Geokon 6300, Instruction Manual, Page: 19 / 24

13
5. TROUBLESHOOTING
Maintenance and troubleshooting of the vibrating wire tilt sensors used in the Model 6300
Inclinometer are is confined to periodic checks of cable connections. The sensors are sealed and
there are no user-serviceable parts.
Consult the following list of problems and possible solutions should difficulties arise. Consult
the factory for additional troubleshooting help.
Symptom: Tilt Sensor Readings are Unstable:

Is the readout box position set correctly? If using a datalogger to record readings
automatically are the swept frequency excitation settings correct?

Is there a source of electrical noise nearby? Most probable sources of electrical noise are
motors, generators and antennas. Make sure the shield drain wire is connected to ground
whether using a portable readout or datalogger. If using the GK-403, GK-404, or GK-405
connect the clip with the blue boot to the shield drain wire. (Green for the GK-401)

Does the readout work with another tilt sensor? If not, the readout may have a low battery or
be malfunctioning.
Symptom: Tilt Sensor Fails to Read:

Is the cable cut or crushed? This can be checked with an ohmmeter. Nominal resistance
between the two gauge leads (usually red and black leads) is 180 Ω , ± 10 Ω . Remember to add
cable resistance when checking (22 AWG stranded copper leads are approximately
14.7 Ω /1000' or 48.5 Ω /km, multiply by two for both directions). If the resistance reads
infinite, or very high (megohms), a cut wire must be suspected. If the resistance reads very
low ( < 20 Ω ) a short in the cable is likely.

Does the readout or datalogger work with another tilt sensor? If not, the readout or datalogger
may be malfunctioning.
Symptom: Thermistor resistance is too high:

Is there an open circuit? Check all connections, terminals and plugs. If a cut is located in the
cable, splice according to instructions in Section 2.4.
Symptom: Thermistor resistance is too low:

Is there a short? Check all connections, terminals and plugs. If a short is located in the cable,
splice according to instructions in Section 2.4.

Water may have penetrated the interior of the tilt sensor. There is no remedial action.