GE Sensing PM880 Operating Manual

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Measurement & Control Solutions Moisture

Model PM880

Portable Hygrometer

User’s Manual

910-247 Rev. F

May 2011

Measurement & Control Solutions

Model PM880

Portable Hygrometer

User’s Manual

910-247 Rev. F May 2011

www.ge-mcs.com

Technical content subject to change without notice.

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Preface

Information Paragraphs

• Note paragraphs provide information that provides a deeper understanding of

the situation, but is not essential to the proper completion of the instructions.

• Important paragraphs provide information that emphasizes instructions that

are essential to proper setup of the equipment. Failure to follow these instructions carefully may cause unreliable performance.

• Caution! paragraphs provide information that alerts the operator to a hazardous

situation that can cause damage to property or equipment.

• Warning! paragraphs provide information that alerts the operator to a

hazardous situation that can cause injury to personnel. Cautionary information is also included, when applicable.

Safety Issues

WARNING! It is the responsibility of the user to make sure all local, county,

state and national codes, regulations, rules and laws related to safety and safe operating conditions are met for each installation.

Auxiliary Equipment

Local Safety Standards

The user must make sure that he operates all auxiliary equipment in accordance with local codes, standards, regulations, or laws applicable to safety.

Working Area

WARNING! Auxiliary equipment may have both manual and automatic

modes of operation. As equipment can move suddenly and without warning, do not enter the work cell of this equipment during automatic operation, and do not enter the work envelope of this equipment during manual operation. If you do, serious injury can result.

WARNING! Make sure that power to the auxiliary equipment is turned OFF

and locked out before you perform maintenance procedures on the equipment.

Model PM880 Portable Hygrometer User’s Manual iii

Preface

Qualification of Personnel

Make sure that all personnel have manufacturer-approved training applicable to the auxiliary equipment.

Personal Safety Equipment

Make sure that operators and maintenance personnel have all safety equipment applicable to the auxiliary equipment. Examples include safety glasses, protective headgear, safety shoes, etc.

Unauthorized Operation

Make sure that unauthorized personnel cannot gain access to the operation of the equipment.

Environmental Compliance

Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive

GE Measurement & Control Solutions is an active participant in Europe’s Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) take-back initiative, directive

2002/96/EC.

The equipment that you bought has required the extraction and use of natural resources for its production. It may contain hazardous substances that could impact health and the environment.

In order to avoid the dissemination of those substances in our environment and to diminish the pressure on the natural resources, we encourage you to use the appropriate take-back systems. Those systems will reuse or recycle most of the materials of your end life equipment in a sound way.

The crossed-out wheeled bin symbol invites you to use those systems. If you need more information on the collection, reuse and recycling systems, please

contact your local or regional waste administration. Visit http://www.ge-mcs.com/en/about-us/environmental-health-and-

safety/1741-weee-req.html for take-back instructions and more information about this initiative.

iv Model PM880 Portable Hygrometer User’s Manual

Contents

Chapter 1. Getting Started

1.1 Charging the Battery Pack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2

1.1.1 Removing the Battery Pack. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2

1.1.2 Configuring the Battery Charger. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3

1.1.3 Charging the Battery Pack. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4

1.2 Powering On and Off. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

1.2.1 Powering On. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

1.2.2 Powering Off. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

1.3 Entering Data Using the Keypad. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

1.4 Entering Setup Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

1.4.1 Selecting Probe Type . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

1.4.2 Entering Calibration Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

1.5 Displaying Measurements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

1.5.1 Selecting the Number of Measurements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

1.5.2 Selecting the Types of Measurements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

1.6 Saving Data in a Site File . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

1.6.1 Accessing the Site Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

1.6.2 Entering a Site Name. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Chapter 2. Taking Measurements

2.1 Installing the Probe in a Sample System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

2.1.1 Installing a Moisture Probe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

2.2 Connecting the Sample System to the Process . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

2.3 Making Probe Connections. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

2.4 Recalling a Site File . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

2.4.1 Accessing the Site Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

2.4.2 Retrieving the Site File. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

2.5 Operating the Sample System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

2.6 Conducting a Leak Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

2.7 Shutting Down the Sample System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Model PM880 Portable Hygrometer User’s Manual v

Contents

Chapter 3. Using the PM880 Screen

3.1 Screen Components . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

3.2 Setting Up the Screen to Display Measurements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

3.2.1 Selecting the Number of Views (Measurements) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

3.2.2 Selecting the Types of Measurements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

3.2.3 Selecting Numeric, Line or Bar Graph Format. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

3.2.4 Setting Up the Numeric Format. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

3.2.5 Adjusting the Line/Bar Graph Scale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

3.3 Creating Function Key Shortcuts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

3.3.1 Assigning/Re-assigning a Function Key . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

3.3.2 Clearing a Function Key . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

3.4 Using the Backlight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

3.4.1 Turning the Backlight On and Off Manually . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

3.4.2 Setting the Backlight Timer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

3.5 Adjusting the Contrast . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

3.6 Taking a Bitmap Screen Capture - Snapshot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

vi Model PM880 Portable Hygrometer User’s Manual

Contents

Chapter 4. Using Special Features

4.1 Selecting English or Metric Units. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

4.2 Entering Date and Time. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

4.3 Changing Date and Time Appearance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

4.3.1 Accessing the Locale Tab. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

4.3.1 Selecting the Separator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

4.3.2 Selecting the Date/Time Format . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

4.4 Adding a Message to a Site File. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

4.4.1 Accessing the Site Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

4.4.2 Selecting a Site File. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

4.4.3 Entering a Site Message. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

4.5 Setting a Probe Calibration Reminder. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

4.5.1 Accessing the Probe ID Tab. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

4.5.1 Entering Probe Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

4.6 Using Automatic Calibration (AutoCal) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

4.7 Entering Constants and User Functions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

4.8 Entering a User Constant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

4.8.1 Entering a Saturation Constant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56

4.8.2 Entering User Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

4.8.3 Setting Up User Tables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62

4.9 Using Computer Enhanced Response. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

4.9.1 Response Time Procedure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

4.10Entering Reference Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70

4.11Using Sleep Mode. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

4.11.1 Placing the PM880 in Sleep Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

4.11.2 Resuming Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72

4.12Displaying Meter Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73

4.13Changing the Display Language. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74

4.14Using On-Line Help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75

Model PM880 Portable Hygrometer User’s Manual vii

Contents

Chapter 5. Logging Data

5.1 Setting Up a New Log . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78

5.1.1 Creating a New Log . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78

5.1.2 Entering a Log Name. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79

5.1.1 Selecting General Log Settings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80

5.1.2 Selecting a Measurement to Log . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81

5.2 Pausing a Log . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82

5.3 Starting or Restarting a Log . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 83

5.4 Ending a Log . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84

5.5 Viewing All Logs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85

5.6 Viewing Log Setup Details. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86

5.7 Displaying Logged Data. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88

5.7.1 Using the Graph Format. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88

5.7.2 Using the Spreadsheet Format. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92

Chapter 6. Managing Files

6.1 Saving a New Site File. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96

6.2 Recalling a Site File . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98

6.3 Saving a Site File. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99

6.4 Renaming a Site or Log File. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100

6.4.1 Renaming a Site File. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100

6.4.2 Renaming a Log File. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102

6.5 Copying a Log . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103

6.6 Deleting All Types of Files. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107

6.7 Sorting Files in the Site/Drive/Log Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108

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Contents

Chapter 7. Using the PM880 with a PC and Printer

7.1 Setting Up PM880 IR Communications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110

7.1.1 Using the Add Hardware Wizard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111

7.1.2 Using Panaview. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117

7.2 Transferring and Printing Files Key. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119

7.3 Printing a Site or Log File . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119

7.3.1 Printing a Site File. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120

7.3.2 Printing a Log File. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121

7.4 Printing Reports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123

7.5 Transferring a File To a PC. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124

7.6 Transferring a File from a PC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127

7.6.1 Using Windows Explorer in Windows 95/98/2000. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127

7.6.2 Using Windows NT 4.0 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128

7.6.3 Using Windows 95/98. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129

7.6.4 Using Windows 2000. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129

Model PM880 Portable Hygrometer User’s Manual ix

Contents

Chapter 8. Maintenance and Troubleshooting

8.1 Checking the PM880 Memory Status. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132

8.2 Checking the Battery Status. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133

8.2.1 While Taking Measurements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133

8.2.2 Using the Battery Command. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134

8.3 Testing the Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135

8.4 Testing the Keypad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136

8.5 Testing the Watchdog Timer Circuit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137

8.6 Resetting to Factory Default Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138

8.7 Viewing or Changing Security Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139

8.7.1 Setting the Security Passcodes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140

8.7.2 Setting Remote Access Security. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 141

8.8 Updating PM880 Software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 143

8.8.1 Upgrading Requirements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 143

8.8.2 Updating Software Using IrOBEX. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 145

8.8.3 Updating Software Using IrCOMM. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 147

8.9 Removing/Replacing the Batteries. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 150

8.10Recharging the Batteries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 151

8.10.1 Removing the Battery Pack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 151

8.10.2 Configuring the Battery Charger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 152

8.10.3 Charging the Battery Pack. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 153

8.11Error and Screen Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 154

8.12Common Problems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 157

8.13Replacing and Recalibrating the Moisture Probes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 160

8.14Recalibrating the Pressure Sensors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 161

x Model PM880 Portable Hygrometer User’s Manual

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Chapter 9. Features and Specifications

9.1 The PM880 Hygrometer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 163

9.2 Probes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 164

9.2.1 M Series and TF Series Moisture Probes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 165

9.2.2 Moisture Image Series Probe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 166

9.3 Cabling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 168

9.4 Overall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 168

9.5 Operational . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 169

9.6 Electronics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 170

9.7 Moisture Measurement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 172

9.8 Dew/frost Point Temperature. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 172

9.9 Temperature Measurement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 173

9.10Pressure Measurement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 173

9.11Sample System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 174

9.12Optional Accessories. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 174

Appendix A. Measurement Considerations

A.1 Choosing a Measurement Site. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 175

A.2 Moisture/Temperature Probe Considerations. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 176

A.3 Sample System Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 179

Appendix B. Menu Maps

Model PM880 Portable Hygrometer User’s Manual xi

Contents

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xii Model PM880 Portable Hygrometer User’s Manual

Chapter 1. Getting Started

The GE PM880 is a versatile, battery-powered portable hygrometer that is designed for spot sampling moisture measurements. Although the PM880 offers many options, it requires only battery charging and minimal setup to begin taking measurements.

