More about the Model 475

DC measurement mode

Static or slowly changing fields are measured in DC mode, where the accuracy, resolution, and stability of the Model 475 are most evident. In this mode, the gaussmeter takes advantage of the internal auto zero function and probe linearity compensation to provide its best accuracy. Measurement resolution is enhanced by advanced signal processing capability, allowing users the choice of high reading rates to 100 readings per second or high resolution to 5¾ digits. The Model 475 also features front-end amplification specifically designed to complement DSP data acquisition, providing high stability and repeatability. That, along with probe temperature compensation, makes the Model 475 the most stable gaussmeter ever produced by Lake Shore, suiting it perfectly for demanding DC measurement applications such as field mapping and field control.

RMS measurement mode

Periodic, AC fields are measured in RMS mode, which highlights the uniquely flexible filter functions of the Model 475. An overall frequency range of 1 Hz to 50 kHz is offered by the gaussmeter. Selectable band-pass and low-pass filters allow users to reject unwanted signals and improve measurement performance. The exclusive Lake Shore Digital Signal Processing algorithms also free the Model 475 from the limitations of conventional RMS conversion hardware and provide better dynamic range, resolution, and frequency response than ever before. These improvements permit meaningful RMS field measurements with broad frequency content or in noisy environments.

Peak measurement mode

Pulsed fields are measured in Peak mode, which is a natural extension of the high-speed data acquisition necessary for DSP operation. Fast instrument sample rates permit capture of positive and negative field pulses as narrow as 20 µs in width, which can be held for an unlimited length of time with no sag. This is ideal for most magnetizers and other fast pulse applications. For more moderate field changes, the Model 475 can process the captured data to create other features. The gaussmeter can be configured to follow the peak of a periodic waveform for evaluation of crest factor. The Model 475 can also be used to sample field changes at 1000 readings per second that can later be read over the interface to illustrate the shape of pulses or other waveforms.

Measurement features

The Model 475 offers a variety of features to enhance the usability and convenience of the gaussmeter.

Autorange: In addition to manual range selection, the instrument automatically chooses an appropriate range for the measured field. Autorange works in DC and AC measurement modes.

Auto probe zero: Allows the user to zero all ranges for the selected measurement mode with the push of a key.

Display units: Field magnitude can be displayed in units of G, T, Oe, and A/m.

Max/min hold: The instrument stores the fully processed maximum and minimum DC or RMS field value. This differs from the faster peak capture feature that operates on broadband, unprocessed field reading information.

Relative reading: Relative feature calculates the difference between a live reading and the relative setpoint to highlight deviation from a known field point. This feature can be used in DC, RMS, or Peak measurement mode.

Instrument calibration: Lake Shore recommends an annual recalibration schedule for all precision gaussmeters. Recalibrations are always available from the Lake Shore, but the Model 475 allows users to field calibrate the instrument if necessary. Recalibration requires a computer interface and precision low resistance standards of known value.

Instrument probe features

The Model 475 has several capabilities that allow the best possible measurements with Lake Shore probes. These firmware-based features work in tandem with the probe’s calibration and programming to ensure accurate, repeatable measurements and ease of setup. Many of the features require probe characteristics that are stored in the probe connector’s non-volatile memory.

Probe field compensation: The Hall effect devices used in gaussmeter probes produce a near linear response in the presence of magnetic field. The small nonlinearities present in each individual device can be measured and subtracted from the field reading. Model 475 probes are calibrated in this way to provide the most accurate DC readings.

Probe temperature compensation: Hall effect devices show a slight change in sensitivity and offset with temperature. Probe temperature effects can be measured and subtracted out of field readings. A temperature sensor in the probe tip relays real time temperature to the gaussmeter, enabling compensation. Although temperature effects contribute only a small fraction of the overall probe measurement accuracy, temperature compensation will often improve measurement and control stability.

Probe temperature display: The gaussmeter can display the probe’s temperature in °C along with a field reading when using a probe that includes a temperature sensor.

Frequency display: When operating in RMS mode, the gaussmeter can display the frequency of the measured AC field along with a field reading.

Probe information: The gaussmeter reads the probe information on power up or any time the probe is changed to allow hot swapping of probes. Critical probe information can be viewed on the front panel and read over the computer interface to ensure proper system configuration.

Extension cables: The complex nature of Hall effect measurements make it necessary to match extension cables to the probe when longer cables are needed. Keeping probes and their extensions from getting mixed up can become a problem when more than one probe is in use. The Model 475 alleviates most of the hassle by allowing users to match probes to extensions in the field. Stored information can be viewed on the front panel and read over the computer interface to ensure proper mating.

Hall effect sensors: The Model 475 will operate with a discrete Hall effect generator when a suitable probe is not available. Users can program nominal sensitivity and serial number into an optional MCBL-6 blank connector to provide all gaussmeter functions except field and temperature compensation. If no sensitivity information is available, the Model 475 reverts to resistance measurement.

Display and interface features

Display

The Model 475 has a two-line by 20-character vacuum fluorescent display. During normal operation, the display is used to report field readings and give results of other features such as max/min or relative. The display can also be configured to show probe temperature or frequency. When setting instrument parameters, the display gives the operator meaningful prompts and feedback to simplify operation. The operator can also control display brightness.

Following are four examples of the various display configurations:

Normal reading — the display configured to show the RMS field value and frequency, and the probe temperature

Max DC hold on — the display configured to show both the maximum and minimum DC field values

Max peak hold on — the display configured to both show the positive and negative peak readings

Field control on — the display configured to show the field control setpoint and current field value, when field control is active

Keypad

The instrument has a 22-position keypad with individual keys assigned to frequently used features. Menus are reserved for less frequently used setup operations. The keypad can be locked out to prevent unintended changes of instrument setup.