CITIZEN SCIENCE
AIR MONITOR (CSAM)
Operating Procedur
National Exposure Research Laboratory
-------
CITIZEN SCIENCE
Contents
Introduction 1
Citizen Science Air Monitor (CSAM) 1
Pollutants Measured and Their Sources 1
CSAM Components 1
CSAM-NO2 3
CSAM-PM 3
Temperature and Relative Humidity 3
Microprocessor 3
Section 1: Verifying CSAM Performance 4
What You Will Need 4
Included in CSAM Package 4
Not Included 4
CSAM Performance Checks 4
Software Installation and CSAM Setup 5
Recording Performance Check Data 9
Conducting the Performance Checks 12
CSAM-NO2 Maintenance 14
Section 2: Field Operation 16
What You Will Need 16
Included in CSAM Package 16
Not Included 16
Battery Changing and Charging 17
CSAM Setup 20
Routine Data Collection 23
Processing Data 24
For Additional Help 28
-------
CITIZEN SCIENCE
Introduction
Citizen Science Air Monitor (CSAM)
The Citizen Science Air Monitor (CSAM) is an air monitoring system designed for measuring
nitrogen dioxide (NCb) and participate matter (PM) pollutants simultaneously. This self-
contained system consists of a CairPol CairClip NC>2 sensor, a Thermo Scientific personal
DataRAM PM2.5 monitor, and a Honeywell temperature and relative humidity (RH) sensor. The
CSAM's design provides for easy data retrieval from all three devices in a single step through a
key-lock access door.
These operating procedures explain what you need to do to collect quality data using the CSAM
for your monitoring project. Two sets of procedures are detailed here. Procedures for verifying
proper operation of the CSAM are provided in Section 1 and should be performed only by an
experienced operator. The Section 2 procedures are for the field operation of the CSAM by
citizen volunteers.
Pollutants Measured and Their Sources
NC>2 is a highly reactive gas that can irritate the lungs and cause bronchitis, pneumonia, and
other respiratory problems. NC>2 pollution is both man-made and naturally occurring. It occurs
naturally as a result of atmospheric processes. It also forms from fuel combustion and forms
quickly from automobile emissions. Therefore, significant increases in NC>2 concentrations are
often found near major roadways. Power plants and other industrial processes also emit NC>2.
PM consists of particles of various sizes such as soot, smoke, dirt, and dust. These particles are
often generated and released into the air from sources such as power plants, industrial and
agricultural processes, automobiles, and fires. PM can adversely affect breathing and aggravate
respiratory and cardiovascular conditions, with the smallest particles posing the greatest health
risk. PM also contributes to atmospheric haze that reduces visibility.
For more information on these air pollutants visit the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's
Web site at http://www.epa.qov/airquality/urbanair/.
CSAM Components
Figure 1 shows the inside of the CSAM and its separate components. Each component is
detailed in the following subsections. The experienced operators conducting the performance
checks will need a thorough understanding of these components, while a general familiarity of
instrument operation should be sufficient for the citizen volunteer operators, who likely will not
need to access the inside of the CSAM. Understanding the components that comprise the
CSAM, however, will help the citizen scientists evaluate the quality of collected data and identify
operational problems. Table 1 lists the measurement units reported by each component.
1
-------
CITIZEN SCIENCE
BGI sharp-cut
cyclone inlet
personal DataRAM
nephelometer
Ardumo Uno
microprocessor
Measurement
Reporting Unit
NO2 concentration Parts per billion (ppb)
PM concentration Micrograms per cubic meter (ug/m3)
Temperature Degrees Celsius (°C)
Relative humidity (RH) Percent (%) at °C
Table 1
-------
CITIZEN SCIENCE
CSAM-NO2
CSAM measurements of NC>2 are made using a CairPol CairClip NC>2 sensor. The CairClip uses
a gas-specific inlet filter combined with dynamic air sampling in an integrated system to
measure real-time gas concentration in parts per billion (ppb). The CSAM-NO2 unit's detection
limit—the lowest concentration the instrument is likely to detect—is approximately 20 ppb NC>2.
CSAM-PM
The CSAM-PM component measures real-time PM in micrograms per cubic meter (ug/m3) using
a Thermo Scientific personal DataRAM nephelometer, a device that uses light to measure the
concentration of suspended particles in a liquid or gas. Air is pumped to the nephelometer by an
SKC AirChek 52 personal sampling pump. The nephelometer uses a BGI sharp-cut cyclone
inlet (SCC 1.062), which excludes particles with a diameter above a certain size. In this case, the
CSAM-PM samples for PM2.5, which consists of particles less than 2.5 micrometers in diameter,
or "fine" particles. Fine particles come from all types of combustion activities, such as motor
vehicles, power plants, and wood burning, and pose the greatest health risk because they can
lodge deeply in the lungs. The CSAM-PM unit operates at a flow rate of 1.5 liters per minute
(L/min). It is important to understand that a change in flow rate will change the diameter of the
particles being sampled and thus affect data quality. If a change in flow rate is noted, the unit
should be removed from operation, and an experienced operator should perform the flow rate
check and adjustment detailed in Section 1. The CSAM-PM has a detection limit of 0.1 ug/m3.
Temperature and Relative Humidity
The CSAM also contains a Honeywell temperature and RH sensor (HIH-4602-A/C series).
