1Overview
The Model 971 Spectroscopy Field Analysis Kit combines new processors and shielded detectors to deliver state-of-the-art performance in a budget-conscious package. The system analyzes spectroscopic data in real time and reports nuclear contamination information for immediate disposition. It positions as a faster, more cost-effective alternative to HPGe counting of food and water samples.
The kit fits into a large hard case and includes the detector, shielding, sample containers, the MCA, and a computer with comprehensive software. The flexible system handles both liquids and solids. It can analyze radiation in foods such as milk, meat, fish, grains, and fruit, plus soil, water, fertilizer, and other materials. Results read out in Bq/l or Bq/kg depending on the geometry used.
2Key Features
- Real-time spectroscopic analysis with immediate contamination results.
- Shielded 2 in by 2 in NaI detector for low-background counting in the field.
- Model 970 portable MCA running Food-SSAFE software.
- Lead Marinelli shield case with a K40 reference standard.
- Marinelli and 2 inch filter geometries for bulk samples and for wipes and air samples.
- Complete kit in a wheeled hard case, including scale, sieve, and survey meter.
3Detector & MCA
The primary detector is a 2 in by 2 in NaI scintillation detector with a typical FWHM of 7.5%, supplied with a 3 ft coaxial cable. An optional 1 in by 1 in CeBr detector with a C-C connector adds higher resolution at a typical FWHM of 4.5%, useful when closely spaced peaks need to be separated.
Spectra are processed by the Model 970 portable MCA running Food-SSAFE software. The detector reads out into the same flexible analyzer described in the Model 970 datasheet, so the kit inherits its channel configuration, peak search, and quantification. Sample display and data entry run on a TDS Nomad 900LE with a bar code scanner and serial boot.

4Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Primary detector | 2 in x 2 in NaI with 3 ft coaxial cable |
| Optional detector | 1 in x 1 in CeBr with C-C connector and 3 ft coaxial cable |
| Typical FWHM | 7.5% (NaI); 4.5% (CeBr, optional) |
| Spectrum analyzer (MCA) | Model 970 portable MCA with Food-SSAFE software |
| Display | TDS Nomad 900LE with bar code scanner and serial boot |
| Detection limit | Approximately 10 Bq/l; can measure to 10 Bq/kg with proper shielding |
| Identified isotopes | Iodine-131, Cesium-134, Cesium-137 |
| Geometry options | Marinelli for soil, water, and bulk samples; 2 inch filter for wipes and air samples |
| Physical dimensions | 33.30 x 24.40 x 19.30 in (84.5 x 62 x 49 cm) |
| Total weight | 110 lb (49.895 kg) |
5Kit Contents & Variants
The Model 971 ships as a complete field kit. The base configuration uses the NaI detector. The CeBr configuration adds a high-resolution detector for harder separations.
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Software | Spectroscopy Field Analysis Software; Food-SSAFE software on the Model 970 MCA |
| Detector | One 2 in x 2 in NaI detector |
| Shielding | Lead Marinelli shield case |
| Reference | Marinelli with K40 reference standard |
| Scale | 5000 g tempered digital scale |
| Sampling | Sieve for sample collection |
| Case | iM3075 Storm Case on wheels |
| Survey meter | palmRAD 907 survey meter |
| Optional detector | 1 in x 1 in CeBr detector with C-C connector |
| Variant | Configuration |
|---|---|
| Model 971-2N | Food-SSAFE kit, 2 in x 2 in NaI base configuration |
| Model 971-2N1C | Food-SSAFE kit plus CeBr, adds the 1 in x 1 in CeBr detector |
6Applications
The Model 971 is built for Food-SSAFE work, identifying and quantifying the isotopes that dominate food and environmental contamination after a release.
- Food contamination analysis across milk, meat, fish, grains, and fruit.
- Soil and water analysis, plus fertilizer testing.
- Detection and quantification of Iodine-131, Cesium-134, and Cesium-137.
- Field radiation surveys and post-incident radiological assessment.
- Programs aligned with Japanese regulatory requirements introduced from spring 2012 onward.
7Ordering
To configure a Model 971, choose the 971-2N base kit or the 971-2N1C kit with the added CeBr detector, then confirm the geometry set your samples require. For a quote, a demonstration, or help building a food and water screening program, contact Berkeley Nucleonics at info@berkeleynucleonics.com or 800-234-7858.
