User Manual

WPS500X User’s Guide Pico Technology
10 DO157-9
8. Making a measurement
Making a pressure measurement involves the following steps. Each step is
explained in more detail in the sections below.
Prepare the transducer
Measure pressure
Release the pressure in the measurement chamber
Clean the measurement chamber
Preparing the transducer
Ensure that the transducer’s internal battery is charged.
Unplug the charging cable from the transducer.
Before switching on, disconnect any pressure source from the transducer. A
pressure source left connected will interfere with the self-calibration procedure
described below.
Switch on the transducer and wait until the three Range LEDs light up in
sequence. At the end of the sequence, Range 1 LED remains lit, showing that
the transducer has finished its auto-zeroing procedure. The entire procedure
should take less than 10 seconds.
Measuring pressure
If your WPS500X has a bleed screw, ensure that the bleed screw is firmly
closed.
Connect the appropriate pressure hose to the pressure sensing port.
WARNING
Use only pressure hoses and connectors supplied with the WPS500X
or otherwise manufactured to an adequate standard. Pico Technology
cannot accept responsibility for damage or injury caused by the use
of unsuitable pressure hoses or connectors.
WARNING
Always check that the pressure hose is securely fastened to the
transducer before pressurizing the system. Always check for leaks
when connecting the unit and to never leave it connected to a vehicle
unattended (especially when connected to fuel).
If measuring liquid pressure, bleed any air out of the measurement chamber
first.
Use the BNC cable supplied to connect the output of the transducer to the input
channel of the oscilloscope.
Switch on the computer and run the PicoScope software.
In the PicoScope software, select the “Automotive” menu and then the
appropriate pressure test.
Press the Range button on the transducer to select the desired measuring
range.
Start the vehicle’s engine.
A waveform showing the pressure of the system will appear on the PicoScope
display.