OPERATOR’S MANUAL
What You Can't Hear Is What
You Need To Hear!
DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
This is to certify that this equipment, designed and supplied by
Tracer Products, a division of Spectronics Corporation, 956 Brush
Hollow Road, Westbury, New York, 11590, U.S.A., 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 ...... Marksman II Ultrasonic Diagnostic Tool
Applicable Directives ......... 73/23/EEC as amended by 93/68/EEC
2004/108/EC
2002/95/EC (RoHS)
Applicable Standards ........ EN 61010-1: 2001
EN61326-2: 2006
EMC CI A, Immunity Criteria B
CE Implementation Date ... January 15, 2001
Any questions relative to this declaration or to the safety of
Spectronics Corporation’s products should be directed, in writing,
to our Customer Service Department at the above address.
This symbol is intended to alert the user to the presence of
important operating and maintenance (servicing) instructions
in the literature accompanying the instrument.
WARNING
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CONTENTS
Declaration of Conformity ............................................................2
Contents ......................................................................................3
Features ......................................................................................4
Introduction/General Information ............................................. 5-6
Kit Configuration and Components.......................................... 6-7
Batteries (Changing/Replacing/Disposal) ....................................7
Important Tips .......................................................................... 7-8
Safety Precautions ......................................................................8
Operating Instructions ............................................................. 8-9
Heterodyne Feature...................................................................10
Ultrasonic Emitter ......................................................................10
High Noise Environments ..........................................................11
Typical Scanning Methods/Tips ............................................11-13
Vehicle Applications ............................................................. 14-17
Additional Applications...............................................................17
Care and Maintenance .............................................................18
Warranty and Liability ................................................................18
Technical Specifications ............................................................19
Replacement Parts ..................................................... Back Cover
Marksman™ II is a trademark of Spectronics Corporation.
DURACELL® is a registered trademark of Duracell Inc.
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FEATURES
The Marksman II Ultrasonic Diagnostic Tool converts and amplifies
inaudible ultrasonic sound into audible “natural” sound by
employing technologically advanced circuitry. It operates on the
principle of detecting high frequency ultrasonic waves, which are
created by friction from all moving parts, whether solid, liquid or
gaseous. These “sounds” reside far above the range of the human
ear and tend to be highly directional.
This directional aspect of ultrasonic waves allows one to isolate a
suspect signature sound from other background noises and detect its
exact location. This sound analysis can be used for efficiently
investigating the following areas of repair and preventive maintenance
in the following transportation and industrial applications:
1) Air leaks
Both vacuum and compressed air leaks create an energy
packet or wave front which can result in an ultrasonic emission
with a differential of 5 psi from a 12 inch (30.5 cm) distance,
and/or a hole down to 0.004 inches (0.1 mm) in diameter.
2) A/C refrigerant leaks (for most types of refrigerant)
3) Gas and liquid turbulence
Turbulence associated with steam trap and internal valve
leaks, cavitation, and blockages in liquid and air/gas lines.
4) Electrical discharge
Electrical discharge associated with insulation breakdown,
tracking, corona and arcing.
5) Diagnosing solenoid operations
6) Mechanical wear
State of mechanical wear in bearing and race assemblies,
shafts and gears (also indicating the state of lubrication).
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INTRODUCTION
Faults, malfunctions and/or flaws in mechanical, electrical and
pneumatic devices, as well as in container-type objects, start as
small defects or leaks. The physical size of these defects is so
relatively small that the sounds they produce are above the range
of human hearing. Most commonly, these faults generate sounds
in the 38,000 to 43,000 cycles per second range, generally referred
to as being in the ultrasonic range.
To employ the ultrasound methodology in a usable manner, it is
imperative that the listener have access to an audible sound that
bears a resemblance to the natural sound of the defect.
A mechanical bearing with a defective ball should sound like such.
Likewise, converting the ultrasound frequencies to audible
frequencies is not sufficient with regard to rendering a usable
signal. For this reason, the Marksman II incorporates a
process whereby the audible signal bears a close likeness to
the natural incoming sample. We call this process “Sound
Signature Technology,” whereby a gas leak sounds like a gas leak
and a defective bearing sounds like one.
