Practical Real World Uses For Infrared Cameras and Thermal Imagers

Infrared electrical inspections are safe, fast, and reliable when conducted with an infrared camera. Infrared cameras are non-contact instruments so inspections can be performed at any time without shutting down operations at the facility being inspected. Thermal inspection of commercial and residentional buildings enjoy the same advantages too.

Electrical Safety Inspections
Identify overloaded circuits, loose/corroded connections, and failing breakers in electrical panels
Identify blown fuses, overloads, phase imbalance, and harmonics problems
Identify hot spots from high resistance connections

Energy Efficiency Surveys
Identify inefficient heating and cooling transfer
Identify draft sources from missing insulation in rafters/walls/floors
Identification of problem areas helps reduce heat gain/loss and carbon footprint

Infrared Cameras Assist in the Detection of Swine Flu
Several major airports in Asia discovered the benefit of infrared cameras in conjunction with the outbreak of SARS a couple of years ago and now use infrared cameras to scan whether arriving travellers can be contaminated with the N1H1 virus (AKA swine flu).

Infrared Cameras Help Firefighters Save Lives
Infrared technology is recognized as essential in fire rescue operations where lives are at stake and are a symbiotic fire fighters tool in their efforts to gain real-time tactical data. Infrared technology designed to sense and display heat signatures, the cameras provide  “night vision” or the ability to see in dark places as well as smoke filled environments, which is priceless in the decision making process. Infrared thermal imaging systems are being integrated globally into fire control, management and firefighting services throughout the world.

These powerful tools are also used for locating moisture problems in buildings. Instead of searching with a moisture meter an inch at a time, an infrared camera provides the ability to scan an entire room in a matter of minutes. By locating the thermal changes from evaporative moisture cooling in drywall, carpet, ceiling tiles, etc., inspectors can moisture map the entire building and isolate problems before providing an estimate for repairs.

Building and Preventive Maintenance
Discovers sources of moisture in roofs and areas behind walls
Checks air distribution for blockages in pipes, damaged duct work, and insulation gaps
Check fluid distribution for stuck valves and burst pipes

Some Popular Infrared Cameras / Thermal Imagers include:

Fluke FLK-INSXS-20

FLIR EX320

Ideal Industries HeatSeeker P-2856

(courtesy Phil Vogel)

Posted in Applications, Technology, Test & Measurement Tech |

Accuracy Comparison Between the Martel BetaGauge PI, BetaGauge PIR, and the Crystal XP2i

Martel BetaGauge PI

The BetaGauge P. I. Digital Pressure Test Gauge takes the concept of an analog Test Gauge, and brings it to a new level, as only Beta Calibrators can do. The BetaGauge P. I. combines the accuracy of digital technology with the simplicity of an analog gauge, and achieves performance, ease-of-use, and a feature set unmatched in the pressure measurement world. Setup of the BetaGauge P. I. is fast and straightforward, through a menu-driven display, with minimal text, and intuitive functions, that is simple enough to allow the gauge to be used anywhere in the world, without the need for multilingual displays.

Martel BetaGauge PIR

As with the original high accuracy BetaGauge PI gauges, the BetaGauge PIR takes the concept of a simple analog Test Gauge and combines it with the accuracy of digital technology. The new Reference Class gauges provide exceptional performance with ±0.04% of reading accuracy, especially when operated below 50% of their range. The Reference Class BetaGauge PIR digital test gauges are available six ranges - 30 psi Compound, 30 psig, 100 psig, 500 psig, 1,000 psig, and 3,000 psig. Setup of the BetaGauge PIR is fast and straightforward, through a menu-driven display, with minimal text and intuitive functions, that is simple enough to allow the gauge to be used anywhere in the world without the need for multilingual displays. Pressure readings are displayed in any one of 18 standard engineering units, or in user-defined custom units, eliminating tedious conversion calculations. Readings are displayed on a 5-1/2 digit, 0.65″ high digital display and companion percent-of-range bar graph. Accuracy is temperature-compensated over a 0 to +50 °C range. The internal temperature sensor measurement can be displayed in degrees Celsius or Fahrenheit.

