PosiChek3 Reference Manual
PosiChek3 Reference Manual
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The PosiChek3 Computerized SCBA Test Bench has been designed to
evaluate the performance of Self Contained Breathing Apparatus and
other types of respiratory protective equipment. In order to ensure that
performance evaluations are conducted and recorded properly, it is
essential that the instructions in this manual be read, fully understood,
and followed.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
SIGNAL WORDS --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 5
1. OVERVIEW-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 6
1.1 Testing basics ......................................................................................................... 6
1.2 PosiChek configurations.......................................................................................... 6
1.3 Brand-specific software ........................................................................................... 6
1.4 Calibration Requirements........................................................................................ 6
1.5 Design Components................................................................................................ 7
1.6 Theory ..................................................................................................................... 8
1.7 PosiChek3 design components............................................................................... 8
2. OUT OF THE BOX ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- 9
2.1 Installation overview ................................................................................................ 9
2.2 Delivery ................................................................................................................... 9
2.3 PC OS requirements ............................................................................................... 9
2.4 PC hardware requirements ..................................................................................... 9
2.5 Software Installation ................................................................................................ 10
2.6 Hardware................................................................................................................. 12
2.6.1 Installing the test head _________________________________________________ 12
2.6.2 Connecting the PC to the PosiChek. ______________________________________ 12
2.6.3 Powering up _________________________________________________________ 12
2.6.4 Installing the microphone (optional) _______________________________________ 13
2.7 Launching the software ........................................................................................... 13
2.8 Name the Database ................................................................................................ 14
2.9 Entering the BA into the database........................................................................... 14
2.9.1 Adding a new apparatus type (model) _____________________________________ 14
2.9.2 Adding a new apparatus _______________________________________________ 15
2.10 Connecting the BA to the PosiChek ........................................................................ 16
2.10.1 Identify the major parts ________________________________________________ 16
2.10.2. Attach the high or low pressure manifold ___________________________________ 17
2.10.3 Attach the first stage manifold ___________________________________________ 17
2.10.3.1 BA with Quick Disconnect fitting -----------------------------------------------------------------------------17
2.10.3.2 Other options------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------17
3. PERFORMING TESTS ----------------------------------------------------------------------- 18
3.1 Working off line........................................................................................................ 18
3.1.1 Initializing the PosiChek________________________________________________ 19
3.2 Running tests .......................................................................................................... 19
3.3 Test Requirements .................................................................................................. 19
3.4 Test Overview ......................................................................................................... 19
3.5 Complete SCBA Test .............................................................................................. 20
3.5.1 PosiChek – SCBA Connection for Complete SCBA Test ______________________ 20
3.5.2 Using the Sound Detection System _______________________________________ 21
3.5.3 Conducting the Complete SCBA Test _____________________________________ 22
3.6 Quick SCBA Test .................................................................................................... 29
3.6.1 PosiChek – SCBA Connection for Quick SCBA Test__________________________ 29
3.6.2 Conducting the Quick SCBA Test ________________________________________ 29
3.7 Breathing Machine .................................................................................................. 32
3.7.1 PosiChek – BA Connection for the Breathing Machine Test ____________________ 32
3.7.2 Conducting Breathing Machine Test ______________________________________ 32
3.8 Airline Apparatus Test ............................................................................................. 33
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3.8.1 PosiChek – BA Connection for the Airline Apparatus Test _____________________ 34
3.8.2 Conducting the Airline Apparatus Test_____________________________________ 34
3.9 Facepiece Test........................................................................................................ 39
3.9.1 PosiChek – BA Connection for the Facepiece Test ___________________________ 39
3.9.2 Conducting the Facepiece Test __________________________________________ 39
3.10 Cylinder Test ........................................................................................................... 41
3.11 Visual Inspections ................................................................................................... 42
3.11.1 Adding visual inspection items ___________________________________________ 44
3.11.2 Export Checklist to Excel _______________________________________________ 44
3.12 Completing tests...................................................................................................... 45
3.12.1 Alarms/Gauges ______________________________________________________ 46
3.12.2 View breathing graphs _________________________________________________ 46
3.12.3 Enter comments______________________________________________________ 46
3.12.4 Concluding the test ___________________________________________________ 46
4. FILE MENU / DATABASE OPTIONS ---------------------------------------------------- 47
4.1 Create new database .............................................................................................. 47
4.2 Open existing database........................................................................................... 47
4.3 Close database ....................................................................................................... 48
4.4 Compact database .................................................................................................. 48
4.5 Save database as.................................................................................................... 49
4.6 Export data .............................................................................................................. 50
4.6.1 Export from Select Tests option __________________________________________ 50
4.6.1.1 Select tests to export from View Test List option --------------------------------------------------------51
4.6.1.2 Export tests from View Test Data option-------------------------------------------------------------------52
4.6.2 Export from Select Serial Number option___________________________________ 53
4.6.3 Completing the Export _________________________________________________ 54
4.7 Clear test results ..................................................................................................... 55
4.8 Exit .......................................................................................................................... 55
5. SETUP MENU / APPARATUS AND USER OPTIONS ------------------------------ 56
5.1 Apparatus Options................................................................................................... 56
5.1.1 Adding a new apparatus type (model) _____________________________________ 56
5.1.2 Adding a new apparatus _______________________________________________ 56
5.2 User Options ........................................................................................................... 57
