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Features

• Rigorous, comprehensive low level actinide analysis
• Automatic energy, FWHM, and efficiency calibration
• Automatic environmental background subtraction for correct low level analysis
• Automatic, complete nuclide identification and reporting
• OpenVMS-based Genie acquisition, data processing and quality assurance
• Menu-driven operations using easily modified standard DCL commands
• Accurate and reproducible calculations based on tracer recovery/chemical yields
• Automated calculation of MDAs
• Full propagation of uncertainties
• Data validation protocols
• Automated Quality Control and Quality Assurance

Description

The Alpha Management Software (AMS) is a proven software package designed to meet unique requirements of low level alpha spectroscopy. AMS provides capabilities for handling the large volume of data associated with multi- detector alpha systems. The primary design and application is for the analysis of all alpha emitting nuclides in environmental, bioassay and waste samples. AMS functions include sample information entry, data collection, data analysis and archiving results of unknown samples. In addition, AMS performs calibrations, collects backgrounds and counts standard samples on each detector, and allows monitoring the results over a long period of time.

AMS controls every aspect of the alpha counting process - from starting the counters to archiving the results on tape. Additionally, all aspects of quality assurance and quality control are automatically tracked, documented and plotted. Quality Assurance (QA) and Quality Control (QC) are used to maintain a historical record for each detector. Information is stored for detector backgrounds, detector instrument pulser checks, periodic calibrations, sample controls, reagent blanks, and yields. AMS allows the operator to print reports of QC data or to plot QC charts to a variety of hard copy output devices.

SYSTEM CONTROL

OPENVMS-BASED - The software operates on a Digital Equipment Corporation (DEC) VAX or Alpha platform and performs acquisition, data processing, quality control and quality assurance.

VMS can handle processor-intensive, I/O-intensive and real time tasks in any combination. Its virtual memory support and a wide range of tools, utilities and available languages make VMS a powerful, adaptable and extensible operating system. OpenVMS-based acquisition is most suited for the large volumes of data and QC associated with multi-detector alpha systems. Minimal operator intervention results in increased reliability and throughput.

AUTOMATED CONTROL - AMS controls every aspect of the alpha counting process, from starting the counters to archiving the results on electronic media. Functions include sample information entry (with an optional bar code reader input), data collection, review of spectrum, data analysis, archiving of results, calibration, collecting backgrounds and counting standard samples (QC).

DYNAMIC SOFTWARE EXPANSION - The software easily expands to accommodate very large arrays of detectors. Currently the software can be expanded to 999 detectors on a single system. Another unique feature that allows for quick expansion or replacement is automated detector and chamber setup and calibration. The calibration sequence includes checking parameters on a real time basis to see if they fall within acceptable ranges.

HARDWARE SETUP - The AMS software assists the operator with the initial setup of the detectors, including front end zero and amplifier gain adjustments. This software driven hardware setup eliminates the need for laborious calculations and manipulations.

BACKUP FILES - The backup of the system, spectral files, quality control, and quality assurance files is accomplished automatically with a simple command. Backup is usually performed once a week and can be performed as often as needed.

ENERGY REGION - Energy regions are set for all detectors through one system-wide file. Region-of-interest analysis is used to quantify the peak areas, which provides a high degree of sensitivity. The analysis software computes an activity for each identified isotope based on the known activity for the tracer and computes a chemical yield for the sample. Reports can be generated after an operator reviews the spectral data.

CRASH SAVE - In the event of a power outage to the system while counting samples, an automated crash save of all spectra occurs. When the power returns, the system allows the operator to recover samples in process. This is most important to low-level counting facilities which have very long count times, typically 6 to 48 hours.

MENU-DRIVEN - The software is menu-driven, using easily modified standard DCL commands. Menu commands exist for sample counting, quality assurance and maintenance functions.

AUTOMATED QUALITY MONITORING - The quality control package automates the monitoring of various quality control parameters such as backgrounds, controls, daily pulser checks (instrument checks), individual detector logs, weekly calibration checks, reagent blanks, and yields. These parameters are maintained for each individual detector and for the most recent batch of samples. This software package automatically sets flags and monitors for "out-of-control status". AMS can easily handle the large volume of QC data associated with multiple detector systems.

