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Software
SW Install
Which Windows Operating Systems are supported by the 1028/1029 Radon Monitor software?
Which Windows Operating Systems are supported by the 1027 Radon Monitor software?
How do I install the 1027 Software from the CD on my Windows XP computer?
How do I install the 1027 Software from the CD on my Windows7 computer?
How do I install the 1028/1029 Software from the CD on my Windows XP computer?
How do I install the 1028/1029 Software from the CD on my Windows 7 computer?
How do I install the IOGEAR USB-to-Serial adapter software from the CD on my Windows XP computer?
How do I install the IOGEAR USB-to-Serial adapter software from the CD on my Windows 7 computer?
SW Communication
My 1027 monitor is connected using a USB adapter to my Windows XP computer but the report will not download from the monitor to the computer.
My 1027 monitor is connected using a USB adapter to my Windows 7 computer but the report will not download from the monitor to the computer.
Functionality
The graph in my 1027 report is not aligned correctly or is missing.
An "Index out of Bounds" message is displayed after pressing the Print button.
Hardware
Battery
1028/1029 monitor will not turn on with either power or a good 9v battery connected.
Error Indicator
Why is the Yellow (Amber) LED continuously flashing on my 1027 Monitor?
The HV OFF LED is lit continuously
HW Communication
My thermal printer settings are incorrect.  How can I set them to the original factory settings?
How do I change the time interval for my 1027 monitor so that each data point in the printed report represents a 4-hour average instead of a 1-hour average?
What type of cable is used for communication between a 1027 and PC?
Operation
Report
Do you provide a sample Radon Measurement Report?
Can I print the data from the monitor more than once without losing the data?
What does a "T" indicate on the printout?
What does a "P" indicate on the printout?
I ran a 150-hour test with a 1027 radon monitor but there were only 90 hourly averages on the printout. Where is the rest of the data?
What is the difference between the OVERALL average and the EPA Protocol average?
My monitor data printouts contain '0.0 pC/l'. Is this a problem?
Why do the hourly readings on my radon monitor always seem to show the same numbers (such as 0.0, 0.3, 0.7, etc.), especially at lower radon levels? Does this mean there is something wrong with my monitor?
Functionality
How can I find out what my PIN is if I forget it?
How do I clear the memory of my 1028 or 1029 monitor?
How do I view the results of the test on my 1028 or 1029 monitor?
How do I download the data on my 1027 monitor to my computer?
How do I start a test with my 1028 or 1029 monitor?
How do I stop the 1027 monitor after the test is complete?
General Inquiry
Sun Nuclear monitors
How can I learn more about the technology and theory of operation for the Model 1027?
What is the difference between a 1028 and 1029 Radon Monitor?
What is the operating environment for my 1028/1029 Radon monitor
What needs to be done to store the 1028/1029 for long periods of time?
What is the maximum number of measured data points that can be stored in the 1028/1029 monitors?
Radon Detection
How long should a test for radon take?
What is an acceptable level of radon for a home?
Who can test for radon?
How large an area does one monitor cover for a test?
Where can I find more information about radon testing and certification?
FAQ Answers
Software
SW Install
Which Windows Operating Systems are supported by the 1028/1029 Radon Monitor software?
The 1028/1029 radon monitor software runs on any computer using Microsoft Windows XP 32-bit or 64 bit. It has also been verified to install correctly on computers running Microsoft Windows 7 32-bit or 64-bit. Install all software as the administrator of the computer.
Which Windows Operating Systems are supported by the 1027 Radon Monitor software?
The 1027 radon monitor software runs on any computer using Microsoft Windows 95, 98, ME, NT 4.0, 2000, or Windows XP. The 1027 software has also been installed correctly on Vista and Windows 7 but has not been officially tested by Sun Nuclear Corporation. The software has not been officially tested to run on any 64-bit computer.
How do I install the 1027 Software from the CD on my Windows XP computer?
This video displays step-by-step instructions for installing the 1027 software from the Sun Nuclear CD on a Windows XP computer. The installer must have administrator rights on the computer to complete the install.

How do I install the 1027 Software from the CD on my Windows7 computer?
This video displays step-by-step instructions for installing the 1027 software from the Sun Nuclear CD on a Windows 7 computer. The installer must have administrator rights on the computer to complete the install.

How do I install the 1028/1029 Software from the CD on my Windows XP computer?
This video displays step-by-step instructions for installing the 1028/1029 software from the Sun Nuclear CD on a Windows XP computer. The installer must have administrator rights on the computer to complete the install.

How do I install the 1028/1029 Software from the CD on my Windows 7 computer?
This video displays step-by-step instructions for installing the 1028/1029 software from the Sun Nuclear CD on a Windows 7 computer. The installer must have administrator rights on the computer to complete the install.

How do I install the IOGEAR USB-to-Serial adapter software from the CD on my Windows XP computer?
This is a video representation of the IOGEAR installation instructions for Windows XP.