This chapter is designed to provide a step-by-step guide to getting the meter up and running as quickly as possible. Additional programming options are discussed in later chapters.

Follow the sections in this chapter to setup your meter. This chapter includes the following information:

• Charging the Battery Pack

• Powering On and Off

• Entering Data Using the Keypad

• Entering Setup Data

• Displaying Measurements

• Saving Data in Site Files

Model PM880 Portable Hygrometer User’s Manual 1

Chapter 1. Getting Started

1.1 Charging the Battery Pack

The PM880 is powered by a rechargeable NiMH battery pack. When you receive the PM880, you will need to fully charge the pack. The pack must be charged for 4-5 hours, until the amber LED on the charger goes out, to receive the maximum charge. When fully charged, the pack provides 16 to 24 hours of continuous operation, depending on the probe type and the PM880 usage. An internal battery gauge indicates the remaining power in the pack.

Before charging the battery pack, make sure the charger is properly configured. Use the instructions below:

1.1.1 Removing the Battery Pack

1. Make sure you are in a general-purpose location where you can safely

charge the pack.

WARNING! THE BATTERY PACK CAN BE INSTALLED AND REMOVED IN

HAZARDOUS AREAS, HOWEVER, IT MUST BE CHARGED IN GENERAL-PURPOSE AREAS ONLY.

2. Remove the four thumb screws on the back panel of the PM880 that

secure the pack.

3. Lift the pack out of the unit.

2 Model PM880 Portable Hygrometer User’s Manual

Chapter 1. Getting Started

1.1.2 Configuring the Battery Charger

The PM880 battery charger has a switchable voltage input of 115 to 230 VAC. Make sure the voltage selector is in the correct position before plugging it in.

WARNING! The battery charger is intended for indoor use only.

See Specifications for power cord type. Risk of electrical shock; use in dry locations only. Charge on NiMH type rechargeable batteries. Other types of batteries may burst, causing injury and/or damage.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS

!DANGER!

TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR ELECTRICAL SHOCK, CAREFULLY

FOLLOW THE GUIDELINES BELOW.

BE SURE THE VOLTAGE SELECTOR IS IN THE CORRECT VOLTAGE

POSITION BEFORE PLUGGING IT IN.

(SEE THE BOTTOM OF THE CHARGER.)

FOR USE IN THE UNITED STATES, THE VOLTAGE SELECTOR SWITCH

MUST BE PLACED IN THE 115 VOLT POSITION.

FOR USE IN COUNTIRES OUTSIDE THE UNITED STATES, CONFIRM THE

VOLTAGE AVAILABLE AT YOUR LOCATION

AND PLACE THE VOLTAGE SELECTOR IN THE CORRECT POSITION

BEFORE USING THE PRODUCT.

FOR CONNECTION TO A SUPPLY NOT IN THE UNITED STATES, USE AN

ATTACHMENT PLUG OR ADAPTOR OF THE PROPER CONFIGURATION

FOR THE POWER OUTLET.

Model PM880 Portable Hygrometer User’s Manual 3

Chapter 1. Getting Started

1.1.3 Charging the Battery Pack

1. Plug the pack into the battery charger.

2. Connect the charger to AC power. When power is applied, the amber

LED glows and the charger automatically begins charging the pack.

Note: The pack is fully charged when the amber LED goes out

(approximately 4-5 hours).

IMPORTANT: When you receive your unit, you should completely charge the

battery pack before using it for the first time.

3. Remove the pack from the charger and reinstall it in the PM880. Refer to

Checking the Battery Status on page 133 for details on monitoring the battery.

4 Model PM880 Portable Hygrometer User’s Manual

Chapter 1. Getting Started

1.2 Powering On and Off

IMPORTANT: For CE compliance, the PM880 is classified as a

battery-powered device.

1.2.1 Powering On

T o turn the PM880 on, press the red button in the upper-right-hand corner of the keypad. Immediately upon powerup the PM880 displays a series of messages and performs various checks. The screen then appears similar to the one shown in Figure 1.

Note: If the meter displays a Probe Reminder message, press [ENTER].

Figure 1: Screen After Powering On

Note: If the meter fails any of these tests, contact the factory.

Model PM880 Portable Hygrometer User’s Manual 5

Chapter 1. Getting Started

1.2.2 Powering Off

1. To turn the PM880 off, press the red key for 3 seconds. The screen now

appears similar to Figure 2.

2. Press [F1] to shut down the PM880.

Figure 2: Shutdown Menu

6 Model PM880 Portable Hygrometer User’s Manual

Chapter 1. Getting Started

1.3 Entering Data Using the Keypad

Use the information below to familiarize yourself with how to enter data using the PM880 keypad.

Use the arrow keys to scroll to a menu topic and then press the menu.

When entering data into a menu window, press:

[ENTER] to open

• The [] key to scroll forward through the menu options.

• The [] key to scroll back through menu options.

• The [F2] key (Cancel) or the [ESC] key to exit a menu at any time and

return to Operate Mode without changing data.

Note: If you enter an incorrect numeric value, press the [] key to erase

the last digit entered.

1.4 Entering Setup Data

For immediate operation, the PM880 requires only a moisture probe and its corresponding calibration data. You should enter data for each site where you plan to make a measurement. Once entered, you can save it into a file that can be recalled at the measurement site. Use the sections that follow to program your meter.

Note: The PM880 has additional menus that enable you to tailor

measurements as specifically as possible to your particular application. For more information on menu options refer to Chapter 4, Using Special Features.

Model PM880 Portable Hygrometer User’s Manual 7

Chapter 1. Getting Started

1.4.1 Selecting Probe Type

Use the steps below to select the probe type for the measurement site. Refer to Figure 9 on page 19 for a menu map.

Note: You may also enter a constant value (rather than a live input) for

moisture, temperature or pressure measurement. For more information refer to Entering Constants and User Functions on page 54.

1. If the menu is not active, press [MENU].

2. Use the arrow key to scroll to Program and press [ENTER].

3. Use the arrow key to scroll to Probe and press [ENTER]. The screen

appears similar to Figure 3.

Figure 3: Probe Window

8 Model PM880 Portable Hygrometer User’s Manual

Chapter 1. Getting Started

1.4.1 Selecting Probe Type (cont.)

4. At Type, press [ENTER] to open the drop-down list of probe types.

Note: If you do not know the probe type, refer to the Calibration Data

Sheet.

5. Use the arrow keys to scroll to the desired selection and press [ENTER].

6. Press [F3] (OK) to exit.

Next, do one of the following:

• If you are using an M or TF Series probe, proceed to Entering

Calibration Data on the next page.

• If you are using an MIS or an MISP2 Probe, proceed to Displaying

Measurements on page 15.

Note: If you have an MIS probe that was sent back to the factory for

calibration without the electronics module, you need to enter calibration data as described in Entering Calibration Data on page 10.

Model PM880 Portable Hygrometer User’s Manual 9

Chapter 1. Getting Started

1.4.2 Entering Calibration Data

The PM880 needs moisture and/or pressure calibration data for probes. You must enter this data when setting up:

• a new unit

• a probe(s) sent back to the factory for calibration

Be sure you have the Calibration Data Sheets that are supplied with each GE probe. Each Calibration Data Sheet consists of a list of data points that you will need to enter or verify, and lists its corresponding probe serial number. Calibration Data Sheets are usually packed inside the probe cases.

Since the PM880 enables you to use more than one probe, the meter provides a place to enter the probe serial number to help you match the probes to the corresponding site files. The probe serial number is stored as part of the site file.

Use the sections which follow to enter the serial number, and the moisture and pressure calibration data for the probes.

10 Model PM880 Portable Hygrometer User’s Manual

Chapter 1. Getting Started

1.4.2a Entering Probe ID

1. If the menu is not active, press [MENU].

2. Use the arrow key to scroll to Program and press [ENTER].

3. Use the arrow key to scroll to Calibrate and press [ENTER].

4. Use the arrow keys to scroll to the Probe ID tab and press [ENTER]. A

screen similar to Figure 4 appears.

Figure 4: Probe ID Window

5. Use the arrow keys to scroll to S/N and press [ENTER].

6. Use the numeric keys to enter the serial number from the Calibration

Data Sheet and press

[ENTER]. The serial number also appears on the

hex nut of the moisture probe.

7. Use the arrow keys to scroll to the suffix box and press [ENTER] to open

the drop-down list.

8. Use the arrow keys to scroll to the desired suffix and press [ENTER].

9. Press [F3] (OK) to exit.

Model PM880 Portable Hygrometer User’s Manual 11

Chapter 1. Getting Started

1.4.2b Entering Moisture Calibration Data

You need to enter calibration data for M and TF Series probes only. The Moisture Image

electronics module, and upload it into the PM880 memory when needed.

Note: It is not necessary to enter calibration data for the Moisture Image

Series (MIS) probe unless you send it back to the factory for calibration without its electronics module. If this is the case, you must manually enter the calibration data as described below.

Note: It is not necessary to enter calibration data for the MISP2 probe.

Enter moisture calibration data (MH or FH) and dewpoint readings (up to 20 data points) for the moisture probe as described below. Refer to Figure 9 on page 19 for a menu map.

Note: If you ar e using an MIS probe and do not need to enter data, pr oceed

to Displaying Measurements on page 15.



Series (MIS) probes store all calibration data in their

1. If the menu is not active, press [MENU].

2. Use the arrow key to scroll to Program and press [ENTER].

3. Use the arrow key to scroll to Calibrate and press [ENTER].

4. If necessary, use the arrow key to scroll to Hygro and press [ENTER]. A

screen appears similar to Figure 5 on page 13.

5. Press [] to move the pointer to the 00/MH box in the calibration table.

6. Press [ENTER] to change the value. Use the numeric keys to enter the

desired MH or FH value, and press

12 Model PM880 Portable Hygrometer User’s Manual

[ENTER].

Chapter 1. Getting Started

1.4.2b Entering Moisture Calibration Data (cont.)

Figure 5: Hygro Window in Calibration

7. Press [] to move to the next text box, and press [ENTER]. Use the

numeric keys to enter the corresponding dewpoint reading and press

[ENTER].

