Valhalla Scientific Alpha 4314 Series User manual

Artisan Technology Group is your source for quality
new and certied-used/pre-owned equipment
• FAST SHIPPING AND
DELIVERY
• TENS OF THOUSANDS OF
IN-STOCK ITEMS
• EQUIPMENT DEMOS
• HUNDREDS OF
MANUFACTURERS
SUPPORTED
• LEASING/MONTHLY
RENTALS
• ITAR CERTIFIED
SECURE ASSET SOLUTIONS
SERVICE CENTER REPAIRS
Experienced engineers and technicians on staff
at our full-service, in-house repair center
WE BUY USED EQUIPMENT
Sell your excess, underutilized, and idle used equipment
We also offer credit for buy-backs and trade-ins
www.artisantg.com/WeBuyEquipment
REMOTE INSPECTION
Remotely inspect equipment before purchasing with
our interactive website at www.instraview.com
LOOKING FOR MORE INFORMATION?
Visit us on the web at www.artisantg.com for more
information on price quotations, drivers, technical
specications, manuals, and documentation
Contact us: (888) 88-SOURCE | [e-mail] | www.artisantg.com
SM
View
Instra

Operation Manual
Model Alpha 4314
Digital Igniter Testers
VALHALLA
SCIENTIFIC
Need Help? Call 800-548-9806.
www.valhallascientific.com
©2015 Valhalla Scientific, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Artisan Technology Group - Quality Instrumentation ... Guaranteed | (888) 88-SOURCE | www.artisantg.com

2
VALHALLA SCIENTIFIC INC. CERTIFICATION
Valhalla Scientific, Inc. certifies that this instrument was thoroughly tested and inspected and found to
meet published specifications when shipped from the factory. Valhalla Scientific, Inc. further certifies
that its calibration measurements are traceable to the Nation Institute of Standards and Technology to
the extent allowed by NIST’s calibration facility.
Due to continuing product refinement and due to possible parts manufacturer changes, Valhalla
Scientific, Inc. reserves the rights to change any or all specifications without notice.
VALHALLA SCIENTIFIC INC. WARRANTY STATEMENT
The warranty period for this instrument is stated on your invoice and packing list. Please refer to these
to determine appropriate warranty dates.
We will repair the instrument during the warranty period provided it is returned to Valhalla Scientific,
Inc. freight prepaid. No other warranty is expressed or implied.
Valhalla Scientific, Inc. is not liable for consequential damages.
Permission and a Return Material Authorization number (RMA) must be obtained directly from the
factory for warranty repairs. No liability will be accepted if returned without such permission.
Due to continuing product refinement and due to possible parts manufacturer change, Valhalla
Scientific reserves the right to change any or all specifications without notice.
ALPHA 4314 Digital Igniter Tester User Manual
Edition 1
Copyright © 2003 Valhalla Scientific, Inc. All rights reserved
Artisan Technology Group - Quality Instrumentation ... Guaranteed | (888) 88-SOURCE | www.artisantg.com

3
Documentation History
All Editions and Updates of this manual and their creation date are listed below. The first Edition of
the manual is 1. The Edition Number increments by 1 whenever the manual is revised. Updates,
which are issued between Editions, contain replacement pages to correct or add additional information
to the current Edition of the manual. Whenever a new Edition is created, it will contain all of the
Update information for the previous Edition. Each new Edition or Update also includes a revised copy
of this documentation history page.
Edition 1 …………………………………………………………………………………….March, 2003
Rev. A …………………………………………………………………………...…….August, 2003
Safety Symbols
Instruction manual symbol
affixed to product.
Indicates that the user must
refer to the user manual for
specific WARNING or
CAUTION information to
avoid personal injury or
damage to the product
Alternating current (AC)
WARNING, RISK OF
ELECTRICAL SHOCK.
Direct current (DC)
Indicates the field wiring
terminal that must be
connected to ground before
operation the equipment ---
protects against electrical
shock in case of fault.
WARNING
Calls attention to a procedure,
practice, or condition that could
cause bodily injury or death.
Frame or chassis ground
terminal --- typically
connects to the equipment’s
metal frame.
CAUTION
Calls attention to a procedure,
practice, or condition that could
possibly cause damage to
equipment or permanent lost of
data.
Artisan Technology Group - Quality Instrumentation ... Guaranteed | (888) 88-SOURCE | www.artisantg.com

