Sign In

Forgot Password?
  1. Home
  2. “Legacy Devices” - RadStar RS300, RadStar RS800 and Sun Nuclear 1027
  3. RadStar RS300 and RS800 Radon Monitors Customer Frequently Asked Questions
Searching...

RadStar RS300 and RS800 Radon Monitors Customer Frequently Asked Questions

Contents

RadStar Factory Support

Operation of the RadStar Monitor

Features

RadStar Computer Setup

RadStar Factory Support

Who do I call for technical support?

Contact RadonAway at 800-767-3703 for toll free telephone technical support. Office hours are 8:30 am to 4:30 pm Eastern time, Monday-Friday.

What do I do if I lose the keys?

The RadStars come with 2 keys. Contact RadonAway at 800-767-3703 to order additional keys. The current price for an additional key is $4.95 per key, if shipped with a newly sold or rented machine. If shipped separately, a $1.00 mailing fee will be added to the key charge of $4.95 each. Prices are subject to change without notice.

What do I do if the RadStar monitor breaks?

The RadStar is warranted for 1 year from date of sale. Contact RadonAway at 800-767-3703 for service. If you are renting the equipment, RadonAway will replace the broken equipment. Contact RadonAway at 800-767-3703 for assistance.

What do I do if the printer breaks?

The printer is warranted for 90 days from date of sale. Contact RadonAway at 800-767-3703 for service. If you are renting the equipment, RadonAway will replace the broken equipment. Contact RadonAway at 800-767-3703 for assistance.

When and where do I get the RadStar calibrated?

RadStars should be calibrated once a year. Some state radon licenses require calibration twice a year.

Calibrating Rental Equipment
If you are renting the RadStar, RadonAway will contact you to arrange delivery of a replacement and return of the one you are using. RadonAway will pay shipping of the replacement equipment; you must pay shipping of the equipment you send back. Return the RadStar, keys and power supply. You will be invoiced for any missing items.

Calibrating Purchased Equipment
If you have purchased a RadStar you may schedule calibration by calling 800-767-3703. The cost to calibrate the RadStar is $150.00. This includes replacing the battery every other annual calibration. We need approximately 1.5 to 2 weeks to complete service and calibration. Return shipping is additional. Prices are subject to change without notice.

What do you charge for RadStar repairs?

RadStars under warranty are repaired and calibrated at no charge. If the RadStar is out of warranty we charge the cost of the new parts plus labor. If we need to repair your RadStar we must also calibrate it. The current cost of calibration for RadStars that are out of warranty is $150.00. Return shipping is additional. Prices are subject to change without notice. Call 800-767-3703 between 8:30 am and 4:30 pm for a quote and an RMA number.

Will the internal, rechargeable battery need to be replaced?

The rechargeable nickel-cadmium (NiCAD) battery should be replaced every 2 years. If the battery has gone bad and needs replacement, the radon concentrations will consistently climb even if the RadStar is plugged in. Calibration service includes replacing the battery every other annual calibration. The current cost of calibration is $150.00. Return shipping is additional. Prices are subject to change without notice. Please contact RadonAway at 800-767-3703, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm Eastern time, Monday-Friday, for information about servicing your RadStar.

Where can I get the RadStar cable driver and Data Transfer Utility Software?

Click here to visit the Downloads page.

Where do I buy more paper or ribbons for the printer?

These may be purchased at any office supply store. Please note we no longer provide the impact printer because it is not available.

Impact Printer Ribbons and Paper
Part numbers are: Epson Ribbon Cartridge #ERC-09B
Staples Adding Machine, Register and Calculator
Rolls, 1 ply 2 1/4″ x 130′ (12/pack Item 176511
Model 18237-CC)

Impact Printer Manufacturer
Weigh-Tronix, Inc.
3990 Brickway Blvd.
Santa Rosa, CA 95403-1070
Tel: 800-982-6622 or 707-527-5555
Fax: 800-847-6743 or 707-527-5517
Email: mrktg@wt-nci.com
www.wt-nci.com

Thermal Printer Ribbons and Paper
Part Numbers are: Ribbon N/A
Staples Thermal Gas Pump Rolls 2 1/4″ x 85′
(9/pack Item 472872 Model 21266/18231)

Thermal Printer Manufacturer
BIXOLON America Inc.
Technical Support
3171 Fujita Street
Torrance, CA 90505
Phone: 858-764-4583
Fax: 310-257-6869
Email: support@bixolonusa.com

I am finished renting my RadStar. How do I cancel my Rental Agreement?