8. Use the arrow keys to scroll to additional data points and repeat steps 5,

6 and 7 until you have entered the values for each data point.

Note: To insert an additional data point, press [F1] (Insert).

To delete a data point, press

9. When you have completed entering values, press [F3] (EXIT).

[F2] (Delete).

Next, do one of the following:

• If the probe has a pressure transducer, proceed to step 3 in Entering

Pressure Calibration Data on page 14.

• If the probe does not have a pressure transducer, press [F3] (OK).

Proceed to Displaying Measurements on page 15.

Model PM880 Portable Hygrometer User’s Manual 13

Chapter 1. Getting Started

1.4.2c Entering Pressure Calibration Data

To enter calibration data for the pressure transducer, you must list the zero and span range in mV (or FP) and psig. Refer to Figure 9 on page 19 for a menu map.

1. If the menu is not active, press [MENU].

2. Use the arrow key to scroll to Program and press [ENTER].

3. Use the arrow key to scroll to Calibrate and press [ENTER].

4. Use the arrow key to scroll to Pressure and press [ENTER]. The screen

appears similar to Figure 6.

Note: The corresponding mV value can be in psig (English) or kPa

(metric). The supplied Calibration Data Sheets list these values in psig. If you want to change the system units, refer to Selecting English or Metric Units on page 46.

Figure 6: Calibration Pressure Window

14 Model PM880 Portable Hygrometer User’s Manual

Chapter 1. Getting Started

1.4.2c Entering Pressure Calibration Data (cont.)

5. Press [] to move the pointer to the Zero/mV (Zero/FP) box in the

table.

6. Press [ENTER] to change the value. Use the numeric keys to enter the

desired value and press

7. The corresponding pressure value box is highlighted. Use the numeric

keys to enter the corresponding pressure value and press

8. The span mV box is highlighted. Repeat steps 5, 6 and 7 to enter the

[ENTER].

Span values.

9. When you have completed entering values, press [F3] (Exit).

10. Press [F3] (OK) and proceed to Displaying Measurements.

1.5 Displaying Measurements

The PM880 can display one to four measurement parameters simultaneously . There are two parts for displaying measurements: selecting the number of measurements and then selecting the type of measurements. See Figure 9 on page 19 for a menu map.

1.5.1 Selecting the Number of Measurements

1. If the menu is not active, press [MENU].

2. Use the arrow keys to scroll to Site and press [ENTER].

3. Use the arrow keys to move to the desired number of views or

measurement windows (1 View, 2 Views, etc.).

4. Press [ENTER] at your selection. The screen displays the designated

number of views (measurement windows).

Model PM880 Portable Hygrometer User’s Manual 15

Chapter 1. Getting Started

1.5.2 Selecting the Types of Measurements

1. Press [SEL] or arrow keys to move the pointer to the windo w you want to

change and press

2. Use the arrow keys to scroll to Measurement and press [ENTER]. The

screen appears similar to Figure 7. The left column displays the five measurement types and the right column displays the measurement units.

[ENTER].

Figure 7: Select Measurement Window

3. Use the arrow keys to scroll to the desired measurement type and press

[SEL].

4. Use the arrow keys to select the desired measurement unit (or diagnostic

parameter).

Note: Press [F3] (No Unit) to display a measurement with no units.

5. Press [F3] (OK).

6. Repeat this section for displaying other measurements.

16 Model PM880 Portable Hygrometer User’s Manual

Chapter 1. Getting Started

1.6 Saving Data in a Site File

A site file contains probe ID, calibration data and display setup information in a file so it can be recalled at the measurement site. Use the following steps to store the data you have entered into a file (see Figure 9 on page 19 for a menu map):

1.6.1 Accessing the Site Manager

1. If the menu is not active, press [MENU].

2. Use the arrow key to scroll to Site and press [ENTER].

3. Use the arrow key to scroll to Site Manager and press [ENTER].

4. Press [MENU].

5. Use the arrow key to scroll to File and press [ENTER].

1.6.2 Entering a Site Name

1. Use the arrow keys to scroll to New and press [ENTER]. The screen

appears similar to Figure 8.

Figure 8: New Site Name Entry Window

Model PM880 Portable Hygrometer User’s Manual 17

Chapter 1. Getting Started

1.6.2 Entering a Site Name (cont.)

2. The PM880 displays a default name for the file. If you want to keep the

default name, skip to step 4. Otherwise, use

[F1] to erase the name and

use the arrow keys to scroll to the desired letter or number and press

[ENTER].

3. Repeat this procedure until you have created the desired site name of up

to eight characters.

4. When you have finished, press [F3] (OK).

5. The PM880 prompts you to save the site file as a templat e. This is useful

if you need to create multiple sites with similar data. At the prompt, do one of the following:

• Press [F2] (No) if you do not need to use a template, or

• Press [F3] (Yes) if you do want to use it as a template.

Note: If you are saving a new file as a template, the PM880 will ask if you

want to Save Current Site, press

[F2] (No) or [F3] (Yes).

6. Press [F3] (Exit).

7. Press [MENU]. The new site name is displayed in the upper left corner of

the screen. You have completed entering site data.

Next, do one of the following:

• If you are done entering site data, proceed to the next chapter, Taking

Measurements.

• If you need to enter information for another site, go back to Entering

Setup Data on page 7.

Note: If you need to create multiple site files with similar data, you can

save time by creating one site file and then using Save As in the Site Manager to create a copy of that site file with a different name. Refer to Renaming a Site File on page 100.

18 Model PM880 Portable Hygrometer User’s Manual

Note: Press [F2] (Cancel) to cancel the entries and return to Menu. Press [F3] (OK) to confirm the entries and return to Menu.

Site

Manager Save

1 View 2 Views 3 Views 4 Views

New

Name

File

Probe

M2 M2T TF MISP None

Hygro Constant Temperature Constant Pressure Constant

Calibrate

Pressure Hygro

MH (FH) Dew Point

Zero FP Zero kPa Span FP Span kPa

Program

Probe ID

S/N

Chapter 1. Getting Started

Figure 9: Startup Menu

Model PM880 Portable Hygrometer User’s Manual 19

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Chapter 1. Getting Started

Model PM880 Portable Hygrometer User’s Manual 20

Chapter 2. Taking Measurements

The PM880 hygrometer is part of a measurement system that includes the electronics, cable, probe and optional sample system. Once the electronics are properly programmed, you must connect the sample system and probes to begin taking measurements. This chapter discusses the steps needed to begin taking basic measurements.

Note: Refer to Appendix A, Measurement Considerations, for more

information on selecting measurement sites and sample system construction.

• Installing the Probe in a Sample System

• Connecting the Sample System to the Process

• Connecting the Probe to the Electronics

• Recalling a Site File

• Operating the Sample System

• Conducting a Leak Test

• Shutting Down the Sample System

2.1 Installing the Probe in a Sample System

Moisture probes are installed into a portable sample system. The sample system protects the probes from coming into contact with damaging elements in the process.

CAUTION! If you are mounting the moisture probes directly into the

process line, you must consult the factory for proper installation instructions and precautions.

Model PM880 Portable Hygrometer User’s Manual 21

Chapter 2. Taking Measurements

2.1.1 Installing a Moisture Probe

1. Screw the probe into the receptacle fitting, making sure not to cross

thread it (see Figure 10). Install moisture probes with different fittings in the appropriate manner.

Note: Standard moisture probes have a sintered stainless-steel shield that

protects the aluminum oxide sensor. Leave the shield in place for maximum protection.

Figure 10: Probe Fitting Location

2. Hand-tighten the probe in a clockwise direction, then tighten it an

additional 1/8 turn with a wrench.

22 Model PM880 Portable Hygrometer User’s Manual

Chapter 2. Taking Measurements

Sample Inlet

2.2 Connecting the Sample System to the Process

To connect the sample system to the process at the measurement site, refer to Figure 11 and complete the following steps:

1. Crack open the existing pipeline sample tap valve to clean the sample

tap.

2. Close the pipeline sample tap valve.

3. Remove the sample system from its case.

4. Be sure the sample system inlet needle valve is closed and the

filter/coalescer outlet needle valve and sample outlet needle valve are open.

5. Connect the sample system to the sample tap. We recommend using

1/4” stainless steel tubing. The distance from the sample tap to the sample system should be a short as possible, typically 5 to 15 feet (1.5 to 4.5 m). A male NPT process connection is provided.

Figure 11: The Sample System and the PM880

Model PM880 Portable Hygrometer User’s Manual 23

Chapter 2. Taking Measurements

Probe Input

2.3 Making Probe Connections

Use the following steps to make probe connections:

1. Make sure the PM880 is turned off.

2. Connect the cable to the probe by inserting the bayonet-type connector

onto the probe and twisting the shell clockwise until it snaps into a locked position.

Note: The connector on the probe cable must be rotated until it aligns with

the pins in the probe connector, before the cable may be properly inserted into the probe and secured.

3. Connect the other end of the probe cable to the top of the unit by

aligning the red dot on the cable connector at the 12 o’clock position. See Figure 12 for the connector location.

Note: Remove the probe cable by pulling back the spring-loaded sleeve and

pulling the cable out of the connector.

Figure 12: Connection Locations

WARNING! TO ENSURE THE SAFE OPERATION OF THE PM880, YOU MUST

INSTALL AND OPERATE IT AS DESCRIBED IN THIS MANUAL. IN ADDITION, BE SURE TO FOLLOW ALL APPLICABLE SAFETY CODES AND REGULATIONS FOR INSTALLING ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT IN YOUR AREA.

24 Model PM880 Portable Hygrometer User’s Manual

Chapter 2. Taking Measurements

2.4 Recalling a Site File

T o begin taking measurements you must recall the site file that contains data for the measurement site where you want to take measurements.

2.4.1 Accessing the Site Manager

1. If the menu is not active, press [MENU].

2. Use the arrow key to scroll to Site and press [ENTER].

3. Use the arrow key to scroll to Site Manager and press [ENTER].

2.4.2 Retrieving the Site File

1. Use the arrow key to scroll to the desired site and press [MENU].

2. Use the arrow key to scroll to File and press [ENTER].

3. Use the arrow key to scroll to Open and press [ENTER].

4. Th e PM8 80 ask s you to confir m, press [F3] (Yes).

5. Press [F3] (Exit).

6. Press [MENU]. The PM880 displays the selected site file in the

upper-left corner of the screen.

