Useful information This chapter contains basic information about measuring electromagnetic fields, about using the NBM-550, and about the structure of this operating manual. Measuring electromagnetic fields (page 2) About this instrument (page 2) About this operating manual (page 4) Narda...
They can therefore be used with any instrument in the NBM-500 family without any loss in calibration accuracy. The PC software supplied with the instrument allows you to remote control the NBM-550 as well as to export saved measurement data and to analyze the results. NBM-550...
1.2 About this instrument Applications The NBM-550 makes precision measurements for human safety purposes, particularly in workplace environments where high electric or magnetic field strengths are likely. It can also be used to demonstrate the electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) of devices and equipment.
User interface language English language terms are used in this operating manual to describe the user interface. You can display the user interface of the NBM-550 in other “Selecting the language” languages (see on page 29). ⇒ Please note that if you change the language, the dis- played terms will differ from those described in this man- ual.
Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury. Structure of warnings All warnings are structured as follows: SIGNAL WORD Type and source of danger Consequences of failure to observe warning ⇒ Instructions for preventing danger Narda NBM-550...
Cross reference (in PDF document only) Indicates a cross reference to another part of the document. Click on the blue type in the PDF document to jump directly to the cross reference. Terminology Item Meaning Battery Rechargeable battery Dry battery Non-rechargeable battery NBM-550 Narda...
1.3 About this operating manual Safety instructions This chapter contains important instructions on how to use the NBM-550 safely. Please therefore read this chapter carefully and follow the instructions closely. Using this operating manual (page 8) Proper use (page 8)
Improper use The NBM-550 is not a warning device that gives active notice of the existence of dangerous fields by means of a visible or audible warning signal.
⇒ Affix labels of any type only to the black probe shaft. ⇒ If the instrument malfunctions, take it out of service and contact your Narda Service Center. The addresses are listed at the end of this operating manual and on the http://www.narda-sts.com.
Dangers when handling rechargeable batteries When handled improperly, rechargeable batteries can overheat, explode, or ignite. ⇒ Only use the NBM-550 with NiMH rechargeable batter- ies (AA, Mignon). ⇒ Do not use dry batteries. ⇒ Do not replace individual batteries; always replace the entire set.
2.6 Dangers from AC Adapter / Charger Preparing the NBM-550 for use This chapter describes all you need to do before starting to use the NBM-550. Unpacking (page 12) Instrument overview (page 15) Power supply (page 17) Connecting the probe (page 20)
3 Preparing the NBM-550 for use Unpacking Packaging The packaging is designed to be re-used as long as it has not been damaged. ⇒ Keep the original packaging and use it whenever the instrument needs to be shipped or transported.
⇒ Check the instrument and all accessories for damage when you have unpacked them. ⇒ If the instrument is damaged, contact your Narda Ser- vice Center. The addresses of your Narda Service Center are listed at the end of this operating manual and on the Internet at http://www.narda-sts.com.
3 Preparing the NBM-550 for use Equipping the case You can use the case provided to store a wide range of optional accessories in addition to the items supplied. The figures below show the compartments in the case lid and case base.
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3 Preparing the NBM-550 for use Probe connector socket Microphone Display Operating panel Function keys Used to select the menu functions shown on the display ESC key Used to exit from a menu / reset functions and measured values OK key...
Note: We do not recommend that you operate the instrument with the AC Adapter / Charger connected, as this can significantly degrade the measurement performance of the NBM-550. The measurement accuracy figures given in the specifications cannot then be guaranteed.
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3 Preparing the NBM-550 for use Charging the batteries If the device is probably not going to be used for several weeks, it should be recharged before being stored to avoid the possibility of deep discharge of the batteries. If storage is likely to be for a period of more than two months, remove the batteries from the device after recharging them.
The charge level is indicated in 20% steps by black bars within the battery symbol. The batteries are fully charged when all five bars are shown. Power is supplied by the AC Adapter / Charger. The batteries are charged at the same time. Narda NBM-550...
