Triplett 2000 User manual

84-873
7/07
Type 3
Railroad Test Sets
Instruction Manual
Model 2000
Model 2001
Model 2002
Model 2003
2000
Series
TRIPLETT
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SAFETY RULES
Warning
This Tester has been designed with your safety in mind. However,
no design can completely protect against incorrect use. Electrical
circuits can be dangerous and/or lethal when lack of caution or poor
safety practices are used.
Read the Manual
Read this Instruction Manual carefully and completely. Voltages and
currents within the capability of this test equipment can be hazard-
ous. Follow the instructions in this manual for every measurement.
Read and understand the general instructions before attempting to
use this tester. Do not exceed the limits of the tester.
Safety Check
Double check the switch setting and lead connections before mak-
ing measurements. Are you following all of the instructions? Dis-
connect the tester or turn off the power before changing switch
positions. Do not connect to circuits with voltage present when
switch is in any ohms or current position. When replacing fuses, use
only specified type fuses and insert in correct fuse holder.
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Don't Touch
Don't touch exposed wiring, connections, or other "live" parts of an
electrical circuit. If in doubt, check the circuit first for voltage before
touching it. Turn off the power to a circuit before connecting test
probes to it. Be sure there is no voltage present before you touch
the circuit. Do not use cracked or broken test leads.
High Voltage Is Dangerous
Always start with the power off. Be sure there is no voltage present
before making connections to the circuit. Don't touch the tester, its
leads, or any part of the circuit while it is on. Before disconnecting
the tester, turn the circuit off and wait for the meter to return to
"zero".
Distribution Circuits Pack a Punch
In high energy circuits such as distribution transformers and bus
bars, dangerous arcs of explosive nature can occur if the circuit is
shorted. If the tester is connected across a high energy circuit when
set to a low resistance range, a current range, or any other low im-
pedance range, the circuit is virtually shorted. Special equipment
designed for use with these circuits is available. Contact a qualified
person for assistance before attempting to make measurements on
any high energy circuit.
Safety Is No Accident
Note: Specifications subject to change without notice.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
SAFETY RULES 2
1.0 INTRODUCTION 6
2.0 PRODUCT FEATURES 8
2.1 Code Measurements 8
2.2 The Cab Filters 10
2.3 Auto-Polarity 10
2.4 Power Supply Features 10
3.0 PREPARATION FOR USE 12
3.3 Meter Mechanical Zero 13
3.4 Visual Inspection of the Test Set 14
3.5 Visual Inspection of the Test Leads 14
3.6 Battery and Fuse Test 15
3.7 Battery and Fuse Replacement 18
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4.0 GENERAL OPERATION 20
5.0 OPERATION 22
5.1 Measuring AC and DC Voltage 22
5.2 Measuring DC milliAmps 24
5.3 Measuring DC and AC Amps 26
5.4 Measuring Resistance 28
5.5 Measuring Dry Contacts 32
5.6 Measuring DC Pulse Code Signals 33
6.0 SPECIFICATIONS 34
6.1 Electrical Specifications 34
6.2 Physical Specifications 43
7.0 ACCESSORIES, PARTS, AND SERVICE 44
8.0 LIMITED WARRANTY 48
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1.0 INTRODUCTION
1.1 Package Contents
The standard shipping package contains the following items:
Test Set
Test Leads
This Instruction Manual
Carrying Case with Strap
Spare Fuses
Two, 9V Alkaline Batteries
One, D-cell Alkaline Battery
1.2 Product Description
The Model 2000 Series of Railroad Test Sets are specialized VOM's
designed for measuring the signal parameters of railroad coding
equipment. They maintain compatibility with older technologies,
while at the same time, offering functions and features not found on
standard VOM's.
1.2.1 Easier to Use for Normal Operation
Fewer jacks, more ranges, and a logical layout of the front panel all
contribute to the Test Sets' ease of use. The use of a multi-turn
Ohms Adjust Control facilitates accurate resistance measurements.
Also, the measurement of relay contact on time requires no adjust-
ments.
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1.2.2 Measurement of Code Parameters
The measurement of code parameters has been made simple and
accurate. No longer is it necessary to count pointer swings to mea-
sure code rate. On time can be measured on live signals as well as
relay contacts. Peak levels can be determined quickly and auto-
matically. Adjustment to the code equipment peak level can also be
made without constantly readjusting the Test Set.