COUNTING

The AMS system is designed to provide menu-driven, user-defined counting operations with minimal operator input. All spectra are automatically collected for the complete array of detectors after selection of the appropriate menu item. Spectra are collected in up to 32 predefined groups. Not only are these combined spectra cataloged, but each individual spectrum is automatically moved to the appropriate archive directory.

ARCHIVING RESULTS - All results and spectra are automatically placed in an appropriate archive directory. If a power failure occurs during sample counting, all results are automatically backed-up to hard disk to assure no loss of data. In addition, multiple CPU systems can be interfaced for redundancy.

INPUT OF SAMPLE INFORMATION - Sample information can be entered manually or with a bar code reader. Input is menu-driven with flexibility provided so that changes can be made when necessary. All spectrum files utilize the standard Genie Configuration format. The system also provides automatic transfer and tracking of each detector's identification, calibration, background and many other detector-specific parameters. All of this information is automatically stored and each sample spectrum provides a complete document for future reference.

CALIBRATIONS - By placing a certified calibration source on each detector and selecting weekly calibration checks from the menu, the AMS system will automatically acquire a spectrum to calibrate each detector for energy, FWHM, and efficiency. Calibration results are then automatically transferred to the respective quality control files. All calibration parameters are pre-defined in the standard certificate files. These files are set up and utilized by each detector, and provide the certification for all calibrations.

INSTRUMENT CHECKS - The performance of each detector is monitored by instrument checks. These checks are utilized to qualify each detector with a ten minute count. All results are automatically transferred to the appropriate quality control files and the operator is immediately notified if any out-of-control conditions have occurred. This allows all detectors to be qualified before a long time is invested in sample counting.

BACKGROUNDS - Ease of operation provides for an efficient means of acquiring background spectra for all detectors. These spectra are used to subtract any background counts on a detector by detector basis. Also, all results are stored in the appropriate quality control file in order to detect any contamination that may be present.

Example: 16-detector alpha spectroscopy system with a second computer for redundancy or data review

PROCESSING SPECTRA

After acquiring spectra on the array of detectors, all results are cataloged and stored in the appropriate files. The review process is also highly automated. By invoking the process routine, each sample spectrum is automatically displayed for the operator to review. Each region of interest is automatically highlighted. Peak search results are tabulated and displayed along with the individual spectrum. The review process is completed in seconds after the operator responds to the questions, "Does the spectrum look OK?". If the response is "YES" then all calculations are performed and the results are placed in the appropriate database. If there is a problem with poor resolution because of improper mounting of the sample, and the answer to the above mentioned question is "NO", then the results will automatically be flagged and output to the database.

Controls and reagent blanks are typically processed with samples. These QC samples are easily identified to the system by a leading "C" or "R" in the user defined sample identification, (up to 16 characters). As these QC samples are processed they are automatically logged into the appropriate QA files. Also, the operator is notified immediately if there are any out-of-control conditions. All calculations are performed by the computer, including the chemical recovery. A typical set of 20 samples can be reviewed and processed in approximately 20 minutes.

QUALITY ASSURANCE

Built-in Quality Assurance provides a means of measuring the performance of the complete array of alpha spectrometry parameters. Increased need for legally defensible operations has created a heightened emphasis for Quality Assurance.

Control Chart of a detector exhibiting broadening over time (120 days)

AUTOMATED DOCUMENT TRACKING - AMS provides automated state-of-the-art document tracking of thousands of items and parameters related to quality assurance. The operator has immediate access to printed reports or plots through a variety of output devices. Operators can choose the parameter, detector and data range desired. Reports are then automatically printed. QC reports are available for Background, Control, Instrument Checks, Calibration Verification, Reagent Blanks and Chemical Yields. The reports give the chamber file name and flags are shown on the reports when limits are exceeded.