Temperature (°C) and RH (% at °C) data are recorded along with the PM and NC>2 concentration
data. The recommended CSAM operating ranges for temperature and RH are 32-104 °F and
0-90% RH (with no formation of water droplets), respectively. Abrupt changes in temperature
and RH can affect the performance of your CSAM, particularly the CSAM-NO2 sensor
component. Therefore, temperature and RH data collected concurrently with concentration data
can help you recognize any performance issues caused by environmental conditions.
Microprocessor
Data from all components—PM, NC>2, and temperature and RH—are collected and stored using
an Arduino Uno microprocessor. The Arduino Uno has a USB connection and a power jack.
This microprocessor uses software developed by EPA to allow operators to retrieve all data
from the unit in one easy step. Data will be stored on a secure digital (SD) memory card located
in the microprocessor that the citizen operators access and remove for data download as
described in Section 2.
3
-------
CITIZEN SCIENCE
Section 1: Verifying CSAM Performance
The procedures in this section should be carried out only by an experienced operator.
The performance checks and maintenance procedure described in this section will help make
sure the CSAM produces the desired results during the study. It is recommended that an
experienced operator conduct the performance checks before deploying the instrument in the
field and after it is removed from the field at the end of the study. In addition, the filter of the
CSAM-NO2 component should be changed by an experienced operator. If at any time a citizen
volunteer operator suspects a CSAM is not functioning properly, it should be removed from
operation and undergo troubleshooting, maintenance, and performance checks as described in
this section.
What You Will Need
Included in CSAM Package
CSAM
Secure digital (SD) card (standard size)
SD card reader
AC-DC adapter with power supply cable or
CSAM battery pack
USB cable
Macro-enabled Microsoft Excel spreadsheet
created specifically for processing CSAM data
(on accompanying CD)
High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter
with tubing attached for PM zero drift check
Rotameter for flow rate measurement with
tubing attached
CSAM Monitoring Record
Red dongle (for CairClip maintenance - see
procedure)
Not Included
Personal computer (PC) running a Windows
operating system (preferably Windows 7
or greater)
Arduino software (to be downloaded from the
Arduino web site - see procedure)
Microsoft Excel
Long Phillips screwdriver (for CairClip
maintenance - see procedure)
Flat-head screwdriver (to adjust PM flow rate
-see procedure)
Source of NO2
Teflon tubing (and proper fittings) for NO2 zero
and span drift check
CSAM Performance Checks
Table 2 identifies the recommended checks—zero and span drift for the CSAM-NO2, flow rate
and zero drift for the CSAM-PM, temperature, and RH—and the acceptable ranges for accuracy
and precision for CSAM applications. Zero and span drift checks verify that the monitor is
functioning within the operating range and that it responds with the desired sensitivity to
changes in input concentration. The flow rate check verifies the rate at which the sample gas
-------
CITIZEN SCIENCE
flows through the instrument. The flow rate is checked using a flow meter to ensure that the
monitor is receiving the proper amount of air to yield a representative sample.
Measurement Performance
(Sensor) Check Accuracy
NO2 concentration _ . . .„ __0/
, ~ .-, . . . . - — . i z_fcnu/oij
-------
CITIZEN SCIENCE
4- CD arduino.cc, en/Main/Software
LOG IN SIGN UP
Buy Download Products T Learning •» Forum Support •* Blog
LOSSES RESULTING FROM BUSINESS INTERRUPTION OR LOSS OF DATA. REGARDLESS OF THE
FORM OF ACTION OR LEGAL THEORY UNDER WHICH THE LIABILITY MAY BE ASSERTED. EVEN IF
ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OR LIKELIHOOD OF SUCH DAMAGES.
By downloading the software from this page, you agree to the specified terms.
This page contains the download links to the latest Arduino integrated development environment (IDE) software,
release notes, and additional software not included with the IDE such as system images for the Yun.
i support for Arduino Yun and Ardutno Due boards)
- Nightly Builds
- Arduino IDE for Intel Gali
- Source Code
Other Software
|- OpenWrt Images for the
Arduino IDE
Aiduino 1.0.6
Download
Arduii ?ase notes):
™ ^
Windows Installer.^wadows ZIP file (for non-administrator install)
••^^^^•^^^^
' -': '_'>•_ •
- Linux: 32 bit, 64 bit
- source
Figure 3
Next steps
Getting Started
Reference
Environment
Examples
Foundations
FAQ
Arduino Setup: License Agreement
49\ Please review the license agreement before installing Arduino. If you
\SjSl accept all terms of the agreement, dick I Agree.
SMI! LESSER GENERAL PUBLIC LICENSE
Version 3, 29 June 2007
Copyright (C) 2007 Free Software Foundation, Inc. Vfsf.org/>
Everyone is permitted to copy and distribute verbatim copies of this license
document, but changing it is not allowed.
This version of the GNU Lesser General Public License incorporates the terms
and conditions of version 3 of the GNU General Public License, supplemented
y the additional permissions listed below.
Cancel
jft Install System V2.46
Figure 4
I Agree
i Arduino Setup: Installation Options
Check the components you want to install and uncheck the components
you don't want to install. Click Next to continue.
