BEAMEX TC305 (01) PDF Document

If you try to use the BEAMEX TC305 in a strange way, it may warn you. The following list explains the warning messages in detail:

NO TCAL: Attempt to start Quick Store or Quick Examine function when TCAL305 expansion software is not installed.

NO ID: No instrument identifier defined.

CLEAR AREA: No instrument data in the loaded memory area.

UNDEFD SENSOR: Attempt to load instrument data from Data Memory. The defined sensor type was not known and loading was denied. If a special sensor is included in the instrument data and the special sensor is no longer fixed to the defined special sensor place, the required special sensor arrow is lit.

CONFIG ERROR: Attempt to start the Quick Store function with faulty configuration, e.g. the instrument type is FREE.

SCAN ERROR: The actuation or deactuation point of a limit switch out of the scan limits or scan limits out of the generation/simulation range of the calibrator.

NOT SAVED: Attempt to change the contents of the Working Memory without saving the results of the latest Quick Store to the Data Memory.

CANCEL STORE: Escaping from Quick Store before altering the contents of the Working Memory.

DATA LOST: The BEAMEX TC305 has lost its configuration data, instrument data and calibration results due to the missing RAM backup voltage. The obvious reason is that the battery has been disconnected for a while or an empty battery has not been recharged in time. Switch the calibrator off and check the battery wiring, recharge the battery or replace it if necessary.

DATE LOST: The BEAMEX TC305 calendar/clock has lost the date and time due to the missing backup voltage. The obvious reason is that the battery has been disconnected for a while or an empty battery has not been recharged in time. Check the battery wiring, recharge the battery or replace it if necessary. Enter the new date and time as explained in part C of this manual.

CALIBR SOON: According to the given calibration period, you should soon recalibrate the BEAMEX TC305 calibrator.

NO CAL DATA: This message is used in new devices before the initial definition and calibration. It should not come in sold devices. However, if it comes, there is a fault in the EEPROM memory. The BEAMEX TC305 has lost all calibration data. Do not use it for calibration purposes. Send it to the manufacturer for repair.

NO DATA: Attempt to use the Quick Examine function when the Working Memory is empty.

NO FREQ MODULE: The instrument to be calibrated requires a frequency module or the settings of the frequency module do not correspond to the requirements. The inverted arrows in the BEAMEX TC305 display the settings needed for the operation. This applies for software versions 1.31 and later. In earlier software versions the message was “BAD FRQ UNIT x”.

If the BEAMEX TC305 detects errors in its internal functions, it denies all operations and shows an error code: ERROR CODE n. The error code helps to decide how to correct the error.

Error codes:

1. The A-section microprocessor doesn’t answer when called from the B-section.

2. Fault in the B-section analog part.

3. Checksum error in EEPROM memory.

4. Fault in the A-section analog part.

5. Error in the A-section digital part.

6. Error in the clock/calendar circuit.

7. The watchdog circuit detected a fault in operation during previous use.

8. Errors in communication between A- and B-sections.

9. Software option data in EEPROM corrupted.

10. According to A/D-converter readings, the A-section analog part is faulty.

The messages provide an idea of where the error might be. Error codes 2, 3, 4, 9, and 10 normally indicate an error in the analog i/o assembly. Error codes 6 and 7 mean that the main processor board is faulty. The obvious cause for error code 5 is on the temperature processor board. Errors 1 and 8 may be caused by a fault on either of the two processor boards. A fault on the power supply board can cause practically any malfunction or error message.

If you can’t switch the calibrator on at all, the most obvious fault is an empty battery. If charging doesn’t help, check the battery voltage from the battery terminals. If the battery is ok, but you still can’t start the calibrator, the fault is obviously in internal cabling or on the main processor board.

If your device stops and shows an error code, write down the shown code number and switch the calibrator off. Wait five seconds and switch the calibrator on to see if the error remains. If the error remains or repeats later, see the hardware error codes section for more help. Only board-level service is explained.

