Model 878B, 879B Dual Display LCR METER INSTRUCTION MANUAL
Safety Summary The following safety precautions apply to both operating and maintenance personnel and must be observed during all phases of operation, service, and repair of this instrument. DO NOT OPERATE IN AN EXPLOSIVE ATMOSPHERE Do not operate the instrument in the presence of flammable gases or fumes. Operation of any electrical instrument in such an environment constitutes a definite safety hazard. KEEP AWAY FROM LIVE CIRCUITS Instrument covers must not be removed by operating personnel.
service and repair to ensure that safety features are maintained. WARNINGS AND CAUTIONS WARNING and CAUTION statements, such as the following examples, denote a hazard and appear throughout this manual. Follow all instructions contained in these statements. A WARNING statement calls attention to an operating procedure, practice, or condition, which, if not followed correctly, could result in injury or death to personnel.
This meter is for indoor use, altitude up to 2,000 m. The warnings and precautions should be read and well understood before the instrument is used. When measuring in-circuit components, first de-energize the circuits before connecting to the test leads. Discharge capacitor before testing. The meter is safety-certified in compliance with EN61010 (IEC 1010-1) Installation Category II (CAT. II) 50 V, Pollution Degree 2 environment. Use the meter only as specified in this manual.
Safety Symbols This symbol is a warning and indicates that the user should refer to the operating instructions located in the manual.
This product is subject to Directive 2002/96/EC of the European Parliament and the Council of the European Union on waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) , and in jurisdictions adopting that Directive, is marked as being put on the market after August 13, 2005, and should not be disposed of as unsorted municipal waste. Please utilize your local WEEE collection facilities in the disposition of this product and otherwise observe all applicable requirements.
Environmental Conditions 0 °C to 40 °C Operating Environment Storage Humidity Storage Environment Pollution degree 0 – 80% R.H.
TABLE OF CONTENTS Safety Summary ........................................................ 1 Safety Guidelines ...................................................... 2 Compliance Statements ........................................... 4 INTRODUCTION....................................................... 10 PACKAGE CONTENTS ........................................... 11 FRONT PANEL OVERVIEW .................................... 12 Front Panel Display Descriptions ..................................
L/C/R/Z Select Mode .................................................... 30 D/Q/θ/ESR Select Mode ............................................... 31 Test Frequency ............................................................. 31 Relative Mode ............................................................... 50 Tolerance ...................................................................... 52 Utility Menu ...................................................................
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION ........................ 118 Selecting Test Frequency ........................................... 118 Selecting Series or Parallel Mode ............................... 120 Accuracy Discrepancies.............................................. 121 Guard Terminal ........................................................... 123 SPECIFICATIONS .................................................. 125 General Specifications ................................................
INTRODUCTION B&K Precision’s 878B and 879B 40,000-count L/C/R hand-held meter is designed ideally for measuring inductance, capacitance and resistance components. Simple to operate, the instrument not only takes absolute parallel mode measurements, but also series mode measurement. The meter provides direct and accurate measurements with selectable testing frequencies.
A single 9V battery or the included DC 12V power adaptor (model 879B only) can be used to power the meter. This gives user flexibility for portable or benchtop use. PACKAGE CONTENTS Each 878B and 879B LCR meters are shipped with the following contents. 878B or 879B LCR meter Instruction Manual Mini USB Interface Cable Red & Black Banana to Alligator Test Leads 9V Battery *AC Adapter (model 879B only) *This can be purchased as an optional accessory for model 878B.
FRONT PANEL OVERVIEW LCR Meter 879B LC R Z REL ESR deg % kHz MAX AVGMIN ¦ È Q TOL AUTO DH D 1%5%10%20% PAL SER n¦ H Ì pn¦ F Ì Mk RMT @ OFF 1 2 7 R POWER USB 4 D/Q/ /ESR FREQ 5 L/C/R/Z P S TOL 3 HOLD REC UTIL REL CAL 8 9 10 6 13 12 11 ! + - Figure 1 - Front Panel Display (model 879B shown) 12
Front Panel Display Descriptions 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11.
WARNING: Before connecting an external power adapter, please check the battery compartment in the rear side of the unit. If a battery is installed, be sure that the polarity matches the (+) and (-) labels as indicated inside the battery compartment. If it is not installed correctly, please remove the battery and install it with correct matching polarity as indicated in the compartment. See “Installing Battery” section for details.
12. SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION” section for details) 13. Standard mini USB port (for remote controllability) *For model 879B only. Not included on model 878B. Front Panel Buttons All front panel buttons have specific colored labels on them. They are all marked in white, blue, or yellow color.
. These functions are exclusively for use when entering UTIL menu only. See “Utility Menu” section for details.
LCD DISPLAY OVERVIEW 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 1 LC R Z REL 29 28 27 26 ESR MAX AVGMIN ¦ È Q TOL AUTO DH D 1%5%10%20% deg % kHz PAL SER n¦ H Ì pn¦ F Ì Mk RMT @ OFF 25 24 23 22 21 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 20 19 Figure 2 - LCD Indicator Display LCD Display Descriptions 1. LCRZ – Primary display function indicator (*Z display) 2. MAX – Maximum reading indicator 3. AVG – Average reading indicator 4. MIN – Minimum reading indicator 5.
6. Θ – *Phase angle indicator for secondary display 7. Q – Quality factor indicator 8. ESR – *Equivalent series resistance indicator 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. – Secondary display – Beeper tone indicator for tolerance mode deg – *Phase angle degree indicator Ω – *ESR(ohm) units indicator % - Tolerance percentage indicator kHz – Frequency units indicator PAL – Parallel mode indicator SER – Series mode indicator – Inductance units (Henry) indicator 18. – Capacitance units (Farad) indicator 19.
29. MAX AVG MIN – Recording mode indicators *For model 879B only. Not included on model 878B.
POWERING INSTRUMENT Before beginning to operate the instrument, a power source is necessary for it to turn on. There are two methods to power the instrument: Battery and external source. Installing Battery The 878B and 879B LCR meters can use a battery to provide power to the instrument so that it can be portable. The meters use a standard 9V size battery (or NEDA 1604, JIS006P, IEC6F22 carbon-zinc or alkaline battery). To install the battery: 1. Place the meter upside down.
