OPERATING MANUAL
Compass
™
Refrigerant Leak Detector
Declaration of Conformity
This is to certify that this equipment, designed and manufactured by INFICON Inc. 2 Technology
Place, East Syracuse, NY 13057 USA meets the essential safety requirements of the European
Union and is placed on the market accordingly. It has been constructed in accordance with
good engineering practice in safety matters in force in the Community and does not endanger
the safety of persons, domestic animals or property when properly installed and maintained and
used in applications for which it was made.
Equipment Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Compass Refrigerant Leak Detector
Applicable Directives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73/23/EEC as amended by 93/68/EEC
Applicable Standards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .EN 61010-1: 2001, EN 61326: 2000-11,
CE Implementation Date. . . . . . . . . . . . .December, 2006
Authorized Representative . . . . . . . . . . . Duane Wright, Manager-Quality Assurance
Any questions relative to this declaration or to the safety of INFICON products should be
directed, in writing, to the quali ty assurance department at the above address.
89/336/EEC as amended by 93/68 EEC
2002/95/EC (RoHS)
EMC Cl A, Immunity Criteria B
INFICON Inc.
WARNINGWARNINGWARNING
This symbol is used to alert the user to the presence of important operating
and maintenance (servicing) instructions in the literature accompanying this
instrument.
INFICON, Compass and "Laboratory Accurate. Toolbox Tough." are trademarks of INFICON.
Thank you for buying the
®
INFICON
The Compass combines sophisticated technology with durability for an instrument with
outstanding sensitivity that's still Laboratory Accurate, Toolbox Tough. With normal use and little
special care, your Compass Refrigerant Leak Detector from INFICON will give you years of
trouble-free service.
Compass High Performance Features:
Electrochemical heated-diode sensor.
"No-reset" detection of CFCs, HCFCs, and HFCs.
Sensitivity of 0.15 oz/year (4 g/a) on HIGH sensitivity,
Automatic adjustment ("zeroing") to refrigerants in leak test area.
Rugged flexible probe.
Compass™ Refrigerant Leak Detector!
1.2 oz/year (34 g/a) on LOW sensitivity.
2
Foam filter for sensor protection.
Multi-function control button for power and HIGH / LOW sensitivity selection.
LED power indicator.
Variable-pitch audible leak alarm.
Progressive yellow LED leak indicators.
Rechargeable, replaceable NiMH power stick.
AC power adapter (100, 120, 230 V(ac) models available) to
charge/power the instrument.
12 V(dc) vehicle adapter.
Tip Protector
On / Off and
Sensitivity
Switch
Probe Tip
Green / Yellow LEDs
High / Low Indicators
Sensor
Flexible Probe
Foam
Filter
Power Jack
To get the best performance from your Compass Leak Detector, please read this manual
carefully before you start using the instrument. If you have any questions or need additional
assistance, please call 1-800-344-3304. We'll be happy to help you.
Power Cell
Access Door
Headphone Jack
3
Getting Started: Installing the Sensor and Charging the Power Stick
WARNINGWARNINGWARNING
DO NOT OPERATE THIS INSTRUMENT IN THE PRESENCE OF GASOLINE,
The Compass Refrigerant Leak Detector is shipped with the heated diode sensor packed
separately. The sensor is located in the protective foil package along with a desiccant capsule
to keep it dry. Installation of the sensor in the leak detector is required before use. To install the
sensor:
1. Locate the end of the leak detector probe and tip protector. The tip protector should be in the
2. Remove the sensor from its protective foil package. The sensor is the small metal "can" with
3. Carefully align the three leads (the small wires coming out of the bottom of the can) on the
4. Place the tip protector (with filter installed) over the sensor and tighten snugly by turning the
5. The nickel/metal hydride power stick is not yet charged. To charge it, connect the cord of the
NATURAL GAS, PROPANE, OR IN OTHER COMBUSTIBLE ATMOSPHERES.
detector's storage case. The three sockets in the end of the probe are for the leads of the
sensor to fit into.
a hole in the top.
sensor with the three sock ets in the end of the probe. Insert the sensor leads into the sockets
and gently press in the sensor until the leads are no longer visible.
NOTE: You must be careful not to bend the sensor leads because this can cause erratic
operation (see Troubleshooting.)
cap in a clockwise direction, being careful not to overtighten.
