GE - Commtest Vbseries Reference Guide

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vbSeries
Instrument
Reference Guide
Revision 13/10/06
Artisan Technology Group - Quality Instrumentation ... Guaranteed | (888) 88-SOURCE | www.artisantg.com
COPYRIGHT © 1999-2006 Commtest Instruments Ltd.
All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in

a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means,
electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise,
without the prior written permission of Commtest Instruments Ltd.
For information, contact:
Commtest Instruments Ltd

28-b Moorhouse Avenue
Christchurch
New Zealand
E-mail help@commtest.com
Printed in New Zealand.
Disclaimer
Information in this document is subject to change without notice.

Names and data used in examples are fictitious unless otherwise
noted. This document is distributed as is, without warranty of any
kind, either expressed or implied, respecting the contents of this
document, including but not limited to implied warranties for the
document’s quality, performance, merchantability, or fitness for any
particular purpose. Neither Commtest Instruments Ltd nor its
employees, dealers, or distributors shall be liable to the user of this
document or any other person or entity with respect to any liability,
loss, or damage caused or alleged to be caused directly or indirectly
by this document.
Trademark Notice
vb™, vb1000v™, vb1000™, vb2000™, vb3000™ and PROFLASH™

are trademarks of Commtest Instruments Ltd.
® ®
vbSeries and Ascent are registered trademarks of Commtest
Instruments Ltd. Other trademarks and registered trademarks belong
to their respective owners.
ii
Contents
Section 1: Introduction.................................................1
Standard Features .................................................................. 2
Standard Kit Items .................................................................. 3
Balancing Kit Items ................................................................. 3
Summary of Parts ................................................................... 4
Instrument Icons ..................................................................... 5
Precautions ............................................................................. 6
Operating Overview ................................................................ 8
Onsite Analysis (Measure Mode) ................................................ 8
Recording .................................................................................... 9
Balancing ................................................................................... 10
Section 2: Basic Operation ........................................11

Powering Up ......................................................................... 12
Main Menu ............................................................................ 12
Menu Navigation ................................................................... 13
Returning to a Previous Screen ............................................ 14
Selecting an Option............................................................... 14
Displaying Pop-up Menus ..................................................... 15
Entering Text and Numbers .................................................. 16
Entering Numerical Values ................................................... 17
Other Name Editing Commands ........................................... 18
Supported Sensor Types ...................................................... 19
Mounting Sensors ................................................................. 21
Accelerometer Setup ............................................................ 21
Permanent Mounting ................................................................. 22
Tachometer Setup ................................................................ 23
Using a Strobe ...................................................................... 25
Tach Signal from a Keyphasor® ........................................... 26
Tips for Taking Measurements ............................................. 27
iii
Section 3: Onsite Analysis - Measurement Menu ....28
Walk-through: Taking Measurements in Measure Mode ...... 29
Using Quick Setup Menus .................................................... 31
1. Spectrum Quick Setup........................................................... 32
2. Waveform Quick Setup.......................................................... 33
3. Demodulation Quick Setup.................................................... 34
Default Parameters.................................................................... 36
Using Automated Menus....................................................... 37
4. Tachometer Display............................................................... 38
5. Time Synchronous Averaging ............................................... 39
6. Bump Test ............................................................................. 41
7. Coast-down/Run-up Recordings ........................................... 42
8. Cross Channel Phase............................................................ 44
Fault Types and their Phase Relationships......................... 47
9. Long Time Waveform ............................................................ 49
Default Parameters.................................................................... 53
Storing Measurements.......................................................... 54
Analyzing Measurements...................................................... 55
Custom Setups ..................................................................... 57
Setting the Display Options................................................... 59
Section 4: Manual Setup Measurement Parameters 62

Setting Measurement Parameters ........................................ 63
Setting Spectrum Parameters............................................... 65
Setting the Measurement Mode ................................................ 66
Setting the Number of Spectral Lines........................................ 67
Setting the Fmax .......................................................................68
Setting the Fmin ........................................................................71
Averaging................................................................................... 72
Setting the Number of Averages ......................................... 72
Setting the Average Type.................................................... 73
Setting the Overlap Percentage .......................................... 74
Setting the Machine Running Speed......................................... 74
Setting the Trigger Type ............................................................ 75
Selecting the Channel(s) for Taking Measurements ................. 76
Specifying Sensor Settings........................................................ 76
Setting Waveform Parameters.............................................. 78
Setting the Measurement Mode ................................................ 78
Setting the Number of Samples ................................................ 79
iv
Setting the Duration...................................................................80
Setting Other Parameters.......................................................... 80
Section 5: Recording Data .........................................81

Walk-through: Taking Recordings......................................... 82
Reviewing Recordings .......................................................... 84
Erasing Recordings............................................................... 85
Transferring Recordings from the Instrument ....................... 85
Tagging Items ....................................................................... 86
Autorepeat ............................................................................ 88
Section 6: Using Routes.............................................89

What is a Route? .................................................................. 90
Walk-through: Taking Recordings Using a Route ................. 91
Reviewing Data During a Route............................................ 92
Skipping Route Entries ......................................................... 94
Jumping to a Specific Machine ............................................. 94
Off-route Recordings............................................................. 95
Naming/Renaming a Route................................................... 96
Erasing an Entire Route........................................................ 97
Keypad Schedule Entries...................................................... 98
Section 7: Advanced Operation...............................100

Demodulation...................................................................... 101
Setting Demodulation Parameters .......................................... 102
Analyzing Demodulation Data............................................. 103
Dual Channel Simultaneous Measurements....................... 104
Setting Baselines ................................................................ 105
Section 8: Creating Machines..................................106

vb Data Structure ................................................................ 107
Creating a Machine Data Structure..................................... 108
Working with Folders ...............................................................109
Creating a Machine .................................................................111
Creating a Point.......................................................................112
Creating a Direction/Axis .........................................................113
Creating a Parameter Set........................................................114
Copying a Machine..................................................................116
Erasing a Machine...................................................................117
Erasing a Point, Direction/Axis or Parameter Set ................... 118
Renaming a Machine, Point or Direction/Axis ......................... 119
Maintaining Data Integrity..................................................119
Attaching Notes to an Item.................................................. 120
Selecting a Note from a List ....................................................121
Removing a Note from an Item ............................................... 122
Erasing a Note Permanently....................................................122
Section 9: Balancing Rotors ....................................123

Introduction ......................................................................... 124
The Balancing Process ....................................................... 125
The Tachometer.................................................................. 126
The Balancing Menu ........................................................... 126
1. Set Balancing Parameters .............................................. 127
Number of Planes....................................................................128
Balancing Units........................................................................128
Weight Orientation...................................................................128
Remove Trial Weight(s)?.........................................................129
Weight Position........................................................................129
Advanced Balance Options .....................................................131
2. Trial Readings (Single/Dual Plane)................................. 132
Initial Reading.......................................................................... 132
Trial Weight Reading (Left Trial Reading) ............................... 133
Right Trial Reading..................................................................133
Suggest Trial Weight Mass......................................................133
Suggest Trial Weight Angle .....................................................134
Initial ........................................................................................136
Left...........................................................................................136
Right ........................................................................................136
3. Balance ........................................................................... 136
Perform Trim Balance..............................................................137
Enter Trim Readings................................................................ 137
4. Review Readings ............................................................ 138
5. Balance Weight Calculations .......................................... 138
Suggest Trial Weight ...............................................................139
Split Weights............................................................................139
Combine Weights ....................................................................140
vi
Change Radius........................................................................140
ISO 1940 Limits .......................................................................140
6. Load/Save Balancing Data ............................................. 141
7. Print Report..................................................................... 143
Section 10: Balancing Walk-through.......................145

Step 1. Set Balancing Parameters...................................... 146
Step 2. Initial Reading......................................................... 146
Step 3. Trial Weight Reading .............................................. 149
Step 4. Balancing................................................................ 153
Step 5. Trim Balance .......................................................... 154
Tips for Balancing ............................................................... 155
Section 11: Utilities...................................................156

Printing from the Instrument................................................ 157
Printing Balancing Reports from the Instrument ..................... 157
DPU-414-30B Printer Setup ....................................................157
DPU-414-30B 'Virtual' DIP Switch Settings.............................159
Adjusting the LCD Screen................................................... 160
Adjusting the Contrast .............................................................160
Restoring the Default Contrast ................................................ 160
Turning the Backlight On/Off ...................................................160
Setting the Date and Time .................................................. 160
Battery Management........................................................... 161
Checking the Battery Charge and Voltage ..............................162
Charger Control .......................................................................163
Recharging the Instrument ......................................................163
Reconditioning the Battery Pack .............................................164
Fresh Battery Inserted .............................................................165
Power Saver ............................................................................165
Replacing the Battery Pack .....................................................166
Memory Management ......................................................... 166
Instrument Memory..................................................................166
Checking the Memory Used .................................................... 168
Erasing all Recordings.............................................................168
Erasing all Machines ...............................................................170
Upgrading Firmware Using Proflash ................................... 171
Other Options...................................................................... 172
vii
Halt After Recording ................................................................172
Backlight Off Delay ..................................................................175
vb Structure Lock.....................................................................176
Left-handed Start Key for Auto Routes ................................... 176
Section 12: Troubleshooting ...................................177

Contacting Technical Support............................................. 177
Resetting the Instrument..................................................... 177
Power Problems.................................................................. 177
Data Transfer Problems...................................................... 178
Data Problems .................................................................... 178
Other Problems................................................................... 179
Appendix 1: List of Abbreviations...........................180
Appendix 2: Specifications ......................................181
Index ..........................................................................189
viii
Section 1: Introduction
This Instrument Reference Guide is the companion manual to the

Ascent Software Reference Guide. This book has been formatted to
allow you to quickly and easily learn how to use your vb instrument.
Please keep this book for future reference and read it before
operating your vb instrument.
If you any have questions not answered by this manual or would like
to make a suggestion, please contact us at our website,
www.commtest.com.
Note: Although this document makes use of common vibration

analysis concepts, it is not intended as a comprehensive guide or
training manual. Please ensure you have the relevant knowledge
and experience to carry out the procedures described. It is essential
to follow all appropriate safety precautions when working near
rotating machinery.
Section 1: Introduction 1
Standard Features
• DSP for fast, accurate calculations
• 24-bit A/D converter providing high-precision measurements
• Displacement, velocity, and acceleration measurements
• Frequency and time domain measurements
• 8.5 MB non-volatile memory capable of storing up to 8192
recordings (32 MB for vb3000)
• Time and date stamped recordings
• PROFLASH upgradable vb firmware
• Temperature compensated graphical LCD (Liquid Crystal
Display) with 240 x 128 pixels and electroluminescent LCD
backlight
• 1500 mAh Ni-Cad (Nickel-Cadmium) battery pack
• Battery charger and conditioner
• RS232 interface to communicate with your PC
• Ascent Windows-based Vibration Analysis Software with
exception reporting, data trending, alarm bands, orders
display, fault frequency analysis, harmonic and sideband
cursors, true peak approximation, notes, photographic image
attachments and multiple chart modes
• Tachometer input for speed and phase measurements
• Balancing analysis: single in vb1000 and single or dual plane
in vb2000 and vb3000 only
• Route and off-route recording modes
2 Section 1: Introduction
Standard Kit Items
• Protective boot with strap
• Power transformer (13.5 ± 1.5) V DC, 1 A output
• DC car adapter 12 V DC output
• USB Ascent security dongle (parallel dongle available on
request)
• USB to serial adapter
• Data-transfer cable
• Accelerometer ICP® type
(1 x for vb1000/vb1000v, 2 x for vb2000/vb3000)
• Accelerometer coiled cable
• Accelerometer magnetic mounting base
• Ascent Vibration Analysis Software on CD-ROM
• Instrument Reference Guide
• Software Reference Guide
• Quick Start Guide
• Warranty card
• QA card
• Carry bag
Included with vb1000v

• Reflective tape
• Non-contact tachometer sensor
• Adjustable tachometer stand with magnetic mount
• Tachometer extension cable (2 meters)
Balancing Kit Items

Included with vb1000, vb2000 and vb3000
• Reflective tape
• Non-contact tachometer sensor
• Adjustable tachometer stand with magnetic mount
• Tachometer extension cable (2 meters)
• Accelerometer straight cable (5 meters) x 2
• Carry bag
Summary of Parts
Instrument Icons
The instrument is in spectra recording mode.
The instrument is in spectra review mode.
The instrument is in route mode.
The instrument is waiting for the hardware to stabilize before
taking a measurement.
There is a note attached to this item.
This item is tagged.
Only some items have been tagged on this machine, point
or direction/axis.
Indicates this item is part of a route.
Only some items have been selected for a route on this
machine, point, or direction/axis.
One or more recordings have been taken within this
machine, point, or direction/axis.
This machine structure has been defined (name, point,
direction/axis and parameter set), but no recordings have
been taken.
The instrument is communicating with a PC through the
Ascent software.
This machine has balancing data saved with it.
A delta symbol used to show the frequency or time
difference between two peaks of a spectrum.
Indicates that the circumference arc of the rotor is being
used as a weight position reference for balancing.
Indicates that a fixed number of attachment points are being
used as a weight position reference for balancing.
Indicates that degrees are being used as a weight position
reference for balancing.
The halt after recording 'relaxed' baseline warning is active.
The halt after recording 'tight' baseline warning is active.
This parameter set is used with a keypad schedule entry.
The battery is running low and needs charging.
Precautions
Please read and understand this section before operating your
instrument. Heed all warnings and recommendations to prevent data
loss, data inaccuracy, damage to the instrument, or injury to yourself.
Do not attach sensors to any object with a high

potential voltage i.e. a voltage that exceeds 50 V DC or
32 V AC or the ‘safety extra low voltage’ (SELV)
defined by your local power authority.
Ensure the cables and bootstrap cannot become

entangled with any rotating or moving machinery.
Do not bring any objects sensitive to magnetic fields

(e.g. cardiac pacemakers, credit cards, floppy disks,
video tapes, audio cassette tapes, mechanical
watches) near the magnetic mounting bases.
Do not operate the instrument in an explosive

environment.
Charge the battery pack up to at least 30% capacity

before taking a recording. If using the instrument for 4
hours or more, first ensure that the battery pack is fully
charged.
Constantly charging the battery when it is not fully

drained will create a 'Memory' effect and eventually
shorten the amount of charge that the battery can hold.
Do not detach the battery pack from the instrument for

more than 2 hours as data and settings may be lost
from the instrument.
Ensure that the battery pack is securely fastened (but

not over-tightened) to the instrument before operating.
Transfer data stored in the instrument to a PC before
reprogramming the instrument. PROFLASHING the
instrument instrument with new firmware may erase all
data stored in the instrument.
When using an ICP® type accelerometer, ensure that

the drive current is turned on otherwise the
measurements will be incorrect.
Mount the sensor properly before taking measurements

or recordings. Otherwise, the data will be incorrect
and/or inconsistent.
To clean the instrument use a mild detergent diluted in

warm water. Do not use abrasive or polishing
substances, hydrocarbons, petrochemicals or solvents
as they degrade the plastic.
Do not place the vb instrument or the magnetic

mounting base in a hot place where the temperature
exceeds 140 °F (60 °C). Otherwise, the battery pack or
magnet will degrade.
Although the instrument has a rugged construction, do

not expose it to wet conditions or store it in a damp
place where the relative humidity exceeds 95%.
If the instrument malfunctions, return it to an authorized

dealer. Do not attempt to repair the instrument yourself,
as this will invalidate the warranty.
Use only an approved instrument power transformer

13.5 V ± 1.5 V DC, 1 A output, center positive) and
ensure its voltage and frequency rating matches that of
your mains AC power.
Operating Overview
The instrument can be used to perform the following tasks:
• Taking live measurements for onsite analysis of vibration
spectra and waveforms
• Recording of vibration data for transferral to a PC
• Single and dual plane balancing
Onsite Analysis (Measure Mode)

Vibration spectra and waveforms are measured and analyzed onsite.
This is suitable for one-off investigations and involves these steps:
• Measurement parameters are set on the instrument.
• The spectrum or waveform is measured and analyzed

onsite.
• The data is recorded to memory (optional).
• The data is transferred to a PC for further analysis (optional).
See Onsite Analysis (page 28) for more information.
Recording
Vibration recordings are taken for all monitored machines and then
transferred to a PC for analysis.
The instrument guides the person taking the recordings through a

pre-defined data recording sequence. This is to simplify the task and
minimize mistakes. The data recording sequence is contained in a
recording ‘route’. A recording route is created on a PC then
transferred to the instrument (see the Ascent Software Reference
Guide, for instructions). The use of recording routes is particularly
useful if a large number of machines are routinely monitored. The
following steps are involved:
• A recording route is created on a PC then transferred to the

instrument...
• Data for each item on the recording route is sequentially

collected, guided by the instrument.
• The collected data is then transferred to a PC for analysis.
See Recording Data (page 81) and Using Routes (page 89) for more
information.
Balancing
Rotating mass imbalance problems are analyzed and corrected
onsite. A rigid rotor can be balanced in one or two planes. The
following steps are involved:
• An initial measurement of the imbalance is taken.
• A trial weight is attached to the balancing plane and another

measurement is taken. For dual plane balancing, the same is
done for the second plane also.
• Correction weights are attached to the balancing planes as

recommended by the instrument.
• A measurement is taken in each plane to confirm that the

rotor is balanced. Any residual imbalance can be removed
via trim balancing.
See Balancing Rotors (page 123) and Balancing Walk-through (page

145) for more information.
Section 2: Basic Operation
This section describes how to perform basic operations on your

instrument.
You will learn to:

• Power up the instrument
• Navigate through initial screens
• Select an option
• Display and use pop-up menus
• Enter and edit text and numbers
• Record and review numeric data
• Set up sensors
Caution: Read Precautions (page 6) before operating your

instrument.
Section 2: Basic Operation 11
Powering Up
• Press the key to power up the instrument or turn it off.
The following screen is displayed at power up.
The displayed firmware version and creation date will reflect the
currently installed firmware in your instrument. Updated firmware
versions can be downloaded from www.commtest.com.
• To continue to the Main Menu press
Main Menu
The Main Menu provides access to the instrument's main operational
tasks.
• To access this menu press twice (from most screens).
12 Section 2: Basic Operation
Menu Navigation
Most screens found on the instrument follow a standard format,
making menu navigation easy and intuitive. The following diagram
shows the components of a typical screen:
A The menu title is displayed at the top of each screen.
B The name of the currently selected

folder/route/machine etc is displayed.
C Navigation of all menus is accomplished by pressing

the key corresponding to the number or word beside
the menu item e.g. pressing will display the Erase
Data Menu.
D
Pressing the key will either open the Main Menu,
return you to the previous screen or display a pop-up
menu (depending on your current location). Key
prompts are displayed at the bottom of each screen as
needed.
Pressing and holding down the key together with a number key
will access the function labeled on the upper command of that key
e.g. pressing + allows you to toggle the LCD backlight on
and off.
Returning to a Previous Screen
• From most menus, press + to return to the previous
screen.
Pressing the key will also normally return you to the previous
screen (or the Main Menu depending on your current location).
Selecting an Option
• Press the numbered key that corresponds to the option you
want.
Example:
• Press to select the Measure option from the Main Menu.
You may need to press or to highlight an option and then

press to select the option.
Example:
To select a frequency maximum of 1000 Hz:
• Press to scroll down and highlight this option.
• Press to select this option.

