Q: Will the Model 869 calibrate other manufacturers’ pressure sensors?

A: Yes, the 869 Calibrator provides up to 24 VDC excitation to the Unit Under Test (UUT) or can read the output of pressure sensors that are powered externally. The 869 can read both 2-wire 4-20mA current loop output and 3 or 4-wire Voltage output up to +/-10VDC from the UUT.

Q: Pocket PC’s change models frequently. How can you assure me that my version can be repaired or upgraded, if necessary, in the future?

A: The flexible mounting nest insert in the calibrator top panel can be changed to accommodate new models of the Pocket PC.

Q: Does the length of plastic pressure tubing between the pressure sensor being tested and the calibrator affect the operation and accuracy of the 869?

A: Longer tubing increases the pump-up volume that the calibrator needs to drive in order to reach test pressure points. Normally, this would significantly increase the time to achieve set point pressures and the entire calibration test cycle. However, the 869 has a very fast micro-stepping motor driven piston/cylinder and is not appreciably slowed down by tubing lengths in excess of 12’. The other concern with using long runs of tubing is that tubing movement can actually produce incremental pressure fluctuations. To reduce tubing pressure fluctuations, use the shortest length tubing possible or tie down longer runs to minimize tubing movement. The Setra calibrator will provide accurate sampling by filtering out pressure fluctuations.

Q: What is the effect of shock and vibration on the calibrator during operation?

A: The reference pressure sensors are oriented in the Model 869 such that the unit is insensitive to shock and vibration.

Q: Is the 869 calibrator compliant with 21 CFR Part 11?

A: That calibrator is not fully compliant but will be in 2008.  This will be a free upgrade for all of our customers and can be implemented via a software download from our website.

Q: How do I print a calibration certificate?

A: Using the Micro-Cal Manager software, the user can upload the calibration data from the PDA (via the Active sync program and data transferring cradle that is supplied). The data file will be identified with the pressure sensor ID, date stamp, and time of day. Highlight the desired data file and send it to your desktop printer.  Please refer to the Model 869 user manual for further instruction on using the Micro-Cal Manager software.

Q: How do I get my Model 869 recertified and what is the suggested recalibration period?

A: The calibrator “system” tab indicates when the unit is due for recertification. Setra recommends getting units recertified at least once a year. Calibrators received for recertification will be shipped out within 1 to 2 weeks after receipt at the factory.

Q: Is the calibrator affected by handheld radios, cell phones and other Radio Frequency Interference (RFI)?

A: The Model 869 has metalized internal shielding. It is immune to most common sources of RFI.

Q: How is the 869 software validated?

A: The 869 software is written in individual operational blocks. Each block is tested extensively for input/output error generation. The composite operating program has been thoroughly tested by internal and external beta users.

Q: How is the transducer brought to a specified pressure?

A: The positive port is connected to the PUSH side of the piston causing a positive pressure. The low port is connected to the back side of the piston causing a vacuum in the low port. The pressure and vacuum are not necessarily equal in opposite values due to the difference between the volumes on either side of the piston. The only result you can rely on is the differential value. Example of a 2” differential: If the piston was exactly centered then the positive pressure port would be at +1” and the low port would be at  

-1”. Since this is not always the case, one port could be at 1.2” and the other at 0.8” which would provide a 2” differential.

Q: How is the calibrator leak tested?

A: The transducer is brought to full scale differential and the piston is simply held in position. If either side of the system leaks, the output will decrease. Leak rate will be reported in inches of W.C./sec. If there is a very slow leak, the pressure controller will automatically compensate for leak rates up to 0.0001”W.C./sec. This test is designed to determine if the system is sealed properly, not just to leak test the transducer.

Q: When we upgrade our 869 calibration program on the Pocket PC, do we need to have previous revisions installed?

A: No, when any subsequent revision of the 869 calibration program is installed, it contains all previous feature upgrades.

Q: We have dial gauges and pressure switches at our facility, can the Model 869 calibrate them? 

A: Yes, the Model 869 has the capability of calibrating both dial gauges and pressure switches.  An individual “UUT” can be set up for either provided the range falls within the range of the calibrator.

Q: How do I charge my Model 869?

A: The Model 869 is provided with either one or two chargers depending on the generation of your particular unit. Please refer to your owner’s manual for the proper charging method.  Generation 1 requires that both the AC adapter and smart charger be plugged in with the Model 869 switch on in order to charge.  Generation 2 requires only the provided AC adapter be plugged in for the unit to charge.

Q: When ordering the 869, how do I select the two ranges of the reference units? 

A: The two ranges are facility dependent. Please contact Setra to assist you in selecting the correct ranges for your facility.