ASTM C1661-23

Standard Guide for Viewing Systems for Remotely Operated Facilities

SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 Remote Viewing Components:  
4.2 The long-term applicability of a remotely operated radiological facility will be greatly affected by the provisions for remote viewing of normal and off-normal operations within the facility. The deployment of remote viewing systems can most efficiently be addressed during the design and construction phases.  
4.2.1 The purpose of this guide is to provide general guidelines for the design and operation of remote viewing equipment to ensure longevity and reliability throughout the period of service.  
4.2.2 It is intended that this guide record the general conditions and practices that experience has shown are necessary to minimize equipment failures and maximize the effectiveness and utility of remote viewing equipment. It is also intended to inform designers and engineers of those features that are highly desirable for the selection of equipment that has proven reliable in high radiation environments.  
4.2.3 This guide is intended as a supplement to other standards, and to federal and state regulations, codes, and criteria applicable to the design of equipment intended for hot cell use.  
4.2.4 This guide is intended to be generic and applies to a wide range of types and configurations of hot cell equipment and remote viewing systems.
SCOPE
1.1 Intent:  
1.1.1 This guide establishes the minimum requirements for viewing systems for remotely operated facilities, including hot cells (shielded cells), used for the processing and handling of nuclear and radioactive materials. The intent of this guide is to aid in the design, selection, installation, modification, fabrication, and quality assurance of remote viewing systems to maximize their usefulness and to minimize equipment failures.  
1.1.2 It is intended that this guide record the principles and caveats that experience has shown to be essential to the design, fabrication, installation, maintenance, repair, replacement, and, decontamination and decommissioning of remote viewing equipment capable of meeting the stringent demands of operating, dependably and safely, in a hot cell environment where operator visibility is limited due to the radiation exposure hazards.  
1.1.3 This guide is intended to apply to methods of remote viewing for nuclear applications but may be applicable to any environment where remote operational viewing is desirable.  
1.2 Applicability:  
1.2.1 This guide applies to, but is not limited to, radiation hardened and non-radiation hardened cameras (black-and-white and color), lenses, camera housings and positioners, periscopes, through wall/roof viewing, remotely deployable cameras, crane/robot mounted cameras, endoscope cameras, borescopes, video probes, flexible probes, mirrors, lighting, fiber lighting, and support equipment.  
1.2.2 This guide is intended to be applicable to equipment used under one or more of the following conditions:
1.2.2.1 The remote operation facility that contains a significant radiation hazard to man or the environment.
1.2.2.2 The facility equipment can neither be accessed directly for purposes of operation or maintenance, nor can the equipment be viewed directly, for example, without shielding viewing windows, periscopes, or a video monitoring system.
1.2.2.3 The facility can be viewed directly but portions of the views are restricted (for example, the back or underside of objects) or where higher magnification or specialized viewing is beneficial.  
1.2.3 The remote viewing equipment may be intended for either long-term application (commonly, in excess of several years) or for short-term usage (for example, troubleshooting). Both types of applications are addressed in sections that follow.  
1.2.4 This guide is not intended to cover the detailed design and application of remote handling connectors for services (for example, electrical, instrumentation, video, etc.).  
1.2.5 The system of units employed in this guide is the metric ...

General Information

• Status: Published
• Publication Date: 30-Sep-2023
• ICS: 25.040.30 - Industrial robots. Manipulators
• ICS: 37.020 - Optical equipment
• Technical Committee: C26 - Nuclear Fuel Cycle
• Drafting Committee: C26.14 - Remote Systems

Relations

• Replaces: ASTM C1661-18 - Standard Guide for Viewing Systems for Remotely Operated Facilities
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2023
• Refers: ASTM C859-24 - Standard Terminology Relating to Nuclear Materials
• Effective Date: 01-Jan-2024
• Refers: ASTM C859-23 - Standard Terminology Relating to Nuclear Materials
• Effective Date: 15-Feb-2023
• Referred By: ASTM C1725-17(2022) - Standard Guide for Hot Cell Specialized Support Equipment and Tools
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2023
• Referred By: ASTM C1554-18(2023) - Standard Guide for Materials Handling Equipment for Hot Cells
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2023
• Referred By: ASTM C1572/C1572M-23 - Standard Guide for Dry Lead Glass and Oil-Filled Lead Glass Radiation Shielding Window Components for Remotely Operated Facilities
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2023
• Referred By: ASTM C1533-15(2022) - Standard Guide for General Design Considerations for Hot Cell Equipment
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2023
• Referred By: ASTM C1615/C1615M-17(2022) - Standard Guide for Mechanical Drive Systems for Remote Operation in Hot Cell Facilities
• Effective Date: 01-Oct-2023

Overview

ASTM C1661-23, Standard Guide for Viewing Systems for Remotely Operated Facilities, is published by ASTM International. This guide establishes the minimum requirements and best practices for designing, selecting, installing, fabricating, modifying, and assuring the quality of remote viewing systems in facilities such as hot cells used for nuclear or radioactive material processing and handling. The standard is intended to increase operational effectiveness and system longevity, reduce equipment failures, and ensure safe, dependable operation in environments where direct human access is limited by radiation hazards or other safety constraints.

Key Topics

• Scope and Coverage:
  ASTM C1661-23 applies broadly to remote viewing equipment in any remotely operated facility where hazardous or restricted environments require advanced visual access. This includes nuclear facilities, hot cells (shielded enclosures), and other scenarios where operator visibility is restricted.

• Types of Remote Viewing Equipment:
  The guide addresses a wide range of remote viewing systems and components, such as:

  • Radiation hardened and non-hardened cameras (black-and-white, color)
  • Lenses, camera housings, and positioners
  • Periscopes and through-wall/roof viewing systems
  • Remotely deployable, crane- or robot-mounted, and endoscope cameras
  • Borescopes, videoprobes, flexible probes, and mirrors
  • Specialized lighting, including fiber optic illumination
  • Associated support equipment

• Design and Operational Guidelines:

  • Emphasizes early inclusion of remote viewing provisions in the facility design and construction phases for optimal performance and reliability
  • Details principles and caveats for system design, installation, maintenance, repair, and decommissioning based on operating experience
  • Outlines best practices for minimizing failures and maximizing utility in high-radiation and hard-to-access environments

• Quality Assurance:
  Highlights the importance of implementing robust quality assurance programs, referencing compliance requirements such as 10 CFR 830.120, 10 CFR 50 Appendix B, ANSI/ASME NQA-1, and ISO 9001.

• Safety and Regulatory Compliance:
  The guide supplements and does not replace applicable federal and state regulations, codes, and standards governing nuclear facility design and operation.

Applications

Nuclear and Radiological Facilities

• Hot Cells:
  Used extensively in shielded "hot cell" environments for manipulating and inspecting radioactive substances without direct human exposure.
• Remote Maintenance:
  Enables visual monitoring and troubleshooting of equipment in areas where entry is hazardous or impractical.
• Specialized Inspections:
  Facilitates inspection of restricted or shielded sections of facilities, such as the underside or interior of components that cannot be viewed directly.
• Long- and Short-term Operations:
  Supports both permanent installations for facility monitoring and temporary deployments for specific maintenance or troubleshooting tasks.

Other Hazardous or Inaccessible Environments

While developed primarily for nuclear applications, the guidelines of ASTM C1661-23 are applicable in any setting where remote or robotic viewing is desirable due to safety, contamination, or accessibility issues.

Related Standards

When implementing remote viewing systems in regulated environments, ASTM C1661-23 should be used in conjunction with other relevant standards, including:

• ASTM C1533: Guide for General Design Considerations for Hot Cell Equipment
• ASTM C1554: Guide for Materials Handling Equipment for Hot Cells
• ASTM C1572/C1572M: Guide for Lead Glass Radiation Shielding Window Components
• ANSI/ASME NQA-1: Quality Assurance Requirements for Nuclear Facility Applications
• ISO 9001: Quality management systems - Requirements
• 10CFR50 Appendix B, 10CFR830.120: U.S. Federal regulations for nuclear quality assurance
• Relevant terminology standards: ASTM C859, E170

Practical Value

Implementing the recommendations of ASTM C1661-23 enhances reliability, operational safety, and regulatory compliance for viewing systems in remotely operated facilities. By following this guide during design, installation, and maintenance, organizations can minimize downtime, reduce maintenance and replacement costs, and protect both personnel and asset integrity in challenging environments.

Keywords: ASTM C1661-23, remote viewing systems, hot cell, nuclear facility viewing, radiation hardened camera, remote monitoring standards, nuclear safety, quality assurance, remote operated equipment.

Standards Content (Sample)

