Monarch 6231-011 User manual

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Instruction Manual

Nova-Strobe DBL and Nova-Strobe PBL

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Deluxe and Phaser LED Stroboscopes

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Safeguards and Precautions

1. Read and follow all instructions in this manual carefully, and
retain this manual for future reference.

2. Do not use this instrument in any manner inconsistent with
these operating instructions or under any conditions that

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exceed the environmental specifi cations stated.

3. Certain strobe frequencies can trigger epileptic seizures in
those prone to that type of attack.

4. Users should not stare directly at the light source.

5. Prolonged exposure to the light can cause headaches in
some people.

6. Objects viewed with this product may appear to be stationary
when in fact they are moving at high speeds. Always keep a
safe distance from moving machinery and do no touch the
target.

7. There are no user serviceable parts in this instrument. Refer
service to a qualifi ed technician.

8. Do not allow liquids or metallic objects to enter the ventilation
holes on the stroboscope as this may cause permanent
damage and void the warranty.

9. Do not allow cables extending from unit to come into contact
with rotating machinery, as serious damage to the equipment,
or severe personal injury or death may occur as a result.

10. This instrument may not be safe for use in certain hazardous
environments, and serious personal injury or death could
occur as a result of improper use. Please refer to your
facility’s safety program for proper precautions.

11. Nova-Strobe LED units contain Nickel Metal Hydride batteries
which must be disposed of in accordance with Federal, State,
& Local Regulations. Do not incinerate. Batteries should
be shipped to a reclamation facility for recovery of the metal
and plastic components as the proper method of waste
management. Contact distributor for appropriate product
return procedures.

In order to comply with EU Directive 2012/19/EU on Waste
Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE): This product

may contain material which could be hazardous to human
health and the environment. DO NOT DISPOSE of this
product as unsorted municipal waste. This product needs to
be RECYCLED in accordance with local regulations, contact
your local authorities for more information. This product may
be returnable to your distributor for recycling - contact the
distributor for details.

Monarch Instrument’s Limited Warranty applies.

Seefor details.

Warranty Registration and Extended Warranty

coverage available online at

Monarch Instrument holds the following US trademarks and registrations,
all rights reserved: illumiNova®, Nova-Pro®, Nova-Strobe™, DataChart™,
Track-It™.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS:

1.0 OVERVIEW .................................................................................. 1

1.1 LED Strobe Control Panel ..........................................................1

1.2 Modes of Operation ..................................................................... 2

1.2.1 Internal Mode.............................................................2

1.2.2 External Mode ...........................................................2

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2.0 GETTING STARTED ..................................................................... 3

3.0 LED STROBE OPERATION .........................................................5

1.2.3 Charging Mode ..........................................................2

2.1 Power ...................................................................................3

2.2 Input / Output Connections ................................................ 3

3.1 Adjusting the Flash Rate - RPM .........................................5

3.1.1 Using the Knob ........................................................... 5

3.1.2 Using the Keypad ....................................................... 5

3.1.3 Decade Adjustment .................................................... 5

3.1.4 Multiply or Divide By 2 ............................................... 6

3.1.5 Fixed Increment N Adjustment ................................. 6

3.2 Adjusting the Flash Duration (Brightness) ....................... 7

3.2.1 Flash Duration - Degrees ........................................... 7

3.2.2 Flash Duration - Microseconds ................................. 7

3.3 Display Units .......................................................................8

3.4 Tachometer Mode ................................................................ 8

3.5 Mode Selection ....................................................................9

3.6 Memory ................................................................................9

3.7 Phase Delay ......................................................................... 9

3.7.1 Internal Phase Delay .................................................9

3.7.2 External Delay (PBL Model ONLY) ........................ 10

4.0 MENU .......................................................................................... 11

4.1 Decimal Places .................................................................. 11

4.2 Backlight ............................................................................ 11

4.3 Input Pulse Edge ............................................................... 11

4.4 Output Pulse Polarity ........................................................12

4.5 Blanking ............................................................................. 12

5.0 STROBE BRIGHTNESS .............................................................12

5.1 Calculating Blur .................................................................13

5.2 Brightness in Degrees of Rotation .................................. 13

5.3 Brightness in Pulse Duration ...........................................14

6.0 USING THE STROBOSCOPE TO MEASURE RPM .................14

7.0 BATTERIES ................................................................................ 16

7.1 Low Battery Indication ......................................................17

7.2 Charging the Batteries ......................................................17

7.3 External Power Supply/Charger (PBL only)....................18

7.4 Stroboscope Disposal ......................................................19

8.0 SPECIFICATIONS ...................................................................... 19

9.0 SENSORS, ACCESORIES, AND PARTS ............................................21

Sensors and Accessories ........................................................ 21

Replacement Parts ................................................................... 22

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1.0 OVERVIEW

The Nova-Strobe Deluxe DBL and Phaser PBL LED (Light Emitting Diode)
are rugged portable battery powered LED Stroboscopes used for inspection
and to stop motion to determine the speed of rotating objects. The units have
a pistol grip with lockable trigger switch and wrist strap for comfortable
hand held operation or they may be mounted on a tripod using the integral
¼ -20 UNC thread at the base of the handle. Although the DBL and PBL
are similar, the PBL has the additional ability to phase shift the image with

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respect to an external signal and can animate the image in slow motion
rotation for inspection purposes. The PBL can also run continuously from
an external power supply.

