chronoscope m1chronoscope m1 includes the following components: • measuring and display unit...

CHRONOSCOPE M1

Instruction Manual

Document Nr. 11.20D35e Rel. 3.0

Witschi Electronic Ltd CH 3294 Büren a/Aare Switzerland Phone +41 (0)32 - 352 05 00 Fax +41 (0)32 - 351 32 92 Internet www.witschi.com E-mail [email protected]

Chronoscope M1 Witschi Electronic Ltd

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1 GETTING STARTED..................................................................................................................5

2 DESCRIPTION...........................................................................................................................6

3 OPERATING ELEMENTS AND DISPLAY ...............................................................................7

4 CONNECTIONS.........................................................................................................................9

5 COMMISSIONING ................................................................................................................ 10

5.1 EXTENT OF DELIVERY .......................................................................................................10 5.2 SETTING UP THE DEVICE ...................................................................................................10

5.2.1 Connecting the AM1 Microphone......................................................................10 5.2.2 Mains Connection..............................................................................................10 5.2.3 Connecting the Printer .......................................................................................11 5.2.4 Initial Operation.................................................................................................11

6 GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS ................................................................................................... 12

6.1 SWITCHING ON AND OFF..................................................................................................12 6.2 DISPLAY WHEN NO MEASUREMENTS ARE RUNNING................................................................12 6.3 CHOOSING FUNCTIONS AND SETTING UP PARAMETERS ..........................................................13

6.3.1 Procedure...........................................................................................................13 6.3.2 Choosing the Measuring Program .....................................................................13 6.3.3 Choosing the Measuring Mode..........................................................................13 6.3.4 Choosing a Function ..........................................................................................13 6.3.5 Setting up Parameters........................................................................................13 6.3.6 Editing Characters + Functions ..........................................................................13

6.4 SYSTEM PARAMETERS......................................................................................................14 6.4.1 Application ........................................................................................................14 6.4.2 language:...........................................................................................................14 6.4.3 date: ..................................................................................................................14 6.4.4 time: ..................................................................................................................14 6.4.5 screen ................................................................................................................14 6.4.6 contrast:.............................................................................................................14 6.4.7 light off: .............................................................................................................14 6.4.8 no signal: ...........................................................................................................15 6.4.9 graph speed: ......................................................................................................15 6.4.10 print: ..................................................................................................................15 6.4.11 print screen: .......................................................................................................15 6.4.12 autoprint:...........................................................................................................15 6.4.13 init pos micr: ......................................................................................................15 6.4.14 watch pos: .........................................................................................................15 6.4.15 autostart: ...........................................................................................................16 6.4.16 idn: ....................................................................................................................16 6.4.17 text: ...................................................................................................................16 6.4.18 default parameters:............................................................................................16 6.4.19 ref: .....................................................................................................................16

Witschi Electronic Ltd Chronoscope M1

6.5 PRINTING RESULTS AND PARAMETERS................................................................................ 16

6.5.1 Printing Parameters........................................................................................... 16 6.5.2 Numerical Results ............................................................................................. 16 6.5.3 Diagram Printout and Scope Functions ............................................................. 16 6.5.4 Printing Statistics .............................................................................................. 17 6.5.5 Printing Saved Pages......................................................................................... 17

7 TESTING MECHANICAL WATCHES..................................................................................... 18

7.1 OPERATING PRINCIPLE .................................................................................................... 18 7.1.1 Beat Noise......................................................................................................... 18 7.1.2 Drawing Diagrams ............................................................................................ 19 7.1.3 Rate Deviation................................................................................................... 19 7.1.4 Beat Error .......................................................................................................... 20 7.1.5 Amplitude ......................................................................................................... 20

7.2 SETTING THE GAIN.......................................................................................................... 20 7.3 ACOUSTIC CHECK ........................................................................................................... 20 7.4 PARAMETERS AND TOLERANCES........................................................................................ 21

7.4.1 program: ........................................................................................................... 21 7.4.2 name: ................................................................................................................ 21 7.4.3 beat mode: ........................................................................................................ 21 7.4.4 test mode .......................................................................................................... 21 lift angle: ...................................................................................................................... 22 7.4.5 rate min p: / rate min x:................................................................................... 22 7.4.6 rate max p: / rate max x: .................................................................................. 22 7.4.7 amplit min p: / amplit min x: ............................................................................ 22 7.4.8 amplit max p: / amplit min x: ........................................................................... 22 7.4.9 beat error: ......................................................................................................... 22 7.4.10 measuring time: ................................................................................................ 22 7.4.11 resolution .......................................................................................................... 22 7.4.12 *** sequence ***............................................................................................. 22 7.4.13 positions:........................................................................................................... 23

7.5 PROCEDURE .................................................................................................................. 23 7.6 CONTINUOUS MODE (CONT.) ........................................................................................... 24 7.7 SEQUENTIAL MODE (SEQ.) ............................................................................................... 26 7.8 TRACE MODE ................................................................................................................ 28 7.9 SCOPE MODE ................................................................................................................ 29

7.9.1 Scope 20 ms...................................................................................................... 29 7.9.2 Scope 200 ms.................................................................................................... 30 7.9.3 Scope 400 ms.................................................................................................... 30


8 TESTING QUARTZ WATCHES .............................................................................................. 31

8.1 OPERATING PRINCIPLE .....................................................................................................31 8.2 PARAMETERS AND TOLERANCES ........................................................................................31

8.2.1 program: ............................................................................................................31 8.2.2 name:.................................................................................................................31 8.2.3 signal: ................................................................................................................31 8.2.4 rate min: ............................................................................................................32 8.2.5 rate max: ...........................................................................................................32 8.2.6 measuring time: .................................................................................................32 8.2.7 unit: ...................................................................................................................32

8.3 MEASUREMENT: .............................................................................................................32 8.3.1 Digital Watches..................................................................................................32 8.3.2 Watches with Stepping Motors..........................................................................33

9 CONNECTING A PC .............................................................................................................. 34

9.1 APPLICATION..................................................................................................................34 9.2 INSTALLATION ................................................................................................................34

10 DISPOSAL OF THE INSTRUMENT ....................................................................................... 34

11 MAINTENANCE..................................................................................................................... 35

12 TECHNICAL DATA ................................................................................................................ 37

13 ACCESSORIES ....................................................................................................................... 39


1 GETTING STARTED

Please read carefully all the information contained in this manual and strictly follow the operating instructions, which will help you to use and safely operate our product. Keep this manual in a safe place near the instrument and give it to any other user. The facility must be used only for the aims and purposes described in this

very manual and must be set up and operated as described and under the conditions herein specified. The Manufacturer, Witschi Electronic AG in CH - 3294 Büren a.A., Switzerland takes no responsibility and offers no warranty for damages that may follow from the non-observance of these directives or from inappropriate handling, such as damages to the checking device, to watches and/or people.