AC power adapter to the power jack and plug the adapter into the appropriate outlet. Allow
10 hours for a full charge. The Compass does NOT have a fast charge feature.
NOTE: You should expect 5 hours of operation from a fully charged power stick. Some
batteries perform best after several full charge/discharge cycles. The Compass
will operate off the AC power adapter. Connecting the supplied AC pow er adapter
will allow operation of the detector while the power stick cha rges. You do not have
to discharge the power stick completely before recharging it; there is no "memory"
effect to the power stick.
Using Your INFICON Compass
WARNINGWARNINGWARNING
FAILURE TO OPERATE THIS INSTRUMENT IN THE MANNER INTENDED BY
INFICON MAY RESULT IN PERSONAL INJURY.
Using the Compass Refrigerant Leak Detector is simple: Press the control button to turn the
instrument ON. The green ON indicator LED will illuminate and all of the yellow leak indicator
LEDs will illuminate. When the yellow LEDs extinguish and the instrument beeps at a rate of
about one beep per second, the instrument is ready to use.
4
The INFICON Compass Refrigerant Leak Detector provides similar responses to all CFC’s
(e.g., R-12), HCFC's (e.g., R-22), HFC's and refrigerant blends (e.g., R-134A, R-404A, R407C,
R-410A) as well as SF6. There is no need to change settings for the refrigerant you're working
with.
The Compass has two sensitivity settings: HIGH and LOW. The sensitivity indicators are
located on the upper right hand face of the instrument. LOW is eight (8) times less sensitive
than HIGH sensitivity. You will know what the instrument is set to by looking at the indicators on
the face of the instrument to see which one is illuminated. The Compass is automatically set to
HIGH sensitivity when powered on. If you would like to set the Compass to LOW sensitivity,
press the control button quickly. The LOW sensitivity indicator will illuminate. To return to HIGH
sensitivity, depress the control button again, and the HIGH sensitivity indicator will illuminate.
Headphones may be used with the Compass Refrigerant Leak Detector. When the headphones
are plugged into the detector, audio will only be heard through the headset.
Finding Leaks
1. Place the tip of the leak detector probe as close as possible to the site of the suspected leak.
Try to pass the probe within 1/4 inch of the possible leak source.
2. Slowly (approximately 1-2 inches per second) move the probe past each possible leak point.
NOTE: It is important to move the tip of the prob e past the leak to get a correct reading.
The Compass only responds to changes in concentration of the refrigerant from
the leak. Moving the probe permits the instrument to respond properly to these
3. When the instrument detects a leak, its yellow LEDs will illuminate and it will begin to beep
4. When the Compass signals a leak, pull t he probe away from the leak for a moment, then
5. If the concentration of the refrigerant gas is high, set the sensitivity to LOW before
6. Once you have isolated the leak source, return the sensitivity setting to HIGH by pressing
7. When you've finished leak-testing, turn OFF the instrument by pressing the main button f or
8. Store your INFICON Compass in the supplied storage case when not in use.
changes.
rapidly.
bring it back to pinpoint the location.
repositioning the probe at the suspected leak source. The LOW sensitivity setting helps find
the exact site when a leak is large. To adjust the sensitivity, quickly depress the control
button on the leak detector and the LOW sensitivity indicator will illuminate. Continue leak
checking.
the control button once again.
one second.
5
Choosing Power Options
The INFICON Compass Refrigerant Leak Detector will operate with a charged power stick or by
connection to the AC power adapter. When the instrument is plugged in using the AC power
adapter, the power stick will continue to be charged while the Compass is operating, although
more slowly than if the instrument is off.
A 12 V(dc) power cord is also included, designed to charge and power the Compass from your
vehicle's cigarette lighter.
NOTE: The detector will NOT operate without the power stick installed.
Recharging the Power Stick
A fully charged power stick should provide power for greater than 5 hours of continuous
operation.
When the power stick voltage is low, the green ON indicator will flash and you will have
adequate power to use the Compass for a short time.
When the power stick is fully depleted, the Compass will shut down and the green ON
indicator and highest yellow leak indicator LED will flash in an alternating manner.
Recharge the Compass by connecting it to the supplied AC power adapter, or by using the
cigarette lighter adapter. Allow 10 hours for a full charge.