The calibrator must be taken apart for software updates, read/write memory installation, battery replacement, or hardware troubleshooting. The following steps are required to disassemble the BEAMEX TC305:

1. Switch off the calibrator.

2. Loosen the four screws on the bottom of the calibrator.

3. Carefully lift the rear of the cover and remove the cover.

4. Remove the handle and the handle springs.

5. Remove the two screws holding the front assembly.

6. Loosen the front assembly cable connectors from the processor boards below it and from the analog i/o assembly.

7. Remove the four screws on the front and rear of the analog i/o assembly.

8. Lift the analog i/o assembly and loosen its cable connectors from the processor boards.

Reassembling requires opposite steps. If the front assembly has been removed, the BEAMEX TC305 loses date, time, and all data stored in the read/write memory. This includes Working Memory, Data Memory, and all configuration settings. Calibration data and software options do not change as they are stored in the non-volatile EEPROM memory. After disassembly, the BEAMEX TC305 may show error message ‘ERROR CODE 7’. If this happens, switch the unit off for 5 seconds and try to switch on again.

Note: When disassembling a BEAMEX TC305, all special sensor definitions will be lost. After reassembling, refer to chapter “Special sensor definition” in part C of the Instruction manual to fix your additional sensor to a special sensor number.

The BEAMEX TC305 software is stored in two EPROM memories, one on each processor board on the bottom of the calibrator. The left side (front view) processor board is named ‘main processor board’ and the right side processor board is ‘temperature processor board’. The EPROMs are labeled ‘Main Processor’ and ‘Temp. Processor’ respectively. To install a new software version, follow the updating instructions delivered with the new EPROM(s).

To install software options, you must purchase a license which is delivered in the form of security codes. To generate the codes, the manufacturer needs the serial number of the calibrator and the serial number of the analog i/o assembly.

To read the serial numbers, follow these steps:

1. Select the configuration menu entry CONF (quick select CONF STO).

2. At the prompt C.CODE?, enter the code 101 ENT.

The display will show something similar to:

C.330

E.10234

This means the serial number of the calibrator is 330 (which should be the same as marked on the connection panel) and the serial number of the analog i/o assembly is 10234.

Write down these numbers and press ESC to exit. You will need to contact the manufacturer with these numbers for further operations.

When the battery gets old, its capacity decreases and it cannot be used long enough between recharges. To replace the battery pack:

1. Remove the cover of the calibrator.

2. Open the screws of the battery pack cover and remove the cover.

3. Loosen the battery pack wire connectors from the power supply board.

4. Install the new battery pack in reverse order.

The battery replacement should be done with the battery charger connected to prevent loss of data stored in the read/write memory. Otherwise, the BEAMEX TC305 will lose date, time, and all data stored in the read/write memory. After disassembly, the calibrator may show an ‘ERROR CODE 7’. If this happens, switch the unit off for 5 seconds and try to switch it on again.

Display and keypad board:

A fault is obvious if:

– The calibrator functions, but some display segments never show.

– The display back light or some parts of it never function.

– Some keys never function (this could also be the main processor board or cabling).

– Some keys are stuck, likely due to dust or liquid penetration.

If the malfunction depends on the task being performed, the fault is more likely on the main processor board.

Battery pack:

If the calibrator cannot be used for a long time after a recharge, first check the recharging process. After a sufficient recharge, disconnect the charger and measure the battery voltage after a few minutes (it should be about 100%). If the value is too low, check the charger and the power supply card.

If the batteries charge fully but the usage time is very short, the battery pack is faulty. A damaged battery may also prevent the calibrator from switching on at all. In this case, remove the cover and measure the battery voltage. A fully charged battery should be around 8.5V at room temperature if the charger has not been connected for 15 minutes and the calibrator is off.

Warning! Avoid short-circuiting the battery terminals. The short circuit current may cause burns, battery damage, or even fire.

Power supply board:

The power supply construction is complex. It is recommended to only measure the output voltages. Connect all cables and switch the calibrator on. The most important voltage is marked ‘G’ and should be about 25.5V. If this voltage is correct, it is likely that all other voltages are correct. If your calibrator has the 24V supply option, measure the 24V supply output. If it is right, you can be sure the other voltages are also right.

