NARDA 8718 User manual

Getting Started
with your 8718
an communications company
narda
Safety Test Solutions
L
3
This Getting Started Guide is a
duplication made as a reference and
convenience to our customers who
have misplaced the original (printed in
1996) that came with their 8718 RF
Radiation Survey Meter.
Narda’s logo and contact information
has been updated to enable you to
contact us as needed.

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Table of Contents
Section Name................Pg
1 Introduction ............ 3
2 Description ............. 5
3 Getting Ready ...........11
4 Making a Measurement ......13
5 Menu System ...........29
Index ................33

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1Introduction
About the Model 8718
Your Model 8718 is a hand-held, battery-powered
meter designed to simplify the measurement of
electromagnetic fields. It can be used with any
Narda 8700 Series probe.
The meter enables you to perform both simple
measurements and more demanding ones that
require averaging and/or data logging. It can be
mounted on a tripod and used with optional fiber
optic links for enhanced accuracy in certain
applications.
This manual will help you as you begin using your Model 8718.
Equipment Supplied
Your Model 8718 is supplied with:
•Meter
•Battery Charger/Power Supply
•Power Cord (220 volt chargers only)
•Storage Case
•Interface Software
•Operation and Maintenance Manual
•Getting Started Book

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5
2Understanding Your Model 8718
General Description
It is important to be familiar with the Model 8718 before you
use it. This section includes descriptive data keyed to
highlighted illustrations to help you locate the various features
of the meter. The descriptions not only identify the features but
tell you how they are used.
Battery Charger and Power Cord
The battery charger and power cord are used to recharge the
battery within the Model 8718.
To recharge the meter, first connect the cable of
the battery charger to the larger jack on the left
side of the meter. Make sure the plug is fully
inserted into the jack (there are two "stops").
Connect the power cord to the wall outlet.
The battery will be fully charged in about 8 hours.
A full charge will give you about 40 hours of
operation (approximately 8 hours if back lighting
is used).
The charger can also be used to power the
Model 8718 when it is to be operated for periods
beyond the capacity of the battery.

6
Probe Connection
To make measurements, use your Model 8718 with
a probe. Connect the cable of the probe to the
probe connector located at the top of the unit.
If you use a fiber optic link, the probe connects to a
fiber optic transmitter. A fiber optic cable connects
the transmitter to the rectangular fiber optic jack on
the left side of the meter.
Audio Alarm
Your Model 8718 is equipped with an audible alarm
that emits sound through a tiny hole on the bottom
of the meter. The alarm sounds whenever the field
strength exceeds the measurement range of the
probe (over ranges).
You can also set the meter to sound its alarm at a
specific level and/or turn on a variable-tone mode.
Probe Test Sources
Your Model 8718 is equipped with two RF sources
for testing your probes. The Test Source key will
turn these sources on. They will stay on for
approximately 20 seconds.
A microwave (waveguide) window on the right side
of the probe is used for testing high frequency
probes.
A contact on the right side of the meter is used for
testing low frequency probes. These probes have
three test points on the head of the probe.

7
Strap and Tripod Mount
A strap is provided on the underside of the Model
8718. It has a hook and loop closure to permit easy
adjustment, around your hand.
Behind the strap is a threaded connector used to
secure the meter to a tripod. Loosen the strap to
access this connector.
Operation With a Computer
To update probe calibration information or retrieve
stored measurements, you must connect your
Model 8718 to a personal computer and use the
Interface Software provided by Narda.
Refer to the Operation and Maintenance Manual for
detailed information regarding computer operations.
Operation With a Recorder
To obtain a continuous record of measurement
over an extended period of time, you can connect a
data recorder to the smaller jack located on the left
side of the meter.

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Keyboard
The Model 8718 has four groups of keys distinguished by their
color.
Function keys (green)
Numeric keys (yellow)
Special Function keys (white)
Power keys (blue, green)
Power Keys
Two power keys are used to turn the Model
8718 On and Off.
Function Keys
Use the four function keys (F1-F4) to select
the options displayed on the bottom line of
the display screen directly above the F1,
F2, F3, and F4 markings. In a few cases the
options will be spelled out on the display.