Select components to install:
Space required: 254.9MB
5 Install Arduino software
0 Install USB driver
0 Create Start Menu shortcut
0 Create Desktop shortcut
0 Associate .ino files
Cancel I Mullsoft Install System v2.46
Figure 5
-------
CITIZEN SCIENCE
6. In the Arduino Setup: Installation Folder window (Figure 6), click Install to install the
software at the default location.
7. When prompted (Figure 7), click Install to complete installation.
Consult the Arduino instructions at www.Arduino.cc/en/guide/Howto if you encounter any
problems with installation.
> Arduino Setup: Installation Folder
©Setup will install Arduino in the following folder. To install in a different
folder, dick Browse and select another folder. Click Install to start the
installation.
Destination Folder
Browse...
Space required; 254.9MB
Space available: 927.4GB
Caned
Nufeoft Install System v2A6
-------
CITIZEN SCIENCE
ACCESS DOOR
CAUTION -RISK Of aECTRIC SHOCK
oiiea ffloii POWER ajpur sffoffi sawo«
Figure 8
3. Connect a USB cable to the Arduino USB port (Figure 10) and to a computer with the
Arduino software.
4. Launch the Arduino software by clicking on the Windows desktop icon that
was created during installation.
5. On the Tools tab, click Serial Port in order for the software to detect the
connected CSAM (Figure 11).
6. Click the magnifying glass in the top right corner (Figure 11) to open a window where the
data are reported on the screen in 5-minute averages, as shown in Figure 12.
The CSAM is now ready to record performance-check data as described in the following
procedures.
-------
CITIZEN SCIENCE
1.0.5-r2
Ctrl*!
jlinclude "RTC
llnclude <5PI
^include 2, and temperature/RH—has four cells associated with it:
* Zero/Low Voltage: sensor output in millivolts (mV) while sensor is exposed to zero or a
very low level of what the sensor measures.
* Zero/Low Set Point: concentration corresponding to the zero/low voltage output.
* Span Voltage: sensor output at 80% of its full measurement range in millivolts.
<• Span Set Point: concentration corresponding to the span voltage output.
-------
CITIZEN SCIENCE
M N
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
CSAM Unit
Start Check Date:
PM
Zero / Low Voltage
Zero /Low Set Point
Span Voltage
Span Set Point
End Check Date:
PM
Zero / Low Voltage
Zero / Low Set Point
Span Voltage
Span Set Point
NO,
mV Zero / Low Voltage
M-g/m3 Zero / Low Set Point
mV Span Voltage
Hg/m* Span Set Point
NO2
mV Zero / Low Voltage
ug/m3 Zero /Low Set Point
mV Span Voltage
ug/m5 Span Set Point
Load Data, Perform
mV
ppb
mV
ppb
mV
ppb
mV
ppb
04
Relative Humic
Zero / Low Voltage
Zero /Low Set Point
Span Voltage
Span Set Point
Relative Humic
Zero / Low Voltage
Zero /Low Set Point
Span Voltage
Span Set Point
ity
ity
Calculations, Graph Processe
Temperatun
mV Zero / Low Voltage
% Zero / Low Set Point
mV Span Voltage
% Span Set Point
Temperature
mV Zero / Low Voltage
% Zero / Low Set Point
mV Span Voltage
% Span Set Point
d Data
1
i
mV
°C
mV
°C
mV
°C
mV
°C
Figure 13
At the end of each performance check, the experienced operator should manually enter the
information into the appropriate spreadsheet cells. It is also recommended that the performance
information be recorded in a laboratory notebook and on the CSAM Monitoring Record (see the
CSAM Quality Assurance Guidelines). After the performance data has been entered, the citizen
scientists can then use the spreadsheet to load and process the collected data. The
spreadsheet automatically interprets the voltage data produced by the CSAM and converts it to
the measurement units required for processing and analyzing the data (NC>2 [ppb], PM [ug/m3],
temperature [°C], and RH [% at °C]).
The spreadsheet is locked for editing to prevent accidental modification. While the sheet is
locked, only the Load Data, Perform Calculations, Graph Processed Data button is
functional, and the rest of the sheet cannot be manipulated. Project leaders should use the
default password to unlock the file for entering performance-check data and then relock the file,
creating a new password, before citizen scientists use it to process the collected field data, as
described in the following procedures.
10
-------
CITIZEN SCIENCE
Procedure: Unlock Spreadsheet
1. On the Review tab, click Unprotect Sheet, as shown in Figure 14.
Insert Page Layout Formulas Data
Spelling Research Thesaurus Translate New Delete
i Comment
Proofing Language
Y A
Show All Comments • dp Allow User? to Edit Ranges
Unprotect fl Protect Share Start
^heet Vorkbook Workbook Jfr Trade Changes *
2. When prompted for a password (Figure 15),
enter the default password "CSAMXX," where XX
is the two-digit serial number of the unit.
3. Click OK.
The spreadsheet is now ready for entering data.
Procedure: Relock Spreadsheet and Create New Password
1. On the Review tab, click Protect Sheet, as shown in Figure 16.
ABC t (4 I-1 I
Ttack Changes'
Figure 16
Start
Inking
Ink
2. In the Protect Sheet dialog box, make sure Select
unlocked cells is checked (Figure 17).
3. Enter a password in the Password to unprotect sheet
field.
4. Reenter the password when prompted, as shown in
Figure 18.
Protect Sheet
The spreadsheet is now ready
for use by the citizen scientists.
