GM07/GM08 GAUSSMETER

OPERATING MANUAL
EN
 MORE THAN JUST GAUSSMETERS
Hirst has over 60 year’s experience in providing magnetic
solutions to clients. Solving your magnetic problems is our speciality.

Magnetisers, demagnetisers and calibrators Gaussmeters

Bespoke production systems Consultancy and more...

Visit our website or ring one of our technical sales team for more
information
www.hirst-magnetics.com | www.gaussmeter.co.uk
E: [email protected] T: +44 (0) 1326 372734
 CONTENTS

HOW TO GET GOING...................2 UNITS ..........................................9

INTRODUCTION...........................3 TESLA .........................................10

GAUSS........................................10
THEORY OF OPERATION ..............3 AMPS/METER .............................10
OERSTED ....................................10
HOW TO USE THE GM08 .............4

THE HALL PROBE .........................4 CAPTURE...................................10

THE GM08 INSTRUMENT .............4
GM08 LAYOUT.............................4 SAVE ON. ...................................10
GM08 DISPLAY FORMAT ..............5 SAVE OFF ..................................10
RECALL ON ................................11
KEY OPERATION..........................6 RECALL OFF................................11
HOLD ON ..................................11
ON ...............................................6 HOLD OFF..................................11
OFF ..............................................6
ENTER ..........................................6
NEXT............................................6 UTILITIES...................................11
MENU ..........................................6
RANGE .........................................6 NULL ..........................................11
RESET ...........................................7 AUTO ZERO ...............................11
HALL PROBE BUTTON ..................7 POWER DOWN ..........................12
RS232, USB SERIAL INTERFACE.....7 LANGUAGES...............................12
DC POWER SUPPLY SOCKET ........8
HALL PROBE..............................12
MENU OPTIONS...........................8
AC MEASUREMENT ACCURACY .12
GENERAL ..........................................8

FUNCTION ...................................8 POLARITY..................................13

DC ...............................................8 BATTERY REPLACEMENT ...........13

DC PEAK.......................................8
AC RMS........................................9 USING A GAUSSMETER..............13
AC RMS MAX ...............................9
AC PEAK .......................................9 ANALOG OUTPUT......................14

SPECIFICATION ..........................15

COMPANY ADDRESS .................16

1
HOW TO GET GOING

The GM08 is designed to be easy to use and

assumes you never get as far as reading this let
alone the rest of the manual.

So this is how to get going:

1. Insert the batteries

2. Plug in the probe

3. Press the ON key

4. Wait while the GM08 carries out self calibra-

tion (10 seconds approximately).

5. When the GM08 completes it’s self calibration

it will enter into the mode of operation last
used.

6. If you want to change something, press the

MENU key to display the first menu Option.
To look at different Menu options, press the
NEXT key to cycle through the Options until
you find what you are looking for. Then press
ENTER.

7. Press MENU key again to clear the Menu line

of the display.

8. Press MENU key again to display the main

Menu Option back at the first Option.

9. Change Measurement ranges with the Range

key.

If you want to do more adventurous things you

could always try reading the rest of the manual!

HINT
When changing and selecting Menu Options,
hold the GM08 with both hands with your
thumbs over the ENTER and NEXT keys. This will
enable you to easily and rapidly change settings.

PLEASE NOTE
The Transverse and Axial Hall probes supplied for
use with the GM08 Hand Held Gaussmeter are
very robust compared to the previous generation
of Hall Probes.

It should be noted, however, that without due

care these probes can be irreparably damaged
due to bad handling and incorrect use.

Operators are advised to take due care.

