Translation of the original operating manual

Catalog No
Protec P3000
Protec P3000

230 V
115 V

520-001520-002

Protec P3000XL
Protec P3000XL

230 V
115 V

520-003520-004

Protec P3000(RC)Protec P3000(RC)

230 V
115 V

520-103520-104

Protec P3000XL(RC) 230 V
Protec P3000XL(RC) 115 V

520-105
520-106

from software version 4.17
document nokina26en1-19-(1902)

Protec P3000(XL)
P3000(XL)
ProtecHelium-Schnüffellecksuchgerät
Helium Sniffer Leak Detector

Content
1

General Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
1.1

1.2
1.3

1.4

1.5
1.6

2

How the Protec P3000 Works . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
2.1
2.2

2.3

3

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
1.1.1 Intended Use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
1.1.2 Available Configurations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
1.1.3 Technical Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Support by INFICON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Unpacking . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
1.3.1 Supplied Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
1.3.2 Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Notes on How to Use This Handbook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
1.4.1 Symbols of Vacuum Technology . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
1.4.2 Definition of Terms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Instrument Views of the Protec P3000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
1.6.1 Set up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
1.6.2 Mechanical Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
1.6.3 Electrical Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
1.6.4 RS232 Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
1.6.5 I/O Port . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Description of the Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Description of the Subassemblies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
2.2.1 Backing Pump . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
2.2.2 Wise TechnologyTM Sensor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
2.2.3 Valve Holder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
2.2.4 Control Assembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Description of the Displays and User Interfaces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
2.3.1 Main unit display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
2.3.2 SL3000(XL) Sniffer line with probe display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
2.3.3 Built-in PRO-Check reference leak . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Operation of the Protec P3000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
3.1
3.2
3.3
3.4

Start-Up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32
Controls on the main display unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Controls on the probe display unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Performing measurements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
3.4.1 Standard Operation Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
3.4.2 I•Guide Operating Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
3.4.2.1 Starting the I•Guide Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
3.4.2.2 Selecting an I•Guide Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
3.4.2.3 Using an I•Guide Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

Content

3

3.5

3.6
3.7
3.8

4

Equipment Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
4.1
4.2
4.3

4.4

4.5

4.6
4.7

5

6.2

Content

Error Messages and Warnings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82

Equipment Connections . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
6.1

4

Menu Structure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
The Service Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Selecting gas equivalents and setting trigger values . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
4.3.1 Setting gas parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
4.3.2 Selecting a set of gas parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Settings Sub-menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
4.4.1 Vacuum & Access . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
4.4.2 Audio Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
4.4.3 Display Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
4.4.4 Setting-up / editing an I•Guide Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
4.4.5 Miscellaneous Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Interfaces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
4.5.1 Control location . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
4.5.2 Recorder outputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
4.5.3 RS232 Protocol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
4.5.4 Select PLC inputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
4.5.5 Baud rate & end sign . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
4.5.6 PRO-Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
The Info Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
History & Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77

Protec P3000 Messages . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82
5.1

6

3.4.3 The Info Page . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Calibration and Self-Test . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
3.5.1 Verifying a calibration (proof function) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
3.5.2 Internal calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
3.5.3 External calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Standby . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Shutdown . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Storage for fast availability as back-up unit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

I/O Port (Control Inputs and Outputs) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
6.1.1 Ground connectors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
6.1.2 24V Output . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92
6.1.3 PLC Inputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92
6.1.4 PLC Outputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
6.1.4.1 Relay outputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94
6.1.4.2 Recorder Outputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
6.1.5 How to perform a calibration? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
RS232 interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96

7

Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
7.1
7.2
7.3
7.4

7.5
7.6

7.7

Maintenance schedule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
Exchanging the air filter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
Exchanging the external fuses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100
Replacing filters in the sniffer line . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100
7.4.1 Replacing the felt discs of the capillary filter(for SL3000 only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101
7.4.2 Replacing the felt discs when using the water protection tip(for SL3000 only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102
7.4.3 Checking / replacing the sinter filter(for SL3000 only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
Replacing the filter pad of the sniffer tip(for SL3000XL only) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104
Switching the capillary filter (for SL3000 sniffer line only) . . . . . . . . 107
7.6.1 Switching from metal to plastic capillary filter . . . . . . . . . . . 107
7.6.2 Switching from plastic to metal capillary filter . . . . . . . . . . . 108
Replacing the gas reservoir of the PRO-Check . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109

8

Gas library . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113

9

CE Declaration of Conformity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121
Appendix . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123

Content5

General Safety Precautions

Indicates procedures that must be strictly observed to prevent hazards topersons.

Indicates procedures that must strictly be observed to prevent damage to or
destruction of the Protec P3000 leak detector.

Hinweis Indicates special requirements the user must comply with.
The INFICON Protec P3000 leak detector has been designed for safe and efficient
operation when used properly and in accordance with this Technical Handbook. It is
the responsibility of the user to carefully read and strictly observe all safety precautions described in this chapter and throughout this Technical Handbook. The Protec
P3000 must only be operated in the proper condition and under the conditions
described in this Technical Handbook. It must be operated and maintained by trained
personal only. Consult local, state, and national agencies regarding specific requirements and regulations. Adress any further safety, operation and / or maintenancequestions to our nearest office.
Failure to observe the following precautions could result in serious personal
injury:Danger of explosion!
To use the Protec P3000 in explosion hazard areas could cause ignition of flammable mixtures.
The Protec P3000 must only be operated outside of explosion hazard areas.

Only 3-core mains cables having a protective ground conductor must be
used. Operation of the Protec P3000 with the ground conductor unconnected
is not permissible.

6

General Safety Precautions

Hearing damage from excessively loud signals
The volume of signals can exceed 85 dB(A).
Keep away from the device if the volume has been set to high.
Wear ear protection, when needed.

Do not stare into the LEDs of the sniffer line intentionally for extended times
or at a close distance as this may cause permanent damage to the eye.

Danger of electric shock.
Don’t touch voltaged parts with the sniffer tip. Test samples need to be disconnected from electricity before leak testing.

For all contacts of the I/O Port a maximum voltage of 60 V DC or 25 V AC
must not be exeeded or reached to ground or ground equipment conductors.
According to the type of in- or outputs lower voltages had to be accepted. For
this, please refer to the information given in the responding chapters.

For all maintenance on the Protec P3000, the Protec P3000 must be
disconnected from power.

Before exchanging the air filter the Protec P3000 must be disconnected frompower.

General Safety Precautions

7

Before exchanging the fuses the Protec P3000 must be disconnected frompower.

Failure to observe the following precautions could result in damage to theequipment:

The Protec P3000 must not be operated while standing in water or when
exposed to drip water. The same applies to all other kinds of liquids.
This Protec P3000 should only be used in rooms.

Avoid contact of the Protec P3000 with bases, acids and solvents as well as
exposure to extreme climatic conditions.

Ensure sufficient air cooling (see also Section 1.1.2)

Before installation remove the transportation lock.

In order to ensure adequate ventilation of the Protec P3000, a space of atleast 20 cm 8) (8 in.) must be kept unobstructed to the sides. The clearance
at the rear must be no less than 10 cm (4 in.). Moreover, the Protec P3000
handles for carrying the leak detector at the sides of the main unit must not
be covered at any time as these acts as air inlet and outlet. Avoid thepresence of heat sources in the vicinity of the Protec P3000.

8

General Safety Precautions

Before connecting the Protec P3000 to the mains you must make sure thatthe mains voltage rating of the Protec P3000 coincides with the locallyavailable mains voltage.

Do not suck in any liquids.

Permissible maximum input voltage PLC 28 V.

Permissible max. voltage and current for open collector outputs are: 28 V;
50 mA.

Maximum load rating relay outputs is 60 V DC / 25 V AC and 1 A per relay.

The air filter should be checked for contamination at least every 6 months
and should be definitely exchanged after 2 years.

General Safety Precautions

9

10

General Safety Precautions

1

General Information
The Protec P3000 helium leak detector is supplied ready for operation. However, werecommend that you carefully read the Technical Handbook to ensure optimum
operating conditions right from the start. This handbook contains important information on functions, installation, start-up and operation of the Protec P3000.
If not stated otherwise this technical handbook applies to all configurations of theProtec P3000 (see Section 1.1.2). Sections specific to one configuration are marked
as "for … only". Sections marked as "for Protec P3000XL only" always apply to theProtec P3000XL with the SL3000XL sniffer line (capable of HIGH FLOW mode).

1.1

Introduction

1.1.1

Intended Use
The Protec P3000 is a helium leak detector for sniffer applications. It may be used to
localise and quantify leaks in test samples if there is helium under an overpressure
within the test sample and when searching the test sample with a sniffer probe fromthe outside (sniffer method). The use of this sniffer probe is mandatory for proper
operation and it is available as an accessory (Cat. No. 525-001 to 525-004).

The Protec P3000 must not be operated while standing in water or when
exposed to drip water. The same applies to all other kinds of liquids.
This Protec P3000 should only be used in rooms.

Avoid contact of the Protec P3000 with bases, acids and solvents as well as
exposure to extreme climatic conditions.

Ensure sufficient air cooling (see also Section 1.1.2)

This equipment is not intended to be used in residential areas and cannot
ensure adequate protection of radio reception in such environments.

General Information

11

1.1.2Available Configurations
The Protec P3000 leak detector is available in four different configurations:
The Standard Protec P3000
The standard Protec P3000 should be used for high sensitivity applications. It
requires the SL3000 sniffer line.
The Protec P3000,
RC version
The Protec P3000, RC version is the standard Protec P3000 but with an external
display unit. It requires the SL3000 sniffer line.
The Protec P3000XL
The Protec P3000XL is the HIGH FLOW version of the Protec P3000. It is able to detectleaks at a much higher distance from the potential leak at reduced sensitivity but canbe switched back to normal flow at increased sensitivity. In order to use both flowmodes (high and low) it requires the use of the SL3000XL sniffer line. It may also be
operated with the normal SL3000 sniffer line, in this case the high flow mode is disabled, however.
The Protec P3000XL,
RC version
The Protec P3000XL, RC version is identical to the Protec P3000XL, but with an
external display unit. It requires the SL3000XL sniffer line.

1.1.3

Technical Data
Physical Data
Lowest detectable leak rate
For Protec P3000

1 x 10-7 mbar l/s

For Protec P3000XL in LOW FLOW mode1 x 10-7 mbar l/s

For Protec P3000XL in HIGH FLOW mode 1 x 10-6 mbar l/s
Measurement range
For Protec P3000

5 decades

For Protec P3000XL in HIGH FLOW mode 4 decades

12

Helium sensor

Wise TechnologyTM Sensor

Sensor response time

450 msGeneral Information

Gas flow through the capillary
For Protec P3000

225 - 375 sccm*

For Protec P3000XL in HIGH FLOW mode 2660 - 3500 sccm*
Time until ready for operation

approx. 3 min* Measured at 1 atm (1013 mbar) at sea altitude. Actual flow may vary with increased
altitude and low atmospheric pressure.
Electrical Data
Mains voltages and mains frequencies

100 - 120 V, 50 / 60 Hz(fixed)207 - 236 V, 50 / 60 Hz

Power consumption

200 VA

Type of protection

IP 20

Overvoltage category

II

Noise level< 54 dBA

Other data

1.2

Dimensions (w x h x d) in mm

610 x 370 x 265

Weight27 kg

Permissible ambient temperature(during operation)

10 °C to 45 °C

Permissible storage temperature-40 °C to 60 °C

Relative humidity

max. 80% for temperature up to +31°C,
decreasing linearly to 50% at +40°C

Contamination level2

Max. altitude above sea level

2000m

Support by INFICONINFICON Service
If equipment is returned to INFICON or an authorised INFICON representative indicate whether the equipment is free of substances damaging to health or whether it iscontaminated. If it is contaminated also indicate the nature of the hazard. INFICON
must return any equipment without a Declaration of Contamination to the sender’saddress. You will find an appropriate form below.

GeneralWe reserve the right to alter the design or any data given in this handbook.
The illustrations are not binding.

General Information13

Declaration of Contamination
The service, repair, and/or disposal of vacuum equipment and components will only be carried out if a correctly completed declaration has
been submitted. Non-completion will result in delay.
This declaration may only be completed (in block letters) and signed by authorized and qualified staff.

Description of productReason for return

Type
Article Number
Serial Number

Operating fluid(s) used (Must be drained before shipping.)

Process related contamination of product:
toxic

no  1)

caustic

no  1)yes biological hazard
explosive

no 
no 

yes  2)yes  2)

radioactiveno 

yes  2)other harmful substances no  1)
The product is free of any substances which are damaging tohealthyes 1) or not containing any amountof hazardous residues thatexceed the permissible exposure limits

yes 

yes 
2) Products thus contaminated will not be accepted without written
evidence of decontamination!

Harmful substances, gases and/or by-products
Please list all substances, gases, and by-products which the product may have come into contact with:
Trade/p roduct name

Precautions associatedwith substanceChemical name(or symbol)

Action if human contact

Legally binding declaration:
I/we hereby declare that the information on this form is complete and accurate and that I/we will assume any further costs that may
arise. The contaminated product will be dispatched in accordance with the applicable regulations.
O rganization/company
Address

Post code, place

Phone

Fax

Email
Name
Date and legally binding signatureThis form can be downloaded
from our website.

Fig. 1

14

General Information

Declaration of Contamination

Company stamp

Copies:Original for addressee - 1 copy for accompanying documents - 1 copy for file of sender1.3

UnpackingUnpack the Protec P3000 leak detector immediately after it has been received even
if it is to be put into operation at some later date. Examine the shipping container forany external damage. Completely remove all packaging materials.
NoticeRetain the shipping container and the packaging materials in the event ofpossible complaints concerning any damages.

Check if the Protec P3000 leak detector is complete (see Section1.3.1) and carefully
subject it to a visual inspection. If any damage is discovered please immediately
inform the forwarding agent and the insurers. If it is required to exchange thedamaged part please contact our orders department.

1.3.1

Supplied Equipment
The Protec P3000 leak detector is ready for operation. Before installation please
read Section 1.5. Included with the leak detector are the following items:•

Protec P3000 (main unit)•

Mains cord•

Set of fuses (3 x 10 pcs.)•

Spare air filter•

8 mm hexagonal wrench•

Documentation– Operating Instructions Protec P3000 (kina26en1)– Interface Description Protec P3000 (kins26en1)

NoticeThe SL3000 and SL3000XL sniffer lines are available in different
configurations and need to be ordered separately in the desired length. The
SL3000(XL) sniffer line is not part of the Protec P3000 shipment. (seeSection 1.3.2 Accessories)

NoticeThe PRO-Check reference leak is an accessory (see Section 1.3.2
Accessories) and needs to be ordered seperately

NoticeFor the RC versions the display unit and the connecting cable are not partof the standard Protec P3000 shipment and need to be ordered separately(see Section 1.3.2)

General Information

15

1.3.2

Accessories
For Protec P3000
SL3000 Sniffer line for Protec P3000

Cat. No. / Ref. No.

SL3000-3, 3 m length525-001

SL3000-5, 5 m length525-002

SL3000-10, 10 m length525-003

SL3000-15, 15 m length525-004

Sniffer tips for SL3000
ST 312, 120 mm, rigid

122 13

FT 312, 120 mm, flexible

122 14

FT 200, 200 mm, rigid

122 18

FT 250, 250 mm, flexible

122 66

ST 385, 385 mm, rigid

122 15

FT 385, 385 mm, flexible

122 16

FT 600, 600 mm, flexible

122 09ST 500, 500 mm, rigid, 45° angled

122 75

Water protection tip for sniffer

122 46

For Protec P3000XL only
SL3000XL Sniffer line for Protec P3000XL
SL3000XL-3, 3 m length521-011SL3000XL-5, 5 m length521-012SL3000XL-10, 10 m length521-013SL3000XL-15, 15 m length521-014

Sniffer tips for SL3000XL
ST 312XL, 120 mm, rigid

122 80

FT 312XL, 120 mm, flexible

122 81ST 385XL, 385 mm, rigid

122 82

FT 385XL, 385 mm, flexible

122 83

FT 250XL, 250 mm, flexible

122 85For RC versions only
External display unit
for benchtop use

551-100

for rack mounting

551-101

Connecting cable for external display unit
5m length551-102

Connecting cable for external display unit
0.7m length

16

General Information

551-103

For all Protec P3000 configurations
Holder for SL3000(XL)

525-006

PRO-Check reference leak for helium

521-001

Calibrated sniffer leaks for helium

1.4

S-TL 4, 1.0 ... 1.2 x 10-4 mbar l/s

122 37

S-TL 5, 2.0 ... 6.0 x 10-5 mbar l/s

122 38

S-TL 6, 6.0 ... 8.0 x 10-6 mbar l/s

122 39Notes on How to Use This Handbook
Important remarks concerning operational safety and protection are emphasised asfollows:
NoticeIndicates special requirements the user must comply with.

Indicates procedures that must be strictly observed to prevent hazards topersons.

Indicates procedures that must strictly be observed to prevent damage to or
destruction of the Protec P3000 leak detector.
The references to diagrams, e.g. (2-1/6) consist of the Section No., Fig. No. and theItem No. in that order. For example: (2-1/6) means Section 2, Fig. 1 and Item No. 6(here: mains switch).

