Each Fluke product is warranted to be free from defects in material and workmanship under normal use and
service. The warranty period is one year and begins on the date of shipment. Parts, product repairs, and
services are warranted for 90 days. This warranty extends only to the original buyer or end-user customer of
a Fluke authorized reseller, and does not apply to fuses, disposable batteries, or to any product which, in
Fluke's opinion, has been misused, altered, neglected, contaminated, or damaged by accident or abnormal
conditions of operation or handling. Fluke warrants that software will operate substantially in accordance
with its functional specifications for 90 days and that it has been properly recorded on non-defective media.
Fluke does not warrant that software will be error free or operate without interruption.
Fluke authorized resellers shall extend this warranty on new and unused products to end-user customers
only but have no authority to extend a greater or different warranty on behalf of Fluke. Warranty support is
available only if product is purchased through a Fluke authorized sales outlet or Buyer has paid the
applicable international price. Fluke reserves the right to invoice Buyer for importation costs of
repair/replacement parts when product purchased in one country is submitted for repair in another country.
Fluke's warranty obligation is limited, at Fluke's option, to refund of the purchase price, free of charge repair,
or replacement of a defective product which is returned to a Fluke authorized service center within the
warranty period.
To obtain warranty service, contact your nearest Fluke authorized service center to obtain return
authorization information, then send the product to that service center, with a description of the difficulty,
postage and insurance prepaid (FOB Destination). Fluke assumes no risk for damage in transit. Following
warranty repair, the product will be returned to Buyer, transportation prepaid (FOB Destination). If Fluke
determines that failure was caused by neglect, misuse, contamination, alteration, accident, or abnormal
condition of operation or handling, including overvoltage failures caused by use outside the product’s
specified rating, or normal wear and tear of mechanical components, Fluke will provide an estimate of repair
costs and obtain authorization before commencing the work. Following repair, the product will be returned to
the Buyer transportation prepaid and the Buyer will be billed for the repair and return transportation charges
(FOB Shipping Point).
THIS WARRANTY IS BUYER'S SOLE AND EXCLUSIVE REMEDY AND IS IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER
WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO ANY IMPLIED WARRANTY
OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. FLUKE SHALL NOT BE LIABLE
FOR ANY SPECIAL, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES OR LOSSES,
INCLUDING LOSS OF DATA, ARISING FROM ANY CAUSE OR THEORY.
Since some countries or states do not allow limitation of the term of an implied warranty, or exclusion or
limitation of incidental or consequential damages, the limitations and exclusions of this warranty may not
apply to every buyer. If any provision of this Warranty is held invalid or unenforceable by a court or other
decision-maker of competent jurisdiction, such holding will not affect the validity or enforceability of any other
provision.
This chapter supplies information about the Product, the manual set, safety information,
contact information, and specifications.
Product Overview
The Fluke 2638A HYDRA Series III Data Acquisition Unit (the Product or Instrument) is
a portable bench-top data logger that measures and records dc volts, ac volts, dc current,
ac current, resistance, frequency, and temperature (see Table 1-1). See the Specifications
section for information on the types and ranges of the measurement inputs the Product
can accept.
fChapter 1
Features of the Product include:
•
Scan – Sequentially scan up to 67 analog channels per scan sweep. In addition, the
Product also has 20 math channels, one DIO channel, and one TOT channel that can
be included in scan. A scan can be manually controlled from the front panel or
triggered with a variety of triggers such a timer, an alarm, an external source, or a
remote SCPI command.
While a scan is in progress, all channel values can be viewed on the display in a
spreadsheet format along with statistics such as average, standard deviation,
minimum, maximum, peak-to-peak, and rate-of-change. With the Graph feature,
channel measurement data for up to four channels can be plotted and viewed on the
display. Users can toggle the data mode with a softkey to view live data or historical
data.
•
Monitor – View the measurement value or the statistics of a single channel. Monitor
is an independent feature that can be used while a scan is in progress or inactive.
Much like the Scan feature, the statistics of the single measurement can be viewed on
the display or be shown in a graph.
•
Data Storage - Store up to 20 Mb of data and channel setup files directly to the
internal non-volatile memory or an external USB drive. Data can also be transferred
to a PC with a USB drive or LAN TCP/IP interface at the rear of the unit with SCPI
interface command sets.
•Alarms – Each channel can be assigned two independent alarms to indicate when
either an upper (HI) or lower (LO) range has been exceeded. The alarms can be
configured to output a digital signal from the rear-panel alarm output for control of
external devices.
•
Digital I/O (DIO) – The Product is equipped with a digital 8-bit transistor-transistor
logic (TTL) port that can sense and output. When the DIO channel is included in the
scan list, the value of this port is recorded in the scan data record on each scan with a
value range of 0 to 255 based on the port state when it is read.
•
Totalizer – The Product is equipped with a unidirectional, resettable totalizer with an
input count capability of 1,048,575 (20 bits). Counter increment is accomplished
through a change to a digital signal or contact closure to the totalizer input terminals
on the rear of the Instrument.
•
Digital Multimeter Functionality (DMM) – Function that presents the user with
familiar DMM features and controls like a standard bench DMM. The DMM can
show 6 ½ digits on the display. To visualize trend data, the DMM provides additional
functionality to graph and see measurement statistics.
•
Remote Operation – Remotely operate the Product with remote SCPI commands or
the FlukeDAQ application software over a rear-panel USB or LAN TCP/IP
connection.
Table 1-1 identifies and describes the front-panel features and Table 1-2 identifies and
describes the rear-panel features.
Table 1-1. Front-Panel Features
9
8
7
6
10
11
X
12
3452
13
Item Name Function
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
1
hce001.eps
Standby Key
Puts the Product in the standby mode. In standby, the display is off and
the keys are disabled. Standby mode also disables remote operation.
See “Power ON and Standby” in Chapter 2.
Function softkeys to open submenus and set selections. The function of
Function Softkeys
Arrow Keys
USB Data Transfer
Indicator
the softkey changes with each menu and is shown above the softkey
on the display.
Scroll menus, increase or decrease values, and highlight selections.
The keys also let the user cycle through measurement values in data
menus and also change the view of graphs.
Red LED that illuminates when the USB drive is recognized and flashes
red when data is transferred to or from the USB drive.
WCaution
To prevent data loss, do not remove the USB drive when
Front-Panel USB Port
Current Input Terminal
the LED is flashing.
USB port to insert a USB drive.
Input terminal to make current measurements up to 100 mA. The
current input is connected to a thermal over-current protection circuit
that disconnects the input when an overcurrent occurs and reconnects
the input when the condition is removed.
V, Ω, mA Input
Terminals
4WΩ Sense Terminals
Channel Status
Indicator
Menu Name Name of the menu.
XHazardous Voltage
Indicator
Date and Time
Module Indicator
Scan/Monitor
Input terminals that connect to test leads to measure ac and dc volts,
ac and dc milliamps, hertz, and ohms.
Sense input terminals to make 3-wire and 4-wire compensated
resistance measurements.
Square green box that shows when a channel is set to ON. When a
channel is set to ON, it is referred to as “active”.
Warns the user of hazardous voltage on an input. Shows when voltage
is >30 V dc or ac rms.
Shows the current date and time that is set in the Instrument Setup
menu. This date and time is used for timestamps when data is logged.
Visually shows how many and which slots the Input Modules are
connected to. See “Input Module and Relay Card Installation” in
Chapter 2. The model 2638A/05 will only indicate one active slot.
Scan all active channels. The Scan function samples all active
channels directed by the test setup file. The Monitor function shows
measurement data of a single channel. See Chapter 4 for more
information and operation instructions.
Starts and stops data recording. When recording, the key illuminates and
“RECORDING” shows on the top of the display. Recording can be set to
Record
Memory
DMM
Instrument Setup
Channel Setup
Numeric Keypad
automatically start and stop with a scan. In addition to recording scan data,
measurements made with the front-panel DMM can also be recorded. See
Chapter 4 for more information and operation instructions.
Manage setup files, scan data files, and DMM data files on either the
internal memory or USB drive.
Digital multimeter (DMM) function that lets the user quickly configure and
make measurements with the front-panel inputs. See Chapter 5 for DMM
operation instructions.
Configure the Product. Menu contains many user-configurable settings to
customize the Product. See “Configure the Product” in Chapter 2.
Configure and verify channels. Channel Setup is the default menu that
shows on the display when the Product is powered on. See Chapter 3 for
instructions on how to wire and configure a channel.
Use to input numerical values when prompted. Push and hold the PRINT
or “0” key to take a screenshot of the display. Push and hold the LOCK key
to lock the front panel to prevent changes and UNLOCK to unlock.
Table 1-2. Rear-Panel Features
1
11
2
3
12345678123456
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
hce002.eps
Item Name Function
Line Voltage
Selector and Fuse
Regional voltage selector. See “Set the Regional Voltage” in Chapter 2.
Terminal that is internally grounded to the chassis. If the Product is the
location of the ground reference point in a system, this binding post can be
used to connect other instruments to earth ground.
USB port used for remote operation. See the 2638A Remote Programmers Guide.
Network port used for remote operation. See the 2638A Remote Programmers Guide.
Input terminal for the Totalizer feature. See “Totalizer Channel
Configuration” in Chapter 3.
Eight digital ports used to sense and output a digital, 8-bit transistortransistor logic (TTL) value that can be displayed as the 8-bit TTL value and
be recorded as the decimal equivalent.
Six digital outputs that can be used to trigger a digital external alarm if a
channel exceeds the set alarm limits. See “HI and LO Channel Alarms” in
Chapter 3.
Input terminal to trigger a scan when the External trigger type is used. See
Scan Test Setup” in Chapter 4.
Slots that accept the Input Modules. See “Input Module and Relay Card
Installation” in Chapter 2. The 2638A/05 has only one usable slot.
A Warning identifies conditions and procedures that are dangerous to the user. A
Caution identifies conditions and procedures that can cause damage to the Product or
the equipment under test.
See Table 1-3 for a list of symbols used in this manual and on the Product.
Table 1-3. Symbols
Symbol Description Symbol Description
W
X
or
CAT II
CAT IV
Risk of danger. Important
information. See manual.
Hazardous voltage. Voltage
>30 V dc or ac peak might be
present.
AC or DC (Alternating or Direct
Current)
Earth ground.
Recycle.
Measurement Category II is
applicable to test and measuring
circuits connected directly to
utilization points (socket outlets
and similar points) of the lowvoltage MAINS installation.