2
INTRODUCTION In reality, all practical Hall Probe elements are
only linear within certain limits, normally 1% -
Congratulations on choosing the GM08 the lat- 2%.
est in a family of Gaussmeters by Hirst Magnetic
Instruments Ltd, with more than 30 years experi- The more accurate and thinner the probes, the
ence in manufacturing Magnetic Instruments and greater the expense. Most Gaussmeter manufac-
Magnetic Equipment. turers approach this problem by selecting current
and Hall Probe load resistance to minimise these
The GM08 incorporates many innovative func- non-linearity errors.
tions and new features.
The Hall Probes are connected to Gaussmeters,
the Gaussmeters are designed to be linear to
All GM08 Probes are compatible with the GM08
makethe best use of the non-linear Hall Probes.
without the need for re-calibration by the opera-
tor. The philosophy behind the design of the GM08
is that both the Probe and the Gaussmeter will
Each GM08 Probe contains information unique contain non-linearities and errors. The difference
to that Probe which enables the GM08 to carry between a theoretical, perfect Hall Probe and
out automatic calibration at switch on and Auto that of an individual Hall Probe is measured and
Zero (see Utilities). the difference recorded in an E2prom located in
the Hall probe socket (this memory device also
The GM08 incorporates a 120 by 32 pixel graph- contains other information such as serial number
ic menu driven display. This enables operation of and calibration date).
the GM08 to be carried out simply with a mini-
mal number of keys and with minimal training. The perfect Hall Probe is in fact a calibration
process using a technique known as Nuclear
The GM08 incorporates an RS232, USB interface, Magnetic Resonance (NMR) which gives very
analog interface and external Power Supply Unit high accuracy.
(PSU) socket.
The errors between the GM08 and an ideal elec-
The GM08 Hall Probe includes a button for Probe tronic circuit are measured and recorded in it’s
orientation (Transverse Probes) and HOLD for internal E2prom.
Saving readings.
When a measurement is taken the voltage gener-
The Transverse and Axial Hall probes supplied for ated by the Hall Probe element is amplified by
use with the GM08 Hand Held Gaussmeter are the GM08 electronic circuit and digitised in an
very robust compared to the previous generation Analogue to Digital convertor.
of Hall Probes.
The software of the GM08 then automatically
It should be noted, however, that without due corrects this data mathematically, firstly with the
care these probes can be irreparably damaged Hall Probe calibration information and then with
due to bad handling and incorrect use. the GM08 calibration information.This technique
gives superb results and enables calibration of the
Operators are advised to take due care. Gaussmeter to be carried out in software rather
than “select on test” resistor values.
THEORY OF OPERATION
The GM08 includes other innovative techniques
Hall Effect Theory which further improve and give additional long
In an ideal world, a Hall Element consists of a term stability.The GM08 also includes a linear
small slab of semi-conductor material. Current analogue circuit for peak detection. This dedicat-
passes from one end of the slab to the other and ed circuit enablesthe accurate capture of tran-
the voltage on each edge of the slab is the same sient events without the inherent delays of
when no magnetic field is present. If a magnetic Analogue to Digital Convertor sampling times.
field is now applied through the top to bottom
surfaces of the slab, a voltage appears across the Although this captured voltage level will decay, in
sides of the slab which is directly proportional to the analogue circuit, it is converted and displayed
the Magnetic Flux Density or Magnetic Field from a digital storage giving zero droop digital
Strength. storage.
3
HOW TO USE THE GM08 frequently used Options being the quickest to
access.
The GM08 Hand Held Gaussmeter and Probe is
used to measure Magnetic Flux Density or GM08 LAYOUT
Magnetic Field Strength.
The GM08 Hand-Held Gaussmeter consists of a
There are two parts to the GM08: main hand-held unit and Hall Effect Probe.

1. The Probe that actually senses the Magnetic The main Hand-Held unit consists of a 120 by 32
Field and produces an electrical signal. pixel graphic LCD, 7 keys and Hall Probe socket.

2. The GM08 Instrument itself, that then process- This manual gives information on the operation
es these electrical signals to display actual meas- of the various parts of the GM08. This GM08 lay-
urements that the user can read off the display. out diagram will give you quick access to the
appropriate page of this Manual.
THE HALL PROBE

The sensitive part of the Hall Probe (the Hall

Element), is placed into a Magnetic Field. The
Hall Element must be at right angles to the
Magnetic lines of Flux to give a maximum read-
ing.

In practise, this is a case of placing a

Transverse Probe into an air gap
between two magnetic poles and
Page 7
adjusting it to give a maximum read-
ing, or placing an Axial Probe into the
centre of a solenoid and adjusting its
position to give a maximum reading. Page 7

THE GM08 INSTRUMENT

The Hall Probe is plugged into the Hall

Probe connector at the top of the
Page 5
GM08. The measured magnetic field
and other necessary information, is
shown on the Liquid Crystal Display.

The various keys on the GM08 enable

Page 6 Page 6
you to turn on and off the GM08,
change ranges and control the Menu.
Page 6 Page 6
The majority of functions and facilities
within the GM08 is controlled through Page 6 Page 7
an easy to use menu.
Page 6
By pressing the MENU key, the first
Menu Option is displayed. By pressing
the NEXT key, the next Menu Option is
displayed. Pressing the ENTER key will
allow you to enter that Option.
In this way, the Operator can quickly
change measurement units or function
etc in the Gaussmeter with the most
4
GM08 DISPLAY FORMAT