There are many different probes available for different applications for the NBM-550. You can find more information about the order numbers and specifications of the probes “Ordering information”...
(1) and tighten the threaded coupling using your thumb and forefinger. Never tighten the coupling using pliers or other tools. Disconnecting the probe ⇒ Undo the threaded coupling using your thumb and fore- finger and then pull the probe upwards to release it. Narda NBM-550...
(contained in the Options Passport Document). Using the table top tripod A table top tripod is included with the NBM-550. This makes the instrument easier and more convenient to use. Attaching the tripod 1. Loosen the butterfly screw on the side.
3.6 Using the table top tripod Getting started This chapter describes how to switch on the NBM-550, the operating concept, and the initial settings. Switching on (page 24) The NBM-550 operating concept (page 26) Making basic settings (page 29) Narda...
⇒ Switch the instrument off and contact your nearest Ser- vice Center. Calibration The NBM-550 and probes must be calibrated at certain intervals to guarantee the quality of the measurement results. If you have missed the date for a calibration, this will be displayed by default after the self test is complete.
4 Getting started The NBM-550 operating concept When the self test is complete, the display switches to measurement mode. The settings will depend on the power on behavior that you “Saving and loading instrument have selected (see settings” on page 68).
4.2 The NBM-550 operating concept The menu levels The NBM-550 operating concept is context sensitive. It only displays the functions that are possible based on the probe being used, the settings selected, and the menu that is open. Settings are divided into different levels to separate...
ESC key Exits from the menu (with or without making changes) OK key Opens a menu or a function and confirms a setting ▲/▼ key Select a menu or a function and change values NBM-550 Narda...
No measurement is possible during a zeroing, which takes 7s. For this period, the last measurement value is displayed and a remaining time counter is shown. If the Auto-Zero Interval function is activated, an automatic zero adjustment will be performed at the specified intervals. Narda NBM-550...
(optional)” on page 60). Changing the setting 1. Open the Auto Power-Off function (MAIN/ MEASUREMENT SETTINGS/Next/...). 2. Use the arrow keys ▲/▼ to select the desired setting and then press the OK key to confirm the setting. NBM-550 Narda...
Setting the date and time Before you start using the instrument, set the date and time. This is particularly important if you want to save measured values, because the date and time of measurement are also saved. NBM-550 Narda...
– V/m for E-fields and A/m for H-fields 3. Press the OK key to confirm the selection. Note: For simultaneous display of E and H-Field, always select the NORMAL display mode. In the other modes, display is limited to the S-Field. NBM-550 Narda...
To prevent inadvertent operation of any of the keys, you can lock the keypad. Locking the keypad ⇒ Press the two arrow keys ▲/▼ simultaneously. The message KEY LOCK is displayed. Unlocking the keypad ⇒ Press the two arrow keys ▲/▼ simultaneously again. Narda NBM-550...
4.3 Making basic settings Measuring with the NBM-550 This chapter describes how to use the NBM-550 to make the usual kinds of measurements that are needed. You can find an overview of all the menus and functions under “Overview of all menus and functions”...
5 Measuring with the NBM-550 Avoiding measurement errors The measurement result can be falsified by external influences when measuring electromagnetic fields. Considerable measurement deviations can occur under certain circumstances, particularly when measuring low field strengths. The following tips may be of assistance in recognizing sources of interference so as to avoid measurement errors.
Increase the distance from the source of low frequency interference or use a probe that has a higher frequency cutoff point at the lower end of its range. Further useful information can be found under FAQ at www.narda-sts.com Narda NBM-550...
Measuring in Normal display mode The latest measurement results are displayed in Normal mode. You can also display maximum and average values. Selecting the result type You can select the following result displays on the NBM-550: Result type Description Actual The latest measured value of field strength is shown numerically and as a bar graph.
⇒ Press the Release key to resume the measurement. Storing a measured value You can store the measured values in an internal memory in the NBM-550 for documentation. Storing a measured value ⇒ Press the Store key. The measured value displayed at the moment is stored with the date and time under the index number displayed.