4
WARNINGS
The following general safety precautions must be observed during all phases of operation, service, and
repair of this product. Failure to comply with these precautions or with specific warnings elsewhere in this
manual violates safety standards of design, manufacture, and intended use of the product. Valhalla
Scientific assumes no liability for the customer’s failure to comply with these requirements.
Ground the equipment: For Safety class 1 equipment (equipment having a protective earth terminal), an
interrupted safety earth ground must be provided from the main power source to the product input wiring
terminals or supplied power cable.
DO NOT operate the product in an explosive atmosphere or in presence of flammable gases or fumes.
For continued protection, replace the line fuse(s) only with fuse(s) of the same voltage and current rating
and type. DO NOT use repaired fuses or short-circuited fuse holders.
Keep away from live circuits: Operating personnel must not remove equipment covers or shields.
Procedures involving the removal of covers or shields are for use service trained personnel only. Under
certain conditions, dangerous voltage may exist even with the equipment switched off. To avoid dangerous
electrical shock, DO NOT perform procedures involving cover or shield removal unless you are qualified
to do so.
DO NOT operate damaged equipment: Whenever it is possible that the safety protection features built
into this product have been impaired, either through physical damage, excessive moisture, or any reason,
REMOVE POWER and do not use the product until safe operation can be verified by service-trained
personnel. If necessary, return the product to Valhalla Scientific for service and repair to ensure that safety
features are maintained.
DO NOT service or adjust alone: Do not attempt internal service or adjustment unless another person,
capable of rendering first aid and resuscitation, is present.
DO NOT substitute parts or modify equipment: Because of the danger of introducing additional
hazards, do not install substitute parts or perform any unauthorized modification to the product. Return the
product to Valhalla Scientific for service and repair to ensure that safety features are maintained.
Measuring high voltage is always hazardous: ALL multimeters input terminals (both front and rear)
must be considered hazardous whenever inputs greater than 42V (dc or peak) are connected to ANY input
terminal.
Permanent wiring of hazardous voltage or sources capable of delivering grater than 150VA should be
labeled, fused, or in some other way protected against accidental bridging or equipment failure.
DO NOT leave measurement terminals energized when not in use.
Artisan Technology Group - Quality Instrumentation ... Guaranteed | (888) 88-SOURCE | www.artisantg.com

5
Contents
Safety Symbols 3
WARNINGS 4
Chapter 1 General Information
Introduction 6
Manual Description 6
Instrument Description 7
Safety Considerations 7
Instrument Identification 7
Chapter 2 Unpacking and Installing
Inspection 8
Power Requirements 8
Installation 8
Chapter 3 Specifications
Range / Resolution / Test Current /
Failsafe Current 9
Accuracy 9
Temperature 9
General Specifications 10
Physical Specifications 10
Chapter 4 Optional Equipment
Available Options 11
Test Leads 11
Interface 12
Chapter 5 Operations
General 13
Front Panel 13
Rear Panel 13
4-Wire Resistance Measurements 14
Connections 15
Interpreting the Display 15
Failsafe Operations 15
Battery Monitoring Circuitry 16
Range Indicator LEDs 16
Chapter 6 Theory of Operation
General 17
Troubleshooting 17
Circuit Descriptions 18
Power Supplies 18
Constant Current Source 19
Transconductance Amplifier 20
Failsafe Design 20
Analog to Digital Converter 20
LED Display 21
Range LEDs 21
Chapter 7 Routine Maintenance
General 22
Required Test Equipment 22
Calibration Procedure 23
Battery Replacement Instructions 24
Chapter 8 Interface Operations
BCD Output 25
Chapter 9 Addendums
Addendums 26
Chapter 10 Parts List
Main Board Assembly 28
Display Board Assembly 30
Chassis & Final Assembly 31
Option BCD Assembly 32
Chapter 11 Schematics & Drawings
33
Alpha4314-070 1 of 5 i
Alpha4314-070 2 of 5 ii
Alpha4314-070 3 of 5 iii
Alpha4314-070 4 of 5 iv
Alpha4314-070 5 of 5 v
Alpha4314-071 1 of 2 vi
Alpha4314-071 2 of 2 vii
2053-76 viii
Alpha4314-080 1 of 1 ix
Alpha4314-700 1 of 1 x
Alpha4314-701 1 of 1 xi
Artisan Technology Group - Quality Instrumentation ... Guaranteed | (888) 88-SOURCE | www.artisantg.com