5.2.1 Adding a new user ____________________________________________________ 57
5.2.2 Logging a user into the system __________________________________________ 58
5.2.3 Editing user information ________________________________________________ 58
5.2.4 Deleting a user_______________________________________________________ 59
5.3 Setup Options.......................................................................................................... 59
5.3.1 General options ______________________________________________________ 59
5.3.1.1 General Tab -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------59
5.3.1.2 Tests Tab ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------60
5.3.1.3 Printing Tab -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------60
5.3.2 Database setup options ________________________________________________ 60
5.3.2.1 Tests ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------60
5.3.2.1.1 Changing the list of required tests---------------------------------------------------------------------61
5.3.2.2 Auxiliary IDs -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------61
6. VIEW MENU / SEARCH OPTIONS ------------------------------------------------------- 63
6.1 View Test Results.................................................................................................... 63
6.1.1 View Tests............................................................................................................... 63
6.1.1.1 View alarms / gauges -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------64
6.1.1.2 View breathing graph data ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------64
6.1.1.3 Add inspection comments -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------64
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6.2 View Apparatus ....................................................................................................... 65
6.2.1 Delete apparatus _____________________________________________________ 65
6.2.2 Include comments when printing _________________________________________ 65
6.2.3 Search By.. _________________________________________________________ 66
6.2.4 Modify view _________________________________________________________ 66
6.2.5 Print (apparatus info) __________________________________________________ 68
6.2.6 Requery ____________________________________________________________ 68
6.2.7 Retire apparatus _____________________________________________________ 68
6.2.8 Show only apparatus… ________________________________________________ 69
6.2.9 Transfer data to Excel Spreadsheet_______________________________________ 69
6.2.10 View/edit selected apparatus ____________________________________________ 70
7. HELP MENU ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 71
7.1 Help / Contents........................................................................................................ 71
7.2 Help: Search For ..................................................................................................... 71
7.2.1 Index ______________________________________________________________ 71
7.2.2 Find _______________________________________________________________ 71
7.3 PosiChek website.................................................................................................... 72
7.4 About ....................................................................................................................... 72
7.4.1 Copyright ___________________________________________________________ 72
7.4.2 Version_____________________________________________________________ 73
7.4.3 System info _________________________________________________________ 73
8. SOFTWARE UPDATES --------------------------------------------------------------------- 74
APPENDICES ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 75
Appendix A: Glossary ........................................................................................................... 75
Appendix B: Operating Ranges ............................................................................................ 76
Appendix C: Cleaning Instructions........................................................................................ 76
Appendix D: Complete SCBA Test Pass / Fail Criteria for Generic Software....................... 77
Appendix E: Honeywell Analytics PosiChek3 Warranty........................................................ 78
Signal Words
The following signal words, as defined by ANSI Z535.4-1998, are
used in the PosiChek3 Reference Manual.
indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if
not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.
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1. Overview The ability to simulate different work rates and test
conditions is what allows the PosiChek3 to test such
The PosiChek3 is a computerized test bench a wide variety of respiratory protective equipment.
designed to evaluate the performance of completely
assembled self-contained breathing apparatus 1.2 PosiChek configurations
(SCBA) and other types of air-supplied respiratory
protective equipment. The PosiChek3 incorporates a The PosiChek has been offered in many
unique computer-controlled bellows apparatus that configurations in the past. Currently there are two
simulates breathing into and out of the mouth of a configurations available. The standard configuration
test head in the same manner that air is drawn into includes the PosiChek3 with high and low pressure
and out of the mouth of a human BA wearer. The manifolds, first stage manifold, enhanced precision
PosiChek is able to perform dynamic tests to high pressure transducer (new for 2004) and 32-bit
determine if the BA is functioning properly. software. An optional sound detection system is
also available.
Note: For the remainder of this manual, the term 54-20-1117-32 Standard PosiChek3 with
“BA” will be used in place of “SCBA or other enhanced precision transducer
type of respiratory protective equipment”.
54-20-2117-32 Standard PosiChek3 with
enhanced precision transducer and sound
1.1 Testing basics detection system
Testing is accomplished by attaching the BA to the
PosiChek and initiating the tests through the 1.3 Brand-specific software
PosiChek Software on your PC. Once the software Users who plan to service their own SCBA should
is installed and the PC and the PosiChek are able to consider purchasing brand-specific software, which is
communicate, the BA must be physically attached to available directly from the SCBA manufacturer.
the PosiChek. For simpler tests, the BA’s facepiece Brand-specific software includes all relevant data on
serves as the only interface between the PosiChek the manufacturer’s current BA offerings and also
and the BA. More complex tests require the use of a includes the manufacturer’s first stage pressure
series of manifolds to deliver pressure levels from requirements. Standard PosiChek3 software does not
predetermined points in the BA’s air stream to the provide pass/fail criteria for first stage performance.
PosiChek’s internal transducers.
Brand-specific software is currently available directly
The Complete SCBA Test requires the following from the following manufacturers: 3M, Cairns,
connections between the SCBA and the Draeger, ISI, MSA, Interspiro, Scott and
PosiChek. Survivair. In many cases, the SCBA manufacturer is
1. The BA’s facepiece is put over the PosiChek’s able to provide a model-specific adapter that
anatomically correct test head, just as it would facilitates the medium pressure connection.
be placed over the head of a user. Use of the first stage manifold in conjunction with
2. The appropriate high or low pressure manifold is brand-specific software allows the user to test
inserted between the cylinder and the first stage specific breathing apparatus to the criteria
regulator and then connected to the high specified by the SCBA manufacturer and allows
pressure inlet fitting located on the PosiChek. the user to easily isolate problem components.
3. If possible, the first stage manifold is connected
from a location downstream of the first stage 1.4 Calibration Requirements
regulator and upstream of the facepiece to the The PosiChek3 must be calibrated annually to
medium pressure inlet on the PosiChek. maintain the accuracy of the internal transducers.
Note: Some BA terminology varies by Calibration must be performed either by Honeywell
manufacturer. In this manual the term “first Analytics, or by a Honeywell-sanctioned repair
stage regulator” may be interchanged with facility.
intermediate pressure regulator and pressure
reducing regulator. PosiCheks located in North America must be
returned to the Honeywell Analytics Factory
The PosiChek3 is able to systematically analyze the annually for calibration. Contact Honeywell
operational fitness of the BA by means of a series of Analytics for a Return Authorization Number
dynamic tests and functional checks. Since the (RA#) prior to returning the PosiChek.
