NorthStar SLIM Tach HS56 User manual

NorthStar Technoogies, Inc. 791-1010-00 Rev.C 5 May 1999
Instruction Manual
SLIM Tach HS56
Magnetoresistive Encoder
Designed for use in
0.625-1.125” (16mm-30mm)
Hollow Shaft Applications

NorthStar SLIM Tach® HS56 Instruction Manual
2 5 May 1999
LIMITED WARRANTY
NorthStar Technologies, Inc. (henceforth NorthStar), the manufacturer, warrants this product for a period of twelve (12)
months from the date of shipment. During the warranty period, under authorized return component parts to NorthStar freight
prepaid, the company will repair, or at its option replace, any part found to be defective in material or workmanship, without
charge to the Owner for parts, service labor, or associated customary shipping cost. Replacement or repaired parts will be
warranted for only the unused portion of the original warranty.
This warranty is limited to NorthStar products purchased and installed in the United States. This same protection will extend
to any subsequent owner during the warranty period. It does not apply to damage caused by accident, misuse, fire, flood or
acts of God, or from failure to properly install, operate, or maintain the product in accordance with the printed instructions
provided.
THIS WARRANTY IS IN LIEU OF ANY OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING
MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, WHICH ARE EXPRESSLY EXCLUDED. THE
OWNER AGREES THAT NORTHSTAR’S LIABILITY WITH RESPECT TO THIS PRODUCT SHALL BE SET FORTH
IN THIS WARRANTY, AND INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES ARE EXPRESSLY EXCLUDED.
WARRANTY RETURN POLICY
If you experience any technical problems with NorthStar products, please contact our Technical Support Department at (614)
891-2245 from 8:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. Eastern Standard Time (EST), Monday through Friday, or in writing to fax: (614) 891-
6909, or email: [e-mail]. Please be ready to provide your customer number, item description, serial
number, invoice number, date of purchase, and the specifics of the problem.
A representative will attempt to solve your problem over the telephone by running a few diagnostics. If it is determined by our
representative in conjunction with the Customer that the product is required to be returned to NorthStar’s factory for warranty
repair, a Return Goods Authorization (RGA) number will be issued. For control purposes, only those items identified with an
RGA number may be returned to NorthStar. Please make sure that the RGA number is clearly marked on the shipping label.
Packages missing an RGA number cannot be accepted by our Receiving Department and must be returned to the sender
freight COD. Ship returned products to NorthStar PRE-PAID and insured for its full value.
EXPRESS SERVICE IS OFFERED ON ALL WARRANTY REPAIRS WHERE AN RGA NUMBER HAS BEEN ISSUED.
IF THE SAME WARRANTY PART THAT IS BEING RETURNED IS IN STOCK, NORTHSTAR WILL IMMEDIATELY
SHIP OUT A NEW REPLACEMENT PART, INVOICE THE REPLACEMENT PART AND ISSUE A CREDIT INVOICE
WHEN THE RGA NUMBER WARRANTY PART IS RECEIVED AT NORTHSTAR AND IS CONFIRMED TO BE A
WARRANTY REPAIR. NORTHSTAR WILL EXPRESS SHIP THE PRODUCT PRE-PAID, USING THE SAME
METHOD BY WHICH THE WARRANTY PART WAS SHIPPED TO NORTHSTAR, (i.e., IF THE RGA WARRANTY
PART WAS SHIPPED OVERNIGHT, NORTHSTAR WILL SHIP IN THE SAME MANNER.)
There is a 15% restocking fee on all items returned for credit to NorthStar. This includes all items that are returned for
exchange. All replacement parts must be purchased before they are sent out to the customer. If credit needs to be issued it will
be issued upon the return of the product if the unit is in good condition.
TRADEMARK ACKNOWLEDGMENT
Many of the designations used by manufacturers and sellers to distinguish their products are claimed as trademarks. Where
those designations appear in this manual and NorthStar was aware of a trademark claim, the designations have been printed in
initial capital letters and the  or ® symbol used.
SLIM Tach® is a trademark of NorthStar Technologies, Inc.
Copyright © 1998 by NorthStar Technologies, Inc. All rights reserved. No portion of this manual may be reproduced, stored
in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or
otherwise, without the express written permission of NorthStar.

