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What does AIR XS fault code 5 storage full mean?
Fault code 5 means AIR XS internal memory is at 100% capacity and requires erasing.
Erase the internal memory via the Data Download menus.
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What are the AIR XS limits of use?
AIR XS is designed for environments where hazardous RCS is present, but the manual states that RCS detection can be influenced by particle orientation, shape, size, and overall dust loading.
The device must be operated within its technical limits, and continuous operation at temperature extremes may reduce product life.
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Can AIR XS respond to non-RCS crystalline particles?
Yes. The manual states that AIR XS may show cross-responsivity from poly-crystalline particles in the local environment, with severity depending on particle density and crystalline properties.
Because of these possible interferences, the manual frames AIR XS as an indicative real-time monitoring device rather than a regulatory compliance method.
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What assumptions affect AIR XS measurement performance?
The AIR XS manual notes that test and calibration assumptions include a controlled environment, consistent temperature and humidity, evenly distributed particles, laminar airflow through the sensor, particles moving at constant velocity, and the reference device being treated as the basis for comparison.
Real site conditions may differ from those assumptions, which can affect observed readings.
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How should AIR XS be installed?
Mount AIR XS vertically on a suitable surface using the integrated mounting brackets. Isolate power before electrical connections, ensure the supply matches the rating plate, run cables through the bottom cable glands, wire to the relevant terminals, tighten glands to maintain the IP seal, and close and lock the door after use.
Ensure the particulate entry and exit ports are not restricted or covered.
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What power options does AIR XS support?
The AIR XS technical specification lists nominal power supply options of 100 V AC to 240 V AC at 50/60 Hz, or 9 V DC to 18 V DC.
The product also provides two 15 V DC 1 A external power outputs for powering external devices.
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What communications does AIR XS support?
AIR XS supports MODBUS/RTU via RS485 and MODBUS/TCP via Ethernet. The default MODBUS address is 1, default baud rate is 115200, parity is none, stop bits are 1, and Ethernet IP assignment is dynamic DHCP.
RS485 and Ethernet settings can be viewed or changed from Main Menu > Communication.
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How do I configure AIR XS communications?
Open Main Menu > Communication. Use the RS485 or Ethernet submenu to view settings through Details or change them through Configure.
If floating point byte order is not compatible with the receiving system, change the byte ordering from Main Menu > Communication > RS485/MODBUS > Configure.
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What data is available through AIR XS MODBUS input registers?
AIR XS input registers include product TX number, firmware version, serial number characters, live RCS, RCS averages for 15 minutes, 1 hour, 4 hours, 8 hours, a register that differs by firmware version for 12 hours or 1 minute, live flow rate, temperature, humidity, internal voltage, and alarm status.
Use the register table in the manual when integrating with SCADA or a MODBUS client.
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How are AIR XS alarms configured?
AIR XS has two user-configurable alarms for warning of a selected particulate threshold breach. From Main Menu, select Alarms, use Detail to view current alarms, and Configure to set channel, threshold value, latching or non-latching mode, and units.
To save changes, exit using the left arrow key and confirm the Settings saved dialogue.
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How do I update AIR XS firmware?
Insert an external USB device loaded with the latest firmware and wait for it to be recognised. Then navigate to Main Menu > System > Firmware Update and follow the on-screen instructions.
The unit updates and automatically restarts within a few seconds.
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How often should AIR XS HEPA filters be replaced?
The AIR XS uses two HEPA inlet and outlet filters to provide clean sample airflow within the device. The manual states that these filters must be replaced every month to maintain device performance.
After filter replacement, complete compliance audit checks to ensure device functionality and maintain warranty.
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How do I replace AIR XS HEPA filters?
Pull up the filter cartridge to free it from the filter cover plate, remove the filter adapters from each side, replace the cartridge with the new part, and orient the filter flow direction correctly according to the AIR XS filter cover plate.
After replacement, complete the compliance audit check required by the manual.
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What should I do if AIR XS is operating at high temperature?
AIR XS operates a protective thermal cut-out sequence when the internal temperature exceeds the maximum operating temperature specification.
This protects the optical sensor assembly in high ambient temperature environments. Review the installation environment and bring operation back within the stated technical limits.
