Automation Dr. Nix QNix 8500 Instruction Manual

Automation Dr. Nix QNix 8500 is a versatile coating thickness gauge that combines internal, cable bound, and radio controlled probes for flexibility in demanding applications. Its modular system allows you to adjust its use to any given application at any time. With its wireless interface, you can transmit data between the gauge and your PC, and use the PC-Software to set most of the menu options conveniently. The QNix 8500 is suitable for measuring on curved surfaces, as its V-grooves can be aligned parallel to the curvature axis, ensuring vertical probe placement.

PDF

Dokumentti

Mainos

Instruction Manual QNix

8500

- 2 -

Instruction Manual QNix

8500

- 3 -

Instruction Manual QNix

8500

Content

General ............................................................................................................................... 6

Storage and Transportation ............................................................................................. 6

Changing the Probes ........................................................................................................ 6

4 Power Supply and Changing the Batteries .................................................................... 6

5 Operating the Gauge ......................................................................................................... 7

5.1

Stationary Application ......................................................................................................... 7

6 Setting the Zero Reference .............................................................................................. 7

7 Measuring Mode ................................................................................................................ 8

8 Menu 8

8.1

Calibration ........................................................................................................................... 8

8.1.1

Custom-Designed Calibrations ................................................................................. 9

8.1.2

Average Zero Reference on Rough Surface .......................................................... 10

8.1.3

Menu Guided Setting of the Zero Reference .......................................................... 10

8.2

Measuring Mode ............................................................................................................... 11

8.2.1

Selecting the Substrate ........................................................................................... 11

8.2.2

Single Measurement / Continuous Measurement .................................................. 11

8.2.3

Upper Limit .............................................................................................................. 11

8.2.4

Lower Limit .............................................................................................................. 11

8.2.5

Averaging ................................................................................................................ 11

8.3

Data Memory ..................................................................................................................... 11

8.3.1

Delete All ................................................................................................................. 12

8.3.2

Delete values .......................................................................................................... 12

8.3.3

Data Memory Mode ON / OFF ................................................................................ 12

8.3.4

Creating a New Batch ............................................................................................. 12

8.3.5

Selecting / Editing a Batch ...................................................................................... 12

8.4

Statistics ............................................................................................................................ 13

8.4.1

Selecting the Statistical Parameters to be displayed in an active batch ................ 13

8.4.2

Displaying a summary of statistical data................................................................. 14

8.5

Gauge Setup ..................................................................................................................... 14

8.5.1

LC-Display .............................................................................................................. 14

8.5.2

Wireless Interface ................................................................................................... 14

8.5.3

System Information ................................................................................................. 15

8.5.4

Language ................................................................................................................ 15

8.5.5

Buzzer ..................................................................................................................... 15

8.5.6

Time and Date ........................................................................................................ 15

8.5.7

The ▲ button .......................................................................................................... 15

9 Radio Controlled Probe .................................................................................................. 15

10 Troubleshooting .............................................................................................................. 16

10.1

Incorrect or dubious readings ........................................................................................... 16

10.2

Automatic selection of the substrate does not work ......................................................... 16

10.3

My gauge does not provide all the described features ..................................................... 17

10.4

I cannot activate the menu ................................................................................................ 17

11 Installing the PC Software .............................................................................................. 17

- 4 -

Instruction Manual QNix

8500

Installing the USB-RF-Dongle Drivers .......................................................................... 17

Setting the Gauge Options with the PC-Software ....................................................... 17

Loading a new Language into the Gauge ..................................................................... 17

Updating the Software in the Gauge and Probe .......................................................... 18

Display Symbols ............................................................................................................. 18

Scope of Delivery ............................................................................................................ 19

18 Technical Data ................................................................................................................. 20

Notice:

This instruction manual describes features and handling of firmware version 1.6c of the

QNix 8500. Other versions may differ.

- 5 -

Instruction Manual QNix

8500

Thank you for purchasing this QNix 8500. We wish you a gratifying experience with your new gauge.

The QNix 8500 is the only coating thickness gauge world wide enabling you to choose between the use of internal, cable bound and radio controlled probes, offering a flexibility in the solution of demanding applications unavailable before.

1 General

The gauges and probes of the QNix 8500 product line form a modular system allowing you to combine the hand-held gauge with the available probes in any way. To do this, either connect the probe directly with the gauge or use an adapter cable. Radio controlled probes can be used separately within a radius of 20 meters from the gauge. With these possibilities, you can adjust the use of your gauge to any given application at any time.