Measurement Category IV is
applicable to test and measuring
circuits connected at the source
of the building’s low-voltage
MAINS installation.
+
T
CAT III
P
AC (Alternating Current)
DC (Direct Current)
Digital signal.
Power ON / OFF
Double insulated.
Measurement Category III is applicable to
test and measuring circuits connected to the
distribution part of the building’s low-voltage
MAINS installation.
Product conforms with the requirements of
the applicable EC directives.
This product complies with the
WEEE Directive (2002/96/EC)
marking requirements. The
affixed label indicates that you
must not discard this
electrical/electronic product in
~
domestic household waste.
Product Category: With reference
to the equipment types in the
WEEE Directive Annex I, this
product is classed as category 9
"Monitoring and Control
Instrumentation” product. Do not
dispose of this product as
unsorted municipal waste.
To prevent possible electrical shock, fire, or personal injury:
• Read all safety information before you use the Product.
• Carefully read all instructions.
• Use the Product only as specified, or the protection supplied
by the Product can be compromised.
• Examine the case before you use the Product. Look for cracks
or missing plastic. Carefully look at the insulation around the
terminals.
• Do not use the Product if it operates incorrectly.
• Do not use and disable the Product if it is damaged.
• Use only the mains power cord and connector approved for
the voltage and plug configuration in your country and rated
for the Product.
• Replace the mains power cord if the insulation is damaged or
if the insulation shows signs of wear.
• Make sure the ground conductor in the mains power cord is
connected to a protective earth ground. Disruption of the
protective earth could put voltage on the chassis that could
cause death.
• Do not put the Product where access to the mains power cord
is blocked.
• Use only correct measurement category (CAT), voltage, and
amperage rated probes, test leads, and adapters for the
measurement.
• Use only cables with correct voltage ratings.
• Do not use test leads if they are damaged. Examine the test
leads for damaged insulation and measure a known voltage.
• Do not exceed the Measurement Category (CAT) rating of the
lowest rated individual component of a Product, probe, or
accessory.
• Keep fingers behind the finger guards on the probes.
• Do not apply more than the rated voltage, between the
terminals or between each terminal and earth ground.
• Do not touch voltages >30 V ac rms, 42 V ac peak, or 60 V dc.
• Limit operation to the specified measurement category,
voltage, or amperage ratings.
• Measure a known voltage first to make sure that the Product
operates correctly.
Measurement Front Panel ................................ IEC 61010-2-030: CAT II 300 V
Measurement Rear Panel ................................. IEC 61010-2-030: CAT II 150 V CAT II, 250 V rms with maximum
Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC)
International ........................................................ IEC 61326-1: Basic Electromagnetic Environment
transient voltage of 1000 V peak. These terminals are not intended for
connection to mains voltage above 150 V without external transient
suppression. The maximum input that can be applied between rearmodule terminals or between any rear-module terminal and earth
ground is 250 V dc or ac rms.
CISPR 11: Group 1, Class A
Group 1: Equipment has intentionally generated and/or uses
conductively-coupled radio frequency energy that is necessary for
the internal function of the equipment itself.
Class A: Equipment is suitable for use in all establishments other
than domestic and those directly connected to a low-voltage power
supply network that supplies buildings used for domestic purposes.
There may be potential difficulties in ensuring electromagnetic
compatibility in other environments due to conducted and radiated
disturbances.
Emissions that exceed the levels required by CISPR 11 can occur
when the equipment is connected to a test object.
Class A: Equipment meets requirements for industrial
electromagnetic wave equipment and the seller or user should take
notice of it. This equipment is intended for use in business
environments and not to be used in homes.
Accuracy specifications generally are valid for 6 ½ digit resolution mode (unless otherwise noted) for front panel input
(Channel 001), after a minimum of 1-hour warm-up, and within an environment temperature range of 18 °C to 28 °C.
24-hour specifications are relative to calibration standards and assume a controlled electromagnetic environment per EN
61326. The confidence level for accuracy specifications is 99 % within 1 year of calibration (unless otherwise noted).
Scan rate (typical, depending on function and range)
Fast ..................................................................... 46 channels per second max (0.02 seconds per channel)
Medium ............................................................... 10 channels per second (0.1 seconds per channel)
Slow .................................................................... 2 channels per second (0.5 seconds per channel)
Display Resolution ................................................ 4 ½ to 6 ½ digits, depending on Sample Rate or NPLC
DC Voltage
Maximum Input ...................................................... 300 V on any range
Common Mode Rejection ..................................... 140 dB at 50 Hz or 60 Hz (1 kΩ unbalance for NPLC of 1 or greater,
±500 V peak maximum in the low lead)
Normal Mode Rejection ........................................ 55 dB for NPLC of 1 or greater and power-line frequency ±0.1 %,
6 ½ 200
6 ½
6 ½
5 ½ 1 (Medium)
4 ½ 0.2 (Fast) 4 ½ 0.02 -
100
10 (Slow)
add 2 µV
add 2 µV
add 2 µV
add 2 µV
Additional NPLC Noise
Error
-
-
-
add 0.0008 % of range
add 0.002 % of range + 12 µV
add 0.014 % of range + 17 µV
AC Voltage
AC voltage specifications are for ac sine wave signals >5 % of range. For inputs from 1 % to 5 % of range and <50 kHz,
add an additional error of 0.1 % of range. For 50 kHz to 100 kHz, add 0.13 % of range.
Maximum Input ...................................................... 300 V rms or 425 V peak or 3 × 10
less) for any range.
Measurement Method ........................................... AC-coupled true-rms. Measures the ac component of input with up to
6 ½ 200 - 6 ½ 100 - 6 ½ 10 (Slow) - 5 ½ 1 (Medium) 0.0008 % of range 0.0008 % of range
4 ½ 0.2 (Fast) 0.002 % of range + 1.2 µA 0.002 % of range + 12 nA
4 ½ 0.02 0.014 % of range + 1.7 µA 0.014 % of range + 17 nA
Additional NPLC Noise Error
for 10 mA, 100 mA
Additional NPLC Noise
Error for 100 µA, 1 mA
AC Current
Input Protection .................................................... 0.15 A / 600 V resettable PTC
Measurement Method ........................................... AC-coupled true-rms, dc-coupled to the shunt (no blocking capacitor).
Accuracy is given as ± (% measurement + % of range). Basic accuracy specification is for a sinusoidal signal with
amplitude greater than 5 % of range. For input signals between 1 % to 5 % of range, add 0.1 % of range.
Accuracy is given as ± (% measurement + % of range). Basic accuracy specification is for 4-wire resistance. For 2-wire
resistance add 0.02 Ω internal resistance if using Channel 1 or 1.5 Ω if using channels x01 through x20, and add external
lead wire resistance.
Range
100 Ω
1 kΩ
10 kΩ
100 kΩ
1 MΩ
10 MΩ
100 MΩ
Note:
For conducted disturbances on mains input >1 V from 10 MHz to 40 MHz, add 0.6 % of range. For disturbances >3 V,
6 ½ 200 0 % of range
6 ½ 100 0 % of range
6 ½ 10 (Slow) 0 % of range
5 ½ 1 (Medium) 0.0008 % of range
4 ½ 0.2 (Fast)(only for 2-wire)
4 ½ 0.02 (only for 2-wire)
0.002 % of range + 12 mΩ
0.01 % of range + 17 mΩ
RTD
Temperature Range .............................................. -200 °C to 1200 °C (depending on the sensor)
Resistance Range ................................................. 0 Ω to 4 kΩ
Maximum Lead Resistance (4-wire Ω) ................ 2.5 % of range per lead for 400 Ω and 4 kΩ ranges
Accuracy is for 4-wire 100 Ω nominal RTD, using the slow sample rate. With 3-wire PRT/RTD add 0.015 °C if using
Channel 1, or add 0.15 °C internal resistance mismatch to the accuracy specification if using channels x01 through x20,
and add external lead wire resistance mismatch. When using medium or fast sample rate (NPLC <10), add the number
given in the table to the accuracy specification. If the environment temperature is outside the specified range, multiply the
Temperature Coefficient number by the temperature deviation and add to the accuracy specification. Linear interpolation
may be used between points in the table. Specifications do not include sensor accuracy. The practical range of
temperature measurement depends on the sensor and characterization.
Temperature Accuracy
-200 °C 0.016 °C add 0.02 °C 0.0026 °C
0 °C 0.038 °C add 0.02 °C 0.0041 °C
300 °C 0.073 °C add 0.03 °C 0.0063 °C
600 °C 0.113 °C add 0.03 °C 0.0089 °C
Note:
For conducted disturbances on mains input >1 V from 10 MHz to 40 MHz, add 0.2 Celsius. For disturbances >3 V,
accuracy is unspecified.
Medium/Fast Sample
Rate (NPLC <10)
T.C./ °C Outside
18 °C to 28 °C
RTD Measurement Characteristics
Temperature Display Resolution
Range
0 Ω to 400 Ω
400 Ω to 4 kΩ
Slow
Sample Rate
0.001 °C 0.01 °C
0.001 °C 0.01 °C
Medium/Fast
Sample Rate
Source Current
1 mA
0.1 mA
Thermistor
Temperature Range .............................................. -200 °C to 400 °C (depending on the sensor)
Resistance Range ................................................. 0 Ω to 1 MΩ
Medium ............................................................... 2 PLC
Fast ..................................................................... 1 PLC
1-20
Thermistor Temperature Accuracy
Accuracy specifications are for a 4-wire thermistor using medium or slow sample rate. With 2-wire thermistor add the
number given in the table to the accuracy specification for internal resistance. When using fast sample rate (NPLC <10),
multiply the accuracy specification by 3. If the environment temperature is outside the specified range, increase the
accuracy specification by 25 % for every 1 °C outside the specified environment temperature range. Specifications do not
include sensor accuracy. The practical range of temperature measurement depends on the sensor.
Accuracy
Temperature
-40 °C 0.002 °C 0.007 °C 0.007 °C add 0.002 °C
0 °C 0.005 °C 0.004 °C 0.003 °C add 0.004 °C
25 °C 0.013 °C 0.007 °C 0.005 °C add 0.016 °C
50 °C 0.019 °C 0.01 °C 0.011 °C add 0.05 °C
100 °C 0.116 °C 0.054 °C 0.026 °C add 0.34 °C
150 °C 0.527 °C 0.239 °C 0.1 °C add 1.7 °C
Note:
For conducted disturbances on mains input >1 V from 10 MHz to 40 MHz, add 0.2 Celsius. For disturbances >3 V,
accuracy is unspecified.
