Time Electronics 1030 MicroCal User manual

User Manual
1030 MicroCal
Voltage and Current Source
Version 1.2
02-23
Time Electronics Ltd
Unit 5, TON Business Park, 2-8 Morley Road,
Tonbridge, Kent, TN9 1RA, United Kingdom.
T: [phone] | F: [phone]
[e-mail] | www.timeelectronics.com

© 2023 Time Electronics Ltd.
All rights reserved.
Nothing from this manual may be multiplied, or made public in any form or manner, either
electronically or hard copy, without prior written consent from Time Electronics Ltd.
This also applies to any schematics, drawings and diagrams contained herein.
This manual provides operating and safety instructions for the Time Electronics product.
To ensure correct operation and safety, please follow the instructions in this manual.
Time Electronics reserves the right to change the contents, specifications and other
information contained in this manual without notice.

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Contents
1Introduction....................................................................................................................................2
2Specifications ................................................................................................................................4
3Controls..........................................................................................................................................5
3.1 Description of Controls ..........................................................................................................................6
4Operation........................................................................................................................................7
4.1 Voltage Ranges .....................................................................................................................................7
4.2 Output Voltages above 1 V....................................................................................................................8
4.3 Current Ranges .....................................................................................................................................8
4.4 Output Resistance ................................................................................................................................. 8
5Applications ...................................................................................................................................9
5.1 Four Terminal Resistance Measurements.............................................................................................9
5.2 Thermocouple Simulation....................................................................................................................10
6Battery Replacement and Recharging ....................................................................................... 11
7Calibration....................................................................................................................................12
7.1 Preparing for calibration ...................................................................................................................... 12
7.2 Module and Trimmer Location ............................................................................................................. 13
8Maintenance and Repair. ............................................................................................................14
8.1 Dismantling the Instrument.................................................................................................................. 14
8.2 Battery Replacement. ..........................................................................................................................14
8.3 Repair .................................................................................................................................................. 14
9Warranty and Servicing............................................................................................................... 15

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1Introduction
The 1030 MicroCal is a portable voltage and current calibrator for general purpose signal
injection. It is suitable for voltage and current loop signal simulation as well as thermocouple
simulation. Being both cost-effective and simple operation, it is a popular instrument used in
various applications across industries.
The compact (115 x 62 x 55 mm) and durable design makes it ideal for use in both the lab
and field, with carry case supplied as standard. Typically, alkaline battery life is 60 hours. An
optional rechargeable NiMH battery pack is available, complete with external mains charger,
Useable time between charges typically 18 hours.
The MicroCal is designed for traditional and quick analogue control. The precision 10-turn
dial provides a conventional feel to selecting the required output with a setting resolution of 1
part in a 1000 (0.1 %).
Three voltage ranges give an adjustable output from 10 μV to 1 V and two current ranges for
10 μA to 100 mA. An additional 0 to 8V output can be obtained by using a precision 1 kΩ
resistor that is supplied with the unit. The resistor is connected across the output terminals
and the 10 mA current range selected. This allows the output to be set between 0 and ± 8 V
with a 10 mV resolution and an accuracy of 0.3% of full scale.
The 1030 is simple to operate and does not require any standardisation prior to use. The
operator needs only to switch on, check the battery condition, and set the required range
and output value. The unit is a pocket-sized, practical test tool for engineers and technicians
requiring a precision compact solution for low range V/I sourcing.

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Features
•10 mV, 100 mV, 1 V ranges
•10 mA, 100 mA ranges
•Accuracy 0.1 %
•Linearity 0.15 %
•Up to 8 V output (using 1 kΩ resistor)
•Precision 10-turn dial
•60 hours typical battery life
•Battery level indicator
•Supplied with carry case
Ordering Information and Options
Order Code Description
1030 MicroCal Voltage and Current Source
1031 Rechargeable Battery Pack (NiMH Battery and 240V Mains Charger)
1032 Rechargeable Battery Pack (NiMH Battery and 110V Mains Charger)
C155 Traceable Calibration Certificate (Factory)
C110 Accredited Calibration Certificate (ISO 17025)

