Compliance West GF-30AC-T User manual

GF-30AC-T
Ground Circuit Tester
Instruction Manual

Dear Customer:
Congratulations! Compliance West USA is proud to present you with
your Ground Fault Circuit Tester. Your instrument features a
groundbreaking circuit design and ergonomic front panel and
represents the latest in high current production line testing.
To fully appreciate all the features of your new meter, we suggest that
you take a few moments to review this manual. Compliance West
USA stands by your instrument with a full one-year warranty and a
loaner instrument policy. If the need arises, please don't hesitate to
call on us.
Thank you for your trust and confidence.
Ver 1.0, May 2012

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Table of Contents
Introduction and Specifications...................................................................................................5
Operation.....................................................................................................................................7
Setting up your tester .....................................................................................................7
AC Line Voltage Requirements.....................................................................................7
Fuse Replacement ..........................................................................................................7
Front Panel Features.......................................................................................................8
Initial Checkout Procedure.............................................................................................10
Adjusting the Pass/Fail Point.........................................................................................10
Adjusting the Pass/Fail Point using the supplied Test Cordset ........................11
Adjusting the Pass/Fail Point for products with non-removable power cords.11
Time Duration Adjustment ............................................................................................12
Operating Techniques ....................................................................................................12
Setting the Test Time Duration............................................................12
Testing the EUT................................................................................................12
Test results ........................................................................................................13
Green Light ..........................................................................................13
Red Light..............................................................................................13
Red Light and Buzzer Sound ...............................................................13
Simultaneous Red and Green Light .....................................................13
Green Light and Buzzer Sound............................................................13
Troubleshooting Guide...................................................................................................14
Technical Assistance......................................................................................................15
Maintenance ................................................................................................................................16
Introduction....................................................................................................................16
Service Information........................................................................................................16
General Maintenance .....................................................................................................16
Interior Access ..................................................................................................16
Calibration Access ...............................................................................17
Cleaning ............................................................................................................17
Operation/Lamp Function Test .........................................................................18
Current Output Test ..........................................................................................18
Calibration Procedure.....................................................................................................18
Output Current Adjustment...............................................................................19
Adjust Buzzer....................................................................................................19
Rear Panel Adjustments....................................................................................19

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Section 1
Introduction
This manual contains complete operating, maintenance and calibration instructions for the Compliance
West USA Model GF-30AC-T Ground Circuit Tester.
The instrument is designed to be a bench-type tester.
The GF-30AC-T features automatic one button operation, with PASS or FAIL test result indicated by
lights on the front panel and an internal buzzer. The test duration circuit allows the test to continue for a
predetermined amount of time after the Test Button has been released. The instrument advises the
operator of any internal malfunction affecting the output. A one-time setup procedure allows the
instrument to compensate for lead resistance, allowing the instrument to measure the true resistance of
the grounding circuit of the equipment under test.
The GF-30AC-T meets all safety agency criteria for automatic production line ground circuit testers up to
25 Amps.
Your tester is warranted for a period of one year upon shipment of the instrument to the original
purchaser.
Specifications
Specifications for the GF-30AC-T are listed in Table 1-1.

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ELECTRICAL
Output 25 Amps ac 3% into any load - short circuit to 100
milliohms.
Maximum Voltage Output: 6V
Pass/Fail Criterion 100 milliohms. 100 milliohm calibration resistor
supplied. (Contact factory for custom settings)
Ramp Time 10 msec
Test Duration Timer 0-25 sec. approx.
Duty cycle 100 %
ENVIRONMENTAL
Operating Temperature 15-35 C
Relative Humidity Range 0-90% non-condensing
GENERAL
Input power requirements See rear panel for input voltage and fuse ratings
Weight 11 lbs
Table 1-1. GF-30AC-T Specifications
Non-Detachable Cordset AWG
Non-Detachable Cordset Maximum Length
18
6 feet
16
10 feet
14
14 feet
12
20 feet
Table 1-2. GF-30AC-T Non-Detachable Cordset Maximum Length.