1.4.1

Symbols of Vacuum Technology
In the following some important symbols of vacuum technology as used in this handbook are shown:
Diaphragm pump

Vacuum gauge

General Information

17

1.4.2

Definition of Terms
Main menu
This menu is shown first after operating the Menu push-button.
Sub-menus
Comprise all menus which may be accessed from the main menu. Unauthorisedchanges to many of these sub-menus may be prevented by a password (see also
Section 4.4.1).
Menu item
A single menu line.
Default condition
Status of the Protec P3000 when supplied from the factory.
Service menu
Comprises the menu lines in the “Service” sub-menu. The service menu is accessedby scrolling in the basic menu using the navigation push-buttons (see also Section
4.2).
Autozero
Determination and compensation of the helium background. With this function, theinternal ZERO level of the leak rate signal is determined in order to avoid a readoutof the internal helium background and mistaking it as a properly measured value. If
subsequently negative leak rates are obtained due to this correction, the stored offset
values are changed so that ZERO will be the lowest value which can be obtained. In
this way the values adapt automatically to a decaying background (adaptive background correction).
Internal backgroundThe existing partial pressure in the measurement system. The level of the internal
background is measured all the time and subtracted from the measured signal.
I•Guide ModeIn the I•Guide Mode different testing plans can be pre-programmed. During testing
the operator is then constantly prompted for the next action and thus guided throughthe testing plan.
Unit under test
Test object that needs to be leak checked.
Display limit
Limits the measurement data displayed depending on the unit of measurement andthe operator settings.

18

General Information

1.5

Instrument Views of the Protec P3000

1

2

5

Fig. 2

3

4

Instrument views of Protec P3000

Pos. Description

Pos. Description

1

Main display

4

Lemo Connector for SL3000 sniffer line2

Speaker5

Handle fore carrying the Protec P3000

3

PRO-Check reference leak

1.6

Installation

1.6.1

Set up
How to remove the transportation lock:
The transportation lock is located on the bottom side of the Protec P3000 andconsists of a yellow knurled screws. Please remove this screw before starting-up theleak detector. The Protec P3000 is supplied ready for operation. Initial start-up isdescribed in Section 3.1.

General Information

19

Fig. 3

Removing the transportation lock before starting

Before installation remove the transportation lock.

In order to ensure adequate ventilation of the Protec P3000, a space of atleast 20 cm 8) (8 in.) must be kept unobstructed to the sides. The clearance
at the rear must be no less than 10 cm (4 in.). Moreover, the Protec P3000
handles for carrying the leak detector at the sides of the main unit must not
be covered at any time as these acts as air inlet and outlet. Avoid thepresence of heat sources in the vicinity of the Protec P3000.
Place the device where you can always reach the mains switch or mains
plug.

1.6.2

Mechanical Connections

Twisting the sniffer line spoils the cable.
Do not twist the sniffer line.

20

General Information

SL3000(XL) Sniffer line
In order to operate the Protec P3000 it is essential for the SL3000(XL) sniffer line tobe connected. The connection for the sniffer line is located at the front of the Protec
P3000 left of the PRO-Check reference leak. Insert the plug into the opening with thered dot on the plug and the slot in the front cover aligned until the connector engages.
To disconnect the plug, retract the coupling and remove the probe’s line.
Water protection tip (optional)
If you intend to perform leak testing on parts that are not completely dry (e.g. due tocondensation after performance testing), we strongly recommend to use a water
protection tip.
To install the water protection tip,
1 screw off the metallic capillary filter at the very end of the sniffer tip and2 install the water protection tip instead.
NoticePlease do not forget to re-install the little rubber seal when switching to thewater protection tip.

Fig. 4

Installing water protection tip

PRO-Check Reference leak (optional)
Please insert the PRO-Check reference leak into the opening in the housing of themain unit. Make sure that the Sub-D plug is properly connected with the leakdetector.
NoticeWhen properly inserted, the PRO-Check reference leak will still protrude byapprox. 10 mm.

On first usage of your PRO-Check you need to initialize the use of this reference leakin the Protec P3000 software.
Please perform the following steps:
1 Insert the PRO-Check into the appropriate opening of the Protec P3000
2 In the software menu go to HISTORY & MAINTENANCE / REPLACE PRO-CHECK.

General Information21

3 On the certificate, which is delivered with the PRO-Check, you will find a serial
number and a 12-digit-code. Enter the serial number in the first line of the open
submenu and the 12-digit-code in the second line and press OK.
NoticeThe PRO-Check reference leak must be installed in the Protec P3000
when pressing OK.

Fig. 5Initializing the PRO-Check reference leakNoticePRO-Check Warntime Expire Date (See Section 7.7)

For RC versions only
The RC version has no built-in display unit but a connectors plate is mounted instead.
Please connect the external display unit with the 5m connecting table (Cat.-no. 551002) and tighten the screws.

Fig. 6
Protec P3000XL with external display unit for: (a) benchtop use (left side), (b) rack
mounting (rigth side)

Holder for SL3000 sniffer line (optional)
An optional holder for the SL3000 sniffer line is available as cat.-no. 525-006. The
holder may be installed on the right or left side of the main unit (for right- or left
handed operators) as shown in Fig. 8.

22General Information

Fig. 7

Usage of sniffer line holder

The installation is described in Fig. 8. There are two little slots on the front side at thevery top area of the blue square front of the main unit. Hold the holder horizontallyand then insert the two little hooks of the holder into the two slots (either on the rightor the left side). With the hooks still inserted, let the holder flap down. It will automatically attach to the metal front by the magnet on the backside of the holder. Now
insert the sniffer probe grip into the opening of the holder and let it sink down until it
rests in the holder.

Fig. 8Installation of sniffer line holder

General Information

23

1.6.3

Electrical Connections

Fig. 9

Electrical connections

Pos. Description

Pos. Description

1

Headphone port

4

Name plate2

I/O Port

5Power switch

3

RS232 interface

6

Power connector

NoticeThe local regulations for electrical connections must always be observed(in Germany VDE 0100). The mains voltage rating for the Protec P3000
can be read off from the name plate left of the power switch. The mains
voltage setting of the Protec P3000 is fixed and can not be changed. A
separate fuse for each of the mains conductors has been integrated into
the mains socket (Fig. 9/6).

The mains voltage is applied to the Protec P3000 via the detachable mains cablewhich is supplied with the leak detector. A main power socket is available for thispurpose at the rear of the main unit.

Before connecting the Protec P3000 to the mains you must make sure thatthe mains voltage rating of the Protec P3000 coincides with the locallyavailable mains voltage.

Only 3-core mains cables having a protective ground conductor must be
used. Operation of the Protec P3000 with the ground conductor unconnected
is not permissible.

1.6.4

RS232 Interface
The Protec P3000 is equipped with a RS232 interface which is located on the rearright side of the main unit. This interface is of the DCE type (Data Communications
Equipment) and allows the connection of a PC for monitoring and data logging. The
connection is provided through a commercially available Sub-D plug. For further
information see “Interface Description Protec P3000” (kins26e1).

24

General Information

1.6.5I/O Port
The I/O port allows communication with and control through external equipment via
PLC and analog data. For details see Section 6.1.
Through this connection some functions of the Protec P3000 can be controlled externally or measurement data or the status of the Protec P3000 may be communicatedto external equipment.
Through relay changeover contacts the trigger levels as well as the operating mode
(Ready) of the Protec P3000 may be monitored.

General Information25

2

How the Protec P3000 Works

2.1

Description of the Functions
The Protec P3000 takes in helium through the SL3000 sniffer line, detects theamount of helium by means of a helium sensitive sensor and converts the sensor
signal into quantitative leak rates.
The Protec P3000 is composed of the following principal subassemblies:•

A Wise Technology sensor as helium detector•

A valve holder for controlling different operating stati•

A diaphragm pump for pumping the gas to the sensor•

An inlet system for the gas flow•

The corresponding electrical and electronic subassemblies for supplying power
and for signal conditioning.

The detector operates under vacuum conditions, i. e. the operating pressure at thedetector is several 100 mbar. The under pressure is generated by a diaphragmpump. The pressure in front of the sensor is measured with a piezoresistive pressuregauge and is about 250 mbar under normal operating conditions.

2.2

Description of the Subassemblies

2.2.1

Backing Pump
A diaphragm pump in the Protec P3000 serves as the backing pump. All data andfurther information on this pump are given in the Operating Instructions. The backing
pump generates the flow of the gas through the SL3000 sniffer line.

2.2.2

Wise TechnologyTM Sensor
The helium detector (Wise TechnologyTM sensor) consists of a closed glass
container with a measurement device for the precise determination of the pressure
inside the glass housing and a membrane chip with a large number of small quartz
windows. The membrane is permeable only for helium, all other components of air
are retained by the membrane and from the inside of the glass housing. The Quartz
membrane is heated so that the permeation for helium is sufficiently high and fast.
Inside of the glass housing the total pressure is measured precisely. As only helium
can enter the glass housing the total pressure is equal to the partial pressure ofhelium. The determined total pressure inside the housing is proportional to thehelium partial pressure outside the sensor.

26

How the Protec P3000 Works

2.2.3

Valve Holder
The valve holder carries the valves that control the gas flow to the Wise Technology
sensor. These valves are used to select the sensitivity of the system, to activate a
protection mode against high helium contamination and to set the system into
STANDBY mode. The Protec P3000 software continuously analyses the situtation andsets the correct valve position via the control unit.

2.2.4

Control Assembly
The control assembly (microprocessor) is the central assembly of the Protec P3000’s
electronics. All other subassemblies are controlled and monitored by this assembly.
The microprocessor which is located here is thus continuously informed about thestatus of the entire Protec P3000 and can respond accordingly. In order to accept
commands from the operator and to output measured values and messages, thecontrol subassembly is linked to the display unit.

2.3

Description of the Displays and User Interfaces

2.3.1

Main unit display
This subassembly is used to communicate with the operator. It accepts commands
from the 8 keys on both sides of the display and outputs measurement results andmessages via the display.

Fig. 10Main unit display

Pos. Description

Pos. Description

1

2

Menu buttons 1 to 4

Menu buttons 5 to 8

For RC versions only
The RC version has a connectors plate for the external display unit instead of thebuilt-in main unit display. Two LED's left of the plug provide information about thestatus of the Protec P3000, even when the external display unit is disconnected:

How the Protec P3000 Works

27

•The green LED will indicate that the Protec P3000 is in operation (switched on).
The green LED will show continuous green light if an external display unit isconnected and will blink if no external display unit is detected.

•

The red LED will be blinking in case of an error message, continuous red lightindicates a warning.

If no display unit is connected, error messages or warnings may be acknowledgedby pressing both buttons of the SL3000 sniffer line simultaneously.
The external display unit offers four additional buttons:•

The START / STOP buttons have no function (the external display unit may also
be used with other INFICON leak detectors which need these buttons)•

The MENU button will open the software menu.

•

The ZERO button will set the current background reading to zero. (For details on
the ZERO function see Section 4.4.1)

Fig. 112.3.2

Conncetor plate with LEDs

SL3000(XL) Sniffer line with probe display
The probe handle also offers a small display for operating the Protec P3000 remotely
without access to the main unit during normal leak detection operation.

1 Probe display
2 Button
3 ZERO button

Fig. 1228

SL3000(XL)Sniffer line with probe display

How the Protec P3000 WorksIn addition to the display, the sniffer probe offers two press buttons. The left button
will function as the ZERO button in any operating mode. By pressing the left button
the current background reading is set to ZERO. For details on the ZERO function see
section 4.4.1)
The right probe button is used for different functions depending on the current
operating mode the Protec P3000 is set to:•

in standard operation mode:– no function for Protec P3000– for Protec P3000XL: switching between HIGH FLOW and LOW FLOW mode•in I•Guide mode:– navigation through I•Guide program (for all configurations)Fig. 13

Probe handle

The probe handle also offers some LEDs in the flange of the sniffer tip in order toilluminate the location currently being leak tested.

Do not stare into the LEDs of the sniffer line intentionally for extended times
or at a close distance as this may cause permanent damage to the eye.
The LEDs offer some bundled light. The intentional starring suspends the lid closing
reflex and also the eyes do not move anymore which may lead to overheating of theretina.
When looking into the LEDs „incidentally“ the eye is protected by the lid closing
reflex. Also the permanent movement of the eyes prevents overheating and consequent damage of the retina.

How the Protec P3000 Works29

2.3.3

Built-in PRO-Check reference leakA built-in PRO-Check reference leak is available for all Protec P3000. The PROCheck reference leak can be used for verifying the correct functioning of the Protec
P3000 including the correct calibration and can also be used for re-calibrating theProtec P3000 if necessary.
The PRO-Check reference leak is inserted in the front of the housing. Insertion of thesniffer tip into the cone-shaped test leak opening is automatically detected via a lightbarrier.

30

Fig. 14

Built-in PRO-Check reference leakFig. 15

PRO-Check reference leak detached from the main unit for remote use

How the Protec P3000 WorksIn cases where the main unit is placed in a difficult or inconvenient to access area
the built-in PRO-Check reference leak can be removed from the main unit for easieraccess and connected to the main unit via the Sub-D connector with a commonly
available extension cord. The PRO-Check reference leak can then be placed in anarea where it is convenient for the operator to be reached.

2
1

Fig. 16

Connections for remote use

Pos. Description

Pos. Description

1

2

Connector at built-in test leakConnector at Protec P3000 housing

NoticeThe PRO-Check reference leak is not part of the Protec P3000 shipment
and needs to be ordered as a separate part no. (see section 1.3.2
Accessories).

NoticeIf you have not purchased the PRO-Check reference leak, warning 71 (“Nocommunication with test leak”) will be issued on first start-up. Please go to
SETTINGS / INTERFACES / PRO-CHECK and set the PRO-Check to “DISABLED”
to prevent future warnings (see section 4.5.6)

NoticePRO-Check Warntime Expire Date (See Section 7.7.5).

How the Protec P3000 Works

31

3

Operation of the Protec P3000

3.1

Start-Up
Assemble the Protec P3000 (see Section 1.5). Connect the mains cord and theSL3000(XL) sniffer line, and then switch on the Protec P3000. The mains switch islocated on the rear.

Fig. 17

Connection of the mains cord

Pos. Description

Pos. Description

1

2

Power Switch

Power cord connection

The Protec P3000 will automatically start-up without operator interaction. During thestarting procedure the message "Wait for ignition" will be displayed with the pump not
being started yet. The foreline pressure as well as the flow through the sniffer line will
be stated during this time.
After the pump isswitched on a self-test procedure will be performed during which all
hardware will be checked. The message "wait for sensor current" will be displayed
next. A bar graph will indicate the progress of this warm-up stage. The expectedwarm-up time left will be stated below the bar graph.
NoticeThe start-up procedure normally lasts 2 - 3 min. After extended times ofpower off, however, the start-up of the Protec P3000 may take up to 20 min.
max. To improve the start-up behaviour of the Protec P3000 after
extended times ofpower off, see Section 3.8.

After switching on and completion of the run-up phase the Protec P3000 will be readyto make measurements. There is no separate start function. The SL3000(XL) snifferlines are designed to maintain an inlet pressure low enough to make measurements.
NoticeThe Protec P3000 will only operate after having connected the sniffer line.

A calibration in accordance with Section 3.5 is recommended not before 20 minutes
after having switched on the instrument (warm-up phase).

32

Operation of the Protec P3000

Notice

3.2

If you have not purchased the PRO-Check reference leak, warning 71 (“Nocommunication with test leak”) will be issued on first start-up. Please go to
Settings / Interfaces PRO-Check and set the PRO-Check to “disabled” toprevent future warnings (see section 4.5.6).

Controls on the main display unit
All set-up and control functions are integrated into the main display unit via the menu
structure. The functions of the 8 control keys are displayed on the LC display. During
measurements the main interface is the probe handle display giving all necessary
information for proper leak testing.
After start-up the Protec P3000 will automatically go into measurement mode.

Fig. 18

Measurement screen

Pos. Description

Pos. Description

1

Audio volume buttons

4

ZERO button

2

Menu button

5

List of gas parameters buttons

3

Calibration button

Info button

Bar graph display
The currently detected leak rate will be display in a bar graph in logarithmic scale.
The currently selected trigger level is indicated by a black line, the currently selected
search level is indicated by a dotted line. If the search level is exceeded the shapeof a bell is displayed at the top of the display, if the trigger is exceeded the bell starts
to blink (to ring).

Operation of the Protec P3000

33

Gas type(refrigerant equivalent)
The currently selected gas type (helium or refrigerant equivalent) is indicated on theupper left side of the display.
For P3000XL only:
If the Protec P3000XL is operated in HIGH FLOW mode, the gas type is displayed ininverted characters (on dark background) in the main display as well on the sniffer
display.

Fig. 19

Measurement screen with leakPos. Description
1

Selected gas type (refrigerant equivalent or He)

2

Indication of search level being exceeded3

Indication of active warning

4

Audio volume level5

Bar graph display of leak rate

Audio Volume Buttons
The two middle keys on the left side of the display allow to adjust the volume of thealarm sound at any time. When pressing any of the two buttons the currently selectedvolume will be demonstrated by the loudspeaker as well as by a bar graph in thestatus line. The selected value is also displayed as the first entry of the status line at
the bottom of the display and only applies to the loud speaker in the main unit. For
selecting different types of alarms see section 4.4.2.
Menu Button
The  button on the bottom left side of the display will open the main menu at any
time. The menu mode offers the user many possibilities of entering instrument
settings and special functions.
CAL ButtonWith the button on the upper right side of the display an external calibration of theProtec P3000 can be started at any time. For details on how to perform an external
calibration see Section 3.5.3.

