QuadTech 1855 User manual

1855
Capacitor Leakage Current/IR Meter
Instruction Manual
Form 150767/A4
©QuadTech, Inc., 2004
5 Clock Tower Place, 210 East
Maynard, Massachusetts, U.S.A. 01754
October 2006
Telephone [phone]
Sales 800-253-1230
Facsimile 978-461-4295
Website www.quadtech.com
The material in this manual is for informational purposes only and is subject to change, without notice.
QuadTech assumes no responsibility for any error or for consequential damages that may result from the
misinterpretation of any procedures in this publication.
CAUTION
Voltage may be present on front and rear panel terminals. Follow all warnings in this manual when
operating or servicing this instrument. Substantial levels of energy may be stored in capacitive devices
tested by this unit.
!Product will be marked with this symbol (ISO#3864) when it is necessary for the user to refer to
the instruction manual in order to prevent injury or equipment damage.
Product marked with this symbol (IEC417) indicates presence of direct current.
Product will be marked with this symbol (ISO#3864) when voltages in excess of 1000V are
present.

Page 2 of 76

Page 3 of 76
Contents
Warranty ....................................................................................................................5
Specifications ....................................................................................................................7
Accessories ....................................................................................................................11
Safety Precautions...............................................................................................................13
Condensed Operating Instructions....................................................................................15
Introduction - Section 1
1.1 Unpacking and Inspection........................................................................................ 19
1.2 Product Overview .................................................................................................... 19
1.3 Controls and Indicators............................................................................................ 20
1.3.1 Front Panel Controls and Indicators .......................................................... 20
1.3.2 Rear Panel Controls and Connectors ......................................................... 21
1.4 Installation .............................................................................................................. 22
1.4.1 Dimensions ................................................................................................. 22
1.4.2 Instrument Positioning................................................................................ 22
1.4.3 Power Requirements ................................................................................... 22
1.4.4 Safety Inspection......................................................................................... 23
Operation - Section 2
2.1 Terms and Conventions ........................................................................................... 25
2.2 Start-Up.................................................................................................................... 27
2.3 SYSTEM SETUP ................................................................................................... 27
2.3.1 Calibration ................................................................................................. 27
2.3.2 Memory Manage ........................................................................................ 27
2.3.3 System Configuration ................................................................................ 28
2.3.3.1 Test Parameter ........................................................................... 29
2.3.3.2 Beeper ........................................................................................ 29
2.3.3.3 Sound Mode ............................................................................... 29
2.3.3.4 Alarm Mode ............................................................................... 30
2.3.3.5 Trig Delay .................................................................................. 30
2.3.3.6 Trig Edge ................................................................................... 30
2.3.3.7 Handler Mode ............................................................................ 31
2.3.3.8 Contrast ...................................................................................... 31
2.3.3.9 GPIB Address ............................................................................ 31
2.3.3.10 RS232 Baud Rate ...................................................................... 32
2.3.3.11 Key Lock ................................................................................... 32
2.3.3.12 Line Frequency .......................................................................... 33
2.3.3.13 Charge Time .............................................................................. 33
2.3.3.14 Range Dwell .............................................................................. 33
2.3.3.15 Average ...................................................................................... 34
2.3.3.16 EXT Vm Display ....................................................................... 34