Medium ............................................................... 2 PLC
Fast ..................................................................... 1 PLC
Thermocouple Temperature Accuracy
Accuracy specifications apply using a slow sample rate. When using a medium or fast sample rate (NPLC < 10), increase
the accuracy specification by 25 %. If the environment temperature is outside the specified range, increase the accuracy
specification by 12 % for every 1 °C outside the specified environment temperature range. Accuracy with fixed/external
CJC does not include the accuracy of the reference junction temperature. Linear interpolation may be used between
points in the table. Specifications do not include sensor accuracy. The practical range of temperature measurement
depends on the sensor.
This chapter supplies information and instructions on how to set up and configure the
Product for first time use.
Set the Regional Voltage
The Product is equipped with a voltage selector that must be set for the region of use
before the mains power cord is connected. The selector can be set to 100 V, 120 V,
220 V, or 240 V. See Figure 2-1 for an illustration on how to set the voltage selector.
See Chapter 6 for instructions on how to change the fuse. Each voltage selection requires
a specific fuse. See Table 2-1.
Chapter 2
Table 2-1. Fuses
Voltage Selector Fuse Fluke Calibration Part Number
100 V 0.25 A, 250 V (slow blow) 166306
120 V 0.25 A, 250 V (slow blow) 166306
220 V 160 mA, 250 V (slow blow) 4394437
240 V 160 mA, 250 V (slow blow) 4394437
WCaution
To prevent damage to the Product, make sure the regional
voltage selector is in the correct position for the region of use
before mains power is connected.
Use the mains power cord to connect the Product to a 100 V ac, 120 V ac, or 230 V ac
nominal outlet as shown in Figure 2-2.
WXWarning
To prevent possible electrical shock, fire, or personal injury:
• Use only the mains power cord and connector approved for
the voltage and plug configuration in your country and rated
for the Product.
• Replace the mains power cord if the insulation is damaged
or if the insulation shows signs of wear.
• Make sure the ground conductor in the mains power cord is
connected to a protective earth ground. Disruption of the
protective earth could put voltage on the chassis that could
cause death.
• Do not put the Product where access to the mains power
cord is blocked.
WCaution
To prevent damage to the Product, make sure the regional
voltage selector is in the correct position for the region of use
before mains power is connected.
The handle is used to easily transport the Product but can also be used as a stand.
Figure 2-3 shows the various handle positions and also shows how to remove and install
the handle and the protective rubber boots.
As shown in Figure 2-4, the Product has a main power switch located on the rear panel
that supplies power to the unit, and a Standby key () on the front panel that puts the
Product in a standby mode. Push the (I) side of the main power switch to power on the
Product. As the Product powers on, a startup screen is shown on the display while the
Product performs a self-check. This self-check can take up to 2 minutes to complete and
if the Product detects any errors, an error message is shown on the display that contains
the error description along with an error code to help troubleshoot the problem (see
“Error Messages” in Chapter 7).
Once the Product is powered on, use the Standby key () to put the Product in
standby. When in standby, the display, keys, and functions are disabled while the internal
components remain powered on and warmed up (see “Warm-Up the Product”).
It is recommended that the Product be warmed up before use to stabilize the
environmentally controlled components. This will ensure the best performance to the
specification listed in Chapter 1. Sufficient warm-up times are as follows:
• If the Product has been powered off for 30 minutes or more, let it warm-up for 1 hour
or more.
• If the Product has been powered off for less than 30 minutes, let it warm-up for a
minimum of two times the length of time it was powered off. For example, if Product
has been turned off for 10 minutes, let it warm-up for 20 minutes.
Configure the Product
Use the Instrument Setup menu to configure the Product. To open the Instrument Setup
menu, push
the menu softkeys shown on the display to edit the settings.
Table 2-2 shows the menu items and selections available in the Instrument Setup menu.
on the front panel. To change a setting, highlight the setting then use
Table 2-2. Instrument Setup Menu
Menu Item Description Selections Available
Language
Firmware
Date
Time
Decimal
Format
Display
Brightness
Keypad Beep
Changes the display language.
Note
If the incorrect language is set by accident, push
then push . This temporarily resets the language to
English.
Shows the firmware version installed, model number, and
serial number
Changes the date and date format shown on the top-right
corner of the display. This date is also used for
timestamps in the data log.
Changes the time and time format shown on the top-right
corner of the display. This time is also used for
timestamps in the data log.
Changes the decimal format to show a comma or
decimal.
Changes the display brightness level. High, Med, or Low
Turn on or turn off the key beep that sounds when a key
is pushed.
Screen Saver Change the wait time or disable the screensaver.
Calibration
Date
Password
Management
Resume Scan
Remote Port
Relay Counter
Shows the date that the Product was last calibrated. See
the 2638A Calibration Manual for more information.
Change the Admin and User profile passwords.
Sets the Product to automatically turn on and resume
scanning and recording after a power loss.
Configure the LAN Ethernet or serial USB communication
settings.
Shows how many times the channel relays have been
scanned along with the name, serial number, and
calibration date of the Input Module.
Input Module and Relay Card Installation
Before an Input Module can be inserted into the rear panel, a relay card must be installed.
Use the procedure below and refer to Figure 2-6 as necessary to install the relay card:
1. Power off the Product with the main power switch.
Never, 15 Min, 30 Min, or
60 Min
--
See “Set Up Security” in this
chapter for more information.
See “Automatic Power Loss
Scan Resume” in Chapter 4
for more information.
See the 2638 Remote Programmers Guide for more
information.
--
2. Remove the six screws that secures the plastic frame to the rear panel.
3. Remove the plastic frame.
4. Slide the aluminum slot protector out of the Product.
5. Carefully align the rails of the relay card into the slot guides.
6. Slowly push the relay card into the Product until the card is fully seated.
WCaution
Do not force the relay card into the slot. The card should easily
move when the rails of the relay card are properly aligned in the
slot guides.
The 2638A/05 has only one available relay slot. Do not remove
the cover plates on slots 2 and 3. This will damage the Product
and require a return for service.
7. Install the plastic frame and secure it to the rear panel with six screws.
The Product has one administration (Admin) and five User profiles. The Admin profile is
used for three purposes:
• To protect the Product from accidental or unintentional changes to the calibration
coefficients. The Admin profile is the only profile that can open the Calibration menu
to calibrate the Product. Refer to the 2638A Calibration Manual for calibration and
adjustment instructions.
• To clear the memory or reset the Product to factory defaults. See Chapter 6.
• To change passwords of the User profiles.
The User profiles sole purpose is to produce secure data files that are traceable back to
the user who performed the test (commonly referred to as test traceability). See Chapter 4
for more information.
Note
The user profile names are fixed and cannot be changed.
The Product ships from the factory with a default Admin password of “2638”. To change
the Admin or User profile password:
1. Push .
2. Highlight
3. Enter the default password of
previously changed) then push .
4. Select an
5. Enter a new password then push .
6. Enter the password again to confirm then push .
This chapter supplies instructions on how to wire inputs to the Input Module then
configure the associated channel.
Input Wiring
The Universal Input Module
The 2686A-100 Universal Input Module (the Input Module) is used to wire inputs of
various types to the Product (see Figure 3-1). Each Input Module has 22 analog channels
(ChX01 through ChX20) that can be configured to measure dc volts, ac volts, resistance,
frequency, and temperature and two low-burden current channels (ChX21 and ChX22)
that can be configured to measure ac and dc current without the use of an external shunt
resistor.
To expand the functionality of the Product, current sources can also be connected
to channels ChX01 through ChX20 by the use of an accessory shunt resistor. See
Chapter 6 for part number and ordering information.
Note: For 3-Wire connections, leave the H sense open.
Figure 3-1. 2-Wire, 3-Wire, and 4-Wire Example Connections
3-Wire or 4-Wire Connection
Wiring Safety and Considerations
To prevent possible electrical shock, fire, or personal injury:
• Consider all accessible channels to be hazardous live and an
electric shock hazard if any channel is connected to a
hazardous voltage source.
• Do not remove, touch, or change the internal wiring of
hazardous inputs until the input source is turned off.
• Remove inputs from hazardous voltage sources before an
input module is opened.
• Use the correct terminals, function, and range for
measurements.
2-Wire
Connection
4-Wire Connection
WXWarning
3-Wire or
hcn024.eps
• Make sure proper insulation is maintained between channel
wiring terminations and that no loose strands are outside of
the terminal block connections.
WCaution
To prevent damage to the Product, do not exceed the specified
input voltage levels.
Shielded wires and sensors (such as thermocouples) should be used in environments
where "noisy" voltage sources are present. When shielded wiring is used, the shield is
normally connected to the L (low) input terminals for each channel. Alternate
configurations should be examined for each equipment application.
In situations where multiple inputs of different types are connected, a phenomenon
known as crosstalk can cause one signal to interfere with another and thereby introduce
measurement errors. The typical effect is an ac voltage channel can be interfered by
another high frequency/high voltage ac signal on the same Input Module.
3-Wire and 4-Wire Sense Input Configuration
For improved resistance measurement accuracy, the Product can connect to 3-wire (PRT
only) and 4-wire instruments with sense connections.
Sense connections cancel out the resistance of the test lead or wire that significantly
improves the accuracy of the measurement. As shown in Table 3-1, many thermistors,
platinum-resistance thermometers (PRTs) and resistors use a 3-wire or 4-wire sense
connection to eliminate lead wire resistance errors.
For 2-wire measurements, the wires can be connected to either the source or sense
channels ChX01 through ChX20. For 3-wire or 4-wire resistance measurements, the
source wires must be connected to channels ChX01 through ChX10 and the sense wires
to the set of terminals directly across from where the source is connected (channels
ChX11 through ChX20).
Note
The Product will not show or let the user select a 3-wire or 4-wire input on
channels ChX11 through ChX20.
Figure 3-2 shows an example of a 4-wire input (PRT) with sense wires connected to the
Input Module, then how it would look in the Channel Setup menu once it is properly
configured.
To use the sense connections, the channel connected to the source wires must be
configured as a 3-wire or 4-wire input as described in “Channel Configuration
Procedures” on page 3-7. When a channel is configured as a 3-wire or 4-wire input, the
Product automatically reserves the sense channel across from the source that prevents the
channel from being independently configured, as shown in Figure 3-2.
Table 3-1 lists the type of input types the Product can measure and the wiring polarity
that should be used to wire it to the Input Module.