Congratulations! You made the best choice. You bought CHRONOSCOPE M1, an extremely accurate checking device, technically reliable as well as easy to handle and operate. Follow the given instructions regarding usage and maintenance and you will enjoy CHRONOSCOPE M1 for quite a long time. It will be a pleasure and will prove profitable for you to use this device.

2 DESCRIPTION

CHRONOSCOPE M1 is technically highly accurate and offers a wide range of new functions and possibilities as to the checking of mechanical watches. Thanks to its motor microphone (11 positions), the device proves to be perfect for timing adjustment, final control and any activity pertaining to a watch benchmark. The instrument allows the following basic functions:

• Noiseless graph tracing on a large LCD graphic display.

• Numerical display of the rate deviation, beat error and amplitude.

• Trace mode for the graphical drawing of the rate deviation and of the amplitude as a function of time.

• Scope function for the analysis of beat noise.

• Loudspeaker for the acoustic analysis of beat noise.

• Automatic test sequences with statistical evaluation.

• Most precise real time clock with date for accurate setting of the hands.

CHRONOSCOPE M1 includes the following components:

• Measuring and display unit equipped with a large LCD graphic display.

• Operating unit with built-in motor microphone for mechanical watches and built-in sensor for quartz watches.

• Plug-in power supply for mains connection.

• Dust-proof cover.

Optional parts:

• Clamp microphone for large watches and clocks.

• Optoelectronic sensor for pendulum clocks.

• Thermal printer Martel, for 100 V~ - 240 V~.

• GPS receiver to synchronize the real time clock (date is not synchronized) and to calibrate the time base.

CHRONOSCOPE M1 operating is automated and is self-explanatory to a large extent as long as users deal with its basic functions. Should you wish to make the best use of its manifold possibilities, you will have to study the following instruction manual very carefully.


3 OPERATING ELEMENTS AND DISPLAY

Operating elements are all set on the microphone and thus allow an easy and friendly use of the device.

Knob The knob allows choosing the kind of function and setting up parameters. It has a twofold function: users choose function or parameters by turning the knob and confirm their choice by pressing it.

cont./seq. Switch-to button: continuous graph charting – automatic test sequence.

print Button for printing the measuring protocol or the diagram.

start/stop Button for starting and stopping measurements.

Buttons for operating the microphone manually:

The microphone rotates 450 to the left every time this button is pressed.

The microphone rotates 450 to the right every time this button is pressed.

The microphone dips 450 downwards every time this button is pressed.

The microphone rises 450 upwards every time this button is pressed.

Please note: Downward and upward motion is only enabled if the microphone is set in the horizontal position or if the crown is down. Rotation is disabled if the microphone is set in the 450 position downwards.

AM1

cont. / seq.

print

start / stop


LCD Screen The large 1/2 VGA screen displays complete information, i.e. real time clock with date, parameters settings, system settings, diagrams, results, statistics, drawing of the beat noises, calibration, etc.

The display is divided into three fields when the measuring function is operating:

• The upper field displays the current numerical results as well as information about the measurement in progress.

• The middle field displays graphic results such as diagrams or oscillograms. The numerical results of the whole cycle are displayed at the end of each measuring cycle.

• The lower field shows the menus and parameters accessible through the rotary knob.

signal LED display showing the signal level.


4 CONNECTIONS

Rear panel

sensor Connection of the AM1 motor microphone.

PC RS232 connection to a PC.

printer RS232 connection to the Martel MCP7810 thermal printer.

calibration

Connection to the Witschi GPS receiver.

power 12 V /1 A

Connection to the mains adapter.

DIN connector Rear side of the

microphone

- Clamp microphone for testing large watches and clocks. - Optoelectronic sensor for testing pendulum clocks.


5 COMMISSIONING

5.1 EXTENT OF DELIVERY The basic equipment comprises the following components: • CHRONOSCOPE M1 testing device • AM1 microphone • Mains adapter. • Dust-proof cover. • Instruction Manual.

5.2 SETTING UP THE DEVICE Warning: When installing the device, avoid direct proximity to very high temperatures and direct exposure to the sun which negatively influences the readability of the display. Loud noises impair the signal reception of the microphone, which must obviously be kept at a reasonable distance from noisy machines, loudspeakers and particularly from ultrasonic cleaning equipment.

5.2.1 Connecting the AM1 Microphone Connect the motor microphone to the sensor connector. You can also connect the several signal sensors available as accessories to the DIN connector on the rear side of the microphone.

Note: The AM1 microphone is an integral component of the device. All operating elements are placed on AM1.

5.2.2 Mains Connection Power is supplied to the CHRONOSCOPE M1 through a plug-in power supply with an output voltage of 12 V DC and a power of 12 W. Mains adapters are available for a mains voltage of 230 V~ (range 210 V~ - 240 V~) or for a mains voltage of 120 V~ (range 110 V~ - 130 V~).

BEFORE CONNECTING FOR THE FIRST TIME, MAKE SURE THAT THE VOLTAGE OF THE POWER SUPPLY CORRESPONDS TO THE VOLTAGE OF YOUR MAINS.