6
Chapter 1 General Information
Introduction
This manual has information to perform Inspection, Installation, Measurement Operations, and
Troubleshooting for Valhalla Scientific Model Alpha 4314. Also included in this manual are:
Specifications, Parts Lists and all Schematics.
Manual Description
This manual is separated into the 11 following Chapters.
Chapter 1 – General Information
Chapter 1 contains a brief description of the
instrument and other general information.
Chapter 2 – Unpacking and Installing
Chapter 2 contains information for unpacking
and inspection the equipment. Also contains
power requirements and installation procedure.
Chapter 3 - Specifications
Chapter 3 contains all specifications, including
Range, Resolution, Test Current, Failsafe
Current, Accuracy, General and Physical
Specifications for Valhalla Model Alpha 4314.
Chapter 4 – Optional Equipment
Chapter 4 contains information on all available
options and test leads for the Valhalla Model
Alpha 4314.
Chapter 5 – Operations
Chapter 5 describes all operations including a
description of the front and rear panel,
Measurements, Connections, Failsafe, and
Battery Monitoring.
Chapter 6 – Theory of Operation
Chapter 6 describes the theory of operation of all
circuits and sub circuits used on Valhalla Model
Alpha 4314.
Chapter 7 – Routine Maintenance
Chapter 7 contains maintenance information,
calibration procedure, and Battery replacement
instructions.
Chapter 8 – Interface Operation
Chapter 8 contains information on the optional
BCD Output.
Chapter 9 – Addendums
Chapter 9 lists updates and addendums for this
manual.
Chapter 10 – Parts List
Chapter 10 contains all parts used in the Main
Board, Display Board, and Chassis of the
Valhalla Model Alpha 4314. The parts are listed
with a Reference Designator, Valhalla Part
Number, Description, and Manufacturers Part
Number.
Chapter 11 – Schematics & Drawings
Chapter 11 contains all schematics and drawings
for Valhalla Model Alpha 4314.
Artisan Technology Group - Quality Instrumentation ... Guaranteed | (888) 88-SOURCE | www.artisantg.com

7
Instrument Description
The Valhalla Scientific Model Alpha 4314 Digital Igniter Tester is designed to provide
extremely safe and reliable resistance testing of explosive or volatile devices. Some of the
proven uses include: fuses, squibs, igniters, explosive bolts, automobile airbag initiators and
many others.
Essentially, a Model Alpha 4314 is a 4-wire ohmmeter which has been designed to use very low
test currents for its measurement. Additional circuitry proprietary to Valhalla Scientific is used
to ensure that test current levels do not exceed the specified "failsafe current" even in a worst-
case component failure situation. The failsafe feature is tested in every instrument before
shipment and the results provided to the customer on a Certificate of Calibration that
accompanies the unit.
The Alpha 4314 series consists of more then 35 different versions spanning the measurement
range from 1mΩresolution to 100MΩfull scale. The Alpha 4314 may have a maximum of four
(4) of eight (8) ranges installed at any one time. Unless otherwise specified when placing the
order, the Model Alpha 4314 with the 20Ω, 200Ω, 2kΩand 20kΩRanges is the standard
configuration. Instruments with special feature are also available. Please check Chapter 8 of this
manual for any addendums that may apply to special Alpha 4314 versions.
Standard feature of the Alpha 4314 is a battery monitoring circuit that alerts the user if the
batteries have become or will soon become unusable. Please refer to Chapter 5 for more details.
Front panel LED indicators provide a visual indication of which range are installed and which
range is selected. Also refer to Chapter 5 for details.
Safety Considerations
The Alpha 4314 Digital Igniter Tester is a battery operated equipment, for an optimal function of
the Failsafe circuitry DO NOT connect the battery charger while the instrument is in an ON
position. Always disconnect the battery charger before operating the instrument.
Instrument Identification
Valhalla Scientific instruments are identified by a two part serial number. The Serial Tag is
located on the rear or bottom of the instrument. The number is in a form of 00-0000. The first
two digits, called the serial number prefix, indicate the model. It changes only when a change is
made to the instrument. The last 4 digits, called the serial number suffix, are unique for each
individual unit.
Be sure to include the entire serial number, both prefix and suffix, in any correspondence about
your instrument.
The serial number can also be found on the Main Board, Calibration Tag and Certificate of
Calibration.
Artisan Technology Group - Quality Instrumentation ... Guaranteed | (888) 88-SOURCE | www.artisantg.com