34

Operation of the Protec P3000

ZERO Button
When shortly pressing the zero button, the zero level will be updated. For details on
the ZERO function see Section 4.4.1.
List of gas parameters button
Up to four different gas parameter sets can be stored in the Protec P3000. If morethan one set of gas parameters are set-up, the list button on the right side of thedisplay will appear in the menu screen. When pressing this button, a new set of gas
parameters (e.g. different refrigerant equivalent, different trigger level, etc) can beselected. For details on how to set up the different gas parameters see section 4.3.1.
Info Button
When pressing the i info button (bottom right side of the display) information on thestatus of the Protec P3000 will be displayed. For details see section 3.4.3.
Status LineIn the bottom line of the main display status information is indicated. First thecurrently selected volume for the audio alarm is stated. Next, a small black triangle
with an exclamation mark may indicate an active warning.
Lock Softkeys
The keys CAL, ZERO und
can be locked. So the settings of these functions canbe protected, see “Settings > Display > Function keys“.

Fig. 20

Function key

Operation of the Protec P3000

35

3.3

Controls on the probe display unit
On the display of the probe handle similar information as on the main display isshown.

1
2
3

Fig. 21Pos. Description
1

Bar graph indicating the leak rate

2

Absolute leak rate3

Gas equivalent

Sniffer display in standard operation mode

The currently detected leak rate is indicated as a bar graph. In a second line thenumerical leak rate (in the same unit of measurement as on the main display) isshown. In the third line the type of gas equivalent is stated (e.g. He or R134a).
For Protec P3000XL only:
If the Protec P3000XL is operated in HIGH FLOW mode, the gas equivalent isdisplayed in inverted characters (on dark background).
The sniffer probe offers two press buttons. By pressing the left button the current
background reading is set to ZERO. For details on the ZERO function please refer to4.4.1. ZERO.
The right probe button is used for navigation when working in I•Guide mode (seeSection 3.4.2) or for starting an internal calibration (see Section 3.5.2)

3.4

Performing measurements
The Protec P3000 offers two modes of operation:•

The Standard Operation Mode (compatible to the Protec mode)•

The I•Guide Operating Mode

Danger of electric shock.
Don’t touch voltaged parts with the sniffer tip. Test samples need to be disconnected from electricity before leak testing.

Standby Function
The Protec P3000 offers a STANDBY function to prevent the needless intake ofcontaminants into the sniffer probe during idle times, thus saving filter and sensor life
time.

36

Operation of the Protec P3000

The Protec P3000 may automatically go into standby after a preset time of inoperation (see Chapter 4.4.1 for details on how to set-up this function) and operation willautomatically resume if the probe is picked up again.
The Protec P3000 can also be set into STANDBY mode manually by pressing theStandby button in the main menu.
To resume work you can move the sniffer tip or, alternatively, press the start buttonin the main menu.
Operating in moist environment

Do not suck in any liquids.
For operation in an environment where moisture (e.g. condensating water) may
occur, a water-protection tip is available (Cat. no. 12246) which will protect theProtec P3000 against intake of liquids if necessary. For details on how to install thewater potection tip see 1.6.2)
Protection mode and high helium background
The Protec P3000 is equipped with a protection mode against contamination withhuge amounts of helium. This contamination mode will help the leak detector to clean
up faster after detection of gross leaks.
If the Protec P3000 switches to GROSS MODE the item „GROSS“ is displayed and anacustic signal is to hear.
If a huge amount of helium is detected the Protec P3000 may show the message
HELIUM CONTAMINATED. The leak detector will come back to measurement mode auto-

matically after clean up and the displayed item „GROSS“ disappears.
NoticeThe Protec P3000 should not be switched off or set to STANDBY mode while
HELIUM CONTAMINATED is displayed as this will trap the increased levels of
helium inside the sensor and it cannot be pumped away for clean up of theProtec P3000. Switching off the Protec P3000 while contaminated withlarge concentrations of helium will in fact lead to significantly increased
start-up times afterwards. If this has happened unintentionally, just switch
on the Protec P3000 and let it sit in "Warm up" until it reaches
measurement mode.

NoticeIn HIGH FLOW mode leak rates in the range < 1x10-5 mbar l/s are reduced
during a time of 30 Sec. to the current background value.

For details on how to set up the CONTAMINATION LIMIT please refer to Section 4.4.1.

3.4.1

Standard Operation Mode
Provided the Protec P3000 has been set-up to meet the requirements of the particular application and it has been calibrated (see Section 3.5), a measurement isperformed as follows:

Operation of the Protec P3000

37

First briefly operate the ZERO button on the sniffer probe. This will ensure that theProtec P3000 eliminates all interfering influences which may affect the ZERO level(i.e. the detection limit of 1x10-7 mbar l/s). Next hold the tip of the sniffer as close as
possible to the suspected leak, if required the tip may even touch the test object. If awelded seam or alike needs to be tested, the tip should be moved at a velocity of no
more than 4 cm/s (1.6 inch per second) along the welded seam. The distance
between tip and test sample should be as small as possible.
If a leak is detected the bar will grow. The Protec P3000 continuously compares themeasured leak rates with the programmed trigger levels. If the trigger is exceeded
the background colour of the probe display will change from green to red. At thesame time an alarm sound will be released by the speaker in the probe handle andthe probe handle will start to slightly vibrate. As an additional indication of exceeding
the trigger value the three white LEDs in the flange of the sniffer tip will start flashing.

Fig. 22

Sniffer display when detecting a leak

As soon as an acoustic alarm sounds, the tip should be removed from the spot being
tested. After displaying a constant leak rate the ZERO button should be pressedagain to repeat the test. Thus, a measurement error can be prevented and the leakcan be located.
For Protec P3000XL only:
The Protec P3000XL allows the use of the HIGH FLOW mode (requires use of
SL3000XL sniffer line). When set to HIGH FLOW mode leaks may be detected at alarger distance from the potential leak. The high flow mode is indicated by the gas
type being displayed in inverted colors (on the probe display as well as on the main
display). When testing for joints, the sniffer tip should be no further than 10 mm (0.4in) away from the joint. If testing a welded seam (or alike), the sniffer tip should not
be moved faster than 4 cm/s (1.6 in/s) at a maximum distance of 10 mm (0.4 in) fromthe welded seam.

38

Operation of the Protec P3000

If a leak is detected (and accessibility allows so) switch the Protec P3000XL to LOWFLOW mode (by pressing the right probe button) for easier localization of the leak.
The gas type will now be displayed not-inverted. Now search for the leak again bybringing the sniffer tip as close as possible to the potentially leaking area. Localize
the leak by moving the sniffer tip back and forth across the suspected area. The leakwill occur where the leak rate signal shows the maximum leak rate.

3.4.2

I•Guide Operating Mode
The I•Guide operating mode has been introduced to support the operator in applying
proper sniffer leak detection technique.
The I•Guide operator guiding mode allows to store pre-programmed parameters fordifferent units under test. The number of locations that need to be tested per specimen, the time each location needs to be tested for as well as the time required tomove to the next location may be programmed. In addition, a maximum allowableglobal leak rate for the total unit under test is stored. In the I•Guide mode up to 10
pre-programmed testing procedures can be stored.
Notice3.4.2.1

If the number of locations to be tested is set to zero, the Protec P3000 will
operate in a continious mode without checking for a global leak rate but still
issue the timer signal for proper testing.

Starting the I•Guide Mode
To start the I•Guide Mode go to the main menu and choose SETTINGS > SET UPI•GUIDE. In the opening menu go to the top line item and change the setting to ON withthe left hand side push button and press OK. The Protec P3000 will automaticallychoose the first enabled I•Guide program in the list. A message screen will pop-up
notifying the operator that I•Guide has been activated (the gas selected in theI•Guide program you choose).
For how to set-up and I•Guide program please refer to Section 4.4.4.
To switch back to the Standard Operation Mode select “OFF” and press “OK”.

Fig. 23

Switching to I•Guide Mode

With the button "On / Off" you can prevent the indexing to next position function of
the sniffer line SL3000 (XL).

Operation of the Protec P3000

39

3.4.2.2

Selecting an I•Guide Program
To open the SELECT I•GUIDE menu press the PROGRAM LIST button on the right sideof the display.

Fig. 24

Measuring Screen in I•Guide Mode

Pos. Description
1

Program list

In the opening SELECT I•GUIDE menu highlight the program number you intend to use
and press ok. The new program is now loaded.

Fig. 25

3.4.2.3

Selecting an I•Guide program

Using an I•Guide Program
In the measuring screen of the I•Guide operating mode the selected program, thegas type stored in the program as well as the summarized global leak rate will be
displayed.
For Protec P3000XL only:
If the Protec P3000XL is operated in HIGH FLOW mode, the gas type is displayed ininverted characters (on dark background) in the main display as well as on the sniffer
probe display.

40

Operation of the Protec P3000

For all Protec P3000 configurations
In the I•Guide message line the Protec P3000 will prompt the user for action. First it
will ask to move to the first testing position. Also on the probe display the message“okay pos. 1?” will be shown. Please confirm with the right probe button that thesniffer tip has reached the right location.

3

6

Fig. 26

7

I•Guide screens during measurement

Pos. Description
1

Selected program2

Gas type stored in the selected program

3

I•Guide message

4

Measuring time5

Summarized global leak rate per unit under test

6

ZERO button

7

I•Guide button

After the first location has been confirmed the message “leak check point1” will be
indicated on the main unit display and the elapsing measurement time (stored in thetesting program) will be shown in the lower part of the menu page. Please make sure
to hold the sniffer tip in the right testing location during the total measuring time.
During this time a ticking sound will be issued by the main unit and a beep will indicate that the measuring time has elapsed and the sniffer tip can be moved again.
After the measurement time has elapsed the message “Move to point 2” will be
displayed on the main unit. The Probe display will read “tip to pos. 2”. Please movethe sniffer tip to the next testing location and if the wait time indicated in the display
has elapsed you may start the next measurement. If the operator tries to start thenext measurement before the wait time has elapsed, the message “please wait” will
be displayed in the message line until a next measurement is allowed. Pleaseconfirm that the sniffer tip has been positioned properly by pressing the right probe
button so that the next measurement can be started.

Operation of the Protec P3000

41

Fig. 27

I•Guide screens requesting the next location

After checking the pre-programmed number of locations the result of the testing forthe total unit under test will be displayed as shown in the following screen shot. The
selected testing program as well as the gas type stored in the program will be statedonce more followed by the summarized global leak rate. If the global leak rate islower than the global leak rate trigger the message “Global leak check okay!” will be
displayed followed by the testing results for each tested location.
NoticeFor each location where no leak is detected, the currently selected lower
diplay limit is added to the global leak rate as this is the maximum leak rate
which still may occur for each position (worst case approach).

Fig. 28

Result of I•Guide program: unit under test passed

Pos. Description

Pos. Description

1

Program name3

2

Gas type

Results of each location tested

If the summarized global leak rate exceeds the global trigger the message “Global
trigger exceeded!” will be displayed.

42

Operation of the Protec P3000

Fig. 29

Result of I•Guide program: unit under test failed

By pressing the right probe button the next testing cycle may be started.

3.4.3

NoticeThe I•Guide mode can also be used as a timer signal only. If the number ofpoints is set to 0, the Protec P3000 will prompt for the next location to betested continuously without using the global leak rate function.

NoticeThe I•Guide mode can also be used to summarize leak rates on demand.
If the number of points is set to 99, a results screen with summarized global
leak rate will be displayed after the right button has been pressed for 2 s
conintously (or after the 98th point automatically).

The Info Page
By pressing the info button on the main display a general info page will open. Information on the software version used, date & time information, the currently set audio
volume and the minimum audio volume are stated.

Fig. 30

Info page without errors or warnings

If an active warning exists this will be displayed in the info page instead of the gas
info lines.

Operation of the Protec P3000

43

Fig. 31

Info page with active warning

When operating in I•Guide Mode, the info page will state information about thecurrently selected program: the selected program name, the gas used for thisprogram, the number of points to be checked for this program, the selected
measuring and wait time as well as the global trigger.

3.5

Calibration and Self-Test
The Protec P3000 can be calibrated internally with the built-in PRO-Check reference
leak or externally with an external calibrated leak (Cat. No. 122 37 - 122 39).
NoticeIf a calibration is started during the first 20 minutes after power on, awarning will be issued.
Do not calibrate the Protec P3000 during the first 20 minutes after start-up.
Also a verification of the calibration may lead to wrong results in the first 20
minutes after start-up.
Only confirm and continue with the calibration if the real warm-up has been
longer than 20 min. (e.g. after a quick restart of the Protec P3000.)

The built-in PRO-Check reference leak can be used for a self-test of the Protec
P3000 as well as for internal calibration.
NoticeThe PRO-Check reference leak is a temperature compensated leak. It
must only be used when electrically connected to the main unit, either
when inserted into its port or when connected to the main unit via a Sub-D
extension cord. The leak rate printed onto the body of the PRO-Check isonly valid at 20°C (68F) and will vary greatly with temperature and time.
To compensate for this the PRO-Check reference leak is equippend with atemperature sensor and a compensation curve is stored in the software
which automatically compensates the test leak rate for changes intemperature when connected to the main unit.
A calibration or verification with the PRO-Check reference leak not being
connected to the main unit will cause a wrong calibration of the Protec
P3000 and / or will lead to wrong testing results.

44

Operation of the Protec P3000

3.5.1

Verifying a calibration (proof function)
NoticeA verification can only be performed while the unit is in one of the two
measurement modes: standard operation mode or I•Guide operation
mode. A verification will not be started if the menu is opened.

If the sniffer tip is inserted into the opening of the PRO-Check reference leak a verification of the calibration (proof function) will be started automatically. While holding
the sniffer tip in the test leak opening, the unit will check the reading from the PROCheck. Afterwards the operator will be requested to remove the sniffer tip from theleak opening.
NoticeAny time during the verification procedure an internal calibration may be
started by pressing either the right sniffer probe button or the CAL buttonon the main display.

The results of the verification will be displayed in a summarizing screen. If the verification process was successful, the message "sensitivity check OK" will be displayed.

Fig. 32

Results of proof function for Protec P3000

If the value measured for the PRO-Check is out of range, the message "recalibration
required!" will be displayed in inverted colors.
For returning to the measuring mode, please press the right probe button or press“OK” on the main display.
For Protec P3000XL only
For the Protec P3000XL both calibration factors for HIGH FLOW and LOW FLOW mode
will be verified (see fig. 3-16). However, only the information for the selected flowmode will be relevant for passing or failing the verification. The results for the nonselected mode will be displayed for reference at the bottom of the results screen.

Operation of the Protec P3000

45

Fig. 33

3.5.2

Results of proof function for Protec P3000XL

Internal calibration
NoticeA calibration can only be performed while the unit is in one of the two
measurement modes: standard operation mode or I•Guide operation
mode. A calibration will not be started if the main menu is opened.

If the sniffer tip is inserted into the opening of the PRO-Check reference leak with theright probe button pressed while in measurement mode a calibration will be started
automatically. While holding the sniffer tip in the test leak opening, the Protec P3000
will measure the test leak. Afterwards the operator will be requested to remove thesniffer tip from the leak opening.
After completion of the internal calibration a screen summarizing the results of thecalibration will be displayed. The old calibration factor as well as the new calibration
factor will be displayed. If warnings are active and have been acknowledged during
the calibration process, the message is endorsed with the information "with active
warnings".

Fig. 34

Results of internal calibration

To avoid unintended overwriting of a previous external (more accurate) calibration,
the operator needs to “Accept new values (anyway)?”.

46

Operation of the Protec P3000

3.5.3External calibration
For external calibration it is recommended to use leak rates > 5x10-6 mbar l/s forProtec P3000 and leak rates of > 5x10-5 mbar l/s when calibrating the Protec
P3000XL at HIGH FLOW (3000 sccm).
If the reference leak rate is < 5x10-5 mbar l/s the Protec P3000XL automatically calibrates in LOW FLOW mode.
NoticeIf significantly increased backgrounds are prevalent in your production
environment, larger leak rates for the calibration leak may be required.

The external calibration is a semi-automatic process during which the user will haveto follow some instructions. The calibration process may be started via the “CAL” button from the measuring mode at any time (except when the menu is open or thefunction has been locked). A running calibration process may be cancelled by operating the “ESC” button.
After pressing the CAL button, please check whether the leak rate equals the leak rateof the external leak you plan to use. If the leak rate is different press EDIT LEAK RATE
and enter the correct leak rate value. Press “START” afterwards to begin with the calibration process.

Fig. 35

Setting-up the leak rate of the external leak

Please hold the sniffer tip to the outlet of the external calibrated leak. Hold the sniffer
tip steady and very close to the opening, however, do not clog the opening with thesniffer tip. Some air also needs to enter the sniffer tip in addition to the helium fromthe external calibrated leak. If the leak rate signal indicated by the bar graph is stablepress “OK”. Keep holding the sniffer tip steady in front of the opening while the Protec
P3000 reads the leak rate of the calibrated leak. During this time the text “Please
wait…” will be displayed.

Operation of the Protec P3000

47

Fig. 36

Calibration screen during external calibration

When the analysis of the calibrated leak signal is completed a message “sniff air!”will be displayed. Remove the sniffer tip from the opening of the calibrated leak andhold the sniffer tip into the air, as far as possible from any sources of helium. Wait
until the bar graph shows a stable signal again and press “ok” once more.

Fig. 37

Request to sniff air during external calibration

A message “Please wait…” will be displayed until the calibration is finished.
After completion of the external calibration a screen summarizing the results of thecalibration will be displayed. The old calibration factor as well as the new calibration
factor will be displayed. If warnings are active and have been acknowledged during
the calibration process, the message is endorsed with the information "with active
warnings".

