KANOMAX 3887C Handheld Low-Flow Particle Counter

Overview

The KANOMAX 3887C is a precision-engineered handheld low-flow optical particle counter designed for real-time airborne particulate monitoring in controlled environments. It operates on the principle of light scattering—where particles drawn through a focused laser beam generate scattered photons detected by a high-sensitivity photodiode—and converts signal amplitude into discrete particle counts across three user-selectable size channels: 0.3 µm, 0.5 µm, and 5.0 µm. With a calibrated volumetric flow rate of 2.83 L/min (equivalent to 0.1 ft³/min), the instrument meets the fundamental sampling requirements of cleanroom classification protocols under ISO 14644-1 and regulatory-grade environmental monitoring per China’s Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) Annex 1 (2010 revision) and GB/T 16292–2010. Its compact form factor, battery-powered operation, and ergonomic design enable rapid deployment in cleanrooms, isolators, laminar flow hoods, pharmaceutical manufacturing suites, and HVAC validation studies—without compromising metrological integrity.

Key Features

• Optically optimized dual-channel detection system enabling simultaneous counting at three calibrated size thresholds (0.3 µm, 0.5 µm, 5.0 µm)
• Stable low-flow aspiration at 2.83 L/min with flow error <1 particle per 5 minutes—ensuring consistent sample representativeness during short-duration or sequential point measurements
• High-resolution backlit monochrome LCD with full Chinese-language interface (firmware localized for domestic regulatory workflows)
• Programmable pre-sampling delay (0–999 seconds) to eliminate operator-induced turbulence prior to data acquisition
• Robust internal memory supporting >10,000 sample records with timestamp, location tag, and statistical summaries (mean, max, min, SD)
• Automatic power-loss recovery: resumes interrupted sampling from last valid cycle upon reboot, preserving audit trail continuity
• Multi-standard operational modes—GBMODE (for Chinese national standard compliance), GMP (aligned with Annex 1 environmental monitoring logic), and ISO (for international cleanroom certification)—each enforcing appropriate alarm thresholds, reporting intervals, and data formatting

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The 3887C is validated for use with ambient air and compressed gases (non-corrosive, non-condensing, particle-free upstream of the inlet). It is not rated for hazardous or explosive atmospheres (ATEX/IECEx), nor for aerosols containing oils, solvents, or high-humidity vapors (>80% RH) without optional desiccant filtration. All calibration and performance verification follow KANOMAX’s traceable factory procedures aligned with JIS B 9921 and ISO 21501-4. The device satisfies data integrity requirements for regulated environments: timestamps are hardware-synchronized, all parameter changes are logged with user ID and time stamp, and raw count data cannot be edited post-acquisition—supporting GLP/GMP audit readiness. While not inherently 21 CFR Part 11 compliant (lacking electronic signature capability), its immutable data logs and structured export format (CSV via USB) facilitate integration into validated LIMS or ELN platforms.

Software & Data Management

Data retrieval is performed via standard USB 2.0 interface using KANOMAX’s proprietary PC software (compatible with Windows 7–11). The application enables batch download, cross-location comparison, trend charting (particle concentration vs. time/location), and automated report generation in PDF or Excel formats—including headers compliant with ISO 14644-2 Annex D and GB/T 16292–2010 Table 2. All exported files retain embedded metadata: instrument serial number, firmware version, calibration date, operator ID, and sampling duration. No cloud connectivity or remote telemetry is implemented—ensuring data sovereignty and network isolation required in secure manufacturing facilities.

Applications

• ISO Class 5–8 cleanroom certification and routine monitoring per ISO 14644-1
• Pharmaceutical aseptic processing environment qualification (e.g., Grade A/B zones in filling lines)
• Medical device packaging clean area validation
• Filter integrity testing support (pre-/post-filter challenge assessments)
• HVAC system commissioning and recommissioning (air change rate verification, leak detection)
• Education and training labs requiring portable, standards-aligned particle measurement tools

FAQ

What particle sizes can the 3887C measure simultaneously?
It measures counts in three discrete channels: 0.3 µm, 0.5 µm, and 5.0 µm—selected individually per test sequence.
Is the 3887C suitable for compressed air monitoring?
Yes—provided the air is filtered to remove oil aerosols and moisture; optional inlet desiccant kits are available for high-humidity applications.
Does it support external probe extension or remote sampling?
No—the unit uses an integrated isokinetic inlet; no external tubing or remote sensor options are offered.
How is calibration traceability documented?
Each unit ships with a factory calibration certificate referencing NIST-traceable reference aerosols (e.g., PSL spheres) and JIS B 9921 test methodology.
Can data be exported directly to LIMS without manual intervention?
Manual CSV export is required; however, the structured file format and consistent naming convention enable automated ingestion via script-based ETL pipelines in validated IT environments.