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Numeric Keypad
Use the numeric keypad to enter number data into the Model
8718. You also use the numeric keypad to select an option listed
on the display screen.
Special Function Keys
Six special function keys enable you to perform specific
functions.
Esc Returns you to the previous menu. In a few
cases you must enter a selection rather than
use the Esc key.
Auto Enables you to automatically zero the meter
Zero and probe.
Help Displays a help screen that explains your options.
Test Turns on the built-in low frequency and high
Source frequency probe test sources for approximately
20 seconds.
Range Locks in a specific measurement range for the
bar graph. The digital display is not affected. The
meter automatically displays a digital value over
the probe’s entire measurement range. See Bar
Graph Ranges on page 21.
Enter Stores data you entered with the numeric
keypad. Confirms an option you selected from
a menu screen.

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Introduction
This section will help you get ready to take measurements with
your Model 8718. Information is included for selecting a probe,
connecting the probe to your Model 8718, and connecting the
optional fiber optic link.
3Getting Ready
FREQUENCY
RANGE
POWER
DENSITY
or FIELD
STRENGTH
ELECTRIC
FIELD or
MAGNETIC
FIELD
FLAT
RESPONSE
or SHAPED
FREQUENCY
RESPONSE
Probe Selection
If you have more than one Series 8700 probe, select the probe
best suited for your task. Factors that you should consider:
The probe frequency range should include the frequencies of all
the emitters to be surveyed at one time.
The measurement range of the probe should be adequate for
the field levels that you anticipate (i.e., do you expect strong
fields or weak fields?).
Most standards recommend that you measure both electric (E)
and magnetic (H) fields below 300 MHz.
Flat response probes are the most common. Narda’s patented
shaped probes read out in Percent of Standard and are
particularly useful in complex, multi-signal environments where
the exposure limits are different for the various emitter
frequencies.

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Connecting a Probe
Connect the cable of your probe to the probe connector at the
top of your Model 8718. Make certain that the retaining ring of
the connector is securely fastened.
Using a Fiber Optic Link (optional)
A fiber optic link is useful when remote or low frequency
(<30 MHz) readings are to be made with your Model 8718.
To use the fiber optic link...
1. Connect the probe to the fiber optic transmitter and
make certain that the connector retaining ring is
securely fastened.
2. Connect one end of the fiber optic cable to the fiber
optic transmitter and the other end to the rectangular
fiber optic jack on the left side of the meter.
3. Turn the meter ON and press F4 to access the menu
system. Press 8(NEXT) to get to the second menu
screen. Select CABLE/FO (press 1).
4. If the screen shows that the fiber optic receiver is
turned on, you are ready to proceed. If the screen
shows that the fiber optic receiver is turned off, press
F1 (ON).
5. Press Esc twice to return to the opening menu screen.
6. Press F1 to select a probe and begin the measurement
process.
.
Note
The meter will
remain set to use the
same input (fiber
optic receiver or
cable), even if you
turn the meter off,
until you use the
menu system to
change the input.

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4Making a Measurement
Introduction
This section will help you take measurements with your Model
8718. Information is included for turning the meter on, selecting,
zeroing, and testing a probe, plus an explanation of the main
measurement screen of the meter. Some general information is
also included about measurement surveys, precautions you
should observe, and the use of probe correction factors.
Getting Started
Press the ON power key. After a few seconds, the display
screen will show the meter's calibration date and tell you to
CONNECT PROBE NOW.
To Make Measurements...
1. Select the probe you want to use and connect it to
the meter.
2. Press F1 and proceed to enter the probe model
number
To access the meter’s menu system to perform some other
function...
1. Press F4. The first of three menu screens will appear.
See Section 5, Menu System, for details on features
and operation.

