Chadwick Helmuth Vibrex 2000 Plus Operation User S Manual 180

User Guide No.
13841-6
August 1, 2002
VibrexTM 2000
and
Vibrex 2000 Plus
User Guide
Digital Dynamic Balancer/Analyzer

Systems
Chadwick-Helmuth
Company, Inc.
Copyright Notice
Copyright © 2000, 2001, 2002 by Chadwick-Helmuth Company, Inc.
All Rights Reserved
Fifth Edition, April 2003
Printed in the U.S.A.
This User Guide is supplied to the User under license, subject to change
without notice and/or recall by Chadwick-Helmuth Company, Inc., at any
time. The User Guide at all times remains the property of Chadwick-
Helmuth Company, Inc. The information contained in this User Guide is
considered confidential. No part of this User Guide is to be copied or
reproduced or transmitted in any form whatever (including orally or by
electronic transmission), nor is any information in this User Guide to be
disclosed in any form whatever (including orally or by electronic
transmission) to anyone other than an authorized representative of the
User's employer who also shall agree not to disclose same, without
express prior written consent of Chadwick-Helmuth Company, Inc.
Trademarks
Vibrex is a trademark of the Chadwick-Helmuth Company, Inc.
Excel, MS-DOS, Windows, Windows NT, and Windows 95 are
trademarks of the Microsoft Corporation.
IBM, IBM-PC, and Lotus 1-2-3 are trademarks of the IBM Corporation.
Chadwick-Helmuth Company, Inc.

4601 N. Arden Drive
El Monte, CA 91731
(626) 575-6161
Fax: (626) 350-4236
E-mail: Chadwick@chadwick-helmuth.com
ii Chadwick-Helmuth Company, Inc.

Contents
Quick Reference Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ix
Chapter 1. Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
1.1 About This User Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
1.1.1 Organization. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
1.1.2 Notice Formats. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
1.1.3 Document Conventions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
1.1.4 Reference Documentation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
1.2 Product Support. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
1.2.1 Fax Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
1.2.2 Internet Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Chapter 2. System Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

2.1 Vibrex Systems: Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
2.2 Product Description. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
2.2.1 Vibrex 2000 System Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
2.2.1.1 System Operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
2.2.1.2 System Benefits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
2.2.1.3 Self-Test Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
2.2.2 Vibrex 2000 Plus Enhancements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
2.3 System Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
2.3.1 Vibrex 2000 Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
2.3.2 Vibrex 2000 Plus Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Chapter 3. Getting Started . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

3.1 Getting Started: Introduction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
3.2 Basic Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
Vibrex 2000 and Vibrex 2000 Plus User Guide iii

Contents
3.2.1 Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
3.2.1.1 Adjusting Screen Contrast. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
3.2.1.2 Screen Operations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
3.2.1.3 Self-Test Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
3.2.2 Keypad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
3.2.2.1 Alpha-Numeric Keys. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
3.2.2.2 Dedicated Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
3.2.2.3 Context Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
3.2.3 Channel Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
3.3 Printing Data. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
3.3.1 Direct Serial Printing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
3.3.1.1 Basic Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
3.3.1.2 Connecting the Printer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
3.3.2 Printing With a PC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
3.3.2.1 Downloading Data. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
3.3.3 Reading FFT Data. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
3.3.4 Using the PRINT Key. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
3.3.4.1 Global Printing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
3.3.4.2 Printing With REVIEW and PRINT Keys . . . . . . . 33
Chapter 4. Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
4.1 Installation: Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
4.2 Vibrex 2000 Basic Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
4.2.1 V2K Propeller Balance Kits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
4.2.1.1 V2K Single-Engine Kits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
4.2.1.2 V2K Twin-Engine Kits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
4.2.2 V2K Rotor Track & Balance Kits. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
4.2.3 V2K Helicopter and Fixed Wing Kit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
4.3 Vibrex 2000 Plus Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
4.3.1 V2K Plus Propeller Balance Kits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
4.3.1.1 V2K Plus Single-Engine Kit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
4.3.1.2 V2K Plus Twin-Engine Kit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
4.3.2 V2K Plus Rotor Track & Balance Kit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
4.3.3 V2K Plus Helicopter & Fixed Wing Kit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
4.3.4 Optional Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
4.3.5 Carrying Case . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
iv Chadwick-Helmuth Company, Inc.

Contents
4.4 General Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

4.4.1 Velocimeters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
4.4.2 Photocell System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
4.4.2.1 Retro-Reflective Target . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
4.4.2.2 General Photocell Use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
4.4.2.3 Repair of Photocell Wiring. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
4.4.2.4 Photocell Placement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
4.4.2.5 Target Positioning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
4.4.3 Magnetic Pickup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
4.5 Sample Installations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
4.5.1 Lycoming O/IO-320/360 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
4.5.2 Lycoming O/IO-540 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
4.5.3 Continental O/IO-470/520/550 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
4.5.4 P&W R-985/2800 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
4.5.5 Flat Opposed General Rules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
4.5.6 Radial Engine General Rules. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
4.5.7 Turbine Engines. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
4.5.8 Geared Reciprocating Engines. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
Chapter 5. General Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

5.1 Operation: Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61
5.2 Beginning Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
5.2.1 Powering Up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
5.2.2 Main Menu Screen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
5.3 Basics of Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
5.4 Propeller Balancing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
5.4.1 Propeller Balance Setup. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
5.4.1.1 Entering Aircraft IDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
5.4.1.2 Selecting Channels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
5.4.1.3 Entering Horsepower . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
5.4.1.4 Setting Sensitivity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
5.4.1.5 Multiple Propeller Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
5.4.2 Acquiring Balance Readings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
5.4.2.1 Annotating the Reading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
5.4.2.2 Balance Quality Indicator. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
Vibrex 2000 and Vibrex 2000 Plus User Guide v

Contents
5.4.3 Obtaining Balance Solutions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81

5.4.3.1 Application Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81
5.4.3.2 Using the Propeller Protractor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 82
5.4.3.3 Changing Performed Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84
5.4.4 Finishing Propeller Balance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84
5.4.4.1 If Unable To Use Weight Azimuth . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
5.4.5 Reviewing Balance Histories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86
5.4.5.1 Reviewing Propeller Balance Measurements . . . . . 87
5.4.5.2 Reviewing Other Balance Measurements . . . . . . . . 88
5.4.5.3 Reviewing Spectrum Peak Measurements . . . . . . . 89
5.4.5.4 Reviewing Spectrum Order Analysis . . . . . . . . . . . 89
5.4.5.5 Clearing Runs, Measurements, and Lists . . . . . . . . 89
5.5 Helicopter Rotor Balancing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90
5.5.1 Main Rotor Track . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92
5.5.2 Main Rotor Balance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94
5.5.3 Using the Rotor Protractor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
5.5.3.1 Counter-Clockwise Rotor Correction . . . . . . . . . . 100
5.5.3.2 Clockwise Rotor Correction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104
5.5.4 Tail Rotor Balance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104
5.5.4.1 Clockwise Rotors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105
5.5.4.2 Counter-Clockwise Rotors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105
5.5.5 Tail Rotor Track . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106
5.6 Spectrum Analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109
5.6.1 Spectrum Analysis Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109
5.6.1.1 Ranging Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111
5.6.1.2 Annotating Spectra . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111
5.6.2 Collecting Spectral Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111
5.6.3 Order Analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112
5.6.4 Spectrum Viewer Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114
5.6.4.1 After Taking Measurements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114
5.6.4.2 Displaying Cursor Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116
Chapter 6. Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117

6.1 Maintenance: Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117
6.2 Theory of Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118
6.2.1 Digital Subsystem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118
vi Chadwick-Helmuth Company, Inc.

Contents
6.2.2 Display Subsystem. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119

6.2.3 Analog Subsystem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119
6.2.3.1 Velocity Signal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119
6.2.3.2 Azimuth Signal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120
6.2.4 Power Subsystem . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121
6.2.4.1 Battery Power. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121
6.2.4.2 On-Off Logic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121
6.2.4.3 Power Supplies. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 121
6.2.4.4 Short-circuit Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122
6.3 Routine Servicing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122
6.3.1 Batteries and Replacement. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123
6.3.1.1 Battery Types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123
6.3.1.2 Battery Usage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123
6.3.1.3 Battery Insertion Diagram . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124
6.3.1.4 Removal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 124
6.3.1.5 Reinstallation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125
6.3.1.6 Setting Battery Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126
6.3.2 EPROM Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126
6.3.2.1 Determining EPROM Versions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 126
6.3.2.2 Getting Started . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127
6.3.2.3 Replacement Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 127
6.3.3 Panel Retention Screws . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129
6.3.4 Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 129
6.3.5 Testing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 130
6.3.5.1 System Testing Using Model 11 Calibrator. . . . . 130
6.3.5.2 Instrument Test Procedures for the Vibrex 2000 and
Vibrex 2000 Plus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132
6.3.5.3 Approach: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132
6.3.5.4 Procedure:. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 133
6.3.5.5 For The Vibrex 2000 (Basic) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 134
6.3.5.6 For The Vibrex 2000 Plus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135
6.3.6 Clearing Memory Contents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136
6.3.6.1 Vibrex 2000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136
6.3.7 Complete Unit Disassembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 137
6.3.7.1 Parts List. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142
6.3.7.2 Disassembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 143
6.3.7.3 Assembly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 144
Vibrex 2000 and Vibrex 2000 Plus User Guide vii

Quick Reference Guide
This guide provides a quick-start reference for the Vibrex 2000 and
Vibrex 2000 Plus Digital Dynamic Balancer systems. The term Vibrex unit
refers to both systems.
Propeller Balance
Propeller Balance, Run No. 1
• Install the photocell, velocimeter(s), and reflective tape on the propeller
to be balanced.
• Turn on the Vibrex unit.
• Select Propeller Balance from the Main Menu screen.
• Ensure the propeller input is plugged into channel No. 1 and A and any
other propeller or velocimeter in the other channel. Press START.
• Select the engine horsepower, then press START.
• Operate the propeller at the desired balance RPM. When the RPM is
steady, press START.
• When the Vibrex unit has finished collecting data, press START.
• If the reading is not acceptable (greater than 0.2 IPS), press
START.
• Observe displayed note then press START.
• Implement the solution and power off the Vibrex unit.
Propeller Balance, After Run No. 1

• Turn on the Vibrex unit.
• Select Propeller Balance from the Main Menu screen.
• Vibrex 2000 Plus Only - Select Continue Current Session.
• Edit the solution if it is different from the solution done earlier then
press START.
Vibrex 2000 and Vibrex 2000 Plus User Guide ix

• Operate the propeller at the same RPM as done in Run No. 1. When
the RPM is steady, press START.
• When the Vibrex unit has finished collecting data, press START.
• Continue making adjustments until the propeller yields the desired
IPS level, then press DONE from the Prop Balance Quality screen.
Spectrum Analysis
• Install the velocimeter in the desired location for measurement.
• Power up the Vibrex unit.
• Press the SPECTRUM ANALYSIS context key.
• Select the velocimeter channel and azimuth sensor channel (if used).
• Select the RPM range of interest.
• Operate the aircraft at the desired condition for taking measurements,
then press START.
• Press START to save.
Balance Reading
• Install the velocimeters and photocell, as desired, for the aircraft to be
balanced.
• Press the TRACK & BALANCE context key from the Main Menu
screen.
• Operate the aircraft in the desired condition.
• Press the desired channel to take measurement input.
• Press START to save.
Strobex Track
• Install the Photocell (or magnetic pickup), Strobex, and retro-
reflective targets to be viewed.
• Press the TRACK & BALANCE context key from the Main Menu
screen.
• Operate the aircraft in the desired condition.
x Chadwick-Helmuth Company, Inc.

• Press the STROBEX TRACK context key.

• Enter the number of blades to be tracked and observe the targets.
Printing
• Connect the Vibrex unit to the printer using the appropriate serial
interface cable.
• Power up the Vibrex unit and select PRINT.
• Select the reading or reading set wanted to print then press START or
PRINT.
Vibrex 2000 and Vibrex 2000 Plus User Guide xi

xii Chadwick-Helmuth Company, Inc.

Chapter 1
1. Introduction
This chapter gives a general overview of this user guide and using it with
the Chadwick-Helmuth Vibrex 2000 and Vibrex 2000 Plus Digital
Dynamic Balancer/Analyzer systems. It also gives information on
customer support services. Chapter 1 contains the following sections:
1.1 About This User Guide ............................................................ 1
1.2 Product Support....................................................................... 4
1.1 About This User Guide

This user guide explains how to install, operate, and maintain the
Vibrex 2000 and Vibrex 2000 Plus systems. The text sets out the basic
procedures required to accomplish dynamic balancing with optimum
results, using these systems.
NOTE: If the user wants to get started right away, go to the “Quick
Reference Guide” on page ix, at the beginning of this user guide.
Vibrex 2000 Release - This user guide is written for the following
Vibrex 2000 firmware release:
Version 2.71
Vibrex 2000 Plus Release - This user guide is written for the
following Vibrex 2000 Plus firmware release:
Version 2.71+
NOTE: The user must document all aircraft maintenance actions
according to existing instructions and perform them in accordance
with the appropriate maintenance manual.
Vibrex 2000 and Vibrex 2000 Plus User Guide 1

Chapter 1 - Introduction
The chapters explain basic steps required to accomplish optimum one-

per-revolution smoothing of aircraft rotors and other equipment, if
applicable.
WARNING: Installation of some brackets on some aircraft involves
removing nuts and/or bolts, affecting the safety of flight. Follow the
aircraft maintenance manual if these actions require additional
procedures such as retorquing, safetying, the reuse of nuts,
inspections, or sign-offs.
1.1.1 Organization
This user guide has the following topical organization:
Chapter 1. Introduction - General user guide information and overview.
Chapter 2. System Overview - Basic instructions on how to use the
Vibrex 2000 and a general system description.
Chapter 4. Installation - Equipment list and general system installation
procedures.
Chapter 5. General Operation - Using the Vibrex 2000 to achieve
optimum dynamic balance results.
Chapter 6. Maintenance - Checking out the system, basic repairs, and
solving problems; includes a troubleshooting guide.
1.1.2 Notice Formats

In many places in this user guide, the user may see special notices. Their
headings have the following meanings:
• NOTE: Here is additional useful information pertaining to the
current subject.
• CAUTION: Be careful with this procedure or item because of
possible damage to equipment or loss of data.
• WARNING: Exercise extreme care with this procedure or item
because of possible personal injury.
Special notices appear in the format shown here.
2 Chadwick-Helmuth Company, Inc.

About This User Guide
1.1.3 Document Conventions

This user guide employs the following text and format conventions:
• Text on screen is shown in bold monospaced type. This type
represents text in this guide exactly as it appears on the Vibrex 2000
display screen.
• Vibrex 2000 and Vibrex 2000 Plus key names appear in boldface and
all-caps. Dedicated keys appear in bold, like START, but context keys
appear in bold italic, like DONE.
• Bold italics designate personal computer (PC) keys, for example,
Enter.
• Important topics or terms are in italics. Definition lists show the
defined term first in boldface, at the left-side margin.
• Unnumbered sectional subtopics have the first term at the start of the
paragraph in boldface followed by a hyphen, for example,
Vibrex 2000 Plus - Digital Dynamic Balancer.
• Titles of chapters or sections are in quotation marks, for example,
“Document Conventions,” but the section numbers are not, for
example, see Section 1.1.3 “Document Conventions” on page 3.
1.1.4 Reference Documentation

This user guide utilizes the following reference documentation:
• The Smooth Propeller (Version 2), No. 9511-2
• V2K Download Software User Guide, No. 14984
• V2K Plot Software User Guide, No. 14983-1
• Polar Coordinate Chart, No. 8016
• Photocell System Operation and Maintenance Manual, No. 10473
(covers the Chadwick-Helmuth Photocell but is useful for any type of
photocell installation)
• Model 135M-12 Strobex Operation and Maintenance Manual,
No. 9076
The documentation numbers given in the previous list are Chadwick-
Helmuth part numbers, for ordering purposes.

Chapter 1 - Introduction
1.2 Product Support

In the United States the user may reach a Vibrex 2000 or
Vibrex 2000 Plus technical representative from Chadwick-Helmuth’s
Product Support Department by dialing the number below,
(626) 575-6161
Call this number Monday through Friday between 8:00 a.m. and
4:30 p.m. Pacific Time. If at all possible, fax a copy of a customer support
report in care of Vibrex 2000 and Vibrex 2000 Plus support before
calling.
NOTE: If necessary, check with the Product Support Department
for an update on the latest part and software revisions.
1.2.1 Fax Service

You may send a fax detailing any questions or comments at any time, by
dialing the 24-hr number below,
(626) 350-4236
Address any fax to the Product Support Department.
1.2.2 Internet Service

If you want more information about us, Chadwick-Helmuth has an
Internet site at the following URL:
http://www.chadwick-helmuth.com
We also have an e-mail box. Make sure to send any messages to the
attention of the Product Support Department. Our e-mail address is
Chadwick@chadwick-helmuth.com
For more details on this or any other customer support services, please
contact Chadwick-Helmuth’s Product Support Department.

Chapter 2
2. System Overview
This chapter gives an explanation of the basic system characteristics and
technical specifications of the Vibrex 2000 and Vibrex 2000 Plus Digital
Dynamic Balancer/Analyzer systems. Chapter 2 contains the following
sections:
2.1 Vibrex Systems: Introduction ................................................... 5
2.2 Product Description ................................................................ 6
2.3 System Specifications .............................................................. 10
2.1 Vibrex Systems: Introduction

The Vibrex 2000 and Vibrex 2000 Plus have the following general
features:
• They are portable, easy-to-use digital dynamic balancers. In addition,
they can do quick, efficient vibration analysis, allowing the user to
identify additional sources of vibration.
• The Vibrex 2000 and Vibrex 2000 Plus were developed to meet the
dynamic balance needs of the aviation community.
• Although primarily intended for light aircraft propeller balance, they
perform as well as the world-famous Chadwick-Helmuth
Model 177M and Model 8350 “ring-of-lights” Vibrex products
developed for rotary-wing applications.
• The Vibrex 2000 and Vibrex 2000 Plus are not limited to the aircraft
field. Like their predecessors, these products are usable in a wide
range of uses, including agricultural, forest product-related, marine,
and industrial applications.

