Martel DPC300A User manual

DPC300A
Reference Manual

DPC300A
Reference Manual
1. Introduction ........................................... 1
1.1 Customer Service .........................................1
1.2 Standard Equipment .......................................1
1.3 Safety information ........................................2
2. Calibrator Interface ..................................... 5
2.1 Calibrator Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
2.2 Using the Backlight........................................9
2.3 Using the Zero Function ....................................9
2.4 Other Menu Controlled Functions ...........................10
3. Initial Setup and Basic Pressure Generation ............... 14
4. Measuring pressure.................................... 15
4.1 Media compatibility.......................................15
4.2 Measuring pressure with external modules ....................16
4.3 Measuring and sourcing current (4 ... 20 mA) ..................16
4.4 Measuring voltage .......................................17
4.6 Calibrating transmitters....................................20
5. Minimum and Maximum Storage Capability ................ 25
6. Remote Operation ..................................... 26
6.1 Remote Interface ........................................26
6.2 Setting up the RS-232 Port for Remote Control .................26
6.3 Changing Between Remote and Local Operation ...............27
6.4 Using Commands ........................................28
6.5 Remote Commands and Error Codes ........................30
6.6 Entering Commands ......................................32
7. Specifications (15 °C to 35 °C unless otherwise noted.) ...... 40
9. Maintenance .......................................... 41
9.1 Cleaning the Unit ........................................41
9.2 Service Center Calibration or Repair .........................41

1
1. Introduction
The DPC-300A is a high accuracy portable pressure source that can
accurately source pressure from internal and external pressure
supplies. The product includes two pneumatic pressure sources.
One source is an automated internal, -12 to 300 psi (-0.8 to 20 bar)
pump and the other is connection to allow the regulation of
externally supplied clean dry air (shop air up to 120psi). In addition
to pressure generation and measurement, the unit has full electrical
measurement capabilities from 0 to 24mA and 0 to 30VDC. It also is
able to generate 4 to 20mA signals and a full-time 24 volt loop power
supply is always available utilizing dedicated jacks on the front
panel. Additional pressure ranges can also be supported through
the use of external pressure modules. The unit can be powered by
an internal, high capacity, rechargeable battery or the included AC
adapter/charger.
1.1 Customer Service
Corporate Office:
www.martelcorp.com
e-mail: [email protected]
Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone]
Martel Electronics
3 Corporate Park Dr.
Derry, NH 03038
1.2 Standard Equipment
Check to see if your calibrator is complete. It should include: DPC-
300A, instruction manual, test leads, calibration hose kit with fittings,
16V Universal AC charger, Nist traceable calibration certificate.

2
1.3 Safety information
Symbols Used
The following table lists the International Electrical Symbols. Some or
all of these symbols may be used on the instrument or in this
manual.
Symbol Description
AC (Alternating Current)
AC-DC
Battery
CE Complies with European Union Directives
DC
Double Insulated
Electric Shock
Fuse
PE Ground
Hot Surface (Burn Hazard)
Read the User’s Manual (Important Information)
Off
On
Canadian Standards Association
2

33
The following definitions apply to the terms “Warning” and “Caution”.
• “Warning” identifies conditions and actions that may pose hazards
to the user.
• “Caution” identifies conditions and actions that may damage the
instrument being used.
Use the calibrator only as specified in this manual, otherwise injury
and damage to the calibrator may occur.
Warning
To avoid possible electric shock or personal injury:
• Do not apply more than the rated voltage. See specifications for
supported ranges.
• Follow all equipment safety procedures.
• Never touch the probe to a voltage source when the test leads are
plugged into the current terminals.
• Do not use the calibrator if it is damaged. Before you use the
calibrator, inspect the case. Look for cracks or missing plastic. Pay
particular attention to the insulation surrounding the connectors.
• Select the proper function and range for your measurement.
• Make sure the battery cover is closed and latched before you
operate the calibrator.
• Remove test leads from the calibrator before you open the battery
door.
• Inspect the test leads for damaged insulation or exposed metal.
Check test leads continuity. Replace damaged test leads before
you use the calibrator.
• When using the probes, keep your fingers away from the probe
contacts. Keep your fingers behind the finger guards on the
probes.
• Connect the common test lead before you connect the live test
lead. When you disconnect test leads, disconnect the live test lead
first.
• Do not use the calibrator if it operates abnormally. Protection may
be impaired. When in doubt, have the calibrator serviced.
• Do not operate the calibrator around explosive gas, vapor, or dust.
• When measuring pressure, make sure the process pressure line is
shut off and depressurized before you connect it or disconnect it
from the pressure module.
• Disconnect test leads before changing to another measure or
source function.

