CO2 vs PM2.5 vs PM10 vs TVOC vs AQI Malaysia - Fosensor FS115X2 Guide

CO2 vs PM2.5 vs PM10 vs TVOC vs AQI Malaysia - Fosensor FS115X2 Guide

Introduction

Indoor air quality is an important consideration for Malaysian homes, offices, classrooms, commercial buildings and workplaces. Different air pollutants and environmental indicators provide different types of information about indoor conditions.

When choosing an indoor air quality monitor, many customers encounter technical terms such as CO2, PM2.5, PM10, TVOC and AQI. Although these indicators may appear together on one instrument, they do not measure the same thing.

The Fosensor FS115X2 6-in-1 Air Quality Detector is an English-version handheld instrument marketed for monitoring multiple indoor air quality indicators.

This guide explains what CO2, PM2.5, PM10, TVOC and AQI mean, how they differ, their applications in Malaysia and the limitations customers should understand before interpreting measurements.

It also explains why the AQI displayed by a handheld instrument should not automatically be treated as Malaysia's official Air Pollutant Index, known as API or IPU.

What Is the Fosensor FS115X2?

The Fosensor FS115X2 is a handheld air quality detector marketed as a 6-in-1 monitoring instrument.

According to the supplied product catalog, its identified indicators include:

- CO2 - Carbon Dioxide

- PM2.5 - Fine Particulate Matter

- PM10 - Particulate Matter

- TVOC - Total Volatile Organic Compounds

- AQI - Air Quality Index

Although the product is marketed as 6-in-1, the supplied catalog information identifies five main indicators. The exact sixth function should be confirmed with the manufacturer.

The catalog specifies a CO2 measurement range of 400 to 5000 ppm and PM2.5 and PM10 ranges of 0 to 999 micrograms per cubic metre.

The available documentation does not establish the instrument's measurement accuracy, specific sensor technologies, professional certifications or calibration procedures.

Understanding CO2 - Carbon Dioxide

What Is CO2?

Carbon dioxide, or CO2, is a gas naturally present in the atmosphere.

People release CO2 when breathing. Indoor concentrations can increase when a room is occupied and outdoor air exchange is limited.

CO2 is commonly expressed in parts per million, abbreviated as ppm.

Why Is CO2 Monitoring Important?

Indoor CO2 monitoring can help users observe changes associated with occupancy and ventilation.

For example, a meeting room with several occupants may show increasing CO2 concentrations when ventilation is insufficient relative to occupancy.

When outdoor air ventilation improves, indoor CO2 concentrations may decrease, depending on the surrounding conditions.

CO2 is useful as one indicator of ventilation conditions, but it is not a complete measurement of indoor air quality.

A low CO2 reading does not guarantee that airborne particles, chemical pollutants or other hazards are absent.

Fosensor FS115X2 CO2 Monitoring

The supplied catalog specifies a CO2 measurement range of 400 to 5000 ppm.

However, the available catalog information does not establish whether the FS115X2 uses NDIR technology, an estimated CO2 method or another measurement approach.

Customers requiring verified CO2 measurements should confirm the sensor type, accuracy and calibration documentation before selecting the instrument.

Understanding PM2.5 - Fine Particulate Matter

What Is PM2.5?

PM2.5 refers to airborne particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter of 2.5 micrometres or smaller.

These particles may originate from combustion, smoke, traffic emissions, certain indoor activities and other sources.

PM2.5 concentration is commonly expressed in micrograms per cubic metre, written as ug/m3.

Why Is PM2.5 Important in Malaysia?

PM2.5 monitoring is particularly relevant during regional haze episodes.

Outdoor particulate pollution can enter buildings through ventilation systems, open windows, doors and building leakage.

Indoor activities may also contribute to particulate concentrations.

Exposure to fine particulate pollution is associated with health risks, particularly with sustained or elevated exposure.

A portable PM2.5 monitor may help users observe changes in indoor particulate conditions.

Fosensor FS115X2 PM2.5 Monitoring

The supplied catalog specifies a PM2.5 measurement range of 0 to 999 ug/m3.

Users may observe particulate trends before and after operating air filtration equipment or changing ventilation arrangements.

However, the available catalog information does not establish reference-grade accuracy or suitability for regulatory measurements.