1.1 LED Strobe Control
Panel

The Deluxe and Phaser LED

have

Strobes
alpha-numeric liquid crystal
display (LCD) and a 12 key
ke yp ad enables the user to
simply enter data and control
the operation of the unit. The
keys have dual functions – the
primary function is shown by
the black printing on the blue
background on the top half of
the key. The secondary function
is as a numeric keypad and the numerics are shown against a white
background on the bottom half of the key – 0 to 9, period and ENTER. The
LCD display has several icons which will be explained later in this manual.

a two line backlit

Figure 1 LED Strobe

Control Panel

1.2 Modes of Operation

The stroboscope has two basic modes of operation – INTERNAL and
EXTERNAL.

1.2.1 Internal Mode

The strobe is in the Internal Mode when nothing is plugged into the
input jack or when manually set using the INPUT button. In the
internal mode the strobe generates its own timing signals and the
users can enter the fl ash rate using several different methods – see
Section 3.1.

1.2.2 External Mode

In the External Input Mode the user can’t make any fl ash rate
adjustments with the knob. The fl ash rate is a function of the input
signal. This mode is used to synchronize the fl ash to an external event
(for example, from an optical sensor) to stop or freeze motion. The
fl ash will be triggered on the rising or falling edge (menu selectable)
of the external input pulse. The strobe is in the External Input Mode
whenever there is a plug in the input jack. When the strobe is in the
External Input Mode, EXT will be displayed.

When an external input is applied to the unit and the strobe is put in the
Tachometer Mode, the unit will read the signal from the external input
(sensor) and display the reading on the LCD display without fl ashing
the lamp. The strobe will not fl ash in the Tach (Tachometer) Mode.

1.2.3 Charging Mode

The Charging Mode is when the strobe has the battery recharger
plugged into it. The strobe will continuously display the state of the
battery charge while being recharged.

1 2

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2.0 GETTING STARTED

The Stroboscope may be hand held or mounted on a tripod or other user
supplied bracket using the ¼-20 UNC bushing at the base of the handle.

2.1 Power

The LED Strobe is battery powered and has internal re
batteries. The unit should be charged before use (see Section 5.0). The
actual operating time of the stroboscope depends on the fl ash pulse width.

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Narrower fl ash widths increase the operating time. Note that the DBL strobe
will not operate from the recharger supplied with the unit. The PBL will
run continuously from the supplied AC powered charger (PSC-PBXU).

To turn on the stroboscope, depress and hold the trigger. The trigger may
be locked in position using the side locking button. To lock the stroboscope
on, depress the trigger as far as it will go and then press the locking button.
Once the locking button is set you may release the trigger and the trigger
will be held in place. To unlock the stroboscope, simply depress the trigger
and then release.

NOTE: Unit must power down completely (OFF will be displayed and

then disappear) before unit will power on again. This is normal
operation. Wait 2 seconds before turning the unit back on again.

2.2 Input / Output Connections

The strobe has input and output jacks on the left side of the stroboscope.

ese can be used for external triggering or synchronization (daisy-

Th
chaining two or more strobes). These jacks accept 1/8” (3.5mm) phone
plugs (input - stereo, output - mono). The input and output signals are TTL
compatible. See Figures 2 and 3 for connector connection detail.

chargeable

Signal Input

+6V Out to Sensor

Common (GND)

Common (GND)

+6V Out to Sensor

Signal Input

Figure 2 Input Connector Detail (Stereo plug)

Pulse Output

from Strobe

Common (GND)

Common (GND)

Pulse Output
from Strobe

Figure 3 Output Connector Detail (Mono plug)

The input jack (p pointing into socket) enables an external signal to
trigger the strobe. Inserting a plug into the input jack will automatically
put the strobe into the external mode. The INPUT button can be used to
toggle between External Input Mode and Internal Mode. When the plug is
removed, the strobe will be put back into the Internal Mode. The polarity
of the input pulse can be set in the MENU options. In the external mode
the knob cannot be used to change the fl ash rate.