NorthStar SLIM Tach® HS56 Instruction Manual
3 5 May 1999
Table of Contents
Chapter/Paragraph/Illustration Page
1 Introduction ....................................................................................................................................... 4
1.0 Safety Summary ................................................................................................................................... 4
1.2 General ................................................................................................................................................. 5
1.3 Description ........................................................................................................................................... 5
Figure 1: Customer Outline Reference Dimensions ..................................................................... 5
1.4 Specifications ....................................................................................................................................... 6
2 Installation ......................................................................................................................................... 7
2.0 Inspection and Unpacking .................................................................................................................... 7
2.1 Mounting the HS56 to a C-Face Motor ................................................................................................ 7
Figure 2: HS56 Anti Rotation Turnbuckle (Motor C-Face Mounting) ......................................... 7
2.2 Mounting the HS56 to a Motor with a Fan Shroud .............................................................................. 8
Figure 3: HS56 Anti Rotation Turnbuckle (Fan Shroud Mounting) ............................................. 8
Figure 4: HS56 Anti Rotation Turnbuckle (Motor with Fan Shroud) .......................................... 8
2.3 Electrical Installation ........................................................................................................................... 9
2.3.1 Quick Release Connector Hood Wiring ............................................................................................... 9
Figure 5: Sealed Industrial Latching Connector .......................................................................... 10
2.4 Returning Equipment to NorthStar....................................................................................................... 10
Methods and apparatus disclosed and described herein have been developed solely on company funds of NorthStar Technologies, Inc. No
government or other contractual support or relationship whatsoever has existed which in any way affects or mitigates proprietary rights of
NorthStar Technologies, Inc. in these developments. Methods and apparatus disclosed herein may be subject to U.S. Patents existing or
applied f or. N orthStar T echnologies, I nc. r eserves t he r ight t o a dd, i mprove, modify, or withdraw functions, design modifications, or
products at any time without notice. NorthStar shall not be liable for errors contained herein or for incidental or consequential damages in
connection with furnishing, performance, or use of this material.

NorthStar SLIM Tach® HS56 Instruction Manual
4 5 May 1999
CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION
1.0 Safety Summary
High current, voltage, and rotating parts can cause serious or fatal injury. The use of electric machinery, like all other uses of
concentrated power and rotating equipment, may be hazardous. Installing, operating, and maintaining electric machinery
should be performed by qualified personnel, in accordance with applicable provisions of the National Electrical Code and
sound local practices. Failure to comply with these precautions or with specific warnings elsewhere in this manual violates
safety standards of design, manufacture, and intended use of the instrument. NorthStar Technologies, Inc. assumes no liability
for the customer's failure to comply with these requirements.
Rotating Machinery
Avoid contact with rotating parts. Avoid by-passing or rendering inoperative any safety guards or protection devices. Avoid
extended exposure in close proximity to machinery with high noise levels. Use proper care and procedures in handling, lifting,
installing, operating and maintaining the equipment.
Before Installation
Safe maintenance practices with qualified personnel is imperative. Before starting maintenance procedures, be positive that,
(1) equipment connected to the shaft will not cause mechanical rotation, (2) main machine windings have been disconnected
and secured from all electrical power sources, and (3) all accessory devices associates with the work area have been de-
energized. If high potential insulation test is required, follow procedures and precautions outlined in NEMA standards MG-1.
Grounding
Improperly grounding the frame of the machine can cause serious or fatal injury to personnel. Grounding of the machine
frame and structure should comply with the National Electrical Code and with sound local practices. Check wiring diagram
before connecting power.
Do Not Operate In An Explosive Atmosphere
Do not operate the instrument in the presence of flammable gases or fumes. Operating any electrical instrument in such an
environment constitutes a definite safety hazard.
Keep Away From Live Circuits
Operating personnel must not remove instrument covers. Component replacement and internal adjustments must be made by
qualified maintenance personnel. Do not replace components with power cable connected. To avoid injuries, always
disconnect power and discharge circuits before touching them.
Do Not Substitute Parts Or Modify Instrument
Do not install substitute parts or perform any unauthorized modification to the instrument. Introducing additional hazards is
dangerous. Return the instrument to an authorized NorthStar Technologies, Inc. representative for service and repair to ensure
that safety features are maintained.
Dangerous Procedure Cautions
A CAUTION heading precedes potentially dangerous procedures throughout this manual. Instructions in the warnings must
be followed.