Displaying Pop-up Menus
• Wherever appears at the bottom of the screen,
you can press to display a pop-up list of all the available
options for the current menu.
In the following example, pressing in the Select Machine Menu

displays these options:
1 Tag (tag or untag this machine)
2 Edit (change the name of the machine)
3 Notes (add, view or erase notes)
4 Route (make this machine part of a route)
5 Erase (delete this machine and its recordings from memory)
6 Copy (create a copy of this machine)
The number beside each menu item indicates a key that must be
pressed to perform that function e.g. pressing will copy the
currently selected machine.
These functions can all be accessed directly e.g. with the Select
Machine Menu displayed, pressing will copy the currently
selected machine without having to display the pop-up menu. The
pop-up menus are used as a reminder of commonly used functions
so that you do not have to memorize the number key for each
function.
• The pop-up menu will disappear automatically within a few

seconds or you can cancel it by pressing
• To keep the pop-up menu on screen, hold down

Entering Text and Numbers
To enter text or numbers press the corresponding number/character
key. As with a mobile phone, the character options for each key are
displayed with subsequent key presses (e.g. the first press of the ’3’
key displays ‘3’, the second press displays ‘D’, the next press
displays ‘E’ etc). The cursor will advance automatically after a short
pause so that the next character can be entered.
Names can be up to 16 characters long in upper or lower case. To

enter or edit names:
• Press the key that has the required characters displayed

above it until the correct character appears above the
flashing cursor.
Example:
To enter the word FAN
• Press four times until the F displays.
The cursor advances automatically after a short pause.
• To enter the letter A, press twice until the A displays.
• Press three times to display an N.
• Press twice to enter a space between words if required.
• Press to save when you have finished entering or

editing your text.
Entering Numerical Values

To enter numerical values press the appropriate number key. It is not
necessary to enter decimal points as they are placed automatically.
Example:
To enter the value 7.5
• Press >
• Press >
• Press >
• To clear an incorrect entry press until the value is reset

to zero.
Other Name Editing Commands
Cancels the current edit screen and retains the original
name.
Moves the cursor forward.
Moves the cursor backward.
Inserts a 0 at the current cursor position or deletes the

character at the cursor position.
Inserts a space at the current position.
Deletes the character at the current position.
Clears all the characters to the right of the cursor.
Changes the currently selected letter to uppercase if it is

currently lowercase.
Changes the currently selected letter to lowercase if it is

currently uppercase.
Scrolls through the various symbols if the cursor is in a

space.
Supported Sensor Types
The instrument can take measurements using a wide range of
sensors. The sensitivities and types of measurement that can be
taken by each sensor are summarized in the following table.
Note: Velocity, displacement and current sensor types are only

applicable to the vb3000 instrument.
Sensor Type Sensitivity Measurement Types
Acceleration
Accelerometer mV/g 8.5-2300 Velocity
Displacement
mV/in/s 8.5-2300
Velocity Sensor Velocity
mV/mm/s 0.34-90.55
Displacement
mV/mil 8.5-2300
Sensor Displacement
mV/µm 0.34-90.55
(or prox probe)
Current Sensor mV/amp 0.1-2300 Current
You can define your sensors either in the Ascent software or the
instrument. For information on how to set up a sensor using the
instrument see Specifying Sensor Settings (page 76).
Note: Once a sensor has been defined as a particular sensor type
e.g. accelerometer, you will not be able to change the sensor's
details to a different type if it has been used to take recordings that
are still stored in the instrument. The vb instrument will associate the
stored measurements with the sensor that was used to record them
and display a 'Sensor is in use' message. If you need to change a
sensor's type for any reason, erase all the associated recordings in
the instrument first.
Invalid Combinations
When you set the parameters for a measurement you cannot choose
settings that conflict with the type of measurement you are trying to
create e.g. if you are measuring acceleration you cannot select a
current sensor. If you try to take the measurement the instrument will
display an 'Invalid Combination' message and no measurement will
be taken.
Mounting Sensors
Your choice of sensor mounting will affect the accuracy and
therefore the repeatability of vibration measurements.
For optimal measurement results, accelerometers and velocity

sensors should be mounted using a threaded stud or adhesive
mounting pad and stud rather than relying on magnets. Permanent
mounting of accelerometers is described in Permanent Mounting
(page 22). These instructions can also be applied to velocity
sensors.
Tachometers, displacement sensors, prox probes and current

sensors should be mounted according to the manufacturer's
instructions.
Accelerometer Setup
Plug the connector of the accelerometer into the vb instrument
accelerometer input. Now screw the accelerometer into the magnetic
base and attach to the measurement point ensuring it is:
• Attached to a sturdy, rigidly mounted and non-flexible

structure, where vibration from the rotating part of the
machine will be accurately transmitted. Avoid attachment to
sheet metal, guards, or any machine structure which is not
closely coupled to the source of vibration in the spinning
rotor as the vibration of such a structure will be different to
the vibration source.
• Attached to a structure which is at least 10 times heavier

than the accelerometer itself. Do not mount the
accelerometer on lightweight motors or similar parts as the
weight of the accelerometer will distort the vibration signal.
Use a smaller accelerometer for small structures.
• Attached as closely as possible to, and in line with, the

centerline of the bearings to avoid distorted signals.
• Securely attached to the mounting surface. The surface

should be flat and smooth where the accelerometer makes
contact. Attachment can be either using the supplied
magnetic accelerometer base or via a threaded stud on the
machine surface. The accelerometer should not move
independently of the machine part it is attached to.
• Oriented correctly as vibration can differ greatly with respect

to direction.
• Attached to exactly the same position as before if this is an

ongoing study of a particular measurement point (mark the
position if necessary).
• Clear from other cables and not twisted, kinked or tangled.
Permanent Mounting
To mount using the stud method, prepare a mounting spot on the
machine following the specifications shown in the diagram.
• Unscrew the magnetic base from the accelerometer and

screw onto the threaded stud. Use of thread locking
compound is suggested.
Stud Mounting Spot
Caution: Do not use a wrench to tighten the accelerometer as this

will damage the sensor.
Tachometer Setup
The tachometer provides the instrument with information on the
speed of rotation and the angle at which the rotor is vibrating. The
angle is measured from a fixed reference mark on the rotor and is
called the ‘phase angle’. To balance a rotor it is necessary to
consider not just the amplitude of vibration but also the phase angle.
The amplitude shows the severity of the imbalance and the phase
angle indicates the geometry of the imbalance.
To set up the laser tachometer:
• Locate the drill hole in the tachometer and screw this onto
the end of the mounting base movable arm.
• Plug the cable socket into the tachometer connecting pins

then turn the locking ring to make a secure connection.
• Locate the tachometer input on the instrument and attach the

other end of the cable to this.
• Stop the rotor.
• Cut out a small strip of the supplied reflective tape,

approximately 5 mm x 15 mm (0.2" x 0.5").
• Stick the reflective tape to a machine part that rotates at the

rotor speed e.g. the shaft. This trigger spot should provide a
pronounced increase in reflection as it passes under the
tachometer light beam. The tape width must be at least
double the diameter of the light beam spot.
• Mount the tachometer magnetic base to a stationary portion

of the machine, convenient to the trigger spot.
• Position the sensor slightly away from the centerline of the
rotating machine part in order that it is not 'blinded' by
reflections from the surface of the machine part. The sensor
should be positioned within the measurement range shown
in the following diagram.
Warning: The laser tachometer is a class 2 laser product. Do not

stare into the laser beam.
• From the Main Menu, press Measure.
• Press Tachometer Display.
• Start the rotor and wait till it is at normal running speed.
• Now test if the tachometer will trigger. Press to display
the running values screen. (The instrument will beep if it
cannot detect a tachometer signal and a 'No tach. signal'
message will display).
• Ensure a stable RPM is displayed on the screen. This

indicates that the tachometer is triggering reliably. If the RPM
does not stabilize, adjust the position of the sensor.
• To return to the Main Menu press then press twice.
Using a Strobe
If you have a strobe light with an output signal it should be possible
to connect it to the tachometer input of the instrument (however,
there are many strobes on the market with different types of output
signal and connectors). If your strobe light has a BNC connector and
gives a TTL output (0 to 5) V you can purchase a suitable cable from
Commtest Instruments Ltd via your distributor.
For other types of connectors and signals please consult the FAQ
(Frequently Asked Questions) articles on the Commtest website
www.commtest.com.
Tach Signal from a Keyphasor®
If your machine has a proximity-probe based tachometer sensor (e.g.
Keyphasor®), this can be used as the tach signal for your vb
instrument. The sensor should have a buffered front-panel BNC
output, to ensure the vb instrument's measurements can’t interfere
with pre-existing speed measurements. Keyphasor® tach cables can
be purchased through your local Commtest reseller for this purpose.
The Keyphasor® proximity sensor gap should be adjusted so the

driver box output is -8 V +/- 2 V (i.e. -6 V to -10 V) when the sensor is
over the shaft. This is the normal mid-range position for these
sensors. When the sensor is over the keyway its output will be -14 V
to -22 V, depending on its make and model.
Tips for Taking Measurements
• Measurements should always be taken using the machine
operating mode that is typical for that machine (the typical
load and running speed). This is to ensure that the loads on
the components, such as bearings, are the same as those
that define their wear. For multi-operating mode machines it
is best to take measurements when the loads on the
bearings are at a maximum and to take all future
measurements in the same mode.
• When taking the measurement, try not to lean on the

machine and do not put heavy objects (e.g. heavy tool
boxes) on it since this will change the vibratory behavior of
the machine.
• If there are machines operating nearby that might affect the

vibration of the machine you are measuring, stop those
surrounding machines if possible.
• In addition to the measurements that you will be taking, if

possible, stop and listen to the sound of the machine; look
for loose bolts and oil leaks; take note of any machine parts
that are vibrating visibly; feel for hot bearings and manually
‘feel’ the vibration (e.g. with a screwdriver) to look for
symptoms that might later aid vibration analysis. This should
be done only if it is safe to do so.
• If you have a stroboscope (not included in the vb kit) you

may wish to use it to ‘freeze’ rotating shafts, belts, couplings
etc to observe their operating shapes and relative speeds in
order to look for symptoms that might later aid vibration
analysis.
Section 3: Onsite Analysis -
Measurement Menu
This section describes the procedures for measuring vibration and

performing onsite analysis.
You will learn to:

• Take frequency domain measurements (spectra)
• Take time domain measurements (waveforms)
• Take demodulation measurements
• Use the tachometer to gather speed, amplitude and phase
data
• Perform time synchronous averaging
• Perform bump tests
• Take run-up and coast-down measurements
• Take cross channel phase measurements
• Store measurements
• Analyze measurements
• Customize the default measurement menus
• Change the on-screen display options of your instrument
28 Section 3: Onsite Analysis - Measurement Menu
Walk-through: Taking Measurements in
Measure Mode
Onsite analysis using Measure Mode involves watching a machine's
vibration on-screen as it occurs and analyzing the measurement on
the instrument (rather than recording the vibration then transferring it
to Ascent for later analysis using the software). This method of
measuring allows you to take a quick look at a machine's vibration
patterns without having to save the recording or create a machine
and points etc. You can still store the recording once the
measurement is complete if you choose to do so.
Warning: Take care of personal safety when taking measurements

in industrial environments. Follow all safety regulations at all times.
Read also Precautions (page 6), before attempting to take
measurements.
• From the Main Menu press Measure.
• Choose a quick setup option or one of the automated menus

e.g. Time Synchronous Averaging or Cross Channel Phase.
• Press and use the number keys to enter the machine

running speed (RPM).
• Press to continue.
• Attach the sensor (and tachometer if you are taking rotor

speed and phase angle measurements).
• Start the machine and allow it to operate under its normal

load and running speed.
Section 3: Onsite Analysis - Measurement Menu 29
• To start the measurement press
• Wait for the sensor and vb hardware to settle. When the

settling time has elapsed or the hardware has settled
measuring begins and the spectrum, waveform or
tachometer reading is displayed and continually updated.
(You can press while the instrument is settling to cancel
the remaining settling time but this is not recommended as
the measurement may not be accurate.)
• To stop the measurement from updating press . To

resume measuring and updating the display press
again. Some basic analysis can be carried out straight away
including displaying the amplitude of a spectral peak and
identifying any harmonics (see Analyzing Measurements on
page 55).
• To save the measurement press to display a pop-up

menu and select option Record.
• Select or create a machine, point and direction to save the

recording to.
OR
• To stop viewing the measurement and exit without saving
press twice to return to the Main Menu.
Using Quick Setup Menus
The instrument's quick setup menus automate most of the
measurement set up process for spectra, waveforms and
demodulation measurements. These measurements are free run so
you can record for as long or short a length of time as you wish.
Most parameters are set for you - you are only required to adjust a
few settings. Any of the default parameters can be changed before
or during measuring. The default parameters for each quick setup
are listed in Default Parameters (page 36).
• Access the Measurement Menu by pressing from the

Main Menu.
• To take a spectrum, waveform or demodulation

measurement, press the number key that corresponds to
that option.
Instructions for using each of these quick setup menus are described
next.
1. Spectrum Quick Setup
• From the Main Menu press Measure, to open the
Measurement Menu.
• From the Measurement Menu press Spectrum Quick

Setup.
The only parameter you need to set is the Fmax value. This can be
done in two ways:
¾ Press to display the Machine Running Speed Menu

then use the number keys to enter an RPM value. The
Fmax will be set to 40 x the RPM (or rounded up to the
closest value).
OR
• Press to display the Set Fmax Menu and use or
to select a value.
• Once the Fmax is set press to return to the quick setup

menu then press to take the measurement.
When a measurement has been taken it can be analyzed

immediately on the instrument (see Analyzing Measurements on
page 55) or stored for later analysis (see Storing Measurements on
page 54).
Setting your own parameters
Option Custom Setup allows you to customize this menu to use
your own settings instead of the factory defaults. See Custom Setups
(page 57) for more information.
2. Waveform Quick Setup

Measurement Menu.
• From the Measurement Menu press Waveform Quick

Setup.
The only parameter you need to set is the duration value. This can
be done in three ways:

duration will be set to the time it takes the machine to
make 20 revolutions.
OR
¾ Press to display the Set Duration Menu and use
or to select a value.
OR
to select a value. The value you select will determine
the equivalent duration value. If the waveform is later
transferred to Ascent and displayed as a spectrum, this
Fmax value will be used on the chart.
• Once the duration is set press to return to the quick
setup menu then press to take the measurement.

page 54).

3. Demodulation Quick Setup

The following information explains how to use the quick setup menu
to perform demodulation measurements. For a full explanation of the
demodulation process and its uses see Demodulation (page 101).

Measurement Menu.
• From the Measurement Menu press Demod Quick

Setup.
The only parameters you need to set are the bandwidth and Fmax
values. The bandwidth must be selected first as this will determine
the range of available Fmax values.
• Press to display the Set Demodulation Bandwidth Menu
and use or to select a value.
• Press to return to the quick setup menu and set the

Fmax. This can be done in two ways:

closest value).
OR
to select a value.
• Once the Fmax is set press to return to the quick setup

menu then press to take the measurement.

page 54).

Default Parameters
When using the quick setup menus the following parameters are
automatically applied.
Spectrum Waveform Demodulation
Domain Frequency Time Frequency
Window Hanning N/A Hanning
Quantity User defined User defined Accel

Spectral
400 1024 samples 400
Lines
Fmin 1 Hz (60 CPM) N/A 1 Hz (60 CPM)
Fmax Automatic Automatic Automatic
Average 4 x Linear N/A 4 x Linear

Type 50% overlap 50% overlap
Amplitude
Linear Linear Linear
Scale
Internal Internal Internal
Trigger
Free run Free run Free run
Display
OFF OFF OFF
Orders
Harmonic
OFF OFF OFF
Cursor
Tach
OFF OFF OFF
Display
Any of the default parameters can be changed before and during

measurement. See Setting Measurement Parameters (page 63) for
more information.
Using Automated Menus
Advanced operations can be carried out using the automated setups
available from the Measurement Menu. You need only set one or two
parameters yourself and the instrument will automatically apply
default parameters that are optimized for the settings you specify. As
with the quick setup menus, any of the default parameters can be
changed before or during measuring. The default parameters for
each automated setup are listed in Default Parameters (page 52).
• Access the Measurement Menu by pressing from the

Main Menu.
• To take a measurement, press the number key that

corresponds to the option required.
Instructions for using each of these automated setup menus are

described next.
4. Tachometer Display
The Tachometer Display option displays a readout of the machine
speed and the amplitude and phase angle of the 1X vibration. This
can be used to:
• Verify the machine running speed
• View the phase angle of the vibration relative to the tach
signal
• Take a quick preview of the 'out of balance' level
• From the Main Menu press Measure then to

access the Tachometer Display Menu.
• To display the RPM, connect the tachometer. To check the

vibration level, attach the sensor also. The vibration level will
be displayed in the units selected in the Display Options
Menu.
• With the sensor(s) connected, press to begin

measuring. To stop, press
This running values screen will display the RPM and the equivalent
value in Hz. With the sensor connected, the vibration level will also
be displayed along with its phase angle relative to the tachometer
signal.

5. Time Synchronous Averaging

This is a useful vibration analysis technique for distinguishing
between spectral peaks that are very close to, but not exactly, the
harmonics of the machine's running speed. After performing a large
number of averages, peaks that are whole number multiples of the
running speed will be still be visible while those that are non-
synchronous will be cancelled out from the spectrum.

display the Time Synchronous Averaging Menu.
The parameters you need to set are the duration, number of samples
and number of averages.
The duration value can be set in three ways:

duration will be set to the time it takes the machine to
make 20 revolutions.
OR
¾ Press to display the Set Duration Menu and use
or to select a value.
OR
to select a value. The value you select will determine
the equivalent duration value. If the waveform is later
transferred to Ascent and displayed as a spectrum, this
Fmax value will be used on the chart.
• Select the number of samples by pressing . This controls

the number of spectral lines used when the waveform is
transferred to Ascent and displayed as a spectrum.
• Set the number of averages by pressing to change the

value displayed. 16 or more averages is recommended in
order to remove non-synchronous peaks from the final
spectrum.
Note: You must use a tachometer as the trigger source.
When measuring is complete the resulting time waveform can be

transferred to your PC and viewed as a spectrum within the Ascent
software.
To store the measurement see Storing Measurements (page 54).

6. Bump Test
The bump test is a useful vibration analysis technique to help identify
resonance frequencies in a machine's structure. It requires ‘bumping’
(i.e. hitting) the machine structure when the machine is stopped,
while taking a peak hold measurement. Careful selection of the
mallet or hammer is required along with the strength and direction of
the bump to ensure that suitable frequencies are injected into the
structure without causing damage.

display the Bump Test Menu.
done in two ways:

closest value).
OR
to select a value.
• Once the Fmax is set press to begin sampling.
• 'Bump’ the machine with the hammer.
• Repeat several times.
To store the measurement see Storing Measurements (page 54).
Note: In free run mode with peak hold averaging, the instrument will
continue sampling and displaying the peak values for each spectral
line.
Tips:
With the spectrum displayed press or to move the cursor
and check the frequency of any resonance peaks found.
Press then to clear the spectrum.

7. Coast-down/Run-up Recordings
Coast-down and run-up recordings involve taking a series of
recordings with a short delay between them. This technique can be
used to study the resonance behavior of a machine as its speed
gradually increases during power-up or decreases during coast-
down.

display the Coast-Down/Run-Up Menu.
done in two ways:

closest value).
OR
to select a value.
• Once the Fmax is set, select the machine, point and

direction in which the sequence of measurements will be
stored.
Recommendations
A large number of recordings will be created so we recommended
you create a new 'point' for each new coast-down or run-up
measurement to clearly separate each set of recordings.
For machines with a slow coast down or run up, e.g. more than one
minute, we recommend that you add a few seconds extra delay
between recordings (press then enter the number of seconds
required).
The use of a tachometer is also recommended but not essential. It

obtains an RPM reading for every measurement, which aids
interpretation.
Taking a measurement
• Press to begin the recording sequence.
• After the first spectrum has been recorded, switch off the
machine (or begin ramping its speed up or down).
• Once the machine has stopped rotating (or its speed has
been fully adjusted) press
The measurement location should now contain a large number of
measurements. These can now be transferred to the Ascent
software for display as a waterfall chart. Simple bode plots can also
be created provided the tachometer was used during recording.
To store the measurements see Storing Measurements (page 54).