This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation: C1661 − 23
Standard Guide for
Viewing Systems for Remotely Operated Facilities
This standard is issued under the fixed designation C1661; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope 1.2.2.3 The facility can be viewed directly but portions of
the views are restricted (for example, the back or underside of
1.1 Intent:
objects) or where higher magnification or specialized viewing
1.1.1 This guide establishes the minimum requirements for
is beneficial.
viewing systems for remotely operated facilities, including hot
1.2.3 The remote viewing equipment may be intended for
cells (shielded cells), used for the processing and handling of
either long-term application (commonly, in excess of several
nuclear and radioactive materials. The intent of this guide is to
years) or for short-term usage (for example, troubleshooting).
aid in the design, selection, installation, modification,
Both types of applications are addressed in sections that follow.
fabrication, and quality assurance of remote viewing systems
1.2.4 This guide is not intended to cover the detailed design
to maximize their usefulness and to minimize equipment
and application of remote handling connectors for services (for
failures.
example, electrical, instrumentation, video, etc.).
1.1.2 It is intended that this guide record the principles and
1.2.5 The system of units employed in this guide is the
caveats that experience has shown to be essential to the design,
metric unit, also known as SI Units, which are commonly used
fabrication, installation, maintenance, repair, replacement, and,
for International Systems, and defined by ASTM/IEEE SI 10,
decontamination and decommissioning of remote viewing
Standard for Use of International System of Units. Some video
equipment capable of meeting the stringent demands of
parameters use traditional units that are not consistent with SI
operating, dependably and safely, in a hot cell environment
Units but are used widely across the industry. For example,
where operator visibility is limited due to the radiation expo-
video image format is referred to in “inch” units. (See Table 1.)
sure hazards.
1.1.3 This guide is intended to apply to methods of remote 1.2.6 Lens and lens element measurements are always in
viewing for nuclear applications but may be applicable to any millimeter (mm) units, even where SI Units are not in common
environment where remote operational viewing is desirable. usage, as an industry practice. Other SI Units (for example,
cm) are rarely used for lenses or lens elements.
1.2 Applicability:
1.2.7 Unless otherwise mentioned in this guide radiation
1.2.1 This guide applies to, but is not limited to, radiation
exposure refers to gamma energy level in terms of Co
hardened and non-radiation hardened cameras (black-and-
exposure, and absorbed radiation dose Gy/h (rad/h) refers to
white and color), lenses, camera housings and positioners,
instantaneous rates and not cumulative values.
periscopes, through wall/roof viewing, remotely deployable
cameras, crane/robot mounted cameras, endoscope cameras,
1.3 User Caveats:
borescopes, video probes, flexible probes, mirrors, lighting,
1.3.1 This guide does not cover radiation shielding windows
fiber lighting, and support equipment.
used for hot cell viewing. They are covered separately under
1.2.2 This guide is intended to be applicable to equipment
Guide C1572/C1572M.
used under one or more of the following conditions:
1.3.2 This guide is not a substitute for applied engineering
1.2.2.1 The remote operation facility that contains a signifi-
skills, proven practices and experience. Its purpose is to
cant radiation hazard to man or the environment.
provide guidance.
1.2.2.2 The facility equipment can neither be accessed
1.3.3 The guidance set forth in this guide relating to design
directly for purposes of operation or maintenance, nor can the
of equipment is intended only to inform designers and engi-
equipment be viewed directly, for example, without shielding
neers of these features, conditions, and procedures that have
viewing windows, periscopes, or a video monitoring system.
been found necessary or highly desirable to the design,
selection, operation and maintenance of reliable remote view-
ing equipment for the subject service conditions.
This guide is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee C26 on Nuclear Fuel
1.3.4 The guidance set forth in this guide results from
Cycle and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee C26.14 on Remote Systems.
operational experience of conditions, practices, features, lack
Current edition approved Oct. 1, 2023. Published October 2023. Originally
of features, or lessons learned that were found to be sources of
approved in 2007. Last previous edition approved in 2018 as C1661 – 18. DOI:
10.1520/C1661-23. operating or maintenance problems, or causes of failure.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
C1661 − 23
1.3.5 This guide does not supersede federal or state ANSI/ISO/ASQ Q9001 Quality Management Standard Re-
regulations, or codes applicable to equipment under any quirements General Requirements
conditions. NEMA 250 Enclosures for Electrical Equipment 1000 Volts
Maximum (Type 4)
1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the
NFPA 70 National Electric Code
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
NCRP Report No. 82 SI Units in Radiation Protection and
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
Measurements
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
ICRU Report 10b Physical Aspects of Irradiation
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
2.4 Federal Standards and Regulations:
1.5 This international standard was developed in accor-
10CFR50 Appendix B, Quality Assurance
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
10CFR830.120 Quality Assurance for Nuclear Facilities
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
10CFR835.1002(b) Continuous Occupancy Radiation Envi-
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
ronments
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
29CFR1910 Occupational Safety and Health Standards
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
47CFR All Parts—Telecommunications Regulations
2. Referenced Documents
40CFR 260-279 Solid Waste Regulations—Resource Con-
servation and Recovery Act (RCRA)
2.1 Industry and National Consensus Standards—
15CFR, Chapter VII, Subchapter C, Part 774, Supplement
Nationally recognized industry and consensus standards appli-
1, Department Of Commerce, Export Administration
cable in whole or in part to the design, fabrication, quality
Regulations
assurance, inspection, testing, and installation of equipment are
referenced throughout this guide and include, but are not
3. Terminology
limited to, the following:
3.1 Definitions—General Considerations:
2.2 ASTM Standards:
3.1.1 For definitions of general terms used to describe
C859 Terminology Relating to Nuclear Materials
nuclear material hot cells, and hot cell equipment, refer to
C1217 Guide for Design of Equipment for Processing
terminology in Guides C859 and C1533, ASTM/IEEE SI 10,
Nuclear and Radioactive Materials
and ANS Glossary of Terms in Nuclear Science and Technol-
C1533 Guide for General Design Considerations for Hot
ogy.
Cell Equipment
3.2 Definitions:
C1554 Guide for Materials Handling Equipment for Hot
3.2.1 achromat—lens, usually of two elements, that is cor-
Cells
rected to bring two different wavelengths to a common focal
C1572/C1572M Guide for Dry Lead Glass and Oil-Filled
point; a single element lens can only bring one wavelength to
Lead Glass Radiation Shielding Window Components for
a focal point and therefore exhibits chromatic aberration
Remotely Operated Facilities
(different wavelengths focus at different distances); an achro-
E170 Terminology Relating to Radiation Measurements and
matic lens provides a first order of color correction.
Dosimetry
-1
ASTM/IEEE SI 10 Standard for Use of the International
3.2.2 activity, A, [T ], n—measure of the rate of spontane-
System of Units
ous nuclear transformations of a radioactive material; the SI
2.3 Other Standards:
unit for activity is the becquerel (Bq), defined as one transfor-
ANS 8.1 Nuclear Criticality Safety in Operations with Fis-
mation per second; the original unit for activity was the curie
sile Materials Outside Reactors
(Ci), defined as 3.7 × 10 transformations per second.
ANS Design Guides for Radioactive Material Handling
NCRP-82
Facilities & Equipment, ISBN: 0-89448-554-7
3.2.3 balun—for the purpose of this guide, type of passive
ANS Glossary of Terms in Nuclear Science and Technology
electronic equipment (that is, not requiring power) that is used
(ANS Glossary)
to interface between balanced and unbalanced video signals;
ANSI/ASME NQA-1 Quality Assurance Requirements for
baluns are used to transition between a coaxial cable and
Nuclear Facility Applications
ISO/TC 85/SC 2 N 637 E Remote Handling Devices for
Radioactive Materials—Part 1 Available from American National Standards Institute (ANSI), 25 W. 43rd St.,
4th Floor, New York, NY 10036, http://www.ansi.org.
Available from Global Engineering Documents, 15 Inverness Way, East
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or Englewood, CO 80112-5704, http://global.ihs.com.
contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM Available from National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), 1 Batterymarch
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on Park, Quincy, MA 02169-7471, http://www.nfpa.org.
the ASTM website. Available from National Council of Radiation Protection and Measurements,
Available from American Nuclear Society, 555 North Kensington Ave., La 7910 Woodmont Avenue, Suite 400, Bethesda, MD, 20814-3095.
Grange Park, IL, 60525. Available from International Commission on Radiation Units and Measure-
Available from American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), ASME ments (ICRU), 7910 Woodmont Ave., Suite 400, Bethesda, MD 20841-3095,
International Headquarters, Two Park Ave., New York, NY 10016-5990, http:// http://www.icru.org.
www.asme.org. Available from U.S. Government Printing Office Superintendent of
Available from International Organization for Standardization (ISO), 1 rue de Documents, 732 N. Capitol St., NW, Mail Stop: SDE, Washington, DC 20401,
Varembé, Case postale 56, CH-1211, Geneva 20, Switzerland, http://www.iso.ch. http://www.access.gpo.gov.
C1661 − 23
twisted pair wiring in field applications; baluns are used in integrated dose as specified by the manufacturer and provides
pairs on opposite ends of a transmission cable and are similar a defined level of performance at a specified dose rate; this
to transformers except that they operate at video frequencies. term is sometimes used interchangeably with radiation hard-
ened camera.
3.2.4 borescope—rigid optical device consisting of lenses