PosiChek3 is driven by a personal computer, simple
menu commands may be used to vary the breathing (800) 711-6776 or (847) 955-8200
rate, the tests selected, or other test parameters.
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1.5 Design Components
3
POSI CHEK
On/Off
power
Parallel port to
switch
computer
Medium pressure inlet fitting High pressure inlet Line power inlet connector
fitting for pressure
reducing manifold
Serial number location
Bellows assembly
Motor
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2. Out of the Box Power Cable
3 High Pressure Manifold Replacement O-Rings
This chapter will cover what to do when your 3 Low Pressure Manifold Replacement O-Rings
PosiChek3 arrives to prepare it to test BA. High Pressure Manifold Replacement Hex-Head
The PosiChek will arrive in two boxes. One box Screw
contains nothing but the actual PosiChek unit and Spare Fuse
the inspection report. The other box contains all of
the accessories including the head and the three
2.3 PC OS requirements
manifolds. The PosiChek3 32-Bit Software has the following OS
requirements:
2.1 Installation overview Windows 98, ME, NT (version 4.0 SP5 or
The following steps are necessary to begin testing higher), 2000, and XP.
breathing apparatus: Internet Explorer version 4.01, SP2 or higher.
1. Remove the PosiChek and the accessories from The PosiChek3 32-Bit Software is NOT
the shipping cartons and verify that all parts are compatible with Windows 3.1.
present. See section 2.2 for a parts list. Microsoft is no longer actively supporting
Do not discard the shipping cartons and packing Windows 95. As an unsupported product,
materials – you will need them to return the Windows 95 is no longer suitable for use with
PosiChek to Honeywell Analytics for its annual the PosiChek3.
calibration. In order to install the software in Windows
2. Verify that your PC meets the OS and hardware NT/2000/XP, the software installer must log on as
requirements as described in sections 2.3 and system administrator. The software must be
2.4 below. installed on each PC that will be used to conduct
tests. After the software has been successfully
3. Install the software (see section 2.5 below).
installed on a workstation, users may be added as
4. Install the hardware. This includes attaching the needed.
head, connecting the PC to the PosiChek and
plugging in the PosiChek (see section 2.6 2.4 PC hardware requirements
below).
5. Launch the software (see section 2.7 below). If Make sure your computer
this is the initial use of the software, “setup” system meets the minimum requirements prior
is the password and will open the software. to attempting to install or use PosiChek3
software. Inadequate system resources may
6. Name the test results database (see section 2.8
prevent the software from operating properly on
below).
your system. The minimum specifications for
7. Enter the BA that you plan to test into the the computer used to run PosiChek3 Titanium
database (see section 2.9 below). Edition software vary according to the operating
8. Attach the BA to the PosiChek3 (see section system used.
2.10 below).
The processor speed and amount of extended
2.2 Delivery memory must meet the recommended
requirements for the operating system. (Note that
The PosiChek3 is delivered with the following items: the recommended system requirements for an
PosiChek3 operating system usually exceed the required
Head Assembly (w/attached Tygon tube) minimum system requirements of the PosiChek
High Pressure Manifold software. If a PC with only the required minimum
Low Pressure Manifold system is used, both the operating system and the
First Stage Manifold PosiChek program will be slow.)
CD-ROM with 32-Bit Software At least 100 Mb of available hard disk space
Head Gasket Parallel Port
4 Standoffs CD ROM drive
4 Tightening Knobs
Note: As of the printing of this manual the
Manual
PosiChek3 is not USB compatible.
Training Video
Printer Cable
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2.5 Software Installation
Software installation involves loading the PosiChek
software onto your PC. It is not necessary, but it will
significantly increase the speed of the installation if
you temporarily disable any anti-virus software that
you may have installed.
1. Place the CD-ROM into your computer’s CD tray
and close the tray. If the software fails to set
itself up immediately, use Windows Explorer to
locate the CD-ROM drive and run the
“posi32.exe” program. The following two 4. The default location for standard (non-OEM)
screens will be shown in succession. software is in the C:\ProgramFiles\Posi3 folder.
If this is OK, press the “Next” button. Otherwise,
click on the Browse button to specify a different
location. Click “Next” to continue.
Note: Brand-specific (OEM) versions of the
PosiChek software may have different default
locations for the software.
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Once the process is complete, the system
configuration will be updated.
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Note: A copy of the most recent PosiChek
Reference Manual is included in the software
installation. The PosiChek Manual is located on
the PC’s hard drive under C:/ Program Files /
Posi3.
2.6 Hardware
2.6.1 Installing the test head
The test head must be mounted to the top of the
PosiChek3 chassis. A gasket installed between the
top of the bellows assembly and the bottom of the
test head guards against leakage. A Tygon tube
connects the static pressure port located in the left
eye of the test head with a hose barb fitting on the
bellows chamber base plate. The head is secured
by four mounting standoffs and four tightening
knobs.
To install the test head on the PosiChek3 chassis:
1. Make sure the base of the test head, gasket,
and bellows chamber inlet area (where the test
head will be mounted) are clean and free of dust
and/or other contaminants.
2. Screw the four standoffs into place at the
top of the PosiChek chassis by hand until
Figure 2.6.1. Test head and mounting hardware
they are tight. No tools are necessary.
The hexagonal standoffs have an arrow 5. Carefully align the test head with the mounting
etched into one of the sides. The arrow standoffs, and slide the head into place on the
on the standoff should be pointing PosiChek chassis. Make sure the Tygon tube
upwards when the standoff is properly from step 4 is not caught or pinched as you slide
positioned. the head into place.
3. Place the head gasket into position on 6. Install the four tightening knobs on top of the
the bellows chamber inlet. Align the threaded standoffs by hand. No tools are
gasket at equal distances between the necessary. Do not over tighten!
standoffs. 2.6.2 Connecting the PC to the PosiChek.
