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4 Getting Started
4.1 Using this Manual
In this manual front panel keys are shown in bold square brackets, e.g. [Vdc], [Function].
Sockets are shown in bold capitals, e.g. INPUT HI. LCD display data is show in bold curly
brackets, e.g. {SPEEd}, {AUTO}.
The manual is available in printed form and as an electronic document in PDF format. The
manual includes cross references which are underlined within the text. These are hyperlinks
within the PDF document. The Table of Contents is also fully hyperlinked.
Hyperlinks enable the user to jump rapidly to the section referred to and then jump back to
continue reading the original section. (N.B. for hyperlink navigation within Acrobat Reader,
enable “show all page navigation tools” or use the keyboard shortcuts Alt+Left_Arrow and
Alt+Right_Arrow).
4.2 Installation and Safety
Before first use, all users should read the Safety Information in section 2 .
Before connecting AC power, check that the instrument operating voltage marked on the rear
panel is suitable for the local supply. Should a change be required, read section 3.1
Connect the instrument to the AC supply using the mains lead provided. Should a power plug
be required for a different power outlet socket, refer to section 3.2
.
4.3 AC Power and Battery Operation
The instrument can be operated from AC power or from internal rechargeable batteries which
are recharged as required when AC power is connected. A red LED is illuminated whenever
AC power is connected and a yellow LED is illuminated whilst charging is taking place.
Battery Life from fully charged is approximately 20 hours with the backlight on, and up to 35
hours with the backlight off. Under battery operation a battery symbol will appear on the display
if the charge level falls below about 10%. The approximate charge level can be checked from
the Utilities menu – see section 12.5.
For the 1908P, operation of the remote interfaces (excluding USB) is only possible with AC
power connected.
4.4 Switching On and Off
The instrument behaves differently depending upon whether or not AC power is connected.
4.4.1 On/Off operation with AC Power
If required, AC power can be switched on or off using the POWER switch mounted on the rear
panel. When the AC power is switched off the default setting is for the instrument to turn off. This
ensures appropriate behaviour when used as part of a group of equipment for which AC power is
turned on or off simultaneously.
Note: To fully disconnect from the AC supply unplug the mains cord from the back of the
instrument or switch off at the AC supply outlet; make sure that the means of disconnection is
readily accessible. Disconnect from the AC supply when not in use.
The green front panel button marked [OPERATE] can be used to place the instrument into
Standby if required. Successive presses will alternate between On and Standby.
Alternative AC Power Switching Options
The response of the instrument to AC power being connected or disconnected can be altered if
required. The actions described above are the default conditions, and can be changed from the
Utilities menu – see section 12.9
.