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2Specifications
Voltage Ranges: 0 to 1 V (1 mV resolution).
0 to 100 mV (100 µV resolution).
0 to 10 mV (10 µV resolution).
8 Volts (10 mV resolution) using external precision 1KΩresistor supplied.
Current Ranges: 0 to 100 mA (100 µA resolution).
0 to 10 mA (10 µA resolution).
Accuracy:
1 Volt range: ± 0.1 % of FS ± 30 µV.
100mV range: ± 0.1 % of FS ± 3 µV.
10mV range: ± 0.2 % of FS ± 0.3 µV.
100mA range: ± 0.2 % of FS ± 3 µA.
10mA range: ± 0.2 % of FS ± 0.3 µA.
8 Volt range: ± 0.3 % of FS.
Linearity: 0.15 % of setting.
Temperature Coefficient: 150 ppm of FS/ºC (Outside 18 to 28 ºC).
Noise: 30 ppm of full scale.
Battery: 9 V Alkaline PP3 type. Approx. 60 hours life depending on output current.
NiMH rechargeable available as an optional extra.
Battery Condition: Continuously monitored by front panel Led indicator.
Green = good battery, Red = change battery.
Output Polarity: Positive or Negative (Norm – Rev), switch selectable.
A centre Off position is also provided, which shorts the output terminals together.
Maximum Output Current:
1V, 100mV Ranges: Typically 20 mA.
10mV Range: Up to short circuit value. Note that loads of less than 1 kΩ will give > 0.1% error.
Maximum Output Voltage:
(Current Ranges): 8 V.
Output Protection: The 1030 can withstand continuous short circuit or open circuit on all ranges.
Output Resistance: 0.2 Ωon 1 V and 100 mV ranges.
10 Ωon 10 mV range.
1 kΩwhen using the current shunt resistor.
Dimensions: 115 x 62 x 55 mm.
Carry Case: A black carry case is supplied.

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3Controls
Note: Models built before March 2020 feature a different type of battery level indicator.
Output Terminals
Output polarity switch
Selects
Normal/Off/Reverse
Recharge Socket (on top)
For recharging NiMH battery (if fitted)
10 turn potentiometer
Selects required output.
Potentiometer lock
Right position is free,
left is locked.
Battery level indicator
Warns of low battery.
6 position rotary switch
Selects range and turns
instrument on.

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3.1 Description of Controls
Output Terminals
Output Voltage and Current is available on two front panel terminals which are suitable for
either wire compression or 4mm standard plug insertion.
Polarity Switch
Normal or reverse polarity is selected by a toggle switch. The centre position is OFF which
provides an open circuit on the output terminals.
6-way Position range switch
Switch Position
Switch Function
1
OFF
Voltage Ranges
2
0 – 1V (1mV resolution)
3
0 – 100mV (100µV resolution)
4
0 – 10mV (10µV resolution)
0 – 8V (10mV resolution), using external precision 1kohm resistor (included)
Current Ranges
5
0 – 100mA (100µA resolution)
6
0 – 10mA (10µA resolution
10 Turn potentiometer fine adjust dial
Scaled 0-100. Linearly output from 0 – 100% of selected output range.
10 Turn dial potentiometer lock
Enables the set output to be temporary locked.
Battery Level Indicator
This continuously monitors the battery voltage. The battery should be replaced or recharged
when the LED battery level indicator changes from green to red.
Recharge Socket
The mains recharger is a separate unit, the output of which is supplied via a flying lead fitted
with a non-reversible plug. Recharge time is between 12 and 14 hours.
CAUTION
UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES MUST AN ADDITIONAL VOLTAGE BE CONNECTED IN SERIES WITH THE
OUTPUT OF THE 1030 IN AN ATTEMPT TO INCREASE THE VOLTAGE CAPABILITY AS THIS WILL CAUSE
DAMAGE TO THE OUTPUT CIRCUITRY.

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4Operation
4.1 Voltage Ranges
Suggested operation procedure is as follows:
Select Off position on output switch.
Turn on and select required range.
Check battery level indicator for high enough reading, or when fitted, LED is Illuminated
green (see Battery Replacement Section 6).
Select required output on the ten-turn potentiometer, which can then be locked by pushing
the lever at the bottom to the left. The ten-turn potentiometer linearly adjusts the output from
zero to full scale on any range. The number of complete turns is displayed in the dials
window, parts of a turn are red on the inner scale, (calibrated 0-9 with 100 divisions), using
the red indent as a pointer.
EXAMPLE: To set 56.2 mV:
1) Select 100 mV range.
2) Turn dial until 5 appears in the centre of the window.
3) Set inner scale to 6.2.
The table below shows the effect of the dial on each range.
Range 1 Turn 1/10th of a Turn 1 Division
(1/100)
Voltage Output
1 V
100 mV
10 mV
1 mV
100 mV 10 mV 1 mV 100 µV
10 mV
1 mV
100 µV
10 µV
Current Output
100 mA 10 mA 1 mA 100 µA
10 mA 1 mA 100 µA 10 µA
NOTE: 0.001 V = 1 mV = 1000 µV
0.001 A = 1 mA = 1000 µA
4) Switch output to Normal or Reverse as required.

