NARDA nbm-520 User manual

NBM-520
Narda Broadband Field Meter
Operating Manual

Narda Safety Test Solutions GmbH
Sandwiesenstraße 7
72793 Pfullingen, Germany
© 2007
Order no.: 2403/98.21
Edition: 02/07.12, A...
Previous edition: 01/07.03, A...
Subject to change.
Our normal guarantee and delivery terms
apply.
Printed in Germany

Narda NBM-520 i
Contents
1 Useful information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
1.1 Measuring electromagnetic fields . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
1.2 About this instrument . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Applications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
1.3 About this operating manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Characters and symbols used . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Terminology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
2 Safety instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
2.1 Using this operating manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
2.2 Proper use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
2.3 Improper use. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
2.4 Dangers from electromagnetic fields . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Strong Fields. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Measurement Errors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Probe is not operating properly. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
2.5 Dangers when handling rechargeable batteries . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
2.6 Dangers from AC adapter/charger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
3 Preparing the NBM-520 for use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
3.1 Unpacking. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Packaging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Items included. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Transport damage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Equipping the case . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
After transport and storage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
3.2 Instrument overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
3.3 Using rechargeable batteries and the AC Adapter / Charger . . . 17
Power supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Contents
ii NBM-520 Narda
Charge state and power source indicator . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Operation from rechargeable batteries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
3.4 Connecting the probe. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
4 Measuring with the NBM-520 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
4.1 Switching on. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
4.2 Displaying the instrument settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
4.3 Self test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
4.4 Setting the contrast . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
4.5 Overview of the display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
4.6 Selecting the result type. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
ACT (Actual) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
MAX (Maximum) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
AVG (Average) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
SPATIAL (spatial average) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
4.7 Selecting the units . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
4.8 Freezing a result . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
4.9 Changing the field type measurement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
4.10 Using the alarm function . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
4.11 Remote control. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
Instrument settings during remote control operation
with NBM-TS or with NBM-550 as the controller . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
4.12 Switching off. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
5 PC software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
5.1 Using the PC software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Minimum system requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
5.2 Connecting the NBM-520. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
5.3 Working with the PC software . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
5.4 Changing the instrument settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
5.5 Updating the firmware . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Contents
Narda NBM-520 iii
6 Instrument maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
6.1 Cleaning the instrument . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
6.2 Replacing / removing the batteries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
6.3 Disposal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Rechargeable batteries. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Instrument. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
6.4 Checking for proper operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Appropriate test sources. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
7 Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
7.1 Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
7.2 Measurement functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
7.3 Interfaces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
7.4 General specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
7.5 AC Adapter / Charger Unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
7.6 CE Declaration of Conformity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
8 Ordering information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
8.1 NBM-520. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
8.2 Probes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
8.3 Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Index. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Contents
iv NBM-520 Narda

Narda NBM-520 1
1Useful information
This chapter contains basic information about measuring
electromagnetic fields and about using the NBM-520.
1.1 Measuring electromagnetic fields (page 2)
1.2 About this instrument (page 2)
1.3 About this operating manual (page 3)

1 Useful information
2 NBM-520 Narda
1.1 Measuring electromagnetic fields
In today’s world, practically everyone lives and works in an
environment surrounded by technical equipment that gener-
ates electromagnetic fields. Our recognition of the problems
associated with such fields and our depth of information in
this area has increased as the effects of such fields on the
human body have been examined more closely. Various
authorities have long defined limit values designed to pro-
tect users from the dangers of exposure to such emissions.
1.2 About this instrument
The Narda Broadband Field Meter NBM-520 provides virtu-
ally everyone concerned with this subject with an instrument
for measuring non-ionizing radiation with utmost accuracy
within the frequency range from 100 kHz to 60 GHz
(depending on the probe used). The instrument features
very simple operation, a handy design in a robust casing,
long battery life, and high measurement accuracy.
Probes for various measurement applications are con-
nected to the NBM-520 basic unit. Flat frequency response
probes are available, as well as so-called shaped probes
that evaluate the field according to a specific human safety
standard. These probes are calibrated separately from the
measuring instrument, and include a non-volatile memory
containing the probe parameters and calibration data. They
can therefore be used with any instrument in the NBM-500
family without any loss in calibration accuracy.
The PC software supplied with the instrument allows you to
remote control the NBM-520 and to configure the instru-
ment settings.
Applications
The NBM-520 makes precision measurements for human
safety purposes, particularly in workplace environments
where high electric or magnetic field strengths are likely. It
can also be used to demonstrate the electromagnetic com-
patibility (EMC) of devices and equipment.