NorthStar SLIM Tach® HS56 Instruction Manual
5 5 May 1999
1.2 General
These instructions do not claim to cover all details of variation in equipment or to provide for every possible contingency or
hazard to be met in connection with installation, operation, and service. Should further information be desired or should
particular problems arise which are not covered sufficiently for the purchaser’s purposes, please contact NorthStar
Technologies, Inc., or one of its designated representatives.
1.3 Description
The SLIM Tach® HS56 is a high performance, reliable digital tachometer, designed to provide position and velocity feedback
from both AC and DC electric motors. The hollow shaft design allows ease of mounting on motors without accessory
mounting flanges. Simply slide the HS56 onto the shaft, attach the anti-rotation arm to the motor, and tighten down the set
screws that hold the unit onto the shaft. All of the critical alignments are already done for you in the encoder. The anti-
rotation arm is very forgiving to any axial or radial motions that the motor might have, yet is very torsionally non-compliant.
Similar to NorthStar’s heavy duty and mill duty encoders, the SLIM Tach HS56 contains patented magneto-resistive
technology. Magnetoresistive technology allows the NorthStar HS56 to be placed in the toughest environments. The unit is
resistant to grease, oil, water, and dirt, making the HS56 the most rugged hollow shaft encoder on the market today. Operating
voltages for the HS56 are 5-15 volts DC, and the electronics feature short circuit protection, reverse polarity protection, heavy
duty line drivers, and EMI noise resistance. NorthStar provides a heavy duty, water-tight mating Industrial connector. The
connector also features 1/2 inch NPT pipe thread for armored electrical conduit. The oversized, heavy duty bearings used in
this unit are sealed and lubricated for life.
Figure 1: HS56 Customer Outline Reference Dimensions
Latching Connector Hood:
Slim-C01
Connections
:
18” Pigtail cable P
Latching Industrial Connector C
Industrial Connector on 12” pigtail cable Q
Teather

NorthStar SLIM Tach® HS56 Instruction Manual
6 5 May 1999
1.3 Specifications
Electrical Specifications
Resolution
512, 512Z, 1024, 1024Z, 2048 PPR
Frequency Response
0 – 120 KHz
Pulse Code
Incremental, Marker, Quadrature, Complements
Output Channels
A & B (incremental); Z (marker), A, B
Duty Cycle
50
±
15% (within defined mechanical specs)
Quadrature Accuracy
A-B 90 ± 22°
Output Type
High Speed, Differential Driver
Rise and Fall Time
Less than 500ns @ 10,000 pf typical
Current Consumption
40 mA typical plus line driver load
ESD Protection
2kV
Output Current Capability
150 mA typical [350 mA maximum (worst case)]
Connector
10 pin Epic style, NEMA 4, 12 industrial connector
Suggested Cable
22 AWG, 8 Conductor, 18” length, 4 twisted shield pairs
Input Voltage
+ 5.0 to +15.0 VDC
Mechanical Specifications
Maximum Operational Speed
3,600 RPM
Shaft Requirements
0.625-1.125” (+0.000, -0.0005)
Bearings
Sealed
Max Radial Runout
0.015” total indicated run out
Max Axial Travel
±
0.150”
Box Weight
7 1/2lbs. (3.4 Kg)
Box Dimensions
8.75” x 14.25” x 4”
Environmental Specifications
Operational Temperature
-20° to +80° C
Operational Humidity Capability
Maximum of 90%
Chemical Resistance
Salt spray, most solvents, mild acids and bases
Vibration
Maximum 15 g’s RMS, 5-2000 Hz
Specifications subject to change without notice.

NorthStar SLIM Tach® HS56 Instruction Manual
7 5 May 1999
CHAPTER 2
INSTALLATION
2.0 Inspection and Unpacking
Inspect shipping container for external damage. All claims for damage (apparent or concealed) or partial loss of shipment
must be made in writing to NorthStar within (5) days from receipt of goods. If damage or loss is apparent, please notify the
shipping agent immediately.
Open shipping container and locate the packing list. The packing list is included to verify that all components, accessories,
and manual were received. Please use the packing list to check off each item as the unit is unpacked. Inspect for damage.
NorthStar recommends that the shipping container be retained for future shipping, storage, or return to factory purposes.
If any equipment was damaged in transit, be sure to file proper claims promptly with the carrier and insurance company.
Please advise NorthStar Technologies of such filing. In case of parts shortages, advise NorthStar immediately. NorthStar
cannot be responsible for any missing parts unless notified within 60 days of shipment. The standard NorthStar Technologies,
Inc. warranty is included on page 2 of this manual.
2.1 Mounting the HS56 to a NEMA 180 or 56 C-Face Motor
1. When the HS56 is to be mounted onto a motor with opposite end NEMA C-Face, insert the appropriate bolt (i.e. 3/8”-16
UNC or ½”-13 UNC) (provided in hardware kit) into threaded hole on motor C-Face and tighten (see Figure 2). After
positioning the encoder to the best angular orientation, adjust rod arm length (see Figure 2) and cut if necessary for
proper fit. Align rod end turnbuckle assembly with bolt and tighten to 49 in-lbs. The HS56 anti-rotation arm assembly is
designed to accommodate 4.5” and 8.5” C-Face mounting holes.
2. Slide the HS56 onto the motor shaft or stub shaft.
3. Attach the remaining end of the anti-rotation arm to the mounting bolt. Add a removable threaded locker and tighten the
turnbuckle locking nuts.
4. Tighten the set screws holding the encoder on the shaft with the hex wrench provided.
Figure 2: HS56 Anti Rotation Turnbuckle (Motor C-Face Mounting)