Contact RadonAway for an RMA number and instructions on how and where to return your RadStar. You must pay for shipping the equipment back to the factory. The minimum rental period is three months. AccuStar does not adjust or credit rent if you return the equipment before the three months are over. You are responsible for paying the monthly rent until the equipment is received by RadonAway. All rental equipment and accessories including cables, keys and power supplies must be returned. You will be invoiced according to AccuStar’s current price list for missing items.

I got some strange readings when I downloaded my data. I think my RadStar may be malfunctioning but I am not sure. What should I do?

Contact RadonAway at 800-767-3703 for toll free telephone technical support. Office hours are 8:30 am to 4:30 pm Eastern time, Monday-Friday. Most technical problems can be resolved by telephone. We may ask you to send a copy of the RadStar data for review. Note that our review of any data you send is solely to determine whether the RadStar appears to be functioning normally. We do not interpret the data or offer recommendations about the radon concentrations shown. RadonAway and AccuStar Labs are not liable or responsible for any report of radon test results you may provide to others. Please also refer to the Conditions of Sale in AccuStar Labs’ and RadonAway’s product catalogs for further information.

Operation of the RadStar Monitor

How do I download data from the RadStar RS300?

  1. Install the RadStar cable driver and the RadStar Data Capture Utility software, if not previously installed. Install the cable driver before installing the RadStar Data Capture Utility software.
  2. Open the software. Click Setup. Make sure you have chosen the correct RadStar model number and the correct COM port number in the software. If this is not done correctly you will get junk data when downloading.
  3. Connect the RadStar to the computer using the cable provided.
  4. Turn the key to Keypad On
  5. On the computer, open the software and press Download Data. The Set Delay menu will appear. Select No Delay, 12-Hour Delay, or 24-Hour Delay.
    Note: To meet AARST Standards and EPA protocols the minimum radon test durations are 48, 60 and 72 hours for No Delay, 12-Hour Delay, or 24-Hour Delay respectively.
  6. On the RadStar, press the Print button once. The data will download to the PC.
    Note: If you Click Download Data on the PC after pressing Print on the RadStar Unit you will get incomplete data and an error message when exporting results to the Excel Chart.
    Note: If you try to download data from the RadStar within the first hour of testing, the PC will display “No Data”.
  7. After you transfer your test data to the computer, the data can then be exported into a text file, comma delimited file or Excel chart. README files with the software describe the set-up and operation of the Data Capture Utility. Data Exported depends on the Delay selected when the Data was downloaded.

How do I export data from the RadStar RS300 into Excel?

Note: You must have a full working copy of Microsoft Excel on your computer in order to export and save the file in Excel format.

  1. While your test data is still on the screen, click Export.
  2. Choose the file type in which you would like to save your data. If you choose Excel, the Utility Program will start Microsoft Excel. The data will be exported into and Excel Workbook and a chart will be generated.
  3. Type the test information (location, dates, technician, certification number etc.) and save the file.

If you cannot download or export your data, call RadonAway at 800-767-3703 and ask for RadStar technical support. Office hours are 8:30 am to 4:30 pm Eastern time, Monday – Friday.

How do I download data from the RadStar RS800?

  1. Install the RadStar cable driver and the RadStar Data Capture Utility software, if not previously installed. Install the cable driver before installing the RadStar Data Capture Utility software.
  2. Open the software. Click Setup. Make sure you have chosen the correct RadStar model number and the correct COM port number in the software.
  3. Connect the RadStar to the computer using the cable provided.
  4. Turn the key to Keypad On
  5. On the computer, open the software and press Download Data.
  6. On the RadStar RS800, press Next until you see “Download?” on the display.
  7. Press Enter on the RadStar RS800.

Note: If you Click Download Data on the PC after pressing Enter on the RadStar Unit you will get incomplete data and an error message when exporting results to the Excel Chart. Note: If you try to download data from the RadStar within the first hour of testing, the PC will display “No Data”.

How do I export the RadStar RS800 data after it is downloaded?

Note: You must have a full working copy of Microsoft Excel on your computer in order to export and save the file in Excel format.