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4.2 Output Voltages above 1 V
To use the 8V range, connect the supplied 1 kΩresistor across the output terminals, and
switch to the 10mA range. The 1030 will act as a voltage source, the output being adjusted
with the 10-turn dial, with a scale of 1 volt per turn up to a maximum of about 8 volts with a
good battery.
This allows the output to be set between 0 V and ± 8 V with a 10 mV resolution and an
accuracy of 0.3 % of full scale.
4.3 Current Ranges
On the current ranges, the drive voltage available at the terminals is governed by the battery
voltage. Care should be taken not to exceed the 1030 voltage limit, as large errors will result
if the load/current product exceeds the 1030 8 V drive capability.
This can easily be checked by either measuring the voltage across the 1030’s terminals
when under load, or by checking using ohms law that R x I is less than 8 volts.
4.4 Output Resistance
The table below illustrates how the voltage appearing at the output terminals of the calibrator
will be affected by load resistance:
Ratio of Load Resistance to Calibrator Error in selected
Output Resistance Output Voltage
1,000:1 0.1 %
100:1 1.0 %
10:1 9.0 %
1:1 50.0 %

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5Applications
5.1 Four Terminal Resistance Measurements
Accurate measurements of low ohm values, such as P.R.T, can be performed by using the
1030 as a current source and measuring the voltage across the LOAD with a DVM.
From Ohms Law: V/I=R
Resistance vs Temperature Relationship for Platinum
Resistance Thermometer Detector Element (DIN 43760)
°C
Ω
°C
Ω
°C
Ω
°C
Ω
-200
18.48
60
123.24
320
219.12
580
307.15
-180
27.08
80
130.89
340
226.17
600
313.59
-160
35.53
100
138.50
360
233.17
620
319.99
-140
43.87
120
146.06
380
240.13
640
326.35
-120
52.11
140
153.58
400
247.04
660
332.66
-100
60.25
160
161.04
420
253.90
680
338.92
-80
68.33
180
166.46
440
260.72
700
345.13
-60
76.33
200
175.84
460
267.49
720
351.30
-40
84.27
220
183.17
480
274.22
740
357.42
-20
92.16
240
190.45
500
280.90
760
363.50
0
100.00
260
197.69
520
287.53
780
369.53
20
107.79
280
204.88
540
294.11
800
375.51
40
115.54
300
212.02
560
300.65
820
381.45
Typical connections for 2, 3 and 4 wire resistance thermometers
Diagram
Description
2-wire Pt100 Connection
The connecting lead/wire resistance must be factored.
Residual resistance is factored to calculate best setting accuracy, if required.
3-wire Pt100 Connection
Leads/wires must be of the same length, gauge, and resistance, meaning the
connection is compensated.
Residual resistance is factored to calculate best setting accuracy, if required.
4-wire Pt100 Connection
Provides the most accurate measurement, not being affected by any differences
in the wires/leads used.
Residual resistance is factored to calculate best setting accuracy, if required.
1/A/Red
2/B/White
2/B/White
3/C/Red
1/A/Red
2/B/White
4/D/White
3/C/Red
1/A/Red