Measurement value display

Polarity Measurement function display

25.36
Units
mT
HOLD
Measurement
units display

Fixed Range
Low Batt display
Menu option display Status display
The GM08 display is a 120 by 32 pixel graphic MEASUREMENT FUNCTION DISPLAY
liquid crystal display LCD.
The measurement function display shows sym-
Areas of the display are dedicated to specific bols for the current measurement function.
functions so that, for instance, the measurement Measurements taken or recalled in any measure-
is always displayed in the top left of the display. ment function always have their measurement
function displayed in this position.
The display format has been designed so that
when the GM08 is being used to take measure- When displaying a FUNCTION Menu Option a
ments, the display does not contain irrelevant non symbolic form is displayed. When this is
and confusing information. selected the symbolic form is displayed in the
measurement function display position.
MEASUREMENT VALUE DISPLAY
MENU OPTION DISPLAY
The measurement value display shows the meas-
urement digits. This includes four digits, plus dec- When the menu is in operation, it is always dis-
imal point and sign. Measurements taken or played in the Menu Option display position. The
recalled in any measurement function are always- Menu Option displayed can be selected by press-
displayed in this position. ing the ENTER key. Alternative Options may be
displayed by pressing the NEXT key.
MEASUREMENT UNITS DISPLAY
The Menu Option display can be activated by
The measurement units display shows the units in pressing the MENU key.
which the measurement is currently being taken.
Measurements taken or recalled in any measure- STATUS DISPLAY
ment function always have their units shown in
this position. In certain functions, normal operation of the
GM08 is altered, ie HOLD. The Operator is
advised of this condition by the status display. If
normal status of the GM08 is active then the status
display is blank.

5
KEY OPERATION To remove the Hall probe from the meter, first
power down the meter and remove the probe.
Do not remove the probe with power applied as
GENERAL this may possibly cause data corruption of the
internal memory and the current operating set-
The GM08 is switched on and off with the ON tings may be lost.
and OFF keys.
The GM08 is fitted with an Auto power-down
With USB or a DC power supply connected the facility. If a button has not been pressed for 1, 4
GM08 powers on when power is applied.The or 10 minutes the GM08 will power-down auto-
Range is changed or set to Auto Range by press- matically. The time for power-down is user selec-
ing the Range button. table in the menu and the auto power-down
function can also be disabled (Utilities Menu
Most of the functions of the GM08 are controlled Option).
through an easy to use Menu. Cycle through the
Menu to choose your Option. The Menu is dis- ENTER
played, always with its first Option when you
press the MENU key. If the MENU is already dis-
When using the Menu, pressing the ENTER key
played, pressing the MENU key removes it. Press
will select the Menu Option that is currently dis-
MENU again and the first Menu Option reap-
played.
pears.
When a different Menu option is required, the
Cycle through the four Menu Options by press-
next Option can be displayed by pressing the
ing the NEXT key. When you see the Option you
NEXT key.
want - press the ENTER key then cycle through
the new Options with NEXT again. The frequent-
ly used Options are quickest to get to. NEXT

ON When using the Menu, pressing the NEXT key

will show the next option in the Menu or sub-
menu to be displayed.
The ON key is used to switch on the GM08. The
GM08 turns on with an audible bleep and the
When the required Menu or Sub Menu option is
display will show GM08.
displayed it can be selected by pressing ENTER.
The GM08 will carry out a self test and calibration
before entering the operating set up when the MENU
GM08 was last used.
Most of the functions of the GM08 are controlled
To change the operating set up, press MENU and through a Menu. When the Menu or Sub Menu
move through the Menu options using NEXT. options are not being displayed, pressing the
Select with ENTER. MENU key will cause the first option in the main
Menu to be displayed.
OFF
Pressing the MENU key when a Menu or Sub
Menu option is being displayed will clear the
The OFF key is used to switch off the GM08. The
Menu line. Pressing the MENU key again will now
GM08 will give an audible bleep before switching
reinstate the first option in the main Menu.
off.

When the GM08 is switched off it stores the cur- RANGE

rent operating settings. When the GM08 is again-
switched on it will return to this operating set up. Pressing the RANGE key will cause the working
range of the GM08 to change.When in AUTO
NOTE: When the GM08 is switched off all stored range, the GM08 will automatically change
readings (but not operating settings) will be lost. ranges as the Magnetic Flux Density or Magnetic
Field Strength increases and decreases.

6
In some functions, ie DC peak, when measuring RS232 SERIAL INTERFACE , USB INTER-
pulsed fields, it is necessary to use manual ranges. FACE (GM08)
Pressing the RANGE key will cause the GM08 to
leave the Auto range mode and enter a set
Range. GENERAL

Further presses of RANGE key will cause the The GM08 can be controlled by, and can upload
GM08 to enter successively less sensitive ranges data through the RS232 and USB interfaces.
until returning to Auto range.
The GM08 is supplied with a serial connector to
When in a manual range ● enable a standard NULL MODEM 9 way D type
“O”symbol will be displayed. cable to be connected, from a PC, to the GM08.
Along with a USB port for USB connection. Using
RESET a USB A to MINI B type lead. Batteries must still
be fitted whilst using the USB interface.