1.2.3 Expandable
Optional circuit boards may be installed to allow for the filtering of
60 Hz, 100 Hz, 200 Hz, or 250 Hz cab signals. The base unit may be
upgraded at any time to include these filters without loosing the
initial investment.
1.2.4 Four Models
The 2000 Series currently consists of four models. The base Model
2000 has all the features mentioned above with the exception of the
Cab Filters. The Model 2001 includes selectable 100 Hz and 250 Hz
Cab Filters. The Model 2002 includes selectable 100 Hz and 200 Hz
Cab Filters. The Model 2003 includes selectable 60 Hz and 100 Hz
Cab Filters.
1.2.5 Selectable DC Amps Polarity
The DC Amps function has selectable polarity. This is useful for mea-
suring the transmit and receive currents in pulse coded track cir-
cuits.
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2.0 PRODUCT FEATURES
2.1 Code Measurements
Code parameters may be directly measured with the Test Set. These
code measurements are active in any AC or DC voltage or current
range, as well as the Dry Contact function. These functions are se-
lected by placing the Code Function Switch in the desired position.
The Pointer will momentarily return to zero and then indicate the
appropriate reading. If the Range Switch or any other switches are
changed, then the measurement circuitry is automatically reset and
made ready for the new measurement.
2.1.1 Peak Hold
This function will capture and hold the peak level of the signal. If the
peak level of the signal is varying slightly, the Test Set will average
25 of these readings to give an average peak level. For DC func-
tions, the polarity of the peak is also captured and displayed using
the NEG Indicator. For the Dry Contact Range, Peak Hold will cap-
ture and hold a momentary contact closure.
CAUTION: The 2000 Series Type 3 will continue to read out the
averaged value of the last captured measurements, even after the
signal has been removed. The value will continue to be read out
until a new signal is captured or the Test Set is reset by changing
the setting of the Code Function switch or the Range switch.
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2.1.2 Peak Follow
This function is similar to Peak Hold, except the peak measurement
will follow the peak level automatically, even if it is decreasing. This
permits easier adjustment of peak levels. No averaging is performed,
so if the peak level is varying, the Pointer will follow it.
WARNING: The 2000 Series Type 3 will continue to read out the
value of the last captured measurement, even after the signal has
been removed. The value will continue to be read out until a new
signal is captured or the Test Set is reset by changing the setting of
the Code Function switch or the Range switch.
2.1.3 Rate
This function directly measures the rate of the signal. The result is
displayed on the CODE RATE scale. Only after two readings are
taken and found to be close together, does the Pointer deflect. It
may require up to eight seconds for the reading to be updated if the
rate changes. This reduces the possibility that noise may cause a
false rate indication. Also, the peak signal level must be at least
10% of full scale for the measurement to be made. The rate of the
highest level signal of either polarity is displayed.
2.1.4 On Time
This mode is similar to the Rate function, except the percentage of
time that the signal is on is displayed. The on time is read using the
"%" scale. Nominal Code Rate is 50% duty cycle.
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2.2 The Cab Filter
If the Test Set has Cab Filters, then all AC functions may select one
frequency to be measured. This is invaluable when multiple cab
signals are being sent, as it negates the need to turn off one of the
cab signals to measure the other one. The Signal Select Switch is
simply placed in the position indicating the frequency to be mea-
sured. All functions behave the same, except that only the signal of
interest is measured.
2.3 Autopolarity
2.3.1 Auto-Polarity
For all DC functions, the Test Set works in the auto-polarity mode.
The highest level peak of either polarity and its timing parameters
will be measured. In this mode, the Pointer will always deflect up-
scale, with the NEG Indicator lighting for signals of negative polar-
ity. The highest level peak of either polarity and its timing param-
eters will be measured.
2.4 Power Supply Features
2.4.1 The Sleep Feature
Since the Test Set relies on batteries for operation, a battery saving
feature has been incorporated to extend the battery life if acciden-
tally left on. This is known as the Sleep mode. After approximately
five minutes of non-use (Pointer at less than 1% of scale and no
range switch changes) the Test Set will power down, reducing bat-
tery drain and extending battery life. This mode is indicated by the
Pointer deflecting down scale into the Sleep Zone. To reactivate the
Test Set, simply rotate the Range Switch. NOTE: DURING SLEEP,
THE TEST SET WILL NOT RESPOND TO ANY INPUT.