Only use a mains adapter of the original type: 12W/12V-N1EFS (230 V~) or 12W/12V-N2UFS (120 V~).

Connect the mains adapter to the suitable socket on the rear panel.

We recommend disconnecting the power supply from the mains during longer idle periods, e.g. vacations.


5.2.3 Connecting the Printer Connect the thermal printer Martel MCP7810, available as an accessory, to the connector printer. The connecting cable is delivered together with the printer: the device is configured exclusively for this type of printer (also for the previous model).

CAUTION ! Before connecting the printer make sure that the voltage of its power supply corresponds to the voltage of your mains.

5.2.4 Initial Operation Connecting the power initializes the device which is automatically switched on. The display only shows the following information the first time the device is switched on after having been connected to the mains.

The device is fitted with a quartz oscillator stabilized in temperature and thus needs 20 seconds to reach perfect accuracy after connecting to the supply (quartz warming up).

All the program parameters settings remain saved even when the device is disconnected from the mains.

Your device is now operative. Operating and possible settings are described in the following chapters.

If your device is equipped with the printer, remember to switch on the printer as well.

Note: Do not forget to switch off the printer after use. Unplugging the power supply is not

enough and the accumulator will discharge.


6 GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS

6.1 SWITCHING ON AND OFF

As long as the device is supplied with power no further stabilizing time needs to elapse after switching it on.

To switch on the device: shortly press the rotary switch.

To switch off device: rotary switch to the symbol Ф (switched off) and then shortly press the switch. Once switched off, the device remains in stand-by mode, during which the thermal stabilization of the time basis is on.

We recommend disconnecting the device during longer idle periods of time. Shouldn‘t you need to use the device for an extended period of time (e.g. vacations), it will prove necessary to disconnect the power supply from the mains.

Power consumption: 12 W in normal mode and 5 W in standby mode.

6.2 DISPLAY WHEN NO MEASUREMENTS ARE RUNNING

As long as no signal from the watch is received, time and date are displayed after the device has been switched on.

The display also shows the following image when no usable signal from the watch is available or when it exceeds the measuring range. Amplitude or out range will be displayed instead of no signal on the upper left side of the screen.

When the GPS receiver is connected and the connection to the satellite does not present any problems, received data are confirmed as follows:

RTC = (Real Time Clock) universal time

PPS = (Pulse Per Second) reference signal 1 Hz


6.3 CHOOSING FUNCTIONS AND SETTING UP PARAMETERS

6.3.1 Procedure The knob allows you to choose a menu, the measuring program, the measuring mode or a function. Proceed as follows:

6.3.2 Choosing the Measuring Program Point the cursor to the name of the chosen program, and then shortly press the knob. The name of the program is bracketed to the left and to the right by the characters > and <. Now you can select the program you need by turning the knob to the left or to the right, and then confirm the program selection by shortly pressing the knob.

6.3.3 Choosing the Measuring Mode Same procedure as described above. You can choose between the cont./seq. (it can be set by means of the cont./seq. button), the Quartz, the Trace and the Scope measuring modes.

Note: Measuring mode cannot be selected when: - a measurement has been stopped - the seq. Measuring mode is on.

6.3.4 Choosing a Function Same procedure as described above. The following functions can be selected and set up: - Loudspeaker on/off. - Gain of watch signal, from 1 to 4. - Diagram resolution (magnifier) from 1to 9.

6.3.5 Setting up Parameters Point the cursor to the Syst or Param menu. The windows have several entry fields. In order to edit the parameters, follow the procedure described below:

Choose the parameter with the knob and click; you can now edit the selected parameter as requested by means of the knob (s. next chapter). Once you have finished click with the knob. The edited parameter is saved and the cursor then returns to the name of the parameter. You can interrupt the editing at any time by means of the start/stop button and if you press again the button, the cursor returns directly to the mode measure.

6.3.6 Editing Characters + Functions The cursor (bar) is set under the first character. You can select one of the characters (and also a function depending on the parameter) by means of the knob, even an empty space. When you shortly press the knob the cursor moves to the next character, which you can select the way you did with the previous one and so on.


6.4 SYSTEM PARAMETERS

6.4.1 Application Setting up the system parameters is performed as a rule only once, in most cases after the device has been installed and switched on for the first time.

6.4.2 language: You can choose among one of the following languages: German, French, English, Spanish and Italian.

6.4.3 date: You can set the date of the built-in clock (dd.mm.yyyy)

Note: The date is not synchronized by the GPS receiver and must be, if necessary, manually set.

6.4.4 time: You can adjust the time of the built-in clock.

Note: If a GPS receiver is connected, you can adjust only the Hour (in accordance with the time zone). The GPS receiver automatically synchronizes minutes and seconds (date is not synchronized).

6.4.5 screen You can choose between two types of display: Normal Black characters/symbols on a white background Inverse white characters/symbols on a black background

6.4.6 contrast: You can choose the most suitable contrast of the LCD screen.

6.4.7 light off: When you do not actuate any operating elements, the background light goes off automatically after the pre-set time (1-60 minutes) has elapsed. The light automatically switches on again as soon as you actuate an operating element.


6.4.8 no signal: You can choose between two kinds of setting. clock If the microphone does not receive any signal, time and date are then displayed. freeze If no new signal is received, the last valid picture remain on the display

6.4.9 graph speed: You can set the speed of the diagram tracing: 1/1 (normal), 1/2, 1/4 and 1/8. Diagram velocity for a number of beats equal to 28,800 b/h: 1/1 = 80 s for monitor length 1/2 = 160 s for monitor length 1/4 = 320 s for monitor length 1/8 = 640 s for monitor length

6.4.10 print: You can choose between two settings.

Protocol You can print numerical measuring results by pressing the button print, otherwise tables containing all results will be automatically printed after a programmed measuring cycle has been completed. The printout will show the date, the time, the name of the program together with the parameters, measuring position and header.

Diagram After pressing the button print the diagram keeps on being printed until the button is pressed again or until the watch is removed from the microphone.

6.4.11 print screen: You can choose between two settings.