Model PM880 Portable Hygrometer User’s Manual 25

Chapter 2. Taking Measurements

2.5 Operating the Sample System

Refer to Figure 13 while performing this procedure.

1. Crack open the sample inlet valve allowing a low volume purge of the

sample system.

2. Very slowly open the inlet value allowing it to reach process pressure.

3. Begin closing the filter/coalescer outlet needle valve and the sample

outlet valve until both valves are nearly closed.

4. Adjust the sample outlet needle valve and the filter/coalescer outlet

valve until you feel a slight pressure against your finger at the venting tubes.

5. Open the inlet valve fully. Be sure the flow out of the venting tubes

remains the same as in step 4. To prevent physical damage, do not subject the probe to excessive flow.

6. Turn on the PM880.

Figure 13: Sample System Valve Locations

26 Model PM880 Portable Hygrometer User’s Manual

Chapter 2. Taking Measurements

2.6 Conducting a Leak Test

It is important to eliminate all leaks for safety reasons and to be sure that measurements are not affected by ambient contamination. Use Snoop Leak Detector or a soapy solution to verify that all connections, valves and fittings are leak tight. Tighten any fittings where a leak is detected.

2.7 Shutting Down the Sample System

1. Close the sample outlet needle valve.

2. Slowly open the filter/coalescer outlet needle valve several turns to

blow out any contaminants that may have accumulated in the coalescer, valve, or venting tube.

3. Slowly close the sample inlet valve and allow the sample system to

depressurize at a rate of approximately 10 psig per second.

4. Close the sample tap valve (permanently mounted on the pipeline).

5. Crack the inlet needle valve to relieve the pressure between the sample

tap valve and the inlet needle valve.

6. Completely close all three sample system valves.

7. Remove the sample system from the process, while keeping all valves

fully closed to avoid moisture contamination from the ambient air.

Model PM880 Portable Hygrometer User’s Manual 27

Chapter 2. Taking Measurements

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28 Model PM880 Portable Hygrometer User’s Manual

Chapter 3. Using the PM880 Screen

Use the sections that follow to setup and make adjustments to the PM880 screen. This chapter discusses the following:

• Screen Components - page 30

• Setting Up the Screen to Display Measurements - page 32

• Creating Function Key Shortcuts - page 37

• Using the Backlight - page 39

• Adjusting the Contrast - page 41

• Taking a Bitmap Screen Capture (Snapshot) - page 42

Model PM880 Portable Hygrometer User’s Manual 29

Chapter 3. Using the PM880 Screen

Status/Menu Bar

Work Area

Error Messages

System Tray

Function Keys

3.1 Screen Components

The PM880 screen displays various information (see Figure 14). The top line of the screen is the status bar that displays the current site, time, date and battery status during normal operation. However, the status bar changes to a menu bar during programming.

Figure 14: PM880 Screen in Operate Mode

The middle of the screen is the work area that displays measurements numerically or as bar or line graphs. During programming, the work area displays menu prompts. The bottom of the screen displays error messages (see Error and Screen Messages on page 154 for more details), the system tray, and the function keys.

The system tray displays icons that indicate meter operations not otherwise shown (see Table 1 on page 31 for a list of icons). The three function keys (F1, F2 and F3) have different functions, depending on the task you are performing.

30 Model PM880 Portable Hygrometer User’s Manual

Chapter 3. Using the PM880 Screen

3.1 Screen Components (cont.)

Table 1: Icons in the System Tray

Icon Function Meaning

IR Transfer

IR data transfer in progress.

Alert

Log

Backlight

Low Battery

Alert

Snapshot

(To file)

(To Printer)

Indicates the meter encountered an error in operation.

Indicates a log is pending (no marks) or running (marks).

Indicates that backlight has been activated.

Indicates 10 minutes or less of battery run time.

Indicates that the Snapshot function has been activated, so users can take screen captures.

Model PM880 Portable Hygrometer User’s Manual 31

Chapter 3. Using the PM880 Screen

3.2 Setting Up the Screen to Display Measurements

The PM880 can display one to four measurements simultaneously. After you select how many measurements to display, you can select the type of measurements (dewpoint, temperature, etc.) and the format (numeric, line or bar graph). In addition, the PM880 offers various options for displaying data numerically and graphically.

This section consists of the following:

• Selecting the Number of Views (Measurements) - page 32

• Selecting the Types of Measurements - page 33

• Selecting Numeric, Line or Bar Graph Format - page 34

• Setting Up the Numeric Format - page 34

• Adjusting the Line/Bar Graph Scale - page 36

Use the section(s) that follow to set up the PM880 screen.

3.2.1 Selecting the Number of Views (Measurements)

1. If the menu is not active, press [MENU].

2. Use the arrow keys to scroll to Site and press [ENTER].

3. Use the arrow keys to move to the desired number of views or

measurement windows (1 View, 2 Views, etc.).

4. Press [ENTER] at your selection. The screen displays the designated

number of views (measurement windows).

32 Model PM880 Portable Hygrometer User’s Manual

Chapter 3. Using the PM880 Screen

3.2.2 Selecting the Types of Measurements

1. Press [SEL] to move the pointer to the window you want to change and [ENTER].

press

2. Use the arrow keys to scroll to Measurement and press [ENTER]. The

screen appears similar to Figure 15. The left column displays the five measurement types and the right column displays the measurement units.

3. Use the arrow keys to scroll to the desired measurement type and press

[SEL].

4. Use the arrow keys to select the desired measurement unit (or

diagnostic parameter).

Note: Press [F3] (No Unit) to display a measurement with no units.

5. Press [F3] (OK).

6. Repeat this section for displaying other measurements.

Figure 15: Select Measurement Window

Model PM880 Portable Hygrometer User’s Manual 33

Chapter 3. Using the PM880 Screen

3.2.3 Selecting Numeric, Line or Bar Graph Format

1. Press [SEL] to move the pointer to the window you want to change and [ENTER].

press

2. Use the arrow keys to scroll to View and press [ENTER].

3. Use the arrow keys to select the desired format and press [ENTER].

The PM880 displays the desired format and returns to taking measurements.

3.2.4 Setting Up the Numeric Format

1. Press [SEL] to move the pointer to the window you want to change and [ENTER].

press

2. Use the arrow keys to scroll to Format and press [ENTER]. The screen

appears similar to Figure 16.

Note: If FORMAT does not appear in the menu, move to a window that is

not displaying a line or bar graph, or change the window format to

numeric as described in the previous section.

Figure 16: Number Format Window

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Chapter 3. Using the PM880 Screen

3.2.4 Setting Up the Numeric Format (cont.)

3. Use the arrow keys to scroll to Format and press [ENTER].

4. Use the arrow keys to select the desired selection and press [ENTER].

You can select from the following:

• Default - displays the factory default number of decimal digits for the

selected measurement.

• Fixed Decimal - specifies how many digits are to the right of the

decimal.

• Scientific format - displays the value in mantissa exponent format

(expressed to the power of 10).

5. Repeat steps 3 and 4 for Decimal Places or proceed to the next step to

exit. You can select from 0 to 4 places.

6. Press [F3] (OK). The PM880 displays the new format and resumes

taking measurements.

Model PM880 Portable Hygrometer User’s Manual 35

Chapter 3. Using the PM880 Screen

3.2.5 Adjusting the Line/Bar Graph Scale

The scale of the line and bar graph can be adjusted at any time. Y ou can also alter the graph to display details as follows:

1. Press [SEL] to move the pointer to the window you want to change and [ENTER].

press

2. Use the arrow keys to scroll to Limits and press [ENTER]. A screen

similar to Figure 17 appears

Figure 17: Line Graph Parameters Window

3. Use the arrow keys to scroll to Minimum and press [ENTER].

4. Use the numeric keys to enter the minimum value for the graph and

press

[ENTER].

5. Repeat steps 3 and 4 for the maximum value.

6. Do one of the following:

• If you are using a line graph, proceed to step 7.

• If you are using a bar graph, proceed to step 10.

7. Use the arrow keys to scroll to the time interval and press [ENTER].

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Chapter 3. Using the PM880 Screen

3.2.5 Adjusting the Line/Bar Graph Scale (cont.)

8. There are two boxes for entering the time interval. The first box is for a

number (1, 2, etc.). The second box asks for the interval (seconds, minutes, hours or days). Use the numeric keys or arrow keys to select the desired interval and press

9. The last three selections enable you to enhance the line graph details.

Use the arrow keys to scroll to the desired entry and press

[ENTER].

An X in the box activates the option. Choose from the following:

• Use lines (connect points on graph with lines)

• Plot average value (not currently available)

• Show minimum and maximum (not currently available)

10. Press [F3] (OK).

The PM880 displays the new format and returns to taking measurements.

3.3 Creating Function Key Shortcuts

The three function keys at the bottom of the PM880 screen can be customized to provide shortcuts to the most commonly used functions. For example, the F1 key can be assigned to go directly to the Log Manager. Once assigned, a function key can also be cleared. Use the sections below to perform the desired function.

Model PM880 Portable Hygrometer User’s Manual 37

Chapter 3. Using the PM880 Screen

3.3.1 Assigning/Re-assigning a Function Key

The function keys can be assigned using two methods as described below.

Note: You can re-assign the function key at any time by assigning a

different function.

3.3.1a Method 1: Using the Site Manager

1. If the menu is not active, press [MENU].

2. Use the arrow key to scroll to Site and press [ENTER].

3. Use the arrow key to scroll to FKeys and press [ENTER].

4. Use the arrow keys to scroll to the desired key and press [ENTER].

5. Use the arrow keys to scroll to the desired function from the displayed

list.

6. Press [F3] (YES).

The PM880 returns to taking measurements. The newly assigned function appears above the assigned function key.

3.3.1b Method 2: Using the Program Menus

1. Use the keypad to go to the function that you want to assign to the

function key.

2. Press the desired function key. A window appears with the question,

“Assign current menu command (XX) to FKeyX?”

3. Press [F3] (OK).

The PM880 returns to taking measurements. The newly assigned function appears above the assigned function key.