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Entering the Probe Model
Narda's 8700 Series system is completely modular — all 8700
meters work with all 8700 probes. The single most important
thing you must do is "tell" the 8718 meter which probe you
are using.
The Model 8718 has the basic characteristics of every 8700
Series probe stored in its internal memory. All you have to do is
select the correct model number and the meter automatically
sets the correct scales.
The Model 8718 can also store the specific calibration details
for up to six probes.This includes the probe serial number,
calibration date, and the calibration factors marked on the
handle of the probe. Probes with this additional detail stored in
the meter are referred to as probes in memory.
Putting probes into memory has several advantages:
•It makes it easier to select a probe
•Data that is downloaded after using a data logging mode
will include a record of the probe’s calibration date and
its serial number.
•It makes using frequency correction much easier.
Probes are put into the meter’s memory using a personal
computer:
•By Narda on the day of shipment for all probes shipped
at the same time as the meter.
•By you at any time when you use the Interface Software
supplied by Narda and a personal computer. Refer to
Operation and Maintenance Manual for detailed
information regarding computer operations.

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To select from the PROBES IN MEMORY...
1. If you haven’t already, press F1 (MEASURE).
2. The model number and the serial number of the last
probe used will be displayed on the second line of the
display. If you want to use the same probe, press
Enter.
3. If you want to use a different probe, look for the model
number in the positions above the F1, F2, or F3
legends. Up to three additional models can be found
by pressing F4 (MORE).
4. Press the appropriate function key and the probe
model and serial number will be displayed on the
second line of the screen. If this is correct, press Enter.
5. A new screen will appear specifying probe model
number, serial number, frequency range, field type,
maximum measurement range, and type of response
(flat or shaped). If this information is correct, press F1.
If this information does not match your requirements,
you need to select another probe. Press F2 and you
will go back to the Select Probe Screen to make
another selection.
6. Proceed with the probe zeroing process.
SELECT PROBE
MODEL A8722 SND XXXXX
OR SE L ECT FROM L I ST
87XX 87XX 87XX MORE
F1 F2 F3 F4
A8742D S/N 00001
300 H -3GHzzkE-FLD
600 % STD SHAPED
YES NO MENU
F1 F2 F3 F4

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To use a PROBE that is NOT IN MEMORY...
1. If you haven't already, press F1 (MEASURE).
2. The model number of the last probe used will be
displayed on the second line of the display. If you want
to use the same model probe, press Enter.
3. If you want to use a different model probe, select
PROBE by pressing F4. If more than three probes are in
memory, you will have to press F4 twice (MORE, then
PROBE). One of three screens that list all 8700 model
probes will appear.
4. If you see the model of the probe you want to use, press
the appropriate number key.
5. If you do not see the model number you want, use the
F1 and F2 keys to page forward and backward until you
do. Press the appropriate number key.
6. A new screen will appear specifying probe model
number, frequency range, field type, maximum
measurement range, and type of response (flat or
shaped). If this information is correct, press F1. If this
information does not match your requirements you need
to select another probe. Press F2 and you will go back
to the Select Probe Screen to make another selection.
7. Proceed with the probe zeroing process.
1 A8722D 5 A8732D
2 B8722D 6 A8742D
3 C8722D
4 D8722D 8 NEXT
F1 F2 F3 F4
SELECT PROBE
MODEL A8722 SND XXXXX
OR SELECT FROM L I ST
87XX 87XX 87XX PROBE
F1 F2 F3 F4
Note
You must turn off the
meter and repeat the
probe selection and
zeroing process if
you want to change
probes.

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Zeroing the Probe
The probe and meter must be “zeroed” together. It is important
that the probe is not exposed to radiated fields during the
zeroing process. The storage case is shielded and provides a
convenient “zero density” environment.
To zero the probe...
1. Place the probe in the storage case. Be careful not
to move the probe while zeroing takes place (on
probes with low frequency test points, you can create
static which will give inaccurate results).
2. When you are ready, press the ENTER key. The
screen will say ZEROING...
3. After zeroing is completed, the main measurement
screen will appear.
If you get a message that the probe could not be zeroed, the
most likely causes are:
•The probe is not connected properly. Check the
connector and retry.
•The meter is set for a fiber optic input and you are
using the standard cable input (or vice versa). Turn the
meter off. Turn the meter back on and press
(F4) to access the menu system. Press
8(NEXT) to get to the Second Menu Screen. Select
CABLE/FO (press 1). Check the CABLE/FO setting to
make sure the fiber optic receiver input (FO) is turned
on. If the screen shows that the fiber optic receiver is
turned off, press F1 (ON) to enable it. Then press Esc
twice to return to the Opening Menu Screen.
A8722D SNXXXXX
300 H - 50GHzzkE-FLD
300 % STD SHAPED
YES NO MENU
F1 F2 F3 F4
Note
Position the probe in
the case with one
test point pointed
downward and the
other two test points
above the foam.
This will insure that
the test points are
not touching the
foam.