GENERAL INFORMATION
The Marksman II is sensitive only to ultrasound (40.5 kHz) and is
unaffected by audible noise. Internal Noise Control (I.N.C.) allows
the use of this instrument in extremely noisy environments such as
mechanical rooms, around operational chillers, etc. Drag your
finger upwards on the sensitivity touch pad to increase sensitivity
when experiencing little or no environmental noise. Drag your
finger downwards on the sensitivity touch pad to reduce sensitivity
in response to an increase in environmental noise. The I.N.C.
works much like a two-way radio squelch allowing only the
strongest and closest signals to penetrate the electronic wall built
by the I.N.C. circuitry.
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Many variables can affect the amount of ultrasound generated by
the leakage of gas through an orifice. Such factors include the
pressure/vacuum versus the surrounding environment, how smooth
the edges of the orifice are, the diameter of the orifice, the leak
detector’s distance from the orifice and the presence of airflow,
which may dissipate the ultrasound. As you use the Marksman II,
keep in mind that these factors may affect your ability to detect
ultrasonic leaks.
KIT CONFIGURATIONS AND COMPONENTS
TP-9367 Master Kit Contains
1. The Marksman II ultrasonic receiver. This easy-to-use unit
incorporates audio feedback and five LEDs to indicate the
intensity of the signal. The receiver has a permanently fixed
2-inch directional receiver port, 3.5 mm stereo jack port,
sensitivity adjustment pad and power button.
2. One black rubber 7
length contact probe.
3. A full-sized headphone set with a 3.5 mm stereo jack.
4. A rugged carrying case for storage and transportation.
5. The ultrasonic emitter. Sends out a 40kHz pulse for use in
testing seal integrity in non-pressurized vessels.
6. Two “D” cell alkaline batteries.
Ultrasonic Emitter
The emitter gives off a warble output centered at 40kHz. This
output cannot be heard by the human ear. If the red indicator is on,
the unit is emitting.
3
/
inch (18.7 cm) air probe, and a precision-
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6
Air and Contact Probes
The air and contact probes are precision parts, designed to
optimize the response of the Marksman II receiver. The 12 inch air
probe extends its reach and can isolate one leak among multiple
suspect areas. Do not modify the probes in any way and never use
the probes for applications other than described in this manual.
BATTERIES (CHANGING/REPLACING/DISPOSAL)
Two “D” cell alkaline batteries are required (included). When the
batteries near the end of their useful life, the battery LED will flash.
To change the batteries, depress the release tab using a coin or a
screwdriver and slide back the cover. Replace the batteries with
two new “D” cell alkaline batteries. Replace the cover by holding it
in place along the side rails while sliding it forward to engage both
the rear hooks and the front release tab.
Be sure to dispose of batteries in a manner dictated by your
local laws.
IMPORTANT TIPS
Receiver and Emitter Port Openings
The port openings of the receiver and emitter contain a precision
transducer, the heart of the Marksman II ’s operation. During use,
guard against any foreign matter entering this area.
Calibration
The Marksman II has been optimally tuned at our factory and
should require no recalibration during its life under normal
conditions.
LED Display
The LED display allows you to zero in on a steady-state source of
ultrasonic sound, such as when locating an air or vacuum leak or
when using the emitter. Simply watch for a rise or drop in the LEDs
to pinpoint the source of the problem.
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Miscellaneous
To prolong battery life, turn off the Marksman II when not in use,
avoid rough handling, and keep it away from the elements. Use the
carrying case for protection and for transporting.
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
While the Marksman II allows you to focus on
diagnosing a problem in a fast and effective manner,
never lose focus of your surroundings.
1. Always remember that the Marksman II and its probes are an
extension of your hand. Keep the probes and your hands a
safe distance from moving parts and electrical areas.
2. Never overreach or destabilize your footing while using the
Marksman II.
3. Stand a proper distance away from electrical and moving parts.
4. Always be aware of the headphone cord when near moving
parts.
5. Wearing headphones hinders your ability to listen to your
surroundings. Always be alert!
