CONTENTS Explanation of the symbols used in this manual Safety Introduction Electrostatic discharge (ESD) Simulation Effects on the EUT The NSG 438 system The simulator 4.1.1 Function modules 4.1.2 Block diagram 4.1.3 Operating elements System components 4.2.1 Battery charger / power supply unit 4.2.2...
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Maintenance 10.1 Calibration 10.2 Exchanging the R / C network 10.2.1 Reduction of pulse repetition rate at increased capacity 10.3 Repairs 10.4 NSG 438 system error messages 10.5 Disposal 10.6 Declaration of conformity CE Technical specifications ESD standards Warranty Ordering information Options and accessories 15.1...
1 EXPLANATION OF THE SYMBOLS USED IN THIS MANUAL Please take note of the following explanations of the symbols used in order to achieve the optimum benefi t from this manual and to ensure safety during operation of the equipment. The following symbol draws your attention to a circumstance where non- observation of the warning could lead to inconvenience or impairment in the performance.
The NSG 438 simulator is not a toy! It is a professional tool and belongs only in the hands of specialists and appropriately trained personnel. When powered by its own batteries the generator can be active even without any power cable being connected.
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The instrument’s housing and the cable have both an insulating and a screen- ing function, which can only be assured while the housing is intact. Return a damaged generator to a Teseq service centre immediately for repair. Teseq AG Luterbach, Switzerland and the associated sales organization accept no responsibility for personal or material damage nor for any consequential damage that results from irresponsible operation of this instrument.
The high equalizing current that fl ows, and the associated large electromagnetic fi eld that hence results, can cause electronic devices (computers, terminals, process controllers, vehicle electronics, solid state devices, credit or memory cards, etc.) to malfunction or even be destroyed. NSG 438 /438A ESD simulator...
3.2 Simulation A systematic investigation of electronic equipment and installations to deter- mine their electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) is, today, a necessity if one is not prepared to suffer the economic disadvantages that could otherwise ensue. As a logical consequence, appropriate testing is now a legal requirement for the sale of electronic products within the EU.
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The ESD simulator NSG 438 fulfils the requirements of numerous applications in an ideal manner, thus: Ergonomic shape: For non-tiring use. Operation: Operating elements and display always in view of the user. Constant check on the test values. Battery-powered: Independence from a mains power feed.
ESD (electrostatic discharge) testing usually shows up all the weak spots in the HF-range of a piece of equipment simultaneously. The uses to which the NSG 438 ESD simulator can be put hence go way beyond those called for in standard-conform applications.
Both the operating elements and the display window remain in view of the user while work is in progress. The NSG 438 offers optimal freedom of movement around the work-place and is an ideal test instrument not just for the development engineer but also for quality control purposes, system tests and for investigations in the field.
4.1 The simulator The NSG 438 simulator is modularly constructed from a number of discrete function units. 4.1.1 Function modules The base station contains the battery supply, the high voltage generator and regulator as well as several safety features.
EUT fail Interlock IN Interlock High voltage unit generator + / - Communication Interlock OUT to discharge Interlock reset pistol Interlock PSU and battery 24 VDC High voltage to discharge pistol Batt. status Power Power on NSG 438 /438A ESD simulator...
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Block diagram of the NSG 438 pistol: Display with touch - panel Communication to the base station µP control unit Buzzer Tip ident. Manual Network ident. trigger Interlock out Test finger Discharge High voltage network relay Block diagram of the NSG 438A pistol:...
4.1.3 Operating elements Apart from the trigger button itself (pulse triggering), all the operating elements, test-relevant setting and user information are presented on the touch-sensitive display panel facing the operator. NSG 438 /438A ESD simulator...
The NSG 438 is switched on and off with the main power switch. The signifi- cance of the elements in the display field can be seen in the following picture. Further information can be found in section "Operation". All operations are performed via the touch- panel.
Coaxial measurement adapter type MD 101 or MD 103 Carry-bag for base unit Tripod adapter Opto link to a PC H-field adapter Flexible test tips Discharge remover Etc. See detailed options list at the end of this manual. NSG 438 /438A ESD simulator...
This port is intented to allow the user to connect external signals in order to remote control the NSG 438 generator, as well as to connect external acces- sories like the charge removing device INA 4430. See tables and graphs below for detailed signal description and drive circuitry information.
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The extended operating function of "charge removing" on J3 connector is included in NSG 438 products from serial number 577 (June 2006) upwards. Therefore different pin assignment is allocated as follows: Connector J3: Pin assignment <SN 577 Signal name Description...
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Ext. Trigger: The following circuit is built in behind the external trigger input connector. This function is similar to the function of the yellow trigger knob on the handle. Trigger signal active low, i.e. to be pulled to ground. Pin 1 EXIT_TRIGGER (Port A.6) Ext.
2. Internal emergency off button opens the interlock. Outputs 1. Operating mode: the NSG 438 can generate no high voltage as long as the interlock is not closed. High voltage generation is prevented if the interlock is opened during a test procedure.
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An arbitrary number of instruments or accessories can be incorporated in this safety concept. The high voltage supply can only be activated if the safety requirements in all the associated devices are fulfilled (emergency off buttons released, safety contacts closed). The control of the warning lamps must make use of the interlock feature.