48

Operation of the Protec P3000

Fig. 38

3.6

Results of external calibration

StandbyIf not used, the Protec P3000 will go into a STANDBY mode automatically after apredetermined time in order to avoid wear of parts during times not used. In thisSTANDBY mode the flow through the sniffer line will be shut down to conserve filtersin the sniffer line as well as to save sensor life time.
If the operator picks up the sniffer line, a movement sensor will detect this action andwill set the Protec P3000 back into normal operation. The Protec P3000 will be readyfor measurement again after approx. 5 seconds.
For details on how to set the time until the Protec P3000 goes into STANDBY mode
please refer to section 4.4.1 (VACUUM & ACCESS, STANDBY DELAY)

3.7

Shutdown
To shut down the Protec P3000, set the ON / OFF main switch (Fig. 17/6) to the „0“position regardless of the operating mode of the Protec P3000. Nothing else isrequired. The parameters entered are saved by Protec P3000. After switching on, theProtec P3000 will revert to the same status it was in when it was switched off before.

3.8

Storage for fast availability as back-up unit
Due to accumulation of Helium (from air) in the sensor unit during storage the startup time for the Protec P3000 will be approx. 1.5 min per day of storage with amaximum start-up time of approx. 1 hour.
If you want to use the Protec P3000 as a back-up unit to ensure uninterrupted availability of your production line, the Protec P3000 should be stored as follows.
1 Shut down the Protec P3000 but keep it connected to a power outlet.
2 Put a clock timer between the Protec P3000 and the power outlet.
3 Program the clock timer to switch on the Protec P3000 for 1 hour twice per week(at least every 4 days).
Notice

The clock timer should be battery buffered so that in case of a loss of powerin the factory, the clock timer does not loose its pre-programmed window
for power on.

With this approach the max. start-up time will be approx. 7 min.

Operation of the Protec P3000

49

4

Equipment Settings

4.1

Menu Structure
By pressing the menu button the main menu page opens. The following options will
be displayed:

Fig. 39

Main menu screen

In the subsequent sub-menus the following frequently used functions will occur:The “up” and “down” keys allow scrolling through listed menu items. The
currently selected menu item is highlighted by inverted colours. The “up”
and “down” keys are also used for changing numerical values to a newsetting.

?

Help function – by pressing this key additional information on how to use
this page can be displayed.

Esc

Going back to the previous page while omitting any changes.

Back

Going back to the next higher level in the menu structure.

OK

Accepting a selected item from a list or accepting newly entered values.
Exit all menus and return to main screen. If the menu button is pressed lateron again, the software will jump to the menu page that has been exited bythebutton. By pressing the back key the display will go back one leveland finally all the way back to the measurement display page.

The menu structure of the main menu is illustrated on the following page for quickreference.

50

Equipment Settings

M ain m enu

Standby/Start
Service
Gas Trigger

Settings

Gas 1
Gas 2
Gas 3
Gas 4

Vakuum & access

N am e (edit)
A dditio nal H e
M o deT rigger&Unit
D isplay lim it
Search level
Equivalent co rrectio n (H e)Z ero
C o ntam inatio n lim it
F lo w lim its (o nly P 3000)
F lo w settings (o nly P 3000XL)

A udioSetup I-Guide

M iscellaneo us

D isplay

Interfaces

H isto ry&M aintenance View erro r list
C alibratio n histo ry
Sniffer tip filter
M aintenance intervall
M aintenance histo ry
C o nfirm m aintenance (1)InfoStandby delay
C A Libratio n
C hange m enu-P IN
B eep so und
A udio intern
A udio Sniffer
A larm typeVo lum e
I-Guide ON /OFFOff butto n
M eas. 1...10 (edit)

Library Gas
User Gas
H elium

Z ero tim e
Sniffer butto n
lim it LOW F LOW
lim it H IGH F LOW
A dditio nal lo w flo w erro r
F lo w m o de
Lim its lo w flo w erro r
Sniffer butto n

N am eGas
N o . o f po ints
M easuring tim e
Wait tim e
Glo bal trigger

Language
T im e & date
P R O-C heck Warntim e Expiry D ate
P ressure unit
Leak rate filter
A larm delay
Sniffer lightC o ntrast
P eak ho ld
F lo w D isplay (1)User m o de
Lo ck So ftkeys
C o ntro l lo catio n
R eco rder o utputs
Select P LC inputs
R S232 pro to co l
B aud rate & End sign
P R O-C heckR epeat warning
A ir filter

R eplace P R O-C heck (1)General data
Senso r Glo bal
Senso r Erro rs
P R O-C heck data
Sniffer line data
I/O-P o rt data

Equipment Settings

51

4.2

The Service Menu
The service menu is password protected. When entering the service menu a PIN isrequired to be entered. The service menu should only be used by trained service
personnel. The PIN for entering the service menu will be distributed during service
training. Please refer to the service documentation for the submenus and functionsof the service menu.

4.3

Selecting gas equivalents and setting trigger values
The Protec P3000 can detect leak rates as helium leak rates or in refrigerant equivalent leak rates. Up to four different sets of parameters can be stored by the Protec
P3000. Only one type of leak rate, however, will be displayed in the measurement
screen optional with the equivalent Helium leak rate in addition. In the gas / trigger
menu the chosen gas equivalents are displayed with their current trigger value.
With default settings only helium is set up in the first set of parameters. The remaining three sets are blank ("<------>"). Only sets that have been edited will be listed in
the list of gas parameters that can be loaded directly from the measuring screen
through the list button.

4.3.1

Setting gas parameters
When pressing one of the GAS1 to GAS4 buttons an info page regarding the chosen
set of parameters will open. Parameter sets that are not in use are marked blank(„<----->)“. Changes to the current setting can be made by scrolling to the line item tobe changed by use of the UP and DOWN keys and selecting the line item by pressing
the EDIT key.

Fig. 40

Editing Gas 1

In the opening info page the name of the gas equivalent (or helium), the measurement mode and the currently selected trigger value will be displayed. This info is
followed by the value for the lower display limit. In addition, the correction factor, thehelium concentration used, the fill pressure for helium and the fill pressure for refrigerant later on are listed.

52

Equipment Settings

Name(Gas equivalent)
For displaying the leak rate in refrigerant equivalent leak rates go to the EDIT GAS sub
menu and go to the NAME line item. Press the EDIT button and in the opening GASSELECTION submenu choose the refrigerant equivalent from the GAS LIBRARY. Gas
parameters can be fully deleted by setting the gas name back to blank („<----->“).
NoticeIf more than one set of parameter is set up (i.e. maximum two gases are
not named „<----->“) a list button will appear on the right side of themeasurement screen. When pressing the list button a short-cut to selecting
the different parameter sets will be provided.

Additional HeliumThis submenu only is available when operating in gas equivalents. In this case theProtec P3000 may display the Helium leak rate in addition to the refrigerant equivalent leak rate in the main measurement screen. This feature may be selected or notselected.
Default: not selected

Fig. 41

Selecting additional Helium

NoticeThe option “Additional He” is only available if at least one parameter set(gas 1 … gas 4) is configured to helium.
The additional helium will be displayed in the unit of measurement of thelowest gas number set to helium.

Equipment Settings

53

Editing gas equivalent parameters

Fig. 42

Selecting gases from the library

Back in the edit gas submenu scroll to the HELIUM PERCENTAGE line item and press
EDIT.

Fig. 43

Adjusting a refrigerant correction factor for gases from the gas library

In the opening submenu the helium fill pressure, the fill pressure for the gas equivalent (refrigerant) later on and the concentration of helium used can be entered. In thelower right corner the CORRECTION FACTOR (from helium to refrigerant) will be
displayed. If a set of parameters is entered that exceeds the boundaries of the Protec
P3000 the correction factor will be displayed in inverted colours. In this case adjust
the parameters until the correction factor is displayed in normal colours again. Press
OK if all parameters are as desired.

54

NoticeThis menu should also be used when working with diluted Helium but still
displaying the leak rate as a Helium leak rate.

NoticeThis menu should be used at any time when the Helium fill pressure in pretesting differs from the refrigerant fill pressure later on to display the correctleak rate value, even if the leak rate is still displayed as a Helium leak rate.

Equipment Settings

Fig. 44

Setting a refrigerant correction factor for a custom gas

For a custom gas, the molecular mass, as well as the dynamic viscosity (in Pa ꞏ s)must be entered.

Fig. 45

Editing parameters for refrigerant equivalent leak rates

In the EDIT GAS submenu you can now enter the TRIGGER value in the refrigerant equivalent value.
A set of parameters (refrigerant type, fill pressure, helium concentration) can also be
saved as user gas.
In the measurement screen the gas type will now be displayed as refrigerant equivalent leak rate (e.g. R134a <- He).
Trigger and unit of measurement
In the EDIT GAS X info page the TRIGGER & UNIT sub-menu page will open by selecting
the corresponding line item. You can change the trigger level setting by the use of
the left UP and DOWN keys. The correct settings must be confirmed by the OK button.
You can leave the submenu without making any changes by using the ESC key.
The leak rate unit can be changed by the use of the right UP and DOWN keys,
Available leak rate units include mbar l/s, Pam3/s, Torr l/s, atm cc/s, g/a, oz/yr,
lb/yr, ppm.
Default value: 2 x 10-5 mbar l/s

Equipment Settings

55

Fig. 46

Setting-up trigger level and unit of measurement

Pos. Description

Pos. Description

1

Increasing the trigger value

3

Changing the unit of measurement2

Decreasing the trigger value

4

Changing the unit of measurement

Display limit

Fig. 47

Editing the lower display limit

The lower display limit for each gas can be edited. To change the lower display limit
go to the “DISPLAY LIMIT” line item in the “EDIT GAS” submenu and press “EDIT”. The
lower display limit can be increased in factors of the lowest display limit. In the line
below the factor the absolute lower display limit in the currently chosen unit ofmeasurement is stated. Available factors are 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100.
For the Protec P3000XL the lowest display limit of 1x10-6 mbar l/s equals factor 1.
The equivalent absolute lower display limits at other factors are the lower display limit
in LOW FLOW mode mulitplied by a factor of 10.
NoticeFor Protec P3000XL only:
When switching from LOW FLOW to HIGH FLOW (or vice versa) the lower
display limit factor will remain unchanged, i.e. if the lower display limit factor
is set to 2, the lower display limit will be adopted from 2x10-7 mbar l/s to
1x10-6 mbar l/s automatically when switching from LOW FLOW to HIGH FLOW.

Default value: 256

Equipment Settings

Search level
An additional warning level can be entered as percentage of the trigger level. A
warning signal will be issued for leaks that are below the trigger level but above thesearch level in order not to miss small leaks. The search level may be set to values
between 5 and 100%. Default value: 90%

4.3.2

Selecting a set of gas parameters
A set of gas parameters can be selected by setting the Mode in the Gas Edit menu
to “enabled”. Enabling a set of parameters will automatically disable all other threesets of parameters so that only one set of parameters is used at the time.

4.4

Settings Sub-menu
In the settings sub-menu several settings which are important for the leak testingprocedure can be edited.

4.4.1

Vacuum & AccessIn the Vacuum Access sub-menu setting monitoring functions like the ZERO function,
the flow limits and the contamination limit setting can be edited.
Zero time
The ZERO function is automatically updated when the background decreases so thatnegative values will never be displayed, thus avoiding unintended missing of leaks.
The ZERO TIME is the time the leak rate has to be negative in order for the Protec
P3000 to update the background level. The ZERO TIME can be set to values between
1.0 and 9.9 s.
Default value: 5.0 s
Contamination Limit
The Protec P3000 offers a protection mode against high helium concentrations(contamination with helium).
This feature should be used to prevent the sensor from accelerated aging whenseeing large helium concentrations very frequently. The CONTAMINATION LIMIT can be
set to levels of LOW, NORMAL AND HIGH. The contamination limit function will track theaccumulated amount of helium sniffed over the last couple of seconds. If this accumulated amount of helium exceeds the preset level (LOW, NORMAL, HIGH) the
message „contaminated“ will be displayed until the amount of helium in the system
has decreased again sufficiently. However, the lower the CONTAMINATION LIMIT setting
the smaller the largest possibly detected leak will be.
NoticeYou should start with the CONTAMINATION LIMIT set to LOW. If you feel thatyou get the „contaminated“ message too often, you may increase the
CONTAMINATION LIMIT by one level at a time (to get the best usage out ofyour Wise Technology Sensor).

Default: NORMAL

Equipment Settings

57

The lower the contamination limit is set, the longer the life time of the Wise Technology sensor of the Protec P3000.

Fig. 48

Setting up the contamination limit

NoticeThe Protec P3000 should not be switched off or set to STANDBY mode while
HELIUM CONTAMINATED as this will trap the increased levels of helium inside
the sensor and it cannot be pumped away for clean up of the Protec P3000.
Switching of the Protec P3000 while contaminated with large
concentrations of helium will in fact lead to significantly increased start-up
times afterwards. If this has happened by mistake, just switch on the Protec
P3000 and let it sit in "Warm up" until it reaches measurement mode.

Flow limits(for Protec P3000 only)
In this submenu the minimum and maximum gas flow through the capillary isentered. If the actual gas flow drops below this limit (e.g. if the capillary becomes
partially blocked) or exceeds this limit (e.g. if the sniffer line is damaged so thatambient air is sucked in) an alarm is issued. The closer the LOWER FLOW LIMIT is set
to the actual gas flow the more sensitive the Protec P3000 will respond to beginning
clogging of the filters and the sniffer line itself. The closer the UPPER FLOW LIMIT is set
to the actual gas flow the more sensitive the Protec P3000 will respond to damages
to the sniffer line.
Notice

The flow through the sniffer line depends on the atmospheric pressure. If
operated at high altitude the flow through the sniffer line may drop
significantly (approx. 20% per 1000 m altitude). In this case, please adjust
the flow limits accordingly.

The LOWER FLOW LIMIT can be set to values between 150 and 240 sccm. Default
value is 180. The UPPER FLOW LIMIT can be varied between 300 and 650 with a factory
default value of 350.

58

Equipment Settings

Fig. 49

Changing the flow limits of the SL3000 sniffer line

Flow settings(For Protec P3000XL only)
The Protec P3000XL can be used in LOW FLOW mode as well as in HIGH FLOW mode.
In the flow settings submenu all settings related to both flow modes can be adjusted.
When entering the FLOW SETTINGS submenu four further submenus will be displayed:

Fig. 50

Setting up flow settings

Flow limits LOW FLOWIn this submenu the UPPER FLOW LIMIT and LOWER FLOW LIMIT for the LOW FLOW mode
may be set-up. The LOWER FLOW LIMIT can be set to values between 150 and 240
sccm. Default value: 180
The UPPER FLOW LIMIT can be varied between 300 and 650 sccm. Default value: 395

Equipment Settings

59

Flow limits HIGH FLOW

Fig. 51

Variation of flow limits

In this submenu the UPPER FLOW LIMIT and LOWER FLOW LIMIT for the HIGH FLOW mode
may be set-up. The LOWER FLOW LIMIT can be set to values between 1500 and 2400
sccm. Default value: 1800
The UPPER FLOW LIMIT can be varied between 3000 and 3990 sccm.
Default value: 3950
NoticeTo be able to measure in HIGH FLOW and LOW FLOW mode, the SL3000XL
is equipped with two capillaries (~300sccm and ~2700 sccm). In LOW FLOW
mode only the smaller capillary is used, in HIGH FLOW mode both are used,
but only the gas from the smaller one is directed to the Wise Technology
sensor.
To monitor the correct flow through the smaller capillary in HIGH FLOW mode
(if blocked, no leaks are detected any more), the flow limits in HIGH FLOW
mode are converted into corresponding PRESSURE LIMITS at the Wise
Technology sensor. If these PRESSURE LIMITS are exceeded or undercut,
this is an indication of the smaller capillary’s flow being out of the normal
range and a warning message (W41 or W42) is issued.

Additional low flow error
NoticeThis submenu is only available when in ADVANCED mode and if a SL3000XL
sniffer line is connected to a Protec P3000XL main unit.

In this submenu an ADDITIONAL LOW FLOW ERROR may be ENABLED or DISABLED. If
ENABLED an additional flow error (E55 / E56) will be issued in addition to the standard

low flow warnings. Only if the ADDITIONAL LOW FLOW ERROR is ENABLED, the button
LIMITS LOW FLOW ERROR will be available.

If a LOW FLOW ERROR occurs, the Protec P3000XL will stop measuring. Only when thecause of the low flow problem has been resolved and the flow is above the LIMITS LOWFLOW ERROR again, the Protec P3000XL will go back into measurement mode.
The LIMITS for the LOW FLOW ERROR may be set -up in the LIMITS LOW FLOW ERROR
submenu (see below).
Default setting: disabled60

Equipment Settings

Flow mode (only available when SL3000XL sniffer line is connected)
In this submenu the Protec P3000XL can be switched between LOW FLOW mode and
HIGH FLOW mode.
Default setting: HIGH FLOW Mode
Limits low flow error
This submenu is only available if the ADDITIONAL LOW FLOW ERROR is set to ENABLED.
In this submenu the limits for the ADDITIONAL LOW FLOW ERROR may be set-up. If theactual flow through the sniffer line drops below the LIMITS LOW FLOW ERROR, theProtec P3000XL will stop measuring. Only when the cause of the low flow problem
has been resolved and the flow is above the LIMITS LOW FLOW ERROR again, theProtec P3000XL will go back into measurement mode.