Figure 3 - Back Cover 2. Insert 9V battery into compartment. Note the positive (+) and negative (-) terminals as indicated inside the battery compartment (See Figure 4). Be sure to insert the battery with matching polarity.
Figure 4 - Battery Compartment 3. Place the battery compartment cover piece by sliding it into the top slid first. Place screw at the bottom of the cover piece and tighten down with a screw driver. 4. Push and hold down the button for 2 seconds to turn on the instrument. Connecting External Power Source The 878B and 879B can also be powered using an external AC adapter. The model 879B comes with this adapter included in the package, while it is optional for model 878B.
For external power, use AC adapter rated for output 12VDC, 150mA, with a standard 4mm connector only. WARNING: Use of incorrect adapters may damage the instrument. Please use B&K Precision’s adapter only. To connect the adapter, do the following: 1. If a battery is installed, please check the battery compartment again that the polarity of the battery matches the polarity as indicated by the labels inside the compartment. If it is not, please remove and insert the battery with matching polarity.
3. Now, connect the AC Adapter socket into an electrical outlet. 4. Push and hold down the button for 2 seconds to turn on the instrument. 12VDC Input AC Adapter Figure 5 - Connecting AC Adapter to Meter Note: The meter can be operated with a battery installed while an AC adapter is plugged in at the same time (As long as the battery is inserted properly with correct polarity).
starts flashing the indicator, the battery voltage is below normal working voltage. In this case, accuracy of the meter will also decrease. It is recommended that the battery be replaced as soon as possible before continuing operation. See “Installing Battery” for instructions. Backlit Display (model 879B only) Model 879B LCR meter has a backlit display that allows you to see the LCD display in dark conditions. To turn on the back light, press and hold down button for 2 seconds.
brightness for 15 seconds. After another 15 seconds (30 seconds total from the time of turning on), the back light will automatically turn off to conserve battery power. When Using External Power When the meter is powered using an external AC adapter, the back light display will turn on upon holding down the button for 2 seconds. It will stay at maximum brightness continuously until the user presses and holds down the seconds again.
OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS Data Hold The data hold function allows the user to freeze the display when pressed, holding the measured value until data hold is turned off. Turn On Data Hold To use data hold, press the button once. The “DH” indicator will display on the screen when data hold is active. Turn Off Data Hold To disable the data hold, press again. The “DH” indicator will disappear on the screen, and meter will remain in normal operation mode.
Enable Static Recording Press and hold down the button for two seconds to enter the static recording mode. The display should indicate “MAX AVG MIN” simultaneously. This indicates the meter is in static recording mode and recording is performed immediately. Using Static Recording There are four different modes that can be selected in static recording. They are indicated by the descriptions below. These modes can be changed with each button press.
the input sockets or terminals. As recording is performed, maximum, minimum, and average values will be stored after a brief moment. A beep tone will sound once a recording has been stored. Note: Subsequent beep tones may occur in this mode if there are new values that are recorded. For example, if a new maximum is detected, it will beep once again to indicate that the new value has been stored. Any previously stored values will be overwritten with the new recorded values.
Disable Static Recording To exit this mode, press and hold the button for two seconds. The “MAX AVG MIN”, “MAX”, “MIN”, or “AVG” indicator will disappear on screen. Note: Changing the primary function, secondary function, or test frequency will automatically turn off static recording. L/C/R/Z Select Mode The primary display of the LCR meter is used to indicate measured values under four different modes (three modes for model 878B, which excludes Z (impedance) measurements).
D/Q/θ/ESR Select Mode The secondary display of the LCR meter is used to indicate measured values for four various parameters (two for model 878B, which excludes θ and ESR measurement mode), which provide additional information of the component being tested and is supplementary to the primary mode measurements. These modes are: D (Dissipation factor), Q (Quality factor), θ (Phase angle), and ESR (Equivalent series resistance).
For details on selecting the optimal test frequency for measurement, refer to the “ 32
REMOTE COMMUNICATION The meter has the capability to communicate with a PC over the mini USB interface. Upon installation of a USB driver, the PC can control the instrument over virtual COM (RS-232). The mini USB communication interface of the meter is designed in full duplex and has a 64-byte input and output buffer, making it reliable and efficient for data transmission. Connecting Instrument to PC Follow the below procedures for connection setup. 1. Download the USB drivers from www.bkprecision.com .
meaning it will be detected as a serial COM port. Windows will automatically assign a COM port to the instrument. Please verify which COM port Windows has assigned by going into “Device Manager”.
USB (Virtual COM) Configuration The USB will be recognized as a virtual COM on the PC, thus serial port settings must be configured properly for remote communication to be successful. Below are the settings used by the 878B and 879B meters. Baudrate: 9600 Data bits: 8 Parity: None Stop bits: 1 Flow Control: None USB Operation There are two modes that describe the operation of the meter when it is setup for remote communication. They are remote mode and auto fetching mode.
buttons will be disabled, except for the (or for model 878B) button. To exit remote mode and go back to local mode, press the (or for model 878B) button once. The RMT indicator will disappear on the LCD display. Pushing the same button once more will put the meter into auto fetching mode, which is described in the next section. Auto Fetching Mode When connected to a PC, the meter can be configured to auto-fetching mode.
Enable/Disable Auto Fetching To toggle between enabling and disabling auto fetching, press the (or for model 878B) button. When enabled, data will be fetched constantly after every measurement cycle is completed. When disabled, no fetched data will be available. Note: Alternatively, auto fetching mode can be disabled when a remote command is sent to the instrument, turning it back into remote mode.
commands and Standard Commands for Programmable Instruments (SCPI). Some commands are device-specific to the meter. They are not included in the version 1999.0 of the SCPI standard. However, these commands are designed with the SCPI format in mind and they follow the syntax rules of the standard. Common Command Format The IEEE 488 standard defines the common commands as commands that perform functions like reset and system query.
function is a root level keyword with the second level keyword, impa, and L is the command parameter. The query command ends with a question mark “?”. Note: SCPI stems from IEEE488.1 and IEEE 488.2. Although the IEEE 488.2 standard addressed some instrument measurements, it principally dealt with common commands and syntax or data formats. Please refer to the IEEE488.2 and SCPI reference manual for more information.
measurement cycle is completed. The format of the printed data will be shown as the following: + Data Types Returned message is an ASCII string from the meter responding to a query. A query is a command accompanied a “?” mark. Table 4 below explains the different data types.
query command A string is used as command parameters with short literal form HOLD SCPI Commands This section described all the SCPI commands supported by the meter. The meter can accept both upper case and lower case commands.
