Hameg HM8118 User manual

HM8118
Programmable
LCR-Bridge
User Manual

38
General information concerning the CE marking
General information
concerning the
CE marking
General remarks regarding the CE marking
Hameg measuring instruments comply with the EMI
norms. Our tests for conformity are based upon the rele-
vant norms. Whenever different maximum limits are optio-
nal Hameg will select the most stringent ones. As regards
emissions class 1B limits for small business will be ap-
plied. As regards susceptibility the limits for industrial en-
vironments will be applied. All connecting cables will inu-
ence emissions as well as susceptability considerably. The
cables used will differ substantially depending on the ap-
plication. During practical operation the following guide-
lines should be absolutely observed in order to minimize
emi:
1. Data connections
Measuring instruments may only be connected to external
associated equipment (printers, computers etc.) by using
well shielded cables. Unless shorter lengths are prescri-
bed a maximum length of 3m must not be exceeded for
all data interconnections (input, output, signals, control).
In case an instrument interface would allow connecting
several cables only one may be connected. In general,
data connections should be made using double-shielded
cables. For IEEE-bus purposes the double screened cable
HZ72 from HAMEG is suitable.
2. Signal connections
In general, all connections between a measuring instru-
ment and the device under test should be made as short
as possible. Unless a shorter length is prescribed a maxi-
mum length of 1m must not be exceeded, also, such con-
nections must not leave the premises. All signal connec-
tions must be shielded (e.g. coax such as RG58/U). With
signal generators double-shielded cables are manda-
tory. It is especially important to establish good ground
connections.
3. External inuences
In the vicinity of strong magnetic or/and electric elds even
a careful measuring set-up may not be sufcient to gu-
ard against the intrusion of undesired signals. This will not
cause destruction or malfunction of Hameg instruments,
however, small deviations from the guaranteed specica-
tions may occur under such conditions.
HAMEG Instruments GmbH
DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY
HAMEG Instruments GmbH
Industriestraße 6 · D-63533 Mainhausen
The HAMEG Instruments GmbH herewith declares conformity of the
product:
Product name: Programmable LCR-Bridge
Type: HM8118
with: HO820
Option: HO880
complies with the provisions of the Directive of the Council of the
European Union on the approximation of the laws of the Member States
❙relating to electrical equipment for use within dened voltage limits
(2006/95/EC) [LVD]
❙relating to electromagnetic compatibility (2004/108/EC) [EMCD]
❙relating to restriction of the use of hazardous substances in
electrical and electronic equipment (2011/65/EC) [RoHS].
Conformity with LVD and EMCD is proven by compliance with the
following standards:
EN 61010-1: 04/2015
EN 61326-1: 07/2013
EN 55011: 11/2014
EN 61000-4-2: 12/2009
EN 61000-4-3: 04/2011
EN 61000-4-4: 04/2013
EN 61000-4-5: 03/2015
EN 61000-4-6: 08/2014
EN 61000-4-11: 02/2005
EN 61000-6-3: 11/2012
For the assessment of electromagnetic compatibility, the limits of
radio interference for Class B equipment as well as the immunity to
interference for operation in industry have been used as a basis.
Date: 8.6.2015
Signature:
Holger Asmussen
General Manager

39
Content
1 Important Notes .......................40
1.1 Symbols ..................................40
1.2 Unpacking.................................40
1.3 Setting Up the Instrument ....................40
1.4 Safety ....................................40
1.5 Intended Operation..........................40
1.6 Ambient Conditions .........................41
1.7 Warranty and Repair.........................41
1.8 Maintenance ...............................41
1.9 Line fuse ..................................41
1.10 Power switch ..............................41
1.11 Batteries and Rechargeable Batteries/Cells.......41
1.12 Product Disposal............................42
2 Description of the Operating Elements .....43
3 Introduction ..........................45
3.1 Requirements ..............................45
3.2 Measurement of a capacitor ..................45
3.3 Measurement of an inductor ..................45
4 First-Time Operation....................46
4.1 Connecting the instrument....................46
4.2 Turning on the instrument ....................46
3.4 Measurement of a resistor ....................46
4.3 Line frequency .............................47
4.4 Measurement Principle.......................47
4.5 Measurement Accuracy ......................48
5 Setting of Parameters ..................49
5.1 Selecting Values /Parameters..................49
6 Measurement Value Display. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
6.1 Relative Measurement Value Deviation ∆ %
(#, %) .....................................50
6.2 Absolute Measurement Value Deviation ∆ ABS (#).50
5.2 Selecting the Measurement Function ...........50
6.3 Reference Value (REF_M, REF_S)...............51
6.4 Selecting the Measurement Range .............51
6.5 Circuit Type ................................52
7 Instrument Functions ...................52
7.1 SETUP Menu. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52
7.1.1 Measurement Frequency FRQ .................52
7.1.2 Voltage LEV ...............................53
7.1.3 Preload/ Bias Current BIAS ...................53
7.1.4 Measurement Range RNG ....................54
7.1.5 Measurement Speed SPD ....................54
7.1.6 Triggering TRIG ............................55
7.1.7 DELAY Function............................55
7.1.8 Average Value AVG..........................55
7.1.9 Display of Test Signal Level Vm (Measurement Vol-
tage) / Im (Measurement Current):..............55
7.1.10 Guarding GUARD ...........................55
7.1.11 Deviation DEV_M ...........................56
7.1.12 Reference REF_M ...........................56
7.1.13 Devi atio n DE V_ S ............................56
7.1.14 Reference REF_ S ...........................56
7.1.15 CONSTANT VOLTAGE CST V ..................56
7.2 CORR Menu ...............................57
7.3 Menu Function SYST ........................58
7.4 Saving / Loading of Settings ..................59
7.5 Factory Settings ............................59
8 Measuring Equipment ..................60
8.1 4-Wire Test Adapter HZ181 (Including Short Circuit
Board) ....................................60
8.2 Kelvin-Test Lead HZ184 ......................61
8.3 4-wire Transformer Test Lead HZ186 ............61
8.4 4-Wire SMD Test Adapter HZ188...............63
8.5 Sorting Components with Option HO118 Binning
Interface ..................................64
9 Remote Control .......................66
8.1 RS-232....................................66
8.2 USB / VCP .................................67
8.3 IEEE-488 (GPIB) ............................67
10 Command Reference ...................68
10.1 Setting Up the Command Structure ............68
10.2 Supported Command and Data Formats.........68
10.3 Command List Binning Interface ...............71
11 Technical Data ........................72
Content

40
Important Notes
1 Important Notes
1.1 Symbols
(1) (2) (3)
Symbol 1: Caution, general danger zone –
Refer to product documentation
Symbol 2: Risk of electric shock
Symbol 3: Ground terminal
1.2 Unpacking
While unpacking, check the package contents for com-
pleteness (measuring instrument, power cable, product
CD, possibly optional accessories). After unpacking, check
the instrument for mechanical damage occurred during
transport and for loose parts inside. In case of transport
damage, please inform the supplier immediately. The in-
strument must not be operated in this case.
1.3 Setting Up the Instrument
Two positions are possible: .
According to Fig. 1 the front feet are folded down and are
used to lift the instrument so its front points slightly up-
ward (approx. 10 degrees). If the feet are not used (Fig. 2)
the instrument can be stacked safely with many other HA-
MEG instruments. In case several instruments are stak-
ked (Fig. 3) the feet rest in the recesses of the instrument
below so the instruments can not be inadvertently mo-
ved. Please do not stack more than 3 instruments. A hig-
her stack will become unstable, also heat dissipation may
be impaired.
Fig. 1
Fig. 2
Fig. 3
1.4 Safety
This instrument was built in compliance with VDE 0411
part 1, safety regulations for electrical measuring instru-
ments, control units and Iaboratory equipment. It has
been tested and shipped from the plant in safe condition.
It is in compliance with the regulations of the European
standard EN 61010-1 and the international standard IEC
61010-1. To maintain this condition and to ensure safe op-
eration, the user must observe all instructions and warn-
ings given in this operating manual. Casing, chassis and
all measuring ports are connected to a protective earth
conductor. The instrument is designed in compliance with
the regulations of protection class 0.
For safety reasons, the instrument may only be operated
with authorized safety sockets. The power cord must be
plugged in before signal circuits may be connected. Never
use the product if the power cable is damaged. Check reg-
ularly if the power cables are in perfect condition. Choose
suitable protective measures and installation types to en-
sure that the power cord cannot be damaged and that no
harm is caused by tripping hazards or from electric shock,
for instance.
If it is assumed that a safe operation is no longer possible,
the instrument must be shut down and secured against
any unintended operation.
Safe operation can no longer be assumed:
❙If the measuring instrument shows visible damage
❙If the measuring instrument no longer functions properly
❙After an extended period of storage under unfavorable
conditions (e.g. outdoors or in damp rooms)
❙After rough handling during transport (e.g. packaging that
does not meet the minimum requirements by post ofce,
railway or forwarding agency).
In case of doubt the power connector should be checked
according to DIN VDE 0100/610:
❙Only qualied personnel may open the instrument
❙Prior to opening the instrument must be disconnected
from the line and all other inputs/outputs.
1.5 Intended Operation
The measuring instrument is intended only for use by per-
sonnel familiar with the potential risks of measuring elec-
trical quantities. For safety reasons, the measuring instru-
ment may only be connected to properly installed safety
socket outlets. Separating the grounds is prohibited. The
power plug must be inserted before signal circuits may be
connected. The product may be operated only under the
operating conditions and in the positions specied by the
manufacturer, without the product’s ventilation being ob-
structed. If the manufacturer’s specications are not ob-
served, this can result in electric shock, re and/or serious
personal injury, and in some cases, death. Applicable local
It is prohibited to disconnect the earthed protective
connection inside or outside the instrument!

