Skip to content

MPC-9604 Alpha/Beta Counting Multi-Detector System


The MPC-9604 is a premium, multi-detector, alpha/beta counter designed for applications that require high sample throughput and low detection limits.

  • Manual Four-Detector Sample Counter
  • Cosmic Guard Detector
  • Field Replaceable Detector Windows
  • 4” (10.16 cm) thick low background lead shielding
  • 2 in. (5.1 cm) Standard Planchet Diameter
  • Low Background Counter
  • No Lead Brick Lifting for Detector and Window Access
  • Radon Progeny Compensation for Air Filters
  • GasPro Failsafe Gas Conservation and Gas Loss Detection
  • Four 2.25 in. (5.7 cm) Pancake Style Gas Flow Proportional Detectors
  • Independent sample start and stop
  • Literature +

  • More Information +


    The MPC-9604 is designed for simplified setup, operation, and maintenance with optimal performance characteristics.
    • The only connections are AC power, USB computer control, and P-10 gas supply which is monitored by Gas-Pro™ to halt counting when a gas fault is detected.
    • Intuitive control software with simple data accessibility and reporting minimizes training and setup time. Each detector has its own sample drawer for independent sample loading and control with true “Count to MDA” to optimize throughput.
    • Maintenance requires no rear access with the detectors and electronic modules accessible from the front. Detector windows can easily be changed in less than 10 minutes without interrupting the operation of other detectors.
  • Specifications +


    Efficiency Top (~1 mm from Window); Others: Bottom of Planchet1
    Source Top 1/8"  1/4" 5/16"
    Pu-239 35% 31% 25% 24%
    Sr/Y-90 55% 47% 40% 39%
    Tc-99 35% 33% 28% 26%
    Ni-63 15% 11% 7% 5%


    Typical Efficiencies (Distributed/Point Source)1
    Source Efficiency Source Efficiency
    Po-210 31% / 42% Am-241 31% / 42%
    Sr/Y-90 47% / 55% Th-230 31% / 42%
    Tc-99 35% / 43% Cs-137 32% / 40%


    Background2
    Configuration
    Warranted (cpm)
    Typical (cpm)
    Alpha Beta Alpha Beta
    Shielded and Guarded <0.1 <0.1 <0.05 <0.7


    Instrument Specifications
    Category Specification
    Sample Size 2 inch diameter (5.1 cm)
    Detector Uniformity 95% over active area
    Capacity 4 samples
    Instrument Induced Cross Talk Alpha to Beta <0.1%
    Beta to Alpha <0.1%
    Depth 1/8, 1/4, or 5/16 inch
    Data Export VISTA 2000 software
    Interface Computer
    Count Modes Alpha only, Alpha then Beta, Alpha/Beta simultaneously
    Plateau <1.5%/100 V Alpha Length >1000 V
    <5%/100 V Beta Length >200 V
    Power 110-240 V AC, 50-60 Hz Input
    <2 A @ 110 V AC, <1.0 A @ 240 V AC
    Gas Flow Rate and Pressure Nominally set to 60 cc/min with a critical flow orifice.
    Nominal inlet pressure 10 psi (±2 psi)
    Window Aluminized, 80 µg/cm2
    Operating Temperature Range 10°C to 40°C (50°F to 104°F)
    Humidity 20-90% Non-condensing
    Shielding 4" (10.16 cm) Low Background Lead
    CPM / Dead Time 300,000 / <1.5%
    Dimensions 16" H x 32" W x 22" D (47 H x 95.3 W x 55.9 D cm)
    Weight 1200 lbs (544 kg), shipping 1400 lbs (635 kg)
    ROHS and CE Certificates of Compliance available


    Factory Measurement Conditions
    1. 4Π efficiencies for distributed area sources determined using a NIST traceable area source. “Typical” 4Π efficiencies are for comparison with other vendors using point sources vs area sources at close window geometries.
    2. Background measurements in a natural background of 8 µR/hr. Warranted values are taken under controlled conditions and vary with altitude/background.
  • Ordering Information +


    AC power, P-10 gas supply, calibration sources, and a suitable surface to place each MPC-9604. The support surface must safely bear 1200 pounds per MPC-9604.

    Model Description
    ORT-MPC 9604
    Includes PIC Link Cable, Two Stage Regulator and Tubing, and 4 each of one size Insert (specify 1/8”, 1/4”, or 5/16” inserts at time of order)
    Options
    ORT-MDS-CTRL
    MDS Control Pack. Includes Vista 2000 software, RS232/485 interface, null modem cable, and gas regulator.
    ORT-MDS-RACK
    Heavy duty rack assembly to hold two MPC-9604 units
    ORT-VISTA 2000
    Software Package
    PIC-700-0007 1/8 inch Planchet (set of 100)
    PIC-700-0008 1/4 inch Planchet (set of 100)
    PIC-700-0009 5/16 inch Planchet (set of 100)
    PIC-120-0008 Ultra-thin (80 µg/cm2) Detector Window
    PIC-120-0011 Mobile cart