Page 4 of 76
Contents
Operation - Section 2 – Continued
2.4 MAIN INDEX ........................................................................................................ 35
2.4.1 Sequence Test ............................................................................................ 35
2.4.2 Step Test .................................................................................................... 36
2.4.3 Null ............................................................................................................ 36
2.4.4 W.V. Test ................................................................................................... 38
2.4.5 Compare ..................................................................................................... 39
2.5 MEAS DISPLAY .................................................................................................... 41
2.5.1 Test Voltage ............................................................................................... 42
2.5.2 Constant Current ........................................................................................ 42
2.5.3 Range ......................................................................................................... 43
2.5.4 Charge Time ............................................................................................... 44
2.5.5 Dwell Time ................................................................................................. 44
2.5.6 Speed........................................................................................................... 45
2.5.7 Trigger ....................................................................................................... 45
2.5.8 Rated Withstand Voltage (Vf) ................................................................... 46
2.5.9 Measurement Time (Tend) ........................................................................ 46
2.5.10 Maximum Charge Time (CHG Tend) ........................................................ 47
2.6 Connection to Device under Test............................................................................. 48
2.7 Measurement Procedure........................................................................................... 49
Interface - Section 3
3.1 RS-232 Interface ..................................................................................................... 51
3.1.1 RS232 Pin Configuration ........................................................................... 51
3.1.2 RS232 Specifications ................................................................................. 51
3.1.3 RS232 Commands ..................................................................................... 52
3.2 IEEE-488 Interface .................................................................................................. 53
3.2.1 Pin Configuration........................................................................................ 53
3.2.2 IEEE-488 Interface Function Codes and Messages.................................... 55
3.2.3 IEEE-488 Interface Commands .................................................................. 57
3.2.4 IEEE-488 Command Format ..................................................................... 59
3.2.5 IEEE-488 Commands - Detailed ............................................................... 60
3.2.6 Error Messages .......................................................................................... 71
3.3 Handler Interface .................................................................................................... 72
3.3.1 Trigger ....................................................................................................... 73
3.3.2 Handler Pin Assignments for Compare Operation .................................... 74
Service & Calibration - Section 4
4.1 General ................................................................................................................... 75
4.2 Instrument Return .................................................................................................... 75
4.3 Calibration ............................................................................................................... 75
4.3.1 1855 Verification Procedure ...................................................................... 76
4.3.2 1855 Verification Data Sheet ..................................................................... 76

Page 5 of 76
Warranty
QuadTech warrants that Products are free from defects in material and workmanship and, when
properly used, will perform in accordance with QuadTech’s applicable published specifications.
If within one (1) year after original shipment it is found not to meet this standard, it will be
repaired, or at the option of QuadTech, replaced at no charge when returned to a QuadTech
service facility.
Changes in the Product not approved by QuadTech shall void this warranty.
QuadTech shall not be liable for any indirect, special or consequential damages, even if
notice has been given of the possibility of such damages.
This warranty is in lieu of all other warranties, expressed or implied, including, but not
limited to any implied warranty or merchantability of fitness for a particular purpose.
SERVICE POLICY
QuadTech’s service policy is to maintain product repair capability for a period of at least five (5)
years after original shipment and to make this capability available at the then prevailing schedule
of charges.

Page 6 of 76

Page 7 of 76
Specifications
Leakage Current Test:
Leakage Current: 0.001uA – 20.0mA
Accuracy: ±(0.3% + 0.005uA)
Test Voltage: 1.0V – 650V DC, 0.1V/Step
Voltage Accuracy: ±(0.5% + 0.2V)
Test Current: 0.5mA – 500mA, 0.5mA/Step for DCV ≤100V
0.5mA – 150mA, 0.5mA/Step for DCV > 100V
Charge Current Accuracy: ±(3% + 0.05mA)
Insulation Resistance Test:
Insulation Resistance: 10Ω– 99.99GΩ
IR Accuracy:
Test Voltage: 1.0V – 650V DC, 0.1V/Step
Voltage Accuracy: ±(0.5% + 0.2V)
Test Current: 0.5mA – 500mA, 0.5mA/Step for DCV ≤100V
0.5mA – 150mA, 0.5mA/Step for DCV > 100V
Charge Current Accuracy: ±(3% + 0.05mA)
Withstand Voltage Test:
Rise Time (Tr): 0.05s – 120s
Withstand Voltage (Vf): 1.0V – 650V DC, 0.1V/Step
Test Current: 0.5mA – 150mA, 0.5mA/Step
Charge Current Accuracy: ±(3% + 0.05mA)
Measure Time: 30s – 600s
MAX Charge Time: 5s – 600s
++ +0.6 20V
Vm 10.005uA Im
0.5uA
Im %
Where Vm and Im are measured voltage & current for a given load.
+

