Radiation Detectors A radiation detector is a device that measures nuclear, electromagnetic, or optical radiation. Nuclear radiation detectors identify nuclear radiation by measuring the emission of ionizing radiation of alpha particles, beta particles, and gamma rays. A nuclear radiation detector, also known as a Geiger counter, consists of two main components: the processing electronics and the Geiger tube. Geiger tubes are filled with low-pressure inert gases such as helium, argon, or neon. If radioactive radiation occurs, the noble gases become ionized. An anode inside a Geiger tube records the number of ionized particles that is numerically related to the intensity of radioactive radiation. The radioactivity measurements are then displayed on the LCD screen of a Geiger counter or nuclear radiation detector. Measuring nuclear radioactivity and classifying nuclear radioactivity values is very important. For example, terrestrial gamma radiation is typically measured at 0.03 - 0.3 �µSv/h (microsieverts per hour). This "normal" range of oscillations is determined by naturally occurring radioactive elements in the ground, such as uranium and potassium. To calculate this factor, cosmic radiation must be taken into account. For example, taking cosmic radiation into account, the maximum radioactivity content at the Schneefernerhaus, Germany's highest environmental research station, is equal to approximately 110 �µSv/h. At PCE Instruments you will find three types of Geiger counters or nuclear radiation detection equipment to help you measure radioactivity: 1) alpha radiometers, 2) meters for detecting alpha, beta and gamma radioactivity, and 3) wearable Radioactive meter on the body.