and a support tube used to obtain external views of the interior 3.2.7.6 camera, remote—for the purpose of this guide, a
of an object, viewed either directly or with the usage of a
camera that has been designed, modified, housed, or otherwise
camera or video device; the view from the tip may be either prepared for application in a remote environment; it may not be
directly in front of the tube or off axis by the usage of mirrors
possible to repair or replace a remote camera without first using
or prisms; most borescopes provide viewing through a series of some remote means to relocate it to a separate maintenance
optical lenses and remotely provided lighting (that is, light
environment, and means must be provided to accomplish this
from operator end to object in question) through a concentric relocation.
located bundle of fiber optic light guides.
3.2.7.7 camera, shielded—for the purpose of this guide, a
3.2.5 browning—discoloration and darkening of glass to a
camera or camera/lens combination that has been housed in a
brownish color due to excessive radiation exposure.
radiologically shielded housing; the additional radiological
protection is provided to extend the useful life or radiological
3.2.6 bubble suit—protective plastic suit that covers the
resistance of the camera, and may be applied to either a
entire body and is supplied with breathing air through an
radiation resistant camera or to a non-radiation resistant
attached hose used for personnel entry into contaminated areas.
camera, depending on the application.
3.2.7 camera—for the purpose of this guide, a video type of
3.2.8 cell—see hot cell.
camera with a continuous output signal of multiple frames per
second, typically at standard broadcast frame rates (for
3.2.9 Chalnicon—see tube type camera.
example, 30 frames per second for NTSC video or 25 frames
3.2.10 chip type camera—commonly used term for a video
per second for PAL video), or may be a different frame rate
camera that utilizes a solid state integrated circuit sensor to
typical of higher resolution cameras interfacing with a com-
capture an image; the image is captured by an on-chip
puter and displayed on a computer monitor.
conversion of an electrical charge, from light sensitive silicon,
3.2.7.1 camera housing—for the purpose of this guide, a
to a charge readout section; the term “chip type” or “chip” is
protective housing that is used to physically or radiologically
used in this guide to represent the entire family of similar
protect a camera from the environment, and extend its useful
technologies that can be related to radiological environments in
life; in a remote environment, the camera housing will typi-
a common manner; common types of chip technology are
cally be used to protect the camera from process hazards
CCD, CID, and CMOS; see tube camera for comparison.
(liquids, dust, temperature, and debris) or from radiological
3.2.10.1 charge-coupled device (CCD) chip technology—
hazards (contamination, or radiation); in radiological contami-
original chip type technology; it is one of the two main types
nation environments, a sealed housing may be essential to
of image sensors currently used in digital cameras; when a
allow for eventual repair or replacement of internal camera
picture is taken, the CCD is struck by light coming through the
system components, after the latter is removed to a mainte-
camera’s lens; each of the thousands or millions of tiny pixels
nance environment.
that make up the CCD convert this light into electrons; the
3.2.7.2 camera lens—for the purpose of this guide, the
accumulated charge at each pixel is measured, then converted
optical assembly on the front portion of a camera used to
to a digital value, and converted to a video signal output; all
control the image formation on the camera sensor; the lens may
pixels in a CCD device are processed as a block rather than
be an integral part of the overall camera, mounted within the
individually.
same housing, or may be a physically separate device that
3.2.10.2 Charge Injection Device (CID) chip image
attaches to the front of the camera body; the latter configuration
sensor—CID cameras have been in use since the early 1970’s,
is very common in the application of remote cameras.
and are currently used by a few suppliers for digital video
3.2.7.3 camera, non-radiation resistant—for the purpose of
cameras, because of some special characteristics; the CID has
this guide, a camera that does not have any designed-in
some inherent radiation resistance because of method of
resistance to radiation; this type of camera is very commonly
construction of the chip; CID image sensors designed to have
used for short term deployment in radiological environments;
increased radiation tolerance are available.
an application of this type is often justifiable based on lower
3.2.10.3 Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor
cost, small size, or other special attributes found in some
(CMOS) chip type technology—CMOS image sensors are
general purpose cameras.
based on integrated circuit technology by the same name and
3.2.7.4 camera, radiation hardened—radiation hardened
can be fabricated by similar technology, which provides them
TV cameras, or their lenses, that are specially designed or rated
with significant cost advantages; CMOS image sensors are
as radiation hardened to withstand a total radiation dose greater
rapidly becoming the technology of choice for digital imaging
4 6
than 5 × 10 gray (5 × 10 rad), based on silicon, without
in mobile phones and other digital consumer portable products
operational degradation. 15CFR, part 774
as they offer advantages in size, power consumption and
3.2.7.5 camera, radiation tolerant—for the purpose of this system cost; new high-sensitivity CMOS image sensor tech-
guide, a camera that continues to function after a specified total nology provides improving picture quality comparable to
C1661 − 23
CCDs; relative to this guide, there are few CMOS image 3.2.20 fiberscope—flexible remote viewing device similar
sensors that are applicable to any radiological applications to a borescope, using light transmitting fibers; a view is
where high levels of radiation are present. provided to the operator from the remotely located tip through
a flexible bundle of coherent fibers, and lighting is provided
3.2.11 clamp lock pads—mechanical additions to tools or
from the operator to the tip through a separate bundle of
objects handled by remote manipulators or robots to assist in
non-coherent fibers located in the same flexible sheath; coher-
the proper gripping of the object; these, usually metal, pads are
ent fiber bundles provide a large number of light transmission
designed to simplify grasping and to prevent accidental release
fibers in a matrix that matches on both ends, so that an image
of the object.
is transmitted through the bundle; non-coherent fibers pass a
3.2.12 CMOS-HR—for the purpose of this guide, a type of a
mass of light in a random pattern through the scope.
CMOS image sensor technology that has been tested and
3.2.21 gate size—size of the gates used to construct a chip
proven to have approximately ten times higher radiation
type of video sensor; the number of gates and the density of
tolerance than typical CMOS or CCD image sensors.
gates can have an effect on the radiation hardness of a chip type
of sensor; chip type video sensors are typically connected to a
3.2.13 coaxial cable—cylindrical video transmission line
processing chip type that may be of higher density than the
composed of a conductor centered inside of metallic tube or
sensor chip type.
shield, which serves as a ground reference, separated by a
dielectric material and covered with an insulating jacket.
3.2.22 high resolution—cameras not using either NTSC or
PAL standards but a higher level of resolution that is usually
3.2.14 dual unit video camera—has the light sensing portion
not an interlace type signal; this type is usually input directly
of the video camera (that is, the image sensor and minimal
to a computer or specialized monitor and is used for producing
electronics) separated from the major portion of the electronics
considerably higher images.
into two distinct pieces that are connected by a cable; this
3.2.23 hot cell—for the purpose of this guide, a generalized
design is typical of many of the radiation hardened video
term that encompasses the various types of heavily shielded
cameras, since it allows the most radiation sensitive portions to
radiological processing enclosures serviced by some combina-
be located away from the hazard; this design usually involves
tion of manipulators, overhead cranes, remote tooling, or
a complex multi-conductor cable between the two portions of
through wall devices, as detailed immediately below: The
the video device that contains electrically sensitive signals.
radiation levels within a hot cell are typically 1 Gy ⁄h
3.2.15 EMF—common term for electromotive force; for this
(100 rad ⁄h) or higher; see Guide C1533 for information regard-
document, it is used in reference to effects, usually undesirable,
ing general design considerations of hot cell equipment.
of electrical and magnetic fields on electronic equipment, by
3.2.23.1 canyon, n—in the nuclear industry, a long, narrow,
induced voltages or interference.
remotely operated, radiological facility.
3.2.16 endoscope—usually refers to one of the rigid or
3.2.23.1 Discussion—A large, heavily-shielded facility
flexible viewing probes when used for medical applications; it
where nuclear material is processed or stored.
can refer to a borescope, fiberscope, or videoprobe.
3.2.23.2 cave—or high-level cave, an alternate term for hot
3.2.17 exposure—quotient of the total charge of the ions of cells of various size, typically a small scale hot cell.
one sign produced in air when all electrons liberated by
3.2.24 image delay—delay between the sensing and the
photons in a volume element of air of mass sufficient to
receipt of a video image due to video encoding and transmis-
completely stop the electrons (charged particle equilibrium);
sion methodology; depending on encoder and network
the special unit of exposure is the roentgen (R) defined as
configuration, the delay (or latency) may be variable; this
2.58 × 10 coulombs per kilograms of air. NCRP-82
typically occurs with usage of Internet Protocol (IP) transmis-
sion.
3.2.18 feed-through—generalized term used in this guide to
mean the devices or techniques used to transition through a 3.2.25 image format—generalized term for the size of the
wall or boundary; for the purpose of this guide, its usage is
video sensor area within the camera, and is independent of the
further restricted to electrical, instrumentation, or video tran- type of camera technology; the format size is based upon the
sitions; usually this involves sealed connectors, plugs, or
maximum diagonal dimension of the sensing area and defines
