Tracer MARKSMAN M-L AM06016 - Manual (Page 3)

Ultrasonic Emitter
The emitter gives off a warble output centered at 40Khz. This output cannot be heard by
the human ear. If the red indicator is on, the unit is emitting.
Air and Contact Probes
The air and contact probes are precision parts, designed to optimize the response of the
Marksman receiver. The 12" air probe extends reach and isolates one leak among multi-
ple suspect areas. Do not modify the probes in any way and never use the probes for
other than described in this manual.
Batteries
Zinc or Alkaline batteries are preferred. To replace the battery in the receiver, the pro-
tective rubber boot has to be removed first. The rubber boot is easier to remove when
warm because it is more flexible. To remove, push the bottom edge of the boot off the
inner enclosure and pull the enclosure out. Please observe polarity. Replace the boot in
the reverse manner. When replacing the emitter battery, be careful not to strain or pinch
the wires. Always remove the battery during a period of long storage. Also, please
dispose of batteries in a manner dictated by your local laws.
IMPORTANT TIPS
Receiver and Emitter Port Openings
The port openings of the receiver and emitter contain the heart of the Marksman's oper-
ation, a precision transducer. During use, guard against any foreign matter entering
these areas.
Calibration
The Marksman has been optimally tuned at our factory and should require no
re-calibration during its life under normal conditions.
LED Display
The LED display allows you to zero in on a steady-state source of ultrasonic sound, such
as when locating an air or vacuum leak or using the emitter. Simply watch for a rise or
drop in the bar levels to pinpoint the source of the problem.
Miscellaneous
To prolong battery life, turn off the Marksman when not in use, avoid rough handling, and
keep away from the elements. Use the carrying case for protection and for transporting.
Safety Precautions
While the Marksman allows you to focus on diagnosing a problem in a fast and
effective manner, never lose focus of your surroundings.
1. Always remember that the Marksman and probes are an extension of your hand.
Keep the probes and your hands a safe distance from moving parts and electrical
areas.
2. Never over-reach or de-stabilize your footing while using the Marksman.
3. Stand a proper distance from electrical and moving parts.
4. Always be aware of the headphone cord when near moving parts.
5. Never use the air or contact probes as a lever, pry bar or for other unintended pur
poses.
6. Never use the contact probe for diagnosing electrical problems.
7. Wearing headphones hinders one's ability to listen to your surroundings –– Always
be alert!
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
1. Plug the headphone jack into the receptacle located on the face of the panel.
2. Thread either the air probe or contact probe into the receiver port. Refer to the
"Typical Scanning Methods/Tips" section for optimum probe choice.
3. Turn the rotary knob clockwise to "ON" and watch for the LED bar to settle to the
bottom position. Turn up the volume until you can just hear the background noise
(hiss). Please note: Increasing the volume does not increase the unit's detection
sensitivity. Setting the volume control too high can lead to operator fatigue.
4. When using the air probe, point the probe in the direction of your free hand while
lightly rubbing your forefinger and thumb together 2+ feet away. The response
should be the sound of sandpaper on wood. You can vary the distance and
increase/decrease the level of volume accordingly. While performing this function,
become familiar with the directional sensitivity of the probe while sweeping the probe
past your fingers at various distances. If using the contact probe, adjust the
sensitivity while lightly rubbing your finger along the tip of the rod.
Typical Scanning Methods/Tips
The Marksman provides information in two ways: qualitative, through the ability to "hear"
the signature ultra-sounds produced by various types of equipment, and the ability to see
the feedback level on a graduated LED bar readout.
The air and contact probes are used to optimize the response depending on the type of
inspection. The air probe is best used for detecting ultrasounds associated with a pres-
sure leak or an electrical corona, while the contact probe is best to detect the ultrasounds
generated from within a casing such as in a gear, bearing, pump, valve, or steam trap
housing.
MECHANICAL MALFUNCTIONS
The photo to the right shows a typical way to inspect a potential wheel bearing problem.
In this case, the air probe is used since the wheel is
being turned while listening for the sound of the bear-
ings. The tip of the probe is kept 2-3 inches from the
inspection area. Response can sometimes be opti-
mized by removing the wheel and using the contact
probe to touch the stationary center hub. This applies
to motor housings, as well when checking motor bear-
ings. The contact probe is also used in the same man-
ner for investigating fuel injectors and coil-over-shock
suspension systems. Touch the tip of the metal probe
to the surface area being tested. Correct operation
sounds one way. Malfunction sounds another way.
You will easily hear the difference.