Fig. 52

Additional limits for low flow error

Two different values for the HIGH FLOW and LOW FLOW mode may be entered.
The value for the HIGH FLOW mode will also be converted into a corresponding
LOWER PRESSURE LIMIT. If the corresponding LOWER PRESSURE LIMIT isundercut, this is an indication of the smaller capillary's flow being blocked in
SL3000XL sniffer line and also E55 / E56 will be issued and the Protec P3000XL willstop measuring.
Error limits can be set to values between 150 and 240 sccm for LOW FLOW modeand to values between 1500 and 2400 sccm for HIGH FLOW mode.
Default value:

150 sccm for LOW FLOW mode
1500 sccm for HIGH FLOW mode

Sniffer button
In this submenu the use of the right sniffer button for switching between LOW FLOWand HIGH FLOW mode during leak testing (except when in IꞏGuide mode) may be
ENABLED or DISABLED. If the use of the SNIFFER BUTTON is DISABLED, the Protec
P3000XL may only be switched from HIGH FLOW to LOW FLOW mode (or vice versa)
through the FLOW MODE submenu or via RS232.
Default setting: enabled

Equipment Settings

61

Standby Delay
The Protec P3000 offers a STANDBY mode to preserve filters and sensor life time intimes when the Protec P3000 is not used. During the STANDBY mode the flow throughthe sniffer line will be stopped, thus no dirt is pumped through the filters and thesensor is not subjected to the helium background presented in the testing environment.
The time until the Protec P3000 goes into STANDBY mode is determined by the
STANDBY DELAY time. The STANDBY delay time can be set to values between 10 s and1 h. If the probe is not moved for the set STANDBY delay time the Protec P3000 willswitch to STANDBY mode automatically. If the probe is moved during this time, thecounter will be set back to zero and start again.
If the probe is picked up when the Protec P3000 is already in STANDBY mode theProtec P3000 will go back into operation automatically and will be ready for measurement again in approx. 5 sec.
Default value: 10 min.
NoticeIt is recommended to keep the STANDBY delay time as short as possible tominimize wear of the systems without causing too much interruption of youroperations.

Cal
In the CALibration submenu an internal calibration can be ENABLED or DISABLED. If thefunction is set to DISABLED, only a proof function with the built-in PRO-Check reference leak will be possible.
Default value: ENABLED
Change menu PIN
Any changes to the current settings may be password protected. The menu PIN canbe changed in the “change menu PIN” submenu.

Fig. 53

Setting-up a Menu-PIN for parameter protection

If a new PIN is entered the Protec P3000 software will ask to repeat the new PIN toprevent entering errors. Afterwards the menu PIN will be changed to the new value.
Notice62

Equipment Settings

The operator needs to go back up through the main menu for this change
to become effective immediately. Otherwise, the new PIN will be activatedafter 5 minutes.

A menu PIN of “0000” means no password protection, all menus can be freely
accessed.
Default setting: 0000

4.4.2

Audio Functions
In the Audio sub-menu all settings regarding the different audio alarms of the Protec
P3000 can be edited.
Beep soundBeep sounds are sounds that are issued as confirmation of certain functions, e.g.
completion of a calibration process. This acknowledgement sounds can be enabledor disabled in the beep sound submenu.
Default value: enabled.
Audio intern
The internal loudspeaker of the main unit can be switched on and off. This will noteffect the headphones outlet.
Default value: enabled.

Audio sniffer
The loudspeaker of the probe handle can be set to issue an alarm when the TRIGGER
level is exceeded, when the SEARCH level is exceeded or can be disabled completely.
Default value: TRIGGER.
Alarm type
Different types of audio alarm of the main unit speaker can be selected. Options are
SETPOINT, PINPOINT, and TRIGGER ALARM.
SETPOINT

The frequency of the tone will change when the trigger level isexceeded. Below the trigger level the loudspeaker will remain off.

TRIGGERAn acoustic alarm with a continuous low tone will sound as soon as
the search level is exceeded. An acoustic alarm which consists of
two tones sounds as soon as the trigger level is exceeded. Below the
search level the loudspeaker will remain off.

ALARM

If the Protec P3000 is set to TRIGGER ALARM as the alarm type an
additional button will be shown on the lower right side called TONE
1,2,3. With this button different alarm sounds can be selected for thetrigger alarm to clearly distinguish between nearby other leak detectors.
PINPOINT

The external loudspeaker is always on. Within the leak rate range of+/- one decade of the trigger level the frequency will change depending on the leak rate. Outside this range the tone will be constantly
low or high. This setting is recommended if also leaks which are still
below the trigger level need to be pinpointed or if the expected leakrates are within the range of the trigger level.

Equipment Settings

63Default value: Trigger Alarm
VolumeHearing damage from excessively loud signals
The volume of signals can exceed 85 dB(A).
Keep away from the device if the volume has been set to high.
Wear ear protection, when needed.
The MINIMUM VOLUME and the currently selected VOLUME for the loudspeaker in themain unit can be edited. The MINIMUM VOLUME is the lowest level the volume can be
set to from the main display and should prevent unintentional turning off of the main
unit audio alarms. Both values will also be valid for the headphones outlet. Bothvolumes (minimum and current) can be chosen between 0 and 15.
Default value for minimum volume: 2
Default value for the current volume: 2.

4.4.3

Display Settings
In the DISPLAY SETTINGS submenu the contrast of the display can be changed and thepeak hold function can be set-up.

Contrast
In the CONTRAST submenu the contrast of the main unit display can be adjusted.
Values between 0 and 99 can be entered. Also the display can be switched toinverted colours.
Default value: not inverted, Level 30
Notice64

Equipment Settings

If by accident the display contrast has been set too high or too low so thatit cannot be read off anymore, this can be fixed as follows: Shut off theProtec P3000 and switch it back on. During run-up press the third button
from the top on both sides of the display simultaneously until the contrast
is back to normal. This setting is not saved to the EEPROM but needs tobe confirmed manually through the contrast menu. Otherwise the Protec
P3000 will go back to the out of range setting after the next start-up.

Fig. 54

Setting-up the contrast of the main display

Peak hold
The PEAK HOLD function can be enabled or disabled in this submenu. If the PEAK HOLD
function is enable the maximum leak rate will be displayed for a preset time in addition to the currently measured value in the main display. The time setting will haveno effect if this function is disabled.
Default: value disabled, 5 s.

Fig. 55

Setting-up the peak hold function

Flow display
In the FLOW DISPLAY submenu the continuous display of the flow through the sniffer
line during measurements can be ENABLED or DISABLED. If ENABLED, the flow will be
indicated in the STANDARD OPERATION MODE only underneath the leak rate bar graphas integer number.
NoticeAfter certain events like acknowledging warnings or when switching theflow mode, the flow monitoring may be disabled for a short period of time
while the flow stabilizes to a final value again and no new warnings will be
issued. During this time a message ”Flow control inactive” will be displayed
instead of the flow value.

Default setting: disabled

Equipment Settings65

4.4.4

Setting-up / editing an I•Guide Program
When selecting the SETUP PROGRAM button a submenu page will open showing thelist of 10 pre-programmable I•Guide programs and their current status (enabled /disabled). If a program is enabled it will be offered in the list of programs to selectfrom when operating in the I•Guide mode. To change the status of a program use theON / OFF button on the left side of the display.

Fig. 56

Setting-up the I•Guide Mode

To edit the parameters of a program select the program by scrolling to the corresponding menu line and open the selected program by pressing the “EDIT” button.

Fig. 57

Editing an I•Guide program

In the opening EDIT PROGRAM sub-menu the name of the program, the gas typeselected for this program, the number of locations to be leak tested, the minimum
measuring time for each location as well as the wait time between two leak tests
allowed for moving the sniffer to the next location is stated. In addition, the summarized global trigger value corresponding to the allowable leak rate for the complete
unit under test is stored.
Each parameter can be edited by scrolling to the appropriate line item and selecting
the highlighted item by pressing the EDIT button.
Name
Each program can be named with a free text, descriptive name up to 6 characters.
The name can be edited by highlighting the name line and pressing EDIT. An alphanumerical entry screen will open. Press ok after entering the desired name description.

66

Equipment Settings

Gas typeFor editing the gas equivalent go to the “GAS” line item and press “EDIT”. Only gas
equivalents that are listed in the “GAS/TRIGGER” submenu (Gas1 to Gas4) areavailable for selection. The gas equivalent is stated in plain text in parenthesis. The
list of maximum four available gas equivalent can be scrolled with the up and down
buttons.
NoticeThe I•Guide Mode refers to the gas equivalent selected in the “GAS/TRIGGER” submenu. If you change a gas equivalent in the “GAS” submenu

the gas equivalent selected for the I•Guide program will automaticallychange as well.
No. of points
The number of potential leak locations to be checked can be varied between 0 and
99 and can be edited with the up and down keys.
Default value: 4
NoticeThe I•Guide mode can also be used as a timer signal only. If the number ofpoints is set to 0, the Protec P3000 will prompt for the next location to betested continuously without using the global leak rate function.

NoticeThe I•Guide mode can also be used to summarize leak rates on demand.
If the number of points is set to 99, a results screen with summarized global
leak rate will be displayed after the right button has been pressed for 2 scontiniously (or after the 98th point automatically).

Measuring time
The MEASURING TIME during which the sniffer tip needs to be hold to the correct location can be programmed to values between 0.7 and 25.0 s. The measuring timeshould not be less than the response time of the Protec P3000. We recommend touse the following minimum measuring times:
Sniffer line lengthmin. measuring time

3m

0.7 s

5m

0.9 s

10m

1.4 s

15m

3.0 s

Please use the UP and DOWN buttons for editing this parameter.
Default value: 1.0 s
Wait time
The WAIT TIME between two leak checks allowed to move the sniffer to the next
potentially leaking location can be varied between 0.1 s and 25.0s in steps of 0.1s .
Please use the UP and DOWN buttons for editing this parameter.
Default value: 3.0 s

Equipment Settings

67

Global trigger
In the GLOBAL TRIGGER submenu the maximum allowable leak rate for the complete
unit under test can be edited. The same ranges as for a single trigger value areallowed. The unit of measurement for the global trigger will be the same as selected
for this gas type in the edit gas submenue.
Default value: 2 x 10-3 mbar l/s (or the equivalent in any other unit of measurement)

4.4.5

Miscellaneous Settings
Language
Different languages can be chosen in which the software can be operated. The
current selection includes English, German, Spanisch, Italian, French, Portugese,Japanese (Katakana) and Chinese (Mandarine).
Default value: English
NoticeIf the Protec P3000 has been set to a language that you do not understand,turn off the power and press the second button from the top of the display
on both sides simultaneously during run-up. This will reset the Protec
P3000 to English as the menu language. This setting is not saved
automatically. Please go to the LANGUAGE submenu afterwards and selectthe appropriate language.

Date & TimeIn this submenu the internal clock of the Protec P3000 can be set. On the first pagethe date needs to be entered in the format DD.MM.YYYY. The lower right button ()opens the second page on which the time in the format HH.MM is entered.
Sniffer light
The intensity of the sniffer light can be varied to the desired level. The intensity canbe selected between 1 and 6. Also the light can be switched on and off via the
DISABLE / ENABLE buttons. Any new setting must be confirmed with the OK button.
Default value: on, level 4.
Pressure unit
The pressure unit of all displayed values of the Protec P3000 can be set to Pa, Torr,
atm or mbar.
Default value: mbar
Leak rate filter
For all normal operation the I•Filter should be selected. I•Filter is an intelligent filtering
algorithm that yields the best results with respect to noise level and stability of leakrate values specifically developed for use in the Protec P3000 leak detector.
Only in cases where the older Protec model is replaced by an Protec P3000 and theleak detector is used in a fixed testing system it may be required to stick with the“FIXED” filter that was used in the Protec.
Default: I•Filter

68

Equipment Settings

Alarm delay
Under conditions with very unstable background conditions it may be favourable to
not issue an alarm immediately but only release an audio alarm if the trigger level has
been exceeded for an extended time. This alarm delay can be entered in 1/10 of asecond. Values between 0 and 9.9 sec will be accepted. Default value: 0.0 sec (i.e.
disabled).

4.5

Interfaces
In the INTERFACES submenu the CONTROL LOCATION, the RECORDER OUTPUTS. the PLC
inputs, the RS232 PROTOCOL and the BAUD RATE & END SIGN can be edited.

4.5.1

Control location
The CONTROL LOCATION can be “LOCAL”, “RS232” or “LOCAL AND RS232”. In LOCAL
mode the RS232 interface can only be used to read data, but not for control
purposes. In RS232 mode, the Zero and Cal functions are controled solely via theinterface. In LOCAL AND RS232 mode the Protec P3000 can be controlled via theinterface but also by input from the main display.
Default setting: local and RS232
Even with the control location set to RS232 some parameter may still beable to be changed through the main units software menues. Please lockthese by activating the menu PIN to prevent unitended changes.

Notice4.5.2

Recorder outputs
The RECORDER OUTPUT SCALE is linear and logarithmic. The linear output signal isprovided through channel 1 (pin 1 of the I/O port) and the logarithmic output isprovided through channel 2 (Pin 14 of the I/O port) (see Section 6.1).
In logarithmic output scale the voltage range is 0 - 10 V. Beginning at 1V, each leakrate decade is spread over 2 volts, i.e.:
1…3V: 1st decade
3…5V: 2nd decade
5…7V: 3rd decade
7…9V: 4th decadeThus a leak rate range of 4 decades will be output by way of an analog signal. The
four decades are set through the value and the unit of measurement for the trigger
level. The software of the Protec P3000 will set the output voltage in such a mannerthat the trigger level itself will always be set within the second decade (i.e. within therange of 3 to 5 Volts).

Examples:
Trigger level

Output voltage (1 to 9V) will correspond to

3 g/a

0.1 to 1000 g/a

0.2 oz/yr

0.01 to 100 oz/yr

5 x 10-4 mbar l/s

1x10-5 to 1x10-1 mbar l/s

The following table has been provided to clarify the way in which the output voltage
represents the leak rate.

Equipment Settings69

Converting an output voltage to a leak rate
If the recorder outputs a certain voltage and you want to convert this to a leak rate,
the following formula applies:

LR = 10

U–3
TE + ------------2(2 is used since one decade is spread over 2 Volts. 3 is used because the trigger
level will always be within the range of 3 to 5 V).
Example calculations:

TriggerTE(Trigger
exponent)

U (Output
voltage)

2.83 oz/yr

0

5.35V

10

3 g/a

0

5.60V

10

LR (Leak rate)5 35 – 3
0 + --------------------2

6.4V

5 x 10-4
mbar l/s-46.556V70

Equipment Settings5 6 – 3
0 + -----------------2

10

2.8V

10

10

= 15oz  yr

= 20g  a

6 ,4 – 3
0 + ---------------2

2 8 – 3– 4 + -----------------2

6 55 – 3
– 4 + --------------------2= 50g  a

= 8  xx10

= 6  xx10

–3

–5

mbar l/s

mbar l/s

Converting a trigger leak rate to a trigger output voltage
If you want to know the corresponding voltage for a specific trigger leak rate, thefollowing formula applies:
U = 3 + 2ꞏlog (mantissa of scientific notation of trigger value)(The factor of 2 is used since one decade is spread over 2 Volts. The summand of 3
is used because the trigger level will always be within the range of 3 to 5 V).
ExampleTrigger leak rate

Scientific notation

Mantissa

Trigger voltage

2*10-5 mbarl/s

2*10-52

3+2ꞏlog(2) = 3.6 V

5 g/a

5*100

5

3+2ꞏlog(5) = 4.4 V

0.4 oz/yr

4*10-14

3+2ꞏlog(-1) = 4.2 V

Recorder Output
In linear output scale different settings can be chosen in the submenu RECORDEROUTPUT. The voltage range spans from 0 V to 10 V.
The recorder output can be set so that the max. 10 V corresponds to either 1 x 10-4
mbar l/s, 1 x 10-3 mbar l/s, 1 x 10-2 mbar l/s, 1 x 10-4 Torr l/s, 1 x 10-3 Torr l/s,
1 x 10-2 Torr l/s. Alternatively, the recorder otuput can be set so that 10 V corresponds to 10 x trigger level, i. e. 1 V equals the selected trigger level.
In the modes "ERROR”, "NOT READY TO MEASURE” and "STANDBY” a voltage of
U = 10 V will be output through channels 1 and 2.
Default setting: AUTO

4.5.3

RS232 Protocol
The RS232 protocol can be set to “ASCII”, “DIAGNOSTICS”, “PRINTER AUTO” or “PRINTERMANUAL”. The ASCII protocol is a protocol similar to the SCPI, a standard protocol

widely used for measuring equipment. For details on this protocol please refer to theInterface Description (kins26e1).
Default setting: ASCII
Diagnostics
The DIAGNOSTICS protocol is a binary protocol used by INFICON for analysis in quality
control and trouble shooting during manufacturing and service.
Printer manual
The PRINTER MANUAL protocol allows to send leak rates on pressing the right sniffer
probe button.
NoticeWhen in any of the two printer modes, no ASCII commands must be sent
to the Protec P3000 as this will interrupt the printer mode.