Chapter 2 - System Overview
2.2 Product Description

This section gives a general description of the Vibrex 2000 and
Vibrex 2000 Plus systems, including the differences between the two
products.
NOTE: See the “Glossary” on page 161 for definitions of specific
Vibrex 2000 and Vibrex 2000 Plus-related terms that may not be
familiar to the user.
Keep in mind that the Vibrex 2000 Plus system has all the capabilities of
the Vibrex 2000. In addition, it has the added features and benefits listed
under Section 2.2.2 “Vibrex 2000 Plus Enhancements” on page 9.
For more details information on both the Vibrex 2000 and
Vibrex 2000 Plus systems, as well as the exact differences between the
two models, see Section 2.3 “System Specifications” on page 10.
2.2.1 Vibrex 2000 System Overview

The Vibrex 2000 unit is a hand-held, battery-powered vibration analyzer.
It is a vibration analysis and balancing tool that rapidly and accurately
acquires and analyzes aircraft vibration data. It uses that data to calculate
balance solutions and to analyze aircraft vibration levels across a broad
frequency range.
The Vibrex 2000 system provides accurate helicopter vibration readings
for chart calculations on main and tail rotors, shafts, and blowers. As a
spectrum analyzer, they provide the operator with an overview of rotor
and drive-train vibration. The Vibrex unit uses the cables and transducers
(for example, the Chadwick-Helmuth Model 7310 Velocimeter, magnetic
pickups, and photocells) from previous generations of our equipment,
further reducing the cost of ownership.

Product Description
2.2.1.1 System Operations

The Vibrex 2000 and Vibrex 2000 Plus systems allow the user to do the
following operations:
Propeller Balance Operations - Easy-to-understand menus let the user
initiate up to four different balancing jobs at one time. The instrument
can automatically correct for the propeller response to weight
changes, and the user can save this correction for future balancing
operations.
A “first round hit” solution means lower vibration solutions, even on
the first move. Two channels allow the user to measure the propeller
and rear of the engine during balancing. All measurements, solutions,
sensitivities, and annotation are saved in memory and can be
reviewed on the instrument, printed out on the optional portable
thermal printer, or downloaded to a personal computer (PC) through a
standard RS-232 serial cable.
Rotor Track-and-balance Operations - The track-and-balance menus
are designed to simplify taking multiple measurements without
having to change the setup. The user can acquire and save balance
readings, in inches per second (IPS) and clock angles.
The user can also track up to seven helicopter blades, using the
Chadwick-Helmuth Model 135M-12 Strobex Tracker.
Spectrum Analysis - Vibration peaks listed by frequency or order are
available up to 24,000 RPM (600,000 for V2K+). The lists are based
on 400-line fast Fourier transform (FFT) calculations. As with all
measurements, the lists can be saved, reviewed, printed, or transferred
to a PC.
The user can save the complete spectrum and view it with a standard
spreadsheet or with one of Chadwick-Helmuth's ground-based
software packages. Up to twelve orders and associated half-orders
can be listed.

2.2.1.2 System Benefits

The Vibrex 2000 system offers the user the following benefits:
• Reduced aircraft operating costs and down time
• Reduced propeller and rotor vibration that translates into increased
reliability, increased mean time before failure (MTBF) for avionics,
as well as mechanical and aerodynamic structures
• Better ride comfort for pilots and passengers
• Federal Aviation Association (FAA)-approved propeller balance,
when used with Chadwick-Helmuth’s The Smooth Propeller manual
publication
• Balance jobs that are stored in memory and can be archived on a PC
• A 32-bit microprocessor for rapid-balance computations and FFT
calculations
• Use of common rechargeable or disposable D-cell batteries
• Chadwick-Helmuth's legendary worldwide customer support
2.2.1.3 Self-Test Feature

Each time Vibrex 2000 or the Vibrex 2000 Plus unit is powered up, it
checks its memory and characterizes its analog filters to compensate for
aging components, temperature drifts, and so on. The unit then reports the
total amount of time the batteries have been used since installation.
Press the unit’s STATUS key to display checked battery and sensor
voltages, along with the date, time, and firmware version. Using this key,
you may print the fault log for easy troubleshooting. See Section 6.4.1
“Fault Logs” on page 145 for details.
Self-Test Modes - The power-up self test has the following modes:
Comprehensive Test - Performed if the unit has been turned off for more
than 2 hr and takes approximately 20 sec, that is, the unit’s full built-
in test (BIT). Such timing allows this test to be done sufficiently to
ensure that all the unit’s functions are tested at reasonable intervals.
Abbreviated Test - Takes only a few seconds. The unit does this test if it
has been in use during the last 2 hr. The comprehensive test (or BIT)
is unnecessary each time the unit is powered up, so the unit only does
an abbreviated test for short-term power-down/power-up cycles.

Product Description
2.2.2 Vibrex 2000 Plus Enhancements

The Vibrex 2000 Plus model represents a significant performance
increase over the Vibrex 2000 (Part Number 13590-2 and earlier). In
addition to all existing Vibrex 2000 benefits features, and capabilities, the
Vibrex 2000 Plus system offers the following extended capabilities.
• An increase in maximum spectrum frequency from 24,000 RPM to
600,000 RPM (10 kHz)
• A graphic spectrum viewing mode
• An extended balance frequency range from 120 RPM to 30,000 RPM
• Support for running up to four propeller balance jobs in parallel
operation (can suspend one then jump out and start another)
• Four times the memory, allowing more data to be saved (1 Mb)
• The ability to store balance jobs, adjustments, sensitivities, spectra,
and balance measurements in the instrument’s memory and archive
them on a PC
• Storage of firmware in the instrument’s Flash memory, facilitating
software upgrades and enhancements; there is no longer any need to
open the instrument for this purpose

2.3 System Specifications

The tables in this section provide complete lists of the Vibrex 2000 and
Vibrex 2000 Plus systems’ technical specifications.
2.3.1 Vibrex 2000 Specifications

The table, starting below, lists complete technical specifications for the
Vibrex 2000 system.
Characteristic Specifications
Basic Specifications
Data storage capacity 1 Mb
Built-in test (BIT) Memory check and calibration on power
coverage up; user-initiated tests (with STATUS key)
check battery and sensor power
NOTE: Errors are logged to a
printable fault log.
Date and time stamping Yes
Log (data) files - Balance jobs, log book, balance, spectrum,
contents and formats fault log, all in ASCII format
Compatible software Chadwick-Helmuth V2K Download and
(ground based) V2K Plot programs
Basic Performance
Frequency range 0 to 400 Hz
Accuracy ±5%, from 5 Hz to 333 Hz
Acquisition capability 2 vibration and 2 tachometer (azimuth)
Balance Measurements
Phase units Hours and minutes

System Specifications
Characteristic Specifications (Continued)

Phase resolution 2 min or 1°
Phase accuracy ±15°
Balance frequency range 240 to 10,000 RPM
Spectrum Analysis
Analysis ranges 1500, 3000, 6,000, and 12,000 and
(maximum frequencies) 24,000 RPM
Window type Flat top
FFT resolution 400 lines
Signal Conversion (Vibration Inputs)
Channel configuration Sensor type - Model 7310 Velocimeter
options
Coupling Type - ac
High-pass filter 3-pole Chebyshev, -3 dB @ 3 Hz
Analog-to-digital 13-bit
converter type
Spurious free dynamic > 50 dB
range
Input ranges 0 to 380 mV peak (20 IPS)
Input sensitivity 19 mV/IPS peak
Signal Conversion (Magnetic Pickup Inputs)
Input frequency range 100 to 50,000 RPM
RPM accuracy 0.15%
Input voltage range 0.5V to 12.0V peak nominal, diode
protected


Coupling Type - dc
Interface Specifications
Vibration transducer 2-each, Model 7310 Velocimeter
(19 mV/IPS sensitivity)
Magnetic pickup/ 2-each, pulse input, magnetic pickup or
tachometer logic type
PC or printer 1 serial, RS-232, 9600 baud
Accessory power 4-each, D-cell batteries, reverse-polarity,
circuit-protected and fused
Physical Particulars
Dimensions (including Nominal measurements (in inches) are
mounting flanges) • Height - 7.38
• Width - 7.25
• Depth - 1.81
Weight 3.5 lb nominal
Mating connector type D-sub, 9-pin
(PC to printer)
Power requirement 3 to 6.4 Vdc, 250 mA
Battery life (typical) 40 hr
Case material Aluminum alloy


Environmental Conditions
Temperature 0°C to 50°C
Electromagnetic Industrial Electronic Control Equipment
interference (EMI) Class certified to
susceptibility and • Class Standard EN50081-2
radiated emissions • Standard EN50082-2
standards
2.3.2 Vibrex 2000 Plus Specifications

The table, starting below, lists complete technical specifications for the
Vibrex 2000 Plus system.
Characteristic Specifications
Basic Specifications
Data storage capacity 1 Mb
Built-in test (BIT) Memory check and calibration on power
coverage up; user-initiated tests (with STATUS key)
check battery and sensor power
NOTE: Errors are logged to a
printable fault log.
Date and time stamping Yes
Log (data) files - Balance jobs, log book, balance, spectrum,
contents and formats fault log, all in ASCII format
Compatible software Chadwick-Helmuth V2K Download and
(ground based) V2K Plot programs
Basic Performance
Frequency range 0 to 10,000 Hz


Accuracy ±.5dB, from 5 Hz to 500 Hz; ±1dB, from
500 Hz to 10,000 Hz
Acquisition capability 2 vibration and 2 tachometer (azimuth)
Balance Measurements
Phase units Hours and minutes
Phase resolution 2 min or 1°
Phase accuracy ±15°
Balance frequency range 120 to 30,000 RPM
Spectrum Analysis
Analysis ranges 1200, 3000, 6000, 12,000, 30,000, 60,000,
(maximum frequencies) 120,000, 300,000 and 600,000 RPM
Window type Flat top
FFT resolution 400 lines
Signal Conversion (Vibration Inputs)
Channel configuration Sensor type - Model 7310 Velocimeter
options
Coupling Type - ac
High-pass filter 3-pole Chebyshev, -3.0 dB @ 1.5 Hz
Analog-to-digital 13-bit
converter type
Spurious free dynamic > 50 dB
range
Input ranges 0 to 380 mV peak (20 IPS)
Input sensitivity 19 mV/IPS peak


Signal Conversion (Magnetic Pickup Inputs)
Input frequency range 100 to 50,000 RPM
RPM accuracy 0.15%
Input voltage range 0.5V to 12.0V peak nominal, diode
protected
Coupling Type - dc
Interface Specifications
Vibration transducer 2-each, Model 7310 Velocimeter
(19 mV/IPS sensitivity)
Magnetic pickup/ 2-each, pulse input, magnetic pickup or
tachometer logic type
PC or printer 1 serial, RS-232, 9600 baud
Accessory power 4-each, D-cell batteries, reverse-polarity,
circuit-protected and fused
Physical Particulars
Dimensions (including Nominal measurements (in inches) are
mounting flanges) • Height - 7.38
• Width - 7.25
• Depth - 1.81
Weight 3.5 lb nominal
Mating connector type D-sub, 9-pin
(PC to printer)
Power requirement 3 to 6.4 Vdc, 250 mA
Battery life (typical) 40 hr
Case material Aluminum alloy


Environmental Conditions
Temperature 0°C to 50°C
Electromagnetic Industrial Electronic Control Equipment
interference (EMI) Class certified to
susceptibility and • Class Standard EN50081-2
radiated emissions • Standard EN50082-2
standards

Chapter 3
3. Getting Started
This chapter explains the basic features of the Vibrex 2000 and
Vibrex 2000 Plus Digital Dynamic Balancer/Analyzer systems and tells
how to get started out in using them. Chapter 3 contains the following
sections:
3.1 Getting Started: Introduction ..................................................17
3.2 Basic Features ......................................................................... 18
3.3 Printing Data........................................................................... 23
3.1 Getting Started: Introduction

This chapter gives a general explanation of how to get started using the
Vibrex 2000 and Vibrex 2000 Plus systems. In general, the basic and
startup features of both systems are the same. Where there are differences
between the two Vibrex units, they are explained in detail.
Basic features of the Vibrex 2000 and Vibrex 2000 Plus include
• Liquid-crystal display (LCD) with eight text lines
• Keypad (16 dedicated keys and 4 context keys)
• Input channels (vibration and azimuth/frequency)
• Printing feature (explained in a separate section)
See Section 3.2 “Basic Features” on page 18 for a diagram of the front of
the Vibrex unit.

Chapter 3 - Getting Started
3.2 Basic Features

This section explains basic operating features that the Vibrex 2000 and
Vibrex 2000 Plus offer the user.
Diagram - The illustration below shows a picture of the Vibrex 2000
unit. Except for the logo, the Vibrex 2000 Plus is identical. Use this
diagram to locate the operating features explained in this chapter.
CONNECTION INTERFACES
CONTRAST
KEYS
GO BACK
1 2 3 START DISPLAY
ABC DEF GHI
PRINT 4 5 6 REVIEW
JKL MNO PQR
7 8 9
STU VWX YZ :
KEYPAD
+/- 0 ON
OFF
SPACE #%@
CONTEXT KEYS BATTERY

END PLATE
Vibrex Unit’s Front Panel

Basic Features
3.2.1 Display
The Vibrex 2000 and Vibrex 2000 Plus use an LCD screen on the front
panel, for visual output. This screen subdivides into eight lines of text.
CAUTION: In extreme temperatures, the display may turn black
(too hot), or blank (too cold). In hot climates, covering the display
from direct sunlight is generally sufficient to prevent the screen
from becoming unreadable. In cold weather climates, it is advisable
to keep the Vibrex unit in a warm enough place (near or above
freezing if possible) to ensure its continued use.
3.2.1.1 Adjusting Screen Contrast

With the Vibrex unit powered up, use the raised buttons on the
arrowheads to the right of the display to adjust screen contrast for easy
viewing.
The display’s contrast changes with changes in temperature. As the unit
warms, the screen stabilizes at a darker setting than viewed when
powered up initially. Small corrections, using the arrowhead buttons,
restore the screen to a comfortable viewing contrast. The user may use the
contrast keys at any time.
3.2.1.2 Screen Operations

The Vibrex unit’s display has the following operational characteristics:
• Plain brackets ( [ ] ) display to indicate choices for alpha or numeric
(alpha-numeric) entries. The user may edit the information between
the brackets.
• Generally, a cursor blinks inside the brackets, indicating the space is
ready for the appropriate type of data entry.
• Angle brackets (< >) indicate that the user has preprogrammed
choices. Press the adjacent context key to cycle through the available
choices.
• Up (^) or down (v) arrows on the left margin indicate there is more
information that can be displayed, than the eight lines shown. Press
the context key next to the arrowhead to see the remaining
information.

3.2.1.3 Self-Test Screen

The unit automatically performs a built-in test (BIT) every time it powers
up. Important characteristics of this test are
• The self-test does not check the cables or sensors attached to those
cables.
• The Self-test screen displays directly after the user powers up the
unit, telling the user that the BIT is taking place. If there are no
problems, the Main Menu screen displays after a few seconds.
• If the BIT discovers any problems, see Section 6.4 “Troubleshooting”
on page 145 for details on troubleshooting.
3.2.2 Keypad
The Vibrex 2000 and Vibrex 2000 Plus have a simple, easy-to use keypad
on the front panel, for entering data and doing operations.
This keypad has the following general types of keys:
• Alpha-numeric
• Dedicated
• Context
3.2.2.1 Alpha-Numeric Keys

Use the keys in the unit’s alpha-numeric keypad for entering numbers,
letters, and some symbols.
To enter the indicated number (numeral one in the example below), press
the desired key once. To enter a letter, press the desired key several times
until the display cycles to the desired letter.
1
ABC

Basic Features
For example, to enter a number one in the display, press the 1 KEY one
time. To enter a desired letter, using this key, do one of the following
actions:
• For A, press the 1 KEY twice.
• For B, press the 1 KEY three times.
• For C, press the 1 KEY four times.
NOTE: In this user guide, plain BOLD CAPS appear in print to

show a dedicated key on the Vibrex unit. Italic BOLD CAPS
indicate a context key.
Use the same actions with all the alpha-numeric keys. For another
example, the 2 KEY includes the letters D, E, and F. For the number two,
press this key once. For D, press the 2 KEY twice, for E three times, and
so on.
3.2.2.2 Dedicated Keys

The Vibrex 2000 and Vibrex 2000 Plus have several dedicated keys that
perform often-used functions. Find these keys next to the alpha-numeric
keypad.
The following list names the dedicated keys and gives their uses:
ON/OFF The power button see Section 5.2 “Beginning
Operation” on page 62
START Analogous to the Enter (Return) key on a personal
computer (PC). It initiates actions based on prompts
the user sees on the display or accepts changes and
edits already made.
GO BACK Functions like the PC Escape key or Windows
Cancel button. It returns the screen display to the last
screen shown or returns the display to the Main
Menu screen.
CAUTION: In most screens the GO BACK key undoes changes and
edits already made. Pressing this key erases data entered.