Confirm Password
Reenter password to proceed.
IT"
Caution: If you lose or forget the password, it cannot be
recovered. It is advisable to keep a list of passwords and
their corresponding workbook and sheet names in a safe
piace, (Remember that passwords are case-sensitive.)
•J Protect worksheet and contents of locked cells
Password to unprotect sheet
j
Format cells
Format columns
Format rows
; Insert columns
Insert rows
Insert hyperlinks
Delete columns
i Delete rows
Cancel
11
-------
CITIZEN SCIENCE
Conducting the Performance Checks
The following procedures are to be performed
while the CSAM is running and connected to a
computer with the Arduino software installed
and open, as described in the CSAM Setup
section above, and the CSAM Data Analysis
[Serial No. XX].xlsm spreadsheet open. The
date of the checks should be typed into the
appropriate spreadsheet cell, either Start
Check Date or End Check Date.
During each check, the voltage values (mV)
are reported on the Arduino software screen in
5-minute averages, as shown in Figure 19. The
voltage values to be entered in the
spreadsheet for each check will be the last
values listed on the screen at the end of the designated testing period. The PM span voltage
and concentration values and all temperature and humidity data are preset in the spreadsheet.
Initializing the So card...card initalized.
10311501.txt
logging to: 1031150i.txt
Tiaestanp, PDR, CairClip, rH, Teicperature
10/31/2014 15:05:00, 0.00, 9.16, 396.68, 992.25
10/31/2014 15:10:00, 0.00, 9.20, 385.83, 992.25
Notoeendng „ 9600baud ,'
Procedure: Check CSAM NOz Zero and Span
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Use the supplied tubing to attach the unit to a source of zero air for the zero check
(Figure 20) and allow the unit to sample for 15 minutes.
Record the final zero voltage and concentration values in the appropriate spreadsheet
cells and on the CSAM Monitoring Record or other project documentation.
Attach the unit to a source of NC>2 (Figure 20) using Teflon tubing at a concentration that
is 80% of full range (upper range limit 250 ppb) for the span check and allow the unit to
sample for 15 minutes.
Record the final span voltage and
concentration values in the appropriate
spreadsheet cells and on the CSAM
Monitoring Record or other project
documentation.
If the results do not meet the quality
assurance requirements listed in
Table 2, return the CairPol CairClip to
the manufacturer for calibration.
12
-------
CITIZEN SCIENCE
Procedure: Check CSAM PM Flow Rate
1. Attach the flow adaptor to the PM
cyclone inlet, as shown in
Figure 21, by fitting it over the inlet
and pressing until it fits securely.
2. Connect the supplied rotameter
with tubing attached to the
CSAM-PM inlet (Figure 22).
3. Allow the unit to sample at least 5
minutes or until the flow rate is
stable within 1.5 L/min ± 10%.
PM inlet
flow adaptor
4. If the value is outside the specified 1.5 L/min ± 10% limit, adjust the flow rate using the
set screw on the AirChek pump (Figure 23). Turn the screw clockwise to increase flow
and counterclockwise to decrease the flow.
5. After each adjustment allow the flow to stabilize for 5 minutes and reevaluate.
6. Record the final flow rate on the CSAM Monitoring Record or other project
documentation.
13
-------
CITIZEN SCIENCE
Procedure: Check CSAM PM Zero
1.
2.
3.
4.
If not already in place, attach the
flow adaptor to the cyclone as
shown in Figure 21 in the
previous procedure.
Connect the supplied HEPA filter
with tubing attached to the
CSAM-PM inlet (Figure 24).
Allow the unit to sample through
the filter for 15 minutes.
Record the final zero voltage and enter zero (0) for the concentration value in the
appropriate spreadsheet cells and on the CSAM Monitoring Record or other project
documentation.
CSAM-NCh Maintenance
If the CSAM-NO2(CairClip) is regularly exposed to dust,
it is recommended that the removable filter be changed
every 4 months. The filter comes premounted in its
holder and is removed and replaced as a single unit
(Figure 25). The CairClip is contained in a protective
Teflon sleeve on the CSAM. In order to perform this
procedure, the CSAM must be opened and the CairClip
removed from the protective sleeve.
Procedure: Change CSAM NOz Filter
1. Disconnect the CSAM from its power supply.
2. Remove the CSAM cover using a Phillips screwdriver to loosen the screws of the
brackets and then sliding the brackets off the cover edges.
3. Hold onto the white mini USB cable on the front of the CSAM to prevent its fitting from
working loose, and from inside the CSAM gently wiggle the CairClip backwards until it
comes out of the sleeve (Figure 26).
4. Disconnect the mini USB cable.
14
-------
CITIZEN SCIENCE
5. Insert the red dongle provided with the CSAM
into the CairClip as shown in Figure 27. The
dongle prevents the small fan inside the device
from turning.
6. Remove the filter/filter holder assembly from the
back of the CairClip by gently pulling the filter holder with your fingers.
7. Place a new filter/filter holder assembly into the opening and gently press until it is
secure.
8. After changing the filter, remove the red dongle and reconnect the mini USB cable to the
CairClip.
9. Align the USB plug with the cable insertion hole, and while feeding the mini USB cable
gently into the hole, reinsert the CairClip into the protective sleeve and gently but firmly
press the CairClip into the sleeve hole until it can go no further. Be sure the lateral hole,
shown in Figure 26 remains outside of the sleeve.
