Prostat PRF-912B User manual

P R O F E S S I O N A L
S T A T I C
C O N T R O L
P R O D U C T S
Operations Manual
Miniature Concentric Ring Fixture Set
PRF-912B & PRV-913B

Copyright 2001-2007 by PROSTATCorporation. All rights reserved. Printed in the United States of
America. No part of this manual may be used or reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written
permission. For information contact PROSTAT Corporation, 1072 Tower Lane, Bensenville, IL 60106
PROSTAT is the registered trademark of PROSTATCorporation

PRF-912B & PRV-913B Miniature Concentric Ring Fixture Set
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
PROSTAT®PRF-912B & PRV-913B MINIATURE CONCENTRIC RING FIXTURE SET
Title Page #
I. Introduction & Description.............................................................................................. 3
II. Cautions & Warnings ...................................................................................................... 6
III. PRF-912B Micro Probe & PRV-913B Verifier Operations............................................... 8
IV. Handling & Maintenance............................................................................................... 12
V. Warranty Information..................................................................................................... 13
General Specifications.................................................................................................. 15

PRF-912B & PRV-913V Miniature Concentric Ring Fixture Set
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I. Introduction & Description
The PRF-912B Miniature
Concentric Resistance Fixture
accurately measures surface
resistance of small areas. It
consists of a PRF-912B
Concentric Resistance Fixture,
shielded cable equipped with
BNC connectors, and a BNC to
male banana connectors adapter.
The optional PRV-913B Dual
Verification Fixture is designed to
confirm the proper operation of
the PRF-912B and high
resistance PRF-914B Miniature
Concentric Resist-ance Fixtures.
The PRF-912B is designed to
work in conjunction with a
precision wide range resistance
instrument, such as the
PROSTAT PRS-801 Resistance System, and an insulated test bed (e.g., PTB-920 or
equivalent). This instrument and fixture combination provides direct surface resistance
measurements in ohms, generally in accordance with the ESD Association’s S11.11 Surface
Resistance test standard. To obtain an estimate of ASTM D-257 Surface Resistivity in
ohms/square, simply multiply the PRF-912 fixture measurement by 10, i.e., add one order of
magnitude.
A. PRF-912B Concentric Resistance Fixture Description
This precision fixture is designed in miniature to approximate surface resistance
measurements typically obtained with the ESD Association’s ESD S11.11 Surface
Resistance Standard fixture. The PRF-912B, however, is approximately 1/10th the size of
the S11.11 fixture. Based on its size the PRF-912B is often referred to as a “micro
probe”.
1. The resistance measurement range of the PRF-912B fixture is 0.9 ohms at <10 volts
to 1.0E+12 (1.0x1012 ) ohms at 100 volts.
2. The miniature concentric fixture consists of a spring loaded 0.10 inch (2.54 mm)
diameter center electrode surrounded by 10 each 0.06 inch (1.5 mm) diameter
contact electrodes that electrically form a continuous outer ring. (Figure 2) Contacts
are pogo-pin type ATE quality probes made of beryllium Copper coated with 60
microinch of hard Gold.
Shielded
Cable
With BNC
Connectors
BNC to Male
Banana
Adapter
PRF-912
Mi i t
Concentric
Resistance
Fixture
PRV-913 Resistance Fixture
Verification Reference
BNC
Connection
Cover
Probe Cover
Figure 1: PRF-912B Miniature Concentric Resistance Fix-
ture Measurement Set with Optional PRV-913B Dual
Verification Fixture.

PRF-912B & PRV-913B Miniature Concentric Ring Fixture Set
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a. The PRF-912B’s center electrode is electrically separated from the outer ring
contacts by a high resistance dielectric (Teflon). The center electrode acts as a
current sensor during resistance measurements. It is connected to the negative (-
) terminal of a wide range measurement instrument via the RG-174 coaxial
cable’s inner conductor, BNC coupler and dual BNC/Banana adapter.
b. The outer ring contacts are electrically connected at a common point. They apply
the test voltage to the material under test during a resistance measurement.
They are connected to the positive (+) terminal of the wide range measurement
instrument via the RG-174 coaxial cable’s outer conductor, BNC coupler and
dual BNC/Banana adapter.
c. The fixture’s total surface contact diameter is approximately 0.30 inches, and is
ideal for measuring surface resistance of small areas, 0.32 inches or larger.
3. The PRF-912B resistance fixture
approximates the same
measurements obtained when
using a standard ESD
Association Standard ANSI/ESD
S11.11 concentric ring fixture.
4. Overall size of the PRF-912B is
0.50 inches in diameter by 5.9
inches (150 mm) long. (Figure 3)
This optimal size and shape
make the fixture very comfortable
and easy to handle. Its outer
housing is made of black
anodized aluminum.
5. PRF-912B Standard accessories
include protective cover, one RG-
174 cable, a BNC/banana
adapter and instructions
6. Optional accessories include the PRV-913B Dual Fixture Verification Reference, de-
scribed below.
Center Electrode Outer Ring
Contacts
Contact
Diameter
0.30 Inches
Figure 2: Concentric Ring Configuration