REVIEW Reviews data and solutions that were part of a

previous exercise, for example, a propeller balance or
spectrum.
PRINT Offers selections of data in the memory that the user
can print. For details on the printing feature, see
Section 3.3 “Printing Data” on page 23.
SPACE Acts as a multi-functional key. Use it as a space when
entering information, changing signs for numbers,
and entering slashes. The user may also use it to
return directly to the main menu. This function is
available only on inactive screens, that is, screens
with no active revolutions per minute (RPM) or test.
3.2.2.3 Context Keys

There are four unlabeled keys to the left of the display. These are the
context keys. One or more of these keys may be active when there is a
pointer on the display next to the key on the front panel.
These keys perform operations relevant to the screen currently displayed,
for example, data entry, channel selections, or making other choices.
3.2.3 Channel Configuration

The table below shows the Vibrex 2000 and Vibrex 2000 Plus units’
channel configuration choices.
RPM A RPM B
Velocimeter No. 1 1A 1B
Velocimeter No. 2 2A 2B

Printing Data
For example, selecting configuration 1A means the Vibrex unit is using

channels No. 1 and A. The channel names shown in the previous table
represent the following values:
• Numbers refer to the Velocimeter (vibration) transducer channel(s)
the Vibrex unit is using and show values in IPS.
• Letters refer to the photocell or magnetic pickup (azimuth) channel(s)
being used and show values in RPM.
Choosing a Channel Entry - As many times as necessary, press the

context key next to the screen display line that contains the angle
brackets, until the desired channel entry displays.
3.3 Printing Data

The Vibrex 2000 and Vibrex 2000 Plus allow the user to print hard-copy
readouts of collected data or status information. The systems print
through an RS-232 serial port on the connector subpanel. Because of the
large selection of serial printers, it is impossible to address every setup for
every printer. For details, refer to any appropriate PC and/or printer
manual that pertains to the user’s computer system.
3.3.1 Direct Serial Printing

To connect the Vibrex unit to a Seiko Model DPU-414 printer, connect
the nine-pin DBA female cable that terminates against a 9- to 25-pin male
adapter. Use an adapter that has the No. 5 pin of the 9-pin connector
switched to the No. 7 pin of the 25-pin connector.
This switching can occur on the adapter or in the 9- to 9-pin cable or in
the 9- to 25-pin connector. This type of setup works for most other serial
printers as well.

3.3.1.1 Basic Settings

See the following table for a list of the basic settings to use for
downloading data from the Vibrex 2000 or Vibrex 2000 Plus to any
printer and/or serial interface.
Parameter Setting
Baud rate 9600
Number of bits 8
Number of stop bits 1
Parity None
Xon/Xoff Supported
3.3.1.2 Connecting the Printer

Connect a Seiko Model DPU-414 printer to the Vibrex 2000 or
Vibrex 2000 Plus, as follows:
1. Connect the printer cable No. 610-449 to the Vibrex unit and the
printer.
2. Turn the printer ON and press the ONLINE button if the on-line light-
emitting diode (LED) is not illuminated.
3. Select the desired information to be printed in the Vibrex unit and
press PRINT.
NOTE: If the batteries are depleted in the DPU-414, connect the ac
wall adapter (No. 610-463 for 110 Vac or No. 610-463A for 220 Vac)
and operate the printer normally.
Setting DIP Switches - The start-up settings and input method can be
set by the DIP switches (DIP SW). Set the printer’s DIP switches, as
follows:
1. Slide the power switch to OFF.
2. Slide the power switch to ON while pressing the ONLINE button.
Release the ONLINE button after a list of the current settings starts
printing out (see page 26).

Printing Data
3. The printout of the current settings is followed by the prompt:

Continue? : Push ‘On-line SW’
Write? : Push ‘Paper feed SW’
• To change the DIP SW settings, push the ONLINE button, and go
to step 4.
• To leave the DIP SW settings unchanged, push the FEED button,
and go to step 6.
4. Dip SW1 is printed, prompting the input of new settings for switch
No. 1 through 8 of DIP SW-1.
NOTE: Always input either ON or OFF for every setting in order for
switch No. 1 through 8 because the DIP SW set mode cannot be
canceled once it is initiated.
• ON can be set by pushing the ONLINE button once and OFF by
pushing the FEED button once.
• The setting is printed out after the ONLINE or FEED button is
pushed to confirm the new setting.
5. As soon as switch No. 8 is set, the printer once again prompts with
Continue? or Write?, and stops. Repeat step 3 for DIP SW-2
and -3.
NOTE: The on-line lamp lights when the ONLINE button is pressed
and the off-line lamp when the FEED button is pressed to allow
confirmation of the button operation.
6. After the FEED button is pushed, the on-line and off-line lamps
alternately blink, and the new settings are written to memory. When
the printer finishes writing everything to memory, the DIP SW
setting complete message is printed out, and the printer
returns to the on-line mode.
7. As soon as switch No. 8 of DIP SW-3 is set, the printer writes the
settings to memory regardless of which button (ONLINE or FEED) is
pushed. See page 26 for an example of the settings printout.
CAUTION: Never turn the printer off while it is writing the new
settings to memory. Always wait until the DIP SW setting
complete message is printed, then turn the power off.

Dip Switch Setting Printout Example
[DIP SW setting mode]
Dip SW-1
1 (OFF) : Input = Serial
2 (ON : Printing Speed = High
3 (OFF) : Auto Loading = OFF
4 (ON) : Auto LF = ON
5 (OFF) : Setting Command = Disable
6 (OFF) : Printing
7 (ON) : Density
8 (ON) : = 100%
Dip SW-2
1 (ON) : Columns = 40
2 (ON) : User Font Back-up = ON
3 (ON) : Character Select = Normal
4 (ON) : Zero = Normal
5 (ON) : International
6 (ON) : Character
7 (ON) : Set
8 (OFF) : U.S.A.
Dip SW-3
1 (ON) : Data Length = 8 bits
2 (ON) : Parity Setting = No
3 (ON) : Parity Condition = Odd
4 (ON) : Busy Control = H/W Busy
5 (OFF) : Baud
6 (ON) : Rate
7 (ON) : Select
8 (ON) : = 9600 bps
Continue? : Push ‘On-line SW’

Write? : Push ‘Paper feed SW'
DIP SW setting complete!!

Printing Data
3.3.2 Printing With a PC

This section explains how to print in a Windows 95, Windows 98, or
Windows NT environment. Connect the Vibrex 2000 or Vibrex 2000 Plus
to the PC with a nine-pin serial connector, used by most computers.
NOTE: From this point on, the text uses Windows when referring to
all three of these operating systems.
For an illustration of the general printing setup with a PC, see the diagram
below.
3.3.2.1 Downloading Data

To print data from the Vibrex unit, using a PC, the user must first
download that data from the unit to an IBM-compatible PC running
Windows. Do this action by using the V2K Download Software program
that comes with the Vibrex kit.

NOTE: First, make sure you installed the V2K Download Part No.
14129 software on your PC, following the instructions on the floppy
disk.
Download Vibrex 2000 or Vibrex 2000 Plus data, using the V2K
Download Software program, as follows:
1. Connect the Vibrex unit to your PC, using the 9-pin DBA female
connector to a 9-pin DBA female connector. This is called a straight-
through cable connection (see the diagram on page 27).
2. Run the V2K Download software in your PC.
3. Power up the Vibrex unit.
4. Click on the OPEN NEW button in the V2K Download software.
5. Type in the name of the file you wish to contain the data, then click on
OPEN.
6. Click on CAPTURE FROM V2K.
7. At the Vibrex unit, select the data to be stored from the Print or
Review menu.
8. Press PRINT or START.
9. Downloaded data is displayed on screen. Data is now stored in the PC
for later use.
CAUTION: Attempting to download data without the V2K
Download Software program is cumbersome and may result in lost
data. Contact your Chadwick-Helmuth provider for ordering
information for this program, if you do not already have it.
For more details on how to download data to a PC, see the V2K
Download Software User Guide.

Printing Data
The following example shows an annotated sample Vibrex unit printout

on hard copy:
NAME: SPECTRUM
AC: Vibrex 2000
LOG#: 1
LTYP: R RUN EXERCISE
TID: Vibrex 2000
SSRT: 1 DAY/DATE TAKEN
SNAME: Unknown Regm
DATE: 04-09-1997 TIME TAKEN
TIME: 08:08:01
SPC#: 1 ANNOTATION
SDRSC:CSNA 206
VIBRATION CHANNEL
VCH: 1
ACH: 1
FRQH: 333.3333 AZIMUTH CHANNEL
UNITS: IPS
SP: 0.001000 SPECTRUM RANGE IN Hz (Hz X 60 = RPM)
RPM: 480
BINS: 400
VIBRATION UNITS
0
112
61 RPM SIGNAL
8
1 BIN NO. 1
1
11
3.3.3 Reading FFT Data

One of the types of data available to print in the Vibrex 2000 or
Vibrex 2000 Plus spectral data file is called raw FFT. Fast Fourier
transform (FFT) is a method used to record vibration spectra digitally. An
FFT consists of individual bins (also called lines). Each bin contains a
percentage of the RPM range. The user may determine the actual RPM
range contained in each bin by dividing the spectrum range (in RPM) by
the number of bins.

The Vibrex unit uses a 400-bin FFT setup. If the frequency range selected
is 0 to 24,000 RPM, each bin consists of 60 RPM worth of vibration
energy. As the RPM range goes down, the bins hold fewer RPM, so the
RPM accuracy is generally improved for the spectrum. When the user
prints raw FFT data, both the header information containing the
annotation, channels numbers, RPM range, day/date code, and so on are
recorded with the vibration energy in each bin.
The number in each line of the FFT as printed in the Terminal or
Hyperterminal program is equal to the inches per second (IPS) divided
by 1000. For example, if the range selected was 24,000 RPM, the 9th bin
(9th numerical entry after the 0, would correspond to 540 RPM in the
spectra and the 200th bin (line) would correspond to 12,000 RPM.
The value in storing the vibration measurements as FFT data lies in its PC
versatility. The user can create plots and graphs of the data, using the
Chadwick-Helmuth V2K Plot Software program. For details on how to
use this program to plot FFT data, see the V2K Plot Software User Guide.
3.3.4 Using the PRINT Key

Only data that has been stored to history and the operating Status screen
may be printed. The two methods of finding desired information to be
printed are
• Global printing from the PRINT key
• Printing with the REVIEW and PRINT keys
This section explains these printing modes.

Printing Data
3.3.4.1 Global Printing

After powering up the Vibrex 2000 or Vibrex 2000 Plus, the user may
press the PRINT key to access a global Print menu. From this menu, the
user may select an option under any of the following context keys:
• PRINT PROP RUNS
• PRINT BALANCE MEAS
• PRINT SPECTRUM
• STATUS/PRINT
The paragraphs that follow explain these options.

Printing Propeller Run Results - The user has the following choices
under the PRINT PROP RUNS context key:
<CURRENT RUN> Prints the latest run stored to memory.
<CURRENT SESSION> Prints all the runs, adjustments, and
sensitivities for the latest propeller balance run
in memory.
<ALL RUNS> Prints all propeller balance runs stored to
memory.
<LOGBOOK> Prints the log book entry for the current
session. The log book entry may only be
printed if the DONE key was pressed after a
last balance measurement, confirming a good
balance.
Printing Balance Measurements - The user has the following
choices under the PRINT BALANCE MEAS context key:
<CURRENT MEAS> Prints the latest measurement stored to
memory.
<ALL MEAS> Prints all propeller balance runs stored to
memory.

Printing Spectrum Measurements - The user has the following

choices under the PRINT SPECTRUM soft key:
<CURRENT LIST> Prints the latest measurement stored to
memory.
<ALL LISTS> Prints all spectrum lists stored to memory.
<PEAK LIST> Prints the 10 highest peaks for a spectrum with
the information block for the acquisition.
<ORDER LIST> Prints the order list of half through 12th orders
in half increments, if an azimuth signal was
present with the information block for the
acquisition.
<RAW FFT> Prints the vibration energy in each of the
400 bins of the FFT with the information block
for the acquisition.
NOTE: It is not advisable to print the RAW FFT data, using a
thermal printer. Use this feature primarily for PCs with their own
software programs that generate graphic spectra.
Printing Status Information and Fault Log - The user may print
Vibrex unit status information, as follows:
1. From the Main Menu screen, press STATUS. Allow the Vibrex unit to
complete its battery voltage and sensor power tests.
The Vibrex 2000 gives the user its test results by showing the battery
voltage and an OK or the FAIL message for sensor power.
2. Make sure to set up the printer then press PRINT.
The resulting printout shows the status of the Vibrex 2000 or

Vibrex 2000 Plus and includes a fault log. If the unit cannot operate or if
there is an error in operation, the Vibrex unit makes an appropriate entry
in the fault log. For help in interpreting the fault log, contact Chadwick-
Helmuth Customer Support.

Printing Data
3.3.4.2 Printing With REVIEW and PRINT Keys

Using the REVIEW key, the user may review and select specific readings
or sessions for printing. The user may select any of the following printing
categories:
Prop Runs Select the propeller measurement, rear measurement,
or adjustment to be printed and press PRINT. Select
<CURRENT RUN> and press START or PRINT.
Spectrum Select the run to be printed and press PRINT. Select
<CURRENT MEAS> then press START or PRINT.
When the user selects a run to be printed by the
REVIEW key, the user may choose the raw FFT data
for any individual spectrum.
Bal Measurement Select the measurement to be printed and press
PRINT. Select <CURRENT MEAS> then press
START or PRINT.


Chapter 4
4. Installation
This chapter gives basic information on equipment and other materials for
using the Vibrex 2000 and Vibrex 2000 Plus Digital Dynamic Balancer/
Analyzer systems, as well as general installation guidelines. Chapter 4
contains the following sections:
4.1 Installation: Introduction ........................................................ 35
4.2 Vibrex 2000 Basic Equipment..................................................36
4.4 General Installation ................................................................ 48
4.5 Sample Installations ................................................................ 59
4.1 Installation: Introduction

The Vibrex 2000 and Vibrex 2000 Plus accept the following types of
transducer inputs:
• Velocimeter
• Photocell system
• Magnetic pickup
This chapter explains general installation procedures for using the

Vibrex 2000 or Vibrex 2000 Plus to collect data, using these transducers.
For more detailed instructions on transducer placement and data
collection, see the relevant equipment documentation and/or the
maintenance manual for the subject aircraft.

Chapter 4 - Installation
In addition, this chapter contains lists of Vibrex 2000 or

Vibrex 2000 Plus-related equipment, as well as descriptions of some
sample aircraft installations. For more information, refer to The Smooth
Propeller manual.
Upgrade Kit - The user may easily upgrade the Vibrex 2000 system to a
Vibrex 2000 Plus system. Contact Chadwick-Helmuth Customer Support
for details on the Upgrade Kit. See the table below.
Qty. Description Part No.

1 Vibrex 2000 Plus unit upgrade 13590-10
1 V2K Download/Plot Program kit 15178
(optional)
4.2 Vibrex 2000 Basic Equipment

This section provides a series of tables that list the different types of
equipment available with the Vibrex 2000.
4.2.1 V2K Propeller Balance Kits

Each Vibrex 2000 unit has the following separate types of fixed-wing kits
for propeller balance:
• Single-engine
• Twin-engine

Vibrex 2000 Basic Equipment
4.2.1.1 V2K Single-Engine Kits

The following table shows a list of Chadwick-Helmuth equipment and
accessories available with the Vibrex 2000 system for single-engine
propeller balance operations:

1 Vibrex 2000 Balancer 13590-3
1 Propeller Protractor 13053
1 Carrying Case - Fixed Wing 13771
1 Velocimeter 7310
1 Cable Velocimeter 50 ft 11210-50
1 Bracket Transducer 0.28 HL SS 3382-1
1 Photocell Banner 3 ft 12900
1 Cable Tracker 50 ft 11247-50
1 Bracket Photocell 10423-1
2 Retro-Reflective Target Patches 10444
1 V2K Download Software program 15164
1 V2K Download Software User Guide 14984
1 Vibrex 2000 and Vibrex 2000 Plus User User Guide
Guide No. 13841-6
1 The Smooth Propeller Manual, Version 2 9511-2
1 V2K Fixed Wing Training Video (VHS) 610-455

4.2.1.2 V2K Twin-Engine Kits

accessories available with the Vibrex 2000 or Vibrex 2000 Plus system
for twin-engine propeller balance operations:

2 Velocimeter 7310
1 Mounting Bracket Photocell 10423-1
Guide No. 13841-6
1 The Smooth Propeller Manual (Version 2) 9511-2

Vibrex 2000 Basic Equipment
4.2.2 V2K Rotor Track & Balance Kits

for helicopter rotor track-and-balance operations:

1 Tail Rotor Protractor 13871
1 Carrying Case - Rotary Wing 13842
2 Velocimeter 7310
2 Bracket Transducer 0.38 HL SS) 3383-1
1 Model 3030 Magnetic Pickup 5876
1 Cable Magnetic Pickup 25 ft 10808-25
1 Strobex Blade Tracker Model 135M-12 8620
1 DC Cable Assembly (with battery clips) 3140-5
1 Cable Strobex 13797
1 set Tip Targets Laminated, 60 PCS 4270-1

Qty. Description (Continued) Part No.

1 Model 135M-12 Strobex Operation and 9076
Maintenance Manual
Guide No. 13841-6
1 V2K Helicopter Training Video (VHS) 610-453
4.2.3 V2K Helicopter and Fixed Wing Kit

accessories available with the Vibrex 2000 system for helicopter rotor and
fixed wing kit:

2 Velocimeter 7310

Vibrex 2000 Plus Equipment

Maintenance Manual
1 Manual Chart Fundamentals 8016
Guide No. 13841-6
4.3 Vibrex 2000 Plus Equipment

This section provides a series of tables that list the different types of
equipment available with the Vibrex 2000 Plus systems.