Set most of the menu options using either the gauges menu control or the convenient PC-

Software.

Use the wireless interface to transmit data between your gauge and your PC.

2 Storage and Transportation

The QNix 8500 gauge is an electronic precision device. To enjoy its use for a long time we suggest observing the following guidelines:



Do not store the gauge at temperatures exceeding 60°C (140°F). This can lead to damage of the graphic display.



Do not expose the gauge to strong magnetic fields.



Remove the batteries from the gauge and store them separately if the device is not used for a longer period.



The gauge is not waterproof. Do not expose it to water.

3 Changing the Probes

Probes or the casings of the adapter cable lock in when inserted into the gauge. To remove them please press the button on the back of the gauge and pull out the probe or adapter cable.

After inserting a probe, the display shows the following information: the type of probe, the serial number and the software version number.

Pressing the

▼ button while the gauge is in standard display mode will also show this data.

This is not possible however, while the gauge is in memory mode.

4 Power Supply and Changing the Batteries

To power the QNix 8500 use two batteries AA alkaline or two rechargeable batteries AA with

1.2 V each. Please note however, that rechargeable batteries have a significantly lower capacity.

The battery status is indicated in three stages as shown below:

Stage 1:

Stage 2:

Change batteries soon. It is possible however to take measurements until the gauge finally shuts down. The backlight is still active at this stage.

(small symbol) Measurements are still possible. The backlight is now deactivated.

Stage 3: (large symbol in display centre) Measurements are no longer possible.

While changing the batteries all menu settings and readings are saved.

IMPORTANT: Date and Time settings will be lost if changing the batteries takes more then about two minutes.

- 6 -

Instruction Manual QNix

8500

ATTENTION: Empty batteries must be disposed of at the appropriate collection points provided by the public waste authorities.

5 Operating the Gauge

To turn on the gauge, simply place the probe on the surface you wish to test; or turn on the gauge manually by pressing one of the four buttons on the device. If the probe is not used for more than 30 seconds, the gauge automatically shuts down. When using a radio-controlled probe, the gauge has to be turned on again if several minutes passed without taking a reading.

When placing the probe take care to seat the bearing ring plainly on the measuring surface.

On curved surfaces align the V-grooves as parallel to the axis of the curvature as possible, thus ensuring a vertical position of the measuring head on the measuring surface.

We suggest holding the gauge on the recessed grips during the measuring process to ensure the highest accuracy.

Incorrect placing will be indicated as an “Error” message on the gauges display and measurements outside the measuring range as an “Infi” (=infinite) message.

Please do not carry out any measurements on magnetized parts. Magnetic fields can influence the readings, just as electro-magnetic radiation can influence the NFe-readings.

5.1 Stationary Application

For stationary use – e.g. in a measuring stand – you can take the reading by pressing a button. To do this, set the function of the ▲ Button in the “Setup” menu to “Measure” (see

§ 8.5.7).

To take a reading by pressing a button, you do not have to place the probe on a surface nor is it necessary to press the measuring head. Within the measuring range of the probe, measurements like e.g. distance measurements are possible that way.

6 Setting the Zero Reference

When using the gauge for the first time, after changing the batteries, with varying applications or from time to time a zero point adjustment is necessary. First select the measuring

mode (the substrate on which you want to take a measurement) either via menu (see § 7) or

using the automated substrate selection while in the Fe/NFe-mode. A zero point adjustment on wrong substance however leads to irreproducible results. Press the ▲ button and then either place the probe on one of the reference plates included in the gauges case or use an adequate uncoated Fe- or NFe substrate. The display will show a control number; lift the gauge or the probe at least 5 cm (2”) from the surface. The display will show a second control number for a short time, then the value 0.0µm appears and the zero point adjustment is completed.

The control numbers shown are of no relevance to the user. You can ignore them.

The radio controlled probe acknowledges the recording of the zero and infi values while in wireless mode with a flashing of the blue light inside the probe for about half a second.

NOTE: While the zero reference can usually also be set by placing the probe first and then pressing the ▲ button, this does not apply when using the radio controlled probe in wireless mode.

Alternativ ely use the menu items “Zero” and “Infi” within the “Calibration” menu to set the zero reference. Select the corresponding menu items to activate the recording of the zero and infinity values. This is especially useful if you defined the ▲ button within the gauges setup

for taking a measurement (see § 8.5.7).

Regarding zero point adjustment on rough surfaces refer to § 8.1.2.

