INW LEVELSCOUT INSTRUCTIONS
Seametrics • 253.872.0284
Page 14 inwusa.com
Troubleshooting
Erratic Readings
Erratic readings can be caused by a poor connection, damaged cable, moisture in the
unit, or a damaged transmitter. In most cases, erratic readings are due to moisture
getting into the system. The first thing to check is the connection. Look for moisture
between contacts or a loose or broken wire. Next, check the cable for cracking or
fraying. If the connections and cable appear OK, but the readings are still erratic,
the transmitter may be damaged. Contact INW for evaluation and repair. Erratic and
erroneous readings can also occur due to improper grounding. See Grounding Issues,
below.
Zero Readings When Pressurized
Continuous zero readings are usually caused by an open circuit which may indicate
a broken cable, a bad connection, or possibly a damaged transmitter. Check the
connector to see if a wire has become loose or if the cable has been cut. If damage is
not readily apparent, contact INW for evaluation and repair.
Grounding Issues
It is commonly known that when using electronic equipment, both personnel and
equipment need to be protected from high power spikes that may be caused by
lightning, power line surges, or faulty equipment. Without a proper grounding system, a
power spike will find the path of least resistance to earth ground – whether that path is
through sensitive electronic equipment or the person operating the equipment. In order
to ensure safety and prevent equipment damage, a grounding system must be used to
provide a low resistance path to ground.
When using several pieces of interconnected equipment, each of which may have its own
ground, problems with noise, signal interference, and erroneous readings may be noted.
This is caused by a condition known as a
Ground Loop
. Because of natural resistance in
the earth between the grounding points, current can flow between the points, creating
an unexpected voltage difference and resulting erroneous readings.
The single most important step in minimizing a ground loop is to tie all equipment
(sensors, dataloggers, external power sources, and any other associated equipment) to a
single common grounding point.
INW recommends connecting the shield to ground
at the connector end.
TROUBLESHOOTING