Normal You can print the needed information from the screen with a the width of 10 cm.

Large In order to render the printed contents of the screen more legible you can print with a width of 25 cm. This setting increases the quantity of printed paper by a factor of 2.5.

6.4.12 autoprint: You can choose between two settings.

Yes Automatic printout of the result table after a sequential measuring cycle is finished.

No The printout occurs manually, if desired.

6.4.13 init pos micr: You can choose among three different microphone start positions: Horiz Horizontal positioning Verti Vertical positioning (9H or KU). HV450 The microphone has an inclination of 450 forward.

6.4.14 watch pos: You can choose the position of the watch on the microphone: ZO ↑ Dial upwards. ZU ↓ Dial downwards.


6.4.15 autostart: You can choose if a measuring cycle should automatically be restarted after a fixed period of time between two starts. Selecting YES, you can enter a delay lasting from 1 to 99 minutes. You can carry out long-term measurements, i.e. over 24 hours by means of this function.

6.4.16 idn: Display of the equipment's identification number. The number can not be modified.

6.4.17 text: The device as delivered displays the following written texts: 1: Witschi Electronic AG 2: CH-3294 Bueren a.A. 3: Name, nom, nombre, nome You can freely edit the three 24-character lines according to your requirements and replace them with your own information. If your device is equipped with a printer, the whole text (called also header) will be printed together with the results.

6.4.18 default parameters: If you select YES, the system parameters set up by Witschi will be automatically selected.

6.4.19 ref: You can choose the signal source necessary to calibrate the device: GPS, MAG or CAP. (s. Calibration chapter)

6.5 PRINTING RESULTS AND PARAMETERS The following chapters only apply to devices equipped with a printer.

6.5.1 Printing Parameters Press the print button from the Parameter or System Menu and the data shown on the screen will be printed out together with header, date, time.

6.5.2 Numerical Results Press the button print while a diagram is being displayed for immediately printing out the displayed numerical results referring to rate, beat error and amplitude; header, date, time, program name, number of beats, lift angle and measuring time will also be printed out. The display in progress will not be interrupted at all.

After each printing, enough paper is fed forward so that the strip can be torn off and placed with the watch.

6.5.3 Diagram Printout and Scope Functions In order to print out the data on the screen (print screen), proceed as follows: - Press the start/stop button to pause the display. - Now press the print button to print the contents of the display. - In order to resume the measuring process, press again the start/stop button. The header, date, time, program number and program name will be printed together with the results.


6.5.4 Printing Statistics Statistical results are automatically printed out at the end of each measuring cycle as a table with header, date and time.

6.5.5 Printing Saved Pages After several pages (max. 4) have been drawn in modes cont., seq. or Trace you can display and print them later.

Switch the knob on the upper right side of the screen to PO and shortly press it. Then rotate the knob to recall the single page/s. Press the print button to print out the needed page/s.


7 TESTING MECHANICAL WATCHES

7.1 OPERATING PRINCIPLE

The following information will help you understand the operating principle of CHRONOSCOPE M1 and will lead you to a correct interpretation of the displayed pictures.

7.1.1 Beat Noise The beat noise of the watch is generally made of three different kinds of impulse:

• The first noise is generated by the ellipse, situated on the balance wheel, touching the pallet fork (A). This noise’s timing is very accurate and is thus used for drawing diagram and for the calculation of the rate deviation as well as of the beat error.

• Another noise is generated by the pallet freeing itself from the escape wheel. Being very irregular, this noise is not used for analysis (B).

• The third and most powerful noise is generated by the escape wheel falling on the pallet of the pallet fork (C). This noise is used to for the calculation of the amplitude.

A B C

How beat noises are generated


Further noises, which can be of different strengths, are also generated by friction or by secondary causes.

Graph - Beat noise For the sake of the analysis it is of extreme importance to exactly detect the beginning of the first noise packet A. Should this noise be very weak in a watch or should the watch generate strong secondary noises, then the gain must be adjusted accordingly.

You should always keep in mind that the beat noise is not generated by single strong impulses but by mechanical noises which rise, reach their maximum and then decrease. Therefore measured times always depend to a certain extent on the gain setting and the momentary form of signal.

7.1.2 Drawing Diagrams To draw diagrams, the time elapsed between two consecutive beats (period) is measured and compared with the nominal value for a precise beat. If the measured time exactly corresponds to the nominal value, the new point will be set on the diagram exactly next to the previous one. If the new beat is too fast or slow the new point will be shifted upwards or downwards relatively to the last point according to its time difference from the nominal value. A line made up of points will thus be displayed, either as a straight line or a line curving upwards or downwards according to the rate deviation.

It goes without saying that the diagram not only shows the rate deviation but also other time-related irregularities, such as beat errors, faulty escape wheel teeth and so on.

7.1.3 Rate Deviation In order to calculate the rate deviation, the differences between the measured period and the nominal value are averaged over the measuring time, converted to s/24h and then displayed on the screen.

C A


7.1.4 Beat Error The message 0.0 ms appears on the screen if the period between a tick and a tack is equal to the period between a tack and a tick. In case of a watch beat error (repère) the period between a tick and a tack is not equal to the period between a tack and a tick. The time difference is averaged over the set measuring time and displayed.

7.1.5 Amplitude In order to calculate the amplitude, the time between impulse A and impulse C in the beat noise is measured.

The balance wheel revolves by a certain angle between these two impulses. This so-called lift angle is determined by the design of the clockwork and must be entered as a parameter. The larger the amplitude of the balance wheel, the higher the velocity at which it travels through the lift angle and hence, the shorter the time it needs to travel through the angle.

The amplitude can therefore be calculated from the time elapsed between impulse A and impulse C as beat noise, taking into account the number of beats and the lift angle. The device always calculates the amplitude as an average over the set up measuring time.

7.2 SETTING THE GAIN The gain control of the watch signal takes place almost fully automatically. Should problems arise regarding the acquisition of the signal (too weak signal or secondary noise), you can change the level

of the signal gain. With the knob click number on (1-4) near the symbol ▷ . Then turn the knob to select a different gain level; 1 is the lowest and 4 the highest signal gain. Confirm the new setting by clicking the knob. We recommend setting 2 for watches that do not present signal acquisition problems.