- 7 -

Instruction Manual QNix

8500

7 Measuring Mode

The gauge offers different methods for selecting a measuring mode.

Set the measuring method either by following the standard menu sequence as described in

§ 8.2.1 or by

using the ◄ button for direct access while the gauge is in standard display mode.

Fe or NFe mode:

Fe/NFe mode:

Combined mode:

IMPORTANT:

For applications with a clearly defined substrate, the Fe or NFe mode can be set fix.

For applications with constantly varying steel or non-iron substrates, best use the Fe/NFe mode.

If for example the substrate changes from steel to non-iron, simply place the probe on the new (NFe) substrate once. The message „No

Fe Substrate – Repeat“ will appear. When placing the probe for a second time, it automatically repeats the measurement in the NFe mode.

Follow the same procedure if the substrate changes from non-iron to steel.

The next time the gauge is turned on, it starts operating in the measuring mode last used.

Use this mode when for example an object made from steel has been hot zinc dipped and then painted. The gauge then displays the thickness of the zinc coating and the paint as two separate values.

For the use of the combined mode, the metallic coating of the magnetic substrate must have a minimum thickness of 50 µm.

8 Menu

For your convenience, find a diagram of the menu structure showing all possible menu options on the first two pages of this instruction manual. Depending on the version of your gauge only a part of the menu items shown might be available for you. This however does not change the proceedings when selecting available menu items.

Functions of the gauges buttons while in menu mode:

►

◄ activate the menu, proceed to the next menu level, call the menu item selected. back to the last menu, cancel a function

▲, ▼ scroll through a list within a menu level using these buttons

A dark background indicates (highlights) the selected menu item.

● This symbol marks active menu items

In memory mode (see § 8.3) and with several memory batches defined, use the

▼ button to activate the menu.

You can always leave the menu mode by pressing in the measuring head. The gauge then immediately returns to display mode.

8.1 Calibration

The probe is delivered with a factory calibration showing correct readings for most applications. This calibration is stored in the probe and cannot be changed by the user.

With this gauge, it is also possible to set custom-designed calibrations. These are necessary under certain measurement circumstances: when the readings are not within the given tolerance or when you want a more accurate reading within the expected range of the coating thickness.

Depending on your gauges version up to 100 different user-specific calibrations can be set, saved and each named individually.

- 8 -

Instruction Manual QNix

8500

8.1.1 Custom-Designed Calibrations

8.1.1.1 Delete all

Selecting this menu item will delete all custom-designed calibrations after a confirmation dialog.

Further measurements are taken using the factory calibration.

8.1.1.2 Factory Calibration

Activating this function by pressing the ►button selects the factory calibration and the gauge returns to the standard measuring mode.

8.1.1.3 Creating a new Custom-Designed Calibration

After confirming t he menu item „Define New Calibration“ the name of the new calibration is shown in the display, e.g.

>C 004 <

The first character is highlighted. To accept the name press the ► button until the cursor

jumps to “OK”. Confirm with ► and define the calibration as described in § 8.1.1.4.2.

The calibration name can be changed to any 8-character name directly after the number appears. To change each separate character press the ▲ or ▼buttons until he desired character appears. Pressing ► confirms the character and the cursor jumps to the next character.

To correct a previously chosen character at any time, simply return by pressing the backspace button: ◄.

8.1.1.4 Selecting a Custom-Designed Calibration

This menu level lists all currently saved custom-designed calibrations under the menu item

„Define New Calibration“. To select a certain calibration use the ▲ and ▼ buttons. Subsequently pressing ► opens the corresponding options menu. A dot at the right side of the display marks the active calibration.

8.1.1.4.1 Activating a Custom-Designed Calibration

Pressing the ►button activates the selected calibration.

A warning message appears in the display if this calibration has not yet been performed. In this case the gauge jumps to the next menu for selection of the calibration method (see the following paragraphs).

8.1.1.4.2 Calibration Methods

Before calibrating, we suggest to set a zero reference on the corresponding uncoated substrate.

Two different calibration methods are available:

8.1.1.4.2.1 One-Point Calibration

A one-point calibration can optimize the measuring accuracy of the probe near an expected coating thickness.

To perform a one-point calibration put a calibration foil with a thickness close to the expected thickness on the uncoated substrate and place the probe on that film. Adjust the displayed reading, using the ▲ and▼ buttons, until it matches the thickness of the film.

Pressing the ► button concludes the setting and the calibration is activated. The gauge returns to the standard measuring mode automatically.