4.3.1 V2K Plus Propeller Balance Kits

Each Vibrex unit (Vibrex 2000 and Vibrex 2000 Plus) has the following
separate types of fixed-wing kits for propeller balance:
• Single-engine
• Twin-engine
4.3.1.1 V2K Plus Single-Engine Kit

for single-engine propeller balance operations:

1 Velocimeter 7310
1 V2K Combo Download/Plot Software 15178
Guide No. 13841-6


1 The Smooth Propeller Manual, Version 2 9511-2
4.3.1.2 V2K Plus Twin-Engine Kit

for twin-engine propeller balance operations:

1 Vibrex 2000 Plus Balancer 14990
1 Carrying Case - Fixed Wing) 13771
2 Velocimeter 7310
Guide No. 13841-6

4.3.2 V2K Plus Rotor Track & Balance Kit

for helicopter rotor track-and-balance operations:

2 Velocimeter 7310


Maintenance Manual
1 V2K Combo Download Software 15178
Guide No. 13841-6
4.3.3 V2K Plus Helicopter & Fixed Wing Kit

accessories available with the Vibrex 2000 system for helicopter rotor and
fixed wing kit:

2 Velocimeter 7310


Maintenance Manual
1 Manual Chart Fundamentals 8016
Guide No. 13841-6

4.3.4 Optional Equipment

The following table shows a list of optional Chadwick-Helmuth and other
equipment/accessories not included in either the Vibrex 2000 or
Vibrex 2000 Plus kits for rotor or propeller, but are helpful for general
operations:

1 Gram scale 11245
1 Thermal printer kit (portable) P5017
1 Velocimeter cable assembly (50-ft, 11900-50
low profile)
1 Model 9850 Signal Simulator (for 9850
function test)
(standard with the Vibrex 2000 Plus)
1 V2K Plot Software User Guide 14984
As Additional Velocimeters As listeda
needed
As Additional Velocimeter brackets As listed
needed
As Additional Velocimeter cables As listed
needed
As Additional Bracket Transducer 0.22 3382-1
needed HL SS
As Bench Test Kit Contact
needed Chadwick-
Helmuth
As Vibrex 200 Printer Kit CKit
needed

a. In the previous table, see the earlier tables in this chapter for part
numbers referred to as “As listed.”
The user may contact Chadwick-Helmuth Product Support for more

information about this equipment and/or how to purchase accessories or
additional items.
4.3.5 Carrying Case

The illustration below shows how to fit the Vibrex 2000 or
Vibrex 2000 Plus system components into their carrying case.
Foam
(4) Spare Batterys

(2) Magnetic Pickups
Gram Scale (optional)
Strobex
Weight
Photocells
Cable, misc. storage

Vibrex 2000
(2) Velocimeters
4.4 General Installation

This section explains general installation procedures for the Vibrex 2000
and Vibrex 2000 Plus systems. The connector subpanel at the top of the
unit contains all the major installation interfaces for input and output.

General Installation
Channel Descriptions - The following table shows each channel,

identified by its appropriate label on the Vibrex unit, along with a
description of the channel’s identification and general function.
Channel Description
VELO 1 Velocimeter channel No. 1
VELO 2 Velocimeter channel No. 2
MAG PU / PHOTOCELL A Photocell or magnetic pickup channel A
MAG PU / PHOTOCELL B Photocell or magnetic pickup channel B
AUX OUTPUT Auxiliary output for a nine-pin RS-232
serial cable; for interfacing the unit with
a personal computer (PC), a printer, or
the Strobex
Connector Description - The diagram below shows an illustration of

the connector subpanel.
PC OR PRINTER INTERFACE OR
STROBEX SYNCHRONIZATION OUT PULSE

4.4.1 Velocimeters
In general, the user may use guidelines given in The Smooth Propeller to
determine correct Velocimeter placement with the Vibrex 2000 or
Vibrex 2000 Plus system. In addition, the user may use the following
general guidelines for making sure the Velocimeters are in the correct
locations:
• Mount the balance Velocimeter as near to the plane of rotation of the
propeller as practically possible.
• The check Velocimeter is mounted at the rear of the engine. A rear
Velocimeter is mounted when the mass of the crank shaft and
propeller extend across some longitudinal distance, such as are found
in most direct-drive reciprocating engines.
• It is not necessary to mount a check Velocimeter on geared engines or
radial engines. The purpose of the check Velocimeter is to ensure the
imbalance comes from differences in the mass of the propeller and
not the crank shaft. Failure to monitor the rear of the engine and
attempting to balance may deteriorate the apparent vibration rather
than decrease it, even though the level at the front of the engine goes
down.
• Normally, for a direct-drive engine, the front and rear of the engine
provide measurements of similar amounts of imbalance, but at
opposite clock angles (if both Velocimeters point the same direction).
As the front of the engine becomes displaced upward by the
imbalance the rear of the engine shows a downward displacement,
and so on.
• When an imbalance happens solely because of propeller mass
differences, as the front inches-per-second (IPS) vibration level goes
down, the rear IPS also becomes reduced to acceptable levels.
• If the balance IPS level goes down and the rear IPS remains the same
or is reduced, the effect of balancing is still correct for the engine. If
the balance IPS level goes down but the rear IPS increases, the
propeller does not need to be balanced. The cause of the imbalance is
probably the crank shaft or an asymmetric aerodynamic loading on
the propeller.

• The user can check for an symmetric loading on the propeller by

dynamically tracking the propeller with the Strobex. If the user can
discount the propeller as a source of any vibration, the only way to
correct the problem is to examine the crank shaft.
• There are several commonly used locations on flat opposed engines.
Because of differences in cowling, baffling, and accessory sections,
make sure that the transducer is mounted in such a way that the
engine can get enough air for cooling during its run-up.
Velocimeter Brackets - Generally the brackets supplied in the

application kits are adequate for general use.
4.4.2 Photocell System

The operational end of the Vibrex 2000 or Vibrex 2000 Plus photocell
system is the Banner photocell probe (from now on called the photocell).
This unit is self-contained and uses a visible red light (650 nm) from a
light-emitting diode (LED) triggered by a retro-reflective target. This
light reflection sends a one-per-revolution pulse to the Vibrex unit for
frequency-and-balance phase measurement.
Photocell Range - The effective range of the photocell is 3 in. to
approximately 7 ft. For the best results, place the photocell approximately
2 ft from its companion retro-reflective target.
Getting Started - The photocell receives power from the Vibrex unit.
Turn the Vibrex unit on and press the following keys (in this sequence):
PROPELLER BALANCE, START, START
These key strokes activate the photocell system. Make sure to activate the
system before placing the retro-reflective target on the rotating object.

4.4.2.1 Retro-Reflective Target

Keep the following important characteristics of target reflection in mind,
when using the photocell:
• Chadwick-Helmuth recommends using the retro-reflective target
supplied in the kit, with the photocell. This retro-reflective target is
unique because it reflects light back to its illuminating source. On
close examination, the target consists of thousands of small glass
beads or prisms held on an adhesive backing held in place on the
rotating component with adhesive.
• The Chadwick-Helmuth targets are only retro-reflective if the glass
beads are left exposed. Coating the glass beads with any clear sealer
destroys the retro-reflective quality of the target.
• The user can use corner-cube retro-reflective tape. The user can
identify this type of tape by a chain-link pattern on the surface, and a
glossy surface finish.
• The use of reflective tapes is not recommended. Reflective tapes have
very narrow return angles and must be mounted in such a way that
allows the background reflection to adversely affect the gain of the
photocell.
• Other retro-reflective tapes are similarly not recommended unless
they are the same material as the Chadwick-Helmuth retro-reflective
targets.
• The glass bead density (which determines the percent of retro-
reflectiveness) of garden variety retro-reflective tapes (such as that
found on highway cones or survival jackets) is less than 50 percent of
our target in most cases. In most cases these tapes are inadequate as
retro-reflective targets for the photocell.
The correct size of the retro-reflective target depends on the distance

between the photocell and the reflective target, as well as the speed of the
retro-reflective target as it passes through the photocell beam.
The orientation of the photocell can also vary, depending on the size of
the target. A single strip of the Chadwick-Helmuth retro-reflective target,
aligned so it dwells in the photocell beam for the longest period of time, is
usually adequate. For details, see the diagram on page 56.

4.4.2.2 General Photocell Use

The photocell triggers, that is it sends the timing pulse to the balancer, as
the target leaves the photocell beam. This being the case, if the user wants
to do really accurate alignment of the target in the beam between
adjustments, simply pull the target through the photocell beam until the
alignment light on the back side of the photocell just goes out, then stop.
Using an erasable marker, make two marks next to each other, one on the
spinner and one on the cowl. It doesn't matter where. One can then always
align these marks and know the photocell beam is aligned with the target
on every adjustment. Over the long haul, this accuracy will save quite a
bit of time, and eliminate errors in target placement.
Most of the targets are rectangular. Most of the installations for the
photocell result in a beam that hits the propeller in an arc. It is possible
that the beam might “cut” the target at something less than its length. This
is truer of placements close to the center of rotation than farther away.
Keep in mind the pitch of the propeller can change too, causing loss of
signal on the target.
4.4.2.3 Repair of Photocell Wiring.

The photocell is used in the sourcing mode. The wire color codes are
shown in the table below.
Color Source Pin

Brown +10-30 Vdc A
Blue DC Common B
Black Signal Source D
White Signal Sink Not Used

4.4.2.4 Photocell Placement

When mounting the photocell system, the user must take care in
positioning the photocell probe. The two lenses of the photocell probe
work best when
• They are tangent to the arc created by the retro-reflective target (see
the illustration on page 56).
• The retro-reflective target is aligned tangent to the arc created by the
radius where it is attached.
Photocell Procedures - Locate a specific placement for the photocell

probe, as follows:
1. Rotate the component to be balanced to a position where a blade or
some easily identifiable part of the rotating assembly crosses the
photocell beam.
2. Place a retro-reflective target on the rotating component where it can
be illuminated by the photocell beam. Make sure to align the target
strip tangentially relative to the component’s circular motion.
NOTE: The user can locate correct placement of the target by
checking the small LED, pulsating on the back of the photocell
probe. This LED is the alignment indicator. As the LED pulses
faster (at a higher rate), it indicates better alignment. However, if
the pulse rate is too fast to observe, the user must reduce the size of
the target.

3. Mount the photocell probe in an optimum position, using the

photocell bracket (see the example diagram below).
VELOCIMETER
PHOTOCELL
PROBE PHOTOCELL
BRACKET
VELOCIMETER
BRACKET
In most cases, the user can collocate the probe with the Velocimeter,
but for some installations, the user may need to mount the probe by
itself, using the single mounting screw provision.
NOTE: The user may need to experiment with several mounting
techniques and/or positions to find the optimum positioning.
Incident Light - Unwanted light that reflects into the photocell probe
could result in incorrect measurements. This type of light is called
incident light, that is, light hitting the assembly when the target is not in
line with the beam. For example, light reflected from a shiny surface that
enters the photocell probe is incident light.

For the best results, mount the photocell probe so any incident light is
reflected away from the photocell’s beam (see the diagram below). This
position is especially necessary when the target attaches to bright metal or
glossy surfaces.
The illustration below shows an example of correct photocell positioning
for optimum retro-reflection.
4.4.2.5 Target Positioning

Rotate the component to be balanced to a position where a blade or some
easily identifiable part of the rotating assembly crosses the photocell
beam. Place a single retro-reflective target strip aligned tangentially on
the rotating component, where the target is illuminated by the photocell’s
beam.

Target Diagram - For details on this operation, see below.

ROTATION
DIRECTION
photocell
ion
rotat
tape
retro
PHOTOCELL PROBE
RETRO-REFLECTIVE
TARGET PLACED ON THE
PROPELLER
Check the small LED pulsating on the back of the photocell to verify
correct placement. A faster pulse rate of the alignment indicator means
better alignment. However, if the pulse rate is too fast to observe, the user
may need to reduce the length of the retro-reflective target strip.
To calculate the best dwell time and length for the retro-reflective target
in the photocell beam, see the graph that shows minimum target length,
under “Appendix: Photocell Taping” on page 157.
4.4.3 Magnetic Pickup

If the user needs instructions on magnetic pickup installation, refer to the
aircraft maintenance manual for the subject aircraft. Refer to the
appropriate Chadwick-Helmuth Model 177M-6A Vibrex checklist for
magnetic pickup installation, if other documentation is inadequate. The
installation for the Vibrex 2000 and Vibrex 2000 Plus is the same.

NOTE: Generally, for helicopter main rotor installations, the user

may install a magnetic pickup assembly to provide the Vibrex unit
with a necessary azimuth signal. This signal provides a baseline for
taking vibration measurements, in the same way as the photocell
system does for propeller balance operations. Note that the Vibrex
unit uses only a single interrupter.
If the user does not have an applicable Vibrex unit checklist and require
one, contact Customer Support and order it (see Section 1.2 “Product
Support” on page 4).
Photocell Mounting - The photocell’s distance from (gap between) the
target (interrupter) is anywhere from 7 in. to 7 ft. What they do not say is
the size target required to use it at 7 ft. In most aviation applications the
target tape would have to be so big you couldn't find anywhere to put it,
and it would throw the item out of balance a good amount.
Photocell Tape Width - Try to stay in a range of between 5 in. to 18 in.
Also, since the photocell requires the target to be in the beam for a
specific time period, try to stay at a small radius. A target tape placed on
the back of the spinner at the 6-in. radius might be 0.5 in. long (width of
tape passing through the beam) for an RPM of 2400. The same target to
provide the same dwell (length of time) in the beam at the 30-in. station
would have to be approximately 2 in. long.
For details on calculating photocell tape length, see “Appendix: Photocell
Taping” on page 157.

Sample Installations
4.5 Sample Installations

This section gives a brief explanation of several Vibrex 2000 and
Vibrex 2000 Plus installations on selected aircraft and some general types
of aircraft. Use these summaries as guidelines for the user’s own
installation operations.
4.5.1 Lycoming O/IO-320/360

There is a 1/4-20 threaded boss on the forward left-hand side of the
engine crank case, which is ideal for mounting. Often the Velocimeter can
be mounted without removing any cowling. The photocell can be
collocated with the Velocimeter on many installations.
Alternately, the forward-most backbone case half bolt may be used to
mount the Velocimeter. In both installations, orient the Velocimeter with
its vertical connector pointing up.
4.5.2 Lycoming O/IO-540

Occasionally these engines have a front-mounted propeller governor that
offers good access and is a good place to mount. The forward-most case
half bolt is always an option. On some of the up-draft installations, there
are free threaded bosses near the starter.
4.5.3 Continental O/IO-470/520/550

Use the forward-most backbone bolt, if it is accessible. Otherwise, use a
forward oil cooler mounting bolt. Use the bolt closest to the crank shaft.
Some engines have a seal plate at the crank shaft front seal with exposed
studs. These seals are close to the spinner and clearance may be tight, but
it is a usable balance location.
4.5.4 P&W R-985/2800

Mount the Velocimeter in the horizontal position on the crank shaft thrust
plate immediately behind the propeller, using a slotted Velocimeter
bracket (the nut cannot be removed). It is not necessary to mount a check
Velocimeter on radial engines.

4.5.5 Flat Opposed General Rules

Mount the Velocimeter as close to the plane of rotation of the propeller as
possible, 90° to the piston travel. Stay within 6 to 8 in. from the engine
center line.
4.5.6 Radial Engine General Rules

Mount the Velocimeter as close to the plane of rotation of the propeller as
possible and 90° to the travel of the master cylinder (connected to the
master rod).
4.5.7 Turbine Engines

TPE-331 - Use a vertical mounting (up or down) on the face of the
reduction gearbox. No survey Velocimeter is necessary.
NOTE: Many TPE-331 applications have manufacturer-specific
mounting locations.
PT-6A - Mount the Velocimeter on the tachometer generator pad or the
over-speed governor pad (whichever is most easily accessible). Angle the
pads slightly in at the top. This action does not significantly affect the
signal from the Velocimeter. The Velocimeter may point up or down. No
survey Velocimeter is required.
4.5.8 Geared Reciprocating Engines

To determine the engine revolutions per minute (RPM) from the
photocell, check the engine data plate and apply the resulting ratio to the
tachometer reading from the propeller.
NOTE: The propeller tachometer signal from the photocell does not
match the engine tachometer RPM.

Chapter 5
5. General Operation
This chapter explains procedures and gives essential guidelines on how to
operate the Vibrex 2000 and Vibrex 2000 Plus Digital Dynamic Balancer/
Analyzer systems. Chapter 5 contains the following sections:
5.1 Operation: Introduction .......................................................... 61
5.2 Beginning Operation ............................................................... 62
5.3 Basics of Operation ................................................................. 65
5.4 Propeller Balancing ................................................................ 66
5.5 Helicopter Rotor Balancing .................................................... 90
5.6 Spectrum Analysis ................................................................... 109
5.1 Operation: Introduction

Primarily, the Vibrex 2000 and Vibrex 2000 Plus are sophisticated
vibration and dynamic balance data collectors and processors. They
acquire and store data digitally, allowing for complex processing and
output (by display or printer) of any and all information received through
the system’s transducers.
After a brief description of the Vibrex unit’s front panel, the rest of this
chapter explains how to operate the Vibrex 2000 and Vibrex 2000 Plus to
achieve these basic purposes, including propeller balance, as well as
helicopter track-and-balance operations. A final section explains the
Vibrex unit’s Spectrum feature.

Chapter 5 - General Operation
For more detailed instructions on general balancing procedures, see the

relevant equipment documentation and/or the maintenance manual for the
subject aircraft. For additional information, the user may refer to The
Smooth Propeller manual.
5.2 Beginning Operation

This section explains the first steps in starting to use the Vibrex 2000 and
Vibrex 2000 Plus, including how to power up and how to use the initial
screens the user sees directly afterward.
5.2.1 Powering Up
To turn the Vibrex unit on, press the ON/OFF button. To turn the unit off
press the ON/OFF button again. The unit has the following powering on-
and-off features:
• To keep the user from powering down the unit unintentionally, the
user must hold the ON/OFF button down for at least 1 sec. while the
unit is in operation.
• If there are no key presses or activity on the balancer for 10 min., the
unit enters a “rest” mode to keep the batteries fresh.
• To restart the unit at any time, press the ON/OFF button again.
NOTE: The Vibrex 2000 and Vibrex 2000 Plus come shipped with
batteries. If the batteries run low or lose power, the Vibrex unit may
not power up. However, the user does not lose data stored in the
memory during this time. The unit keeps data in its memory for up
to 8 hr. without batteries and/or power.