Equipment Settings71Format
Date

Time

Gas equivalent Leak rate

12:31

He

Unit

Example03.05.2005

6x10-4

mbar l/s

When set to IꞏGuide mode the PRINTER MANUAL mode is without function.
Printer auto
In PRINTER AUTO the leak rate will be sent any time the set trigger level is exceeded.
At the time the signal drops below the trigger level the maximum detected leak rate
will be sent.
FormatDate

Time

Gas equivalent Leak rate

Unit

12:31

R134a

g/a

Example03.05.2005

2.34

When set to IꞏGuide mode the leak rate results will be sent after each test point
together with the test point number. After the test cycle has been completed, thesummarized global leak rate will be sent.
Example:Point no.

Leak rate

Unit

Point 01

8.3 E-6

mbar l/s

Point 02

2.0 E-6

mbar l/s

Point 03

8.4 E-6

mbar l/s

Point 04

1.2 E-6

mbar l/s

1.8 E-6

mbar l/s

Global

4.5.4

Date

Time

13.04.2007

11:57:03

Select PLC inputs
In the SELECT PLC INPUTS submenu the user can select which pin on the I/O port
(suitable for PLC input) represents which command. The default setting is as follows:
Pin
7
8
9

Default Command
StandbyClear Error
Cal Abort

Pin
13
20
25

Default CommandCal
Zero
Not used

To change these settings select the appropriate pin with the UP and DOWN arrows
on the left side of the display and afterwards select the desired command from thelist of commands with the UP and DOWN buttons on the right side of the display.
Press OK to save your settings.

72

Equipment Settings

Fig. 58

4.5.5

Customizing PLC inputs

Baud rate & end sign
The baud rate can be set to values between 1200 and 19200. Default setting: 9600.
The end sign can be set to Carriage Return (CR), Line Feed (LF) or to CR+LF. Thissetting is only relevant for data output of the P3000. For input strings always CR has
to be used.
Default setting: CR+LF.

4.5.6

PRO-Check
In this submenu the PRO-Check reference leak can be disabled completely so thatfor Protec P3000 leak detectors without a PRO-Check onboard the leak detector
does not check for the electrical connection with the reference leak anymore and noerror message is issued.
Default value: Enable

4.6

The Info Menu
The INFO MENU lists all internal data that may be useful for any trouble-shooting of theProtec P3000. The INFO MENU consists of 10 pages. On each page the upper left
button “BACK” allows to leave the info menu, the lower left button allows to go backone page whereas the lower right button allows to go to the next page. The page
number is displayed in the upper right corner.

Menu item

FormatDescription

Page 1: General Data
Foreline pressure

mbar

Flow

sccm

Time since power on

Min

Flow through sniffer line

Equipment Settings

73

Menu item

FormatOperation hours

hSerial number

11-digit number

Description

Wise Serial number
Software version

x.xx.xx

Circuit temperature°C

Test leak temperature°C

Sensor block

Protec P3000 1 / 2 / 3

Temperature of mainboard

1 = Protec P3000
2 = Protec P3000 withextended measurement
range
3 = Protec P3000XL

Page 2: Sensor Global
I akt.

A

Leak rate

mbar l/s

PWM-Membrane

Integer

Heater Voltage

V

High Voltage

V

Operating time Wiseh

Wise Temperature°Chelium leak rate

Software Version
Wise Sensor
Wise-State

Integer

Measure Background

Press button
If pressing the MEASURE BACKGROUND button theProtec P3000 will go into a special measurementmode and determine the background concentrationof Helium currently prevalent in the environment.
This process may take a couple of seconds. Thisfeature is not a continuous signal display but should
be used for trouble-shooting purposes only.

Page 3: Sensor Errors
Sensor Error

74

Equipment Settings

Hex CodeMenu item

FormatSensor / Valve Warning

Hex Code

Adjust Error

Hex Code

Description

Page 4: PRO-Check data
Gas

HeliumLeak rate nom. / at T

mbar l/s / mbar l/s

Version / Checksum

Hex Code

Gas type of internal leak

Serial no.
Serial no reservoir
Manufacturing date

DD.MM.YYYY

Expiry Date

DD.MM.YYYY

Gain / Offset
Test leak temperature°C / °F

State
Page 5: Sniffer data
Type

SL3000 / SL3000XL /systemSoftware version

x.x

Length3m / 5m / 10m / 15m

Serial no.

9000 xxx xxxx

Switch left

on / off

Switch righton / off

Color

Green / red

Bar graph
Acceleration x / y

x/xFlow at calibration

sccm / sccm

2 values forProtec P3000XK

Pressure at calibration

mbar / mbar

2 values forProtec P3000XL

Equipment Settings

75

Menu item

FormatDescription

Page 6: I/O Port data
Here the current PIN assignment is displayed. The default configuration is shownin the picture.

Page 7: Analog data
AIN3 Sniffer length

V

AIN4 +5V II LeakV

AIN5 +24V III ext

V

AIN6 +5V I Sniffer

V

AIN8 –15V MC50V

AIN9 +15V MC50V

AIN10 +24V MC50V

AIN11 +24V I QMS

V

AIN12 +24V II

VPage 8: Analog data
AIN0

V

AIN0 offset

V

Foreline pressure

mbar

AIN1

V

Flow

sccm

AIN2

V

Page 9: Info valves

76

Equipment Settings

Menu item

FormatV1: bypass

open / close

V2: measureopen / closed

V3: purge inlet

open / closed

V4: purge sniffer

open / closed

V5: sniffer

open / closed

V6 / V7: HIGH FLOW

open / closed / notinstalled

Air pressurembar

Normal mode

mbar

Gross mode

mbar

Zero pressurembar

Description

for P3000XL only

Page 10: RS232 Info

4.7

Protec P3000  sniffer

ASCII string

Command sent frommain unit to sniffer

Sniffer  Protec P3000

ASCII string

Command sent fromsniffer to main unit

Host Protec P3000

ASCII string

Command sent fromhost to Protec P3000

Protec P3000  Host

ASCII string

Command sent fromProtec P3000 to host

History & MaintenanceIn HISTORY & MAINTENANCE historical data that has been collected during theoperation of the Protec P3000 can be viewed as well as information about themaintenance status of the leak detector.
View Error List
In the ERROR LIST all errors (and warnings) that have occurred during the operationof the Protec P3000 are summarized. In the list the DATE and TIME when the error
occurred is stated followed by error or warning number (E xx being errors and W xx
being warnings) with a short description of the error or warning. The full error
message or warning may be displayed when scrolling to the appropriate line item andpressing the magnifying glass-button.

Equipment Settings

77Fig. 59

Example of an Protec P3000 error list

Calibration history
In this listing all calibrations that were conducted during the operation of the Protec
P3000 are collected. The DATE and TIME when they were performed are stated,followed by the type of calibration (internal / external) and the calibration factor.

Fig. 60

Example of a Protec P3000 Calibration history

Sniffer tip filter
The maintenance interval for the sniffer tip filter depends on the operating environment and may be set to values between 10 and 999 hours. If set to  the reminder
message for the sniffer tip filter will be disabled.
Default value: 100 hours
For details on how to perform the maintenance tasks see Chapter 7, Maintenance.
When confirming that the filter has been replaced (without changing the interval time)press okay only and the counter will restart.

78

Equipment Settings

Fig. 61
Setting the maintenance interval for the sniffer tip filter and confirming its
replacement

Maintenance intervall
In the maintenance interval sub-menu the number of operating hours for the main
unit in total, as well as the time until the next maintenance is due for the diaphram
pump, the main unit air filter and the optimization for the Wise Technology sensor.
When the number of operating hours have expired a warning will be issued as areminder to perform the appropriate task. The reminders are issued for thediaphragm pump and the air filter of the main unit. Please also refer to Section 5.1(Error Messages and Warnings)!

Fig. 62

Example of a maintenance interval menu page

Maintenance history
In the maintenance history list all maintenance tasks performed are listed. The date
and the time the maintenance tasks were performed, the number of operation hours
the Protec P3000 had worked at the time when the maintenance task was performed
and the type of maintenance that was conducted are listed. Details about each maintenance task may be viewed when highlighting the appropriate line item and pressing
the VIEW button.

Equipment Settings

79Fig. 63

Example of maintenance history list

Confirm maintenanceIn this submenu the replacement of the main unit air filter can be confirmed and thedate and the number of operation hours at which the maintenance task was
performed is saved in the software.
NoticeMaintenance of the diaphragm pump can only be confirmed in the(password protected) service menu by trained personnell.

Fig. 64

Confirming maintenance task

For details on how to perform the maintenance tasks see Chapter 7, Maintenance.
Replace PRO-Check (only available if ENABLED and in ADVANCED mode
When replacing the gas reservoir of the PRO-Check reference leak, the new serial
number of the replacement gas reservoir as well as a code containing the calibration
data of the new reservoir needs to be entered in this submenu. For details on how to
replace the gas reservoir of the PRO-Check reference leak please refer to Section
7.7.

80

Equipment Settings

Fig. 65

Activating new PRO-Check gas reservoir

NoticePRO-Check Warntime Expire Date (See Section 7.7.5).

Equipment Settings815

Protec P3000 Messages
During leak detection operations the LCD display will indicate information which
supports the operator in running the Protec P3000. Besides measurement data, also
current equipment conditions, operating hints as well as warnings and error
messages can be displayed.

5.1

Error Messages and Warnings
The Protec P3000 is equipped with comprehensive self-diagnostic functions. Whena faulty condition is sensed by the control board, this condition is indicated to theoperator via the LCD display as far as possible.
ErrorsErrors are events which force an interruption of the measurements in progress andwhich the Protec P3000 is not capable of rectifying on its own. Errors are indicatedin plain text together with an error number.
The Protec P3000 remains in the error status. After the fault cause has been
removed the error can be acknowledged by pressing the RESTART button. The Protec
P3000 then returns to the measurement mode.
Warnings
Warnings are issued if an abnormal condition is detected that may cause increased
inaccuracies of measurements but will not interrupt measuring completely.
In the following table all possible error messages possible reasons for the problem
and the recommendations on how to fix the proplem are listed. If no recommendation
is given (or the recommendation does not fix the problem), please call your nearest
INFICON service representative (www.inficon.com).
NoticeIn case of enquiries please keep the serial number and the software
version number of the Protec P3000 at hand.

The following abbrevation is used in the listing + error messages below:
MC50

CPU-board

Error
no.

Plain text message

Possible Reason

Recommendation

E1

24V of the MC50 too low

Fuse F1 on the motherboard
has blown

Replace fuse F1 on motherboard*E2

24V of sensor heating too
low

Fuse F2 on the motherboard
has blown

Replace fuse F2 on motherboard*

E3

24V II too low

Fuse F3 on the motherboard
blown

Replace fuse F3 on motherboard*

82

Protec P3000 Messages

Errorno.

Plain text message

Possible Reason

Recommendation

W4

24V of the OPTION socket
too low

Fuse F4 on the motherboard
has blown

Replace fuse F4 on motherboard*

W5

5V of the sniffer is too low

Fuse F5 on the motherboard
has blown

Replace fuse F5 on motherboard*

W6

5V of the internal Leak too
low

PRO-Check electronics
defective

Replace PRO-Check reference
leak or call nearest INFICON
service representative!

E7-15V of the MC50 is too low

Motherboard defective

Call nearest INFICON service
representative!

E8

15V of the MC50 is too low

Motherboard defective

Call nearest INFICON service
representative!

E9

High Voltage error

Problem in sensor electronics

Call nearest INFICON service
representative!

W11

Wise current unstable

Current from Wise Technology
sensor did not stabilize within
20 min. after start-up!
Protec P3000 possibly not
being used for serveral days,
sensor current should stabilize
with more run-time.

Restart the Protec P3000.
If problem persists, call nearest
INFICON service representative!

E12

Wise Sensor not ignited

Current from Wise Technology
sensor too low for more than 10
min after power on

Restart the Protec P3000, if
problem persists, call nearest
INFICON service representative!

E13

Problem in Heater Control

Heater control for Wise
Technology sensor defective.

Call nearest INFICON service
representative!

W14

Discharge gone out

Sensitivity problem of Wise
Technology sensor
orNo ambient helium present(e.g. sniffer purged withnitrogen)

CAUTION

Warntime every 2h.

Make proof or calibration
Restart with sniffer line connected
to fresh air
If problem persists, call nearest
INFICON service repesentative!

W15

Replace sniffer tip filter

Filter in the sniffer tip is clogged Replace the filter in the sniffer tip!

W17

Fore pump service interval
expired!

> 10,000 operating hours sincelast fore pump service

Replace membrane of diaphragm
pump!*W18

Air filter service interval
expired!

> 10,000 operating hours sincelast main air filter service

Clean or replace main air filter!

No communication with
Wise ADC

Wise Technology sensor
defective orCPU-board defective

Call nearest INFICON service
representative!

E19

See Section 7.2

Protec P3000 Messages

83Errorno.

Plain text message

Possible Reason

Recommendation

E20

Temperature at electronic
unit is too high (>60°)

Ambient temperature too highCool down environment, place
Protec P3000 in cooler area.

Ventilation failure

Check if fans on both side of main
unit are running (check for air flow
through inlets on both side of main
unit housing)

Air filter dirty

Clean or replace main air filter
See Section 7.2

E22

Temperature at theelectronics unit too low(<-21°)

Ambient temperature too low

Check the environment.

Temperature sensor defective

Call nearest INFICON service
representative!

W24

24V for the ext. control unit
too low

For RC versions only:
Fuse on the RC-driver board
blown

Replace fuse on RC-driver board!*

E25

Remove sniffer from CAL
port

Sniffer inserted in calibration
port during start-up
orsniffer needs to be removed
during internal calibration
process

Remove sniffer from calibration portof PRO-Check!

Light barrier of PRO-Check
dirty

Blow out with fresh air and / or clean
with cotton swab!

Background too high orWise sensor defective

Environment contaminatedwith helium or Wise
Technology sensor defective!

Offer fresh air to sniffer line.

Real time clock reset!
Please enter date and time!

CPU-board has been replaced

Please enter date and time!

E26

W28

If problem persists call nearest
INFICON service representative
See Section 4.4.5

Battery on CPU-board faulty

Replace CPU-board*

W29

The 24V of the audio output
is too low

Fuse F6 on the wiring level isdefective

Replace fuse F6 on the main PCB

E32

Wise Technology current
too high

Wise Technology sensor
current exceeds thresholdvalue

Do not switch off Protec
P3000(XL)!!!
Supply fresh air through sniffer line
quickly, restart the Protec P3000
and wait for Protec P3000 torecover!
If problem persists, call nearest
INFICON service repesentative!

W34

Flow has changed!

Flow has changed by morethan 30% since last calibration(warning will disappear ifchange drops below 20%
again).

Recalibrate the Protec P3000 (See
Section 3.5) or replace sniffer line
filters!

84

Protec P3000 Messages

Errorno.

Plain text message

Possible Reason

W35

Flow through sniffer too low

Actual flow is lower than lower
flow limits (In LOW FLOW mode)

Recommendation

Filter in sniffer line blocked

Replace sniffer tip filter
See Section 7.4

Capillary blocked

Replace filters of sniffer line andrecalibrate! (felt filter, capillary filter
and / or filter pad in SL3000XL
sniffer line and recalibrate) See
Section 7.4
orReplace probe cable*

Filter in main unit blocked

Lower flow limit setting too high Replace internal filter*
Decrease lower flow limit
See Section 4.4.1
E37

Flow through sniffer too high Actual flow is higher than upper
flow limits (LOW FLOW and HIGHFLOW mode) or actual pressure
is higher than upper pressure
limit (HIGH FLOW mode only):
Capillary broken or leaky

Upper flow limit setting too low

Replace sniffer line and recalibrateorReplace probe cable*
Increase upper flow limit
See Section 4.4.1

E38

Pump error

Fore pump defective

Call nearest INFICON service
repesentative!

W39

Valve block error!

Cannot recognize valve block
version during self-test

Call nearest INFICON service
representative!

Ratio of HIGH FLOW to LOW

For Protec P3000XL only in
HIGH FLOW mode:

W40

FLOW failed

Flow in HIGH FLOW mode lessthan 5 times flow in LOW FLOW
mode (during start-up or
calibration only)
Filter in sniffer line blocked
Internal filter in main unit
blockedLeak in LOW FLOW capillary
Internal leak

Replace sniffer tip filter andrecalibrate(See Section 7.4)
Replace internal filter* andrecalibrate
Replace sniffer line and recalibrate
If problem persists, call nearest
INFICON service representative

Protec P3000 Messages

85

Errorno.

Plain text message

W41

HIGH FLOW too low

Possible Reason

Recommendation

For Protec P3000XL only in
HIGH FLOW mode:

Actual flow lower than lower
flow limit (for high flow mode) or
actual pressure at Wise
Technology sensor below
corresponding pressure limit
Filter in sniffer line blocked

Replace sniffer tip filter (See
Section 7.4)

Internal filter in main unit
blockedReplace internal filter*

Leak in LOW FLOW capillary
Internal Leak
W42

Pressure at calibrationdiffers between HIGH and
LOW FLOWFor Protec P3000XL only in
Pressure at Wise Technology
sensor differs from LOW FLOW
mode to high flow mode (during
start-up or calibration only)
Filter in sniffer line blocked

Capillary blocked

Flow at calibration out oflimits!

