Presys Instruments

LC-505
Loop
Calibrator

TECHNICAL MANUAL
 EM0057-01

IMPORTANT INSTRUCTIONS:
 Keep LC-505 calibrator in a dry environment whenever possible. It can be
put in a burn-in up to 50ºC when it is a long time out of use.
 The fuse which protects the current measurement circuit, code
01.02.0277-21, is a special part. So, only replace the fuse by another
original from factory.
 In case of failure, always send the instrument to the factory for repair.
 When not in daily use, before starting up, let the calibrator be turned on for
at least one hour.

__________________________________________________
The warranty conditions are available in our sites:
www.presys.com.br/warranty
 Table of Contents
1 - Introduction ............................................................................................................ 1
1 1. General Description ....................................................................................... 1
1.2. Specifications - Inputs.................................................................................... 3
1.3. Specifications - Output................................................................................... 3
2 - Operation ............................................................................................................... 6
2.1. Parts Identification ......................................................................................... 6
2.2. Battery and charger ....................................................................................... 9
2.3. Using LC-505, basic functions ..................................................................... 10
2.4. Measurement or Input Functions ................................................................. 13
2.5. Generation or output functions .................................................................... 15
2.6. Available power supply (TPS) ...................................................................... 17
2.7. Application examples ................................................................................... 18
2.8. Special Programming .................................................................................. 24
2.8.1. FILTER Programming ....................................................................... 24
 2.8.2. DECIMAL Programming ................................................................... 25
2.8.3. STEP Programming .......................................................................... 25
2.8.4. RAMP Programming ......................................................................... 27
2.9. Special Functions ........................................................................................ 28
2.9.1. SCALE Function ............................................................................... 29
2.9.2. CAL Function .................................................................................... 31
2.9.3. SCALE Function ............................................................................... 34
2.9.4. CONV Function................................................................................. 36
2.10. MEM Command ......................................................................................... 38
2.11. LC-505 Warning Messages ....................................................................... 40
3 - Calibration and Maintenance ............................................................................... 41
3.1. Input Calibration........................................................................................... 43
3.2. Output Calibration ........................................................................................ 44
3.3. Replacement of Current Input Fuse ............................................................. 46
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1 - Introduction
1 1. General Description

LC-505 calibrator enables measurement and generation of signals used in DC current

(4-20mA) and voltage (1-5V, 0-10V) loops. Distinguished from regular loop calibrators due to its
high-accuracy, possibility of simultaneous measurement and generation of isolated signals, real
time connection with computer, working as a data acquisition point and full computer-aid for
instrument calibration and adjustment tasks.
Its accuracy refers to changes in room temperature and maintenance of specifications for
a long time of use. Designed for field use, it contains useful items as carrying case holders with
fastener rings or belts for a hands-free operation. It includes rechargeable battery, and a
high-size memory intended to store values obtained for a later upload to a computer, when
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applicable. Moreover, various other constructive features aggregate quality and efficiency to
LC-505, allowing also its field and workbench use.
Incorporates the most modern concepts of calibration and adjustment via computer,
where data are shared between instrument and computer, improving efficiency in handling
information through report and certificate issues, automatic work management, data
organization and storage, for an overall coverage of quality procedure requirements, especially
those related to ISO 9000.
When connected to a computer it can be used for real-time data acquisition.
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1.2. Specifications - Inputs