7.3 ACOUSTIC CHECK

You can check the beat noise of the watch (irregularity and secondary noise) by means of the built-in loudspeaker.

To switch the loudspeaker on and off, click on the symbol of the loudspeaker with the knob: = on X = off.

We recommend carrying out an acoustic check every time the diagram looks suspicious or shows irregularities which cannot be readily explained.


7.4 PARAMETERS AND TOLERANCES You can edit and save 99 complete parameter sets for testing mechanical watches according to your requirements.

7.4.1 program: Choose one of the 99 program numbers available (01/99 to 99/99): in steps of 10 and after pressing the rotating knob in steps of 1.

7.4.2 name: There are 8 characters available to enter the name of the program.

7.4.3 beat mode: You can choose among three settings:

aut In this position, the device analyses the number of beats of the watch to be measured. The following beat numbers are automatically selected: 12’000, 14’400, 18’000, 19’800, 21’600, 25’200, 28’800, 32'400 and 36’000 b/h.

man This position is necessary when testing watches with an obsolete number of beats. You can set any value between 3’600 and 36’000 b/h.

frq This function determines the frequency. You can set up the number of beats of an unknown watch. The number of beats displayed corresponds to a rate = 0 s/24h.

7.4.4 test mode You can choose among 4 settings:

stnd Amplitude and beat error measurement is on. You must enter the lift angle for the watch to be tested. (the angle is needed to calculate the amplitude).

rate When the amplitude and beat error measurement is off, it is possible to draw diagrams and measure rates even with watches giving off a bad or unusual beat noise. (In this case amplitude and beat error are not displayed).

Spe1 This mode must be set, if watches with coaxial escapement should be measured.

Spe2 This mode must be set, if watches with AP escapement should be measured.


lift angle: The lift angle can be set between 10o and 90o.

Caution: A wrong setting of the lift angle yields an erroneous amplitude value. You can find the necessary information about most watch calibers produced in Switzerland in our brochure Scope / Number of beats.

7.4.5 rate min p: / rate min x: * You can enter the minimal rate tolerance, which can be set up between -50.0 and +10 s/d.

7.4.6 rate max p: / rate max x: * You can enter the maximal rate tolerance, which can be set up between -10.0 and +50 s/d.

7.4.7 amplit min p: / amplit min x: * You can enter the minimal amplitude tolerance, which can be set up between 1000 and 3000.

7.4.8 amplit max p: / amplit min x: * You can enter the maximal amplitude tolerance, which can be set up between 1500 and 3600. p = tolerances of the test positions. x = tolerances of the average over all test positions.

7.4.9 beat error: You can enter the maximal beat error, between 0.0 and 5.0 ms.

* Crossed tolerance values (min. > max.) are not accepted.

7.4.10 measuring time: You can choose between two settings.

aut s The measuring time depends on the number of beats. The deviation rate is displayed after every four beat noises.

xxx s The measuring time can be set up between 2 and 240 s by means of the default values: Aut - 2 - 4 - 6 - 8 10 - 20 - 40 - 50 - 60 - 120 - 180 - 240 s.

7.4.11 resolution

You can choose the resolution for the numerical rate display, 1 s/d or 0.1 s/d

7.4.12 *** sequence *** Applicable only in the seq. mode. If you need an automatic test sequence you can enter the stabilizing times after changing testing position, automatically (aut s) or manually between 1 and 99 s.

In the (aut s) mode the stabilizing time is determined by the beat number:

beat number (b/h) stabilizing time (s) 18'000 19.2 19'800 17.45 21'600 16.0 28'800 12.0 36'000 9.5


Stabi VV/HH Stabilizing time from a vertical position to another vertical position or from a horizontal position to another horizontal position.

Stabi VH/HV Stabilizing time from a vertical position to a horizontal position and vice versa.

7.4.13 positions: You can choose one of the 4 programmed default test sequences or manually enter a custom test sequence with a maximum of 11 test positions.

aut3 Automatic test sequence with 3 test positions: DU - CD - CL

aut4 Automatic test sequence with 4 test positions: DU - CD - CL - CU

aut5 Automatic test sequence with 5 test positions: DU - DD - CD - CL - CU

aut6 Automatic test sequence with 6 test positions: DU - DD - CD - CL - CU - CR

Note concerning the new definition of vertical test positions:

CD → 9H CL → 6H CU → 3H CR → 12H All positions in between are defined, for instance: 9H + 45°.

To manually enter a test sequence, proceed as follows:

- Select the man parameter and briefly press the rotary knob (rotary knob click). The cursor will

then spring on to the first measuring position of a test sequence. - Turn the knob left and/or right until you reach the needed measuring position for the first

measurement. Confirm the position with a rotary knob click; the cursor will spring on to the next measuring position. You can now enter the measuring position for any further measurement of the test sequence. You can enter from 1 to max. 11 measuring positions.

- When you have finished entering data, shortly press the rotary knob in order to save the test sequence.

Note: If after entering e.g. the fifth measuring position you do not need any further one for the test sequence, keep on turning the rotary knob for the sixth measuring position until a bar instead of a measuring position appears. A bar will also appear for all other measuring positions.

7.5 PROCEDURE

Use the rotary knob to select the needed measuring mode cont., seq., Trace or Scope and then the appropriate program for measuring the watch. Draw the watch to be tested on the microphone until the stem sits as close as possible to the fork of the signal transducer.

As soon as a usable watch signal is detected, the light diode signal starts flashing following the rhythm of the watch rate and the graph charting starts automatically.


7.6 CONTINUOUS MODE (CONT.)

The diagram is continuously drawn in this mode. You can turn the microphone to the needed control position by pressing the arrow keys.