Beginning Operation
5.2.2 Main Menu Screen

Directly after the Vibrex 2000 or Vibrex 2000 Plus powers up, the Self-
test screen displays (telling the user the unit is testing itself), then the
Main Menu screen. The illustration below shows the Main menu.
PROPELLER BALANCE
TRACK & BALANCE
SPECTRUM ANALYSIS
STATUS
for help, push 1
Note the pointers on the left side of the display (see above). These
indicators point to the menu options’ corresponding context keys. Using
this screen, the user can access the specific function listed next to its
indicated context key.
NOTE: From the Main Menu screen, the user may always press the
1 KEY for the Vibrex 2000 or Vibrex 2000 Plus On-line Help
feature. This action accesses the Help screens for all operations.

Main Menu Options - The Vibrex unit’s Main Menu screen offers the
user the following options:
Propeller Balance Used to acquire balance readings, provide
solutions, and compute the final installation of
balance weights on propellers.
Track and Balance Used to acquire readings and select the
Chadwick-Helmuth Model 135M-12 Strobex
Tracker for a visual blade track of propellers and
helicopter rotors.
Spectrum Analysis Used to identify sources of vibration. The
frequency (in RPM) of vibration is used to
identify the source and the amplitude (in IPS) to
determine the severity.
Status Used to initiate a self-test of the Vibrex unit. This
feature measures and displays both the battery
voltage and the power to the sensors. During the
test, the user first sees a rotating bar, followed by
a readout of the actual voltage level of the
batteries and whether the voltage supply to the
sensors is adequate.

Basics of Operation
5.3 Basics of Operation

Operate the Vibrex 2000 and Vibrex 2000 Plus, using the front panel. The
illustration below shows views of this panel, with the most important keys
and their locations called out.
GO BACK KEY
START KEY
ALPHA-NUMERIC KEYS
START KEY ALPHA NUMERIC KEYS GO BACK KEY
CONTRAST KEYS ON/OFF KEY

CONTEXT KEYS
CONTRAST KEYS
CONTEXT KEYS ON/OFF KEY
Basic operation of the Vibrex unit is user friendly, and the user follows the
simple prompts on the display’s screens, step by step, to achieve the
desired result.

As explained under Section 5.2.2 “Main Menu Screen” on page 63, this
screen displays after the Self-test screen, directly after powering up. The
diagram below repeats an illustration of the Main Menu screen.
PROPELLER BALANCE
TRACK & BALANCE

MENU OPTIONS
SPECTRUM ANALYSIS
STATUS
for help, push 1
POINTERS INDICATE CONTEXT

ON-LINE HELP
KEYS ARE ACTIVE
FEATURE
Use the context keys to the left of the menu option names on screen, to
access the features listed. The Main Menu screen offers the user the
Vibrex 2000 and Vibrex 2000 Plus’ operating features listed in the
example shown above.
5.4 Propeller Balancing

Use the PROPELLER BALANCE option in the Main Menu screen for
propeller balancing. Enter information used to balance the propeller in the
resulting Propeller Balance Setup screens.
This section explains, in general, how to use the Vibrex 2000 and
Vibrex 2000 Plus for typical propeller balancing operations. The diagram
on page 67 shows a sample setup for a fixed-wing aircraft.

Propeller Balancing
channel 2 vibration sensor

photocell/magnetic pickup 2

5.4.1 Propeller Balance Setup

To begin a propeller balance operation, press the context key next to the
Main Menu screen option PROPELLER BALANCE. The Vibrex 2000
and Vibrex 2000 Plus display the first of two Propeller Balance Setup
screens. This set of screens allows the user to enter basic balance setup
information.
5.4.1.1 Entering Aircraft IDs

The Vibrex unit asks for an aircraft tail number or serial number
(aircraft ID). The user may use both alpha and numeric keys for this data
entry, as well as the available punctuation keys. The user may use up to
six characters for this entry.
Enter this information in the Vibrex 2000, using the first Propeller
Balance Setup screen, as shown below.
? PROPELLER BAL SETUP SELECT TO ENTER

AIRCRAFT, ENGINE
AIRCRAFT ID[ ] ID NUMBER
ENG[ 1 ]
SELECT TO ENTER
PROP ch<1A> PROPELLER
CHANNEL NUMBER
REAR ch<NONE>
if ok, push START SELECT TO ENTER
REAR CHANNEL
NUMBER

Propeller Balancing
Enter (or edit) the aircraft ID, as follows:

1. Press the AIRCRAFT ID context key, next to the AIRCRAFT ID
label.
The Edit Aircraft ID screen displays (see below).
== EDIT AIRCRAFT
AIRCRAFT ID
ID==
==
CURSOR
CURSOR
CURSOR LEFT
LEFT
[ [] ENG-[ 1 ] ]
CURSOR
CURSOR RIGHT
RIGHT
ENTER THE
RESTORE/RESET FIELD
RESTORE/RESET FIELD
AIRCRAFT ID
NUMBER HERE; THE
if ok, push START
if ok, push START DEFAULT IS 1
2. From this screen, select the places to be filled by pressing the

CURSOR LEFT or CURSOR RIGHT context key (see the illustration
under step 1).
NOTE: When the user is printing, the aircraft ID entry for the
current aircraft prints out on the hard copy. This ID also labels data
when the user is reviewing propeller balance measurements.
3. If the user makes a mistake, press the RESTORE/RESET FIELD
context key to start over.
4. After the user has entered the aircraft ID, press START (dedicated
key) to return to the first Propeller Balance Setup screen.
5. The user may press GO BACK to cancel or undo any edits. This
action also returns the user to the previous screen.
5.4.1.2 Selecting Channels

The Vibrex unit defaults to the following channel assignments:
• CHANNEL <1A> for the balance channel located nearest the plane of
the propeller with the notation “PROP CHAN”
• <NONE> for the rear check Velocimeter

After the user has set the aircraft ID and channels, as desired, press
START to continue with the propeller setup operation.
Enter channel assignment information, using the first Propeller Balance
Setup screen that displays.
NOTE: The user may change the channel assignments by pressing
the appropriate context key, if the installation for the subject
aircraft is different from the default settings. This action allows the
user to select the user’s own channel assignments.
After the user makes sure the channel assignments shown on the Propeller
Balance Setup screen are the same as the actual channels used, press
START to advance to the next screen.
CAUTION: We suggest that the user perform a check run, both on
the first run and after the front balance channel is within limits. If
the rear channel is higher than the original reading after the
propeller is balanced, further testing is necessary to find out the
possible cause. The problem could be a propeller out of track or an
imbalance in the power train rotating components (crank shaft). Do
not balance under this type of condition. Select channels 2A for a
rear check Velocimeter, if the user is using one.
5.4.1.3 Entering Horsepower

Press START. Use the HP ENGINE context key to set the Vibrex unit for
the propeller being balanced. Since high horsepower engines necessarily
require bigger and heavier propellers, this method works well for setting
weight sensitivity.

Propeller Balancing
Enter this information, using the second Propeller Balance Setup screen,
as shown below.
SELECT TO ENTER
CORRECT ENGINE
? PROPELLER BAL SETUP HORSEPOWER
RANGE
< -100 > HP ENGINE OR
SELECT TO ENTER
SET SENSITIVTY CORRECT ENGINE
SENSITIVITY
35.00 G/IPS @ 12:00 SETTINGS
AUTO CORRECTION<ON>
if ok, push START
SELECT TO SWITCH
AUTOCORRECTION
FEATURE ON OR
OFF
Use the following general checklist to make sure the user is working with
the correct horsepower/weight sensitivity settings:
• The default setting for HP ENGINE is -100.
• After the user has entered the correct horsepower, note the sensitivity
number displayed beneath the SET SENSITIVITY line.
• Repeated key presses of the context key scroll through the available
horsepower ranges and their attendant sensitivities.
• The Vibrex unit learns the response to the first weight change and
corrects the sensitivity to one that is appropriate for the propeller
being balanced.
NOTE: Occasionally, the user may need to be conservative on the
first balance adjustment. This condition could occur, for example,
with a nonstandard installation, such as a lightweight aerobatic
propeller on an engine that normally carries a metal constant speed
propeller or on a racing propeller that has an extension between the
engine and propeller. In cases like these, use the next-lower
horsepower range than the one normally used.

Auto Correction Feature - This feature allows the Vibrex unit to use
the response of the rotor or propeller being worked to change the
sensitivity and phase values, as follows:
• Generally, a propeller responds according to its inherent sensitivities,
but the user always has the ability to put any weight, anywhere, and
the Vibrex unit can learn the response to this adjustment and correct,
automatically, the sensitivity and phase sense.
• The Auto Correction feature works based on a set of readings with a
known change, at a known location between those readings.
• When the final solution is given, Auto Correction is automatically
shut off, since additional changes would be minimal and not worth
the additional time.
If the user is not weighing the weights placed on the propeller, it is best to
leave the Auto Correction feature <OFF>. There is no way of knowing
how to correct an unknown quantity.
NOTE: The Auto Correction feature is only available with the
Propeller Balance Setup screen and its associated operations.
Changing Weights - The weight required to move the balance point
1.0 in. per sec (IPS) displays under the SET SENSITIVITY line. This
distance is equivalent to the distance between 0 IPS and the 1.0 IPS ring
on a polar chart. Note that, as the horsepower reading changes, the weight
value goes up as well.
The weight sensitivities are set for weight installed on the spinner
mounting screws. If a location closer to the center of rotation is chosen,
consider using a higher horsepower setting to increase the weight used.
5.4.1.4 Setting Sensitivity

Sensitivity refers to the response of the propeller to weight changes in
• The amount of weight per IPS move line
• The angular performance when weight is added to the blade with the
reflective target
Enter this information, using the Set Sensitivity screen. Access this screen
by pressing the SET SENSITIVITY context key from the second Propeller
Balance Setup screen (see the illustration on page 71).

Propeller Balancing
The illustration below gives an example of the Set Sensitivity screen.
? SENSITIVITY
SENSITIVITY SETUP
SETUP
SELECT TO
ENTER CORRECT
WEIGHT
[[35.00]
35.00] GMS/IPS
GMS/IPS
[12:00]
[12:00] CLOCKHOURS PHASE
ANGLE
CORRECTION
CORRECTION
RESTORE/RESET FIELDFIELD
ifif
ok,ok,
pushpush
STARTSTART
SELECT TO
ENTER CORRECT
PHASE
General Considerations - For most propellers, the values used in the

horsepower entry field are close to those that can balance in one or two
runs. Some installations may require different sensitivity because of the
aircraft configuration (for example, pusher propellers require less weight
than would be indicated by their horsepower).
NOTE: The Set Sensitivity feature only applies to the propeller
balance channels the user selected in the Propeller Balance Setup
screens.
Use the following values to set sensitivity:
• Weight in grams per IPS
• Phase correction in clock hours
If these sensitivities are known from having balanced a similar

installation in the past, the user may enter them manually for a high
probability of achieving a balance in two engine runs. The sections that
follow explain these concepts.

Weight Per IPS - The weight entry in the Weight Per IPS screen must
be the same as the weight required to cause a move line of 1.0 IPS (see the
definition of move line in the “Glossary” on page 161).
Edit the weight (in grams), by using the alpha-numeric keypad, enter the
most significant digit first, followed by successively less important digits.
For example, to achieve a perfect balance from 1.0 IPS, a propeller might
require 47.5 g. Using the numeric keypad enter the appropriate numbers
in this order,
4, 7, 5
NOTE: It is not necessary to enter the decimal.
If the user is not sure about the weight sensitivity, be conservative, that is,
use a lower number. This action yields more conservative weight
corrections for the propeller. On subsequent runs, these corrections
automatically become calibrated by the Vibrex unit’s Automatic Chart
Correction feature.
NOTE: Automatic calibration only occurs if the user has set the
Autocorrection feature to <ON>.
Phase Correction - The difference in angle between when the event
occurs and when it is sensed by the Velocimeter. Keep the following
important facts in mind when working with the Vibrex unit and phase
correction:
• The Vibrex unit defaults to the 12:00 direction for phase, unless the
user has entered a different number.
• The user can accommodate most of the mounting differences from
engine to engine by using the Chadwick-Helmuth Propeller
Protractor. For instructions on how to use this tool, see
Section 5.4.3.2 “Using the Propeller Protractor” on page 82.
• The phase angle derived by the Vibrex unit is a combination of the
direction of sensitivity of the Velocimeter, the azimuth from the
photocell system, and the phase correction.
• The farther the Velocimeter is from the rotating item, the greater the
likelihood becomes that a phase correction is necessary.

Propeller Balancing
NOTE: Phase correction increases with any greater freedom of

movement the structure has. If a structure is solid, the phase
correction is minimal, but if a structure has freedom of movement
(like sheet metal structures) the phase correction can be quite large,
even though the distances involved are small.
Making Allowance - To allow for these sensitivities and phase
correction, use measurements derived from previous balance operations
with the same type of aircraft and the same installation. Use this method,
as follows:
1. At the Set Sensitivity screen, enter the weight sensitivity and phase
correction from the record that resulted in the best improvement in
balance.
2. With the sensitivity set, advance to the next screen by pressing the
START key. The Vibrex unit screen displays the new sensitivity under
its set sensitivity notation.
3. To begin engine runs, press START.
5.4.1.5 Multiple Propeller Feature

The Vibrex 2000 allows the user to switch between up to 4 propeller
balance sessions. Each session is identified by the aircraft ID and Eng
suffix. Use the PROPELLER BALANCE option in the Main Menu screen
to access this feature.
Begin propeller balance operations in the same way as the user would for
theVibrex 2000. See Section 5.4.1 “Propeller Balance Setup” on page 68
for details.

Do a Vibrex 2000 Plus multiple-propeller balance operation, as follows:

1. From the Main Menu screen, select the PROPELLER BALANCE
option. The first Balance Propeller Setup screen displays (see below).
? PROPELLER BAL SETUP

AIRCRAFT ID[ ]
ENG[ ]
PROP ch<1A>
SHOWS ENGINE
REAR ch<NONE> NUMBER
if ok, push START
2. Use the Edit Aircraft ID screen (see below) to enter the number of the
propeller (1 for engine No. 1 and so on) to be balanced, as well as the
additional information required.
= EDIT AIRCRAFT ID ==
CURSOR LEFT
[ ] ENG-[ 1 ]
CURSOR RIGHT
ENTER ENGINE
RESTORE/RESET FIELD NUMBER
if ok, push START
3. Press START. The first Balance Propeller Setup screen displays

again, showing all the information the user just entered.

Propeller Balancing
4. Go on to the next Balance Propeller Setup screen and enter the

necessary information, in the same way as the user would for the
Vibrex 2000.
5. When the user is ready to begin propeller balancing, press START. A
screen displays, with a message asking the user to operate the
propeller. This is the same screen and message displayed by the
Vibrex 2000. See Section 5.4.2 “Acquiring Balance Readings” on
page 77 for details.
6. Proceed with running the propeller and acquiring balance readings, in
the same way as the user would for the Vibrex 2000.
7. When the user has finished balancing the current propeller, begin the
operation for the next propeller, in the same way as the user did for
the previous one. Make sure to enter the number of the propeller in
the Enter Aircraft ID screen.
8. Finish balancing each propeller (up to four) in the same way as the
user did the first.
NOTE: The user may enter numbers one through nine, but we
recommend using the conventional numbering, that is, No. 1 being
the farthest left engine and Nos. 2, 3, and 4 for the farthest right
engine. Up to four engine balances can be run concurrently, using
the Vibrex 2000 Plus.
5.4.2 Acquiring Balance Readings

Acquire balance readings and measurements, as follows:
1. Do a normal engine start and allow the engine to warm up, then
• On constant-speed propellers, cycle the propeller twice to be sure
the air is purged from the propeller hub.
• On fixed-pitch propellers, run the propeller at the maximum static
revolutions per minute (RPM).
2. Operate the propeller at the desired RPM (shown live on the Vibrex
unit’s display).
3. Press START.
The Vibrex unit collects IPS-reading and phase data/measurements.
During this process, a temporary Data Collection screen displays.

NOTE: If, at any time, the user wants to stop collecting data, press
the GO BACK key while the Data Collection screen displays.
Vibrex unit then displays a Measurements screen that reads out the
acquired balance measurements (see below).
USE TO ENTER
NOTES TO ONE’S
SELF
RUN 1 PROP MEAS DATE, TIME, AND

08APR00 09:31:08 #1A CHANNEL
[ANNOTATE ] NUMBER
480 RPM
0.15 IPS @ 7:29 RPM (AZIMUTH),
ID: -1 IPS (VIBRATION),
AND PHASE
MEASUREMENTS
REDO MEAS
solution push START
SELECT TO START THE RUN

OVER AND RETAKE A
MEASUREMENT
4. If one or more readings become suspect for any reason, the user may
retake a reading by pressing the REDO MEAS context key. This
action automatically erases the former reading.
CAUTION: Pressing GO BACK cancels (undoes or erases) the
measurement.
5. If the current reading is correct, press START to advance to the next
screen.
NOTE: High-horsepower, coarse pitch propellers may stall at a

maximum static RPM. Do not attempt a balance with the propeller
stalling, because the resulting balance reading in this situation is
inaccurate. A propeller is stalling if there is a noticeable change in
the propeller’s sound, from what the user normally hears.