With no external input, the output jack (q pointing away from socket)
provides a TTL compatible pulse from the strobe’s internal oscillator.
If an external input is applied, the output pulse is in sync with the input
pulse. This output pulse may be used to trigger a second stroboscope
synchronously to illuminate larger areas. Many strobes can be “daisy
chained”. The output jack of one strobe is connected to the input jack of

3 4



KKKKKK

> > > > > > > >

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the next strobe causing all the strobes to fl ash together and be controlled
by the fi rst strobe in the chain. The polarity of the output pulse can be set
in the MENU options.

Each time the  button is pressed the blinking digit moves one
position to the right, the decade decreases by 10 until the digits stop
blinking. Pressing the  button again will cause the left most digit
to start blinking.

3.0 LED STROBE OPERATION

3.1 Adjusting the Flash Rate - RPM

There are several ways to adjust the fl ash rate of the Strobe:

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3.1.1 Using the Knob

The fl ash rate can be adjusted by turning the knob on the side of the
unit – counter clockwise to increase the fl ash rate and clockwise to
decrease the fl ash rate. The knob is rate sensitive, the faster you turn
the knob the greater the change in fl ash rate. The smallest adjustment
is to add or subtract one from the least signifi cant (right most) digit
on the display.

3.1.2 Using the Keypad

It is possible to enter the required fl ash rate as a number
by entering the value using the keypad as you would with
a calculator. Press the NUMber key shown right followed
by the numeric keys representing the fl ash rate (eg 1234),
using the secondary key functions – numbers 0 to 9 and the
period, then press the ENTER button. Note: The system
will round the display to the nearest least signifi cant digit displayed.
If the display has no decimal places and you enter 1234.6 the display
will show 1235 and the strobe will fl ash at 1234.6 fl ashes per minute.

3.1.3 Decade Adjustment

The fl ash rate can be adjusted in decade steps eg: 1, 10, 100
etc. by pressing the  button shown right. This will start a
digit on the display blinking. If the knob is turned this digit
will increment or decrement with rollover and roll under features.

5 6

To exit the decade adjustment mode while a digit is blinking press
any key other than the  button.

3.1.4 Multiply or Divide By 2

The strobe fl ash rate can be instantly doubled (x2) or halved
(÷2) by pressing the x2 and ÷2 buttons shown right. This
is useful in determining actual rotational speed. Refer to
the section on speed measurement – Section 4.0. Note that
if doubling or halving the fl ash rate will cause the strobe
to exceed its capability, the display will show OVER or
UNDER respectively and the fl ash rate will remain at the current
fl ash value.

3.1.5 Fixed Increment N Adjustment

The strobe fl ash rate can be incremented or decremented
in fi xed increments. To do this, adjust the fl ash rate to the
required adjustment value, say 300, which we will refer
to as N. Then press the ±N button shown right (Note: – N is the
displayed value at the time the button is pressed). The display will
show ALT in the bottom left hand corner which indicates the knob is
in the ALTernate function mode. Turning the knob counterclockwise

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will increase the fl ash rate by N (300 in this example) for each click
or turning it clockwise will decrease the fl ash rate by N. It is not
possible to decrement the fl ash rate below 30 FPM.

3.2 Adjusting the Flash Duration (Brightness)

The fl ash duration, the width of the LED fl ash, can be adjusted by the
user to be a preset number of degrees of rotation (DEGS) or a fi xed with
in microseconds (uSEC). The result is a more or less bright image at the

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expense of less or more image blur. Read the section on Brightness ­Section 5.0.

3.2.1 Flash Duration - Degrees

To view or adjust the fl ash duration press the BRIGHT
button shown on the right. The display will show the
current fl ash duration in degrees of rotation – note that
there are 360° in a complete rotation. The degrees
shown is the amount of rotation visible during the
fl ash. The higher the degrees the brighter the image
and the more apparent the blur. Use the knob to
increase or decrease the fl ash duration in degrees
of rotation. Adjusting the degrees will cause this to be the controlling
parameter for pulse width. As the fl ash rate increases or decreases
the strobe will adjust the fl ash duration to keep it at the preset number
of degrees provided this does not exceed the strobe specifi cations.
Press any key other than BRIGHT to exit or press BRIGHT again
to go to MICROSECOND adjustment.

3.2.2 Flash Duration - Microseconds

To view or adjust the fl ash duration in microseconds press
the BRIGHT button again after viewing degrees or press
the BRIGHT button twice from normal operation. The
display will show the current fl ash duration in microseconds (uSECS)

7 8

1.2

DEGS

– this may be calculated from phase degrees set
above. Use the knob to increase or decrease the
flash duration in microseconds. Adjusting the
microseconds will cause this to be the controlling
parameter for pulse width. As the fl ash rate increases or decreases the
strobe will keep the fl ash duration at the preset width in microseconds
provided this does not exceed the strobe specifi cations. Press the
BRIGHT button to exit the fl ash duration adjustment.

