Introducing the Safecast bGeigieZen
The Safecast bGeigieZen is built on over ten years of experience from our popular bGeigie Nano. Like the Nano, the Zen is compact, portable, and durable. We designed the Zen based on user requests for an easier-to-build device, and it offers better performance and more features.
Easier Assembly
- Simplified Components: The Zen uses a solid-state main PCB board with most electronics pre-installed. This reduces the number of parts you need to assemble from 60 to just 20.
- Less Soldering: There are fewer connections to solder compared to the Nano.
- Quick Build Time: You can assemble the bGeigieZen in about one hour, while the Nano typically takes four to five hours.
Upgraded Features
- Improved Parts: Since the original Nano was released in 2013, some components like the GPS unit, display, and Arduino FIO processor became hard to find. We replaced them with better alternatives.
- M5Stack Integration: We chose the M5Stack for processing, control, and display because it has more memory and is easier to customize.
- Better Display: The Zen features a larger, clearer 320 x 240 pixel color screen.
- Enhanced Information: It can show more details, including QR codes that link to online data via your smartphone.
- Easier Updates: Programming and firmware updates are simpler and use a standard USB-C connection.
- Advanced GPS: The new GPS module offers better performance.
- User-Friendly Battery: The battery is easy to remove and replace.
Additional Benefits
- Wireless Connectivity: Built-in wireless allows you to switch the Zen to real-time mode, making it suitable for fixed monitoring stations.
Community-Driven Improvements The bGeigieZen is a result of valuable feedback from the Safecast community. We’re committed to continuously refining and enhancing the device based on your input.
bGeigieZen and bGeigie Nano compared:
bGeigie Nano | bgeigieZen | ||
---|---|---|---|
No. of Components | 60 | 15 | |
Sensor | LND-7317 2” pancake Geiger-Müller | LND-7317 2” pancake Geiger-Müller | |
GPS | Adafruit Ultimate GPS | Beitian BK-880Q | |
Battery | 2000mAh 3.7V 7.4Wh Li-Po | 3000 mAh 18650 LiPo (removeable) | |
Battery life | 20 hours | 16 hours | |
Processor | Arduino Fio | M5StackCore2 | |
Display | Adafruit Monochrome 128x64 SPI OLED | M5Stack Core2 (integrated) 2” 320 x 240 Color | |
Onboard memory | 32kb flash, 2kb RAM | 16mb flash, 8mb RAM | |
Removable Storage | MicroSD | MicroSD | |
Data and firmware updates connection | FTDI | OTA, Wi-Fi, USB-C | |
Power supply | Medcom iRover (HVPS) | Safepulse (HVPS) | |
Wireless upload data | Optional BLEBee or bGeigiecast | Integrated | |
Case | Pelican 1010 micro-case | Pelican 1015 micro-case | |
Size | 14.9 x 10.3 x 5.4 cm (5.88 x 4.06 x 2.12 in) | 17 x 9.9 x 4.7 cm (6.68 x 3.88 x 1.86 in ) | |
Weight | 440 grams | ||
Assembly time needed | 4 hours | 30 minutes | |
Interface interaction | 3 switches | 3 programmable buttons (Core1) and touch screen (Core2) |