When using the DC Peak or AC RMS MAX modes, The GM08 is also supplied with a cd rom disk
it is necessary to reset the display between read- with basic PC compatible software and docu-
ings. mentation.

Pressing RESET resets the displayed reading to SOFTWARE

permit the next peak value to be measured.
Instructions for using the Software are on the cd
The Reset key is also used in Null and Auto Zero rom, read the readme.txt file for installation
Options in the Utilities Sub-Menu. instructions.

HALL PROBE BUTTON Software Installation

This key is positioned on the Hall Probe handle If in Windows insert GM08 Communications disk
and is used for two functions: in cd rom drive and then follow the simple instruc-
tions to install.
1. The HOLD function - Readings can be held
with a press of the Hall Probe button and released CONNECTING THE GM08 TO A COMPUTER
with a second press.
Interface and Cable Connections
2. The STORE function - Readings can be stored
by pressing the Hall Probe button (only when the The GM08 has a 9 way ‘D’ shaped connector
store function is active). The Hall Probe button (port) at the top of the unit. You will need a NULL
can be made inactive. (Capture Menu Option). modem cable with a 9 way female end for the
GM08 port.
The Transverse and Axial Hall probes supplied for
use with the GM08 Hand Held Gaussmeter are You will need to purchase or have available a
very robust compared to the previous generation cable with a 9 way connector at one end (RS232
of Hall Probes. Cable.) This cable plugs into the top of the
GM08 and then off to the PC.
It should be noted, however, that without due
care these probes can be irreparably damaged The choice of either 9 way or 25 way connection
due to bad handling and incorrect use. Operators at the PC end is dependent on your PC.
are advised to take due care.
Alternatively use a USB A to MINI B cable for USB
communications. If both serial and USB cables
are fitted, serial communications are disabled.

Application notes

The programs included on the cd are for basic

control and transfer of data. Optional software
7
and advanced information on the serial protocol The socket is a standard 2.1mm DC power sup-
is available to allow the user to write custom ply socket with the positive to centre, negative to
software on windows and unix platforms. shell. The GM08 will require a voltage supply
between +5V and + 6V DC.
It is important that you connect the Serial Cable
/ USB cable between the GM08 and your PC, This input is protected from supply reversals to
BEFORE running these programs. Failure to do so avoid damage to the GM08 if the input voltage is
will not damage the GM08. reversed.

Windows 95-98, 2000 XP Users MENU OPTIONS

Follow the instructions in the readme.txt file on
the enclosed cd rom. GENERAL

SERIAL INTERFACE UNIT Most of the functions of the GM08 are controlled
As previously supplied on GM05. through the Menu. (Range and Reset Control
have their own keys).
There is no separate conditioner (level shifter) for
the RS232 port on the GM08. The GM08 can be Each main Menu Option has its own Sub-Menu.
directly connected to the RS232 port of the com-
puter via a NULL modem cable. MENU OPTION

PIN ASSIGNMENTS - 9 WAY CONNECTOR - FUNCTION

GM08 sidePin Description
2 Received data (input to GM08) DC, DC Peak, AC RMS, AC RMS MAX and AC
3 Transmit data (output from GM08) Peak.
7 Active RS232 level (output from GM08)
5 Signal Ground When the FUNCTION option is displayed and the
6 CTS (Assumed Active) ENTER key is pressed, the GM08 will enter the
ALL OTHER PINS ARE NOT CONNECTED FUNCTION SUB MENU and display the first sub-
option.
The active level on Pin 7 can be used to tie any
hardware handshaking lines active, this is Pressing NEXT will enable the user to move
required on some machines. The GM08 serial through the options available. The DC function
protocol does not support handshaking, there- measures Magnetic flux density or Magnetic field
fore any hardware handshaking on the host strength of a static or DC Magnetic field.
machine MUST BE DISABLED.
Pressing ENTER will select the displayed Sub-
COMMUNICATION SETTINGS FOR GM08 RS232 Menu Option.
INTERFACE
FUNCTION SUB-MENU OPTIONS
9600 Baud, 8 data bits, 1 stop bit, no parity.NO
damage will occur if the GM08 is turned off
whilst the host machine is on. DC

DC POWER SUPPLY SOCKET (GM08) This function measures Magnetic flux density or
Magnetic field strength of a static or DC
The GM08 is fitted with a 2.1mm external power Magnetic field.This reading is updated as the
supply socket. This enables a DC Power Supply static Magnetic field varies.
Unit (PSU) (not supplied) to be used with the
GM08. DC PEAK

Batteries must still be fitted in the unit. However, This function measures the peak positive DC
only a small amount of current will be drawn Magnetic Flux density or Magnetic Field
from the batteries for memory retention. Strength.