Table 3-1. Types of Inputs
Channel
Type of Input Range and Types
Configuration
Reference
Wiring Polarity
ac and dc
Voltage
ac and dc
Current
[1]
Resistance (Ω)
Platinum
Resistance
Thermometer
(PRT)
Thermistor
Thermocouple
Range: 0 V to 300 V
[2]
Page 3-17
Range: 0 mA to ±100
mA
[3]
2-Wire or 4-Wire
Range: 0 Ω to 100 MΩ
2-Wire, 3-Wire or 4-Wire
Types:
• PT385 or PT392
• R0: 0.09 Ω to 1.2 kΩ
2-Wire or 4-Wire
Types:
• 2.252 kΩ
• 5 kΩ
• 10 kΩ
Types: B, C, D, E, G, J,
K, L, M, N, R, S, T, U,
W,
Page 3-17
Page 3-18
Page 3-22
Page 3-20
Page 3-19
Source
Source
H
L
V
2-Wire
H
L
R
3-Wire
H
R
L
H
Sense
L
4-Wire
H
R
L
H
Sense
L
H
L
Note
[1] − Each Input Module has two terminal sets (mA 21 and mA 22) that are dedicated to current measurements.
[2] − 300 V is for Ch001 only. Other analog channels are 150 V max.
[3] − 100 M
Ω is for Ch001 only. Other analog channels are 10 MΩMax.
Use the procedure below and refer to Figure 3-1 for instructions on how to wire a 2-wire,
3-wire, or 4-wire input to the Input Module.
WXWarning
To prevent possible electrical shock, fire, or personal injury,
read the Wiring Safety and Considerations section on page 3-2.
1. Power off the Product with the main power switch.
2. Squeeze together the release tabs located on both sides of the Input Module then pull
the module out of the Product.
3. Use a straight-head screw driver to rotate the cover locks to the unlock position then
open the cover.
W Caution
To prevent damage to the module, never turn the cover locks
more than quarter of a turn.
4. Connect the positive source wire to the H terminal and the negative source wire to the
L terminal. For 3-wire and 4-wire sense connections, connect the sense wires to the
terminals directly across from the source wires. See “Sense Input Configuration” on
page 3-3.
5. Route the wires through the strain-relief pins then out the back of the Input Module.
If necessary, the rubber wire compressor used to secure the wires can be removed for
more room.
6. Close the Input Module cover and rotate the cover locks to the locked position.
7. Align the Input Module on the guide rails and carefully slide the module into the
connector at the rear of the Product until it latches in place.
8. Power on the Product with the main power switch. After powered on, the Product
tests the connection to the Input Module. If the Input Module is recognized, the
module indicator changes to green and shows all channels available on the left side of
the Channel Setup menu as shown in Figure 3-3. If the module indicator does not
turn green, refer to the troubleshooting information in Chapter 4.
9. Configure the channel. For instructions on how to configure the various input types,
This section contains instructions on how to configure the channels after the inputs are
connected to the Input Module.
About Channel Numbers
A channel number (Ch) is a numerical identification associated with a set of terminals on
the Input Module. The channel number of the input is determined by the slot number the
Input Module is in (1, 2, or 3) followed by the number of the terminal the input is
connected to (1 to 22) as illustrated in Figure 3-4. The front-panel inputs are permanently
assigned to channel Ch001. Here are some examples on how to determine the channel
number of an input:
• A voltage source is connected to input terminal 4 (04) in the Input Module and then
slid into slot 1. The channel is Ch104.
Slot 1
Slot 2
Slot 3
Module Installed
Empty
Empty
hce031.eps
• A thermistor source is connected to input terminal 8 (08) in the Input Module and then
slid into slot 2. The channel is Ch208.
• A voltage source is connected to the front-panel terminals. The channel is Ch001.
Table 3-2 shows channel types and channel numbers.
Use the instructions in this section to perform basic channel operations.
Open the Channel Setup Menu
The Channel Setup menu lets the user manage channels, verify inputs, and also set up
tests. To open the menu, push
To select channels, use the and arrow keys. To quickly move up and down the list
of channels, use the and arrow keys.
The Channel Setup menu cannot be accessed while a scan is in progress.
on the front panel.
Note
Table 3-3. Channel Setup Menu
4
Item Function
Module indicator that has three bars to show which Input Modules are connected and registered.
The top indicator is slot 1, the middle indicator is slot 2, and the bottom indicator is slot 3. When a
module is in a slot, the indicator is green. When a slot is empty, the indicator is white.
Channel status. When ON, the channel can be configured and the channel status indicator to the
left of the channel is green. When OFF, the channel information is not shown and the channel
status indicator is white.
List of available channels. Channels show in the list only when an Input Module relay card is
installed in a slot. For example, Ch201 through Ch222 will not show in the channel list until an
Input Module relay card is installed into slot 2.
32
5
1
hce032.eps
Note
Ch001 is always the front-panel terminals and always shows in the channel list.
Channel status indicator. When a channel is set to ON, the channel status indicator is green. When
OFF, the channel status indicator is white.
Channel selection indicator. When a channel is selected, the channel information shows on the
screen. Use and to move up or down one channel at a time. Use or to jump to the next
module number (for example, to jump from channel Ch101 to channel Ch201).
Set Channels to ON or OFF
To scan, monitor, or record an input, the associated channel must be set to ON and
configured. When a channel is set to ON, it is referred to as “active”. The channel
indicator appears green when set to ON and white when set to OFF as shown in
Figure 3-5. To set a channel to ON, push
then push . Push again to set
the channel to OFF.
Channel Status Indicators
Green = ON
White = OFF
hce018.eps
Figure 3-5. Channel Status Indicators
When a channel is set to ON, the channel loads the previous channel configuration. If the
channel was not previously configured, the default channel settings are loaded. To change
the or edit the channel:
The display opens a channel configuration sequence that prompts the user to select key
parameters for the specific channel type. These sequences are shown and described in the
analog channel configuration section that starts on page 3-16.
Note
If the configuration sequence is skipped or stopped before the sequence is
complete, the default channel settings are used for the skipped steps. Some
channel settings are not able to be configured or changed outside of the
setup sequence.
Use the or to select the settings and input values with the numeric keypad. Once a
parameter is set, push to save the setting.
Verify a Channel
After a channel is set to ON and configured, a direct measurement can be made to verify
that the channel is configured properly.
To verify a channel:
1. Turn on the input source that is connected to the Product.
2. Push .
3. Push or to highlight a channel.
4. Set the channel to
5. Push to edit the channel.
6. Push to open the Verify Channel menu.
7. Evaluate the measurement and zero the channel if necessary. See “Zero a Channel”.
Zero a Channel
In certain applications, it may be necessary to zero the channel in order to make
measurements without unwanted offsets or noise levels. The zero channel function is
located in the Verify Channel menu that is accessed by a softkey in the Channel Setup
menu. The Product uses the Mx+B offset value to zero a channel. To do this, the Product
calculates the offset required to convert the measurement to a zero value, sets Mx+B to
ON, and loads the calculated offset value into the Mx+B settings. To clear the zero, the
offset value can be manually set back to the original value (usually “0”) or Mx+B can be
set to OFF if it was off before the channel was zeroed. Zero offset values can be viewed
in the setup file associated with the scan data file (see Chapter 4).
When a zero is performed, the Product will overwrite any custom offset
values in the Mx+B settings. If a channel has a custom Mx+B offset, make
note of the offset value before the channel is zeroed so it can be referred to
later if necessary.
To zero a channel:
ON.
Note
1. Turn on the input source that is connected to the Product.
6. Push to zero the channel. A confirmation message appears, select
continue or
is selected, the Product sets the Mx+B to
Cancel to disregard the changes and return to previous menu. After OK
ON and loads the calculated offset into the
OK to
Mx+B offset setting. To clear the zero function, set the Mx+B back to the original
values. See “Mx+B Scaling” on page 3-29 for instructions.
Mx+B Indicator
Relative Measurement Value
Baseline Measurement
Copy a Channel
The Product has a copy and paste function to help duplicate channels. When a channel is
duplicated, all of the channel configuration settings are copied and pasted to a new
channel number. The copy channel softkey in located in the Channel Setup menu.
When a channel is copied to another channel, the channel configuration of
the target channel is overwritten without a notification. Confirm the
channel selections before OK is pushed to prevent accidental overwrites.
5. Use or to highlight a channel then push to select the channels to paste to.
6. Push to paste the channels.
Save or Load a Channel Configuration (Setup File)
The channel and test configuration can be saved to a file referred to as the Setup file.
When the Setup file is saved, the Product saves the present configuration of each channel
(including Mx+B and Alarms) in their current state (ON or OFF). Setup files can be
loaded at a later time or transferred to another Product with a USB drive. Setup files are
managed and loaded from the internal memory in the Memory menu.
Notes
• Setup files cannot be directly saved to or loaded from the USB drive.
To save Setup files to a USB drive, save the file to the internal
memory, then copy it to the USB drive. To load a Setup file from a
USB drive, copy the file to internal memory then load the file. See the
instructions below.
• The Product will not load a Setup file if the present configuration does
not match the configuration in the Setup file. This is caused by missing
Input Modules. Match the configuration and try to load the Setup file
again.
To save a Setup File:
1. Push
2. Push .
3. Follow the on-screen directions to name the file then push to save.
To save a Setup file to a USB drive:
1. Save the current Setup file to internal memory.
2. Insert a USB drive into the front-panel USB port.
3. Push .
4. Push to select
.
Note
Wait about 15 seconds to let the Product recognize the USB drive. The LED
illuminates solid red when the USB drive is recognized and ready.
To reset the entire channel configuration and test setup:
Note
All channels are set to the default settings when reset and cannot be
restored unless the configuration was saved.
1. Push and hold
2. Push to confirm to reset channel setup, or push to cancel.
Analog Channel Configuration (Ch001, Ch101 to Ch322)
After an analog input is connected to the Input Module and/or the front-panel connectors,
the channel must be configured for the type of input that is connected. Analog inputs are
channels Ch101 to Ch122, Ch201 to Ch222, and Ch301 to Ch322. Use the procedure
below and the tables in this section to set up channels for specific input types.
Please read the considerations below to help with channel configuration:
• For new channels that have not been previously set up, the user is prompted to
configure the channel when it is set to ON for the first time. Push the cancel softkey
() while in the setup sequence to: (1) accept the default settings for new channels
or (2) use the previous configuration for channels previously configured.
• A channel can be configured with the Edit Channel softkey in the Channel Setup
menu.