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What does AIR XS fault code 1 top cap closed mean?
Fault code 1 means the particle inlet top cap is closed and will not allow particles to flow into the device.
Check the top cap position and move it to open before continuing monitoring.
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What does AIR XS fault code 3 blockage error mean?
Fault code 3 means AIR XS has detected that the silica filters are blocked.
The manual instructs users to replace the internal HEPA filters.
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What does AIR XS fault code 4 laser fault mean?
Fault code 4 means a laser anomaly has been detected.
The manual directs users to contact Trolex for advice.
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What is the AIR XS external alarm output?
AIR XS includes a single programmable alarm output for powering an external audio-visual alarm or relay. It can be programmed with its own setpoint and configured for normally on or normally off operation.
The output can deliver 1 A and is internally protected by a resettable 2 A fuse.
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What should I do if a compliance audit check fails?
Run the sensor cleaning procedure described for the product, then repeat the compliance audit check and record the result. If the repeated test passes, normal monitoring can resume.
If the device returns a repeated fail result, the manuals instruct users to contact Trolex or an approved support/service route to discuss servicing options.
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How often should AIR XS have a compliance check?
The AIR XS manual describes monthly compliance checks using the Trolex Compliance Audit Kit. The process is run from the on-device maintenance menu and returns a pass or fail result.
The manual also states that AIR XS products that do not undergo monthly compliance checks will not be covered by the 12-month warranty.
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What routine visual checks apply to particulate monitors?
Routine visual checks should look for external damage, cracked or broken plastic parts, damage to wiring or USB cables where applicable, damaged membranes or buttons, blocked particulate entry or exit apertures, damaged mounting hardware, and missing, peeling, or discoloured labels.
The exact checklist varies by product, but the maintenance sections consistently link these checks to IP rating, airflow, legibility, and safe operation.
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How should particulate monitor labels and displays be cleaned?
The manuals recommend periodic cleaning with a damp cloth so that displays, keypads, membranes, rating labels, and product labels remain clean and legible.
Do not use this as a substitute for the product-specific sensor or dust-path cleaning procedure where one is required.
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How should the dust path be cleaned?
For AIR XD, XD1+, XD ONE, and AIR XS, the manuals describe wiping inlet surfaces with a damp cloth and using canned compressed clean air for 10 to 15 seconds to clear the dust path.
Follow the exact product procedure and only carry out maintenance within the limits allowed for the device.
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What does a pass result mean after a compliance check?
A pass result means the particulate sensor is functioning as expected against the compliance check routine and normal monitoring operation can resume.
The result should still be considered part of the product maintenance record rather than a replacement for any required site procedure.
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What does a fail result mean after a compliance check?
A fail result means the device did not meet the response threshold used by the compliance check. The manuals instruct users to clean the sensor or dust path, repeat the check, and note the result.
If the device repeatedly fails, contact Trolex or an approved service route for support.
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Why should particulate inlets and outlets stay clear?
The monitors rely on an unobstructed particle flow path. If the inlet, top cap, outlet, grille, or exit aperture is blocked, particulate sensing airflow can be reduced or prevented.
Blocked airflow can lead to unexpected readings, fault conditions, failed checks, or loss of monitoring function depending on product and severity.
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What environmental limits should be considered before using a Trolex particulate monitor?
Each monitor must be operated within the temperature, humidity, ingress protection, and use limits in its technical section. The manuals warn that operating outside those limits may damage equipment or prevent the product achieving its performance specification.
Operation at temperature extremes for extended periods can reduce product operating lifetime.
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What should I check if readings seem unexpectedly high?
Check for local dust events, atomised spray or mist, the device position relative to the source, blocked or contaminated flow paths, recent maintenance status, particle type, airflow patterns, and whether the configured PM size, density, averaging period, or alarm channel matches the intended application.
If the reading is accompanied by a fault, follow the fault-code guidance for the product.
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What should I check if readings seem unexpectedly low?
Confirm the inlet or top cap is open where applicable, check that entry and exit apertures are not blocked, verify the selected operating mode, check the configured PM channel or RCS averaging period, and confirm that the device has completed its startup or self-test routine.