*IDN? Description: Queries the instrument ID. Response: , , *LLO Local Lockout. This means that all front panel buttons, including the "USB" key is not available. *GTL Go to local. Puts the meter into the local state, clearing the remote state and front panel lockout.
FUNCtion subsystem FUNCtion:impa < L | C | R | Z > (Z for model 879B only) Description: Select primary parameter Example: FUNCtion:impa L Selects L as primary parameter FUNCtion:impa? Description: Query primary parameter Response: Return L, C, R, Z (879B only),NULL FUNCtion:impb < D | Q | THETA | ESR > (THETA and ESR for model879B only) Description: Select secondly parameter Example: FUNCtion:impb D Select D as secondly parameter FUNCtion:impb? Description: Query secondly parameter Response: Return D, Q, TH
FUNCtion:EQUivalent < SERies | parallel | PAL > Description: Set equivalent mode Parameters: SERies — serial mode Parallel — parallel mode Pal — parallel mode Example: FUNCtion:EQUivalent SERies Set series mode FUNCtion:EQUivalent? Description: Query the equivalent mode Response: Return “SER” or “PAL” format string CALCulate subsystem CALCulate:RELative:STATe < ON | OFF > Description: Enable or disable relative function Example: CALCulate:RELative:STATe ON CALCulate:RELative:STATe? Description: Query the re
CALCulate:RELative:VALUe? Description: Query the relative value Response: Return or “-----” format string CALCulate:TOLerance:STATe < ON | OFF > Description: Enable or disable tolerance function Example: CALCulate:TOLerance:STATe ON CALCulate:TOLerance:STATe? Description: Query the tolerance state Response: Return ON or OFF CALCulate:TOLerance:NOMinal? Description: Query the nominal value of tolerance Response: Return or “-----” format string CALCulate:TOLerance:VALUe? Description: Query the per
CALCulate:TOLerance:RANGe? Description: Query the tolerance range Response: Return “BIN1”, “BIN2”, “BIN3”, “BIN4” or “----” format string CALCulate:RECording:STATe < ON | OFF > Description: Enable or disable recording function Example: CALCulate:RECording:STATe ON CALCulate:RECording:STATe? Description: Query the recording state Response: Return ON or OFF CALCulate:RECording:MAXimum? Description: Query the maximum value of recording function Response: Return or “-----” format string CALCulate:REC
CALCulate:RECording:AVERage? Description: Query the average value of recording function Response: Return or “-----” format string CALCulate:RECording:PRESent? Description: Query the present value of recording function Response: Return or “-----” format string FETCh Subsystem FETCh? Description: Returns the primary, secondary display value and tolerance compared result of device’s output buffer.
Summary of Supported SCPI Commands Table 6 - Summary of SCPI Commands Command FREQuency FREQuency? FUNCtion :impa Parameter Set Test Frequency Query Test Frequency Select primary display parameter Query primary display parameter Select secondary display parameter Query secondary display parameter Set equivalent mode Query equivalent mode :impa? :impb :impb? :EQUivalent :EQUivalent? CALCulate :RELative :STATe :STATe? :VALUe? :TOLerance :STATe Enable/disable
:STATe :STATe? :MAXimum? :MINimum? :AVERage? :PRESent? FETCh? Enable/disable recording function Query recording state Query max. value of recording Query min. value of recording Query average value of recording Query present value of recording Return data any time last reading is valid Error Codes In certain situations, errors may occur, and an error code will be displayed on the meter. Below defines the error description based on the error code.
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION” section. Selecting Frequency To select or change the test frequency, push the button once. With each press, the test frequency will be indicated on the secondary display of the meter. This will remain displayed until a different function for the secondary display is selected. The selectable test frequencies for 879B meter are: 100 Hz, 120 Hz, 1 kHz, and 10 kHz. The selectable test frequencies for 878B meter are: 120 Hz and 1 kHz.
Setup Relative Mode To setup the relative mode, simply press the button once. The value that is on the display will immediately be stored as the “reference” value. This reference value will be used for all measurements so as long as the meter is in relative mode, which is indicated by the “REL” indicator on the display. A common use of relative mode is to “zero” out the meter.
Disable Relative mode To disable relative mode, simply press the button once more. The “REL” indicator will disappear, which indicates the relative mode is disabled. Note: Changing the primary function, secondary function, or test frequency will automatically disable relative mode. Tolerance The tolerance mode feature is specifically used for component sorting purposes. Users who need to test and sort through a large number of components will find this function quite helpful.
Setup Tolerance 1. Select the primary measurement mode based on the type of components to be measured. This is done by pressing the (or for model 878B) button to configure the desired measurement mode. Note: Be sure to select the correct measurement mode, as tolerance mode cannot be activated unless the correct mode is selected. For example, if the component is a capacitor, be sure to select “C” for capacitance. If not, tolerance mode will not be activated following the proceeding steps below. 2.
WARNING: If the component to be measured is a capacitor, be sure that the capacitor is fully discharged BEFORE inserting it into the input sockets or terminals. For large capacitors, it may take longer periods of time for a full discharge. Inserting a charged or partially charged capacitor into the meter’s input sockets or terminals may produce an electric hazard and may also damage the instrument, making it unusable.
3. Once the desired measured reading is displayed, press the button once to store the reading as the “standard” value or test reference value. At this point, the “TOL” will be displayed on the screen, indicating that the tolerance mode is activated. Note: Any value which appears on the LCD display, such as DH (data hold) or MAX/MIN/AVG, can also be used as the “standard” value or test reference value for sorting components. 4. To select the tolerance range, press the button once more.