4
• When servicing the calibrator, use only specified replacement
parts.
• To avoid false readings, which could lead to possible electric
shock or personal injury, replace the battery as soon as the battery
indicator appears.
Caution
To avoid possible damage to calibrator or to equipment under test:
• Use the proper jacks, function, and range for your measurement or
sourcing application.
4

5
2. Calibrator Interface
Figure 1 shows the location of the pressure controls, connection port
and electrical inputs.
Figure: external pressure supply
REGULATOR
MAX 120 PSI
AIR SUPPLY
0-100 PSI
OUTPUT
-12-300 PSI
PUMP
-12-300 PSI
MEASURE
FINE ADJUST / VENT
PUMP
SELECTOR
MAIN
SELECTOR WARNING:
VENT BEFORE SELECTION
HOME
PUMP
ZERO
J1 J2 J3
COM
VOLTS/mA
SWITCH TEST +24v DC
PRESSURE
MODULE
F1 F2 F3
FILTER
CHARGE
PRESSURE VACUUM
P2
P3
P4
MARTEL ELECTRONICS
DPC-300A
P1 P2 P3 P4
[P1]
MENU LOWER LIGHT
psi
30.00
0 to 120 psi
Air Supply
Air Supply Mode
Figure: Pressure supply with integrated pump
REGULATOR
MAX 120 PSI
AIR SUPPLY
0-100 PSI
OUTPUT
-12-300 PSI
PUMP
-12-300 PSI
MEASURE
FINE ADJUST / VENT
PUMP
SELECTOR
MAIN
SELECTOR WARNING:
VENT BEFORE SELECTION
HOME
PUMP
ZERO
J1 J2 J3
COM
VOLTS/mA
SWITCH TEST +24v DC
PRESSURE
MODULE
F1 F2 F3
FILTER
CHARGE
PRESSURE VACUUM
P2
P3
P4
MARTEL ELECTRONICS
DPC-300A
P1 P2 P3 P4
[P1]
MENU LOWER LIGHT
psi
30.00
Air Supply Mode
Figure: Measuring
REGULATOR
MAX 120 PSI
AIR SUPPLY
0-100 PSI
OUTPUT
-12-300 PSI
PUMP
-12-300 PSI
MEASURE
FINE ADJUST / VENT
PUMP
SELECTOR
MAIN
SELECTOR WARNING:
VENT BEFORE SELECTION
HOME
PUMP
ZERO
J1 J2 J3
COM
VOLTS/mA
SWITCH TEST +24v DC
PRESSURE
MODULE
F1 F2 F3
FILTER
CHARGE
PRESSURE VACUUM
P2
P3
P4
MARTEL ELECTRONICS
DPC-300A
P1 P2 P3 P4
[P1]
MENU LOWER LIGHT
psi
300.00
-12 to 300 psi
Pressure Source
Measurement Mode
5

66
Figures 2A and 2B show the location of the keys. Table 2 describes the
function of each key.
Figure 2A
Keypad
Table 2 Key Functions
No. Name Description
1 Function Keys These are soft keys used to configure the calibrator
2 ON/OFF Key This key is used to turn the calibrator on and off
3 ZERO Key This key is used to zero pressure measurements
4 Arrow Keys Used to control mA source/sim. and to set pump
and % error limits
5Home Key Return to main menu screen
6Pump Key Push to run pump (Electric pump version)
Note: When the calibrator is turned on by pressing the ON/OFF key,
it will go through a short startup self-check routine. During that
routine, the display shows the current firmware revision level, auto
shutdown status and the range of the internal pressure sensor. The
calibrator requires a maximum of 5 minutes warm-up to rated
accuracy. Large changes in ambient temperature may require a
longer warm-up period. See section 2.3 for instructions on zeroing
the pressure sensor displays. Pressure ranges should be zeroed
each time the calibrator is started.