8
This reading is updated with increasing measure- This reading is updated with increasing measure-
ments. Once a maximum measurement has been ments. Once a maximum measurement has been
reached this value will be held until the RESET key reached this value will be held until the RESET key
is pressed. This reading is held digitally and will is pressed.
not decay and can be held indefinitely.
This reading is held digitally and will not decay
Once a measurement has been made and a new and can be held indefinitely.
measurement is required, pressing the RESET key-
will reset the displayed value so that a new meas- Once a measurement has been made and a new
urement can be made. measurement is required, pressing the RESET key-
will reset the displayed value so that a new meas-
Negative peak values can be measured by inver- urement can be made.
ting the Hall Probe.
AC PEAK
The GM08 captures the peak value with an ana-
logue Peak Detector circuit. This enables fast
This function measures the positive peak value of
transients to be captured and is not dependent
a time varying AC magnetic field. Negative peak
upon the conversion rate of the Analogue to
values can be measured by reversing the probe.
Digital Convertor circuit. This technique enables
fast transients to be captured but without the
This function is a true Peak measurement and
normal decay of the captured value.This function
does include any DC components of the mag-
can be used for capturing transient Magnetic
netic field. The AC Peak reading is a continuous-
fields such as in Capacitive Discharge
ly updated measurement.
Magnetisers.

* Warning - This facility is designed to be sensi- MENU OPTION

tive and respond rapidly. It is possible that in elec-
trically noisy environments spurious readings can UNITS
be achieved. Care should be taken.
Tesla, kA/m, Gauss, Oersted.
Measurements on Capacitive Discharge
Magnetisers using Ignitrons may give off such
When the UNITS option is displayed and the
electrical noise.
ENTER key is pressed the GM08 will display the
UNITS sub-menu.
AC RMS
Pressing NEXT will enable the user to move
This function measures the true RMS (Root Mean through the Sub-Menu options.
Square) of an AC Magnetic field.
Pressing ENTER will select the displayed Sub-
The measurement is a true RMS measurement Menu option.
but does not include any DC components of
theMagnetic field which may be present. Magnetic Flux Density is measured in Tesla (T),
and milliTesla (mT) in the SI measurement system
The RMS value displayed is not dependent upon and Gauss (G) and kiloGauss (KG) in c.g.s. meas-
the crest factor limits. This measurement is con- urement system.
tinuously updated.
Magnetic Field Strength is measured in
AC RMS MAX kiloAmperes per meter (kAmp/m) in the SI sys-
tem and Oersted (Oe) and kiloOersteds (kOe) in
the c.g.s system.
This function measures the maximum true RMS
of an AC Magnetic field.

The measurement is a true RMS maximum but

does not include any DC components of the
Magnetic field which may be present.

9
UNITS SUB-MENU OPTIONS ENTER key is pressed, the GM08 will display the
CAPTURE sub menu.
TESLA This sub menu enables the user to set up the
GM08 to SAVE and RECALL from 00-99 samples,
This function enables the GM08 to measure or HOLD the current measurement reading.
Magnetic flux density in units of Tesla (T) and
milliTesla (mT) the standard unit of Magnetic The samples are stored with full resolution, units
flux density in the SI system. and measurement function.

The measurements taken will be displayed in SAVE, RECALL and HOLD functions are mutually
Tesla (T) or milliTesla (mT) depending upon the exclusive, that is, only one of these functions
operating range. canbe operated at any one time. All options can
be selected off.
GAUSS
Any readings stores are retained even after
power-down, in non volatile RAM. Stored read-
This function enables the GM08 to measure
ings this retained are only cleared suing the
Magnetic flux density in units of Gauss (G) and
“SAVE ON” OPTION IN THE capture MENU.
kiloGauss (kG) the standard unit of Magnetic flux
density in the c.g.s system.
Samples are Time and Date stamped. This is only
accessible through the RS232 and is uploaded
The measurements taken will be displayed in
with the register data when the GMLOAD pro-
Gauss (G) or kiloGauss (kG) depending upon the-
gram is used.
operating range.

AMPS/METER CAPTURE SUB-MENU OPTIONS

This function enables the GM08 to measure SAVE ON

Magnetic Field Strength in units of kiloAmperes
per meter (kA/m) the standard unit of Magnetic This option enables the GM08 operation to Save
field strength in the SI system. measured values in memory locations within the
GM08.
The measurements taken will be displayed in
kiloAmperes (kA/m). The display will show R followed by a two digit
number. Pressing the Hall Probe button will now
OERSTED Save the current measurement in a register. The
display will show the Register number of the last
stored value, ie R15 (or Register No 15).
This function enables the GM08 to measure
Magnetic field strength in units of Oersted (Oe)
Samples are saved with full resolution, units and
and kiloOersted (k/Oe) the standard unit of
measurement function.Selecting Save On will
Magnetic field strength in the c.g.s system.
automatically activate Recall Off.
The measurements taken will be displayed in
Oersted (Oe) or kiloOersted (k/Oe) depending SAVE OFF
upon the operating range.
This returns the GM08 to normal operation and
MENU OPTION terminates the Save operation.