How do I install the IOGEAR USB-to-Serial adapter software from the CD on my Windows 7 computer?
This is a video representation of the IOGEAR installation instructions for Windows 7.

SW Communication
My 1027 monitor is connected using a USB adapter to my Windows XP computer but the report will not download from the monitor to the computer.
This video shows how to edit Com Port assignments in Windows XP. The 1027 software is limited to Com Ports 1 through 4 and this video is helpful for troubleshooting which Com Port is assigned to the USB Adapter.

My 1027 monitor is connected using a USB adapter to my Windows 7 computer but the report will not download from the monitor to the computer.
This video shows how to edit Com Port assignments in Windows 7. The 1027 software is limited to Com Ports 1 through 4 and this video is helpful for troubleshooting which Com Port is assigned to the USB Adapter.

Functionality
The graph in my 1027 report is not aligned correctly or is missing.
The issue may be that your Windows operating system does not support the required font (Courier New). A fix is available in newer versions of the software. We recommend downloading the latest 1027 radon software from the SNC web site.

Sun Nuclear Corporation Radon Web Site
An "Index out of Bounds" message is displayed after pressing the Print button.
There is not enough data collected in the monitor to print. At least 3 hours of data must be accumulated before transferring to a computer.
Hardware
Battery
1028/1029 monitor will not turn on with either power or a good 9v battery connected.
Unit will need to be returned for service, which may possibly include replacement of the 3V internal coin-cell battery. Please click this link to submit a request for a Return Material Authorization.
Error Indicator
Why is the Yellow (Amber) LED continuously flashing on my 1027 Monitor?
This is an indication of a hardware failure during power up. We recommend returning the monitor for service. Please click this link to submit a request for a Return Material Authorization.
The HV OFF LED is lit continuously
High Voltage supply has failed. We recommend returning the monitor for service. Please click this link to submit a request for a Return Material Authorization.
HW Communication
My thermal printer settings are incorrect.  How can I set them to the original factory settings?
Users can modify the thermal printer settings that are set at the factory.  However, doing so may cause the printer to function improperly. Click here for instructions on how to return the thermal printer settings to the factory settings.
How do I change the time interval for my 1027 monitor so that each data point in the printed report represents a 4-hour average instead of a 1-hour average?
The data interval is set by an internal dip-switch. The Model 1027 must be physically opened in order to gain access to the dip-switch. WARNING: High Voltage Inside! Disconnect power (Power Converter and Battery), then wait 30 minutes before removing the cover. The procedure is as follows:


• STEP 1: With the key side facing you, remove the four screws on both ends of the Model 1027.

• STEP 2: Lift the cover, making certain the battery ON-OFF switch is free, and rotate the cover away from you letting it come to rest upside down above the battery compartment side of the base.

• STEP 3: The electronics are now visible in the upside down cover; in the lower right corner you will see a four position dip-switch. The switch positions are numbered 1 through 4, the switch will have labels which will identify which side is OFF and/or ON.

• STEP 4: On one side of the switch are interval values printed on the circuit board. Position Interval 1 (1 hr), 2 (4 hrs), 3 (8 hrs), 4 (24 hrs). Select the switch position for the interval desired, and shift it to the ON position. Make certain to shift the previously selected interval to the OFF position; only one switch should be in the ON position at any time.

• STEP 5: Reassemble the monitor by reversing the earlier steps. The new data interval has now been selected, however, this interval will not actually be used by the monitor until a memory CLEAR procedure is completed. (See 1027 Manual found on the Sun Nuclear Radon Web Site. After the first memory CLEAR, all subsequent tests will use the selected interval.
What type of cable is used for communication between a 1027 and PC?
The cable is a standard "9-pin D" RS-232 Serial Extension Cable. However most newer computers do not come with an RS-232 connector. You must purchase a USB-to-serial adapter cable, available at any office or computer store. Ensure that the adapter is compatible with your computer's operating system. Sun Nuclear Corporation recommends the IOGEAR adapter model GUC-232A USB-to-Serial Adapter. You can purchase one from Sun Nuclear using the P/N 850029 if necessary.

P/N 850029
Operation
Report
Do you provide a sample Radon Measurement Report?
Yes. Choose either link below to download a form for reporting the Radon Testing results to your clients.

