1Overview
The SAM 940+ is a re-engineered, next-generation handheld radioisotope identifier (RIID) for operators who need a confident answer fast. An internal gamma detector drives ANSI-compliant spectroscopy and alarming, so identification happens in the field rather than back at a lab. The chassis is light, balanced, and fatigue-reducing, and it works on a belt holster or a lanyard during long shifts.
What sets the SAM 940+ apart is how it shares results. Modern communication protocols and one-click reach-back send spectra and event files automatically. An onboard camera lets the operator append photos and video to a spectroscopic report, so the analyst who adjudicates the alarm sees the scene, not just the spectrum. Automatic calibration and stabilization keep the instrument trustworthy with no warm-up ritual.
2Key Features
- Meets all ANSI N42.34 requirements for handheld radionuclide identification.
- Ruggedized design, water and shock resistant.
- One-click reach-back connect with automatic file sending.
- Automatic system calibration and stabilization.
- Database protocol for log files and alarm events.
- Solid-state neutron detector, no pressurized tube to manage.
- Multimedia support: onboard camera appends images and video to reports.
- Blackbox replay feature for after-action review.
- Web-based training available.
- External probe options for alpha/beta, large-volume sensitivity, and special functions.
3Detector & Performance
The SAM 940+ uses a 2 x 2 inch internal gamma detector with a choice of crystal, so the instrument can be matched to the mission. NaI(Tl) is the rugged, proven baseline. CLYC and CLLBC deliver sharper energy resolution for harder identification problems, and both are dual-mode crystals that respond to gamma and neutron radiation.
Resolution at the 662 keV cesium line tells the story: NaI(Tl) better than 7 percent, CLYC better than 5 percent, CLLBC better than 3.5 percent. A separate solid-state neutron detector adds special-nuclear-material sensitivity with strong gamma rejection. Sourceless K-40 finder stabilization tracks the instrument in real time, and firmware linearization holds energy calibration across the full range.
| Crystal Option | Typical Resolution at 662 keV |
|---|---|
| NaI(Tl) | < 7% |
| CLYC | < 5% |
| CLLBC | < 3.5% |
4Specifications
Detectors
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Gamma detector | 2 x 2 inch, NaI(Tl), CLYC, or CLLBC crystal options |
| Neutron detector | Solid-state; 4 cm² active area; 30% thermal neutron efficiency; 1:10⁷ gamma rejection |
| External probe | Optional (verify) |
Performance
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Energy range (gamma) | 20 keV to 10 MeV |
| Linearization | Real-time firmware linearization |
| Dose rate range (ID mode) | 10 nSv/h to 250 µSv/h (0 to 10 mR/h) |
| Dose rate range (Count mode) | 10 nSv/h to 10 mSv/h (10 mR/h to 10 R/h) |
| Stabilization | K-40 finder sourceless automatic real-time stabilization |
| Identification | ANSI N42.34 compatible |
| Library categories | SNM, IND, MED, NORM |
| Channels | (verify) |
Physical, Environmental, and Power
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Shipping dimensions | 20 x 17 x 9 in |
| Shipping weight | 15 lbs |
| Operating weight / dimensions | (verify; only shipping figures published) |
| Operating temperature | (verify) |
| Ingress protection | Water and shock resistant; IP rating (verify) |
| Battery life / power | (verify) |
| Display | (verify; onboard camera referenced) |
Communications and Standards
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Reach-back | One-click reach-back connect with automatic file sending |
| Data protocol | ANSI N42.42 reach-back data protocol; CSV event data export |
| Interfaces | Modern communication protocols (specific interfaces verify) |
| Alarms | ANSI-compliant spectroscopy and alarming; database protocol for log files and alarm events |
| Standards | ANSI N42.34 Type C performance requirements; ANSI N42.42 |
5Isotope Library
The onboard library sorts identifications into the four categories operators care about in the field. SNM flags special nuclear material, including highly enriched uranium and plutonium. IND covers industrial sources, MED covers medical isotopes, and NORM covers naturally occurring radioactive material so benign backgrounds do not trigger false alarms.
| Category | Coverage |
|---|---|
| SNM | Special Nuclear Material (includes HEU and plutonium) |
| IND | Industrial isotopes |
| MED | Medical isotopes |
| NORM | Naturally Occurring Radioactive Material |
6Options & Configurations
The SAM 940+ accepts external probes that extend it beyond gamma and neutron identification. Choose the probe that fits the survey, then connect it to the same instrument the team already trains on.
- Alpha/beta detection with an external pancake probe.
- Large-volume NaI or plastic for increased sensitivity during search.
- External siren for area-monitor applications.
- Special function and X-ray detection probes.
- Internal or external neutron detection options.
7Applications
- Homeland security and border interdiction.
- Emergency responder operations.
- Radiological area mapping.
- Safeguards and nuclear security.
- Geological radiation survey.
8Ordering & In the Box
Configure the SAM 940+ by gamma crystal (NaI(Tl), CLYC, or CLLBC), neutron channel, and any external probes the mission requires. Web-based training and the blackbox replay feature support after-action review and operator readiness.
The packaged accessory list is not itemized on the source page and is marked (verify). For a configured quote, current lead time, and the full in-box contents, contact Berkeley Nucleonics at info@berkeleynucleonics.com or 800-234-7858.