10. Close the unit by replacing the cover on the CSAM, refitting its brackets, and tightening
the screws.
11. Note the date of the filter change in a laboratory notebook or other designated project
documentation.
15
-------
CITIZEN SCIENCE
Section 2: Field Operation
These procedures are expected to be carried out by volunteer citizen operators.
Field operation of the CSAMs is expected to be carried out by volunteer citizen scientists. The
citizen scientists setting up and attending to the CSAMs at field locations need to know how to
change and recharge the CSAM's battery, set up the unit properly at its outdoor or indoor
location, initiate data collection, and retrieve and process the data. The procedures in this section
detail the activities required for using the CSAM successfully for field data collection and
retrieval.
The CSAM is designed to run for one week (continuously for 7 days) on a fully charged battery.
Therefore, an operator should visit the test site at least once a week to replace and/or recharge
the battery, download data, and inspect the unit's functionality.
What You Will Need
Included in CSAM Package
CSAM
Access door key
Two standard size secure digital (SD) cards
SD card reader
AC-DC adapter with power supply cable or
CSAM battery pack
USB cable
Macro-enabled Microsoft Excel spreadsheet
created specifically for processing CSAM data
(on accompanying CD)
High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter
Teflon tubing and proper fittings (indoor setup)
Metal tubing protector (indoor setup)
Rain shield (outdoor setup)
Tripod (outdoor setup)
Battery charger
Not Included
Personal computer (PC) running a Windows
operating system (preferably Windows 7
or greater)
Arduino software (to be downloaded from the
Arduino web site - see procedure)
Microsoft Excel
Weatherstripping (indoor setup)
9/16-inch socket driver
Laboratory tape
Permanent marker
16
-------
CITIZEN SCIENCE
Battery Changing and Charging
Changing and charging any battery should be performed with caution. The batteries used in the
CSAM (LiFePO4) carry a large amount of energy in a very small space. A damaged battery can
potentially cause explosion, fire, or burns. Inspect the batteries carefully on site visits, and
replace any battery that exhibits signs of malfunction such as smoke, excess heat, foul odor, etc.
Always completely remove the batteries from the battery case before charging.
Cautions
Always get rid of static electricity before touching electronics by touching a metal object
such as the CSAM case.
Do not short circuit the red (+) and black (-) terminals with any metal tools or objects.
Do not get the batteries wet.
Do not heat the batteries above 60 °C (140 °F) or expose it to fire.
Do not disassemble, crush, or modify the batteries.
Stop using a battery if you detect any unusual condition such as excess heat or foul odor,
or if you observe any physical damage.
Do not charge the battery while it is powering the CSAM.
Never charge the batteries while they are inside the battery case.
Procedure: Change Battery
1.
2.
Unplug the CSAM from the battery case (Figure 28).
Unlock both the top and bottom of the battery case
with the key provided (Figure 29). The case contains
two batteries labeled with a date written on laboratory
tape, two red cables, two black cables, and mounting
hardware.
Figure 29
17
-------
CITIZEN SCIENCE
3. Check the date on the battery labels (Figure 30). If the CSAM is not expected to be
visited again before the date labeled on the batteries, the batteries must be changed.
4. Making sure not to short circuit the red (+) and black (-) terminals with any metal tools or
objects, disconnect the batteries from the unit by first disconnecting the black wire from
each battery (1, 2) and then the red wire from each battery (3, 4), as shown in Figure 30.
5. Loosen the bolts on the holding bracket by
turning them counterclockwise using a
9/16-inch socket driver (not provided) until
the bracket is loose enough for the
batteries to be lifted out of the case
(Figure 31).
6. Remove the batteries from the case and
set them aside.
7. Take two fully charged batteries out of the
boxes used for transport.
8. Using laboratory tape and a permanent
marker such as a Sharpie, add a label with
a date 7 days in the future. This date is the
latest these batteries should be attempted
to be used without being replaced or
recharged.
18
-------
CITIZEN SCIENCE
9. Place the two fully charged batteries into the battery case, and place the holding bracket
around the bottom of the batteries, as shown in Figure 31.
10. Insert the bolts in the openings in the holding bracket and tighten by turning them
clockwise using the 9/16-inch socket driver until the batteries are held firmly in place.
11. Connect the batteries to the unit by first connecting the black wire from each battery
(1, 2) and then the red wire from each battery (3, 4) as shown in Figure 30.
12. Place the depleted batteries in the empty boxes that contained the fully charged
batteries for transport to the recharging location.
13. Close and lock the battery case.
14. Plug the CSAM into the battery case to resume operation.
15. Log the time and date of the battery change in the field operations notebook or other
designated project documentation.
Procedure: Charge Battery
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Place the battery to be charged
on a flat surface that is free of
clutter or debris within the
provided charger's reach of a
standard 110 V AC wall outlet.
Making sure not to short circuit
the red (+) and black (-) terminals with any metal
tools or objects, connect the black charger cable
to the black (-) terminal and the red charger cable
to the red (+) terminal.
Plug the charger into the 110 V AC standard wall
outlet (Figure 32). When the LED on the charger
turns green, the battery is fully charged. This can
take up to 20 hours per battery, but does not
require constant supervision.
