.
- Sound and vibro-alarms, with a three-color LED that separates a gamma alarm from a metal alarm.
- Detects heavily shielded nuclear material that gamma-only screening can miss.
- Disposable or rechargeable battery options for fast deployment.
3Detector & Performance
Radiation detection uses a 3 cc CsI(Tl) scintillator with SiPM readout, chosen for strong light output and a rugged, compact package. The SiPM keeps the detector small and shock-tolerant while preserving the response needed to catch weak or shielded sources during a walk-by. The gamma energy range runs from 15 keV to 3 MeV.
The MetRad 1 distinguishes a radiation alarm from a metal alarm through a three-color LED: green for power on, blue for a gamma alarm, and red for a metal alarm, so the operator knows at once what triggered the device. Auto-calibration adjusts to the local background, which matters when an inspector moves between a quiet checkpoint and a high-traffic hall. Minimum metal-detection distance in air spans from 100 mm for a magnetic plate to 200 mm for a pistol or lead container.
4Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Three-color LED Indication | Green LED = ON Blue LED = GAMMA ALARM Red LED = METAL ALARM |
| Gamma Energy Range | 15 keV to 3 MeV |
| Detector, Gamma | 3 cc CsI(Tl) with SiPM |
| Minimum Metal Detection Distance in Air | Knife: 150 (±10) mm Pistol: 200 (±10) mm Magnetic plate: 100x100 mm Lead container: 200 (±10) mm |
| Operating Temperatures | 20 °C to +50 °C |
| Humidity | Up to 95% at 30 °C |
| Pressure | 84 kPa to 106.7 kPa |
| Size | 420 x 85 x 45 mm |
| Weight | 400 g |
| Battery | One 9V (included) |
| Battery Lifetime | 500 hours |
Source: MetRad 1 datasheet (rev. dc-10309102). Radiation sensitivity and dose-rate range are not enumerated on the published datasheet (verify with engineering).
5Applications
- Airports and seaports screening baggage and passengers.
- Customs and border protection checkpoints.
- Events and building security access control.
- Critical infrastructure protection and perimeter screening.
6Options & Accessories
| Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Battery | One 9V battery included; rated 500-hour lifetime |
| Rechargeable battery | The datasheet notes disposable or rechargeable batteries; a specific rechargeable SKU is not enumerated (verify) |
The MetRad 1 ships with a 9V battery rated for 500 hours of operation. Confirm any rechargeable-battery option, charger, and carry accessories against the current MetRad 1 datasheet.
7Ordering
To configure a MetRad 1, choose the battery option that fits your duty cycle and confirm the accessories your screening site needs. For a quote, a demonstration, or help fitting the scanner to a checkpoint workflow, contact Berkeley Nucleonics at info@berkeleynucleonics.com or 800-234-7858.