41
Important Notes
or national safety regulations and rules for the prevention
of accidents must be observed in all work performed.
The measuring instrument is designed for use in the fol-
lowing sectors: Industry, residential, business and com-
mercial areas and small businesses.
The measuring instrument is designed for indoor use only.
Before each measurement, you need to verify at a known
source if the measuring instrument functions properly.
1.6 Ambient Conditions
The allowed operating temperature ranges from +5°C to
+40°C (pollution category 2). The maximum relative hu-
midity (without condensation) is at 80%. During storage
and transport, the temperature must be between -20°C
and +70°C. In case of condensation during transportation
or storage, the instrument will require approximately two
hours to dry and reach the appropriate temperature prior
to operation. The measuring instrument is designed for
use in a clean and dry indoor environment. Do not operate
with high dust and humidity levels, if danger of explosion
exists or with aggressive chemical agents. Any operating
position may be used; however adequate air circulation
must be maintained. For continuous operation, a horizontal
or inclined position (integrated stand) is preferable.
The maximum operating altitude for the instrument is
2000 m. Specications with tolerance data apply after a
warm up period of at least 30 minutes at a temperature of
23 °C (tolerance ±2 °C). Specications without tolerance
data are average values.
1.7 Warranty and Repair
Our instruments are subject to strict quality controls. Prior
to leaving the manufacturing site, each instrument under-
goes a 10-hour burn-in test. This is followed by extensive
functional quality testing to examine all operating modes
and to guarantee compliance with the specied technical
data. The testing is performed with testing equipment that
is calibrated to national standards. The statutory warranty
provisions shall be governed by the laws of the country
in which the product was purchased. In case of any com-
plaints, please contact your supplier.
Use the measuring instrument only with original HAMEG measur-
ing equipment, measuring cables and power cord. Never use in-
adequately measured power cords. Before each measurement,
measuring cables must be inspected for damage and replaced if
necessary. Damaged or worn components can damage the instru-
ment or cause injury.
To disconnect from the mains, the low-heat device socket on the
back panel has to be unplugged.
The product may only be opened by authorized and
qualied personnel. Prior to working on the product or
before the product is opened, it must be disconnected
from the AC supply network. Otherwise, personnel will
be exposed to the risk of an electric shock.
Any adjustments, replacements of parts, maintenance and
repair may be carried out only by authorized technical per-
sonnel. Only original parts may be used for replacing parts
relevant to safety (e.g. power switches, power transform-
ers, fuses). A safety test must always be performed after
parts relevant to safety have been replaced (visual inspec-
tion, PE conductor test, insulation resistance measurement,
leakage current measurement, functional test). This helps
ensure the continued safety of the product.
1.8 Maintenance
The display may only be cleaned with water or an
appropriate glass cleaner (not with alcohol or other
cleaning agents). Follow this step by rubbing the display
down with a dry, clean and lint-free cloth. Do not allow
cleaning uid to enter the instrument. The use of other
cleaning agents may damage the labeling or plastic and
lacquered surfaces.
1.9 Line fuse
The instrument has 2 internal line fuses: T 0.8 A. In case of
a blown fuse the instrument has to be sent in for repair. A
change of the line fuse by the customer is not permitted.
1.10 Power switch
The instrument has a wide range power supply from 105
V to 253 V, 50 Hz or 60 Hz ±10 %. There is hence no line
voltage selector.
Fuse type:
Size 5 x 20 mm; 250V~, C; IEC 127, Bl. III; DIN 41 662 (pos-
sibly DIN 41 571, Bl. 3). Slow-blow (T) 0,8A.
1.11 Batteries and Rechargeable Batteries/Cells
1. Cells must not be disassembled, opened or crushed.
2. Cells and batteries may not be exposed to heat or re.
Storage in direct sunlight must be avoided. Keep cells
and batteries clean and dry. Clean soiled connectors
using a dry, clean cloth.
Clean the outer case of the measuring instrument at regular in-
tervals, using a soft, lint-free dust cloth.
Before cleaning the measuring instrument, please make sure that
it has been switched off and disconnected from all power sup-
plies (e.g. AC supply network).
No parts of the instruments may be cleaned with chemical clean-
ing agents (such as alcohol, acetone or cellulose thinner)!
If the information regarding batteries and rechargeable batteries/
cells is not observed either at all or to the extent necessary, prod-
uct users may be exposed to the risk of explosions, re and/or se-
rious personal injury, and, in some cases, death. Batteries and re-
chargeable batteries with alkaline electrolytes (e.g. lithium cells)
must be handled in accordance with the EN 62133 standard.

42
Important Notes
3. Cells or batteries must not be short-circuited. Cells or
batteries must not be stored in a box or in a drawer
where they can short-circuit each other, or where they
can be short-circuited by other conductive materials.
Cells and batteries must not be removed from their
original packaging until they are ready to be used.
4. Keep cells and batteries out of reach of children. Seek
medical assistance immediately if a cell or battery was
swallowed.
5. Cells and batteries must not be exposed to any me-
chanical shocks that are stronger than permitted.
6. If a cell develops a leak, the uid must not be allowed
to come into contact with the skin or eyes. If contact
occurs, wash the affected area with plenty of water
and seek medical assistance.
7. Improperly replacing or charging cells or batteries can
cause explosions. Replace cells or batteries only with
the matching type in order to ensure the safety of the
product.
8. Cells and batteries must be recycled and kept separate
from residual waste. Cells and batteries must be recy-
cled and kept separate from residual waste. Recharge-
able batteries and normal batteries that contain lead,
mercury or cadmium are hazardous waste. Observe
the national regulations regarding waste disposal and
recycling.
1.12 Product Disposal
The Electrical and Electronic Equipment Act implements
the following EG directives:
❙2002/96/EG (WEEE) for electrical and electronic
equipment waste and
❙2002/95/EG to restrict the use of certain hazardous
substances iin electronic equipment (RoHS directive).
❙
Once its lifetime has ended, this product should be dis-
posed of separately from your household waste. The dis-
posal at municipal collection sites for electronic equip-
ment is also not permitted. As mandated for all manufac-
turers by the Electrical and Electronic Equipment Act (Ele-
ktroG), ROHDE & SCHWARZ assumes full responsibility for
the ecological disposal or the recycling at the end-of-life of
their products.
Please contact your local service partner to dispose of the
product.
Fig. 1.4: Product labeling in accordance
with EN 50419

43
Description of the Operating Elements
Fig. 2.1: Front panel of HM8118
2 Description of
the Operating
Elements
Front panel of HM8118
1
POWER – Turning on/off the instrument
2
DISPLAY (LCD) – Display of measurement results and
units, ranges, frequencies, level, equivalent circuit,
functions and parameters
MENU
3
SELECT – Opening the submenus SETUP, CORR, SYST
and BIN (only with installed Binning Interface HO118)
4
ENTER – Conrmation of input values
5
ESC – Cancel the menu function
6
Rotary knob (Knob/Pushbutton) – Selection of func-
tions and parameters
7
Arrow buttons – Pushbuttons for parameter
selection
SET
8
FREQ – Setting of the test signal frequency with rotary
knob
6
or arrow buttons
7
9
LEVEL – Setting of the test signal level with rotary knob
6
and cursor position with arrow buttons
7
10
BIAS – Setting of the bias voltage or current with ro-
tary knob
6
and cursor position with arrow buttons
7
ZERO
11
OPEN – Activating the OPEN calibration
12
SHORT – Activating the SHORT calibration
13
LOAD – Activating the LOAD calibration
MODE
14
AUTO – Activating the automatic selection of equiva-
lent circuit
15
SER – Activating the series equivalent circuit
16
PAR – Activating the parallel equivalent circuit
RANGE
17
AUTO/HOLD – Activating the automatic measurement
range (LED lights up) or the range HOLD function
18
UP – Range up
19
DOWN – Range down
Connectors
20
L CUR (BNC socket) – Low Current; signal output for
series measurements (signal generator)
21
L POT (BNC socket) – Low Potential; signal input for pa-
rallel measurement (voltage measurements)
22
H POT (BNC socket) – High Potential; signal input / out-
put for parallel measurements (measurement bridge)
23
H CUR (BNC socket) – High Current; signal input for se-
ries measurements (current measurements)
Instrument functions
24
BIAS MODE/ESC – Activating of internal / external bias
voltage resp. cancelling the editing mode (ESC)
25
TRIG MODE/ENTER – Changing the trigger mode resp.
conrming an input value
26
BIAS / – Activating the bias voltage resp. erasing
the last character of an numeric input
27
TRIG / UNIT – Single trigger in manual trigger mode
resp. selection of a parameter unit
28
AUTO / 6 – Activating the automatic measurement
function resp. entering numeric value 6
29
M / – – Selection of the measurement function „Mutual
Inductance“ resp. parameter input of the character „-“.
30
R-Q / 5 – Selection of the measurement function ‘Resis-
tance‘ R und ‘Quality factor‘ Q resp. entering numeric
value 5
1 2 4 3 56 7 9 8 10
12 11 13
15 14 16
18 17 19
22 21 20 24 43 232526
27282930313233343536373839424041