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•The field strength is not low enough. Move away from
the antenna and use the storage case to zero the probe.
•The probe is damaged. Try another probe.
To reconfirm the zero while the instrument is in use...
1. Establish a zero density environment for the probe as
before.
2. Press the Auto Zero key. This will automatically “touch
up” the zero and correct for any drift in about 10
seconds.

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Main Measurement Display Screen
(Shaped Probes)
12.1 % STD
27.5 MAX CF 1.00
LOG MENU %STD FREQ
F1 F2 F3 F4
FIELD STRENGTH
•Indicates actual measured value
•Unit of measure is always % STD
for shaped frequency response
probes
BAR GRAPH
•Indicates approximate
field strength
•100 segment, three
10:1 (10 dB) ranges
MAXIMUM VALUE
• Indicates the
maximum value that
has occurred since
you began making
measurements or
since resetting the
maximum.
• The unit of measure is
the same as for the
instantaneous value
shown on the line
above.
F4
Allows you to enter
or change the
frequency that you
are correcting for
probe frequency
deviation
F2
Switches you to
the first screen of
the menu system.
The menu system
allows you to set
operating
parameters for the
Model 8718
F1
(LOG) instantly
logs the current
value
F3
Toggles the third line of the display
between a maximum value and an
instantaneous percent of standard
(see Alternate Display Screen). If
you have entered a frequency, you
will switch to the Alternate Display
Screen. You will also reset the
maximum value at the same time. If
you have not entered a frequency
you will reset the maximum value
and the main measurement display
screen will remain.
PROBE FREQUENCY
CORRECTION
• CF = 1.00 indicates
no correction factor is
being applied
• CF= X.XX indicates
the numeric value that
is being applied
• A frequency displayed
here indicates that the
meter is applying a
correction factor
based on the stored
calibration data for the
specific probe in use.
Measurement Display Screen
The Main Measurement Display Screen shows a maximum
value on the third line of the display. The Alternate Measurement
Display Screen provides frequency-specific, real time information
instead of a maximum value.

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Alternate Display Screen
The Alternate Display Screen is very similar to the Main
Measurement Display Screen with one difference. On the third
line an instantaneous indication of the percent of standard is
shown instead of displaying a maximum value. This screen
should only be used with flat response probes for single
frequency measurements or where all the emitter frequencies
are close and the standard has the same limits.
To use the Alternate Display Screen...
1. Press F4 (FREQ) and then enter the frequency that
you are measuring. You must fill all four positions. Use
F1,F2,orF3 as required to change the units.
2. Press F4 (SAVE). The probe correction factor will be
displayed briefly if you are using a probe in memory
and you will return to the main measurement screen.
3. Press F2 (MENU), then 8 (NEXT) to access the
second menu screen. Select STNDS (6). Press the
appropriate standard that you want to reference. (You
must use a function key even if the current setting is
correct.) A new screen will appear.
4. Press F1 to verify or F4 to make another selection.
Press Esc twice to go back to the main measurement
screen.
5. From the Main Measurement Screen select %STD by
pressing F3. The meter will now automatically display
the instantaneous measured value in the chosen units
on the second line and at the same time compare that
FIELD STRENGTH
•Indicates actual
measured value
•Unit of measure can be
changed by going to the
First Menu Screen
.26 Wmmc/
2
125 . 2% STD 10 . 00 HzG
LOG MENU MAX FREQ
6
F1 F2 F3 F4
CALCULATED
PERCENT OF
STANDARD
•Displays percent of
standard that has been
calculated from the
field strength reading
using the referenced
standard and the
indicated frequency