• Each channel has independent channel options such as Channel Delay, Rate of
Change, NPLC, and Input Impedance, that can be accessed with the Channel Options
softkey in the Edit Channel menu. The channel options listed vary based on the on
the input type.
• After a channel is configured, it is important to verify the channel with the Verify
Channel softkey on the Channel Setup menu. This ensures that the channel was
configured properly before data is collected from a scan. See “Verify a Channel” on
page 3-12.
for 3 seconds.
3-16
To configure an analog channel:
1. Push
2. Set the channel to ON (see “Set Channels to ON or OFF” on page 3-10). When the
3. Use the information in the tables in this section to configure the channel. Push or
.
channel is set to ON, a channel configuration sequence shows on the display that
steps the user through an initial configuration sequence as shown in Table 3-5. If the
channel was previously configured, push to cancel the configuration sequence
to use the last channel configuration.
to highlight the channel setting then push to edit the setting.
4. After the channel is configured, verify that the channel is configured properly and
reading the input. For instructions, see “Verify a Channel” on page 3-12.
Current and Voltage Channels
Refer to Table 3-4 to configure an ac or dc voltage or current channel.
Note
Ch001 can be set up for all measurements. ChX21 and ChX22 are the only
channels that can be set up for current measurements. To expand the
functionality of the Product, current sources can also be connected to
ChX01 through ChX20 by the use of an accessory shunt resistor. See
Chapter 2 for part number and ordering information.
Table 3-4. Current and Voltage Channel Configuration
1
2
3
4
5
Item Function
DC voltage, AC voltage, DC current, or AC current function selection.
For voltage, set the voltage range to: Auto, 100 mV, 1 V, 10 V, 100 V, or 150 V. Ch001 can be set to
300 V.
For current, set the current range to: Auto, 100 µA, 1 mA, 10mA, or 100 mA.
Input a custom alpha-numeric label to help identify the channel (optional).
Set an alarm for this channel (optional). See “HI and LO Channel Alarms” on page 3-30.
Apply Mx+B scaling to the measurement (optional). See “Mx+B Scaling” on page 3-29.
The Product can sense and output a digital, 8-bit transistor-transistor logic (TTL) value
that can be displayed as the 8-bit TTL value and be recorded as the decimal equivalent.
This is accomplished with the rear-panel digital I/O connectors (DIO) that are shown in
Figure 3-7.
When a DIO input is sensed, the Product displays the status of the digital I/O as 8-bit
TTL value and records the decimal equivalent. The 8-bit TTL value can also be seen
when a channel is monitored. The default value is a high state that shows as “11111111”
until the Product senses a low state or is used as an output. A few examples of some 8-bit
TTL values and their decimal equivalents are shown below:
• 11111111 is represented by decimal 255
• 00001111 is represented by decimal 15
• 00010001 is represented by decimal 17
• 10000101 is represented by decimal 133
Notes
For input and output specifications such as input and output voltages, see
“Digital I/O” in Chapter 1.
The DIO channel will be read-only when it is set to ON (active).
With a remote command, the Product can output an 8-bit TTL value. See the
2638A Remote Programmers Guide for more information.
Terminal
TOT
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
GND
Function
Totalizer Input
Input/Output Line 1
Input/Output Line 2
Input/Output Line 3
Input/Output Line 4
Input/Output Line 5
Input/Output Line 6
Input/Output Line 7
Input/Output Line 8
Ground Terminal
Figure 3-7. DIO Connector
Set up the DIO channel as follows:
1. Connect the equipment to the DIO input terminal then insert it into the rear-panel
3. Set channel 401 to ON (see “Set Channels to ON or OFF” on page 3-11).
4. Assign a label to the channel if desired.
5. To measure the DIO, monitor channel Ch401 in the Scan/Monitor menu. The
8-bit TTL value is shown on the display and the decimal equivalent will be recorded
to the data file.
Totalizer Channel Configuration (Ch402)
The Product is equipped with a unidirectional, resettable totalizer with an input count
capability of 0 to 1048575 (20 bits). When a digital input is connected to the TOT input
on the rear panel and Ch402 is set to on, the Product counts each time the dc voltage of
the signal transitions from high to low or a contact closes to the ground (GND). When a
scan started, the TOT counter is reset to 0. The totalizer count can be manually reset at
any time with in the Scan menu.
Read Mode
The totalizer function has two read modes: read and read/reset. The mode can be set in
Channel Setup or by remote command. The default totalizer mode is read.
In read mode, the count is not effected when read during the scan sweep or read by
remote command.
In read/reset mode, the totalizer count is automatically reset to 0 when it is read during a
scan sweep or read by remote command. It is not effected by pause scan. The totalizer
count is not reset when it is viewed with the Monitor function.
Debounce
In some applications, contacts can “bounce” when they close that results in multiple
signals on one line. Without a filter the Product detects multiple closures that can cause
duplicate counts for one closure. To filter the signal, the Product has a debounce feature
that can detect bounce on the signal and ignore it. Debounce (600 Hz) can be turned on
with the Edit channel function of the Totalizer channel (Ch402). If the debounce feature
is disabled, 10 kHz is the maximum frequency the Totalizer input can support.
Terminal
TOT
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
GND
Function
Totalizer Input
Input/Output Line 1
Input/Output Line 2
Input/Output Line 3
Input/Output Line 4
Input/Output Line 5
Input/Output Line 6
Input/Output Line 7
Input/Output Line 8
Ground Terminal
Set up a totalizer channel as follows (see Table 3-10):
1. Connect the input to the TOT input terminal then insert it into the rear-panel Digital
I/O port.
2. Set the channel to ON (see “Set Channels to ON or OFF” on page 3-10). When the
channel is set to ON, a channel configuration sequence shows on the display that
steps the user through an initial configuration sequence as shown in Table 3-10. If the
channel was previously configured, push to cancel the configuration sequence
to use the last channel configuration.
3. Use the information in Table 3-10 to configure the totalizer channel. Push or to
highlight the channel setting then push to edit the setting.
4. To see the totalizer count, monitor Ch402 in the Scan/Monitor menu.
Table 3-10. Totalizer Channel Configuration
1
2
3
Item Function
Input a custom alpha-numeric label to help identify the channel (optional).
Read mode selection. See “Read Mode” on page 3-24.
Set the Debounce feature to ON or OFF. See “Debounce” on page 3-24.
The Product has 20 math channels that lets the user apply a math conversion to a single
channel or to a range of channels through the use of preset math functions. Table 3-11
lists the math functions available for use.
Math channels are commonly used to combine the measurement values then display them
as one number without the need to manually calculate the values. Like all other channels,
math channels can be scanned and recorded.
Another use of the math channels is to apply a math conversion to a single channel that is
more advanced than Mx+B scaling. For example, a more accurate conversion of an
output of a transducer to a physical parameter.
More complicated expressions can be made with a math channel that uses the
calculations from two other math channels. For example, a math channel could be
configured to calculate the exponential function of another math channel that is
configured to calculate a polynomial function of an input channel.
Table 3-11. Math Channel Formulas
Formula Equation Description
C
A6 + C5A5 + C4A4 + C3A3
Polynomial
Square Root √A
Power Ax
Exponential eA
Log10 Log10(A)
|A| ABS(A)
6
+ C
A2 + C1A + C0
2
Calculates a polynomial expression of up to sixth order.
Coefficients may be set to arbitrary constants. A
polynomial of order less than six is created by setting
high order coefficients to 0.
Calculates the square root function. The argument must
be a positive number, otherwise the result will be "+OL"
(over limit).
Calculates the power of the variable. The exponent can
be a noninteger number but the result will be "+OL" if the
argument is negative.
Calculates the exponential function of a variable, where
e is 2.718.
Calculates the logarithm, base 10, of a variable. The
argument must be positive or the result will be "+OL".
This formula is helpful when used with an Mx+B scale
factor of 20 to convert a reading to decibels.
Calculates the absolute value of a variable, converting a
value to a positive number if it happens to be negative.
The absolute value function can be useful to ensure that
the argument to another math channel is always positive.
N/A Finds the maximum reading among selected channels.
[1]
N/A Finds the minimum reading among selected channels.
A1 + A2 + A3… Calculates the sum of the readings of selected channels.
A1 + A2 + A3…
N
Calculates the reciprocal of a variable. The argument
cannot be 0 or the result will be "+OL".
Adds the readings of two source channels. This is useful
to create expressions of more than one independent
variable.
Calculates the difference between readings of two
source channels.
Multiplies the readings of two source channels. This can
be useful for calculating electric power from a voltage
reading on one channel and a current reading on
another channel.
Divides the reading of one source channel by the
reading of another channel. This can be useful for
observing the ratio of two related parameters. The
argument cannot be 0 or the result will be "+OL".
Calculates the arithmetic mean of the readings of
selected channels.
Note
[1] - Maximum of 10 channels can be calculated.
Set up a math channel as follows (see Table 3-12):
1. Connect and configure the channel or channels to apply the math formula to.
2. Set the channel to ON (see “Set Channels to ON or OFF” on page 3-10). When the
channel is set to ON, a channel configuration sequence shows on the display that
steps the user through an initial configuration sequence as shown in Table 3-12. If the
channel was previously configured, push to cancel the configuration sequence
to use the last channel configuration.
3. Use the information in the Table 3-12 to configure the math channel. Push or
to highlight the channel setting then push to edit the setting.
Channel selection for the first base channel “A”.
Channel selection for the second base channel “B”.
Note
Only channels “A” and “B” are shown in the example because the sum math formula only
combines two channels. Some formulas have only one source channel while some others allow
more than two source channels.
Set the unique unit to be associated with the measurement value.
Input a custom alpha-numeric label to help identify the channel (optional).
Set an alarm for this channel (optional). See “HI and LO Channel Alarms” on page 3-30.
Apply Mx+B scaling to the measurement (optional). See “Mx+B Scaling” on page 3-29.
The subsequent sections supply information and procedures on how to apply Mx+B
scaling, set up channel alarms, and configure additional channel options.
Mx+B Scaling
Mx+B is a calculation that can be applied to a channel to scale a measurement value. This
feature is useful in applications where an input measurement needs to be converted to a
different unit or value to simulate an output. Common scaling conversions are:
• Scaling of a milliamp output of a pressure transducer to the equivalent kPa or psi
value.
• Scaling of a temperature reading from degrees Celsius to kelvins.
• Conversion of shunt resistor voltage to current in amperes.
To calculate Mx+B, the "M" value is referred to as the “gain” and is used as a multiplier
of the actual reading. After the gain is calculated, the "B" value or the “offset” is added to
the resultant.
