Design Alternatives for Plant-Wide Digital Radiation Monitoring Systems

Plant-wide digital radiation monitoring systems provide operating personnel with enhanced monitoring capabilities previously not available to the nuclear power industry. This paper discusses design alternatives available to the radiation protection systems designer. Emphasis is given to design choices arising from the more complex communication process that distinguishes digital from analog systems. In addition, three specialized monitor types planned for incorporation into digital systems are described: an extended range radioactive noble gas monitor with background compensation, an automatic grab sampler for radioactive noble gases, and portable plug-in monitors with communication capability. Finally, evaluation criteria for digital radiation monitoring systems are discussed.