Introducing the Alphasense OPC Range
Growing awareness of the dangers airborne particles present to health has led to an increased need to accurately quantify particulate matter in industry, the workplace and public spaces. In parallel, as we gain greater insight into the impact of particle matter on the performance and longevity of physical infrastructure, low-cost particle monitoring has come to the fore.
Alphasense’s range of OPCs was developed hand in hand with aerosol scientists and engineered to deliver the accuracy you expect from industrial grade monitors in more workable size formats and at a fraction of the price.
Both the wide ranging OPC-N3 and the smaller footprint OPC-R2 provide digital outputs of PM1, PM2.5 and PM10 (and optionally PM4.25) along with a histogram of particle count for each of up to 24 user-configured size categories. Alphasense’s proprietary flow correction technology ensures stable readings even in high-dust environments and is a key factor in a number of universities and research organisations independently verifying Alphasense OPCs as providing best-in-class performance.
True PM Measurement
Unlike most low-cost particle sensors, which measure particle count in a single size category and use that to estimate the volumes of others, Alphasense OPCs measure the full range from PM1 to PM10, giving end users reliable and repeatable data, rather than extrapolated values. This is demonstrated in the below graph.
Two particle counting options suitable for a wide range of air quality applications
OPC-N3
The OPC-N3 is a high-accuracy device capable of producing reference station grade data for PM1, PM2.5, PM4.25 and PM10. This data is measured across the full size spectrum rather than calculated as in the case of Nephelometers. With 24 user-configurable sizing categories and a sample rate which can be set between 1 and 30 seconds, users can configure the device to suit their specific application. With a measurement range of 0.35-40 μm, the N3 is used in a broad range of applications, from MCerts certified air quality monitoring instruments to industrial safety and offshore installations.
OPC-R2
The OPC-R2 is an ultra-compact, high-accuracy device capable of producing reference station grade data for PM1, PM2.5, PM4.25 and PM10. This data is measured across the full size spectrum rather than calculated as in the case of Nephelometers. The R2 features 16 user-configurable sizing categories and a sample rate which can be set between 1 and 30 seconds, allowing users to configure the device to suit their specific requirements. Whilst the R2 has a smaller measurement range and reduced flow rate compared to the N3, its small footprint and low power consumption lend the R2 to portable, discreet and battery powered installations where high accuracy is required. Frequently used in indoor air quality, personnel monitoring and environmental applications, the R2 has established an enviable reputation within the low-cost sensor arena.
OPC-N3 sensor
- Measures particle range from 0.35μm to 40 μm
- Sorts into 24 sizing categories
- Maximum particle count rate: 10,000 particles per second
- Flow rate: 5.5 Litres / min
- Compact size
- Sample interval: 1-30 seconds
- USB and SPI interface
- Patented design
- Integrated temperature and humidity monitoring
- Standby mode for reduced power consumption
- Suitable for use in MCerts certified instrumentation
- 24-month warranty
OPC-R2 sensor
- Measures particle range from 0.3μm to 12.4μm
- Sorts into 16 sizing categories
- Maximum particle count rate: 10,000 particles per second
- Flow rate: 0.24 Litres / min
- Ultra-compact size
- Sample interval: 1-30 seconds
- USB and SPI interface
- Patented design
- Integrated temperature and humidity monitoring
- Standby mode for reduced power consumption
- 12-month warranty
Download our guide to Alphasense Optical Particle Counters
Find out more about the parameters of use, applications, specifications, technical data examples & accessories available for the Alphasense OPC range in our guide. If you require more detailed technical information reach out to us and we will be happy to provide you with a copy of the technical manual.
