FAQ

Most frequently asked questions can be found by searching the list below. If you require additional information please contact us directly.

Data Acquisition (DAQ) | Oscilloscopes | Memory Recorders

Can I use any company’s PC card in my HIOKI power meter or Memory HiCorder?
You may not be able to use some PC cards that typically are available for purchase in computer stores and other shops. Please use a genuine HIOKI product for which HIOKI has verified proper operation.

Hioki USA   June 15, 2017  

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The measurement resolution of the Memory HiCorder MR8847’s Analog Unit 8966 is defined as 1/100 of the range. How many bits is the A/D resolution?
Vertical-axis full scale on the Memory HiCorder MR8847 is 20 div. Since the resolution is 1/100 of the range, the number of data points in the range that can be shown on the display is 2,000. However, the instrument actually records 4,000 data points, including those that fall outside the display range. By doing so, it makes it possible to check waveforms outside the screen range by moving the zero-position up or down after recording is complete. Consequently, the user manual and catalog indicate that the instrument uses 12-bit A/D conversion. Please note that the measurement resolution relative to the range varies with the input module and Memory HiCorder or other equipment being used.

Hioki USA   June 15, 2017  

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In the specifications for a Memory HiCorder input unit, a maximum rated voltage to earth as well as a maximum input voltage are listed. What is the difference between these two characteristics?
The maximum rated voltage to earth is the upper limit voltage that can be applied between input channel and the instrument’s enclosure or between input channels without damaging the instrument. By contrast, the maximum rated input voltage is the upper limit voltage that can be applied between input terminals without damaging the instrument.

Hioki USA   June 15, 2017  

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When I convert the recording data to CSV usinge WaveViewer, there are two values at the same time stamp. CH1(Max)[V] CH1(Min)[V] CH2(Max)[V] CH2(Min)[V]... There are always Max and Min values for each channel at the same time. Why does this happen, and which one is more appropriate to analyze the data?

The data is RECORDER function data with the extension ".rec".  The time axis and sampling interval are set in the RECORDER function, and the time axis is selectable in 19 steps between 10ms/div and 1h/div. The time axis resolution is 100 points/div, so the resolution is 10ms when 10s/div is set.
Then, if you set 1ms for the sampling interval, there are 10 sampling data in 10ms (time resolution).
The RECORDER function records the maximum and minumum from these 10 sampled data, resulting in two values for each time.
Unfortunately, we are not in a position to recommend which Max or Min data should be used for your evaluation.

For your reference, the sampling interval is fixed at 1/100 of the time axis range in the MEMORY function.
(1/80 of the time axis range for the 8807 and 8808)

Hioki USA   May 15, 2019  

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I want to record a 400V AC power supply waveform using a Memory HiCORDER, but it exceeds the maximum allowable input specifications. Is there any method to record the waveform?

Please use the 9322 Differential Probe to record the waveform of a 400V AC power supply.  It is also useful to measure the waveforms of high voltage like inverter output and PV systems, etc. Its maximum input voltage is 2000V DC /1000V AC (CAT II)/600V AC/DC (CAT III), and the output rate is 1/1000.
The normal input cord and 10:1 or 100:1 probes are dependent on the maximum rated voltage to the earth of the Memory HiCORDERs, but the 9322 offers CAT III 600V safety.
In addition to waveform recording, the 9322  has an RMS function and AC coupling function useful for detecting surge noise on a power supply circuit.

Please note that the MR8880 has a maximum rated voltage to the ground of CAT IV 300V / CAT III 600V.
Also, the maximum voltage between channels is 600V AC/DC, making it possible to measure a 400V circuit directly.

Hioki USA   May 15, 2019  

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I'm using a Memory HiCORDER. What software is downloadable to see waveforms on my PC?

Please download the free WaveViewer software from the following link.
https://www.hioki.com/en/support/versionup/detail/?downloadid=410

MR6000, MR8870, MR8880, MR8875, MR8847 series, 8860 series, MR8827, etc.