For fixed instruments, also check power and communications. For portable devices, check battery level and whether the sensor is active in the selected mode.
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What does the AIR XS Silica Monitor measure?
AIR XS is designed to provide real-time data on airborne respirable crystalline silica, or RCS. It uses Optical Refraction Technology with a consistent particle flow rate and an adaptive algorithm to calculate the average RCS level from the overall particle count.
Readings can be viewed on the instrument display or through Trolex BreatheXS software, including live viewing via RS485 or Ethernet.
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What are the main AIR XS features?
The AIR XS manual lists real-time continuous measurement of atmospheric RCS concentration, high-reliability low-maintenance operation, on-device display readout, high-visibility alarm warning indicators, and plug-and-play installation.
It is designed around RCS monitoring rather than general multi-size dust profiling.
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What is a compliance audit check?
A compliance audit check is an instrument function used to check device response against reference particulate material. The manuals describe use of a particulate dispersion hood or compliance base, reference particle sizes, and a dosing bottle.
A pass result indicates that the particulate sensor is functioning as expected. A fail result should be followed by the cleaning and repeat-test steps in the relevant manual.
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How does airflow affect particulate measurements?
Particulate readings depend on particles passing through the sensing flow path. The manuals warn that blocked inlets, blocked exits, clogged grilles, or obstructed apertures can obscure the sensing airflow and affect device function.
Install, wear, or mount the product so that the entry and exit apertures remain clear, and include aperture checks in routine maintenance.
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Why are real-time mass concentration readings treated as indicative?
Real-time optical particulate instruments infer mass concentration from particle measurements and assumptions about the sampled material. The AIR XS manual states that mass concentration data from optical sensors should be treated as an indicator and may vary with particle type, test condition, and local environment.
The value is useful for showing changes in airborne particulate levels over time, but it should not be treated as a direct substitute for every regulatory or laboratory method unless the relevant manual and local compliance process allow it.
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Why can two particulate monitors near each other show different readings?
The manuals note that the position of a device relative to the target sample can affect the observed measurement. Particle saturation, local airflow, dust type, device configuration, drift over time, maintenance condition, and heavy dust exposure can all contribute to differences between nearby devices.
For this reason, readings should be interpreted with awareness of the local environment and the way the instrument is installed or worn.
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What does particulate matter (PM) mean in Trolex particulate monitors?
Particulate matter, or PM, is the general term used for solids and liquid droplets suspended in air. The manuals describe PM as material that may come from combustion, industrial activity, natural sources, or working processes.
Trolex particulate monitors report selected PM size fractions so changes in airborne particulate levels can be viewed, logged, alarmed, or analysed depending on the product.
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How do I update the firmware on the AIR XS?
On notification of firmware update and release, the AIR XS can be updated via the on-device firmware update functionality. The instrument requires the update to take place via the connection of an external USB device loaded with the latest firmware.
Carry out the following steps to update your firmware:
1) Insert the USB and wait a few seconds for it to be recognised
2) Navigate to ‘Main Menu’ > ‘System > ‘Firmware Update’
3) Follow the onscreen instructions
4) The unit will update and automatically restart within a few seconds
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What does “Laser Fault (Code 4)” on AIR XS mean?
Contact Trolex Technical Services.
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What does “Blockage Error (Code 3) on AIR XS mean?
Replace HEPA filters.
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What does error “Top Cap Closed Code 1” on AIR XS mean?
Open the particle inlet cap.
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How do I adjust the AIR XS communication settings?
- Press and hold the centre button to go to the Main Menu
- Go to Communication.
- Configure RS485 baud rate and Ethernet settings.
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Does the AIR XS support remote monitoring?
Yes, via MODBUS RTU (RS485) or MODBUS TCP/IP (Ethernet) for integration with SCADA systems and Aethair’s Thiamis.
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How do I download data from the AIR XS?
- Insert a USB device (minimum 8GB, FAT32 format)
- Press and hold the centre button to go to the Main Menu
- Navigate to Data Download > USB Download
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Is the AIR XS certified for use in hazardous environments?
No – AIR XS is not designed for use in Explosion Group or Zoned hazardous areas.
