DMQ QC Series User manual

P/N: QCD 301 –ENG –Rev. 01 –March 2014

I
Chapter 1
First steps
1.1
Know the QC3
1
1.1.1
Front panel
1
1.1.2
Connectors
2
1.2
Install and replace batteries
3
1.3
Connecting the probe
5
1.4
The “Q” key
6
1.5
Display illumination and contrast
6
1.5.1
Display backlight illumination
6
1.5.2
Display contrast
7
1.6
Locking and unlocking the keypad
7
Chapter 2
Measuring with the QC3
2.1
Measuring screen
9
2.2
Keypad functions in all measuring screens
9
2.3
Statistics screen
10
2.4
Calibration
11
2.4.1
Getting started with calibration
11
2.4.2
Base calibration
11
2.4.3
Shim calibration
13
Chapter 3
Menu system and editing
3.1
Instructions on using the menu system
15
3.2
Main menu
16
3.2.1
Change unit
16
3.2.2
Alarm settings
16
3.3
Memory menu
17
3.3.1
Connecting to a PC with DataCenter
18
3.3.2
View data (stored values)
19
3.3.3
Erase memory
19

II
3.3.4
Capture modes
20
3.3.5
Free memory
21
3.4
General configuration options
21
3.4.1
Calibration modes
22
3.4.2
Set keypad sensitivity
22
3.4.3
Group size (N) for statistics
23
3.4.4
Select language
23
3.4.5
Set auto-off time
24
3.4.6
Adjust display contrast
24
3.4.7
Beep activation
25
3.4.8
Hold last measurement
25
3.4.9
Continuous measurement mode
26
3.5
Information and license
26
3.5.1
Unit information
26
3.5.2
Probe information
27
3.5.3
Model upgrade licenses
27
Tips on how to measure correctly
28
Technical specifications
29
Additional information
31
Unit maintenance
31
QC3 accessories
32
Error messages
33
Our website: www.demeq.com
34
Software updates
34
Technical support
34

III
And thank you for purchasing a QC3 coating thickness gauge.
At dmq we develop, manufacture and distribute software and quality
control instruments offering innovation and solutions that come as a
direct result of listening to your needs as a user. We apply some of the
latest technology available in the industry to build instruments that are
robust, precise, and easy to operate.
We are convinced that our products would not be complete without
permanent technical and after sales support. So in addition to a great
product we offer:
Quick answers to your inquiries.
Unlimited access to technical information as well as
application notes.
Special offers for registered customers.
Firmware and software upgrades at no charge.
Attention to your inquiries and suggestions.
We hope that the QC3 will meet and exceed your application needs.

IV
The information included in this manual applies to all QC3 series
portable hardness testers including models F, DLF, N and DLN.
dmq is a registered trademark of Demeq S.R.L and its affiliate
companies.
The information contained in this manual is intended to educate users
on the operation of the QC3 coating thickness gauges. Failure to read
and understand this manual can lead to measurement errors. Decisions
based on measurements and or results that are erroneous can lead to
property damage, personal injury or even death. Demeq S.R.L assumes
no responsibility as a result of the improper use of our instruments.
Correct use of a coating thickness gauge requires:
Knowing your test requirements.
Having a trained operator.
This manual provides all of the information needed to configure and
operate QC3 coating thickness gauges. However there are additional
factors that can affect tests done with this instrument. Specific
information on those factors is outside the scope of this manual. When
in doubt you should always seek expert advice or refer to specific
textbooks on coating thickness testing. Additional information can also
be found on the internet and through local government agencies as

V
well as in technical institutes.
When a low frequency magnetic field is applied on a ferrous substrate,
the signal induced by the coil inside the probe is proportional to the
distance between the probe and the base.
Figure 1: Ferrous base measuring principle
Induced currents are produced on the metal surface when a high
frequency field is applied. Induced currents and the signal obtained
from the coil are proportional to the distance with the base.
Figure 2: Non-Ferrous base measuring principle
Using the physical principles described above, the QC3 converts small
signal variations produced by the probe into precise and repetitive
measurements.

VI
ISO 2178, ASTM D1186 for QC3 F; ISO 2360, ASTM D1400, ASTM B244
for QC3 N; and ASTM D7091, ASTM E376 for all QC3 models.
All QC3 series coating thickness gauges are for industrial use only. The
QC3 operates on two AA size batteries. We strongly recommend that
you use only top brand name alkaline batteries.
Disposal of your QC3 and its components must be done in compliance
with all applicable regulations.
Because of its complexity level, software is never really completely error
free. For this reason in software controlled instruments always make
sure that the operations required for your application are in correct
working order.
Demeq S.R.L provides a limited warranty for a period of 5 (five) years
on electronic units and for 6 (six) months on probes from the date of
purchase.
Every instrument undergoes thorough testing during manufacturing as
well as before shipping. In the event warranty service where to become
necessary, Demeq S.R.L and or your local distributor or representative
will make a reasonable effort to replace your defective unit with
another new or used unit, while your instrument undergoes warranty
repair.

Chapter 1 1
Figure 1.1: Front of the unit
1. Graphic LCD display with LED backlight illumination
2. Move Left key
3. Move Up key / Manually store a value (Store)
4. Move Right key
5. Menu key / Enter and exit measure screen / Exit and return to
menus (Home)
6. Move Down key / Create new file in the Datalogger (Batch)

2 Chapter 1
7. Change backlight illumination key (On, Off, Auto)
8. Enter key / Edit values on the measure screen (Edit)
9. The key: Power On and Shutdown (touch and hold for 2
seconds) / Make quick and short touches to activate special
features
10. Calibration key
11. Horizontal scrolling center point (lock and unlock keypad on
measure screen)
12. Vertical scrolling center point (adjust LCD contrast)
Figure 1.2: Unit connectors
1. Probe connector type Lemo 0B
2. USB mini connector to connect to PC using a USB cable