5 Measuring with the NBM-550 Add voice comments (optional) You can add a spoken comment up to 30 s in length to the stored measured values. To do this, you must activate voice recording (default setting: deactivated). Note: The user is automatically asked for voice comments.
You can measure the field strength affecting a particular space using this method. Selecting the measurement method 1. Open the Spatial AVG Mode function (MAIN/MEASUREMENT SETTINGS/Next/...). 2. Use the arrow keys ▲/▼ to select the method and press the OK key. Narda NBM-550...
5 Measuring with the NBM-550 Measuring discrete values ✓ You selected Discrete as the Spatial AVG Mode. 1. Press the Spatial Average key. Spatial measurement mode is displayed The result counter top left shows #0, indicating that no values have been measured yet.
2. Press the Start key. The measurement starts. The elapsed measurement time is shown top left in the display. 3. Move the NBM-550 evenly around the space to be measured. Press the Stop key to end the measurement. Pos.1 displays the measured average value.
5 Measuring with the NBM-550 Measuring in History display mode You can display the progress of the measurement versus time in History mode. You can use the cursor to mark individual points on the curve and display the associated values.
The maximum and minimum values measured within the corresponding time window (interval) are displayed for these time points (see figure, left). A maximum of 200 measurement intervals are shown in the progress memory. Narda NBM-550...
5 Measuring with the NBM-550 Storing the graphical record The measurement values of the progress memory can be saved. To save the measurement value recording: 1. Press the Hold key to freeze the curve. 2. Press the Store History function key.
Note: You can only change the result type for the upper display area. ⇒ Press the Result Type function key to select a different “Selecting the result type” result type (refer to page 40 for information about result types). Narda NBM-550...
5 Measuring with the NBM-550 Measuring in Monitor display mode Monitor display mode simultaneously shows the maximum, average, and minimum measured values as well as the latest measured value. Changing to Monitor display mode ✓ The display is in measurement mode.
2. Use the arrow keys ▲/▼ to select On and press the OK key to confirm the setting. The symbol is shown in the display when the “Measurement alarm function is activated (see screen overview” on page 26). Narda NBM-550...
2. Use the arrow keys ▲/▼ to select On and press the OK key to confirm the setting. Measuring with a test standard The NBM-550 allows measurement based on test standards in the NORMAL display mode. Since the measurement result refers to a single, defined frequency (in...
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2. Select the digit using the </> function keys. 3. Change the value using the arrow keys ▲/▼. 4. Press the OK key when you have completed the settings to confirm them and then press the ESC key to exit from the menus. Narda NBM-550...
5 Measuring with the NBM-550 Step 3: Applying the test standard 1. Open the Apply Standard function (MAIN/MEASUREMENT SETTINGS/...). 2. Use the arrow keys ▲/▼ to select On and press the OK key. The test standard is activated, the selected frequency (Freq) is shown top left in the display.
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Probe type: E-field shaped probe Probe type: Combination (E-field and H-field) flat probe Combi probe uses: V/m, A/m Note: The S-field is shown in the upper area of the display as the product of the magnitudes of the E-field and H-field. Narda NBM-550...
5 Measuring with the NBM-550 5.10 Measuring with a correction frequency All probes are calibrated in our factory to guarantee the traceability of measurements back national standards. This calibration is performed at various frequencies over the entire measurement range of the probe concerned. An...
(Data Logger) and how to recall and manage the measurement data that you have recorded manually or automatically. Storage types (page 58) Recording measurements by timer control (page 58) Recording conditional measurements (optional) (page 60) Managing result data (page 62) Narda NBM-550...
1. Set the recording parameters: – enter the starting time (Timer Start), – enter the recording time (Timer Duration), – enter the recording interval (Timer Interval). 2. Select Timer Logging function to start the recording. These steps are explained below. NBM-550 Narda...
The maximum duration is determined by the selected interval time (see table below), because the number of measurement intervals is limited to 32000. Interval Maximum duration time (HH:MM:SS) (seconds) 8:53:20 17:46:40 26:40:00 44:26:40 88:53:20 > 10 99:59:59 Narda NBM-550...