One single “beep” or tone means the component is within tolerance. Three “beeps” or tone means the component is out of tolerance. Disable Tolerance Mode To disable or exit out of tolerance mode, simply press and hold down the button for two seconds. The “TOL” and/or the percentage indicators “1%”, “5%”, “10%”, or “20%” (for model 879B only) will disappear on the LCD display. Note: Changing the primary function, secondary function, or test frequency will automatically disable tolerance mode.
power-off timing, power-up state, and reset instrument to default settings. Entering Utility Menu Press and hold down the button for two seconds or until the primary display shows “bEEP”. This indicates the meter is currently in the utility menu. Configuration and Settings There are four different menu options and configurable settings under each option. Below is a table that lists these options and settings.
The four menu options allow users to control the beep sound setting (bEEP), auto power off setting (AoFF), power-up state settings (PuP), and resetting instrument to default settings (dEF). By default, the first option after entering the utility menu is “bEEP”. The primary display indicates the menu option, and the secondary display indicates the current settings or parameters configured for the selected option. To change the settings or parameters, use the and arrow keys.
Beep Sound Setting (bEEP) The “bEEP” menu option allows the user to enable or disable the beep sound for every key press. Note: This option only disables the beep sound for each key press. It does not disable the beep sound for “Static Recording” and “Tolerance” mode, as well as the “auto power-off” warning. To turn ON the beep, push either the or arrow keys until the secondary display shows “ON”. To turn OFF the beep, push either the or arrow keys until the secondary display shows “OFF”.
Note: When the timer has reached the configured time, the meter will make an audible “beep” sound continuously for 10 seconds before auto power-off. To stop the “beep” sound, simply press any button to resume operation and reset the timer count. The available timer settings are: 5 minutes, 15 minutes, 30 minutes, 60 minutes, and off. When the primary display shows “AoFF”, push the or button to select the timer setting.
When the auto power-off option is set to any of the configured settings in Table 2 (except for “OFF”), upon exiting the utility menu the LCD display will have a “@OFF” indicator. This means a timer has been set for auto power-off. Note: When an external 12VDC AC adapter is used to power the instrument, the auto power-off feature will automatically be disabled. This is indicated on the LCD display when the “@OFF” indicator disappears. Under this condition, the meter will remain powered ON continuously.
In the utility menu, when the primary display shows “PuP”, there are two settings selectable and shown on the secondary display. “PrE” and “SEt”. Default Setting: PrE Storable Settings Primary function mode (i.e. L/C/R) Test frequency Secondary function mode (i.e.
settings for recalling at power-up. (see “Exit Utility Menu” for details) 2. Once settings are configured, enter/re-enter the utility menu by holding down the button for 2 seconds. 3. Traverse through the utility menu until you see “PuP” on the primary display. The secondary display should also show “PrE”. 4. In order to save the current meter settings for power-up state into internal memory, use either or button to change the settings so that the secondary display shows “SEt”. 5.
procedure is used to overwrite previously stored settings into memory. Prevent Overwrite of Stored Settings In the utility menu, the “PuP” option default setting is always “PrE”. This represents “previous settings”. Keeping this setting will prevent the meter from overwriting previously stored settings for power-up state. Therefore, when entering the utility menu, be sure not to change to “SEt” to prevent overwriting any previously stored power-up settings.
display shows “dEF”, either press or button to change the setting so that the secondary display shows “yES”. Upon saving and exiting the utility menu, the instrument will automatically reset back to its original settings. Below is a table of all the settings that will be restored.
Exit Utility Menu There are two methods for exiting the utility menu. One saves all the changed settings before exiting, and the other exits the menu without saving any changes. Saving and Exiting To save all utility menu option settings and to exit the menu, press and hold down the button for 2 seconds. After this, the meter will exit the menu, and all settings will be saved.
Parallel and Series Measurement Mode The LCR meter offers the option to select between parallel or series measurement mode. Depending on which mode is selected, the method to measure the component will be different. Additionally, one measurement mode may provide better accuracies over the other measurement mode depending on the type of component and the value of the component to be tested.
REMOTE COMMUNICATION The meter has the capability to communicate with a PC over the mini USB interface. Upon installation of a USB driver, the PC can control the instrument over virtual COM (RS-232). The mini USB communication interface of the meter is designed in full duplex and has a 64-byte input and output buffer, making it reliable and efficient for data transmission. Connecting Instrument to PC Follow the below procedures for connection setup. 5. Download the USB drivers from www.bkprecision.com .
meaning it will be detected as a serial COM port. Windows will automatically assign a COM port to the instrument. Please verify which COM port Windows has assigned by going into “Device Manager”.
USB (Virtual COM) Configuration The USB will be recognized as a virtual COM on the PC, thus serial port settings must be configured properly for remote communication to be successful. Below are the settings used by the 878B and 879B meters. Baudrate: 9600 Data bits: 8 Parity: None Stop bits: 1 Flow Control: None USB Operation There are two modes that describe the operation of the meter when it is setup for remote communication. They are remote mode and auto fetching mode.
buttons will be disabled, except for the (or for model 878B) button. To exit remote mode and go back to local mode, press the (or for model 878B) button once. The RMT indicator will disappear on the LCD display. Pushing the same button once more will put the meter into auto fetching mode, which is described in the next section. Auto Fetching Mode When connected to a PC, the meter can be configured to auto-fetching mode.