4. On the bottom side of the head you will find a
piece of Tygon tubing that is already The PC is connected to the PosiChek through the
connected to a hose barb inside the head. This PC’s printer port with a standard printer cable (IEEE
tubing is used to connect the static pressure port 1284 DB25 Male/Centronics 36 Male).
in the left eye of the test head with the Low If the PC is unable communicate with the PosiChek
Pressure and Activation Pressure transducers once the two are connected by the printer cable, it
located on the inside of the PosiChek chassis. may be caused by the PC’s printer port settings.
Peer down into the PosiChek chassis. You will The printer port needs to be configured for one-way
see a brass hose barb fitting that is located on data transfer (out). Establishing the connection may
the flat bellows plate towards the front of the require a reconfiguration of some of the PC’s
unit. Complete the connection between the internal settings.
head and the chassis by sliding the open end of
the tube over the hose barb fitting on the inside If the PC is unable to communicate with the
of the bellows chamber base plate. Slide the PosiChek despite being physically connected by
tube on as far as it will go so that it resists when cable, see the PosiChek Troubleshooting Guide.
you try to remove it. 2.6.3 Powering up
To turn the PosiChek3 on, simply plug the power
cord of the PosiChek3 into a grounded 110 VAC
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outlet and flip the green rocker switch located on the
front panel of the PosiChek3 chassis.
Note: Honeywell Analytics recommends that the
PosiChek be plugged into a surge protector.
Failure to use a surge protector may lead to
sporadic loss of communication between the
PosiChek and the PC.
2.6.4 Installing the microphone (optional) Once the software is launched, a password must be
entered to access the program.
If your PosiChek includes the Sound Detection
System (SDS), the microphone will need to be
installed prior to launching the software.
1. Plug the microphone in. The port for the
microphone is located on the PosiChek’s left
front panel over the medium pressure inlet.
If this is the initial software launch, enter “setup” as
the password. For security reasons, the characters
that are typed in will not appear on the screen.
Note: The default password for initial software
installation is “setup”.
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“SCBAMaintenance.mdb”. The .mdb extension is
added by the PC and signifies that this is a database
file.
From the File Menu, select New. Note: The database that is currently open is
always shown in the upper status bar at the
bottom of the screen.
Type the name of the new database into the input 2.9.1 Adding a new apparatus type (model)
box next to File name. In the example below, we’ve Note: Brand-specific (OEM) versions of
named the database “SCBAMaintenance”, and the PosiChek software include all model/apparatus
software has created a new database named
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type information and do not allow the user to
modify model information or to add new models.
1. From the Setup Menu select Apparatus Type
followed by Add New Apparatus Type.
The Apparatus Information screen will be shown. 4. Fill in the information as appropriate for the
apparatus.
Note: If you are unsure of any of the information
that is required in the Apparatus Information
window, contact your superior and/or the BA
manufacturer for further instructions. Entering
incorrect information about a BA may lead to
incorrect tests and/or test data.
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pressure levels from points in the BA’s airstream to
the PosiChek’s internal transducers. Every BA is
different, so specific parts and instructions may be
required for your BA to be connected to the
PosiChek.
The Complete SCBA Test requires the following
connections between the SCBA and the
PosiChek.
1. The BA’s facepiece is put on the PosiChek’s
anatomically correct test head, just as it would
be placed on the head of a user.
If this is the first launch of the generic software and 2. The appropriate high or low-pressure manifold is
no apparatus types have been added, the only inserted between the cylinder and the first stage
apparatus shown will be generic models (SCBA regulator and then connected to the high-
2216 and SCBA 4500). The apparatus type (model) pressure inlet fitting located at the lower right
should be added prior to adding the specific side on the front face of the PosiChek. (See
apparatus information. Return to section 2.9.1 for figure 1.5.1 above (page 6))
instructions on adding the apparatus type. 3. If possible, the first stage manifold is connected
2. Select the appropriate apparatus type and fill in from a location downstream of the first stage
the appropriate fields. If you plan to enter a regulator and upstream of the facepiece to the
series of similar apparatus, click on the check medium pressure inlet, which is located at the
box at the lower left corner for “Retain entries lower left side on the front face of the PosiChek.
when adding another serial number”. (See figure 1.5.1 above (page 6))
2.10.1 Identify the major parts
Begin by identifying the three manifolds that are
included with the PosiChek. Each of the manifolds
comes with a factory label that identifies it by name
and part number.
54-21-A03 Assembly, Manifold, 2250 PSI
For the remainder of this manual, this manifold will
be called the Low Pressure Manifold. The low
pressure manifold can be recognized by its brass T-
fitting and black handwheel. This manifold will be
used with all low pressure BA (3000 PSI and below).
Note: If you plan to track the individual 54-21-A02 Assembly, Manifold, 4500 PSI
components of the BA, the serial numbers for For the remainder of this manual, this manifold will
the components should be added in the be called the High Pressure Manifold. The high
appropriate fields at the bottom of the Enter New pressure manifold can be recognized by its stainless
Apparatus screen. Section 5.3.2.2 below covers steel T-fitting and handwheel. This manifold will be
changing the field names, and whether the field used with all high pressure BA (above 3000 PSI).
names are shown in the Enter New Apparatus
screen. 35-751 First Stage Manifold
3. Click OK once the information has been added. The first stage manifold is a 3-foot long hose with
identical Foster quick disconnect fittings on each
2.10 Connecting the BA to the end. A model-specific adapter is required to connect
the first stage manifold to the BA.
