Extech Instruments PRC15 - User Manual

User Manual
Current / Voltage Calibrator
Model PRC15

Summary

Introduction

Safety

International Safety Symbols

Describes symbols indicating the need to refer to the manual or presence of hazardous voltages.

Safety Notes

Notes on input range, turning off, battery storage, and battery mixing.

Cautions

Warnings about meter damage, shock, injury from improper use, test leads, and equipment protection.

Meter Description

Display Layout

Details of icons and values displayed on the meter's LCD screen.

Keypad Operation and Features

Power Button and Auto Power Off

How to turn the unit on/off and the Auto Power Off function.

Mode and Unit Selection

Switching between Measure/Source modes and selecting current/voltage or units.

Zero and Backlight Controls

How to zero the meter and control the backlight.

Adjusting Output Values

Using arrow buttons to adjust output values in Source mode.

Memory Functions

Manual Memory Stepping (SET)

Manually stepping through and adjusting stored output values in memory locations.

Automatic Memory Cycling (STEP;MEM)

Automatically stepping through stored values in single or continuous cycles.

Storing and Editing Values

How to change and store output values in the meter's memory.

Modes of Operation

Measure (Input) Mode

Procedure for using the meter to measure current or voltage.

Source (Output) Mode

Procedure for using the meter to source current or voltage.

Device Features and Maintenance

Tilt Stand and Hanger Usage

How to use the rear stand for viewing convenience.

Battery Replacement Procedure

Steps for replacing the meter's six AA batteries.

Specifications

General Specifications

Overall technical details of the meter, including display, power, and operating conditions.

Range and Accuracy Specifications

Detailed measurement and sourcing ranges and accuracy for different modes.

Warranty and Support

Two-Year Limited Warranty

Information regarding the product's warranty period.

Calibration and Contact Information

Details on calibration services and customer support contact points.

Overview

1. Function Description
2. Usage Features
3. Maintenance Features
4. Safety Notes

The Extech Model PRC15 is a Current / Voltage Calibrator designed for reliable and accurate measurement and sourcing of current and voltage signals. This device is shipped fully tested and calibrated, ensuring years of dependable service with proper use. Extech Instruments, an ISO-9001 certified company, provides comprehensive support and resources for this product.

Function Description

The PRC15 operates in two primary modes: MEASURE (Input) Mode and SOURCE (Output) Mode.

In MEASURE (Input) Mode, the unit functions as a meter, capable of measuring DC current up to 50mADC and DC voltage up to 20VDC. This mode allows users to verify existing current or voltage signals in a circuit or device under test. The display will show "MEASURE" to indicate this mode is active. Users can select between current (mA or %) or voltage (mV/V) functions, with voltage measurements being autoranging.

In SOURCE (Output) Mode, the unit acts as a calibrator, generating current or voltage signals. It can source current up to 24mADC into a 1000-ohm load and voltage up to 20.00V. This mode is essential for testing and calibrating other instruments or circuits by providing a known, stable current or voltage output. The current or voltage output can be adjusted manually or stepped through pre-stored memory values. When in SOURCE mode, the lower display shows the desired output value, while the upper display indicates the actual current or voltage being sourced. If there's a discrepancy between the set and actual values, it may indicate low batteries or an impedance beyond the specified range.

Usage Features

The PRC15 features a user-friendly interface with a dot matrix LCD and intuitive keypad controls.

Power ON/OFF and Auto Power OFF: The POWER button turns the unit ON or OFF. Upon startup, a short self-test is performed. To conserve battery life, the device includes an Auto Power OFF feature that turns the meter off after 10 minutes of inactivity. This feature can be overridden by pressing and holding the POWER button until the "APO" icon on the display turns off.

Mode Selection (I/O Button): The MODE (I/O) button is crucial for switching between MEASURE and SOURCE modes. In MEASURE mode, pressing and holding this button for 1 second allows selection between current (mA/%) or voltage (mV/V) functions. A short press of the MODE (I/O) button toggles between Measure and Source modes.

Unit Selection (UNIT Button): The UNIT button allows users to select the desired measurement or source units. In current functions, it switches between mA or % units. In voltage functions, it selects V or mV. Note that unit changes from current to voltage functions are only possible in Measure mode.

Backlight: The dedicated Backlight button turns the display backlight ON or OFF, improving visibility in low-light conditions.

Zero Function: The ZERO button, when pressed and held for 1 second in either MEASURE or SOURCE mode, zeros the meter, compensating for any offsets.

Output Adjustment (Arrow Buttons): In SOURCE mode, the arrow buttons are used to precisely set the output value. Users can select a specific digit for adjustment using the left/right arrow buttons (indicated by a blinking underline cursor) and then increase or decrease its value using the up/down arrow buttons. Pressing and holding the up/down arrow buttons allows for rapid adjustment of the value.

Memory Functions (SET and STEP/MEM Buttons): The PRC15 offers convenient memory features for storing and recalling up to five output values.

• SET Button: This button allows manual stepping through the five stored output values. When pressed in SOURCE mode, it recalls values from memory locations (e.g., "MEM.01" will appear). Each subsequent press steps through the memory locations sequentially. The arrow buttons can be used to adjust the value in each memory location.
• STEP/MEM Button: This button automates the stepping through stored output values. Pressing and holding the STEP/MEM button toggles between "STEPS" (single cycle) and "STEPC" (continuous cycle). In single cycle mode, the meter sources each memory value for 5 seconds, cycling through MEM01 to MEM05 and then back down, ending when MEM01 is reached. In continuous mode, the cycle continues indefinitely until manually stopped by a short press of the MEM button, at which point "END" will briefly appear.

Storing Values into Memory: To customize the stored values, users first select the desired current or voltage mode in Measure mode, then switch to SOURCE mode. After selecting a memory location with the SET button, the arrow buttons are used to adjust to the new value. A short press of the MEM button stores the value, indicated by a blinking memory location icon.

Display Layout: The display provides comprehensive information, including icons for SOURCE mode, ZERO function status, MEASURE mode, Auto Power OFF activation, battery status, measure mode value and units, datalogger memory location, and source mode value and units.

Tilt Stand / Hanger: The device incorporates a versatile rear stand that offers two viewing options:

1. Pulling out the bottom portion allows the unit to sit on a flat surface.
2. Pulling out both the bottom and top portions and rotating the stand enables the unit to be hung.

Maintenance Features

Battery Replacement: The PRC15 is powered by six AA batteries. A battery icon on the display indicates when replacement is needed. To replace batteries, open the tilt stand, loosen the captive Philips head screw, remove the battery cover, replace the batteries observing polarity, and then secure the cover. It is crucial to dispose of batteries responsibly and never in fire. For long-term storage (over 60 days), batteries should be removed to prevent leakage.

Safety Notes:

• Always adhere to the maximum allowable input range.
• Turn the unit OFF when not in use.
• Inspect test leads and the meter for damage before operation.
• Avoid mixing battery types; always install new batteries of the same type.
• Improper use can lead to damage, shock, injury, or death; always read and understand the user manual.
• If the equipment is used in a manner not specified by the manufacturer, the protection provided by the equipment may be impaired.

Calibration and Repair Services: FLIR Systems, Inc. offers NIST traceable calibration and repair services for Extech brand products. Annual calibrations are recommended to ensure continued meter performance and accuracy. The company's website provides the latest product information and support resources.

Extech Instruments PRC15 Specifications