1234

uSECS

3.3 Display Units

The display can show the fl ash rate in revolutions per minute

PM) or per second (RPS or Hertz). To switch between display

(R
modes press the DISPlay button shown right. The display units
will toggle at each press (RPM < > RPS).

3.4 Tachometer Mode

The stroboscope can be used as a programmable pulse generator
or as a tachometer by pressing the TACH button shown right.
When an external input is supplied to the unit and the strobe is
put in the Tachometer Mode, the unit will read the signal from the external
input (sensor) and display the reading on the LCD display without fl ashing
the lamp. The TACH icon will show on the display. There is also
an ON TARGET INDICATOR shown right which illuminates
when a valid external signal is received.

If there is no external input and the TACH button is pressed the strobe
will stop fl ashing but will still output a pulse at the rate indicated on the
display. This rate may be adjusted as described in Section 3.1 above.

To exit the Tachometer mode press the TACH button again.

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3.5 Mode Selection

The INPUT b
INTERNAL and EXTERNAL Modes as described in Section

1.2. When in the external mode the display will show EXT

and the stroboscope will only fl ash with an external input. Plugging
in an external source will cause the unit to automatically switch to the
EXTERNAL mode. Removing an external source while in the EXTERNAL
mode will cause the unit to switch to the INTERNAL mode.

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utton, shown right, toggles between the

3.6 Memory

The Stroboscope has the ability to save and recall up
This is done by pressing the MEMory button shown right. The
fi rst time the button is pressed the display will show
pressed again it will show

SAVE

is displayed, the display will cycle through memory locations 1

to 5 (indicated as

where SM is Save Memory). To actually SAVE or READ the selected

5

memory location, press the MEM button again. The ENTER button works
as well. The display will show
current fl ash rate prior to pressing the MEM button the fi rst time.

RM1

to

SAVE

. If the knob is turned while

RM 5

where RM is Recall Memory or

DONE

. Note that the value saved will be the

to 5 values.

READ

, if

READ

SM1

to

or

SM

3.7 Phase Delay

The DELAY button adjusts the phase shift of the fl ash with
respect to time. There are two modes: INTERNAL and
EXTERNAL (PBL model only).

3.7.1 Internal Phase Delay

Also referred to as JOG. Once the fl ash rate has been adjusted to give
a stopped motion image, the PHASE DELAY button may be used to
increase or decrease the phase of the image with respect to its original
position. Use the PHASE DELAY button to bring a reference mark,
such as a key way, into your line of sight.

9 10

To adjust the phase or jog the image, press the DELAY button.
will be displayed on the bottom line of the LCD display and the current
fl ash rate will be displayed on the top line. Turning the knob adjusts
the phase of the stopped image. It is a relative adjustment. Press the

DELAY button again to exit this mode.

3.7.2 External Delay (PBL Model ONLY)

The DELAY button has no function in External mode on the DBL
model stroboscope.

On the PBL model stroboscope there are three External Delay
Modes: Phase Delay, Time Delay, and Auto (Virtual RPM). These
modes are only active if an external trigger source is plugged into the
unit. The EXTernal icon must appear on the display.

Pressing the DELAY button cycles through the following modes:

In the External Phase Delay mode the fl ash is delayed 0.1 to 359.9
degrees after each external trigger pulse. The display will show
the delay in degrees on the top line and will indicate
the lower line. The knob adjusts the amount of delay in degrees,
counterclockwise to increase and clockwise to decrease.

In the External Time Delay mode the fl ash is delayed 0.01 to 1000
msec after each external trigger pulse. The display will show the
TIME icon, the delay in milliseconds on the top line and will indicate

MSECS

on the lower line. The knob adjusts the amount of delay in

milliseconds, counterclockwise to increase and clockwise to decrease.

In the Auto (Virtual RPM) mode the fl ash is automatically delayed
in increasing amounts after the external trigger pulse so that the
image appears to rotate at a slow (Virtual) speed, RPM. The display
will show the AUTO icon, the virtual speed in RPM on the top line

PHASE

PHASE

on

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and will indicate
adjusts the virtual speed in RPM, counterclockwise to increase and
clockwise to decrease.

VRPM

(Virtual RPM) on the lower line. The knob

4.0 MENU

The Menu allows settings of basic setup options – displayed
decimal places, backlight on or off, positive or negative edge for
input and output signal and blanking. The menu is entered by

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pressing the MENU button and using the knob to scroll through the menu
options as described below. The top display line shows Setup. To select a
menu option, press the MENU button again.

