Kistler 5018A Series User manual

Instruction
Manual
Charge Amplifier
Type 5018A...
ä
5018A_002-490e-06.23

Foreword
5018A_002-490e-06.23 Page 1
Foreword
Thank you for choosing a Kistler quality product
characterized by technical innovation, precision and long
life.
Information in this document is subject to change without
notice. Kistler reserves the right to change or improve its
products and make changes in the content without
obligation to notify any person or organization of such
changes or improvements.
© 2010 … 2023 Kistler Group. Kistler Group products are
protected by various intellectual property rights. For more
details visit www.kistler.com. The Kistler Group includes
Kistler Holding AG and all its subsidiaries in Europe, Asia,
the Americas and Australia.
Kistler Group
Eulachstraße 22
8408 Winterthur
Switzerland
Tel. [phone]
[email protected]
www.kistler.com

Charge Amplifier Type 5018A...
Page 2 5018A_002-490e-06.23
Content
1.Introduction ................................................................................................................................... 4
2.Important Guidelines ..................................................................................................................... 6
2.1For your Safety..................................................................................................................... 6
2.2Unpack................................................................................................................................. 7
2.3Transportation and Storage .................................................................................................. 7
2.4Supply Voltage Select........................................................................................................... 8
2.5Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC)................................................................................... 8
2.6Tips for Using this Manual.................................................................................................... 9
2.7Accessories Included........................................................................................................... 10
2.8Optional Accessories .......................................................................................................... 10
2.9Manual Nomenclature........................................................................................................ 11
2.10 Units of Measure................................................................................................................ 12
2.11Piezoelectric Measurement Concept................................................................................... 13
2.12Drift Compensation of the Piezoelectric Amplifier Type 5018A…....................................... 17
2.13PiezoSmart Automatic Sensor Identification ....................................................................... 18
2.14Automatic Operating Data Acquisition – Updating for Piezoelectric Sensors ...................... 19
2.15Disposal Instruments for Electrical and Electronic Equipment.............................................. 20
2.16Software Upgrades and Updates........................................................................................ 20
3.Functional Description ................................................................................................................. 21
3.1Block Diagram.................................................................................................................... 22
3.2Amplifier Unit..................................................................................................................... 23
3.3Control Unit ....................................................................................................................... 24
3.4Power Supply Unit ............................................................................................................. 25
3.5The Measuring Chain ......................................................................................................... 25
4.Assembly, Installation and Operation.......................................................................................... 26
4.1User Interface..................................................................................................................... 26
4.2Connections ....................................................................................................................... 27
4.3Connecting the Instrument................................................................................................. 29
4.4Instrument Operation......................................................................................................... 31
4.4.1Display and Main Menu..................................................................................................... 31
4.4.2Menu Operation ................................................................................................................ 32
4.4.3Select Language ................................................................................................................. 32
4.4.4Set Numerical Values.......................................................................................................... 32
4.5Step by Step Measuring Guidance...................................................................................... 33
4.5.1Cylinder Pressure Measurement ......................................................................................... 33
4.6Software............................................................................................................................. 37
5.Instrument operation ................................................................................................................... 38
5.1Contrast Setting ................................................................................................................. 38
5.2Lock/Unlock Settings ......................................................................................................... 38
5.3Measuring Range ............................................................................................................... 38
5.3.1Stepwise Range Setting...................................................................................................... 39
5.3.2Variable Range Setting....................................................................................................... 39
5.4Sensor Sensitivity unit......................................................................................................... 39
5.5Sensor Sensitivity value ...................................................................................................... 40
5.6Voltage Output Scaling ...................................................................................................... 40
5.7TEDS/Sensor Identification PiezoSmart............................................................................... 41
5.8TEDS Sensor Data and Reference Temperature .................................................................. 41
5.9Display of active Drift Compensation ................................................................................. 42