PosiChek
Now that the software in installed and running, and Brand and Model-Specific Parts
the PosiChek is assembled, it is time to connect the In many cases the high or low pressure manifold (as
BA to the PosiChek. One of the strengths of the appropriate for the BA) can be used without any
PosiChek is its adaptability. For simpler tests, the special parts to connect the air source to the BA and
BA’s facepiece serves as the only interface between to the PosiChek.
the PosiChek and the BA. More complex tests
require the use of a series of manifolds to deliver
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A model-specific adapter and the first stage manifold Note: Detailed connection instructions for a
are necessary to connect the BA to the PosiChek. variety of BA are available in the PosiChek
The connection must be made at some point on the Software’s Help File. See chapter 7 for details on
BA where first stage pressure can be measured. using the Help File.
2.10.2. Attach the high or low pressure 2.10.3.1 BA with Quick Disconnect fitting
manifold If your BA has a quick disconnect fitting downstream
Insert the T-side of the high or low-pressure manifold of the first stage regulator, open the quick
(as appropriate for the BA) between the air cylinder disconnect and insert the T-connection adapter
and the first stage regulator. Turn the manifold’s (available from the BA manufacturer). Then use the
handwheel down by hand until it is tight on the air first stage manifold to connect the T-fitting to the left
source. Turn the BA’s handwheel down until it is inlet port on the PosiChek.
tight on the manifold.
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Note: Since the cylinder test only involves a Individuals who are comfortable with other Windows
visual inspection and data entry, the Cylinder applications should find the software easy to run.
Test is available in the off-line mode.
Prior to running tests:
3.1.1 Initializing the PosiChek 1. The PosiChek software must be installed and
As discussed above, working off line allows the user open. See section 2.5 for details.
to access the PosiChek databases, but will not allow 2. The PC must be able to communicate with the
the user to run quantitative tests. Once the “Work PosiChek. See section 2.6.2 for details.
Off Line” selection is made at start up, the PosiChek 3. The BA must be correctly attached to the
will not be able to run tests. If you decide that you PosiChek.
need to run tests, you’ll need to manually initialize
the PosiChek as follows: 4. A database must be open. See section 2.8 for
details on creating a new database. Instructions
1. From the menu bar, select Setup followed by for opening an existing database are given in
“Initialize PosiChek3”. section 4.2.
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with the generic software, it will significantly
help in the location of problem components.
Note: The first stage manifold connection is a
necessity for most OEM software versions.
If your BA has a quick disconnect fitting downstream
of the first stage regulator, open the quick
disconnect and insert the T-connection adapter
(available from the BA manufacturer). Then use the
first stage manifold to connect the T-fitting to the left
inlet port on the PosiChek.
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2. The “Select Apparatus for Testing” screen will
Microphone Assembly
then be shown. If the BA model is shown in the
1. Adjust the microphone carrier arm so that the list, select it by and then press OK.
microphone is located about 1 inch from the
alarm and proceed with testing. While in use,
the software may tell you to move the
microphone closer to or further away from the
alarm as needed to properly set the alarm
levels.
Note: Do not move the microphone during the Note: If the BA is not shown in the list, proceed
test sequence unless the software instructs you to section 5.1.1 for instructions on adding a new
to. The software "listens" for the alarm while the apparatus type.
system is being pressurized and it learns to
recognize the sound emitted by the alarm. 3. The Apparatus Serial Number screen will then
be shown. Select the apparatus to be tested
2. During the Alarm Accuracy Test, the raw counts and press OK.
of sound being measured will be displayed while
the software is waiting for the alarm to activate.
The threshold the software is using to determine
when activation occurs will also be displayed.
The microphone is positioned very close to the
alarm so that the ambient noise in the room
does not affect the measurement. When the
software detects alarm activation, it will
automatically determine whether the test
passed. If the test passed, the software will
automatically proceed to the next test.
3. If the ringdown test is being performed, the
Note: If the serial number is not shown see
microphone will also detect when the alarm
section 5.1.2 for instructions on adding an
stops.
apparatus to the database.
3.5.3 Conducting the Complete SCBA Test 4. The Complete SCBA Test screen will be shown.
Initiating Tests, Selecting a BA, Customer Info Select the tests to be performed. Click OK once
the tests have been selected.
1. From the Tests Menu select “Complete SCBA
Test”
22
Visual Inspection
24
A window will let you know if the BA passed or failed 18. Click OK to continue. Depending on the residual
the test. If the test is failed, a retry option will be pressure in the system, you may or may not be
given. instructed to re-pressurize the system.
Breathing Tests
A screen will be shown to indicate whether the test 20. Press OK to continue. The quantitative results
has been completed successfully. of the test will then be shown.
25
21. Click “OK” to continue to the Maximum Work
Rate Breathing Resistance test. You will be
instructed to pressurize the system.
26
HUD1. Click Yes to include the HUD Alarm test. If you have chosen to perform the HUD test with
Click No to proceed without the HUD Alarm test. breathing, or are performing standard gauge-type
Note that if the HUD alarm tolerance is met by testing you will be instructed to pressurize the
the HUD gauge test, the HUD Alarm test will not system.
be performed. The HUD Test will then prompt
you to select the HUD Test with breathing, or the
HUD Test with hand-adjustable regulator.
or
HUD Screen
HUD Screen
28
35. Once the manifold has been emptied, you will be
instructed to close the bypass valve.
Gauge Screen
Note: If the BA includes a redundant pressure
alarm, the software will proceed with the
redundant alarm test.
32. Click OK to continue. Once you’ve clicked OK, 36. The Complete SCBA test is now complete.
You will be instructed to pressurize the manifold Close the bypass valve and click “OK”.
to proceed with the Bypass Test. For instructions on completing tests, proceed to
section 3.12
10. Click OK. The PosiChek software will then 14. Press OK to move on to the Breathing Test.
instruct you to pressurize the system. The following graph will appear as the PosiChek
empties the manifold.
32
The duration setting controls the length of the test.
The default setting is 6 seconds. Other lengths of
time may be entered as needed by the user by
clicking on the Custom button and then modifying
the timer below the button.
35
15. Click OK to continue. The PosiChek will then
show the Airline Apparatus test window and
instruct you to pressurize the system.