– enter the starting condition (Store Condition), – enter the store range (Store Range), – enter the upper threshold, – enter the lower threshold. 2. Start the recording: – select the Condition Logging function, – press Start. These steps are explained below. NBM-550 Narda...
5. To enter the lower threshold (only effective at OUT of Gap): – open the Lower Threshold function, – select the threshold value with the arrow keys ▲/▼ (only effective at OUT of Gap) and press the OK button to apply the settings. Narda NBM-550...
Data Viewer Overview of all stored data sets and Last data set only display of the measurement results Note: Before final deletion of data sets, a warning notice always appears giving you the option to cancel the deletion process. NBM-550 Narda...
Display Meaning Values Timer display mode Data Viewer Display is in Data Viewer mode Timer Values were stored by timer control Index 0004 The series of values was stored at memory position 4. First value in the series NBM-550 Narda...
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✓ The earphone must be connected for playback. ⇒ Press the Play function key. This function is available from the overview list view and the selected measure- ment view. The comment is played back. Narda NBM-550...
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6 Recording and managing measured values Deleting a data set Note: You can only ever delete the last entry in the memory. ✓ The overview list is open. ⇒ Press the Delete Latest function key. The last (latest) entry is deleted. NBM-550 Narda...
Setup and configure This chapter describes additional functions and settings for the interface, for instrument information and settings, as well as for use of the NBM-550 as a controller and for the activation of new instrument options. Configuring the interface (page 68)
Power On = Default. Setup 1-8 Memory positions User Indicates that a user setup is stored at this memory position Factory Indicates that the factory default settings apply because a user setup has not been stored NBM-550 Narda...
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You can use the Power On function to specify the instrument setup that is loaded when you switch on the NBM-550. The following settings are possible: • Previous: The settings in use when the instrument was last switched off are restored.
• Probe Information: Information about the probe used • Device Diagnostic: Service information • Probe Test: Checking all 3 channels (Ch1...Ch3) with a test source for proper operation Displaying the information ⇒ Open the required function in the MAIN/INFORMATION/ ... menu. NBM-550 Narda...
7.4 Using the NBM-550 as a controller Using the NBM-550 as a controller You can use the NBM-550 to control other instruments from Narda Safety Test Solutions such as the NBM-520 or another NBM-550. This allows you to measure in places that are difficult to reach with convenient operation and reading of results.
You can find other tips in the PC software's online help. Note: The activation code of an option is linked to the serial number of the instrument. For this reason, be sure to specify the serial number of the NBM-550 being used when placing subsequent orders. NBM-550...
This chapter gives you some basic information about the NBM-TS PC software. It explains the possible applications of the software, how to connect the NBM-550 to the PC and the settings you need to make on the NBM-550. It also describes how to update the firmware of the NBM-550 via the PC software.
The PC software provides a large number of functions: • Visualization of stored measurement results • Off-line analysis of stored results • Remote control of the NBM-550 (including live signals on the PC) • Straightforward export of measurement data to Microsoft Excel •...
1. Configure the interface “Configuring the interface” (see on page 68). ⇒ Connect the NBM-550 to the PC using a USB cable or an optical cable. The NBM-550 will be detected as a new device automatically by the PC. Working with the PC software...
8 PC software Updating the firmware You can update the firmware of the NBM-550 in order to make use of new or improved functions. You can only update the firmware using a PC on which the NBM-TS PC software has been installed.
The instrument restarts. Note: A reset does not change any instrument parameters, it only restarts the instrument. Use the Setup menu to reset the instrument to the “Saving and loading factory default settings (see instrument settings” on page 68). Narda NBM-550...
8.5 Performing a reset Overview of all menus and functions This chapter describes all the menus and functions of the NBM-550. Measurement menus (page 80) Main menu (page 81) Measurement Settings (page 82) Data Logger (page 84) Memory Manager (page 86)
Spatial Switches to spatial averaging Average Hold Freezes the current (actual) measured value. The function key label changes to Release after you press Hold. Press it to unfreeze the measurement value. Store Stores the current (actual) measurement value NBM-550 Narda...