Enable/Disable Auto Fetching To toggle between enabling and disabling auto fetching, press the (or for model 878B) button. When enabled, data will be fetched constantly after every measurement cycle is completed. When disabled, no fetched data will be available. Note: Alternatively, auto fetching mode can be disabled when a remote command is sent to the instrument, turning it back into remote mode.
commands and Standard Commands for Programmable Instruments (SCPI). Some commands are device-specific to the meter. They are not included in the version 1999.0 of the SCPI standard. However, these commands are designed with the SCPI format in mind and they follow the syntax rules of the standard. Common Command Format The IEEE 488 standard defines the common commands as commands that perform functions like reset and system query.
function is a root level keyword with the second level keyword, impa, and L is the command parameter. The query command ends with a question mark “?”. Note: SCPI stems from IEEE488.1 and IEEE 488.2. Although the IEEE 488.2 standard addressed some instrument measurements, it principally dealt with common commands and syntax or data formats. Please refer to the IEEE488.2 and SCPI reference manual for more information.
measurement cycle is completed. The format of the printed data will be shown as the following: + Data Types Returned message is an ASCII string from the meter responding to a query. A query is a command accompanied a “?” mark. Table 4 below explains the different data types.
query command A string is used as command parameters with short literal form HOLD SCPI Commands This section described all the SCPI commands supported by the meter. The meter can accept both upper case and lower case commands.
*IDN? Description: Queries the instrument ID. Response: , , *LLO Local Lockout. This means that all front panel buttons, including the "USB" key is not available. *GTL Go to local. Puts the meter into the local state, clearing the remote state and front panel lockout.
FUNCtion subsystem FUNCtion:impa < L | C | R | Z > (Z for model 879B only) Description: Select primary parameter Example: FUNCtion:impa L Selects L as primary parameter FUNCtion:impa? Description: Query primary parameter Response: Return L, C, R, Z (879B only),NULL FUNCtion:impb < D | Q | THETA | ESR > (THETA and ESR for model879B only) Description: Select secondly parameter Example: FUNCtion:impb D Select D as secondly parameter FUNCtion:impb? Description: Query secondly parameter Response: Return D, Q, TH
FUNCtion:EQUivalent < SERies | parallel | PAL > Description: Set equivalent mode Parameters: SERies — serial mode Parallel — parallel mode Pal — parallel mode Example: FUNCtion:EQUivalent SERies Set series mode FUNCtion:EQUivalent? Description: Query the equivalent mode Response: Return “SER” or “PAL” format string CALCulate subsystem CALCulate:RELative:STATe < ON | OFF > Description: Enable or disable relative function Example: CALCulate:RELative:STATe ON CALCulate:RELative:STATe? Description: Query the re
CALCulate:RELative:VALUe? Description: Query the relative value Response: Return or “-----” format string CALCulate:TOLerance:STATe < ON | OFF > Description: Enable or disable tolerance function Example: CALCulate:TOLerance:STATe ON CALCulate:TOLerance:STATe? Description: Query the tolerance state Response: Return ON or OFF CALCulate:TOLerance:NOMinal? Description: Query the nominal value of tolerance Response: Return or “-----” format string CALCulate:TOLerance:VALUe? Description: Query the per
CALCulate:TOLerance:RANGe? Description: Query the tolerance range Response: Return “BIN1”, “BIN2”, “BIN3”, “BIN4” or “----” format string CALCulate:RECording:STATe < ON | OFF > Description: Enable or disable recording function Example: CALCulate:RECording:STATe ON CALCulate:RECording:STATe? Description: Query the recording state Response: Return ON or OFF CALCulate:RECording:MAXimum? Description: Query the maximum value of recording function Response: Return or “-----” format string CALCulate:REC
CALCulate:RECording:AVERage? Description: Query the average value of recording function Response: Return or “-----” format string CALCulate:RECording:PRESent? Description: Query the present value of recording function Response: Return or “-----” format string FETCh Subsystem FETCh? Description: Returns the primary, secondary display value and tolerance compared result of device’s output buffer.
Summary of Supported SCPI Commands Table 6 - Summary of SCPI Commands Command FREQuency FREQuency? FUNCtion :impa Parameter Set Test Frequency Query Test Frequency Select primary display parameter Query primary display parameter Select secondary display parameter Query secondary display parameter Set equivalent mode Query equivalent mode :impa? :impb :impb? :EQUivalent :EQUivalent? CALCulate :RELative :STATe :STATe? :VALUe? :TOLerance :STATe Enable/disable
:STATe :STATe? :MAXimum? :MINimum? :AVERage? :PRESent? FETCh? Enable/disable recording function Query recording state Query max. value of recording Query min. value of recording Query average value of recording Query present value of recording Return data any time last reading is valid Error Codes In certain situations, errors may occur, and an error code will be displayed on the meter. Below defines the error description based on the error code.
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION” section. Default Settings For Capacitance and Resistance measurements, the default measurement mode is parallel. For Inductance measurements, the default measurement mode is series. Selecting Measurement Mode The measurement mode of the meter is displayed by the indicators “SER” or “PAR” on the LCD screen. “SER” means meter is in series measurement mode. “PAR” means meter is in parallel measurement mode.
calibration should be done before making any measurements. To enter calibration mode, simply press and hold down the button for 2 seconds. A calibration prompt will be displayed. There are two types of calibration available. One is the open circuit calibration. The other is the short circuit calibration. To exit calibration mode, simply press and hold down the button for 2 seconds again. Open Calibration Open calibration can be done when meter first enters into calibration mode.
Figure 7 - Open Calibration Short Calibration Short calibration can be done when meter first enters into calibration mode. If the input sockets or terminals have nothing connected, the display will be like Figure 7. For short calibration, simply put a shorting bar or a short piece of conductive metal (i.e. paper clip) across the “+” and “-“ input sockets or terminals. Within 2 seconds, the meter will display the same screen as Figure 8, which prompts for a “short”.
be calibrated based on the test frequency and settings selected prior to entering the calibration mode. Figure 8 - Short Calibration Quick Procedure Below is an example of steps to follow to do both open and short calibration. 1. Select the primary function mode for measurement (i.e. L/C/R/Z). 2. Select the test frequency for measurement. 3. Select the measurement mode (i.e. Series or Parallel) 4. Once all settings are configured, hold down button for 2 seconds to enter into calibration mode. 5.
6. Next, do short calibration. Follow instructions under “Short Calibration” section. 7. Now, the meter should go back to normal display and user may proceed to take measurements of components. Recommendations To achieve optimal measurement results, both open and short calibration should be done. It is highly recommended to calibrate extremely high or low values for L, C, R and Z before making precision measurements. Notes: 1.