44
Description of the Operating Elements
Fig. 2.2: Back panel of HM8118
47 48
45 4446 49
31
N-Θ / . – Selection of the measurement function ‘Turns
ratio‘ N and ‘Phase angle‘ Θ resp. parameter input of
the character “. “
32
C-R / 4 – Selection of the measurement function ‘Ca-
pacitance‘ C and ‘Resistance‘ R resp. entering numeric
value 4
33
G-B / 0 (Pushbutton)
Selection of the measurement function ‘Conductance‘
G and ‘Susceptance‘ B resp. entering numeric value 0
34
C-D / 3 – Selection of the measurement function ‘Capa-
citance‘ C and ‘Dissipation factor‘ D resp. entering nu-
meric value 3
35
R-X / 9 – Selection of the measurement function ‘Resis-
tance‘ R and ‘Reactance‘ X resp. entering numeric value 9
36
L-R / 2 – Selection of the measurement function ‘Induc-
tance‘ L and ‘Resistance‘ R resp. entering numeric value 2
37
Y-Θ / 8 – Selection of the measurement function ‘Ad-
mittance‘ Y and ‘Phase angle‘ Θ resp. entering numeric
value 8
38
L-Q / 1 – Selection of the measurement function ‘Induc-
tance‘ and ‘Quality factor‘ Q resp. entering numeric value 1
39
Z-Θ / 7 – Selection of the measurement function ‘Im-
pedance‘ Z and ‘Phase angle‘ Θ resp. entering numeric
value 7
40
DISPLAY MODE – Toggling the display of measurement
values with / without parameters
41
RECALL / STORE – Loading/storing of instrument
settings
42
REMOTE / LOCAL – Toggling between front panel (LO-
CAL) or remote operation (LED lights up); if local lock-
out was activated, the instrument can not be operated
from the front panel.
43
Ground (4 mm socket) – Ground connector ( ). The so-
cket is directly connected to the mains safety ground!
Back panel of HM8118
44
TRIG. INPUT (BNC socket) –
Trigger input for external trigger
45
BIAS FUSE (Fuse holder) –
Fuse for external voltage input ext. BIAS
46
EXT. BIAS (4 mm safety sockets) –
External bias input (+, –)
47
INTERFACE – HO820 Dual Interface USB/RS-232 (gal-
vanically isolated) is provided as standard
48
BINNING INTERFACE (25 pin D-Sub socket) –
Output to control external binning sorters for compo-
nents (option HO118)
49
POWER INPUT (Power Cord Receptacle)

45
Introduction
3 Introduction
3.1 Requirements
❙HAMEG HM8118 LCR measuring bridge with rmware
from 1.37 upwards.
❙HZ184 Kelvin measurement cables
❙1 x HAMEG 1,000 µF capacitor (not contained in
shipment)
❙1 x HAMEG 280 µH inductor (not contained in shipment)
❙1 x HAMEG 100 kΩ resistor (not contained in shipment).
First connect the HZ184 cables supplied to the HM8118.
The two plugs of the black cable are connected to the ter-
minals LCUR and LPOT, the plugs of the red cable to the
terminals HCUR and HPOT.
After turning the instrument on, the rst steps are the open
circuit and the short circuit calibration procedures at the
preselected frequency of 1.0 kHz because the measure-
ment cables HZ184, in conjunction with the terminals, due
to their design, show a stray capacity, a residual induc-
tance and a residual resistance which impair the accuracy
of the measurement results. In order to minimize these in-
uences, the compensation of impedance measurement
errors caused by adapters and cables is necessary.
For the open circuit calibration, position the two clips apart
from each other. For the short circuit calibration connect
both clips as shown in Fig. 3.1.
Push the button MENU/SELECT
3
and then the button
C-D
34
in order to enter the CORR menu. Select the menu
item MODE and use the knob
6
to change the menu entry
from SGL to ALL in order to automatically perform the cali-
bration at all 69 frequency steps provided. Leave the menu
by pushing the button MENU/ESC
5
.
The following components are only intended to be used as an ex-
ample for a quick introduction to the instrument.
Fig. 3.1: Short circuit calibration with HZ184.
The mode SGL is used to only calibrate at the presently selected
frequency; this procedure takes just a few seconds and is desti-
ned for measurements in one or a few frequency ranges only.
Now start the open and short circuit calibrations by
pushing the buttons ZERO/OPEN
11
resp. ZERO/SHORT
12
. The instrument will now determine correction factors
at all 69 frequency steps valid for the presently connected
measurement cables and store them until the instrument is
switched off. This procedure will last appr. 2 minutes.
3.2 Measurement of a capacitor
Now connect the capacitor to the terminals of the HZ184.
Please observe the polarity of the capacitor and connect
the black terminal to the negative terminal of the capacitor,
marked with a – (minus).
As the instrument is set to automatic mode, the measure-
ment function will be automatically switched to function
no. 3 (C-D). Because the measuring frequency of 1.0kHz
was preselected, the capacitor will not be measured in its
regular operating mode, so the value displayed of appr.
900 µF will not equal the specied value of 1,000 µF.
Change the measuring frequency to 50 Hz by pushing the
button SET/FREQ
8
and turning the knob until 50 Hz are
shown on the display. Now the value displayed will change
to appr.1,000 µF depending on its tolerance. The dissipa-
tion factor „D“ will be very low at this setting.
The smaller the loss angle, the more the real world com-
ponents will come close to the ideal. An ideal inductor has
a loss angle of zero degrees. An ideal capacitor also has
a loss angle of zero degrees. An ideal electrical resistor,
however, has a loss angle of 90 degrees, it has no capaci-
tive or inductive components.
3.3 Measurement of an inductor
Before you connect the choke, increase the measuring fre-
quency by one decade to 500 Hz by pushing the arrow
button
7
above the knob. Disconnect the capacitor and
connect the choke to the terminals of the HZ184.
The instrument will now automatically switch to the func-
tion no. 1 (L-Q) and the inductance of the choke will be dis-
applied on the red terminal. The bias voltage works only
when the instrument on capacitance measurement
mode.
Measuring function selection
The desired test function is selected by push buttons (12)
and (14). The push button (12) gives access to the main
parameter (R, L or C), The push button (14) allows a
secondary parameter measurement (Q/D, impedance or
phase).
In order to measure D parameter the instrument needs at
first to be set to capacitance measurement mode, on the
other way, Q parameter will be displayed.
Auto-measurement function
The HM8018-2 is able to automatically determine the
component type in most cases. 3 different automatisms
exists: the automatic impedance range selection (see the
section « Auto-ranging»), the automatic mode
(series/parallel) selection (see the section « passive
components »), and the automatic function selection. These
three automatisms are simultaneously activated when the
instrument is set in automatic mode with the RANGE
AUTO key (7). Then the user can change function or mode
that disables their respective automatism. The manual range
selection disables the three automatisms.
When the instrument is on automatic mode the function
choice depends on the impedance module, phase angle as
well as the quality factor .The diagram below shows the
choice made by the instrument.
|Z| = 1000
Ω
Q = 500
D = 0,002
Q = 500
D = 0,002
D = 500
Q = 0,002
D = Q = 1
D = Q = 1
R
jX
D = 500
Q = 0,002
Calculation functions
Apart from displaying normal values as resistance, inductance or
capacitance, the HM8018-2 can display relative deviations and
percentages. It is not possible to use these calculation modes for
other functions than the three previous values. The deviations
and percentages are displayed in relation to the two stored values
A and B.
The procedure to obtain relative measurement is as follows:
1) Connect the component corresponding to the reference
value.
2) Store the value (memory A) by pressing on the STORE key,
then press the Akey.
3) Press on the Akey. The indicator -A lights up and the
display shows the value (Measure – A).
A direct percentage measurement is possible, it is only to use the
÷Bkey instead of the –A key in the previous procedure. Then the
instrument displays the value 100*Measure/B in %.
To obtain a deviation in % proceed as follows:
1) Connect the component corresponding to the reference
value.
Fig. 3.2: HM8118 measurement principle, left: schematic, right: detailled
presentation.
Imaginary
Axis
below -- 45° = C
above 45° = L
Real
Axis
phase angle