8. Cross Channel Phase

Note: This functionality is only available to vb3000 users.
Phase analysis is an effective means of diagnosing machine faults

such as misalignment, resonance, soft foot and looseness among
others. Phase analysis is also useful in distinguishing faults that look
like imbalance but are actually caused by something else (such as
misalignment, which can show up at 1X RPM similar to imbalance).
Knowledge of the phase relationships of various machine faults will
help to confirm the existence of a specific machine fault and help to
prevent misdiagnosis.
Cross channel phase is a convenient method of taking phase

measurements that does not require the use of a tachometer or
reflective tape. Instead, phase is measured between two sensors.
Note: When taking measurements, be aware of the direction each

sensor is facing. If you are measuring across the coupling in the axial
direction you will probably turn the sensors in opposite directions,
thereby introducing an additional 180° phase change. Remember to
take this into consideration when analyzing the phase
measurements.
Recommendations
1. Determine the exact frequency of interest by using spectra to
identify high amplitude peaks at specific frequencies.
2. Position the channel 1 sensor in a location which has high

vibration at this frequency. Do not move this sensor once
testing has started.
3. Try out different locations with the channel 2 sensor, noting

the phase and amplitude relationships compared to the fixed
channel 1 position.
4. Repeat steps 2 and 3 at any other locations of interest.
Taking a measurement
• Connect the two sensors to the appropriate machine
locations.

display the Cross Channel Phase Menu.
The only parameter you need to set is the frequency of interest - this
is typically the machine running speed.
• Press to enter the RPM then to continue.
• Press to begin measuring both channels.
The instrument will perform a spectral peak search at the entered

frequency (machine speed or any frequency of interest) on the
channel 1 signal. The frequency of the actual peak is displayed at
the top of the screen, always in RPM. The instrument then looks at
exactly the same frequency on channel 2 and displays the phase
difference Ø2 - Ø1 (CH2 - CH1). The instrument also displays the
amplitudes of both channels at that peak frequency.
• To change the target frequency (the peak of interest) use

or to adjust the value in 50 RPM increments.
Note: This measurement cannot be saved.

Fault Types and their Phase Relationships
Misalignment - high amplitude peaks will appear at 1X, 2X and
sometimes 3X the running speed. Look for a 180° (± 30°) phase
change across the coupling in the axial direction (for angular
misalignment) or radial direction (for parallel (offset) misalignment).
Bearing misalignment (cocked bearing) will cause a twisting motion
in the axial direction. Look for a 180° (± 30°) phase change from the
top to the bottom of the bearing housing or from one side to the
other.
Imbalance - a high amplitude peak will appear at 1X the running

speed. Confirm that the phase difference from horizontal to vertical
on the bearing is close to 90° (± 40°). The phase difference between
left and right horizontal locations should be within 30° of the phase
difference between left and right vertical locations. If the phase is
unstable then there may be another reason for a large running speed
vibration e.g. looseness or misalignment.
The degree of couple imbalance versus force imbalance can be

investigated by looking at the phase difference between the two
sides of the machine - if there is little couple imbalance then only a
single plane correction may be required to balance the rotor.
Resonance (flexible structures) - high amplitude peaks will appear

where natural resonance frequencies of the structure coincide with
excitation frequencies (e.g. 1X, other low orders of running speed,
blade pass frequency etc). Look for a 0° phase change when both
sensors are positioned in the same direction between two stationary
points. The phase change will be 180° when there is a stationary
point between the sensors.
Resonance (variable speed machines) - to investigate resonance

you can vary the machine speed. A phase shift of 180° will occur as
machine speed is increased from below a resonance to above a
resonance. A 90° phase shift will be present at the resonant
frequency. If a machine is running close to resonance, any small
speed variation will cause large phase shifts.
Resonance (at a bearing) - look for a change from the normal 90°
phase difference in the horizontal and vertical directions at 1X. When
a natural frequency is close to 1X in either direction, that phase
angle may be well be on the way towards its 90° phase change so
the two phases may no longer be 90° apart (assuming that the
structure has a different natural frequency in either direction).
Eccentric belt pulley - a high amplitude peak will appear at 1X the

running speed of the pulley. Look for a phase change of either 0° or
180° between the horizontal and vertical readings, which indicates
straight line motion instead of the usual 90° difference. This symptom
is similar to bearing resonance (described above) but in this case the
direction of maximum vibration will be in line with the two belts.
Mechanical looseness - high amplitude peaks will show up at many

multiples of the running speed and sometimes even multiples of 0.5X
running speed e.g. 1.5X, 2.5X etc. Look for fluctuating phase
readings at a location from one recording to the next to the next. Also
compare the phase readings at 30° increments around a bearing
housing - the phase will be significantly different at each angle.
Mechanical foot looseness (soft foot) - a high amplitude peak will

show up at 1X the running speed. Look for a 90° to 180° phase
change between the machine foot and its concrete base. The soft
foot may also have a different phase measurement from the other
feet.
9. Long Time Waveform
Note: This functionality is only available to vb3000 users.
Long time waveforms allow you to take a continuous recording over

a very long time period (over 17 hours), making it particularly useful
for capturing transients. Recordings are taken continuously without
any gap until the memory is full or until you manually stop recording.
The amount of time you can record for is dependent on the Fmax
(which determines the sample rate) and how much available memory
is left in the instrument.
When transferred to the Ascent software you can display the

waveforms as spectra with up to 160 000 lines. To record enough
samples to achieve the full 160 000 line FFT you must record for at
least the following amounts of time:
Fmax Recording Time
10 kHz 16 secs
1 kHz 160 secs (2:40 minutes)
100 Hz 1600 secs (26:40 minutes)
In most of these cases the upload time to the Ascent software will be
2 minutes or less.
Note: The speed with which a long time waveform can be displayed
in the software depends on the processing speed of your computer.
We recommend that you first test your computer's ability to handle
lengthy waveforms by recording less than the 160 000 line
maximum.
display the Long Time Waveform Menu.

to select a value. If the waveform is later transferred to
the software and displayed as a spectrum, this Fmax value
will be used on the chart. (The actual sampling rate is 2.56
times higher than this Fmax value.)
• Press to continue. The maximum recording time

(amount of time available for recording) will be displayed in
seconds near the bottom-right of the screen. (This amount
may be much smaller than expected if the instrument's
memory has become 'fragmented'. See the note at the end
of this topic for additional information and solution.) The
minimum recording time is also displayed. If a recording is
stopped before this time has elapsed the recording will not
be saved. (If you want to take a recording that is equal to or
shorter than this amount of time, record a normal time
waveform.)
• Press to toggle the amplitude quantity between

acceleration, velocity and displacement.
• Press to select a sensor.
• Press to select a machine, point and direction to save
the recording to. (We recommend saving each long time
waveform to a new measurement location as this makes it
easier to delete them individually.)
• Press to begin recording and press again when you

wish to stop recording.
If you do not stop the recording manually the instrument will continue
sampling until the displayed time has elapsed, which indicates that
this memory chunk is full. When measuring, the instrument will
display a running count of the time (in seconds) that the recording
has taken rather than displaying the waveform being measured.
When measuring is finished the selected measurement location will

contain many individual recordings. Once these are transferred, the
Ascent software will connect all the recordings together in the correct
order to form one continuous waveform.
We recommend that you erase long time waveforms from the

instrument immediately after transferring them to the software, as the
very large number of recordings can considerably slow down menu
navigation.
Note: The instrument automatically uses the largest available chunk

of free memory. This can be considerably less that the total free
space if the memory has become 'fragmented' over a long period of
use. To de-fragment the memory, transfer all data from the
instrument to the software and perform a full memory erase (see
Erasing all Recordings on page 168).
Displaying a long time waveform in the software

When recording has finished the selected measurement location will
contain many individual 4096 sample recordings. Once these are
transferred the Ascent software will connect the recordings together
in the correct order to form a continuous waveform.
Note: In order to prevent the software's processing and display

speed from slowing down, a maximum of 100 recordings will be
joined together to create individual 'chunks' of a long time waveform.
This means that a lengthy waveform will appear as several 409 600
sample recordings.
• To create a high resolution spectrum of a waveform, from the

Ascent navigator select the schedule entry that contains the
long time waveform and plot one of the recording 'chunks'.
• If you are using Ascent level 2 or higher use

Analyze>Partial Waveform Analysis or Freq. Based
Waveform Analysis to zoom in on selected portions of the
waveform. If you are using Ascent level 1 plot the waveform
and change the bottom axis to Frequency. You can then use
the normal zooming and panning functions to carry out
detailed analysis.
Default Parameters
When using the automated menus, the following parameters are
automatically applied.
Tach Time Bump Coast- Cross

Display Synchronous Test down/ Channel
Averaging Run-up Phase
Domain Frequency Time Frequency Frequency Frequency

Window Hanning N/A Hanning Hanning Hanning
Spectral 400 User defined 400 400 400
Lines
Fmin 1 Hz N/A 1 Hz 1 Hz 1 Hz
Average 4 X Linear 16 X Linear Peak hold 1 X Linear 1 X Linear
Type
Amplitude Linear N/A Linear Linear Linear
Scale
Trigger Tach Tach Internal Internal Tach
Free run Free run Free run Free run Free run
Display OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF
Orders
Harmonic OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF
Cursor
Tach ON OFF OFF OFF ON
Display
Autorepeat OFF OFF OFF ON OFF
As with any measurement, the parameters can be changed before

and during measuring as described in Setting Measurement
Parameters (page 63).
Storing Measurements
• After taking a measurement, with the spectrum, waveform or
tachometer reading displayed press to open a pop-up
window containing the Record option.
• Press to record the measurement. You will then need to

either select a machine, point and direction to save the
measurement to or create these now.
Selecting an existing machine, point and direction

• Press or to highlight a machine.
• Press to select it and display the next menu. Repeat this

process for the point and direction.
Creating a machine, point and direction

• Highlight a '-new-' machine and press to display the Edit
Name Menu. See Entering Text and Numbers (page 16), for
details of how to enter names for your machines, points and
directions.
• When you have entered a name, press twice to save

the name and display the next menu. Repeat this process for
the point and direction.
Analyzing Measurements
The spectrum/waveform/tachometer reading is displayed on the
instrument screen once a measurement has been taken. Spectra
and waveforms displayed on the instrument can be analyzed in the
following ways:
Displaying the amplitude/frequency of a peak

• To read the vibration amplitude or level corresponding to a
particular frequency or time press or to move the
cursor to that frequency or time value. The values indicated
by the cursor are displayed at the top-right of the screen.
Note: The overall vibration value is not displayed while cursors are
activated.
• To move the cursor rapidly press + and +
Using cursors to display frequency and amplitude levels
Displaying harmonics
• To identify the harmonics of a peak, move the cursor to the
peak of interest. If the harmonic cursors option has been
turned on (see below), additional cursors are displayed at
frequency or time values that are whole-number multiples of
the frequency or time value indicated by the main cursor.
• To turn on harmonic cursors press to access the

Display Options Menu then press to toggle the cursors
on. Press to return to the chart display.
Displaying frequency/time difference between peaks
• To display the frequency difference or time difference
between two peaks press or to position the main
cursor at one of the peaks.
• Press then to anchor a datum cursor at the peak.
• Press or to position the main cursor at the other

peak. The delta symbol appears beside a value
indicating the frequency or time difference between the two
peaks.
• To clear the datum cursor move the main cursor to where

the datum cursor is and then press then again (or
press then twice if not on the datum cursor).
Zooming
• To take a close-up view of a spectrum or waveform move the
cursor to the position of interest and press then to
zoom in by a factor of 2.
• To zoom out (by a factor of 2), press then .
The more spectral lines or the more waveform sample points used,
the more times you can zoom. Moving the cursor to the edge of the
screen within zoomed views will pan the viewing area across the
spectrum or waveform by up to 50% of the viewing area.
Changing display options
• To change the display options of a spectrum or waveform in
order to view the spectrum or waveform more clearly, press
to access the Display Options Menu. See Setting the
Display Options (page 59) for more information.
Custom Setups
Any of the instrument's quick setup or automated menus can be
customized to use your preferred settings. You simply choose your
own measurement parameters, save the settings in a custom setup
menu then choose that same custom setup whenever you want to
measure or record that measurement type.
• To create a custom setup, from the Main Menu press

then select the Quick Setup or Automated menu you want to
customize.
• Press Custom Setup.
• Change the parameters as required then press to save
your custom settings. If you forget to save the settings the
parameters will revert back to their previous settings after
you take a measurement.
You cannot save settings that conflict with the type of measurement
you are trying to create e.g. if you are creating a Tach Display
custom setup you cannot set the trigger to internal. When you try to
save the settings or take the measurement, the instrument will force
the settings to whichever parameters are appropriate for that type of
measurement (in this case the trigger setting would be forced to
tachometer).
Note: When you create a custom setup your settings will overwrite
the factory default parameters. If you wish to restore the factory
defaults to any quick setup or automated menu, open the custom
setup you want to restore then press +
Setting the Display Options
Display options control the way a measurement is displayed on the
instrument such as showing the frequency in Hz or CPM, or setting
the amplitude type to rms, Ø-peak or peak-peak.
• To access the Display Options Menu, from the Main Menu

press Measure then press twice.
Note: This screen shot shows the factory default settings (the
measurement mode is set to frequency for spectra and the quantity
to velocity). Your screen may differ depending on the settings you
have chosen.
• To change any of the display options press the

corresponding number key to cycle through the available
options. When you have finished press to return to the
previous screen.
Frequency Unit
Available units are Hz and CPM/kCPM. The frequency unit Hz,
is equivalent to ‘cycles per second’ and kCPM stands for
‘kilocycles per minute’.
Amplitude Scale
Either linear or log scale can be chosen for the bottom axis.
The linear amplitude scale can be used in most cases. The log
scale (base 10) is more useful for displaying vibration with both
very large and very small amplitudes. If the log scale is
selected, the log range (the range of the amplitude axis) will
appear as option 6 in this menu.
Amplitude Type
Applies to the chart scale for the left axis. For spectra this can
be set to rms, Ø-peak or peak-peak. The Ø-peak and peak-
peak values are 'derived' from the rms value. Ø-peak is
calculated by multiplying the rms value by 1.414. Peak-peak is
calculated by multiplying the rms value by 2.828. For time
waveforms the amplitude type is always Ø-peak.
Velocity Unit
(Also acceleration unit, displacement unit and current unit -
Amps only) Available SI and imperial options are: velocity -
mm/s, in/s; acceleration - g, m/s2; displacement - mm, µm, mil.
If the Amplitude Scale is set to Log, the options VdB and AdB
are also available. The vibration velocity level (VdB) is defined
as 20 times the logarithm of the ratio of the rms velocity level to
a reference velocity value, the VdB reference. Acceleration
expressed in AdB is defined as 20 times the logarithm of the
ratio of the rms acceleration level to 1 µg rms.
VdB Reference
See above. The value 1e-6 mm/s is an abbreviation for 1x10-6
mm/s and is the SI reference level. The value 1e-5 mm/s is the
reference level used by the US Navy and many American
industries.
Log Range
Used to specify the left axis range when the amplitude scale is
set to log.
Velocity Max
Velocity max, acceleration max, displacement max or current
max is the highest amplitude value that will be displayed on
the amplitude axis. If the linear amplitude scale is selected this
value can be set to automatic.
Display Orders
When display orders is turned on, the frequency axis of spectra
is labeled in orders of running speed instead of in Hz or CPM.
When using cursors to analyze a displayed chart, the frequency
readout of the cursors is also displayed in orders. When
viewing time waveforms, the time axis is labeled in Revs
instead of ms. Note that the running speed (RPM) must be
entered (either manually or using the tachometer) to enable this
feature.
Harmonic Cursor
If the harmonic cursor option is turned on, additional cursors
will be displayed at frequencies that are whole-number
multiples of the frequency indicated by the main cursor. See
Analyzing Measurements on page 55, for information on using
cursors.
Overall Type
The vibration overall level can be scaled as rms, Ø-peak or
peak-peak. This setting can be different for each of
acceleration, velocity and displacement if required. The overall
scale can be set differently to the amplitude type (chart scale)
e.g. you can set the amplitude type to Ø-peak and the overall
scale to rms.
Changing display options once measuring has begun

• With a chart or tachometer reading displayed, press to
access the Display Options Menu directly. Note that only the
options that are applicable to the type of measurement being
performed will be displayed.
• Press to resume measuring.
Section 4: Manual Setup
Measurement Parameters
This section describes the different parameters used to take

measurements and how to apply them.
You will learn to:

• Set spectrum parameters
• Set waveform parameters
62 Section 4: Manual Setup Measurement Parameters
Setting Measurement Parameters
To take a completely manual measurement (i.e. you set all
parameters yourself) use the Manual Setup option.
• From the Main Menu press Measure then press to

select Manual Setup. This opens the Set Parameters Menu.
• Change the parameter settings as required. Alternatively

select a pre-existing parameter set by pressing . Use the
arrow keys to highlight a parameter set then press to
select it.
• To take a measurement press . See Walk-through:

Taking Measurement in Measure Mode (page 29) for full
instructions for taking measurements. Ignore the first four
steps as these refer to using the quick setup menus to take a
measurement.
Some parameter values can be changed directly in this menu e.g.

press to change the number of spectral lines or to toggle
the channel(s) used to take the measurements.
For other parameters, pressing a number key will open another

menu where you can change the parameters settings for that menu
item e.g. pressing Fmin opens the Change Fmin Value Menu.
Note: When you set the parameters for a measurement you cannot
choose settings that conflict with the type of measurement you are
trying to create e.g. if you are measuring acceleration you cannot
select a current sensor. If you try to take the measurement the
instrument will display an 'Invalid Combination' message and no
measurement will be taken.
Changing parameters once measuring has begun

Measurement parameters are normally chosen before taking a
measurement but can also be changed once measuring is underway.
• While the hardware is stabilizing or the instrument is

collecting data the hourglass icon will be displayed. During
this time, pressing keys 1-9 will access the associated Set
Parameters Menu item directly.
• Make any required changes then press to resume

measuring.
Setting Spectrum Parameters
A vibration spectrum is a chart of vibration amplitude versus vibration
frequency. The vibration spectrum of a machine component shows
the frequencies at which the component is vibrating and the
amplitude of vibration at each of these frequencies.
vb spectra consist of discrete spectral lines displayed at fixed

frequency intervals. The height of each spectral line represents the
amplitude of vibration at the frequency the spectral line is positioned.
The more spectral lines in a spectrum, the higher the resolution of
the spectrum (but more memory is used).
A simplified illustration of a discrete vibration spectrum
The vibration spectrum of a vibrating machine component is the

basic tool for understanding the nature of the vibration. To ensure a
spectrum is as informative as possible, the measurement parameters
that are used to obtain the spectrum must be set appropriately.
• To begin setting measurement parameters, from the Main

Menu press then press to display the Set
Parameters Menu.
Setting the Measurement Mode
• From the Set Parameters Menu press
When in the Measurement Mode Menu:
Domain toggles the Domain between Frequency (spectra),

Time (waveform) and Demod (demodulation).
Quantity toggles the amplitude quantity between

Displacement, Velocity, Acceleration and Current (Acceleration
is the only option available when the Domain is set to Demod).
Window toggles the type of window between Hanning and

Rectangular. This is not available when the Domain is set to
Time.
• To change any of the options press the number key that

corresponds to that menu item. When you have finished
press to return to the Set Parameters Menu.
Domain
When Domain is set to Frequency the instrument displays spectra
rather than waveforms.
Quantity
Measuring velocity is applicable for most situations. However,
displacement spectra are usually more informative for low vibration
frequencies (below 30 Hz/1800 CPM) and acceleration spectra for
high frequencies (above1 kHz/60 kCPM).
Window
Measured data is usually not directly used to generate a spectrum
but is first modified using a 'window' function. Windowing
compensates for known limitations of the mathematical process
(FFT) that transforms the data into a spectrum. Multiplying data by a
window function prevents spectral lines from smearing or leaking into
one another, thereby making the data block appear like a complete
wave. The Hanning window is normally used for this purpose. If the
Rectangular window is used the data will not be modified.
Setting the Number of Spectral Lines

• From the Set Parameters Menu press to toggle the
number of spectral lines.
The number of spectral lines ranges from 400 to 3200 (6400 for the
vb3000).
The resolution of the spectrum increases with the number of spectral

lines used i.e. the more spectral lines the more information the
spectrum contains. However, the more spectral lines used, the
longer the measurement takes and the more memory is used to
store the spectrum. Use 6400 lines only when required e.g. when
you need to distinguish between two closely-spaced vibration
frequencies or when the Fmax is very large. For coast-down or run-
up measurements a setting of 400 lines is recommended.
Note: When taking a dual channel recording the number of spectral

lines is reduced to 1600 (3200 for the vb3000).
Setting the Fmax
The Fmax is the maximum frequency displayed on the spectrum i.e.
the frequency range, starting from zero, over which vibration
amplitudes are displayed. The unit Hz is equivalent to cycles per
second (1 Hz = 60 cycles per minute).
• From the Set Parameters Menu press to display the Set