Propeller Balancing
5.4.2.1 Annotating the Reading

If the reading is correct and the user wishes to make a special annotation,
press the ANNOTATE context key. These entries may be any kind of note
to one’s self, for example, that this is a before-balancing run or the last
balancing run. Make any desired entry here, then press START to enter
the note and to advance to the next screen.
5.4.2.2 Balance Quality Indicator

The Vibrex unit offers a balance quality graph, allowing the user to read
out how well the user has achieved balance on a given propeller. This
graph displays on a screen that contains a horizontal bar labeled BETTER
on the left end of the bar and WORSE on the right.
The illustration below shows an example of the Prop Balance Quality
screen.
PROP BALANCE QUALITY BALANCE LEVEL

GRAPH
BETTER |==X===| WORSE BALANCE

0.15-->good QUALITY LABEL
DONE
INSTALL PERMANENTLY MEASURED

IMBALANCE IN
to solve, push START IPS
An X-mark displays on a better/worse scale bar, showing the level of

balance the user has achieved (see above). In addition to the bar graph,
there is a text label under the graph that indicates the general balance and
vibration level achieved (good in the example above).

Read the Balance Quality graph, as follows:

• Anything better than or equal to acceptable means the propeller
meets the balance guidelines given in The Smooth Propeller.
• The label unacceptable means the balance reading is higher than
the recommended 0.2 IPS.
• The label warning indicates the propeller has a balance reading
over 1.2 IPS. The user must investigate the reason for an IPS reading
higher than 1.2 IPS before trying to balance the propeller.
The following table shows the values the Vibrex unit has assigned to the
text labels in the Prop Balance Quality screen:
Label IPS Reading

Best Less than 0.05
Very good 0.05 to 0.09
Good 0.10 to 0.14
Acceptable 0.15 to 0.19
Unacceptable 0.20 to 1.19
Warning Greater than 1.20
There are two additional context keys for use during the balance
operation, as follows:
DONE Press when the balance level is at the
desired point and there is no need to
make any more changes.
INSTALL PERMANENTLY Press if the user needs to move the
weight inside the spinner. Pressing this
key accesses the Split Weights and
Radius Change menus.

Propeller Balancing
5.4.3 Obtaining Balance Solutions

After the balance reading displays and the user presses the START key,
the Vibrex unit presents its recommended weight change solution (in
grams) at a specific clock angle.
The illustration below shows an example of a typical Vibrex unit’s
Solution screen.
SELECT TO VIEW
MEASUREMENTS
VIEW PROP MEASURMENT AGAIN
RUN 1 ADJUSTMENT
SELECT TO
ADD [ 5.2 ] GMS ENTER ACTUAL
WEIGHT ADDED
AT [ 1:29 ] (split) (IN GRAMS)
SELECT TO
FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS ENTER ACTUAL
next run, push START ANGLE USED
SELECT FOR PROPELLER

PROTRACTOR
INSTRUCTIONS
5.4.3.1 Application Guidelines

In applying balance solutions, use the following guidelines:
• There may be some cases where the user cannot physically place the
weight at a specified location, or the user must add balance weights
different from those specified. To account for these variations, the
user must input the weight and clock angle of the actual adjustment
into the Vibrex unit.
• If the specified weight differs from that added to the propeller or the
angle placement is different than that specified in the solution, the
user must change the values. Just enter the actual applied weight and/
or angle.
CAUTION: Failure to enter the actual values used degrades the
next solution and may not improve the propeller’s balance.

• The closer the actual weight is to the specified amount and the closer
to the specified location, the better the initial and subsequent
solutions normally work.
• If the user performed the original solution exactly as specified, or if
the user input the actual propeller weight, the next solution will be
correct for the propeller.
CAUTION: Even with the Autocorrection feature off, the user must
record the actual weight and installation angles used.
5.4.3.2 Using the Propeller Protractor

The illustration below shows a diagram of the Propeller Protractor.
1:00 12:00 11:00
COUNTER
CLOCKWISE
(CCW) CHADWICK HELMUTH CO INC. (818) 575-6161
PROTRACTOR P/N 13053
:15 :45 :30

:30 :15
:45
: 45
:15
:3
0
:3
0
: 15
: 45
2:00 10:00
:45
:15
:30
:30
:15
:45
3:00 9:00
:45
:15
:30
:30
:15
:45
4:00
:45
:15
8:00
0
:3
:3
: 15
: 45
:45
:15 :30
:30 :45 :15
INSTRUCTIONS
1. USE SIDE OF PROTRACTOR WITH SAME DIRECTION OF ROTATION AS PROPELLER
2. ALIGN PHOTOCELL BEAM AND RETROREFLECTIVE TARGET.
3. ALIGN ARROW ON PROTRACTOR VELOCIMETER WITH ARROW ON PROP
VELOCIMETER BODY SO ARROWS ARE PARRALLEL AND IN THE SAME
DIRECTION.
4. ADD WEIGHT TO ANGLE ON PROP AS SPECIFIED BY BALANCER SOLUTION
AND ANGLE ON PROTRACTOR.
5:00 6:00 7:00

Propeller Balancing
NOTE: The blue side of the Propeller Protractor is for counter-

clockwise rotation, and the red side is for clockwise.
Correct Location - To find the correct location on the propeller for
applying the balance weights, use the Propeller Protractor, as follows:
1. Rotate the retro-reflective target on the propeller or spinner so it is
aligned with the beam of the photocell.
WARNING: Use caution when working around the propeller. Treat
the propeller as though the engine could fire, and work around the
propeller only if the user is certain the engine cannot fire.
Using the Propeller Protractor side with the same direction of rotation
as the propeller, hold the Propeller Protractor against the center of the
propeller or propeller spinner. Make sure the Velocimeter on the
protractor is parallel and in the same orientation as the Velocimeter
mounted on the engine.
2. Locate the clock angle from the Vibrex unit solution on the propeller.
3. Place the weight from the solution at the location derived from using
the Propeller Protractor.
4. If the user places weight at a location other than that specified by the
Vibrex unit, make a note of the clock angle of the weight and change
the appropriate WEIGHT ENTERED solution in the Vibrex unit.
Use the Solution screen for this purpose. For information on this
screen, see Section 5.4.3 “Obtaining Balance Solutions” on page 81.
For example, the user has mounted the Velocimeter on the right side of
the case but oriented it so the arrow on its body is pointing up. Then, the
user must align the Propeller Protractor so its Velocimeter is also pointing
up (12:00 direction). The arrow on the Velocimeter must be parallel and
pointing in the same direction as the arrow on the Velocimeter located on
the Propeller Protractor.
Helpful Hint - To be exactly accurate on the alignment of the photocell
beam and the retro-reflective target, place the beam of the photocell at the
line of the target as it exits the photocell beam. During placement of the
target on installation, it is easy to turn the propeller so the pulsating
reflecting light just goes out after passing the beam of the photocell.

This point is the exact spot where alignment of the beam and the retro-
reflective target occurs electronically. A dry (erasable) ink mark on the
spinner and a a matching mark on the cowl, where electronic alignment
occurs, helps alignment of the target and beam while the user is making
balance adjustments.
5.4.3.3 Changing Performed Solutions

To change a solution to match any change that was actually made (as
opposed to a suggested change) use the numeric keys to change the
weight and clock angle when the Solution screen displays.
For example, enter a weight change of 22.3 g by pressing the keys 2, 2, 3
in that order. Enter a clock angle of 1:30 by pressing 0, 1, 3, 0 or 10:30 by
pressing 1, 0, 3, 0 (in that order).
Once the user has applied the correct weight to the propeller, press the
START key (see below). To advance to the next run, answer Yes to the
question IMPORTANT-were these changes made?”.
SELECT ANOTHER JOB

ID: -1
? IMPORTANT! -- Were
these changes made?
35.00 gms @ 12:00
YES, begin next run

NO, GO BACK to edit
5.4.4 Finishing Propeller Balance

The weights outside on the spinner are not a permanent installation. The
user must move the weights to a permanent location according to the
guidelines found in The Smooth Propeller Manual (Chadwick-Helmuth).

Propeller Balancing
Continue toward a permanent weight installation, for the Vibrex 2000 and
Vibrex 2000 Plus as follows:
1. Press the INSTALL PERMANENTLY context key from the propeller
balance quality screen.
2. If a radius change will occur for the installation of the permanent
weight, press the CURRENT RADIUS context key.
NOTE: The radius is the number of inches (or any unit) from the
center of rotation. An easy way to determine the radius is to
measure the diameter of the spinner when it is removed and divide
that number by 2.
3. Enter the trial weight radius, using the numeric keypad.
4. Press the PERMANENT WEIGHT context key and enter the
permanent weight radius, using the numeric keypad.
5. Press START when both values are correct.
The resulting solution displays the weight required at a single balance
point at the permanent radius.
5.4.4.1 If Unable To Use Weight Azimuth

The user may not be able to use the azimuth of the balance weight, for
clearance or other reasons, or the weight may be too much for a single-
weight addition point. In these cases, do the following procedures:
1. Press the context key labeled AT [XX:XX].
2. Press the SPLIT WEIGHT context key.
3. Enter the angle or angles available for weight addition.
CAUTION: The user must enter two weight points one on either
side of the single-weight location in order for the solution to result
in the same IPS reading.
The Vibrex unit calculates the required weight on each point.
NOTE: As the weight is split farther apart, the required weight
becomes greater because of the lower combined arm of the weight
from the center of rotation.

4. Do a final run to verify that the user has installed the permanent
weights correctly. Then press DONE. The Vibrex unit displays the
following screen:
== BALANCE RUN 1 ===

AIRCRAFT ID [ ]
08APR00 12:23:33 #1A
CONTINUE BALANCE ON
ENG-1
START A NEW BALANCE JOB
Use one of the following responses:

• Press CONTINUE BALANCE ON [ENGINE] if the user wishes to
continue balance operations in the current session.
• Press START A NEW BALANCE JOB if the user is finished with the
current balance session and wants to begin a new one.
5.4.5 Reviewing Balance Histories

Review balance histories and other past data, as follows:
1. Return to the Main Menu screen.
NOTE: Even though REVIEW is a dedicated key, it does not work
unless the Main Menu screen is displayed.
2. From this screen, press REVIEW.

Propeller Balancing
The Review Menu screen displays (see the example below).
<STATUS> REVIEW
PROP RUNS 5 / 25
BAL MEAS 1 / 50
SPECTRUMS 0 / 25 99 on
Vibrex Plus
Read this screen, as follows:

• The number before the slash mark (/) for each category of
measurement represents the number of histories stored for the
current run.
• The number displayed after the slash mark represents the total
number of readings stored for each category of measurement.
NOTE: The user may store up to 10 propeller balance runs with
their corrective actions, 25 balance readings without corrections,
and 25 spectra with order analysis.
5.4.5.1 Reviewing Propeller Balance Measurements

Review propeller balance measurements, as follows:
1. From the Review Menu screen, press PROP RUNS. The following
information displays:
• Run number in the screen’s upper right corner
• Annotation in the screen’s lower right corner
• Aircraft ID in the screen’s upper left corner
• Number to the left of the colon (:) is the job number (several
balance jobs may be stored separately)
NOTE: A day/date code also displays to identify the run uniquely
from any other run. The day/date coding is performed automatically
at the time the reading was taken. The channel from which the
reading was taken displays immediately after the day/date code.

2. Press the context key labeled <prop meas> to view the

<rear meas> reading, if a rear measurement was taken.
3. Press the context key labeled <rear meas> to view the propeller
balance adjustment.
NOTE: The RPM of the balance run displays in the lower left
corner of the balance reading.
4. The user may go directly to another run by pressing the NEXT RUN or
PREV RUN context key.
5. The user may view the correction for the propeller by pressing the
key labeled <adjustment>, displaying a screen giving this
information.
5.4.5.2 Reviewing Other Balance Measurements

Review other balance measurements, as follows:
1. From the Review Menu screen press the MEASUREMENTS context
key. The measurements display, as follows:
• The measurement number displays in the upper right corner of the
screen.
• The annotation displays in the lower right corner of the screen.
• The RPM of the balance measurement displays in the lower left
corner of the screen.
• The RPM of the balance run displays in the lower left corner of the
balance reading.
A day/date code also displays. See Section 5.4.5.1 “Reviewing
Propeller Balance Measurements” on page 87.
2. The user may go directly to another run by pressing the NEXT RUN or
PREV RUN context key.
3. The user may skip to any measurement stored by pressing the
MEASUREMENTS context key and entering the run number the user
wants to view.

Propeller Balancing
5.4.5.3 Reviewing Spectrum Peak Measurements

Review spectrum peak measurements, as follows:
1. From the Review Menu screen press the PEAK LISTS context key.
The measurements display, as follows:
• The list number displays in the upper right corner of the screen.
• The annotation displays at the bottom of the screen.
• The RPM range of the measurement displays above the
annotation.
A day/date code also displays. See Section 5.4.5.1 “Reviewing
Propeller Balance Measurements” on page 87.
2. The user may go directly to another spectrum by pressing either the
NEXT LIST or PREV LIST context key.
NOTE: For more information on the Vibrex unit’s Spectrum
Analysis feature, see Section 5.6 “Spectrum Analysis” on page 109.
5.4.5.4 Reviewing Spectrum Order Analysis

Review spectrum order analysis (if done), as follows:
1. Press the VIEW PEAKS context key.
2. To view the orders press the context key next to the
<RPM PEAK IPS> label.
NOTE: The Vibrex 2000 Plus also allows you to review a spectrum
graph plot. See Section 5.6.4 “Spectrum Viewer Feature” on
page 114 for details.
5.4.5.5 Clearing Runs, Measurements, and Lists

Clear runs, measurements, and lists, as follows:
1. From the Main Menu screen, press REVIEW. The Review Menu
screen displays.
2. Press the STATUS context key.
3. Press the context key(s) next to any item the user wishes to clear.
NOTE: The user cannot clear individual readings in the categories
that are stored.

5.5 Helicopter Rotor Balancing

Use the TRACK & BALANCE option from the Main Menu screen for
helicopter rotor track-and-balance operations. For more information on
the Main Menu screen, see Section 5.3 “Basics of Operation” on page 65.
Enter information used for these operations in the resulting Track and
Balance related screens.
NOTE: The user may also use these screens for tracking propellers.
See The Smooth Propeller for detailed instructions on propeller
tracking with the Model 135M-12 Strobex Tracker.
This section explains, in general, how to use the Vibrex 2000 and
Vibrex 2000 Plus for typical rotor track-and-balance operations. The
diagram on page 91 shows a sample setup for a helicopter main rotor.

Helicopter Rotor Balancing

5.5.1 Main Rotor Track

Do main rotor track operations, as follows:
1. Install a single interrupter on the rotating swashplate, in the same way
as the user would for any track-and-balance operation.
NOTE: If the aircraft installation normally uses a double
interrupter with the other single interrupters, remove the double
interrupter and other single interrupters so there is only one single
interrupter on the rotating swashplate.
2. Mount the magnetic pickup, in the same way as the user would
normally.
3. Connect the magnetic pickup cable to the channel A connector of the
Vibrex unit.
4. Connect the tracking cable to the serial port on the connector
subpanel.
5. Connect the Strobex to the five-pin connector of the tracking cable.
6. Connect the two-pin receptacle to and appropriate dc power source.
The following dc power is necessary for each of the different Strobex
models:
Strobex Model Power Required

135M-10, -10A, -10B, -10C and -12 12 or 24 Vdc
135M-11 24 Vdc only
NOTE: The Strobex does not operate on a 12V battery but does
work on an active (charging) 12-Vdc buss. The voltage required to
operate the Strobex is approximately 13.5V.

7. From the Main Menu screen, press the TRACK & BALANCE context
key to acquire a track reading. The Track and Balance screen displays
(see below).
ACQUIRE BAL CH:1A PRESS TO START

COLLECTING DATA
ACQUIRE BAL CH:2A
PRESS TO BEGIN
STROBEX TRACK STROBE TRACKING
CHANGE BAL CHANNELS
8. Press the STROBEX TRACK context key. While the rotors are
turning, the magnetic pickup RPM displays in the lower left of the
Vibrex unit screen.
9. Enter the number of blades the user wants to track in the Number of
Blades screen.
The Strobex Track screen illustration below shows the available
tracking options.
BLADE SPREAD
BLADE SPREAD < ON> TOGGLE
SPREAD FACTOR <2> ENTER THE

SPREAD FACTOR
NUMBER OF BLADES<3>
0 RPM FRM CH<A> DISPLAYS LIVE

RPM READING
pull strobe trigger FROM THE
DESIGNATED

NOTE: With the BLADE SPREAD key set to <ON>, the

SPREAD FACTOR key becomes active. In this case, the user can set
the spacing of the blades by pressing this context key until the user
obtain a correct viewing spread. With the BLADE SPREAD
key <OFF>, the blades are superimposed on each other.
10. When the user is finished, press the GO BACK key as many times as
necessary to return to the Main Menu screen.
5.5.2 Main Rotor Balance

Find complete installation instructions for main rotor balance in the
manufacturer’s maintenance manual or the appropriate Chadwick-
Helmuth Model 177M-6A Vibrex Balancer checklist.
Do main rotor balance operations, as follows:
1. Press TRACK & BALANCE from the Main Menu screen to acquire a
main rotor balance reading.
2. Operate the aircraft in the run condition specified by the balance
chart. This condition is usually hover for balance measurements and
straight and level for vertical measurements.
3. Select the desired channels (either 1A or 2B) the user wants to read
from.
NOTE: If the user is using lateral and vertical sensors that share
the same magnetic pickup, press the CHANGE CHANNELS context
key and choose 1A and 2A for the appropriate two-channel
assignments. These choices are the defaults.
4. Store the readings by pressing START after they have been acquired.
The user can store up to 50 balance readings (total), after which the
first readings are overwritten.
NOTE: The readings from the Vibrex unit are compatible with the
paper balance graphs used with the Chadwick-Helmuth
Model 177M and Model 8350 Vibrex Balancers.