8
Chapter 2 Unpacking and Installing
Inspection
If the shipping carton is damaged, request that the carrier's agent be present when the unit is
unpacked. If the instrument appears damaged, the carrier's agent should authorize repairs before
the unit is returned to the factory. Even if the instrument appears undamaged, it may have
suffered internal damage in transit that may not be evident until the unit is operated or tested to
verify conformance with its specifications. If the unit fails to operate or fails to meet the
performance specifications of Chapter 3, notify the carrier's agent and the nearest Valhalla Sales
Office. Retain the shipping carton for the carrier's inspection. DO NOT return equipment to
Valhalla Scientific or any of its sales offices prior to obtaining authorization to do so.
Power Requirements
The Model Alpha 4314 is powered by an internal rechargeable heavy-duty nickel-cadmium
battery pack. The battery charge is maintained by an external AC/DC converter that plugs into a
standard 115VAC receptacle. The AC adapter provides 6VDC @ 300mA.
For safety reasons, the Alpha 4314 may not be powered directly from the AC adapter. The
Alpha 4314 must be turned off and have the adapter connected in order to charge the batteries.
The battery pack may power the Alpha 4314 for up to 10 hours before requiring a recharge.
Although the batteries are fully charged prior to shipment, it may be desirable to refresh the
charge for 24 hours before use. As a rule of thumb, the Alpha 4314 requires twice as much time
to fully recharge as the amount of discharge time. For example, if the instrument was used
continuously for 2 hours, the AC adapter must be connected for 4 hours in order to fully restore
the charge.
Installation
The Model Alpha 4314 consumes little power and generates virtually no heat. Consequently, it
may be used in any area where the environment does not exceed the temperature specifications
of Chapter 3 page 10.
A rack mount adapter is available to allow installation of the Alpha 4314 in a standard 19"
equipment rack. This option is designated as Option R4. When installing this instrument in a
rack environment, avoid exposing the Alpha 4314 to extremes of temperature which will affect
accuracy and shorten battery life-span. For installation instructions, please refer to the drawing
included with the option.
Artisan Technology Group - Quality Instrumentation ... Guaranteed | (888) 88-SOURCE | www.artisantg.com

9
Chapter 3 Specifications
Range/Resolution/Test Current/Failsafe Current
Table 1
RANGE 20Ω200Ω2kΩ20kΩ200kΩ2MΩ20MΩ100MΩ
RESOLUTION 1mΩ10mΩ100mΩ1Ω10Ω100Ω1kΩ10kΩ
TEST
CURRENT 10mA 1mA 100µA 10µA 1µA 100nA 10nA 1nA
FAILSAFE
CURRENT[1] 16mA 1.8mA 180µA 18µA 1.8µA 180nA 18nA 1.8nA
[1] Typical value. Actual Failsafe Currents vary from instrument to instrument, and may be ±20% from the value.
The actual measured level is provided on the certificate of calibration.
Accuracy
Table 2
RANGE ACCURACY
20Ω± 0.03% of rdg ± 0.02% of rng
200Ω± 0.03% of rdg ± 0.02% of rng
2kΩ± 0.03% of rdg ± 0.02% of rng
20kΩ± 0.03% of rdg ± 0.02% of rng
200kΩ± 0.05% of rdg ± 0.05% of rng
2MΩ± 1% of rdg ± 0.2% of rng
20MΩ± 2% of rdg ± 0.2% of rng
200MΩ± 3% of rdg ± 1% of rng
Temperature
Temperature Coefficient: ±0.002% per °C (from 0°C-15°C and 35°C-50°C)
not applicable for 200kΩrange and above.
Operating Temperature Range: 0°C to 50°C
Storage Temperature Range: -10°C to 70°C
Artisan Technology Group - Quality Instrumentation ... Guaranteed | (888) 88-SOURCE | www.artisantg.com