Crystal XP2i

The new and improved XP2i has all of the innovative features of the XP2 digital pressure gauge and more. Now Intrinsically Safe, Class I, Division I, Groups A, B, C, and D, temperature code T4 with a backlit display. Available with optional dual line pressure display to view peak and live pressure simultaneously - ideal for relief valve testing

About Martel Calibrators:

Martel Electronics, founded in 1987 by David DeVries Sr. and Thomas Fatur, is a major manufacturer of test and measurement equipment, including calibrators. Our calibration products are used in the installation and maintenance of industrial instrumentation and OEM applications. With our strategic partnerships with leading OEMs serving the process industry, allows us to incorporate the latest technology and maintain high quality standards. Our products are sold through a network of expert and knowledge distributors.

Accuracy Comparison Chart for Martel Betagauges Models - PI, PIR vs the Crystal XP2i

Posted in Manufacturer News, Test & Measurement Tech |

Jitter Test

A phase fluctuation of a signal is an oscillating movement with an amplitude and a frequency. Wander is defined as the phase error comprised in the frequency band between 0 and 10 Hz of the spectrum of the phase variation. If this frequency is higher than 10 Hz, it is known as Jitter. Jitter is the time variation characteristic of a periodic signal in electronics and telecommunications, often in relation to a reference clock source. Jitter may be observed in characteristics such as the frequency of successive pulses, the signal amplitude, or phase of periodic signals. Jitter is a significant and undesired factor in the design of typically all communications links. Jitter can be quantified in the same terms as all time-varying signals (RMS, Peak-to-Peak Displacement), also like other time-varying signals, Jitter can be expressed in terms of spectral density. Jitter period is the interval between two times of maximum or minimum effect of a signal characteristic that varies regularly with time. Jitter frequency, the most common figure, is its inverse. Very low Jitter frequency is not a standard interest in designing systems, and the low-frequency cutoff for Jitter is typically specified at 1 Hz.

Types of Jitter

• Random Jitter or Gaussian Jitter, is an unpredictable electronic timing noise.

• Deterministic Jitter is a type of clock timing Jitter or data signal Jitter that is predictable and reproducible. (AKA Periodic Jitter, Data-Dependent Jitter or Duty-Cycle Dependent Jitter)

Testing for Jitter and its measurement is of great importance to electronics engineers because of the ever increasing clock frequencies in digital electronic circuits aimed at achieving higher device performance. Testing of device performance for Jitter tolerance often involves the injection of Jitter into electronic components with specialized test equipment. Jitter is measured and evaluated in various ways depending on the type of circuitry under test and the goal of Jitter measurement is to verify that the Jitter will not disrupt normal operation of the circuitry.

Some popular T&M equipment used for Jitter testing:

Lecroy WavePro 715Zi Digital Oscilloscope with the Jitter and Timing Analysis Package (WPZi-JTA2) WPZi-JTA2 adds Specialized timing parameters measure period, cycle-cycle, half period, width, etc. Jitter on a variety of signals. Use the three views of Jitter (statistical, time, and frequency) to understand root cause and to debug problems. Histograms provide understanding of statistical distributions. Tracks provide a means to show time-correlated peaks of Jitter, and compare to other signals. FFTs provide the ability to debug root causes of high in-circuit Jitter.

Agilent 37717C Communications Performance Analyzer can be configured as a dual standard SONET/SDH analyzer for BER and Jitter tests which makes it the ideal tool for testing network equipment in a manufacturing environment.

Rohde & Schwarz UPV Audio Analyser includes Jitter analysis and interface testing.

Tektronix CSA7154 Communication Analyzer offers complete Eye Pattern Measurements Suite Including Extinction Ratio, Q-factor, Eye Height/width, Jitter and Noise

(courtesy of Phil Vogel)

Posted in Technology, Test & Measurement Tech |

Rohde & Schwarz FSU Spectrum Analyzer Video

Rohde & Schwarz Engineer talks about the R&S FSU Spectrum Analyzer Series

Posted in Product Videos |

Leader LG 3803 RF Signal Generator Demo Video

Leader LG 3803 RF Signal  Generator
(press play to start the video)

Ideal For The Production, Test And Alignment Of ATSC Compliant Tuners And Receivers/STBs.

• Includes 8VSB And 64QAM/256QAM Modulation Standards; Covers Both VHF And UHF Bands.

• Coding Modulator, C/N Generator And Upconverter Are Integrated In A Single Instrument.

