Keeping Connectors Clean - Keithley 2000-Scan Instruction Manual

Keeping connectors clean

As is the case with any high-resistance device, the integrity of connectors can be
compromised if they are not handled properly. If connector insulation becomes contaminated,
the insulation resistance will be substantially reduced, affecting high-impedance measurement
paths. Oils and salts from the skin can contaminate connector insulators, reducing their
resistance. Also, contaminants present in the air can be deposited on the insulator surface. To
avoid these problems, never touch the connector insulating material. In addition, the scanner
card should be used only in clean, dry environments to avoid contamination.
If the connector insulators should become contaminated, either by inadvertent touching, or
from air-borne deposits, they can be cleaned with a cotton swab dipped in clean methanol. After
thoroughly cleaning, they should be allowed to dry for several hours in a low-humidity
environment before use, or they can be dried more quickly using dry nitrogen.
Operation 3-23