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5.2 Thermocouple Simulation
The 10mV range of the 1030 is ideal for simulation of all types of thermocouple. Just find the
voltage required from the British Standard tables, (common values given below), and set up
on the 1030’s dial. Do not forget to allow for the Cold Junction temperature.
Thermocouples Temperature tables ITS-90
Temp °C -100°C -50°C -25°C 0°C 25°C 37°C 50°C 75°C 100°C
T/C TYPE mV mV mV mV mV mV mV mV mV
Type K NiCr/NiAl -3.554 -1.889 -0.968 0.000 1.000 1.489 2.023 3.059 4.096
Type T Cu/Con -3.379 -1.819 -0.940 0.000 0.992 1.486 2.036 3.132 4.279
Type J Fe/Con - - - 0.000 1.277 1.902 2.585 3.918 5.269
Type R Pt13%RH/Pt - - -0.123 0.000 0.141 0.214 0.296 0.466 0.647
Type B Pt30%RH / Pt6%RH - - - 0.000 -0.002 -0.002 0.002 0.014 0.033
Type S Pt10%RH/Pt - - -0.127 0.000 0.143 0.216 0.299 0.467 0.646
Type N NiCr/NiSi - - -0.646 0.000 0.659 0.983 1.340 2.045 2.774
Temp °C 150°C 200°C 300°C 400°C 500°C 600°C 700°C 800°C 900°C
T/C TYPE mV mV mV mV mV mV mV mV mV
Type K NiCr/NiAl 6.138 8.138 12.209 16.397 20.644 24.905 29.129 33.275 37.326
Type T Cu/Con 6.704 9.288 14.862 20.872 - - - - -
Type J Fe/Con 8.010 10.779 16.327 21.848 27.393 33.102 39.132 45.494 51.877
Type R Pt/Pt 13%RH 1.041 1.469 2.401 3.408 4.471 5.583 6.743 7.950 9.205
Type B Pt30%RH / Pt6%RH 0.092 0.178 0.431 0.787 1.242 1.792 2.431 3.154 3.957
Type S Pt10%RH/Pt 1.029 1.441 2.323 3.259 4.233 5.239 6.275 7.345 8.449
Type N NiCr/NiSi 4.302 5.913 9.341 12.974 16.748 20.613 24.527 28.455 32.371
Temp °C 1000°C 1100°C 1200°C 1300°C 1400°C 1500°C 1600°C 1700°C 1800°C
T/C TYPE mV mV mV mV mV mV mV mV mV
Type K NiCr/NiAl 41.276 45.119 48.838 52.410 - - - - -
Type T Cu/Con - - - - - - - - -
Type J Fe/Con 57.953 63.792 69.553 - - - - - -
Type R Pt/Pt 13%RH 10.506 11.850 13.228 14.629 16.040 17.451 18.849 20.222
Type B Pt30%RH / Pt6%RH 4.834 5.780 6.786 7.848 8.956 10.099 11.263 12.433 13.591
Type S Pt10%RH/Pt 9.587 10.757 11.951 13.159 14.373 15.582 16.777 17.947 -
Type N NiCr/NiSi 36.256 40.087 43.846 47.513 - - - - -

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6Battery Replacement and Recharging
The battery capacity for rechargeable types is approx. 150 mAH, whereas non rechargeable
types are approx. 500 mAH. The 1030 circuitry takes approximately 8 mA and will operate
over a DC supply voltage range of 7-12 volts. The battery life is primarily dependent on the
output current used. With low output currents, battery life can exceed 60 hours, but when
driving a 100mA output current alkaline battery life is reduced to about 3.5 hours, or 1.3
hours on NiMH rechargeable types.
The battery should be replaced or recharged when the battery level indicator fails to register
green. The lifespan of NiMH batteries is considerably reduced if they are subject to excessive
discharging caused by using the instrument beyond the normal operating battery level.
To replace the battery, unscrew the four screws in the rear cover of the instrument.
The battery is visible above the main P.C.B., (see below). Carefully remove the old battery,
and insert the new one. Screw the rear cover back on, and test the battery condition.
To recharge a NiMH battery, it is recommended that the instrument is turned off, in order to
reduce charging time to the 15hrs minimum. The charger is then plugged into the recharge
socket on the back. Note that it is NOT necessary to remove the battery to recharge it. The
battery will not be overcharged if the recharger is connected continuously.
The charger is of the constant current type and should only be used when recharging the
internal NiMH battery. By removing the NiMH battery from the 1030, the battery can also be
recharged from an external PP3 NiMH type charger (not supplied).
This enables a second fully charged battery to be readily available (not supplied).
If it is required to power the 1030 from an external source, remove the internal battery, and
connect a low noise 9 volt DC constant Voltage Power Unit into the recharge connector
(observe polarity). Note that the output is not isolated from the charger socket.
By powering the 1030 from an external source, it is possible to increase the voltage limit on
the current ranges to 12 volts.
BATTERY
PP3 9V

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7Calibration
The instrument is calibrated before it leaves the factory and the calibration controls will not
normally require adjustment.
If re-adjustment is considered necessary, and the trimmer range is found to be insufficient
for recalibration, there is a fault with the instrument.
To calibrate the instrument a DVM of 0.1% accuracy is required. It should also be capable of
measuring:
•10 mV with 10 µV resolution
•100 mV with 10 µV resolution
•1 V with 100 µV resolution
•100 mA with 100 µA resolution
•10 mA with 10 µA resolution
Calibration is carried out on the full scale and zero of the 100 mV range.
By correctly calibrating this range, the other ranges are also calibrated.
7.1 Preparing for calibration
1. Turn instrument off, remove rear cover, and battery.
2. Switch to 100 mV range.
3. Remove cap from top of range switch knob, and loosen the screw inside.
The range switch knob should then be removed.
4. Undo the nut which attaches the output switch to the case of the 1030.
5. The main PCB can now be gently eased out of the case. Noting lead dressing.
6. If the module is to be replaced, it can be unplugged now, and the new one fitted.
7. Re-connect good battery, check battery indicator.
The 1030 will then need to be recalibrated.
8. The FS calibration trimmer (CAL) is next to the module, on the left looking down at the
PCB from the component side. The zero calibration trimmer (ZERO) is in a
corresponding position on the right of the PCB (see trimmer location diagram).
9. Plug the DVM into the output terminals and turn the output switch to Normal.
10. Turn the output adjustment pot. to zero. The 1030’s output will not go negative, so the
‘ZERO’ trimmer should be set by first adjusting for a positive output, then slowly turn
back to zero. The zero calibration for the instrument is then set up correctly.