Content
5018A_002-490e-06.23 Page 3
5.10Low-Pass Filter....................................................................................................................42
5.11High-Pass Filter ...................................................................................................................43
5.12Display of measuring value .................................................................................................43
5.13Mechanical Unit..................................................................................................................44
6.Additional menus .........................................................................................................................45
6.1Function Key Definition ......................................................................................................45
6.2Control Measuring Cycle ....................................................................................................45
6.3Zero Error Adjustment.........................................................................................................46
6.4Store and Recall Instrument Settings...................................................................................47
6.5Signal dispaly ......................................................................................................................48
6.6Demo Mode .......................................................................................................................48
6.7Select Language..................................................................................................................48
6.8Display of Instrument Information ......................................................................................49
6.9Messages ............................................................................................................................49
6.10Communication RS-232C/USB Interface.............................................................................51
6.11TEDS Options/Scan Options ...............................................................................................54
6.12TEDS Options/Set Default ..................................................................................................55
7.Technical Data ..............................................................................................................................56
7.1Charge Input.......................................................................................................................56
7.2Voltage/Piezotron Input......................................................................................................56
7.3Voltage Output...................................................................................................................57
7.4Frequency Response ...........................................................................................................57
7.4.1Time constant (Short/Medium)...........................................................................................58
7.4.2Time constant (Long) ..........................................................................................................58
7.4.3Drift Compensation (DrCo).................................................................................................58
7.4.4Low-pass Filter....................................................................................................................59
7.5Remote Control ..................................................................................................................61
7.6Data Communication..........................................................................................................62
7.7Power Supply Connection...................................................................................................63
7.8Environmental Data ............................................................................................................64
8.Maintenance and Diagnosis .........................................................................................................66
8.1Precautions .........................................................................................................................66
8.2Causes of Drift ....................................................................................................................66
8.3Testing and Calibration .......................................................................................................68
8.3.1Instrument Test...................................................................................................................68
8.3.2Calibration ..........................................................................................................................68
8.3.3Kistler Calibration Service....................................................................................................69
8.4Loading New Firmware.......................................................................................................69
8.5Fuse Replacement ...............................................................................................................70
8.6Remote Control Connection ...............................................................................................71
8.7RS-232C Cable ...................................................................................................................72
8.8Extended Instruction Record of the RS-232C/USB Interfaces..............................................73
8.9Event Messages ..................................................................................................................76
8.9.1Message format..................................................................................................................76
8.9.2Event messager from measure card.....................................................................................77
8.9.3Event messager from CPU ..................................................................................................77
9.Declaration of Conformity Type 5018A… ....................................................................................78
Index 79

Charge Amplifier Type 5018A...
Page 4 5018A_002-490e-06.23
1. Introduction
By choosing this Kistler quality product you have opted for
an instrument distinguished by technical innovation
precision and long life.
To the extent permitted by law Kistler does not accept any
liability if this instruction manual is not followed or
products other than those listed under Accessories are
used.
The amplifier Type 5018A... is an universal Charge
Amplifier with a liquid-crystal display. The technology
employed allows simple operation and offers many useful
functions in piezoelectric measurement. This instrument is
designed as successor to the well-known Charge Amplifier
Type 5011B..., and for use in research, development and
laboratory. As a 19"-rack module, however, it is also
suitable for measurements in an industrial environment. Its
impressive features are excellent technical specifications
and simplicity of operation.
The most important performance features at a glance:
Single-channel charge amplifier
Measuring range ±2 ... ±2 200 000 pC
Drift Compensation (DrCo) for engine combustion
applications
Multiple extended low pass filters
Communication interfaces USB and RS-232C
Dual mode with Piezotron input (option)
Sensor Identification PiezoSmart (option)
Automatic storage of sensor operating time and
working cycles*
Compatible to all former Charge Amplifiers including
Type 5011B…
Menu-driven user interface
*when using PiezoSmart sensors
Please study this instruction manual carefully so that you
can use the versatile characteristics of your new Charge
Amplifier to its best advantage.
Kistler offers a wide range of products for use in measuring
technology:
Quartz crystal sensors for force, torque, strain, pressure,
acceleration, shock, vibration and acoustic emission
Piezoresistive pressure sensors and transmitters
Signal conditioners, indicators and calibrators
Electronic control and monitoring systems as well as
application-specific software for measuring technology

Introduction
5018A_002-490e-06.23 Page 5
Kistler also develops and produces measuring solutions for
the application fields engines, vehicles, manufacturing,
plastics and biomechanics.
Our product and application brochures will provide you
with an overview of our product range.
If there are particular questions which you still want to
raise after studying this manual, the worldwide Kistler
customer service is available to you. The Kistler sales
centres are competent to advise you on problems in
particular applications.