Only for Protec P3000 orProtec P3000XL in LOW FLOW
mode:
Flow at calibration higher thanupper flow limit or lower thanlower flow limit or limit low flow
error (if enabled, whichevercomes first)
Filter in sniffer line blocked!
Internal filter in main unit
blockedLeak in (low flow) capillary
Wrong flow limit or limit low flow
error settings (for LOW FLOW
mode)

86

Protec P3000 Messages

See Section 7

HIGH FLOW mode:

Internal filter in main unit
blocked

W53

Replace sniffer line!
Or: Replace probe cable!*

Replace sniffer tip filter andrecalibrate (See Section 7.4)
Replace internal filter* andrecalibrate
Replace sniffer line and recalibrate!
Or: Replace probe cable!* andrecalibrate
See Section 7

Replace sniffer tip filter andrecalibrate! (see section 7.4)
Replace internal filter* andrecalibrate!
Replace sniffer line (or: replaceprobe cable*) and recalibrate!
Check flow limit settings and limit
low flow error (for LOW FLOW mode)!
See section 4.4.1

Errorno.

Plain text message

Possible Reason

W54

Flow at calibration out oflimits!

Only for Protec P3000XL in
HIGH FLOW mode:
Flow at calibration higher thanupper flow limit
or lower than lower flow limit orlimit low flow error (if enabled,whichever comes first)
Filter in sniffer line blocked
Internal filter in main unit
blocked

E55

E56

W59

Flow through sniffer below
error limit

HIGH FLOW below error limit

EEPROM parameter queue
overflow!

Leak in probe cableWrong flow limit or limit low flow
error settings (for HIGH FLOW
mode)
Only for Protec P3000 orProtec P3000XL in LOW FLOW
mode:
Flow through sniffer line below
limit low flow error for LOW FLOW
mode
Filter in sniffer line blocked!
Internal filter in main unit
blockedLimit low flow error for LOW
FLOW mode too highOnly for Protec P3000XL in
HIGH FLOW mode:
Flow through sniffer line below
limit low flow error for HIGHFLOW mode or pressure at Wise
Technology sensor lower thancorresponding lower pressure
limit
Filter in sniffer line blocked!
Internal filter in main unit
blockedLimit low flow error for HIGHFLOW mode too highMay occur if software “update”
to older version is performed

Recommendation

Replace sniffer tip filter andrecalibrate! (see section 7.4)
Replace internal filter* andrecalibrate!
Replace sniffer line (or: replaceprobe cable*) and recalibrate!
Check flow limit settings and limit
low flow error (for HIGH FLOW mode)!
See section 4.4.1

Replace sniffer tip filter andrecalibrate! (see section 7.4)
Replace internal filter* andrecalibrate!
Check limit low flow error (for LOW
FLOW mode)! See section 4.4.1

Replace sniffer tip filter andrecalibrate! (see section 7.4)
Replace internal filter* andrecalibrate!
Check limit low flow error (for HIGHFLOW mode)! See section 4.4.1
Restart the Protec P3000, if
problem persists, call nearest
INFICON service representative!

Protec P3000 Messages

87Errorno.

Plain text message

Possible Reason

Recommendation

W60

All EEPROM parameter lost!
Please check your settings!

New EEPROM has been
installed, EEPROM on
motherboard is virgin

All settings in software menu arereset to default! Please enter yoursettings again!

If message comes up
repeatedly during start-up,
EEPROM on motherboard isfaultyReplace EEPROM*

Software update performed
and new parameters have been
introduced

Acknowledge warning

W61

EEPROM parameter
initialized!

Newly introduced parameters
are listed below warning

W62

EEPROM parameter lost!

If message comes up
repeatedly during start-up,
EEPROM on motherboard isfaultyReplace EEPROM*

Parameter has been modified
during software update andreset to default value

Check setting of modified
parameters in corresponding
software menu and set to desired
value!

Affected parameters are listed
below warning
If message comes up
repeatedly during start-up,
EEPROM on motherboard isfaultyReplace EEPROM*

W64

There are outstanding
warnings!

Acknowledged but still valid
warnings will be repeated every
2 hrs or on each new power on

Please double-check the warnings!

W65

Wrong date set!

Wrong date in the Protec.

Check the date in the Protec.

Wrong Hex code entered to
PRO-Check

Check the Hex code entered to
PRO-Check

New PRO-Check reference
leak installed in main unit

Please enter serial number and
code.

W66

New PRO-Check!

See Section 4.7, Replace PROCheck
W67

W68

W70

88

PRO-Check will be expired
on DD.MM.YYYY

PRO-Check expired!

All EEPROM parameter of
PRO-Check lost!

Protec P3000 Messages

Warning for pending expiration
will be issued adjusting 14, 30,
60, or 90 days before actual
expiration.
PRO-Check has been used formore than 1 year or has been
manufactured more than 2
years ago.

Please order new PRO-Check gas
reservoir! (cat. no. 521-010)

EEPROM in PRO-Check isempty or faulty

Replace PRO-Check!

See Section 7.7.5
Please replace PRO-Check gas
reservoir!
See Section 7.7

Errorno.

Plain text message

Possible Reason

Recommendation

W71

No communication with
PRO-Check!

No or defective electricalconnection between PROCheck and main unit

Check connection of PRO-Check
with main unit
If problem persists, call nearest
INFICON service repesentative!

PRO-Check not installed inmain unit

Install PRO-Check!

No PRO-Check available

Disable PRO-Check in softwaremenu (see Section 4.5.6)

W72

No communication withsniffer!

No or defective electricalconnection between sniffer line
and main unit

Check connection of sniffer linewith main unit (disconnect andreconnect, if possible, try different
sniffer line)
If problem persists, call nearest
INFICON service

W78

Signal difference between
calibrated leak and air too
small!

Calibrated leak too small /empty during calibration or
proof

Check leak rate of test leak or use
leak with higher leak rate

Background too high duringcalibration

Check helium backgroundNot enough time expired for air
signal to stabilized(acknowledged too early)

Repeat calibration, allow sufficient
time for air signal to stabilize!

W81

Calibration factor too low!

Calibration factor determined to
be < 0.1 during calibration
Leak rate of test leak isincorrect (especially duringexternal calibration)

W82

Calibration factor too high!

See Section 4.6, Info page 2.

Check correct setting of test leakvalue!

Calibration factor duringcalibration determined to be >10
Leak rate of test leak isincorrect (especially duringexternal calibration)

Check correct setting of test leakvalue!

Test leak not sniffed properly /not long enough

Repeat calibration, sniff test leakproperly and for sufficient time
Wait until Protec P3000 entersmeasurement mode!

W86

Internal calibration notpossible

Not in measure mode whencalibration is attempted

W87

Not supported gas in PROCheck

Occurs only during internal
calibration or proof function:
ECO-Check installed(accidentially)

Take out ECO-Check, install PROCheck!

EEPROM in PRO-Check notprogrammed

Replace PRO-Check reference
leak!

Protec P3000 Messages

89Errorno.

Plain text message

Possible Reason

Recommendation

W88

PRO-Check defective

Occurs only during internal
calibration or proof function:
Temperature sensor defective

Replace PRO-Check reference
leak!

W89

Overrange!

Protec P3000 is contaminatedwith helium

Do not switch off Protec
P3000(XL)!!!
Keep Protec P3000 running whileproviding fresh air to sniffer line
until warning is cleared.
If warning occurs frequently,
increase contamination limit!
Check helium background
See Section 4.6, Info page 2.

W90

Calibration conditions not
maintained

Test leak value too high duringexternal calibration!

Use smaller test leak for external
calibration!

Sniffer removed during internal
calibration, internal calibrationabortedRepeat calibration acknowledge* To be performed only by authorized INFICON service personnel.

90

Protec P3000 Messages

6

Equipment Connections
The Protec P3000 is equipped with three electrical control connectors. The electricalconnections (head phone, I/O port and RS232) are located on the rear of the main
unit directly next to the socket for the mains cable.

6.1

I/O Port (Control Inputs and Outputs)

For all contacts of the I/O Port a maximum voltage of 60 V DC or 25 V AC
must not be exeeded or reached to ground or ground equipment conductors.
According to the type of in- or outputs lower voltages had to be accepted. For
this, please refer to the information given in the responding chapters.
Through this connection some functions of the Protec P3000 can be controlled externally or measurement data or the of the Protec P3000 status may be communicatedto external equipment.
Through relay change over contacts the trigger levels as well as the operating mode
(Ready) of the Protec P3000 may be monitored.

Fig. 66

6.1.1

Default Pin Assignment

Ground connectors
Pin 2, 3, 18, 19 and 21 are ground connectors.

Equipment Connections916.1.2

24V Output
Pin 6 is a +24 V common output for supplying the PLC inputs and outputs, internallyprotected with fuse F4.

6.1.3

PLC Inputs
These inputs can be used to control the Protec P3000 via a programmable logic
control (PLC).

Permissible maximum input voltage 28 V.

Technical data
24V nominal input
Low level: 0 …7 V
High level: 13 … 28 V

Pin assignment (default)
Pin

Default Command

7

Standby

8

Clear Error

9

Calibration Abort13

Calibration

20

Zero

25

Not used

All PLC inputs can be defined by the user from a list of commands. The commands
can be selected in the SETTINGS / INTERFACES / SELECT PLC INPUTS submenu. For
details on this submenu please refer to Section 4.4.4. The currently selectedcommands can be viewed on INFO page #7.
Standby
Change from LOW to HIGH to activate STANDBY function.
Change from HIGH to LOW to deactivate STANDBY function (wake up).
Calibration
Starts a calibration process and also confirms to proceed with the calibration after thesignal from the test leak had enough time to stabilize and the sniffer tip has been
moved away from the test leak (see timing chart for calibration below).

92

Equipment Connections

Calibration abort
Aborts a calibration any time during a calibration process.
Zero
Performs the ZERO function (equivalent to pressing the zero button)
Clear Error
Acknowledges any warnings or error messages. If used during an ongoing calibration, the calibration will be aborted.

6.1.4

PLC Outputs
These outputs can be used to monitor the Protec P3000 via a programmable logic
control (PLC).
PLC Outputs are designed as an „Open Collector Output“ or a relay output. Pleaserefer to the example given below for an open collector output „Error“.
I/O Port (open collector output)

24 V

6

10 K 

17

Error active = 0 Volt
Error inactive = 24 Volt

Fig. 67

Circuit for open collector output “Error”

Technical data

Permissible max. voltage and current for open collector outputs are: 28 V;
50 mA.

Open collector output
Active = low

Equipment Connections

93

Pin assignment
Pin

Command (not editable)

4

Ready

5

Calibration stable

16

Leak

17

Error

Ready
Signal is LOW as long as the Protec P3000 is ready for measurements.
Calibration stable
Signal is LOW when the signal detected during a calibration had enough time tostabilize and goes back to HIGH after the background signal had enough time tostabilize
Leak
Signal is LOW if the preset trigger level is exceeded
Error
Signal is LOW if a warning or error message is active.

6.1.4.1

Relay outputs
Technical data

Maximum load rating is 60 V DC / 25 V AC and 1 A per relay.

Relay
Active Normally open (NO)Pin assignment

94

Pin

Type of contact

22,10

Normally closed contact (NC)22, 23

Normally open contact

11,24

Normally closed contact (NC)11,12Normally open contact

Equipment Connections

Command (not editable)
Leak

(NO)
(NO)

Ready

Leak
Relay is Active (NO) if the preset trigger level is exceeded

Ready
Relay is Active (NO) as long as the Protec P3000 is ready for measurements.

6.1.4.2

Recorder Outputs
Technical data
Analogue output
0 … 10 V
max. 1mA
Pin assignment
Pin

Command1

Leak rate, analogue output, linear scale

14

Leak rate, analogue output, logarithmic scale

For details please refer to section 4.5.2 (Recorder outputs)

6.1.5

How to perform a calibration?
Leak rate
Cal (Input)

Ready (Output)

Cal stable (Output)
Measurement
heliumMeasurement
airFig. 68

A calibration process is started by setting the CALIBRATION input to HIGH after thesniffer probe tip has been placed in front of a test leak. The READY signal will go to
HIGH after the calibration process has started.

Equipment Connections

95

Notice

If a calibration is started within the first 20 min after power on a warning isissued. The ERROR output signal will go to LOW and the READY signal
will go to HIGH (not ready). In this case, a calibration will not be started until
the CLEAR ERROR input signal is set to HIGH (calibration will be started
afterwards). Alternatively the calibration may be aborted by setting the
CALIBRATION ABORT input signal to HIGH.

When the calibration process has been started the Protec P3000 sets the CALIBRATION STABLE output signal to LOW after the signal had enough time to stabilize. The

sniffer probe tip then needs to be moved away from the test leak and the CALIBRATION
input needs to be set back to LOW afterwards.
The CALIBRATION STABLE output signal stays LOW and is set back to HIGH when the
background signal also had enough time to stabilize. At this time the calibration will
be completed, the results of the calibration process will be shown on the main display
for 3 seconds. After that the main display will go back into measurement mode. The
READY output signal will go back to LOW at that time.
If ABORT is sent during a calibration before the last edge of the CALIBRATION signal,
the calibration process will be aborted.
In case of an error during calibration, the READY output signal will remain HIGH until
the error is erased by the CLEAR ERROR input signal.

6.2

RS232 interface
The RS232 interface can be used for external control of the Protec P3000 but also
for simple export of data describing testing results.
For how to set-up the RS232 interface please refer to Section 4.5.
For a detailed description of the RS232 interface and its commands please refer tothe “Protec P3000 Interface Description” (kins26e1)

96

Equipment Connections

7

Maintenance

For all maintenance on the Protec P3000, the main power must be
disconnected first.

7.1

Maintenance schedule
Required tools•

2 screw drivers, size 2•

1 ring spanner wrench, 19 mm•

8 mm hexagonal screw driver (delivered with Protec P3000).

Operation hours

Required
maintenance

Sub
Assembly

Material
Description

Part no.

Check sinter filter andreplace if necessary

Sniffer tip

Sinter Filter for
Sniffertip SL3xx,
SL3000-x (5 pcs.)

200 03 500 X

I

Replace if W35 „Flow
too low“

Sniffer tip

Felt for Capillary Filter
SL3xx,
SL3000-x (50pcs.)

200 001
116

I

Check internal filter andMain Unit
replace if necessaryinternal Filter (10 pcs.)

200 001680

X

II

Wearing parts kit for
Diaphragm pump

200 03 504

X

III

Clean or replace the air
filter at the bottom ofMain Unit
the chassis

Air Filter Protec P3000(104x154 mm; 5 pcs.)

200 001
552

Replace gas reservoir
after 1 year

PRO-Check

Replacement gas reservoir
521-010for PRO-Check

Replace filter pad

Sniffer tip

SL3000-XL

Maintenance ofdiaphragm pump

Diaphragm
Pump
MVP015

Repair
10.00 level2000 5000
0

1)

X
1)

I
I

200 002
251

I

Key for Maintenance Schedule:•

I

Repair level

I

Customer•II

Repair level

II

Customer with technical training from INFICON•

III

Repair level

III

INFICON service engineer

1) Depends on the environment

Maintenance

97

7.2

Exchanging the air filter

The air filter should be checked for contamination at least every 6 months
and should be definitely exchanged after 2 years.

Before exchanging the filter the Protec P3000 must be disconnected frompower.
To exchange the air filter, place the Protec P3000 on its front-side or position it on
the edge of a sturdy bench. If placing it on the edge of a bench, please pay attention
to its center of gravity. If placing it on its front-side, please remove the sniffer line andthe built-in PRO-Check first.
NoticeTo prevent scratching of the front-cover, it is recommended to use a softbase.

1 The fastener for the air filter is on the bottom of the Protec P3000.

Fig. 69

Fastener for the air filter on the bottom of the leak detector

2 Screw out the fastener screw.
3 Extract the air filter.

98

MaintenanceFig. 70

Dismounting of the air filter

1 Depending on the contamination the air filter should be cleaned or replaced asnecessary.
2 Push in new (changed) air filter until fully in contact with dead stop.

Fig. 71

Inserting the air filter

3 Close air filter fastener.
4 From the main menu go to HISTORY & MAINTENANCE / CONFIRM MAINTENANCE andconfirm with the appropriate button on the right side of the display that the air filter
has been replaced / cleaned. The actual date and time as well as the actual
number of operating hours will be saved and a reminder to perform thismaintenance task again will be issued after another 10.000 operating hours.

Maintenance

99

7.3

Exchanging the external fuses

Before exchanging the fuses you must disconnect the mains cord.
Use a screw driver to fold out the lid of the mains socket from the right (the mains
switch is not affected by this).
The fuses can be removed by pulling out the drawers which are marked by thearrows. On re-inserting these, make sure that the arrows point downward.
The two fuses must be replaced by two fuses of the same rating. The required mains
fuses are available as cat.-no.
After having exchanged the fuse(s) firmly reclose the lid of the mains socket.
Re-connect the mains cord to the Protec P3000 and switch on the leak detector.

Fig. 72

7.4

Replacing the mains fuse

Replacing filters in the sniffer line
If the sniffer probe is clogged, a warning “Flow through capillary too low” (warning 35
or warning 41) will be issued.
Clogging of the sniffer probe may be due to:100

Maintenance•Clogging of capillary filter: see Section 7.4.1 (for SL3000 only)•

Clogging of sinter filter: see Section 7.4.3 (for SL3000 only)•

Clogging of sniffer tip filter (for SL3000XL only)•

Clogging of sniffer probe capillary•

Damage of sniffer tip•

Clogging / damage of sniffer line

7.4.1

Replacing the felt discs of the capillary filter(for SL3000 only)

The Protec P3000 must be recalibrated after any maintenance of the sniffer
tip!

1 Switch of the Protec P3000

Fig. 73screwing off capillary filter

Fig. 74

pushing out felt filter

2 Unscrew capillary filter, push out old felt filter from the back side.

Maintenance101

Fig. 75

old and new felt filter

3 Push in new felt filter.
NoticeThe metal grid is not included with the spare felt filter. Please clean themetal grid carefully and use it again.

