Which Gaussmeter should I use?
If you are not sure which Gaussmeter to choose, this should clarify which is best for your application.
GM08 and GM07
The GM08 has a number of interfaces that make it particularly useful for specialist laboratory work such as an analogue output and RS-232 interface. The GM08 can records up to 100 readings at once, using the 'HOLD' and 'SAVE' options in the menu. Data can be downloaded to Excel or OpenOffice spreadsheets or to a CSV format file. Drivers for Labview are available to download here. The GM08 has an external power connection for constant use without the worry of batteries running low.
Of particular importance is the BNC analogue output making it easy to connect to an oscilloscope to look at fast changing magnetic field traces, pulses from magnetisers or magnetic flux levels in motors or transformers. The extensive range of single axis Axial and Transverse Hall probes (including high sensitivity probes) and a Fluxgate probe make the GM08 a powerful lab tool.
The GM07 is no longer available from Hirst due to component obsolescence (as of Q4 2024), some refurbished units may be available from time to time.
GM09-01 and GM09-3 Comparison
GM09-1 - Single Axis gaussmeter, compatible with the extensive range single axis standard Hirst probes.
The GM09-1 is compatible with all GM07/GM08 probes with the exception of the Fluxgate probe.
GM09-3-Three-Axis gaussmeter, measuring in all 3 axes simultaneously with the 3DHS-1 Hirst probe.
(not compatible with single Axis probes used with GM07/ or GM09-1).
App | GM09-1 | GM09-3 | Comments | |||
General Purpose Mode | YES | YES | The GM09-3 with its three-axis measurement is the preferred measurement reducing measurement error by simultaneously measuring all three components in x,y and z axis of the magnetic field. | |||
Magnet Testing | YES | YES | Either model is applicable - if someone is using purely to test the strength of magnets then GM09-1 is a lower cost option. | |||
Magnetic Field Testing | YES | YES | Can be used with both GM09-1 and GM09-3 however with the GM09-3 it allows the user to measure a series of points in a field without having to perfectly align the probe. If the primary function is magnetic field mapping, the GM09-3 is recommended. E.g. 5 gauss line around MRI machine, or boundary around magnetiser. | |||
Residual Magnetism | YES | YES | Either model is applicable but the GM09-3 measures all three components of the magnetic field simultaneously reducing measuring error risk. | |||
Occupational Safety | YES | YES | The GM09-1 has wider frequency response in AC mode (10 Hz to 6kHz). The single axis probes need to be orientated correctly for accurate measurements. The GM09-3 has smaller range of AC frequency (3Hz to 350Hz) but you don't have to worry about probe orientation. | |||
Food Safety | YES | YES | Both GM09-1 and GM09-3 are applicable for this application - the GM09-3 removes any errors associated with probe orientation. | |||
Fit to Fly | YES | NO | The GM09-1 with High Sensitivity probe (Axial is preferred but not essential). This App is not available on the GM09-3 as the probe does not have the required sensitivity for the application. |
GM09-1
The GM09-1 introduced in April 2024 is really all about making things easier with built in applications modes (“Apps”) setting up the gaussmeter for specific everyday measurements. It also features a touch-screen interface and rechargeable Li-ion battery compatible with the extensive range of single axis Hirst Hall sensor probes. Thus, is compatible with GM07 and GM08 Hall probes – making the GM09-1 an ideal upgrade from the GM07/8 allowing the user to re-use previously purchased probes. Note the GM09-1 is not compatible with the Hirst Fluxgate probe. Data-logging features allow the retrieval of data using a simple USB interface, no additional software is needed as the GM09-1 appears as a USB mass storage device. The built-in Apps ensure standard tests and measurements can be carried out with ease and minimal effort. The GM09-1 when used with high sensitivity probes can be used to perform fit to fly tests on items containing magnets.
GM09-3
The GM09-3 a three axis gaussmeter introduced in late 2024 and offers many of the same features as the GM09-1 it also features a touch-screen interface and rechargeable Li-ion battery and works only with the Hirst 3 axis Hall probe. The GM09-3 Gaussmeter is the best device for those needing to measure magnetic field strength and magnetic flux density in all three-axis simultaneously (reducing the risk of measurement error due to misalignment of a single axis probe). The built-in Apps ensure standard tests and measurements can be carried out with ease and minimal effort. Data-logging features allow the retrieval of data using a simple USB interface, no additional software is needed as the GM09-3 appears as a USB mass storage device.
GM09-1 | GM08 | GM07 | |
Probe included (TP002) | Y | Y | Y |
Carry case included | Y | Y | Y |
Zero Flux Can | Y | Y | Y |
Auto Zero function | Y | Y | Y |
Backup | Y | Y | Y |
Data storage | Y | Y | Y |
Retention of data after power off | Y | Y | N |
Direct Current (DC) | Y | Y | Y |
Direct Current Maximum (DC Peak MAX) | Y | Y | Y |
Effective AC Maximum (AC Peak) | Y | Y | Y |
Effective AC (AC RMS) | Y | Y | Y |
Effective AC Maximum RMS (AC MAX RMS) | Y | Y | Y |
Automatic mode | Y | Y | Y |
Analogue output | Y | Y | X |
USB-A port | X | Y | X |
RS232 interface | Y | Y | X |
Software | Y | Y | X |
External Power Supply | X | Y | X |
PSU | X | Option | X |
Built in application modes | Y | X | X |
Single Axis Probes | Y | Y | Y |
USB-C interface | Y | X | X |