Gastec CO601E Carbon Monoxide Sensor

A miniature controlled potential electrolysis $CO$ sensor optimized for handheld and wearable detectors. Weighing only 7g, it offers high-resolution monitoring (0.1 ppm increments) within a standard range of 0 to 50.0 ppm.

Description

The CO-601E operates on the electrochemical oxidation principle. Carbon Monoxide gas molecules pass through a semi-permeable membrane and react at a working electrode. This reaction generates an electrical current directly proportional to the gas concentration.

Its cylindrical design ($\phi$19 x 31 mm) allows it to fit perfectly into the slim chassis of the CM-7A, enabling the device to provide continuous TWA (Time Weighted Average) and STEL (Short Term Exposure Limit) monitoring without adding significant bulk.

Brand

Gastec

GASTEC

Although, technology is always evolving, one demand on our products never changes: the demand for customer safety. Whenever we contribute to customer safety, we are presented with an opportunity to develop further.

GASTEC holds this corporate creed of safety and development in high esteem, as it strives to grow while always putting customer safety first.

Features

  • Ultra-Lightweight: At just 7g, it is significantly lighter than older industrial-grade sensors, making it ideal for clip-on personal monitors.
  • High Resolution: Capable of measuring $CO$ in 0.1 ppm increments, allowing for the detection of very subtle changes in air quality.
  • Controlled Potential Technology: Ensures a stable zero-point and high sensitivity, reducing the frequency of false alarms caused by environmental “noise.”
  • Fast Response Time: Provides a $T_{90}$ response typically in under 30 seconds, ensuring workers are alerted immediately to dangerous spikes in CO levels.
  • Low Power Consumption: Optimized for battery-powered operation, contributing to the extended runtimes (up to 3,500 hours on a single AAA) of the CM-7A unit

Specifications

FeatureSpecification
Model NumberCO-601E
Detection PrincipleControlled Potential Electrolysis
Compatible DeviceGastec CM-6A / CM-7A
Standard Range0 – 50.0 ppm
Enhanced Range50.1 – 100.0 ppm
Dimensions$phi$19 x 31 mm
Weight7g
Target GasCarbon Monoxide ($CO$)

Comparison: CO-601E vs. CO-51EE

FeatureCO-601ECO-51EE
Weight7g25g
Dimensions$phi$19 x 31 mm30 x 30 x 26 mm
Primary DeviceCM-7ACM-9A / GOMHC-3A
Resolution0.1 ppm1 ppm

Maintenance and Replacement

The CO-601E is a consumable component. The internal electrolyte is used up over time, typically resulting in a service life of 2 to 3 years.

  • Bump Testing: It is recommended to perform a functional bump test before each shift to verify sensor and alarm integrity.

  • Calibration: Perform a span calibration every 6 to 12 months using a Gastec CK-2 or CK-10 calibration kit.

  • Stabilization: After replacing the sensor, allow the monitor to remain powered on for at least 2 hours to stabilize before performing calibration.