Input Ranges Resolution Accuracy Remarks

volt -10 to 11 V 0.0001 V  0.02% FS

Rinput > 1 M
11 to 45 V 0.0001 V  0.02% FS

mA -5 to 24.5 mA 0.0001 mA  0.01 % FS Rinput < 160 

1.3. Specifications - Output

Output Ranges Resolution Accuracy Remarks

volt -1 to 11 V 0.0001 mV  0,02 % FS* Routput < 0.3 

mA 0 to 22 mA 0.0001 mA  0.02 % FS Rmax = 700 

2-Wire Transmitter (XTR) 4mA to 22mA 0.0001 mA  0.02 % FS Vmax = 60 V

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Accuracy values are valid within one year and ambient temperature range from 20 to
26 °C. Outside these limits add 0.001 % FS / °C, taking 23 °C as the reference temperature.
Special Software Functions
- Any output programmable in:
1) STEP: 10%, 20%, 25% or up to 11 programmable set-points via key or adjustable time.
2) RAMP: up and down with programmable travel and dwell time.
- Special Functions:
1) SCALE: makes the scaling of both input and output in 6 digits with signal and allows the
configuration of decimal point.
2) CAL: scales the input in the same unit of output.
3) CONV: converts any input into any output.
- Mem Command:
It can store up to 8 types of configuration chosen by the user.
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Transmitter power supply: 23 Vdc, 30 mA, regulated.
Warm-up time: 5 minutes.
Operating temperature range: 0 to 50 ºC.
Relative humidity: 90% RH non-condensing.
Battery operation:
- Up to 8 hours when generating mA (20 mA) or using 2-wire power supply; Up to 36 using only
inputs.
Serial communication: RS-232 / RS-485.
Includes technical manual, test leads, carrying case and battery charger.
Calibration Certificate (Optional)
Dimensions: 56 mm x 144 mm x 72 mm (HxWxD).
Weight: 0.6 kg approx.

Note: Changes can be introduced in the instrument, altering specifications in this manual.
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2 - Operation
2.1. Parts Identification

a - Front panel
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b - Left side-view panel c - Right side-view panel

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d - Carrying case, way of use

e - Accessories: The carrying case has two compartments, one is used to house the calibrator
and the other is used to keep several accessories such as test leads, spare fuse, straps for
transport and use in field, and also the technical manual.
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f - Optional Items: RS-232 / RS-485 interface and ISOPLAN calibration software. The optional
items are described in specific manuals.

2.2. Battery and charger

LC-505 is supplied with rechargeable battery which enables up to 36 hours of

continuous use, or less, mainly when the 4-20 mA output or the 23 Vdc power supply for
transmitters is used. A charger is provided, which can be connected to 100-240 Vac. The time
required for a full charge is 14 hours. When the display indicates LOW BAT, it is necessary to
recharge the instrument, which will continue in operation for a few minutes. The charger
provides the battery charge while it feeds the calibrator, thus allowing the calibrator to be used
while the battery is being charged.
The batteries used by LC-505 are made of Nickel-Metal Hydride (Ni-MH). This new
technology for rechargeable batteries does not have the undesirable characteristics of memory
effect and environmental pollution as their preceding batteries made of Nickel Cadmium
(Ni-Cd).
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2.3. Using LC-505, basic functions

When the calibrator is powered on, the display shows:

 OFF ON

If the user does not select ON and press ENTER within 12 s, the instrument will turn off
itself. Its purpose is to save battery from turning the instrument on accidentally while in the
carrying case.
When ON is confirmed, the calibrator goes through a self-test routine and shows the
last calibration date and the value of the battery voltage; in case of failure, it displays a
message to indicate RAM error or E2PROM error; if that occurs, contact Presys Technical
Assistance. The battery voltage is constantly monitored and the low battery warning is
provided. After the self-test, the display shows the starting menu:
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 IN OUT EXEC
CONF CAL COM

IN / OUT - selects the input/output functions.

CAL - selects adjustment functions of the calibrator (see section 3 - Calibration).
Do not enter in CAL option before reading the warning in section 3.
COM - refers to the communication with the computer, described in an appropriate manual.
EXEC - used to activate an input or output option which has been previously selected.
CONF - takes to the sub-menu:

 OFF MEM PRG FN

BAT LCD DATE

OFF - LC-505 incorporates energy saving resources (battery) through the automatic power off
option (auto-OFF). This option has the following sub-menu:
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 NO 5MIN
15MIN 30MIN

When NO is selected, the energy saving option is disabled.

In case 5, 15 or 30 min is selected, LC-505 will turn off automatically after this period if
the keyboard is not used.
DATE - updates the date and time for LC-505. Thus, when LC-505 performs a calibration within
the COMMUNICATION option, calibration data is recorded together with their date and time of
occurence.
Whenever LC-505 is turned off, the date and time are not updated any longer. Thus, if
you want them to be recorded with the calibration, you should update them. For such, use the
vertical arrow keys and to change the value which is blinking and the horizontal arrow
keys and to go to another value. The ENTER key confirms the last selection.
BAT shows the value of the battery voltage since the battery charger/adaptor is
disconnected. When connected, BAT shows the DC level which is provided by LC-505
charger/adaptor.
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Battery Level Battery State Display

4.0 to 7.0 V normal -------------
<4.0 V low LOW BATTERY
LCD performs the setting of the display contrast by means of the arrow keys and
the last selection is saved by pressing the ENTER key.
PRG, FN, MEM are resources of LC-505 described further on.