46
Introduction
played. The value should be appr. 280µH. As shown in Fig.
3.2, the phase angle of an inductor must be in the range
of + 45 to 90°. In order to prove this, leave the automatic
mode by pushing the button „Z-Θ
39
. The phase angle dis-
played will be appr. +70° and depends on the measuring
frequency set.
For comparison: the phase angle of the capacitor meas-
ured before is appr. -87° at 50 Hz.
3.4 Measurement of a resistor
Disconnect the choke and connect the 100 kΩ resistor sup-
plied. As the instrument was previously set manually to the
function Z-Θ, the value of its impedance can be directly
read (appr. 100 kΩ). As decribed on the page before, an
ideal resistor has no capacitive or inductive components.
Hence the phase resp. loss angle of the component con-
nected is close to zero degrees.
The HM8118, upon connection of the resistor, automat-
ically changed the internal equivalent circuit from series
connection SER to parallel connection PAR (LED pushbut-
tons
15
and
16
). If the automatic selection of the equivalent
circuit was chosen (pushbutton AUTO
14
), the LCR meas-
uring bridge will automatically select the equivalent circuit
which, depending on the component connected, is best
suited to yield a precise measurement result. The equiv-
alent circuit represents the measurement circuit. Usually,
components with a low impedance (capacitors, chokes)
will be measured using the series connection equivalent
circuit while components with a high impe-
dance (e.g. resistors) will be measured using the parallel
equivalent circuit.
4 First-Time Ope-
ration
4.1 Connecting the instrument
Prior to connecting the instrument to the mains, check
whether the mains voltage conforms to the mains voltage
range specied on the rear panel. This instrument has a
wide-range power supply and hence requires no manual
setting of the mains voltage.
The fuse holder of the BIAS FUSE
45
, i.e. the external BIAS
input, is accessible on the rear panel. Prior to exchanging a
fuse the instrument must be disconnected from the mains.
Then the fuse holder may be removed with a suitable
screw driver, using the slot provided. Afterwards the fuse
can be removed from the holder and exchanged. The hol-
der is spring-loaded and has to be pushed in and turned.
It is prohibited to use „repaired“ fuses or to short-circuit
the fuse. Any damages incurred by such manipulations will
void the warranty. The fuse may only be exchanged by this
type:
Fuse with ceramic body, lled with re extinguishing
material:
Size 6.3 x 32 mm; 400 VAC, C; IEC 127, Bl. III; DIN 41 662
(alternatively DIN 41 571, p. 3), (F) 0,5 A
4.2 Turning on the instrument
Prior to operating the instrument for the rst time, ple-
ase be sure to observe the safety instructions mentioned
previously!
The LCR bridge is switched on by using the power switch
1
. Once all keys have briey been illuminated, the bridge
can be operated via keys and the knob on the front pa-
nel. If the keys and the display do not light up, either the
mains voltage is switched off or the internal input line fu-
ses are defective. The current measurement results are
Fig. 4.1: Power Input
Fig. 4.2: Rear panel with fuse

47
First-Time Operation
shown in the right panel and the essential parameters in
the left panel of the display. The four BNC sockets located
on the front panel can be connected to the component to
be measured with the appropriate measuring accessories.
Additionally, it is also possible to connect the measuring
instrument via ground socket on the front panel
43
with
ground potential. The socket is suitable for a banana plug
with a 4 mm diameter.
If there are undened messages on the display or if the in-
strument fails to react to operation of its controls turn it
off, wait a minute and turn it on again in order to trigger a
reset operation. If the display remains unchanged or ope-
ration impossible, turn it off and take it to a qualied ser-
vice point (see Safety Instructions).
4.3 Line frequency
Prior to rst measurements, the line frequency setting
must be set to the applied line frequency, 50 or 60 Hz. If
the line frequency is not set properly, depending on the
measurement range and the line frequency value, insta-
bilities may occur e.g. on the display. In order to set the
line frequency press the SELECT button
3
, use the SYST
menu for accessing MAINS FRQ, use the knob
6
for se-
lecting the correct value.
4.4 Measurement Principle
The LCR meter HM8118 is not a traditional Wien, Maxwell
or Thomson measurement bridge. Rather, when connec-
ting a test object, the impedance |Z| and the correspon-
ding phase angle Θ (phase between current and voltage)
are always determined (see g. 4.3). These measurement
values are frequency dependent and will be determined
by means of an AC test signal (which can be set manually
between 50mV and 1.5V). The test signal is induced in the
test item. This distinguishes a LCR bridge from a multime-
ter (DC measurement). Based on the measurement prin-
ciple, the measured impedance is always essential. Based
on the impedance (X axis) and the phase angel (angle), the
instrument is able to determine the missing value of the
Y axis. This means that it is not the DC component that is
being measured but rather the AC value. The issued values
are calculated digitally. This measurement of impedance
and phase angle is subject to a certain measurement inac-
curacy which will be described on the following pages.
In general, the HM8118 bridge can only determine the
ESR, ESC or ESL (= Equivalent Series Resistance / Capa-
city / Inductivity) according to the equivalent circuit dia-
The front panel ground connector and the ground contact of the
trigger input are directly connected to the mains safety ground
potential through the line cord. The outer contacts of the front
panel BNC connectors
20
–
23
(as well as the shields of any co-
axial cables attached) are connected to the GUARD potential
which has no connection to the safety ground! No external vol-
tages may be applied to the BNC connectors! The rear panel in-
terfaces
47
and
48
are galvanically isolated (no connection to
ground)!
gram of the component and is primarily used to measure
individual components. If a circuit with multiple compo-
nents is connected to the bridge, the instrument will al-
ways determine the ESR, ESC or ESL of the entire circuit
/ component group. This can potentially skew the measu-
rement result. The connected component / circuit is assu-
med to be the „Black Box“. These values are available for
each component; however, please keep in mind that these
always describe the result of multiple, possibly overlapping
individual capacities, inductances and impedances. This
can easily cause some misunderstandings especially with
coils (magnetic eld, eddy currents, hysteresis, etc.)
Fig. 4.4 shows the link between capacity Cs(or resistance
Rs) and various test voltages that can be selected with the
bridge (0.2Veff to 1.5Veff). As can be seen in the gure, the
measurement values of Csor Rsare highly dependent on
the selected test voltage. Point A shows the test point of
the instrument during the measurement of a single com-
ponent, point B shows the test point during the measu-
rement of a component group (in this case two capaci-
ties connected in parallel). In contrast to test point A, with
point B the bridge switches the measurement range due
to the impedance of the entire component group. As a re-
sult, the measurement results for point A and point B are
different.
The LCR bridge HM8118 is primarily intended to determine pas-
sive components. Therefore, it is not possible to determine test
objects which are externally supplied with power.
applied on the red terminal. The bias voltage works only
when the instrument on capacitance measurement
mode.
Measuring function selection
The desired test function is selected by push buttons (12)
and (14). The push button (12) gives access to the main
parameter (R, L or C), The push button (14) allows a
secondary parameter measurement (Q/D, impedance or
phase).
In order to measure D parameter the instrument needs at
first to be set to capacitance measurement mode, on the
other way, Q parameter will be displayed.
Auto-measurement function
The HM8018-2 is able to automatically determine the
component type in most cases. 3 different automatisms
exists: the automatic impedance range selection (see the
section « Auto-ranging»), the automatic mode
(series/parallel) selection (see the section « passive
components »), and the automatic function selection. These
three automatisms are simultaneously activated when the
instrument is set in automatic mode with the RANGE
AUTO key (7). Then the user can change function or mode
that disables their respective automatism. The manual range
selection disables the three automatisms.
When the instrument is on automatic mode the function
choice depends on the impedance module, phase angle as
well as the quality factor .The diagram below shows the
choice made by the instrument.
|Z| = 1000
Ω
Q = 500
D = 0,002
Q = 500
D = 0,002
D = 500
Q = 0,002
D = Q = 1
D = Q = 1
R
jX
D = 500
Q = 0,002
Calculation functions
Apart from displaying normal values as resistance, inductance or
capacitance, the HM8018-2 can display relative deviations and
percentages. It is not possible to use these calculation modes for
other functions than the three previous values. The deviations
and percentages are displayed in relation to the two stored values
A and B.
The procedure to obtain relative measurement is as follows:
1) Connect the component corresponding to the reference
value.
2) Store the value (memory A) by pressing on the STORE key,
then press the Akey.
3) Press on the Akey. The indicator -A lights up and the
display shows the value (Measure – A).
A direct percentage measurement is possible, it is only to use the
÷Bkey instead of the –A key in the previous procedure. Then the
instrument displays the value 100*Measure/B in %.
To obtain a deviation in % proceed as follows:
1) Connect the component corresponding to the reference
value.
Imaginary
Axis
below -- 45° = C
above 45° = L
Real
Axis
phase angle
Q = Quality factor
D = Loss tangent
D = 1 / Q
Q = 1 / D = 1 / tan delta
(delta = Opposite angle of the phase angle)
Fig. 4.3: Measurement principle