sockets that are suitable to the environment on the side of the the area of view seen by a particular choice of lens; the actual
boundary where they are deployed (for example, manipulator
numerical values of the format size do not correspond to the
compatible connectors on the radiological side of a hot cell actual dimensional units given, but rather to a standardize
boundary).
reference originally based on the glass image tubes used; for
example a 1 in. image format refers to the active image area on
3.2.19 fiber optics—for the purpose of this guide, a variety
the face of a 1 inch outside diameter on which it was placed,
of glass or plastic fibers used to transmit light from one end of
and therefore the diagonal of the image is less than 1 in.
each fiber, utilizing total internal reflection between the fiber
1 1 1 2
Typical image formats are ⁄4 in., ⁄3 in., ⁄2 in., ⁄3 in., and 1 in.
and a thin cladding on the outside of the fiber; they can be used
3.2.26 internet camera—alternative term for the Internet
as a random bundle of fibers to transmit light to a desired
Protocol (IP).
location (that is, non-coherent bundle), or the used in an
arranged pattern of fibers used to transmit an image from a 3.2.27 Internet Protocol (IP) camera—type of digital video
desired location (that is, coherent bundle). camera commonly employed for surveillance, and which
C1661 − 23
unlike analog closed circuit television (CCTV) cameras can 3.2.39 NTSC—analog video standard used in North
send and receive data via a computer network and the Internet. America, Japan, and some other countries; its usage in this
guide is for wired video devices and transmission, and is
3.2.28 jumper—as used in this guide, a remote means of
distinctly different from Digital video or Internet video tech-
connecting services (for example, electrical, instrumentation,
nology (see PAL for other counties analog systems).
video, water, or process fluids) between two or more points in
a remote environment; these specific application built devices
3.2.40 PAL—analog video standard used in Europe, parts of
are designed to be compatible with the remote manipulation
South America, and many other countries; its usage in this
device provided; they are commonly rigid or flexible devices
guide is for wired video devices and transmission, and is
with connection means on the ends that allow simplified and
distinctly different from digital video or internet video tech-
high integrity connections using only the remote means.
nology (see NTSC for other countries analog systems).
3.2.29 lens elements—for the purpose of this guide, the
3.2.41 pixel—video term for a single sensing point or image
individual optical components that are assembled together to
display point in an overall image; the data from a pixel
make a complete lens (for example, zoom lens); they are either
represents the smallest indivisible unit of an image and is
a single glass, quartz, or similar component with optical quality
represented by a single grey scale or color value for numerical
surfaces on both sides, or have two or more such lens
representation.
components joined together, either with optical cement or are
3.2.42 Power over Ethernet (PoE)—group of specifications
mechanically mounted together.
for equipment that simultaneously passes power and data over
3.2.30 lumen—unit of measure for the amount of light
wire based Ethernet networks of category 5, or higher; PoE
emitted by a source.
eliminates the need for independent power sources for re-
3.2.31 luminance—signal that represents brightness in a
motely located video hardware; there are a number of PoE
video picture; luminance is any level between black and white; standards used in industry that have varying amounts of power
luminance is identified by the letter “Y”.
available at the field end, and which wires are used for power
also vary; care should be used to ensure compatibility.
3.2.32 lux—amount of light per unit area, incident on a
surface; 1 lux = 1 lumen per square meter = 0.093 foot-candles.
3.2.43 radiation hardened device—for the purpose of this
guide, any device designed to withstand greater than 5 × 10
3.2.33 megapixel camera—generalized term for a video
6 60
gray (5 × 10 rad) based on Co gamma (Si) total integrated
camera with a one million pixel, or more, image sensor, as
dose, to penetrating nuclear radiation, including x-ray, alpha
opposed to a traditional video sensor with approximately
particles, beta particles, gamma rays, and neutrons.
400 000 pixels; typical sensors have 3, 5, 10, or more mega-
pixels; megapixel sensor images are not compatible with
3.2.43.1 radiation tolerant device—for the purpose of this
traditional video equipment.
guide, a radiation tolerant device is defined as one that
continues to function after a specified total integrated dose as
3.2.34 megapixel lenses—generalized term for a camera
specified by the manufacturer and provides a defined level of
lens that is compatible with the image quality requirements of
a megapixel camera; higher resolution image sensors require performance at a specified dose rate; this term is sometimes
used interchangeably with radiation hardened device.
the use of higher performance lenses to avoid noticeable
distortions and aberration in the image.
3.2.44 remotely deployable camera—for the purpose of this
3.2.35 mouse—when used in this guide in conjunction with guide, a camera that has been specially packaged and protected
a crane hook, a small mechanical safety device that is used to
to be compatible with being deployed by a remote manipula-
prevent the accidental release of a suspended load; a mouse is tion device (that is, robot, manipulator, crane, rope, etc.).
a spring to-close mechanical lever that closes the gap in a crane
3.2.45 remotely operated facility—isolated, shielded, facil-
hook and prevents the loop or bail in the hook from coming out
ity where all operations and functions are preformed without
unless the mouse is held open by hand; this type of device is
direct human contact; all functions within the remote facility
usually required in a personnel occupied work area but is
are performed by mechanical, electrical, or fluid (hydraulic,
incompatible with a remotely maintained hot cell or canyon,
pneumatic, etc.) linkages through a shielding wall(s); for the
since there is no way to hold the mouse open at the appropriate
purpose of this guide, a glovebox or similar facility would not
time.
be included in this definition; all viewing of operations within
3.2.36 Network Video Recorder (NVR)—specially config-
a remotely operated facility would utilize windows, or remote
ured computer that includes software to record and playback
viewing as defined in this standard.
video transmitted over a network; the video images are stored
3.2.46 remotely operated viewing—viewing devices within
as data on a disk drive or other mass storage device.
a remotely operated facility that are controlled by personnel
3.2.37 Newvicon—see tube type camera.
outside of the isolated portions of the facility, by electrical,
3.2.38 non-browning glass—glass that contains a small mechanical, or fluid (hydraulic, pneumatic, etc.) means; this
percentage of cerium oxide to stabilize the glass and reduce type of control would typically include, but not be limited to,
discoloration that would otherwise be caused by radiation; high camera aiming (that is, pan & tilt), lens control (that is, iris,
purity synthetic fused silica is also non-browning, but does not focus, zoom), camera lights, audio, and camera functions (that
contain cerium oxide, it exhibits almost no discoloration after is, auto/manual iris, electronic shutter, white balance, etc.).
a high radiation dose. C1572/C1572M
C1661 − 23
3.2.47 star network—for the purpose of this guide, internet sensor (for example, a ⁄2 in. format lens being coupled to a
network based on a central hub and any number of network ⁄3 in. format image sensor).
links radiating out from that central hub, with no other
3.2.57 wireless video network—wireless implemented ver-
connections between those links.
sions of a video network; a wireless mesh network has nodes
located such that they provide multiple paths; if a path between
3.2.48 tube type camera—camera that utilizes a thermionic,
two nodes is temporarily blocked the signals are automatically
tube image sensor to capture an image; a tube type sensor has
routed through nodes that provide an alternative path.
a light sensitive, optically flat, image capturing surface that
faces the optics and a scanning electron beam that impinges on
3.2.58 X-rays—electromagnetic waves or ions not emitted
the sensor area to read and erase the captured image line by
from the nucleus, but normally emitted by energy changes in
line; see “Chip type Camera” for comparison.
electrons; these energy changes are generated either by inner
electron orbital shell transitions in atoms or in the process of
3.2.48.1 Chalnicon imaging tube—image sensor tube that
slowing down electrons by collisions with solid bodies such as
has a multilayer photoconductive target made of cadmium
is done in an X- ray machine.
selenide and calcogenides; Chalnicon was originally a trade-
mark but the holder of that trademark has allowed it to expire.
4. Significance and Use
3.2.48.2 Newvicon imaging tube—image sensor tube that
4.1 Remote Viewing Components:
has a multilayer target composed of zinc selenide and zinc
cadmium telluride; Newvicon was originally a trademark but
4.2 The long-term applicability of a remotely operated
the holder of that trademark has allowed it to expire.
radiological facility will be greatly affected by the provisions
for remote viewing of normal and off-normal operations within
3.2.48.3 vidicon imaging tube—image sensor tube that uses
the facility. The deployment of remote viewing systems can
a photoconductive target; for the purpose of this guide, a
most efficiently be addressed during the design and construc-
vidicon is a tube with an antimony trisulfide target layer.
tion phases.
3.2.49 twisted pair—two conductors twisted together to
4.2.1 The purpose of this guide is to provide general
form a balanced transmission line; a twisted pair exhibits good
guidelines for the design and operation of remote viewing
noise immunity as interference induced into both conductors is
equipment to ensure longevity and reliability throughout the
can hot celled by the differential receiver.
period of service.
3.2.50 video encoder—device that accepts an analog video
4.2.2 It is intended that this guide record the general
signal and encodes it into a digital format suitable for connec-
conditions and practices that experience has shown are neces-
tion to an IP network; a video encoder may also support audio
sary to minimize equipment failures and maximize the effec-
(one- or two-way) and bi-directional serial control data; a video
tiveness and utility of remote viewing equipment. It is also
encoder may have single or multiple channels.
intended to inform designers and engineers of those features