36
Upon completion of the test, the breathing complete
window will be shown along.
38
For instructions on completing tests, proceed to
section 3.12
For information on viewing, printing and storing
data after a test has been completed, proceed to
section 6.1.
3.9 Facepiece Test Note: If the BA is not shown in the list, proceed
The Facepiece Test includes visual inspection of the to section 5.1.1 for instructions on adding a new
facepiece, facepiece leakage test, exhalation valve apparatus type.
opening pressure test and an optional breathing test. The Apparatus Serial Number screen will then be
3.9.1 PosiChek – BA Connection for the shown. Select the apparatus to be tested and press
Facepiece Test OK.
39
40
3.10 Cylinder Test 5.1.2 for instructions on adding an apparatus to
the database.
The cylinder test includes a visual inspection of the
air cylinder and the ability to track hydrostatic tests. Select the serial number and press OK. The “Enter
The Cylinder Test performs no actual quantitative Customer Data” screen will then be shown:
tests, but is simply used to store hydrostatic test
data and the record of visual inspections.
To initiate the cylinder test, click on Tests at the
Menu Bar, followed by Cylinder Test.
41
Click “Done” to continue.
Click on the “Done” button once the results of the For instructions on completing tests, proceed to
visual inspection and test results are logged. You section 3.12
will then be prompted to enter the date of the most For information on viewing, printing and storing
recent hydrostatic test of the cylinder. data after a test has been completed, proceed to
section 6.1.
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2. Click on Strap. The + symbol will then become
a – symbol as the list opens.
Data added in the course of a visual inspection will If all the required tests that were performed were
not be carried into the Excel Spreadsheet. Only the passed, but you did not perform all of the required
checklist itself will be copied into Excel. tests, the option will default to “Do Not Update” the
due date. Select “Update” if you wish to update the
Results are saved into the open database and may due date without passing all of the required tests.
be accessed using View / Results (see section 6.1)
or by the File / Export command (See section 4.6).
The spreadsheet is only available to be printed and
used as a checklist.
Note: The test record will show that required
3.12 Completing tests tests were bypassed if the test due date is
Once a test is completed, a test results screen will updated while the BA has not passed all of the
be shown. required tests.
If required tests failed, you will not be given the
option to update the due date.
Section 5.3.2.1.1 covers modifications to the list
of required tests for the Complete SCBA Test
and Airline Apparatus Test.
To store the test results in the database that you
selected earlier, click on the “Store Test Results
Now” button. The results of the tests will then be
displayed.
Once “Store Test Results Now” is selected, the
Note: Screen pictures in this section may be “View Test Results” screen will be shown.
slightly different depending on the test that was
performed.
The software automatically notes any tests that were
either failed or not performed in the two boxes
underneath the component serial numbers. If any
tests were failed, this will be your last chance to
retest before storing the data. To return to testing,
click on “Perform Additional Tests”.
Click “Store Test Results Now” or “Perform
Additional Tests” as needed.
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The View Test Results screen contains all of the
data that was generated during testing. Specific
Data can be accessed by clicking on one of the tabs
at the bottom of the screen. The time and date of
the test are shown at lower left
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4. File Menu / Database Options
The File Menu contains all database controls.
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4.3 Close database
To close a database, select “Close” from the File
Menu.
2. Click “Open”.
The database that is currently open is always shown
in the upper status bar at the bottom of the screen.
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Either select an existing file or create a new
database file by typing the name of the new
database into the input box next to File name. For
the purpose of this example, a new file named
“CompactedSCBAMaintenance” will be created for
the results of the compaction.
Note: If an existing database file is selected, the
PosiChek software will clear the selected
database of any existing data and then save the
compacted file as the same name.
49
The Export Test Results window will be shown.
Enter the file location for the database copy. Name
the new database file by typing the name into the
File name input box. For the purpose of this
example, the file has been named
SCBAMaintenance2003 (since it contains all tests
conducted in 2003).
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For the purposes of this example, we’ve now
created a query that will search the database for all
Complete SCBA Tests and list them by Date.
Once the query has been defined (by making
selections in the Search By and Test Type option
boxes), click on View Test List or View Test Data to
run the query. Since the “Search By” options was
defined by date, you will be prompted to select the
date of the test(s). If you’ve selected an option other
than date, then the corresponding selection option
will be given.
51
Click Yes to select export the serial number
information as well. Click No to export this/these
tests only. Once items have been tagged,
“TAGGED” will appear in the lower left hand corner
of the window along with the number of records (or
serial numbers).
52
Two tests met the search criteria in the example. To
scroll through the tests, use the data control located
at the bottom of the screen.
53
Once the apparatus has been selected, press the
Done button. The software will prompt you as to
whether you would like to tag/untag the tests
performed on the specific serial number(s).
Click Export to export the results that have been If you plan to export these tests to another file, click
selected. A Save Dialog box will be shown. no and you will be returned to the main screen. You
may enter the export procedure again and export the
54
tests as needed. Click yes to remove tags and The software will then close down.
conclude the export.
4.8 Exit
To close down the software, select Exit from the File
menu.
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5. Setup Menu / Apparatus and
User Options
5.1 Apparatus Options
For record keeping purposes, each apparatus
should be given a unique ID number. The serial
number of the apparatus is usually a good choice
since it is a unique identifier. The apparatus type
(model) must be entered into the database before a
3. Once all fields have been completed in this
new apparatus can be added. If the apparatus type
window, click on the apparatus information tab
(model) does not appear in the database, proceed to
at the bottom of the window. The apparatus
section 5.1.1. If the apparatus does appear in the
information tab will vary depending on the type
database, proceed to section 5.1.2.
of apparatus selected above in step 2.
5.1.1 Adding a new apparatus type (model)
Note: Brand-specific (OEM) versions of
PosiChek software include all model/apparatus
type information and do not allow the user to
modify model information or to add new models.
1. From the Setup Menu select Apparatus Type
followed by Add New Apparatus Type.
