DMQ QC5 Series User manual

P/N: QC5 501 –ENG –Rev. 01 –February 2014

I
Chapter 1
First steps
1.1
Know the QC5
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 QC5
2.1
Numerical measuring screen
9
2.2
Graphical measuring screen (Histogram)
10
2.3
Numerical measuring screen (Large Numbers)
11
2.4
Keypad functions in all measuring screens
12
2.5
Selecting the type of base
14
2.6
Calibration
15
2.6.1
Getting started with calibration
15
2.6.2
Base calibration
16
2.6.3
Shim 1 calibration
18
2.6.4
Shim 2 calibration
19
2.6.5
Calibration memories
20
2.6.6
Using offset correction
22
Chapter 3
Menu system and editing
3.1
Instructions on using the menu system
23
3.1.1
Text editor
24
3.2
Main menu
26
3.2.1
Change unit
26

II
3.2.2
Alarm settings
26
3.2.3
Select language
27
3.2.4
Unit information
28
3.3
General configuration options
29
3.3.1
Set time and date
29
3.3.2
Set time and date format
30
3.3.3
Set keypad sensitivity
30
3.3.4
Set auto-off time
31
3.3.5
Adjust display contrast
32
3.3.6
Beep activation
32
3.3.7
Introduction screen
32
3.3.8
Owner information
33
3.3.9
Lock configuration
34
3.3.10
Model upgrade licenses
35
3.3.11
Return to factory default settings
36
3.4
Measuring configuration options
37
3.4.1
Select type of base
37
3.4.2
Calibration modes
38
3.4.3
Offset correction
38
3.4.4
Set number of samples
39
3.4.5
Set shim values for quick calibration
39
3.4.6
Select measuring mode
40
3.4.7
Set histogram range
41
3.4.8
Layer counter configuration
41
3.4.9
Select measure mode (Abs / Diff)
43
Chapter 4
Using the Datalogger
4.1
Understanding how data is organized
44
4.2
Memory menu
45
4.3
Creating a file
45

III
4.4
Actions over single files
46
4.4.1
View data in a single file
47
4.4.2
The “Q” key in a grid
48
4.4.3
The “Q” key in a histogram
49
4.4.4
Send data from a single file
49
4.4.5
Rename a file
50
4.4.6
View file size
50
4.5
Actions over all files
50
4.5.1
Send all files
50
4.5.2
Erase all files
50
4.6
Quick memory menu (Mem key)
51
4.7
Connect to PC with DataCenter
52
4.8
Datalogger configuration
53
4.8.1
Configure communication
54
4.8.2
Capture modes
55
4.8.3
Set number of samples
56
4.8.4
Select fixed batch
56
4.9
Advanced configuration
56
4.9.1
Store every (N) number of samples
56
4.9.2
Record unit settings
56
4.9.3
Record date and time
57
Tips on how to measure correctly
58
Technical specifications
59
Additional information
61
Unit maintenance
61
QC5 accessories
62
Error messages
63
Our website: www.demeq.com
64
Technical support
64

IV
And thank you for purchasing a QC5 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 QC5 will meet and exceed your application needs.

V
The information included in this manual applies to all QC5 series
coating thickness gauges including models F, DLF, N, DLN, C and DLC.
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 QC5 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 QC5 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
well as in technical institutes.

VI
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 QC5 converts small
signal variations produced by the probe into precise and repetitive
measurements.

VII
ISO 2178, ASTM D1186 for models QC5 F & QC5 C; ISO 2360, ASTM
D1400, ASTM B244 for models QC5 N & QC5 C; and ASTM D7091,
ASTM E376 for all QC5 models.
All QC5 series coating thickness gauges are for industrial use only. The
QC5 operates on two AA size batteries. We strongly recommend that
you use only top brand name alkaline batteries.
Disposal of your QC5 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.

1 Chapter 1
Figure 1.1: Front of the unit
1. Graphic LCD display with LED backlight illumination
2. Move Left key / View partial statistics (Stat)
3. Move Up key / Manually store a value (Store)
4. Move Right key / Switch to graphical measure mode screen
(Graph)
5. Menu key / Enter and exit measure screen / Exit and return to
menus (Home)

Chapter 1 2
6. Move Down key / Quick access to memory menu screen
options (Mem)
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

3 Chapter 1
The QC5 is powered by 2 (two) AA batteries that are placed in the
battery compartment located in the back of the unit. To gain access to
the battery compartment slide the cover as shown in figure 1.3-1 and
gently push the extraction ribbon upward and slightly towards the
right to release the batteries (figure 1.3-2).
When you install new batteries, first insert the positive end of each
battery so that it coincides with the positive pole inside the battery
compartment as you see in figure 1.4-1.
Always leave the extraction ribbon underneath the batteries.
Figure 1.3: Removing batteries

Chapter 1 4
Figure 1.4: Replace / Insert batteries
Notes
Always use new alkaline top brand batteries for
extended battery life.
Do not mix new and old batteries. Always replace both
batteries.
Rechargeable batteries type NiMH can be used but will
result in less time of continuous operation.

