Atlas SCR Thyristor and Triac Analyser Model SCR100 User Guide © Peak Electronic Design Limited 2004/2008 In the interests of development, information in this guide is subject to change without notice - E&OE electronic design ltd
Atlas SCR User Guide January 2008 – Rev 3 Want to use it now? We understand that you want to use your Atlas SCR right now. The unit is ready to go and you should have little need to refer to this user guide, but please make sure that you do at least take a look at the notices on page 4! Contents Page Introduction .........................................................................3 Safety Considerations ..........................................................4 Analysing components...............
Atlas SCR User Guide January 2008 – Rev 3 Introduction The Atlas SCR is an advanced instrument designed specifically for the analysis of SCR (Thyristor) and Triac devices. Summary Features: • Automatic component identification. • Automatic pinout identification. • Displays actual trigger (gate) current classification. • Fixed load current of 100mA. • Device test voltage of 12V regardless of battery condition. • Suitable for devices requiring gate currents up to 90mA. • Automatic and manual power-off.
Atlas SCR User Guide January 2008 – Rev 3 Safety Considerations WARNING: This instrument must NEVER be connected to powered equipment/components or equipment/components with any stored energy (e.g. charged capacitors). Failure to comply with this warning may result in personal injury, damage to the equipment under test, damage to the Atlas SCR and invalidation of the manufacturer's warranty. “Analysis of discrete, unconnected components is recommended.
Atlas SCR User Guide January 2008 – Rev 3 Analysing Components The Peak Atlas SCR is designed to analyse discrete, unconnected, unpowered components. This ensures that external connections don’t influence the measured parameters. The three test probes can be connected to the component any way round. The Atlas SCR will start component analysis when the on/test button is pressed. Analysing...
Atlas SCR User Guide January 2008 – Rev 3 A Silicon Controlled rectifiers (SCRs) The Atlas will analyse almost any SCR provided that a gate trigger current of no more than 90mA is required. The three test clips can be connected to the device under test any way round. If the Atlas detects an SCR, the following message will be displayed: RED GREEN BLUE Anod Cath Gate G K SCR detected Details follow Pressing the scroll/off button will then display the pinout details for the device.
Atlas SCR User Guide January 2008 – Rev 3 MT2 Triacs The Atlas will analyse almost any Triac, with the proviso that a G MT1 gate trigger current of more than 90mA is not required. The three test clips can be connected to the device under test any way round. If the Triac detected Atlas detects a Triac, the following Details follow message will be displayed: Note: The device under test will be analysed in quadrants 1 and 3. The definition of these quadrants is given later in this guide.
Atlas SCR User Guide January 2008 – Rev 3 Notes on SCRs and Triacs Silicon Controlled Rectifiers SCR Turn-On SCRs (Thyristors) act as a controlled diode. They block reverse current at all times, and they conduct in the forward direction only when triggered by a pulse of current to the control (gate) terminal. Once triggered, the SCR will continue to conduct current in the forward direction until the device is turned off.
Atlas SCR User Guide January 2008 – Rev 3 Notes on SCRs and Triacs Triacs Triacs are a well established technology, designed specifically for the solidstate control of AC loads. They offer bi-directional load current switching (for both half cycles of the mains supply) and also bi-directional gate current capability to trigger the device. The combinations of the load currents and gate control currents are referred to as “quadrants”.
Atlas SCR User Guide January 2008 – Rev 3 Gate Sensitivity The Peak Atlas SCR attempts to trigger the device under test at eight discrete gate currents, in ascending order. Trigger test level 1 100µA Trigger test level 2 Trigger test level 3 Trigger test level 4 500µA 2.
Atlas SCR User Guide January 2008 – Rev 3 Care of your Atlas SCR The Peak Atlas SCR should provide many years of service if used in accordance with this user guide. Care should be taken not to expose your unit to excessive heat, shock or moisture. Additionally, the battery should be replaced at least every 12 months to reduce the risk of leak damage. Low Battery If a low battery warning message appears, replacement of the battery is mandatory.
Atlas SCR User Guide January 2008 – Rev 3 Self Test Procedure Each time the Atlas SCR is powered up, a self test procedure is performed. In addition to a battery voltage test, the Atlas measures the performance of many internal functions such as the voltage and current sources, amplifiers, analogue to digital converters and test lead multiplexers. If any of these function measurements fall outside tight performance limits, a message will be displayed and the Atlas will switch off automatically.
Atlas SCR User Guide January 2008 – Rev 3 Appendix A – Accessories A range of useful additions is available to enhance your Atlas SCR. Carry Case A specially designed case with custom made foam compartments and a smart tough exterior is ideal for protecting your Atlas SCR and probes. There is even space for a spare battery. Replacement Probes If your probes become damaged, you may wish to purchase a new set of probes or alternatively fit a different style of probes.
Atlas SCR User Guide January 2008 – Rev 3 Appendix B - Technical Specifications All values are at 25°C unless otherwise specified. Parameter Peak test current into S/C Peak test voltage across O/C Gate trigger current range (IGT) Battery type Battery voltage range Battery voltage warning threshold Inactivity power-down period Dimensions (excluding test leads) Operating temperature range 1. 2. Minimum Maximum 120mA 12.5V 0.1mA 90mA GP23A 12V Alkaline 8.5V 12V 8.
Atlas SCR User Guide January 2008 – Rev 3 Warranty Information Peak Satisfaction Guarantee If for any reason you are not completely satisfied with the Peak Atlas SCR within 14 days of purchase you may return the unit to your distributor. You will receive a refund covering the full purchase price if the unit is returned in perfect condition. Peak Warranty The warranty is valid for 12 months from date of purchase.