Any control parameter that exceeds a predetermined QC limit is automatically logged in the Detector Log File and the counting room supervisor is notified automatically by a Supervisor's Action Report. This report identifies, by detector and parameter, the status of the flag which has exceeded the limit.

Control chart of Thorium samples showing the channel recovery of the 229Th tracer is downward. This problem was associated with pipet tips used for introduction into the tracer.

CONTROL CHARTS - The QA package allows all QC parameter data to be either listed in a report form, plotted on the screen, or output to a printer or plotter. Currently the software package keeps track of a minimum of 30 QC charts per detector in the QA database. With a multi-detector system, this task would be enormous to handle manually. The QC data is sorted and analyzed automatically without hand entries. Flags are set for any out-of-control parameter, allowing real time feedback. The quality control package monitors various quality control parameters: backgrounds, controls, daily pulser checks, weekly calibration checks of individual detector logs, reagent blanks, and chemical yields. These parameters are maintained for each individual detector and for the most recent batch of samples. There are two available methods to analyze the data: by N-sigma standard deviation of the data set or by predetermined boundaries set by the operator.

CALIBRATION DATA - The weekly calibration checks contained in the QA section monitor several parameters that are specified upon initial setup of the system. Each energy used in the calibration, along with its FWHM, and counts/second can be monitored by the bounds or the N-sigma standard deviation method. Any "out-of-control" situation is flagged and automatically recorded in the appropriate detector log file and requires a response from the supervisor to document what action was taken. Therefore, all historical data on the calibration of the system is tracked and documented.

REAGENT BLANKS - All reagent blanks are tracked automatically by the system. The isotope specific information is stored and checked against preselected methods mentioned earlier. This is important in accessing contamination control in a low level radioassay facility and achieving MDAs required for performing environmental and bioassay radiochemical analysis. The reagent blanks are a part of the QC samples that accompany each batch of samples.

CONTROL SAMPLES - All control samples are counted and tracked automatically by the system. The specific isotope activities are stored and monitored by a predetermined QC analysis described in the introduction. The precision and accuracy of all methods are automatically calculated and monitored for control status. Regulations drive most of the low level radioassay work. These regulations strongly suggest that compliance with American National Standards Institute ANSI N13.30 must be met. ANSI N13.30 is a guide which states the performance criteria (precision, accuracy and Minimum Detectable Activities (MDAs)) for radiobioassay.

OPTIONS

BAR CODE TRACKING - AMS has been designed to function with state-of-the-art bar coding equipment. Input of sample identification information is easily automated with appropriate integration of bar code labels. Not only does bar coding greatly improve the efficiency of the counting room operations, but it also reduces errors associated with hand entry of data.

AUTOMATED MDA - The Minimum Detectable Activities (MDA) for alpha emitting isotopes is often a calculation that is critical to most radiochemistry laboratories. The methods for generating these values will vary based on what is used as the value of an "appropriate blank". Some laboratories report MDAs based on background counts, while others use reagent blanks. Also, the number of measurements used in the calculation and time frame can vary depending on laboratory requirements and regulations. Currie's formula is used for the calculations of MDA. Also, variations from this formula are possible. Once these conditions have been defined, routinely updated MDA calculations for the entire operation are automatically generated.

AUTOMATED INTEGRATION OF GAMMA COUNTING - The AMS software easily integrates with PROcount, which is the menu driven OpenVMS-based gamma counting protocol. With this combination of software, all phases of alpha and gamma counting are automated.

REDUNDANT CPU INTEGRATION - Some types of applied alpha spectrometry operations (i.e. bioassay) require redundant CPU integration. This is particularly true with large arrays of spectrometers (i.e. greater than 100). Rapid take-over in the event of a failure of one of the redundant CPU is vital. Several facilities have implemented this option with immediate take-over in the event of failure with one CPU.

ENHANCED DETECTION LIMIT CALCULATION - This calculation of the Minimum Detectable Activity (MDA) is based on multiple background measurements and reagent blanks. The standard deviation of each of these multiple measurements is calculated and all of the values summed and incorporated into the MDA calculations equation. By basing the detection limit calculation on multiple data points the influence of statistical anomalies is lessened, or even eliminated.