Hioki USA   May 15, 2019  

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Is it possible to convert text data recorded on a Memory HiCORDER to binary format?

 

Unfortunately, text data cannot be converted to binary format, because the details of  Memory HiCORDER settings are not available as text data.

Hioki USA   July 25, 2019  

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Question

What is the difference between a respirator and an ECMO (extracorporeal membrane oxygenation machines)?

 

Answer

Please refer to the diagram below.  For further information, please consult with your medical equipment manufacturer.

Please also refer to this FAQ regarding the electrical safety testing of medical equipment.

 

Elliott Benzle   June 17, 2020  

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Data Loggers | Multichannel Loggers

Can I use any company’s PC card in my HIOKI power meter or Memory HiCorder?
You may not be able to use some PC cards that typically are available for purchase in computer stores and other shops. Please use a genuine HIOKI product for which HIOKI has verified proper operation.

Hioki USA   June 15, 2017  

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I purchased an LR8431, installed the Logger Utility, and connected the instrument to my computer with a USB cable, but the computer won’t recognize the LR8431.
The LR8431 can use USB flash drives and is set to do so by default when it ships from the factory. To use the Logger Utility, change the USB mode from “USB flash drive” to “USB communications” on the System screen.

Hioki USA   June 15, 2017  

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I’d like to record a 4 to 20 mA measurement signal with my Memory HiLogger, but the instrument lacks a suitable measurement range. Is there a method I can use to record this signal?
Attach a 250 Ω resistor to the Memory HiLogger’s terminal block along with the signal wires so that the 4 to 20 mA current is converted to, and input as, a 1 to 5 V voltage. The Memory HiLogger’s 1 to 5 V measurement range is convenient in this setup. You can also use the instrument’s scaling function to convert displayed values to desired values.

Hioki USA   June 15, 2017  

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Can the 8430 output data to Excel in realtime?
Yes, please use the free software Logger Utility downloadable from the HIOKI website.

Hioki USA   May 15, 2019  

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There are 3 modes for USB ("USB Memory", "USB Communication", "USB Drive"). What is the difference?

USB Memory
Use a USB flash drive.

USB Communication
Communicate with the LR8431-20 and initiate measurement using the Logger Utility software from a computer (using a USB cable).

USB Drive
Read files on a CF card that is connected to the LR8431-20 from a
computer (using a USB cable).

Hioki USA   May 15, 2019  

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Data Loggers | Temperature Data Loggers | Compact Loggers

For how long can the PW3360 record data on an SD card (2 GB)?
The Clamp On Power Logger PW3360 series testers save data on the Z4001, a 2 GB SD card. For example, if “Average only” is selected as the save parameter while using the 3P2W2M setting, the following save times are achieved (time shown on the PW3360):

Save interval time: 1 sec. → 42.4 days
2 sec. → 84.9 days
5 sec. → 212 days
10 sec. or more → 1 year

If “All” is selected as the save parameter while using the 3P3W2M setting, the following save times are achieved:

Save interval time: 1 sec. → 16.1 days
2 sec. → 32.3 days
5 sec. → 80.7 days
10 sec. → 161 days
15 sec. → 242 days
30 sec. → 1 year

The maximum file size for measurement data is approximately 200 MB. When this amount is exceeded, a separate file will be created, and data will be saved in the new file.

Reference: The PW3360 series testers’ maximum recording time is 1 year.

Hioki USA   June 15, 2017  

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What type of instrument should I use to measure an inverter’s current and voltage?
Typically, you should use a true RMS instrument to measure the current and voltage on the primary side of an inverter because such instruments can accurately measure distorted waveforms. The same type of instrument should be used to measure the current on the secondary side of an inverter. By contrast, you should use a average rectified-type instrument to measure the voltage on the secondary side of an inverter. Use of the average rectification method makes it possible to obtain values that are close to the fundamental component. Therefore, it is recommended to use a true RMS tester to measure the current and voltage on the primary side of an inverter as well as the current on the secondary side, and a average rectified-type tester to measure voltage on the secondary side.