PRF-912B & PRV-913V Miniature Concentric Ring Fixture Set
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PRF-912B Resistance Fixture
Overall Length 5.9 Inches (150 mm)
Figure 3: PRF-912B Profile with protective covers removed
B. PRV-913B Dual Verification Fixture Description
1. Approximately 2 inches (50.1mm) square by 0.82 inches (21mm) thick, the PRV-
913B is designed to confirm the proper function of the PRF-912B, PRF-914B and
PRF-922B Microprobe Resistance Fixtures. It consists of a high quality black
anodized housing and circuit board incorporating an array of ten (10) each 10
megohm precision (2%) resistors in parallel, connecting the center pad to each of
the ten peripheral trace pads, it provides a specific reference resistance of 1.0x106
ohms (5%) on the concentric ring side.
On the other side, it consists of a circuit board containing 1 each, 1 megohm (1%)
resistor connecting two peripheral trace pads. It provides a specific reference
resistance of 1.0 x 106ohms (+/- 1%) on the two-point side.
2. Properly used, the PRV-913B insures that all PRF-912B
& PRF-914B spring loaded test probes make defined
contact with the reference surface. It has the capability
of providing a 1-megohm (1.0x106ohm) reference
measurement with a theoretical maximum total variance
of 9.5x105to 1.05x106ohms. Typical reference
measurements range from 1.01x106to 1.03x106ohms,
i.e., equal to or less than +3% error.
3. PRV-913B fixture contact surfaces consist of copper
substrates, finished with nickel and hard Gold plating.
a. To accommodate the PRF-912B or 914B center
electrode a single gold contact point is positioned at
the center of the PRV-913B Verification Test
Surface.
The center position is connected to the ten individual
outer ring trace pads by the ten, 10 megohm resistors.
Figure 4: PRV-913B Resistance
Verification Reference

PRF-912B & PRV-913B Miniature Concentric Ring Fixture Set
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II. Cautions & Warnings
As with any electrical device, use proper electrical precautions and measurement practices
to avoid personnel shock. Read this manual in its entirety before attempting to use these
products.
A. Use of Measurement Power Supply
1. The PRF-912B is a high performance micro probed designed for use with a
maximum input voltage of 100 volts. As such, it is capable of delivering an
annoying shock to any person touching the spring-loaded contacts when they are
energized.
a. If used with the PROSTAT PRS-801 Resistance System, the current capability of
the micro probe instrument combination is limited to a very low, typically
harmless level. However, a distinct hazard exists in the operator’s reaction to a
possible shock.
b. To avoid shock, operating personnel should not touch the electrodes, or any
exposed metallic parts of the PRF-912B fixture or cable assembly when power is
applied to the probe.
c. The designed operating voltage limit for normal auditing and laboratory
measurements is 100 volts. Exceeding 100 volts greatly increases the risk of
personnel shock hazards.
d. Only qualified instrument repair and test personnel should exceed the 100-volt
operation limit, and then do so only under controlled conditions using
maximum precautions against personnel shock.
CAUTION
To avoid electrical shock, Do Not Touch the fixture test electrodes, test bed, or exposed metal
BNC connections when power is being applied to the probe.
WARNING
Never exceed the maximum applied operating test voltage of 100 volts.
This manual displays Cautions and Warnings alerting the user to hazardous operation and
servicing conditions. CAUTION or WARNING headings throughout this publication flag this
information, where appropriate. Follow all Caution and Warning instructions at all times.