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NC, linked through to the other interlock socket NC, linked through to the other interlock socket Switches warning lamps and peripherals on (active, provided that NSG 438 is switched from standby to on). NC, linked through to the other interlock socket...
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The contacts should be connected in series if numerous access barriers are necessary. Either one open contact or a voltage of more than 1.5 V at the input is sufficient to disable the simulator. WL SELECT INT S1 INT S1 INT S2 INT RESET power relay...
Contact surface (target) MD 103 is a more advanced coaxial measuring target with flat response char- acteristics up to the multi-GHz range. It is required in the IEC 61000-4-2 Ed 2.0. MD 103 with INA 103 NSG 438 /438A ESD simulator...
Charge the battery (see section "Battery charger") Plug the interlock terminators into the base station Connect the earth cable correctly (the NSG 438 must never be switched on without a solid earth connection being made). Allow the instrument to dry out if any condensation has occurred 5.1 Function test...
6 OPERATION This section of the manual provides a guide through the numerous operating possibilities of the NSG 438. The operation, hierarchically arranged, is therefore easy to remember. The display shows unmistakable information about the parameters that have been set and the operating status of the simulator.
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Press the interlock reset button. The red interlock LED will extinguish and the red high voltage LED blinks while the pistol runs its self-test and calibration routine. The instrument is ready for use immediately after self-test and calibration pro- cedures have been completed. High voltage generation is activated by pressing and holding the trigger button.
Values and indications that are not in frames are for information only. Pressing the trigger button always takes you up one menu level higher. A virtual keypad appears in parameter setting menus. R / C value shown on main screen for convenient direct reading. NSG 438 /438A ESD simulator...
6.3.1 Display mode When adjusting some parameters a keyboard and up / down buttons can be selected. Numerical values (voltage, preset counter, random repetition times) can be entered just the same as with a pocket calculator. Selection functions (such as language, type of discharge, program number, etc.) are handled by up / down buttons to scroll through the settings.
Reset counter sets the counter content to 0 or it reloads the preset counter with the previously selected value. Pulse release behaviour Four modes of triggering are supported: Press to Start, Press to Stop Press to Start, Release to Stop Single (on Press) Single (on Release) NSG 438 /438A ESD simulator...
With the NSG 438A, the DUT will be discharged during T2 and T3. EUT discharge on NSG 438: To remove the charged energy of a EUT, an external charge removing box (INA 4430) can be connected to the base station...
Charging level Relais status T3 is only possible with an NSG 438 using the INA 4430. 6.3.6 Settings This further branches into a range of submenus, thus: 6.3.7 Language Touch the button and choose the language you wish to use with the wheel.
6.3.8 Device info Gives information separately for the pistol and the base station regarding the versions of the equipment and its firmware. 6.3.9 Discharge Depending on mounted tip the sign shows the actual discharge-mode. The R / C values for the relevant network are also shown. The corresponding value is automatically loaded.
High Arcing is detected and is indicated by the kV symbol on the display blinking provided 30% (or more) of the charge voltage is dissipated. This position is made for EUTs with non-conductive surfaces (housings). NSG 438 /438A ESD simulator...
If somehow the maximum voltage could not be reached or hold, the NSG 438 comes out with an error message Nr. 210 cal. Failed. The calibration procedure is diagnosing, to which voltage level the instrument works properly.
The test area should be made out of bounds for unauthorized personnel. The test must be monitored throughout its duration. When running on battery the duration of the test is naturally limited. NSG 438 /438A ESD simulator...
EUT itself and the documentation. 7.1 Standard-compliant procedures The ESD simulator system type NSG 438 is constructed in accordance with the requirements called for in the standard and is calibrated in a standard-conform manner.
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Bleeder resistor Earth wire Insulation Example of test set-up for floor-standing equipment - laboratory tests Cabinet earthed via Protective earth line Mains connection Base with protective earth station Insulation pallet Earth wire Ground reference plane NSG 438 /438A ESD simulator...
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Example of test set-up for automotive EUTs including harness and auxilliary equipment. NSG 438 pistol/gun Periphery 10 Battery ESD generator 11 Isolating support, if required ESD generator main unit 12 Insulating blocks Non-conductive table 13 470 kΩ resistors 14 GRP optional...
The calibration and verifi cation of the pulse data requires a special test and measurement laboratory for which the IEC standard sets out certain minimal requirements. Teseq uses the following instruments for calibration purposes: Oscilloscope with an analogue bandwidth of min. 2 GHz Coaxial measurement adapter MD 103 26 dB attenuator covering the range from dc to 12.4 GHz...
9 TYPICAL PULSE DATA 1 ns / div. 20 ns / div. Contact-discharge 8 kV Contact-discharge 8 kV pulse rising edge (tr ca. 0.8 ns) current at 30 ns und 60 ns Reference fi gure quoted in IEC / EN 61000-4-2 100% I at 30 ns I at 60 ns...