Due to the display principle of the LCD graphic screen, the following differences relatively to drawing a graph on paper strips have to be mentioned:

- The points of the diagram are shown as screen dots (pixels) on the display. These dots are placed at a distance of 0.3 mm from each other. An inclined diagram is thus always shown as a staircase with 0.3-mm steps; the distance between the lines will of course be a multiple 0.3 mm.

- This effect only shows in the case of accurate watches and low diagram resolution. It is generally overshadowed by the natural irregularities of the diagram.

We therefore recommend always to use a resolution which perfectly fits the quality of the watch and which is the highest possible. You can set the resolution (magnifier) between 1 and 9 by clicking the rotary knob on the magnifier symbol and then rotating the knob.

The numerical results concerning rate measurements, amplitude measurements and beat error measurements are shown at the end of the first cycle of the selected measuring time.

If you set up a longer measuring time, the result will be calculated as the average of the single measurements. The average is continuously re-calculated every 2 s; this means that in case of a 20 s measuring time, the last 10 measurements each 2 s will always be considered as valid for computing the average value. The running bar under the diagram indicates the diagram section that has been used.

Results are significant and stable when their diagram is also clean and smooth. The longer the selected measuring time is, the more stable the displayed result is, since short-lasting irregularities in rate are not taken into account. When the graph charting is displayed over several screen lengths (page), the data displayed in max. 4 screens will be saved.


Press the start/stop button to look at single pages; use the rotary knob to select PO in the upper right side of the screen, then briefly press the knob and call any single page by rotating the knob.

You can also stop the drawing at any time by means of the start/stop button. A new start will clear the previous drawing and a new one will be started.

Other displayed information is the current test position of the watch, the number of beats, the set up lift angle and measuring time.


7.7 SEQUENTIAL MODE (SEQ.) This mode is specifically designed for automatic test sequences.

Select the measuring mode cont. with the rotary knob, then press the button cont./seq. The measuring mode is now seq., the still empty table “results and statistics” now appears on the LCD screen.

Now select the program under which the test sequence is to be carried out, place the watch on the microphone and press the start/stop button to start the test sequence.

The microphone reaches the first test position and graph charting starts after the stabilizing time has elapsed. Once the measuring time has also elapsed the microphone reaches the next test position so that the diagram is drawn after the stabilizing time until all positions (max. 11) have been run through. The example given hereafter refers to 6 positions: aut6

At the end of the test sequence all results and statistics are shown in the form of a table. The table is automatically printed out if the printer is on.

Results at measured positions are displayed on the left part of the screen, whereas the right part of the screen shows the statistical analysis with a resolution of 0.1 s/d. The following values are displayed next to the rate, amplitude and beat error measured at each test positions:

D maximal difference between the several test positions

XH average over horizontal test positions

X average over all test positions DVH difference between vertical and horizontal average values

Xv average over vertical test positions DV maximal difference between the vertical test positions

The values Xv , XH , DVH , DV are only valid in measuring modes aut3, aut4, aut5 or aut6. (s. Chapter 7.4.13)


Out of tolerance measuring results are marked with an arrow:

= exceeding max. tolerance limit.

= lower min. tolerance limit.

The diagrams drawn during the test sequence are saved (max. 3 pages) and can be called.

Select PO in the upper right part of the screen using the rotary knob, then briefly press the knob and call any single page by rotating the knob, as shown in our example:

Print out single pages by pressing print button.

Note: Depending on the number of test positions and on the selected measuring time, it may happen that the three pages available for the graph charting are not sufficient (P0 is available only for results and statistics). In this case the first test positions will always be omitted.


7.8 TRACE MODE

Trace mode allows the simultaneously draw the deviation of the rate and the amplitude as a function of time. The drawing starts after the first time the set measuring time has elapsed and is then updated every 2 seconds. The upper part of the LCD screen displays the amplitude, the lower part the rate deviation.

The device also carries out quite a useful short-time analysis lasting 20 minutes and taking the whole width of the screen. Since at most 4 screen widths can be saved, the drawing takes in this case up to 80 minutes.

You can double the resolution of the drawing with the magnifier function, by setting up its value to 2.

You can also stop the drawing at any time with the start/stop button. A new start will clear the previous drawing and a new one will be started.

The diagrams drawn during the measuring process are saved (max. 4 pages) and can be called.

Use the rotary knob to select PO in the upper right side of the screen, then shortly press the knob, rotate it in order to call single pages, as shown in our example.

The current test position of the watch, the beat number, the programmed lift angle and the measuring time are simultaneously displayed.

Note: Press the print button to start printing the protocol. To print out the data shown on the screen (print screen) press the start/stop button and then the print button.

If you select the aut measuring time, the 20 minutes needed to draw along the whole screen width no longer apply. The time needed to draw the graph will thus depend on the number of beats.


7.9 SCOPE MODE

The Scope function allows the acoustic beat noise of the watch to be graphically displayed.

The beat noise is shown in the form of an envelope of the max. and min. signal amplitudes. In order to make the best use of the limited dimensions of the display, only the positive half of the symmetrical watch signal is shown. Scope functions do not allow displaying numerical results.

Such a display of the beat noises renders escapement errors and/or secondary noises immediately obvious. Our detailed brochure on calibration and scope functions allows you to detect immediately the cause of the error.

You can stop the graphic displays by pressing the start/stop button in order to view them and print them out.

Use the knob to select Scope mode, then select the parameter for the time range of the display. You can choose between the following values: 20 ms, 200 ms and 400 ms (ms = Milliseconds).

You can set up the vertical signal gain by clicking the knob on the number (1-4) next to the ▷ symbol. Set up the gain by rotating the knob.

7.9.1 Scope 20 ms

This kind of graph is displayed with a 20 ms time range.

A whole beat noise is displayed on the screen. The trigger is set so that alternating ticks and tacks are drawn.

If you have entered the right number of beats in the menu parameter, the oscillogram also displays the amplitude value. The trigger point for the amplitude measurement will be shown as a perpendicular line marking the highest amplitude value.

Note: This operating mode does not allow the device to automatically determine the number of beats.