PRF-912B & PRV-913V Miniature Concentric Ring Fixture Set
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e. Never, under any conditions, exceed 500 volts during fixture test or repair.
B. Other Operational Precautions
1. Do Not Use the PRF-912B Micro Probe if it fails to function during its continuity
inspection test.
2. Do Not Use the PRF-912B Micro Probe if it becomes damaged in any way
3. Only Prostat Corporation authorized, qualified repair personnel may open PRF-
912B or PRV-913B housing, terminal assemblies, or perform product repair.
Unauthorized opening of fixture or instrument housings, device tampering, or
attempted repair will absolutely void product warranty and completely absolve
Prostat Corporation, its employees, suppliers and representatives of any
responsibility, liability, or other, whatsoever.
4. Do Not Touch Electrode Surfaces. Electrodes will become contaminated with skin
oils and salts, and may become damaged or rendered inaccurate.
5. Do Not Use Or Store PRF-912B Or PRV-913B In Damp Environments Always
store devices with protective caps in place in a dry environment, preferably at 20%
Relative Humidity.
6. Do not use these fixtures and devices in combustible or explosive environments.
7. Do not attempt to measure energized materials, items or circuits with the PRF-912B
WARNING
Unauthorized opening of fixture or instrument housings, device tampering, or attempted
repair will absolutely void product warranty and completely absolve Prostat
Corporation of any responsibility, liability, or other, whatsoever.
CAUTION
Storage or use of these instruments, fixtures and devices in damp or wet conditions may
cause damage to electrical circuits, and contact surfaces, which may effect performance
or increase the possibility of personnel shock or arc discharge.
WARNING
Improper handling and use of energized circuits may cause arc discharge, which in turn
may cause the ignition of combustible materials or fumes. Do not use exposed energized
circuits in flammable areas.

PRF-912B & PRV-913B Miniature Concentric Ring Fixture Set
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8. The PRF-912B is a precision fixture to be operated by experienced personnel
familiar in the use and handling of devices employing energized power supplies.
9. Do Not Drop or cause mechanical damage to these devices.
III. PRF-912B Micro Probe & PRV-913B Verifier Operations
A. PRF-912B Setup
1. Connect measurement cable to PRF-912B
a. Remover black rubber protective cover from
PRF-912B’s BNC connection
b. Attach shielded cable to the probe’s BNC
connection (Figure 5).
Figure 5: Connect shielded cable
to PRF-912B’s BNC fixture
2. Connect measurement cable to Dual Banana BNC Converter (Figure 6).
Figure 6: Connect Cable to Banana Converter Figure 7: PRF-912B with Cable & Banana
Converter
BNC
Connector
Note that the BNC connection system is based on a
“bayonet” design. Locate the 2 locking studs on the
fixture’s male connector. Match them to grooves of
the female connector. Then simply push and twist
the female clockwise until it locks on to the fixture.

PRF-912B & PRV-913V Miniature Concentric Ring Fixture Set
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3. Once the cable and BNC adapter are installed the PRF-912B is ready for continuity
test, verification and use
4. To use, connect dual banana converter to wide range, resistance instrument with ¾
inch terminal spacing. Flange side of dual banana should be connected to the
Positive (+) power terminal.
B. Confirming Proper BNC Connections, Continuity & High Resistance Tests
The following confirms proper connections by checking continuity of the micro probe
against a metal plate, then confirms its ability to measure high resistance.
1. To confirm general setup and function of the PRF-912B, place the electrodes against
a clean metal surface. For example, the plated metal side of the Prostat PTB-920,
Dual Surface Test Bed.
a. Hold the PRF-912B vertically, and apply pressure to slightly compress the
electrodes, making positive contact with the metal surface.
b. Activate the wide range, resistance instrument to obtain a measurement.
(1) In the case where the Prostat PRS-801 is the measurement instrument, it
should measure approximately 1.0 ohm, or less.
(2) With other instruments, they should provide a LOW resistance indication. For
example, <103 ohms when using the Prostat PSI-870 Resistance Indicator, or
<104ohms when using the Prostat PRS-800 analog Megohmmeter.
2. Repeat the above procedure using the clean insulated surface (Black, labeled side) of
the PTB-920, or an insulated acrylic plate.
a. Hold the PRF-912B vertically, and apply pressure to compress the electrodes,
making positive contact with the insulated surface.
b. Activate the wide range, resistance instrument to obtain a measurement.
(1) In the case where the Prostat PRS-801 is the measurement instrument, it
should measure 1.0x1012 ohms, or greater.
(2) With other instruments, they should provide a HIGH resistance indication. For
example, 1012 or >1012 ohms when using the Prostat PSI-870 Resistance
NOTE: To remove BNC connections, apply slight
pressure and twist connector counter clockwise.

