I have a Ludlum 3030P alpha beta counter.
which detector? 43-10-1 or something else?
That should be correct. This is the current one formerly called a 2929
The
3030P has a solid state detector build in.
Alpha to Beta Crosstalk < 5%
Beta to Alpha Crosstalk < 0.1% http://ludlums.com/products/all-products/product/model-3030pThere is <0.1% beta to alpha cross talk. Less beta's WILL mean less cross talk. But at <0.1%, do you care? Personally,
I would add the shielding if it doesn't cost much. Because I'm American, and more (precision) is better. If it costs anything significant, I don't think I could justify a fraction of 0.1% improvement. How many sigma's are we looking for, anyways?
A 2929 is a Scaler (meter). A 43-10-1 is a detector. A 43-10-1 detects the radiation, and sends a pulse to the 2929 that measures the pulse. A 2929 doesn't HAVE to be paired with a 43-10-1, but almost always is. (Not directed at you GLW)
http://ludlums.com/products/all-products/product/model-2929-with-43-10-1The 3030
E replaced the 2929, with an external 43-10-1.
http://ludlums.com/products/all-products/product/model-3030e-with-43-10-1It has:
Alpha to beta cross talk: 10% or less
Beta to alpha cross talk: 1% or less
A 3030 (no E no P, just "3030") has the detector built into the meter, like the 3030P:
http://ludlums.com/products/all-products/product/model-3030The
Model 3030 Scaler incorporates an internally housed ZnS(Ag) plastic scintillator detector (like the 43-10-1, but internal) with shielded stainless steel sample tray.
It also has:
Alpha to beta cross talk: 10% or less
Beta to alpha cross talk: 1% or less