Page 8 of 76
Specifications (Continued)
General Features
Test Types: Automatic Sequence Test
Manual Step Test
Null: Correction for Lead Leakage
Monitored Voltage (Vm): 1.0V – 650V DC (Voltage across DUT)
Charge Time: 0 – 999seconds in 1s/10s increments <100s; 100s increments >100s
Delay Time: 0.2 – 999seconds in 0.1s increments <100s; 10s increments>100s
Discharge: 65 Watt Discharge Circuit
Trigger: Delay: 0 – 9.995 seconds in 0.1s increments
Edge: Falling or Rising
Measurement Mode: Continuous or Trigger (INT, EXT or Manual)
Measurement Rate: Fast: 18 measurements/second
Medium: 14 measurements/second
Slow: 7 measurements/second
Ranging: Automatic or Hold
Averaging: 1-8 measurements
Compare: Set Upper & Lower Limits for LC and IR Tests
Display: 240 x 64 LCD Graphic display
Indication: Audible alarm programmable HI, LOW or OFF for Pass or Fail
Standard Interface: RS232
Optional Interfaces: IEEE-488 & Handler
Connectors: 1 BNC terminal: Input
2 Banana terminals: HV (+), HV (-)
1 Banana Socket: Chassis Ground
Front Panel Lockout: Keypad Lock

Page 9 of 76
Specifications (Continued)
Mechanical: Bench Mount
Dimensions: (w x h x d): 12.50 x 4.00 x 13.50 inches
317.2 x 101.5 x 342.6 mm
Weight: 18 lbs (8.2kg) net, 22 lbs (10kg) shipping
Environmental: Operating: 10°C to 40oC
Storage: -10°C to 50oC
Humidity: <90%
Pollution Degree 2
Installation Category I
Power: •90-125VAC •190-250VAC
•50 or 60Hz •400W max
Supplied: •Instruction Manual •Power Cable
•Calibration Certificate •Lead Set
Ordering Information: Description Catalog No.
Capacitor Leakage Current/IR Meter 1855

Page 10 of 76

Page 11 of 76
Accessories
Accessories Included
Item Quantity QuadTech P/N
AC Power Cord 1 4200-0300
Power Line Fuse: 4A 250V SB for 115V operation 1 520149
Power Line Fuse: 2A 250V SB for 230V operation 1 520148
Test Leads: Banana to Alligator Clip & BNC to Alligator Clip 1 1855-01
Instruction Manual 1 150767
Calibration Certificate 1 N/A
Accessories/Options Available
Item Quantity QuadTech P/N
IEEE-488 & Handler Interface 1 700171
RS-232 Cable 1 630157
Resistivity Test Cell for Surface & Volume Resistivity Msmts 1 1855-11

Page 12 of 76

Page 13 of 76
Safety Precautions
CAUTION
The 1855 Capacitor Leakage Current/IR Meter can provide an output voltage of 650V DC to the
device under test (DUT). Although the 1855 unit is a low voltage instrument, some devices
(especially capacitors) can store charge when tested. If not discharged properly, these devices
may cause serious hazards. Follow these safety instructions.
1. Operate the 1855 unit with its chassis connected to earth ground. The instrument is
shipped with a three-prong power cord to provide this connection to ground. This power
cord should only be plugged in to a receptacle that provides earth ground. Serious injury
can result if the 1855 unit is not connected to earth ground.
2. Tightly connect BNC cable to the silver INPUT terminal. If this is not done, the DUT’s
casing can be charged to the high voltage test level and injury or electrical shock hazards
could result if the DUT is touched.
3. Never touch the test leads, test fixture or DUT in any manner (this includes insulation on
all wires and clips) when [TRIGGER] has been pressed and the output is applied.
4. Before turning on the 1855 instrument, make sure there is no device (DUT) or fixture
connected to the test leads.
5. Make sure any capacitive device has been discharged fully before touching the test lead
wires or output terminals.
6. In the case of an emergency, turn OFF the POWER switch using a “hot stick” and
disconnect the AC power cord from the wall. Do not touch the 1855 instrument.
7. Be wary when the 1855 instrument is used in remote control mode. The voltage/current
output is being turned on and off with an external signal.]
8. Do not exceed the 1A Maximum Input Current.

