Product Overview

Take This Quiz -
Q•What is the Number One Problem found in defective ECM Motors?
A • Shorted Windings
B • Seized Shaft Bearings
C • Open Windings
D • “Blown” Electronics Module
The best tool to diagnose what’s going on in an ECM System is an in-line diagnostic tool. The Variable Speed
Zebra is exactly that: a tool that connects
between the air handler’s circuit boards and the motor. It operates
in-line with the system, in real time, testing both major sections (motor and control boards) simultaneously.
It monitors the signals going out of the circuit boards, displays them for you and then either (a) passes them
along to the motor, or (b) allows you to interrupt the signals and control all the functions of the motor directly.
The Variable Speed Zebra also displays the motor’s CFM airflow,themotor’s RPM, and the control voltages
being sent to the motor’s electronics module. The outputs of the four System Taps are graphically displayed
with 3-color LEDs to show the condition of the Delay Profile, Adjust Profile, and the Cooling and Heating Profiles.
If the problem is determined to actually be in the motor, a special “Winding Test” circuit analyzes the motor for
opens, shorts, insulation problems, magnet strength, and frame shorts; advising you if the motor itself needs
replacement, or if the much-less-expensive electronics module is at fault.
With only 4 switches, the Variable Speed Zebra is simple to operate; but don’t let the simplicity fool you. At
its heart is a Microprocessor Controller that takes the guesswork out of what is wrong when you are called to
repair a malfunctioning Variable Speed System. The Variable Speed Zebra is housed in a rugged carry case to
protect it and its harnesses.
Two DVD’s are included to teach ECM Theory and ECM Troubleshooting; a
printed manual is also included. The Variable Speed Zebra is covered by a manufacturer’s One-Year Warranty.
A•Sadly, the answer is: none of the above. G.E. (who makes the vast majority of these type
motors) reports that
over 41% of all motors returned actually have no problem found.
Sombody (your company - or your customer) bought a very expensive motor needlessly.
Q•What tools can I use to correctly diagnose problems in an ECM System?
A • True RMS AC Voltmeter/Wattmeter
B • Ohmmeter/Continuity Tester
C • Dedicated ‘Motor Test Box’ from manufacturer
D • Sledge Hammer
A•Another dissappointing answer. Most of the Techs who returned all those “no problem found”
motors already owned the first three tools (maybe the fourth!) - and still missed the problem.
With
as many as 21 wires going to these motors, the days of Common-High-Medium-Low
are starting to disappear. With
over 10 millionof these systems in use, chances are that you
will run into one with a problem sooner than later.
Distributed by:
Made in the U.S.A. by:
ZEBR A HVAC
www.ZebraHVAC.com
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