Extech Instruments MD10 - User Manual

MD10-en-US_v1.2 04/22
User Manual
Magnet Detector - Model MD10
Introduction
Thank you for selecting the Extech Instruments Model MD10 magnetic field detector. The MD10 can te
st solenoid valves in pneumatic/hydraulic control equipment, relays with coils, electrically controlled sol
enoid valves in vehicles/machinery/oil burners, and audio speaker coils. The MD10 responds to AC/D
C magnetic fields and permanent magnets.
Safety Information
!
Caution! Refer to the explanation in this Manual
Double Insulation or Reinforced insulation
CE Compliance
• This device must not be handled by children. It contains hazardous objects as well as small parts that can be swallowed.
• Do not leave batteries and packing material unattended; they can be dangerous for children.
• If unused for an extended period of time, remove the batteries from this device
• Expired or damaged batteries can cause cauterization on contact with the skin; use suitable hand gloves in such cases
• Ensure that the batteries are not short-circuited. Do not throw batteries into the fire.
Operating Instructions
CAUTION: Read, understand and follow Safety Rules and Operating Instructions in this manual before
using this product.
WARNING: Risk of Electrocution. Before use, always test the Magnet Detector on a known live circuit
to verify proper operation
WARNING: Risk of Electrocution. Keep hands and fingers on the body of the probe and away from
the probe tip.
1. Press and hold the test switch (3) and approach the testing area slowly with the probe tip (1).
2. When a magnetic field is sensed by the MD10, the blue probe light (2) will illuminate. Solid light in
dicates a strong field; flickering light indicates a weak field.
3. To switch ON the flashlight (7), press and hold the flashlight switch (6). Release the button to switc
h the flashlight OFF. If the flashlight does not switch ON please check the batteries. The battery co
mpartment is located on the rear of the MD10 (8).
NOTE: The detector is designed with high sensitivity. Static electricity, stray magnetic fields, or other
sources of energy may randomly trip the sensor. This is normal operation. Strong fields will yield a
fixed indication.
NOTE: It is not necessary to unscrew the test object from its mounting on the equipment in order to
carry out a test; a magnetic coil can even be tested through its protective covering.

Summary

Introduction to the Extech MD10

Safety Information and Precautions

Handling Precautions and Battery Safety

Safety guidelines for children, unattended materials, battery removal, and disposal.

Operating Safety Warnings

Warnings regarding electrocution risk and safe probe handling.

Operating the Magnet Detector

Core Operating Procedure

Steps for using the probe tip, interpreting the blue light, and operating the flashlight.

Operational Notes

Information on detector sensitivity, false triggers, and testing through coverings.

Battery Installation and Disposal

Battery Replacement Steps

Instructions for opening the battery compartment and inserting batteries.

Battery and Device Disposal

Guidelines for proper disposal of used batteries and end-of-life equipment.

Technical Specifications

Overview

1. Function Description
2. Usage Features
3. Maintenance Features

The Extech Instruments Model MD10 is a magnetic field detector designed for testing various components that utilize magnetic fields. Its primary function is to detect AC/DC magnetic fields and permanent magnets, making it a versatile tool for professionals working with electrical and mechanical systems.

Function Description:

The MD10 is capable of testing solenoid valves found in pneumatic and hydraulic control equipment, which are crucial for regulating fluid flow and pressure in industrial applications. It can also be used to test relays with coils, which are essential electrical switches that control circuits. Furthermore, the device is suitable for examining electrically controlled solenoid valves in vehicles, machinery, and oil burners, helping to diagnose issues related to their operation. Another application includes testing audio speaker coils, which are fundamental to sound reproduction. The detector's ability to respond to both AC/DC magnetic fields and permanent magnets ensures comprehensive testing across a wide range of magnetic components.

Usage Features:

The MD10 is designed for ease of use, incorporating several features to facilitate efficient and safe operation. Before using the device, users are advised to read, understand, and follow all safety rules and operating instructions provided in the manual. A crucial safety measure is to always test the Magnet Detector on a known live circuit to verify its proper operation before use, mitigating the risk of electrocution. Users should also keep their hands and fingers on the body of the probe and away from the probe tip to ensure safety.

To operate the MD10, the user presses and holds the test switch (3) and slowly approaches the testing area with the probe tip (1). When a magnetic field is detected, the blue probe light (2) will illuminate. The illumination pattern provides an indication of the field's strength: a solid light signifies a strong magnetic field, while a flickering light indicates a weaker field. This visual feedback allows for quick assessment of the magnetic presence.

The device also includes a built-in flashlight (7) for convenience in dimly lit environments. To switch on the flashlight, the user presses and holds the flashlight switch (6). Releasing the button turns the flashlight off. If the flashlight does not switch on, users should check the batteries, which are housed in the battery compartment located on the rear of the MD10 (8).

A notable feature of the MD10 is its high sensitivity. It is designed to detect even subtle magnetic fields. The manual notes that static electricity, stray magnetic fields, or other energy sources may occasionally trigger the sensor randomly, which is considered normal operation. However, strong magnetic fields will consistently yield a fixed indication. An important practical advantage is that it is not necessary to unscrew the test object from its mounting on the equipment to perform a test. A magnetic coil can even be tested through its protective covering, saving time and effort in diagnostic procedures.

Maintenance Features:

Proper maintenance, particularly regarding battery handling, is emphasized to ensure the longevity and safe operation of the MD10. The device requires two AAA 1.5V batteries for power. Battery installation involves sliding open the battery door compartment (8) while gently prying up/out at the pocket clip (4) using a small screwdriver in the pocket clip access hole (5). After inserting the two AAA batteries, the door should be replaced.

Safety guidelines for battery usage are clearly outlined. Users are advised not to leave batteries and packing material unattended, as they can pose a danger to children. If the device is unused for an extended period, the batteries should be removed to prevent potential damage from leakage. Expired or damaged batteries can cause cauterization upon contact with the skin, so suitable hand gloves should be used when handling them. It is also crucial to ensure that the batteries are not short-circuited and never to dispose of batteries by throwing them into a fire.

Environmental responsibility is also highlighted in the maintenance instructions. Users are explicitly instructed never to dispose of used batteries or rechargeable batteries in household waste. As consumers, users are legally required to take used batteries to appropriate collection sites, such as retail stores where batteries were purchased, or other designated collection points. Similarly, the instrument itself should not be disposed of in household waste. The user is obligated to take end-of-life devices to a designated collection point for the disposal of electrical and electronic equipment, promoting responsible recycling and waste management.

Extech Instruments MD10 Specifications