The Radius BZ1 Area Monitor has become a popular choice for projects and turnaround work because it is easy to use and to configure with a wireless network. Although a non-pumped Radius BZ1 configured with Lower Explosive Limit (LEL), carbon monoxide (CO), hydrogen sulfide (H2S), and oxygen (O2) sensors is capable of running for seven days on a single charge, increased battery run time is always beneficial. This is especially the case during hectic around-the-clock projects and turnaround work outside of normal operations when a focus on safety is even more critical.
Why Use an External Power Supply?
To extend Radius BZ1 battery run times even more, Industrial Scientific offers the Intrinsically Safe Extended Run Time Power Supply. The power supply is UL/CSA certified for use in Class I, Division 2 locations and can extend run time indefinitely. It joins the Extended Run Time Power Supply, which is certified for use only in safe zones, as the second supplemental power supply for Radius BZ1 Area Monitors.
The third and most effective way to extend area monitor battery life is with the Solar Power Supply. Solar panels provide unlimited runtime for up to two Radius BZ1 Area Monitors or RGX Gateways. The continuous supply of power eliminates the need to charge equipment or rotate it in the field, minimizing risk and the cost of labor. Not only can the Solar Power Supply keep your site running smoothly without the hassle of charging, but it is also durable and able to withstand harsh conditions.
See below for run time estimates for the Radius BZ1 with and without supplemental power supplies.
| Radius BZ1 Configuration | Run Time without Power Supply* | Run Time with Extended Run Time Power Supply* (18109388-1A) | Mfr. Model |
| LEL, CO, H2S, and O2 sensors, no pump | 7 days | Months | Continuous (indefinite) |
| LEL, CO, H2S, and O2 sensors, with pump | 3.5 days | Weeks | Continuous (indefinite) |
| LEL, CO, H2S, O2, and PID sensors, no pump | Up to 4 days | Weeks | Continuous (indefinite) |
| LEL, CO, H2S, O2, and PID sensors, with pump | Up to 2.5 days | 4 days | 7 days |
| * Run times at 68 degrees Fahrenheit (20 degrees Celsius) | |||
An important distinction between the Extended Run Time Power Supply, Intrinsically Safe Extended Run Time Power Supply, and Solar Power Supply is where they can be used.
The Intrinsically Safe Extended Run Time Power Supply can be in a Class I, Div 2, or Zone 2 location. It includes a blue cable that can extend into a Class I, Div 1, or Zone 0 location where it connects to the Radius BZ1 Area Monitor. A yellow cable is plugged into an intrinsically safe receptacle in a Class I, Div 2, or Zone 2 location.
The Extended Run Time Power Supply is a good alternative if you do not have an intrinsically safe power receptacle. It should be plugged into a standard outlet and placed in a safe zone. The blue intrinsically safe cable can then extend to the Radius BZ1 Area Monitor in a Class I, Div 1, or Zone 0 location.
The Solar Power Supply is extremely portable and can be used in any location with sunlight, supplying power in even the most remote worksites. Much like the Intrinsically Safe Extended Run Time Power Supply, the Solar Power Supply has a CSA Class 1 Div 2 certification which makes it safe to use in hazardous locations. It also simplifies setup by eliminating the need for multiple cables or outlets. However, to use the Solar Power Supply in a lower classified zone, you will need to connect it to your Radius BZ1 with a blue intrinsically safe cable.
Learn more about Radius BZ1, the Intrinsically Safe Extended Run Time Power Supply, and the Solar Power Supply.
