ALTAIR 4XR Multigas Detector
With MSA XCeell Sensor Technology
Frequently Asked Questions
- The ALTAIR 4XR Multigas Detector uses the NEW MSA XCeell Sensors. Aren’t all elecrochemical and catalytic bead sensors basically the same??
All sensors are not the same Sensors are the heart of an instrument; sensor performance can vary greatly depending upon manufactured. Most multigas detector use the same sensors from the same few global suppliers. MSA has designed a superior gas detection sensor platform specifically optimized for MSA XCell Sensor are designed for longer life, faster response and higher performance when used with MSA’s ALTAIR 4XR Multigas Detector.
MSA has designed and manufactured gas detection sensors instruments for decades. Our experts are there to support you with any product or applications concern, allowing you to focus on your core business. - I read that every MSA XCell Sensor is built with an embedded application specific integrated circuit (ASIC). What is an ASIC and why is it important?
An ASIC is a microchip specifically designed for one application. ASIC’s are most commonly associated with consumer electronics that have beeb greatly reduced in size over the years (i.e cellular phones), in ASIC development a complete electronic circuit with multiple larger components is reduced to one tiny microchip dedicated to a specific purpose such as sensor control.
In recent years MSA has developed its own sensor ASIC. This chip conatins a microprocessor, all circuit to drive and compensate the sensor and a digital signal converter.
Every MSA XCeell Sensor contains an ASIC. This chip is much more tan a smart sensor; digital XCell Sensor perform real-time environmental corrections and provide plug-and-play capabilities, greater RF immunity and a higher overall performance level. Due to digital output, this sensor is not bachwards-compatible with older MSA instruments, but instead estabilishes MSA’s future product platform. - Historically, oxygen (O2) sensor or technology is seen as a weak link and the first to die in every instrument. How does MSA’s XCell O2 Sensor or actually achieve a typical lifesp an of more than four-years?
Most O2 sensor on the market today use a consumable chemical reaction where a piece of lead is consumed and converterted to lead oxide. These sensors have a very finite life. Once enough lead is gone, the sensor stops working.
The MSA XCell O2 Sensor uses a non-consumable chemical reaction. O2 is converted to water and then back to O2. The sensor does not”use itself Up” each time it sees O2, generating a much longer shelf-life and overall lifespan.