Model HF-15B High Frequency Spark Tester
HF-15B Instruction Manual – Page 23
Communication Modules: An optional PCB may be added to the HF-15B for easy
communication to most PLCs. This PCB can be factory installed or added later. Analog,
DeviceNET, Ethernet/IP Profibus, Profinet, Modbus RTU, and Modbus TCP protocols are all
available options. Communication protocols can easily be changed at any time with the
purchase of an upgrade kit or a new plug-in module.
Voltage Watchdog: Test voltage parameters can be set by users to ensure adequate test
voltages are always being used to test product. For example, if the spark tester should be
continuously testing at 4kV, users can set the system to alarm if the spark tester voltage were
to fall below 3kV or rise above 5kV. Preset upper and lower voltage limits may be set using the
front panel or remotely.
Redundant Voltage Monitoring: In addition to standard voltage monitoring, the HF-15B
monitors the voltage at the electrode to verify correct voltages are being maintained.
Four output relays: One set of form C and three sets of form A relay contacts are located on the
back of the HF-15B for easy connection to external alarms, lights, or machinery that will be
controlled by the spark tester. Relay functions can be selected from options including: High
Voltage ON indication, Fault Alarm, All Bare Wire Alarm (this includes both Direct metal contact
and gross bare wire conditions), and Voltage Watchdog.
Fault Typing: Detecting the flow of current during spark testing has always been the standard
in spark testing. The HF-15B revolutionizes the concept of fault detection by the use of DSP
Based Fault Typing. We can now differentiate 4 types of fault conditions: Pinhole, direct metal
contact, multi-pinhole, and gross bare wire.
Definitions of fault conditions:
• Pinhole- A pinhole is defined as a short-duration fault where no direct metal contact
between the wire conductor and the electrode is made.
• Multi-Pinhole- A Multi-Pinhole is defined as two or more pinhole faults closely spaced.
It can also be a single fault of longer duration where no metal contact was made
between the wire conductor and the electrode.
• Metal Contact- Sometimes referred to as BARE WIRE. A Metal Contact fault is defined
as a defect or bare patch in the insulation that allows the electrode to come into
momentary direct contact with the wire conductor. In order for a fault to be typed as a
metal contact, the bead chain electrode must make physical contact with the conductor
under test.
• Gross Barewire- Gross Barewire is defined as a fault where the wire conductor is
exposed, allowing metal contact to be made with the electrode for a period of time
equal to two and one half times the electrode length.
Backwards Compatible: All that is needed for a customer to upgrade from the HF-15A series
to the HF-15B series is to unplug the power cord and the 9-pin green terminal strip from the
back panel on the HF-15A and to plug it into the HF-15B. The HF-15B will function identically to
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