6. Never use the contact probe to diagnose electrical problems.
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
1. If you want to enable heterodyne mode (see page 10), plug the
headphone jack into the receptacle located on the face
of the panel.
2. If you need to isolate an ultrasonic source more precisely,
attach the air probe into the receiver port. Or, the unit can be
used without the air probe attached first.
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3. Press the power button to turn the unit on. The Marksman II will
turn on at maximum sensitivity. The instrument will not beep or
tick in an idle state but the battery LED will illuminate to indicate
that the detector has adequate power. When the battery
LED flashes, this indicates that the batteries are nearing the
end of their useful life and will soon need to be replaced.
Please note: Increasing the volume does not increase the
unit’s detection sensitivity. Setting the volume control too high
can lead to operator fatigue.
4. Point the Marksman II in the direction of the suspected leak or
defect and scan the area by making a slow “X” (a vertical and
horizontal type sweeping motion) while keeping the probe
pointed in the general direction of the suspected leak or defect.
5. The Marksman II will beep when it detects an ultrasonic
disturbance. (When the headphones are plugged in, the unit
will not beep. See Heterodyne Feature on page 10.) To isolate
the ultrasonic disturbance, gradually decrease sensitivity by
slowly dragging your finger down the touch pad until the
beeping stops. The sensitivity level will be indicated briefly by
the number of illuminated LEDs next to the touch pad.
6. Move closer to the suspected leak or defect, continuing the
sweeping pattern and narrowing the range of the sweep by
smaller patterns until the ticking once again increases. This will
lead to the location of the ultrasonic disturbance. If an exact
location is desired, attach the flexible rubber extension to the
probe and repeat step 5.
7. Repair all leaks or defects as located and repeat the scan.
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HETERODYNE FEATURE
The Marksman II features heterodyne capability, which converts
the ultrasonic frequencies detected by the instrument to sounds
that can be heard by the human ear. This allows you to more
easily isolate the ultrasonic source.
Simply plug the included headphones into the jack on the right side
of the Marksman II to enable heterodyne capability. Dragging your
finger upwards/downwards on the sensitivity touch pad will increase/
decrease the volume of the headphones.
ULTRASONIC EMITTER
The ultrasonic emitter is used with the Marksman II to locate leaks
in walk-in coolers/freezers, wall and ceiling joints, around doors,
windows, body seals, rubber moldings, ducts, etc. The emitter
produces the precise frequency detected by the Marksman II. By
placing the emitter in a sealed area and scanning the exterior of this
area, any signal escaping from the sealed area will be indicated by
the Marksman II. A flaw in the seal can quickly and accurately
be pinpointed.
1. Turn on the emitter’s power switch. The LED will illuminate to
indicate it is operating.
2. Place the emitter into the area to be tested. Seal the area to be
tested completely.
3. Set the “Sensitivity” control of the Marksman II to maximum.
4. Scan the exterior area for the suspect leaks.
5. To pinpoint leaks, see General Information on pages 5-6.
6. When using the emitter with headphones plugged into the
Marksman II, the instrument will indicate ultrasonic disturbances
through a variable-pitch tone.
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HIGH NOISE ENVIRONMENTS
In noisy environments, it may be necessary to “tune out” unwanted
signals from other areas close to where you are scanning for leaks
or defects. Begin by attaching the air probe extension over the
nose piece. When the extension is attached, the sensing angle of
the instrument is reduced, increasing the directional capability and
reducing the effects of the adjacent noise sources. This allows the
probe to become more directional.
If you suspect that your reading originates from a source other than
what you are scanning, point the probe toward the other suspected
source (it may be a compressor V-belt, discharging steam line,
etc.) and slowly decrease the sensitivity until the alarm stops. Turn
the probe back toward direction of the suspected leak or defect and
continue to scan. This step may have to be repeated as you move
around to other locations in search of leaks or defects.
If the probe is close to the internal moving parts of the equipment
and the alarm sounds, push the rubber probe against the housing
of the equipment. If the alarm still sounds, internal friction of
moving parts, not a leak source, may be causing the alarm.