USB The USB button (or for model 878B) are used for remote communication.
REMOTE COMMUNICATION” section for details. Automatic Fuse Detection The LCR meter has an internal fuse that protects the inputs from severely damaging the instrument. When the meter detects that the protective fuse is open, the “FUSE” indicator will appear on the primary display (see Figure 9) and an internal “beep” will sound continuously. In this situation, none of the function buttons can be operated and all other meter functions will be disabled.
pressing and holding down the button for 2 seconds. If this does not power off the meter, remove external AC adapter if that is used and/or remove the battery from the battery compartment. Refrain from further operation until fuse is replaced. Please contact B&K Precision for assistance.
QUICK START GUIDE CAUTION Do not measure a capacitor that is not fully discharged. Connecting a charged or partially charged capacitor to the input terminals will damage the instrument. When measuring within a circuit, the circuit must be de-energized before connecting the test leads. When used in a dusty environment, the instrument should be wiped and cleaned regularly. Do not leave the instrument exposed to direct heat from the sun for long periods of time.
Note: To achieve optimum precision for all L, C, and R measurements at either the highest or lowest ranges, calibrate the meter before testing. See “Calibration” section for details. Inductance Measurement 1. Press down on the meter. button for one second to turn 2. Press (or for model 878B) button until “L” is displayed on the screen to select inductance measurement. 3.
ESR measurement for secondary display. (θ and ESR function for model 879B only) 6. Read the display readings for inductance measured values and selected measured values on secondary display.
Capacitance Measurement WARNING Fully discharge capacitor BEFORE inserting it into the instrument. Failure to do this may result in damage to the meter and may cause electrical hazards. 1. Press down on the meter. button for one second to turn 2. Press (or for model 878B) button until “C” is on the screen to select capacitance measurement. 3. CAUTION: BEFORE inserting a capacitor or capacitive component into the input sockets or terminals, be sure to fully discharge the component.
5. Press button until the frequency is displayed on screen. desired test 6. Press (or for model 878B) button to select between D factor, Q factor, θ angle, or ESR measurement for secondary display. (θ and ESR function for model 879B only). 7. Read the display readings for capacitance measured values and selected measured values on secondary display.
Resistance Measurement 1. Press down on the meter. button for one second to turn 2. Press (or for model 878B) button until “R” is on the screen to select resistance measurement. 3. Insert resistor or resistive component into the input sockets or connect alligator leads into the banana jack input terminals and connect the clips to the component leads as illustrated in Figure 12. 4. Press button until the frequency is displayed on screen.
Figure 12 - Resistance Measurement Setup Impedance Measurement (Model 879B only) 1. Press down on the meter. button for one second to turn 2. Press button until “Z” is on the screen to select impedance measurement.
3. Insert component into the input sockets or connect alligator leads into the banana jack input terminals and connect the clips to the component leads as illustrated in Figure 13. 4. Press button until the frequency is displayed on screen. desired 5. Read the display readings for impedance measured values.
REMOTE COMMUNICATION The meter has the capability to communicate with a PC over the mini USB interface. Upon installation of a USB driver, the PC can control the instrument over virtual COM (RS-232). The mini USB communication interface of the meter is designed in full duplex and has a 64-byte input and output buffer, making it reliable and efficient for data transmission. Connecting Instrument to PC Follow the below procedures for connection setup. 9. Download the USB drivers from www.bkprecision.com .
port. Windows will automatically assign a COM port to the instrument. Please verify which COM port Windows has assigned by going into “Device Manager”.
USB (Virtual COM) Configuration The USB will be recognized as a virtual COM on the PC, thus serial port settings must be configured properly for remote communication to be successful. Below are the settings used by the 878B and 879B meters. Baudrate: 9600 Data bits: 8 Parity: None Stop bits: 1 Flow Control: None USB Operation There are two modes that describe the operation of the meter when it is setup for remote communication. They are remote mode and auto fetching mode.
buttons will be disabled, except for the (or for model 878B) button. To exit remote mode and go back to local mode, press the (or for model 878B) button once. The RMT indicator will disappear on the LCD display. Pushing the same button once more will put the meter into auto fetching mode, which is described in the next section. Auto Fetching Mode When connected to a PC, the meter can be configured to auto-fetching mode.
Enable/Disable Auto Fetching To toggle between enabling and disabling auto fetching, press the (or for model 878B) button. When enabled, data will be fetched constantly after every measurement cycle is completed. When disabled, no fetched data will be available. Note: Alternatively, auto fetching mode can be disabled when a remote command is sent to the instrument, turning it back into remote mode.
commands and Standard Commands for Programmable Instruments (SCPI). Some commands are device-specific to the meter. They are not included in the version 1999.0 of the SCPI standard. However, these commands are designed with the SCPI format in mind and they follow the syntax rules of the standard. Common Command Format The IEEE 488 standard defines the common commands as commands that perform functions like reset and system query.
function is a root level keyword with the second level keyword, impa, and L is the command parameter. The query command ends with a question mark “?”. Note: SCPI stems from IEEE488.1 and IEEE 488.2. Although the IEEE 488.2 standard addressed some instrument measurements, it principally dealt with common commands and syntax or data formats. Please refer to the IEEE488.2 and SCPI reference manual for more information.
measurement cycle is completed. The format of the printed data will be shown as the following: + Data Types Returned message is an ASCII string from the meter responding to a query. A query is a command accompanied a “?” mark. Table 4 below explains the different data types.
query command A string is used as command parameters with short literal form HOLD SCPI Commands This section described all the SCPI commands supported by the meter. The meter can accept both upper case and lower case commands.
*IDN? Description: Queries the instrument ID. Response: , , *LLO Local Lockout. This means that all front panel buttons, including the "USB" key is not available. *GTL Go to local. Puts the meter into the local state, clearing the remote state and front panel lockout.