that are highly desirable for the selection of equipment that has
3.2.51 video network—for the purpose of this guide, copper
proven reliable in high radiation environments.
wire, fiber optic, or wireless data networks used to interconnect
4.2.3 This guide is intended as a supplement to other
video cameras, servers, and operator workstations; a video
standards, and to federal and state regulations, codes, and
network typically gives priority to video data.
criteria applicable to the design of equipment intended for hot
3.2.52 video server—in the context of video surveillance, a
cell use.
specially configured computer on a video network that collects,
4.2.4 This guide is intended to be generic and applies to a
processes (encodes), and routes video, audio, and control data.
wide range of types and configurations of hot cell equipment
3.2.53 videoscope—for the purpose of this guide, a flexible and remote viewing systems.
remote viewing device that has the viewing electronics located,
in miniature form, in the tip and is connected to the operator
5. Quality Assurance and Quality Requirements
end by internal wires; lighting is provided by either a non-
5.1 The manufacturer, sub-tier suppliers, and Owner-
coherent bundle of fiber optics or by tip located lights.
Operator of hot cell equipment should have a quality assurance
3.2.54 video snow—generalized term for random electrical
program (QAP). QA programs may be required to comply with
noise seen in video signals; this type of interference appears as regulations such as 10CFR830.120 and 10 CFR 50 Appendix
randomly located dots, either black-and-white or colored dots
B, or consensus standards such as ANSI/ASME NQA-1, ISO
depending on the type of video sensor, and are evenly spread 9001, or ANSI/ISO/ASQ Q9001, or combinations thereof.
across all parts of the image.
5.2 The Owner-Operator should require appropriate quality
3.2.55 vidicon—see tube type camera. assurance of purchased radiation remote viewing components
to assure proper remote installation, operation and reliability of
3.2.56 vignetting—optical property where the outer portion
the components when they are installed in the hot cell.
of an image is obstructed by the optics within the viewing
system resulting in either the loss or the darkening of the outer 5.3 Hot cell equipment including remote viewing systems
portion of an image, usually first seen in the corners of a should be designed according to quality assurance require-
rectangular image; this usually occurs when the optics are not ments and undergo quality control inspections as outlined by
designed to provide a full image for the format of the image the Owner-Operator’s representative.
C1661 − 23
6. General Requirements remote viewing systems as compared to more robust items (for
example, pumps, motors, etc.) increases the likelihood of
6.1 Application:
failure in any design. Replacement of systems should incorpo-
6.1.1 References used throughout this section include:
rate mechanical interfaces, and electrical connectors compat-
Guide C859, Guide C1217, Guide C1554, 10CFR835.1002(b),
ible with the manipulation means in a hot cell.
29CFR1910, ANS Design Guides for Radioactive Material
6.2.5 During the facility design phase, the potential need for
Handling Facilities & Equipment, ISO/TC 85/SC 2 N 637 E
remote viewing equipment should be carefully considered, so
“Remote Handling Devices for Radioactive Materials—Part
that provisions can be made for its deployment. Such provi-
1,” ANS 8.1.
sions might include mechanical mounting, wall tubes, electri-
6.1.2 Only the minimum number of mechanical or electrical
cal feed-throughs, brackets, etc. in a potential location for a
components should be placed in a hot cell to allow safe and
remote viewing apparatus. These provisions should have a
efficient operation. Unnecessary equipment in a hot cell adds to
minimal impact on the initial construction, and significantly
the cost of operating and maintaining the hot cell and adds to
reduce the difficulty of a remote viewing deployment at a later
the eventual decontamination and disposal costs of hot cell
date.
equipment.
6.1.3 A thorough review of the remote viewing systems 6.2.6 Multiple remote viewing systems should be standard-
necessary for hot cell operations should be performed prior to
ized as much as possible to minimize expense and improve
introducing the equipment into the hot cell. This should include maintenance. The maintenance of remote viewing systems
an evaluation of the resolution and quality of views required.
often requires a pre-staged camera mount with services for
The variety of views and magnifications required should also
connectors, typically assembled and tested in a mock-up
be evaluated. The desired field of view of any viewing device
facility, to allow rapid maintenance and to minimize the
(typically a camera), the distance to the objects of interest (both
potential for personnel exposure. Standardized designs allow a
minimum and maximum), and the required or desired lighting
minimum number of pre-staged mounts to be required and
should also be reviewed prior to the selection of equipment.
maximizes the speed of repair. The mock-up facility usually
The performance of radiation hardened lenses, in particular the
provides for a test version of the mechanical and electrical
zoom range and the minimum focus distance, is limited when
interfaces that are located in the radiological environment
compared to auto-focus zoom cameras, as noted in later
where the remote system can be tested. This assures their
sections.
proper fit, interfacing, operation, and maintenance prior to their
actual installation in a hot cell or similar environment.
6.2 Considerations:
6.2.7 Remote video systems for process and anomaly moni-
6.2.1 The amount of remote viewing equipment required
toring can be traditional type cameras or IP cameras. Each
within a hot cell and the required wiring, between components
application should be evaluated for the advantages and disad-
should be evaluated together. The in-hot cell equipment should
vantages of each type. There is not a single type that is
be minimized as much as practical since this portion is most
applicable for all applications. Traditional video cameras
susceptible to damage and most difficult to access; however,
typically provide analog video signals (that is, NTSC or PAL)
this should not be at the expense of overly complex wiring
and use multiple wires for power, control, and video. IP
since this can be even more difficult to repair.
cameras typically provide higher resolution and have an
6.2.2 Materials of construction of remote viewing equip-
Ethernet port for control and video and may also use the
ment on the side should be radiation resistant, compatible with
Ethernet for power. See later sections of this document for
the hot cell environment, easily decontaminated, and compat-
Power over Ethernet, Image Delay, and radiation hardness
ible with other materials with which they are in contact, to the
considerations. A comparison of the pros and cons of both
extent possible and where economically feasible.
types should be evaluated and include device cost, wiring cost,
6.2.3 Wiring between the remote and accessible portions of
compatibility with existing systems, resolution required, and
any viewing system should be simplified, in number of wires
lens costs.
and types of wires, as much as possible and wiring-sensitive
signals (for example, low level or noise sensitive signals) 6.2.8 Data security and system operability should both be
should be avoided if possible. The simplicity and robustness of evaluated during design and choice of components in a remote
the wiring, to and from a remote system, can be a major video system. Wired systems typically use a “star” wiring
determinate of the success of an installation. Complex wiring, schematic so the system operability is only limited by the
signals affected by electrical interference, and connectors with wiring provided. IP network systems share singular or multiple
large numbers of connection pins, can significantly reduce the IP network wiring with multiple camera, data storage devices,
usefulness or survival of an installation, and remote mainte- and control points. Additionally the higher resolution cameras
nance. The remote wiring should be suitable for the life of the require more bandwidth for each device. A system design
facility and, if possible, be remotely replaceable after a facility should take into account the factors of camera resolution,
is in radioactive operation, since the inability to repair non-
required frame rate, encoding methodology, IP network type
functional wiring would terminate a remote viewing system. (for example, 10BaseT, 100BaseT, 1000BaseT, etc.), and any
See NFPA 70, 47CFR.
shared usage of the network. Normally, only the higher speed
6.2.4 The inevitable remote replacement or removal of IP networks can be applied to an IP camera system of more
remote viewing components should be carefully considered than a few cameras, and a dedicated network may be required
during the design phase. The complexity and fragility of to avoid network delays that might otherwise result from
C1661 − 23
shared usage. Wired systems are inherently secure systems, 7.1.3 The construction materials used should be resistant to
since access is limited by the wiring scheme. However, IP a discharge of the in-hot cell fire suppression system, if present.
systems must provide measures to prevent unwanted access to
7.1.4 The radiation effects on viewing systems involve both
the video information. Video management software normally
the lifetime dosage and the maximum dose rate. Radiation-
provides several levels of user access by means of usernames
induced noise at high dose rates can severely degrade the video
and passwords. The levels of access may range from viewing
image, even though the video system may not suffer significant
specific cameras, to viewing and controlling any camera,
damage over a short period exposure.
through to administrative rights to change configuration. Re-
7.1.5 Careful consideration should be given to the expected
strictions on recording and playback may also be available.
total accumulated radiation dose and maximum dose rates for
6.2.9 The usage of IP cameras should include an evaluation
the specific remote operations to which the viewing systems
of the Image Delay relative to the application, since IP cameras
will be exposed. Often the radiation requirements are over
and the associated network have an inherent and potentially
specified due to limited information or assumptions. This can
variable image delay. Image Delay refers to the lag between
result in considerable increases of system costs or complexity
when an event occurs and when it is available at the operator
beyond what is necessary.
viewing location. Transmission of signals (video or control)
7.1.6 The radiation resistance of materials
...