Page 14 of 76

Page 15 of 76
Condensed Operating Instructions
General Information
The 1855 Capacitor Leakage Current/IR Meter is an instrument for measuring the parameters of
leakage current (LC), insulation resistance (IR), withstand voltage (WV) and rise time (Tr). The
1855 instrument functions mainly as a leakage current and withstand voltage tester for aluminum
foil electrolytic capacitors and high dielectric ceramic capacitors. The 1855 instrument is useful
in testing any components for which leakage current is a major factor including Zener diodes,
absorbers, etc. For production testing, the 1855 instrument has a Compare function and Pass/Fail
indication. Connection to device under test is through BNC/Banana terminals on the front panel.
Start-Up
The 1855 Capacitor Leakage Current/IR Meter can be operated from a power source between 90-
125V or 190-250V AC at a power line frequency of 50 or 60Hz. The standard 1855 unit is
shipped from QuadTech with a 4A fuse in place for AC 90-125V operation. (A 2A fuse is
included for AC 190-250V operation). The 1855 unit is shipped with the line voltage selector set
for 115V. Refer to paragraph 1.4.3 for instructions on changing the fuse or line voltage selector.
Connect the 1855 Capacitor Leakage Current/IR Meter’s AC power cord to the source of proper
voltage. Operate the 1855 instrument with its chassis connected to earth ground. The 1855
instrument is shipped with a three-prong power cord to provide this connection to ground. This
power cord should only be plugged into a receptacle that provides earth ground. Serious injury
may result if the 1855 instrument is not connected to earth ground.
To turn the 1855 instrument ON, press the power button on the front panel. To switch the power
OFF, press the button again or if measurements are to be made proceed with the Test Parameter
Setup in Table COI-1. The 1855 instrument should warm up for 15 minutes prior to use.
Table COI-1: Test Parameter Setup
Test LC/IR WV/Tr
Parameter
Test V 1.0V – 650V DC N/A
C.C. 0.5mA – 500mA N/A
Range 2uA-20uA-200uA-2mA-20mA N/A
CHG T 0s – 999s N/A
DWELL T 0.2s – 999s N/A
Speed Fast – Medium – Slow N/A
Vf N/A 1.0 – 650V DC
C.C. N/A 0.5mA – 150mA
Tend N/A 30s – 600s
CHG Tend N/A 5s – 600s
NOTE
Refer to paragraphs 2.3.3 through 2.4 for a full description of programming test parameters. Test parameters must
be set before the 1855 instrument can be zeroed.

Page 16 of 76
Condensed Operating Instructions (Continued)
There are three main menus within the 1855 instrument software. Familiarize yourself with
these menus prior to programming a test. Figure COI-1 illustrates the MEAS DISPLAY screen
and lists the functions that can be accessed by pressing the [MAIN INDEX] and [SYSTEM
SETUP] keys.
MEAS DISPLAY
Function of F1 - F4 Keys
1.0V
0.5mA
NEXT PAGE 1/2
2uA
Lc :
MEAS
DISPLAY SYSTEM SETUP
MAIN
INDEX
Dwell Time
Charge Time
Sequence Test
Null
Step Test
Need Password*
Need Paasword*
Speed Beeper
Key Lock
NEXT PAGE 2/2
NEXT PAGE 1/2
< MEAS DISPLAY: SEQ. TEST >
Constant Current
Foil Voltage
GPIB Address
Handler Mode
Alarm Mode
Sound Mode
Trigger Delay
F1
F3
F2
MEAS
DISPLAY
F4
TRIGGER
MAIN
INDEX SYSTEM SETUP
SYSTEM CONFIGURATION
CALIBRATION
MEMORY MANAGE
Trigger Edge
Line Frequency
-1.2 A
TEST V.
C.C.
RANGE
:
:
:
DISCHARGECHARGE TEST
* Qualified Service Personnel Only
Instrument Calibration & Verification
Vm = 0.0V
Test Parameter
Contrast
RS232 Baud Rate
Charge Time
Range Dwell
Average
EXTVm Display
Constant Current
Test Voltage
Range
Charge Time
Dwell Time
Speed
Constant Current
Test Voltage
Range
Trigger
Speed
W.V.Test
Compare
End Time
Charge End Time
Trigger
Speed
SEQ. STEP
Test Voltage
Constant Current
Range
Test Voltage
Constant Current
Range
NEXTPAGE 1/2
NEXTPAGE 2/2
CHARGE/TEST DISCHARGE
A
Figure COI-1: 1855 Instrument Menus
NOTE:
The function keys [F1 – F4] are used to select the parameter to change and in some menus to
change the value of that selected parameter.
The function of UP/DOWN depends on the menu. In some menus, the LEFT/RIGHT keys are
used to select a digit by moving the underscored cursor left or right.