4.1 Decimal Places

Sets the number of decimal places shown on the display
After pressing the MENU button rotate the knob until the display bottom
line shows
display will show the number of decimal places (2, 1, none) selected by
rotating the knob. Press the MENU button to select, then any other key
to exit. The display will show

DECPT

and press the MENU button again. The top line of the

DONE

and return to the normal readout.

4.2 Backlight

Enables the display backlight to be turned on or off. After pressing the
MENU button rotate the knob until the display bottom line shows BLITE
and press the MENU button again. The top line of the display will show Yes
or No selected by rotating the knob counterclockwise (yes) or clockwise
(no). The backlight will turn on and off accordingly. Press the MENU
button to select, then any other key to exit. The display will show DONE
and return to the normal readout.

4.3 Input Pulse Edge

Sets the input pulse edge that triggers the stroboscope. After pressing the

MENU button rotate the knob until the display bottom line shows

11 12

for numeric.

INPUT

and press the MENU button again. The top line of the display will show
the

PoS

(for positive edge triggered) or

selected by rotating the knob counterclockwise (PoS) or clockwise (nEg).
Press the MENU button to select, then any other key to exit. The display
will show

DONE

and return to the normal readout.

nEg

(for negative edge triggered)

4.4 Output Pulse Polarity

Sets the polarity of the output pulse. After pressing the MENU button
rotate the
press the MENU button again. The top line of the display will show the

PoS

selected by rotating the knob counterclockwise (PoS) or clockwise (nEg).
Press the MENU button to select, then any other key to exit. The display
will show

knob until the display bottom line shows

(for positive edge triggered) or

DONE

and return to the normal readout.

nEg

(for negative edge triggered)

OUTPT

(Output) and

4.5 Blanking

Blanking is used to reject the strobe’s own fl ash when using an external
optical sensor and prevent double triggering. After pressing the MENU
button rotate the knob until the display bottom line shows
the MENU button again. The top line of the display will show
selected by rotating the knob counterclockwise (yes) or clockwise (no).
Yes enables blanking, no disables it. Press the MENU button to select,
then any other key to exit. The display will show
normal readout.

BLANK

DONE

and return to the

and press

Yes

5.0 STROBE BRIGHTNESS

The strobe’s brightness depends on how wide the LED fl ash pulse is; the wider
the pulse, the brighter the visual output from the LEDs. Since the strobe is
primarily used on reciprocating or rotating targets there is a downside to the
wider fl ashes. All strobes work by giving short bursts of light (the pulse width)
at a rapid repetition rate (the fl ash rate). Strobes rely on the persistence of the

or No

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human eye (the ability to remember and image) and its response to bright
light to give an apparent stop motion image. Imagine a shaft rotating at 6000
RPM or one rotation every 1/100 of a second (10 msec). If the strobe fl ashes
once every 10 msec for a brief moment, the user sees the fl ash at the same
spot in the rotation of the shaft and the persistence of the eye remembers this
until the next fl ash making the shaft appeared to be stopped. As the target is
rotating there is some movement evident during the strobe fl ash. The longer
the fl ash duration, the more obvious the rotation is and this increases the blur.

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5.1 Calculating Blur

Blur can be calculated – if the shaft takes 10 msec to complete one
revolution and the strobe fl ash duration is 100 µsec (1/100 of a millisecond),
the shaft will turn:

(fl ash duration/time per rotation) x 360°, which is (.0001/.01) x 360 = 3.6°.

So you will see the shaft move 3.6°. As the fl ash pulse widens you will
see greater degrees of rotation which results in more blur and a brighter
perceived illumination (the LEDs are on longer so the average light the
eyes see is greater). The trade-off is blur versus brightness. One also has to
take into account tangential velocity (rotational speed) – the further away
the rotating point is from the center axis the faster the tangential velocity
and the worse the blur appears to be – it is always the same number of
degrees of rotation but the physical length of the blur gets bigger as the
point moves faster. The strobe adjusts the width of the pulse automatically
to keep the degree of rotation visible constant.

There are two methods of adjusting the fl ash pulse width and hence the
brightness and consequently the blur.

5.2 Brightness in Degrees of Rotation

The fi rst method is to adjust the fl ash pulse width for degree of rotation
visible (blur). The user can set this from 0.2 to 14 degrees out of 360. The
higher the setting the brighter the strobe appears to be but the more blurred

13 14

the target is. Optimal setting to stop motion is 1.8 to 3.6°. The number of
degrees is a proportional amount and remains constant as the fl ash rate
increases or decreases. The strobe automatically calculates how wide the
pulse width should be at different fl ash rates to keep the blur constant – the
faster the fl ash rate the narrower the pulse width. The pulse width equals:
(setting in degrees/360) x (1/fl ash rate in Hz).