NOTE: The power stick does not need to be fully charged to operate nor fully discharged
before recharging.
WARNINGWARNINGWARNING
DO NOT ATTACH ANY OTHER POWER CORDS TO THE COMPASS POWER
JACK EXCEPT THE AC POWER ADAPTER AND DC CORDS DESIGNED FOR
THIS INSTRUMENT.
Changing the Filter
The foam filter in the probe tip should be replaced if it becomes plugged with water or oil or
appears dirty. To replace the filter, twist off the tip protector (counter clockwise) and simply push
out (with a paper clip or similar object) the filter from the sensor side (larger end) of the tip
protector. Slide the new filter into the small hole in the tip protector, then replace the tip
protector. If the sensor becomes unseated when you remove the tip protector, take it out and
plug it back in, as described in the next section.
Probe
Sensor
Tip Protector
Filter
6
Changing the Sensor
The Compass's electrochemical heated diode sensor is located in the tip of the probe. This
specialized sensor will operate for about 100 hours. When that amount of time has passed, or
you feel you may have missed some refrigerant leaks, you should replace the sensor. A
reference refrigerant leak is also available separately from INFICON to check your sensor's
sensitivity. (See Replacement Parts and Accessories.)
To change the sensor:
1. Turn off the leak detector.
2. Locate the end of the probe and twist off (counter clockwise) the tip protector. Pull the sensor
(the small "can" with the hole in the top) straight out to unplug it. If the detector was just on
for a while, the sensor will be warm but it will not burn you.
3. Remove the replacement sensor from the protective foil package.
4. Carefully align the 3 leads (small wires coming out the bottom of the can) on the sensor with
the 3 sockets in the end of the probe. Insert the leads into the sockets and gently press the
sensor's leads into the end of the probe.
NOTE: You must be careful not to bend the sensor leads because this can cause erratic
operation (see Troubleshooting.)
5. Take this opportunity to change the filter, too. (see Changing the Filter.)
6. Place the tip protector over the sensor and tighten snugly by turning the cap in clockwise
direction, being careful not to over-tighten and damage the tip protector.
Removing/Replacing the Power Stick
The Compass uses a pre-assembled power stick. Do not attempt to disassemble it.
The power stick is connected to the circuit board via a miniature electrical connector. Slide the
old power stick out of the Compass and disengage the connector. Push the miniature connector
on the new power stick into the mating connector on the circuit board and slide the new power
stick into the Compass. Additionally, ensure the two halves are connected correctly, as the
connector is polarized and damage may result to either the battery or the Compass if attached
incorrectly.
Once the power stick is in place, close the battery compartment by sliding the compartment
cover over the detector's bottom housing until it latches. Ensure the wire leads on the power
stick are not pinched in the plastic housing. Plug the AC adapter into an electrical outlet and
allow 10 hours to fully charge the new power stick.
Cleaning the Compass Housing
The Compass plastic housing can be cleaned with standard household detergent or isopropyl
alcohol. Take care to prevent the cleaner from entering the instrument. Since gasoline and other
solvents may damage the plastic, protect your Compass from contact with these substances.
7
Troubleshooting
NOTE: The internal parts of the Compass Leak Detector are not serviceable. Do not attempt
to disassemble the instrument, except for replacing the filters, sensor or power stick.
Opening the plastic housing for any reason will void the warranty.
Problem Cause Remedy
1. Green ON light flashes
but detector still runs.
2. Green ON light and
highest yellow leak
indicator LED flash in an
alternating manner.
3. Green ON light, high
sensitivity indicator and
low sensitivity indicator
flash in an alternating
manner.
4. Instrument will not shut
off.
5. Leak detector is erratic,
alarms after a slight
bump, or when moving
the probe.
1. Power stick voltage is
low.
2. Power stick is
completely depleted of
charge and cannot power
detector.
3. Power stick has an
open.
4. May not be pressing
control button long
enough.
5. Sensor leads are bent,
not allowing for proper
contact with sockets. Or,
humidity has been
absorbed by sensor over
a long period of not
operating the detector.
NOTE: Sudden whipping
of the leak detector probe
or blowing into the sensor
tip will affect air flow over
the sensor and cause the
instrument to alarm.
1. Finish current job and recharge
power stick, or be prepared to plug
in AC adapter to power leak
detector.