FUNCtion subsystem FUNCtion:impa < L | C | R | Z > (Z for model 879B only) Description: Select primary parameter Example: FUNCtion:impa L Selects L as primary parameter FUNCtion:impa? Description: Query primary parameter Response: Return L, C, R, Z (879B only),NULL FUNCtion:impb < D | Q | THETA | ESR > (THETA and ESR for model879B only) Description: Select secondly parameter Example: FUNCtion:impb D Select D as secondly parameter FUNCtion:impb? Description: Query secondly parameter Response: Return D, Q, TH
FUNCtion:EQUivalent < SERies | parallel | PAL > Description: Set equivalent mode Parameters: SERies — serial mode Parallel — parallel mode Pal — parallel mode Example: FUNCtion:EQUivalent SERies Set series mode FUNCtion:EQUivalent? Description: Query the equivalent mode Response: Return “SER” or “PAL” format string CALCulate subsystem CALCulate:RELative:STATe < ON | OFF > Description: Enable or disable relative function Example: CALCulate:RELative:STATe ON CALCulate:RELative:STATe? Description: Query the re
CALCulate:RELative:VALUe? Description: Query the relative value Response: Return or “-----” format string CALCulate:TOLerance:STATe < ON | OFF > Description: Enable or disable tolerance function Example: CALCulate:TOLerance:STATe ON CALCulate:TOLerance:STATe? Description: Query the tolerance state Response: Return ON or OFF CALCulate:TOLerance:NOMinal? Description: Query the nominal value of tolerance Response: Return or “-----” format string CALCulate:TOLerance:VALUe? Description: Query the per
CALCulate:TOLerance:RANGe? Description: Query the tolerance range Response: Return “BIN1”, “BIN2”, “BIN3”, “BIN4” or “----” format string CALCulate:RECording:STATe < ON | OFF > Description: Enable or disable recording function Example: CALCulate:RECording:STATe ON CALCulate:RECording:STATe? Description: Query the recording state Response: Return ON or OFF CALCulate:RECording:MAXimum? Description: Query the maximum value of recording function Response: Return or “-----” format string CALCulate:REC
CALCulate:RECording:AVERage? Description: Query the average value of recording function Response: Return or “-----” format string CALCulate:RECording:PRESent? Description: Query the present value of recording function Response: Return or “-----” format string FETCh Subsystem FETCh? Description: Returns the primary, secondary display value and tolerance compared result of device’s output buffer.
Summary of Supported SCPI Commands Table 6 - Summary of SCPI Commands Command FREQuency FREQuency? FUNCtion :impa Parameter Set Test Frequency Query Test Frequency Select primary display parameter Query primary display parameter Select secondary display parameter Query secondary display parameter Set equivalent mode Query equivalent mode :impa? :impb :impb? :EQUivalent :EQUivalent? CALCulate :RELative :STATe :STATe? :VALUe? :TOLerance :STATe Enable/disable
:STATe :STATe? :MAXimum? :MINimum? :AVERage? :PRESent? FETCh? Enable/disable recording function Query recording state Query max. value of recording Query min. value of recording Query average value of recording Query present value of recording Return data any time last reading is valid Error Codes In certain situations, errors may occur, and an error code will be displayed on the meter. Below defines the error description based on the error code.
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION This section provides supplemental information for user consideration when operating the LCR meters. Some recommendations and explanations are provided to help aid in the use of some functions and features, in which can help the user gain optimal and accurate measurement results. Selecting Test Frequency Test frequency can greatly affect the results of measurement reading, especially when measuring inductors and capacitors.
example, if the capacitance of the component is to be in the mF range, than selecting 100 Hz or 120 Hz for test frequency would give much better results. The results will also be obvious because if the same component was tested with 1 kHz or 10 kHz, the measured readings may look erroneous on the display. In all cases, it is best to check with the manufacturer’s data sheet in order to determine the best test frequency to use for measurement.
In all cases, it is best to check with the manufacturer’s data sheet in order to determine the best test frequency to use for measurement. Selecting Series or Parallel Mode Just as test frequency can greatly affect measurement results, selecting between series or parallel measurement mode can also affect the accuracy of the meter, especially for capacitive and inductive components. Below are some recommendations to consider. Capacitance For most capacitance measurement, selecting parallel mode is the best.
out of accuracy or erroneous. Series mode is use because large capacitors often have higher dissipation factor and lower internal resistance. Inductance For most inductance measurement, selecting series mode is the best. Hence, the meter defaults to this mode when selecting inductance mode. This is because in this mode, accurate Q (quality factor) reading can be obtained from reading low Q inductors and ohmic losses are significant. Though in some cases, parallel mode would be preferred.
Capacitance When measuring capacitors, it is always most desirable if the dissipation factor is low. Electrolytic capacitors inherently have a higher dissipation factor due to their normally high internal leakage characteristics. In some cases, if the D (dissipation factor) is excessive, measurement accuracy may degrade and even read out of specification. Inductance Some inductors are intended to operate at a certain DC bias to achieve a certain inductance value.
provide an option for DC resistance measurements. Therefore, when measuring a resistive component that is designed to be measured with DC, readings will be incorrect or inaccurate. Before using the meter to measure resistance, please verify whether the DUT (device under test) requires DC or AC resistance measurement method. Depending on the method, results will vary greatly. Guard Terminal One of the input sockets and terminals is labeled as “GUARD”.
Guard terminal is also used to minimize noise and to help minimize parasitic effects coming from the component to be measured, thus allowing high precision results.
SPECIFICATIONS Below are some remarks in regards to all specifications pertaining to both 878B and 879B LCR meters. *Specifications are subject to change without notice. Notes: 1. Measurement performed at the test socket. 2. Measurements performed after correct open and short calibration. 3. DUT and test leads must be properly shielded to guard if necessary. 4. Based after 30 minutes of warm up time and operated at 23 °C + 5 °C, <75% R.H. 5. Q value is the reciprocal of DF. 6.