Fmax Menu.
• Press or to highlight a frequency maximum and

to select. You can also press or to move
horizontally across the columns.
In general the higher the operating speed of the machine, the higher
the Fmax needs to be to capture all crucial information. For vibration
involving fingered elements such as gear teeth, fan blades, pump
vanes, and bearing elements, an Fmax equal to 3 times the number
of fingers multiplied by the operating speed is usually sufficient. For
vibration not involving fingered elements, an Fmax equal to 10 times
the operating speed is usually sufficient. You can calculate the Fmax
yourself or the instrument can do it for you.
Using the vb instrument to calculate the Fmax
• From the Set Fmax Menu press
• Press to display the Enter Orders Menu and use the

number keys to enter a value. A value of 10, for example, will
display 10 order of the running speed.
• Press to return to the Set Fmax Menu.
• Press to enter a default running speed (RPM) of the
machine. The instrument will automatically select the
appropriate Fmax value to display at least the specified
number of orders.
• Press to return to the Set Fmax Menu or press the key

twice to return to the Set Parameters Menu.
Displaying Hz/CPM instead of orders

• To display the Fmax value as Hz or CPM instead of orders,
from the Set Fmax Menu press
• The equivalent Hz value will be highlighted. To select this

press
• To display CPM/kCPM press again to display the

equivalent value then press to select the highlighted
value.
Setting the Fmin
The purpose of the Fmin setting is to eliminate the 'ski-slope' effect
from the low frequency end of the spectra. All spectral lines below
the Fmin value will be set to zero and will not be included in the
overall rms calculation.
Note: the value can only be entered in Hz, but will be displayed in
CPM in the Set Parameters Menu (if your Display Options are set to
CPM). So, for example, to obtain an Fmin of 60 CPM enter a value of
1 Hz - this is the default value.
• From the Set Parameters Menu press and use the

number keys to enter a value then press to continue.
Averaging
• From the Set Parameters Menu, press to display the
Averaging Menu.
Setting the Number of Averages

The larger the number of spectra used for averaging, the more any
noise spikes in vibration signals are reduced and the more
accurately true spectral peaks are represented. However, the larger
the number of averages, the more data needs to be collected and
therefore the longer it takes to obtain the average spectrum. Four
averages are sufficient for most cases. Set the number of averages
to one if spectra averaging is not required, for example, with run-up
and coast-down recordings.
• From the Averaging Menu press
• Press or to highlight the number of averages and

to select.
Setting the Average Type
When vibration is measured, several spectra are usually measured
and then averaged to produce an average vibration chart. The
averaging process minimizes the effect of random variations or noise
spikes that are inherent in vibration signals. Averaging is applied to
amplitude values, not to the frequency range.
Linear averaging is suitable for most cases. The amplitude value at

each frequency of a spectrum is added to the same frequency of the
next spectrum. The sum is then divided by the number of averages
taken.
Exponential averaging is normally used only if vibration behavior

varies significantly during measurement, such as during run-up and
coast-down measurements. The most recent spectra have more
influence on the final average than earlier measurements. Averaging
is continuous until the measurement is stopped.
Peak hold is useful for measuring the maximum amplitude peak that
occurs over a period of time and for measuring resonances during a
bump test. Peak hold does not actually average the amplitude values
but records and displays the maximum amplitude of each spectral
line.
• Press to cycle through the Average Types, Linear,

Exponential and Peak hold.
Setting the Overlap Percentage
Overlapping is a means of collecting and displaying data more
quickly. As vibration measurements are collected a percentage of the
new data is combined (overlapped) with each subsequent
measurement. The higher the overlap percentage, the less newly
acquired data is needed to generate a spectrum and thus the faster
the spectrum can be displayed. An overlap percentage of 50% is
ideal for most cases.
• From the Averaging Menu press
• Press or to highlight the percentage to overlap and

to select.
Setting the Machine Running Speed

• Press and type in an RPM value then press to save

this value.
Ask for RPM
If the machine RPM is available at the time of recording, for example
from an installed rev counter or a hand held tachometer, the user
can be instructed to enter the RPM via the vb instrument keypad.
When Ask for RPM is selected, the user will be prompted to enter the
machine RPM before taking the recording. This RPM value is saved
with the recording and displayed in the Ascent software. Additional
recordings on the same machine that also have Ask for RPM
selected, and which have the same default RPM value, will be
assigned the same entered value. Ask for RPM can be used in both
route and recording mode but not in measure mode.
Setting the Trigger Type

Source
If the internal trigger source is selected the instrument will start
measuring the moment it is ready to do so. If the tach trigger source
is selected the speed of the rotor will be displayed and
measurements will be started only when a tachometer pulse is
detected. With tach trigger type the averaging is synchronous since
each measurement is started at the same point of shaft rotation. This
is sometimes called time synchronous averaging.
Mode
If the free run trigger mode is selected the instrument will take
measurements continuously. If the single trigger mode is selected
only one measurement will be taken.
• Press to change the Source between Internal and Tach.
• Press to change the trigger Mode between Free Run

and Single.
• Press to close this menu and continue.
Selecting the Channel(s) for Taking

Measurements
• From the Set Parameters Menu press to cycle through
the channel(s) to be used, CH1, CH2 or CH1 & CH2.
If both channels are selected (in vb2000/vb3000), channel 1 data will

be displayed by default. The display can however be toggled
between the channels by pressing once the measurement has
started.
Specifying Sensor Settings

• Press or to select the sensor to edit.
Once the desired sensor has been selected:
• Press to edit the Name of the sensor.
• Press to toggle the Sensor Type between acceleration,
velocity, displacement and current.
• Press to edit the Sensitivity of the sensor. The range of

sensitivities will vary depending on the selected sensor unit.
• Press toggle the Unit measured by the sensor.
• Press to change the Settling Time for the sensor. The

settling times can be anything from 0 seconds to 99 seconds
inclusive.
• Press to toggle the Drive Current for the sensor ON or

OFF. This is the 2.2 mA supply to power ICP® type
accelerometers.
• Press to reset the name of the sensor (the other

settings will remain unchanged).
• Make any changes then press to continue.
Note: Once a sensor has been defined as a particular sensor type

e.g. accelerometer, you will not be able to change the sensor to a
different type if it has been used to take recordings that are stored in
the instrument. The instrument will associate the stored
measurements with the sensor that was used to record them. If you
need to change a sensor's type for any reason, erase all the
associated recordings in the instrument first.
Setting Waveform Parameters
A vibration waveform is a chart of how vibration level changes with
time. A vibration waveform shows the vibration level at any particular
time during the measurement period.
vb waveforms are discrete charts represented by a series of equally
spaced discrete sample points connected by straight lines. The more
sample points in a spectrum the higher the resolution of the
waveform (but the more memory used).
To ensure a waveform is as informative as possible the
measurement parameters used to obtain the waveform must be set
appropriately.
• To begin setting measurement parameters, from the Main

Menu press then press to display the Set
Parameters Menu.
Setting the Measurement Mode

• Press to change the Domain to Time.
• Press to toggle the Quantity to be measured between

acceleration, displacement, velocity and current.
• When finished, press to return to the Set Parameters

Menu.
Note: Option 3: Window, is not available with waveforms.
Setting the Number of Samples
• From the Set Parameters Menu, when Time mode is
selected press to cycle the number of samples between
1024, 2048, 4096 or 8192 (16 384 for the vb3000).
The resolution of the waveform increases with the number of

samples used i.e. the more samples, the more information the
waveform contains. However, the more samples in a waveform, the
more memory is used up to store the waveform.
Tip: An easy way to select the number of samples and duration is to

let the instrument set them for you. In Frequency mode (option 1 in
the Set Parameters Menu), select the Fmax and number of lines
then switch to Time mode and the instrument will select the
corresponding values.
Setting the Duration
The duration of a waveform is the total time period over which
information may be obtained from the waveform. The unit ms is short
for ‘millisecond’ (i.e. a thousandth of a second). The duration values
that you can select are dependent on the number of samples you
selected earlier (see previous topic). The larger the number of
samples the larger the duration values.
• Press or to select the required duration and to

select. You can also press or to move horizontally
across the columns.
• Press to toggle between entering duration in ms or as

multiples of the machine's revolution time.
For example, set the duration to 10 Revs to ensure that your

recording will cover at least 10 revolutions of the shaft.
Note: You must use a tachometer or set the default RPM for this to
function correctly.
Setting Other Parameters

To change the settings for other measurement parameters, please
refer to the appropriately titled topics following Setting Spectrum
Parameters (page 65).
Section 5: Recording Data
This section describes the procedures for recording vibration data on

the instrument and transferring it to Ascent on a PC.
You will learn to:

• Take recordings
• Review recordings
• Erase recordings
• Transfer recorded data to the PC
• Tag items to be recorded
• Use autorepeat to add a time delay between recordings
Section 5: Recording Data 81
Walk-through: Taking Recordings
The following instructions assume that you have already created the
machines you intend to take recordings of.
Warning: Take care of personal safety when taking recordings in

industrial environments. Follow all safety regulations at all times.
Also read Precautions (page 6) before attempting to take recordings.
• Check the battery capacity of the instrument and if it is less

than 30%, charge the battery pack. See Battery
Management (page 161) for more information.
• Select the folder containing the machines you wish to

monitor. From the Main Menu press Folder
Management. The first menu item shows the name of the
currently selected folder. If your folder is already selected
please skip the next step, otherwise press to display the
Select Folder Menu.
• Press or to highlight a folder then press to

select it. This loads the folder into current memory and
returns you to the Folder Management Menu.
• Press to return to the Main Menu.
• From the Main Menu press to access the Select

Machine Menu.
• Press or to highlight the machine for which

recordings are to be taken then press to select the
machine.
• In the Select Point Menu select the point for which

recordings are to be taken then press
• In the Select Direction Menu select the direction for which

recordings are to be taken then press
82 Section 5: Recording Data
• In the Select Parameter Set Menu highlight the parameter
set for which recordings are to be taken. If all is selected a
recording will be sequentially taken for each tagged
parameter set. If none of the parameter sets are tagged and
all is selected a recording will be taken for all parameter
sets.
• To view or edit the parameter values of the highlighted

parameter set press then press to return to the
Select Parameter Set Menu.
Note: If you change any of the parameter values other than display
options in the Set Parameters Menu, a new parameter set will be
created.
• Connect the sensor to the measurement location (see

Sensor Setup on page 21). If you are recording tachometer
readings, set up the tachometer also (see Tachometer Setup
on page 23).
• When you are ready to take the recording(s) press
• Wait for the sensor and instrument hardware to settle and for
the instrument to collect data (if you press at this stage
the recording(s) will be aborted).
When the instrument has finished collecting the data for a particular
spectrum or waveform, the spectrum or waveform will be displayed
momentarily along with a message confirming that the recording has
been completed. You can use the 'Halt after recording' option to
keep the chart displayed until you choose to continue (see Halt After
Recording on page 172). The recording is stored to your selected
location and the Select Parameter Set Menu is then re-displayed.
You can then select another parameter set for another recording.
Recording tags are automatically cleared as each recording is
completed.
• When you have finished taking recordings for a

measurement location you can then take recordings at other
measurement locations by repeating the above process.
When you have finished taking recordings at all measurement
locations you can review the recordings on the instrument (see next
topic, Reviewing Recordings) or transfer them to a PC for detailed
analysis using the Ascent software.
Reviewing Recordings
• From the Main Menu press to access the Select
Machine Menu.
• Highlight the machine to be reviewed by pressing or

then press to select the machine. The symbol
indicates that you are in review mode.
• In the Select Point Menu select the point to be reviewed then

press
• In the Select Direction Menu select the direction to be

reviewed then press
• In the Select Parameter Set Menu select the parameter set

with the recordings to be reviewed then press
• In the Select Recording Menu, highlight the recording to be

reviewed then press to display it. Cursors and zooming
may be used to better display the data (see Analyzing
Measurements on page 55).
• When you have finished reviewing the data in the recording

press to return to the Select Recording Menu from
where you may select another recording to be reviewed.
• To select recordings under other parameter sets, directions,

points, or machines press then to navigate back
through the menus.
Resetting an incorrect RPM
If the RPM was specified incorrectly when a recording was taken this
can be corrected either in the vb instrument or in the Ascent
software.
• With the spectrum or waveform displayed press to

display the Enter Rotor Speed Menu.
• Enter the correct RPM then press to return to the chart

display.
Erasing Recordings
• From the Select Recording Menu press to erase the
highlighted item then + to confirm.
Transferring Recordings from the

Instrument
• Plug your instrument into the PC using the communications
cable (RS232).
• Turn on the instrument and click the Ascent Receive button

to transfer data from the instrument to your PC.
You do not need to make sure that you have the correct folder open;
the software stores a hidden key in the instrument for every folder
that determines where it belongs.
If you have a single folder defined in the instrument the receive

process will proceed automatically. If there are multiple folders in the
instrument you will be presented with a screen allowing you to select
which folder(s) to transfer.
• If you are shown this Prepare for Receive window, select the
folder you wish to transfer and click OK.
• To transfer more than one folder at a time click the 'Receive

multiple folders' box then tick the box beside each folder that
you want to receive.
Tagging Items
Not all machines or points need to have recordings taken during
every recording session. In such cases you can create a sub-list by
tagging only the items for which recordings need to be taken. Tags
are also helpful in that they remind the person taking recordings
which items have not yet been measured.
Tagging an item automatically tags all of its sub-elements e.g.

tagging a point automatically tags all of its axes and parameter sets.
Such an item is marked with a . If you selectively tag only some of
the elements of an item, the item is marked with a . When a
recording is taken the tag will disappear.
• To tag an item, from the Main Menu press then press

till you have the correct menu displayed.
• Press or to highlight the item in the list then press
to tag it.
Example:
To tag a machine:
• From the Main Menu press to display the Select

Machine Menu.
• Press and to select the machine and press
Note: Only items with at least one parameter set can be tagged.
To untag an item
• Highlight the item in the list and press
If you wish to tag most elements of an item it might be faster to first

tag the item and then untag the elements within it that are not
required.
Autorepeat
Autorepeat is used to take the same recording repeatedly with a
short, user-specified delay between recordings. This option is ideal
for taking coast-down/run-up recordings. The instrument will take
recordings continuously until you choose to stop.
• From the Main Menu press Record then choose a

machine, point and direction.
• In the Select Parameter Set Menu press or to

highlight the parameter set you wish to record then press
to open a pop-up menu containing the autorepeat
option.
• Press Autorepeat then enter the number of seconds the

instrument should pause before repeating the recording.
• Press to return to the Select Parameter Set Menu then

press to begin recording.
Section 6: Using Routes
This section outlines the procedures for managing routes with your
instrument.
You will learn to:

• Use a route to take recordings
• Take off-route recordings
• Name a route
• Erase a route
Section 6: Using Routes 89
What is a Route?
A route is an ordered list of measurement locations that a user
follows when taking recordings. When the instrument is operated
using an Auto Route, the user is guided through each measurement
location according to the sequence.
By using a route, the task of taking recordings becomes much

simpler and the potential for mistakes can be minimized. Use the
Ascent software to create and manage your route library then send
this data into the instrument (see the Ascent Software Reference
Guide, Creating a Route).
Before creating a route you must first create your measurement

locations (machines, points, axes and parameter sets). Each new
route is created by selecting, in any order, these machines and
locations.
Up to eight routes can be stored in each folder. Each route can only
contain machines that are stored within the same folder as the route.
90 Section 6: Using Routes
Walk-through: Taking Recordings Using
a Route
Once the first recording has been taken you will automatically be
moved to the next location on the route. You can take recordings for
all other measurement locations sequentially, or jump to various
entries on the route.
• From the Main Menu press to display the Select Route

Menu.
• Use the or keys to highlight a route then press

to select it. The first location on your route will be displayed.
• Attach the sensor to the location indicated on the instrument

screen then press
When the instrument has finished collecting the data, the spectrum
or waveform will be displayed momentarily along with a message
confirming that the recording has been completed.
Note: The ON/OFF key can be used as a left-handed START key

when on a route. This feature must be turned on using the Options
Menu (accessed by pressing from the Main Menu).
• Continue to take recordings using until all the

measurements have been taken and you are returned to the
Main Menu. The route is now ready to be transferred to the
Ascent software.
Notes:
• In the Auto Route Menu you can press to view or edit
notes for the measurement location.
• Press to view/edit the display options for recorded

spectra/waveforms.
• Press to view the parameter sets at this measurement

location.
• Press from the Auto Route Menu to open a pop-up

menu that lists these options.
Reviewing Data During a Route

When performing a route you can review any of the recordings you
have just taken.
Note: You can only review recordings from the current route using
this method (if you wish to review recordings taken on a previous
route, see Reviewing Recordings on page 84).
• Press to return to the location you wish to review. You

can return to any previous location by pressing this key
repeatedly.
• When the route location you wish to review is displayed

press (alternatively press to display a pop-up menu
then press Details).
This opens the Select Parameter Set Menu. The review option is
displayed in the bottom right corner.
• Press to review the recording.
• When you have finished reviewing press again to return

to the previous menu.
• Press to return to the Auto Route. You will be returned

to the location where you left the route and the next
unrecorded location will be displayed.
• You can now press and continue to record the route as

normal or repeat the above procedure if you wish to review
more recordings.
Note: If you want to review each recording after you take it, a more
efficient method is to use Halt After Recording from the Options
Menu. If this option is turned ON then the spectrum or waveform
remains on the display after recording (see Halt After Recording on
page 172 for more information).
Skipping Route Entries
• To skip a measurement location press
• To return to the previous measurement location, press
• To move forwards or backwards by an entire machine, rather

than just a measurement location, press + or +
Jumping to a Specific Machine

You can 'jump' to a particular machine anywhere within a route. This
gives you the flexibility to change the order in which you collect
recordings. Each machine is listed only once even though it may
appear several times in your actual route. Once you have finished
taking measurements on your chosen machine, the machine that
immediately follows it in the list becomes the next machine on the
route.
• To jump to a particular machine within the route, in the Auto

Route menu press (alternatively press to display a
pop-up menu then press Select Machine).
• Use or to highlight a machine then press to
select it and return to the route. The first location at this
machine is displayed.
• To move forwards or backwards by 10 machines press

+ or + . Use or to move to the
beginning or end of the machine list.
Off-route Recordings
When collecting data, you may decide to take additional
measurements that are not part of the route sequence. This might be
done if a machine's vibration pattern does not look as expected when
taking the measurement.
• With the Auto Route screen displayed press to

temporarily step out of the route.
• The Select Machine Menu will display. From here you can
set up the location and parameters of the extra
measurement.
• Take the measurement as normal. Once recording is

complete you will be returned to the Select Parameter Set
Menu where you can review the recording.
• Press to return to the route.
Naming/Renaming a Route
Menu.
• Press or to highlight desired route then press

to edit.
• Press + to clear the current name then type in a

new name for the route.
• Press to save the name and return to the Select Route

Menu.
Erasing an Entire Route
Warning: The following procedure erases all route entries. Erasing a
route does not erase the machines that make up the route entries.