48
First-Time Operation
selected for this DUT, it will display in the center of the se-
lected range. Since the measurement error is dened as
a percentage of the measurement range nal value, the
measurement error in the higher range goes up nearly by
a factor of 2. Typically, the measurement error is increased
accordingly in the nearest higher measurement range. If a
component is removed from the test lead or measurement
adapter during a measuring process in the continuous
measurement mode, the automatically selected measure-
ment range and the automatically selected measurement
function can be adopted by switching to the manual mea-
surement range selection (RANGE HOLD). This allows the
measurement time during the measurement of many simi-
lar components to be reduced.
4.5.1 Example of determining the measurement
accuracy
The accuracy calculation is always based on the data sheet
table (see g. 4.5). To calculate the corresponding measu-
rement accuracy, the following component parameters are
required (component operating point):
❙Component impedance at corresponding measurement
frequency
❙The measurement frequency.
As an example, a 10pF capacitator with an impedance of
15 MΩ at 1 kHz will be measured. In this case, the top row
of the accuracy table is valid:
The accuracy decreases with the measurement voltage (test vol-
tage) because the signal / noise ratio decreases. Consequently,
this leads to additional instabilities. The accuracy decreases at
the same rate. If 0.5V is used as measurement voltage, for in-
stance, the base accuracy is one half.
Impedance: 100 MΩ
4 MΩ
20Hz 1kHz 10kHz 100 kHz
0,2% + I Z I / 1,5 GΩ
The actual measured series resistance includes all series
resistances such as the component leads and the resis-
tance of series-connected foils in capacitors as well as die-
lectric losses; it is expressed by the dissipation factor DF.
The equivalent series resistance (ESR) is frequency-depen-
dent according to the formula:
ESR = Rs = D/ωCs
where ω „Omega“ = 2 π f (circular frequency) represents.
Traditionally, the inductance of coils is measured in a series
circuit; however there are cases where a parallel circuit will
yield a better representation of the component. In small
„air“ coils mostly the ohmic or copper losses are predomi-
nant , hence the series circuit is the proper representation.
The core of coils with an iron or ferrite core may contribute
most of the losses, the parallel circuit is to prefer here.
4.5 Measurement Accuracy
The measurement of impedance and phase angle is prone
to a certain amount of inaccuracy. The measurement accu-
racy of a specic test point can be calculated based on the
accuracy table in the data sheet (see g. 4.5). Make sure
you know the impedance of the corresponding component
at the respective test point. No further information is requi-
red to calculate the accuracy. The base accuracy of 0.05%
as indicated in the data sheet pertains only to the base ac-
curacy of the HM8118 bridge. The base accuracy only indi-
cates the general measurement uncertainty of the instru-
ment. The accuracy table describes the measurement ac-
curacy that additionally has be taken into account.
The highest accuracy is ensured when the DUT value (=
Device Under Test) is approximately centered in the mea-
surement range. If the next highest measurement range is
Fig. 4.4: Example correlation Cs (or Rs) and test voltage
The resistance measurement always occurs in compliance with
the method to apply voltage (AC) and measure the resulting cur-
rent. The only difference to L or C is that the phase angle is ne-
arly 0° (real resistance). A resistance measurement with DC is
not intended.
Fig. 4.5: Table to determine the accuracy
Impedance: 100 MΩ
4 MΩ
1 MΩ
25 kΩ
100 Ω
2.5 Ω
0,01 mΩ
20Hz 1kHz 10kHz 100kHz
0.2% + I Z I / 1.5 GΩ
0.05% +
I Z I / 2 GΩ
0.1% +
I Z I / 1,5 GΩ
0.5% +
I Z I / 100 MΩ
0.2% +
I Z I / 100 MΩ
0.1% + 1 mΩ / I Z I
0.3% + 1 mΩ / I Z I
0.2% +
2 mΩ / I Z I
0.5% +
2 mΩ / I Z I
0.5% +
5 mΩ / I Z I
+
I Z I / 10 MΩ

49
Setting of Parameters
The values of the component set in into the formula:
The units will be adjusted once the component values
have been entered and the formula has been calculated
because the second addend is without unit:
For the 10pF component this leads to:
1.2% of 10pF is 0.12pF.
Based on the calculation the displayed value will be bet-
ween 10pF - 0.12pF = 9.88pF and 10pF + 0.12pF = 10.12pF.
15 MΩ
Accuracy@1kHz = 0,2% + 1,5 GΩ
15 x 106 Ω
Accuracy@1kHz = 0,2% + 1,5 x 109 Ω
15 Ω
Genauigkeit@1kHz = 0,2% +
1,5 x 103 Ω
15 Ω
Genauigkeit@1kHz = 0,2% + 1500 Ω
Genauigkeit@1kHz = 0,2% + 0,01
Accuracy@1kHz = 0,2% + 0,01 = 0,2 + (0,01 x 100%) = 0,2% + 1% = 1,2%
5 Setting of
Parameters
5.1 Selecting Values /Parameters
Each function and operating mode of the measuring ins-
trument can be selected with the keys on the front panel
of the instrument. Use the respective function key to se-
lect the measurement function. An active measurement
function is highlighted by an illuminated white LED. Subse-
quent settings refer to the selected measurement function.
To set parameters, three options are available:
❙Numeric keypad
❙Knob
❙Arrow keys
You can set the measuring instrument parameters by pres-
sing the SELECT key
3
and by using the menu functions
SETUP, CORR, SYST and BIN (will only be displayed with
an integrated binning interface HO118). Use the keys L-R/2
36
, C-D/3
34
, C-R/4
32
, R-Q/5
30
to select the sub menus
associated with the menu functions. Depending on the
function, you can set the respective measuring instrument
parameters by using the arrow keys
7
and the
knob
6
. Pressing the knob allows the user to modify the
corresponding measuring instrument parameters. This will
be indicated in the display by a blinking „E“ (Edit).
5.1.1 Knob with Arrow Keys
If you select the respective menu via arrow keys, you can
press the knob to activate the editing mode. If the editing
mode is active (blinking „E“ on the display), you can use
the knob to select the parameter or the input value. The
value input will be modied gradually, and the respective
input parameter will be set instantly. The nominal value is
increased by turning the knob to the right, and it is decrea-
sed by turning it to the left. Press the knob again to deacti-
vate the editing mode and to conrm the function slection.
Use the arrow keys to select the respective menu function.
5.1.2 Numeric Keypad
The easiest way to enter a value precisely and promptly is
to use the numeric keypad with numeric keys (0...9) and
the decimal point key. Once you have pressed the knob to
activate the editing mode, you can use the SELECT key
3
,
the ENTER key
25
or press the knob again to reactivate the
Fig. 5.1: Numeric keypad with function keys

