Power-off Test for Electronic Circuit Boards


Huntron® Tracker® 2800S

The Huntron Tracker 2800 with Cable Interface Capabilities

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Tracker Model 2800s
Huntron Tracker 2800S (click image to enlarge)

The Huntron Tracker 2800S is designed to complement conventional test instruments in the debug and troubleshooting process. Using the proven power-off test method known as Analog Signature Analysis it eliminates the risk of further circuit damage, which often occurs when power is applied. The Huntron Tracker 2800S is suited for todays varied signal circuit cards where Analog and Digital are mixed together.

The Tracker 2800S features variable range parameters resulting in over 100 combinations of voltage, source resistance and frequency. The 2800S is a great off-line support tool for the automated Huntron Access Prober diagnostic systems.
The Tracker works by applying a current-limited AC signal across two points of a component. The current flow causes a vertical signature deflection, while the applied voltage causes a horizontal deflection. Together they form a unique V/I signature that represents the overall health of the device under test. Analyzing the signature can quickly determine whether the component is good, bad, or marginal.

Cable based Scanning

The Tracker 2800S features two 40 pin IDC connectors (one per channel) where custom cable interfaces can be used to quickly scan PCB connectors as a type of "first pass" test. If signature differences are detected then you can trace the connector pin to the component level saving you troubleshooting time.
You can also use IC clips and cables to easily scan standard ICs and select SOICs. Clips are readily available from companies such as Digi-Key, Pomona Electronics and Warwick Test Supplies (see the FAQ below for more details).

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Tracker 2800S Features

Tracker Specification Tracker 2800S  image
Part Numbers 99-0402; 99-0423 with Workstation software
Number of Voltages plus values 6 voltages: 200mV, 3V, 5V, 10V, 15V, 20V
Number of Resistances plus values 9 resistances: 10Ω, 50Ω, 100Ω, 500Ω, 1kΩ, 5kΩ, 10kΩ, 50kΩ and 100kΩ
Number of Frequencies plus values 6 frequencies: 20Hz, 50Hz, 60Hz, 200Hz, 500Hz and 2kHz
Range Selection Manual or use Auto Scan; Optional Software control
Front Panel Connections Banana jacks for A/B Test channels and Common; A and B 40 pin IDC connectors for cable based scanning (i.e. interface to PCB connectors)
DC Voltage Source for testing gated devices Variable voltage from 0 to 10VDC; 200mA max.

Accessories

Included Accessory Part Number Buy Now from Shop Huntron
MP20 Microprobes Part number 98-0249 Buy Now
2 Common leads Part number 98-0043 Buy Now
Shrouded test lead (blue) Part number 98-0284 Buy Now
Power cord Part number 98-0015 -
USB Cable (Included only when purchased with Workstation Software) Part number 98-0683 -
Huntron Workstation software (if purchased) Part number 06-5228 -
Optional Accessory Part Number Buy Now from Shop Huntron
Footswitch  Image Part number 98-0315 Buy Now
Travel Case for Tracker 2800S  Image Part number 98-0524 Buy Now
Huntron ASA Training Course  Image Part number 98-0515 Buy Now
ASA Training Accessory Kit  Image Part number 98-0678 Buy Now

Tracker 2800S FAQ

Q: What are the primary differences between the Tracker 2800 and the 2800S?
2800S with clips Answer: The Tracker 2800 and the 2800S are identical in function except the 2800S has a built-in scanner function that allows you to connect ribbon cables to two 40 pin IDC-style connectors on the front panel. Easily constructed custom cables can be interfaced to connectors on a PCB or use IC clips (not included) to test ICs on a circuit board (see image). The scanning function allows you to step through the pins on a device much faster than probing by hand.

Q: Can the Tracker 2800S be used with the Workstation software?
Answer: Yes. The Tracker 2800S can be used with the Huntron Workstation software. The Tracker connects to the PC through a USB port on the back panel. The software is optional and needs to be purchased in addition to the Tracker.
The Workstation software lets you capture and store Tracker signatures on a circuit board so they can be used for comparison when troubleshooting bad boards. Go to the Workstation software web page for more information.

Q: What are the primary differences between the Tracker 2800S and the Tracker 3200S?
Answer: The Tracker 2800S and the Tracker 3200S are very similar in overall function but their purposes are different.
The Tracker 3200S is designed to be connected to optional automation hardware such as Access Probers.
The Tracker 3200S includes the Workstation software where it is optional with the Tracker 2800S.
The Tracker 3200S has two 64 pin front panel scanning connectors with selectable common pins used with custom cables or DIP clips. The Tracker 2800S has two 40 pin connectors and common is connected using the front panel COM banana jack.
The Tracker 2800S has a scaled down selection of ranges since front panel push buttons are used for setting range combinations.
The Tracker 3200S has the full compliment of ranges available with Huntron Workstation.

Q: Where can I find IC clips and cables for the 2800S scanner?
Answer: IC clips that connect through ribbon cables to the scanner connectors on the Tracker 2800S front panel are readily available from companies such as Digi-Key, Pomona Electronics and Warwick Test Supplies. Clips and cables come in different pin counts and spacing with the most common being 0.1" (2.54mm) that fit standard through-hole ICs. SOIC (small outline) clips are also available for clipping onto 50mil lead spaced surface mounted ICs.
To make your own cables you will want the 40 pin IDC ribbon cable connectors that fit the scanner connections. The manufacturer part numbers are 1658620-9 (connector socket) and 499252-1 (connector strain relief). These parts are also available directly from TE Connectivity (search using the listed part numbers).
We have a detailed drawing showing how you can construct your own DIP clip cable using readily available parts: Download DIP clip cable construction drawing

Q: Are custom interface cables for the 2800S scanner connections easy to make?
Answer: The Tracker 2800S uses a standard 40 pin IDC connector on the front panel so custom cables are easy to construct. You will need a 40 pin IDC socket (listed above) with 0.1' spacing, ribbon cable with no more than 40 conductors, the connector that mates to the PCB jack or plug being tested and the tools to assemble the custom cable.

Q: Can the Tracker 2800S be used with an Access Prober?
Answer: No. The Tracker 2800S can be used with the Huntron Workstation software but otherwise is a stand alone instrument.
The Access Probers can be connected to the Tracker 3200S.

Q: My Tracker 2800S does not have a USB port. Can it be upgraded?
Answer: Possibly. Contact Huntron directly to discuss upgrade options.

Q: I love my Huntron Microprobes. Can I get them directly from Huntron?
Answer: Yes. The part numbers to use for ordering Huntron MP10 or M20 Microprobes are 98-0078 (MP10 standard banana jack) and 98-0249 (MP20 shrouded banana jack). Huntron Microprobes can be purchased through Shop Huntron.