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5.2 User Options
The PosiChek software requires a user to log on
before it will grant access to database information
and test functions. Passwords are used to open the
PosiChek software and to log specific users into the
system. Since the software requires a user to log in
prior to running tests, the name of the person who
The Enter New Apparatus window will then be logged in (with their password) is maintained with
shown. the test results.
The software also includes provisions to limit access
to user and apparatus data. The system
administrator should set the user’s system rights
based on the users skill level and level of
responsibility.
5.2.1 Adding a new user
1. From the Setup Menu select User / User List.
57
Note: Personal information entered in the User 2. The “Enter Password” screen will then be
Data window will appear on all printed reports shown.
Access to advanced database functions is controlled
through the two check boxes at the bottom of the
screen.
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4. Click on Change. The user data may then be 3. Click on Delete. The software will then prompt
changed as needed. you as to whether you are sure that you want to
delete the user.
5. Access to user and apparatus data is controlled 4. Click on Yes to delete the user. The User Data
by the two checkboxes towards the bottom of screen will be shown again. Click on Done to
the window. Clicking on the checkboxes will leave the user data screen.
change the setting.
The SCBA administrator should have full access to 5.3 Setup Options
both user and apparatus data. For any other The Options selection from the Setup menu controls
personnel who will use the PosiChek, access should many of the PosiChek software’s default settings.
be granted based on knowledge and responsibility
To access the general setup choices, from the Setup
level. Menu, select Options. Setup / Options is divided
To lock the user out of user and apparatus into General and Database Options.
information, leave the checkboxes unchecked. To
allow the user access to user and/or apparatus data,
click on one or both of the check boxes as needed.
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62
6. View Menu / Search Options locate specific tests. The Test View Options screen
is divided into two sections.
Test results and specific information about the
apparatus that are saved in the databases can be The “Search By” section includes a number of
accessed by clicking on the “View” menu option. options (radio buttons) that help to define the
database query that will be used to narrow the
information. Only one option in the “Search By”
section can be selected at a time.
As an example, if you know want to access specific
data from test results that were performed on a
certain date or dates, click on Date.
6.1 View Test Results
As discussed above, the PosiChek stores all data in
databases that are defined by the user. Initially, it
will be easy to find specific test data since the
overall size of the database(s) will be relatively
small. As the database grows, it will become Once the Search By selection has been made, move
increasingly difficult to find specific information. The down the screen to the “Test Types” section. Unlike
PosiChek software includes a built-in database the “Search By” section, multiple items can be
“query” to help you locate information. selected simultaneously in the “Test Type” section.
The default setting has every box checked except
To view test results a test results database must be “Failed Tests Only”.
open.
For instructions on opening an existing
database, see section 4.2.
Once the appropriate database is open, select “Test
Results” from the View Menu.
To narrow down the test results, select only the type
of test that you would like to retrieve. As an
example, if you are searching for the data from a
Complete Test, then select the Complete Tests
option and de-select all other tests.
The Test View Options screen will then be shown:
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6.1.1.1 View alarms / gauges
To view the information on alarms and gauges, click
on the Alarms/Gauges Tab. The following screen
will then be shown.
The View Test Results screen contains all of the 6.1.1.3 Add inspection comments
data that was generated during testing. Data is
accessed by clicking on one of the four tabs at the To add comments into the database, click on the
bottom of the screen. To print a comprehensive Inspect/Comments tab.
report of this SCBA test, click on the “Print” button.
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The PosiChek software will prompt you as to
Enter comments as needed in the “Add Comments”
whether YOU ARE SURE you want to delete the
field. Press “Done” to store the information in the
apparatus. To also delete all tests for the given
database. The comments will be saved to the
serial number, click on the checkbox at left prior to
database with the date, time and name of the person
clicking the “Yes” button.
logged into the system.
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If you do not need to separate the view and print
functions, leave the setting as “Columns to View and
Print” and do not access the “for Viewing” or “for
Printing” options. Any adjustments made in
“Columns to View and Print” will be carried over into
viewed and printed reports.
If you prefer separate the View and Print functions,
or you would like to change the method by which the
data is sorted in these spreadsheets click on the
Actions button at the bottom of the screen followed The items contained in the column on the left are the
by “Select Columns” and choose the appropriate active items for the Columns setting. The items
option. The option that is currently open will have a listed in the column on the right are the fields that
checkmark in front of it. are available.
To add a new column heading from the available list
(right) to the View and Print list (left), click on the
item and then drag it over into the other column.
Items may be removed from the View and Print list
(left) to the available list (right) by reversing the
Select Columns for Printing, Viewing or Sorting as
process.
needed. The Columns setting will change to
indicate the setting that is now ready for The item will be highlighted once it is selected.
modification.
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6.2.5 Print (apparatus info)
The Print command from the View Apparatus menu Press OK. The report will then be shown. It may be
allows the user to print apparatus data. printed directly or saved as a PDF file. Use the
command buttons at the top of the screen to print or
To print apparatus data, first access the apparatus
store the report.
list as discussed above in section 6.2. Then click on
the “Actions” button at the lower left corner of the
screen. Select “Print”.
To print the data file for all apparatus, select “Print 6.2.6 Requery
All”. The “Requery” command will re-execute the latest
To print the data file for a specific apparatus, first search query. To requery, click on the Actions
select the specific apparatus for printing by clicking button at the lower left corner of the screen and
in the column to the left of manufacturer for the select “Requery”.
appropriate apparatus (row). To print the
information from more than one apparatus, hold
down the Ctrl (control) key and click as many
apparatus as needed.
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screen. Once the window is shown, select “Retire 2. Select the search parameter that is most likely to
Apparatus”. locate the apparatus. As an example, if you
happen to know that the apparatus belongs to
“Ladder 1” and you filled in the “Other ID” field
with “Ladder 1”, then select Other ID.
