
Simcenter Qsources Low Frequency Monopole Source 2v9C.docx 11
Electronic protection
The Monopolesourcemust be powered by an instrumentationamplifier likethe Simcenter Qsources Measurement
PowerAmplifier (product code:Q-AMP230V or Q-AMP115V). A high-qualityaudio or PA amplifier can also be used.
An undistorted RMS power output ofat least 50 Watt to 8 Ohms impedance is required.
An electronic protection device is integrated in the main power cable. The including electronic protection device is
intended for this particular source only and will protect it against overload. A normal procedure to achieve maximum
level of output is to increase the amplifier output slowly until the electronic protection device acts. As soon as the
signal level becomes hazardous to the source, the internal protection circuit will start to limit the signal. When the
electronics starts to interfere, the red LED light will be activated.
1. In the first stage, the protection circuit will first limit the voltage peaks. Depending on the signal nature,
this can sometimes be heard as an increased distortion of the sound. In this mode the source can still be
used over long periods for measurements.
2. In the second stage, when the signal level is increased further, the protection circuit will suddenlyincrease
the impedance of the system that will cause a decrease in the output noise level by 10 dB or more. This
can be heard as a dropin noise level.
The secondstage can act rapidly when excessive levelis applied or it canactafter a fewminutes when the system
risks overheating. Also, if thesecond stage isactive,the sourceshould not be used for measurements, because a
large amount of electrical energy is now dissipated and both the sourceand the used amplifier will heat-up
considerably without significant soundor noise.
After the signal level from the amplifier is decreased manuallyto zero, the protection circuit will reset and once
again allow normal use.
If high noiselevelsare needed for measurements, itis advised to experiment with signal types andfrequency
range ofthe applied signal. Even if this causes repeated interruptionof thesource by the protection circuit, such
experimentswill not damage the source. This is trueas longas the used power amplifier does not malfunction
(relevant when using a non- Simcenter Qsourcesamplifier). The Simcenter Qsources Measurement Power
Amplifieris internally protectedagainst overload, shortcut,signal loops, etc. This procedure will normally allow
ample noise levels for normal applications.
50 Hz or 60Hz content inthesignal can also cause this problem.
When drivingthe source in coldconditions, a rattle noise can be heard which will decrease in time. This high
frequency rattle does not influence the FRF measurement<1000Hz.
:When the secondstage is active, thesignal level should be decreased manually.