You can check if the quality of the watch signal allows a precise evaluation of the amplitude. The amplitude value must be considered as an instantaneous value that may differ slightly from the actual value. During a standard measurement at least 16 impulses are analyzed and interpreted for a number of beats equal to 28’800 b/h.

Scope mode allows interpreting only one impulse at a time.

In this case, the amplitude value is displayed with a 20 ms time range.

7.9.2 Scope 200 ms This kind of graph is displayed with a 200 ms time range.

Depending on the number of beats, the screen displays 2 to 3 succeeding beat noises. The graphic display starts alternatively with a tick and a tack.

This kind of graph is used for analyzing secondary noises occurring between beat noises.

7.9.3 Scope 400 ms This kind of oscillogram is displayed with a 400 ms time range.

Depending on the number of beats, the screen displays 3 to 5 succeeding beat noises. The graphic display starts respectively with alternating ticks and tacks.


8 TESTING QUARTZ WATCHES

8.1 OPERATING PRINCIPLE

The Motor test mode is characterized by the presence of a sensor for the magnetic field from the motor coil. This kind of test can be used for all watches equipped with a stepping motor.

LCD test mode allows evaluating the operating frequency of the LCD display of a watch for the measurements. All the frequencies which are a multiple of 4 Hz can be processed.

When the automatic measuring time Aut is selected, the graph for analogue quartz watches is displayed at the end of a motor pulse period, after 2 seconds at the earliest. In the case of LCD quartz watches the display occurs after 2 s. If the rate deviation during short-time measurements exceeds +/- 1 s/d, the device operates as if it were dealing with an inhibition watch and automatically switches to a 60 s measuring time, which implies that the first measuring result will be shown after 1 minute.

8.2 PARAMETERS AND TOLERANCES You can program and save 5 complete parameter sets of for quartz watches according to your requirements.

8.2.1 program: Choose one of the 5 available program numbers (1/5 to 5/5).

8.2.2 name: 8 characters available to enter the program name.

8.2.3 signal: Choose between two settings to measure rate accuracy.

Motor magnetic recording of the stepping motor pulses.

LCD capacitive signal recording of the LCD operating frequency.

GPS CAUTION! In conformity with the quality standard ISO 9000, this setting is to be used only to test the internal time-base; such tests can only be carried out with the appropriate GPS receiver.


8.2.4 rate min: You can enter the min. rate tolerance, from -5.00 to +1.00 s/d in 0.10 s/d to 0.01 s/d steps. Crossed tolerance values are not accepted (min. > max.).

8.2.5 rate max: You can enter the max. rate tolerance, from -5.00 to +5.00 s/d in 0.10 s/d to 0.01 s/d. steps. Crossed tolerance values are not accepted (min. > max.).

8.2.6 measuring time: You can choose between two settings:

aut s The measuring time depends on the period of the stepping motor pulses

xxx s Measuring time settings: from 10 to 480 s : Aut - 2 - 4 - 6 - 8 10 - 20 - 40 - 50 - 60 - 120 - 180 - 240 - 300 - 360 - 480 s.

8.2.7 unit:

You can choose the unit for in which the accuracy will be displayed: 0.01 s/d (seconds / 24 h) or 1 s/m (seconds/month).

8.3 MEASUREMENT:

Use the rotary knob to select the Quartz measuring mode and then the appropriate program to measure the watch. Place the watch to be tested on the sensor surface located on top of the microphone casing; analogue quartz watches with case’s back cover and digital quartz watches with LCD display downwards.

8.3.1 Digital Watches

The LED is always on when testing digital quartz watches. Should the signal be weak, it is advisable to slightly shift the watch on the transducer. The diagram is continuously drawn.


8.3.2 Watches with Stepping Motors

With an analogue quartz watch, the light-emitting diode signal flashes according to the rhythm of the stepping motor pulses and displays the signal intensity. Should the signal be weak, it is advisable to slightly shift the watch on the transducer. The diagram charting starts automatically as soon as a signal is received.

Each motor pulse is displayed. The example shows the diagram recorded for an analogue quartz watch with a motor pulse period of 1 second. The digital adjustment (inhibition) can clearly be seen at a 60 s time intervals.

Ensure that the selected measuring time is correct in order to get an accurate measuring result. A 2 s measuring time is sufficient for quartz watches which were adjusted with a trimmer or a chip capacitor. Nowadays most quartz watches are adjusted with the inhibition process (programming). In most cases the inhibition time is 60 s. The measuring time must correspond to the inhibition time or be a multiple of it.

The number and name of the program is also displayed.


9 CONNECTING A PC

9.1 APPLICATION

The PC-Software SyncM1-PRO allows the bi-directional synchronization of the data's. This signifies that the complete configuration of the equipment (system- and measuring parameters) can be transferred to the PC, or reverse, from the PC to the equipment. You may also easy and quickly edit the parameters with the PC.

In addition the software allows long time tracing of rate and amplitude, visualizing of the beat noises and a mode for saving the numerical results of serial measurements of watches.

By setting a password you may lock all editing possibilities of the parameters.

9.2 INSTALLATION Switch off the Chronoscope M1 and the PC before connecting! Connect the equipment by means of a 9-pin Link Cable to the PC port (COM1 or COM2).

Consult the manual for installation and operating the software.

10 Disposal of the Instrument

This electronic instrument should not be disposed of as household refuse. If it is not accepted by public collecting points, kindly bring it back to the sales outlet. It will provide suitable disposal according to legal directives. Your equipment suppliers in the EU will take back free of charge all instruments manufactured after the 13.8.2005, as well as an older instrument provided an equivalent new instrument is purchased.


11 MAINTENANCE

CHRONOSCOPE M1 does not require any special maintenance.

Only use a soft cloth to remove the dirt; do not use aggressive detergents or solvents. Clean the LCD display with a lightly moistened cloth.

Disconnect the power supply during longer idle periods of time (e.g. vacations).

Protect the instrument from dirt with its specific dust-proof cover when you do not use it.

To keep measurements accurate we recommend contacting our customer service in order to have your instrument calibrated and its functionality checked yearly.