50
Setting of Parameters
manual value input via numeric keypad. This opens a va-
lue entry window where you can enter the respective va-
lue by means of number pads (in addition to the corres-
ponding unit, depending on the measuring instrument pa-
rameter). After entering the value via keypad, conrm the
entry by pressing the ENTER key or by pressing the knob
again. Before conrming the parameter, you can delete the
value that has been entered incorrectly by pressing the
key. The ESC key allows you to cancel the operation to en-
ter parameters. This will close the editing window.
5.2 Selecting the Measurement Function
Out of nine measurement functions, the LCR bridge
HM8118 allows you to measure two parameters simultane-
ously and display them as measurement values. The rst
parameter refers to the „main measurement value display“
and the second parameter to the „secondary measure-
ment value display“. Depending on the connected compo-
nent, the following main and secondary measurement va-
lue displays can be shown:
L-Q
Inductance L and quality factor (quality) Q
L-R
Inductance L and resistance R
C-D
Capacity C and dissipation factor D
C-R
Capacity C and resistance R
R-Q
Resistance R and quality factor (quality) Q
Z- Θ
Apparent impedance (impedance) Z
and phase angle Θ
Y- Θ
Admittance Y and phase angle Θ
R-X
Resistance R and reactance X
G-B
Conductance G and susceptance B
N- Θ
Transformer ratio N and
Phase difference Θ
M
Transformer mutual inductance M
You can select the desired measurement function by pres-
sing the keys
29
to
39
.
In the automatic mode (key AUTO), the bridge switches
both the measurement function (key
28
-
39
) as well as the
internal equivalent circuit diagram of the measurement cir-
cuit appropriately to the measured values to serial (for in-
ductive loads) or to parallel (for capacitive loads).
6 Measurement
Value Display
The values measured with the LCR bridge HM8118 can be
shown on the LCD display in three different versions:
❙Measurement value
❙absolute measurement value deviation ∆ ABS or
❙relative measurement value deviation ∆ % (in percent).
Press the SELECT key
3
to use the SETUP and the set-
ting DEV_M (for the main measurement value display) and
DEV_S (for the secondary measurement value display) to
switch the measurement value display. If you select the
function DEV_M or DEV_S via arrow keys, you can press
the knob to activate the editing mode. If the editing mode
is active (blinking „E“ on the display), you can use the knob
to select the respective measurement value display. Press
the knob again to deactivate the editing mode and to con-
rm the function selection.
The main measurement value and the secondary measure-
ment value will be shown on the display including the de-
cimal point and the associated units. The resolution of the
main measurement value display (L, C, R, G, Z or Y) con-
sists of one, or two or three digits before the decimal point
and four, or three or ve digits after the decimal point. The
resolution of the secondary measurement value display (D,
Q, R, B, X or Θ) consists of one, or two or three digits be-
fore the decimal point and four, or three or ve digits af-
ter the decimal point. The depiction OVERRANGE will be
shown on the display if the measurement value is located
outside the set measurement range.
6.1 Relative Measurement Value Deviation ∆ %
(#, %)
The # symbol in front of a measurement value and the %
symbol following a measurement value indicate that the
relative measurement value deviation ∆ % (in percent) of
the measured L, C, R, G, Z or Y measurement value, or of
the D, Q, R, B, X or Θ measurement value of a stored mea-
surement value (reference value) is displayed.
6.2 Absolute Measurement Value Deviation ∆ ABS
(#)
The # symbol in front of a measurement value indicates
that the absolute measurement value deviation ∆ ABS of
the measured value, similarly to ∆ %, of the stored mea-
If the bridge shows a negative value on the display, make sure to
check the measurement frequency, the measurement voltage and
possibly the phase angle of the component. For instance, if the
phase angle of a capacitator is close to 90°, it could result in a
negative display value due to the measurement accuracy. For in-
stance, negative values may occur for coils with cores (erroneous
measurement due to magnetization).

51
Setting of Parameters
surement value (reference value) is displayed. The measu-
rement value deviation is shown in the appropriate units
(Ohm, Henry, etc.).
6.3 Reference Value (REF_M, REF_S)
The menu function REF_M or REF_S enables the user
to enter a reference value which will be used as a basis
for the measurement result ∆ % or ∆ ABS. Press the SE-
LECT key
3
to use the SETUP menu function and the set-
ting REF_M (for the main measurement value display) and
REF_S (for the secondary measurement value display) to
enter a reference value each. The applicable units will be
selected automatically depending on the selected measu-
rement function for the main measurement value display
(H, F, Ω or S) or for the secondary measurement value dis-
play (Ω, S or °). You can enter a reference value numerically
with up to ve digits after the decimal point. Alternatively,
you can press the TRIG key
27
to perform a measurement,
and the resulting measurement value will be adopted as
reference value.
6.4 Selecting the Measurement Range
The measurement range can be selected automatically or
manually. In some cases, it is useful to lock the automa-
tic measurement range function as it can take a complete
measurement cycle to determine the appropriate measure-
ment range. This can also be useful when switching similar
components. The bridge HM8118 automatically switches
to the measurement range 6 and subsequently back to the
adequate measurement range if a component has been
connected to the instrument. If the automatic measure-
ment range function has been locked and the impedance
of a component equals more than 100 times the nominal
value of the measurement range, the bridge will display an
OVERRANGE measurement error. In this case, it is neces-
sary to select a suitable measurement range for the mea-
surement. Press the AUTO/HOLD key
17
to switch bet-
ween the automatic and the manual measurement range
selection.
6.4.1 Automatic range selection (AUTO)
If the automatic measurement range function is activated,
the bridge automatically selects the most suitable mea-
surement range for an exact measurement in accordance
with the connected component. The instrument will switch
to the next measurement range level below if the measure-
ment value is smaller than 22.5% of the selected measure-
ment range or 90% higher than the end value of the mea-
surement range. An integrated switching hysteresis of ap-
proximately 10% prevents the instrument from constantly
switching the measurement range if the measurement va-
lue is close to the switching threshold of a measurement
range. The following table shows the switching thresholds
for switching the measurement range (if the constant vol-
tage CST V is switched off):
Measurement Range Component Impedance
1 to 2 Z > 3.00 Ω
2 to 3 Z > 100.00 Ω
3 to 4 Z > 1.60 kΩ
4 to 5 Z > 25.00 kΩ
5 to 6 Z > 1.00 MΩ
2 to 1 Z < 2.70 Ω
3 to 2 Z < 90.00Ω
4 to 3 Z < 1.44kΩ
5 to 4 Z < 22.50kΩ
6 to 5 Z < 900.00kΩ
6.4.2 Manual Measurement Range Selection
The bridge HM8118 includes 6 measurement ranges (1–6).
The measurement ranges can be preselected manually or
automatically. The following table indicates the source re-
sistance and the impedance of the connected component
for each measurement range. The specied ranges are im-
pedance ranges, not resistance ranges. Capacitators or in-
ductances are frequency-dependent components.
Measure-
ment range Source Impedance Component Impedance
125.0 Ω 10.0 µΩ bis 3.0 Ω
225.0 Ω 3.0 Ω bis 100.0 Ω
3400.0 Ω 100.0 Ω bis 1.6 kΩ
46.4 kΩ 1.6 kΩ bis 25.0 kΩ
5100.0 kΩ 25.0 kΩ bis 2.0 MΩ
6100.0 kΩ 2.0 MΩ bis 100.0 MΩ
Additionally, the impedance of capacitators is inversely
proportionate to the frequency. Therefore, larger capaci-
tators will be measured in the lower impedance measure-
ment ranges. Consequently, the measurement range for
any given component may change as the measurement
frequency changes. If you wish to measure multiple si-
milar components, it is possible to shorten the measure-
ment time by using the AUTO/HOLD
17
key to switch from
the automatic measurement range selection to the manual
measurement range selection with the DUT (= Device Un-
der Test) connected. The AUTO/HOLD key will no longer
be illuminated. It is recommended to primarily use the ma-
During the measurement of an inductance in the AUTO mode, it
may occur that the HM8118 is constantly changing the measure-
ment range. This is based on the fact that the source impedance
is dependent on the selected measurement range so that after
switching the measurement range, the newly measured value is
outside the range of the 10% hysteresis. In this case, it is recom-
mended to use the manual measurement range selection.
The LCR bridge HM8118 does not create a 50Ω system. Instead,
it changes its internal resistance dependent on measurement
function and measurement range. Every cable shows losses and
distorts the original measurement result because of inductive and
capacitive properties (particularly because of its length).
The input impedance changes dependent on the selected
measurement range and the connect load impedance between
25Ω and 100kΩ.

52
Instrument Functions
nual measurement range selection for high-precision mea-
surements to prevent potential measurement errors due to
incorrect use and other uncertainties. Whenever possible,
make sure to perform measurements with the automatic
measurement range selection activated.
Use the function RNG in the SETUP menu to activate the
manual measurement range selection. Press the knob to
activate the editing mode. You can then press the knob
to select the manual measurement range. If the manual
measurement range selection is activated, you can use the
UP
18
key to manually switch to a higher measurement
range. Press the DOWN
19
key to manually switch to a lo-
wer measurement range.
6.5 Circuit Type
If the automatic circuit type selection is activated (by pres-
sing the AUTO
14
key), the LCR bridge HM8118 will auto-
matically select the circuit type (serial or parallel) that is
best suited for the precise measurement, according to the
connected component. It is also possible to select the cir-
cuit type manually (by pressing the SER
15
key for serial, or
by pressing the PAR
16
key for parallel).
The circuit type displays the equivalent circuit diagram of
the measurement circuit. Typically, the inductance of coils
is measured in serial mode. However, for certain situations
the parallel equivalent circuit diagram may be better suited
to measure physical components. For instance, this is the
case for coils with iron core which most signicantly expe-
rience core losses. If the most signicant losses are ohmic
losses or losses in the connecting wires of wired compo-
nents, a serial circuit would be better suited as equivalent
circuit diagram for the measurement circuit. In the auto-
matic mode, the bridge selects the serial equivalent circuit
diagram for impedances below 1kΩ and the parallel equi-
valent circuit diagram for impedance above 1kΩ.
7 Instrument
Functions
Press the SELECT key to open the main menu. The main
menu enables you to access the submenus SETUP, CORR
and SYST via numeric keypad.
7.1 SETUP Menu
7.1.1 Measurement Frequency FRQ
The LCR bridge HM8118 includes a measurement fre-
quency range from 20Hz to 200 kHz (in 69 increments)
with a base accuracy of 100 ppm. The 69 increments of the
measurement frequency range are as follows:
Measurement Frequencies
20Hz 90Hz 500Hz 2.5kHz 12kHz 72kHz
24Hz 100Hz 600Hz 3.0kHz 15kHz 75kHz
25Hz 120Hz 720Hz 3.6kHz 18kHz 80kHz
30Hz 150Hz 750Hz 4.0kHz 20kHz 90kHz
36Hz 180Hz 800Hz 4.5kHz 24kHz 100kHz
40Hz 200Hz 900Hz 5.0kHz 25kHz 120kHz
45Hz 240Hz 1.0kHz 6.0kHz 30kHz 150kHz
50Hz 250Hz 1.2kHz 7.2kHz 36kHz 180kHz
60Hz 300Hz 1.5kHz 7.5kHz 40kHz 200kHz
72Hz 360Hz 1.8kHz 8.0kHz 45kHz
75Hz 400Hz 2.0kHz 9.0kHz 50kHz
80Hz 450Hz 2.4kHz 10kHz 60kHz
You can set the measurement frequency either in the SE-
TUP menu via FRQ or via FREQ
8
key by means of the
knob
6
or the keys
7
. If the automatic measu-
rement range selection is activated (AUTO
17
) and the im-
pedance exceeds a value of 1000 Ω, a change in the mea-
surement frequency may result in a change in circuit type
(serial or parallel). In case of high impedances and a power
frequency of 50Hz/60 Hz, a measurement frequency of
100Hz/120Hz may result in an instable measurement va-
lue display due to interferences with the power frequency.
Therefore, depending on the power frequency, it will be
necessary to select a different measurement frequency.
7.1.2 Voltage LEV
Fig. 7.1: Menu function SETUP display

