Neoteck Digital Turntable Stylus Force Gauge (NTK018-US) Instruction Manual

Introduction

The Neoteck Digital Turntable Stylus Force Gauge is designed for precise measurement of turntable stylus tracking force. Accurate stylus force is crucial for optimal playback, minimizing record wear, and extending cartridge life. This device offers high precision with a measurement range of 0.01g to 5.00g, featuring a clear blue LCD backlight for easy reading.

Key Features:

• High precision measurement (0.01g to 5.00g)
• Blue LCD backlight for clear visibility
• Non-magnetic design, suitable for MM/MC/MI and Piezoelectric Acoustical Pickups
• Auto shut-off function to conserve battery life
• Compact and portable design with protective leather case

Package Contents

Verify that all items are present in your package:

• 1 x Neoteck Digital Turntable Stylus Force Gauge
• 1 x 5g Calibration Weight
• 3 x LR44 1.5V Lithium Cell Batteries (pre-installed or included separately)
• 1 x Leather Protective Case
• 1 x User Manual

Image: Contents of the Neoteck Digital Turntable Stylus Force Gauge package.

Setup

1. Battery Installation

If batteries are not pre-installed, open the battery compartment on the underside of the gauge. Insert the three LR44 1.5V Lithium Cell batteries, ensuring correct polarity. Close the compartment securely.

2. Power On/Off

Press the Power button to turn the device on. The LCD display will illuminate. To turn off the device, press and hold the Power button for a few seconds, or it will automatically shut off after a period of inactivity (default is 60 seconds, adjustable).

3. Zero Setting (Tare Function)

Before each measurement, ensure the gauge is placed on a stable, level surface (e.g., your turntable platter) and press the T (Tare) button. The display should show "0.00g". This calibrates the scale to disregard the weight of the platter mat or any other items on the platter.

4. Unit Conversion

Press the M (Mode) button to cycle through different measurement units (grams, ounces, etc.). For stylus force measurement, ensure the unit is set to grams (g).

Operating Instructions

Measuring Stylus Tracking Force:

1. Place the stylus force gauge on the turntable platter, ideally on the record mat, ensuring it is level.
2. Power on the gauge and press the T (Tare) button to zero the display.
3. Carefully lower the turntable's tonearm so that the stylus rests gently on the center of the weighing platform (the small circular area) of the gauge.
4. Read the displayed value in grams (g). This is your current stylus tracking force.
5. Adjust your turntable's counterweight or tracking force mechanism as needed to achieve the recommended tracking force for your cartridge. Refer to your cartridge manufacturer's specifications for the optimal range.
6. Once the desired force is achieved, carefully lift the tonearm from the gauge.

Image: A turntable stylus being measured by the Neoteck Digital Stylus Force Gauge.

Calibration

The stylus force gauge comes pre-calibrated. However, if you suspect inaccuracy or wish to verify its calibration, follow these steps:

1. Remove the protective cover from the weighing platform.
2. Turn on the gauge and wait for the display to show "0.00g".
3. Press and hold the M (Mode) button for 3 seconds until "CAL" is displayed. Release the button.
4. The display will then flash "5.00g".
5. Carefully place the included 5g calibration weight onto the center of the weighing platform.
6. Wait for the display to show "PASS". This indicates successful calibration. If "ERR" is displayed, the calibration failed; turn off the device and repeat the process.
7. Remove the calibration weight. The gauge is now calibrated and ready for use.

Image: Neoteck Stylus Force Gauge with the 5g calibration weight in place.

Maintenance

• Keep the device clean and dry. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the surface.
• Avoid exposing the device to extreme temperatures, humidity, or direct sunlight.
• Store the gauge in its protective leather case when not in use to prevent damage.
• Replace batteries when the display becomes dim or the device fails to power on.

Troubleshooting

If the device is not functioning as expected, consider the following:

• No Display/Dim Display: Check or replace the LR44 batteries. Ensure they are inserted with correct polarity.
• Inaccurate Readings: Ensure the device is on a stable, level surface. Perform the zero-setting (Tare) function before each measurement. Re-calibrate the device using the 5g weight. Avoid placing items weighing more than 5g on the scale.
• "ERR" during Calibration: Repeat the calibration process carefully. Ensure the 5g weight is placed correctly and the device is stable.

Specifications

Warranty

This Neoteck product comes with an 18-month warranty. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

Support

For further assistance or inquiries, please visit the official Neoteck store on Amazon: Neoteck Store.