10
General Specifications
Display Type: 4 ½ digits Light Emitting Diodes (LED) (19999)
Overload Indication: Display flashes
Conversion Rate: 3 readings per second
Terminal Configuration: 4-Wire Kelvin
Current Source
Compliance Voltage: Clamped at 1.6V
Power: (4 “D” Cell) 1.2V rechargeable NiCad Batteries
4000mAh
Battery Charger: Provides 6VDC at 300mA nominal
Physical Specifications
Width: 9.5” / 24cm
Depth: 11” / 27cm
Height: 3” / 8cm
Weight: 3 lbs / 1.3kg net; 6lbs / 3kg shipping [1]
[1] Shipping weight may vary.
Artisan Technology Group - Quality Instrumentation ... Guaranteed | (888) 88-SOURCE | www.artisantg.com

11
Chapter 4 Optional Equipment
Available Options
Listed below are the options available for use with the Alpha 4314 Series Digital Igniter Testers.
Option A: Battery Charger
Option "A" is an AC/DC converter that converts 115VAC line voltage to 6VDC at
300mA. One charger is provided as a standard accessory with every Alpha 4314.
Replacement Batteries
The rechargeable NiCad batteries installed in the Alpha 4314 should provide years of
trouble-free operation. Replacement, however, will eventually be necessary. The Alpha
4314 uses four 1.2V cells installed in a reusable battery box. The batteries are held in
place by reusable tie-wraps. When ordering replacement batteries, please specify
Valhalla Stock #05-10117, quantity four (4).
Option CC4: Carrying Case
Option "CC4" is a meter and accessory carrying case with extra room for test leads,
battery charger, etc.
Option R4: Rack Mount Adapter
Option "R4" is an adapter tray that allows the Alpha 4314 to be installed in a standard
19" equipment rack.
Test Leads
Option K: 4-Wire Kelvin Lead Set
Option "K" is the recommended general purpose lead set for all Valhalla Ohmmeters.
Option K is a shielded 48" lead set terminating in ½ inch gold plated clips.
Option MP-S: Single Probe Lead Set
Option "MP-S" is a 4-wire lead set terminated in single points. The 4-wire configuration
is maintained up to the point of the probe, eliminating most cable resistance effects.
Option MP-S may be used where a single probe tip is a must.
Option MP-1: Kelvin Micro-Probes
Option "MP-1" is a 48" shielded lead set (dual banana), handheld pencil type, terminated
in spring loaded steel tips with .05" separation (1 amp max.). Special orders or modified
versions available upon request.
Artisan Technology Group - Quality Instrumentation ... Guaranteed | (888) 88-SOURCE | www.artisantg.com

