Geokon 4580, Instruction Manual

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6
3. TAKING READINGS
3.1 GK-404 Readout Box
The Model GK-404 Vibrating Wire Readout is a portable, low-power, handheld unit that can run
continuously for more than 20 hours on two AA batteries. It is designed for the readout of all
Geokon vibrating wire gauges and transducers; and is capable of displaying the reading in either
digits, frequency (Hz), period (µs), or microstrain (µε). The GK-404 also displays the
temperature of the transducer (embedded thermistor) with a resolution of 0.1 °C.
3.1.1 Operating the GK-404
Before use, attach the flying leads to the GK-404 by aligning the red circle on the silver
Lemo connector of the flying leads with the red line on the top of the GK-404 (Figure 5).
Insert the Lemo connector into the GK-404 until it locks into place.
Figure 5 - Lemo Connector to GK-404
Connect each of the clips on the leads to the matching colors of the sensor conductors,
with blue representing the shield (bare).
To turn the GK-404 on, press the “ON/OFF” button on the front panel of the unit. The
initial startup screen will be displayed. After approximately one second, the GK-404 will
start taking readings and display them based on the settings of the POS and MODE
buttons.
The unit display (from left to right) is as follows:
• The current Position: Set by the
POS
button. Displayed as a letter A through F.
• The current Reading: Set by the
MODE
button. Displayed as a numeric value
followed by the unit of measure.
•
Temperature reading of the attached gauge in degrees Celsius.
Use the POS button to select position B and the MODE button to select Dg (digits).
(Other functions can be selected as described in the GK-404 Manual.)
The GK-404 will continue to take measurements and display readings until the unit is
turned off, either manually, or if enabled, by the Auto-Off timer.
If no reading displays or the reading is unstable, see Section 6 for troubleshooting. For
further information, consult the GK-404 manual.