SAMpack 120 (RD-120) Human-Portable Radiation Detection Backpack

1Overview

The SAMpack 120 (RD-120) is a human-portable radiation detection backpack built for clandestine gamma and neutron monitoring, rapid source localization, and reachback integration. It carries the search workload for homeland security teams, first responders, border patrol, and covert operations, all from a low-power package an operator can wear for hours.

Inside, advanced multi-detector algorithms drive isotope identification in real time. The optional RadCompass directional feature turns the backpack into a search tool that points toward a source rather than simply alarming on it. The platform is field-programmable: configure it for gamma only or gamma plus neutron, choose standard or high-resolution detectors, and reshape it from a worn backpack into a stanchion or doorway monitor when the mission changes.

2Key Features

• Detects and identifies gamma and neutron radiation with real-time isotope ID.
• Customizable build: multiple detector types and networking options on one chassis.
• RadCompass directional indication and advanced multi-detector algorithms for source localization.
• Remote and standoff alarming, with the detector detachable for stand-off operation.
• Low power consumption for many hours of continuous monitoring.
• Smartphone app for local alarming, photo capture, and manual data transmission.
• Automatic reachback: continuous transmission of GPS location, radiation levels, and energy spectrum.
• Backpack, stanchion, or doorway configurations from the same unit.
• Bluetooth notification, text and voice messaging, and command center support.
• Water resistant and fully decontaminable, with a Blackbox replay feature for after-action review.
• Web-based training at academy.berkeleynucleonics.com.

3Detector Array & Performance

The SAMpack 120 uses scintillation detectors in either NaI or CeBr. Standard configurations run NaI for sensitivity and value; high-resolution configurations use CeBr for sharper isotope separation. Neutron detection and identification are available on the gamma/neutron and high-sensitivity configurations.

For directional search, the backpack supports a dual-detector "NaI Left/Right" layout. That two-detector geometry feeds the multi-detector algorithms and the RadCompass option, letting the system indicate which way a source lies rather than only that one is present. The Left/Right build is the heavier configuration at up to 22 lbs.

4Specifications

5System & Software

The SAMpack 120 is a worn system, not just a detector. It reshapes between a backpack, a stanchion, and a doorway monitor, and the detector detaches for stand-off operation or mounts on a tripod. Four steel cleats secure the shoulder strap for sustained foot patrols.

Smartphone control and reachback

A paired smartphone app handles local alarming, photo capture, and manual data transmission. For continuous coverage, automatic reachback streams GPS location, radiation levels, and energy spectrum back to a command center. Additional user software supports fast, automatic data relay, so analysts at reachback see what the operator sees in the field.

Connectivity and networking

Connectivity covers WiFi, Bluetooth, GPS, and USB. The system carries command center support and is RadResponder (FEMA) enabled. Bluetooth notification, text and voice messaging, and the Blackbox replay feature round out the field workflow, letting teams reconstruct an event after the fact.

Configurations

The RD-120 series is ordered by capability. RD-120-G is gamma only. RD-120-GN adds neutron. RD-120-CG is high-resolution gamma, and RD-120-CGN is high-resolution gamma plus neutron. RD-120GN-SPX is the high-sensitivity gamma/neutron build. RadCompass directionality is available as Option D across the series.

6Configurations & Options

Deployment accessories include the shoulder strap with four steel cleats, a tripod mount, a detachable stand-off mount, and handheld operation. Included items and the full accessory list are not published on the product page (verify).

7Applications

• Homeland security and border security
• Emergency response and HAZMAT
• Safeguards and nuclear security
• Radiological area mapping and geological radiation survey
• Law enforcement and non-proliferation enforcement
• Portal, passenger, and freight monitoring
• Industrial, medical, and radiation safety
• Health physics and environmental waste monitoring

8Ordering

To configure a SAMpack 120 (RD-120), select the gamma or gamma/neutron model, choose standard NaI or high-resolution CeBr detectors, and add Option D for RadCompass directionality. For quotes, configuration help, or a demonstration, contact Berkeley Nucleonics at info@berkeleynucleonics.com or 800-234-7858.