• Built-in Pseudo-Random (PN) Signal Source And BER Counter Facilitate BER Measurements Using One Instrument.

• Real Time Coding And Modulation Provides Realistic Test Signals.

• Real Picture Playback Function Is Available As An Option

• Out-Of-Band Option Allows For CATV Return Path BER Evaluation

• Intuitive, Clear Display, 100 Presets And Ergonomic Design Make The LG 3803 The Perfect Choice For Manufacturing And Service Applications.

Posted in Product Videos |

Lecroy Mixed Signal Oscilloscope MS-32 Option Introduction

Leading Features of the LeCroy Digital Channel Oscilloscope Mixed Signal Option MS-32
(press play to start the video)
This option is available for the WaveRunner 6000A and WaveSurfer 434 & 454

• 32 digital channels

• Long capture time (1 Mpts/Ch of digital memory, always available)

• Ability to capture up to 125 MHz digital clocks

• Simple oscilloscope setup and user interface

Posted in Product Videos |

Megger MIT410 Insulation Tester Demo

(press play to start the video)

The Megger MIT410–TC makes insulation resistance and continuity testing easy !

Now you can use Megger´s MIT410–TC to quickly locate, identify and resolve your customer´s telephony service problems. You can run insulation resistance and continuity tests for your customer to quickly locate and identify problems.

Posted in Product Videos |

Willtek Product News

New Willtek 3110 Mobile Service Tester Increases Throughput in Service Factories

With the introduction of the new Willtek 3110 Mobile Service Tester, repair centres and service factories can now increase the throughput in the incoming inspection and the final test. The 3110 come with a built-in VGA screen and good price-performance ratio. A brother of the 3100 Mobile Fault Finder, the basic GSM, EDGE and WCDMA capabilities can be extended with options for GPRS, HSDPA, audio testing and more.

Optimized for fast functional testing in repair centers:

The 3110 Mobile Service Tester is the ideal choice for incoming inspection and final testing in large service centers and repair factories. Functional tests at each mobile phone and wireless data card require a high throughput, and the 3110 is designed to support this task at an affordable price. The 3110 can be used as part of a complete test system also integrating the 4916 Antenna Coupler and the 4921 RF Shield. In addition, the 7310 Lector product family including the 7360 Coupling Factor Upgrade License helps you to set up an automated test system that is easily installed and maintained.

Willtek 3110 Highlights:

Includes GSM, EDGE, WCDMA capabilities

Features adjacent channel power measurements (ACPM) for GSM

Both manual operation (VGA-resolution screen) and remote control (SCPI, Lector)

Supports call mode testing

Options for audio testing (generator & analyzer), current measurements, GPRS, HSDPA available

New Willtek 2801 Multilock Analog, DMR, P25 Tester

The 2801 Multilock is Willtek’s new analogue, DMR and P25 tester. With the 2800 Multilock Advantage Package, you can get the instrument with a number of useful options at a price that fits most budgets.

The Advantage Package includes:

2801 Multilock

3GHz Frequency Extension

Tracking Generator

Enhanced Spectrum Analyzer/Oscilloscope

Cable Fault Locator

Remote Control Software

Soft carrying case

The multi-purpose tester for signal analysis and repair

Willtek’s 2801 Multilock is the true successor of the 4031/4032 STABILOCK, as it combines many RF instruments in one. The 2801 Multilock solves the conflict between individual, high-resolution (and high-priced) instruments and the demand for a lightweight, small, affordable test set. An RF and modulation signal generator and analyzer, a spectrum analyser and an oscilloscope are all combined in a 6.4 kg (14 lb) instrument with a high-resolution screen. The bright 800×600 display allows measurement readings even at sunlight!

The range of applications can easily be extended with options for operation at up to 3 GHz, for variable use via a battery, for remote control over the Ethernet, and for two-way radio systems.

Future-proof two-way radio service tester

Analogue and digital two-way radio systems can be tested conveniently with the Multilock. Thanks to its large display, numerical and graphical test results are easily readable. The 2801 also supports digital PMR systems with ETSI DMR (Digital Mobile Radio). An option for APCO P25 is under preparation. RF and modulation measurements help you to identify the source of problems in the transmitter or receiver of the radio under test.