8.1.1.4.2.2 Two-Point Calibration

A two-point calibration can optimize the measuring accuracy of the probe within a certain coating thickness range.

- 9 -

Instruction Manual QNix

8500

To perform a two-point calibration spread a calibration foil with a thickness close to the lower limit of the expected coating thickness range on the uncoated substrate and then place the probe on that film. Adjust the reading using the ▲ and ▼ buttons until it matches the films thickness. Pressing ► confirms this setting.

Now place the probe on a measuring film with a thickness close to the upper limit of the coating thickness range. Again, adjust the reading using ▲and ▼ until it matches the films thickness. Conclude the setting by pressing ►. The calibration is now activated and the gauge returns to the standard measuring mode.

8.1.1.4.3 Renaming a Custom-Designed Calibration

To rename a custom-designed calibration follow the instructions given under § 8.1.1.3.

After changing the name the gauge automatically returns to the menu item described in

§ 8.1.1.4.

8.1.1.4.4 Deleting a Custom-Designed Calibration

When pressing the ► button the display shows „OK“ and „Cancel“. Pressing “OK” deletes the user-specific calibration.

8.1.2 Average Zero Reference on Rough Surface

When placing the probe on rough surfaces several times, the values for the zero reference will vary every time. The rougher the surface, the greater the variations in reading will be.

The Average Zero Reference option allows the user to find an average zero reference. To do this, define a number of zero reference readings (max. 19) to be taken with the probe before the gauge will calculate the average zero reference based on the readings taken.

After selecting the menu item, pressing the ► button will display the options “OFF” and

“Number of Zero Readings”.

Chose “OFF” to determine the zero reference by placing the probe on the substrate only once.

Chose “Number of Zero Readings” to calculate the average zero reference. Use ▲ and▼ to select how many readings have to be taken as a basis for the calculation of the average zero reference.

If the zero reference is determined using this setting, the number of remaining readings is displayed. After the individual readings have all been recorded the average zero reference is displayed in standard font.

8.1.3 Menu Guided Setting of the Zero Reference

Using the menu items „Zero“ and „Infi“ the corresponding values can be set separately.

To record the zero value select the menu item “Zero” and either place the probe on one of the reference plates included in the gauges case, or place it on a adequate uncoated Fe or

NFe substrate (see also § 6).

Alternatively, you can place the probe first and then select the menu item “Zero”.

To record the infinity value select the menu item „Infi“ while the probes head is at least 5 centimetres away from any metal part. Take care that the probes head is not pressed during this process.

8.2 Measuring Mode

8.2.1 Selecting the Substrate

In addition to the absolute Fe or NFe reading, a combined measurement can be carried out which will take both the Fe and NFe measurements when the probe is placed.

- 10 -

Instruction Manual QNix

8500

A combined measurement can be useful when working on a ferromagnetic substrate that has been coated in a metallic but non-ferromagnetic coating (i.e. zinc, chrome, etc.) and additionally in a synthetic coat of lacquer.

IMPORTANT: The metallic non-ferromagnetic coating must have minimum thickness of

50 µm (2mils).

8.2.2 Single Measurement / Continuous Measurement

In addition to the single measuring mode (standard), a continuous measuring mode can be selected. In the continuous mode, the probe repeatedly takes readings in short intervals as long as it is placed on the surface.

The continuous mode is indicated with the symbol.

8.2.3 Upper Limit

8.2.3.1 Setting the Upper Limit

When no limit has been set, press the ► button to see the last reading.

When a limit has been set, pressing the ► button will show the current limit..

Use the

▲ and ▼ Buttons to set the upper limit and confirm by pressing ►.

Readings exceeding the upper limit are indicated with the symbol ^ in the display and with an audio warning signal.

8.2.3.2 Deleting the Upper Limit

To delete the upper limit press the ► button and confirm "OK" by pressing ► again.

8.2.4 Lower Limit

To set or delete the lower limit please follow the instructions given under § 8.2.3.

Readings below the lower limit are indicated in the display with the ˇ symbol and with an audio warning signal.

8.2.5 Averaging

When working on substrates with large variations in coating thickness, or to meet the requirements of a test standard, the gauge can be set to calculate and then display the valid coating thickness value from a predefined number of measurements.

To activate the averaging set the number of readings by using the ▲ and ▼ buttons in the next menu level; then confirm with

►.

The symbol x indicates this mode in the display.

While taking measurements in this mode, the individual values are displayed in a small font size together with a counter for the remaining measurements. When all individual values have been recorded, the average is displayed in standard font size.

