Veris Technologies OpticMapper - Operating Instructions - Manual (Page 36)

Pub.# OM17-OpticMapper
6-2
Procedure #2: Testing Electrical Continuity
Perform this test daily or every 10 hours of data collection to ensure you are obtaining reliable
data, and whenever EC data is questionable.
The purpose of this test is to insure that each coulter-electrode has an uninterrupted signal path
from the EC Surveyor to the disk blade. Think of each coulter-electrode and its wire path as a
‘channel’. On a 3100 and 3150, there are 6 signal channels that must be clear and isolated from
each other (4 on a 2000XA). You will first test the complete pathway for each channel
—each
coulter-electrode. One easy-to-take reading for each channel tests the cable, wiring harness, and
each coulter-electrode and disk blade. If no problems surface during this test, there is no need to
test individual components. This test should take only a couple of minutes to perform.
To perform this test, you will need the EC Signal Test Box (part #10759) and an ohmmeter
(sometimes referred to as a multi-meter or voltmeter). Make sure the meter is set to ohms,
Ω. If a
range of ohms is available, choose the lowest setting--ohms rather than kilo or mega ohms. If
unfamiliar with ‘ohming-out’ or resistance testing, make a few trial tests before performing the Veris
signal test procedure. Touching the meter leads together will display a zero resistance reading,
touching two places on the same piece of metal will produce a nearly zero reading, touching
nothing will produce an OL (overload or over limit) reading
—meaning complete resistance, and no
continuity.
Figure 2.1 Figure 2.2
Remove the signal cable from the EC Surveyor and connect it to the terminal on the test box. If
you have hard-wired the signal cable extension into the cab, making it difficult to reach the
implement with the cable end, you may want to purchase an extension cable from Veris (part
#12269). This cable attaches to the signal cable end and allows you to position the Signal Test
Box in close proximity to the coulter-electrodes.