Processor boards:

A fault on a processor board can cause many different symptoms. It may get stuck at the ‘SELF TEST’ prompt, switch off automatically, or you may be unable to switch it off. If a fault occurs only once, it might be due to strong electrical interference. If the fault repeats often, the board must be replaced. If you can’t switch the calibrator off, disconnect a battery wire and the charger. When you reconnect the battery wire, you should be able to switch it on again, but the read/write memory contents, time, and date will be lost.

Optional 24V supply board:

If you have the 24V option and the calibrator works otherwise correctly, but there is no 24V output, the fault is on the 24V option board or in the cabling.

Equipment Required:

1. DC calibrator, capable of generating specified voltages and currents with stated accuracy.

2. DC meter, capable of measuring generated voltages during resistance simulation calibration.

3. Four precision resistors with stated resistances and accuracies.

4. A good quality thermocouple of type E, J, K, or T (Type E is recommended). The sensor wires should be continuous without extension or plug. The sensor error at the test conditions should be known.

5. An ice bath or another known temperature reference with a combined uncertainty (reference and thermocouple) of less than 0.05°C.

Items 4 and 5 can be replaced with a small temperature sensor and measuring device with a calibrated accuracy better than 0.05°C.

Preparations Before Calibration:

The ambient temperature of the calibration environment should be 23°C ±2°C. Check that the required equipment is available. Switch the equipment on in good time to ensure the best accuracy. There should be at least 50% of the battery capacity left in the BEAMEX TC305. Disconnect the charger at least one hour before the calibration. Switch the calibrator on about one hour before starting the calibration.

Whenever you change the test wiring, wait a couple of minutes to allow the temperature to stabilize to avoid extra thermovoltages that could worsen calibration results.

1. Use the code 3051 in the CONF menu entry OTHERS to start the calibration. The BEAMEX TC305 will request a security code (S.CODE ?).

2. Start with the BEAMEX TC305 serial number, key in an extra ‘1’ and finally press ENT. (e.g., for s/n 780, key 7801 ENT).

3. The lower display shows the measured electrical signal. The upper display prompts REF?.

4. For each measurement (mV, V, mA), carry out the following steps:

a. Select the required measurement (mV, V, mA) with the up arrow key (key SEL[9] is numeric in this mode).

b. Connect the required calibration signal to the selected terminals.

c. Key in the correct value of the calibration signal and press ENT when the measured value has been stable for more than 10 seconds.

5. If the reading is not stable, the calibrator will flash NOT STABLE. Ensure the reading is stable and press ENT again.

6. If there are multiple calibration points for a measurement, repeat steps 4b and 4c for each point, from the highest point to the lowest.

7. After completing the points, to save them permanently, press the STO key. At the prompt ENT=SAVE, press the ENT key. The BEAMEX TC305 saves the new factors and returns to basic operation.

The required calibration points are shown in the table below:

1. Turn the MEASURE/GENERATE switch to the position MEASURE.

2. Use the code 3052 in the CONF menu entry OTHERS to start the calibration. The device will request a security code (S.CODE ?).

3. Start with the BEAMEX TC305 serial number, key in an extra ‘2’ and finally press ENT. (e.g., for s/n 780, key 7802 ENT).

4. The upper display shows the measured electrical signal. The lower display prompts REF?.

5. For each measurement (mV, V, mA, ohm), carry out the following steps:

a. Select the required measurement (mV, V, mA, ohm) with the up arrow key (key SEL[8] is numeric in this mode).

b. Connect the required calibration signal to the selected terminals. Use a 4-wire connection with resistors.

c. Key in the correct value of the calibration signal or resistance and press ENT when the measured value has been stable for more than 10 seconds.

6. If the reading is not stable, the calibrator will flash NOT STABLE. Ensure the reading is stable and press ENT again.

7. If there are multiple calibration points, repeat steps 5b and 5c for each point, calibrating from the highest point to the lowest.