12
Option MP-2: Kelvin Mini-Probes
Option "MP-2" is a 48"shielded lead set, handheld pencil type, terminated in spring
loaded steel tips with 0.18" separation. (1 Amp max.)
Option MP-3: Kelvin Micro-Probes
Option "MP-1" is a 48" shielded lead set (dual banana), handheld pencil type, terminated
in spring loaded steel tips with .08" separation (1 amp max.). Special orders or modified
versions available upon request.
Option MP-4/MP-5: Surface Probes
These probes permit rapid, repeatable bonding testing on a variety of screened or flat
surfaces. Test current is evenly distributed through the probe base while sensing is
accomplished via a spring loaded center contact. The "MP-4" target area is 1" in
diameter. The "MP-5" target area is .4" in diameter.
Option KK: 4-Wire Kelvin Lead Set
Option "KK" is a 48" heavy duty cable set terminated in large "jaws" that have an open
span of 2".
Option C: Banana-to-Clip Cable
Option "C" is a 48" shielded cable terminated in dual alligator clips
Option BBL: Banana-to-Banana Cable
Option "BBL" is a 48" shielded cable terminated in dual banana plugs at both ends.
Option KCS: Kelvin Clips
Option "KCS" is the gold plated Kelvin clips used on the Option "K" cable. These clips
may be used when making custom cables or when repairing Option "K".
Option JAWS: Heavy-Duty Clips
2" opening for use on large bushings, transformers and motors. The upper/lower jaw teeth
(gold plated) provide true 4-wire measurement. Can accommodate up to 150 amps.
Interface
Option BCD: Data Output
This option provides parallel BCD data on p rear-panel 50-pin connector. All outputs are
TTL comparable levels with a drive capability of 1 LS load. The Option BCD may be
used to drive the Valhalla Model 1248. (See Chapter 8)
Model 1248: Dual-Limit Comparator
The Valhalla Model 1248 may be used in conjunction with an Alpha 4314 and Option BCD
above. The Model 1248 is a dual-limit BCD comparator that interprets the display
indications of the ohmmeter as either "HI", "LO" or "GO", based on a tolerance that is set by
the user. Relay contact closure is provided to trigger an alarm, counter, batch sorter or other
device. The 1248 also reduces operator workload by allowing him to make an instant
determination of the test results. The mating cable from the ohmmeter to the 1248 is 3' in
length and designated as "IDC-2".
Artisan Technology Group - Quality Instrumentation ... Guaranteed | (888) 88-SOURCE | www.artisantg.com

13
Chapter 5 Operations
General
This section of the manual contains complete operating instructions for the Alpha 4314 Series
Digital Igniter Testers. A description of the front panel controls, connection instructions, and the
theory behind 4-wire resistance measurement is discussed in this section.
Front Panel
Power Switch
When the front panel power switch is placed in the OFF/CHARGE position, all power is
removed from the output terminals, and the battery pack is connected to the charging circuit.
When the switch is placed in the ON position, the battery pack is disconnected from the charging
circuit. The possibility of a common mode voltage between the device under test and AC Power
ground is therefore eliminated.
Range Switch
The Model Alpha 4314 input range is selected by depressing the desired button on a multi-
station interlocking pushbutton array located on the right-hand side of the front panel. The
pushbutton for the lowest resistance range is nearest to the POWER switch.
LED indicators will point out the range and failsafe current selected.
Rear Panel
Fuse holder
The fuse holder is mounted on the rear panel and contains a 2 amp in-line fuse. This fuse is
designed to protect the battery pack from excessive charging currents. Customers may request
special models with the fuse holder mounted on the front panel. For continued protection,
replace the line fuse only with fuse of the same voltage and current rating and type. DO NOT use
repaired fuses or short-circuited fuse holders.
Charging Jack
The battery charging jack is a barrel type and is located on the Alpha 4314 rear panel. The
center pin of the connector is positive. The charging requirements of the internal battery pack
are 6VDC @300mA. The correct charging voltage is supplied by the adapter included with the
instrument. Additional adapters are available as Option "A". Customers may request special
models with the charger jack mounted on the front panel.
Artisan Technology Group - Quality Instrumentation ... Guaranteed | (888) 88-SOURCE | www.artisantg.com

14
4-Wire Resistance Measurement
The four-terminal configuration of the Alpha 4314 eliminates errors normally caused by test lead
and contact resistances. In many applications the contact resistance can exceed the value of the
load by several orders of magnitude. The Alpha 4314 bypasses this potential error source by
providing two terminals of constant current and an additional two terminals for high impedance
voltage measurement. The result is a fast, accurate resistance measurement of the load,
independent of the resistance of the current carrying leads.
Figure 1 Error Sources in Resistance Measurements
Figure 1 illustrates how the 4-wire principle is used to eliminate lead, wire and contact
resistances as potential error sources. The internal current source inherently overcomes all series
resistance (within compliance voltage limits) and delivers a precise constant current.
The internal high-impedance DVM senses the voltage drop across the load. There is negligible
contact and lead resistance error created by the voltage measurement because the high input
impedance of the DVM limits current flow in the voltage leads.
Artisan Technology Group - Quality Instrumentation ... Guaranteed | (888) 88-SOURCE | www.artisantg.com

