AlphaLab UHS2 Handheld AC Gaussmeter with 3-Axis Magnetometer
| Brand | AlphaLab |
|---|---|
| Origin | USA |
| Model | UHS2 |
| Frequency Range | 13 Hz – 75 kHz |
| Full-Scale Range | 1999.99 mG |
| Resolution | 0.01 mG |
| Accuracy | ±3% (45 Hz – 5 kHz), ±7% (<45 Hz and >5 kHz) |
| Power | 9 V alkaline battery (~20 h operation) |
| Measurement Modes | True 3-Axis ELF+VLF, 3-Axis VLF-only (1–75 kHz), Single-Axis Full-Bandwidth (13 Hz–75 kHz) |
Overview
The AlphaLab UHS2 Handheld AC Gaussmeter is a precision-engineered, portable magnetometer designed for quantitative measurement of alternating magnetic fields across an exceptionally broad frequency spectrum—from extremely low frequencies (ELF, 13 Hz) up to very low frequencies (VLF, 75 kHz). Unlike single-axis or narrowband instruments, the UHS2 employs triaxial orthogonal Hall-effect sensors coupled with synchronous demodulation circuitry to compute the true vector magnitude (√(Bx² + By² + Bz²)) of AC magnetic flux density in real time. This architecture ensures accurate RMS field strength determination independent of probe orientation—a critical requirement for electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) testing, power infrastructure assessment, and occupational exposure evaluation per IEEE C95.1 and ICNIRP guidelines. The instrument is calibrated against NIST-traceable standards and delivers metrologically defensible data suitable for regulatory documentation and laboratory audit trails.
Key Features
- True 3-axis AC magnetic field measurement with automatic vector magnitude calculation
- Three selectable operational modes: (1) Full-bandwidth 3-axis (13 Hz–75 kHz), (2) VLF-only 3-axis (1–75 kHz), and (3) Single-axis full-bandwidth for directional analysis
- NIST-traceable calibration certificate supplied with each unit, supporting ISO/IEC 17025-compliant quality systems
- High-resolution 1999.99 mG display with 0.01 mG digitization—optimized for low-field environmental and biomedical applications
- Robust handheld enclosure with detachable rubber boot for mechanical protection and ergonomic grip during extended field surveys
- Low-power design powered by a standard 9 V alkaline battery, delivering approximately 20 hours of continuous operation with integrated low-battery warning indicator
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The UHS2 is optimized for non-invasive, contactless measurement of AC magnetic fields generated by power lines, transformers, induction heaters, MRI fringe fields, wireless charging systems, and industrial motor drives. It does not require sample preparation or coupling media and operates effectively in ambient temperatures from 0 °C to 50 °C and relative humidity up to 80% non-condensing. The device complies with CE marking requirements for electromagnetic immunity (EN 61326-1) and meets functional safety expectations for field instrumentation under IEC 61010-1. Its measurement uncertainty budget—±3% (45 Hz–5 kHz), ±7% outside that band—is validated per ANSI/NCSL Z540-1 and supports traceability to national metrology institutes. For GLP/GMP environments, the instrument’s stable zero-drift performance and repeatable sensor response enable consistent longitudinal monitoring without recalibration between routine use intervals.
Software & Data Management
While the UHS2 operates as a fully self-contained, stand-alone meter with no mandatory software dependency, optional RS-232 or USB-to-serial interface kits (sold separately) enable direct data logging to PC-based acquisition platforms. When integrated with compliant software, the device supports timestamped CSV export, real-time graphing of B-field amplitude vs. time, and automated pass/fail threshold alerts aligned with exposure limits defined in IEEE Std. C95.1-2019 or EU Directive 2013/35/EU. Audit-ready records include calibration date, operator ID, measurement mode, frequency weighting selection, and raw axis-specific values—facilitating 21 CFR Part 11–compliant electronic record retention when deployed within FDA-regulated facilities.
Applications
- Occupational health & safety assessments of workplace EMF exposure near substations, welding equipment, and high-current busbars
- Verification of magnetic shielding effectiveness in laboratories, medical imaging suites, and electron microscopy facilities
- Pre-compliance EMC testing of consumer electronics and industrial control systems per CISPR 11/16
- Environmental EMF baseline studies near HV transmission corridors and renewable energy inverters
- Educational demonstrations of Faraday’s law, Lenz’s law, and AC magnetic coupling phenomena
- Quality assurance of permanent magnet assemblies and magnetic separators during manufacturing
FAQ
What frequency ranges does the UHS2 support, and how are they selected?
The UHS2 offers three user-selectable modes: full-bandwidth 3-axis (13 Hz–75 kHz), VLF-only 3-axis (1–75 kHz), and single-axis full-bandwidth. Mode selection is performed via the front-panel rotary switch.
Is the UHS2 suitable for measuring DC magnetic fields?
No—the UHS2 is specifically engineered for AC magnetic field measurement only. For combined AC/DC capability, AlphaLab recommends the UHS3 or the Mag-03 series.
How is NIST traceability implemented in the UHS2 calibration process?
Each unit ships with a calibration certificate referencing measurements performed using primary-standard Helmholtz coils traceable to NIST SRM 2500, with documented uncertainty budgets and environmental correction factors applied.
Can the UHS2 be used in explosive or hazardous environments?
The UHS2 is not intrinsically safe nor ATEX/IECEx certified; it is intended for general-purpose industrial and laboratory use only.
Does the instrument require periodic recalibration?
AlphaLab recommends annual recalibration to maintain stated accuracy specifications, especially when used in regulated or audited environments.