4 Switch on the Protec P3000.
5 Hold finger against the capillary filter:
You should be able to feel the flow.
6 If warning “Flow through capillary too low” remains, replace the sinter filter (seeSection 7.2)
7 From the main menu go to HISTORY & MAINTENANCE / CONFIRM MAINTENANCE /SNIFFER TIP FILTER and confirm with the ok button on the right side of the displaythat the sniffer tip filter has been replaced. The actual date and time as well as theactual number of operating hours will be saved and a reminder for maintenancewill be issued again after the preset number of hours. For details see Chapter 4.7.
NoticeThe Protec P3000 must be set to ADVANCED mode for confirming
maintenance tasks.

8 Please recalibrate the Protec P3000 for most accurate display of leak rate.

7.4.2

Replacing the felt discs when using the water
protection tip (for SL3000 only)
1 Switch off Protec P3000!
2 Screw off water protection tip!
3 Push out filter pads and metal grid from the back side.
4 Re-install metal grid at the bottom of water protection tip.
5 Push in two new filter pads (all the way to the bottom of the water protection tip).
6 Switch on Protec P3000

102

MaintenanceNotice

If the flow has changed by more than 30%, a re-calibration of the Protec
P3000 will be required and a corresponding warning will be issued by thesoftware.

7 From the main menu go to HISTORY & MAINTENANCE / CONFIRM MAINTENANCE /SNIFFER TIP FILTER and confirm with the OK button on the right side of the displaythat the sniffer tip filter has been replaced. The actual date and time as well as theactual number of operating hours will be saved and a reminder for maintenancewill be issued again after the preset number of hours. For details see Chapter 4.7.
8 Please recalibrate the Protec P3000 for most accurate display of leak rate.

7.4.3

Checking / replacing the sinter filter(for SL3000 only)
NoticeIf the flow has changed by more than 30%, a re-calibration of the Protec
P3000 will be required and a corresponding warning will be issued by thesoftware.

1 Switch off the Protec P3000.
2 Remove the two Phillips screws and take off the sniffer tip.

Fig. 76

Taking off the sniffer tip

3 Remove the sinter filter with the o-ring.

Fig. 77

Sinter filter

Maintenance103

4 Visually check the filter for contamination.
5 Install a new sinter filter with o-ring at the bottom of the filter tip.
6 Reinstall the sniffer tip.
7 Switch on the Protec P3000.
8 Hold finger against the capillary filter:
You should be able to feel the resulting vacuum.
9 If the warning “Flow through capillary too low” remains after releasing the finger
from the capillary filter, replace the sniffer tip first. If this does not cure theproblem, the capillary in the sniffer line is clogged and the complete sniffer line
needs to be replaced.
10 Please recalibrate the Protec P3000 for most accurate display of leak rate.

7.5

Replacing the filter pad of the sniffer tip(for SL3000XL only)
When you want to change the filter pad, which is placed between sniffer tip and thehandle, you have to take off the sniffer tip first:
1 Loosen the cap nut by turning it to the left.
NoticeIf the screw is too tight you may use a screw wrench (SW21):

or:Place a screw wrench at the recess of the cap nut and loosen the nut carefully
by turning the wrench to the left.

Fig. 78

Switching of the handle and sniffer tip - without or with wrench

NoticeDon’t use the blue paper pads between each filter pad.

2 Remove filter pad.

104

MaintenanceFig. 79

Removed filter pad

3 Place new filter pad in the cap nut and press it in carefully. The filter pad works ineach direction.
4 Place new filter pad in the cap nut and press it in carefully. The filter pad works ineach direction.

Fig. 80

Filter pad in cap nut

5 Put sniffer tip onto handle and screw tight with your hands.

Fig. 81reassembly

Now you can use the Protec P3000XL as usual.

Maintenance105

6 Installation Check:
NoticeIf you want to check if the new filter pad has been installed securely please
perform the following test:a Screw off the plastic cap at the end of the filter tip.
b Place thumb on end of sniffer tip and press to seal off the inlet.
c A warning (Protec P3000XL  W41 and LOW FLOW  W35) should be issued
by the Protec P3000XL. If no W41 is issued, please tighten the cap nut more
firmly and repeat the test. If still no W41 is issued, open again cap nut andcheck correct seating of filter pad.
d Release thumb and reinstall plastic cap at end of sniffer tip.
7 Please recalibrate the Protec P3000 for most accurate display of leak rate.

106

Maintenance7.6

Switching the capillary filter(for SL3000 sniffer line only)
At the top of the sniffer tip two different capillary filters can be mounted.

1

2

3

Fig. 82

7.6.1

Pos. Description

Pos. Description

1

Taper Gasket (can be black or white)

3

2

Metal capillary filter

Plastic capillary filter

Switching from metal to plastic capillary filter
When you switch from the metal capillary filter to the plastic capillary filter you needto remove the taper gasket. The plastic capillary filter will not fit with the taper gasket
installed.
1 Remove the two Philips screws in the flange of the sniffer tip and remove sniffertip.
2 Take a small pin or needle (about 0.5 mm) and push the steel capillary out off thetip from the top.

Fig. 83

Pushing out the steel capillary

Maintenance107Fig. 84

Steel capillary sticking out of sniffer tip flange

The steel capillary may be removed in that way for the following sniffer tips:
cat. no.

length122 09FT600

600 mmflexible

122 13

ST312

120 mmrigid

122 14

FT312

120 mmflexible

122 15

ST385

385 mmrigid

122 16

FT385

385 mmflexible

122 18

FT200

200 mmrigid

122 66

FT250

250 mmflexible

122 72ST500

500 mm

45° angled

3 Take out the steel capillary and remove the taper gasket at the top of the sniffer
tip.
NoticeThe steel capillary can be cleaned with compressed air or a thin steel wire.

4 Reinsert the steel capillary and reinstall the sniffer tip.
5 Screw the plastic capillary filter onto the sniffer tip.
6 Please recalibrate the Protec P3000 for most accurate display of leak rate.

7.6.2

Switching from plastic to metal capillary filter
NoticeWhen you switch from the plastic capillary filter to the metal capillary filter,
do not forget to re-install the taper gasket as otherwise the SL3000 sniffer
line will be leaky.

1 Unscrew the plastic capillary filter.
2 Insert taper gasket (Fig. Fig. 82/1)
3 Re-install the capillary in the sniffer tip.
4 Screw in metall capillary filter at the end of the sniffer tip.
5 Please recalibrate the Protec P3000 for most accurate display of leak rate.

108

Maintenance7.7

Replacing the gas reservoir of the
PRO-Check
NoticePlease take off the lid from the new gas reservoir 48 hours before
installation. Due to accumulation of gas in the membrane during storage,
the leak rate will be higher than certified right after opening.
Do not use the new gas reservoir for calibration during this time.

1 Pull out the PRO-Check. The PRO-Check reference leak is fixed with magnetic
holders and can be pulled out easily.

Fig. 85

Removing the PRO-Check reference leak from the main unit

2 Screw off the gas reservoir counter clockwise

Inside of the holder is a glass tube and one O-ring which protects thephotocell against dirt. Pay attention to not loose or break this glass tube.

NoticeIf the glass tube is dirty, please clean it carefully.

Maintenance109

Fig. 86

O-Ring3 Screw in the new reservoir.

Fig. 87

Installing the gas reservoir

NoticeScrew in the new reservoir with hex nut key only!

4 Re-install the PRO-Check in the Protec P3000.
Notice110

Maintenance

The PRO-Check does not fit in the Protec P3000 completely. There is alittle gap between the front panel of the Protec P3000 and the PRO-Check.

Fig. 88

Gap between PRO-Check and front panel

On the certificate which is delivered with the replacement gas reservoir you will finda new serial number and a 12-digit-code containing the new leak rate and other leakspecific information. In the software menu please go to “HISTORY & MAINTENANCE /REPLACE PRO-CHECK”. In the opening sub-menu enter the new serial number in thefirst line and the 12-digit-code in the second line and press okay.

NoticeThis submenu only is available if the Protec P3000 is set to ADVANCED
mode (see Section 4.4.1, User Mode)

NoticeThe PRO-Check reference leak must be installed in the Protec P3000
when pressing OK.

Fig. 89

Entry screen for replacing the PRO-Check

Maintenance111

NoticeEntering the new leak relevant codes is important as otherwise an accurate
calibration with the internal test leak and traceability of the calibration
cannot be guaranteed.

Notice

The empty container is not reusable and should be disposed according tonational law.

5 PRO-Check Warntime Expire Date
The warning time for the exchange of the PRO-Check is adjustable in 14, 30, 60 or
90 days.
In the Main menu go to:
Settings  Miscellaneous  PRO-Check warning time expiration date  14, 30, 60
or 90 days  OK.

Fig. 90

112

Maintenance

The warntime is adjustable

8

Gas library
The operating software of the Protec P3000 contains a list of about 100 gas equivalents which are relevant to the refrigerating industry. These gas equivalents are
stored in a ROM (read only memory) and from the list contained in this memory
gases and trigger levels may be selected through the corresponding sub-menus. The
data contained in the ROM can not be changed. In addition, the program provides 40
unoccupied memory locations (user library EEPROM memory). Here the user may
save the data of gases the parameters of which he has defined himself (see User
Library). He may also select any gases defined earlier. The library of the Protec
P3000 contains the following gases by default:

Gas designation (max.
5 digits)

Other Designations

Molecular mass (amu)

R11

CFCl3

137.4

R12

CF2Cl2

120.9

R12B1

CF2ClBr
Halon 1211

165.4

R13

CF3Cl

104.5

R13B1

CF3Br
Halon 1301

149

R14

CF4

80

R21

CHFCI2

102.9

R22

CHF2CI

86.5

R23

CHF3

70

R32

CH2F2

52

R41

CH3F

34

R50

CH4
Methane16

R113

C2F3Cl3

187.4

R114

C2F4Cl2

170.9

R115

C2F5Cl

154.5

R116

C 2F 6

138

R123

C2HF3Cl2

152.9

R124

C2HF4Cl

136.5

Gas library113

Gas designation (max.
5 digits)

Other Designations

Molecular mass (amu)

R125

C2HF5

120

R134a

C 2H 2F 4

102

R141b

C2H3FCl2

117

R142b

C2H3F2Cl

100.5

R143a

C 2H 3F 3

84

R152a

C 2H 4F 2

66.1

R170

C 2H 6
Ethane

30.1

R218

C3F8

188

R227eaC3HF7

170

R236faC 3H 2F 6

152

R245faC 3H 3F 5

134

R290

C 3H 8Propane

44.1

R356

C 4H 5F 5

166.1

R400

Blend of
50% R12
50% R114

141.6

Blend of
53% R22
13% R152a
34% R124

94.4

Blend of
61% R22
11% R152a
28% R124

92.8

Blend of
33% R22
15% R152a
52% R124

101

Blend of
38% R22
60% R125
2% R290

101.6

R401A

R401B

R401C

R402A

114

Gas libraryGas designation (max.
5 digits)

Other Designations

Molecular mass (amu)

R402B

Blend of
60% R22
38% R125
2% R290

94.7

Blend of
75% R22
20% R218
5% R290

92

Blend of
56% R22
39% R218
5% R290103.3

Blend of
44% R125
52% R143a
4% R134a

97.6

Blend of
45% R22
7% R152a
5.5% 142b
42.5% RC318

111.9

Blend of
55% R22
4% R600a
41% R142b

89.9

Blend of
20% R32
40% R125
40% R134a

90.1

Blend of
10% R32
70% R125
20% R134a

102.9

Blend of
23% R32
25% R125
52% R134a

86.2

Blend of
15% R32
15% R125
70% R134a

91

R403A

R403B

R404A

R405A

R406A

R407A

R407B

R407C

R407D

Gas library115

Gas designation (max.
5 digits)

Other Designations

Molecular mass (amu)

R407E

Blend of
25% R32
15% R125
60% R134a

83.8

Blend of
40% R134a
30% R125
30% R32

82.1

Blend of
7% R125
46% R143a
47% R2287

Blend of
60% R22
25% R124
15% R142b

97.4

Blend of
65% R22
25% R124
10% R142b

96.7

Blend of
50% R32
50% R125

72.6

Blend of
45% R32
55% R125

75.6

Blend of
1.5% R1270
87.5% R22
11% R152a

82.4

Blend of
3% R1270
94% R22
3% R152a

83.1

Blend of
3% R1270
95.5% R22
1.5% R152a

83.4

Blend of
70% R22
5% R218
25% R142b

92.2

R407F

R408A

R409A

R409B

R410A

R410B

R411A

R411B

R411C

R412A

116

Gas libraryGas designation (max.
5 digits)

Other Designations

Molecular mass (amu)R413A

Blend of
9% R218
88% R134a
3% R600

104

Blend of
51% R22
28.5% R124
4% R600a
16.5% R142

96.9

Blend of
82% R22
18% R152a

81.7

Blend of
59% R134a
39.5% R124
1.5% R600

111.9

Blend of
50% R134a
46% R125
4% R600a

106.7

Blend of
65.1% R125
31.5% R134a
3.4% R600a

112.2

Blend of
45% R125
44.2% R134a
8.5% R32
1.7% R600
0.6% R601a

104.9

Blend of
54.8% R290
36.1% R600
6% R600a
3.1% R170

49.6

Blend of
31% R32
31% R125
30% R134a
5% R227ea
3% R152a

81.8

R414A

R415A

R416A

R417A

R422D

R438A

R441A

R442A

Gas library117

Gas designation (max.
5 digits)

Other Designations

Molecular mass (amu)

R448A

Blend of
26% R32
26% R125
21% R134a
20% R1234yf
7 % R1234ze

99.3

Blend of
25.7% R134a
25.3% R1234yf
24.7% R125
24.3% R32

87.2

Blend of
58% R1234ze
42% R134a

109

Blend of
59% R125
30% R1234yf
11% R32

103.5

Blend of
67% R32
26% R1234yf
7% R125

72.9

Blend of
74% R12
26% R152a

99.3

Blend of
75% R22
25% R1293.1

Blend of
49% R22
51% R115

111.6

Blend of
40% R23
60% R1387.3

Blend of
48% R32
52% R115

79.3

Blend of
78% R12
22% R31

103.5

R449A

R450A

R452A

R452B

R500

R501

R502

R503

R504

R505

118

Gas libraryGas designation (max.
5 digits)

Other Designations

Molecular mass (amu)

R506

Blend of
55% R31
45% R114

93.7

Blend of
50% R125
50% R143a

98.9

Blend of
39% R23
61% R116

100.1

Blend of
46% R23
54% R116

95.4

Blend of
44% R134a
56% R1234yf

108.7

R600

C4H10
Butane

58.1

R600a

C4H10
Isobutane

58.1

R601

C5H12
Pentane

72.2

R601a

C5H12
Isopentane

72.2

R601b

C5H12
Neopentane

72.2

R601c

C5H12
Cyclopentane

70.1

R1233zC3H2ClF3

130.5

R1234yC3H2F4

114

R1234zC3H2F4

114

R1243zC3H3F3

96

R507

R508A

R508B

R513A

Air

29

Ar

Argon

40

CO2

R744

44

Gas library119

Gas designation (max.
5 digits)

Other Designations

Molecular mass (amu)

H2Hydrogen

2

H2 O

R718

18

He

Helium4

HT135

Galden HT135

610

Kr

Krypton84

N2

Nitrogen

28

Ne

Neon

20.2

NH3

R717

17

O2

Oxygen

32

SF6

120

Gas library

146.1

Xe

Xenon

131.3

ZT130

Galden ZT130

497

9

CE Declaration of Conformity

Fig. 91

CE Declaration of Conformity

121

122

CE Declaration of Conformity

Appendix
AG
11, 16accessories

98

air filter

38, 63, 64

alarm

H
77

33, 34, 43

I/O Port

24, 25, 91

18

I/O port

69

I•Guide39, 40, 66

69

ambient temperature

13

autozeroI

Bbackground18, 29basic menu

18C17, 44calibrated leakcalibration factor

78, 89calibration history

78

capillary filter

101

connector

31

13

18

Info button

33

info button

35

installation

1927, 69internal calibration

46

language68

leak rate72

lemo connector

19

L

D
dimensions

I•Guide modeinterface32, 33, 34, 44, 46, 77

calibration

66, 68history

alarm delay

audio volume

global trigger

loudspeaker63, 64maintenance

97

M

E
electrical connections

24

menu

18

electrical connectors

91

menu button

34

43, 77, 82

error
error list

77

error messages

82

error no.

82

external calibration

47

O
output69, 91PIN

52, 62P
PRO-CheckFfilter100

flow

13, 58, 73, 76, 85, 100, 104

flow limit
fuse

58
15, 24, 82, 100

15, 17, 19, 30, 44, 45, 46

proof function

45

recorder output

69

Rright probe button 29, 36, 41, 43, 45, 46, 71
RS232 interface

24, 69, 96

RS232 protocol

71

Appendix123

S
self-test

44

sinter filter

102

sniffer75

sniffer light68

sniffer line

19, 21, 28, 58, 73, 100

sniffer probe

11, 29, 36, 100

sniffer tip

16, 36, 41, 45, 46, 47

sniffer tips

16

Standby Delay

62

transportation lock19

T
57, 72

triggerV
verification

44

W
warning

43, 82weight13

Z18, 29, 35, 36, 38, 57

zero
zero button
zero time

124

Appendix

28, 35, 38, 41
57

Appendix

125