This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
Designation: C1661 − 18 C1661 − 23
Standard Guide for
Viewing Systems for Remotely Operated Facilities
This standard is issued under the fixed designation C1661; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope
1.1 Intent:
1.1.1 This guide establishes the minimum requirements for viewing systems for remotely operated facilities, including hot cells
(shielded cells), used for the processing and handling of nuclear and radioactive materials. The intent of this guide is to aid in the
design, selection, installation, modification, fabrication, and quality assurance of remote viewing systems to maximize their
usefulness and to minimize equipment failures.
1.1.2 It is intended that this guide record the principles and caveats that experience has shown to be essential to the design,
fabrication, installation, maintenance, repair, replacement, and, decontamination and decommissioning of remote viewing
equipment capable of meeting the stringent demands of operating, dependably and safely, in a hot cell environment where operator
visibility is limited due to the radiation exposure hazards.
1.1.3 This guide is intended to apply to methods of remote viewing for nuclear applications but may be applicable to any
environment where remote operational viewing is desirable.
1.2 Applicability:
1.2.1 This guide applies to, but is not limited to, radiation hardened and non-radiation hardened cameras (black-and-white and
color), lenses, camera housings and positioners, periscopes, through wall/roof viewing, remotely deployable cameras, crane/robot
mounted cameras, endoscope cameras, borescopes, video probes, flexible probes, mirrors, lighting, fiber lighting, and support
equipment.
1.2.2 This guide is intended to be applicable to equipment used under one or more of the following conditions:
1.2.2.1 The remote operation facility that contains a significant radiation hazard to man or the environment.
1.2.2.2 The facility equipment can neither be accessed directly for purposes of operation or maintenance, nor can the equipment
be viewed directly, for example, without shielding viewing windows, periscopes, or a video monitoring system.
1.2.2.3 The facility can be viewed directly but portions of the views are restricted (for example, the back or underside of objects)
or where higher magnification or specialized viewing is beneficial.
1.2.3 The remote viewing equipment may be intended for either long-term application (commonly, in excess of several years) or
for short-term usage (for example, troubleshooting). Both types of applications are addressed in sections that follow.
This guide is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee C26 on Nuclear Fuel Cycle and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee C26.14 on Remote Systems.
Current edition approved Nov. 1, 2018Oct. 1, 2023. Published December 2018October 2023. Originally approved in 2007. Last previous edition approved in 20132018
as C1661 – 13. DOI: 10.1520/C1661-18.18. DOI: 10.1520/C1661-23.
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
C1661 − 23
1.2.4 This guide is not intended to cover the detailed design and application of remote handling connectors for services (for
example, electrical, instrumentation, video, etc.).
1.2.5 The system of units employed in this guide is the metric unit, also known as SI Units, which are commonly used for
International Systems, and defined by ASTM/IEEE SI 10, Standard for Use of International System of Units. Some video
parameters use traditional units that are not consistent with SI Units but are used widely across the industry. For example, video
image format is referred to in “inch” units. (See Table 1.)
1.2.6 Lens and lens element measurements are always in millimeter (mm) units, even where SI Units are not in common usage,
as an industry practice. Other SI Units (for example, cm) are rarely used for lenses or lens elements.
1.2.7 Unless otherwise mentioned in this guide radiation exposure refers to gamma energy level in terms of Co exposure, and
absorbed radiation dose Gy/h (rad/h) refers to instantaneous rates and not cumulative values.
1.3 User Caveats:
1.3.1 This guide does not cover radiation shielding windows used for hot cell viewing. They are covered separately under Guide
C1572/C1572M.
1.3.2 This guide is not a substitute for applied engineering skills, proven practices and experience. Its purpose is to provide
guidance.
1.3.3 The guidance set forth in this guide relating to design of equipment is intended only to inform designers and engineers of
these features, conditions, and procedures that have been found necessary or highly desirable to the design, selection, operation
and maintenance of reliable remote viewing equipment for the subject service conditions.
1.3.4 The guidance set forth in this guide results from operational experience of conditions, practices, features, lack of features,
or lessons learned that were found to be sources of operating or maintenance problems, or causes of failure.
1.3.5 This guide does not supersede federal or state regulations, or codes applicable to equipment under any conditions.
1.4 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility
of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of
regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.5 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization
established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued
by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 Industry and National Consensus Standards—Nationally recognized industry and consensus standards applicable in whole or
in part to the design, fabrication, quality assurance, inspection, testing, and installation of equipment are referenced throughout this
guide and include, but are not limited to, the following:
2.2 ASTM Standards:
C859 Terminology Relating to Nuclear Materials
C1217 Guide for Design of Equipment for Processing Nuclear and Radioactive Materials
C1533 Guide for General Design Considerations for Hot Cell Equipment
C1554 Guide for Materials Handling Equipment for Hot Cells
C1572/C1572M Guide for Dry Lead Glass and Oil-Filled Lead Glass Radiation Shielding Window Components for Remotely
Operated Facilities
E170 Terminology Relating to Radiation Measurements and Dosimetry
ASTM/IEEE SI 10 Standard for Use of the International System of Units
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at [e-mail]. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
C1661 − 23
2.3 Other Standards:
ANS 8.1 Nuclear Criticality Safety in Operations with Fissile Materials Outside Reactors
ANS Design Guides for Radioactive Material Handling Facilities & Equipment, ISBN: 0-89448-554-7
ANS Glossary of Terms in Nuclear Science and Technology (ANS Glossary)
ANSI/ASME NQA-1 Quality Assurance Requirements for Nuclear Facility Applications
ISO/TC 85/SC 2 N 637 E Remote Handling Devices for Radioactive Materials—Part 1
ANSI/ISO/ASQ Q9001 Quality Management Standard Requirements General Requirements
NEMA 250 Enclosures for Electrical Equipment 1000 Volts Maximum (Type 4)
NFPA 70 National Electric Code
NCRP Report No. 82 SI Units in Radiation Protection and Measurements
ICRU Report 10b Physical Aspects of Irradiation
2.4 Federal Standards and Regulations:
10CFR50 Appendix B, Quality Assurance
10CFR830.120 Quality Assurance for Nuclear Facilities
10CFR835.1002(b) Continuous Occupancy Radiation Environments
29CFR1910 Occupational Safety and Health Standards
47CFR All Parts—Telecommunications Regulations
40CFR 260-279 Solid Waste Regulations—Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA)
15CFR, Chapter VII, Subchapter C, Part 774, Supplement 1, Department Of Commerce, Export Administration Regulations
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions—General Considerations:
3.1.1 For definitions of general terms used to describe nuclear material hot cells, and hot cell equipment, refer to terminology in
GuideGuides C859 and C1533, ASTM/IEEE SI 10, and ANS Glossary of Terms in Nuclear Science and Technology.
3.2 Definitions:
3.2.1 achromat—a lens, usually of two elements, that is corrected to bring two different wavelengths to a common focal point.
Apoint; a single element lens can only bring one wavelength to a focal point and therefore exhibits chromatic aberration (different
wavelengths focus at different distances). Andistances); an achromatic lens provides a first order of color correction.
-1
3.2.2 activity, A, [T ], n—the measure of the rate of spontaneous nuclear transformations of a radioactive material. Thematerial;
the SI unit for activity is the becquerel (Bq), defined as one transformation per second. Thesecond; the original unit for activity
was the curie (Ci), defined as 3.7 × 10 transformations per second. NCRP-82
3.2.3 balun—for the purpose of this guide, is a type of passive electronic equipment (that is, not requiring power) that is used to
interface between balanced and unbalanced video signals. Balunssignals; baluns are used to transition between a coaxial cable and
twisted pair wiring in field applications. Balunsapplications; baluns are used in pairs on opposite ends of a transmission cable and
are similar to transformers except that they operate at video frequencies.
3.2.4 borescope—a rigid optical device consisting of lenses and a support tube used to obtain external views of the interior of an
object, viewed either directly or with the usage of a camera or video device. Thedevice; the view from the tip may be either directly
in front of the tube or off axis by the usage of mirrors or prisms. Mostprisms; most borescopes provide viewing through a series
of optical lenses and remotely provided lighting (that is, light from operator end to object in question) through a concentric located
bundle of fiber optic light guides.
Available from American Nuclear Society, 555 North Kensington Ave., La Grange Park, IL, 60525.
Available from American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), ASME International Headquarters, Two Park Ave., New York, NY 10016-5990, http://
www.asme.org.
Available from International Organization for Standardization (ISO), 1 rue de Varembé, Case postale 56, CH-1211, Geneva 20, Switzerland, http://www.iso.ch.
Available from American National Standards Institute (ANSI), 25 W. 43rd St., 4th Floor, New York, NY 10036, http://www.ansi.org.
Available from Global Engineering Documents, 15 Inverness Way, East Englewood, CO 80112-5704, http://global.ihs.com.
Available from National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), 1 Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02169-7471, http://www.nfpa.org.
Available from National Council of Radiation Protection and Measurements, 7910 Woodmont Avenue, Suite 400, Bethesda, MD, 20814-3095.
Available from International Commission on Radiation Units and Measurements (ICRU), 7910 Woodmont Ave., Suite 400, Bethesda, MD 20841-3095,
http://www.icru.org.
Available from U.S. Government Printing Office Superintendent of Documents, 732 N. Capitol St., NW, Mail Stop: SDE, Washington, DC 20401, http://
www.access.gpo.gov.
C1661 − 23
3.2.5 browning—the discoloration and darkening of glass to a brownish color due to excessive radiation exposure.
3.2.6 bubble suit—a protective plastic suit that covers the entire body and is supplied with breathing air through an attached hose
used for personnel entry into contaminated areas.
3.2.7 camera—for the purpose of this guide, camera refers to a video type of camera with a continuous output signal of multiple
frames per second, typically at standard broadcast frame rates (for example, 30 frames per second for NTSC video or 25 frames
per second for PAL video), or may be a different frame rate typical of higher resolution cameras interfacing with a computer and
displayed on a computer monitor.
3.2.7.1 camera lens—for the purpose of this guide, a camera lens is the optical assembly on the front portion of a camera used
to control the image formation on the camera sensor. The lens may be an integral part of the overall camera, mounted within the
same housing, or may be a physically separate device that attaches to the front of the camera body. The latter configuration is very
common in the application of remote cameras.
3.2.7.1 camera housing—for the purpose of this guide, is a protective housing that is used to physically or radiologically protect
a camera from the environment, and extend its useful life. Inlife; in a remote environment, the camera housing will typically be
used to protect the camera from process hazards (liquids, dust, temperature, and debris) or from radiological hazards
(contamination, or radiation). Inradiation); in radiological contamination environments, a sealed housing may be essential to allow
for eventual repair or replacement of internal camera system components, after the latter is removed to a maintenance environment.
3.2.7.2 camera lens—for the purpose of this guide, the optical assembly on the front portion of a camera used to control the
image formation on the camera sensor; the lens may be an integral part of the overall camera, mounted within the same housing,
or may be a physically separate device that attaches to the front of the camera body; the latter configuration is very common in
the application of remote cameras.
3.2.7.3 camera, non-radiation resistant—for the purpose of this guide, is a camera that does not have any designed-in resistance
to radiation. Thisradiation; this type of camera is very commonly used for short term deployment in radiological environments.
Anenvironments; an application of this type is often justifiable based on lower cost, small size, or other special attributes found
in some general purpose cameras.
3.2.7.4 camera, radiation tolerant—for the purpose of this guide, a radiation tolerant camera is defined as one that continues
to function after a specified total integrated dose as specified by the manufacturer and provides a defined level of performance at
a specified dose rate. This term is sometimes used interchangeably with radiation hardened camera.
3.2.7.4 camera, radiation hardened—radiation hardened TV cameras, or their lenses, that are specially designed or rated as
4 6
radiation hardened to withstand a total radiation dose greater than 5 × 10 gray (5 × 10 rad), based on silicon, without operational
degradation. 15CFR, part 774
3.2.7.5 camera, radiation tolerant—for the purpose of this guide, a camera that continues to function after a specified total