TYPICAL SCANNING METHODS/TIPS
The Marksman II provides information in two ways: qualitative,
through the ability to “hear” the signature ultrasounds produced by
various types of equipment, and the ability to see the feedback
level on multiple LEDs.
The air and contact probes are used to optimize the response
depending on the type of inspection being performed. The air
probe is best used for detecting ultrasounds associated with a
pressure leak or an electrical corona, while the contact probe is
best used to detect the ultrasounds generated from within a casing
such as in a gear, bearing, pump, valve or steam trap housing.
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Mechanical Malfunctions
The photo to the right shows a typical way to
inspect a potential wheel bearing problem. In
this case, the air probe is used since the wheel
is being turned while listening for the sound of
the bearings. The tip of the probe is kept 2-3
inches from the inspection area. Response
can sometimes be optimized by removing the
wheel and using the contact probe to touch
the stationary center hub. This applies to motor
housings as well when checking motor bearings. The contact probe
is also used in the same manner for investigating fuel injectors and
coil-over-shock suspension systems. Touch the tip of the metal
probe to the surface area being tested. Correct operation sounds
one way, while malfunction sounds another way. You will easily
hear the difference.
Electrical Corona Discharge
At right is a typical application using the
Marksman II to detect possible electrical
malfunctions by listening to the electrical
corona discharge associated with power
switches and breaker boxes.
As with all
potentially dangerous situations, use
caution. Use the hollow air probe or use the
receiver alone when inspecting electrical
conditions and always keep a safe distance between the air
probe tip and the metal panel surfaces. The Marksman II is
highly sensitive to picking up voltage breakdowns. The resultant
ultrasonic sound has been described as sounding like “frying bacon.”
Pressurized and Vacuum Leaks
Applications for pressurized type inspections are endless,
including compressed air or gas of any kind, air brake systems,
pipes/pipelines, steam systems, water lines, manifolds, and
likewise all vacuum systems. Note: Ultrasonic detection relies on
detecting the sounds associated with the turbulence of the fluid or
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gas exiting a hole or orifice under a differential pressure. It is
independent of the type of gas or fluid in the system. The
Marksman II will readily detect air and vacuum leaks typically
caused by bad gaskets, worn valve seats and cracks in pipes,
hoses or fittings.
Non-Pressurized Leaks
Non-pressurized vessels or containers cannot generate ultrasonic
sounds. The supplied ultrasonic emitter is used to broadcast an
ultrasonic noise, which is optimized to the frequency response of
the Marksman II receiver. Some examples are leaks in heating and
cooling system ducts and pipes, tanks, windshields, weatherstripping and whole house integrity.
1. Turn on the emitter and place it in the enclosed environment to
be evaluated. The emitter will
fill the interior with a
piercing warble sound. Note:
Emitter
Since the output is in the
ultrasonic range, you will not
hear it without the receiver.
2. Walk around the exterior of
the enclosed environment
while sweeping the receiver
around the suspect areas.
Receiver
Compromised areas will be
revealed by a change in tone and intensity, both audibly and
visually, by listening and watching the changes on the LED
display.
Using the LED Display to Locate Leaks
Please note that the volume control is independent of the LED
display during an inspection. Depending on the amount of
ultrasonic signature being detected, you can use both the level of
intensity on the LED display and the audible amount of sound
through the headphones. As you get closer to the leak or defect,
decrease the volume. As the sound gets louder, repeat the process
until you have pinpointed the location.
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VEHICLE APPLICATIONS
VACUUM LEAKS: Place the hollow air probe on the unit and listen
and watch the LEDs. You can pinpoint the location of vacuum
leaks quickly and easily. Use the hollow air probe or use the
receiver alone.
FIND THAT ENGINE NOISE. The Marksman II will locate those
engine noises and let you find where they are truly coming from.
Ultrasound does not transfer within engine components due to the
directional characteristics of ultrasound. Use the solid contact
probe.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS: Separations in high-tension spark plug
wire conductors can be quickly identified from the corona
discharge “snapping” sound emitted. The same applies to arcing
within electrical motors and accessories. Also, listen to connection
points for the “snapping” or “frying bacon” sound; this is a sound a
poor connection makes under electrical load. Circuits are best
tested under operation and full load.
