ESR60/ESR70 User Guide April 2012 – Rev 8 Want to use it now? We understand that you want to use your Atlas ESR right now. The unit is ready to go and you should have little need to refer to this user guide, but please make sure that you do at least take a look at the notices on page 4! Contents Page...
ESR60/ESR70 User Guide April 2012 – Rev 8 Introduction The Atlas ESR is an advanced instrument designed specifically for the analysis of capacitor equivalent series resistance (in or out of circuit). In addition it will, where possible, display the capacitance of the device under test. Summary Features: •...
ESR60/ESR70 User Guide April 2012 – Rev 8 Safety Considerations WARNING: This instrument must NEVER be connected to powered equipment/components. It is the user’s responsibility to ensure that any dangerously charged capacitors are safely discharged before connection to the unit. To allow the self-protection mechanism to function, always ensure that the Atlas ESR has completed any analysis before connecting the test probes to a component.
ESR60/ESR70 User Guide April 2012 – Rev 8 Notes on ESR ESR (Equivalent Series Resistance), as it’s acronym implies, is the value of resistance that is effectively in series with an ideal capacitor. No capacitor is ideal of course, the detailed equivalent circuit of a typical capacitor is very complex.
April 2012 – Rev 8 Analysing Capacitors The Peak Atlas ESR is designed to analyse capacitor ESR in or out of circuit. The two test probes can be connected to the component any way around. Remember though that in-circuit testing can result in less accurate readings.
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ESR60/ESR70 User Guide April 2012 – Rev 8 Analysing Capacitors continued The ESR analysis typically takes under 2 seconds to complete, followed by up to around 10 seconds for the capacitance measurement (depending on the characteristics of the capacitor). As soon as a valid ESR reading has Measuring C...
ESR60/ESR70 User Guide April 2012 – Rev 8 Analysing Capacitors continued In the event that ESR exceeds the maximum that can be measured, the display may show: Cap = Cap = 476.6 F 476.6 F In- - - - Circuit/Lea Circuit/Lea Circuit/Leaky Circuit/Lea...
ESR60/ESR70 User Guide April 2012 – Rev 8 Typical Values of ESR It is not possible to provide a definitive rule for values of ESR that are acceptable for all situations. The expected value of ESR largely depends on the capacitance value and the voltage rating of the capacitor but also depends on temperature ratings and other factors.
ESR60/ESR70 User Guide April 2012 – Rev 8 Audible Alerts (Model ESR70 only) The ESR70 unit can produce audible tones to assist the user. The various tones are summarised below: Condition / Operation Sound Type Start Analysis Short Blip End Analysis Short Blip Measured ESR >...
ESR60/ESR70 User Guide April 2012 – Rev 8 Probe Compensation To ensure good repeatable readings, particularly for low values of ESR, it may be necessary to occasionally perform a simple Probe Compensation procedure. This procedure is easiest to perform with the gold plated croc clips fitted. 1.
The Atlas ESR will not continue to operate if a low battery condition is encountered. New batteries can be purchased from many retailers and directly from Peak Electronic Design Ltd or an authorised agent. Battery types: Suitable battery types include 23A, V23A, GP23A, MN21 or a good quality 12V alkaline equivalent as used in many test instruments and automotive remote key fobs.
Warning! V=132V to discharge the capacitor, please safely Safely discharge discharge the capacitor manually. It is possible that a hardware failure has Display shows occurred, please contact Peak Electronic Self Test Fail Code 2 Design Limited for assistance. Page 13...
Appendix B - Technical Specifications All values are at 25°C unless otherwise specified. Parameter Note Peak test current into S/C ±20mA ±22mA Peak test voltage, full scale ESR ±40mV ±44mV Peak test voltage across O/C ±2.5V ±3.0V Capacitance measurement range 1µF...
Appendix C - Warranty Information Peak Satisfaction Guarantee If for any reason you are not completely satisfied with the Peak Atlas ESR within 14 days of purchase you may return the unit to your distributor. You will receive a refund covering the full purchase price if the unit is returned in perfect condition.
More details can be obtained from your national WEEE recycling agency. If in doubt, you may send your Peak Product to us for safe and environmentally responsible disposal. At Peak Electronic Design Ltd we are committed to continual product development and improvement.
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