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Chapter 3. Using the PM880 Screen

3.3.2 Clearing a Function Key

1. If the menu is not active, press [MENU].

2. Use the arrow key to scroll to Site and press [ENTER].

3. Use the arrow key to scroll to FKeys and press [ENTER].

4. Use the arrow keys to scroll to Clear F1 (F2 or F3) and press [ENTER].

The PM880 returns to taking measurements. The previously assigned function is erased.

3.4 Using the Backlight

The PM880 has a backlight that helps in viewing data. Since the backlight uses more energy, the PM880 has a backlight timer that can be set to automatically turn the backlight off after a specified time, in order to conserve battery life. The PM880 also enables you to turn the backlight on and off manually. Use the se ctions that follow to operate the backlight.

3.4.1 Turning the Backlight On and Off Manually

To manually turn the backlight:

• On - press any key on the keypad and the backlight will stay on for

the programmed interval. You can also press the power key briefly (about one-half second) and the backlight will stay on for 30 minutes.

• Off - press the red power key briefly (about one-half second).

Model PM880 Portable Hygrometer User’s Manual 39

Chapter 3. Using the PM880 Screen

3.4.2 Setting the Backlight Timer

1. If the menu is not active, press [MENU].

2. Use the arrow key to scroll to Meter and press [ENTER].

3. Use the arrow key to scroll to Backlight and press [ENTER].

4. Use the arrow key to scroll to Backlight Off and press [ENTER].

5. Use the numeric keys to enter the number of minutes that the backlight

remains on (from 0 to 60).

6. Press [ENTER] to confirm the entry.

7. When you are done, press [F3] (OK).The PM880 returns to taking

measurements.

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Chapter 3. Using the PM880 Screen

3.5 Adjusting the Contrast

To adjust the screen contrast:

1. If the menu is not active, press [MENU].

2. Use the arrow key to scroll to Meter and press [ENTER].

3. Use the arrow key to scroll to Contrast and press [ENTER]. A screen

similar to Figure 18 appears.

Figure 18: Display Options Window

4. Use the arrow keys to scroll to Darker or Lighter.

5. Press the [ENTER] button repeatedly until the screen has the desired

contrast.

6. When you are done, press [F3] (OK).

The PM880 returns to taking measurements.

Model PM880 Portable Hygrometer User’s Manual 41

Chapter 3. Using the PM880 Screen

3.6 Taking a Bitmap Screen Capture - Snapshot

The Snapshot option enables you to take a screen capture of the current screen in bitmap format (.bmp). Bitmaps can be stored in a file or sent directly to a printer. To take a “snapshot” of the screen:

1. If the menu is not active, press [MENU].

2. Use the arrow key to scroll to Meter and press [ENTER].

3. Use the arrow key to scroll to Snapshot and press [ENTER].

4. Use the arrow key to scroll to the desired selection and press [ENTER].

You can choose from the following:

• Of f - to turn the snapshot feature off.

• To Printer - to send the snapshot to the printer.

• To File - to send the snapshot to a file.

Note: In order to send a screen capture to a printer, the PM880 must be

properly configured to IR transfer. Refer to Setting Up the PM880 IR Communications on page 110.

An icon of a printer or camera appears on the system tray (see page 31) indicating that you have activated the Snapshot option.

5. To capture a screen, press the “.” (decimal) button twice. The meter

displays a clock and the message “Screen Dump,” indicating that it is performing a screen capture.

Note: The snapshot function is deactivated once the power is turned off.

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Chapter 3. Using the PM880 Screen

3.6 Using Bitmap Screen Capture - Snapshot (cont.)

6. If you selected:

• To Printer - the PM880 indicates it is looking for a receiving printer

and then transmits the file.

Note: If the sensor cannot locate a printer, a window appears indicating

that it cannot find a device. If it locates more than one compatible infrared device within its range, it asks you to select the desired device.

• To File - the captured file appears as ScreenXX.bmp in the Drive

Manager. To transfer the file to a PC, follow the instructions in Transferring a File to a PC on page 124.

Model PM880 Portable Hygrometer User’s Manual 43

Chapter 3. Using the PM880 Screen

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44 Model PM880 Portable Hygrometer User’s Manual

Chapter 4. Using Special Features

The PM880 has a variety of other features to make operation even more convenient. Below are some of the features available. For other features related to testing and service functions, refer to Chapter 8, Maintenance and Troubleshooting.

• Selecting English or Metric Units - page 46

• Entering Date and Time - page 46

• Changing the Date and Time Appearance - page 47

• Adding a Message to a Site File - page 49

• Setting a Probe Calibration Reminder - page 50

• Using Automatic Calibration - page 52

• Entering Constants and User Functions - page 54

• Using Computer Enhanced Response - page 66

• Entering Reference Data - page 70

• Using the Sleep Mode - page 72

• Displaying Meter Information - page 73

• Changing the Display Language - page 74

• Using On-Line Help - page 75

Model PM880 Portable Hygrometer User’s Manual 45

Chapter 4. Using Special Features

4.1 Selecting English or Metric Units

The PM880 enables you to select either English or Metric for global measurement units. The selected units become the default settings for every measurement with the metric/English option. To select measurement units:

1. If the menu is not active, press [MENU].

2. Use the arrow key to scroll to Meter and press [ENTER].

3. Use the arrow key to scroll to Units and press [ENTER].

4. Use the arrow keys to scroll to the desired units and press [ENTER].

5. Press [F3] (OK) and then [MENU].

The PM880 returns to taking measurements.

4.2 Entering Date and Time

The PM880 displays the current date and time above the measurements in the upper right corner of the screen. The Date/Time command enables you to set the date or time. The current date and time are required for correct data logging operation.

1. If the menu is not active, press [MENU].

2. Use the arrow key to scroll to Meter and press [ENTER].

3. Use the arrow key to scroll to Date/Time and press [ENTER].

4. Use the arrow keys to scroll to Date and press [ENTER].

5. Use the numeric and arrow keys to enter the current month, day and

year, and press

6. Use the arrow keys to scroll to Time and press [ENTER].

7. Use the numeric and arrow keys to enter the current time and press

[ENTER].

8. Press [F3] (OK) and then [MENU].

[ENTER].

The PM880 returns to taking measurements. The new date and time are displayed.

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Chapter 4. Using Special Features

4.3 Changing Date and Time Appearance

In addition to setting the correct date and time, you can also change its presentation to suit local preferences. You can select from various date formats and a time display of AM/PM or 24-hour time. Use the following steps to alter the date and time display:

4.3.1 Accessing the Locale Tab

1. If the menu is not active, press [MENU].

2. Use the arrow key to scroll to Meter and press [ENTER].

3. Use the arrow key to scroll to Locale and press [ENTER]. A screen

similar to Figure 19 appears.

Figure 19: Locale Tab

Model PM880 Portable Hygrometer User’s Manual 47

Chapter 4. Using Special Features

4.3 Changing Date and Time Appearance (cont.)

4.3.1 Selecting the Separator

1. Use the arrow keys to scroll to the date separator and press [ENTER].

2. Use the arrow keys to scroll to the desired separator and press [ENTER].

3. Repeat steps 1 and 2 for the other separators.

4.3.2 Selecting the Date/Time Format

1. Use the arrow keys to scroll to Date Format and press [ENTER].

2. Use the arrow keys to scroll to the desired format and press [ENTER].

3. Repeat steps 1 and 2 for the time format.

4. Press [F3] (OK) and then press [MENU].

The PM880 returns to taking measurements. The new da te and time formats are displayed.

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Chapter 4. Using Special Features

4.4 Adding a Message to a Site File

The Site Manager has a command that enables you to enter a message or description for each site file (up to 30 characters). The Site Manager displays the site message with the other file information. Use the following steps to add a site message:

4.4.1 Accessing the Site Manager

1. If the menu is not active, press [MENU].

2. Use the arrow key to scroll to Site and press [ENTER].

3. Use the arrow key to scroll to Site Manager and press [ENTER].

4.4.2 Selecting a Site File

1. Use the arrow key to scroll to the desired site.

Note: The list of site files in the Site Manager can be listed chronologically

or alphabetically. Refer to Sorting Files in the Site/Drive/Log Manager on page 108.

2. Press [MENU].

3. Use the arrow key to scroll to Site and press [ENTER].

4. Use the arrow key to scroll to Message and press [ENTER].

4.4.3 Entering a Site Message

1. Press [F1] (Delete) to delete any unwanted letters or numbers. Use the

arrow keys to scroll to the desired letter or number and press To change case or use special characters, press

[SEL] to change the

character pages.

2. Repeat this procedure until you have created the desired site message.

3. When you have finished, press [F3] (OK).

New site information is displayed when the site is selected in Site Manager.

4. Press [F3] (Exit).

Model PM880 Portable Hygrometer User’s Manual 49

[ENTER].

Chapter 4. Using Special Features

4.5 Setting a Probe Calibration Reminder

The Probe ID command enables you to enter the probe serial number, calibration dates and a calibration reminder. Use the following steps to enter probe data:

4.5.1 Accessing the Probe ID Tab

1. If the menu is not active, press [MENU].

2. Use the arrow key to scroll to Program and press [ENTER].

3. Use the arrow key to scroll to Calibrate and press [ENTER].

4. Use the arrow keys to scroll to the Probe ID tab and press [ENTER]. A

screen similar to Figure 20 appears.

Figure 20: Probe ID Window

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Chapter 4. Using Special Features

4.5 Setting a Probe Calibration Reminder (cont.)

4.5.1 Entering Probe Information

1. Use the arrow keys to scroll to S/N and press [ENTER].

2. Use the numeric keys to enter the serial number from the Calibration

Data Sheet and press hex nut of the moisture probe.

3. Use the arrow keys to scroll to the suffix box and press [ENTER] to

open the drop-down list.

4. Use the arrow keys to scroll to the desired suffix and press [ENTER].

5. Use the arrow keys to scroll to Calibrated On and press [ENTER].

6. Use the numeric and arrow keys to enter the most recent calibration

date. When you have entered the desired month, day and year, press

[ENTER].

Note: Refer to the calibration data sheet for the most recent calibration

date.

[ENTER]. The serial number is also scribed on the

7. Use the arrow keys to move to Cal Reminder and press [ENTER]. This

prompt asks you to select a time period for the next probe calibration. The PM880 will display a calibration reminder for the probe based on the last calibration date. GE recommends recalibrating a probe a minimum of once a year.