PDF format (41k): RadonRpt.pdf   Word Document (22k): RadonRpt.doc
Can I print the data from the monitor more than once without losing the data?
Yes, you can print or transmit the data to a PC as many times as you want. The data is only erased when the monitor's memory is cleared.
What does a "T" indicate on the printout?
A "T" on the printout indicates that the monitor was moved during that hour of operation.
What does a "P" indicate on the printout?
A "P" on the printout indicates that the monitor lost complete power from both the power adapter and backup battery.
I ran a 150-hour test with a 1027 radon monitor but there were only 90 hourly averages on the printout. Where is the rest of the data?
The 1027 radon monitor has a storage limit of 90 data points. The first 90 hourly averages are stored for the printout. The printed overall average will still reflect the 150 hour test period.
What is the difference between the OVERALL average and the EPA Protocol average?
The EPA Protocol average does NOT include the first 4 hours of data in the calculation. The EPA considers the first 4 hours as a warm up or equilibrium period for the radon test.
My monitor data printouts contain '0.0 pC/l'. Is this a problem?
Following are the printouts that display test results that are invalid and may indicate a problem with the Sun Nuclear Radon Monitor. If you encounter similar test results, please contact Sun Nuclear Technical Support for further assistance.



The test results show that all the hourly averages were 0.0 pCi/1. Note that hourly averages of 0.0 pCi/1 are possible when testing a low concentration area but is unlikely over a consecutive time period.



The test result shows a group of hourly averages that were 0.0 pCi/1 but the rest of the test shows normal results. As stated above, hourly averages of 0.0 pCi/1 are possible when testing a low concentration area but is unlikely over a consecutive time period.



The test results show a group of hourly averages that were 0.0 pCi/1 and other values that fluctuate greatly.
Why do the hourly readings on my radon monitor always seem to show the same numbers (such as 0.0, 0.3, 0.7, etc.), especially at lower radon levels? Does this mean there is something wrong with my monitor?
There is nothing wrong with the monitor. A typical one-detector SNC radon monitor, such as a model 1027 or 1028, has a sensitivity roughly in the range of 3.0 counts per hour per pCi/l (individual monitors may have higher or lower sensitivities – check your calibration factor for the actual number). The reason the same set of numbers appear is that the number of alpha particle counts is so low. If only one count is detected in an hour, this means that the monitor has measured 1 cph/3.0 cph per pCi/L = 0.3333 pCi/L, which is rounded to 0.3. Two counts would mean 0.6666 pCi/L, which would round to 0.7. However, because radon measurements are generally performed over a longer time period, such as 48 hours, the average of many of these discrete hourly measurements is capable of measuring any value, even at low radon levels.
Functionality
How can I find out what my PIN is if I forget it?
When the monitor shows 'ENTER PIN' enter 4111 to find out what PIN is assigned.
How do I clear the memory of my 1028 or 1029 monitor?
This quick video demonstrates how to clear the memory on a 1028 or 1029 monitor.

How do I view the results of the test on my 1028 or 1029 monitor?
This quick video demonstrates how to view the test results on a 1028 or 1029 monitor.

How do I download the data on my 1027 monitor to my computer?
This video displays step-by-step instructions to download the data stored in the 1027 to your computer using the 1027 software.

How do I start a test with my 1028 or 1029 monitor?
This quick video demonstrates how to start a test with a 1028 or 1029 monitor.

How do I stop the 1027 monitor after the test is complete?
To stop the test, turn the battery backup switch to the off position and disconnect the power adapter from the monitor and the wall outlet . As long as there is no power supplied to the radon monitor then it will not collect any new data. The data will not be erased until the monitor's memory is cleared. You can print the information at the test site or download later.
General Inquiry
Sun Nuclear monitors
How can I learn more about the technology and theory of operation for the Model 1027?
What is the difference between a 1028 and 1029 Radon Monitor?
The 1029 monitor has greater sensitivity than the 1028, plus it has temperature, pressure, and humidity sensors.
What is the operating environment for my 1028/1029 Radon monitor
The Radon monitor's operating environment is limited to 45 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit (7 to 35 degrees Celsius), between 20% to 80% relative humidity, non condensing.
What needs to be done to store the 1028/1029 for long periods of time?
1028/1029 Radon monitors must be stored with a good 9V battery installed or connected to AC power. This additional power is required to prevent the discharge of a small 3V lithium battery located inside the unit.
What is the maximum number of measured data points that can be stored in the 1028/1029 monitors?
The 1028/1029 Radon Monitor can record up to a maximum of 720 data points during a test. The test duration set up in the monitor will determine the total time covered by the 720 recorded data points.
Radon Detection
How long should a test for radon take?
A short term test is typically 48 hours, but can be up to 90 days. A long-term test is 90 days or more.
What is an acceptable level of radon for a home?
The acceptable concentration of radon in a home is less than 4 pCi/l per industry standards and US EPA recommendation.
Who can test for radon?
All radon testers and devices should be approved by a state or national proficiency program.
How large an area does one monitor cover for a test?
One monitor can cover an area of 2000 sq ft. If you require a larger area to be monitored, more than one device will be necessary
Where can I find more information about radon testing and certification?
There are several national organizations that supply information on radon testing and the steps for certification. We have placed links on our web site to several of these organizations. You can also contact your state's Department of Environmental Protection for educational training and certifications specific to your state.

Sun Nuclear Corporation Radon Web Site
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