General Specifications Items Measurement Parameters Test Frequency Accuracy is 0.02% of actual frequency Tolerance Mode Backlit Display Test Signal Level Measuring Circuit Mode Basic accuracy Ranging Mode Measuring Terminals Measurement Rate Response Time Auto Power-Off Operation Temperature Storage Temperature Low Battery Indication Battery Life 879B L/C/R/Z/D/Q/θ/ESR 878B L/C/R/D/Q 100 Hz, 120 Hz, 120 Hz, 1 KHz 1 kHz, 10 kHz (test setting) (test setting) 100Hz, 120.048Hz, 120.
off ≈ 28 mA (under full power battery) for operation/ 2 µA after Power-off. 1) DC 9V Battery 2)Ext. AC Adapter: DC 12 Vmin –15 Vmax. (Load 50 mA Min.) 7.5 x 3.5 x 1.6” (190 × 90 × 41 mm) 0.7 lbs. (330 grams) Power Consumption Power Requirements Dimensions (L/W/H) Weight Accuracy Specifications Inductance Frequency = 100 Hz*/120 Hz Range Max Display 1000 H 1000.0 H 400 H 399.99 H 40 H 39.999 H 4000 mH 3999.9 mH 400 mH 399.99 mH 40 mH 39.999 mH 4 mH 3.9999 mH Lx Accuracy 1.5% + 3 digits 0.
Frequency = 1 kHz Range Max Display 100 H 100.00 H 40 H 39.999 H 4000 mH 3999.9 mH 400 mH 399.99 mH 40 mH 39.999 mH 4000 μH 3999.9 μH 400 μH 399.9 μH Lx Accuracy DF(Dx <0.5) 1.5% + 3 digits 0.7% + 2 digits 0.7% + 2 digits 0.5% + 1 digits 0.6% + 2 digits 0.9% + 2 digits 2.8% + 3 digits 1.5% + 50 digits 0.7% + 50 digits 0.7% + 50 digits 0.5% + 50 digits 0.6% + 50 digits 0.9% + 50 digits 2.8% + 50 digits Lx Accuracy DF(Dx <0.5) 1.5% + 3 digits 0.7% + 2 digits 0.5% + 1 digits 0.
400 μH 399.99 μH 40 μH 39.99 μH 0.9% + 2 digits 2.8% + 3 digits 0.9% + 50 digits 2.8% + 50 digits Series Series Capacitance Frequency = 100 Hz*/120 Hz Range Max Display 20 mF 20.000 mF 4000 μF 3999.9 μF 400 μF 399.99 μF 40 μF 39.999 nF 4000 nF 3999.9 nF 400 nF 399.99 nF 40 nF 39.999 nF 4 nF 3.9999 nF Cx Accuracy DF(Dx <0.5) 8% + 3 digits 2% + 2 digits 0.7% + 2 digits 0.5% + 1 digits 0.5% + 1 digits 0.5% + 2 digits 0.7% + 1 digits 2.
Frequency = 1 kHz Range Max Display 1000 μF 1000.0 μF 400 μF 399.99 μF 40 μF 39.999 μF 4000 nF 3999.9 nF 400 nF 399.99 nF 40 nF 39.999 nF 4000 pF 3999.9 pF 400 pF 399.9 pF Cx Accuracy DF(Dx <0.5) 3.7% + 3 digits 2% + 2 digits 0.7% + 2 digits 0.5% + 1 digit 0.5% + 2 digits 0.5% + 2 digits 0.7% + 2 digits 2.5% + 2 digits 3.7% + 50 digits 2% + 50 digits 0.7% + 50 digits 0.5% + 50 digit 0.5% + 50 digits 0.5% + 50 digits 0.7% + 50 digits 2.5% + 50 digits Cx Accuracy DF(Dx <0.5) 3.
400 nF 399.99 nF 40 nF 39.999 nF 4000 pF 3999.9 nF 400 pF 399.99 pF 40 pF 39.99 pF 0.5% + 2 digits 0.5% + 1 digit 0.5% + 2 digits 0.7% + 2 digits 2.5% + 2 digits 0.5% + 50 digits 0.5% + 50 digit 0.5% + 50 digits 0.7% + 50 digits 2.5% + 50 digits Series ----Parallel Parallel Resistance/Impedance* Frequency = 100 Hz*/120 Hz/ 1 kHz/10 kHz* Range Max Display 10 MΩ 10.000 MΩ 4000 kΩ 3999.9 kΩ 400 kΩ 399.99 kΩ 40 kΩ 39.999 kΩ 4000 Ω 3999.9 Ω 400 Ω 399.99 Ω 40 Ω 39.999 Ω 4Ω 3.
ESR* Frequency = 100 Hz*/120 Hz/ 1 kHz/10 kHz* Range Max Display 1000 Ω 999.9 Ω 100 Ω 99.99 Ω 10 Ω 9.999 Ω 1Ω .9999 Ω * = Model 879B only ESR Accuracy 0.5% + 2 digits 0.5% + 2 digits 0.7% + 2 digits 2.
MAINTENANCE WARNING: Do not perform any service by yourself. Service should only be done by qualified personnel and trained technicians. Service If the instrument fails to operate, check battery and test leads. Replace them as necessary. If the instrument still cannot work, verify with the operating instructions to make sure correct procedures are followed. When servicing, use specified replacement parts only. Note: The meter must be completely turned off while replacing the battery.
immediately. Doing so will immediately damage the instrument and void it’s warranty. Before cleaning this meter, make sure the power is OFF and remove external AC adapter if one is used. To clean the meter, wipe the dirty parts with a soft cloth soaked with diluted neutral detergent. Avoid having the instrument too wet to prevent the detergent from penetrating into the inside components of the meter, causing damages. After cleaning, make sure the instrument is completely dried before operating it again.
SERVICE INFORMATION Warranty Service: Please go the support and service section on our website www.bkprecision.com to obtain a RMA #. Return the product in the original packaging with proof of purchase to the address below. Clearly state on the RMA the performance problem and return any leads, probes, connectors and accessories that you are using with the device. Non-Warranty Service: Please go the support and service section on our website www.bkprecision.com to obtain a RMA #.
LIMITED WARRANTY B&K Precision Corp. warrants to the original purchaser that its products and the component parts thereof, will be free from defects in workmanship and materials for a period of three years from date of purchase. B&K Precision Corp. will, without charge, repair or replace, at its option, defective product or component parts. Returned product must be accompanied by proof of the purchase date in the form of a sales receipt.
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