8. Use t he arro w keys to mo ve to the desired selection and press [ENTER].

9. Press [F3] (OK) and then [MENU].

The PM880 returns to taking measurements.

The calibration reminder is part of the site file; therefore, if you are not planning to make any more changes to the site file, you should save the new changes. Refer to Saving a New Site File on page 96.

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Chapter 4. Using Special Features

4.6 Using Automatic Calibration (AutoCal)

The PM880 automatically calibrates the moisture and pressure measurement circuitry (AutoCal) at a user-selected interval. Autocal compensates for any drift in the electronics. GE recommends setting the AutoCal interval to 8 hours. Set a smaller AutoCal interval more frequently if the meter is exposed to extreme temperatures or weather conditions.

Note: If you are using only Moistur e Image Series (MIS) probes to measure

moisture, the System Menu is not available.

Use the steps below to enter an AutoCal interval:

1. If the menu is not active, press [MENU].

2. Use the arrow key to scroll to Program and press [ENTER].

3. Use the arrow key to scroll to System and press [ENTER]. A screen

similar to Figure 21 appears.

Figure 21: System Configuration Window

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Chapter 4. Using Special Features

4.6 Using Automatic Calibration (AutoCal) (cont.)

4. If necessary, use the arrow keys to move to the AutoCal Interval text

box.

5. Press [ENTER] to open the text box. Use the numeric keys to enter the

desired value (in minutes) and press

Note: GE recommends setting the Autocal interval to 8 hours (480

minutes).

The next time AutoCal occurs will depend on the length of the time interval that was selected. See the example below.

EXAMPLE: The PM880 establishes a fixed schedule, beginning at midnight, using the interval specified to determine the times of subsequent AutoCals. If you enter an 8 hour time interval, AutoCal will occur 3 times per day (1 day = 1440 minutes/480 minutes = 3). The fixed schedule will be as follows:

1. 8:00 a.m.

[ENTER].

2. 4:00 p.m.

3. 12:00 a.m. (midnight)

If you set the 8 hour AutoCal interval at 8:10 a.m., the next AutoCal will occur at 4:00 p.m. (excluding the AutoCal performed when first leaving the System Configuration window).

Next, do one of the following:

• Use the arrow keys to move to another text box and enter additional

data.

• To exit and return to taking measurements, press [F3] (OK) and then

[MENU].

Model PM880 Portable Hygrometer User’s Manual 53

Chapter 4. Using Special Features

4.7 Entering Constants and User Functions

The PM880 enables you to enter two types of constants, a user constant and a saturation constant, as well as user-defined functions and tables to manipulate data.

A user constant is a fixed value that is used to multiply the moisture ppm value (K non-aqueous liquids. If you do not know the saturation constant of the liquid, contact the factory.

T o extend programming capability, user functions enable you to program up to 8 mathematical equations. The PM880 also enables you to enter up to 6 tables of non-linear or empirical data to support user function equations.

This section consists of the following information:

 PPMv). A saturation constant is used to calculate PPMw in

• Entering a User Constant - page 55

• Entering a Saturation Constant - page 56

• Entering User Functions - page 58

• Setting Up User Tables - page 62

54 Model PM880 Portable Hygrometer User’s Manual

Chapter 4. Using Special Features

4.8 Entering a User Constant

Use the following steps to enter a user constant. The default multiplier is 1.

1. If the menu is not active, press [MENU].

2. Use the arrow key to scroll to Program and press [ENTER].

3. Use the arrow key to scroll to System and press [ENTER]. A screen

similar to Figure 22 appears.

4. Use the arrow keys to move to the K  PPMv text box and press

[ENTER].

5. Use the numeric keys to enter the desired value and press [ENTER].

Figure 22: System Configuration Window

Next, do one of the following:

• Use the arrow keys to move to another text box and enter additional

data.

• To exit and return to taking measurements, press [F3] (OK) and then

[MENU].

Model PM880 Portable Hygrometer User’s Manual 55

Chapter 4. Using Special Features

4.8.1 Entering a Saturation Constant

The PM880 requires a saturation constant in order to calculate ppmw in non-aqueous liquids. If you do not know the saturation constants of the

process liquid sample, contact the factory. To enter a saturation constant (Cs), you must enter 1 to 8 data points to represent a curve of Cs (values) versus temperature.

To enter data for a saturation constant:

1. If the menu is not active, press [MENU].

2. Use the arrow key to scroll to Program and press [ENTER].

3. Use the arrow key to scroll to Calibrate and press [ENTER].

4. Use the arrow key to scroll to Saturation tab and press [ENTER]. A

screen similar to Figure 23 appears.

Figure 23: Saturation Window

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Chapter 4. Using Special Features

4.8.1 Entering a Saturation Constant (cont.)

5. Press [] to move the pointer to the Temp C box in the saturation table

and press

6. Use the numeric keys to enter the desired temperature value and press

[ENTER].

7. With the Cs text box highlighted, press [ENTER]. Use the numeric keys

to enter the corresponding Cs value and press

8. Repeat steps 6 and 7 until you have entered the values for each data

[ENTER].

point.

Note: To insert an additional data point, press [F1] (Insert).

To delete a data point, press

9. When you have completed entering values, press [F3] (Exit).

[F2] (Delete).

Next, do one of the following:

• Use the arrow keys to scroll to another tab and program additional

data (if available, depending on probe type).

• To exit and return to taking measurements, press [F3] (OK) and then

[MENU].

Model PM880 Portable Hygrometer User’s Manual 57

Chapter 4. Using Special Features

4.8.2 Entering User Functions

User functions enable you to program mathematical equations. You can use any parameter in the meter to calculate a different parameter. Use the following steps to enter a user-defined equation:

4.8.2a Accessing the User Function Command

1. If the menu is not active, press [MENU].

2. Use the arrow key to scroll to Program and press [ENTER].

3. Use the arrow key to scroll to User Functions and press [ENTER]. A

screen similar to Figure 24 appears.

Figure 24: User Functions Window

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Chapter 4. Using Special Features

4.8.2b Entering a Label for the Function

1. The Function box should be highlighted. Press [ENTER] to open the

drop-down menu.

2. Use the arrow keys to scroll to the desired function number (User1,

User2, etc.) and press

3. Use the arrow keys to move to the Label box and press [ENTER]. A

screen similar to Figure 25 appears.

[ENTER].

Figure 25: Text Creation Window

4. Press [F1] (Delete) to delete any unwanted letters or numbers. Use the

arrow keys to scroll to the desired character and press

[SEL] to view additional character selections and symbols for creating a

[ENTER]. Press

label for the function.

5. Repeat this procedure until you have created the desired units symbol

for the function of up to thirty-two characters.

6. When you have finished, press [F3] (OK).

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Chapter 4. Using Special Features

4.8.2 Entering User Functions (cont.)

4.8.2c Entering the Units

The steps below describe how to create a units symbol (e.g. degrees C). This label will appear on the screen when you display the user function measurement.

1. Use the arrow keys to move to the Units Sym box and press [ENTER].

The text creation screen appears again.

2. Press [SEL] to view the three screens with the available characters and

symbols for creating the symbol for the units.

3. Us e the arrow keys to scroll to the desire d character an d press [ENTER]. [F1] (Delete) to delete any unwanted letters or numbers. Press

Press

[SEL] to view additional character selections and symbols for creating a

label for the function.

4. Repeat this procedure until you have created the desired label for the

function of up to thirty-two characters.

5. When you have finished, press [F3] (OK).

4.8.2d Selecting Decimal Digits

1. Use the arrow keys to move to the Dec box and press [ENTER] to open

the drop-down menu.

2. Use the arrow keys to scroll to the desired value (0-4) and press

[ENTER]. This value refers to the number of digits to the right of the

decimal point.

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Chapter 4. Using Special Features

4.8.2e Entering an Equation

1. Us e the a rrow keys to move to the blank box at the bo ttom of the screen

and press

2. Press [SEL] to view additional characters, symbols and functions for

creating an equation.

3. Us e the arrow keys to scroll to the desire d character an d press [ENTER].

Press

IMPORTANT: To enter a measurement (dewpoint, temperature, etc.) into the

[ENTER]. A screen similar to Figure 26 appears.

[F1] (Delete) to delete any unwanted letters or numbers.

equation, click on MODE in the middle of the third row. The Select Measurement window appears. Select the desired measurements, press

[F3] (OK).

[SEL], select the desired units and press

Figure 26: Function Creation Window

Model PM880 Portable Hygrometer User’s Manual 61

Chapter 4. Using Special Features

4.8.2e Entering an Equation (cont.)

4. When you have finished entering the equation, press [F3] (OK).

5. Press [F2] (Check) to test the validity of the function. The PM880

displays either “OK” or a message such as “Syntax Error.”

6. Do one of the following:

• To edit the equation, press [ENTER].

• To delete the equation, press [F1] (Delete).

• To confirm the equation and return taking measurements, press [F3]

(Done) and then press

Note: To display the user function on the screen, refer to Displaying

Measurements on page 15. In the Select Measurement window,

choose Userfunction and then the units you entered above.

[MENU].

4.8.3 Setting Up User Tables

To support user-defined functions, the PM880 can hold up to 6 tables of non-linear or empirical data. Users can enter up to 21 X-Y pairs in each table. The user functions can supply an X value with Table (X). The meter then interpolates the Y value for a given X, and substitutes it for Table (X) in the function. (The results are extrapolated if the X value exceeds the bounds of the table.) Use the following steps to set up a user table:

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Chapter 4. Using Special Features

4.8.3a Accessing the User Tables Command

1. If the menu is not active, press [MENU].

2. Use the arrow key to scroll to Meter and press [ENTER].

3. Use the arrow key to scroll to User Tables and press [ENTER]. A

screen similar to Figure 27 appears.

Figure 27: User Tables Window

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Chapter 4. Using Special Features

4.8.3b Entering a Label for the Table

1. The Table box should be highlighted. Press [ENTER] to open the

drop-down menu.

2. Use the arrow keys to scroll to the desired table number and press

[ENTER].

3. Use the arrow keys to move to the Table ID box and press [ENTER]. A

screen similar to Figure 28 appears.