53
Instrument Functions
The LCR bridge HM8118 generates a sinusoidal measure-
ment AC voltage between 50mVeff and 1.5Veff with a re-
solution of 10 mVeff. You can set the measurement AC vol-
tage either in the SETUP menu via LEV or via LEVEL
9
key by means of the knob
6
or the arrow keys
7
. You can select the decimal point to be changed via ar-
row keys. Using the SETUP menu additionally provides
you with the option to select the measurement AC voltage
by means of the numeric keypad. The amplitude accuracy
is ±5 %. This voltage is applied to the component through
a source resistance. Depending on the impedance of the
connected component, the source resistance may auto-
matically be selected in accordance with the following ta-
ble. The source resistance is dependent on the selected
measurement range.
Component Impedance Source Resistance
10.0 µΩ to 3.0 Ω 2 5 . 0 Ω
3.0 Ω to 100.0 Ω 25 . 0 Ω
100.0 Ω to 1.6 kΩ 400.0 Ω
1.6 kΩ to 25.0 kΩ 6 . 4 k Ω
25.0 kΩ to 2.0 MΩ 100.0 kΩ
2.0 MΩ to 100.0 MΩ 100.0 kΩ
7.1.3 Preload/ Bias Current BIAS
To permit a forecast on how a component will behave in
the circuit at a later point, you can preset a DC BIAS which
corresponds to the subsequent supply voltage (current).
The BIAS function offers the option to overlap a DC with
the AC measurement range voltage. Components such as
electrolytic or tantalum capacitors require a positive
preload for an accurate measurement. An internal preload
of 0 to +5VDC with a resolution of 10 mV or an external
preload of 0 up to +40VDC / 0.5A through an external
power supply (instrument back panel) allow reality-orien-
ted measurements (function C-R / C-D). Additionally, the
The constant voltage (CST V function) must be switched on for
measurements with bias current or external preload.
Fig. 7.2: Constant voltage CST_V activated
Is is necessary to unload coils before removing them, i.e.after
switching off the bias current, it is required to wait for the coils
to discharge before the component is disconnected from the
measuring instrument. During the discharge, "Please wait...“ is
shown in the LCD display. The bias current (BIAS) is only availa-
ble for the inductance measurement.
internal preload helps measurements on semiconductor
components.
For measurements of inductances, (function L-R / L-Q),
only an internal bias current is available which can be set
from 0 to +200mA (DC) with a resolution of 1mA. An ex-
ternal bias current is not possible in this case.
Use the BIAS
10
key to select the value for the preload or
the bias current. Press the BIAS key again after entering
the value to complete the process. You can use the knob
6
and the arrow keys
7
(decimal point) to se-
lect the amount of the preload / bias current. You can acti-
vate the internal preload or bias current (BIAS) by pressing
the BIAS /
26
key. If the preload or bias current is ac-
tivated, the BIAS / key will be illuminated. By pressing
the BIAS / key again, the preload / bias current will be
deactivated and the key will no longer be illuminated.
Example for internal BIAS preload:
In this example, a 1000µF (20V) electrolytic capacitator
was measured with a measurement voltage of 5kHz. The
C-R mode is activated as function and the BIAS
10
key is
used via knob
6
or arrow keys
7
(decimal point)
to select the value for the internal preload. The BIAS /
26
is used to activate the internal BIAS preload.
Example for external BIAS preload:
The error message "DCR too high“ indicates that the resistance
of the connected DUT is too high for the selected bias current. In
this case, the bias current cannot be activated.
Unipolar capacitators must be connected with the correct pola-
rity, i.e. the positive capacitator pole must be connected to the
left contact and the negative pole to the right contact. The pre-
load (BIAS) is only available for the capacity measurement.
Fig. 7.3: Internal BIAS preload
Fig. 7.4: Connectors for external BIAS preload

54
Instrument Functions
Contrary to the internal preload, in this example an exter-
nal DC preload is generated on the HM8118 back panel.
Component and measurement mode are identical to the
example with the internal preload. The external DC preload
is generated for the HM8118 by a power supply unit (here:
Hameg HMP2020) in this example. The voltage is applied
to the power supply unit at 20V and the current is limited
to 250mA.
The C-R mode is also activated as function and the BIAS
10
key is used via knob
6
or arrow keys
7
(de-
cimal point) to select the voltage value. Press the BIAS
MODE
24
key to select the EXT (= external) function via
knob. Use the BIAS /
26
key to activate the external
BIAS preload.
Example for internal bias current BIAS:
The process for an internal bias current is similar to that
for an internal preload. In this case, the L-R or L-Q function
is selected and any given inductance is connected to the
bridge. Use the BIAS
10
key via knob
6
or the arrow keys
7
(decimal point) to select the value for the in-
ternal bias current. The BIAS /
26
key is used to acti-
vate the internal BIAS bias current.
Fig. 7.7 shows an example for a typical waveform of a bias
current that is adjustable to a maximum value in connec-
tion with a connected load.
Fig. 7.5: Activate external BIAS preload
Fig. 7.6: Activate external BIAS preload
7.1.4 Measurement Range RNG
The measurement range can be selected automatically or
manually. If the measurement range is changed, the inter-
nal measurement circuit (replacement circuit) will be mo-
died and internal relays will be switched. Therefore, a
change in the measurement range depends on multiple
factors, such as phase angle, impedance, measured va-
lue, etc.
The measurement range can be set manually via knob
6
in the range of 3 Ω to 500 kΩ. In the SETUP menu, use the
arrow keys
7
to select the RNG function, press
the knob (editing mode) and select the desired measure-
ment range via knob. Press the knob again to conrm the
selected value. Use the AUTO/HOLD key to then switch
between automatic (AUTO/HOLD key is illuminated) and
manual measurement range selection.
7.1.5 Measurement Speed SPD
The measurement speed can be set in three increments:
❙SLOW (slow),
❙MED (medium)
❙FAST (fast).
In the SETUP menu, use the arrow keys
7
to
select the SPD function to set the measurement speed,
press the knob
6
(editing mode) and select the measure-
ment speed via knob. Press the knob again to conrm the
selection.
The number of measurements for a continuous triggering
(CONT) is approximately 1.5 per second at the SLOW set-
ting, 8 per second at MED or 14 per second at FAST. The
Fig. 7.7: Maximum setting for bias current in connection with the
connected load (typical waveform)
If the measuring instrument permanently toggles between two
measurement ranges (limit of the automatic measurement range)
or if the component to be measured is known, select the manual
measurement range selection (see chapter 6).