Understanding PM10 - Particulate Matter

What Is PM10?

PM10 refers to airborne particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter of 10 micrometres or smaller.

PM10 includes the PM2.5 size fraction as well as larger particles within the PM10 category.

Potential sources include dust, outdoor particulate pollution and various indoor activities.

PM10 concentrations are commonly expressed in ug/m3.

PM2.5 vs PM10 - What Is the Difference?

PM2.5 represents a smaller particle size fraction than PM10.

Both measurements are useful, but they should not be interpreted as interchangeable.

PM10 measurements can help users observe broader particulate conditions, while PM2.5 provides information about the finer particle fraction.

Neither parameter alone identifies the exact chemical composition or source of the particles.

Fosensor FS115X2 PM10 Monitoring

The supplied catalog specifies a PM10 measurement range of 0 to 999 ug/m3.

Users may compare readings between locations or under different operating conditions.

For meaningful comparisons, instrument placement and environmental conditions should remain as consistent as practical.

Understanding TVOC - Total Volatile Organic Compounds

What Is TVOC?

TVOC stands for Total Volatile Organic Compounds.

Volatile organic compounds are a broad group of chemicals that can be released into indoor air from various materials and activities.

Potential sources include:

- Paints and coatings

- Adhesives and sealants

- Cleaning products

- Solvents

- Furnishings

- Certain building materials

- Some industrial and workshop processes

What Does a TVOC Reading Mean?

A TVOC indicator is intended to represent a combined or estimated response associated with volatile organic compounds.

Different instruments may use different detection methods, reference gases, calculations and reporting units.

Consequently, TVOC readings from different devices may not be directly comparable.

TVOC monitoring does not automatically identify individual chemicals.

TVOC vs Formaldehyde

Formaldehyde, also known as HCHO, is a specific chemical.

TVOC is a broader indicator and should not be interpreted as a direct formaldehyde measurement.

A TVOC detector cannot automatically replace a formaldehyde-specific instrument.

The supplied Fosensor FS115X2 catalog identifies TVOC but does not establish a dedicated formaldehyde measurement function.

Customers requiring formaldehyde testing should choose equipment with verified HCHO measurement capability.

Fosensor FS115X2 TVOC Limitations

The available catalog information does not establish the FS115X2 TVOC measurement range, sensor technology, accuracy, individual chemical selectivity or response characteristics.

TVOC readings should therefore be treated cautiously and should not be used alone to determine compliance with chemical exposure limits.

Understanding AQI - Air Quality Index

What Is AQI?

AQI stands for Air Quality Index.

An air quality index converts selected pollutant information into a simplified numerical or categorical representation.

AQI is generally a calculated indicator rather than a separately measured pollutant.

Different countries, agencies and instrument manufacturers may use different AQI calculation methods.

What Does the Fosensor FS115X2 AQI Mean?

The supplied catalog identifies an AQI display function.

However, the manufacturer's exact AQI formula, pollutant inputs, averaging periods and classification thresholds have not been established.

Users should not assume that the FS115X2 AQI follows the United States AQI system, Malaysia's API system or any other particular national standard.

The instrument's AQI display should be interpreted according to the manufacturer's confirmed documentation.

Malaysia API or IPU vs Instrument AQI

What Is Malaysia API or IPU?

Malaysia uses the Air Pollutant Index, known as API in English and IPU in Malay, to communicate outdoor air pollution conditions.

Official API or IPU values are published through Malaysia's environmental monitoring system.

Malaysia's API system considers specified air pollutants and uses official calculation and reporting procedures.

The official index is intended for ambient outdoor air quality reporting.

Why Is Malaysia API Different From a Handheld AQI Display?

A handheld indoor air quality monitor measures or estimates conditions at its immediate location.

Malaysia's official API or IPU is calculated using the national ambient air quality monitoring framework.

The two values may differ because of:

- Different measurement locations

- Indoor versus outdoor environments

- Different pollutant inputs

- Different averaging periods

- Different calculation formulas

- Different monitoring equipment and quality assurance procedures

Even when both displays use numbers or similar descriptive categories, they should not be treated as equivalent without documented methodological compatibility.

Can Fosensor FS115X2 Display Malaysia's Official API?