1.3 About this operating manual
Narda NBM-520 3
Examples:
• Measuring field strengths as part of general safety
regulations
• Measuring the field strengths around transmitting and
radar equipment to establish safety zones and for
monitoring during operations
• Measuring the field strength emanating from mobile
phone repeaters and satellite communications systems to
ensure compliance with human safety limit values
• Measuring the field strength in the industrial workplace
environment, such as plastics welding equipment, RF
heating, tempering, and drying equipment
• Measurements to ensure the safety of persons using
diathermy equipment and other medical equipment that
generates high frequency radiation
• Field strength measurements in TEM cells and absorber
chambers
1.3 About this operating manual
Characters and symbols used
Various elements are used in this operating manual to indi-
cate special meanings or particularly important passages in
the text.

1 Useful information
4 NBM-520 Narda
Symbols and terms used in warnings
According to the American National Standard
ANSI Z535.6-2006, the following warnings, symbols, and
terms are used in this document:
Structure of warnings
All warnings are structured as follows:
The general danger symbol warns of risk of serious injury
when used with the signal words CAUTION, WARNING,
and DANGER. Follow all the instructions in order to avoid
injuries or death.
NOTICE Indicates a danger that results in damage to or destruction
of the instrument.
CAUTION Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided,
could result in minor or moderate injury.
WARNING Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided,
could result in death or serious injury.
DANGER Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will
result in death or serious injury.
SIGNAL WORD
Type and source of danger
Consequences of failure to observe warning
⇒Instructions for preventing danger

1.3 About this operating manual
Narda NBM-520 5
Symbols and marks used in this document
Terminology
!Important instruction
Indicates an instruction that must be followed to avoid dan-
ger.
✓Requirement
Indicates a requirement that must be met before the next
instruction can be carried out, e.g.
✓The instrument is switched off.
⇒Instruction
Indicates a single instruction, e.g.
⇒Switch the instrument on.
1.
2.
3.
Sequence of instructions
Indicates a sequence of instructions that must be carried
out in the order given.
ªResult
Indicates the result of carrying out an instruction, e.g.
ªThe instrument starts a self test.
Bold type Control element
Indicates a control element on the instrument, e.g.
⇒Press the MODE key
Blue type Cross reference (in PDF document only)
Indicates a cross reference to another part of the docu-
ment. Click on the blue type in the PDF document to jump
directly to the cross reference.
Item Meaning
Battery Rechargeable battery
Dry battery Non-rechargeable battery

1 Useful information
6 NBM-520 Narda

Narda NBM-520 7
2Safety instructions
This chapter contains important instructions on how to use
the NBM-520 safely. Please therefore read this chapter
carefully and follow the instructions closely.
2.1 Using this operating manual (page 8)
2.2 Proper use (page 8)
2.3 Improper use (page 8)
2.4 Dangers from electromagnetic fields (page 9)
2.5 Dangers when handling rechargeable batteries
(page 10)
2.6 Dangers from AC adapter/charger (page 10)

2 Safety instructions
8 NBM-520 Narda
2.1 Using this operating manual
!Carefully read this entire operating manual before you
start using the instrument.
!Keep this operating manual so that it is available to
everyone who uses the instrument, and ensure that this
operating manual is with the instrument if you pass it on to
a third party.
2.2 Proper use
The NBM-520 is designed to measure and evaluate electro-
magnetic fields.
!Only use the instrument for the purpose and under the
conditions for which it has been designed.
!In particular, observe the technical data given in the
Specifications on page 47.
Proper use also includes:
!observing any national accident prevention regulations at
the place of use,
!ensuring that the instrument is used only by appropriately
qualified and trained persons.
2.3 Improper use
The NBM-520 is not a warning device that gives active
notice of the existence of dangerous fields by means of a
visible or audible warning signal.
!Remember that this instrument is a measuring device, not
a warning device.
!Carefully observe the actual measurement displayed
when you are approaching an unknown field source.
!If in doubt, use an additional warning device such as
“RadMan” or “Nardalert XT”, available from Narda Safety
Te s t S o l u t i o n s.