7
2.1 Calibrator Display
The Calibrator Display consists of two regions: The menu bar
(located along the bottom of the screen) is used to access a menu
system. The main display (the rest) consists of up to three process
measurement sub-regions. These sub-regions will henceforth be
referred to as the UPPER, MIDDLE and LOWER displays. Figure 3
shows the location of the different display fields while table 3
describes them.
[P1]
CONFIG LOWER MORE
psi
30.000
mA MEASURE 100.00%
20.000 mA
3
1
2
Figure 3
Display
Table 3 Display Functions
No. Name Description
1 Pressure units Indication of the pressure unit (selectable from
13 pressure units)
2 Span Indicator Indicates the percent of the 4 to 20 mA span.
(For mA and mA Loop functions only)
3 Primary parameter Indicates current measured parameter
2.1.1 Top Level Menu Functionality
There are three options for this menu: MENU, {Active Display}, and
LIGHT. The Top Level Menu is home for the menu display.
2.1.1.1 Using the MENU Option
The MENU option is the gateway to the rest of the menu system.
2.1.1.2 Using the Active Display Option
The active display is indicated by the center option on the Top Level
Menu. It is used to select the display to which the ZERO key will
apply.
2.1.1.3 Using the LIGHT OPTION
The backlight can be toggled on and off using this key.
7

8
2.1.2 Main Menu Functionality
There are three options on the Menu, CONFIG, {Active Display} and
MORE. The Main Menu is home for the menu display.
2.1.2.1 Setting the Active Display
The active display is indicated by the center option on the Main
Menu, pressing the F2 key will toggle the active display.
2.1.2.2 Setting Active Display Parameters
To set the parameters of the active display use the CONFIG option to
get to the Display Configuration Menu.
Here the SELECT option will toggle through the choices for each
parameter. The first parameter is MODE. Since voltage, current and
switch test modes all use the same jacks, two of these functions
cannot be used concurrently. The ability to select certain functions is
limited based on what is already selected in another display. The
NEXT option is used to change to the second parameter. Only
Pressure modes have a second parameter. Pressure can be read in
11 engineering units.
With a single display the following modes are available:
P[1] = Pressure internal sensor.
[EXT] = Pressure with external pressure module.
P[1] ST = Switch Test with left side sensor.
[EXT] ST = Switch Test with external pressure module.
Note: mA functions are only available on the Lower Display.
mA measure = Milliamps measure.
mA source = Milliamps source.
mA sim = Milliamps simulate using an external supply from the
UUT.
VOLTS = Voltage Measure.
The following table shows which functions are available concurrently.
An X in a column indicates that the mode in the active display will be
available for selection if the mode in that row is in use in any other
display.
8

9
Table 4 Mode Concurrency
Active Display
P[1] [EXT] P[1]
ST
[EXT]
ST
mA mA
Loop
Volts
P[1] X X X X X X X
[EXT] X X X X X X X
P[1]ST X X
[EXT]ST X X
mA X X X
mA Loop X X X
Volts X X X
X = valid mode
2.1.1.3 Accessing Other Menus
Use the MORE option on the Main Menu to access the other menu
functions.
2.2 Using the Backlight
The backlight is controlled by the LIGHT softkey on the main menu.
It toggles on and off when the key is pressed; this is one of the few
functions that cannot be controlled by the serial interface. There are
no user configuration settings for the backlight.
2.3 Using the Zero Function
When the ZERO KEY is pressed, the calibrator will zero the active
display if a pressure mode is selected, and the pressure is within
the zero limit. The zero limits are within 10% of the full scale range of
the selected sensor. If the display indicates “OL,” the zero function
will not operate.” Note: The ZERO KEY is only used for pressure.
2.3.1 Internal Sensor and Pressure Module (non-absolute)
When a sensor or module is selected on the active display and the
ZERO KEY is pressed the calibrator subtracts the current reading
from the output. The zero limits are within 10% of the full scale range
of the selected sensor. If the display indicates “OL,” the zero function
will not operate.
2.3.2 Absolute Pressure
When an absolute pressure range is selected on the active display
and the ZERO KEY is pressed the calibrator prompts the user to
enter the barometric reference pressure. This is done using the
9
Other Displays