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Section 2
Operation
This section describes how to set up and make measurements with your tester. We recommend that you
read the entire section carefully so that you can use all of the features of your Tester.
Setting up your tester
Your tester is shipped in a special protective container that should prevent damage to the instrument
during shipping. Check the shipping order against the contents of the container and report any damage or
short shipment to Compliance West USA. The container should include the following:
The GF-30AC-T Tester
A 10 AWG Test Return Lead
An 18 AWG Line Power Cord
A 14 AWG Test Power Cord
A plastic calibration screwdriver
An alligator clip/wire assembly
This Instruction Manual
If reshipment of the instrument is necessary, please use the original shipping container. If the original
shipping container is not available, be sure that adequate protection is provided to prevent damage during
shipment. We recommend that the instrument be surrounded by at least one inch of shock-absorbing
material on all sides of the container.
Remove the Tester from its container and place it on a test bench.
AC Line Voltage Requirements
AC line voltage requirements for your Tester are noted on the rear panel of the instrument. Do not
connect the instrument to a different voltage source.
Fuse Replacement
There is a user-replaceable fuse (F1) located on the rear panel of the instrument. It is located behind a
door in the Power Inlet-Power Switch-Fuseholder device. The fuse rating is noted on the rear panel. Do
not attempt to replace it with a fuse of any other rating.
Use the following procedure to replace the fuse F1:
1. Turn the power switch to the O or off position.
2. Unplug the instrument from the source of supply.
3. Remove the power inlet cord from the instrument.
4. Using a small screwdriver, pry open the fuseholder door.
5. Replace the fuse with a new one of the correct rating.
6. Replace the fuseholder door and power inlet cord.

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Front and Rear Panel Features
Before using your Tester, take a few minutes to become familiar with the use of its controls, indicators
and connectors. The front panel features of the GF-30AC-T are shown in Figure 2-1 and described in
Table 2-1. The rear panel features of the GF-30AC-T are shown in Figure 2-2 and described in Table 2-
2.
Figure 2-1. Controls, Indicators, Connectors - Model GF-30AC-T Front Panel
ITEM NO.
NAME
FUNCTION
1
Green (Pass) Indicator Lamp
Incandescent lamp. When lit, indicates that
equipment under test has less than 100 milliohms in
grounding path. Replace with 6.3V type 86 lamp.
2
Red (Fail) Indicator Lamp
Incandescent lamp. When lit, indicates that
equipment under test has more than 100 milliohms
in grounding path or is incorrectly connected to
tester. Replace with 6.3V type 86 lamp.
3
Test Button / Blue Indicator
Lamp
Switch and incandescent lamp. When lamp is lit,
indicates tester power is on and ready to test. When
button is pushed, 25A test is applied to equipment
under test. The test continues for a preset time.
Replace with 14V type 73 lamp.
4
Test Power Receptacle
NEMA 5-15R receptacle. For connection of the
Equipment under test with non-removable power
cord or with 14 AWG test cord provided.
5
Return Lead Receptacle
Isolated banana plug receptacle. The 10 AWG Test
Return Lead provided is connected here.
Table 2-1. Controls, Indicators, Connectors - Model GF-30AC-T Front Panel

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Figure 2-2. Control, Indicators, Connectors - Model GF-30AC-T Rear Panel
ITEM NO.
NAME
FUNCTION
1
Legend
Truth table indication of results.
2
Directions
Provides directions for tester operation to line test
personnel.
3
CAL Adjustment
Used to adjust PASS/FAIL point. See "Calibrating
the GF-30AC-T Tester" section of this manual for
procedure.
4
Duration Adjustment
Used to adjust automatic test duration. See
"Calibrating the GF-30AC-T Tester" section of this
manual for procedure.
5
Appliance Inlet / Fuseholder
/ Power Switch
Use 18 AWG cordset to connect tester to
appropriate source of supply. Replace line fuse.
Turn tester ON/OFF.
6
Fuse replacement warning /
Rating of supply
Specifies replacement fuse and supply voltage used.
7
Calibration Resistor
0.1 50W for resistor used in the Adjustment of
the Pass/Fail point.
8
Test Link Port
9-pin D subminiature female connector for remote
control with a dielectic withstand tester (Only
Compliance West Models).
9
Thermal Cooling Fan
Required to avoid component overheat.
Table 2-2. Control, Indicators, Connectors - Model GF-30AC-T Rear Panel