PRF-912B & PRV-913B Miniature Concentric Ring Fixture Set
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(3) Indicator, or approximately 1011 ohms when using the Prostat PRS-800
analog Megohmmeter.
C. PRF-912B Verification Using the PRV-913B
1. Connect the BNC/banana adapter to the wide range, resistance measurement
instrument. Flange side of dual banana should be connected to the Positive (+)
power terminal. This applies test voltage to the 10 outer ring electrodes.
2. Remove PRF-912B Probe Cover (Figure 8).
3. Position PRF-912B vertically into the PRV-913B Verifier with
its spring loaded pin electrodes making direct contact with the
Verifier’s gold plated test segments.
4. Depending on your resistance instrument
select either 10V or 100V test voltage.
5. Measure PRF-912B probe resistance while
positioned in the PRV-913B Verifier. Re-
sistance should be 1.0x106ohms 1%.
D. Basic Measurements Using the PRF-912B Micro Probe
1. Place material to be measured on an insulated test bed, the clean insulated
surface (Black, labeled side) of the PTB-920, or an insulated acrylic plate.
2. Position the PRF-912B vertically directly over test area and lower it until the spring
loaded center electrode makes direct contact with the material under test.
3. Apply sufficient pressure on the probe until the center and outer spring loaded
electrode are partially compressed while in contact with the test material.
Figure
8
: Remove Probe Cover
Figure 9: Insert PRF-912B Fixture into PRV-
913B Verifier and Measure Verifier
Resistance

PRF-912B & PRV-913V Miniature Concentric Ring Fixture Set
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4. Select appropriate instrument test voltage and initiate resistance measurement. ESD
Association S11.11 test voltage guidelines for measuring packaging materials are as
follows:
a. For material resistance measurements of less than 1.0x104ohms, use <10 volts.
b. For measurements of 1.0x104to <1.0x106 ohms, use 10 volts.
c. For measurements greater than 1.0x106ohms, use 100 volts
NOTE: For optimal performance and accuracy, use the Prostat PRS-801 Resistance
System in its AUTOMATIC Mode (either Default Mode 1 [Ohms], or Mode 2
[Exponential 1.0EXX/Ohms] display). AUTOMATIC Mode will control test voltage,
resistance range adjustment and electrification period automatically.
Measurement Illustrations
Using the PROSTAT PRF-
912B Fixture
Figure 11: Measuring Tape & Foil
Figure 10: Measuring Carrier Tape
Figure 13: Measuring Formed Tray
Figure 12: Measuring Device Tray
IMPORTANT NOTE: Adjust probe pressure to insure that the electrode springs are
controlling the probe’s connection with the material’s surface and that the springs are
not fully compressed against their stops. This will insure reproducible
measurements.

PRF-912B & PRV-913B Miniature Concentric Ring Fixture Set
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IV. Handling & Maintenance
1. Store the PRF-912B in a clean, dry environment with both BNC and Probe covers
installed for environmental and mechanical protection.
2. Periodically, remove all spring-loaded test pins. Clean the spring-loaded test probes
and Teflon mounting disk with a solution of laboratory grade isopropyl alcohol and a
lint-less cloth, or laboratory quality swab. Allow components to dry thoroughly be
fore re-assembling.
a. Remove each test probe individually by grasping it firmly
then pulling it straight out of its socket.
b. Inspect each probe for damage, then clean with the
alcohol solution. If a probe is damaged, i.e., bent, does
not compress smoothly, or has deep surface scratches,
replace it with a new probe of the same size and
characteristics. (Contact Prostat Corporation, Customer
Service for spare replacement probes.)
c. Clean and dry the Teflon mounting disk twice to insure
cleanliness
d. Carefully re-install the spring-loaded test probes, and
fully re-seat them in their sockets
3. After cleaning, perform Continuity, High Resistance and Verifier checks.
Pull Straight Out
Figure 14: Remove Spring-Loaded
probe electrode by grasping firmly and
pulling straight out of its socket.
Carefully Insert Probe
into its Socket
Figure 16: Insert Test Probe into its
Socket and Press Firmly to fully seat
Test Probe
Probe Socket
White Teflon
Mounting
Figure 15: View of PRF-912B Spring-
Loaded Test Pins, Socket & Teflon
Mounting Disk