1010
arrow keys (F2 and F3 Keys). The sensor port should be open
(vented) to atmosphere while performing this procedure.
2.4 Other Menu Controlled Functions
There are many ‘sub-main’ menus that can be accessed through the
MORE option of the Main Menu. A ‘sub-main’ menu contains three
options. The first option is unique to the function. The second and
third options of a ‘sub-main’ menu are always the same. The NEXT
option leads to the next ‘sub-main’ menu and the DONE option
returns home . For the last ‘sub-main’ menu the NEXT option wraps
around to home. See Figure 4 for a detailed mapping of the menu
structure.
A note on naming convention:
If a ‘sub-main’ menu has subordinate menus, it will henceforth be
referred to as {function} Main Menu. E.g. the display contrast sub-
main menu will be called the Contrast Main Menu. If not it will be
called the {function} menu.
2.4.1 Setting the Contrast
From the Contrast Main Menu choose the CONTRAST option to
access the Contrast Adjustment Menu.
Use the F2, F3 keys to adjust the display contrast to the desired level
and then use the CONTRAST DONE option to return home.
2.4.2 Locking and Unlocking Configurations
Use the LOCK CFG or UNLOCK CFG option of the Configuration
Lock Menu to lock or unlock the display configuration.
When the LOCK CFG option is chosen the menu display returns
home and the CONFIG option on the Main Menu indicates that it is
locked. Also all menus are locked out with the exception of the Min

1111
Max Menu, Contrast Adjustment menus and the Configuration Lock
Menu. When the UNLOCK CFG option is chosen the configuration
is unlocked and the menu display continues to the next sub-main
menu.
2.4.3 Saving and Recalling Setups
The calibrator will automatically save the current set-up for recall at
power-up. Additionally 5 set-ups can be accessed through the
SETUPS menu. Select the SETUPS option from the Setups Main
Menu.
Choose SAVE to save a set-up , RECALL to recall the set-up, or
DONE to do nothing and return home.

12
Figure 4
Menu Map
12

1313
If SAVE or RECALL is selected use the arrow keys to select the set-
up location. Then use the save option to store the current set-up
into the selected location or the recall option to recall the set-up
stored in the selected location. The display menu will automatically
go home.
2.4.4 Setting AutoShut-off Parameters
The calibrator can be set to automatically shut-off after a selected
number of minutes; this function can also be disabled. To set the
auto shut off parameters select the AUTO OFF option on the Auto
Shut Off Main Menu.
Use the F2, F3 keys to select the number of minutes before the
calibrator turns off or disable auto shut-off by scrolling all the way
down.
Use the AUTO OFF DONE option to set the parameters and return
home. The auto shut off time is reset whenever a key is pressed.
2.4.5 Activating and Deactivating a Display
Use the DISPLAY option on the Display Selection Main Menu to
access the Display Activation Menu.
The {display} option can be used to select which display to act
upon. The ON/OFF option turns the selected display on or off. The
selected display and current on/off state are displayed in the lower
display.