Figure 28: Text Creation Window

4. Us e the arrow keys to scroll to the desire d character an d press [ENTER]. [F1] (Delete) to delete any unwanted letters or numbers. Press

Press

[SEL] to view the three screens with the available characters and

symbols for creating a label for the table.

5. Repeat this procedure until you have created the desired label for the

table of up to thirty-two characters.

6. When you have finished, press [F3] (OK).

Note: It is not necessary to enter the “#Data Points” or “Max Points” text

boxes. The meter automatically enters this data.

64 Model PM880 Portable Hygrometer User’s Manual

Chapter 4. Using Special Features

4.8.3 Setting Up User Tables (cont.)

4.8.3c Editing the User Table

1. Use the arrow keys to move to Edit Tables box and press [ENTER].

2. Press [] to move the pointer to the 1/Table ID column.

3. Press [ENTER] to open the text box. Use the numeric keys to enter the

desired value and press

4. Press [] to move to the next text box, and press [ENTER]. Use the

numeric keys to enter the corresponding value and press

5. Use the arrow keys to scroll to additional data points and repeat steps 2,

3 and 4 until you have entered the values for each data point.

6. When you have completed entering values, press [F3] (OK).

7. To confirm the table and return taking measurements, press [F3] (OK)

and then press

[MENU].

[ENTER].

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Chapter 4. Using Special Features

4.9 Using Computer Enhanced Response

Computer Enhanced Response (CER) uses a dynamic moisture calibration technique to extrapolate the moisture level to the end point when making measurements in abrupt “dry down” conditions. The system response time depends on the relative change in dewpoint. For a change fro m ambient moisture levels to trace levels, the unit can respond in 3 to 5 minutes.

The accuracy of enhanced response is ±2

C of the reading the sensor would have read if it were allowed to reach equilibrium with the gas. To ensure that CER is as accurate as possible, your application should:

• have a reasonably constant final dewpoi nt and flow rate.

• have a minimum flow rate of one standard cubic foot per hour

(SCFH).

• operate at atmospheric pressure (0 psig).

• have an actual moisture content equal to or wetter than a dew/frost

point of

• MIS Probe: –85

• M Series and TF Series Probe: –110

Use the steps below to activate computer enhanced response:

4.9.0a Accessing the Response Command

1. If the menu is not active, press [MENU].

2. Use the arrow key to scroll to Program and press [ENTER].

3. Use the arrow key to scroll to System and press [ENTER]. A screen

similar to Figure 29 on page 67 appears.

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Chapter 4. Using Special Features

4.9.0a Accessing the Response Command (cont.)

Figure 29: System Configuration Window

4.9.0b Selecting the Response Type

1. Use the arrow keys to move to the Response box and press [ENTER] to

open the drop-down menu.

2. Use the arrow key to select the desired response type and press

[ENTER]. You can choose from the following:

• NORM - no computer enhanced response

• CER - enable computer enhanced response

3. To return to taking measurements, press [F3] (OK) and then press

[MENU].

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Chapter 4. Using Special Features

4.9.1 Response Time Procedure

To effectively utilize CER, the following procedure should be followed:

1. Connect the moisture probe cable to the moisture probe.

2. Turn on the PM880 Hygrometer and activate CER per the instructions

in the previous section.

3. Expose the moisture prob e to the ambient air for approximately te n (10)

minutes. This is the minimum amount of time needed for the sensing element to reach the equilibrium required for CER to operate properly.

Note: The PM880 should display a dewpoint temperature reading in the

range of 0°C to +14°C, depending on the local ambient conditions. If the dewpoint temperature exceeds +20°C, relocate the moisture probe to a drier environment to reduce the dewpoint temperature.

Before using CER, it is necessary to purge the pressure regulator, sample tubing, and sample cell to remove trapped water molecules from the various surfaces.

Note: The moisture probe should not be installed in the sample cell during

this purge cycle. A blank probe mount can be used as a plug for the sample cell.

4. Attach the sample gas line to a pressure regulator (set regulate to 0 psig)

and sample cell with appropriate tubing (stainless steel is recommended), and allow the gas flow to purge the system.

5. After purging, remove the blank probe mount from the sample cell and

install the moisture probe.

Note: Do not disconnect the moisture probe cable from the moisture probe.

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Chapter 4. Using Special Features

4.9.1 Response Time Procedure (cont.)

The PM880 will display the actual dewpoint temperature during the initial dry-down. The display will indicate a bold “E” in the system tray which means the PM880 is in CER mode. After 2 to 5 minutes, the PM880 will perform its initial predicted calculation of the equilibrium dewpoint temperature. When the prediction is made, the display will indicate an “E” in inverse text (ie. dark background) in the system tray.

6. Continue to monitor the readings, as the PM880 will continue to update

its prediction and record the reading once stabilized.

Note: If the dewpoint temperature increases to a wetter value during the

dry down, the PM880 may not report a prediction and the bold “E” will remain on the display. This indicates an unstable moisture content in the gas. Verify that the system is leak tight and repeat this process.

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Chapter 4. Using Special Features

4.10Entering Reference Data

WARNING! DO NOT CHANGE THESE VALUES UNLESS INSTRUCTED BY GE TO

DO SO.

The PM880 requires reference values for its measurement circuitry for moisture and pressure inputs. The references are factory calibration values. These values can be found on the label located inside the battery compartment.

If instructed by GE to change these values, use the following steps.

1. If the menu is not active, press [MENU].

2. Use the arrow keys to scroll to Service and press [ENTER].

3. Use the arrow keys to scroll to References and press [ENTER]. The

screen appears similar to Figure 30.

Figure 30: References Window

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Chapter 4. Using Special Features

4.10 Entering Reference Data (cont.)

4. Use the arrow keys to move to the desired tab and press [ENTER].

5. Use the arrow keys to move to High Ref and press [ENTER] to open the

text box.

6. Use the numeric keys to enter the value recorded on the back of the

PM880 and press

7. Repeat steps 5 and 6 for the low reference value.

Next, do one of the following:

• To exit and return to taking measurements, press [F3] and then

[MENU].

• If you need to change values, use the arrow keys to move to the other

tab and return to step 5 above.

[ENTER].

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Chapter 4. Using Special Features

4.11Using Sleep Mode

The Sleep Mode keeps the PM880 in a state in which the unit appears

to be off. During Sleep Mode the unit is idle and consumes less power.

When you want to use the unit again, it comes out of Sleep Mode quickly, performs an AutoCal and is restored exactly as you left it.

4.11.1 Placing the PM880 in Sleep Mode

1. Press the red power key for 3 seconds. The screen now appears similar

to Figure 31.

2. Press [F2] to place the PM880 in Sleep Mode.

Figure 31: Shutdown Menu

4.11.2 Resuming Operation

Tap the red power key. The PM880 powers on, performs an AutoCal and returns to exactly where you left it.

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Chapter 4. Using Special Features

4.12Displaying Meter Information

The About command displays software information and other useful data specific to your meter. Use the following steps to display met er information:

1. If the menu is not active, press [MENU].

2. Use the arrow key to scroll to Site and press [ENTER].

3. Use the arrow key to scroll to About and press [ENTER]. A screen

similar to Figure 32 appears.

Figure 32: About Window

4. Press [F2] (Next) to list additional data such as the boot program,

instrument program, FPGA (timing) program, language, help version, serial number and PCI number.

5. Press [F3] (Exit) and then press [MENU].

The PM880 returns to taking measurements.

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Chapter 4. Using Special Features

Change Language

Cancel OK

Select a Default Language

English

Espanol

4.13Changing the Display Language

The PM880 user program is available in several languages. To change the language:

Note: The PM880 defaults to US English. However, one or more alternate

languages can be installed at any time. Consult your GE representative or www.ge-mcs.com for available languages.

1. If the menu is not active, press [MENU].

2. Use the arrow key to scroll to Meter and press [ENTER].

Use the arrow key to scroll to Language and press

[ENTER]. A screen

similar to Figure 33 appears.

3. Use the arrow keys to scroll to the desired language and press [ENTER].

4. Press [F3] (OK) and then press [MENU].

Figure 33: Language Change Window

The meter restarts in the desired language.

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Chapter 4. Using Special Features

4.14Using On-Line Help

The PM880 offers on-line help screens that contain descriptions and instructions for various topics. You can access on-line help at any time by pressing the [?] key. The on-line help screen that appears depends on what the meter is doing at the time the [?] key is pushed. While:

• taking measurements - the on-line help screen displays a table of

contents.

• in the user program - the on-line help screen displays the help screen

relevant to the program menu.

Use the function keys at the bottom of the screen to navigate through on-line help.

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Chapter 4. Using Special Features

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76 Model PM880 Portable Hygrometer User’s Manual

Chapter 5. Logging Data

Data logging is one of the PM880’s most powerful and flexible features. The meter enables you to choose up to 12 measurements to log. Logs can run one at a time or simultaneously. Error and circular logs are also available. The logged data is internally stored in battery-backed-up memory.

A fixed amount of memory is assigned to store logs. The frequency of the time interval, the length of the log run, and the number of logs affect the amount of memory required for a particular log. For example, a 2 hour log that records every 5 seconds will use up more memory than a 2 hour log that records every 5 minutes.

The PM880 also has various tools to enable the following:

• setting up a new log - page 78

• pausing a log - page 82

• starting and restarting a log - page 83

• ending a log - page 84

• viewing all logs - page 85

• viewing log setup details - page 86

• viewing logged data in graph or spreadsheet format -

page 88

The PM880 has additional logging capabilities. For more details on these functions refer to Chapter 6, Managing Files and Chapter 7, Using the

PM880 with a PC and Printer.

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Chapter 5. Logging Data

5.1 Setting Up a New Log

Use the following steps to create a new log.

Note: If you need to cr eate a log file that is similar to one you have alr eady

created, you can save time by copying the existing log and editing it. Refer to Copying a Log on page 103.

5.1.1 Creating a New Log

1. If the menu is not active, press [MENU].

2. Use the arrow key to scroll to Logging and press [ENTER].

3. Use the arrow key to scroll to New Log and press [ENTER]. A screen

similar to Figure 34 appears.

Note: You can also create a new log by scrolling to Log Manager, press

[ENTER], press [MENU], scroll to File, press [ENTER], scroll to

New and press

[ENTER].