The Marksman II is also great at locating short circuits. Shorts give
off a “frying” or “snapping” sound also. As you are checking for
shorts or connection problems, do not forget to wiggle the
wiring! Those electrical problems will now call out to you. Save
time! Use the hollow air probe or use the receiver alone.
IGNITION SYSTEMS: Listen to today’s ignition systems. You can
hear the coils and plugs firing. This is by far the best and quickest
method for diagnosing Coil Over Plug (COP) systems. It also works
great on Distributorless Ignition Systems (DIS). You will hear the
snapping of the plugs firing in the headset. After some experience
testing ignition systems, you will be able to tell if you have a plug
or wire problem by the sound alone. When checking DIS systems,
make sure you listen at both ends of the wire if you can. Use the
solid contact probe or use the receiver alone.
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EVAP SYSTEMS: Checking for leaks in evaporative emission
systems is simple. Start by pressurizing the EVAP system (do not
exceed the recommended pressure). Now, sweep all the hoses
and components of the system and listen for a hissing noise that
would indicate a leak. Once the general area of the leak has been
determined, move closer with the receiver to pinpoint the exact
leakage source. Use the hollow air probe or use the receiver
alone.
INJECTORS: Place the solid contact probe onto the injector to test
and listen while the engine is running. You can hear the injector
working plus hear the fuel flow. You may also want to shut off the
engine and listen to make sure that the injector is not leaking fuel
past the injector nozzles. If fuel is flowing, it will create a rushing
noise in the headset. A good clean injector will make a sharp
ringing clicking tone, while a dirty injector will have a muffled
clicking tone. Use the solid contact probe.
AIR BRAKE SYSTEMS: The Marksman II can help locate leaks
quickly in both vacuum assisted and air brake systems. In many
cases, leaks can be detected from a considerable distance. After
building up full pressure (in the case of air brakes), a casual sweep
of the vehicle from one end to the other using the receiver can
often locate the leak. Use of the headphones will reduce noise
interference from the shop. If the first sweep does not locate the
leak, trace out the entire air system piping at close range (1-2 feet
or 0.3-0.6 m) with the receiver. Once the general area of the leak
has been determined, the receiver probe is very useful to pinpoint
its exact location. For maximum effectiveness, be sure that
pressure is maintained in the brake system during the entire
search. If no leaks are discovered, check the air horn, windshield
wiper and other air-actuated equipment. Leaks in these accessories
can produce an abnormal gauge drop. Use the hollow air probe
or use the receiver alone.
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TIRES: Sweep the tire, including the rim and valve system, to
search for leaks. A sweep with the ultrasonic receiver will locate
even the smallest of leaks. The receiver normally finds leaks of
sufficient magnitude before they cause downtime on the highway.
In addition, you can put a soap solution on tires and listen for the
bubbles to pop. Use the hollow air probe or use the receiver
alone.
LEAKING ENGINE VALVES: All valves should emit a sound in a
very close meter and sound pattern when the probe is placed on
the intake manifold opposite the intake port. A suspect valve can
then be positively checked, with the engine off, by bringing that
particular cylinder to full compression and placing the probe on the
valve stem. The “hiss” of escaping gas across the valve seat will
be distinctly audible on the leaking valve. You can use the same
procedure to check exhaust valves, but the signal intensity will be
much greater. Use the solid contact probe.
EXHAUST SYSTEMS: With the engine idling, pulsation in the
exhaust system can be detected with the receiver. Leak points
normally give off a much louder and sharper sound. Use the
hollow air probe or use the receiver alone.
DOOR AND WINDOW
GASKETS, BODY
Emitter
WEATHER-STRIPPING,
DOOR AND TRUNK
SEALS AND FUEL
TANKS: When placed
inside a vehicle, a
Receiver
completely empty fuel
tank or any other
enclosure, the activated emitter can easily locate leaks in weatherstripping, seals or the structure itself. Use the hollow air probe or
use the receiver alone.