14
Use the DONE option to save the changes and return home. When
a display is deactivated its configuration is retained. When the
display is activated its configuration is checked against the
configurations of the other currently active displays, if the
configurations are in conflict the recalled display’s configuration is
modified to avoid the conflict. If all three displays are deactivated the
LOWER display will come on automatically
2.4.6 Damping
Damping can be turned ON or OFF using the Damping menu
selection. When damping is ON, the calibrator displays an running
average reading of ten measurements. The calibrator makes
approximately 3 readings per second.
2.4.7 Pump Limits
To prevent overpressure of sensitive devices the maximum pressure
(pump limit) can be set. When in this mode use the arrow keys to set
the maximum pressure.
2.4.8 HART™ Resistor
An internal 250 ohm HART Resistor can be enabled when the
BetaGauge 330 is operated in the “mA Measure-24V” mode. This
allows a HART Communicator to be connected across the mA
terminals and eliminates the need for adding an external resistor.
Note: When the HART resistor is on the maximum load driving
capacity is 750 ohms.
3. Initial Setup and Basic Pressure Generation
1. The DPC-300A is supplied with a special low-volume calibration
hose to enable faster pressure generation and quick pressure
stabilisation. Included in delivery are "Quick-fit" hose connectors
and various adapters. It is recommended that this hose is used in
order to achieve the best results. As soon as the fittings are
installed and the calibrator is connected to the test item the
calibrator is ready for use.
2. The pressure calibrator must be configured for the appropriate
application (see chapter 6).
14

15
3. Set the pressure/vacuum selection knob to the desired function
(+ for pressure and - for vacuum).
4. Close the vent knob.
5. Press the pump key and monitor the pressure rise (or vacuum
generation) until you reach the desired pressure.
Note: The motor speed will start slowly while the pressure is
low (< 1 bar) to enable better control at low pressures.
6. The fine pressure adjustment enables the pressure to be set
precisely.
7. To reduce or bleed off the pressure entirely slowly rotate the vent
knob to the open position. The pressure reduction is best
controlled if this step is carried out carefully and it makes reading
the pressure easier.
4. Measuring pressure
For pressure calibration, connect the calibrator with an appropriate
adapter. Select the pressure setting for the display being used. The
calibrator is equipped with an internal sensor and optional external
sensors are available. Choose a sensor that is suitable for the
pressure range and accuracy.
CAUTION!
Pressure sensors may be damaged and/or injuries may occur to the
personnel due to improper application of pressure. For a better
understanding with respect to overpressure and burst pressure,
follow the specifications laid down in these operating instructions
(see chapter "3. Specifications"). The calibrator display will indicate
"OL" when an inappropriate pressure is applied. As soon as "OL" is
observed on any pressure display, the pressure should be reduced
immediately to prevent damage or possible physical injury. "OL" is
displayed if the pressure exceeds the nominal range by 110 %. Use
the ZERO key to zero the pressure sensor once it is vented to
atmospheric pressure.
4.1 Media compatibility
CAUTION!
The calibrator should only be used with clean, dry gases! To prevent
contamination by the test pieces, the use of a dirt trap is
recommended (see chapter "10. Accessories")!
15

1616
4.2 Measuring pressure with external modules
The calibrator has a digital interface for external pressure modules.
These modules are available for various ranges, including gauge,
vacuum, differential and absolute pressure. The modules work
seamlessly in conjunction with the calibrator. Simply plug them into
the interface and select [EXT] (external sensor). Since the interface
between the calibrator and the module is digital, the accuracy and
display resolution is dependent on the module.
REGULATOR
MAX 120 PSI
AIR SUPPLY
0-100 PSI
OUTPUT
-12-300 PSI
PUMP
-12-300 PSI
MEASURE
FINE ADJUST / VENT
PUMP
SELECTOR
MAIN
SELECTOR WARNING:
VENT BEFORE SELECTION
HOME
PUMP
ZERO
J1 J2 J3
COM
VOLTS /mA
SWITCH TEST +24v DC
PRESSURE
MODULE
F1 F2 F3
FILTER
CHARGE
PRESSURE VACUUM
P2
P3
P4
MARTEL ELECTRONICS
DPC-300A
P1 P2 P3 P4
Pressure Module
Adapter
Pressure Module
Valve
4.3 Measuring and sourcing current (4 ... 20 mA)
1. To measure current, use the input terminals on the front of the
calibrator. Select the mA function on the lower display. Current is
measured in mA and percentage of the measuring range. The
measuring range on the calibrator is set to 0 % at 4 mA and 100 %
at 20 mA.
Example
If the current measured is displayed as 75 %, then the value is 16
mA.
Note: The display will indicate "OL" when the measured
current exceeds the nominal range of current measurement
(24 mA).
2. The same connections are used for the current source. Select
mA-Source or mA Sim-2W from the configuration display.

