Compliance with the latest standards for exposure to electromagnetic radiation is more difficult than before. The model 8718 digital RF survey meter is the first of this next generation of instruments. It brings the accuracy of its associated probes together with an instrument that can be used by virtually anyone performing simple or complex measurements. This digitally-controlled RF survey meter measures spatially-averaged and time-averaged electric field measurements from 3 kHz to 100 GHz. This instrument is compact, lightweight and power efficient. It will operate for more than 40 hours on its NiCd batteries, weights only 2.8 lbs, and measures 11.3" x 2.4" x 2.2". As important as its measurement ability are the instrument's facilities for storing and transferring measurement data stamped with unalterable information about instrument conditions when the readings were taken. This feature eliminates the need to calculate readings manually, write them down and produce hard copy interpretations of the results.

The 8718 RF survey meter complies with International Standards by storing in its ROM the standards for the US (ANSI C95.1-1992), the UK (NRPB Guidance), Canada (Safety Code 6), Germany (VDE 0848), Australia (AS 2772-1) and the EU Physical Agents Directive. This information can be updated by the manufacturer at any time if a standard changes dramatically.

Human Factors and General Operation

In order to be usable by operators with minimal training, the unit is completely driven by logical prompts and makes extensive use of its backlit 4-line x 20-character LCD display. The instrument significantly reduces the possibilities for error by guiding the user through setup and measurement, and by providing help at every stage of operation. The meter is autoranging, so it is impossible to read the wrong scale, a common mistake made by even veteran users.

All of the instrument's functions are controlled from the 22-key membrane keypad, which was designed to allow as many functions as possible to be invoked with one hand without error, ensuring that the hand holding the probe never leaves its position. Common function keys are duplicated so that the instrument is easily usable by left-or right-handed operators.

This survey meter is housed in an enclosure that is curved to fit comfortably in the hand. It is extremely rugged and sealed against exposure to its operating environment. The instrument is compatible with all 8700 series probes and is supplied with a storage case that has room for five probes, a battery charger, and a manual.