Charge Amplifier Type 5018A...
Page 6 5018A_002-490e-06.23
2. Important Guidelines
It is essential for you to study the following information,
compliance with which is for your personal safety when
working with the Charge Amplifier and will ensure its long-
term, fault-free operation.
2.1 For your Safety
This system is built and tested in accordance with the
safety requirements for electronic measuring equipment
(EN Publication 61010-1); leaving the factory in perfect
condition and securely tested. In order to maintain this
condition and to ensure hazard-free operation, the user
must comply with the information and warning notes
contained in this manual and/or imprinted on the instru-
ment.
Compliance with local safety regulations which apply to
the use of power line operated electrical and electronic
equipment is recommended.
If there is evidence that safe operation is no longer
possible, the instrument must be shut off and made safe
against accidental start-up. Safe operation is no longer
possible,
if the instrument shows visible signs of damage,
if the instrument is no longer functioning,
after lengthy storage under unsuitable conditions,
after rough transport conditions.
If safe operation is no longer guaranteed as a result of the
reasons listed above, the instrument must be returned
immediately to the Kistler distributor for repair.
When opening covers or removing parts, except where this
is possible by hand, live parts may be exposed if the device
remains connected.
The instrument must be disconnected from all power
supplies before undertaking any alignment, maintenance,
repairs or exchange of parts.
Wherever possible, no alignment, maintenance or repair
work should be carried out on exposed live equipment. If,
nevertheless, work of this kind cannot be avoided, it must
be carried out only by a qualified technician, who is aware
of the dangers involved.

Important Guidelines
5018A_002-490e-06.23 Page 7
Any interru
p
tion to the grounding conductor inside
or outside the instrument or disconnection of the
ground wire connection can make the instrument
dangerous. Intentional interruption is not permitted!
The power plug must be plugged only into a socket
outlet with a grounding contact. The protective
effect must not be cancelled by the use of an
extension cable which has no a ground wire
connection.
Defective fuses must be replaced only with the
corresponding types with the specified current rating
(refer to Sections 2.4 and 7.7). The use of "repaired"
fuses or the short-circuiting of the fuse holder is not
permitted.
The grounding screw underneath the instrument
connects the power plug ground with the case. It
must not be removed.
2.2 Unpack
Please check all instrument packaging for any damage
sustained during transport. Report any such damage to the
transporters and to your Kistler distributor.
Before you get started, please check that your Charge
Amplifier package includes the items listed in Section 2.7. If
any parts are missing, contact your Kistler distributor
immediately.
2.3 Transportation and Storage
If the instrument is to be transported or stored for a
lengthy period, the following safety precautions must be
taken:
The temperature must remain within the range of
–10 C and 60 C.
All interface connectors (BNC and TRIAX) must be
covered with a dust cover which does not cause short-
circuits.
Ensure that no dirt can enter the instrument.
The environment should be as dry as possible and free
of vibrations.
Store the instrument so that no pressure is placed on
either the front or back panel.
The instrument should be stored in its original
packaging during any period when it is not in use.