8.3 Data Memory

With this menu option, you activate/deactivate the memory function and manage/configure the batches.

After pressing the ► button, the marker will always jump to the active item in the next menu level: with the data memory mode deactivated the marker jumps to “OFF”; with activated data memory mode, the currently active batch is highlighted.

8.3.1 Delete All

Confirming this menu item by pressing the ► button deletes the entire memory content after a confirmation dialog.

- 11 -

Instruction Manual QNix

8500

8.3.2 Delete values

With this menu item, you can delete all recorded values after a confirmation dialog. The structure of created batches (names, limits) is kept.

That way you can create batch structures within the memory for repeated measuring tasks and keep them over repeated measuring cycles.

8.3.3 Data Memory Mode ON / OFF

To switch the gauge to data memory mode either create a new batch or select an already existing one by pressing the

► button and then confirming with “Select” in the options menu.

To switch off the memory mode simply select and confirm the menu item „Memory OFF“

8.3.4 Creating a New Batch

After pressing the ► button, the name of the new batch is displayed, e.g.

> B 0005 <

The first character is highlighted.

To accept the name keep the ► button pressed until the cursor jumps to “OK”. Further pressing

► activates this newly created batch and the gauge returns to the readout display.

The new batch appears at the end of the batch list and is marked as active. Previously active global limits will also apply for the new batch.

To immediately change the name of the new batch to an individual name with a maximum of

8 digits, use the ▲ and▼ buttons to select an alphanumeric character and confirm it by pressing ►.

For corrections of prior digits, simply press the backspace button

◄ at any time.

NOTE: When creating a new batch after other batches (i.e. B 0001, B 0002) have been deleted, the gauge still continues counting from the last number used (in this example the new batch receives the number B 0003). Only after deleting the entire memory, the gauge starts counting from B 0001 again.

8.3.5 Selecting / Editing a Batch

After selecting this menu item while in data memory mode, the marker jumps to the currently active batch.

Select another batch by scrolling through the list with the

▲ and ▼ buttons.

8.3.5.1 Activating a Batch

After pressing the ► button in the previous menu level, the menu item "SELECT" appears in the next option menu.

Pressing the ► button activates the selected batch.

If more then one batch has been created and a batch is active, the functions of the buttons are changed to allow for a faster switching of batches. Using the ◄ and ► buttons selects the previous/next batch without accessing the menu. To open the menu in this mode, press ▼.

8.3.5.2 Display Readings of a Batch

Confirm the menu item "Show Values" to access the list of readings within the active batch.

Use the ▲ and ▼ buttons to scroll through this.

8.3.5.2.1 Readings Information

After selecting a reading, use the me nu item „Info“ on the next menu level to view date and time of the reading.

8.3.5.2.2 Delete a Reading

Delete a single reading with this menu item.

- 12 -

Instruction Manual QNix

8500

8.3.5.3 Batch Information

The menu item "Info" displays date and time of the batches creation as well as the number of readings in the batch.

8.3.5.4 Limits

Selecting “Upper Limit” or “Lower Limit” will display all the limits for this batch. If no batch limits have been set, the last reading will be displayed.

Set upper and lower limits for each individual batch with this menu item as described in

§§ 8.2.3 and 8.2.4.

The modified limit values for the active batch are used instead of global limits.

8.3.5.5 Rename a Batch

After accessing this menu item follow the instructions given in § 8.3.4 to rename a batch.

8.3.5.6 Deleting the values in a Batch

By selecting this menu item you can delete the readings in a batch without deleting the batch itself. Thus the name and creation date of the batch as well as the sequence of batches will be preserved.

8.3.5.7 Delete a Batch

After accessing this menu item, press the ►button to delete the entire batch including its content.

8.4 Statistics

The statistics functions are calculated per memory block.

The gauge determines the following statistical parameters:

average value standard deviation maximum minimum

Within the statistics menu, two different forms of display are available: a) You can choose two statistical parameters of the active batch to be displayed in parallel to the readings. These parameters are constantly updated when adding new readings. b) You can display all statistical data of a batch in an informational window.

Selecting the menu item “Statistics” displays the batch list.

8.4.1 Selecting the Statistical Parameters to be displayed in an active batch

If a memory block is currently active, it is marked with a dot. Selecting the active batch and then pressing the ► button displays a submenu where you can choose to show all statistical data of the batch, or to select parameters for online statistics.