2. Recharge power stick for 10
hours. Or, if immediate use is
required, recharge power stick for
a few minutes and plug AC
adapter into outlet to operate the
instrument off AC voltage.
3. Instrument will not run without
power stick. Purchase new power
stick from distributor and install in
leak detector.
4. Press and hold control button for
one second to shut down.
5. Remove protective cap and
sensor. Inspect sensor leads for
straightness. If bent, use needle
nose pliers to gently straighten
wires. Install sensor and test
detector. Or, if the Compass has
not been used for 5 weeks or
longer, humidity may have been
absorbed by the sensor. Turn on
the Compass and allow it to run for
a minimum of 20 minutes or until
alarm clears. Note: Absorption of
moisture in no way affects life or
sensitivity of sensor.
8
Problem Cause Remedy
6. Leak detector is not
very sensitive, seems to
have missed leaks, or
picks up some refrigerant
types but not others.
If you require additional assistance, please call 1-800-344-3304.
6. Sensor has reached the
end of its useful life.
6. Purchase new sensor from
distributor and install in Compass.
Replacement Parts and Accessories
Replacement parts and accessories for your Compass are available through the same dealer
from whom you bought the instrument.
Replacement Power Stick. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 712-700-G1
Replacement Sensor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 703-020-G1
Replacement Filters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 705-600-G1
Replacement plastic storage case . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 717-700-G1
Headphones . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 032-0404
12-volt cord with cigarette-lighter plug, 12 ft. (3.7 m) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .703-055-P1
120-volt adapter and cord, 6 ft. (1.8 m) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 033-0019
230-volt (Euro plug) adapter and cord, 6 ft. (1.8 m) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 033-0020
230-volt (UK plug) adapter and cord, 6 ft. (1.8 m) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 033-0022
100-volt adapter and cord, 6 ft. (1.8 m) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 033-0018
Optional TEK-Check R134a reference leak . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 703-080-G1
Specifications
Usage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Indoor or Temporary Outdoor
Minimum sensitivity to R22, R134a, and R410a. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.15 oz/yr (4 g/a)
Battery life. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . approximately 5 hours
Operating temperature range . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .-4 ºF to 122 ºF (-20 ºC to +50 ºC)
Charging temperature range. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .+32 ºF to 104 ºF (0 ºC to +40 ºC)
Storage temperature range. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .-4 ºF to 131 ºF (-20 ºC to +55 ºC)
Humidity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .85% RH NC Max.
Altitude . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6500’ (2000 m)
Pollution degree . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Overvoltage category . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Weight (with power cells) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.1 lbs (500 g)
9
Warranty and Liability-Limitation
INFICON warrants your Compass Refrigerant Leak Detector to be free from defects of materials
or workmanship for two years from the date of purchase. INFICON does not warrant items that
deteriorate under normal use, including power stick, sensor and filters. In addition, INFICON
does not warrant any instrument that has been subjected to misuse, negligence, or accident, or
has been repaired or altered by anyo ne other than INFICON.
INFICON liability is limited to instruments returned to INFICON, transportation prepaid, not later
than thirty (30) days after the warranty period expires, and which INFICON judges to have
malfunctioned because of defective materials or workmanship. INFICON liability is limited to, at
its option, repairing or replacing the defective instrument or part.
This warranty is in lieu of all other warranties, express or implied, whether of
MERCHANTABILITY or of FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE or otherwise. All such
other warranties are expressly disclaimed. INFICON shall have no liability in excess of the price
paid to INFICON for the instrument plus return transportation charges prepaid. INFICON shall
have no liability for any incidental or consequential damages. All such liabilities are
EXCLUDED.
Return Materials Authorization Procedure
Please see your INFICON distributor for assistance. All instruments and parts returned to
INFICON for repair or credit must be pr operly packaged, insured, shipped transportation
charges prepaid, and must have a Return Material Authorization (RMA) number issued before
the material is returned. The RMA number is to be marked on all shipping labels and packing
slips. If you have any questions contact us at 1-800-344-3304.
10
NOTES
11
TWO TECHNOLOGY PLACE
EAST SYRACUSE, NY 13057-9714 USA
Phone: +315.434.1100
Fax: +315.437.3803
E-Mail: service.tools@inficon.com
www.inficon.com
074-458-P1
E
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