Menu.
• Press or to highlight the route to be erased and

press . You will be prompted to confirm.
• Press + to erase the route.
Keypad Schedule Entries
A special type of measurement can be created that requires the
person collecting the data to enter a numeric value via the keypad
rather than a vibration measurement. These special measurements
are called keypad schedule entries and can be used to record
additional information about your machines such as temperature or
motor current. Keypad schedule entries can only be created using
the Ascent software - they cannot be created in the instrument. Full
details on the practical applications of keypad schedule entries and
instructions on how to create them are contained in the Ascent
Software Reference Guide.
The procedure for recording and reviewing keypad schedule entry

data is the same as for vibration data.
• Use the menus to select the machine, point, direction and

parameter set. The parameter set of a keypad schedule
entry will be preceded by a hash symbol #.
• To view the values of the parameter set, highlight it using

then press . To continue press
• Either include the parameter set in a route or press from
the Select Parameter Set Menu to take a recording.
• Type in the numeric value and press . Decimal points will

be placed automatically as you enter digits from left to right.
Note that the value entered can be either positive (+) or
negative (-); press to toggle this.
The process for reviewing this data is the same as for reviewing
vibration recordings.
Section 7: Advanced Operation
This section outlines the procedures for performing advanced

operations with your instrument.
You will learn to:

• Take demodulated recordings
• Analyze demodulated data
• Take dual channel measurements
• Set and display baseline values
100 Section 7: Advanced Operation
Demodulation
A useful technique for measuring and analyzing data is
demodulation. The demodulation process looks for repetitive
patterns created by impact events that lie embedded within the time
waveform. The process works by extracting the low amplitude, high
frequency impact signals and then tracing an 'envelope' around
these signals to identify them as repetitions of the same fault. The
resulting spectrum, with the low frequency data removed, will now
clearly show the high frequency impact signals and harmonics.
Demodulation is also useful as an early warning device, as it detects

bearing tones before they are visible in a normal spectrum.
The high frequency signals that demodulation aims to extract are

very localized, therefore extra care must be taken to ensure the
accelerometer is setup correctly. Ensure that:
• The accelerometer is mounted close to the fault source.
• The accelerometer is well coupled, using either stud
mounting or a very strong magnet on bare metal. A handheld
probe or stinger is not recommended.
• The accelerometer mounting is consistent between visits. If
not, a trend plot of overall rms values will be meaningless.
Section 7: Advanced Operation 101
Setting Demodulation Parameters
The bandwidth determines which range of frequencies the
demodulation process will use. It is recommended that the following
procedure is followed to determine an appropriate bandwidth.
• Take a 'quick snapshot' measurement using the following

parameters:
Domain: Freq
Quantity: Accel
Fmax value: 20 000 Hz (1200 kCPM)
• Examine the graph for a region of broadband high frequency

noise or 'haystack'. Such a haystack might look like the one
below.
• Select a bandwidth which includes the haystack, but

excludes any large individual peaks such as those shown to
the left of the haystack in the example diagram.
It is very important that all the large-amplitude/low frequency peaks

are rejected. If there are no significant haystacks displayed, a
standard bandwidth of (2 to 10) kHz (120 to 600) kCPM is
recommended.
When an appropriate bandwidth has been determined, proceed with

the demodulation measurement.
Setting up the demodulation measurement
• From the Main Menu press to display the Measurement
Menu.
• Press to use the Demodulation Quick Setup Menu (see

Demodulation Quick Setup on page 34).
OR
• Press then to set all parameters manually using the
Measurement Mode Menu.
Analyzing Demodulation Data

Measuring, recording and viewing data is exactly the same as for a
Frequency/Acceleration spectrum. The demodulation spectra can
also be transferred to Ascent and analyzed using the same
techniques as for normal spectra e.g. trend plots, alarms, fault
frequencies, bearings and gears.
The following are points to keep in mind when analyzing

demodulation data:
• The appearance of bearing tones in the demodulated
spectrum, but not in the normal spectrum, is a good early
warning indicator. It often points to insufficient lubrication.
• As the bearing deteriorates, the baseline noise level
increases and bearing tones develop running speed
sidebands.
• In the final stages of bearing wear, the bearing tones may
become less prominent as cracks and pits become more
rounded and distributed over the race.
Dual Channel Simultaneous
Measurements
The vb instrument can measure two channels simultaneously. Dual
channel measurements must be taken in measure mode (rather than
record mode) and then saved to an appropriate machine location.
Because the instrument has to buffer and manipulate twice the data,
some of the more memory intensive operations are not available.
The following restrictions apply:
• Number of spectral lines is reduced to 1600 (3200 for
vb3000)
• Number of samples (for time waveforms) is reduced to 4096
(8192 for vb3000)
The Ascent software identifies recordings by their location and

date/timestamp. If the date/timestamp of two recordings is identical
at the same location in the instrument, one is discarded. Therefore,
when recording the two channels you must store them at different
locations. This can be either a different point or different axes. It is
good practice to store the two channels in measurement locations
that reflect the position and direction in which the sensors were
placed when the measurement was taken.
• To select dual channel measuring, from the Main Menu

press then press to display the Set Parameters
Menu.
• Press twice to change the channel setting to CH1 &

CH2.
• Connect sensors to both channels then press and take

the measurement as normal.
• To store the measurements, with the

spectrum/waveform/tachometer reading displayed press
to open a pop-up window containing the Record option.
• Press to record both channels then select the machine,
point and direction for channel 1.
• Press to store the channel 1 measurement. The

instrument will beep and display the message 'Recorded
CH1 - Now record CH2'.
• Select a different location for the channel 2 measurement.

Use + to navigate back through the machine and
point menus if necessary.
• Press to store the channel 2 measurement. The

spectrum/waveform/tachometer reading will be re-displayed
with the message 'Recorded CH1 & CH2'.
Viewing both channels

For spectra and waveforms the channel 1 measurement is displayed
by default.
• To view channel 2 press . The currently displayed

channel is indicated at the bottom of the screen.
For tachometer displays, channel 1 is displayed on the left and

channel 2 on the right.
Setting Baselines
The instrument can be configured to display the overall rms vibration
level from a chosen baseline recording immediately after a new
recording is taken. This provides a basic check on the data validity
and a useful view of the change in vibration level. As an alternative
to displaying baselines, the last recorded measurement's value can
displayed instead. The setup and managing of baselines is handled
in the Ascent software. Please refer to the Ascent Software
Reference Guide, for details of how to display baseline recordings on
the instrument.
The instrument can also be configured to warn you when a new

recording is significantly above or below the baseline overall level.
See Halt After Recording (page 172) for more information.
Section 8: Creating Machines
This section describes the procedures for creating machines within

the instrument.
You will learn to:

• Create and manage folders
• Create machines, points and locations
• Create parameter sets
• Copy a machine
• Erase machines, points and locations
• Rename machines, points and locations
• Select and attach notes to items
• Remove and erase notes
106 Section 8: Creating Machines
vb Data Structure
Instead of analyzing data onsite, you can also record the data on
your instrument and analyze the data later. If many machines need
to be analyzed recommend that recordings be taken of all machines
before any analysis is done. Analysis is best carried out away from
machines in safe, quiet environments.
The instrument uses the following hierarchical data storage structure:
Starting at the bottom of the diagram, a recording is the vibration

data collected at a particular location on a machine.
A parameter set defines a set of measurement parameter values

that can be used to take a recording. These are useful when you are
taking a large number of recordings, each using the same parameter
values.
The direction refers to the orientation of the sensor - horizontal,

vertical etc. Directions are grouped under points as each point can
have recordings taken in several axes.
A point represents a place on a machine that a measurement will be

taken. Points are grouped under the machine that they are located
on.
Section 8: Creating Machines 107
A route is an ordered list of measurement locations that a user
follows when taking recordings. It contains a sequential list of the
machines to be monitored.
A folder is a container that can be used to identify and group

machines. For example, if you collect vibration data from several
locations, a different folder should be used to hold each separate
group of machines.
Routes, folders, machines, points, and directions are identified by the

names you give them. Parameter sets are identified by their
parameter value summaries e.g. accel 400 ms or veloc 1000 Hz.
Recordings are identified by their date and time stamps.
Creating a Machine Data Structure

If recordings are to be taken for a large number of machines on a
regular basis, it is useful to first create a data structure containing all
the items to be measured. Separate data structures can be created
under different folders. Once a folder has been assigned, a list of all
machines to be monitored can be created, including their respective
points, directions, and measurement parameters.
The fastest and easiest way to create a data structure is to use the
Ascent software to first create your folders, machines and points etc,
then send these to the instrument. This is the recommended method.
Please refer to the Ascent Software Reference Guide, Section 2:
Basic Operation, for more information.
Machines and measurement parameter sets created in the

instrument are automatically added to the Ascent database when
you use the software Receive function to transfer data from the
instrument to your PC.
Working with Folders
Selecting a folder from the list loads it into current memory. Any new
machines you create will automatically be stored in this folder until
you select another folder.
• From the Main Menu press
• Press to display the Select Folder Menu.
If you have not yet created any folders, the screen will contain the
default folder (Unnamed folder) and numbered slots labeled - new -.
• To select an existing folder from the list, press or to

highlight the folder then press to select it. This loads the
folder into current memory and returns you to the Folder
Management Menu.
To create a folder
• Press or to scroll to one of the slots labeled - new -
then press to display the Edit Name Menu.
• Enter a name for the folder by choosing characters from the

keyboard (see Entering Text and Numbers on page 16, for
details of how to do this).
• Press to save the name and return to the Select Folder

Menu.
To erase a folder
• Press or to highlight a folder in the list.
• Press to display a pop-up menu containing the Erase

option.
• Press to select the Erase option. A message appears

asking you to confirm the erasure.
• Press + to erase the folder.
The folder will be removed from the list and the empty slot will be re-
labeled - new -.
Creating a Machine
• From the Main Menu press . The Select Machine Menu
displays a list of numbered memory locations.
If you have not yet created any machines, the screen will contain
numbered slots labeled - new -.
• Press or to scroll to one of the slots labeled - new -

then press to display the Edit Name Menu.
• Enter a name for the machine by choosing characters from

the keyboard (see Entering Text and Numbers on page 16,
for details of how to do this).
• Press to save the name.
Creating a Point
• Select a machine as described in the previous topic:
Creating a Machine (page 111).
• From the Select Machine Menu press
• Press or to highlight a point.
• Press to display the Edit Name Menu.
• Enter a name for the point by choosing characters from the

keyboard (see Entering Text and Numbers on page 16, for
details of how to do this).
Creating a Direction/Axis
• Create a point as described in the previous topic: Creating a
Point (page 111).
• From the Select Point Menu press
• Press or to highlight a direction/axis.
• Press to select the highlighted direction/axis.
All points share the same direction names. The first six default
direction names cannot be edited.
To create a new direction

• Press or to highlight a question mark in the Select
Direction Menu and press to display the Edit Name
Menu.
• Enter a name for the direction by choosing characters from

the keyboard (see Entering Text and Numbers on page 16,
for details of how to do this).
Creating a Parameter Set
A parameter set is a user-defined group of measurement parameters
that are used to take a measurement. Once a parameter set has
been created in the instrument it will be added to the list in the Select
Parameter Set Menu.
Any parameter set in the list can be selected and used to take
measurements. A point can also have more than one parameter set
applied to any given axes, giving you the flexibility to take multiple
measurements at one location using different parameters.
• Select a direction/axis as described in the previous topic:

Creating a Direction/Axis (page 112).
• From the Select Direction Menu press to select the

highlighted direction/axis.
If the direction/axis does not have any parameter sets defined, the
Set Parameters Menu will be displayed.
Refer to Setting Spectrum Parameters (page 65) for information on

setting the different parameters.
If the direction/axis already has a parameter set defined the Select
Parameter Set Menu will be displayed.
• To review a parameter set, highlight it in the Select

Parameter Set Menu and press to review its parameter
values.
• To review the parameter set's most recent recording press
Note: When taking recordings, only the single trigger type can be
selected because you are limited by the number of lines specified in
your parameter set.
Copying a Machine
If you have many identical machines you can save a lot of set up
time by using the instrument's copy function. Copying a machine
creates a new machine with the same named points, directions and
parameter sets. Any recordings taken on the original machine are
not copied to the new machine.

Machine Menu.
• Press or to highlight the machine you wish to copy.
• Press to copy the machine. The copied machine

appears in the first unused slot in the list.
The name is the same as that of the original machine except for the
last character, which is automatically incremented. The icon will
appear to the right of the new machine to indicate that it has one or
more points and directions defined, but no recordings have yet been
taken.
Erasing a Machine
Erasing a machine will remove all its points, directions and
recordings permanently from memory.
Note: Any parameter sets used by the machine will not be removed
but will remain in the Select Parameter Set Menu so they can be
applied to other recordings.
• Press or to highlight the machine to be erased then

press
• If the machine has recordings (as indicated by the icon)

you will be prompted to press + to erase the data.
You must delete any data from the machine before the
machine can be erased.
• Once the machine has no data you will be prompted to press

+ to erase the machine.
To cancel the erasure

• To cancel the pop-up window and not erase an item, press
or simply wait to allow the window to disappear by itself.
Erasing a Point, Direction/Axis or Parameter Set
Erasing points and other items is performed in the same manner as
erasing machines.

Machine Menu.
• Press or to highlight the machine containing the

item to be erased.
• Press repeatedly in combination with or to

navigate to the menu containing the item to erase.
• Once you have the correct menu displayed, highlight the

item and press to display a pop-up menu containing the
erase option.
• Press to select the erase option. You will be prompted

to confirm.
• Press + to erase the item.
Renaming a Machine, Point or Direction/Axis
• Select the machine, point or direction/axis.
• Press to enter the Edit Name Menu.
• Press + to clear the current name then type in a

new name.
• Press to save the name and return to the previous

screen.
Maintaining Data Integrity

Caution: The Ascent software identifies machines, points, axes and
sensors by their names. If you rename such an item in the
instrument and then transfer data from the instrument to the Ascent
software, the software will treat it as a new item. Furthermore, avoid
having duplicate names in the instrument. They will be differentiated
solely on the order that they appear in the instrument and the
software.
Attaching Notes to an Item
A 16-character note can be attached to each item on the recording
list: machines, points, directions/axes and recordings. To view or edit
the note for an item:
• From the Main Menu press then press till you have
the correct menu displayed.
• Press or to highlight the item in the list.
• Press to enter the Notes Menu. This menu lists all the
notes that are attached to the currently selected item.
• Press to add a note. See Entering Text and Numbers

(page 16), for details on how to add text.
• Press twice to save the note and return to the previous

screen. The icon will appear beside the item to indicate
that a note has been attached.
Selecting a Note from a List
When you are in the Notes Menu, pre-defined notes can be added to
a machine, point, direction/axis or recording.
• From the Notes Menu (see previous topic: Attaching Notes

to an Item on page 120) press to display the Edit Notes
Menu.
• Press + to display the Edit List Menu.
• Press or to highlight the note to be used.
• Press to select the note and return to the Edit Notes

Menu. The note can then be edited if required or press
again to add this note to your item.
Removing a Note from an Item
• Highlight the item with the note attached then press to
enter the Notes Menu.
• If there is more than one note attached to the item press

or to highlight the note you wish to remove.
• Press + to remove the note.
Note: This procedure only removes the note from the selected item.
The note remains in the Edit List Menu where it can be selected and
attached to other items. To permanently erase a note see the next
topic.
Erasing a Note Permanently

• Access the Edit List Menu (see Selecting a Note from a List
on page 121).
• Press or to highlight the note to be erased.
• Press + to erase the note.
• Press then then again to return to whichever

menu you started from.
Section 9: Balancing Rotors
This section describes the procedure for performing balancing

operations on your instrument.
You will learn to:

• Understand the balancing process
• Set balancing parameters
• Perform trial readings
• Perform balancing
• Review balance readings
• Use balance weight calculations
• Load, save, edit and delete data in the vb memory
• Produce balance reports
Note: Balancing is not available in the vb1000v
Section 9: Balancing Rotors 123
Introduction
The instrument can be used to balance rotors that are rigid but not
rotors that flex significantly at their operating speeds.
An imbalanced rotor is one that has an uneven mass distribution that

causes the rotor to vibrate when it is rotated. Balancing a rotor
means correcting the uneven mass distribution by adding or
removing weight to/from precisely calculated positions on the rotor.
A rigid rotor can be balanced in one plane or two planes i.e. any
uneven mass distribution in the rotor can be corrected by
adding/removing weights to/from one or two selected cross-sectional
planes on the rotor.
For single plane balancing, the mid plane of the rotor is usually used
as the balancing plane. For dual plane balancing, usually the planes
at the extreme ends of the rotor are used, however, other planes on
the rotor can be used also.
Since the effect of a rotating weight (i.e. the centrifugal force)

increases with the radial distance of the weight, it is common to add
weight to, or remove weight from, the rim of the rotor rather than a
position close to the centre of rotation. By making weight
adjustments at the largest possible radial distance, the amount of
weight that needs to be added to, or removed from, the rotor can be
minimized.
The centrifugal force of a heavy spot on the rotor that causes the
rotor to vibrate increases with the square of the rotational speed. The
vibration level of the rotor may be acceptable at one speed but not at
another. It is thus important to always allow the rotor to settle to its
normal operating speed before taking balancing analysis
measurements.
124 Section 9: Balancing Rotors
Whether a rotor should be balanced in one plane or two planes
depends on the dimensions and operating speed of the rotor. The
following guideline is commonly used:
Rotor Length to Operating Speed Balancing Technique

Diameter Ratio
1000 RPM or less Single plane balancing
0.5 or less
More than 1000 RPM Dual plane balancing
150 RPM or less Single plane balancing
More than 0.5
More than 150 RPM Dual plane balancing
Note: Before attempting to balance a rotor, confirm that the cause of

vibration is uneven mass distribution in the rotor. Good balancing
results can be obtained only if vibration is caused by uneven rotor
mass distribution. Attempting to balance a rotor with other problems
will not, in general, reduce the vibration level.
The Balancing Process

A rigid rotor can be balanced in one or two planes. The following
steps are involved:
Setting Balancing Parameters - Select units and balancing

method.
Initial Reading - A measurement of the imbalance is taken.
Trial Weight Reading - A trial weight is attached to the balancing

plane and another measurement is taken. For dual plane balancing,
the same is also done for the second plane.
Balancing - Correction weights are attached to the balancing

plane(s) as recommended by the instrument.
Trim Balance - A measurement is taken in each plane to confirm

that the rotor is balanced. Any residual imbalance can be removed
via additional trim balance cycles.
The Tachometer
The tachometer provides the instrument with information regarding
the rotational speed of a rotor and the angle at which the rotor is
vibrating. The angle is measured from a fixed reference mark on the
rotor and is called the ‘phase angle’. To balance a rotor it is
necessary to consider not just the amplitude of vibration but also the
phase angle. The amplitude shows the severity of the imbalance and
the phase angle indicates the geometry of the imbalance (i.e. the
location of the heavy spot). Tachometer Setup (page 23) contains
information on how to set up the tachometer to measure phase
angles.
The Balancing Menu

• From the Main Menu press to display the Balancing
Menu.
Example of Balancing Menu with no recordings taken
After initial and trial readings have been taken the Balancing Menu
will update to give you options to balance and review readings (menu
items 3 and 4).
Example of Balancing Menu with recordings
Pressing + from this menu erases the current measurement

data in a two stage process. The first press erases the trim balance
readings. The second press erases both initial and trial weight
readings.
The rest of this section describes the Balancing Menu options.

Balancing Walk-through (page 145) will explain how to use these
options when performing a balance job.
1. Set Balancing Parameters

The Set Balancing Parameters Menu allows you to select the
appropriate parameters to be used for balance jobs.
Number of Planes
(vb3000 and vb2000 only)
• Press to toggle the number of balance planes to use.
Balancing Units
The Balancing Units Menu allows you to select different balancing
units.
Available units are: (press the appropriate number key to toggle the
setting)
Quantity Displacement Velocity Acceleration
Units µm, mm, mil mm/s, in/s g, m/s2
Amplitude Type peak-peak, rms, Ø-peak
Weight Orientation
This option allows you to choose where to place balance weights on
a rotor relative to the rotor's direction of rotation.
With rotation (WR) means you choose a reference point then place
your weights forward of that point in the direction of rotation (i.e. in
the same direction as the rotor turns).
Against rotation (AR) means that if the rotor is turning forward then
you place your weights backwards from the reference point (i.e. in
the opposite direction of the rotor’s rotation).
Ensure that with the rotor stationary, you measure angles in the
direction specified. Do not rotate the rotor in the direction specified.
The selected option is also stored when the balancing data is saved,
and reloaded if the data is reloaded from memory.
Note: AR and WR now only describe the placement of balance

weights. AR and WR no longer apply to tachometer or cross channel
phase measurements.
Remove Trial Weight(s)?