Charge Amplifier Type 5018A...
Page 8 5018A_002-490e-06.23
2.4 Supply Voltage Select
Before first use, ensure that the line voltage and the supply
voltage set on the instrument are the same. The supply
voltage set is shown on the back of the instrument next to
the instrument socket
230 V~ (for the voltage range 180 ... 264 V~)
115 V~ (for the voltage range 90 ... 132 V~)
Changing the supply voltage setting
CAUTION!
First disconnect the instrument from the power supply.
Unscrew the two screws of the 'Charge Amplifier'
module at the back of the case and withdraw the
module.
In order to adjust the requested voltage, it is
recommended to use a screwdriver to get access for
shifting the slide switch (behind the power switch and
under the metal cover plate).
Re-assemble the instrument. Cover the inscription 'set
for ...' with the self-adhesive label supplied.
The grounding screw underneath the instrument must
be inserted and tightened again.
2.5 Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC)
The Charge Amplifier is CE-compliant. It complies with
safety requirements according to EN 61010-1 as well as
requirements for electromagnetic compatibility according to
EN 61326-1 (class A and class B).
When the EMC tests were carried out, the signal ground
was connected to the instrument case (protective ground).
This connection is provided as standard. The M2,5x5
grounding screw at the rear side of the instrument is used
for this purpose. The user can remove this connection at
any time by removing the screw to interrupt ground loops.
The common mode voltage must not exceed 25 V.
A flat connecting tab (6,3 mm) connected to the protective
ground is fitted at bottom right at the back of the case. In
the event of interference problems from ground loops, a
low impedance and low inductance equipotential bonding
conductor can be connected at this point.
Generally speaking, in the event of interference problems
caused by ground loops, tests are always needed to find
the best solution (see Section 4.3).
Display of without cover plate
Screwdriver

Important Guidelines
5018A_002-490e-06.23 Page 9
2.6 Tips for Using this Manual
We recommend you to read the entire instruction manual
carefully. However, if you are in a hurry and already have
experience with Kistler instruments, you can confine your-
self to reading the specific information needed.
We have attempted to give these instructions a simple
layout to make it easier for you to gain direct access to the
information you need. Please keep this instruction manual
in a safe place where you can retrieve them at any time.
If you lose the instruction manual, please contact your
Kistler distributors and ask them for a replacement.
Equipment modifications (conversions, upgrades etc.) usually
also result in amendments to the instruction manual. In this
case, contact your Kistler distributors for updating facilities for
your documentation.

Charge Amplifier Type 5018A...
Page 10 5018A_002-490e-06.23
2.7 Accessories Included
Charge Amplifier Type 5018A... with
country-specific power cord
USB connecting cable Type A to B; length 1,8m
Type 5.590.303
plug for 'Remote Control' article number 5.510.305
self-adhesive label with supply voltage details
Instruction manual and CD-ROM with USB driver
Calibration sheet
adapter TRIAX neg. - BNC neg. Type 1704A1
(only for Type 5018A…1 and 5018A…3)
2.8 Optional Accessories
RS-232C cable, l = 5 m, null-modem, DB-9P/DB-9S,
Type 1200A27

Important Guidelines
5018A_002-490e-06.23 Page 11
2.9 Manual Nomenclature
Below is a key to the indications and abbreviations used in
this handbook along with explanatory notes on the
meaning of special typefaces.
Abbreviation Definition
FS Full Scale
M.U. Mechanical Unit = Mechanical unit according to sensor
type used
Pressurebar, psi, kPa
Force N, lbf
Strain 
Acceleration m/s2, ft/s2
E.U. Electrical Unit = Elec
t
rical unit according to measurement
input
Charge pC
Voltage mV
p
C picoCoulomb = Unit of electrical charge
1 pC = 10–12 C
1 C = 1 As
mV milliVol
t
= Unit of voltage
b
p
s Bits
p
er second
s
p
s Sam
p
les
p
er second
RMS Index of a root mean s
q
uare value
Text indications Button or key designations are shown in s
q
uare
parentheses, e.g. [F], [Meas] or [Esc].
All labels on the instrument are shown in single quotation
marks, e.g. ‘Error‘, ‘Measure‘ or ‘Sensor‘.
All internal parameters are printed in italics.
Messages on the LC-display are printed in this typeface.
Special cautionary or warning notes to be observed
when using this instrument along with section titles and
headings are printed in bold.

Charge Amplifier Type 5018A...
Page 12 5018A_002-490e-06.23
2.10Units of Measure
Units of measure are used to assign a value to physical
quantities. A system of units is a set of rules which dictates
how the unit of measure of every quantity used in natural
science and technology is determined in a consistent
manner. The system of units used worldwide today is the
International System of Units, in French Système
International d'Unités (SI). It was officially adopted at the
11th General Conference on Weights and Measures
(CGPM) in 1960. The SI has subsequently released a series
of standard systems of units, mainly applied in the various
fields of natural science, which has made the, at times,
complicated conversions between the different systems
superfluous.
The International System of Units differentiates between
two classes of units: Base Units and Derived Units.
The Base Units are
Unit Quantit
y
S
y
mbol
Mete
r
Kilogram
Second
Ampere
Kelvin
Mole
Candela
Length
Mass
Time
Electric current
Temperature
Amount of substance
Luminous intensity
m
kg
s
A
K
mol
cd
The derived units are obtained from these base units and
the same algebraic relationships (quantity equations) as
hold for the respective quantities in nature. An important
factor of the SI system of units is coherence, by which is
meant that derived units are defined by the multiplication
and/or division of the base units, without the need for any
numerical factors.