Thus the blur remains constant no matter what the fl ash rate*.

5.3 Brightness in Pulse Duration

The second method is to adjust the fl
microseconds. Here the user sets the fl ash pulse width in microseconds
not degrees. As the fl ash rate increases the pulse width stays the same and
the image will get brighter and more blurred as the fl ash width remains
constant*. The degree of rotation visible changes to keep the pulse width
of the fl ash constant*.

*Note: There are two limits maintained by the strobe – the pulse can
never be greater than 3000 µs nor can it exceed 14° of rotation. The strobe
automatically adjusts these values as the fl ash rate is increased or decreased
to maintain these limits at all times. For example - at a fl ash rate of 600
fl ashes per minute 14° of blur represents a fl ash pulse width of 3800 µsec.

The Strobe will limit this value to 3000 µsec or 10.8° of rotation (blur).

ash pulse width to a fi xed number of

6.0 USING THE STROBOSCOPE TO
MEASURE RPM

The primary use for a stroboscope is to stop motion for diagnostic inspection
purposes. However the stroboscope can be used to measure speed (in RPM
/ RPS). In order to do this several factors need to be considered. First, the
object being measured should be visible for all 360° of rotation (e.g. The
end of a shaft). Second, the object should have some unique part on it, like a

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bolt, key way or imperfection to use as a reference point. If the object being
viewed is perfectly symmetrical, then the user needs to mark the object with
a piece of tape or paint in a single location to be used as a reference point.
Look only at the reference point.

If the speed of rotation is within the range of the stroboscope, start at a
higher fl ash rate and adjust the fl ash rate down. At some point you will stop
the motion with only a single reference point of the object in view. Note that
at a fl ash rate twice the actual speed of the image you will see two images

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(reference points). As you approach the correct speed you may see three,
four or more images at harmonics of the actual speed. The fi rst SINGLE
image you see is the true speed. To confi rm the true speed, note the reading
and adjust the stroboscope to exactly half this reading, or just press the ÷2
button. You should again see a single image (which may be phase shifted
with respect to the fi rst image seen).

For example, when viewing a shaft with a single key way you will see one
stationary image of the key way at the actual speed and at 1/2,1/3,1/4, etc, of
the actual speed. You will see 2 images of the key way at 2 times the actual
speed, 3 key way at 3 times, etc. The FPM equals the shaft’s Revolutions

Per Minute (RPM) at the highest fl ash rate that gives only one stationary
image of the key way.

of the fi rst SINGLE image you encounter, call this speed “A”. Continue
decreasing the fl ash rate until you encounter a second SINGLE image. Note
this speed as “B”. Continue decreasing the speed until you reach a third
SINGLE image at speed “C”.

For a two point calculation the actual speed is given by:
RPM = AB/(A-B)

For a three point calculation:

RPM = 2XY(X+Y)/(X-Y)2 where

X = (A-B) and Y = (B-C)

If a Remote Optical Sensor or Magnetic Sensor is used

to sense one pulse per
revolution (External mode), the readout will display directly in RPM (FPM)
without any adjustment required.

In instances when you can shut down the device and install a piece of refl ective
tape, then an optical tachometer is easier to use for RPM measurement.
Stroboscopes must be used when you can’t shut down the device. The human
eye is not easily tricked into seeing a stopped image by a stroboscope when
the fl ash rate is slower than 300 FPM. Therefore, stroboscopes are just about
impossible to use below 300 FPM for inspection or to measure RPM.

7.0 BATTERIES

Stopped Image 1/4 times 1/2 times 1 time 2 times 3 times 4 times

Flash Rate (FPM) 1000 1500 3000 6000 9000 12000
Actual RPM

Example: Object rotating at 3000 RPM

If the speed is outside the full scale range of the stroboscope (500,000
FPM), it can be measured using the method of harmonics and multipoint
calculation. Start at the highest fl ash rate and adjust the fl ash rate down.
You will encounter multiple images so be aware of these. Note the fl ash rate

15 16

The Nova-Strobe LED is fi tted with rechargeable NiMH (Nickel Metal
Hydride) batteries. These batteries contain fewer toxic metals than NiCd
(Nickel Cadmium) and are currently classifi ed “environmentally friendly”.
They also have 30% more capacity than NiCd batteries of the same size.

Like NiCds, NiMH batteries are prone to self-discharge - 10 to 15% of charge
is lost in the fi rst 24 hours then continues at a rate of 0.5 to 1% per day. For
maximum performance, charge the batteries just prior to use.

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When not in use, the batteries should be charged at least every three months,
otherwise the battery capacity will be reduced or the batteries may become
unusable.

