ia | Division, At the same time, the serial number corresponding to the sample, machine identification and other data are punched into the tape, The sample stop is disengaged by a solenoid and the next sample is pulled into place and counted. In that way, with eight units operating, 640 samples, blanks [ I and standards can be counted in a twenty-four hour period. The basic standardization of the counters is set up on potassium chioride. The K40 isotope, present in consistent amounts in all potassium 912 dpm per gram of potassium chloride. pron compounds, gives a disintegration rate of 29.@ dps per gram of potassium or It has been found that the average weight of ash from fallout samples is about 100 mg, While the counter stand- ards used are compressed pellets of four grams to reduce the counting time, their effective disintegration rate is referred to 100 mg of potassium chloride. Data Handling All calculations are performed on IBM equipment. The field data cards are turned over to punch operators where location, date of sampling, serial number, and weather data are punched, The paper strips from the DTR unit are automatically transferred to separate IBM cards, The two sets of data are then combined on the basis of sample serial number, and the single cards are ready for computation, Figure 1 is a flow sheet of the system indicating p ae § all of the steps carried out in producing the final reports, oo a ° = ae r= hh, a dh abn = vs | ae oa, il. _— im. a ea. - ini. e oe a