If Save On is re-entered then measurements are

CAPTURE saved in the next available location unless Recall
has been used, in which case Save data is over-
Store On, Store Off, Recall On, Recall Off, Hold written. Save Off function is automatic when
On, Hold Off. Recall On is selected.

When the CAPTURE option is displayed and the

10
RECALL ON When a reading is being held it is possible to
change units using the Menu Option and the
reading will automatically be converted using the
This Option enables the GM08 operation to enter
Units Menu Option.
the RECALL Sub Menu Option which enables the
GM08 to recall measured values stored in mem-
ory locations using the SAVE Option. HOLD OFF

The display will show R followed by a two digit The HOLD function can be disabled with the
number ie R15 (Recall Register 15). HOLD OFF Option in the STORE Sub Menu.

Readings can be saved in one unit and recalled in The HOLD function will not operate when the
another - ie saved in Gauss and recalled in Tesla, SAVE Option or RECALL Option is in operation.
with conversions taking place automatically.
MENU OPTION
On leaving SAVE or RECALL functions the stored
values will be retained. If the GM08 is switched
off all saved measurements will be lost. UTILITIES

After Recall On has been selected (Entered), any Null, Auto Zero, Auto Power-Down, Languages.
further Saved values will be saved from Register
00. Selecting Recall On will automatically activate When the UTILITIES option is displayed and the
Save Off. ENTER key is pressed, the GM08 will display the
UTILITIES sub menu.This Sub-Menu contains a
RECALL ON SUB-MENU OPTION number of lesser used options.

UTILITIES SUB-MENU OPTIONS

FIRST

This Option enables the GM08 to recall measure- NULL

ment R00.
This Option enables the Operator to quickly Null
NEXT (Zero) the GM08 and Hall Probe for all ranges of
the current Measurement Function.
This option enables the GM08 to recall the next
measured value (ie if R00 was displayed, entering When this Option has been selected the Operator
NEXT will recall measurement R01). This should is instructed to place the Hall Probe in the Zero
not be confused with the NEXT key which is used Flux Chamber and press RESET. The GM08 then
as normal. takes approximately 4 seconds to carry out this
Null Function.
RECALL OFF
This Option would only normally be used when
This returns the GM08 to normal operation.This sensitive readings are to be taken.
terminates the RECALL operation. Selecting Save
On will automatically activate Recall Off. AUTO ZERO

HOLD ON This option carries out an automatic re-calibra-

tion procedure on the GM08, this includes a Null
When this option has been selected, measure- function automatically. This process will take
ment readings can be held by pressing the Hall approximately 30 seconds.
Probe button once.
This process should be carried out when the
The status display will show HOLD.The measure- GM08 has not been used for long periods or at
ment reading can be released by pressing the other times when the Operator wishes.
Hall Probe button again. The status display will
no longer show HOLD.

11
POWER DOWN In most applications, measurements need to be
taken in an air gap where side entry is available.
For this type of application a Transverse Probe is
This option enables the GM08 to automatically
used (supplied as standard with the GM08).
power down 1,4 or 10 minutes after the last key
was pressed. This Option can also be disabled.
In some applications side entry is not available,
such as measuring the field inside a Solenoid. In
The Operator will see a warning message 5 sec-
this application, Axial Probes can be used
onds before Auto Power-Down will take place.
(optional accessory).
Auto Power-Down can be delayed by pressing
The GM08 is supplied with a standard Transverse
any of the keys (except ON or OFF), including the
Hall Probe. The thin semi-flexible Hall Probe
Hall Probe button.POWER DOWN SUB-MENU
incorporates a Gallium Arsenide Hall Element
OPTIONSPOWER DOWN OFF
which is encapsulated to make it resistant to
damage.
This option disables the GM08 from automatical-
ly powering down. The GM08 will only turn off
The Transverse and Axial Hall probes supplied for
with the Operator pressing OFF key, the battery
use with the GM08 Hand Held Gaussmeter are
expiring, or the USB cable being removed.
very robust compared to the previous generation
of Hall Probes.
POWER DOWN 1 MIN
It should be noted, however, that without due
This Option enables the Power-Down routine of
care these probes can be irreparably damaged
the GM08 to automatically Power-Down the
due to bad handling and incorrect use.
GM08 after 1 minute from the last key press.
Operators are advised to take due care.Do not
POWER DOWN 4 MIN
disconnect the Hall Probe whilst the meter is ON.
This Option enables the Power-Down routine of
Turn OFF the meter before removing the probe.
the GM08 to automatically Power-Down the
GM08 after 4 minutes from the last key press.
AC MEASUREMENT ACCURACY
POWER DOWN 10 MIN
The GM08 has two standard Probes available.
This Option enables the Power-Down routine of Transverse and Axial.
the GM08 to automatically Power-Down the
GM08 after 10 minutes from the last key press. The GM08 and Transverse Probes are supplied in
a calibrated form to give excellent DC and AC
LANGUAGES measurements.