  1. While your test data is still on the screen, click Export.
  2. Choose the file type in which you would like to save your data. If you choose Excel, the Utility Program will start Microsoft Excel. The data will be exported into an Excel Workbook and a chart will be generated.
  3. Type the test information (location, dates, technician, certification number etc.) and save the file.

Can I wait until I return to the office to print out or download the test results?

It is recommended that all data be downloaded at site. However, the RadStar has onboard memory and so you may return to your office to download the data. Turn the RadStar keyswitch to Off before transporting it to download your data.

When I download the test results to an Excel spreadsheet and try to save as a PDF file it will only save the data information and not the graph?

When you are in the RadStar Data Utility Program in the upper left hand corner of the screen pick “setup” and pick the correct RadStar unit that you are using, otherwise you will get junk data when downloading.

When I download the test results I get junk and symbols instead of data?

The easiest way to save the graph only is using a “PDF Creator” software which may be downloaded from the internet.

How will I know if the battery is low?

The screen display of the RadStar RS800 will display ‘Low Battery’. The test report will have a “low battery” tick mark.

Does the RadStar stop measuring radon when I turn the key from Measure On back to Keypad On?

Yes. If the key is turned back to Measure On, the reading will restart the previous hour.

Can I view the test data on the RadStar RS800 without printing it out or downloading it?

To view this data turn the key to Keypad On and press Enter on the RadStar to view the intervals. Press Next on the RadStar to scroll up through the hourly readings.

Why aren’t the radon levels the same for every interval?

The RadStars measure the Radon Level by counting the alpha particles emitted when Radon radioactively decays. Radioactive Decay is a random event which does not result in constant readings. Also, the reading will reduce with time unless the radon is replenished at a rate equal to the decay rate. The rate of replenishment is variable as is the rate of radon removal in a typical home. Replenishment and removal rates of radon gas in the home are affected by multiple means including opening and closing of doors or windows, operation of Fans, AC Units or Tumble Dryers, changes in weather including wind direction and strength, temperature, humidity, and barometric pressure etc. It is therefore inevitable that readings will vary from interval to interval. Differences in readings between intervals are normal even when operating radon measurement devices in temperature and humidity controlled chambers operating at nominally constant radon levels.

Are the radon measurements by the RadStar affected by…

power surges – The RadStar is a sensitive piece of electronic equipment which could be damaged by power surges or lightning strikes. However, it is rare these events would interfere with an accurate radon measurement.

furnace or air conditioning system – Running a furnace or air conditioning can influence radon levels by increasing the air draw in the house which may increase radon levels.

low battery – Yes. The battery indicator tick mark appears on the report, and the radon concentrations will consistently climb if the unit is not plugged in to operate and recharge. If the battery has gone bad and needs replacement, the radon concentrations will consistently climb even if the RadStar is plugged in. Please contact RadonAway at 800-767-3703, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm Eastern time, Monday-Friday, for information about servicing your RadStar.

televisions, microwaves or other appliances. – No. Modern televisions, microwaves and other appliances are not supposed to broadcast radio frequencies or excessive electrical noise. The RadStar is however a sensitive measuring device and should not be operated in close proximity to televisions, microwaves or other appliances, such as telephones, particularly if older model equipment. Excessive electrical noise may result in the apparent detection of higher levels of radon than actually present.

being dropped. While the RadStar is fairly robust it is possible that damage may occur if the unit is dropped. While the unit may continue to measure and to display data it is possible that dropping the unit may change its sensitivity and calibration.

being hit. A hard blow to the front panel or casing will generally cause the alpha count to increment by 1. This is normal and not indicative of damage. A very violent blow may cause damage. While the unit may continue to measure and to display data it is possible that violently striking the unit may change its sensitivity and calibration.

Storing it in my vehicle? – Yes. If the RadStar is below freezing and then taken into a relatively warm, moist basement there could be condensation. Extreme cold will likely affect the batteries also. When turned on the liquid crystal display on a very cold RS800 will be frozen.

Features

How many hours will the RadStar measure radon?

The RadStar will continue to measure radon for 240 hourly intervals.

Is there a way to have the RadStar turn off after 48 hours of testing?

There is no way of automatically shutting the RadStar off after 48 hours of testing. However, the EPA testing protocols require that the test duration exceed 48 hours, so any test results for a period greater than 48 hours are completely valid.

How does the tamper indicator work?

The tamper indicator is a tilt switch. If the meter is tilted too far while measuring a tamper will be indicated on the print out. Measurement should be unaffected unless the meter is subjected to repeated, violent tilting.