When the battery is fully charged, unplug the
charger from the wall before disconnecting the
battery.
Disconnect the black charger cable from the black
(-) terminal and the red charger cable from the red
(+) terminal, making sure not to short circuit the
terminals with any metal tools or objects.
Cautions
Always connect the charger to the battery
before plugging it into the wall outlet.
After the battery is fully charged, be sure
to unplug the charger from the wall outlet
before disconnecting the battery.
19
-------
CITIZEN SCIENCE
6. Label the battery "Full Charge" with the date using laboratory tape and a permanent
marker.
7. Place the battery in the battery box for storage and transport.
8. Repeat as needed until all batteries are fully charged.
CSAM Setup
The CSAM can be set up for outdoor or indoor use. See the Quality Assurance Guidelines for
site selection and positioning requirements for the CSAM unit. Sites should be selected by the
project team at the beginning of the project. The procedures provided here are for an outdoor
rooftop or ground location or for indoor window placement. The required equipment differs for
each location, as noted in "What You Will Need" at the beginning of this section.
Procedure: Place on Rooftop or Ground
1. Select a flat roof or ground location that has no obstructions within at least 3 meters
(10 feet) of the equipment. It should not be placed under trees or where water from
gutters or down spouts would impact it.
2. Make sure no electrical or physical hazards are in the immediate vicinity of the setup.
Select a location that is at least 1 meter from any vertical wall if at all possible so that air
flow around the monitor is not impeded.
3. Unfold the tripod, insert the mast pole into the top hole of the tripod, and extend the mast
downward until it rests on the surface of the rooftop or ground (Figure 33).
4. Screw in the two sets of fasteners around the mast until it is held securely.
5. Place the battery box at the bottom of the tripod and secure it to the tripod mast using
the cable with turnbuckle. The cable should be placed over a tripod brace, as shown in
Figure 33, and connected to the eyebolts on the battery case to prevent the setup from
tipping or blowing over. The cable can be tightened or loosened using the turnbuckle.
6. Once the tripod is secure, install the rain shield on the mast approximately 5 feet above
the surface of the roof by sliding the mast through the back of the shield and tighten the
bolts on the back (Figure 34) until the rain shield is secure.
7. Lift the top of the rain shield and push it backwards so it is out of the way when installing
the CSAM.
20
-------
CITIZEN SCIENCE
Figure 33
8. Fasten the CSAM in the top mounting holes of the
rain shield (Figure 34) by placing the bolts
provided through the top mounting brackets of the
CSAM (Figure 34). The PM and NO2 inlets should
be pointing downwards and the access door
should be on top as shown in Figure 33. Make
sure the CSAM is centered over one of the tripod
legs to stabilize the setup and keep it from tipping
over.
9. When ready to initiate data collection, plug the
CSAM into the battery case.
21
-------
CITIZEN SCIENCE
Procedure: Place in Window
1. Place the CSAM unit on a flat, stable surface near a
window.
2. Connect the provided Teflon tubing to the NC>2 inlet
as shown in Figure 36. Teflon or stainless steel is
the preferred tubing choice.
3. Connect the adaptor to the PM Inlet (Figure 37), and
then attach the provided tubing, as shown in
Figure 38.
PM inlet with flow
adaptor and tubing
4. Open the window and run
the sampling lines through
the metal tubing protector,
as shown in Figure 39, so
that the ends of the
sampling lines are outside
the window and the tubing
protector rests on the window sill. The tubing protector will prevent damage (such as
crushing or crimping) to the sampling lines when the window is closed.
5. Fill the opening between the sill and window sash
with weatherstripping (not provided) as needed to
prevent outside air from getting inside.
6. When ready to initiate data collection, plug the
CSAM into the battery case or use the provided
AC adaptor (Figure 40) to connect to a wall outlet.
22
-------
CITIZEN SCIENCE
Routine Data Collection
Once the CSAM is set up properly, data collection can begin. The CSAM can collect data
continuously for 7 days on battery power. The unit automatically saves data files every 24 hours
at midnight, with file names based on the date and time (military) data collection began. For
example, the file name 12080000.TXT denotes that sampling for a 24-hour period began on
Decembers (1208) at midnight (0000). The following procedures will guide you through
initiating data collection and retrieving and processing the data.
Procedure: Collect Data
1. Connect the CSAM to a power supply either by
plugging the AC-DC adaptor into a wall outlet or by
plugging it into the CSAM battery pack.
2. Use the key provided with the CSAM unit to open
the access door (Figure 41).
3. Make sure the SD card is inserted properly into its
slot (Figure 42). The LED at the top right of the
access door (Figure 41) will light up if the card is
not inserted correctly.
4. Close and lock the access door and put the key in
a secure location.
The CSAM will begin taking data automatically. You
should hear the pumps making a quiet buzzing sound.
Procedure: Retrieve Data
Note: This procedure is required only if the CSAM unit will continue collecting data in the field. If
the unit is being removed from field operation, data retrieval can be carried out at the data
processing location.
1. Disconnect the CSAM from its power supply.
2. Open the access door (Figure 41). The CSAM will cease monitoring.
3. Pull out the SD card (Figure 42) for transport to the data processing location.
4. Insert a new SD card into the slot. If not properly inserted, the LED at the top right of the
access door (Figure 41) will illuminate.