Selecting “Select” opens the list of statistical parameters. Select the desired parameters using the ▲and ▼buttons and activate or deactivate them by pressing ►.

NOTE: A maximum of 2 parameters can be activated at the same time!

To leave this menu item press the backspace button ◄. To directly return to display mode, shortly press the measuring head.

- 13 -

Instruction Manual QNix

8500

8.4.2 Displaying a summary of statistical data

If you select a block that is not active, a summary of statistical data will be displayed immediately. If you select the active block, choose „Show Values” from the submenu to display the summary.

8.5

8.5.1

Gauge Setup

LC-Display

8.5.1.1 Unit of a Reading

Readings can be displayed either in µm or in mil (standard setting: µm).

Select the unit pressing the ▲ and ▼ buttons and then confirm with ►.

8.5.1.2 Resolution

Setting the decimal digits adjusts the resolution of the readings to the application. It can be useful for example to blank out the decimal places when working on surfaces with high roughness leads to high variations in the readings. The resolution can be set to „Coarse“

(0 µm), „Normal“ (0.0 µm) or „Fine” (0.00 µm).

8.5.1.3 Backlight

In „Auto" mode, the backlight is turned on for about 7 seconds while taking a reading. Switch off the backlight using the menu item „OFF“.

Switching the backlight off will increase the service life of the batteries.

8.5.1.4 Display Orientation

The display orientation can be adjusted to the way the gauge is operated.

If the probe is connected to the gauge via adapter cable and the gauge is placed on a table, the display orientation can be flipped by 180° to allow for an upright reading of the display.

To change the display orientation, press the ► button then select the setting “Normal” or

“Flip” using ▲ and ▼ and finally confirm by pressing ►again.

NOTE: When the display is flipped, the functions of the keypad are also flipped. As soon as you confirmed the flipping, you should turn the gauge by 180° in order to operate the gauge in a familiar manner.

Leave the menu item by pressing the (backspace) button:

◄.

8.5.2 Wireless Interface

If the wireless interface is activated, the gauge is constantly ready to receive commands/data from the PC-Software. For example the gauge can be programmed for specific applications

using this interface (see § 12). You can also update the gauge software this way.

When the wireless interface is active, the antenna symbol

appears in the lower left hand corner of the display. In addition, the red LED in the keypad blinks every 7 seconds (even when the gauge is turned off).

If data is transmitted via the wireless interface, the red LED flashes.

Deactivating the interface while not in use will increase the service life of your batteries. If the gauge is not used for more than 30 minutes, the interface will deactivate itself automatically.

The next time the gauge is turned on the interface is activated again.

Using the “EnergySave” mode via the setup menu will deactivate the interface together with the display (after about 30 seconds). This increases the service life of your batteries compared to the setting “ON” depending on the application conditions.

- 14 -

Instruction Manual QNix

8500

8.5.3 System Information

This menu item displays the following information:

serial number and type of the gauge software/hardware version of the gauge memory in use (in %)

8.5.4 Language

The gauge can store up to 3 languages. As a standard, the device is delivered with the languages German, English and French already installed. Further languages are available upon request. Furthermore, you can create your own language using the language editor software.

To change the language, access the list of languages, scroll through it using the ▲ and ▼ buttons and select the desired language by confirming with ►.

8.5.5 Buzzer

The buzzer can be switched on or off.

When the buzzer is switched off, the display will show the symbol in the lower left corner.

8.5.6 Time and Date

With the internal clock of the gauge, date and time of each recorded reading and created batch is stored.

Setting of date and time can be necessary

if changing the batteries took longer the 2 minutes after adjusting for daylight saving time after changing the time zone

8.5.6.1 Setting the Time

After selecting this menu item set hours and minutes using the ▲ and ▼ buttons. Confirm with ►.

For corrections, use the backspace button: ◄.

8.5.6.2 Setting the Date

Set the date the same way you set the time.

8.5.7 The ▲ button

The ▲ button is used to set the zero reference (see § 6) or for taking a reading (see § 5.1).

Use the menu item „Button ▲“ to set the active option.

Please note that you will have to use the menu items „Zero “ and „Infi” in the „Calibration” menu to set the zero reference if you select „Measure” here. Furthermore, it is not possible to take a reading pressing this button when using the radio-controlled probe in wireless mode.

9 Radio Controlled Probe

Since firmware version 16, the QNix 8500 supports the radio controlled probe. Connecting the probe with the gauge couples the two devices. At the same time, the current charge status of the probes rechargeable battery is displayed among the probe information.