When the device is connected to the GPS receiver (available as accessory) you can test the calibration and, if necessary, re-calibrate the device. Make sure that the GPS signal reception is free from disturbances. Then proceed as follows:

- Make sure that the ref: parameter is set up as GPS in the System parameters menu.

- Select the parameter time base and press briefly the knob. Then following message appears:

verify adjust cancel

- If you choose verify and press the knob, the quartz time base will now be compared to the GPS signal. The alternating appearance of the arrows confirms that the measurement is carried out. After a few seconds the deviation of the time base will be displayed in a resolution of 1/1000 s/d.

- If you choose adjust and press the knob, the quartz time base will now be compared to the GPS signal. The alternating appearance of the arrows confirms that the calibration is carried out. After a few seconds the calibration is done. The frequency, the correction (d) as well as the correction of the previous calibration (d) will be displayed.

- The date of the last calibration will also be updated.

- Now press the turning knob to quite the calibration mode.


If you do not have any GPS receiver, make sure to carry out the calibration with an appropriate signal transmitter which must be connected to an accurate frequency generator.

Do not hesitate to contact customer service at our headquarters or one of our agencies if you require more information.

Caution ! Inappropriate calibration will impair the accuracy of the instrument.


12 TECHNICAL DATA

• Measurements: rate deviation, beat error and amplitude of mechanical watches, diagram of

watch beats. Rate deviation of quartz watches by means of a built-in signal transducer (capacitive/magnetic).

• Number of beats: automatic evaluation of all usual numbers of beats. Manual setting up of a required number of beats according to the range: 1’800 to 36’000 b/h. Determination of an unknown number of beats.

• Gain control: automatic. The gain can be manually adjusted to correct for secondary noises or abnormal noises in watches.

• Diagram: drawn on LCD display with a resolution of 640 x 200 points. Time scale selectable from 1 mm/ms to 10 mm/ms. Charting velocity: depending on the number of beats, can be set up from 0.3 to 0.04 mm per watch beat. Visible diagram length: 210 mm.

• Trace mode: simultaneously displays the deviation rate and the amplitude as a function of time.

• Measuring time for numerical results: auto = current display or selectable from 2 s to 240 s. Continuous averaging over the measuring time computed every 2 s. Screen display of the computed diagram section showing the rate measurement.

• Measurement of the rate deviation: numerical display in s/d. Resolution selectable in 1 s/d or 1/10 s/d. Measuring range: +/- 999 s/d, or +/- 99.9 s/d. Accuracy: +/- 0.1 s/d.

• Vibration amplitude: numerical display in degrees. Resolution 1°, measuring range from 60° to 360°. Lift angle can be set up from 10° to 90°. The lift angle can be off when only the rate is to be measured. Accuracy: +/- 0.4°.

• Beat error: numerical display in milliseconds. Resolution 0.1 ms, measuring range +/- 9.9 ms. Accuracy: +/- 0.1 ms.

• Oscillogram: diagram shows beat noises to enable analysis of the escapement. Non-linear signal gain allowing a better visualization of small signal amplitudes. Automatic gain adjustment for full-screen display. 3 different time-base sweeps: 20 ms, 200 ms and 400 ms covering the entire screen length.

• Acoustic check: built-in loudspeaker which reproduces the beat noise.

• Measurements of quartz watches: Measuring time: auto = current display (automatic setting up at 60s measuring time for watches adjusted with the inhibition process) also selectable from 2 s to 480 s. Resolution 0.01 s/d, measuring range +/- 9.9 s/d as well as resolution 1 s/month, measuring range +/- 300 s/month.

• start/stop function: the current display can be stopped at any time to carry out a deeper analysis.


• Printing out of the results: RS232 interface to connect a protocol printer. Printing out numerical results or graphical printing of the diagram on the display. Continuous charting of diagram on paper.

• The device can be connected to a PC through the second RS232 interface.

• Time base: High frequency quartz, OXCO. Stability: +/- 0.004 s/d between 10° to 50° C. Aging in first year: +/- 0.03 s/d.

• Connection for the Witschi GPS receiver allowing synchronization of time base and watch.

• Display: LCD, 1/2 VGA , 640 x 200 dots, lighted.

• Casings: CHRONOSCOPE M1: ABS synthetic material, color: anthracite. Dimensions: 275 x 250 x 115 mm. Weight: 2.9 kg. MICROPHONE AM1: ABS synthetic material, color: anthracite. Dimensions: 135 x 135 x 205 mm. Weight: 1.45 kg.

• Mains connection: Mains adapter. Voltage: either 230 V~ or 120 V~. Output: 12 VDC, 1 A.

DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY

• The equipment is in conformity with the following EC-Directives:

89/336/EWG CEM

Emissions EN 55022 Conduction EN 55022 Radiation EN 60555-2 Harmonics EN 60555-3 Flicker Immunity IEC 1000-4-2 ESD IEC 1000-4-3 HF IEC 1000-4-4 Burst IEC 1000-4-5 Surge IEC 1000-4-6 Cond. Immunity IEC 1000-4-8 50Hz Magn. Puls IEC 1000-4-11 Dips

89/392/EWG Machinery EN 292


13 ACCESSORIES

• Thermal printer: Martel, including printer cable, Item No. JB01-MCP7810 paper roll and universal mains adapter 100 V~ - 240 V~

• Thermal paper: roll for Martel printer Item No. JA01-MM58-DPU20-N

• GPS Receiver Witschi Item No. 19.91PK1

• Clamp microphone: for large watches and clocks. Item No. 13.1810

• Optoelectronic sensor: for pendulum clocks. Item No. 13.1610

• Support: for optoelectronic sensor. Item No. 13.16.201

• SyncM1 PRO, software for data synchronization with PC Item No. 11.20.921PK1 and long time tracing of rate and amplitude, incl. Link cable

• 9 Pin Link cable for PC connection Item No. JB03-11.01.9018


NOTES

chronoscope m1chronoscope m1 includes the following components: • measuring and display unit...

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