• History: actual value and graph of value vs. time Zero Start a zero adjustment Data Viewer • Display a list of all saved measured values. • Display saved measured values. • Delete the last measured value saved. Narda NBM-550...
Next Open page 2 of the menu Note: The language selection is deliberately at the top of the menu. This makes it easy for you to revert to the original setting if you change the language by mistake. NBM-550 Narda...
Cal. Date Check the calibration date when the instrument Check is switched on: On, Off Function keys Unit:... Select the measured value units: , mW/cm , V/m, A/m Back Open page 1 of the menu Narda NBM-550...
Store Condition are recorded. Upper Upper threshold for Condition Logging Threshold (optional) Lower Lower threshold for Condition Logging (only applies to Out of gap) Threshold (optional) Voice Recorder Enable voice recording after storing measured (optional) values: On, Off NBM-550 Narda...
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“Using the Data Viewer” Data Viewer (see on page 63). It should be notee that only the first 999 sub data sets (intervals or events) can be displayed on the NBM-550. The NBM-TS PC software enables complete evaluation of all data. Narda NBM-550...
Free Memory Free memory space. Function keys Delete Latest Delete the last saved set of measured values (i.e. the displayed set). Delete All Delete all saved sets of measured values. Play Replay the voice recording (if one exists). NBM-550 Narda...
PC: • USB: Connection via USB cable to the multi- function socket • Optical: Connection via optical duplex cable, type RP-02 Controller Use the NBM-550 to control another NBM-5xx Function instrument: On, Off External Trigger storage externally: On, Off Trigger...
• Upper Frequency Limit: Greatest frequency that can be measured Device Service information Diagnostic • Temperature • Battery voltage • Battery capacity “Checking Probe Test Checking instrument functions (see instrument functions” on page 96) NBM-550 Narda...
Delete Deletes the user setup stored in a memory position. Load Loads the user setup stored in a memory position. Save Saves the current setup to a memory position. Narda NBM-550...
You can set the time and date in the CLOCK menu. Function Meaning Time Sets the time. Time Format Sets the time format: • 12 h clock • 24 h clock Date Sets the date. Date Format Sets the date format: • mm/dd/yyyy • dd.mm.yyyy • yyyy-mm-dd NBM-550 Narda...
This chapter describes how to clean the instrument and how to replace the batteries. 10.1 Cleaning the instrument (page 92) 10.2 Replacing / removing the batteries (page 93) 10.3 Disposal (page 95) 10.4 Checking instrument functions (page 96) Narda NBM-550...
1. Use a soft cloth to clean the instrument. You can use lukewarm water to which a little detergent solution has been added as a cleansing agent. 2. To prevent streaks and spots, wipe off the instrument with a dry cloth while it is still damp. NBM-550 Narda...
⇒ Never touch both poles of the batteries simultaneously with a metal object. ⇒ Always close the battery compartment immediately after replacing batteries. ⇒ Never use the NBM-550 with the battery compartment open. WARNING Reverse charging of rechargeable batteries NiMH batteries can explode if you charge them with reversed poles ⇒...
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Make sure you insert them the right way round according to the diagram on the base of the battery compartment. 5. Close the battery compartment. 6. Connect the AC Adapter / Charger and charge the batteries (a complete charge cycle takes about 2 hours). NBM-550 Narda...
Within the European Union, all electronic measuring systems purchased from Narda after 13th August 2005 can be returned when they reach the end of their useful life. The measuring systems that come under this regulation or the documents that accompany them are clearly marked with the symbol of a garbage bin crossed out with black lines.
⇒ Check probes for proper operation with a signal source before using this measuring instrument. This is espe- cially important for thermocouples because the sen- sors can be affected by various mechanical and environmental stressors. Narda offers portable sources to accomplish this important step “Accessories” (see on page 111).