REAGENT BLANK SUBTRACTION - This feature allows for correction of a sample activity using an average reagent blank activity. A database of reagent blanks is maintained for the purpose of averaging. The average value of these select reagent blanks and the instrument background are both subtracted from the gross sample activity to produce an improved net signal.

SERVICES

Professional services are available for performing setup, initial calibration, system specific configuration, user training, customization, and V&V. Additionally, consulting services are available for review of laboratory procedures, review of deposition methods, and other key issues to ensure compatibility with AMS analysis techniques.

These services are provided to assist the customer with bringing the alpha counting system on-line as fast as possible, and to ensure the system meets the specified requirements.

INSTALLATION AND INTEGRATION - AMS contains a variety of options which allow support of most hardware configurations. The integration services provide:

• Modification of system directories and key files to correspond with the hardware configuration
• Creation of header files for maintaining calibration data for each chamber
• Set up of quality assurance files to monitor system parameters according to customer requirements
• Set up of each chamber, all ADCs, and associated electronics to bracket the energy window as required by customer specifications
• Performance of daily check test and background counts for each chamber to ensure detectors meet specifications
• Definition of nuclide libraries to be used for routine analysis
• Creation of calibration certificate files for each standard

CALIBRATION - After successfully performing both the daily and background analysis, the calibration sources are placed in the chambers for counting. Each chamber is calibrated for energy, constant FWHM, and average efficiency. Tracer and control default values are entered into key files for each isotope to be monitored.

QA parameters are reviewed and control limits set to ensure proper operation of the supervisor action report. Individual detector log files are updated if any currently tracked parameter falls outside of pre-established limits.

CUSTOMIZATION - QA menus are edited for easy creation of control charts and reports from user selected QA parameters. Optional customization of menus, algorithms and procedures are available.

Hand calculations are performed to ensure accuracy of results. Optional formal verification and validation is available.

TRAINING - The user is instructed on the routine operation of the Alpha Management Software and, if required, on user specific customization.

Additional instruction is included on standard Genie software packages, such as the MCA program, system editors, analysis programs, and report generators.

SYSTEM AND SOFTWARE PREREQUISITES

AMS requires the following software to be resident on the Genie System:

480198 Basic Spectroscopy Software

480258 Genie Acquisition Software

480726 Genie-ESP Display Software

480201 Nuclide Identification Software

480206 Detector Quality Assurance Software

480268 Alpha Spectroscopy Software

- and -

480269 Digital Plotter Software

- or -

480539 Printer/Plotter Software

Systems must be configured with the above software conforming to the minimum revision level supported by AMS at the time of shipment.

Hardware Configurations Supported By AMS Are:

Computer Requirements:

AMS is compatible with all DEC VAX or Alpha-based processors.

Instrument Requirements:

The Alpha Analyst:
The Alpha Analyst is also compatible with CANBERRA's VMS Alpha Management Software (AMS). This allows AMS users to expand or upgrade and take advantage of the features available with the Alpha Analyst hardware, particularly the 100% complete control, recoil suppression mode and space saving design. No longer will there be a need to perform any manual manipulations of valves or switches. The Alpha Analyst Model 7210 Controller will automatically orchestrate the venting and pumping of chambers during loading and unloading sequences. All instrument settings are easily controlled via a secure graphical user interface and recorded as part of each sample analysis. With many labs fighting for space to grow, the compact design of the Model 7200 dual spectrometer offers a space saving alternative to the traditional manual spectrometers.

Manual Spectrometers:
AMS also supports traditional manual alpha spectroscopy systems, such as CANBERRA's Model 7401 Single or 7404 Quad Alpha Spectrometers. Communication with the host computer is accomplished via a 556A AIM or ACQH based acquisition modules. Multiple detectors may be configured utilizing Model 589 AMX or 8224 AMX multiplexers. A digital offset ADC is recommended for certain applications. Configurations may consist of 1 to 32 alpha chambers per ADC, depending on the desired batch granularity.

VMS, DEC and VAX are registered trademarks of Digital Equipment Corporation.