What is the 4 hour Test Ramp period for?

The 4 hour test ramp provides the time necessary for the radon level in the measurement chamber within the RadStar unit to reach equilibrium with the ambient radon level.

Does the Test Ramp period mean I can leave the RadStar for 48 hours or do I have to leave it for 52 hours?

You need to leave the RadStar for at least 48 hours.

How is the 4 hour Test Ramp data shown and used in the calculations?

Radon Test Settings

“No Delay” – All data from hour 001 is exported. Hours 001-004 are ignored when calculating Average, Min and Max. Plot on the chart starts at hour 005.

“12-Hour Delay” – All data from hour 013 is exported. Plot on the chart starts at hour 013.

“24-Hour Delay” – All data from hour 025 is exported. Plot on the chart starts at hour 025.

How accurate is the RadStar RS800?

+ 5%

How accurate is the RadStar RS300?

+ 10%

Is the software compatible with Apple platforms, such as Macs, IPhones or IPads?

No. The software is Windows compatible.

Do You Have a QA Plan and SOP for the RadStar?

AccuStar and RadonAway do not sell a QA Plan for the RadStar. However, you may take our online training course for $110.00. In the course you will write your own QA Plan. Click here for more information.

Quality Assurance-Quality Control for Radon Measurement
Approved for 12 NRPP Category I CE Credits
This online course introduces the EPA-recommended elements of a quality assurance/quality control program for radon measurement. It is designed to help radon measurement professionals begin to write or to improve their QA/QC documents. Includes forms, formulas, computer data entry examples and samples that actually begin the writing process. At the end of the course you will have produced your own QA/QC document for radon measurement.

Another source for a QA Plan template is AARST, the American Association of Radon Scientists and Technologists. The document is available at www.aarst.org/bookstore/shtml. If you join AARST for $140.00 (individual membership fee) you get the sample QA Plan plus many other helpful tools for your radon business. For more information about AARST and the Tool Kit visit www.aarst.org.

Are RadStars listed by NEHA?

RadStars are listed by NEHA for professional radon testers. The devices are not listed by NRSB

Is the carrying case designed to be humidity proof or for just transporting the RadStar?

The case does not have a rubber seal that would help to protect the unit against excessive humidity. It is designed to protect the unit during transport.

What is the maximum square feet of testing space recommended for a RadStar?

You need one detector per 2,000 sq. ft. for large open spaces such as school halls. This does not mean that you need for example 2 detectors for a 2,500 sq. ft. home which is typically split into rooms and only needs testing at the lowest occupied level.

RadStar Computer Setup

Which do I install first, the cable driver or the RadStar software?

Install the cable driver first, then install the software.

My data will not download from the RadStar. What do I do?

The following steps may troubleshoot the problem:

  1. Open the software. Click Setup. Make sure you have chosen the correct RadStar model number and the correct COM port number in the software.
  2. Connect the RadStar to the computer.
  3. Turn the key to Keypad On
  4. On the computer, open the software and press Download Data.
  5. On the RadStar RS800, press next until you see “Download?” on the display.
  6. Press Next on the RadStar RS800.
  7. Press Print on the RadStar RS300.
    If the data still does not download:
  8. Uninstall the RadStar cable driver and the RadStar Data Capture Utility software.
  9. Reinstall the cable driver.
  10. Reinstall the RadStar Data Capture Utility software.
  11. Repeat Steps 1 through 7.

If you still cannot download your data, call RadonAway at 800-767-3703 and ask for RadStar technical support. Office hours are 8:30 am to 4:30 pm Eastern time, Monday – Friday.

Where can I get the RadStar Operators Manual and other documentation?

Visit www.accustarlabs.com/radon-testing-support/radstars-radon-monitors/radstar-documentation.aspx This is also available on disk for $10.00. Price is subject to change without notice. Call 800-767-3703 from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, Monday-Friday, to order.

My RadStar is beeping continuously with my green and red lights on, what do I do?

The green light should be on continuously whenever the power supply is connected. The red light only normally comes on for 40 seconds during the initial charging of the radon chamber when the unit is switched on, then will blink every 30 seconds indicating the unit is functioning properly. If both lights are on and unit is beeping continuously, it needs to be sent back for repair. Call customer service and ask for a RMA.

Was this article helpful?

Yes No

Related Articles