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7.2 Module and Trimmer Location
11. Turn the output adjustment pot. to full scale, and adjust the FS (CAL) calibration
trimmer until the DVM reads 100 mV.
The full scale for the instrument is then set up correctly.
The other ranges do not normally require calibration, and therefore are not fitted with
trimmers.
Should calibration become necessary, adjust or replace the resistors listed below:
•10 mV FS R6
•10 mA FS R9
•100 mA FS R5
12. The instrument can now be reassembled, taking care not to trap connecting wires.
MODULE
CAL ZERO

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8Maintenance and Repair.
8.1 Dismantling the Instrument
Remove protection carry case, and then remove four 6BA screws enabling the rear cover to
be taken off which provides access to all parts of the instrument.
8.2 Battery Replacement.
See section 6. Remove rear cover, lift battery out of holder and carefully disconnect the
connector, connect new battery and replace into case checking that the wires are dressed
neatly, and cannot be trapped; refit rear case cover and recheck battery level.
8.3 Repair
NOTE: No repair work should be undertaken by the customer while the instrument is under warranty as such
work may render the warranty invalid.
Certain of the precision components used in this instrument are not readily available and
make repairs by the customer difficult if these components are damaged.
Overload conditions can cause a unit failure which will be indicated by one of the following
conditions:
a) Instrument inoperative and battery level indicator at zero or LED battery indicator
not illuminated.
b) Battery level indicator displaying green, but no output at the output terminals.

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9Warranty and Servicing
Warranty
Time Electronics products carry a one-year manufacturer’s warranty as standard.
Time Electronics products are designed and manufactured to the highest standards and
specifications to assure the quality and performance required by all sectors of industry.
Time Electronics products are fully guaranteed against faulty materials and workmanship.
Should this product be found to be defective, please contact us using the below details.
Inform us of the product type, serial number, and details of any fault and/or the service
required. Please retain the supplier invoice as proof of purchase.
This warranty does not apply to defects resulting from action of the user such as misuse,
operation outside of specification, improper maintenance or repair, or unauthorized
modification. Time Electronics’ total liability is limited to repair or replacement of the product.
Note that if Time Electronics determine that the fault on a returned product has been caused
by the user, we will contact the customer before proceeding with any repair.
Product Registration
You can register your product at: www.timeelectronics.com/contact/product-registration.
Registering your product will enable us to maintain a record of purchase for your warranty.
You can also use the web form to provide feedback about our products and services.
Calibration and Repair Services
Time Electronics offers repair and calibration services for all the products we make and sell.
Routine maintenance by the manufacturer ensures optimal performance and condition of the
product. Periodic traceable or accredited calibration is available.
Contacting Time Electronics
Online:
Please visit www.timeelectronics.com and select Technical Support from the Contact links.
From this page you will be able to send information to the Time Electronics service team
who will help and support you.
By phone:
[phone]
By email:
[email protected]

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Returning Instruments
Prior to returning your product please contact Time Electronics. We will issue a return
merchandise authorization (RMA) number that is to accompany the goods returning.
Further instructions will also be issued prior to shipment. When returning instruments, please
ensure that they have been adequately packed, preferably in the original packing supplied.
Time Electronics Ltd will not accept responsibility for units returned damaged.
Please ensure that all units have details of the service required and all relevant paperwork.
Send the instrument, shipping charges paid to:
Time Electronics Ltd
Unit 5, TON Business Park, 2-8 Morley Road,
Tonbridge, Kent, TN9 1RA.
United Kingdom.
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [e-mail]
Web Site: www.timeelectronics.com
Disposal of your old equipment
1. When this crossed-out wheeled bin symbol is attached to a product it means the product is
covered by the European Directive 2002/96/EC.
2. All electrical and electronic products should be disposed of separately from the municipal
waste stream via designated collection facilities appointed by the government or the local
authorities.
3. The correct disposal of your old appliance will help prevent potential negative consequences
for the environment and human health.
4. For more detailed information about disposal of your old appliance, please contact your city
office, waste disposal service or return to Time Electronics.