Used to specify whether the trial weight is left on or taken off after
the trial reading.
Note: For dual plane balances, if Remove Trial Weights = Yes then
the trial weight must be removed after each trial run.
Weight Position
Performing balancing operations on a rotor requires establishing a
positioning system for balance weights. To do this you must first
establish a reference mark anywhere on the rotor circumference then
choose the technique that is most appropriate for your balance job.
Degrees
Measure the angle in degrees (0° to 359°) from the reference mark.
The radius must stay constant.
Circumference Arc
Measure the linear distance around the outside of the rotor from the
reference mark to the weight.
# Fixed Positions
Establish a fixed number of attachment points (e.g. drilled and
tapped holes) that are equally spaced on a fixed radius from the
center of the rotation.
• Press or to highlight your selection then press

to continue. If choosing Circumference Arc or # Fixed
Positions this will open a sub-menu where you can specify
the total circumference or numbers of points.
Right Weight Position

Same as for Left Weight Position but only appears if a dual plane
balance is selected.
Advanced Balance Options
• Press to open the Advanced Balance Options Menu.
Filter B/W
Selects Normal or Narrow filter bandwidth for vibration
measurement. The Normal option takes faster measurements,
allows better stability, and should be used except where
background sources of vibration noise exist very close to the
frequency (within 150 RPM) of the rotating equipment being
balanced. The Narrow option is more useful if noise is present
close to the 1X as it takes slower measurements.
CH1 Sensor
Used to select/set up the Channel 1 sensor. See Specifying
Sensor Settings (page 76), for details.
CH2 Sensor
Same as for the CH1 Sensor, but only available in dual plane
balancing.
Rotor Speed
Used to enter the rotor speed. This option is only required for
calculations if balance readings are being entered manually.
The instrument obtains this value from the tachometer if
measurements are being performed.
2. Trial Readings (Single/Dual Plane)
The Trial Readings Menu allows for the initial measurements to be
performed before beginning the balancing of the machine.
• The Trial Readings Menu is accessed by pressing from

the Balancing Menu.
The diagram shows a dual plane balance job after initial and trial
readings have been taken.
Initial Reading
Used to take an initial reading to determine the 'out of balance' level
before performing any balancing procedures. When measuring has
started, the instrument will display the initial measurement in Hz,
RPM, your chosen display units and degrees (the phase angle of the
imbalance).
Trial Weight Reading (Left Trial Reading)
Used to take a trial weight reading in single plane balancing and the
left trial weight reading in dual plane balancing.
The diagram shows the factory default values for trial weight mass
(1.00) and angle (0°).
Note: Your trial weight must be of a sufficient mass to change the

rotor imbalance so that the instrument can perform its calculations
accurately (the industry norm is approximately 30% change in
amplitude or 30° in phase). If in doubt use the Suggest Trial Weight
Mass Calculator (described shortly).
Right Trial Reading

Used to take a trial weight reading in dual plane balancing.
Suggest Trial Weight Mass

Opens the Suggest Trial Weight Calculator. This calculates a
suitable trial weight to cause a significant change from the initial
reading.
Suggest Trial Weight Angle
This tool aids you in determining where on the rotor to place the trial
weight after an initial reading has been taken. The aim is to reduce
the initial vibration in order to maximize the accuracy of the trial
weight readings.
This function suggests a trial weight angle based on the phase of the
initial reading, the angle between the tachometer and accelerometer
sensors and the angle between the tachometer reflective tape
and your weight reference mark on the rotor . The suggested
angle is measured from the weight reference mark in the direction of
the Angle Orientation.
• From the Balancing Menu press Trial Readings.
• Press to take your initial reading.
• After the initial reading has been taken press Suggest
Trial Weight Angle.
• Press to enter the tachometer-to-reference-mark angle.

On the rotor, measure the angle between the tachometer
reflective tape and your weight reference mark. If these
marks are aligned with each other enter zero.
• Press then press and enter the angle between the

tachometer and accelerometer.
• Press and the instrument will calculate a suggested trial

weight angle.
Notes:
This calculator can only be used with accelerometers.
Angles are measured using the same orientation as is used for the
placement of balance weights i.e. with rotation or against rotation.
The angle orientation defaults to that chosen in the Set Balancing
Parameters Menu. If this orientation is changed, your entered angles
and result will be automatically translated to the new orientation for
you.
Dual plane balance jobs are also supported, with suggested angles
calculated for both planes. However the calculator should only be
applied in cases where each balance plane is physically close to its
accelerometer sensor, and the two planes are well separated from
each other (e.g. by more that the rotor diameter). In particular for
overhung rotors the calculator should only be used in single plane
mode on the closest bearing and balance plane, to help with
reducing the static imbalance only. The CH2 accelerometer and
weight reference mark positions must be in line with those of CH1.
Initial
Allows the initial reading to be manually input without having to use
the instrument to record the measurement directly from the machine.
Left
Left (or Trial for single plane balancing) allows the trial or left trial
readings to be manually input.
Right
This option is only available for dual plane balancing and allows the
right trial readings to be manually input.
3. Balance
This menu displays the weight to be added or removed to balance
the rotor, and the angle, fixed position(s) or circumference arc at
which to do so.
• The Balance Menu is accessed by pressing from the

Balancing Menu.
Note: The weight units are not displayed but are implied to be the
same as those used for the trial weights.
The direction of angle measurement is specified by the two letters

following the angle. ‘WR’ indicates With Rotation and ‘AR’ indicates
Against Rotation.
If the weight is to be removed then the angle to do so is displayed in

parentheses ‘()’. This is the point of attachment + 180°.
Perform Trim Balance
Used to take a measurement of the machine after the weight has
been added or removed from the rotor.
Perform Trim Balance confirms the balance level achieved after the
weights were positioned. After another measurement is taken, the
Balance Menu will display the new balancing requirements.
The balance process can end at this point or continue with another
reposition of balance weights, as indicated, to improve on the
balance level. Repeat until you are satisfied with the results or no
further reduction of imbalance can be achieved.
The ISO 1940 limits option, available from the Balance Weight
Calculations Menu, is provided with the instrument to help you
determine the acceptable level of residual imbalance for your rotor.
See Balance Weight Calculations (page 138), for more information.
Enter Trim Readings

Allows for trim reading to be manually input without having to use the
instrument to record the measurement directly from the machine.
4. Review Readings
Review Readings reviews the results of the Initial Reading, Trial
Reading, and latest Trim Balance Reading. These values can be
saved to, or loaded from data storage as described in Load/Save
Balancing Data (page 141).
• The Review Readings Menu is accessed by pressing

from the Balancing Menu.
5. Balance Weight Calculations

This menu provides a number of useful calculation tools that support
you in performing balance jobs.
• The Balance Weight Calculations Menu is accessed by

pressing from the Balancing Menu.
The results of any balance weight calculation will be displayed using

the same units as the input weight.
Suggest Trial Weight
This tool aids you in determining the appropriate amount of
suggested balance weight to use based on the weight, diameter and
rotor speed of the machine being balanced. The calculator works out
a suitable trial weight to cause a significant change from the initial
reading.
You also have the option of using different units of measure for the
mass of the Rotor (lb, oz, kg), the Rotor Diameter (in, mm), the Rotor
Speed (Hz, RPM), and the Balance Weight units (oz, g).
Notes:
Changing from one unit to another does not directly translate the
associated value. You will need to reset the value as needed, to
match the application.
The Suggest Trial Weight option is also available directly from the
Trial Readings Menu (note that the option is called Suggest Trial
Weight Mass in that menu).
Split Weights
This tool allows you to take a calculated single point balance solution
(correction weight and angle), and translate it into a two weight (split
weight) solution. You will need to define the two new correction
angles so that the resulting balance weights at each angle can then
be calculated.
Combine Weights
This tool allows the user to combine two weights into a single weight
at one angle. This calculation can be performed many times to
combine all trim weights into one weight and angle. The user must
define the weight and angle of the two beginning balance masses.
Change Radius
This tool takes a single point balance solution and allows you to find
a new balance weight based on a change in radius for the existing
balance weight. The calculation assumes the angle of weight
placement will remain constant and only the distance from center of
rotation is changed.
ISO 1940 Limits

This calculation computes the maximum allowable residual
imbalance to achieve a desired standard of balance. Please refer to
the ISO 1940 standard to find which G levels are appropriate for a
particular machine.
This calculator uses the rotor weight, the diameter at which

correction weights are added, the speed and the required balance
level to determine a maximum residual weight. Units can be toggled
in a similar manner to the trial weight correction screen. If the
reported correction weight to add or remove is less than this residual,
the chosen ISO balance standard has been reached.
When balancing in two planes it is normally sufficient to simply allow

half of this residual imbalance on each plane. For asymmetric or
overhung rotors, please refer to the ISO 1940 balancing standard.
6. Load/Save Balancing Data
The instrument is capable of saving up to 10 balancing jobs to
machines in its memory. Initial readings, trial readings, trim readings
and completed balances can be stored.
• The Load/Save Balancing Data Menu is accessed by

pressing from the Balancing Menu.
• Select the desired machine using the arrow keys to

scroll from one location to the next on the screen.
• Press with the arrow keys to scroll by units of

10.
• Press and hold the arrow keys to accelerate the scroll speed.
Once a machine is selected (indicated by the black, highlighting bar),

the possible operations include:
Load balancing data from this machine into the instrument’s
current memory. The stored data includes the parameter
settings, the initial and trial readings, and trim readings.
Caution: This operation will overwrite any data already in

current memory.
Edit the name of the machine. The screen prompts indicate

what options are available for data entry (see Entering Text and
Numbers on page 16).
Save the balancing data currently in memory to the selected

machine.
Caution: This operation will overwrite any balance data already

stored in this memory location. The symbol is displayed to
the right of any memory location that has vibration data stored
in it. The symbol is displayed to the right of any memory
location that has balancing data stored in it.
Delete erases the balancing data from the selected machine,

leaving all other data belonging to the machine intact.
7. Print Report
Detailed balancing reports are normally produced from Ascent using
the Report menu. However, you also have the option of using a
thermal printer to print directly from the instrument. Within the
instrument, two report types are available: STANDARD and
EXTENDED. STANDARD prints the initial imbalance and the
residual imbalance left in the machine. EXTENDED prints the initial
imbalance, trial balance recordings and the associated trial weight(s)
used, and the residual imbalance left in the machine.
The print options you set will determine which information is included
in the report.
To include the company name, location, machine name or any

comments, press the number key that corresponds to that option.
The Edit Name Menu will open allowing you to type up to 16
characters. If any of the four user-defined fields are left blank, then
they are not printed on the report.
Refer to Printing from the Instrument (page 157), for details on

setting up the printer.
• The Print Report Menu is accessed by pressing from

the Balancing Menu.
• Enter any optional information to be included in the report,

e.g. machine name, by pressing the appropriate number key
and typing in the characters, then press to close the Edit
Name Menu.
• Press to select the report type.
• Press to print the report.
Section 10: Balancing Walk-
through
This walk-through guides you through the process of balancing a

rotor using single and dual plane balancing. Dual plane balancing
requires all the steps relating to single plane balancing and includes
extra instructions marked with
You will learn to:

• Set balancing parameters
• Take initial imbalance measurements
• Set up and apply trial weights
• Perform balancing and trim balances
Section 10: Balancing Walk-through 145
Step 1. Set Balancing Parameters
• Check the battery capacity of the instrument and if it is less
than 30%, charge the battery pack (see Battery Management
on page 161).
• From the Main Menu press to access the Balancing

Menu.
• Press + twice to reset any previous readings.
The following screen shows the parameters that were set for this
walk-through.
• Press to access the Set Balancing Parameters Menu.

See Set Balancing Parameters (page 127), for details of how
to set your parameters.
Step 2. Initial Reading

• Stop the machine.
• Attach the sensor to the bearing housing closest to the rotor.

For best results attach it in the radial direction in which the
machine is most flexible (and vibrates the most).
Attach the sensor to each of the bearings supporting the

rotor. It does not matter how the sensors are paired or which
sensor is attached to which end.
• Set up the tachometer (see Tachometer Setup on page 23).
146 Section 10: Balancing Walk-through
• Start the machine and let the rotor settle to its normal
operating speed. Since the vibration level is dependent on
the speed of the rotor it is important to take all readings while
the rotor is operating at its normal speed.
• Press from the Balancing Menu to access the Trial

Readings Menu.
• Press to access the Initial Reading Menu.
• Press to perform an initial measurement of imbalance.
After a few seconds, the instrument displays the speed of the rotor in
RPM and Hz, the vibration level due to the imbalance (i.e. amplitude
at 1X the rotor speed), and the phase angle of the vibration. Note
that our recording shows an amplitude of 3.8 mm/s. The aim is to
reduce this to an acceptable level.
• Wait for the readings to stabilize then press to store the

recording.
The Trial Readings Menu will again be displayed. The Initial Reading
measurement is shown using the amplitude and units you selected
from the Set Balancing Parameters Menu, and includes the phase
angle of the imbalance.
Step 3. Trial Weight Reading
• Stop the machine.
• Establish a reference mark on the balancing plane. This will

be used to measure the angular position of the trial weight
and the final balance weights. The reference mark can be at
any position around the balancing plane. It does not need to
be referenced to the tachometer reflective tape position.
In dual plane balancing, establish a reference mark on the

Right plane also. It does not need to correspond with the Left
plane reference mark.
• Attach a trial weight to the balancing plane. It is important

that the trial weight is not too large as it may damage
machine bearings, and not too small as its effect will be
imperceptible. If you are unsure how much weight to use
press from the Trial Readings Menu to access the
Suggest Trial Weight Menu. From here you can calculate an
appropriate weight to use. When you have finished press
to return to the Trial Readings Menu.
Note: You can use any weight unit (gram, kg, oz, lb), without
informing the instrument. The instrument will express the final
balance weights in the same (implied) units.
In dual plane balancing, attach the first trial weight to the

designated Left plane.
• The trial weight position should be near the rim of the rotor
but can be at any angular position. Starting at the reference
mark, measure the angular position in the direction specified
for the Angle Measurements parameter in the Set Balancing
Parameters Menu. This will be either WR (with rotation), or
AR (against rotation).
• Press to access the Trial Weight Reading Menu.
• Press to enter your own Trial weight mass. Use the

The Left Trial Reading Menu replaces the Trial Weight

Reading Menu for dual plane balancing.
• Press to enter the angular position of the trial weight
with respect to the reference mark. (If using circumference
arc or fixed positions for your weight position reference
system, enter the trial weight point or trial arc.) Use the
• Replace safety covers, start the machine again, and let the
rotor settle to its normal operating speed.
• Press to take a reading of the imbalance with the trial

weight added.
After a few seconds, the instrument displays the speed of the rotor in
RPM and Hz, the vibration level with the trial weight added (i.e.
amplitude at 1X the rotor speed), and the phase angle of the
vibration.
• Wait for the readings to stabilize and then press to

accept the recording. Note that our recording now has an
amplitude of 5.1 mm/s. The trial weight has actually
increased the imbalance.
The Trial Readings Menu is now updated to display both the Initial
and Trial reading measurements.
Perform the same procedure for the Right plane by attaching

a trial weight to the designated right plane. If the option
'Remove Trial Weight' is set to YES then the Left Trial weight
must be removed before performing the Right Trial reading.
Perform the reading using option Right Trial Reading
from the Trial Readings Menu.
• Press to return to the Balancing Menu.
Step 4. Balancing
With Initial and Trial Readings completed the main Balancing Menu
will display the Balance option.
• Press to access the Balance Menu.
The instrument displays the weight required to correct the initial

imbalance and the angular position at which it must be attached. As
an alternative to attaching a correction weight, you could also
remove the same amount of weight half a revolution (180º) away
from where you would attach the correction weight. The angular
position for weight removal is shown in parentheses.
• Stop the machine. If the option Remove Trial Weight is set

to YES remove the trial weight.
• Attach or remove the recommended correction weight as

indicated by the instrument and then proceed to Trim
Balance.
In dual plane balancing there will be two columns of weights

and positions to add or remove the associated weights. The
column on the left-hand side of the screen refers to the
designated Left plane and the column on the right hand side
of the screen refers to the designated Right plane.
Step 5. Trim Balance
• Replace safety covers, start the machine again and let the
rotor settle to its normal operating speed.
• Press to perform a Trim Balance.
After a few seconds the instrument displays the vibration level with
the imbalance corrected.
• Press to return to the Balance Menu.
The instrument will now display the details of additional weight

adjustments required to trim-balance the rotor (i.e. to further reduce
the level of vibration/imbalance). You can end balancing at this point
or continue with another reposition of trim balance weights, as
indicated, to improve on the balance level. The trim balance process
can be repeated until you are satisfied with the results. When you
have finished, press to return to the Balancing Menu.
• You may wish to check that the residual imbalance meets

machine-balancing standards such as ISO 1940 and ISO
2372. The instrument includes an ISO 1940 calculator
should you wish to check the residual imbalance. To access
this, from the Balancing Menu press Balance Weight
Calculations.
• To review measurement and weight adjustment details at

various stages of the balancing process, press Review
Readings from the Balancing Menu.
• At any point in the process it is possible to save the
balancing data to a machine in the current data folder. To
save the recordings, return to the Balancing Menu and press
Load/Save Balancing Data. Select a machine and press
Save, to save the balancing data. You will then be
returned to the Balancing Menu.
Note: Only one balance job at a time can be saved to a machine -

any existing balance data will be overwritten. To create a 'history' of
balance jobs carried out on one machine, create a new machine
each time you need to save the balancing data. Give the machines
similar names to remind you that they all refer to the same machine.
Tips for Balancing

• Before performing a balance job, clean the rotor removing
any dirt or loose-hanging material such as rust, flaking paint
etc, which may affect balancing results if they fall off later.
• Ensure that any weight(s) you add will not come loose at the
normal rotor speed and that it will not obstruct machine
motion. If possible, manually rotate the rotor to ensure that
the weight does not clash with any part of the machine,
keeping in mind that the rotor's center line may shift when
operated at its normal speed.
• Ensure the weight of any mechanism used to hold the

correction weights in place is included as part of the
correction weight. If you are welding on the weight, make
sure that the weight of the flux is not included (scrape the
flux off before weighing the electrode).
• Ensure that the shape of the correction weight does not

cause it to become a dirt trap since dirt accumulated on the
weight may cause rotor imbalance.
• It is important to attach the correction weight(s) at the same

radial distance that the trial weight was i.e. if the trial weight
was attached 'n' mm/inches from the center of the rotor, the
correction weight must also be attached 'n' mm/inches from
the center of the rotor.
Section 11: Utilities
This section describes how to use the utility functions of your

instrument.
You will learn to:

• Print from the instrument
• Adjust the LCD display
• Set the date and time
• Manage the instrument battery pack
• Erase all recordings and machines
• Upgrade the instrument firmware using PROFLASH
• Set other instrument options
156 Section 11: Utilities
Printing from the Instrument
The optional Seiko DPU-414-30B printer is not included with the
standard vb kit.
Connecting and setting up the printer to the instrument is outlined as

follows:
• Plug the printer cable D connector into the printer serial input
and the 5 pin connector plug into the instrument's RS232
port.
• Switch the printer on and ensure the ON LINE indicator

(green) is on, as it does not come on automatically on some
printers, and will need the ON LINE button pressed.
Caution: When using the DPU-414-30B printer, use only the Seiko
power adapter provided (6.5 Volt output). Printer damage may occur
if any other power adapter is used.
Notes:
Earlier models of Seiko DPU printer are not supported. In particular
the DPU-411 printer is not supported.
When using the DPU-414 printer ensure that its internal battery is
charged prior to operation. If the printer battery is flat the printer will
switch itself Off Line and printing will cease.
Printing Balancing Reports from the Instrument

Although the most flexible way to print balancing reports is to upload
the data to Ascent, it is also possible to print directly from the
instrument. (see Print Report on page 143 for full details).
DPU-414-30B Printer Setup

The DPU-414-30B has a virtual DIP SW which should be set up the
first time the printer is used. You may need to reset operational
settings if the supply voltage is interrupted.
Caution: Never turn the printer off while it is writing the new setting
to memory. Always wait until DIP SW setting complete !! is printed
before turning the power off.
Section 11: Utilities 157
To set the virtual DIP SW, begin with the DPU-414-30B switched off
and complete the following procedures:
• Slide the power switch to ON while pressing the ON LINE

button.
• Release the ON LINE button after a list of the current

settings starts printing out.
The printout of the current settings is followed by the prompt:
Continue ? :Press On-line SW