55
Instrument Functions
setting is a compromise between measurement accu-
racy and measurement speed. A low measurement speed
(SLOW) implies a higher measurement accuracy, corre-
spondingly a high measurement speed (FAST) implies a
low measurement accuracy. For very low measurement
frequencies, the measurement speed is automatically
reduced.
7.1.6 Triggering TRIG
The trigger source and trigger operating mode can be se-
lected here. The following trigger operating modes and
trigger sources are available:
❙CONT (continuous trigger):
A new measurement is automatically performed at the
end of a previous measurement.
❙MAN (manual trigger):
A measurement is performed when the TRIG / UNIT key
27
is pressed. The activated manual trigger function will
be marked as TGM on the screen.
❙EXT (external trigger):
A measurement is performed when a rising slope is
applied to the external trigger input (TTL level +5V).
During a measurement, all potential signals at the trigger
input will be ignored until the current measurement has
been fully completed. If a measurement is triggered, the
TRIG key
27
will be illuminated. The activated external trig-
ger function will be marked as TGE on the screen. A
single measurement will be performed for each tirggered
triggering.
7.1.7 DELAY Function
The DELAY function denes the trigger delay time. It can
be set anywhere between 0ms and 40000ms (40s). In the
SETUP menu, use the arrow keys
7
to select
the DELAY function to set the trigger delay time, press the
knob
6
(editing mode) and select the desired trigger de-
lay time via knob. By pressing the knob again, you can ac-
tivate the manual value input via numeric keypad. A va-
lue input window will be opened. You can use the numeric
keys to enter a value. After entering the value via keypad,
conrm the entry by pressing the ENTER key or by pres-
sing the knob again.
7.1.8 Average Value AVG
When the function AVG Average Value is activated, seve-
ral individual measurements will be used to form a mean
value according to the set period. To determine the num-
ber of measurement periods to form the mean value, in the
SETUP menu, use the arrow keys
7
to select the
AVG function, press the knob
6
(editing mode) and select
the desired average by mean. By pressing the knob again,
you can activate the manual value input via numeric key-
pad. A value input window will be opened. You can use
the numeric keys to enter a value. After entering the va-
If the measuring instrument shows a blank screen (i.e. lines "- -
-“) without measurement values, no trigger event / measurement
has been triggered or the selected measurement function has
been selected incorrectly.
lue via keypad, conrm the entry by pressing the ENTER
key or by pressing the knob again. The number of mea-
surement periods for the averaging measurement can be
set between 2 and 99 or to MED (medium). The MED (me-
dium) setting is the medium averaging mode. The bridge
HM8118 performs 6 consecutive measurements, rejects
the lowest and highest measurement values and generates
an average based on the four remaining measurements.
This type of averaging hides individual erroneous measu-
rements. If the averaging function is activated, the symbol
„AVG“ will be shown in the display. The averaging func-
tion can also be used for a manual or external triggering.
However, the number of measurements per triggered trig-
gering will be determined by the set number of averages
(periods).
For instance, if a component is integrated in a measure-
ment adapter, the rst measurement generally is errone-
ous and differs greatly from all subsequent measurements.
Therefore, the rst erroneous measurement is rejected to
prevent an erroneous display of measurement values by
measuring transient processes.
7.1.9 Display of Test Signal Level
Vm (Measurement Voltage) / Im (Measurement
Current):
Use the function Vm/Imto turn the display for the voltage
that is measured at the connected component as well as
the display of the measured current that ows through the
connected component on (ON) and off (OFF). In the SE-
TUP menu, use the arrow keys
7
to select the
Vm/Imfunction, press the knob (editing mode) and activate
or deactivate the function via knob. Press the knob again
to conrm the selection.
7.1.10 Guarding GUARD
It the GUARD function is activated, the shield covers for
the BNC connectors
20
...
23
will be connected to an inter-
nal generator and supplied with a reproduction of the mea-
surement voltage. Within certain limits, this eliminates the
cable capacity which would otherwise result in erroneous
capacity measurements. The GUARD function is applied
for low voltages.
The following settings options are available:
❙OFF (off):
Guarding is not used; the shield cover for the BNC
connectors will be connected with ground potential.
❙DRIVE (controlled):
The shield cover for the BNC connectors will be
connected to the LOW DRIVE potential via internal
generator.
❙AUTO (automatic):
For frequencies below 100 kHz and for measurement
ranges 1 to 4, the external contacts of the BNC
connectors are connected with ground potential; for
frequencies above 100kHz and measurement ranges 5 or
6, the external contacts of the BNC connectors are
connected with an active protective voltage source (for
the potential control).

56
Instrument Functions
In the SETUP menu, use the arrow keys
7
to se-
lect the GUARD function, press the knob
6
(editing mode)
and select the desired setting via knob. Press the knob
again to conrm the selection.
The HM8118 GUARD function is not comparable to
the 4TP function (= Four Terminal Pair) of other measu-
ring instrument manufacturers. For the 4TP function, the
measurement current is returned through the test lead
shield. The electromagnetic radiation of the supply and re-
turn conductor nearly override each other which for the
most part resolves the issue of electromagnetic coupling.
This does not work for the Kelvin test lead provided with
the HM8118, as this is not properly converted (the shields
would have to be short-circuited preferably close to the
test point). The HM8118 uses a 5 terminal conguration /
5T and does not support the 4TP function.
7.1.11 Deviation DEV_M
You can use the DEV_M function to turn on or off (OFF)
the display of the measurement deviation of the main dis-
play (Main) in Δ % (percent) or Δ ABS (absolute) as applied
to the reference value REF_M. In the SETUP menu, use the
arrow keys
7
to select the DEV_M function to
set the display for the measurement deviation, press the
knob
6
(editing mode) and select the desired setting via
knob. Press the knob again to conrm the selection. For
more information about the measurement value deviation,
see chapter 6.
7.1.12 Reference REF_M
You can use the REF_M function to save the measure-
ment value as a reference value in the reference memory
M (Main). You can choose one of the following as unit
for the measurement value: H, mH, µH, nH, F, mF, µF, nF,
pF, Ω, mΩ, kΩ, MΩ, or S, kS, mS, µS, nS, pS. In the SE-
TUP menu, use the arrow keys
7
to select the
REF_M function to set the reference value, press the knob
6
(editing mode) and select the desired reference value
via knob. By pressing the knob again, you can activate the
manual value input via numeric keypad. A value input win-
dow will be opened. You can use the numeric keys to en-
ter a value. After entering the value via keypad, conrm the
entry by pressing the ENTER key or by pressing the knob
again. As long as this eld is activated, you can also use
the TRIG key
27
to accept the value of the DUT (= Device
Under Test). For more information about the reference va-
lue, see chapter 6.
7.1.13 Deviation DEV_S
You can use the DEV_S function to turn on or off (OFF) the
display of the secondary value display (Sub) in Δ % (per-
cent) or Δ ABS (absolute) as applied to the reference value
It is recommended to use the GUARD function if measurement
adapters with high capacity (e.g. HZ184) are used. If the DUT ex-
hibits impedances of more than 25kΩ at frequencies of more than
100kHz, is is also recommended to use the GUARD function.
REF_S. In the SETUP menu, use the arrow keys
7
to select the DEV_S function to set the display for the
measurement deviation, press the knob
6
(editing mode)
and select the desired setting via knob. Press the knob
again to conrm the selection. For more information about
the measurement value deviation, see chapter 6.
7.1.14 Reference REF_S
You can save a measurement value of the dissipation fac-
tor or the quality factor (quality) as reference value in the
reference memory S. You can choose one of the following
as unit for the measurement value: Ω, mΩ, kΩ, MΩ, S,
kS, mS, µS, nS, pS or °. In the SETUP menu, use the ar-
row keys
7
to select the REF_M function to
set the reference value, press the knob
6
(editing mode)
and select the desired reference value via knob. By pres-
sing the knob again, you can activate the manual value in-
put via numeric keypad. A value input window will be ope-
ned. You can use the numeric keys to enter a value. After
entering the value via keypad, conrm the entry by pres-
sing the ENTER key or by pressing the knob again. As long
as this eld is activated, you can also use the TRIG key
27
to accept the value of the DUT (= Device Under Test). For
more information about the reference value, see chapter 6.
7.1.15 CONSTANT VOLTAGE CST V
The CST V function allows you to turn the constant voltage
(AC) on (ON) or off (OFF). Due to the source resistance,
some test require the use of a specic measurement vol-
tage which is not possible with the regular source resis-
tance of the respective measurement range. In the SETUP
menu, use the arrow keys
7
to select the CST V
function to activate the constant voltage, press the knob
6
(editing mode) and select the desired setting via knob.
Press the knob again to conrm the selection.
If the constant voltage is activated (ON), the source
resistance is preset to 25 Ω. The voltage applied to the
component will be nearly constant for all components
whose impedance is substantially greater than 25 Ω. If the
constant voltage mode is activated for the bridge, the
measurement range changes (depending on the
impedance of the connected component) to prevent
overloading the bridge. However, the accuracy is reduced
by the factor of 2 in the constant voltage mode. The
following table shows the impedance measurement
ranges when the constant voltage mode is activated (CST
V ON):
The constant voltage (CST V function) must be switched on for
measurements with BIAS bias current or external BIAS preload.
Measure-
ment Range Source Resistance Component Impedance
125 Ω 10.0 µΩ to 3.0 Ω
225 Ω 3.0 Ω to 100.0 Ω
325 Ω 100.0 Ω to 1.6 kΩ
425 Ω 1.6 kΩ to 25.0 kΩ
525 Ω 25.0 kΩ to 2.0 MΩ
625 Ω 2.0 MΩ to 100.0 MΩ