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2.4.2 Battery Monitor
To prevent operation of the Test Set with weak batteries, a battery
test is performed every time the Range Switch is changed. If the
batteries are low, the Pointer will deflect down scale into the Sleep
Zone. It will not respond to any input making measurements impos-
sible. This feature prevents low batteries from providing false read-
ings if they fall below a voltage at which the internal circuitry is de-
signed to operate reliably. Note that even though the Pointer is in
the Sleep Zone, the Test Set is not in a low current mode. After
approximately five minutes, the Test Set will revert to the battery
saving Sleep mode.
2.4.3 Sleep Mode Disable
The Test Set contains a field changeable jumper located on the left
of the small circuit board on the bottom of the large main circuit
board. This is found by removing the four screws holding the RF
shield. This jumper, when in position 1-2, will enable the sleep mode.
To disable the sleep mode, move the jumper to the 2-3 position.
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3.0 PREPARATION FOR USE
3.1 Before using the Test Set, familiarize yourself with the
instrument and this manual. READ AND REVIEW THIS MANUAL
FREQUENTLY.
3.2 Each time the Test Set is used, check, and if necessary,
correct the mechanical zero of the meter. Refer to Section 3.3.
Inspect the Test Set for mechanical defects as described in Section
3.4. Also, inspect the test leads as described in Section 3.5. Finally,
perform the Battery and Fuse Test as described in Section 3.6. Only
after all tests have been passed should the Test Set be used. DO
NOT USE THE TEST SET IF ANY OF THESE TESTS FAIL.
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3.3 Meter Mechanical Zero
3.3.1 Place the Test Set on its back on a flat, horizontal surface.
Set the Range Switch to the OFF position.
3.3.2 Examine the position of the Pointer on the Dial. If it is ex-
actly on the Zero Mark, then the meter is mechanically zeroed and
no adjustment is necessary.
3.3.3 If the Pointer is not exactly aligned with the Zero Mark,
then the mechanical zero of the meter needs adjustment. This is
done by using a small, flat blade screwdriver to adjust the Zero Ad-
just Screw. Slowly turn the Zero Adjust Screw clockwise until the
Pointer is approaching the Zero Mark from below zero. When the
Pointer is resting on the Zero Mark, reverse the Zero Adjust Screw
one eighth turn. This will disengage it and reduce the effect that
temperature, shock, and vibration will have on the mechanical zero
of the meter.
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3.4 Visual Inspection of the Test Set
Before use, inspect the Test Set for any conditions which would
make it unsafe. Check for missing or loose parts ( knobs, screws, or
insulators ). Check also for damage, such as cracks, chips and burn
marks. Make certain that the Test Set is free from oils, grease, dirt
and excessive moisture. IF ANY OF THESE CONDITIONS ARE
FOUND, DO NOT USE THE TEST SET.
3.5 Visual inspection of the Test Leads
Before use, inspect the test leads for worn or cut insulation. Check
also for deterioration of the insulation. Make certain that no wire is
exposed and that the jack insulators and alligator boots are not
cracked, broken, torn, or otherwise damaged. Check also for loose
or missing parts. IF THE TEST LEADS ARE IN ANY WAY DAM-
AGED OR DEGRADED, DO NOT USE THEM. THEY MUST BE
REPLACED. DO NOT USE TEST LEADS THAT HAVE BEEN AL-
TERED OR ARE NOT A FACTORY APPROVED REPLACEMENT.
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3.6 Battery and Fuse Test
Before using the Test Set, and frequently during use, the batteries
and fuses in the Test Set should be tested. Refer to Section 3.7 for
instructions on installing and/or replacing the batteries and fuses if
necessary.
3.6.1 9V Battery Test
Place the Test Set Range Switch in the OFF position. Depress and
hold the Push For Ohms Switch. The Pointer will deflect upscale
and the red NEG Indicator will light. If the Pointer fails to deflect into
the blue BATT OK scale, then both 9V batteries must be replaced.
Replace the batteries if necessary, then repeat this test. Proceed to
the Fuse Test (Section 3.6.2) only after successfully passing this test.