Write ? :Press Paper feed SW
• To change the DIP SW settings press the ON LINE button.
• To leave the DIP SW settings unchanged press the FEED

button.
After pressing the ON LINE button, DIP SW1 is printed, prompting

the input of new settings for switch numbers 1 through 8 of DIP SW1.
Refer to the following table for the required settings to print from the
instrument. Always input either ON or OFF for every setting for
switch numbers 1 through 8 because DIP SW Set mode cannot be
cancelled once it is initiated.
• ON can be set by pressing the ON LINE button once and

OFF by pressing the FEED button once
The setting is printed out after the ON LINE or FEED button is

pressed to confirm the new setting.
As soon as switch number 8 is set the printer once again prompts

Continue ? or Write ?. Continue ? (ON LINE) allows DIP SW2 and
DIP SW3 to be set in turn, and Write ? (FEED) exits DIP SW setting
mode.
After the FEED button is pressed, the ON LINE and OFF LINE lamps
alternately blink and the new settings are written to memory. When
the printer finishes writing everything to memory, 'DIP SW setting
complete !!' is printed out and the printer returns to the ON LINE
mode.
As soon as switch number 8 of DIP SW3 is set, the printer writes the
settings to memory regardless of which button is pressed.
DPU-414-30B 'Virtual' DIP Switch Settings

DIP SW Switch Function Switch Status
No. Settings
DIP SW1 1 Input = Serial OFF Essential
2 Printing Speed = High ON Optional
3 Auto Loading = ON ON Essential
4 Auto Line Feed = OFF OFF Essential
5 Setting Command = Enable ON Essential
6 Printing ON Optional
7 Density OFF Optional
8 = 93% OFF Optional
DIP SW2 1 Print Columns = 40 ON Essential
2 User Font Backup = ON ON Optional
3 Character Select = Ordinary ON Essential
4 Zero = Normal ON Optional
5 International ON Essential
6 Character ON Essential
7 Set OFF Optional
8 = England OFF Essential
DIP SW3 1 Data Length = 8 bits ON Essential
2 Parity Setting = No ON Essential
3 Parity Condition = Odd ON Essential
4 Busy Control = H/W Busy ON Essential
5 Baud OFF Essential
6 Rate ON Essential
7 Select ON Essential
8 9600 bps ON Essential
Adjusting the LCD Screen
Adjusting the Contrast
• From the Main Menu press and hold to darken the LCD.
• Press and hold to lighten the LCD.
If the screen flickers when the cursors or highlight bar are moved
rapidly, make the LCD darker.
Restoring the Default Contrast

• From the Main Menu press + to restore the default
contrast.
Turning the Backlight On/Off

The backlight provides better LCD visibility in dark environments.
• In any screen, press + to turn the backlight on/off.
Note: The backlight consumes a relatively high level of power and

will automatically turn off if the battery voltage falls below 6.1 V.
Setting the Date and Time

• From the Main Menu, press Date & Time.
• To cycle to a particular item, press . The item will flash to
show that it is selected.
• Use and to change the value of the currently

selected item.
• Press to save changes and exit.
All recordings are date and time stamped according to the clock
shown in the Date & Time Menu.
Battery Management
The instrument is powered by a rechargeable Nickel-Cadmium (Ni-
Cad) battery pack. The normal operating range is 6.0 V to 8.5 V. The
Battery Management Menu displays the current percentage of full
battery charge available.
Some automatic features have been built into the instrument to help
ensure that the battery pack is always sufficiently charged.
Below 6.6 Volts, the instrument displays a flashing icon at the

top left corner of the screen and beeps once every minute as a
reminder that the battery pack needs to be charged. In the Battery
Management Menu a flashing 'Low Battery' message is also
displayed.
Below 6.1 Volts, the instrument automatically turns off the backlight
to prevent further power draining.
Below 80% battery capacity, the instrument automatically begins to

charge the battery pack if external power is supplied.
At 5.5 Volts, the instrument automatically powers down. The power

saver is another feature that helps conserve power.
The instrument is equipped with an internal backup component that

protects data and settings in case the battery pack is momentarily
removed from the instrument. The backup component is kept
charged by the battery pack if the battery pack is functioning
normally.
Warning: Do not detach the battery pack from the instrument for
more than 2 hours as this will drain the backup component, thereby
causing data and setting to be lost.
Warning: Before charging the battery pack, ensure that the power
transformer used is an approved instrument power transformer 13.5
V ± 1.5 V DC, 1 A output, center positive, and that the voltage and
frequency of your mains AC power matches that of the power
transformer.
The battery pack can be charged by supplying 13.5 V ± 1.5 V DC, 1

A power to the instrument charger socket. The power transformer
supplied in the kit provides this DC voltage. The optional car adapter
charging lead may also be used to charge the battery pack in a
vehicle with a 12 V negative-chassis power system.
Checking the Battery Charge and Voltage

• From the Main Menu press to display the Battery
Management Menu.
The remaining battery charge and voltage are displayed.
Charger Control
This menu allows manual control of the battery charge function. The
current battery voltage and charging state are displayed.
Charge Battery
Manually begins battery charging cycle.
Recondition Battery
Fully discharges and then automatically recharges the battery.
Fresh Battery Inserted

Resets the battery capacity scale percentage to 100% at the
current battery voltage.
These options are explained in detail in the following pages.
Recharging the Instrument

Warning: Read the warnings in Battery Management (page 161)
before charging the battery.
• Plug the power transformer into a standard power outlet and

the connector to the instrument’s charger socket.
If the battery charge level is less than 80% the battery will begin
charging automatically. You can continue to use the instrument while
the battery pack is being charged.
If the battery does not begin charging automatically follow the

instructions below to begin charging.
• From the Main Menu press Battery Management.
• Press Charger Control.
• Press to begin charging. A flashing 'CHARGING'

message will be displayed.
If there is no power coming from the power transformer a flashing

'NO CHARGER' message will be displayed. If this happens, check
that the mains power is turned on and the battery adapter is
connected properly.
Charging stops automatically when complete or you can press

in the Charger Control Menu to stop the charging. A full charging
cycle takes approximately 2 1/2 hours.
Reconditioning the Battery Pack

Warning: Read the warnings in Battery Management (page 161)
before performing this operation.
Battery reconditioning is the process of first discharging and then

recharging batteries. It reduces the undesirable memory effect in the
Ni-Cad battery. The battery pack should be reconditioned the first
time it is used and at least once a month thereafter to prevent battery
degradation. The recondition process will take up to two hours,
depending on initial battery charge.
Caution: If the battery pack is not reconditioned the first time it is

used, the battery charge displayed may be incorrect.
• Plug the instrument power transformer to a standard power

outlet and its connector to the instrument charger socket.
• From the Main Menu press Battery Management.
• Press Charger Control.
• Press to recondition the battery. Discharging is
indicated by the flashing 'DISCHARGING' message on the
screen.
The instrument automatically proceeds to charge the battery once

the battery pack is fully discharged.
Fresh Battery Inserted

This resets the battery capacity scale percentage to 100% at the
current battery voltage. This option should be used when a new, fully
recharged battery is exchanged for a discharged battery.
Caution: If this selection is made when the attached battery is not

fully charged the battery capacity scale will no longer be set
accurately. Performing a Recondition Battery will recharge the
battery and reset the scale.
Power Saver
Power saver is a feature that helps conserve power in the
instrument. Power saver will turn the LCD display off after 8 minutes
of inactivity (no key presses). The instrument will continue to function
and any key press will turn the LCD on to the previously displayed
screen. After 15 minutes of inactivity, power saver will power down
the instrument. If the battery is being recharged, only the LCD screen
will be turned off and the instrument will remain on until charging is
complete.
The power saver is automatically turned on every time the instrument

is powered up. You may turn it off temporarily by toggling power
saver OFF from the Battery Management Menu.
• To turn off Power Saver, from the Main Menu press

Battery Management.
• Press to toggle Power Saver ON and OFF.
Replacing the Battery Pack
• Lift the boot stand.
• Unscrew the battery pack using a suitable screwdriver and

screw in the new one.
Warning: Ensure that the battery pack is securely fastened but not
over-tightened.
Memory Management
Instrument Memory
The vb3000 has a standard memory size 32 MB that can store up to
11 000 recordings depending on recording type as shown below.
Recording Resolution Maximum Number of Recordings

Type
NO Phase Data WITH Phase Data
400 lines 11 000 11 000

800 lines 11 000 8192
Frequency 1600 lines 8192 4096
3200 lines 4096 2048
6400 lines 2048 1024
1024 samples 11 000 -
2048 samples 8192 -
Time 4096 samples 4096 -
8192 samples 2048 -
16 384 samples 1024 -
All other vb instruments have a standard memory size of 8.5 MB that
can store up to 8192 recordings depending on recording type as
shown below:
Recording Resolution Maximum Number of Recordings

Type
NO Phase Data WITH Phase Data
400 - line 8192 4096
Frequency 800 - line 4096 2048

1600 - line 2048 1024
3200 - line 1024 512
1024 - sample 4096 -
Time 2048 - sample 2048 -
4096 - sample 1024 -
8192 - sample 512 -
We recommend you transfer recordings to a PC (see the Ascent

Software Reference Guide) and erase recordings not required on the
instrument at the earliest convenience. This frees up memory on the
instrument for later use.
Checking the Memory Used
• From the Main Menu, press to access the Folder
Management Menu.
The percentage of memory used is displayed in the middle of the

screen.
Note: If more than 98% of the memory is used, you will need to
erase some recordings before further recordings can be taken.
Erasing all Recordings

Warning: This procedure permanently erases all the recordings in
all folders. This cannot be undone.
To erase individual recordings see Erasing Recordings (page 85).
Erasing all recordings removes each machine's recordings

permanently from memory but retain the machines, points, directions
and parameter sets.
• From the Main Menu, press Folder Management.
• Press Erase Data in ALL Folders.
• Press + to erase all data (recordings). You will be

prompted to confirm the erasure.
• Press + again to confirm or to cancel. The

Erase all Folders Menu displays with a message confirming
there are no recordings in memory.
Erasing all Machines
Warning: The following procedure erases all machines (including all
the points, directions, and parameter sets in the machines). The
procedures for erasing individual machines, points, directions or
parameter sets are covered in section 4.
Erasing all machines is a two-stage process. Before erasing all

machines, all recordings must first be erased. See the previous topic,
Erasing all Recordings, for instructions on how to do this.
After erasing all recordings you will be prompted to erase all folders,
machine and points.
• Press + to erase all machines. You will be

prompted to confirm.
• Press + again to confirm the erasure. The

displayed menu will now show 0% memory usage.
Upgrading Firmware Using Proflash
To upgrade the instrument to the latest version of firmware you
PROFLASH the instrument with a new firmware file.
• To view your instrument's firmware version, turn the

instrument off then on again. The current firmware version is
displayed at power up.
Warnings
PROFLASHING to any version will erase all recordings in the instrument
memory.
PROFLASHING to firmware version 3.00 will restore your instrument to

the factory default state. All data will be erased. This includes
folders, routes, machines, parameter sets, recordings and balance
jobs. If you wish to save any of this information, please transfer all
data folders to the software before PROFLASHING your instrument.
PROFLASHING the instrument takes approximately one minute and the

instrument will re-start several times during the process. Do not
interrupt the process as this will damage the instrument. The
instrument's LCD screen will advise when the PROFLASH is complete.
• With the instrument powered on, connect and turn on the

battery charger.
• Connect the instrument via the communication cable to a PC

with the Ascent software.
• From the software main menu, select File>Proflash VB and

follow the on-screen instructions.
Most of the tasks involved with PROFLASHING are carried out from
within the Ascent software. Refer to the Ascent on-line help for
detailed instructions on how to PROFLASH your instrument. (From the
Ascent menu select Help>Index, then type 'Proflash' to display the
help file).
Other Options
The Options Menu provides you with a number of choices to
customize the way your instrument works. To access the Options
Menu:
Halt After Recording

Halt After Recording is used to hold the last recorded spectrum or
waveform on the instrument screen so that it can be analyzed before
the next recording is taken. You can also use this option to display a
warning prompt if the new recording is significantly above or below
the baseline overall rms for this location (see Baseline warnings later
in this topic).
When Halt After Recording is turned ON the spectrum or waveform
remains on the display until you choose to take the next recording.
If Halt After Recording is OFF recordings will only be displayed for

two seconds before the instrument returns automatically to the
Select Parameter Set Menu (or the Auto Route Menu if you are
recording a route).
• To turn on Halt After Recording, from the Main Menu press

Options.
• Press to change this option from OFF to ON. To turn off

Halt After Recording press repeatedly to cycle through
the options until OFF is displayed.
• Halt After Recording can be enabled temporarily for just the

newest reading by pressing at any time while the
measurement is being taken.
With the display halted you can use the cursor and zooming features
to review the chart before deciding to accept (record) it or reject it
and re-take the recording. This option also applies during Auto
Route.
Baseline warnings (Applies to vb3000 only)
You can set Halt After Recording to prompt you when a new
recording is significantly above or below the baseline overall level.
This can be used to provide a basic check of data validity e.g. if the
overall level of the new recording is very different from the baseline
you may not have taken the measurement correctly. When the
warning option is turned on it will halt the display only if the recording
deviates a certain percentage from the baseline. This gives you a
chance to analyze the new recording and decide whether to re-take
the measurement or not.
Note: Baselines must be set within Ascent then sent to the

instrument. Please refer to the Ascent Software Reference Guide, for
details of how to set and display baseline recordings on the
instrument.
There are two levels of warning you can set:
The 'relaxed' warning will halt the display and activate the prompt
only if the new recording's overall level is lower than 25% or higher
than 200% of the baseline overall. If the overall level is within the
25% to 200% range the measurement will not halt. For example, if
your baseline overall level was 2 g and the measured rms level was
3 g the percentage is 150%. This is within the 'relaxed' range so the
recording will not halt.
The 'tight' warning will activate if the new recording's overall level is
lower than 50% or higher than 150% of the baseline overall level.
Note: The percentage displayed on the screen is limited to 999%. If

a measurement's overall level is higher than this number the
percentage will be rounded down to 999%.
• To turn on the Halt After Recording warning, from the Main
Menu press to access the Options Menu.
• Press to toggle the option between ON / OFF and 'tight'

/ 'relaxed' warnings.
Halt After Recording 'relaxed'
Halt After Recording 'tight'
Backlight Off Delay

Backlight Off Delay allows you to reduce the battery's power
consumption by turning the backlight off after a specified number of
seconds. This can significantly increase the time between battery
recharging.
• From the Main Menu press Options.
• Press and enter a number between 0 seconds and 99

seconds for the delay time. The default is 20 seconds.
Note: To keep the backlight permanently on while the instrument is

in use switch Power Saver OFF.
• To turn off Power saver, from the Main Menu press

Battery Management.
• Press to toggle Power Saver OFF.
vb Structure Lock
This feature prevents machine or point names, routes or folders from
being edited or accidentally deleted by unauthorized persons. Notes,
machine, points and directions can still be added, but cannot be
deleted when the instrument has the Structure Lock turned ON.
To lock the instrument

• Press and enter a code (remember this code or write it

in this manual).
• Press and the instrument will then be locked.
To unlock the instrument

• Press and enter the code that was used to lock the
instrument.
• Press and the instrument will then be unlocked.
Note: If you ever forget the unlock code use the Ascent software to
unlock it. With the instrument connected to the PC via the supplied
communication cable, go to the Ascent menu and select File>Lock /
Unlock VB.
Left-handed Start Key for Auto Routes

The ON/OFF key can be used as a left-handed START key when on
a route.
• Press to toggle this option ON / OFF.
Section 12: Troubleshooting
Contacting Technical Support

If you have any problems please contact Commtest support staff
directly for assistance. Our e-mail address is help@commtest.com.
We also provide a searchable knowledge base of frequently asked

questions (FAQ) on our website.
• The knowledge base can be found at www.commtest.com.

Click the FAQ link to access the knowledge base.
Resetting the Instrument

Warning: If the instrument does not respond to any key press
while it is operating it will continuously draw power until it is
reset and turned off. You must reset a non-responding
instrument as soon as possible.
• In any screen hold down and press then release to

reset the instrument.
Resetting the instrument does not erase data or settings stored in

the instrument.
Power Problems
Symptom Cause Remedy
Instrument cannot power Low battery level Charge battery pack

up Reset instrument
Electrostatic discharge
(ESD exceeding 8 kV)
Instrument powers down Low battery level Charge battery pack
when backlight is turned
on
Instrument powers down Low battery level Charge battery pack
shortly after powering up
Section 12: Troubleshooting 177
Data Transfer Problems
Ascent unable to transfer Data transfer cable not Check cable connections
data and 'Transfer failed' properly connected
or Ascent Error dialog is
Data transfer cable Test COM port availability
displayed on the computer
connected to wrong with instrument and use
computer COM port an available COM port
Data Problems
'Insufficient Memory' is No memory space left for Erase obsolete recordings

displayed new recordings (transfer data to a
computer first if
necessary)
Spectrum/waveform Displayed units (amplitude Adjust display units,
displayed seems incorrect scale, log range, velocity especially increase log
max) set incorrectly range and/or reduce
velocity max
Sensor mounted to wrong Mount sensor on
location substantial structures near
bearings and in the
appropriate location and
orientation
Sensor not mounted Ensure sensor is mounted
properly firmly
Sensor connected to Connect sensor to an
wrong channel enabled channel
Sensor damaged Replace sensor
Measured data is Sensor not mounted Ensure sensor is
inconsistent correctly consistently and firmly
mounted in the same
location and orientation
A machine, point or No parameter sets in the Create parameter sets for
direction cannot be machine, point or direction the machine, point or
tagged for taking direction
recordings
'No Route' is displayed No route present in the Transfer a route from a
instrument computer
178 Section 12: Troubleshooting
Other Problems
Instrument does not Electrostatic discharge Reset the instrument

respond to any key press exceeds 8 kV
'DSP cmd' Memory conflict Turn the instrument off
'DSP no ack' and on again. If the
problem persists, send the
'DSP not rdy' instrument to an
'DSp no cmd' authorized dealer for
servicing
or 'Stack overflow'
displayed
'Switch off then connect Module has worked itself Switch off the instrument
module' is displayed loose (n.b. the module is and press firmly on the
where sensors are module or use an allen
plugged in). key to tighten it
Reset instrument
Module is damaged Test for module damage -
switch off the instrument
and plug in the battery
charger. From the battery
management menu press
the ‘menu’ key. The main
menu should appear
without the model number
(instrumentvb3000/2000/1
000/vb1). This will confirm
that the main instrument is
OK and that the module is
faulty. Send instrument to
an authorized dealer for
servicing.
Instrument does not Accelerometer drive Toggle ON the drive
seems to measure current not turned on for current in the Sensor
®
ICP type accelerometer Setup Menu
Sensor sensitivity set too Match sensor sensitivity to
low or high sensor specifications
(usually 100 mV/g) in the
Sensor Setup Menu
Sensor not connected Connect Sensor

Sensor damaged Replace Sensor
Sensor cable damaged Replace Sensor cable
Section 12: Troubleshooting 179
Appendix 1: List of
Abbreviations
AC Alternating Current
A/D Analog-to-Digital
CH Channel
COM port Computer Serial Port (1 to 4)
CPM Cycles per minute
DC Direct Current
DSP Digital Signal Processor
ESD Electro-Static Discharge
FFT Fast Fourier Transform
Fmax Maximum Frequency
Fmin Minimum Frequency
Hz Hertz
In or " Inches
ISO International Organization for Standardization
KB Kilobytes
kCPM Kilocycles per minute
kV Kilovolts
LCD Liquid Crystal Display
MB Megabyte
MHz Megahertz
MIMOSA Machinery Information Management Open
Systems Alliance
µm Micrometer
mm Millimeter
ms Millisecond
Ni-Cad Nickel-Cadmium
PC Personal Computer
QA Quality Assurance
RAM Random Access Memory
rms Root-mean-squared
ROM Read-Only Memory
V Volts
V DC, 1 A Volts DC, 1 amp
180 Appendix 1: List of Abbreviations
Appendix 2: Specifications
Specifications Model vb3000 Remarks