For example, if a channel measures a voltage of 3 volts and the gain was set to 3.3, the
measurement on the display would read 9.9 volts (3 V * 3.3 gain = 9.9 V). Now the offset
is added to the gain. If the offset was set to 11.0, it would be added to the 9.9 volts and
the display would read 20.9 volts (9.9 V + 11.0 offset = 20.9 V).
More examples:
(6.9 gain * 20 mA) + 16.0 offset = 154 kPa
(1.0 gain * 25.0 °C) + 273.15 offset = 298.15 K
(10.0 gain * 0.32 V) + 0.0 offset = 3.2 A
If necessary, the Mx+B menu lets the user designate a new unit to accurately represent
the scaled measurement. This unit shows on the display and in the recorded scan data as
long as Mx+B is set to ON. If the Mx+B is set to OFF, the unit reverts back to the
original unit. When a channel has Mx+B scaling applied, a [Mx+B] icon is shown above
the unit next to the measurement value.
Note
If the scaled value is too large, "OL" (overload) is displayed. Adjust the
gain or the offset and try again.
The Product uses the offset to zero a channel. To do this, the Product calculates the offset
required to convert the measurement to a zero value, sets Mx+B to ON, and loads the
calculated offset value into the Mx+B settings. To clear the zero, the offset value can be
manually set back to the original value (usually “0”) or Mx+B can be set to OFF if it was
off before the channel was zeroed. See “Zero a Channel” on page 3-12 for instructions on
how to zero a channel.
To apply an Mx+B scaling to a channel:
1. Push .
2. Push or to highlight a channel.
3. Set the channel to
ON if necessary.
4. Push to edit the channel.
5. Select Mx+B and push .
6. Input the Gain and Offset values and set the unit as desired. When complete, push
to return to the previous menu.
7. Verify the channel. If the scaled channel gives unexpected results (like zero or
“OL”):
• Verify that the correct gain and offset values are set.
• Manually calculate the result with the entered gain and offset values. See the
examples in this section.
• Temporarily set the gain to 1 and the offset to 0 to verify that the measurements
are in the expected range. Unexpected measurements could result from a wiring
error or the wrong range or function selected.
HI and LO Channel Alarms
Each channel has two channel alarms that can have custom values assigned to trip when a
channel measurement exceeds the assigned high (HI) or low (LO) limit. If an alarm trips,
the measurement value on the display changes to red and will stay red until the
measurement is back in the normal range.
In addition to the visual indication, the channel alarm can be tied to one of the six alarm
outputs on the rear panel (see Figure 3-9 and Figure 3-10). An alarm output can have
multiple channels assigned to it. If an alarm trips, the alarm outputs a low condition
signal (<0.7 V dc). A common use of this feature is to connect to an external audio alarm
that will sound if the channel alarm is tripped.
To set a channel alarm:
1. Push
.
2. Push or to highlight a channel then push .
A channel delay is a measurement time delay that can be individually assigned to each
channel to delay the measurement. Channel delays can be used for various applications,
but they are most useful in applications where the source impedance or circuit
capacitance is high. Use of a channel delay in these applications allow the input signal to
settle before a measurement is made. This provides better measurement accuracy.
When a channel delay is set, the Product inserts the delay after the channel relays switch
and waits until the channel delay time runs out before it measures the channel. Channel
delays are set in seconds and the default setting is 0 seconds.
To set a channel delay:
1. Push
2. Push or to highlight a channel then push .
3. Push to open the Channel Options menu.
4. Select
5. Set the custom channel delay. The delay can be manually set in 1 millisecond
increments from 1 millisecond to 600 seconds.
Rate of Change
Rate of Change is a statistical calculation that shows the user how much a measurement
value has changed over a period of time. The Rate of Change is viewed in the
statistics/graphing area in the Scan Menu. The Rate of Change setting in the Channel
Options menu sets the scaling to per second (/s) or per minute (/min).
Per minute (/min) is the default scaling selection unless otherwise changed.
To determine the rate of change, the Product compares two readings of a channel
sampled at different times. First, the product computes the difference between the two
readings and then divides it by the time difference between the samples in seconds. The
result is then multiplied by the time base in seconds (60 for per minute) to determine the
Rate of Change.
If a channel is sampled more frequently than once every 10 seconds, two
readings about 10 seconds apart are selected. If the interval between
readings is 10 seconds or longer, the latest two readings are used.
.
Channel Delay then push .
Note
Note
To change the Rate of Change time base for a channel:
1. Push
2. Push or to highlight a channel then push .
NPLC (Number of Power Line Cycles) is a user defined measurement speed selection
used to filter out induced ac signal noise and other inherent noise signals (line frequency
noise typically) on dc voltage, dc current, and resistance channels. It gives the user fine
control of the measurement time for either faster speed or better accuracy. Lower NPLC
increases the scan speed, but results in lower measurement accuracy. Higher NPLC
improves the measurement accuracy, but reduces the scan speed.
Higher NPLC settings are necessary in some precise measurement applications where
power line induced ac noise can affect precise dc signal measurements. Induced ac noise
is usually not uniform and requires multiple samples to accurately read the induced ac
signal. The more samples (the higher the NPLC setting), the better the ac noise can be
counteracted and filtered out. To increase the measurement accuracy and to better filter
the ac noise, the NPLC setting can be manually increased so that the Product samples the
ac noise signal over multiple cycles to get a better average of the signal.
In summary, when higher NPLC settings are set, the measurement value is more accurate,
but the tradeoff is that it takes longer for the Product to complete the measurement (see
“About Scan Timing and Sampling” in Chapter 5). For applications where ac noise will
not affect the test outcome (such as a true or false digital logic), a lower NPLC setting is
recommended for faster measurements.
Input Impedance
This setting is used to set the input impedance on the channels. For the 100 mV, 1 V,
10 V dc voltage function, there are two available choices: 10M or >10G. The default
setting is 10M.
Bandwidth
This setting is used to select the bandwidth of ac filter for ac voltage and ac current
functions. The available choices are: 20Hz or 200Hz. The default setting is 20Hz.
Display As
This setting is used to set the display to show temperature or the mV equivalent for
thermocouple channels.
Open Detect
This setting enables the Product to automatically detect an open circuit in the probe. This
setting only shows in a thermocouple channel.
This chapter supplies information on the Scan, Monitor, and Record functions along with
procedures and instructions.
Scan
Scan is a function of the Product that sequentially measures each channel and either
temporarily shows the data on the display or records it to file if the recording feature is
enabled (see “Record” on page 4-14). Scans are started manually by the user or by an
internal or external trigger. To scan a channel, the Product sequentially cycles through the
channels that are active and makes measurements as directed by the Test Setup file (see
“Configure a Scan” on page 4-5).
Chapter 4
Scan/Monitor, Record, and Data
Note
Monitor is a function to see the measurement data from a single channel
while a scan is in progress (see “Monitor” on page 4-13). Use of the
monitor function does not interrupt the active scan and only shows the
measurement data from the last scan cycle completed.
In order for the Product to scan, the applicable channels need to be active and the unit
under test (UUT) must be connected and ready. After these steps are complete, a scan can
be started from the Scan/Monitor menu. If “Auto Recording” in the Test Setup menu is
set to ON, the Product automatically records the scan data when the scan is started. If set
to OFF, the user must manually push the Record key () to record the measurement
data to file. The scan data is stored to memory where it can be transferred to a PC to be
viewed with Microsoft Excel (see “Open and View Measurement Data on a PC” on
page 4-15).
While a scan is in progress, the measurements and statistics for all channels can be
viewed in a chart or in a graph without interruption to the scan (see Figure 4-4). After a
scan is stopped, this scan data stays in temporary memory and remains available until a
new scan is started.
The Scan menu lets the user control the scan and view the scan data. The Scan menu also
shows important status indicators to quickly inform the user of the scan status and
progress of the scan. Table 4-1 shows the Scan menu and describes the status indicators
and functions that can be performed from this menu. To open the Scan menu, push
on the front panel.
Item Function
Table 4-1. The Scan Menu
1
11
910
8
2
3
4
5
6
7
hce055.eps
Shows the type of trigger configured in the Test Setup. The trigger type determines when a scan
Master alarm indicator that displays when any configured channel alarm is tripped while a scan is
in progress. To see which alarm tripped, push on the Scan menu to open the channel data.
If an alarm has tripped, a [1] or [2] icon will show next to the channel to indicate which alarm is
tripped.
Shows then the scan was started. This field is blank until the first scan is started.
Shows the status of the scan. This field shows “Scanning” when a scan is in progress, "Paused"
when the scan is paused, "Waiting" when the Instrument is waiting for the trigger, and “Inactive”
when scanning is stopped.
Shows the number of scan sweeps have been completed since the start of the scan.
Countdown timer displayed only when the trigger source is Timer, Alarm or External.
Opens the Monitor function to take measurements of a single channel between scan sweeps. See
“Monitor” on page 4-13.
Opens the Graph feature that lets the user plot the measurement data on a scalable graph. See
“Graph the Measurements” on page 4-12.
Opens a spreadsheet view of all the most recent samples for each channel along with helpful
statistics. See “View Scan Data and Statistics” on page 4-11.
Pause a scan after it is started. The softkey is not visible when the scan is inactive.
Start or stop a scan. See “Start a Scan” on page 4-10.
About Scan Timing and Sampling
When a scan is started, the Product sequentially scans and measures (samples) each
active channel in ascending channel order. How long it takes to sample a channel
depends on the measurement function, the user-programmed channel delay, and the
sample rate of the scan or the NPLC setting of the channel. Collectively, the sum of
channel sample times determine how long it takes to complete a full scan cycle and is
referred to as the sweep time. See Figure 4-2 for an illustration of how the scan process
works.
The channel sample times and scan sweep times vary based on the channel and test
settings. The items below provide information on how these times can be impacted:
• The minimum channel sample time depends on the sample rate or NPLC setting and
the measurement function (see Table 4-3).
• The channel sample time includes any necessary settling delay prior to the ADC
sample to meet accuracy specifications in usual conditions. Table 4-4 lists the
internal fixed settling delays for each parameter type and range.
• In some conditions, it may be necessary to add channel delay to allow for longer
settling times. See “Channel Delay” in Chapter 3 for more information.
• The total channel sample time is the minimum sample time plus the user-
programmed channel delay. The longer the channel delay, the longer it takes to
sample the channel.