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7. Help Menu Click on any topic in the list at right to view the
subject matter.
The Help Menu is designed to aid the user with any
problems that they may encounter while running the 7.2 Help: Search For
PosiChek. The Help option is located on the Main
Menu Bar and gives four options. The Search For option in Help includes an Index and
Find tabs that allow the user to search for specific
information relative to the PosiChek.
7.2.2 Find
The Find option under Help / Search For option
allows you to custom search the help file.
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Select Click Next to continue with “Minimize 7.3 PosiChek website
database size (recommended)” selected.
The PosiChek software contains a link to the
PosiChek website, which is located at the following
address:
http://www.biodownloads.com
Click on PosiChek3 web site from the Help Menu to
access the site.
7.4 About
The Help About option is divided into three tabbed
pages: Copyright, Version Info and System Info.
7.4.1 Copyright
The Copyright tab includes information about the
person or company to whom the software is
72
licensed. It also includes Sperian Instrumentation’s
address and phone number.
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8. Software Updates as a function of installing a new version of
software.
PosiChek software is under continuous
development. Software updates are frequently To update your software, place the CD-ROM into
included when the PosiChek is returned from its your computer’s CD tray and close the tray. If the
annual calibration. The new version of software will software fails to set itself up immediately, use
need to be loaded into the PC. When updating Windows Explorer to locate the CD-ROM drive and
software, do not uninstall or delete the existing run the “setup.exe” program. The software will
version of software because it contains some base proceed to load itself onto the PC in much the same
components that will be used by the new version manner as the initial software installation, which is
during installation. discussed above in section 2.1.1.
Note: Information located in PosiChek Note: After a software update, the PosiChek
databases including test results, user databases may also need to be updated. If this
information, apparatus types, apparatus models is the case, the software will automatically
and serial numbers will not be changed or lost prompt you to update your database(s).
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Appendices
Appendix A: Glossary
The following is a list of terms used in this manual. Many manufacturers of breathing apparatus have their own
specific terms for various parts of the breathing apparatus. The purpose of this glossary is to relate the terms
used in this manual to the terms used by SCBA manufacturers.
Activation Pressure: The negative pressure needed to start the flow of air in a breathing apparatus that is
equipped with the first breath activation feature. The Activation Pressure Transducer is the transducer used to
measure facepiece pressure during the Activation Pressure test. It has a slightly larger range and somewhat less
accuracy than the facepiece pressure transducer.
Airline Apparatus: Breathing Apparatus that has no first stage and accepts a supply pressure no higher than
300 PSI.
First Breath Activation: A feature found in some BA where a sharp inhalation is required to start the flow of air.
First Stage: The part of the BA that reduces the pressure from the supply to a lower, medium pressure.
High pressure: This term may refer to the supply pressure of the SCBA, or, to a supply pressure of 4500 PSI.
The high pressure transducer measures the supply pressure of the SCBA.
Low Pressure: This term may refer to Facepiece Pressure, or, to a supply pressure of 2216 or 3000 PSI. The
low pressure transducer measures Facepiece Pressure.
Maximum Rate , Maximum Work Rate: The max breathing rate is 102 L/min (3.4 L/breath x 30 breaths/minute)
Medium Pressure: The pressure output from the first stage regulator of the BA, or the supply pressure of an
Airline Apparatus. The medium pressure transducer measures this pressure. The term “intermediate pressure” is
often used in OEM software versions or by certain manufacturers.
OEM Version: Brand-specific version of the software.
Second Stage: The part of the BA that reduces the pressure from medium pressure to breathable pressure used
in the facepiece.
Standard Rate: The standard breathing rate is 40 L/min (1.67 L/breath x 24 breaths/minute)
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Supply pressure: The maximum pressure of the pressure source used to supply air to a BA. For SCBA, this
would be a cylinder that comes in three different pressures: 2216 PSI, 3000 PSI, and 4500 PSI. For Airline
Apparatus, this would be an airline that typically contains a maximum pressure of 300 PSI.
Work rate: The amount of air that is “breathed out” by the PosiChek during a breathing test given in terms of
liters per minute. See also Breathing Rate, Standard Rate, Maximum Rate.
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Appendix D: Complete SCBA Test Pass / Fail Criteria for Generic Software
Users who plan to service their own SCBA should purchase brand-specific software, which is available
from the SCBA manufacturer for 3M, Cairns, Draeger, Interspiro, ISI, MSA, Scott and Survivair breathing
apparatus. Contact Honeywell Analytics for more information.
The NFPA requires that SCBA be tested annually according to the manufacturer's specifications in order
to maintain compliance. Please reference NFPA 1981 and NFPA 1852 for details.
The following pass/fail criteria are used in the generic PosiChek3 software. The values used by manufacturer
specific versions of the software fall within these limits. Standard PosiChek3 software does not provide pass/fail
criteria for first stage performance. Results are simply presented in the form of a graphic flow trace of pressure
reducer performance, along with the minimum and maximum first stage values. When a test is performed with no
pass/fail criteria, the value measured is given, but you will not be informed whether the test passed or failed.
Activation Pressure no Pass/Fail is given (pressure must remain negative)
High Pressure Leak Test Test duration 10 seconds
Pressure Change allowed (2216 apparatus) 50 PSI (4500 apparatus) 100 PSI
Facepiece Leak Test Test duration 5 seconds
Starting Pressure -1.0 " H2O
Allowable Leakage 0.9 " H2O (pressure must remain negative)
Alarm Activation Pressure
Low pressure (2216) apparatus
Minimum 400 PSI
Maximum 645 PSI
Low pressure (3000) apparatus
Minimum 540 PSI
Maximum 870 PSI
High pressure (4500) apparatus)
Minimum 810 PSI
Maximum 1305 PSI
Exhalation Valve Opening Pressure no Pass/Fail is given
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Appendix E: Honeywell Analytics, Inc. PosiChek3 Warranty
78