15
Connections
Connections are made to the front panel terminals using a 4-wire configuration as described in 4-
Wire Resistance Measurement. When using Valhalla test leads, the tabbed side of the banana
jack is plugged into the current terminals. This ensures that the current is carried in the largest
conductor and that the voltage input is shielded.
V
HI ☼☼IHI ←Tab
V
LO ☼☼ILO ←Tab
Interpreting the Display
All Valhalla ohmmeters use a high impedance voltmeter as part of the resistance measurement
process. This voltmeter is a highly accurate and stable 4 ½ digit analog-to-digital converter (A to
D). Unless it is receiving a definite input signal, the output reading of this A to D is ambiguous.
The display may indicate a randomly wandering number or it may indicate an overrange
condition. This unpredictable display may make it seem to appear that the instrument is
experiencing some sort of malfunction. It is, in fact, just a characteristic of the voltmeter circuit
and should not be mistaken for a fault in the instrument.
The display indications should be ignored unless there is a definite measurement being taken. If
this wandering display is not acceptable, the ohmmeter can be made to indicate an overrange
condition whenever the terminals are open by using a 4-wire Kelvin type lead set or by shorting
the VHI and IHI terminals together.
The display should indicate a stable reading when the test leads are securely attached to the
device under test. If the display appears to be erroneous when connected to a load, recheck the
test leads for integrity and cleanliness. If all external items appear to be functioning properly, the
problem may be the ohmmeter. In this case, please contact your local Valhalla Scientific Sales
Office.
Failsafe Operation
The Alpha 4314 Series Igniter Testers incorporate a proprietary current source design that
renders them incapable of delivering excessive voltage or current to the device under test. The
typical failsafe current for each range is indicated under the corresponding range LED marker on
the Alpha 4314 front panel. Please refer to Failsafe Design in Chapter 6 for a technical
description of the failsafe circuitry.
Every Alpha 4314 Series Igniter Tester is thoroughly tested before it leaves the factory. These
tests include a failsafe test that simulates a "worst case" failure condition. The resulting output
Artisan Technology Group - Quality Instrumentation ... Guaranteed | (888) 88-SOURCE | www.artisantg.com

16
current is recorded and provided on the Certificate of Calibration included with every Alpha
4314.
As a further precaution the Alpha 4314 is isolated from the AC line whenever the POWER
switch is in the ON position. The Alpha 4314 receives its power from an internal rechargeable
battery pack. The Alpha 4314 must be in the OFF/CHARGING position in order to charge the
batteries.
Battery Monitoring Circuitry
A standard feature of Alpha 4314 is a circuit that monitors the output voltage of the internal
battery supply. The indicator for this feature is located to the far left of the display window and
is a red light bar " - ".
If this LED flashes during a measurement, this indicates that the batteries will require recharging
within the next 2 hours of continuous use. Readings are still within specified accuracies at this
point.
If the LED is continuously illuminated, readings should not be trusted. An overnight recharge
should be performed before using the Alpha 4314 for critical testing.
eIt is possible for the user to receive a low battery indication on a single range only
(particularly the 20Ωrange), while the Alpha 4314 remains well within operating limits
on other ranges. Unless the user observes a continuous low battery indication during
measurement, readings are still valid.
Range Indicator LEDs
The Alpha 4314 can have 4 of 8 possible ranges. The ranges installed are indicated on the front
panel by a series of lit LEDs. The range that is selected during measurement is indicated by a
RED LED.
Artisan Technology Group - Quality Instrumentation ... Guaranteed | (888) 88-SOURCE | www.artisantg.com