The available FS115X2 catalog information does not establish that its AQI display uses Malaysia's official API or IPU calculation method.

Therefore, it should not be advertised as an official Malaysia API monitor.

For official outdoor air pollution information, users should refer to the Department of Environment Malaysia and its recognised public reporting channels.

CO2 vs PM2.5 vs PM10 vs TVOC vs AQI - Comparison

CO2:

Measures or estimates carbon dioxide concentration.

Typical unit: ppm.

Main application: Observing occupancy-related ventilation trends.

Important limitation: Does not measure all indoor pollutants.

PM2.5:

Represents fine airborne particulate matter.

Typical unit: ug/m3.

Main application: Monitoring fine particle pollution, including haze-related indoor changes.

Important limitation: Does not identify particle chemical composition.

PM10:

Represents airborne particles within the PM10 size fraction.

Typical unit: ug/m3.

Main application: Observing broader particulate conditions.

Important limitation: Does not identify the exact dust or particle source.

TVOC:

Represents an aggregate or estimated response to volatile organic compounds.

Reporting units and methods depend on the instrument.

Main application: Preliminary observation of changes associated with indoor chemical emissions.

Important limitation: Does not identify or quantify individual chemicals without a validated specific method.

AQI:

A calculated air quality indicator.

Usually displayed as an index value or category.

Main application: Simplified presentation of selected air quality information.

Important limitation: Depends on the calculation method and should not be confused with Malaysia's official API or IPU.

Which Air Quality Indicator Is Most Important?

There is no single parameter that completely describes indoor air quality.

The most relevant measurement depends on the application.

For office ventilation observations, CO2 trends may be particularly useful.

For haze-related particulate concerns, PM2.5 is often a key parameter.

For dust-related activities, PM10 may provide additional information.

For possible indoor chemical emissions, TVOC can be a preliminary indicator, although substance-specific testing may be necessary.

AQI can simplify the presentation of selected information but cannot replace an understanding of the underlying measurements.

Applications of Fosensor FS115X2 in Malaysia

1. Home Indoor Air Quality Monitoring

Homeowners may observe PM2.5, PM10 and CO2 trends in living rooms, bedrooms and study areas.

These observations may help identify changes associated with ventilation, occupancy and particulate pollution.

2. Office and Meeting Room Monitoring

Facility personnel may observe CO2 changes during meetings or periods of high occupancy.

The results can support preliminary discussions about ventilation management.

3. Schools and Classrooms

Educational facilities may use a portable monitor to demonstrate how indoor conditions change with occupancy and ventilation.

The instrument should not be presented as a certified exposure assessment device.

4. Haze Monitoring

During regional haze episodes, users may compare indoor particulate readings under different building conditions.

Official Malaysia API or IPU information should still be obtained from recognised government sources.

5. HVAC and Building Maintenance

Maintenance personnel may use the FS115X2 for general environmental screening and trend observations.

Professional investigations may require calibrated, application-specific instruments.

6. Renovation and Indoor Chemical Concerns

After painting or renovation, users may be interested in observing changes in TVOC indications.

However, a TVOC display cannot establish whether individual chemicals are within health-based exposure limits.

How to Interpret Multiple Air Quality Readings

When reviewing the Fosensor FS115X2, avoid treating every indicator as a measure of the same pollution problem.

A room may have relatively low particulate readings but elevated CO2 due to occupancy and insufficient outdoor air exchange.

Another room may have relatively low CO2 while experiencing increased particulate pollution from outdoor haze.

TVOC indications may change following the use of cleaning materials even when particulate readings remain relatively stable.

These examples demonstrate why multiple indicators can provide a broader picture than one parameter alone.

However, a multi-parameter monitor does not necessarily detect every important indoor pollutant.

Good Monitoring Practices

1. Position the instrument in a representative location.

2. Avoid direct airflow, heat sources and obvious local disturbances.

3. Follow manufacturer guidance for startup and stabilisation.

4. Observe trends rather than relying on one isolated reading.

5. Compare readings under reasonably consistent conditions.

6. Record location, time, occupancy and relevant activities.

7. Avoid assuming that different instruments use identical measurement methods.

8. Do not perform undocumented calibration or sensor adjustments.

9. Use professional instruments when verified accuracy or regulatory compliance is required.

10. Consult official Malaysian sources for outdoor API or IPU information.

Fosensor FS115X2 vs Professional IAQ Testing Equipment

The Fosensor FS115X2 is marketed as a convenient handheld multi-indicator air quality detector.