After the Vibrex unit has taken balance measurements, the following
screen displays:
WHAT DO YOU WANT TO

DO WITH MEAS 3 ?
ANNOTATE MEAS 3
REDO MEAS 3
cancel with GO BACK
save with START
From this screen, the user has the following options:

• Press ANNOTATE to store and annotation with the current
measurements.
• Press REDO MEAS to retake the current measurements.
• Press GO BACK to cancel and erase the current measurements.
• Press START to save the current measurements and continue with
the program.
5. Plot the readings on the appropriate chart at the intersection of clock
angle and IPS. Follow the fine lines perpendicular to the heavy
borders of the chart.
6. Read the changes specified on the heavy border and apply these
changes to the rotor system.
7. When the user is finished, press the GO BACK key as many times as
necessary to return to the Main Menu screen.

5.5.3 Using the Rotor Protractor

By way of a typical example, this section explains how to use the
Chadwick-Helmuth Rotor Protractor for balancing helicopter rotors.
In the current example, the operator is balancing a tail rotor with the
Vibrex unit. The installation uses a Velocimeter in the standard location,
as called for in the paper polar chart, and a convenient location for the
photocell at the 11:00 position. The resulting reading from the Vibrex unit
was 0.7 IPS in the 10:20 direction.
To derive a solution from the chart, place the protractor on the chart so the
photocell on the protractor aligns with the angle of the target when the
beam leaves the reflective tape. In other words, the photocell may be
mounted at 11:00 o’clock azimuth, but the beam actually hits the retro
target when it leaves at 12:00. Then the clock corrector will be placed at
12:00 o’clock on the chart. In the example, the photocell is located at
11:00 and the target is also triggered at 11:00 o’clock. In that case the
protractor would be placed on the chart so the photocell is at 11:00. See
illustrations on page 97 and page 98.
For more information on tail rotor balancing with the Vibrex 2000 or
Vibrex 2000 Plus, see Section 5.5.4 “Tail Rotor Balance” on page 104.

READING FROM BALANCER
PAPER CHART
Balance Chart for Hughes 369H, 369HS Tail Rotor Photocell
Hughes 369H, 369HS Tail Rotor Strobex
Run # Run # Run # Run # Run #
.7 IPS
@
10:20
1 HOUR
Adjustment
before
0
1:0 next run
:00
12 61
61
5- 1 HOUR
57
)
L 18
(8
AD
EL
C.
D
OC 1
.5
IN 87
SU
OT CO 13
TO
PH H
r-
OR
R
UT
B
LM CT
LA
HE RA
BT TAR
N
.4
K T LAY OVER CHART TARGET
K
IC RO
W
A GE
P
FR
-o C T T
AD
R TIP
O
CH
.3
:00
TO R
11
.2
RO N T E I S E 12:00
:45 :15 0
U W :30 :30
:45 2:0
W
CO CK ) :15
.1
O :1 11:00 1:00
5 5
-0
:4
ZE -
C L (CCW
0
:3
0
:3
P T
S
AD
IP
E RO .
D
5
S
:4
TI I G H 1
U
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1.0
S
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0
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.9
R
3:0
B T BL
.2
2:00
T
G
10:00
R AN
ET
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AC K
O
TARGET
:15
M
:45
.3
PITCH
LINK
:30
:30
.4
RETRO TAPE
:45
:15
.5
0 3:00
:00 4:0 9:00
10
PHOTOCELL
:15
:45
BLANK
:30
:30
PITCH
LINK
:45
:15
8:00 4:00
0
5
:1
9:0
:4
.
ED
0
:3 NC
:3
0 LA
BA
5 5
:4 G
:1 E IN
TB
AF R. 5:00
CR TO 7:00 5
A IR RO
:15
:45
:30 :45
:30
OR
LL
ON 4
:15 TF CE
6:00 3
AR 2 K BLANK
0 OTO R. CH BLAN TIP
8:0 PH TO CE 1 TO
OF L AN
AC 0 ADD
TH T R ! -or-
MU BA
O 5:0 1 FROM
TE PR LY LINK
AZI ON 2 RACT
R IA ITH ON RS PITCH HT
OP EW G TO
3 ET SUBT TARGET
PR K IN TARG WE IG
AP LIN RO 4
IN OC RT. G TO
ER IS CL HA IN 5 ADD -or-
NS OV LL G RN
CE IN EC TU FROM
TIO T OR TO US NC W RACT
C O ER ALA
UC RA PH CC SUBT BLANK
OT O NC NB R
TR PR RS LA RO FO
E TO BA FO E
INS AC AC OM ED S ID
PL OTR FR LL IS
PR G CA TH 0
IN AS E
1. TE AD TS US 6:0
TA RE EN T-
RO AN
2. OT STM RT
PL DJU
A PO
3. KE IM
MA
4.
0
7:0
Vibrex 2000 and Vibrex 2000 Plus User Guide

97
2
.7 IPS
@
10:20
Adjustment
before
0
next run 1:0
1 HOUR
00
12:
161
1 HOUR
AD
L 75-6
EL 8) 5
OC
D
(81
SU
OT 8 71
TO r- FRO
C.
BT
PH O IN R 13
-o CT
HC
RA
O
BL
T
MU CT
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AN
KH OT TARGET
R
K
WIC PR
TO R
AD TIP
M
CH
11:
00
RO NTE ISE
U
CO CKW )
:15 0
:30
:45 :30
:45 2:0
W
TI IGH
:15
O
E
C (CCW
P T
L :45
:15
:3
0
:30
AD
D
SU
:45
:15
TO or- FRO
BT BL
S
- T K
0
RA A
3:0
IP
TA
C N
.2
.9
RG
ET
M
:15
:45
TARGET
.3
PITCH
:30
:30
LINK
.4
:45
:15
.5
0
00 4:0
10:
:15
:45
:30
:30
BLANK
PITCH
:45
LINK
:15
0
9:0
:15
:45
:3
0
:3
0
.
ED
:45
:15 NC
LA
BA
G .
:15 EIN OR
:45 FTB R OT
:30 A
:30 :45 CR ON
LL
:15
AIR CE
R
TO
BLANK
0 FO
8:0 HA
RT
FP
HO TIP
EC HO 0
5:0
.
A NC UT TOR
BA
L
AZ
IM AC
TR
TE ITH RO Y!
PR
IA
EW NP NL
RO L IN GO SO
PP IN IN T. OR
RA CK AR OT
NS
IS
VE LL C LO E CH GR
TIO
O E IN
R OC IN
G NC RN
TO OT US LA
UC AC PH ER BA W
TU
TR RO
TR SO NC
OR
ON CC
INS EP OR LA OR
AC CT BA DF EF
PL RA M LE SID
OT RO AL IS
R F C 0
6:0
P G S H
1. TE IN SA ET
TA AD NT US
RO RE ME T-
2. OT ST AN
PL JU RT
AD PO
3. KE IM
MA
4.
0
7:0

Plot the reading from the Vibrex unit on the graph at the intersection of
the clock angle shown on screen and the appropriate IPS circle. Reading
to the edges of the chart, the solution for the rotor is add 0.27 g to the
blank blade tip, and add 3.5 g to the target pitch change link (PCL). See
the illustration below.

.7 IPS
@
10:20
Adjustment +.27 BLANK TIP
+3.5 TGT PCL
before
next run
AD
.5
D -or- T F
SU
TO
BT TA
RA RG
BL
.4
C ET
AN
TARGET
K
RO
TIP
M
.3
.2
12:00
W ZER0O-
TI GH 1
.1
EI
P T
11:00 1:00
-
S
AD
IP
D
.
SU
0
TO or- FR
1.
BT B
S
-
IP
RA LA
TA
2:00
.2
.9
CT NK
10:00
RG
ET
OM
TARGET
.3
PITCH
LINK
.4
.5
9:00 3:00
BLANK
PITCH
LINK
8:00 4:00
7:00 5:00 5
4
6:00 2 3 BLANK
NK
1 TO
BLA TIP
ADD r-
1 NK
-o
CT FR
OM
3 2 H LI
PITC HT TRA
SUB TARGET
GET WEIG
4 TAR
TO
5 ADD -or-
FRO
M
C T
RA
SUBT BLANK

NOTE: Disregard the clock numbering on the chart when plotting

using the protractor. Use only the angles from the protractor.
If possible, make only a single change on the rotor for the first run, then
check the correctness of the chart. The move line (a line drawn between
the first and second or any sequential runs) that results from a single
change must be parallel to the fine lines that extend from the unchanged
axis. Since the 3.5 g added to the pitch link results in a lower IPS reading
than the first run, use this solution for the first adjustment.
In the example, the next run (No. 2) reading is 11:50 (from the balancer
and protractor), but it missed it’s intended position by one hour CCW.
Rotate the corrector body on the chart one hour clockwise to correct for
the one hour it missed it’s intended point. The “real” #2 point is replotted
at 11:50. Plot remaining corrections using the protractor with the
photocell line at approximately. 12:00 o’clock.
5.5.3.1 Counter-Clockwise Rotor Correction

Correct the chart for counter-clockwise-turning rotors (blue or CCW side
of the Rotor Protractor), using the following conditions:
• If the move line misses to the right of the expected point (as viewed
from first point to expected point), rotate the Rotor Protractor
counter-clockwise the same number of degrees by which the point
missed its intended angle.
• If the move line misses to the left of the expected point (as viewed
clockwise on the graph the same number of degrees by which the
point missed its intended angle.
• If the move line is longer than the distance to the zero line, decrease
the adjustment proportionally.
• If the move line is shorter than the distance to the zero line, increase
For an illustration, see the diagram on page 101.


Run # 1 Run # 2 Run # Run # Run #
.7 IPS
@
10:20
Adjustment
+.27 BLANK TIP
before
next run
+3.5 TGT PCL
MAKE THIS CHANGE

ONLY
AD
.5
D -or- T F
SU
DIFFERENCE BETWEEN .
TO
BT TA
RA RG
BL
WHERE POINT SHOULD

.4
C ET
AN
TARGET
K
HAVE GONE AND DID

RO
TIP
M
.3
GO.
.2
12:00
W ZER0-O
TI GH 1
.1
EI
P T
11:00 1:00
-
AD
S
IP
D
.
SU
0
TO or- FR
1.
BT B
S
-
IP
RA LA
TA
2:00
.2
.9
CT NK
10:00
RG
ET
O
M
TARGET
.3
PITCH
LINK
.4
.5
9:00 3:00
BLANK
PITCH
LINK
8:00 4:00
7:00 5:00 5
4
6:00 2 3 BLANK
NK
1 TO
BLA TIP
ADD r-
1 LINK
-o
T FR
OM
2 PITCH HT BT RAC ET
3 TAR
GET WEIG
SU TARG
4 TO
ADD -or-
5 F RO
M
TR A CT K
SUB BLAN

In the diagram on page 101, the dashed line and bold circle indicate where
the point would have gone if the chart had matched the aircraft perfectly.
Since the point did not go as planned, the chart needs correction.
Because the run No. 2 point missed in a clockwise direction from the first
point, the user must turn the Rotor Protractor again, this time clockwise,
the same number of hours and minutes of the angle between where the
point should have gone, and where it did go.
Once the user plots the second point again on the chart, the new
adjustment brings the rotor into balance. See illustration on page 103.

CLOCK CORRECTION
DUE TO DEMONSTRATED
RESPONSE.

Run # 1 Run # 2 Run # Run # Run #
.7 IPS .8 IPS
@ @
1:00 10:20 11:50
CLOCK CHANGE DUE
Adjustment
TO INSTALLATION 12:00
+.27 BLANK TIP
before
L
OC EL next run
11:00 PH OT
+3.5 TGT PCL
-6161
) 575
. (818
CO INC 71
MUTH
ICK HEL OR 138
CHADW RA CT MAKE THIS CHANGE
PR OT
ONLY
CORRECTION ANGLE
:15 :30 :45
AD
DIFFERENCE BETWEEN
.5
SU
:45 :15
TO
:30 WHERE POINT SHOULD
r-
:30
BL
BT T A
AN
:15 :4 HAVE GONE AND DID
.4
K
TARGET
RA R G
5
FR
E
2:00
O
-o CT T
GO. TIP
.3
5
:4
:15
.2
12:00
:30
:30
:15
.1
E
:45
11:00 1:00
10:00
W ZE-0R-O
3:00
P T
S
AD
IP D
:45
TI I G H 1
SU
1.0
:15
-o
R
IP
T O r-
TA
:30
.9
BT B
.2
L
T
2:00
RG
10:00
:30
ET
FR
AC ANK
O
M
TARGET
:15
.3
:45
PITCH
LINK
.4
9:00
4:00
:45
.5
:15
:30
9:00 3:00
:30
:15
:4
5
5 BLANK
:4 :15 PITCH
8:00 :30 :30 LINK
:15 :45
:30 :45 :15 8:00 4:00
.
NC ED
BA LA
BE ING
AF T
R AIR CR
AR T FO R.
NC E CH ROTO
BA LA ELL ON
ONS RIA TE OTOC
PR OP OF PH
RUCTI ER AP MUTH OR . 7:00 5:00
H AZI 5
INST OR OV E WIT RA CT
RA CT OT IN LIN IS PR OT 4
E PR OCELL G ON
PL AC PHOT OC KIN 6:00 3
1. OR SO ING CL 2 K BLANK
RACT ER US LY !
PROT LA NC ART. RS ON 1 BLAN TIP
TATE OM BA CE CH RO TO TO
2. RO ING FR BALAN
RE AD R ON RN ING 5:00 ADD r-
D FO W TU 1 -o
PL OT AS CALLE FO R CC K FROM
3. TS SID E 2 H LIN RACT
TMEN TH IS PITC
ADJUS - US E 3 ET GH T SUBTTARGET
MAKE TA NT TARG W EI
4. IMP OR 4 TO
6:00 5 ADD -or-
FROM
RACT
SUBT BLANK
7:00
Vibrex 2000 and Vibrex 2000 Plus User Guide

103
5.5.3.2 Clockwise Rotor Correction

Correct the chart for clockwise-turning rotors (red or CW side of the
Rotor Protractor), using the following conditions:
• If the move line misses to the left of the expected point (as viewed
clockwise on the graph the same number of degrees by which the
point missed its intended angle.
• If the move line misses to the right of the expected point (as viewed
counter-clockwise the same number of degrees by which the point
missed its intended angle.
• If the move line is longer than the distance to the zero line, decrease
• If the move line is shorter than the distance to the zero line, increase
5.5.4 Tail Rotor Balance

The Vibrex unit uses a photocell system to determine RPM and provide a
one-per-revolution signal to determine out-of-balance phase of the tail
rotor. The user may use the Strobex for tail rotor track, as explained in
Section 5.5.5 “Tail Rotor Track” on page 106.
CAUTION: Do not use the Strobex for tail rotor phase
measurement.
Use the photocell for tail rotor balance, as follows:
1. Mount the photocell at a convenient location where its beam can
strike some part of the tail rotor.
2. Install the Velocimeter as the user normally would for the subject
aircraft.
3. Press TRACK & BALANCE from the Main Menu screen to acquire a
balance reading.
4. Operate the aircraft in the appropriate balance regime and select the
channels for the tail rotor. The Vibrex unit automatically begins to
acquire readings.

5. Store the readings by annotating them as they are acquired. Up to

50 balance readings (total) can be stored, after which the first
readings are overwritten.
6. To use paper polar graphs to finish balancing the subject tail rotor,
plot the points given by the Vibrex unit’s screen displays, as
explained in the following sections:
• Section 5.5.4.1 “Clockwise Rotors” on page 105
• Section 5.5.4.2 “Counter-Clockwise Rotors” on page 105
5.5.4.1 Clockwise Rotors

Finish balancing clockwise-turning rotors, as follows:
1. Obtain a reading from the Vibrex unit’s screen displays.
2. Obtain the correct paper polar chart for use with the subject tail rotor.
The user may use a manufacturer’s chart from the maintenance
manual or one supplied from Chadwick-Helmuth.
3. Using the red (clockwise) side of the Rotor Protractor, align the
photocell on the protractor with the azimuth of the photocell on the
helicopter.
4. Plot the balance point from the Vibrex unit onto the chart, using the
clock numbering on the Rotor Protractor aligned, as in step 1 on the
chart. For an explanation of how to use the Rotor Protractor, see
Section 5.5.3 “Using the Rotor Protractor” on page 96.
5. From the balance point on the chart, plot parallel to the fine lines that
extend from the heavy borders to the edges of the chart.
6. Read the adjustment to the rotor from the scale and notation on the
heavy borders.
5.5.4.2 Counter-Clockwise Rotors

Finish balancing counter-clockwise-turning rotors, as follows:
1. Obtain a reading from the Vibrex unit’s screen displays.
2. Obtain the correct paper polar chart for use with the subject tail rotor.
The user may use a manufacturer’s chart from the maintenance
manual or one supplied from Chadwick-Helmuth.

3. Using the blue (counter-clockwise) side of the Rotor Protractor, align

the photocell on the protractor with the azimuth of the photocell on
the helicopter.
4. Plot the balance point from the Vibrex unit onto the chart, using the
clock numbering on the Rotor Protractor aligned, as in step 4 on the
chart. For an explanation of how to use the Rotor Protractor, see
Section 5.5.3 “Using the Rotor Protractor” on page 96.
5. From the balance point on the chart, plot parallel to the fine lines that
extend from the heavy borders to the edges of the chart.
6. Read the adjustment to the rotor from the scale and notation on the
heavy borders.
NOTE: It is possible on some rotors to use the Propeller Balance

screens and their propeller balance procedures (using the Propeller
Protractor) for determining correct balance weights, instead of a
polar chart. The Propeller Balance screens’ menus are especially
suited to tail rotors equipped with a balance wheel or balance points
equidistant from the center of rotation.
5.5.5 Tail Rotor Track

Even though many helicopters have fixed pitch change links (PCLs) for
the tail rotor, this feature does not mean track is never a problem. On such
aircraft, track differences can cause difficulty in balancing to low levels or
may result in high IPS levels during forward flight.
Track the tail rotor by using the Strobex. In general, do this operation, as
follows:
1. Install the photocell system so one of the blade tips points towards the
cabin. Make sure the retro-reflective target that triggers the photocell
probe is in line with the probe beam.
2. Apply a thin retro-reflective target along the chord line on one blade
tip and across the chord line on the other blade tip.