Page 17 of 76
Condensed Operating Instructions (Continued)
1. Set Test Parameters
•Press [POWER] ON.
•Allow the instrument to warm up for 15 minutes.
•Press [MEAS DISPLAY]
•Set test parameters (voltage, current, range, etc.) using the function & arrow keys.
2. Null
After setting your test parameters, use the Null function of the 1855 instrument to zero the
test leads. With no device connected, connect the appropriate cable to the front panel
BNC/Banana connectors. Refer to paragraph 2.6 for cable connections.
With the instrument in MEAS DISPLAY status:
1. Press [MAIN INDEX]
2. Press [F3] = NULL
3. Press [TRIGGER] button.
4. Wait while instrument cycles through NULL test.
5. Press [MAIN INDEX] to return to MEAS DISPLAY status.
6. Choose Test: [SEQ Test], [STEP Test] or [Next Page] to select [WV Test]
1855 Capacitor Leakage Current /IR Meter
(-)(+)INPUT
QuadTech
+
HV
F1
F4
F3
F2
F1
F3
F2
MEAS
DISPLAY
F4
TRIGGER
MAIN
INDEX SYSTEM SETUP
01
l
<MEAS. DISPLAY: NULL>
LC : mA
CHARGE/TEST DISCHARGE
CHARGE TEST DISCHARGE
-
OPEN No DUT Connected for NULL function
Press TRIGGER to start ...
Figure COI-2: NULL OPEN Configuration

Page 18 of 76
Condensed Operating Instructions (Continued)
3. Connection to Device under Test (DUT)
Figure COI-3 illustrates the connection of the 1855 instrument to a DUT using the 1855-01 Lead
Set. For Leakage Current, Insulation Resistance and Withstand Voltage Tests, the red alligator
clip/BNC cable is connected between the silver INPUT terminal on the 1855 unit and the high
side of the device under test. The black alligator clip/banana cable is connected between the
white HV (-) terminal on the 1855 unit and the low side of the DUT.
1855 Capacitor Leakage Current /IR Meter
(-)(+)INPUT
QuadTech
+
HV
F1
F4
F3
F2
F1
F3
F2
MEAS
DISPLAY
F4
TRIGGER
MAIN
INDEX SYSTEM SETUP
01
l
<MEAS. DISPLAY: SEQ. TEST>
NEXT PAGE 1/2
2
0.5
TEST V
LC :
1.0
C.C
RANGE
1.5 mA
CHARGE/TEST DISCHARGE
CHARGE TEST DISCHARGE
:
:
:
V
mA
uA
-
DUT
A
COI-3: Connection to DUT for LC Test
4. Make a Measurement
1. Press [MEAS DISPLAY]
2. Connect device under test (DUT) to test leads.
3. Press [TRIGGER].
4. Record measurement.
NOTE
Please read this instruction manual in its entirety before operating this instrument.
These condensed operating instructions are not a substitute for all the information provided in the
remainder of this manual.