NorthStar SLIM Tach® HS56 Instruction Manual
8 5 May 1999
2.2 Mounting the HS56 to a Motor with a Fan Shroud
If the motor has only a fan shroud on the opposite drive end of the motor, use the mounting bolts on the end of the anti-
rotation arm to mount the HS56 to the fan shroud. Figure 3 shows the anti-rotation arm attached to the fan shroud.
1. Arrange the anchor T-bolt as shown in Figure 4. Slide the anchor bolt into the fan shroud through an available vent.
2. Rotate the T-bolt 90° so the bolt catches the inside of the fan shroud.
3. With the anchor T-bolt positioned in the fan shroud, place ¼” washer over the bolt, tighten the hex standoff.
4. Insert anti-rotation rod end into the Hex standoff and tighten.
CAUTION!
The anchor bolt is designed for minimum ¼ inch of clearance between the fan and the
fan shroud. If there is not ¼ clearance the fan may hit the anchor bolt head on the
inside of the fan shroud. See drawing below. The minimum shaft length for fan shroud
mounting is 2.65”.
5. Slide the HS56 onto the accessory shaft.
6. With normal torque, tighten the set screws holding the encoder on the accessory shaft. The anti-rotation arm should be
parallel with the encoder and perpendicular to the shaft. (For best holding performance, dimple or file a small flat on the
shaft under the set screw.)
Figure 3: HS56 Anti Rotation Turnbuckle (Fan Shroud Mounting)
Figure 4: HS56 Anti Rotation Turnbuckle (Motor with Fan Shroud)

NorthStar SLIM Tach® HS56 Instruction Manual
9 5 May 1999
2.3 Electrical Installation
Electrical connections are m ade to th e s ensor m odule th rough a s tandard 1 /2 inch N PT liq uid tig ht f lexible c onduit. T he
nipple l ength m ay b e ch anged t o ex tend t he outlet box if desired. Interconnection cable recommendations are as follows:
stranded c opper, 22 t hrough 16 g age, br aided or f oil w ith dr ain w ire s hielding 0. 05 µF m aximum to tal m utual o r d irect
capacitance, outer sheath insulated. Shrink tubing may be placed over any wires without insulation. For lengths over 100 feet,
use 18 gage or larger, to a maximum of 1000 feet. If shielded twisted pair wire is used, do not cross channels. Keep each pair
of complementary channel outputs together in a single twisted pair (e.g., A and A complement).
CAUTION!
Reversing power and common will not damage the unit. H owever, applying power to
any of the sensor outputs may cause damage.
Table 1. Signal Coding Table
Signal
Connector Pin
Pigtail Cable
MS 3102E18-IT#
Common
B
A
Z *
No Connection
Vcc (5-15 VDC)
/B
/A
/Z *
Shield
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Black
Green
Blue
Violet
-----
Red
Yellow
Gray
Orange
Braid
F
B
A
C
E
D
I
H
J
G
* Applies only to units with index pulse capability.
# Pinouts are for the sensors with the MS 3102E18IT connector
NOTE
The shield in the sensor module is isolated from the frame of the encoder. For maximum
noise immunity, the shield wire or pin should be connected to the shield of the cable and
that of the drive or other receiving device.
2.3.1 Quick Release Connector Hood Wiring
To install the Quick Release Connector, perform the following steps.
1. Remove the four screws from the mating connector housing that hold the terminal block in place. Remove terminal block
from housing.
2. Insert wiring through liquid tight flexible seal and mating connector housing. Leave enough wire exposed to comfortably
reach the terminal block. Wire to terminal block according to wire code in Table 1. A similar wiring list is attached to
enclosure.
There are two orientations of the connector hood. The terminal block can be inserted
either way so the connector hood points up or down. Choose the direction best for your
application.
NOTE
4. Tighten Liquid Tight fitting on housing. OPTIONAL: In some hostile environments, seal between connector body and
Sensor Module can be improved by smearing a sealant (silicone grease, etc.) on the neoprene seal of the connector.
5. Mate connector into place on sensor mount and snap the two latches into place. If only one sensor is being installed,
ensure cover plate is installed over other sensor hole.

NorthStar SLIM Tach® HS56 Instruction Manual
10 5 May 1999
Figure 5: Sealed Industrial Latching Connector
2.4 Returning Equipment to NorthStar
If it is necessary to return the unit for repair or replacement, a Return Goods Authorization (RGA) number must be obtained
from a factory representative before returning the equipment to our service department. When returning an instrument for
service, the following information must be provided before NorthStar can attempt any repair.
1. Instrument model and serial number
2. User’s name, company, address, and phone number
3. Malfunction symptoms
4. Description of system
5. Returned Goods Authorization number
Consult the factory for shipping instructions.

NorthStar SLIM Tach® HS56 Instruction Manual
11 5 May 1999