Important Guidelines
5018A_002-490e-06.23 Page 13
For the measurement of mechanical and electrical quanti-
ties the Charge Amplifier supports the following units:
Quantit
y
Set Unit SI Unit
Force 1 N
1 kN
1 MN
1 grf
1 kgf
1 lbf
1 N
103N
106N
9,80710–3 N
9,807 N
4,448 N
Pressure 1 ba
r
1 mbar
1 hPa
1 kPa
1 MPa
1 psi
105N/m2
100 N/m2
100 N/m2
103N/m2
106N/m2
6,895 N/m2
Acceleration 1 g
1 m/s2
1 ft/s2
9,807 m/s2
1 m/s2
0,3048 m/s2
Strain 1  10–6 m/m
Tor
q
ue 1 N·m
1 kN·m
1 N·cm
1 lbf-in
1 lbf-ft
1 N·m
103N·m
0,01 N·m
0,1130 N·m
1,356 N·m
el. Charge 1
p
C 10–12 As
el. Voltage 1 mV 10–3 V
2.11 Piezoelectric Measurement Concept
High Impedance Sensors
Piezoelectric sensors convert mechanical quantities such as
pressure, force and acceleration directly into an electric
charge. The charge produced is proportional to the force
acting on the quartz crystal contained in the sensor. The
sensitivity of the sensor is stated in pC/M.U
Low Impedance Sensors (Piezotron Electronic)
In addition, an integrated amplifier circuit is included with
these sensors. This converts the high impedance charge
signal of the piezoelectric sensor element into a low
impedance voltage. These sensors are designated as Piezo-
tron, PiezoBeam or ICP1-compatible sensors. The sensitivity
of these sensors is stated in mV/M.U. The electronic circuit
is designed so that power supply and signal transmission
use the same two-pole cable. A standard coaxial cable can
be used to connect sensor and instrument. These sensors
are particularly suitable for long cables or in dirty areas
with high humidity.
1Integrated Circuit Piezoelectric
F
F
F
F
Q
Q
CTR
T

Charge Amplifier Type 5018A...
Page 14 5018A_002-490e-06.23
The use of these sensors is restricted to dynamic processes,
since CTis constantly discharged through RT. Time constant

and lower cut-off frequency fuare calculated using the
adjacent equations. The naturally wide measuring range
and the operating temperature of piezoelectric sensors is
restricted by the characteristics of the sensor integrated
electronic. The optional voltage input is required for the
connection of low impedance sensors.
Tips for the Piezoelectric Measurement Technique
When working with piezoelectric measuring instruments,
please note that they differ from other familiar electrical
measuring instruments. Different criteria apply than is the
case, for example, with customary current or voltage
measurement. When unpacking the sensors and the special
cables, make sure that their connectors remain clean and
dry to maintain a high insulation resistance. In particular,
Teflon insulators of all plug connections in the input circuit
must be kept absolutely clean and must not be touched
with the fingers. Any necessary cleaning must be carried
out with extremely clean cleaning materials, for example
the cleaning spray Type 1003 from Kistler or white spirit
together with a clean, lint-free paper tissue.
Special Highly Insulating Cables
Only low-noise special cables according to Kistler datasheet
1631C_000-346 and 1601B_000-352 must be used to
connect high impedance sensors. Standard commercially avai-
lable coaxial cables produce triboelectricity due to movement
and would therefore falsify the measuring results.
Connecting Piezoelectric Sensors in Parallel
When several sensors are connected in parallel, the charge
amplifier measures the sum of all charges. For example, the
four force measuring elements of a force plate can be
connected in parallel for measurement of the entire force.
Polarity
As defined by Kistler, an increase in pressure at the sensor
elements produces a negative charge. The Charge
Amplifier inverts the sensor signal and in this case
generates a positive read-out and output voltage.
Measuring Range
We recommend to set the largest measuring range at the
beginning of a measurement or also in the event of lengthy
stoppages. Normal overloads caused by high charge signals
will not damage the charge amplifier.
TT CR 