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Initial Checkout Procedure
The following procedure will allow you to verify that the Tester is working correctly before use. The
only test equipment required is the unit itself, the 10 AWG Test Return Lead, the 14 AWG Test Cord,
and the alligator clip/wire assembly.
CAUTION
High current. Risk of burns. Remove any conductive jewelry before using the
Tester.
1. Connect your Tester to a correctly rated source of supply, remove any other test leads, and turn
the power switch to the I or ON position. The tester will perform a self-diagnostic test. Wait
until the red and/or green lights are both out before proceeding. Confirm that the blue test button
is illuminated. If it is not, check the source of supply.
2. Plug the split end plug of the 10 AWG Test return lead into the Return Lead Receptacle of the
Tester.
3. Plug the Test Power Cord into the Test Power Receptacle of the Tester. Attach the alligator
clip/wire assembly to the center lead of the IEC connector on the exposed end of the Test Power
Cord. Connect the two Test cords together.
4. Push the Test Button. The GF-30AC-T should indicate a "Pass" by lighting the green light.
5. Disconnect the Test leads from each other and carefully lay them on a non-conductive surface.
Push the Test button. The GF-30AC-T should indicate a "Fail" by lighting the red light and
sounding the internal buzzer.
If your Tester yielded the proper results, it is working properly. If it did not, call Compliance West USA
for assistance.
Adjusting the Pass/Fail Point
This adjustment allows the GF-30AC-T to compensate for the resistance of the cordset and test return
lead. If done properly, it allows the GF-30AC-T to measure only the resistance of the ground circuit of
the EUT, while compensating for cord resistance.
It is necessary to check the calibration point each time a different length or gauge Test Lead or Cord is
used, and every time the instrument is returned to service following an annual calibration. The 25 amp
output level is not adjustable. In the following Section, EUT means Equipment Under Test.
CAUTION
High current. Risk of burns. Remove any conductive jewelry before using the Tester.
NOTE
The duty cycle of the rear-panel mounted calibration resistor is 20%, maximum 5 seconds on, let it
cool down for 15 seconds, to improve the duty cycle, mounting it to a big heatsink and using a fan
can at least double the dutty cycle ratings. Failure to adhere to this duty cycle may damage the
calibration resistor.
NOTE
This adjustment procedure sets the tester Pass/Fail indication point only. It does not take the place
of the required annual calibration required for the GF-30AC-T.

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Adjusting the Pass/Fail Point using the supplied Test Cordset
Use this adjustment procedure if the equipment under test uses a detachable power cord. Always use the
test cord supplied with the GF-30AC-T. Do not use the cordset of the EUT for this test.
1. Connect your GF-30AC-T Tester to a correctly rated source of supply and turn the power switch to
the I or ON position.
2. Plug the split end plug of the 10 AWG Test return lead into the Return Lead Receptacle of the
Tester. Connect the other end to the calibration resistor bolted to the rear panel.
3. Plug the Test Power Cord into the Test Power Receptacle of the Tester. Attach the alligator
clip/wire assembly to the center lead at the end of the Test Power Cord and to the calibration
resistor.
4. Adjust duration to minimum. See “Time duration adjustmen” on the next page.
5. Insert the plastic calibration screwdriver into the potentiometer on the rear panel marked "CAL
POINT".
6. Push and hold the Test Button. (Holding the test button will continue the test until the button is
released.)
7. With the Test Button pressed, turn the screwdriver until both the red and green lights are on. The
internal buzzer may sound at the calibration point.
8. Now, set the duration of the test. As shipped from the factory, the GF-30AC-T will only test while
the test button is pressed. By inserting the plastic calibration screwdriver into the potentiometer
marked "DURATION", the test time can be set. A time of approximately 5 seconds is
recommended, subject to approval by safety agency inspection personnel.
Adjusting the Pass/Fail Point for products with non-removable power cords
Use this adjustment procedure if the equipment under test uses a non-detachable power cord. (A non-
detachable power cord is permanently connected to the EUT with a strain relief bushing.)
NOTE
Ensure that the non-detachable power cord meets the length and conductor size requirements of Table 1-
2 before attempting to calibrate the tester. If a non-detachable power cord not meeting Table 1-2 is used,
the tester calibration procedure may not be successful. However, if the calibration procedure is
successful, the GF-30AC-T will test products correctly.
1. This procedure requires the use of a power cord assembly from the EUT. Obtain one from stock and
trim it to the total length used in the EUT, making sure to include the length of the cord inside the
enclosure of the EUT. Crimp or solder an alligator clip to the green or green with yellow stripes
(grounding) conductor of the cord at the open end.
2. Connect your GF-30AC-T Tester to a correctly rated source of supply and turn the power switch to
the I or ON position. The tester will perform a self-diagnostic test. Make sure the buzzer sounds and
the red light is illuminated during this test.
3. Plug the split end plug of the 10 AWG Test return lead into the Return Lead Receptacle of the
Tester. Connect the other end to the calibration resistor bolted to the rear panel.
4. Plug the EUT Power Cord prepared in Step 1 above into the Test Power Receptacle of the Tester.
Attach its alligator clip to the other lead of the calibration resistor.
5. Insert the plastic calibration screwdriver into the potentiometer on the rear panel marked "CAL
POINT".