It may be considered for general indoor environmental observation and preliminary monitoring.

Professional indoor air quality assessments may require documented accuracy, appropriate measurement methods, traceable calibration and specific instruments for individual pollutants.

The available FS115X2 catalog information does not establish suitability for certified IAQ assessments, regulatory compliance testing or occupational exposure measurements.

Customers should select instruments according to the technical and documentation requirements of their intended application.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What is the difference between CO2 and PM2.5?

CO2 is a gas associated with respiration and ventilation conditions. PM2.5 represents fine airborne particles. They measure different environmental parameters.

Q2. What is the difference between PM2.5 and PM10?

PM2.5 represents particles with aerodynamic diameters of 2.5 micrometres or smaller. PM10 represents particles with aerodynamic diameters of 10 micrometres or smaller and includes the PM2.5 size fraction.

Q3. Does TVOC mean formaldehyde?

No. TVOC is a broader indicator of volatile organic compounds. It is not equivalent to a specific formaldehyde measurement.

Q4. Is AQI the same as Malaysia API or IPU?

Not necessarily. Malaysia's official API or IPU follows a national ambient air quality reporting methodology. The FS115X2 AQI calculation method has not been verified.

Q5. Can the Fosensor FS115X2 measure CO2?

The supplied catalog identifies CO2 monitoring with a range of 400 to 5000 ppm. The sensor technology and accuracy require manufacturer confirmation.

Q6. Can the Fosensor FS115X2 monitor PM2.5 during haze?

The supplied catalog identifies PM2.5 monitoring from 0 to 999 ug/m3. It may help users observe indoor particulate trends, subject to measurement limitations.

Q7. Does the FS115X2 use an NDIR CO2 sensor?

The available catalog information does not confirm NDIR technology. Customers should request manufacturer documentation.

Q8. Does a low CO2 reading mean indoor air is safe?

No. CO2 is only one environmental indicator. Other pollutants may still be present.

Q9. Can a TVOC reading identify the source of chemical pollution?

Not reliably by itself. Identifying specific chemical sources may require additional investigation and substance-specific testing.

Q10. Can the FS115X2 replace professional IAQ testing?

Professional suitability has not been established from the available catalog information. Formal assessments may require appropriately specified and calibrated instruments.

Q11. Why can indoor AQI differ from official Malaysia API?

The measurements may use different pollutant inputs, locations, averaging periods and calculation methods.

Q12. Where can I enquire about Fosensor FS115X2 in Malaysia?

Contact MTM Precision Sdn. Bhd. for product information and assistance selecting air quality monitoring instruments.

Conclusion

Understanding CO2, PM2.5, PM10, TVOC and AQI is essential when choosing an indoor air quality monitor in Malaysia.

Each indicator provides different information about ventilation, airborne particles, chemical emissions or calculated air quality conditions.

The Fosensor FS115X2 6-in-1 Air Quality Detector combines several commonly used air quality indicators in a portable handheld instrument.

For meaningful monitoring, users should understand the limitations of each measurement, observe trends carefully and avoid confusing an instrument's AQI display with Malaysia's official API or IPU.

Customers requiring additional product information or guidance on choosing indoor air quality monitoring equipment can contact MTM Precision Sdn. Bhd.

Contact MTM Precision

MTM Precision Sdn. Bhd.

Showroom & Service Centre

No. 29-1 & 29-2, Jalan Bandar 18,

Pusat Bandar Puchong,

47160 Puchong, Selangor, Malaysia

Website: www.mtmpre.com.my

Email: mtmpre@yahoo.com

WhatsApp: +6016-660 7346

Office Tel: +603-80807172

Contact MTM Precision for Fosensor FS115X2 product enquiries and indoor air quality monitoring solutions in Malaysia.

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CO2 vs PM2.5 vs PM10 vs TVOC vs AQI Malaysia. Learn the differences, Malaysia API/IPU, haze monitoring and Fosensor FS115X2 applications.

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