Charge the batteries before use and allow 3-5 cycles of charging and
discharging for batteries to reach full capacity.

The enclosure contains control electronics to properly and safely charge
the batteries. Never remove the batteries from the enclosure and attempt to

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charge externally. Always use the recharger supplied (PSC-2U for the
DBL and PSC-PBXU for the PBL).

7.1 Low Battery Indication

When the batteries are charged, there will be no battery icon indication.
When the batteries are low, the Low Battery icon will blink in the display.
The strobe may still be used for a short time.

Low Battery Icon = Outline blinking (very little time left)

The strobe has a protection feature that prevents the strobe from operating
if the battery voltage is too low. This condition is indicated by no fl ash
and the display shows “LO BAT”. At this time the batteries must be
recharged. Remember to release the trigger switch.

7.2 Charging the Batteries

The unit may be recharged at any time. You do not need to wait until the
low battery condition is indicated.

To charge the strobe with the recharger:

1. Release the trigger so the strobe is off.

2. Plug the recharger cable into the recharger socket (located below
the display panel behind the handle).

3. Plug the recharger into an AC mains wall outlet (115/230 Vac).

CAUTION: Use of rechargers other than the one supplied (PSC-2U

for the DBL and PSC-PBXU for the PBL) will damage the
stroboscope and void the warranty.

When the recharger plug is inserted into the recharger jack, the strobe will
go into the Charging Mode. Make sure the trigger switch is not depressed.
The DBL strobe will not do anything else when charging (e.g. it will not
fl ash and the buttons have no function).

When charging, the strobe will indicate

CHRGE

in the bottom of the display.
The recharger will fast charge the batteries for about 4-5 hours and then
trickle charge the batteries.

Allow the recharger to charge the batteries until the display shows

DONE

for peak battery life performance. If the batteries are not charged to 100%
regularly, the batteries will lose capacity.

7.3 External Power Supply/Charger (PBL only)

The PBL will run continuously from the external power supply/charger
(PSC-PBXU) powered by the AC mains (115 – 230 Vac).

To run the PBL from the external power supply/charger (PSC-PBXU):

1. Plug the recharger cable into the recharger socket (located below
the display panel behind the handle).

2. Plug the recharger into an AC mains wall outlet (115/230 Vac).

3. Press the trigger switch to operate as normal. If the trigger switch is
not pressed, the strobe will start charging. The batteries ARE NOT
charged while the strobe is operational and running off the power
supply/charger.

17 18

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7.4 Stroboscope Disposal

Prior to disposing of the battery-powered strobe, the user must
remove the Nickel-Metal Hydride batteries. To do this, remove
the LED assembly fi rst. This will expose four (4) screws that

must be removed so the refl ector housing can be dismantled.
There are four (4) additional screws in the case half opposite the input and
output jacks that must be removed. The case halves can now be separated,
exposing the batteries. Remove the cables from the batteries and place tape

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over the battery terminals to prevent them from shorting. The batteries
should be sent to a recycling center or returned to the factory. The rest of
the parts may now be disposed of.

8.0 SPECIFICATIONS

INTERNAL MODE:
Flash Range 30 - 500,000 FPM (Flashes Per Minute), 0.5 to 8333.33 Hz
Flash Rate Accuracy 0.004% of setting or ± last digit
Flash Rate Resolution 0.01 to 1 FPM (menu selectable), 0.1 FPM resolution above

Display Update Rate Instantaneous

EXTERNAL MODES:
Flash Range 0 - 500,000 FPM (Flashes Per Minute) 0.5 to 8333.33Hz
Tachometer Mode 5 to 500,000 RPM

Accuracy: ±0.001% of reading or ± last digit

Display Update Rate 0.5 second typical
Trigger to Flash Delay < 5 µsec
External Input TTL Compatible (24V pk max), 500 nanosec min pulse width,

Output Pulse 5V pulse – positive or negative (menu selectable) One pulse per

Time Base Ultra Stable Crystal Oscillator
Display LCD display with 6 numeric 0.506 inch [12.85 mm] high digits

Indicators Battery level, On Target, ALT, TACH, and EXT icons

19 20

9,999.99 FPM, 1 FPM resolution above 99,999.9

Positive or Negative edge triggered (menu selectable)

fl ash

and 5 alphanumeric 0.282 inch [7.17 mm] high digits

Knob Adjustment Digital Rotary switch with 36 detents per revolution; velocity

Memory Last setting before power down is remembered and restored on

5 user settable fl ash rates.