 
2
1
u
f

Important Guidelines
5018A_002-490e-06.23 Page 15
In case the charge exceeds at least 10-times the selected
as full scale value an unacceptably high voltage can be
generated. The magnitude of the voltage will depend on
the charge fed in, the total internal capacitance (sensor
and cable capacitance) and the range capacitor.
Measuring Modes
'DrCo (Engines)'
Drift compensation is only applicable for engine application
and is recommended to avoid any drift of the measuring
signal.
'Short' and 'Medium'
When making dynamic measurements of periodic or quasi-
periodic processes, it is best to select the 'Medium' or
'Short' measuring modes in order to prevent any drift.
'DC (Long)'
A switch must be made to 'DC (Long)' for quasi-static
measurements and calibration. In the 'DC (Long)' measur-
ing mode, depending on the instrument setting, both a
periodic and transient processes of up to several minutes
duration can be measured.
.
Measuring mode: DrCo (Engines)

Charge Amplifier Type 5018A...
Page 16 5018A_002-490e-06.23
0 100 200 300
0
1
1.5
0.5
0.5
x(t)
t
280 290 300
0
1
1.5
0.5
0.5
x(t)
t
01020
0
1
1.5
0.5
0.5
x(t)
t
Measuring mode: AC (Short,
Medium)
01020
0
1
1.5
0.5
0.5
x(t)
t
0 100 200 300
t
0
1
1.5
0.5
0.5
x(t)
280 290 300
0
1
1.5
0.5
0.5
x(t)
t
Measuring mode: DC (Long)

Important Guidelines
5018A_002-490e-06.23 Page 17
2.12 Drift Compensation of the Piezoelectric Amplifier Type 5018A…
The amplifier offers automatic compensation of the drift of
cylinder pressure signals from steady-state and transient
engine operation, and automatic switching of the method
off, for example for cold start tests.
The standard operating mode for cylinder pressure
measurements is Kistler's "Drift Compensation". Any drift
that occurs is continuously eliminated.
using a time constant ('Short') when the engine is
stopped or running at under 100 1/min
by the automatic drift compensation system at speeds
of 100 … 20 000 1/min
Symbol indicates when drift compensation is
active
Kistler's automatic drift compensation ensures problem-free continuous
cylinder pressure analysis under all engine operating conditions
Function of the Drift Compensation
The signal from the charge amplifier is acquired digitally for
the digital drift compensation. The microprocessor calcula-
tes the drift over recent cycles and extrapolates its trend.
This anticipated drift is then fed back into the input of the
charge amplifier as reverse current. This avoids falsifying
either the phasing or the amplitude curve of the cylinder
pressure signal. Correct indication values can be calculated
from the signals of the charge amplifier.

Charge Amplifier Type 5018A...
Page 18 5018A_002-490e-06.23
If drift compensation is not possible or if no combustion
cycles are detected, the module automatically switches the
charge amplifier stage to the 'Short' mode. This is indicated
by the disappearing of the symbol. In this mode the
function still compensates for drift, but the signal is slightly
falsified (high-pass filter). The amplifier switches back to
drift compensation automatically when a combustion cycle
is detected.
For measuring cylinder pressure signals the amplifier can
always be operated with drift compensation switched
on. However, drift compensation cannot be applied to
other signals.
2.13 PiezoSmart Automatic Sensor Identification
PiezoSmart is an active system for the automatic
identification of individual pressure sensors. Based on the
IEEE 1451.4 standard, this is a "plug and measure" system
for automatic parameterization of measuring chains. In
addition, it offers functions for comprehensive monitoring
of data quality.
The core of PiezoSmart is a transducer electronic data sheet
(TEDS), incorporated into the plug of the sensor cable.