AIR :: Area's Immediate Reading :: User Info10 Easy User Instructions
If you have just received an AIR device, read the following information to get you started. AIR is an experiment in public monitoring of air pollution. By carrying the device you are joining the AIR network that is made up of volunteers--people like yourself--who are curious about what's in their air. 1. What is it? The AIR Device displays your current air pollution levels on screen (see diagram A) or, more specifically, the carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides (NOx) or ozone (O3) levels in your immediate surrounding. We also like to think of this device as an indicator of fossil-fuel burning hotspots. For more information about the gases that it is detecting, please see the technical description and our support page. 2. Just Carry it
All you have to do is carry the device with you. The screen changes as you move. Best to wear it like a pair of binoculars or a purse. Keep it on your body (not in a bag!) and be careful not to get it wet. 3. Compass Mode
When you have the device in a horizontal position (like the above diagram) and are not carrying it like a purse, it goes into "compass mode." At this point you can see even more info, like if any heavy polluters are in your vacinity and where the other AIR carriers are in relationship to you. 4. Communication System
The device has a communication system onboard (see diagram D). Your pollution levels and location information is automatically transmitted to our server. We will be visualizing this information on this website. This information is anonymous and not linked to you or your name. Also, rest assured, our online data visualization is slightly delayed and "fuzzy" so it cannot be used for such things as targeted tracking. 5. Register it
If you want to be able see your individual readings after you are done, you must register the device. To do this you should push the reset button (see diagram E) when you get the device and write down the unique ID number on the screen. Also, remind the next user to press the reset button when they begin. 6. Stay in NYC
Carry the device anywhere within the city. Please pass the device to another person if you are leaving the city. Carry the device with you on your daily routine or take it to a specific place that you think needs an "air check." 7. Charge it
If the screen goes dark, gently shake the device to wake it up. If that does not work, please plug the device into an outlet using the provided power cord. It takes about 5 hours to fully charge. 8. After 24 hours (or sooner), pass it
Do not hold onto the AIR device for more than 24 hours. We want many people to use it. If someone asks what it is, please explain and offer it up to them. If someone directly asks you for it, please pass it along. The AIR network depends upon you to keep the device moving. If you cannot find someone to be the next carrier, contact us (see step 10). 9. Help the next carrier understand it
When you pass the device along, please take 5 minutes to explain the project and these instructions. Encourage this person to push the reset button and re-register the device. 10. Help?
If you run into any problems or have more questions, please call the 1-800 number on the device or email us. Thank you for participating in AIR!