integrated dose as specified by the manufacturer and provides a defined level of performance at a specified dose rate; this term is
sometimes used interchangeably with radiation hardened camera.
3.2.7.6 camera, remote—for the purpose of this guide, a camera that has been designed, modified, housed, or otherwise prepared
for application in a remote environment. Itenvironment; it may not be possible to repair or replace a remote camera without first
using some remote means to relocate it to a separate maintenance environment, and means must be provided to accomplish this
relocation.
3.2.7.7 camera, shielded—for the purpose of this guide, a shielded camera refers to a camera camera or camera/lens
combination that has been housed in a radiologically shielded housing. Thehousing; the additional radiological protection is
provided to extend the useful life or radiological resistance of the camera, and may be applied to either a radiation resistant camera
or to a non-radiation resistant camera, depending on the application.
3.2.8 cell—see hot cell.
3.2.9 Chalnicon—see tube type camera.
3.2.10 chip type camera—a commonly used term for a video camera that utilizes a solid state integrated circuit sensor to capture
an image. Theimage; the image is captured by an on-chip conversion of an electrical charge, from light sensitive silicon, to a charge
readout section. Thesection; the term “chip type” or “chip” is used in this guide to represent the entire family of similar
technologies that can be related to radiological environments in a common manner. Commonmanner; common types of chip
technology are CCD, CID, and CMOS. SeeCMOS; see tube camera for comparison.
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3.2.10.1 CCD charge-coupled device (CCD) chip technology—CCD stands for charge-coupled device, which was the original
chip type technology. Ittechnology; it is one of the two main types of image sensors currently used in digital cameras.
Whencameras; when a picture is taken, the CCD is struck by light coming through the camera’s lens. Eachlens; each of the
thousands or millions of tiny pixels that make up the CCD convert this light into electrons. Theelectrons; the accumulated charge
at each pixel is measured, then converted to a digital value, and converted to a video signal output. Alloutput; all pixels in a CCD
device are processed as a block rather than individually.
3.2.10.2 CID Charge Injection Device (CID) chip image sensor—Charge Injection Device (CID) CID cameras have been in use
since the early 1970’s, and are currently used by a few suppliers for digital video cameras, because of some special characteristics.
Thecharacteristics; the CID has some inherent radiation resistance because of method of construction of the chip.chip; CID image
sensors designed to have increased radiation tolerance are available.
3.2.10.3 CMOS Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor (CMOS) chip type technology—Complementary Metal Oxide
Semiconductor (CMOS) CMOS image sensors are based on integrated circuit technology by the same name and can be fabricated
by similar technology, which provides them with significant cost advantages.advantages; CMOS image sensors are rapidly
becoming the technology of choice for digital imaging in mobile phones and other digital consumer portable products as they offer
advantages in size, power consumption and system cost. Newcost; new high-sensitivity CMOS image sensor technology provides
improving picture quality comparable to CCDs. RelativeCCDs; relative to this guide, there are few CMOS image sensors that are
applicable to any radiological applications where high levels of radiation are present.
3.2.10 CMOS-HR CMOS-HR—for the purpose of this guide, is a type of a CMOS image sensor technology that has been tested
and proven to have approximately ten times higher radiation tolerance than typical CMOS or CCD image sensors.
3.2.11 Chalnicon—see tube type camera.
3.2.11 clamp lock pads—mechanical additions to tools or objects handled by remote manipulators or robots to assist in the proper
gripping of the object. These,object; these, usually metal, pads are designed to simplify grasping and to prevent accidental release
of the object.
3.2.12 CMOS-HR—for the purpose of this guide, a type of a CMOS image sensor technology that has been tested and proven to
have approximately ten times higher radiation tolerance than typical CMOS or CCD image sensors.
3.2.13 coaxial cable—a cylindrical video transmission line composed of a conductor centered inside of metallic tube or shield,
which serves as a ground reference, separated by a dielectric material and covered with an insulating jacket.
3.2.14 dual unit video camera—a dual unit video camera has the light sensing portion of the video camera (that is, the image
sensor and minimal electronics) separated from the major portion of the electronics into two distinct pieces that are connected by
a cable. Thiscable; this design is typical of many of the radiation hardened video cameras, since it allows the most radiation
sensitive portions to be located away from the hazard. Thishazard; this design usually involves a complex multi-conductor cable
between the two portions of the video device that contains electrically sensitive signals.
3.2.15 EMF—the common term for electromotive force.force; For this documentfor this document, it is used in reference to
effects, usually undesirable, of electrical and magnetic fields on electronic equipment, by induced voltages or interference.
3.2.16 endoscope—usually refers to one of the rigid or flexible viewing probes when used for medical applications. Itapplications;
it can refer to a borescope, fiberscope, or videoprobe.
3.2.17 exposure—the quotient of the total charge of the ions of one sign produced in air when all electrons liberated by photons
in a volume element of air of mass sufficient to completely stop the electrons (charged particle equilibrium). Theequilibrium); the
special unit of exposure is the roentgen (R) defined as 2.58 × 10 coulombs per kilograms of air. NCRP-82
3.2.18 feed-through—a generalized term used in this guide to mean the devices or techniques used to transition through a wall or
boundary.boundary; Forfor the purpose of this guide, its usage is further restricted to electrical, instrumentation, or video
transitions. Usuallytransitions; usually this involves sealed connectors, plugs, or sockets that are suitable to the environment on the
side of the boundary where they are deployed (for example, manipulator compatible connectors on the radiological side of a hot
cell boundary).
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3.2.19 fiber optics—for the purpose of this guide, are a variety of glass or plastic fibers used to transmit light from one end of each
fiber, utilizing total internal reflection between the fiber and a thin cladding on the outside of the fiber. Theyfiber; they can be used
as a random bundle of fibers to transmit light to a desired location (that is, non-coherent bundle), or the used in an arranged pattern
of fibers used to transmit an image from a desired location (that is, coherent bundle).
3.2.20 fiberscope—a flexible remote viewing device similar to a borescope, using light transmitting fibers. Afibers; a view is
provided to the operator from the remotely located tip through a flexible bundle of coherent fibers, and lighting is provided from
the operator to the tip through a separate bundle of non-coherent fibers located in the same flexible sheath. Coherentsheath;
coherent fiber bundles provide a large number of light transmission fibers in a matrix that matches on both ends, so that an image
is transmitted through the bundle. Non-coherentbundle; non-coherent fibers pass a mass of light in a random pattern through the
scope.
3.2.21 gate size—the size of the gates used to construct a chip type of video sensor. Thesensor; the number of gates and the density
of gates can have an effect on the radiation hardness of a chip type of sensor. Chipsensor; chip type video sensors are typically
connected to a processing chip type that may be of higher density than the sensor chip type.
3.2.22 high resolution—cameras not using either NTSC or PAL standards but a higher level of resolution that is usually not an
interlace type signal; this type is usually input directly to a computer or specialized monitor and is used for producing considerably
higher images.
3.2.23 hot cell—for the purpose of this guide, a generalized term that encompasses the various types of heavily shielded
radiological processing enclosures serviced by some combination of manipulators, overhead cranes, remote tooling, or through
wall devices, as detailed immediately below: The radiation levels within a hot cell are typically 11 Gy Gy/h⁄h (100 rad (100 rad/h)
or higher. See⁄h) or higher; see Guide C1533 for information regarding general design considerations of hot cell equipment.
3.2.23.1 canyon, n—in the nuclear industry, a long, narrow, remotely operated, radiological facility.
3.2.23.1 Discussion—
A large, heavily-shielded facility where nuclear material is processed or stored.
3.2.23.2 cave—a cave or high-level cave is cave, an alternate term for hot cells of various size, typically a small scale hot cell.
3.2.24 image delay—delay between the sensing and the receipt of a video image due to video encoding and transmission
methodology; depending on encoder and network configuration, the delay (or latency) may be variable; this typically occurs with
usage of Internet Protocol (IP) transmission.
3.2.25 image format—the generalized term for the size of the video sensor area within the camera, and is independent of the type
of camera technology. Thetechnology; the format size is based upon the maximum diagonal dimension of the sensing area and
defines the area of view seen by a particular choice of lens. Thelens; the actual numerical values of the format size do not
correspond to the actual dimensional units given, but rather to a standardize reference originally based on the glass image tubes
used. Forused; for example a 1 in. image format refers to the active image area on the face of a 1 inch outside diameter on which
1 1 1 2
it was placed, and therefore the diagonal of the image is less than 1 in. Typical image formats are ⁄4 in., ⁄3 in., ⁄2 in., ⁄3 in., and
1 in.
3.2.24 image delay—a delay between the sensing and the receipt of a video image due to video encoding and transmission
methodology. Depending on encoder and network configuration, the delay (or latency) may be variable. This typically occurs with
usage of Internet Protocol (IP) transmission.
3.2.26 internet camera—an alternative term for the Internet Protocol (IP).
3.2.27 IP Internet Protocol (IP) camera—an IP camera (Internet Protocol camera) is a type of digital video camera commonly
employed for surveillance, and which unlike analog closed circuit television (CCTV) cameras can send and receive data via a
computer network and the Internet.
3.2.28 jumper—as used in this guide, is a remote means of connecting services (for example, electrical, instrumentation, video,
water, or process fluids) between two or more points in a remote environment. Theseenvironment; these specific application built
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devices are designed to be compatible with the remote manipulation device provided. Theyprovided; they are commonly rigid or
flexible devices with connection means on the ends that allow simplified and high integrity connections using only the remote
means.
3.2.29 lens elements—for the purpose of this guide, the individual optical components that are assembled together to make a
complete lens (for example, zoom lens). Theylens); they are either a single glass, quartz, or similar component with optical quality
surfaces on both sides, or have two or more such lens components joined together, either with optical cement or are mechanically
mounted together.
3.2.30 lumen—a unit of measure for the amount of light emitted by a source.
3.2.31 luminance—the signal that represents brightness in a video picture. Luminancepicture; luminance is any level between
black and white. Luminancewhite; luminance is identified by the letter “Y”.
3.2.32 lux—the amount of light per unit area, incident on a surface.surface; 1 lux = 1 lumen per square meter = 0.093 foot-candles.
3.2.33 megapixel camera—a megapixel camera is a generalized term for a video camera with a one million pixel, or more, image
sensor, as opposed to a traditional video sensor with approximately 400 000 pixels. Typical 400 000 pixels; typical sensors have
3, 5, 10, or more megapixels. Megapixelmegapixels; megapixel sensor images are not compatible with traditional video equipment.
3.2.34 megapixel lenses—a megapixel lens is a generalized term for a camera lens that is compatible with the image quality
requirements of a megapixel camera. Highercamera; higher resolution image sensors require the use of higher performance lenses
to avoid noticeable distortions and aberration in the image.
3.2.35 mouse—when used in this guide in conjunction with a crane hook, refers to a small mechanical safety device that is used
to prevent the accidental release of a suspended load. Aload; a mouse is a spring to-close mechanical lever that closes the gap in
a crane hook and prevents the loop or bail in the hook from coming out unless the mouse is held open by hand. Thishand; this
type of device is usually required in a personnel occupied work area but is incompatible with a remotely maintained hot cell or
canyon, since there is no way to hold the mouse open at the appropriate time.
3.2.36 Network Video Recorder—Recorder (NVR)—a Network Video Recorder (NVR) is a specially configured computer that
includes software to record and playback video transmitted over a network. Thenetwork; the video images are stored as data on
a disk drive or other mass storage device.
3.2.37 Newvicon—see tube type camera.
3.2.38 non-browning glass—glass that contains a small percentage of cerium oxide to stabilize the glass and reduce discoloration
that would otherwise be caused by radiation. Highradiation; high purity synthetic fused silica is also non-browning, but does not
contain cerium oxide, it exhibits almost no discoloration after a high radiation dose.
3.2.39 NTSC—NTSC refers to the analog video standard used in North America, Japan, and some other countries. Itscountries;
its usage in this guide is for wired video devices and transmission, and is distinctly different from Digital video or Internet video