2.4. Measurement or Input Functions

Select the type of signal to be measured by using the menus and use the
corresponding terminals:
a) IN - Selects the input function.

Press ENTER to select V (volt) measurement;

 V mA NO press , , and to select another signal.
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In = x.xxx V Display indicates volt input with large digits.
C/CE Returns to the previous menu.
NO Disables the input function.

b) Input or measurement connections

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2.5. Generation or output functions
Select through the menus the type of signal to be generated and use the corresponding
terminals.
a) OUT Selects the output functions.
Press ENTER to select V (volt)
 V mA NO source; press , , and to select
another signal.

OUT = x.xxxx V Display indicates the value of the output in volts with
large digits. The sign can be inverted with the key 0 (+ / -).

C/CE Returns to the previous menu.

NO Disables the output function.
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b) Output or generation connections
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2.6. Available power supply (TPS)

LC-505 has a +23 Vdc regulated power supply (TPS), with short-circuit protection
(current limited to 30 mA).
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2.7. Application examples

Despite its capability of showing simultaneously input and output functions in the
display, there is no isolation between each other. This means that when LC-505 is connected to
a converter (I / V, V / I, I / I or V / V) it may not function appropriately or damage the set, in case
the converter is not galvanically isolated. Thus, when using LC-505 input and output connected
to a converter, it is important to make sure the converter is isolated (independent grounds).
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a) Calibration of four-wire transmitters
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b) Calibration of two-wire transmitter
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c) Current supply
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d) Two-wire transmitter simulation (XTR)
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e) I / V converter (isolated)
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2.8. Special Programming

When PRG is selected, the display will show:

 INPUT OUTPUT
This option allows the selection of special programming features for INPUT or
OUTPUT. INPUT is provided with FILTER, DECIMAL and SPEED options. OUTPUT is
provided with STEP and RAMP options.

2.8.1. FILTER Programming

The value of this parameter (in seconds) configures the time constant of a first order
digital filter coupled with the selected input. When the filtering of the measured signal is not
required, just set this parameter as 0 (zero).
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2.8.2. DECIMAL Programming

The value of this parameter (0, 1, 2, 3 or DEFAULT) indicates the number of decimals
that the value measured at the input will be displayed.
Note: DEFAULT corresponds to the maximum decimals that LC-505 may display in an
input measurement, in accordance with its resolution.

2.8.3. STEP Programming

The STEP programming makes LC-505 output vary in pre-defined steps. It is useful in
calibrations where certain scale points are verified; for example 0% - 25% - 50% - 75% - 100%.
To enable this programming from the main menu, select CONF (ENTER), PRG (ENTER) and
STEP (ENTER). After this sequence, you will have the options 10%, 20%, 25% and
VARIABLE; these options define the percentage of variation at the output for each step. The
VARIABLE option allows you to program the setpoint values of each step, up to a maximum of
eleven values.
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The type of output must be previously configured, otherwise the message: SELECT
OUTPUT FIRST will be displayed. In this case, press C/CE to go back to the main menu and
select the output type.
After the selection of the step variation percentage is completed, the start and the end
values of the range within which the output will travel (Set-point High and Low) are asked.
To continue, go back to the main menu and activate EXEC, the output now performs
the STEP programming, always starting from the beginning of the range, and the arrow keys
or must be pressed when you want to skip to the following steps.
By pressing the arrow key , each step will be reached automatically after a preset
time is elapsed, which is defined through the keys: 1 (10s), 2 (20s), 3 (30s), 4 (40s), 5 (50s),
6 (60s), 7 (70s), 8 (80s) and 9 (90s). These times are only enabled, once the arrow key has
been pressed, what changes the STEP mnemonic to 0s. Under this situation, the steps are
automatically and permanently scanned. If you wish to quit this mode (STEP set by time), just
press the arrow key .
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2.8.4. RAMP Programming