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6. Push and hold the Test Button. (Holding the test button will continue the test until the button is
released.)
7. With the Test Button pressed, turn the screwdriver until both the red and green lights are on. The
internal buzzer may sound at the calibration point.
8. Now, set the duration of the test. As shipped from the factory, the GF-30AC-T will only test while
the test button is pressed. By inserting the plastic calibration screwdriver into the potentiometer into
the potentiometer marked "DURATION", the test time can be set. A time of approx. 5 seconds is
recommended, subject to approval by safety agency inspection personnel.
Time Duration Adjustment
1. Connect your GF-30AC-T Tester to a correctly rated source of supply and turn the power switch to
the I or ON position. The tester will perform a self-diagnostic test.
2. Insert the plastic calibration screwdriver into the potentiometer behind the lower hole in the rear
panel marked "DURATION".
3. Push and release the Test Button. The test duration is counted from the RELEASE of the Test
Button and is controlled by the setting of the DURATION control. Please note that if a manually
timed test is conducted, the test will continue for the amount of time set during this Procedure after
the Test Button is released. Therefore, we recommend that the Test Duration control be adjusted to
its minimum position when a manual test is conducted.
4. Adjust the control with the calibration screwdriver until the desired test duration is set.
Operating Techniques
The following paragraphs describe how to operate your GF-30AC-T Tester. In the following sections,
EUT means Equipment Under Test.
Setting the Test Time Duration
1. Set the test duration as shown in "Time Duration Adjustment" to ensure the production line test
will be done for the desired amount of time. A test time of 5 seconds is recommended, subject to
acceptance by safety agency inspection personnel.
Testing the EUT
This section describes how the Tester is used to conduct an actual test.
CAUTION
High current. Risk of burns. Remove any conductive jewelry before using the tester.
NOTE
If the EUT uses a detachable power cord, use the Test Power Cord packed with the instrument, not
the EUT power cord. The accuracy of the test procedure depends on use of the same power cord
type for every test.
1. Connect your Tester to a correctly rated source of supply and turn the power switch to the I or ON
position. The tester will perform a self-diagnostic test. Make sure the buzzer sounds and the red
light is illuminated during this test.

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2. Plug the split end plug of the 10 AWG Test return lead into the Return Lead Receptacle of the
Tester.
3. Plug the Test Power Cord or non-detachable EUT power cord into the Test Power Receptacle of the
Tester, and then into the power inlet of the equipment to be tested.
4. Connect the alligator clip end of the Test Return Lead to the chassis of the equipment to be tested.
5. Push the test button. (If the GF-30AC-T duration control has been set according to the calibration
procedure, the test will automatically continue for the duration set in the calibration procedure. If the
duration control of the GF-30AC-T is set to zero, the test will continue only as long as the test button
is pressed.)
6. The result of the test will be shown by a combination of lights and a buzzer. Results are interpreted
below and in a truth table on the rear of the instrument.
Test results
Green Light: A green light indicates the ground system of the EUT has less than 100 milliohm
resistance. For most categories of equipment, this result is acceptable.
Red Light: A red light indicates the ground system of the EUT has more than 100 milliohm resistance.
If a red light occurs, the grounding circuit of the EUT should be reworked and then retested.
Red Light and Buzzer Sound: A red light and a buzzer sound indicates an open grounding circuit
condition. Check the test lead connections, correct, and retest. If the test lead connections are correct, a
red light and buzzer sound indicates an open grounding connection within the EUT. The grounding
circuit of the EUT should be reworked and then retested.
Simultaneous Red and Green Light: A simultaneous red and green light, with or without the buzzer
sound indicates the resistance of the ground circuit of the EUT is exactly at the pass/fail point.
Green Light and Buzzer Sound: If you obtain a green light and buzzer test result, the GF-30AC-T is not
generating full test current. The GF-30AC-T will report unreliable test results. Service is required.
Discontinue use of the tester immediately.

