1. Introduction
The CERTEON TA500 series digital tachometers are versatile instruments designed for precise measurement of rotational speed (RPM), linear speed, and length. Available in various models offering non-contact, contact, or dual-mode measurement capabilities, these devices are essential tools for industrial maintenance, quality control, and research applications. This manual provides detailed instructions for safe and effective use of your tachometer.
2. Safety Information
Please read and understand all safety instructions before operating the device. Failure to follow these instructions may result in injury or damage to the instrument.
- Do not point the laser beam directly at eyes or reflective surfaces.
- Ensure the device is powered off when not in use or when changing batteries.
- Do not attempt to disassemble or modify the instrument.
- Keep the device away from water, dust, and extreme temperatures.
- Use only the specified battery type.
3. Package Contents
Verify that all items are present in your package. Contents may vary slightly depending on the specific model purchased.
- Digital Tachometer (TA500A, TA500B, TA500C, TA503A, TA503B, or TA503C)
- User Manual
- Reflective Tape (2 pieces, for non-contact models)
- Measuring Accessories (for contact models: TA500B, TA500C, TA503B, TA503C)
- USB Cable (for TA503C only)
4. Product Overview
Familiarize yourself with the components and controls of your tachometer.
- LCD Screen: Displays measurement readings, units, and status indicators.
- Backlight Button: Activates/deactivates the screen backlight.
- UNIT Button: Switches between measurement units (RPM, m/min, ft/min, m). (Note: Unit switch not available on TA500A)
- TEST Button: Initiates measurement.
- MAX/MIN Button: Toggles between maximum, minimum, and current values.
- HOLD Button: Freezes the current display reading.
- Power Button: Turns the device On/Off.
5. Setup
5.1. Battery Installation
The tachometer requires batteries for operation. Ensure correct polarity when inserting.
- TA500A, TA500B, TA500C: Use 2 × 1.5V AAA batteries.
- TA503A, TA503B, TA503C: Use 3 × 1.5V AA (RO3/LRO3) batteries. These models also support 5V power via a USB micro interface.
5.2. Reflective Tape Application (for Non-Contact Measurement)
For non-contact RPM measurements, reflective tape must be applied to the rotating object.
- Cut a piece of reflective tape (greater than 1cm).
- Stick the reflective tape onto the shaft or surface of the object to be measured.
- Ensure the measured shaft diameter is greater than 5cm for optimal results.
6. Operating Instructions
6.1. Power On/Off
Press the Power button (①) to turn the device on or off.
6.2. Mode and Unit Selection
- Unit Switch: Press the UNIT button to cycle through available measurement units (RPM, m/min, ft/min, m). Note that the TA500A model does not have a unit switch.
- Measurement Method Selection (Dual-mode models TA500C, TA503C): Press the UNIT key to select the desired mode (e.g., RPM for non-contact, or contact measurement mode). The corresponding symbol on the display will flash.
6.3. Non-Contact Measurement (Laser)
- Ensure reflective tape is applied to the target object.
- Select the appropriate unit (e.g., RPM).
- Press the TEST button to activate the infrared laser beam.
- Aim the laser point at the reflective strip on the rotating object.
- Keep the distance between the tachometer and the object within 50mm to 500mm.
- The RPM reading will be displayed on the screen.
6.4. Contact Measurement
(Applicable to TA500B, TA500C, TA503B, TA503C models)
- Attach the appropriate contact measuring accessory (e.g., cone or wheel) to the tachometer's shaft.
- Select the desired unit (RPM, m/min, ft/min, or m).
- Press the TEST button.
- Gently press the contact accessory against the center of the rotating object or surface.
- The measurement reading will be displayed.
6.5. Data Hold, Max/Min Functions
- Data Hold: Press the HOLD button to freeze the current reading on the display. Press again to release.
- Max/Min Value: Press the MAX/MIN button to cycle through the maximum, minimum, and current measured values.
6.6. Backlight
Press the backlight button (often combined with another function or a dedicated button, refer to your specific model's panel instruction) to turn the screen backlight on or off for improved visibility in low-light conditions.
6.7. Auto Power Off
The device features an automatic power-off function after 15 minutes of inactivity to conserve battery life. This feature can typically be disabled if continuous operation is required (refer to specific model instructions for details).
6.8. Alarm Function (TA503A, TA503B, TA503C only)
These models include sound and light alarms that activate when measured values exceed preset upper or lower limits. Refer to the full manual for setting alarm thresholds.
6.9. USB Communication (TA503C only)
The TA503C model supports USB communication for data transfer to a PC. Use the dedicated software to export measurement data to Excel spreadsheets and view real-time data curves for analysis.