Sensor Input
Number of channels 2
Accelerometers 2-wire, low impedance piezoelectric, 100 mV/g nominal Commonly termed 'ICP® type'. Sensitivity (8.5 to 2300) mV/g
Velocity sensors 100 mV/in/s (4 mV/mm/s) nominal Sensitivity (8.5 to 2300) mV/in/s = (0.34 to 90.55) mV/mm/s
Displacement sensors 100 mV/mil (4 mV/µm) nominal Sensitivity (8.5 to 2300) mV/mil = (0.34 to 90.55) mV/µm
Current sensors 100 mV/amp nominal Sensitivity (0.1 to 2300) mV/amp
Connector BNC Safety feature: Break-free inline connector
Input impedance >100 kΩ
Voltage swing 16 V peak-peak AC coupled input, allows for ± 8 V sensor output swing (± 80 g)
Sensor excitation current 0 mA or 2.2 mA (configurable) 2.2 mA required for ICP® type accelerometer
Sensor excitation voltage 24 V maximum At sensor terminals with sensor attached
Sensor detection Warns if short circuit or not connected Channel 1 only
Tachometer Input
Sensor Laser sensor with reflective tape included in kit Sensor triggers when the tape reflects its beam
Laser sensor range 10 cm to 2 m nominal Dependent on size of reflective tape
Sensor supply 7.2 V nominal 6.0 V to 9.5 V instrument battery Available to power sensor. Protected by 0.1 A PTC
Input type Optically isolated, accepts TTL pulse
Pulse rating 2.5 V (4 mA) min, 10 V (27 mA) max, off-state < 0.8 V Triggers on negative edge
Speed range 30 RPM to 65 000 RPM (0.5 Hz to 1.08 kHz)
Display RPM, Hz, 1X amplitude and phase angle For selected amplitude type, phase angle in degrees
Parameter Indication
Displays Acceleration, velocity, displacement, demodulation and User selectable
current
2
Maximum levels ± 80 g (800 m/s ), ± 4 in/sec (100 mm/s), ± 800 amps ∅-peak. Typical, dependent on individual calibration
± 400 mil (10 mm)
Dynamic signal range ≥ 95 dB (typical at 400 line resolution) Acceleration and velocity. Greater with higher resolution and
averaging
Harmonic distortion Less than -70 dB typical Dependent on input level and type. Other distortions and noise
are lower
2
Units g or m/s , in/s or mm/s, mil or mm or µm, amps ∅-peak, peak-peak or rms
AdB, VdB AdB ref. 1 µg rms, VdB ref. configurable 1.0e-5 mm/s rms or 1.0e-
6 mm/s rms
Graph types Spectrum (freq domain), waveform (time domain) Solid histogram for spectrum, line graph for waveform
Magnitude display Overall rms value, cursor-position value Digital readout on chart
Warnings % change in overall since baseline Tolerances: Tight 50% to 150%, relaxed 25% to 200%
Cursors Standard cursor Vary x position to display x and y values
Dual cursors Lock standard cursor as reference and display difference
Harmonic cursor Up to 32 whole-number multiples of standard-cursor frequency
Accuracy ± 1% (0.1 dB) Measured at 100 Hz, 23 ± 5 °C, 400 lines, 400 Hz range
Frequency response ± 0.1 dB from 10 Hz to 15 kHz; Acceleration and velocity. From value measured at 100 Hz
± 3 dB from 1 Hz to 40 kHz
Spectrum Display
Fmax possible ranges 0 to (100, 125, 150, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 800) Hz Or equivalent CPM values
0 to (1, 1.2, 1.6, 2, 2.5, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10, 15, 20, 30, 40) kHz Or orders-based from 1X to 30 000X
Fmin possible range 0 to Fmax vb instrument zeroes all spectral lines below Fmin
Resolution 400, 800, 1600, 3200, 6400 lines (configurable) 3200 lines maximum for dual channel measurements
Frequency scale Hz, CPM, orders Linear scale. Can zoom in to display individual spectral lines
Amplitude scale Acceleration, velocity, displacement or current Linear or log scales
Window shapes Hanning, rectangular
Overlap (0, 12.5, 25, 37.5, 50, 62.5, 75, 87.5) % Dependent on Fmax and number of lines
Number of averages 1, 2, 4, 8, 16, 32, 64, 128 Increases sampling time proportionally
Averaging types Linear, exponential, peak hold, synchronous
Demod bandwidths 20 bandwidth options From 125 Hz to 1250 Hz up to 16 kHz to 20 kHz
Waveform Display
Number of samples 1024, 2078, 4096, 8192, 16 384
Long time waveform Up to 15 kHz Fmax. Over 17 hours duration or until memory
full
Time scale 10 ms to 32 seconds/ 1 rev to 30 000 revs
Time synchronous averages 1, 2, 4, 8, 16, 32, 64, 128 Only available when tachometer triggered
Keypad Entry
Prompt and unit strings 16 characters each
Input value range ± 59 999
Time Intervals
Lines
Range 400 800 1600 3200 6400 Dependent on number of lines and number of averages (values
Measuring time in seconds 0 Hz to100 Hz 4 8 16 32 64 shown in table for no overlap, no averaging, maximum display
(example ranges) 0 Hz to 800 Hz 0.5 1 2 4 8 update rate of 4 per second)
0 Hz to 4 kHz 0.1 0.2 0.4 0.8 1.6
0 Hz to 40 kHz 0.01 0.02 0.04 0.08 0.16
Typical recording time 5 s for 1600 lines, 1600 Hz, 8 averages, 50% overlap Not including initial startup and settling time
Appendix 2: Specifications 181
Trigger Modes Single (key press), free run Trigger status displayed (busy, done, run, stop)
Logging Features
Output formats vb screen, transfer to Ascent PC-based software
Data storage 32 MB non-volatile Total of 11 000 spectra at 800 line resolution or 4000 spectra at
3200 line resolution
Data storage format Up to 30 folders User-specified machine, point, and axis names (16 characters)
Up to 200 named machines per folder entered from PC or keypad. Each recording has a unique
Up to 780 named machines for all folders time/date stamp
Up to 30 multi-axial points per machine
Up to 8 routes per folder
Balancing
Planes 1, 2
Speed range 30 RPM to 60 000 RPM
Measurement type Acceleration, velocity, displacement
Min and Max values (0.0004 to 4) in/s = (0.01 to 100) mm/s ∅-peak. Typical, dependent on calibration
Weight modes Angle 0° to 360°, fixed position, circumference arc e.g. attach weights on fan blades, linear distance around
circumference
Remove trial weights Yes, No
Filter bandwidths 15 CPM, 150 CPM
Manual data entry Yes Allows re-entry of previous balance jobs
Storage 10 balance jobs total
Revised 13 October 2006. While every effort has been made to provide the most accurate information we advise that information in this
document may contain technical inaccuracies or typographical errors. Commtest Instruments Ltd may at any time and without notice make
improvements and/or changes in the products described in this information.
182 Appendix 2: Specifications
Accelerometer Input
Type 2-wire, low impedance piezoelectric Commonly termed 'ICP® type'
Sensitivity 100 mV/g nominal Sensitivity 8.5 mV/g to 2300 mV/g
Sensor detection Warns if short circuit or not connected Channel 1 only
Tachometer
Displays Acceleration, velocity, displacement, demodulation User selectable
2
Maximum levels ± 80 g (800 m/s ), ± 4 in/sec (100 mm/s) ∅-peak. Typical, dependent on individual calibration
± 400 mil (10 mm)
averaging
are lower
2
Units g or m/s , in/s or mm/s, mil or mm or µm ∅-peak, peak-peak or rms
AdB, VdB AdB ref. 1 µg rms, VdB ref. configurable 1.0e-5 mm/s rms or
1.0e-6 mm/s rms
Spectrum Display
0 to (1, 1.2, 1.6, 2, 2.5, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10, 15, 20) kHz Or orders-based from 1X to 30 000X
Resolution 400, 800, 1600, 3200 lines (configurable) 1600 lines maximum for dual channel measurements
Amplitude scale Acceleration, velocity, displacement Linear or log scales
Waveform Display
Number of samples 1024, 2078, 4096, 8192
Time scale 10 ms to 32 seconds/1 rev to 30 000 revs
Keypad Entry
Time Intervals
Lines
Range 400 800 1600 3200
Measuring time in seconds 0 Hz to 100 Hz 4 8 16 32 Dependent on number of lines and number of averages (values
(example ranges) 0 Hz to 800 Hz 0.5 1 2 4 shown in table for no overlap, no averaging, maximum display
0 Hz to 4 kHz 0.1 0.2 0.4 0.8 update rate of 4 per second)
0 Hz to 20 kHz 0.02 0.04 0.08 0.16
Logging Features
Balancing
Planes 1, 2
circumference
Revised 22 November 2005. While every effort has been made to provide the most accurate information we advise that information in this
Accelerometer Input
Sensor detection Warns if short circuit or not connected
Tachometer
2
± 400 mil (10 mm)
averaging
are lower
2
1.0e-6 mm/s rms
Spectrum Display
Resolution 400, 800, 1600, 3200 lines (configurable)
Waveform Display
Keypad Entry
Time Intervals
Lines
Range 400 800 1600 3200
0 Hz to 20 kHz 0.02 0.04 0.08 0.16
Logging Features
Balancing
Planes 1
circumference
Specifications Model vb1000v Remarks
Accelerometer Input
Sensor detection Warns if short circuit or not connected
Tachometer
2
± 400 mil (10 mm)
averaging
are lower
2
1.0e-6 mm/s rms
Spectrum Display
Resolution 400, 800, 1600, 3200 lines (configurable)
Waveform Display
Keypad Entry
Time Intervals
Lines
Range 400 800 1600 3200
0 Hz to 20 kHz 0.02 0.04 0.08 0.16
Logging Features
Specifications Common to all vb models Remarks
Display Graphic LCD
Resolution 240 pixels x 128 pixels
Viewing area 4.3" x 2.3" (110 x 60) mm
Backlight Electro-luminescent
PROFLASH Allows vb firmware to be upgraded via serial comms Download firmware service packs via the Internet
Communications RS232 15 kV ESD protected. Cable with DB9 connector
Baud rate 57 600 bits per second USB adapter provided
Battery
Type Custom Nickel-Cadmium pack
Voltage 7.2 V nominal
Capacity 1500 mAh nominal
Operating time (typical) 12 hours with backlight off, 7 hours with backlight on Depends on mode and setup
Charger and conditioner Integral charger - automatic and manual control Power transformer with 13.5 V ± 1.5 V DC, 1 A output
included in kit
Charge rate 0.7 A nominal 2.5 hours for complete charge nominal
Discharge rate 0.5 A nominal Combats NiCad battery memory effect
Mechanical
Size 9.7" W x 6.1" L x 3.0" H (247 x 154 x 75) mm Including protective boot
Weight 4.4 lb (2 kg) Including protective boot and strap
Environmental
Temperature/Humidity
Operating 32 °F to 122 °F (0 to 50) °C
80% RH 32 °F to 86 °F Non-condensing
70% RH 86 °F to 122 °F Non-condensing
Storage 14 °F to 140 °F (-10 to 60) °C
95% RH
EMC EN55022, CISPR22 Radiated and conducted emissions
EN55024, CISPR24 RF field, ESD and fast transient immunity
balance weight calculations •
Index 138
balancing menu • 126
circumferance arc • 129
fixed positions • 129
initial reading • 125, 126, 132
printing a report • 143, 157
A setting parameters • 127
Acceleration • 66 tips on • 155
Accelerometer trial readings • 132
connecting • 21 trial weight reading • 125, 133
drive current • 6 trim balance • 125, 137
mounting • 6, 21 weight orientation • 128
permanent • 22 WR with rotation • 128, 136
safety • 6 Balancing data
setting up • 21 deleting • 141
specifying settings • 76 loading • 141
AdB reference • 59 saving • 141
Advanced balance options • 131 Baseline recordings • 105
Amplitude • 59, 65, 66, 126 baseline warning • 172
displaying the value • 55 displaying on vb • 172
scale • 59 Battery
type • 59 backup • 161
Analyzing data • 55 charging • 6, 161, 163
on a PC • 9 checking • 162
onsite • 8 memory effect • 6, 164
Angle measurements • 128 reconditioning • 164
AR against rotation • 128, 136 removing • 161, 166
Attachment points • 129 replacing • 166
Automated menus • 37 voltage • 161
Autorepeat • 88 Bump tests • 41
Averaging • 72
setting the number • 72 C
time synchronous • 39 Channels
type • 73 dual channel • 104
Exponential averaging • 73 toggling • 76
linear • 73 Clock, setting • 160
peak hold • 73 Coast down/run up • 42
recommended averages • 72
B recommended spectral lines •
Balance weight calculations • 138 67
Balancing • 10, 124, 125, 145 Copying
advanced balance options • a machine • 116
131 Cross channel phase • 44
AR against rotation • 128, 136 Cursors, harmonic • 55, 59
delta • 55
Index 189
Custom setups • 57 initial reading • 126
saving • 57 machines
all • 170
D individual • 117
notes • 122
Data structure • 107
parameter set • 118
creating • 108
points • 118
Date and time • 160
recordings
Deleting
all • 168
balancing data • 141
individual • 85
directions/axes • 118
routes • 97
folders • 109
sensors • 76
initial reading • 126
trial reading • 126
machines
trim balance • 126
all • 170
exponential averaging • 73
individual • 117
notes • 122 F
parameter set • 118
points • 118 Factory defaults, restoring • 57
recordings Firmware version • 12
all • 168 upgrading • 171
individual • 85 Fmax • 68
routes • 97 calculating with the vb • 68
sensors • 76 limitations • 68
trial reading • 126 setting • 32, 68
trim balance • 126 Fmin • 71
Delta • 5, 55 default value • 71
Demodulation • 101 setting • 71
bandwidth • 102 Folder • 108, 109
parameters • 102 creating • 109
Direction • 106 erasing • 109
Displacement • 66 Free run measurements • 31, 75
Display options • 59 Frequency • 59, 65, 66
setting • 59 difference between peaks • 55
Domain • 66, 78 displaying the value • 55
Drive current • 76 Fresh battery inserted • 165
DSP power off delay • 175
Dual channel measurements • H
104
Halt after recording • 82, 91, 172
E baseline warning • 172
Harmonic cursors • 59
Editing items • 16, 17, 18 Harmonics • 55
Erasing
balancing data • 141 I
directions/axes • 118
Icons (meaning of) • 5
folders • 109
Initial reading • 125, 126
190 Index
erasing • 126 erasing • 122
Instrument removing from an item • 122
cleaning • 6 viewing • 120
power transformer • 6
repairing • 6 O
Invalid combinations • 63
Off-route recordings • 95
ISO 1940 • 140
Orders • 68
K displaying • 59
Overall vibration level • 59
Key commands • 13, 18 Overlap percentage • 74
Keypad schedule entries • 98
P
L
Parameter set • 82, 107, 114
LCD creating • 114
adjusting contrast • 160 selecting • 82
backlight • 160 Parameters
restoring default contrast • 160 changing • 63
Linear averaging • 73 default • 31, 36
Locking the instrument • 176 invalid combinations • 63
Log range • 59 setting • 63
Long time waveform • 49 for a spectrum • 65
for a waveform • 78
M Peak hold averaging • 41, 73
Phase angle • 38, 126
Machine
displaying • 38
copying • 116
Point • 107
creating • 111
Pop-up menus • 15
erasing • 117
Power saver • 165
renaming • 119
Printing • 157
Measurements
balancing reports • 157
analyzing • 55
DPU switch settings • 159
storing • 54
printer setup • 157
taking • 29
PROFLASH • 171
tips for taking • 27
Measuring vibration data • 29 Q
compared with recording • 29
Memory • 67 Quick setup menus • 31
capacity • 166 default parameters • 36
freeing up • 166 demodulation • 34
percentage used • 168 spectrum • 32
using • 31
N waveform • 33
Notes R
attaching • 120
editing • 121 Recording vibration data • 9
Index 191
Recordings • 107 analyzing • 55
erasing resolution • 65
all • 168 setting parameters • 65
individual • 85 spectral lines • 65
reviewing • 84 Strobe • 25, 27
taking • 82
Remove trial weights • 129 T
Renaming an item • 119
Tachometer • 126
Reports
reducing spectral lines • 67
balancing • 143, 157
safety • 6
Resetting the instrument • 177
setup • 23
Resolution
taking measurements with • 23,
spectra • 67
38, 59
waveform • 79
triggering • 23, 75
Reviewing recordings • 84
Tagging • 82, 86
Routes • 9, 90, 107
Technical support, contacting •
erasing • 97
177
off-route recordings • 95
Time synchronous averaging • 39
reviewing • 92
Trial readings • 132
route entries
Trial weight
skipping • 94
angle • 134, 149
taking recordings using • 91
mass • 133, 149
RPM
Trial weight reading • 125
ask for RPM • 74
erasing • 126
displaying • 38
Trigger type • 75
resetting an incorrect value • 84
Trim balance • 125, 137
setting a default value • 74
erasing • 126
S Troubleshooting • 177
Sensor U
drive current • 76
Unlocking the instrument • 176
mounting • 21
Untagging • 86
sensitivity • 19, 76
Upgrading instrument firmware •
settling time • 76
171
types supported • 19
Settling time • 76 V
reducing • 175
Specifications • 181 vb structure lock • 176
Spectral lines VdB reference • 59
effect on data collection time • Velocity • 59, 66
67
effect on resolution • 67 W
for coast down/run up • 67
Waveform • 78
range • 67
duration • 80
setting the number • 67
resolution • 78, 79
Spectrum • 65
192 Index
samples • 78, 80
setting the number • 79
setting parameters • 78
Windowing • 66, 78
WR with rotation • 128, 136
Z
Zooming • 55
Index 193
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All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in

Commtest Instruments Ltd

Printed in New Zealand.

Information in this document is subject to change without notice.

vb™, vb1000v™, vb1000™, vb2000™, vb3000™ and PROFLASH™

Section 2: Basic Operation ........................................11

Section 4: Manual Setup Measurement Parameters 62

Section 5: Recording Data .........................................81

Section 6: Using Routes.............................................89

Section 7: Advanced Operation...............................100

Section 8: Creating Machines..................................106

Section 9: Balancing Rotors ....................................123

Section 10: Balancing Walk-through.......................145

Section 11: Utilities...................................................156

Section 12: Troubleshooting ...................................177

Appendix 1: List of Abbreviations...........................180

Appendix 2: Specifications ......................................181

This Instrument Reference Guide is the companion manual to the

Note: Although this document makes use of common vibration

Included with vb1000v

Balancing Kit Items

Do not attach sensors to any object with a high

Ensure the cables and bootstrap cannot become

Do not bring any objects sensitive to magnetic fields

Do not operate the instrument in an explosive

Charge the battery pack up to at least 30% capacity

Constantly charging the battery when it is not fully

Do not detach the battery pack from the instrument for

Ensure that the battery pack is securely fastened (but

When using an ICP® type accelerometer, ensure that

Mount the sensor properly before taking measurements

To clean the instrument use a mild detergent diluted in

Do not place the vb instrument or the magnetic

Although the instrument has a rugged construction, do

If the instrument malfunctions, return it to an authorized

Use only an approved instrument power transformer

Onsite Analysis (Measure Mode)

• Measurement parameters are set on the instrument.

• The spectrum or waveform is measured and analyzed

• The data is recorded to memory (optional).

• The data is transferred to a PC for further analysis (optional).

See Onsite Analysis (page 28) for more information.

The instrument guides the person taking the recordings through a

• A recording route is created on a PC then transferred to the

• Data for each item on the recording route is sequentially

• The collected data is then transferred to a PC for analysis.

• An initial measurement of the imbalance is taken.

• A trial weight is attached to the balancing plane and another

• Correction weights are attached to the balancing planes as

• A measurement is taken in each plane to confirm that the

See Balancing Rotors (page 123) and Balancing Walk-through (page