PRF-912B & PRV-913V Miniature Concentric Ring Fixture Set
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A. PRV-913B Dual Verification Fixture
1. Store the PRV-913B in a clean, dry environment.
2. Periodically, clean and dry the gold fixture contact segments twice with a solution of
laboratory grade isopropyl alcohol and laboratory quality swab.Instrument
Maintenance
V. Warranty Information
A. PROSTATWarranty
PROSTAT Corporation expressly warrants that for a period of one (1) year from the date
of purchase, that PROSTAT instruments will be free from defects in material (parts) and
workmanship (labor). If PROSTAT receives notice of such defect during the warranty
period, PROSTAT will replace at its expense such parts that it determines to be
defective. Any defective part must be returned to PROSTAT postage prepaid with proof
of purchase date.
Warranty Exclusions – THE FOREGOING EXPRESS WARRANTY IS MADE IN LIEU
OF ALL OTHER PRODUCT WARRANTIES, EXPRESS AND IMPLIED, INCLUDING
MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE WHICH ARE
SPECIFICALLY DISCLAIMED. The express warranty will not apply to defects or
damage due to accidents, neglect, misuse, alterations, operator error, or failure to
properly maintain, clean, or repair products. Limit of Liability – in no event will PROSTAT
or any seller be responsible or liable for special, incidental, or consequential losses or
damages, under any legal theory including but not limited to contract, negligence, or
strict liability.
Fulfillment by PROSTAT of its express warranty obligations described above will be
purchaser’s exclusive remedy and will be PROSTAT’s and seller’s limit of liability for any
breach of warranty or otherwise.
B. Shipping of Warranty Returns
1. Obtain a Return Materials Authorization (RMA) number and shipping address
from PROSTAT customer service. Pack the instrument carefully and ship it
prepaid and insured to the proper destination provided by PROSTAT’s customer
service department.
2. For detailed shipping instructions and Return Materials Authorization (RMA),
contact:
DO NOT RETURN ANY ITEM WITHOUT HAVING FIRST
RECEIVED A RETURN MATERIALS AUTHORIZATION
(RMA) NUMBER FROM PROSTAT

PRF-912B & PRV-913B Miniature Concentric Ring Fixture Set
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Prostat Corporation
1072 Tower Lane
Bensenville, IL 60106
Telephone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
C. Shipping Non-Warranty Items
1.Any PROSTAT product returned for non-warranty repair or calibration requires a
Return Materials Authorization (RMA) number and should be packaged and
shipped as described above, and as directed by PROSTAT’s customer service
department.
2. The following information must be included with the returned product:
a. Description of the problem
b. Customer’s Purchase Order Number & PROSTAT’s Materials Authorization
(RMA) number
c. Name, telephone number and fax number of individual contact who can
provide more information regarding the problem and related application(s).
d. Complete return address.

PRF-912B & PRV-913V Miniature Concentric Ring Fixture Set
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PRF-912B & PRV-913B Miniature Concentric Ring Fixture Set Specifications
PRF-912B Miniature Concentric Ring
Physical Dimensions: Length: 5.9 inches (150mm) without probe cover. 6.5 inches (165mm)
with probe cover. Probe diameter 0.5 inches (12.7mm). Probe cover
outer diameter 0.63 inches (16mm).
Probe Weight: 1.5 ounces (43 grams)
Finish: Black anodized
Dielectric Material: Teflon
Contact Dimensions: Inner (Center) Contact Probe: 0.1 inches (2.54mm)
Outer Contact Probes: Ten each 0.06 inches (1.59mm) diameter at 0.258
inches (6.56mm) bolt circle.
Min. Sample Size: 0.32 inches (8.2mm) diameter
Probe Spring 3.5 pounds (1.6 kg)
Force/Test:
Probe Total Travel: 0.3 inches (7.8mm)
Connection: BNC with outer source and inner sense connections
Cable: RG-174 coaxial cable equipped with insulated BNC couplers, and
BNC/Banana adapter for connection to Prostat PRS-801 Resistance
System.
Power: Not applicable. Fixture powered by resistance instrument.
Warranty: Prostat Corporation, Limited one year
PRV-913B Dual Verification Fixture
Physical Dimensions: 2.0 in x 2.0 in x 0.83 in (50.1mm x 50.1mm x 21mm)
Fixture Weight: 5.29 ounces (150 grams)
Finish: Black anodized
Contact Pads: Copper substrate with nickel and hard gold plating
Resistors: ±2% precision, 10-megohm resistors, total of 10 (Concentric Ring Side)
±2% precision, 1 each 10-megohm resistor (2-Point Side)
Power: Not applicable. Powered by PRF-912B during test
Warranty: Prostat Corporation, Limited one year

PRF-912B & PRV-913B Miniature Concentric Ring Fixture Set
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Rev: PRF-912B & PRV-913B – 11-2005
Format modification: 02-11-2005

Copyright 2001-2007, Prostat Corporation
Printed in U.S.A.
1072 Tower Lane, Bensenville, IL 60106 USA
www.prostatcorp.com