2.4 Dangers from electromagnetic fields
Narda NBM-520 9
2.4 Dangers from electromagnetic fields
Strong Fields
Very high field strengths can occur in the vicinity of
some radiation sources.
⇒Do not cross or ignore safety barriers or markings.
⇒Persons with electronic implants (e.g. heart pacemak-
ers) must avoid danger zones.
Measurement Errors
Metallic labels (stickers) affixed to the yellow sensor
area of the probe can lead to measurement errors, usu-
ally an underestimation of the electromagnetic field
strength.
⇒Affix labels of any type only to the black probe shaft.
⇒If the instrument malfunctions, take it out of service and
contact your Narda Service Center. The addresses are
listed at the end of this operating manual and on the In-
ternet at http://www.narda-sts.com.
Probe is not operating properly
Possibly present high radiation values are not recog-
nized.
⇒Check probes for proper operation with a signal source
before using this measuring instrument. This is espe-
cially important for thermocouples because the sensors
can be affected by various mechanical and environmen-
tal stressors.
Narda offers portable sources to accomplish this impor-
tant step (see Accessories on page 53).
⇒Before beginning any RF radiation measurement, always
inform yourself of the frequencies and field strengths that
you could expect to encounter.

2 Safety instructions
10 NBM-520 Narda
2.5 Dangers when handling rechargeable
batteries
When handled improperly, rechargeable batteries can
overheat, explode, or ignite.
⇒Only use the NBM-520 with NiMH rechargeable batter-
ies (AA, Mignon).
⇒Do not use dry batteries.
⇒Do not replace individual batteries; always replace the
entire set.
⇒Always use identical batteries.
⇒Never touch both poles of the batteries simultaneously
with a metal object.
⇒Make sure you insert the batteries correctly as shown on
the base of the battery compartment.
⇒Always close the battery compartment immediately after
replacing batteries.
⇒Never use the NBM-520 with the battery compartment
open.
2.6 Dangers from AC adapter/charger
You could experience electric shock from the AC
adapter/charger.
⇒Do not use the instrument when the casing is damaged
because parts carrying dangerous voltages could be ex-
posed.
⇒Do not use an AC adapter/charger that has been moved
from a cold to a warm room, thereby forming condensa-
tion.
⇒Only use the AC adapter/charger indoors and at temper-
atures between 0 °C and +40 °C.
The AC adapter/charger could be destroyed if the volt-
age specification on the AC adapter/charger does not
match the AC line voltage.
⇒Only use the AC adapter/charger if the voltage specifica-
tion on the AC adapter/charger matches the AC line volt-
age.

Narda NBM-520 11
3Preparing the NBM-520 for
use
This chapter describes all you need to do before starting to
use the NBM-520.
3.1 Unpacking (page 12)
3.2 Instrument overview (page 15)
3.3 Using rechargeable batteries and the AC Adapter /
Charger (page 17)
3.4 Connecting the probe (page 19)

3 Preparing the NBM-520 for use
12 NBM-520 Narda
3.1 Unpacking
Packaging
The packaging is designed to be re-used as long as it has
not been damaged.
⇒Keep the original packaging and use it whenever the in-
strument needs to be shipped or transported.
Items included
⇒Check that all the following items have been delivered:
– NBM-520 (including 2 x NiMH Mignon/AA batteries)
–Case
– Probe (type and quantity as ordered)
– AC Adapter / Charger
– Shoulder strap
– NBM-TS PC software
– Operating manual
– Calibration certificate
– O/E converter
– Cable, fiber optic duplex (1000 µm) RP-02, 2m
Transport damage
NOTICE
Instrument/accessories damaged during
transportation
Using damaged instrument/accessories can lead to
subsequent damage.
⇒Check the instrument and all accessories for damage
when you have unpacked them.
⇒If the instrument is damaged, contact your Narda Ser-
vice Center.

3.1 Unpacking
Narda NBM-520 13
NOTICE: The addresses of your Narda Service Center are listed at
the end of this operating manual and on the Internet at
http://www.narda-sts.com.
Equipping the case
You can use the case provided to store a wide range of
optional accessories in addition to the items supplied. The
figures below show the compartments in the case lid and
case base.
Case lid
Case base
1
2
Rechargeable batteries
Probe
3Compartment for cables,
operating manual, and in-
stallation CD
1
2
3
Table top tripod
Probe
NBM-520 basic unit
4
5
6
Shoulder strap
O/E converter
AC Adapter / Charger

3 Preparing the NBM-520 for use
14 NBM-520 Narda
After transport and storage
Note: The instrument is not ready for use until it has
reached a temperature within the operating
range of -10 to +50 °C.
NOTICE
Condensation on an instrument can lead to
damage
Condensation can form on an instrument that has
been stored at a low temperature when it is brought
into a warm room. It may be damaged if used.
⇒Wait until all visible condensation has evaporated from
the instrument surface to avoid damaging the instru-
ment.