3.6.2 Fuse Test
The Test Set contains two fuses. Both must be tested and found
good for safe operation of the instrument.
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3.6.2.1 VOM Fuse Test
Place the Test Set Range Switch in the DRY CONTACT position.
Place the Code Function switch in the NORM position. Connect the
test leads to the instrument. The red lead is attached to the VOM
Jack and the black lead to the COM Jack. Short the leads, and the
Pointer must deflect to full scale. If it fails to do so, fuse F201 (1A/
250V 8AG) must be replaced. (Paragraph 3.7.3) Replace this fuse if
necessary, then repeat this test. Proceed to the 1.5 AMP Fuse Test
(Paragraph 3.6.2.2) only after successfully passing this test.
3.6.2.2 1.5 AMP Range Fuse Test
While the Test Set is still set as in Paragraph 3.6.2.1, move the black
test lead from the COM Jack to the 1.5 AMP Jack. Short the leads,
and the Pointer must deflect to full scale. If it fails to do so, fuse
F202 (10A/250V 3AB) must be replaced. (Paragraph 3.7.3) Re-
place this fuse if necessary, then repeat this test. Proceed to the D-
cell Battery Test (Paragraph 3.6.3) only after successfully passing
this test. RETURN THE BLACK TEST LEAD TO THE COM JACK.
FOR ALL NORMAL USE AND OTHER TESTS, THE BLACK TEST
LEAD MUST BE CONNECTED TO THE COM JACK.
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3.6.3 D-cell Battery Test
Place the Test Set Range Switch in the Rx1 position. Short the test
leads together (they must be in the VOM and COM jacks). Depress
the Push For Ohms Switch and, using the Ohms Adjust Control,
attempt to set the Pointer to full scale deflection. If this is possible,
then the D-cell battery is good. If the Pointer cannot be set to full
scale, then the D-cell battery must be replaced. Replace this bat-
tery if necessary, then repeat this test. Only after successfully pass-
ing all of the preceding tests is the Test Set ready for use.
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3.7 Battery and Fuse Replacement
3.7.1 Case Back Removal
3.7.1.1 Disconnect any test leads connected to the Test Set and
place the Range Switch in the OFF position.
3.7.1.2 Remove the case back by turning the large thumb screw in
the center of the case back counter clockwise.
3.7.2 Battery Replacement
3.7.2.1 Remove the D-cell and two 9V alkaline batteries under the
white insulator if they are installed.
3.7.2.2 Install fresh batteries in the clips provided. The D-cell is
oriented with the positive to the small white dot on the meter back.
The 9V batteries can only be installed one way. They must both be
replaced at the same time.
3.7.2.3 Place the 9V batteries into the holders making sure that
the white insulator covers them.
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3.7.3 Fuse Replacement
3.7.3.1 Locate the two fuses on the Input Scaling Board (BD200).
3.7.3.2 Using a small, flat blade screwdriver, gently lift the installed
fuse from its clips. Be careful so as not to bend the fuse clips.
3.7.3.3 Install a new fuse of the proper type. See Section 7.4 for
the correct type. Be certain that the fuse is securely seated in the
fuse clips.
3.7.4 Case Back Installation
Re-install the case back being careful not to pinch any wires. Tighten
the thumb screw finger tight.
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4.0 GENERAL OPERATION
4.1 This section describes general operation of the Test Set.
When making measurements of any type, refer to this section. THE
MODEL 2000 SERIES RAILROAD TEST SETS ARE INTENDED
FOR USE ONLY BY PERSONNEL TRAINED IN THE PROPER
SAFETY PROCEDURES AND WHO CAN RECOGNIZE SHOCK
AND SAFETY HAZARDS. Always prepare the Test Set for use by
reading and following the Preparation for Use section of this manual.
(Section 3.0)
4.2 High Voltage Measurements
CAUTION: Always observe the following rules and procedures when
making measurements in high voltage circuits.
4.2.1 Turn the equipment or voltage source off before connect-
ing the test leads. Make certain that no capacitors in the circuit be-
ing tested remain charged to a high voltage.
4.2.2 Set the Test Set to the appropriate AC or DC Voltage range.
If not known, start with the highest range switch position and then
lower the range switch for an appropriate reading.
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