By using this programming, LC-505 output varies automatically, thus producing ramps
and level marks which may be programmed to actuate once or continuously.
From the main menu, select CONF (ENTER), PRG (ENTER) and RAMP (ENTER).
Then you must enter the start and the end values of the range within which the output will travel
(Set-point High and Low), and also the value of time (in seconds) required for a complete
travel within the range (Ramp Time). Another value that may be configured is how long it
should dwell at the level mark (Dwell Time), that is, the time during which the output remains
constant between two ramps.
After the configuration is completed, go back to the main menu and press EXEC; then
the output goes to the starting value of the configured range. When the arrow key is pressed,
an ascending cycle is started, and by pressing , a descending cycle begins, only once.
Pressing and , the cycles are repeated continuously.
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2.9. Special Functions

By selecting FN, the display will show:

 INPUT OUTPUT

With these options, you may select special functions related to the INPUT or the
OUTPUT.
INPUT has the SCALE, CAL and NO options.
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2.9.1. SCALE Function

It establishes a linear relationship between LC-505 input signal and what is shown at
the display, according to the graphic below.
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The number of decimals (up to 4) shown on the display may be configured by using
Scale Dec parameter.
The value for Input High must be necessarily higher than Input Low. On the other
hand, Scale High and Scale Low may have any relationship between themselves: higher than,
lower than or equal to, and they may have a sign before them. Thus direct or reverse
relationships may be established.
For current input, a linear relationship may be established as it has been previously
shown or it may be squared (FLOW) as illustrated below:
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2.9.2. CAL Function

LC-505 may be used to calibrate or check isolated converters. In a typical application, it

would generate current signal and measure the voltage output signal from the converter. Due to
reasons of quickness and easiness to compare errors at the input and output of the converter,
the reading of LC-505 voltage input may be displayed in the same unit of the generated signal,
that is, current unit. Thus, both readings of LC-505 input and output are scaled in current unit,
and the error can be promptly calculated.
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To activate this LC-505 function, just fill the four parameters shown in the graphic
below. To access these parameters press ENTER after CAL is indicated in the display.
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Note that when CAL function is active, the display will indicate CAL instead of IN, as
illustrated below:

CAL = 12.1000 psi

OUT = 12.0000 psi

To disable SCALE or CAL functions, just select NO option from the menu below and
press ENTER.

SCALE CAL  NO

OUTPUT has the SCALE, CONV and NO options, described as follows.

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2.9.3. SCALE Function

The scaling of LC-505 output allows it to simulate the functioning of a transmitter.

Transmitter input is made directly by keyboard, and one can get voltage or current output
signal.
SCALE output function relates the output signal generated by LC-505 to the value
shown on display, according to the example shown below.
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Scale Dec parameter configures the number of decimals presented at the display.
The value of Output High must always be higher than Output Low. Scale Low and
Scale High parameters can have any relationship between them, provided that they are
different. Thus, direct or reverse relationships may be established.
In case of current output, as well as for the input, a linear or squared (FLOW)
relationship may be established, as it is illustrated below.
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2.9.4. CONV Function

By using the CONV function, LC-505 may convert any input signal into any output
signal, without galvanic isolation. It may therefore behave as a non-isolated converter.
Once LC-505 input and output have been selected, you must fill in the four parameters
shown in the graphic below. To access these parameters press ENTER after CONV is
indicated on the display.
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The value of Output High must always be higher than Output Low. Input High and
Input Low parameters must never be equal. Thus, any type of direct or reverse retransmission
from input to output can be obtained.
SCALE and CONV functions can be disabled by selecting the NO option and pressing
ENTER, as shown below:

SCALE CONV  NO
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2.10. MEM Command

LC-505 multicalibrator offers several programmations and special functions that can be
often used. In this case, storing these configurations in the calibrator saves time. One can have
up to eight sequences stored in memory.
After making a specific operation in LC-505 through the keyboard, return to the menu
that shows MEM. Then select MEM and press ENTER. The display will show:

 WRITE RECALL
CLEAR ALL
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Select WRITE and press ENTER. The display will show:

 1 2 3 4
5 6 7 8

The numbers shown above represent eight locations of memory. Select any of them
and press ENTER. LC-505 configuration is then stored in the chosen memory. In order to call it,
even though LC-505 has been turned off and on, select RECALL (ENTER) and the memory
number that stored the previous configuration. Then press ENTER.
Any new configuration can be written over an already used memory location.
When you want to clear all eight memory locations, select CLEAR ALL and press
ENTER.
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2.11. LC-505 Warning Messages
Warning Meaning Procedure
RAM ERROR Problem in
Turn LC-505 off and on.
READ MANUAL RAM memory
If the error persists, contact
EEPROM ERROR Problem in EEPROM
Presys technical assistance
READ MANUAL memory
mA output Check the
CHK LOOP
opened connections
Level of battery Connect the charger
LOW BATTERY
voltage is low to the LC-505
Input signal out of
See item 1.2, on
UNDER / OVER specifications or
Input Specifications
scaling range
Check the impedance
Short-circuit in
LOW RES at the input circuit
V output
connected to LC-505
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3 - Calibration and Maintenance

Warning: Enter the following options only after understanding them completely.
Otherwise, it may be necessary to return the instrument to the factory for adjustment! In
this manual, Calibration means Adjustment.

Select CAL option from the main menu and press ENTER. Then enter the
PASSWORD 9875 to access the calibration menu.
The password works as a protection to calibration ranges. After entering the password,
the menu displays the options:

 IN OUT DATE
 Page 42

You should then choose whether the calibration is to be performed over an input range
(IN) or an output range (OUT). DATE is an option which allows you to record the date on which
the calibration is performed and once it has been filled in, it will be displayed every time the
instrument is turned on. The date can only be updated after a calibration (adjust) operation.
Options for IN or OUT calibration are:

 V mA
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3.1. Input Calibration
Select the corresponding mnemonic and apply the signals presented in the tables
below.
When calibrating inputs, the display shows on the 2 nd line the value measured by
LC-505 and on the 1st line the same value is expressed as a percentage.
Note that the applied signals just need to be close to the values shown in the table.
Once the signal has been applied, store the values of the 1 st and 2nd calibration points
by pressing keys 1 (1st point) and 2 (2nd point).

V Input 1st point 2nd point

Single range 0.00000 V 11.00000 V

mA Input 1st point 2nd point

Single range 0.0000 mA 20.0000 mA
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3.2. Output Calibration
Select the corresponding mnemonic, choose the setpoint as explained as follows,
measure the signal generated by LC-505 and store this value as detailed in the following tables.
For calibration of outputs, the display shows three kinds of information:

SP = 50.000% (1)
49.999 (2) 5.00000 (3)

Field (1) is the value of the setpoint as a percentage (%) of the output range required
by the user and it is selected by pressing the key "0".
Field (2) is the value measured by LC-505 expressed in percentage (%) of the output
range. Before providing the 1st and 2nd calibration points, one must wait until this value
stabilizes.
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Field (3) is the value entered by the user after the output has been measured and the
values corresponding to the two setpoints have been stored: 1 st point (key 1) and 2nd point
(key 2).
Press the key “0” to select the setpoint.

V output 1st point 2nd point

Single range SP = 10.000% SP = 80.000%

mA output 1st point 2nd point

Single range SP = 10.000% SP = 80.000%
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3.3. Replacement of Current Input Fuse

In order to have access to LC-505 fuse, proceed as follows:

1) Remove the two screws from the rear panel;

2) Remove all five screws from the fixing board;
3) Displace the internal part, attached to the front panel out of the box;
4) Identify the glass fuse as illustrated in the figure below;
5) Replace the damaged fuse by the spare fuse (LC-505 carrying case).

The fuse of LC-505 has special characteristics. Thus, use only the 32 mA fuse
provided, code 01.02.0277-21.
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 Page 48

Notes:

 Adjustment of LC-505 must be performed under reference conditions of

temperature and humidity.

 The minimum warm-up for adjustment is two hours.

 LC-505 power supply must be disconnected from the battery charger during
adjustment.

 It is recommended that calibration standards presented to LC-505 during

adjustment have accuracy at least 3 times better than the accuracy values provided
in this manual.
Presys | Instruments Inc.
www.presys.com.br