technology. (Seetechnology (see PAL for other counties analog systems).
3.2.40 PAL—PAL refers to the analog video standard used in Europe, parts of South America, and many other countries.
Itscountries; its usage in this guide is for wired video devices and transmission, and is distinctly different from digital video or
internet video technology. (Seetechnology (see NTSC for other countries analog systems).
3.2.41 pixel—a video term for a single sensing point or image display point in an overall image. Theimage; the data from a pixel
represents the smallest indivisible unit of an image and is represented by a single grey scale or color value for numerical
representation.
3.2.42 Power over Ethernet—Ethernet (PoE)—Power over Ethernet (PoE) describes a group of specifications for equipment that
simultaneously passes power and data over wire based Ethernet networks of category 5, or higher.higher; PoE eliminates the need
for independent power sources for remotely located video hardware. The offerings from different vendors are not normally
C1661 − 23
interchangeable as the industry standards are still changing, and hardware; there are a number of PoE standards used in industry
that have varying amounts of power available at the field end, and which wires are used for power also vary; care should be used
to assumeensure compatibility.
3.2.43 radiation hardened device—for the purpose of this guide, any device designed to withstand greater than 5 × 10 gray (5
6 60
× 10 rad) based on Co gamma (Si) total integrated dose, to penetrating nuclear radiation, including x-ray, alpha particles, beta
particles, gamma rays, and neutrons.
3.2.43.1 radiation tolerant device—for the purpose of this guide, is a radiation tolerant device is defined as one that continues
to function after a specified total integrated dose as specified by the manufacturer and provides a defined level of performance at
a specified dose rate. Thisrate; this term is sometimes used interchangeably with radiation hardened device.
3.2.44 remotely deployable camera—for the purpose of this guide, refers to a camera that has been specially packaged and
protected to be compatible with being deployed by a remote manipulation device (that is, robot, manipulator, crane, rope, etc.).
3.2.45 remotely operated facility—an isolated, shielded, facility where all operations and functions are preformed without direct
human contact. Allcontact; all functions within the remote facility are performed by mechanical, electrical, or fluid (hydraulic,
pneumatic, etc.) linkages through a shielding wall(s).wall(s); Forfor the purpose of this guide, a glovebox or similar facility would
not be included in this definition. Alldefinition; all viewing of operations within a remotely operated facility would utilize windows,
or remote viewing as defined in this standard.
3.2.46 remotely operated viewing—the viewing devices within a remotely operated facility that are controlled by personnel outside
of the isolated portions of the facility, by electrical, mechanical, or fluid (hydraulic, pneumatic, etc.) means. Thismeans; this type
of control would typically include, but not be limited to, camera aiming (that is, pan & tilt), lens control (that is, iris, focus, zoom),
camera lights, audio, and camera functions (that is, auto/manual iris, electronic shutter, white balance, etc.). C1572/C1572M
3.2.47 star network—star networks, for the purpose of this guide, are internet networksnetwork based on a central hub and any
number of network links radiating out from that central hub, with no other connections between those links.
3.2.48 tube type camera—a camera that utilizes a thermionic, tube image sensor to capture an image. Aimage; a tube type sensor
has a light sensitive, optically flat, image capturing surface that faces the optics and a scanning electron beam that impinges on
the sensor area to read and erase the captured image line by line. Seeline; see “Chip type Camera” for comparison.
3.2.47.1 vidicon imaging tube—an image sensor tube that uses a photoconductive target. For the purposes of this guide, a
vidicon is a tube with an antimony trisulfide target layer.
3.2.48.1 Chalnicon imaging tube—an image sensor tube that has a multilayer photoconductive target made of cadmium selenide
and calcogenides.calcogenides; Chalnicon was originally a trademark but the holder of that trademark has allowed it to expire.
3.2.48.2 Newvicon imaging tube—an image sensor tube that has a multilayer target composed of zinc selenide and zinc
cadmium telluride.telluride; Newvicon was originally a trademark but the holder of that trademark has allowed it to expire.
3.2.48.3 vidicon imaging tube—image sensor tube that uses a photoconductive target; for the purpose of this guide, a vidicon
is a tube with an antimony trisulfide target layer.
3.2.49 twisted pair—two conductors twisted together to form a balanced transmission line. Aline; a twisted pair exhibits good
noise immunity as interference induced into both conductors is can hot celled by the differential receiver.
3.2.50 video encoder—a video encoder is a device that accepts an analog video signal and encodes it into a digital format suitable
for connection to an IP network. Anetwork; a video encoder may also support audio (one- or two-way) and bi-directional serial
control data. Adata; a video encoder may have single or multiple channels.
3.2.51 video network—video network, for the purpose of this guide, refers to copper wire, fiber optic, or wireless data networks
used to interconnect video cameras, servers, and operator workstations. Aworkstations; a video network typically gives priority to
video data.
3.2.52 video server—video server, in the context of video surveillance, is a specially configured computer on a video network that
collects, processes (encodes), and routes video, audio, and control data.
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3.2.53 videoscope—for the purpose of this guide, refers to a flexible remote viewing device that has the viewing electronics
located, in miniature form, in the tip and is connected to the operator end by internal wires. Lightingwires; lighting is provided
by either a non-coherent bundle of fiber optics or by tip located lights.
3.2.54 video snow—the generalized term for random electrical noise seen in video signals. Thissignals; this type of interference
appears as randomly located dots, either black-and-white or colored dots depending on the type of video sensor, and are evenly
spread across all parts of the image.
3.2.55 vidicon—see tube type camera.
3.2.56 vignetting—the optical property where the outer portion of an image is obstructed by the optics within the viewing system
resulting in either the loss or the darkening of the outer portion of an image, usually first seen in the corners of a rectangular image.
Thisimage; this usually occurs when the optics are not designed to provide a full image for the format of the image sensor (for
1 2
example, a ⁄2 in. format lens being coupled to a ⁄3 in. in. format image sensor).
3.2.57 wireless video network—wireless video networks are wireless implemented versions of a video network. Anetwork; a
wireless mesh network has nodes located such that they provide multiple paths. Ifpaths; if a path between two nodes is temporarily
blocked the signals are automatically routed through nodes that provide an alternative path.
3.2.58 X-rays—electromagnetic waves or ions not emitted from the nucleus, but normally emitted by energy changes in electrons.
Theseelectrons; these energy changes are generated either by inner electron orbital shell transitions in atoms or in the process of
slowing down electrons by collisions with solid bodies such as is done in an X- ray machine.
4. Significance and Use
4.1 Remote Viewing Components:
4.2 The long-term applicability of a remotely operated radiological facility will be greatly affected by the provisions for remote
viewing of normal and off-normal operations within the facility. The deployment of remote viewing systems can most efficiently
be addressed during the design and construction phases.
4.2.1 The purpose of this guide is to provide general guidelines for the design and operation of remote viewing equipment to
ensure longevity and reliability throughout the period of service.
4.2.2 It is intended that this guide record the general conditions and practices that experience has shown are necessary to minimize
equipment failures and maximize the effectiveness and utility of remote viewing equipment. It is also intended to inform designers
and engineers of those features that are highly desirable for the selection of equipment that has proven reliable in high radiation
environments.
4.2.3 This guide is intended as a supplement to other standards, and to federal and state regulations, codes, and criteria applicable
to the design of equipment intended for hot cell use.
4.2.4 This guide is intended to be generic and applies to a wide range of types and configurations of hot cell equipment and remote
viewing systems.
5. Quality Assurance and Quality Requirements
5.1 The manufacturer, sub-tier suppliers, and Owner-Operator of hot cell equipment should have a quality assurance program
(QAP). QA programs may be required to comply with regulations such as 10CFR830.120 and 10 CFR 50 Appendix B, or
consensus standards such as ANSI/ASME NQA-1, ISO 9001, or ANSI/ISO/ASQ Q9001, or combinations thereof.
5.2 The Owner-Operator should require appropriate quality assurance of purchased radiation remote viewing components to
assure proper remote installation, operation and reliability of the components when they are installed in the hot cell.
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5.3 Hot cell equipment including remote viewing systems should be designed according to quality assurance requirements and
undergo quality control inspections as outlined by the Owner-Operator’s representative.
6. General Requirements
6.1 Application:
6.1.1 References used throughout this section include: Guide C859, Guide C1217, Guide C1554, 10CFR835.1002(b),
29CFR1910, ANS Design Guides for Radioactive Material Handling Facilities & Equipment, ISO/TC 85/SC 2 N 637 E “Remote
Handling Devices for Radioactive Materials—Part 1,” ANS 8.1.
6.1.2 Only the minimum number of mechanical or electrical components should be placed in a hot cell to allow safe and efficient
operation. Unnecessary equipment in a hot cell adds to the cost of operating and maintaining the hot cell and adds to the eventual
decontamination and disposal costs of hot cell equipment.
6.1.3 A thorough review of the remote viewing systems necessary for hot cell operations should be performed prior to introducing
the equipment into the hot cell. This should include an evaluation of the resolution and quality of views required. The variety of
views and magnifications required should also be evaluated. The desired field of view of any viewing device (typically a camera),
the distance to the objects of interest (both minimum and maximum), and the required or desired lighting should also be reviewed
prior to the selection of equipment. The performance of radiation hardened lenses, in particular the zoom range and the minimum
focus distance, is limited when compared to auto-focus zoom cameras, as noted in later sections.
6.2 Considerations:
6.2.1 The amount of remote viewing equipment required within a hot cell and the required wiring, between components should
be evaluated together. The in-hot cell equipment should be minimized as much as practical since this portion is most susceptible
to damage and most difficult to access; however, this should not be at the expense of overly complex wiring since this can be even
more difficult to repair.
6.2.2 Materials of construction of remote viewing equipment on the side should be radiation resistant, compatible with the hot cell
environment, easily decontaminated, and compatible with other materials with which they are in contact, to the extent possible and
where economically feasible.
6.2.3 Wiring between the remote and accessible portions of any viewing system should be simplified, in number of wires and types
of wires, as much as possible and wiring-sensitive signals (for example, low level or noise sensitive signals) should be avoided
if possible. The simplicity and robustness of the wiring, to and from a remote system, can be a major determinate of the success
of an installation. Complex wiring, signals affected by electrical interference, and connectors with large numbers of connection
pins, can significantly reduce the usefulness or survival of an installation, and remote maintenance. The remote wiring should be
suitable for the life of the facility and, if possible, be remotely replaceable after a facility is in radioactive operation, since the
inability to repair nonfunctional wiring would terminate a remote viewing system. See NFPA 70, 47CFR.
6.2.4 The inevitable remote replacement or removal of remote viewing components should be carefully considered during the
design phase. The complexity and fragility of remote viewing systems as compared to more robust items (for example, pumps,
motors, etc.) increases the likelihood of failure in any design. Replacement of systems should incorporate mechanical interfaces,
and electrical connectors compatible with the manipulation means in a hot cell.
6.2.5 During the facility design phase, the potential need for remote viewing equipment should be carefully considered, so that
provisions can be made for its deployment. Such provisions might include mechanical mounting, wall tubes, electrical
feed-throughs, brackets, etc. in a potential location for a remote viewing apparatus. These provisions should have a minimal impact
on the initial construction, and significantly reduce the difficulty of a remote viewing deployment at a later date.
6.2.6 Multiple remote viewing systems should be standardized as much as possible to minimize expense and improve
maintenance. The maintenance of remote viewing systems often requires a pre-staged camera mount with services for connectors,
typically assembled and tested in a mock-up facility, to allow rapid maintenance and to minimize the potential for personnel
exposure. Standardized designs allow a minimum number of pre-staged mounts to be required and maximizes the speed of repair.
The mock-up facility usually provides for a test version of the mechanical and electrical interfaces that are located in th
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