8. To save the calibration factors permanently, press the STO key. At the prompt ENT=SAVE, press the ENT key.

The required calibration points are shown in the table below:

1. Turn the MEASURE/GENERATE switch to the position GENERATE.

2. Use the code 3053 in the CONF menu entry OTHERS to start the calibration. A security code will be requested (S.CODE ?).

3. Start with the BEAMEX TC305 serial number, key in an extra ‘3’ and press ENT. (e.g., for s/n 780, key 7803 ENT).

4. For measurement, use a resistance measurement equipment with a measurement current of 1 mA ±10%. Use a four-wire connection between the measuring equipment and the BEAMEX TC305’s two leftmost ohm terminals.

5. The upper display shows the simulated resistance, and the lower display prompts REF?.

6. The first value to be simulated is around 400 ohms. If the shown value differs from the measured resistance, enter the correct resistance value.

7. Select the next calibration point by pressing the up arrow key. The calibration points are around 400, 10, 10, and 4000 ohms. Note: The calibration of the 400 ohm point affects all other points, so it should be done first if it needs calibration.

8. To save the calibration factors permanently, press the STO key. At the prompt ENT=SAVE, press the ENT key.

1. Turn the MEASURE/GENERATE switch to the position MEASURE.

2. Use the code 3054 in the CONF menu entry OTHERS to start the calibration. A security code will be requested (S.CODE ?).

3. Start with the BEAMEX TC305 serial number, key in an extra ‘4’ and press ENT. (e.g., for s/n 780, key 7804 ENT).

4. Carry out the calibration as explained in one of the following methods:

Method 1: Calibration with a thermocouple

a. Use a good quality thermocouple (E, J, K, or T). Connect it to the thermocouple connector block. Place the other end of the sensor into a calibration bath (e.g., an ice bath) at least one hour earlier to ensure temperature stabilization. Allow temperatures in the connector block to settle for at least five minutes after connection.

b. Select the required thermocouple type with the up arrow key (key SENSOR[7]). The upper display shows the measured calibration bath temperature.

c. The lower display prompts REF?. Key in the correct temperature, wait until the measurement has been stable over 25 seconds, and press ENT. Account for any known error of the thermocouple.

Method 2: Calibration with a thermometer

a. You can use a small size temperature sensor and indicator with a combined accuracy better than 0.05°C. The sensor must fit inside the thermocouple connector block and have a good thermal connection to it. Cover the connector block and sensor with good thermal insulation material.

b. Allow the temperature in the connector block to settle for at least half an hour.

c. Select thermocouple type B with the up arrow key (key SENSOR[7]). This tells the BEAMEX TC305 you are calibrating with a thermometer. The upper display shows the internal temperature of the connector block.

d. The lower display prompts REF?. Key in the correct temperature reading from the external indicator, wait until the measurement has been stable over 25 seconds, and press ENT.

5. After calibration, if the measured value differs too much from the entered value, the calibrator will flash CAL ERROR. Check the measurement and try again.

6. To save the new calibration factor permanently, press the STO key and then the ENT key at the SAVE prompt.

Changing the Calibration Date:

The BEAMEX TC305 saves the latest calibration date, with separate dates for A- and B-section calibrations. To change the date, you essentially save a calibration, which updates the date.

– To change the date for the A-section, select the calibration of A-section measurements, resistance simulation, or internal reference junction. Escape from the prompt REF? by pressing the STO key. At the prompt ENT = SAVE, press the ENT key.

– To change the date for the B-section, select the calibration of B-section measurements and proceed as explained above.

Switch the calibrator off and on again to check the new dates.

Setting the Calibration Period:

1. Use the code 3056 in the CONF menu entry OTHERS to set the calibration period. A security code will be requested (S.CODE ?).

2. Start with the BEAMEX TC305 serial number, key in an extra ‘6’ and press ENT. (e.g., for s/n 780, key 7806 ENT).

3. The device prompts PERIOD on the upper display and shows the current period in months on the lower display. The factory setting is 6 months.