5. Close and lock the access door to resume sampling.
23
-------
CITIZEN SCIENCE
Processing Data
This procedure explains how to create a new Excel spreadsheet for processing and interpreting
your collected data. A CD with a Microsoft Excel macro-enabled spreadsheet, CSAM Data
Analysis [Serial No. XX].xlsm, accompanies each CSAM (Figure 43). This spreadsheet was
created specifically for processing field data relative to the performance-check data, which
allows you to assess the quality and usability of the collected data. The CSAM unit's two-digit
serial number is part of the file name so that the spreadsheet can easily be matched with its
associated unit if more than one CSAM is deployed in the field.
The CSAM Data Analysis spreadsheet contains the performance-check data recorded at the
start, and possibly the end, of the study by an experienced operator. You will use this
spreadsheet in combination with the data text files generated by the CSAM to create the data-
processing spreadsheet, as described in the procedure below. The spreadsheet is locked so
that the performance-check data cannot be accidentally changed. The Load Data, Perform
Calculations, Graph Processed Data button is the only active part of the spreadsheet and is
all that is needed for creating the spreadsheet containing the processed data.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
A B C
Start Check Date:
PM
Zero / Low Voltage
Zero / Low Set Point
Span Voltage
Span Set Point
End Check Date:
• PM
Zero / Low Voltage
Zero / Low Set Point
Span Voltage
Span Set Point
D
mV
ug/m3
mV
Hg/m!
mV
ug/m!
mV
ug/m3
E F G
CSAM Unit
NO2
Zero / Low Voltage
Zero / Low Set Point
Span Voltage
Span Set Point
NO;
Zero / Low Voltage
Zero / Low Set Point
Span Voltage
Span Set Point
mV
ppb
mV
ppb
mV
ppb
mV
ppb
H
I
J
04
Relative Humic
Zero / Low Voltage
Zero / Low Set Point
Span Voltage
Span Set Point
Relative Humic
Zero / Low Voltage
Zero / Low Set Point
Span Voltage
Span Set Point
ity
ity
K L M , N
Temperature
mV Zero / Low Voltage
% Zero / Low Set Point
mV Span Voltage
% Span Set Point
Temperature
mV Zero / Low Voltage
% Zero / Low Set Point
mV Span Voltage
% Span Set Point
Load Data, Perform Calculations, Graph Processed Data
mV
°C
mV
"C
mV
°c
mV
°c
The new spreadsheet created during this procedure will be saved automatically in a folder named
CSAM Output in your main Documents folder. The spreadsheet file name will be based on the
time and date the spreadsheet was created. The example file used here to explain this procedure
is named (2014-Dec-17)14.36.37.ProcessedDataFile.xlsx.
24
-------
CITIZEN SCIENCE
This spreadsheet automatically converts the voltage data (raw data) produced by the CSAM to
the measurement units (final data) required for interpreting the data (NC>2 [ppb], PM [ug/m3],
temperature [°C], and RH [% at °C]). The generated spreadsheet has multiple tabs:
<• The Files tab (Figure 44) lists the data text files, in order by date and time created by the
CSAM, that were selected to be processed. This tab also shows where the newly
created spreadsheet was saved, i.e., Net My Documents\CSAM Output.
H (2014-Dec-17)14.36.37.ProcessedDataFile.xlsx - Excel ? ffl -
HOME INSERT PAGE LAYOUT FORMULAS DATA REVIEW VIEW DEVELOPER Henkle, St..
Calibri *|ll T = % S[i] Conditional Formatting -
[^ Format as Table -
Clipboard
B I U
Font
A A
Alignment Number
Cells
> Cell Styles'
Styles
B
H
G:\12081545.TXT
G:\12081546.TXT
G:\12090000.TXT
Output File saved to: Net MyDocuments\CSAM Output
Files jRaw Data Final Data | ... © • jTT
The Raw Data tab (Figure 45) shows the data recorded by the CSAM in its originally
collected format using the CSAM's programmed voltage values (mV).
BO B •
(2014-Dec-17)14.36.37.ProcessedDataFile.xl5x - Excel
m - n x
s
b
f
r.
'..\[
INSERT
Calibri
B
1
I
U -
fir*«
Font
PAGE LAYOUT FORMULAS DATA REVIEW VIEW DEVELOPER Henkle, St.. * ^
11 •
A' A"
i»
-=l
B !"'-'.
Alignment r.
Number
1^1 Conditional Formatting *
L~> Format as Table -
IV Cell Styles •
Styles
1
Cells
Editing
A
f- 12/8/2014 5:00:00 PM
A16
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
Timestamp
12/8/2014 15:50
12/8/201415:55
12/8/2014 16:00
12/8/2014 16:05
12/8/2014 16:10
12/8/201416:15
12/8/2014 16:20
12/8/2014 16:25
12/8/2014 16:30
12/8/2014 16:35
12/8/2014 16:40
Files
pDR(mV) CairClip (mV) RH (mV) Temperature (mV)
674.24
677.34
676.11
675.48
697.86
719.45
716.59
692.54
689.59
690.58
65.96 1463.74
82.12 1475.2
83.2 1485.79
68.85 1497.11
92.44 1507.57
71.17 1512.16
66.87 1516.56
66.4 1518
66.01 1520.6
67.01 1522.06
65.89 1527.59
Data
713.59
25
-------
CITIZEN SCIENCE
The Final Data tab (Figure 46) contains the processed data from all sensors reported in
the concentration and temperature and RH units needed for understanding the data.