The rechargeable battery integrated in the radio controlled probe is automatically charged when the probe is connected with the gauge. The probe signals the charging by periodically flashing the blue probe light every few seconds.

When connected to the gauge, the Radio Controlled probe can be used like any other probe.

After disconnecting the probe from the gauge, the probe enters radio controlled mode. In the upper display area, the charge status is updated during each reading. Within the status area

- 15 -

Instruction Manual QNix

8500 of the display, the wireless symbol is indicated together with a small “P” for probe. You can take measurements with the radio controlled probe the same way you do with the usual probes. Each reading that is correctly transmitted to the gauge is indicated with a short flashing of the blue probe light. That way you can observe if the probe is still inside radio range.

As the radio-controlled probe uses a special radio mode to ensure maximum operating safety, observe the following during radio communication between gauge and probe:

With disconnected probe, the wireless mode is switched to the probe and any communication between gauge and PC is no longer possible. However, readings are still transmitted to the PC as online-measurements. To readout the memory and to change the gauges setting via PC the probe has to be reconnected to the gauge.

Deactivating the wireless mode via the gauges menu has no effect on the radio-controlled probe. An activation of the wireless mode using the gauge however leads to a disconnection of the communication with the radio-controlled probe.

10 Troubleshooting

10.1 Incorrect or dubious readings

If the gauge shows incorrect or dubious readings, please check:



Does the display indicate the correct substrate? If you are not sure whether your substrate is Fe or NFe, test it with a magnet; if the substrate is attracted by the magnet, choose the an Fe probe or the Fe measuring mode of a dual probe, otherwise choose the NFe mode or a NFe probe.



Is the Zero Reference correctly set? You achieve the best results when you zero the probe on an uncoated piece of the substrate whose coating you want to measure. If an uncoated piece is unobtainable you can use the standard plates that are supplied

with your gauge. Refer to §6 for further details. Please note that it is the probe that

you zero, not the gauge. The results of the zeroing are stored in the probe. Thus if you switch the probe, you might have to repeat the setting of the zero reference.



Is the substrate you want to measure suitable for a standard calibration? Certain alloys that contain iron, in particular some kinds of stainless steel, require special con-

sideration. You should use a custom calibration ( see §8.1.1) in these cases.

10.2 Automatic selection of the substrate does not work

This is caused by an incorrect setting of the zero references of the probe. To recover from this, follow these steps:

1) Set the gauge to Fe mode (select Fe from the substrate menu, see §7).

2) Set the zero reference on an uncoated sample of Fe material or on the standard Fe plate that was supplied with your gauge.

3) Set the gauge to NFe mode (select NFe from the substrate menu).

4) Set the zero reference on an uncoated sample of NFe material or on the standard

NFe plate that was supplied with your gauge.

10.3 My gauge does not provide all the described features

There are 2 possible reasons for that:

You have the Basic version and the feature you are looking for is only available in the Premi-

um version. Check the menu overview on page 2 and 3.

The feature you are looking for was introduced after you purchased your gauge. In that case an update of the gauge firmware might help. Please contact your dealer for details.

If you want to know the version of the firmware in your gauge, select “Info” from the setup

menu (see §8.5.3). The gauge will display a popup window containing the serial number of

the gauge and a 7 digit string indication hardware and software version of the gauge. The

- 16 -

Instruction Manual QNix

8500 first 4 digits indicate the software version without the decimal dot (so “014c” means “1.4c”), and the last 3 digits show the hardware revision of the gauge, also without the decimal dot.

10.4 I cannot activate the menu

Use the ▼ button. If 2 or more memory batches are defined and the memory mode is selected, the ◄ and ► buttons select the next/previous batch, and the ▼ button switches to menu

entry (see also 8.3.5.1).

11 Installing the PC Software

The PC-software is automatically installed after inserting the CD into your PCs CD-ROM drive.

12 Installing the USB-RF-Dongle Drivers

You find the drivers for the USB-RF-dongle on the PC-software CD.

After the dongle has been connected to the PC for the first time, the operating system of your

PC will open a window showing a message that new hardware has been found and that necessary drivers have to be installed. Enter the path of the drive holding the CD in the designated field or use the “Search” function. Then start the installation.

This installation process is necessary only the first time the dongle is used. Please also refer to the installation guide on the CD.

13 Setting the Gauge Options with the PC-Software

The setup options described in § 6can also be programmed and then downloaded into the

gauge using the PC-software. This is especially useful when entering the names for calibrations and batches.