Hioki USA   June 15, 2017  

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Can I use the Wireless Humidity Logger LR8514 (Bluetooth) in China?

Bluetooth communication technology must be approved for use each country.
The LR8514's Bluetooth function is approved for use in China.  Please refer to the specification of each model.
LR8514 (Please see Specifications.)
https://www.hioki.com/en/products/detail/?product_key=5837
For your reference, the LR8410-30 is the approved model in the LR8410 series for use in China.

Hioki USA   March 8, 2019  

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Is the data in memory deleted when replacing the battery on the LR5000 series?

The LR5000 series uses non-volatile memory, so data remains in  memory even if the battery is replaced or consumed.
LR5001, LR5011, LR5021, LR5031, LR5041, LR5042, LR5043, LR5051, etc.

Hioki USA   May 15, 2019  

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Can the infrared temperature meter measure through a glass window?
No, this is not possible.  This will cause the surface temperature of the glass window to be measured.

Hioki USA   July 25, 2019  

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How I should set the emissivity if I do not know the target material's approximate emissivity (or it is not listed in the manual)?
Please calculate the emissivity by comparing the temperature measured by a contact-type temperature meter and infrared meter.
Or, you can use the black spray or tape having known emissivity.

Hioki USA   July 25, 2019  

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I plan to measure the illuminance with the FT3425 of some points in the office. What image file can be loaded to the GENNECT Cross?
GENNECT Cross can process BMP, JPG and PNG image files.

Hioki USA   July 25, 2019  

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LCR Meters | Impedance Analyzers | Capacitance Meters

How can I download the application and learn more about communications commands?
You can download the sample application and view the Communications Command User Manual here.

Hioki USA   June 15, 2017  

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What format does the Impedance Analyzer IM3570 use to save data?
The instrument saves data in either CSV or BMP format.

Hioki USA   June 15, 2017  

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What can you tell me about sample current and voltage dependency?
Inductors with cores exhibit current dependency. Air-core inductors do not exhibit current dependency. An LCR meter’s V and CV (constant-voltage) modes can be used to measure samples that exhibit voltage dependency (ceramic capacitors, etc.). Select CV mode when you do not wish to change the voltage applied to both ends of the sample. To the extent that the voltage value is monitored and controlled with feedback, CV mode results in longer measurement times than V mode.

Hioki USA   June 15, 2017  

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How to measure the impedance of coaxial cables using an LCR meter

Connect the Hpot and Hcur to the shield of the coaxial cable, and connect Lpt and Lcur to the core wire. Impedance is measured by opening the one side to obtain [Zo] and shorting the other side to obtain [Zs]. Then, the impedance characteristics is calculated with the formula Z＝√(ZoZs).

Hioki USA   July 25, 2019  

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Resistance Meters | Battery Testers

Are there any precautions that should be observed when measuring an inductor or transformer?
When measuring the resistance of an inductor or transformer after conducting an insulation withstanding test, you could damage the resistance meter if the output voltage from the insulation withstanding tester is inadvertently applied to it. Exercise caution concerning the following when using a custom-designed switching system to perform measurement. Ensure that the switching device (relay, switch, etc.) does not cause the high voltage from the insulation withstanding tester to be applied to the resistance meter. Additionally, allow sufficient time for the measurement target to discharge after the test before performing resistance measurement as it will have become charged.

Hioki USA   June 15, 2017  

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What measurement principles do resistance meters use?
When a current I is applied to the object under measurement, a resistance R and the voltage V are generated with the relationship R = V / I. The resistance R can be calculated using this relationship. Resistance meters provide three measurement methods: constant current (CC), which applies a constant current to the sample; constant voltage (CV), which applies a constant voltage to both ends of the sample; and a third that applies the voltage across the combination of the instrument’s output impedance and the series-connected sample. HIOKI resistance meters use the CC method. Super-insulation resistance meters use the CV method,