Indian cities might not have become smart in the truest sense, however, there’s a scramble among them to emerge as hotspots for poor air quality, as evidenced by the present environmental crisis in NCR and beyond. Blame it on unplanned urbanisation, climatic factors or incessant human activity, the fact remains that air pollution has become an annual feature. While air purifiers go a long way in improving indoor air quality, an innovative budget-friendly pocket monitor can be a significant tool to know the state of the air around you.
Prana Air Pocket PM2.5 Monitor, available for Rs 7,990, allows one to check PM2.5 values in real-time. PM2.5 refers to particulate matter with a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or less. It includes pollutants like dust, smoke, and pollutants that can be harmful to health. Of course, there are many mobile apps that do the job, but the Prana Air Pocket PM2.5 Monitor is a more serious piece of equipment and stands out for its ease of use, and its ability to give readings of your immediate vicinity – indoors and outdoors.
While a user can easily monitor ambient dust particles with this device, it has a Wi-Fi connectivity feature that allows one to analyse the data on mobile app, smart Android TV and laptop screen. To get started, download the AQI app on any iOS or Android smartphone. Then go to “My Device” and select Pocket PM2.5 Monitor. The device can be simply turned on by long-pressing the ‘on’ button until a QR code appears on the screen. Scan the QR code or enter the device ID displayed on your device screen, fill in your Wi-Fi details, allowing the monitor to boot and begin measuring the air quality.
The device has a built-in, high-quality sensor to check PM2.5 values. On the LCD display screen, the PM2.5 values will show to the left while a category for the safety level will be shown on the right, ranging from good to hazardous. The device is equipped with a 450 mAh lithium battery that lasts for 3-4 hours without a charge; and a 5V DC/Type-C USB cable with a full charge taking no more than one hour. The portable device can be used in any indoor or outdoor environment, such as in the home, in the office, or in the car. The sensor measures in real-time which means it can move from place to place and constantly check the air quality levels.
Personally, I found the Prana Air Pocket PM2 Monitor a great tool to have in your kitty. It provides comprehensive AQI readings and stands out for its ease of use and simplicity.
SPECIFICATIONS
n Dimensions: 5.8 x 2.5 x 4.6cm, 60g weight
n Real-time data: AQI, PM1, PM2.5, PM10
n LCD display, laser sensor
n Wi-Fi connectivity
n Mobile app-enabled
n 450mAh battery
n Estimated street price: `7,990
You might also be interested in: Temtop LKC-1000E Air Quality Monitor, Inkbird IAM-T1 Smart Indoor Air Quality Monitor