4. If the period is not suitable, alter it by keying in the new value and pressing ENT. Pressing ESC escapes without changing the setting.

After the recommended calibration date, the device will show the message CALIBR SOON every time you switch it on. You can press ESC to use the calibrator, but it should be recalibrated soon to ensure accuracy.

This auto calibration increases the accuracy of the ramp function, prevents overshooting in stepping, and shortens settling time. It should be carried out whenever you have recalibrated the A-section measurements.

1. Turn the MEASURE/GENERATE switch to the position GENERATE.

2. Use the code 3055 in the CONF OTHERS menu to start the auto calibration of mA-, mV-, and V-generation.

3. The BEAMEX TC305 needs to confirm that the mA generation terminals are short-circuited and other terminals are open. Check the connections and press ENT at the prompt mA.LOOP ENT=GO.

4. The BEAMEX TC305 will check the mA loop. If there is a fault, it will exit, flashing the message CAL ERROR.

5. During the auto calibration, the device will blink the message GEN ACAL. The mV, V, and mA arrows show the phase of the process.

6. The BEAMEX TC305 returns automatically to the basic measure/generate operation after about 30 seconds.

The technical specifications of the serial interface are:

Warning!

Never connect RS-232 level signals directly to the BEAMEX TC305 connector! It may damage the internal circuits. Always use an RS1 or RS2 interface device between the BEAMEX TC305 and the computer.

Never connect the BEAMEX TC305 to circuits that are in connection to ground if it is connected to the computer with an unisolated interface device (RS1)! This may cause ground loops, noise coupling, or even circuit damage.

The BEAMEX TC305 can be configured and controlled using serial commands. All standard commands consist of one letter and arguments, and may be in upper or lower case. Here are some of the key command categories:

Interface Configuration and Control:

– Communication control (C commands): Control the use of checksum and acknowledgement (e.g., C0 for no checksum, C1 to send checksum).

– Line termination (Y commands): Set the line termination codes (e.g., Y0 for CR+LF, Y2 for CR only).

– Control of sent readings (Q commands): Send readings on demand (Q), stop automatic sending (Q0), or set an interval for automatic sending (Qxxxx.x).

– Use of status codes (S commands): Request status (S) or set when status is automatically sent (e.g., S0 for never, S1 on command error).

– Formatting of readings (O commands): Control overflow indicators, justification, and sign options for readings sent to the computer.

Device Configuration:

– A-section (upper display) electrical unit selection (U commands): U0 for mV, U1 for V, U2 for mA, U3 for Ohm.

– A-section temperature/electrical mode selection (F commands): F0 for Electrical, F1 for Celsius, F2 for Fahrenheit, F3 for Kelvin.

– Temperature sensor selection (T commands): Select thermocouples (T00-T07), RTD (T08), or special sensors (T09-T11).

– Temperature scale (I commands): I0 for IPTS-68, I1 for ITS90.

– CJ-selection (J commands): J0 for none, J1 for internal, J2 for external, J3 for manual.

– Generation value setting (V command): Set the generation value (e.g., V1.2345).

– Emulation of mechanical switch settings (W commands): Emulate the physical switches (e.g., W10 for GENERATE, W11 for MEASURE). Requires local off state.

– B-section (lower display) electrical unit selection (L commands): L0 for mV, L1 for V, L2 for mA, L3 for Switch.

– Local on/off (Z commands): Z0 to enable keypad (local on), Z1 to disable keypad (local off).

Key Emulation / Inquiry (K commands):

These commands get or emulate a key press on the calibrator keypad (requires ‘Z1’ command for local OFF). For example, K? gets a key press, K00 emulates SENSOR[7], and K19 emulates FUNC[ENT].

If an error occurs during serial communication, a status code is generated. If several errors occur, the status codes are ORed. For instance, an invalid command (0001h) and a checksum error (2000h) result in a status of 2001h. The table below lists the individual error codes.