Input Power Battery powered: Internal Rechargeable Batteries 6 Vdc, External

Light Output Average: 3000 Lumens @ 6000 FPM 12” from lens
Flash Duration Adjustable 0.5 to 3000 microseconds or 0.2 to 14 degrees of

Note: Flash duration is limited to 10 degrees when running

Run Time 12 hours typical at 6000 FPM, and 2.8° pulse width with fully

Charge Time 4-5 hours typical with supplied recharger
Weight 1.875 lbs [0.8505 kg] including batteries
Safety This product is designed to be safe for indoor use under the

Operating Temp. 32-104 ºF [0-40 °C]
Humidity Maximum relative humidity 80% for temperature up to

Compliance: CE compliant. Low Voltage Directive (LVD) 2014/35/EU

Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive (EMC) 2014/30/EU
Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) Directive

Energy Effi ciency Nova-Strobe DBL/PBL units with Firmware Revision 0.95

Product specifi cations subject to change without noti

For troubleshooting information and technical support visit

sensitive

next power up.

AC Power Supply PBL only (100 Vac to 240 Vac, 50/60 Hz)

rotation (auto adjust with fl ash rate)

PBL continuously from the external power supply/charger
(PSC-PBXU) powered by the AC mains (115 - 230 Vac).

charged batteries

following conditions (per IEC61010-1).

88 °F [31 °C] decreasing linearly to 50% relative humidity at
104 °F [40 °C]

2011/65/EU

and higher are compliant with the U.S. Department of Energy’s
energy conservation standards specifi ed in the Code of Federal
Regulations 10 CFR 430.32(z) and are registered in the DoE
CCMS database.

ce.

Manufactured in an ISO9001 facility.

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9.0 SENSORS, ACCESORIES, AND PARTS

Se

nsors and Accessories:

Rugged Laser Sensor with removable 3 meter cable, M12 connector to
1/8” phone plug connector for triggering strobe

R

mote Optical Laser Sensor with 8 foot [2.5 m] cable for triggering

e

strobe.

Re

mote Optical Sensor with 8 foot [2.5 m] cable for triggering strobe.

mote Optical Sensor with 25 foot [7.6 m] cable for triggering strobe.

Re

Infrared Sensor with 8 foot [2.5 m] cable for use without refl ective target
at 0.5 inch [12 mm] gap for triggering strobe.

Magnetic Trigger Sensor/Amplifier with 8 foot [2.5 m] cable for
triggering strobe.

Splash proof protective vinyl cover for battery powered strobes ONLY.

Latching carrying case for strobe with provision for accessories
(included with DBL Kit).

Deluxe water-tight latching carrying case for strobe with provision for
accessories (included with PBL Kit).

Set of mating 1/8 inch (3.5mm) stereo phone plugs (to provide TTL
signal and sensor power).

6 foot [1.8 m] input/output cable, 1/8 inch [3.5 mm] male phone plug to
male BNC connector.

6180-081

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RLS-P

ROLS-P

6180-029

ROS-P

6180-057

ROS-P-25

6180-057-25

IRS-P

6180-020

MT-190P

6180-036

SPC-1

6280-041

CC-7

6280-038

CC-12

6280-049

C-4027

6280-034

CA-4044-6

6280-037

CA-4045-6

6280-038

Protective

bber

u

R

6 foot [1.8 m] input/output cable, 1/8 inch [3.5 mm] male phone plug to
1/8 inch [3.5 mm] male phone plug for daisy chaining strobes together

Protective rubber boot for all Nova-Strobe X Series strobes that fi ts over
refl ector housing to protect strobe.

Cover

6280-048

Re

T-5

6180-070

fl ective Tape - 5 foot [1.5m] roll, 0.5 inch [12.7mm] wide

Replacement Parts:

PSC-2U

6280-022

PSC-pbxU

6280-024

Internal
Battery
Pack

6280-046

Universal Recharger

Model PSC-2U

Universal Recharger, 115/230 Vac with USA, U.K., AUS
Adapter Plugs for battery operated Nova-Strobes (included with DBL).

Universal Power Supply/Charger, 115/230 Vac with USA, U.K., AUS
and Euro Adapter Plugs (included with PBL).

Rechargeable NiMH battery pack for all Nova Strobe models: BBX,
DBX, PBX, VBX, BBL, DBL, PBL models.

Power Supply / Recharger

PSC-pbxU 115/230VAC

6280-022 6280-024 6280-046

,

Euro

Internal Battery Pack for
Nova-Strobe Xenon and

LED Series Strobes

21 22

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Check out some of our other product lines…

Handheld Panel Portable Machi ne Vision
T

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achometers Tachometers Stroboscopes Stroboscopes

Speed Sensors Temperature/ Vibration Meters
Humidity Sensors

Paperless Recorders Track-It™ Data Loggers

Printed in the U.S.A.

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071- 4231-113- 0420

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