BENTLY 172103-01 | Proximitor Test Fixture – Field Service Notes

  • Model: 172103-01
  • Alt. P/N: 172103-01
  • Product Series: BENTLY Nevada 3300 Series
  • Hardware Type: Proximitor Test Fixture
  • Key Feature: Bench-top tester for verifying 3300 Series proximitor functionality in field conditions
  • Primary Field Use: Quick testing of proximitors without requiring full 3300 system connection
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Description

Hard-Numbers: Technical Specifications

  • Power Source: -24V DC nominal from test fixture power supply
  • Proximitor Compatibility:
    • 3300 Series (5mm, 8mm, 11mm)
    • 3300 XL Series (8mm, 11mm, 14mm)
    • 7200 Series (5mm, 8mm, 14mm)
  • Input Voltage Range: -17.5V to -26V DC
  • Output Measurement Range: -20V to +2V DC (gap voltage)
  • Accuracy: ±2% full-scale
  • Operating Temperature: 0°C to +50°C
  • Storage Temperature: -40°C to +85°C
  • Humidity: 5% to 95% RH non-condensing
  • Power Consumption: 12W typical (fixture and installed proximitor)
  • Dimensions: 200mm (W) x 250mm (D) x 120mm (H)
  • Weight: 3 kg
  • Certifications: CE, RoHS
BENTLY 172103-01

BENTLY 172103-01

The Real-World Problem It Solves

You need to test a 3300 Series proximitor in the field, but don’t have the full system (probe, cable, proximitor) assembled, or want to test a replacement proximitor before installing it in a critical machine. The 172103-01 test fixture acts as a stand-alone proximitor tester that connects to the proximitor output terminals, simulates probe conditions, and displays gap voltage readings.
Where you’ll typically find it:
  • Field service trucks for quick on-site verification of suspected faulty proximitors
  • Workshop benches for testing newly repaired or replacement proximitors
  • Factory floors during commissioning, testing proximitors before machine installation
Bottom line: This is the stand-alone bench tester for 3300 Series proximitors, allowing quick testing without a full sensor system.

Hardware Architecture & Under-the-Hood Logic

The 172103-01 is a compact bench-top test fixture with integrated power supply, impedance matching circuits, and test probes. It simulates the probe signal characteristics and provides DC excitation for the proximitor. A built-in digital voltmeter displays gap voltage readings in both Volts and mils/mm, depending on the proximitor settings.
  1. Power Supply: The test fixture generates the required -24V DC ±1V from an AC line input. This provides excitation power for the installed proximitor. The power supply includes over-voltage and over-current protection to protect the unit and the under-test proximitor.
  2. Signal Conditioning: The test fixture includes impedance matching circuits to simulate the probe’s electrical characteristics. This ensures the proximitor operates under realistic conditions during testing.
  3. Digital Display: A dual-mode digital voltmeter displays gap voltage in Volts (DC) or linear units (mils/mm), depending on the proximitor calibration. The display has ±0.5% reading accuracy and updates every 0.5 seconds.
  4. Proximitor Connections: The unit has spring-loaded terminal strips for connecting the proximitor’s +24V DC, Signal, and Ground outputs. These connect to the fixture’s matching circuits and display input.
  5. Signal Simulation: The test fixture simulates probe movement by adjusting a variable resistor that changes the impedance presented to the proximitor. This allows testing of the proximitor’s output voltage as the “gap” changes.
BENTLY 172103-01

BENTLY 172103-01

Field Service Pitfalls: What Rookies Get Wrong

Using 3300 XL Proximitors with Default ScalingRookies plug a 3300 XL 11mm proximitor (100mV/mil) into the fixture and assume the display reads mils automatically. The fixture’s default scale is for 3300 8mm (200mV/mil), so readings show half the expected gap. When the “probe” is at 50 mils, the display shows 25 mils instead.
  • Field Rule: Change the fixture’s scaling setting to match the proximitor sensitivity. For 100mV/mil units, press the “Scale” button twice. Verify with a known-good proximitor before testing suspect units.
Overloading the Fixture with 7200 Series ProximitorsYoung techs test 7200 Series 14mm proximitors using the standard 3300 series test setting. The fixture’s power supply can’t handle the 15mA current draw of 7200 units, causing voltage sag and incorrect gap readings.
  • Quick Fix: Switch the fixture to “7200 Series” mode using the toggle switch on the side panel. This provides a higher current capacity and impedance matching for 7200 units.
Testing Proximitors without Proper Warm-UpNew engineers power on the test fixture, plug in the proximitor, and take measurements immediately. The unit needs 20-30 minutes to warm up, especially in cold environments. Readings drift by ±0.5V during the first 15 minutes of operation.
  • Field Rule: Power on the fixture and proximitor, then let it stabilize for 20 minutes before taking measurements. Write down readings at 5-minute intervals to verify stability. If drift persists, the proximitor likely has internal component issues.
Loose Connections Causing Intermittent ReadingsYoung techs attach proximitor wires loosely to the terminal strips. The display flickers or shows incorrect values when vibration occurs (e.g., someone walks past the workbench). This can be mistaken for proximitor instability instead of poor connections.
  • Field Rule: Secure wires tightly using the spring-loaded clamps. Verify continuity with a multimeter before closing the fixture. If the unit vibrates during field testing, check connections again before declaring the proximitor faulty.

Commercial Availability & Pricing Note

Please note: The listed price is for reference only and is not binding. Final pricing and terms are subject to negotiation based on current market conditions and availability.