Tips for Preventing Damage to DCA, OSA, TDR Analyzers

Ensure proper grounding

• Always use the three-prong AC power cord supplied with the analyzer.
• Proper grounding of the instrument will prevent a build-up of electrostatic charge which may be harmful to the instrument and the operator.
• Do not damage the earth-grounding protection by using an extension cable, power cable or autotransformer without a protective ground conductor.
• Check AC power quality and polarity

 Read the warning labels and specifications

• Do not exceed the values provided in the specifications guide or as indicated by the yellow warning labels on the analyzer.
• Refer to the specification guide for conditions required to meet the listed specification. Note information regarding stabilization time, instrument settings and calibration/alignment requirements.
• For example, the yellow warning label on the front panel of DCA modules indicates the maximum input level should not exceed ± 2 V!

Avoid overpowering the analyzer

• Avoid front end damage by having some idea of the signal level to be measured with the analyzer. 
• Before turning on or turning off the connected equipment or the DUT, reduce the signal level to the minimum safety level. This should help to prevent unexpected voltage swell or sag affecting the input or the output of instrument.
• Properly apply a DC block, limiter or external attenuator as required. For more information visit www.keysight.com/find/mta

Protect the input connector

• Avoid repeated bending of cables; a single sharp bend can damage a cable instantly.
• Limit the number of connections and disconnections to reduce wear.
• Inspect the connectors prior to use; look for dirt, nicks, and other signs of damage or wear. A bad connector can ruin the good connector instantly.
• For more information, view “Seven Practices to Prevent Damaging Power Meters and Power Sensors - Application Note”.

Follow electrostatic discharge precautions

• Electrostatic discharge (ESD) can damage or destroy electronic components. Whenever possible, conduct testing at a static-safe workstation. 
• When testing passive (non-power) DUT, work on an ESD workstation or utilize an air ionizer. Discharge the test point by using a probe directly grounded to the earth, or to the ground terminal on the DCA mainframe.
• When test active (powered) DUT, be aware that the capacitors can hold charges even after power is removed from the DU. 
• Loose cables like a capacitor can hold electrostatic charges. The free end of a cable touching surfaces that have voltage levels will cause analyzer input damage. .
• For example: Utilize the discharge mechanism available on the 54754A.
• Probe or fixture left out in the air can build up and store electrical charges. Fixture made of plastic can store charges, and probing powered devices can subject analyzer inputs to damaging voltage and power levels. 

Check for proper ventilation and humidity

• Periodically check and clean the cooling vents of the instrument. Inadequate airflow can result in excessive operating temperatures which can lead to instrument failures. Typical optimal operating temperature is 23 to –5 °C, always keep instrument ambient temperature at < 35 °C.

Use proper lifting techniques

• Lift the instrument by the handles during transportation.
• Avoid picking up the instrument with your hand over the front panel. If the instrument slips, it may damage the keypad, knob, or input connector.
• Use a cart or two persons to help move any heavy instrument.