(2014-Dec-17)14.36.37.ProcessedDataFile.xl5X - Excel
PAGE LAYOUT FORMULAS DATA REVIEW VIEW
T ffl - n
DEVELOPER Henkle, St.. • !
= = t
Conditional Formatting *
rmat as Table *
Cells
'" « ffi. «
Clipboard ri Fo
J36 : ;
A
A
»-A- " -$ C» Cell Styles -
nt ri Alignment r. Number ri Styles
A
B CD E _|Fj_ G
-
yv
:
i H i
Timestamp
12/8/201415:50
12/8/201415:55
12/8/2014 16:00
12/8/201416:05
12/8/201416:10
12/8/201416:15
12/8/2014 16:20
12/8/201416:25
12/8/201416:30
12/8/201416:35
12/8/201416:40
pDR(tig/m3) CairClip (ppb) RH (%) Temperature (deg C)
13.48
13.55
13.52
13.51
13.96
14.39
14.33
13.85
13.79
13.81
13.32
Files Raw Data
The last four tabs—Temperature, RH, CairClip, and pDR—contain full-page graphs of
the data from each sensor. As an example, the graphed data from the RH sensor is
shown in Figure 47.
Ql H *> • (2014-Dec-17)14.36.37.ProcessedDataFile.xlsx-Excel ? EG - H X
HOME INSERT PAGE LAYOUT FORMULAS DATA REVIEW VIEW DEVELOPER Henkle, St.. -
•"-, *
LJ fg, .
Clipboard r.
B / U •
11
A" A"
A •
Font
^ :
= =
ee
= B1
= m-
*>/•
Alignment
6
General
$ - % >
•&&
Number
^j Conditional Formatting •
[^Format as Table -
& Cell Styles -
Styles
i- Insert -
,!' Delete -
jijp Format -
H
Editing
Cells A
v
26
-------
CITIZEN SCIENCE
Procedure: Process Data
1. Plug the provided SD card reader into the
computer using a USB cable (Figure 48).
2. Insert the SD card into the reader.
3. Create a new folder on your computer to
contain the files.
4. Using Windows Explorer, transfer the files
from the SD card to the newly created folder.
5. After transferring the files, pull the SD card
out of the reader and reserve it for the next
use with the CSAM.
6. Open the CSAM Data Analysis.xlsm macro-
enabled Excel spreadsheet (Figure 43).
7. Click the Load Data, Perform Calculations,
Graph Processed Data button.
8. When prompted, select all the CSAM data
files you want to process at once by holding down the Shift or Control keys while
clicking each file.
9. Click OK. The new spreadsheet file of processed data will be created in your main
Documents folder as described above.
27
-------
CITIZEN SCIENCE
For Additional Help
CairPol, Technical Data Sheet CairClip NC>2, http://www.cairpol.com/images/pdf/NO2/technical
%20datasheet%20no2%2015072013.pdf, last accessed October 30, 2014.
Thermo Scientific Personal DataRAM pDFMOOOAN Instruction Manual,
http://www.envirosupply.net/manuals/ThermoElectron PersonalDataRAM pDR-1000AN-
1200.pdf, last accessed December 17, 2014.
Thermo Scientific Personal DataRAM pDR-1000AN Monitor brochure,
http://www.thermoscientific.com/en/product/personal-dataram-pdr-1000an-monitor.html, last
accessed December 17, 2014.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Citizen Science Toolbox, CSAM Quality Assurance
Guidelines, October 2014.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, What Are the Six Common Air Pollutants?
http://www.epa.gov/airquality/urbanair/, last accessed September 19, 2014.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, EPA Region 2 Citizen Science,
http://www.epa.gov/region2/citizenscience, last accessed October 29, 2014.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Air Sensor Guidebook, EPA 600/R-14/159, June 2014,
Office of Research and Development, National Exposure Research Laboratory,
http://www.epa.gov/airscience/docs/air-sensor-guidebook.pdf, last accessed October 30, 2014.
The purpose of this document is to provide general operating guidelines, and
the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) does not assume any liability
regarding any aspect of its use. Reference herein to any specific commercial
products, process, or service by trade name, trademark, manufacturer, or
otherwise does not necessarily constitute or imply its endorsement,
recommendation, or favoring by EPA. The views and opinions of authors
expressed herein do not necessarily state or reflect those of EPA and shall not
be used for advertising or product endorsement purposes. EPA assumes no
liability associated with any errors in the suggested procedures, errors
potentially made by the instrument in question, user misuse of the instruments
or data collected, or costs due to any damage the instrument might experience
under any circumstance or use. This user guide is specific to the make/model
and version number of the instrument identified in the document and is not
generalizable to any other sensor. The users should understand that they
should develop operating guidelines specific to their own research needs, and
any general document of this nature would be limited in meeting their full need.
28
-------
£EPA
United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
PRESORTED STANDARD
POSTAGE & FEES PAID
EPA
PERMIT NO. G-35
Office of Research and Development (8101R)
Washington, DC 20460
Official Business
Penalty for Private Use
$300
Recycled/Recyclable Printed on paper that contains a minimum of
50% postconsumer fiber content processed chlorine free
------- |