Responding to customer feedback, RADIANT Technology has added two new models to its popular CO-USB Carbon Monoxide Detector product line. The new variants—one powered by an internal battery with an aural alarm and another that flips the orientation of the LEDs for panel-mount flexibility—expand on the original design introduced in April 2025.
“As is typical for RADIANT, both new models were driven by customer feedback,” said James Wiebe, CEO and President of RADIANT. “The original CO-USB quickly became a preferred product in the marketplace, with over 600 units shipped in the first 90 days of production.”
The new models include:
- CO-USB-Battery: This is the highest-end version, featuring an 8-hour rechargeable battery, a loud 85 dB built-in annunciator, and a lanyard connection. This allows the detector to be worn around the neck or on a wristband, alleviating concerns about where to mount it for constant monitoring. It can be recharged from any standard USB port.
- CO-USB-UP: This model is a simplified version of the original orange CO-USB. It flips the orientation of the LEDs to better accommodate panel installations while retaining the core features of the original. However, it does not have a digital output port.
All three detectors in the CO-USB line base their alarm setting on the FAA-recommended 41 parts per million (PPM) CO level and feature a brilliant, flashing red LED for visual warning. The units use a breakthrough electrochemical sensor that is highly immune to interfering gases, cost-effective, and uses minimal power. All models now ship with a “Suspected CO” contamination checklist card derived from FAA recommendations.
Specifications
- Alarm Level: 41 PPM CO
- Cross-Sensitivity: Negligible (electrochemical sensor)
- Digital Port: 9600-baud serial data (original model only)
- Battery Life: 8 hours (CO-USB-Battery only); other units are USB port-powered
- Aural Warning: 85 dB (CO-USB-Battery only)
- Lanyard Attachment: CO-USB-Battery only
Wiebe also commented on the volatility of pricing due to tariffs. “Unfortunately, our business model has been hampered by on-again, off-again, on-again tariffs,” he said. “We’ve seen situations where our incoming parts were hit by approximate tariffs and fees of 100%, and we’ve seen situations where parts were hit by 0% tariffs. Therefore, our pricing remains subject to change without notice.”
The current pricing strategy is as follows:
- CO-USB (Original): Currently $29.95, with an expected increase to $34.95. This product is in stock at Aircraft Spruce.
- CO-USB-UP: Introductory price of $34.95, with limited inventory shipping in August.
- CO-USB-Battery: Special introductory price of $79.95, which will rise to $99.95 after the first production run is sold. First shipments are slated for October.
RADIANT Technology, founded by serial entrepreneur and instrument-rated pilot James Wiebe, focuses on creating products that “Enable Adventure.” Wiebe, who owns a Sonex and has approximately 2100 flight hours, previously founded computer hardware company Newer Technology and forensic technology company WiebeTech.
For complete information, visit the RADIANT Technology website at https://www.radiantinstruments.com/category/co-usb-carbon-monoxide-alarms.