17
Chapter 6 Theory of Operations
General
The Valhalla Scientific Model Alpha 4314 Digital Igniter Tester is shown in block diagram form in
Figure 2. All information disclosed in this section is proprietary and is included in order to make
troubleshooting to component level possible.
The Model Alpha 4314 uses solid-state semiconductors exclusively and CMOS circuits extensively
to minimize power requirements and make battery operation practical.
Figure 2 Model Alpha 4314 Block Diagram
Troubleshooting
Malfunctions are often the result of misinterpretation of specifications or due to an incomplete
understanding of the instrument. A thorough review of the operating instructions for this
instrument is recommended prior to any component replacement. Check to be sure that cables
and other test equipment are in good working order before attempting to troubleshoot the Alpha
4314.
If the Model Alpha 4314 exhibits problems that cannot be eliminated by reviewing Chapter 3 and 5,
the following guidelines have been established to help solve the problem.
Artisan Technology Group - Quality Instrumentation ... Guaranteed | (888) 88-SOURCE | www.artisantg.com

18
Localizing the Problem:
The key to successful troubleshooting is to localize the problem as much as possible before trying to
pin the problem down to a specific component. Certain questions should be asked such as "Does
the problem occur on all ranges or on a specific range only?” The power supplies are also one of
the first things that should be checked.
As it is not possible to anticipate all failure modes of the Alpha 4314, servicing personnel should
become familiar with this section to gain a complete understanding of the internal workings of the
Model Alpha 4314.
Component Replacement
If the problem has been identified as a faulty component, the accuracy of the Alpha 4314 can be
maintained only if the following precautions are taken:
a) Use only the specified component or its exact equivalent. Spare parts can be ordered
from your nearest Valhalla Scientific Service Center or directly from the factory by
referring to the Valhalla Stock Number listed in the Parts Lists section at the back of this
manual.
b) Use only 63/37 grade rosin core electronic grade solder with a 50W or lower maximum
power soldering iron.
c) When soldering, heat the terminal of the component, not the solder. Apply solder
smoothly and evenly. Do not move the component until the solder has cooled. Bad
solder joints can cause additional problems!
d) Static sensitive parts require special handling procedures. Always treat an unknown part
as if it were static sensitive.
Circuit Description
The circuit descriptions which follow are referenced to Figures 2, 3, 4 and the schematic
diagrams in Chapter 10. In the following descriptions, references to integrated circuits are given
in the form "IC2-1", which refers to Integrated Circuit 2, pin 1.
Power Supply
The Model Alpha 4314 is powered by a rechargeable internal battery pack and cannot be operated
directly from the battery charging adapter. This is to prevent the possibility of a short to the AC
line. When the POWER switch is in the OFF/CHARGING position, the batteries are connected to
the rear panel charging jack to allow for recharge. When the POWER switch is in the ON position,
the batteries are disconnected from the battery charger and connected to the internal circuits of the
Alpha 4314.
Artisan Technology Group - Quality Instrumentation ... Guaranteed | (888) 88-SOURCE | www.artisantg.com

19
The +10 and -10 volt supply is developed by a DC/DC converter composed of Q1, Q2, T1, D2, D3,
D4, D5 and their associated components. The +5 volt supply is provided directly by the batteries or
regulated from the +10V supply by IC2. The -5 volt supply is regulated from the -10 volt supply by
IC1.
Constant Current Source
The constant current source is composed of IC3, IC4, Q4, D10 and their associated components.
The input to the constant current source is approximately +1.05 volts, developed at IC3-7 and
connected to IC3-13 through R12 and R13.
The heart of the constant current source is the voltage-to-current converter, which incorporates a
Transconductance Amplifier. A simplified schematic of this unique circuit is shown in Figure 3 and
described in the next section. The amplifier of IC3-12 is an inverter, and its output is applied to
IC3-9. The amplifier of IC3-8 has unity gain due to the feedback through R18. Its output is applied
to the inverting input of IC4-3. The output of IC4-6 provides feedback to the non-inverting input of
IC3-10. This circuit operates to maintain the inverting input at IC4-3 and the non-inverting input at
IC4-2 at the same potential.
Figure 3 Transconductance Amplifier
Artisan Technology Group - Quality Instrumentation ... Guaranteed | (888) 88-SOURCE | www.artisantg.com