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What industries or environments can AIR XS be used?
The AIR XS is designed for workplaces where airborne silica exposure is a concern, such as construction sites, mining, and manufacturing environments.
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What happens when an alarm on AIR XS is triggered?
The device will activate visual alarms and, if configured, external audio/visual alarms.
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How do I configure alarms on the AIR XS?
- Go to Main Menu > Alarms
- Choose a measurement period (1 min, 15 min, 1 hr, etc.)
- Set a threshold limit
- Select alarm mode (latching or non-latching)
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What data does the AIR XS display?
- Real-time RCS concentration (mg/m³)
- Alarm status
- Logged data trends
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How do I navigate the AIR XS menu?
The device features a directional keypad with an ‘Enter’ (or middle) button for selecting options.
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How do I install the AIR XS Silica Monitor?
- Mount the device on a suitable surface using the integrated brackets
- Connect to a power source (100 V ac to 240 V ac or 9 V dc to 18 V dc)
- Ensure the particle inlet and exit apertures are unobstructed
- Connect communication cables if required
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What’s the weight of the AIR XS Silica Monitor?
8.2 kg
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What are the AIR XS product dimensions?
Width: 305 mm
Length: 305 mm
Diameter: 156 mm -
What is ORT?
Optical Refraction Technology.
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How does the AIR XS detect silica?
The AIR XS uses a Optical Particle Counter (OPC) that analyses total airborne particulates and using Optical Refraction technology, is able to differentiate the percentage of RCS in real time.
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What is the AIR XS Silica Monitor?
The AIR XS is a real-time respirable crystalline silica (RCS) monitoring device that detects airborne silica particles using Optical Refraction Technology (ORT).
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Will water mist and airborne droplets effect the readings on my AIR X unit?
Typically, water droplets (such as rain) won’t register on the unit as they are too large, and the unit is designed to prevent ingress.
Fine mists may be detected by the sensor as they will be able to pass through if they don’t have the mass to fall vertically, consideration should always be given to this when interpreting your data and occasionally dense mist may cause saturation of the device readings.
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How often should I carry out a compliance check to my AIR XS Silica Monitor?
You must carry out a compliance check to your AIR XS Silica Monitor every month. However, in activities where your unit is exposed to extremely high levels of dust, this should be done more frequently to ensure your device is working as required.
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Where can I download BreatheXS?
You can download BreatheXS here.
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How do I carry out a compliance check to my AIR XS Silica Monitor?
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What is MongoDB?
ANSWER
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Why do I need to carry out dust and silica monitoring?
Regulation 10 of the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations (COSHH Regulations) speaks to the duty placed on employers pertaining to “Monitoring exposure at the workplace”.
With particulates it’s not always immediately obvious whether there is a risk to the health of employees. More often than not, dangerous levels of exposure to particulate matter are regularly invisible to the human eye.
Furthermore, monitoring will provide a better understanding of when, where and why exposure is occurring.
Failure or deterioration of the control measures could result in a serious health effect, so regular or continuous monitoring is critical to ensure no changes have occurred to mitigate the controls. Direct reading monitoring technology is also the best possible short-term measure to evaluate the effectiveness of control measures.
Demonstrating duty of care to your employees and visitors by investing in monitoring is a positive way to influence Health and Safety culture.
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Why does my AIR X unit have different TWA time frames?
Most of our devices have 1,2,4,8 and 12-hour time-weighted avarages (TWA) this is because a TWA inherently will take into account any (or zero) readings into its average.
Where the device or consideration for a persons’ exposed hasn’t been operating for the 8-hour average, the calculation will include the null period of zero readings. Reducing the on device reading can be misleading if it’s not understood, so shorter time frames are included for local extrapolation depending on requirement.
Note: If you’re looking for indicative readings against an 8-hour sample then the 8-hour average reading should be used, but the device must be running for 8 hours before the reading is
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Will the use of atomised particulate suppression and mist sprays affect device readings?
It’s recommended that real-time monitors are operated with location and proximity consideration to any atomising dust suppression systems. Device readings will include counts based on atomised or misted sizes that pass through, within the particle detection range of the sensor.
