The M5, from South African group Monitech Mine Monitoring Systems, contains beacon sensor monitoring technology for preciseness and can maintain a stable zero setting.
Water- and vibration-resistant, the unit can be maintained and calibrated easily via its display or its beacon.

"A miner can apply test gas to the sensor and magnets to the beacon without going back to the display, and while miners still need to bump-check each shift, the 4-20 milliamps connection allows for a more stable calibration, so they generally don't need to calibrate as often," Matrix officials said.

Some mines require the placement and use of two sensors per continuous miner, though only one M5 is needed since it can monitor both sensors with a single controller/display and power supply.

Also, the M5 is RS485 and CAN-bus enabled, permitting its methane monitor override function to be used if a system fault occurs at the face.

"Current methane monitors can be a hindrance to productivity, either through system faults or inspection stoppages," Matrix president David Clardy said.

"M5 couples mine-tested technology with several new design features to help improve operational efficiency.

The company has offered its field service staff for any training or advisor needs, or installation of, the M5 unit.