Introduction Page 19 of 76
Section 1: Introduction
1.1 Unpacking and Inspection
Inspect the shipping carton before opening. If damaged, contact the carrier agent immediately.
Inspect the 1855 Capacitor Leakage Current/IR Meter for any damage. If the instrument appears
damaged or fails to meet specifications notify QuadTech (refer to instruction manual front cover)
or its local representative. Retain the original shipping carton and packing material for future use
such as returning the instrument for recalibration or service.
1.2 Product Overview
The 1855 Capacitor Leakage Current/IR Meter is a compact yet powerful LC Tester and IR
meter for production or laboratory testing of aluminum electrolytic capacitors, resistors and other
passive components. The 1855 instrument measures 4 parameters: Leakage Current (LC),
Insulation Resistance (IR), Rise Time (Tr) and Withstand Voltage (Vf) and displays two
simultaneously. Basic accuracy is ±0.3%. From 1-8 measurements can be made, averaged and
the result displayed with the Averaging function. Ranging is automatic or user selectable.
Measurement rate is also selectable (Slow, Medium or Fast) with rates up to 18 measurements
per second. Measurements can be made continuously or triggered with a programmable delay
time up to 10 seconds. The 1855 comes standard with an RS-232 interface. An optional IEEE-
488 and Handler interface is also available. Voltage across the DUT can be monitored and
displayed. Zero the effects of stray leakage in the test leads with the Null function. The Compare
function on the 1855 instrument has programmable upper and lower limits and displays Pass/Fail
in addition to the measurement value. Connection to the device under test is through 1 BNC
INPUT terminal and 2 Banana HV terminals on the front panel.
1855 Capacitor Leakage Current /IR Meter
(-)(+)INPUT
QuadTech
+
HV
F1
F4
F3
F2
F1
F3
F2
MEAS
DISPLAY
F4
TRIGGER
MAIN
INDEX SYSTEM SETUP
01
l
<MEAS. DISPLAY: SEQ. TEST>
NEXT PAGE 1/2
2
0.5
TEST V
LC :
1.0
C.C
RANGE
1.5 mA
CHARGE/TEST DISCHARGE
CHARGE TEST DISCHARGE
:
:
:
V
mA
uA
-
A
Figure 1-1: 1855 Capacitor Leakage Current/IR Meter

Page 20 of 76 Introduction
1.3 Controls and Indicators
1.3.1 Front Panel Controls and Indicators
Figure 1-2 illustrates the controls and indicators on the front panel of the 1855 Capacitor
Leakage Current/IR Meter instrument. Table 1-1 identifies them with description and function.
1 423 56
10 9 811
1855 Capacitor Leakage Current /IR Meter
(-)(+)INPUT
QuadTech
+
HV
F1
F4
F3
F2
F1
F3
F2
MEAS
DISPLAY
F4
TRIGGER
MAIN
INDEX SYSTEM SETUP
01
l
<MEAS. DISPLAY: SEQ. TEST>
NEXT PAGE 1/2
2
0.5
TEST V
LC :
1.0
C.C
RANGE
1.5 mA
CHARGE/TEST DISCHARGE
CHARGE TEST DISCHARGE
:
:
:
V
mA
uA
-
7
A
Figure 1-2: 1855 Front Panel Controls & Indicators
Table 1-1: 1855 Front Panel Controls & Indicators
Reference #
Figure 1-2 Name Type Function
1 Green Push Button Apply AC POWER: 1=ON, 0=OFF
2 Silver Banana Jack Chassis ground connection
3a INPUT Silver BNC terminal Current Drive Terminal, High (+)
3b HV (+) Red Banana Jack Voltage Sense Terminal, High (+)
3c HV (-) White Banana Jack Voltage Sense Terminal, Low (-)
4 F1, F2, F3 and
F4
4 gray push buttons Select Instrument Functions
Keys perform different functions under different menus.
Right side of display shows corresponding key function.
5 ◄, ▼, ►, ▲4 gray push buttons Move backlit box around display to choose parameter
Change parameter value (increase/decrease)
6 TRIGGER Gray push button Initiate measurement
7 DISCHARGE STOP measurement in progress & initiate discharge time
8 SYSTEM
SETUP
Gray push button View, Select or Change System Parameters:
Parameter, Beeper, Sound, Alarm, Trigger, Handler,
Contrast, GPIB, RS-232, Key Lock, Line Frequency,
Charge, Dwell, Average & EXT Vm Display
9 MAIN
INDEX
Gray push button View, Select or Change Setup & Result Parameters:
Sequence, Step, Null, WV Test & Compare
10 MEAS
DISPLAY
Gray push button View, Select or Change Measurement Parameters:
Voltage, Current, Range, Charge, Dwell, Speed & Trigger
11 240 x 64 LCD
display
Show measurement results as value or pass/fail.
Show programming instructions