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Troubleshooting Guide
Unit will not pass Pass/Fail Point
adjustment when the EUT has a non-
detachable power cord
Cord is too long. Check Table 1-2.
Blue light does not light.
Blue light is the pilot light for secondary AC
power. Check for proper operation. If unit does
not work, check supply voltage and fuse. If unit
works correctly, replace pilot light with 14V type
73 bulb.
Red/Green lights do not work.
Check for proper operation by following steps 1-
3 in "Adjusting the Pass/Fail Point using the
supplied Test Cordset". Press the Test Button
and measure the voltage across the calibration
resistor. If the unit is working correctly, it
should be the set current level divided by 10 (i.e.
25 amps test current yields 2.5 volts across the
resistor). If unit works correctly, go to next
paragraph. If not, conduct Power Supply check.
If Red light burns out, neither light will light. If
green light burns out, red light will still light. To
check for burned out bulb, switch bulbs to
determine which one is defective, then replace
with 6.3V type 86 bulb.

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Technical Assistance
Technical Assistance from Compliance West USA is available:
Phone: [phone]
Hours: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM Pacific Time.
Also available on our web site at: www.compwest.com
Contact:
Compliance West USA
650 Gateway Center Way, Suite D
San Diego, CA., 92102
United States of America.
Phone: [phone]
FAX: [phone]

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Section 3
Maintenance
WARNING
THESE SERVICE INSTRUCTIONS ARE FOR USE BY QUALIFIED PERSONNEL ONLY. TO
AVOID ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT PERFORM ANY SERVICING OTHER THAN THAT
CONTAINED IN THE OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS UNLESS YOU ARE QUALIFIED TO DO
SO.
Introduction
This section of the manual contains maintenance information for the Model GF-30AC-T High Current
Ground Tester. This maintenance information is divided into service information, general maintenance,
a performance test, and a calibration procedure. The performance test is recommended as an acceptance
test when the instrument is first received, and later as a preventative maintenance tool to verify proper
instrument operation. A 1-year calibration cycle is recommended to maintain the specifications given in
Section 1. The Test equipment required for both the performance test and calibration is a DMM able to
read true rms 0-3 VAC 1%.
Service Information
The GF-30AC-T is warranted to the original purchaser for a period of 1 year . This warranty does not
cover problems due to misuse or neglect.
Malfunctions which occur within the limits of the warranty will be corrected at no charge. Mail the
instrument post paid to the manufacturer. Dated proof of purchase is required for all in-warranty repairs.
The manufacturer is also available for calibration and / or repair of instruments that are beyond their
warranty period. Contact the manufacturer for a cost quotation. Ship the instrument and your remittance
according to the instructions given by the manufacturer.
General Maintenance
Interior Access
NOTE
To avoid contaminating the PWB with oil from your fingers, handle it by the edges or wear gloves. If the
PWB becomes contaminated, refer to the cleaning procedures given later in this section.