Supported measurements include:

Receiver sensitivity

RF power

Modulation depth

Frequency offset

Distortion

SINAD

Willtek 4032 STABILOCK has been Discontinued

Willtek has discontinued the 4031/4032 STABILOCK series, which has been the repair technician’s friend in many PMR service centres for more than 20 years. The 4032 is replaced by the current 2801 Multilock, or the 2303 Stabilock if you need to verify TETRA radios. The Willtek 4032 STABILOCK has been discontinued by the OEM but is available on the used market. Always be sure to purchase a unit from a trusted supplier with a warranty.

Posted in Product News, Test & Measurement Tech |

B&K Precision 875B Voluntary Recall Notice

B&K Precision is voluntarily recalling some 875B LCR Meters that were manufactured between January 20, 2009 and March 4, 2009. Through quality inspection testing, B&K discovered certain measured resistive values will be well outside of specified parameters. This may lead to misdiagnosis or mislabeling of a tested resistive component. This recall is not related to any operational safety or hazard issue. A product recall return form will be available on the B&K website (http://www.bkprecision.com/) within the week.  This will allow customers to identify and return any affected meters, and it will also allow customers to request replacements.  All return and replacement shipping charges will be covered by B&K. This recall will remain in effect through September 4, 2009.

Affected Series:

If your serial number is between CB1020 and CB1044, then open the battery compartment located on the bottom of the back of the meter

If this section of the PCB looks like this then your meter is fine and is not included in this recall	If this section of the PCB looks like this then your meter is included in this recall

Posted in Manufacturer News, Product News |

LeCroy and Test Equipment Connection Announce New U.S. Distribution Sales Agreement

Lake Mary, FL USA  - LeCroy and Test Equipment Connection Announce New U.S. Distribution Sales Agreement for Digital Oscilloscopes

Test Equipment Connection Corporation has announced that the company has entered into an agreement with LeCroy to sell select new LeCroy Digital Oscilloscopes. “LeCroy’s Digital Oscilloscopes complement our product lineup. The value, quality and features LeCroy offers in their WaveAce, WaveJet and WaveSurfer

Series Oscilloscopes are beyond reproach,” stated Mike Novello, President of Test Equipment Connection.

The WaveAce combines long memory, a color display, extensive measurement capabilities, advanced triggering, and excellent connectivity to improve troubleshooting and shorten debug time. With bandwidths from 60 MHz to 300 MHz, sample rates up to 2 GS/s, and waveform memory up to 9 kpts/Ch (18 kpts interleaved), the WaveAce exceeds all expectations of a small affordable oscilloscope.  The WaveJet 300 Series provides more tools and greater performance than other oscilloscopes in the 100 MHz to 500 MHz range. It sets a new standard for portable oscilloscopes.

About Test Equipment Connection Corporation:

Test Equipment Connection Corporation and TE Connection Asia Limited are industry-leading suppliers of New, Refurbished and Second-Hand electronic test and measurement (”T&M”) equipment. They sell, rent, lease, buy, trade, repair and calibrate over 315 manufacturers with thousands of products available New and Refurbished. The companies are a single source supplier with in-house calibration laboratories assuring that customers receive only the highest quality T&M equipment and support. Test Equipment Connection Corporation has over 250,000 customers, a 45,000 square foot warehouse and repair facility in the US, and 16 years of profitability and financial strength.

Their web site is located at www.TestEquipmentConnection.com and is available in three languages.

About LeCroy:

LeCroy Corporation is a worldwide leader in serial data test solutions, creating advanced instruments that drive product innovation by quickly measuring, analyzing, and verifying complex electronic signals. The Company offers high-performance oscilloscopes, serial data analyzers, and global communications protocol test solutions used by design engineers in the computer and semiconductor, data storage device, automotive and industrial, and military and aerospace markets. LeCroy’s 40-year heritage of technical innovation is the foundation for its recognized leadership in “WaveShape Analysis”-capturing, viewing, and measuring the high-speed signals that drive today’s information and communications technologies. LeCroy is headquartered in Chestnut Ridge, New York. Their website is www.LeCroy.com

For Additional Information Contact: sales@testequipmentconnection.com

Press Release Contact Information:

Phil Vogel | Business Development Manager
business@testequipmentconnection.com
Test Equipment Connection Corporation
(800) 615-8378 x 141 / 407-804-1299

Posted in Press Releases |