7. Specifications
Detailed technical specifications for the TA500 series tachometers:
| Parameter | TA500A | TA500B | TA500C | TA503A | TA503B | TA503C |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Measurement Method | Non-contact | Contact | Contact + Non-contact | Non-contact | Contact | Contact + Non-contact |
| RPM Range | 3~99999 RPM | 3~19999 RPM | Laser: 3-99999 RPM Contact: 0-19999 RPM | 3-99999 RPM | 3-19999 RPM | Laser: 3-99999 RPM Contact: 3-19999 RPM |
| Linear Speed Range | – | 0-1999.9 m/min 0-9999.9 ft/min | Same as TA500B | – | Same as TA500B | Same as TA500B |
| Length Measurement | – | 0-999999 m | Same as TA500B | – | Same as TA500B | Same as TA500B |
| Accuracy | ±(0.05%+1 digit) | ±(0.1%FS+1 RPM) ±(0.1%FS+0.2 m/min) ±(0.1%FS+0.6 ft/min) | Laser: ±(0.05%FS+1 RPM) Contact: ±(0.1%FS+1 RPM) | ±(0.05%FS+1 RPM) | Same as TA500B | Same as TA500C |
| Display | 6-digit LCD | 6-digit LCD | 6-digit LCD | 5-digit LCD | 5-digit LCD | 5-digit LCD |
| Sampling Time | 0.8s (≥60 RPM) | 0.8s (≥60 RPM) | 0.8s (≥60 RPM) | 0.8s (≥60 RPM) | 0.8s (≥60 RPM) | 0.8s (≥60 RPM) |
| Data Storage | – | – | – | 2000 records | 2000 records | 2000 records |
| Alarm Function | – | – | – | Sound + Light | Sound + Light | Sound + Light |
| USB Communication | – | – | – | – | – | Yes (TA503C only) |
| Effective Measuring Distance | 50mm ~ 500mm | N/A | 50mm ~ 500mm (Non-contact) | 50mm ~ 500mm | N/A | 50mm ~ 500mm (Non-contact) |
| Auto Power Off | 15mins (can be disabled) | 15mins (can be disabled) | 15mins (can be disabled) | 15mins (can be disabled) | 15mins (can be disabled) | 15mins (can be disabled) |
| Working Environment | -10 ~ 50°C, Max 80%RH, altitude < 2000m | Same as TA500A | Same as TA500A | Same as TA500A | Same as TA500A | Same as TA500A |
| Storage Environment | -10 ~ 50°C, Max 70%RH (battery removed) | Same as TA500A | Same as TA500A | Same as TA500A | Same as TA500A | Same as TA500A |
| Product Size | 130x59x29mm | 146x59x29mm | 146x59x29mm | 130x59x29mm | 146x59x29mm | 146x59x29mm |
| Screen Size | 34x31mm | 34x31mm | 34x31mm | 34x31mm | 34x31mm | 34x31mm |
| Weight | Approx. 110g | Approx. 117g (battery not included) | Approx. 120g | Approx. 110g | Approx. 117g (battery not included) | Approx. 120g |
| Power | 2 x 1.5V AAA (R03/LR03) | 2 x 1.5V AAA (R03/LR03) | 2 x 1.5V AAA (R03/LR03) | 3 x 1.5V AA (R03/LR03) or 5V USB | 3 x 1.5V AA (R03/LR03) or 5V USB | 3 x 1.5V AA (R03/LR03) or 5V USB |
8. Maintenance
- Cleaning: Wipe the device with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
- Storage: When not in use for extended periods, remove the batteries to prevent leakage. Store the device in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- Battery Replacement: Replace batteries when the low battery indicator appears on the display to ensure accurate readings.
9. Troubleshooting
- No Display/Device Not Turning On: Check battery installation and ensure batteries are not depleted. Replace if necessary.
- Inaccurate Readings (Non-Contact): Ensure the reflective tape is clean, securely attached, and the laser is aimed correctly at the tape. Verify the measuring distance is within the specified range (50mm-500mm).
- Inaccurate Readings (Contact): Ensure the contact accessory is properly attached and making firm, consistent contact with the rotating object.
- Display Error: If an error code appears, try restarting the device. If the error persists, contact support.
10. User Tips
- For non-contact measurements, ensure the reflective tape is applied smoothly and covers a sufficient area for the laser to detect.
- When measuring linear speed or length with contact models, ensure the measuring wheel is perpendicular to the surface for best accuracy.
- The TA500 series is suitable for a wide range of applications, including measuring RPM of electric motors, fans, and even components like ignition coils, provided the rotational speed falls within the device's specified range.
- Utilize the Max/Min hold function to capture peak and lowest speeds during dynamic operations.
11. Warranty and Support
For technical assistance, warranty claims, or bulk order inquiries, please contact CERTEON customer support:
- WhatsApp: +86-19542723588
- Email: celiachen008@gmail.com
SHANGHAI CHIKONG AUTOMATION INSTRUMENT CO., LTD