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Calibration Access
Use the following procedures to gain access to the calibration adjustments of your instrument.
1. Set Line Power switch to OFF.
2. Disconnect the power cord from the rear of the instrument.
3. Remove the two upper screws on each side of the unit.
4. Grasp the top of the enclosure clamshell and lift it off the front and rear panels.
5. Slide the rear panel / PWB assembly upward until it is clear of the bottom enclosure clamshell.
6. All calibration adjustments are now accessible.
7. To reassemble, reverse steps 1-6 above.
NOTE
With the power cord replaced, the instrument is operational for service.
WARNING
Dangerous voltages exist inside the enclosure when energized. Exercise extreme care when
working on an energized circuit. See PWB layout diagram for high voltage areas.
Cleaning
CAUTION
Do not use aromatic hydrocarbons or chlorinated solvents for cleaning. These solutions will react with
the plastic materials used in the instrument.
Clean the front panel and case with a mild solution of detergent and a damp sponge. Clean dust from the
PWB with clean, dry, low pressure (<20 psi).Performance Test
The performance test compares the performance of your instrument with the list of specifications given
in Section 1. This test is recommended for incoming inspection, as a preventative maintenance check,
and to verify the specifications. It is not necessary to disassemble the instrument to conduct these tests.
If the instrument fails any part of the performance test, calibration and / or repair is indicated.
Allow the instrument to stabilize and perform the test at an ambient temperature of 23 C 5 C (73 F 9
F). During the performance test (and the calibration procedure) your Tester is referred as the UUT.

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Operation/Lamp Function Test
Use the following procedure to determine proper operation of the UUT and Lamps of the GF-30AC-T:
1. Connect the UUT to a proper source of supply using the included 18 AWG power supply cord.
2. Disconnect all other leads and turn the UUT on.
3. Verify the blue lamp is lit.
4. Push the Test button and hold.
5. Verify the red lamp is lit and the internal buzzer sounds.
6. Using a test lead, short the ground of the front panel test power receptacle to the return lead
receptacle.
7. Press the Test button briefly.
8. Verify the green lamp is lit and the buzzer is not sounding.
Current Output Test
1. Plug the Test Power Cord and the Test Return Lead into the front panel.
2. Connect the Test Return Lead and the ground of the IEC Test Cordset to the back panel calibration
resistor using the alligator clip/wire assembly.
3. Connect the DMM across the calibration resistor.
4. Push and hold the Test Button on the front panel. For a 25 amp output, the DMM should read 2.5
volts ac 3%.
NOTE
If these tests confirm proper operation, the tester must be adjusted as shown in Section 2 above before
use.
Calibration Procedure
The Calibration Procedure should be used any time your instrument has been repaired or fails to pass the
performance test. During the calibration procedure, the tester is referred to as the UUT.
NOTE
Allow the instrument to stabilize for approximately five minutes. Perform all calibration adjustments at
an ambient temperature of 23 C 5 C (73 F 9 F).
WARNING
CALIBRATION ADJUSTMENTS ARE PERFORMED ON ENERGIZED CIRCUITS.
EXERCISE CAUTION AT ALL TIMES, AND USE A NON-CONDUCTIVE TOOL FOR ALL
ADJUSTMENTS.
At the start of the calibration procedure, remove the two upper screws on each side of the GF-30AC-T,
and remove the top cover.

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Output Current Adjustment
1. Remove the 0.1 Ohm calibration resistor from the rear panel of the GF-30AC-T.
2. Connect one end of the resistor to the ground pin socket of the orange receptacle on the front of the
GF-30AC-T. Connect the other end of the resistor to the front panel jack of the GF-30AC-T that is
marked “CHASSIS”.
3. Connect the oscilloscope (or an AC RMS reading voltmeter) across the calibration resistor.
4. Press the Blue test button. Adjust R36 (located on the main board near the front left-hand corner of
the chassis) so that the voltage read across the calibration resistor is 2.5 Vrms. Using Ohms law, this
corresponds to an output current of 25 Amps. Other output current levels can be set in the same
manner.
Adjust Buzzer
5. With the calibration resistor still connected, press the Blue test button. Adjust R27 (located on the
main board near the front of the chassis in the center of the board) until the buzzer is just silent.
6. Pull out chassis return to make unit indicate a failure. Buzzer should sound.
Rear Panel Adjustments
7. Rear panel "CAL POINT" and "DURATION" adjustments can be made as described elsewhere in the
instruction manual.
At the completion of the calibration procedure, put the calibration resistor back on the rear panel of the
GF-30AC-T. Replace the top cover and tighten the screws on the sides of the tester.