To do this, connect the RF-dongle to your PC and start the software. Also, activate the wire-

less interface of the gauge (see § 8.5.2).

After the PC-software identified the gauge, the possible menu options and their settings are displayed in the software menu “Gauge Settings” or can be loaded from the gauge by clicking “Load Settings from Gauge”.

You can now enter and modify all gauge settings on your PCs monitor. Only after all inputs are finis hed the settings are downloaded into the gauge by clicking on “Transfer Settings to

Gauge”.

14 Loading a new Language into the Gauge

Use the "LanguageEditor" of the PC-software to load a new language into the gauge.

The LanguageEditor contains a chart showing all commands and messages appearing on the display.

15 Updating the Software in the Gauge and Probe

The software in the gauge and probe can be updated, if required. Enhancements of the software are available for download on the internet site www.automation.de

After downloading to the PC the updates can transferred to the gauge and probe with the

RF-interface.

- 17 -

Instruction Manual QNix

8500

16 Display Symbols



Infi measurements on iron- and steel surfaces (-substrates)



NFe measurements on non-iron metallic surfaces



Error operating error readings outside measuring range, wrong type of surface



 ˇ

 x

 σ

 Ψ

 Ψ p



 readings exceeding upper limit readings below lower limit average standard deviation wireless interface active radio controlled probe switched on, radio controlled probe active continuous measuring mode buzzer switched off low battery, keep new ones ready empty battery

- 18 -

Instruction Manual QNix

8500

17 Scope of Delivery



Gauge with optional measuring probe



2 batteries AA 1.5V (alkaline)



Instruction manual



Test certificate for optional probe



Belt pouch with clip



Plastic case for transportation and storage

Optional Accessories



Fe probe 2 mm



Fe probe 5 mm



NFe probe 2 mm



Dual probe Fe / NFe 2 / 2 mm



Dual probe Fe / NFe 5 / 2 mm



Calibration films, zero reference plates, also available as complete set



Software for importing and analysing data with EXCEL and for configuration of the gauge



USB wireless interface for data transfer between gauge and PC

- 19 -

Instruction Manual QNix

8500

Fe probe

Technical Data

Measurements on iron and steel surfaces

NFe probe Measurements on non-magnetic metallic surfaces (substrates), such as aluminium, zinc, copper, brass, certain kind of high-grade steel

Measuring range Refer to special specification

Resolution

(standard setting)

Measuring accuracy

0.1 µm

1 µm

0.01 mm

0 to 99.9 µm

100 to 999 µm

≥ 1.00 mm

(Factory calibration in relation to the provided zero reference plates)

± (1 µm + 2%*) 0 to 2000 µm

± 3.5%* > 2000 µm

(* of the reading)

With the one-point and two-point calibration the measuring accuracy can be further improved using the optionally available measuring films.

Minimum

Measuring area

Refer to special specifications

Minimum curvature

Convex

Concave

5 mm

25 mm

Minimum substrate thickness

Fe probe

NFe probe

0.2 mm

0.05 mm

Memory capacity Basic version Premium version

Readings

Batches

Calibrations

100

1 up to 13.000 (max. 2000 readings per batch)

200

100

Interface Wireless interface 2.4 GHz, range max. 10 m (on the free field)

Temperature range

Storage -10°C to 60°C (14° F to 140° F)

Operation 0°C to 50°C (32°F to 122°)

Power supply 2 x batteries (AA) 1,5V alkaline, or 2 x rechargeable batteries (AA) 1,2V

Dimensions 124 mm x 67 mm x 33 mm (4.9” x 2.6” x 1.3”)

Weight ca. 120 g (4.3 oz) (gauge with batteries and probe)

Gauge

Under no circumstance dispose of the gauge in the normal domestic waste. Enquire about the possibilities of an environmentally suitable and appropriate ways of disposal.

Batteries

Do not dispose of empty batteries in the domestic waste! The must be disposed of at the appropriate collection points provided by the public waste authorities.

Exposure to batteries

Batteries can contain inflammable substances. When handled incorrectly batteries can leak , heat up , enflame or even explode which can lead to damage of your device and your health.

Therefore, please observe the following instructions implicitly:



Keep batteries out of the reach of children. If batteries have been swallowed accidentally, consult your doctor immediately.



Never charge batteries (unless explicitly indicated otherwise).



Never discharge batteries due to high power output.



Never short-circuit the batteries.

- 20 -

Instruction Manual QNix

8500