The instrument contains no fuses that are accessible to the user. 10.1 Calibration Trimming procedures in the NSG 438 are carried out digitally and automatically. The instrument contains no elements that are foreseen for adjustment by the user. A component defect must be suspected if the calibration measurements differ from the published technical data and the instrument is to be returned to an authorized Teseq service centre.
These values are valid only for the discharge network that conforms to IEC / EN 61000-4-2. Remark Teseq offers an accredited service for this kind of work! 10.2 Exchanging the R / C network If a network needs to be exchanged, the test has to be stopped first, followed by a waiting time of at least 5 s to ensure the voltage being internally discharged.
No other limiting effects occur, however. 10.3 Repairs Repair work is to be carried out exclusively by an authorized Teseq repair department. Voltages in excess of 30 kV are generated within the instrument: LETHAL DANGER! Only original replacement parts and accessories are to be used.
10.4 NSG 438 system error messages Text Explanation Action INTERLOCK OPEN The "Interlock-circuit" Press "Interlock Reset" button, or is open. close the interlock circuit at the back of the base unit. EUT FAILURE The connected EUT has EUT input has been activated. Re- signaled a fault.
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Teseq service centre. VOLTAGE TOO The selected value is too Reduce the voltage level. HIGH high. HV TRAFO TOO NTC resistor too hot after Power off the NSG 438 and wait endurance runs. about 1 h. NSG 438 /438A ESD simulator...
10.5 Disposal The following list shows the principal materials used in the construction of the NSG 438. The relevant national regulations are to be observed when disposing of the instrument. Component material listing Pistol housing: Base station front panel: Base station housing:...
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Description: Compact ESD simulator with microprocessor controller, large-surface touch-sensitive LC-display, built-in HV-relay for contact- discharges, built-in bleed off (NSG 438A) mains-independent operation Pulse data -standard: Conforms to IEC / EN 61000-4-2 and ISO 10605 -special: With exchangeable networks for other standards Pulse network-standard: 150 pF / 330 Ω...
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Breakdown voltage Polarity Air- / Contact-discharge Counter / preselect counter content Battery state monitor Weight: NSG 438: 14 kg (30 lbs) approx. Ambient conditions: Operating +5° ... +40°C 20 ... 80% r.h. (non-condensing) 68 ... 106 kPa Power supply: Input: 100 – 250 V / 50 – 60 Hz / 1 A Output: DC 24 V / 2.3 A...
ESD STANDARDS The IEC / EN 61000-4-2 standard can be taken as a working basis. This has been renamed from IEC 801-2, 1991 into IEC 1000-4-2 as well as IEC / EN 61000-4-2 and will be accepted into national standards as part of the European harmonization.
WARRANTY Teseq grants a warranty of 2 years on this instrument, effective from the date of purchase. During this period, any defective component part will be repaired or replaced free of charge or, if necessary, the instrument will be replaced by another of equivalent value.
ORDERING INFORMATION NSG 438 Stand alone generator for immunity testing in compliance with IEC 61000-4-2 and ISO 10605, up to 30 kV. Large graphical display and easy inter- changeable networks. Features high impedance switched bleed off. Includes air discharge and contact discharge tips, pulse network per IEC 61000-4-2,...
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ISO 10605, powerful battery for long time testing, mains power supply / battery charging unit, gun craddle, 25 mm discharge ball, optical interface for PC control, Interlock interface and emergency power OFF switch, suitcase, user manual, traceable calibration certificate. NSG 438 /438A ESD simulator...
INA 4413x - Remote discharge tip with extension (specify R value xx). For applications where ESD pistol needs to stay away from EUT. Consists in Banana tip, HV extension cord of 1.5 meter, ended with resistor unit and set of air and contact test finger. NSG 438 /438A ESD simulator...
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INA 4414 - Air discharge ball (discharge sphere). 15 mm diameter test tip adapter to be fixed on 8 mm air discharge test finger. To minimise corona dis- charge when testing in air discharge mode for higher voltages. INA 4415 - Flexible tip set. Where the application makes access of EUT dis- charge point difficult.
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INA 4417 - Banana contact tip. To adapt to 4 mm banana plugs. INA 4418 - Banana fastrisetime tip. To adapt to 4 mm banana plugs. INA 4419 - E-Field adapter. NSG 438 /438A ESD simulator...
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INA 4420 - H-Field adapter. INA 4421 - Tripod support for NSG 437, 438. To adapt NSG 437 or 438 pistols to classics tripods as generally used for cameras. INA 4423 - Carry case for NSG 437/438. Includes foam with professional cut outs for NSG 437, 438 and accessories.
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INA 4430 - Charge remover (for NSG 438 and NSG 439 series only). INA 417B - Opto-link to a PC with 10 m opto-cable (for NSG 438 and NSG 439 series only). MD 103 - Target-Attenuator-Cable chain for ESD pulse calibration conforming to IEC 61000-4-2 and ISO 10605.
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INA 103 - Calibration adapter set to MD 103. To calibrate MD 103 per specifica- tions of IEC 61000-4-2 and ISO 10605. INA 414 - Bleeder resistor cable (2 x 470 kOhm) - lenght 80 cm. INA 414-2M - Bleeder resistor cable (2 x 470 kOhm) - lenght 2 meter.
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