• The total scan sweep time is sum of the channel sample times of all the channels
scanned. A scan sweep will start when the selected trigger source is asserted if a
previous scan sweep is not still in progress (see "Trigger Type" on page 4-6).
• The interval at which scan sweeps occur can be fixed by programming the trigger
type to Timer and setting an interval time.
- Sample Time*Key:
- Channel Delay
*Consists of NPLC time, settling time, and ADC samples.
The Trigger Type tells the Product when and how to start and stop a scan. There are four
trigger types:
If a Scan Count of 0 is set or if the scan interval is shorter than the scan
sweep time, the scan continuously repeats until the scan is stopped or the
Product runs out of memory.
• The
that is started by a front-panel softkey in the Scan/Monitor menu. The user sets the
number of times to scan (Scan Count) and how often the scans occur (Interval).
• The External trigger type set the scan to start when a set TRIG input on the Digital
I/O port detects a low condition. Like Interval, the user manually sets the number of
times to scan (Scan Count) and the time between the scans (Interval).
• The
on a monitored channel. Like Interval, the user manually sets the number of times to
scan (Scan Count) and the time between the scans (Interval).
• The
the Scan/Monitor key on the front panel. This trigger type lets the user set the number
of times to scan (Scan Count) when the key is pushed, but does not have an interval
time because the interval is a manual key push.
Figure 4-3. Test Setup Menu Example
hcn032.eps
Note
Interval trigger type sets the scan to happen on a user-defined numeric interval
Alarm trigger type sets the scan to start when a HI or LO channel alarm is tripped
Manual trigger type sets the scan to happen only when the user manually pushes
The Auto Recording feature automates the recording process. If Auto Recording is set to
ON, the Product automatically records the scan data to file when the scan is started. If set
to OFF, the user must manually push
to start recording.
File Destination
Scan data can be stored to internal memory or a USB drive. If set to Internal, scan data is
saved to the internal nonvolatile memory. If set to USB, scan data is saved to the USB
drive connected to the front-panel USB port.
Note
Scan data stored directly to the USB drive is not visible to the user through
the Memory menu. However, the Memory menu does show the user how
much memory is available on the USB drive. To manage the scan data files
on the USB drive, connect the USB drive to a PC and open the folder
named “Scan Data”. See “Open and View Measurement Data on a PC” on
page 4-15.
Sample Rate
The Sample Rate sets the speed the channels are scanned. When set to Fast, the Product
scans each channel very quickly that lets the user monitor the channels for rapid
measurements changes. As a result of the quicker scan speed, the Product is not given the
time to fine tune the measurement and results in a loss of one digit of measurement
resolution. For example, a temperature measurement would read 22.41 ºC with Slow and
22.4 ºC in Fast.
Note
Sample Rate should not be confused with Channel Delay and Rate of
Change in the advanced channel options. See “Scan Sweep” for more
information.
The four Sample Rates are: Fast, Medium, Slow, and Custom. Table 4-3 shows the
sample speeds for the different input types and ranges.
Data security is used to secure data files that are traceable back to the user that performed
the test (commonly referred to as test traceability). This is necessary for test
environments and applications that require a method to guarantee that the test data has
not been forged, changed, or tampered with, and was produced by trained, authorized
personnel.
If the data security setting in the Test Setup menu is set to ON, the user must select a user
profile and enter the associated password in order to start and record a scan. The user
information is recorded into the scan data file that contains the user profile number and
test information. For more information on the scan data files, see “Record” on page 4-14.
For instructions on how to change the Admin or User profile passwords, see “Change the
Admin and User Passwords” in Chapter 2.
4-8
When Data Security is on, Setup files are also protected. A setup file created with Data
Security on cannot be changed or deleted except by an authorized user.
Note
If the guest option is used to start a scan, the user is recorded as "Guest"
and the data file is not considered authorized and traceable.
This is an overall Product setting that sets the temperature units to be shown in either
Celsius or Fahrenheit.
Notes
• The ability to change this setting to Fahrenheit is not available in
some regions.
• Mx+B and Alarm settings of temperature channels are reset when the
temperature unit is changed.
Align Channels
The Align Channels function lets the user designate a reference channel to align other
channels to so that all the displayed measurements will be the same. This is accomplished
with an Mx+B offset that is automatically applied to the selected channels to make them
match the reference channel.
An application where this is commonly used is for temperature measurements. For
example, a reference probe that is fully calibrated is put into a chamber with other probes
that reads 250.52 °C. With the align function, the user sets the calibrated reference probe
channel to be the reference channel. The user then sets four probes channels to be aligned
with that reference that currently read 250.52 °C, 250.68 °C, 250.71 °C, 250.33 °C. When
the user aligns the probes, the Product calculates and applies an Mx+B offset to the
probes so that the displayed measurement value is the same as the reference probe. The
result is that all four probes now measure 250.52 °C.
To align to a reference channel:
1. Push
2. Push .
3. Push .
4. Use and to select a channel as the reference then push .
5. Use and to highlight a channel then push to set. Multiple channels can be
6. Push to align the channels. The Product will take measurements on the
.
selected to align.
reference channel and selected channels, then use Mx+B function to align these
channels to the reference.
In the event that the Product experiences a loss of mains power while a scan is in
progress, it can be configured to resume the scan when mains power comes on. This
feature is referred to as “Power Loss Resume State”.
Note
This setting is located in the Instrument Setup menu and not the Test Setup
menu.
Unlike when a new scan is started, the Product will resume recoding to the file that it was
recording to when the mains power was lost.
To turn on this feature:
1. Push
.
2. Push or to highlight
3. Set to
ON then push .
Basic Scan Procedures
Start a Scan
To start a scan:
Once a scan is started, the scan must be paused or stopped before the
Channel Setup or the Instrument Setup menu can be accessed.
1. Configure the Test Setup. See “Configure a Scan” on page 4-5.
2. Set all channels to be scanned to
3. Push .
4. Start the scan as follows:
• For the
Interval trigger type: Push to start the scan. The scan completes the
amount of scan cycles set then automatically stops. At any time, push again
to stop the test or push to pause the test. If automatic recording is set to
OFF, push to record data.
• For the
External trigger type: Push to start the scan. The scan is triggered
by a low condition in the rear-panel Trig input. Once the low condition is
detected, the scan sweep starts and runs as directed by the interval configuration.
When the low condition that triggered the scan is removed, the Product will
finish the scan in progress then stop and wait for next external trigger.
• For the Alarm trigger type: The scan sweep is triggered by an alarm that has
tripped. To do this, select the Alarm trigger type in the test setup and assign a
channel to be a trigger. When the scan is started, the Product automatically starts
to monitor the channel set as the trigger for a tripped alarm. Once an alarm is
tripped, the scan sweep starts and runs as directed by the test setup. Scan sweeps
will continue as long as the alarm is tripped. If the alarm is no longer tripped, the
Product will finish the scan in progress then wait for next alarm trip.
a. Configure the applicable channel alarm as previously described.
b. Push
• For the
then push to start the scan.
Manual trigger type: Push to start the scan. The scan performs one
scan cycle then stops. Push again to trigger another scan cycle. At any
time, push again to stop the test or push to pause the test. If automatic
recording is set to OFF, push to record data.
View Scan Data and Statistics
The Scan Data feature lets the user see the scan data from the last scan sweep (see
Figure 4-4). This feature is located in the Scan menu (push
data on this menu updates in real-time. From the Scan Data menu, the user can open a
Statistics menu to view minimum, maximum, average, and standard deviation statistics
for each channel (see Table 4-4).
If Mx+B is applied to the channel, an [Mx+B] icon will show next to the channel
number. If an alarm is tripped, the alarm number will show next to the channel as a red
icon and also the measurement value will be red. See Figure 4-4.
Peak-to-Peak Difference between the Maximum and the Minimum.
Rate of Change A measure of how much the readings change over time.
A measure of the distribution of a set of data from its mean. The more spread
apart the data, the higher the deviation.
To view the scan data:
1. Start a scan. See “Start a Scan” on page 4-10.
2. Push to open the Scan Data menu. After the menu opens, push to cycle the menu
pages to view more channels.
3. To view channel statistics, push .
Graph the Measurements
The Scan function has a graph feature that lets the user display the measurement data in a
graph. This feature is located in the Scan menu (push
then push ).The graph
automatically scales to fit all the information on the display when opened. To refine the
data, the graph can be manipulated with the front-panel arrow keys as shown in
Figure 4-5.
Notes
The maximum number of channels that can be graphed at once is four.
Selection of two or more channels with different input types (such as
temperature and milliamps) can make the graph difficult to read because
they do not share the same unit. To prevent this, only select channels of the
same input type or view the channels one at a time.
2. Push to show the graph. To show a channel on the graph, use and to
Monitor
Monitor lets the user measure a single channel between scan sweeps. In addition, the user
can view statistics and a graph of the measurement data since the scan began. To monitor
a channel, push on the Scan menu. When a scan is in progress, the display shows
the measurement from the last reading. If a scan is not in progress, the display shows a
real-time measurement.
.
select a channel, then push to select or deselect. To view additional graph
options, push .
MONITOR
MONITORMONITOR
Figure 4-6. Monitor Menu
hcn046.eps
To monitor a channel:
1. Set all channels to be scanned to ON. See “Set Channels to ON or OFF” in Chapter 3.
2. Push .
3. Push to open the Monitor menu. The first active channel is displayed.
The Record function saves the scan or DMM measurement results to a file that can be
transferred to a PC for further evaluation. When the Product is recording data, the
Record key is illuminated and “RECORDING” shows on the top of the display. Data is
recorded for as long as the key is illuminated and “RECORDING” shows on the display.
Scans can be completed without recording the results. In this scenario, the
data is saved to temporary memory and will be overwritten the next time a
scan is started or if the temporary memory becomes full (approximately
60,000 readings).
Record Measurement Data
For the Scan function, the behavior of the Record key is dependent on the Auto
Recording setting in the Test Setup menu. If set to ON, the Product automatically records
the scan data when the scan is started. If set to OFF, the user must manually push
to record scan data to file after the scan is started.
Auto Recording is associated only with the Scan/Monitor function and does
not work with the DMM function. To record a DMM measurement, push
to start recording DMM data regardless of the Auto Recording
setting in the Test Setup menu.
Note
Note
Each time a scan or a DMM measurement is recorded, a new data folder is made with a
unique timestamp so that it can be easily found and managed (see “Open a Data File on a
PC”). Data files made from a scan are saved in the scan folder and the DMM data files
are saved in the DMM folder.