In the case of the Transverse probe only, this

The GM08 Menu can operate in languages other
assumes that the AC measurement is applied only
than English.
to the Hall Probe element at the end of the Hall
Probe (as when measuring AC flux density in air
By entering the Language Option of the Utilities
gaps).
Sub-Menu, the operator can use the NEXT key to
cycle through the Language Options.
In order to supply a thin Transverse Hall probe at
reasonable cost, the Hall Probe construction
To select the required language press the ENTER
includes what is effectively a small single turn
key. The menu will then operate in that selected
inductive loop running the length of the Hall
language even after switching off the GM08.
probe flexible section.
HALL PROBE When the whole length of the Transverse probe is
exposed to an AC field errors can accumulate due
When measuring a Magnetic Field, the sensitive to pick up in this inductive loop. These errors are
Hall Element within the Probe must be at right dependent upon the flux linkage through the
angles to the lines of Magnetic Flux. loop (ie the length of probe exposed to the field)
12
and the frequency of the alternating field being USING A GAUSSMETER
measured. The greater the frequency the greater
the error.
Hall Probe measurements of magnetic flux densi-
ty (measured in Tesla or Gauss) or Magnetic field-
It is therefore recommended when measuring AC
strength (Amp/meter or Oersted) are ideal in
fields in the centre of an air-cored solenoid orsim-
applications with parallel fields such as air
ilar, that an Axial Probe which does not suffer
gaps.The field will be uniform across the air gap
from the effects, is used in preference for both
and small movements of the probe will give rise
accuracy and physical suitability.
to only small changes in readings.
The Transverse probe will not include significant
errors when the Hall Probe tip only is subjected to
Probe Sensor Area
the alternating field.
S
POLARITY Uniform Field Hall Probe

The polarity of a measurement in DC is: DC peak N

and AC peak readings are positive readings only.
Negative readings can be taken by reversing the
probe.

The Transverse and Axial Hall probes supplied for The transverse Hall probe should be positioned in
use with the GM08 Hand Held Gaussmeter are the air gap and angled to give the maximum
very robust compared to the previous generation reading.
of Hall Probes.
If the Hall probe is not at right angles to the mag-
It should be noted, however, that without due netic flux a less than maximum reading will be
care these probes can be irreparably damaged obtained.
due to bad handling and incorrect use.
The Hall probe should then be moved around
Operators are advised to take due care. searching for the maximum reading.

S N
It should be remembered that this is a maximum
Axial Probe reading for one point only. Typical values
throughout the air gap may be several % lower.
N Transverse Probe
S In many applications a measurement of a perma-
POSITIVE READINGS
nent magnet is required. The magnet is not in
any form of magnetic circuit and may need to be
inspected at (say) goods inwards.
BATTERY REPLACEMENT
A Hall probe is often used in this type of applica-
tion and in some cases a Hall probe technique
When the batteries have expired it will be neces-
may be stipulated in a specification.
sary to replace them. Firstly, switch off the GM08
and disconnect the Hall Probe.
Such measurement should be used as a guide
only and not as an absolute measurement. Two
Remove screw from battery door and remove
perfectly calibrated gaussmeters can be used for
cover. Remove old batteries and replace. Replace
such a measurement and show significantly dif-
battery compartment door and replace screw.
ferent readings.
THE STATUS DISPLAY WILL SHOW A BATTERY
SYMBOL WHEN THE BATTERY VOLTAGE IS LOW.

13
 Probe Sensor Area

Hall Probe

Diverging Lines
of Flux N

When a magnet, particularly with a small face, is

not in a magnetic circuit - the magnetic flux lines
will radiate and diverge. Therefore, as the Hall
probe is moved closer to the surface of the mag-
net, the resultant reading will increase. When the
probe is in contact with the surface of the mag-
net, the active area of the probe remains at a dis-
tance from the magnet surface due to the probe
wall thickness. This is small but finite.

The next probe will have a different thickness of

wall and a different reading for the same magnet.

This is why a probe can be turned over and

instead of a negative reading of the same value
being given, something significantly different can
be shown.

Provided that this is taken into account the Hall

probes can be used to give a good guide to good
and bad parts - but not an absolute measure-
ment.

An absolute measurement for an “Open Circuit”

magnet, involves using an Integrated Fluxmeter.

