Particle Matter Sensor Module

The Sensorbee Particle Matter Module (SB4103) is an optical particle counter for indicative PM1, PM2.5, and PM10 measurement. Built on the same hardware platform as the MCERTS-certified SB4102, this module delivers accurate particulate matter data at a lower cost per unit — making it the practical choice for screening, trend analysis, and monitoring applications where formal certification is not a regulatory requirement. The integrated heating element and 2.5 lpm airflow rate ensure reliable outdoor performance in all weather conditions.

How It Works

The SB4103 uses optical particle counting to classify airborne particles by size and calculate mass concentrations across three fractions — PM1, PM2.5, and PM10. A high-flow 2.5 lpm air intake draws a consistent sample volume through the sensing chamber, covering the full 0–1000 µg/m³ measurement range. Particle number concentrations are recorded up to 2600 particles per cm³ for research and comparative analysis.

An integrated heating element activates automatically when relative humidity exceeds 60%, preventing moisture condensation from artificially inflating particle counts. This active conditioning is particularly important for outdoor monitoring in temperate climates where fog, dew, and high humidity are common.

Measurement Capabilities

The SB4103 provides the same measurement parameters and precision specifications as the MCERTS-certified SB4102:

• PM1 mass concentration — ±5% precision for fine particles (0.3–1.0 µm)
• PM2.5 mass concentration — ±5% precision for respirable particles (0.3–2.5 µm)
• PM10 mass concentration — ±10% precision for thoracic particles (0.3–10.0 µm)
• Particle number concentration — 0 to 2600 #/cm³ for particle count-based analysis

The 1 µg/m³ resolution provides the sensitivity needed to detect changes in ambient particulate levels, even in relatively clean air environments.

When to Choose the Non-MCERTS Module

The SB4103 is the right choice when your monitoring objective does not require formally certified data for regulatory submissions:

• Screening and scoping studies — assess baseline air quality before committing to a full MCERTS-certified monitoring programme, identifying the locations and parameters that matter most
• Trend analysis and research — track long-term particulate trends, compare spatial patterns, and validate dispersion models where data accuracy matters but formal certification does not
• Internal environmental management — monitor dust at facility boundaries, track the effectiveness of mitigation measures, and maintain internal environmental records without the overhead of certified instruments
• Community information — provide real-time air quality data to neighbouring communities, supporting transparency and engagement around construction, industrial, or infrastructure projects
• Dense network deployment — equip a larger number of monitoring points within a fixed budget by using the SB4103 at secondary locations while concentrating MCERTS-certified modules at key compliance positions

Upgrade Path to MCERTS

The SB4103 and SB4102 are physically and electrically interchangeable. If your monitoring requirements change — for example, if a planning condition requires MCERTS-certified data — you can swap the SB4103 for the MCERTS-certified SB4102 in the field. No base station replacement, firmware changes, or reconfiguration required. This upgrade path protects your initial investment and allows you to scale certification as project demands evolve.

Installation and Maintenance

The SB4103 connects to the Air Pro 2 via the M8 sensor port. The base unit detects the module automatically and begins recording particulate data without configuration. Installation takes seconds, and no tools are required.

The module has an operational life exceeding two years under normal ambient monitoring conditions. When replacement is due, disconnect the old module and connect the replacement — the Air Pro 2 recognises the new sensor immediately.

Applications

• Construction site dust monitoring — track dust levels at site boundaries for internal management, dust action plans, and community engagement without the cost of certified instrumentation at every monitoring point
• Urban air quality assessment — deploy indicative monitors across a study area to map pollution gradients and identify hotspots, complementing reference station data with spatial coverage
• Industrial perimeter screening — identify dust emission sources and dispersion patterns around facilities, quarries, and waste sites as an early warning system alongside certified compliance monitors
• Smart city and IoT networks — the cost-effective price point enables large-scale particulate monitoring networks for smart city platforms and environmental research programmes
• Agricultural and rural monitoring — track particulate levels around agricultural operations, biomass burning, and rural construction activities

Frequently Asked Questions

How does this differ from the MCERTS module (SB4102)?

The SB4103 uses the same hardware, optics, and measurement specifications as the SB4102. The difference is certification: the SB4102 undergoes individual 3-point calibration with a traceable certificate and holds MCERTS certification. The SB4103 is suitable for indicative monitoring without formal certification.

Is the data accurate enough for meaningful monitoring?

Yes. The SB4103 delivers ±5% precision for PM1 and PM2.5, and ±10% for PM10. These specifications are consistent with the measurement performance of the certified variant. The data is accurate for screening, trending, and comparative analysis.

Can I mix MCERTS and Non-MCERTS modules in the same network?

Yes. Many monitoring programmes deploy MCERTS-certified modules at key compliance positions and SB4103 modules at supplementary locations for spatial coverage. The Sensorbee Cloud platform displays data from both module types on the same dashboard.

Does it include a calibration certificate?

The SB4103 does not ship with an individual calibration certificate. For traceable calibration documentation, choose the MCERTS-certified SB4102.