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ADDITIONAL APPLICATIONS
HYDRAULIC SYSTEMS: Partially blocked or bypassed valves in
high-pressure hydraulic systems can be difficult and costly to find
with conventional methods. Since hydraulic systems employ very
high pressures, the intensity of the ultrasonic sound given off by
an internal leak is extremely high and easily detected by the
receiver. Use the hollow air probe, solid contact probe or use
the receiver alone.
WATER LEAKS IN ROOFS, WINDOWS OR DOORS:
activated emitter below the suspected leak area. Check the
suspected part of the roof, window or door with the receiver to
isolate where the leak originates. This will also aid in the detection
of any leaks in the area. Use the hollow air probe or use the
receiver alone. (See figures below.)
Receiver
Emitter
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Place the
CARE AND MAINTENANCE
To clean exterior surfaces, wipe with a soft damp cloth.
When the battery LED flashes, the batteries are near the end of
their useful life and will soon have to be replaced. See Batteries
(Changing/Replacing/Disposal) on page 7.
WARRANTY AND LIABILITY
Your Marksman II Ultrasonic Diagnostic Tool is of the finest design
and craftsmanship. As such, Tracer Products warrants that when
delivered it will be free from defects in manufacture.
Tracer Products’ obligation under this warranty is limited to repairing
or replacing, at the option of Tracer Products, any part(s) of the
product which, if properly installed, used and maintained, proves
upon factory examination to have been defective in materials or
workmanship within two years from the date of delivery.
Tracer Products does not warrant items that deteriorate under
normal use, such as batteries. In addition, Tracer Products does
not warrant any instrument that has been subjected to misuse,
negligence or accident, or has been repaired or altered by anyone
other than Tracer Products.
This warranty is in place of all other warranties of quality. There are
no other warranties either oral, written, express, implied or
statutory. IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF FITNESS FOR PURPOSE
AND MERCHANTABILITY ARE EXCLUDED. This warranty and
your remedies thereunder are solely as stated in this manual. In no
event shall Tracer Products be liable for special, indirect, incidental
or consequential damages, nor for any damages arising out of
delay in shipment or production.
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TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
Sensitivity ..................................... Detects leaks or defects
through a 0.004 in (0.1 mm)
diameter orifice at 5.0 psig
from a 12 in (30.5 cm) distance
Usage ........................................... Indoor or outdoor
Operating Temperature Range* +32 °F to +122 °F (0 °C to
+50 °C)
Storage Temperature Range ........ +14 °F to +140 °F
(-10 °C to +60 °C)
Humidity........................................ 85% RH NC Max.
Altitude.......................................... 6500 ft (2000 m)
Pollution Degree ........................... 2
Dimensions ................................... Width: 4.0 in (10.2 cm)
Depth: 1.5 in (3.8 cm)
Length: 6.0 in (15.2 cm)
Weight .......................................... 3 lb (1.4 kg)
Housing ........................................ Chemical resistant ABS
Battery Life ................................... Approx. 165 hours
Power Requirement ...................... 2 standard “D” cell alkaline
batteries
Power Consumption ..................... 26 mA, typical
Frequency Response ................... 36,000 - 44,000Hz
Circuitry ........................................ Solid state
Overvoltage Category .................. 2
Headphones ................................. Full-sized noise-attenuating
Headphone Connector ................. 3.5 mm phone plug
*May be operated for a limited time in lower
temperature environments.
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REPLACEMENT PARTS AND ACCESSORIES
Ultrasonic Receiver .......................................................TP-127298
Ultrasonic Emitter ..............................................................TP-9368
Air Probe ............................................................................ 127300
Contact Probe .................................................................... 127301
Headphones, Full-sized Noise-Attenuating ..........................127302
Carrying Case ...................................................................TP-9369
TRACER PRODUCTS
A Division of Spectronics Corporation
956 Brush Hollow Road, P.O. Box 483
Westbury, New York 11590
Tel: 800-641-1133 • Fax: 800-354-2353
Outside U.S. and Canada:
Tel: 516-333-1254 • Fax: 516-876-8411
1/12 AM12002
PRINTED IN U.S.A.
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