1717
3. This selection can only be made in the lower display. Also, in
source mode, the calibrator will generate 0 ... 24 mA using its own
internal 24 V supply, whereas in simulation mode the calibrator
acts as a 2-wire transmitter and requires an external 24 V supply.
4. Pressing any of the arrow keys will start the output mode and
enable you to use the arrow keys to adjust the mA output. The
function keys can also be used to progress the output in either 25
% steps (4, 8, 12, 16, 20 mA) or 0 % (4 mA) and 100 % (20 mA).
5. While in the mA output mode, if the loop is broken or the
resistance burden is exceeded, the calibrator will flash "OL".
PUMP
Test Item
4...20 mA
mA MEASURE
CONFIG LOWER MORE
16.000 mA
75.00%
J1 J2 J3
COM
VOLTS /mA
SWITCH TEST +24v DC
PUMP
Test Item
4...20 mA
mA SOURCE
MENU LOWER LIGHT
20.000 mA
100.00%
J1 J2 J3
COM
VOLTS /mA
SWITCH TEST +24v DC
J1 J2 J3
COM
VOLTS /mA
SWITCH TEST +24v DC
PUMP
4...20 mA
mA SIM-2W
MENU LOWER LIGHT
20.000 mA
100.00% Test Item
Power Supply
+
–
+
–
J1 J2 J3
COM
VOLTS /mA
SWITCH TEST +24v DC
DC 24 V
PUMP
4...20 mA
mA MEAS/24V
MENU LOWER LIGHT
20.000 mA
100.00%
Test Item
4.4 Measuring voltage
For voltage measurement, use the connections on the front of the
calibrator. Select the VOLTS function on one of the displays. The
calibrator can measure up to DC 30 V.

1818
Note: The display will indicate "OL" when the measured
voltage exceeds the nominal range of voltage measurement
(30 V).
PUMP
Test Item
Up to DC 30 V
VOLTS
CONFIG LOWER MORE
30.000 V
J1 J2 J3
COM
VOLTS /mA
SWITCH TEST +24v DC
4.5 Performing a Pressure Switch Test
REGULATOR
MAX 120 PSI
AIR SUPPLY
0-100 PSI
OUTPUT
-12-300 PSI
PUMP
-12-300 PSI
MEASURE
FINE ADJUST / VENT
PUMP
SELECTOR
MAIN
SELECTOR WARNING:
VENT BEFORE SELECTION
HOME
PUMP
ZERO
J1 J2 J3
COM
VOLTS/mA
SWITCH TEST +24v DC
PRESSURE
MODULE
F1 F2 F3
FILTER
CHARGE
PRESSURE VACUUM
P2
P3
P4
MARTEL ELECTRONICS
DPC-300A
P1 P2 P3 P4
Use low volume
hose if possible
Pressure
Switch
Figure 4: DPC-300A with pressure switch
To perform a switch test, the following steps must be taken:
1. The upper display is set to [P1] ST, all other displays are switched
off.
Note: The pressure switch test can be performed with the
following functions [P1] ST or EXT ST.
2. Connect the calibrator to the pressure switch using the switch
terminals. The polarity of the terminals does not matter. Then
connect the pump to the calibrator and the pressure switch.
3. Open the vent button on the pump and zero the calibrator. Then
close the vent after resetting the calibrator.
4. The top of the display will indicate "CLOSE".