It should be noted that in recent years some sup-

pliers of Hall effect gaussmeters have been adver-
tising them as “Fluxmeters”, this is incorrect.
Fluxmeters are used in conjunction with a coil to
take direct measurements of flux rather than flux
density.

Analog Output
The analog output is +/- 3 volts fullscale. Input
impedances of attached device should be greater
than 100 k Ohms.

14
SPECIFICATION
Range 1 0 - 3 Tesla Range 3 0 - 29.99 milliTesla
resolution 1 milliTesla resolution 10 microTesla

0 - 30 kGauss (kiloOersted) 0 - 299.9 Gauss (kiloOersted)

resolution 10 Gauss (Oersted) resolution 0.1 Gauss (Oersted)

0 - 2387 kiloAmps/m 0 - 23.87 kiloAmps/m

resolution 80 kiloAmps/m resolution 800 Amps/m

Range 2 0 - 299.9 milliTesla Range 4 0 - 2.999 milliTesla

resolution 100 microTesla resolution 2 microTesla

0 - 2.999 kGauss (kiloOersted) 0 - 29.99 Gauss (kiloOersted)

resolution 1 Gauss (Oersted) resolution 0.02 Gauss (Oersted)

0 - 238.7 kiloAmps/m 0 - 2.39 kiloAmps/m

resolution 8 kiloAmps/m resolution 160 Amps/m

(1mT = 10 Gauss = 0.796 kA/m)

Accuracy (at 20oC) Better than ±1% (DC)

Traceable to NPL Standards
Reproducibility Better than 0.5%.
Temperature Coefficient ±0.1% of reading/oC including probe
Frequency Range DC and 15Hz to 10kHz
Averaging Time Constant 100 milliseconds
Operating Temp. Range 0oC to + 50oC
Storage Temp Range - 20oC to + 70oC
Power Supply 4 x 1.5V, AA Alkaline battery or external
power supply +5V to +6V (not supplied)
Battery Type 1.5V AA Alkaline Long life (not supplied)
Battery Life 15 Hours continuous operation. Auto power-down after 1,4 or 10
minutes or disabled all under menu control
Display 120 by 32 pixel graphic LCD
Display Sampling Rate 3 sec approx
Functions DC, DC Peak, AC RMS, AC RMS MAX, AC PEAK
Facilities Store and Recall on 0-99 samples
Hold facility
Analogue Peak with digital storage
Analogue Output +/- 3 Volts full scale
USB 1.1 Compliant
Auto and manual ranges
Automatic reading conversion between different units
Operating set up at time of power-down is stored and recalled automatically at power-on
Utilities etc.
Time Keeping device GM08 Meter Only
Volatile Memory
Dimensions Length 175mm
Width 90mm
Height 43mm
Weight (inc battery) 400g approx (not including probe)
Standard Accessories Transverse Hall Probe, Zero Flux Chamber, USB cable and Carrying Case
Optional Accessories Axial Probe Ref AP002 Replacement Transverse Probe Ref TP002.
BNC Adaptor, RS232 lead
Reference Magnets Axial and Transverse - see website for details

15
HALL PROBES

Transverse Probe Thickness 1mm

Width 4mm
Length 90mm (not including handle)
Length 230mm (including handle)
Hall sensor active area 0.2mm X 0.2mm approx
Cable length 1.5m
Supplied as standard with the GM08
Extra Probe Ref TP002

Axial Probe Diameter 5mm

Length 90mm (not including handle)
Length 230mm (including handle)
Hall sensor active area 0.2mm X 0.2mm approx
Cable length 1.5m
(Optional accessories) Ref AP002

The Transverse and Axial Hall probes supplied for use with the GM08 Hand Held Gaussmeter are very
robust compared to the previous generation of Hall Probes.

It should be noted, however, that without due care these probes can be irreparably damaged due to bad
handling and incorrect use.

Operators are advised to take due care.

This product complies with the Low Voltage Directive (LVD) and Electromagnetic Compatibility
(EMC) directive.

COMPANY ADDRESS

Hirst Magnetic Instruments Ltd

Tesla House
Tregoniggie Industrial Estate
Falmouth
Cornwall
TR11 4SN
United Kingdom

Tel: 01326 372734

Fax: 01326 378069

Email: [email protected]
Website: www.gaussmeter.co.uk
www.hirst-magnetics.com
16
 A ONE STOP MAGNETIC SOLUTION
Problem solving is in our DNA, give us a call and we’ll be
happy to have a chat to see how we can help.

Magnetisers, demagnetisers and calibrators Helmholtz coils and fluxmeters

Bespoke production systems Magnet characterisation equipment

Visit our website or ring one of our technical sales team for more
information
www.hirst-magnetics.com | www.gaussmeter.co.uk
E: [email protected] T: +44 (0) 1326 372734