Abstract: The present invention provides a system and a method for controlling and detecting faults in a pump system for use in a gas detection device. The system comprises a power source and a switch in operative or electrical connection with the power source. The system further comprises a pump motor in operative connection with the switch such that the pump motor receives energy from the power source when the switch in a first state, and the pump motor does not receive energy from the power source when the switch in a second state. The system preferably also comprises regeneration circuitry in operative connection with the pump motor. The regeneration circuitry operates to redirect energy produced from momentum of the pump motor while the switch is in the second state back to the pump motor. Transmitting circuitry is preferably provided to transmit a motor signal proportional to the speed of the pump motor during the second state of the switch.

Abstract: A personal sampling apparatus having multiple sampling ports for simultaneously taking a plurality of ambient air samples in parallel. Incorporated into the sampling apparatus is a regulator for enabling the apparatus to function with virtually any personal sampling pump. The regulator by being located immediately proximate to the sampling ports is able to provide independent vacuum flow rate control of each of the multiple sampling ports.

Abstract: A portable sampling pump apparatus including a flow control mechanism having a laminar flow meter for providing a precise readout of the volumetric flow rate of the pump as well as feedback control for the pump motor. The pump apparatus includes an electric motor, a pump operably driven by the electric motor, a laminar flow element positioned in a flow path of the pump, a pressure transducer for sensing a pressure drop across the laminar flow element and for producing an electrical signal that is directly and linearly proportional to the volumetric flow rate through the pump, and a motor control circuit which uses the electrical signal to control the voltage applied to the motor and to thereby regulate the flow of the pump. This electrical signal is also used to generate a display for the user of the volumetric flow of the pump.