Figure 34: New Log Window

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Chapter 5. Logging Data

5.1.2 Entering a Log Name

1. Use the arrow keys to scroll to the desired letter or number and press

[ENTER]. Press [F1] (Delete) to delete any unwanted letters or numbers.

2. Repeat this procedure until you have created the desired log name of up

to eight characters.

3. When you have finished, press [F3] (OK). A screen similar to Figure 35

appears.

Figure 35: General Log Format Window

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Chapter 5. Logging Data

5.1 Setting up a New Log (cont.)

5.1.1 Selecting General Log Settings

1. The General tab displays various p arameters for log setup. Use the []

key to scroll to Format and do the following:

• Use the arrow keys to make a selection and press [ENTER]. Use the

same procedure for Type.

• To edit text boxes, scroll to the box and press [ENTER]. Use the []

and [

] keys to scroll to the number to change and use the numeric

keys to change the number and press

Note: If you choose to run a cir cular log, you will need to enter the number

of records you want to log instead of an end date and time.

2. Use the arrow keys to move to the Measurements tab and press

[ENTER]. A screen similar to Figure 36 appears.

[ENTER].

Figure 36: Log Measurements Window

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Chapter 5. Logging Data

5.1.2 Selecting a Measurement to Log

1. Use the [] key to step to a box and press [ENTER]. A screen similar to

Figure 37 appears.

Figure 37: Select Measurement Window

2. Use the arrow keys to scroll to the desired measurement type and press

[SEL].

3. Use the arrow keys to scroll to the desired units and press [F3] (OK).

4. Repeat steps 1 through 3 for up to 12 different parameters.

5. When you have finished, press [F3] (Activate) to start the log. The log

will begin at the specified date and time.

Note: If you created the log from within the Log Manager, the meter

returns to the Log Manager, press

[MENU].

[F3] (Exit) and then press

The PM880 returns to taking measurements. A Pencil icon appears in the bottom right-hand side of the screen.

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Chapter 5. Logging Data

5.2 Pausing a Log

The PM880 has two commands to pause logs: Pause and Pause All Logs. The PM880 can only pause logs that are currently running.

Note: The PM880 also has an End command that enables you to stop the

log permanently. See Ending a Log on page 84.

Use the steps below to pause one or more logs:

5.2.0a Accessing the Log Manager

1. If the menu is not active, press [MENU].

2. Use the arrow key to scroll to Logging and press [ENTER].

3. Use the arrow key to scroll to Log Manager and press [ENTER].

5.2.0b Selecting a Log File

1. Use the arrow key to scroll to the desired log.

Note: The list of log files in the Log Manager can be listed chr onologically

or alphabetically. Refer to Sorting Files in the Site/Drive/Log Manager on page 108.

2. Press [MENU].

3. Use the arrow key to scroll to Log and press [ENTER].

4. Use the arrow key to scroll to Pause or Pause All Logs and press

[ENTER].

The PM880 returns to the Log Manager, which displays the selected log as Paused.

Next, do one of the following:

• To pause another log, repeat the above steps.

• T o return to taking measurements, press [F3] (Exit) and press [MENU].

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Chapter 5. Logging Data

5.3 Starting or Restarting a Log

The Start and Start All Logs commands enable you to restart a paused log or start a pending log.

Note: You cannot restart a log that is completed or ended using the End

command.

Use the following steps to start or restart one or more logs:

5.3.0a Accessing the Log Manager

1. If the menu is not active, press [MENU].

2. Use the arrow key to scroll to Logging and press [ENTER].

3. Use the arrow key to scroll to Log Manager and press [ENTER].

5.3.0b Selecting a Log File

1. Use the arrow key to scroll to the desired log.

Note: The list of log files in the Log Manager can be listed chr onologically

or alphabetically. Refer to Sorting Files in the Site/Drive/Log Manager on page 108.

2. Press [MENU].

3. Use the arrow key to scroll to Log and press [ENTER].

4. Use the arrow key to scroll to Start or Start All Logs and press

[ENTER].

The PM880 returns to the Log Manager, which displays the selected log as Running or Pending.

Next, do one of the following:

• To start or restart another log, repeat the above steps.

• To return to taking measurements, press [F3] (Exit) and then press

[MENU].

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Chapter 5. Logging Data

5.4 Ending a Log

The End and End All Logs commands enables you to stop a log that is currently running or pending. Once you end a log it cannot be restarted.

Note: The PM880 also has an Pause command that enables you to stop

the log temporarily. See Pausing a Log on page 82.

Use the following steps to start or restart one or more logs:

5.4.0a Accessing the Log Manager

1. If the menu is not active, press [MENU].

2. Use the arrow key to scroll to Logging and press [ENTER].

3. Use the arrow key to scroll to Log Manager and press [ENTER].

5.4.0b Selecting a Log File

1. Use the arrow key to scroll to the desired log.

Note: The list of log files in the Log Manager can be listed chr onologically

or alphabetically. Refer to Sorting Files in the Site/Drive/Log Manager on page 108.

2. Press [MENU].

3. Use the arrow key to scroll to Log and press [ENTER].

4. Use the arrow key to scroll to End or End All Logs and press [ENTER].

The PM880 returns to the Log Manager, which displays the selected log as Finished.

Next, do one of the following:

• To end another log, repeat the above steps.

• To return to taking measurements, press [F3] (Exit) and then press

[MENU].

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Chapter 5. Logging Data

5.5 Viewing All Logs

Logs are associated with the site in use at the time the log is created (or run). By default, the Log Manager displays only the logs created with the site file that is currently running. The Log Manager has a command that enables you to view all existing logs regardless of the current site file.

Use the following steps to view all existing logs (finished or pending):

5.5.0a Accessing the Log Manager

1. If the menu is not active, press [MENU].

2. Use the arrow key to scroll to Logging and press [ENTER].

3. Use the arrow key to scroll to Log Manager and press [ENTER].

4. Press [MENU].

5. Use the arrow keys to scroll to Log and press [ENTER].

6. Use the arrow keys to scroll to View All Sites and press [ENTER].

7. To return to taking measurements, press [F3] (Exit) and then press

[MENU].

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Chapter 5. Logging Data

5.6 Viewing Log Setup Details

The PM880 enables you to view more than the log details shown in Log Manager. The Details command enables you to see the log status, date and time, length, interval, types of measurements logged and service information.

5.6.0a Accessing the Log Manager

1. If the menu is not active, press [MENU].

2. Use the arrow key to scroll to Logging and press [ENTER].

3. Use the arrow key to scroll to Log Manager and press [ENTER].

5.6.0b Selecting a Log

1. Use the arrow key to scroll to the desired log. Logs are associated with

the site file in use at the time the log is created or run. If you do not see the desired log in the list, refer to Viewing All Logs on page 85 to display all the existing logs.

Note: The list of log files in the Log Manager can be listed chr onologically

or alphabetically. Refer to Sorting Files in the Site/Drive/Log Manager on page 108.

2. Press [MENU].

3. Use the arrow key to scroll to View and press [ENTER].

4. Use the arrow key to scroll to Details and press [ENTER]. A screen

similar to Figure 38 on page 87 appears.

5. When you are done viewing the log details, press [F3] (Exit).

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GE Sensing PM880 Operating Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Chapter 1. Getting Started

1.1 Charging the Battery Pack

1.1.1 Removing the Battery Pack

1.1.2 Configuring the Battery Charger

1.1.3 Charging the Battery Pack

1.2 Powering On and Off

1.2.1 Powering On

1.2.2 Powering Off

1.3 Entering Data Using the Keypad

1.4 Entering Setup Data

1.4.1 Selecting Probe Type

1.4.2 Entering Calibration Data

1.5 Displaying Measurements

1.5.1 Selecting the Number of Measurements

1.5.2 Selecting the Types of Measurements

1.6 Saving Data in a Site File

1.6.1 Accessing the Site Manager

1.6.2 Entering a Site Name

Chapter 2. Taking Measurements

2.1 Installing the Probe in a Sample System

2.1.1 Installing a Moisture Probe

2.2 Connecting the Sample System to the Process

2.3 Making Probe Connections

2.4 Recalling a Site File

2.4.1 Accessing the Site Manager

2.4.2 Retrieving the Site File

2.5 Operating the Sample System

2.6 Conducting a Leak Test

2.7 Shutting Down the Sample System

Chapter 3. Using the PM880 Screen

3.1 Screen Components

3.2 Setting Up the Screen to Display Measurements

3.2.1 Selecting the Number of Views (Measurements)

3.2.2 Selecting the Types of Measurements

3.2.3 Selecting Numeric, Line or Bar Graph Format

3.2.4 Setting Up the Numeric Format

3.2.5 Adjusting the Line/Bar Graph Scale

3.3 Creating Function Key Shortcuts

3.3.1 Assigning/Re-assigning a Function Key

3.3.2 Clearing a Function Key

3.4 Using the Backlight

3.4.1 Turning the Backlight On and Off Manually

3.4.2 Setting the Backlight Timer

3.5 Adjusting the Contrast

3.6 Taking a Bitmap Screen Capture - Snapshot

Chapter 4. Using Special Features

4.1 Selecting English or Metric Units

4.2 Entering Date and Time

4.3 Changing Date and Time Appearance

4.3.1 Accessing the Locale Tab

4.3.1 Selecting the Separator

4.3.2 Selecting the Date/Time Format

4.4 Adding a Message to a Site File

4.4.1 Accessing the Site Manager

4.4.2 Selecting a Site File

4.4.3 Entering a Site Message

4.5 Setting a Probe Calibration Reminder

4.5.1 Accessing the Probe ID Tab

4.5.1 Entering Probe Information

4.6 Using Automatic Calibration (AutoCal)

4.7 Entering Constants and User Functions

4.8 Entering a User Constant

4.8.1 Entering a Saturation Constant

4.8.2 Entering User Functions

4.8.3 Setting Up User Tables

4.9 Using Computer Enhanced Response

4.9.1 Response Time Procedure

4.10Entering Reference Data

4.11Using Sleep Mode

4.11.1 Placing the PM880 in Sleep Mode

4.11.2 Resuming Operation

4.12Displaying Meter Information

4.13Changing the Display Language

4.14Using On-Line Help

Chapter 5. Logging Data

5.1 Setting Up a New Log