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All 3 channels must respond to the field source. It is no fault if some channels display identical values. The meaning of the channels varies depending on the type of probe and is irrelevant for this test. For more details about the probe, refer to the data sheet. Narda NBM-550...
HF3061 – HF0191 – EA5091 – – EB5091 – – EC5091 – – ED5091 – – EF5091 – EF5092 – 1) PMR Pocket Radios are commonly available in electronics stores. 2) Model 8699 only available for North America. NBM-550 Narda...
Starting time setting: Up to 24 h in advance or record immediately Recording time: up to 100 h (Timer Logging) Store interval: Every 1 s to 6 min (in 11 steps) Number of store intervals: up to 32000 NBM-550 Narda...
Via multi-function plug connector. The GPS receiver with connection cable is contained in the GPS option. Probe connection Plug-and-play with automatic detection, compatible with all NBM-series probes, integration time for measuring input approx. 270 ms, measurement sampling rate 5 Hz (5/50/60 Hz for remote operation) Narda NBM-550...
– First and last result (for which the condition is fulfilled) Voice comments (Voice Recorder) Microphone Built-in microphone on top of instrument close to the Narda logo Record level Fixed level, VU meter display for checking the level during recording...
Weight transport case 4.2 kg (empty) Accessories (included) Hard shell case, AC Adapter / Charger, batteries, shoulder strap, table top tripod, NBM-TS software, operating manual, calibration certificate, USB interface cable 1) only for basic instrument; probes are specified separately Narda NBM-550...
100 V to 240 V AC Nominal AC line frequency range 50 Hz to 60 Hz Output voltage 9 V DC Maximum output current 1.5 A Temperature range • Storage -40 °C to +70 °C • Operation 0 °C to +40 °C NBM-550 Narda...
11.10 Declaration of origin Ordering information This chapter contains the information needed for ordering the NBM-550, together with its probes and accessories. 12.1 NBM-550 (page 110) 12.2 Probes (page 110) 12.3 Accessories (page 111) Narda NBM-550...
NBM-550 NBM-500 Set 1 Narda Broadband Field Meter contains: 2400/101 • NBM-550 Basic Unit (including 4 x NiMH batteries, AA/Mignon) (2401/01) • Hard case, holds meter and up to 4 probes (2400/90.06) • Power supply 9 VDC, 100 V-240 VAC (2259/92.06)
12.3 Accessories Glossary This chapter explains some important terms that are used in this operating manual. Narda NBM-550...
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Global Positioning System The Global Positioning System is a satellite supported navigation system belonging to the US Defense Ministry that is used for determining the position of any location in the world. NBM-550 Narda...
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(Coarse/Acquisition Code) and is available for general, civilian use. S-field Product of E-field and H-field, expressed as power density or electromagnetic power flux density. The power density S is expressed in Watts per unit area: S = [W/m (or [mW/cm ] or [μW/cm Narda NBM-550...
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WGS84 is a system used for surveying the earth, which was introduced by the Americans in 1984 along with the triumph of satellite navigation. WGS84 includes both the reference point as well as the ellipsoid and is the geodetic basis for GPS. NBM-550 Narda...
Select field type and units 34 Connecting the probe 20 Continuous spatial measurement 45 GPS 114 Contrast 31 Changing the display 33 Controller operation 71 Fitting the module 22 Correction frequency, measuring with 56 Reception 25 GTEM cell 116 Narda NBM-550...
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Monitor mode 50 Setup menu 89 S-field 115 Specifications 99 NAD83 115 SPS 102 Normal mode 40 Storing graphical records 48 Switching on 24 Operating concept 26 Options, activating 72 TEM cell 116 Ordering information 109 Terminology 6 Overview NBM-550 Narda...
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Time and date setting 32 Transport and storage 14 Transport case 14 Transport damage 13 Trigger cable 41 Tripod, using the 22 Unpacking 12 Updating the firmware 76 USB 116 WAAS 116 WAV 116 WGS84 116 XYZ mode 48 Narda NBM-550...
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