5 Chapter 1
Important
Do not remove batteries while the unit is powered as
this may affect the Datalogger (See Appendix:
“Additional information, Error Messages”)
The QC5 uses a type Lemo 0B 4-pin connector located on top of the
unit. All dmq probes are provided with Cal-Tag technology allowing
you to easily switch or replace probes.
To connect the probe simply align the
red dot on the male connector with the
red dot on the female connector located
on the unit and press gently until
connected (see figure 1.5)
To release the probe hold the knurled
section on the male connector and
gently pull out.
Never remove the connector pushing
the cable.
Figure 1.5: Connecting the probe

Chapter 1 6
The has three functions:
1. When the unit is off, touch for 2 seconds to power on
the unit.
2. When the unit is on, touch for 2 seconds to shutdown
the unit.
3. With the unit on, making short touches to the will
activate special functions described in each chapter of this
manual.
Backlight illumination and contrast options can be changed from any
screen in the unit.
Touch to change the backlight illumination.
Figure 1.6: Backlight illumination options

7 Chapter 1
The display contrast on all dmq units is digital.
Touch the white dot located in the center of the
vertical scrolling bar between the -
keys and a contrast window will open. Move
your finger towards the top and or bottom of
the dotted line to adjust the contrast on your
display.
Figure 1.7: Display contrast adjustment
To lock the keypad place your finger on the white dot located in the
center of the horizontal scrolling bar between the - keys.
Move your finger to the right following the dotted line and a window
on the unit display will open with the message Lock (see figure 1.8).
Continue moving your finger in the same direction until you enter
blocked mode. The window on the display will close and the blocked
keypad indicator will show on the top right of the unit screen.
Figure 1.8: Locking the keypad

Chapter 1 8
Sliding the finger to the left will unlock the keypad.
Figure 1.9: Unlocking the keypad
Important
The keypad can only be locked and unlocked in the
measuring screens.

9 Chapter 2
The QC5 can display measurements in 3 distinct modes where each
mode shows specific information. To switch modes touch the
key.
Touch the key to change the complimentary information
displayed on the screen (mode-1 and mode-2).
Figure 2.1: Numerical measuring screens
1. Name of the open folder where data is being stored (Page
45)
2. Average of the measurements within the group (N values)
3. Datalogger mode indicator: X: Off - M: Manual –U: Single –
C: Continuous)
4. Symbol of the measured value as it relates to the nominal
value in differential mode (Page 44)
5. Battery level indicator
6. Coating thickness value in the selected unit
7. Icon indicating that a value has been stored

Chapter 2 10
8. Blocked keypad icon indicator (Page 7)
9. Probe measuring icon (probe on sample)
10. Type of base icon: FE, NF, A (Page 14)
11. User selected unit
12. Number of (N) values counter / indicator for real time group
statistics
13. Position of the last stored value (Column, Row)
14. Range within the group (Max., Min.)
15. Minimum thickness value within the group
16. Average deviation within the group
17. Maximum thickness value within the group
18. Percentage value as compared to the nominal value
The QC5 allows you to view graphic representations (histograms) of
measured values in real time. And when you touch the key, the
graphic screen will change between mode-1 and mode-2 so that you
can view different complimentary information.
Figure 2.2: Graphical measure screens (mode-1 and mode-2)

11 Chapter 2
1. Maximum thickness value within the group
2. Minimum thickness value within the group
3. Average within the group
4. Active calibration mode (Page 15)
5. Actual coating thickness measurement
6. Battery level indicator
7. Type of base icon: FE, NF, A (Page 14)
8. Probe measuring icon (probe on sample)
9. High alarm indicator (Page 26)
10. Average within group represented graphically
11. Low alarm indicator (Page 26)
12. Reference value Y-axis
13. Histogram bars representing individual values
14. Average deviation within the group
15. Range within the group (Max., Min.)
Measurements are displayed in large numbers with less complimentary
information. This mode is used for quick and easy readings.
Figure 2.3: Numerical measuring screen (large numbers)