Note
Scan data or DMM data stored directly to the USB drive is not visible to
the user through the Memory menu. However, the Memory menu shows the
user how much memory is available on the USB drive. To manage the scan
data files on the USB drive, connect the USB drive to a PC and open the
folder named “Scan Data” or “DMM Data”.
The amount of memory consumed by recorded scan data varies based on how many
channels are recorded and the number of scan cycles completed. See the information in
Table 4-5 to estimate memory consumption. For front-panel DMM recording, it takes
approximately 25 hours to consume 1 GB of memory.
Table 4-5. Scan Data Memory Usage
Channels Recorded Bytes Used Per Scan
20 Channels 320 bytes 3,125,000 scans cycles
40 Channels 600 bytes 1,666,000 scans cycles
60 Channels 880 bytes 1,136,000 scan cycles
80 Channels 1,160 bytes 862,000 scan cycles
Open and View Measurement Data on a PC
After a recorded scan is finished, the data file can be transferred to a PC where the results
can be viewed in Microsoft Excel. To open the a data file on a PC:
1. Put the data on the USB drive to be transferred to the PC. If the Data file is on the
internal memory, copy the file to the USB drive. If the scan was set up to record
directly to the USB, the data file is already on the USB drive and no action is
necessary.
2. Remove the USB drive from the front panel and insert it into a USB port on the PC.
3. Open the Start menu and search for the word “Computer” to open the Computer
Drive manager (see image below).
Approximate Scans Cycles to
Reach 1 GB
4. Find the USB drive and double-click on it to explore the contents.
5. Navigate to the data folder as follows (see Figure 4-8 for an example of the folder
structure):
a. Double-click on the
b. Double-click on the
fluke folder.
2638A folder.
c. Double-click on the serial number of the Product used to record the data. In the
d. Double-click on the data folder.
e. Double-click on the
scan folder to see scan data files or the DMM folder to see
DMM data files. The data files are saved within a folder that was named with a
timestamp of when the scan or measurement was recorded. This file naming
convention is illustrated in Figure 4-7.
Day MonthYear
Hour Minute
Seconds
Milli-
seconds
2012 11 07 _ 12 36 10 316
Figure 4-7. Scan Data File Name Convention
6. Choose a file to open then double-click on the file. The time-stamped data folder
contains two comma-separated values (.csv) files:
The setup.csv file contains all the test parameters that were configured when the data
was recorded. The dat00001.csv contains all of the recorded measurement data. See
Figure 4-8.
Note
The Product will make a new data file when the number of lines exceed
65535. For example, Dat00002.csv will be made when Dat00001.csv is
filled.
The six sections of the setup.csv spreadsheet are discussed and shown in the subsequent
sections.
General Information
This section of the spreadsheet shown below contains general information on the scan
performed such as the start time and the Operator.
Instrument Information
This section of the spreadsheet shown below contains general information on the Product
such as the serial number and last calibration date. This section also shows the Input
Module configuration used.
The dat00001.csv file contains the measurement data from the scan. Each row contains
measurement data for a single scan sweep and shows the time when the sweep completed.
To see how the test and channels were configured, view the information in the setup.csv
file (see “How to Read the Setup.csv File”).
All measurements can easily be toggled to engineering notation with the cell formatting
options within Microsoft Excel. An example of the spreadsheet is shown below.
This chapter supplies instructions on how to operate the DMM function of the Product.
About the DMM Function
The DMM is a digital multimeter feature lets users quickly connect test leads to the frontpanel to make voltage, resistance, current, frequency, and temperature measurements. As
these measurements are taken, these measurements values are shown on the screen and
can also be recorded to file. These recorded files are referred to as DMM Data files. The
DMM feature is easily accessed and configured with the DMM key on the front panel.
Chapter 5
DMM Operation
Note
The DMM function is an individual function of the Product that does not
read or share configuration information with channel 001 in the channel
list. For example, use of the DMM feature does not automatically configure
and set channel 001 to ON in the Channel Setup menu.
Figure 5-1 shows an example of a front-panel input configuration.
X
Figure 5-1. Example Voltage Front-Panel Connection
The DMM menu has four softkeys available to select and configure the front-panel inputs
for the measurement type. After a softkey is pushed, the user is prompted for additional
input information to fully configure the input. To adjust the range of the measurement
after the input is configured, push the and keys on the front panel to cycle through
the available range selections. Push the and to adjust the NPLC setting, which
determines the sample rate.
Input Type and Range
Input Function Selection
Figure 5-2. Input Function Selection
More Functions (PT385 or PT392)
Under More Function menu, users can configure the front-panel inputs to measure PT100
(PT385 or PT392).
1. Push .
2. Push to show Channel Options.
3. Push to show More Functions;
4. Push or to select PT385 or PT392.
5. Follow the onscreen directions to complete the configuration.
Relative Measurements
The DMM feature has a relative function that lets the user make relative measurements.
A relative measurement is the difference above or below a baseline measurement value.
To make a relative measurement, a measurement is made from the front panel then the
REL softkey is pushed (). The Product takes the measurement and freezes it as the
baseline measurement as shown in Figure 5-3. Any measurements made after this point is
shown as the amount above or below the baseline measurement that is referred to as the
relative measurement value. When REL function is activated, the range is locked
automatically.
4. Make a measurement from the front panel. After the measurement is stable, push
(REL) to set the baseline.
5. Observe subsequent readings as relative measurements.
Relative Measurement Value
Baseline Measurement
Releative Function Softkey
Figure 5-3. Relative Measurement
hcn047.eps
Graph the Measurements
The DMM has a graph feature that lets the user display the measurement data in a graph.
The graph has features such as History mode and Live mode to let the user evaluate the
data on the display. The graph automatically scales to fit all the information on the
display when opened. To refine the data, the graph can be manipulated with the arrow
keys as shown in Figure 5-4.
4. Push to show the graph. Use and to zoom in and out. To see historical
data, push to switch between History Mode and Live Mode. When in History
Mode, use and to move the graph left and right.
Measurement Statistics
The DMM has a statistics feature that lets the user see statistical information for the
measurements made. Table 5-1 lists the statistics available along with a brief description.
The statistics start when the user pushes the key or the statistics are reset.
Statistics
More Softkey
Figure 5-5. DMM Statistics
Table 5-1. Statistics
Statistic Description
Maximum Maximum measurement.
Minimum Minimum measurement.
Average Average of all the measurements taken.
Standard Deviation A measure of the distribution of a set of data from its mean. The more spread
apart the data, the higher the deviation.
Sample Size The number of readings used in the statistical calculations.
Rate of Change A measure of how much the readings change over time.
Peak to Peak Difference between the Maximum and the Minimum.
hcn049.eps
To see the statistics data:
1. Push
.
2. Configure the input.
3. Push to show the channel options.
4. Push to show the statistics. Push to view more statistics. To reset the
statistics, push .
This section supplies information on how to clean the Product, reset the memory, and
replace the fuse in the rear of the Product.
Clean the Product
To clean the Product, wipe the instrument with a cloth that is lightly dampened with
water or mild detergent. Do not use aromatic hydrocarbons, chlorinated solvents, or
methanol based fluids.
Chapter 6
Maintenance and Care
Replace the Fuse
The Product has a product fuse that protects from overcurrent. Each voltage selection
requires a specific fuse. See Table 6-1.
To prevent possible electrical shock, fire, or personal injury,
use only specified replacement parts.
Voltage Selector Fuse Fluke Calibration Part Number
100 V 0.25 A, 250 V (slow blow) 166306
120 V 0.25 A, 250 V (slow blow) 166306
220 V 160 mA, 250 V (slow blow) 4394437
240 V 160 mA, 250 V (slow blow) 4394437
To replace the fuses (see Figure 6-1):
1. Disconnect the mains-power cord from the power-entry module.
2. Open the power entry module and remove the fuse holder.
3. Replace the fuses with exact replacements as listed in Table 6-1.
The Product has two memory reset functions to remove data from the memory and to
reset the Product: Clear all Files and Factory Reset. See Table 6-2 for a comparison of the
three functions.
Note
All memory reset functions require the Admin password to accomplish.
Table 6-2. Comparison of the Memory Clear Functions
Task
Deletes Test Setup files, DMM Data files, and Scan Data files from
the internal memory.
Clears the configuration of the Channel Setup, Test Setup, and
Instrument Setup
Notes:
[1] – Does not remove data from the USB drive.
[2] – Does not reset the MAC address, the serial number, calibration, clock time, nor the Admin or User
For Products with a firmware version 1.03 or higher, firmware may be updated by the
product administrator with the front-panel USB port. New firmware versions are
available from the Fluke Calibration web page for the Product under the Knowledge and
Information tab.
For Products that have firmware versions below 1.03, contact Fluke Calibration Service
to schedule a firmware update as these versions do not support the USB firmware update
process.
Update instructions for Products that use version 1.03 and above:
WCaution
• Do not cycle the power or remove the USB device while the
firmware update is in process. These actions will cause an
instrument failure during the update process and require a
return to a Fluke Calibration Service center to correct.
• The Product automatically re-boots when the update
process is complete. Updates can take several minutes to
complete and the display screen will not illuminate until the
re-boot.
Note
Fluke Calibration recommends that you move all internal data files and
setup files from the Product to a USB device before the update of the
firmware.
Before the update process starts, verify that the current firmware is version 1.03 or above
by viewing “Firmware” under . If your firmware version is below 1.03, do not
continue the update process. You must return the Product to Fluke Calibration Service for
the firmware update.
1. Download and extract the firmware update files (AuxInfo.txt and mtv.flt) to your
computer from the Fluke Calibration website.
2. Create a new folder “firmware” on a USB flash drive (1 GB or greater), and then
copy these files into this folder. To prevent file corruption, use the Windows utility to
safely eject your USB flash drive from your computer.
3. Plug the USB flash drive into the Product and wait for the red light on the USB port
to illuminate and show that the drive is recognized.
Note
Some USB flash drives may not be recognized by the Product. Test the USB
flash drive prior to starting this update process to ensure it is recognized.
4. Push to enter the Setup menu.
5. Push the Up/Down arrow button to select “Firmware” then push to enter the
firmware menu.
6. Push and enter the administrator password and then push to start the
update process.
7. WAIT until the Product automatically re-boots. There will be no screen display for
several minutes during this time. Do not cycle the power or remove the USB device
while the firmware update is in process.
8. After the automatic re-boot, push to verify that the update was successful.
Verify the firmware version that you have installed is displayed on the screen.