Spanning Issues
If you followed the previously mentioned steps, it is likely that the span and calibration processes will have completed successfully. However, there can be other instances when there is a problem with the span. So, it is important that we address the most common failure readings that you will receive and likewise, some of the main ways to address such issues. As this can be seen as a type of troubleshooting procedure, you can also refer to page 57 of the owner's manual. You will receive one of four different failure readings. These are “failed scan”, “no gas detected”, “ did not reach target span” and “large span”. Let us take a quick look at each one of these conditions in a bit more detail.
Failed Span
This will be due to a sensor failure. The same message will be displayed upon the LCD screen. It will also inform you are to which sensor has failed. If the sensor is not calibrated again, you will note the word FAIL above the sensor on the LCD screen the next time you use the detector under normal operating conditions. If a sensor does fail and you end up needing a replacement, see the Sensor Replacement Part Numbers page.
If the entire unit fails a span, you will need to check certain conditions of the detector. Is the regulator valve open and is the calibration gas not past its due date? Does a sensor or sensor filter need to be replaced? Is the testing atmosphere comprised of 20.9% oxygen? If the unit fails a second span, you should reactivate it on test each sensor individually. Finally, recall that you will not be able to adjust the calibration dates with any sensors that have failed a span.
No Gas Detected
If the unit does not detect any gas within thirty seconds, you will receive this error message. You can either press the up arrow to begin again or the down arrow to skip the span. Again, make certain that the gas is entering the GasAlertMicro 5 and that the cylinder is not expired. This message can also be the result of a failed sensor or sensor filter.
Did Not Reach Target Span
You will be told which gas did not reach the span and you will also have the choice to re-span or skip this step. As with the other three conditions, this condition is usually caused by a problem with the span gas or a defective sensor array.
Large Span
If the adjustment is greater than 15%, a large span will occur. You should make certain that the correct cylinder is used and that the span values of the detector match those of the gas cylinder. If this is expected, simply press the blank push button to accept the reading. If this is a surprise, press the main power button to reject the result and to span again.
These four common problems should be taken seriously, as not addressing them properly can be a danger when working in a hazardous environment. As with all other sections, you should refer to this section in the owner's manual to fully understand how to troubleshoot spanning issues.