If the user is tracking more than two blades, apply a retro-reflective

target to each blade so the targets’ alignments are distinctly different.
For an illustration, see the diagram below.
RETRO TARGET ACROSS CHORD LINE
TAIL ROTOR
TRACKING TARGETS
TAIL ROTOR BLADE TIPS
RETRO TARGET ALONG CHORD LINE
NOTE: A Velocimeter is not required for tail rotor track operations.

3. Place the Vibrex unit at the root of the tail boom. See the illustration
below.
X
PLACE VIBREX UNIT

(WITH STROBEX)
HERE
4. Plug the Strobex into the tracking cable and the tracking cable into
the serial port on the connector subpanel.

5. Plug the dc connector from the Strobex cable into the appropriate dc
power required for the Strobex used.
6. Place the Strobex control in the Slave mode - “A”.
NOTE: This step is not necessary with the Model 135M-12 Strobex.
7. Operate the aircraft at the desired RPM.
8. Power up the Vibrex unit and press the TRACK & BALANCE context
key.
9. Press the STROBEX TRACK context key. The Strobex Track screen
displays (see the illustration on page 93).
10. Enter the number of tail rotor blades, using the alpha-numeric
keypad.
11. View the track from the root of the tail boom while looking at the
edge of the tail rotor disc (with the aircraft running). Deviations from
left to right indicate out-of-track in the obvious sense.
12. Synchronize the flash of the Strobex with the photocell timing pulse
so the blade tip targets become superimposed.
13. Judge the correct track by how far away from the tail boom the targets
appear or by how far from left to right the targets appear, relative to
each other.

Spectrum Analysis
5.6 Spectrum Analysis

After any type of balance operation, if the user feels additional vibrations,
the user can use the Spectrum Analysis feature of the Vibrex 2000 and
Vibrex 2000 Plus to determine the probable source of the vibration. This
feature allows the user to collect extensive, detailed spectral data.
5.6.1 Spectrum Analysis Setup

Access and set up this feature, as follows:
1. From the Main Menu screen, press the SPECTRUM ANALYSIS
context key.
This action displays the Spectrum Setup screen (see example below).
SELECT TO
ENTER
VELOCIMETER
=== SPECTRUM SETUP=== SETUP
SELECT TO
<#1> VIB SENSOR ENTER SETUP
FOR PHOTOCELL
OR MODEL 3030
<A> AZIMUTH SENSOR MAGNETIC
PICKUP
0-<24,000> RPM
if ok, push START SELECT TO
ENTER AZIMUTH
RPM RANGE
The example shown above is for the Vibrex 2000, but, with minor
differences, both units display the same screen.
2. Select the appropriate channel by pressing the CHANNEL context
key.

3. Select the per-revolution (frequency) input by pressing the AZIMUTH

context key. The default is one per revolution.
NOTE: The use of a one-per-revolution azimuth signal is not
required to obtain a spectrum, but its value in separating
harmonically related peaks from other unrelated peaks is useful.
4. Select the range of interest (active orders) by pressing the
0-<24,000>RPM (Vibrex 2000) or 0-<600,000>RPM
(Vibrex 2000 Plus) context key. See Section 5.6.1.1 “Ranging
Feature” on page 111 for details.
Frequency Ranges - The available Spectrum Analysis feature

frequency ranges (in RPM) for the Vibrex 2000 are
• 0 to 1500
• 0 to 3000
• 0 to 12,000
• 0 to 24,000
The available Spectrum Analysis feature frequency ranges (in RPM) for
the Vibrex 2000 Plus are
• 0 to 1200
• 0 to 3000
• 0 to 6000
• 0 to 12,000
• 0 to 30,000
• 0 to 60,000
• 0 to 120,000
• 0 to 300,000
• 0 to 600,000
NOTE: When the maximum range is selected, the orders list will
show no IPS at the low ranges (first four bins of the FFT) of the
balancer will not show any IPS.
NOTE: To select the optimum frequency range, multiply the
primary frequency by 12 and choose the nearest frequency range
that corresponds to that value.

Spectrum Analysis
5.6.1.1 Ranging Feature

The user may use the ranging feature to provide a more detailed study of
vibration, by narrowing the range. Take the following characteristics into
account when using this feature:
• Select the range of interest (active orders) by pressing the
0-<24,000>RPM (Vibrex 2000) or 0-<600,000>RPM
(Vibrex 2000 Plus) context key. Pressing the key repeatedly cycles
through the available frequency ranges.
• The Spectrum feature operates by listing the ten highest peaks in the
range of interest.
• The default range is 0 to 24,000 RPM for the Vibrex 2000 and 0 to
600,000 for the Vibrex 2000 Plus. If the user is using the Vibrex 2000
and encounter high peaks above 10,000 RPM, all the available peaks
may not show up.
• If the ranging is lowered to 0 to 12,000 RPM the peaks in the 12,000
to 20,000 RPM range become replaced by lower-level peaks in the
0 to 12,000 RPM range.
• The minimum IPS value that displays is 0.01 IPS.
5.6.1.2 Annotating Spectra

Annotate the spectrum by pressing the context key next to the
[ANNOTATE] notation or press START and continue to the next screen,
then select the ANNOTATE context key. After the user finishes an
annotation, press START.
5.6.2 Collecting Spectral Data

Collect spectral data, as follows:
1. Operate the aircraft or engine in the desired condition.
2. Press the START key.
This action displays the Spectrum Data Acquisition screen, meaning
the Vibrex unit is collecting data.
NOTE: At any time during data collection, the user may press the
ABORT context key to stop the operation.

After the Vibrex 2000 has finished collecting spectral data, the list of
peaks displays on screen, that is, the Spectrum Peaks screen (see
below).
USE TO ENTER
NOTES TO
[ANNOTATE ] LIST 1 ONE’S SELF
25SEP96 09:56:46 1A
<PEAK IPS RPM> DATE, TIME, AND
CHANNEL
0.91 3900 NUMBER
0.31 92160
0.31 46230
0.31 23115 LIST OF
VIBRATION
0.31 11407 PEAKS
3. If a down arrow displays, more peaks are available that did not fit on
the initial screen. In this case, press the adjacent context key to list
additional peaks. Note that details of this screen on the
Vibrex 2000 Plus may differ.
NOTE: The Vibrex 2000 Plus displays the Spectrum View screen
first. See Section 5.6.4 “Spectrum Viewer Feature” on page 114 for
details.
4. Press START again to save the list in memory. The user may press
GO BACK to erase the list.
5.6.3 Order Analysis

Order analysis is a way to observe vibrations harmonically related to a
primary frequency. For example, a vibrating string (as on a violin or
guitar) has a primary frequency most associated with the sound and a host
of harmonics.

Spectrum Analysis
These harmonics are mathematically related in frequency to the primary

tone and give the string its tone quality. The following list provides
important facts to keep in mind while working with order analysis:
• A rotor on a helicopter, for example, has a primary frequency, the
RPM, and its harmonics are determined by the number of blades and
multiples of the number of blades. For example, a two-bladed rotor
system turning 300 RPM has a first order (fundamental) of 300 RPM,
a second order at 600 RPM, a fourth order at 1200 RPM, and so on.
• Reciprocating four-cycle engines have harmonics in one-half order
increments, beginning with the one-half order (half the engine speed)
and continuing up through approximately eight times the crank shaft
speed.
• Each engine type has a distinctive spectral signature, and each
different engine of a particular type has a unique signature of its own.
• Engine characteristics that determine spectral signature are the
evenness of combustion, intake losses, ignition timing, internal
component balance, the type of propeller installed, and the condition
of the internal dynamic counterweights (if so equipped).
To view a list of the orders in a signature while using the Vibrex unit,
press the context key next to the <RPM PEAK IPS> line on the screen
display. This action displays the Spectrum Orders screen (see below).
USE TO ENTER
[ANNOTATE ] LIST 1 NOTES TO
ONE’S SELF
25SEP96 09:56:46 1A
<ORDER @ 500 RPM> DATE, TIME, AND
0.5 0.00 IPS CHANNEL
NUMBER
1.0 0.86 IPS
1.5 0.01 IPS
2.0 0.00 IPS LIST OF
2.5 0.01 IPS VIBRATION
ORDERS

If a one-per-revolution pulse was available during a spectrum acquisition,

the number of orders that fit in the preselected RPM range display
(regardless of whether they had any associated IPS value).
After the user has viewed a list, press START again to save the list in
memory. The user may press GO BACK to erase the list.
5.6.4 Spectrum Viewer Feature

The Vibrex 2000 Plus allows the user to view spectral graph plots of
vibration data. Use the SPECTRUM ANALYSIS option in the Main
Menu screen to access this feature.
NOTE: This feature is only available with the Vibrex 2000 Plus
system.
5.6.4.1 After Taking Measurements

After the Vibrex 2000 Plus has taken spectral measurements, it displays
the Spectrum Peaks screen (see Section 5.6.2 “Collecting Spectral Data”
on page 111), in the same way as the Vibrex 2000. However, the user may
also press the <RPM PEAK IPS> context key twice to display the
Spectrum Viewer screen.
Press this context key to cycle among the following three spectrum views
(in this order):
• Spectrum Peaks
• Spectrum Orders
• Spectrum Viewer

Spectrum Analysis
The illustration below shows an example of the Spectrum Viewer screen.

CURSOR
FULL SPECTRUM SET ZOOM AREA IDENTIFIED
POSITION
VIEW BY DOTTED LINE
CYCLE VIEW
CONTEXT
KEY
?
ZOOMED
AREA VIEW
0.86 IPS 15300 RPM
In this screen, the <RPM PEAK IPS> context key becomes the CYCLE
VIEW (icon) key. These keys have the same function. Use the Arrow keys
to move the cursor position.
See Section 5.6.2 “Collecting Spectral Data” on page 111 for detailed
information on these screens. All other spectrum features with the
Vibrex 2000 Plus operate in the same way as they do with the
Vibrex 2000 model.

5.6.4.2 Displaying Cursor Data

The Vibrex 2000 Plus also allows the user to display specific data
associated with the current cursor position. Do this action, as follows:
1. In the Spectrum Viewer screen, place the cursor on the desired peak.
2. Press the ? context key. The Cursor Data screen displays (see below).
" " LIST 1

17JAN00 16:54:46 1A
0- 30,000 RPM
CURRENT CURSOR DATA

0.86 IPS 15300 RPM
1.1 mils Pk-Pk
3.6 Gs 255.0 Hz
This screen gives the user specific vibration data on the current cursor
position.

Chapter 6
6. Maintenance
This chapter explains basic maintenance and troubleshooting techniques
for possible problems with the Vibrex 2000 and Vibrex 2000 Plus Digital
Dynamic Balancer/Analyzer systems. Chapter 6 contains the following
sections:
6.1 Maintenance: Introduction ...................................................... 117
6.2 Theory of Operation ................................................................ 118
6.3 Routine Servicing ....................................................................122
6.4 Troubleshooting ....................................................................... 145
6.1 Maintenance: Introduction

This chapter provides general maintenance procedures the user can
perform on the Vibrex 2000 and Vibrex 2000 Plus in the field, including
the personal computer (PC) interface. Advanced maintenance operations
do not appear in this user guide. For repairs that require sophisticated
technical assistance, the user must return the unit to the factory (see
Section 1.2 “Product Support” on page 4).
CAUTION: When returning the Vibrex unit, make to pack and
store it carefully, for safe shipping.
The general topics in the list above constitute the main subject matter of
this chapter. Of special help is the Troubleshooting Guide, containing a
table that lists the most likely problems the user may encounter, along
with their probable causes and some suggested corrective actions.
For more assistance, see any maintenance manual for the subject aircraft
and/or The Smooth Propeller manual.

Chapter 6 - Maintenance
6.2 Theory of Operation

The Vibrex 2000 and Vibrex 2000 Plus acquire, display, process, and
analyze vibration data for fault analysis and balance correction. The
following basic subsystems make up the Vibrex unit, as explained in this
section:
• Digital
• Display
• Analog
• Power
6.2.1 Digital Subsystem

The digital subsystem resides on the main printed circuit board (PCB).
This subsystem contains the following elements: [for the 13590-3 amd the
Plus, 14490]:
• Microprocessor, Motorola 68332, running at 16.78 MHz [25 MHz]
• Static random-access memory (SRAM), 256 KB [1MB]
• Erasable, programmable read-only memory (EPROM), 256 KB
[1MB]
• Serial communication interface (RS-232)
• Timing pulse output circuitry for the Model 135M-12 Strobex
Tracker
The microprocessor chip executes the operating code that resides in the
EPROM. This chip coordinates sampling with the analog-to-digital
converter (ADC) and also receives, processes, and stores digitized signals
from the ADC.
Additionally, the microprocessor chip scans the keyboard, interpreting
user inputs, programming the vibration and tachometer input channels,
and displaying results and information on the liquid-crystal display
(LCD) screen. Also, the microprocessor transmits data to the outside, that
is, to a printer or PC, via an RS-232 serial interface and a nine-pin
connector.

Theory of Operation
For more information on the EPROM chip, including replacement

instructions, see Section 6.3.2 “EPROM Replacement” on page 126.
6.2.2 Display Subsystem

The Vibrex unit’s display is a 64-by-128 pixel, reflective LCD. These
numbers equate to 8 lines by 21 characters. The display interfaces with
the main PCB through a 20-pin connector.
A programmable potentiometer circuit on the main PCB controls the
screen display’s contrast. This circuit retains the last contrast setting, even
after powering down. Adjust the potentiometer, using two keys located on
the keyboard to the right of the display.
For more information on the display, see Section 3.2.1 “Display” on
page 19.
6.2.3 Analog Subsystem

The primary purpose of the analog subsystem is to route, condition, and
filter the velocity vibration and azimuth (photocell system or Model 3030
Magnetic Pickup) signals. This subsystem also performs some self-
calibration functions.
6.2.3.1 Velocity Signal

The Vibrex unit routes velocity vibration signals from one of two
channels by a multiplexer (also called a mux). The unit offsets these
signals to 2.5V, then passes them through a two-pole high-pass filter
having a corner at 4 Hz. The signals then pass through a six-pole, low-
pass antialiasing filter with a corner frequency at 380 Hz.
These conditioned signals then go to a 13-bit ADC. The 13 bits include
12 bits to signify the number plus one for the sign (+ or -). A timing
processor unit (TPU) in the microprocessor controls the sampling. A
hardware state machine that uses discrete logic coordinates the data
exchange between the microprocessor and the ADC.

6.2.3.2 Azimuth Signal

The Vibrex unit routes azimuth (frequency or tachometer) signals from
one of two channels by a multiplexer. These signals then go to a pulse
detector, a threshold-adaptive detector that translates azimuth pickup
input signals (from the magnetic pickup or photocell) to digital logic
levels.
The detector picks up peak pulse levels as low as 0.5V. The digital signal
then goes to the microprocessor TPU for calculating periods and phase
references.

Theory of Operation
6.2.4 Power Subsystem

The Vibrex unit’s power subsystem has the following components:
• Battery power
• On-off logic
• Power supply, 12 Vdc (including photocell power)
• Power supply, 5 Vdc
• Power supply, -12 Vdc
• Short-circuit protection circuitry
6.2.4.1 Battery Power

The Vibrex unit operates with four D-size batteries, nominally 1.5 Vdc
each. This setup provides an input range of 3.5 to 6.4 Vdc. The user can
use rechargeable batteries, but they do not provide so long an operating
time nor the low-power warning time that the recommended alkaline
batteries are able to give.
The batteries are always powering a very low-power on-off logic circuit.
This circuit uses an input from the keyboard (ON/OFF key) to turn on the
main 12V supply. The off-current drain on the batteries is less than 50 µa.
The microprocessor can switch the on-off logic off (Auto-off feature) to
save power.
For more information on using batteries with the Vibrex unit, see
Section 6.3.1 “Batteries and Replacement” on page 123.
6.2.4.2 On-Off Logic

Once the on-off logic senses a press of the ON/OFF key, it powers up the
battery-driven 12V power supply. This supply, in turn, powers two
additional supplies, 5V and -12V.
6.2.4.3 Power Supplies

All power supplies reside on the main PCB. There are three, as explained
in this section.
Power Supply, 12V - The 12V supply powers the other supplies, the
Velocimeter sensors and, through a microprocessor-controlled power
switch, the photocell probe.

The photocell power switch allows the microprocessor to turn off the
photocell when it is not needed, saving power and extending battery life.
The 12V supply also powers the analog filters, azimuth conditioning, and
contrast circuitry.
Power Supply, 5V - The 5V supply runs the screen display and digital
circuitry, including the microprocessor and memory.
Power Supply, -12V - The -12V supply powers the Velocimeters and
analog filters, azimuth conditioning, and the contrast circuitry. The
-12V sensor power currently has a limit of 20 mA. It can take a
continuous short without damage. The effect of a short circuit on the
microprocessor and display depend on the battery voltage.
6.2.4.4 Short-circuit Protection

All supplies help operate the serial communications hardware. Fuses
protect the batteries and sensor power from short circuit damage.
Each battery compartment has a separate fuse. This is a 2A-axial
component soldered on the back of each battery contact spring board.
These fuses prevent catastrophic failure of the batteries or fire (if a short
circuit occurs), even if the problem occurs within one battery chamber.
A self-mending fuse protects the 12V sensor power. If a short does occur,
the fuse mends itself after the short gets repaired.
With nominal voltage, the display may go blank for a few seconds until
the self-mending fuse opens, but the unit does not necessarily reset. At
low battery voltages, the unit may either reset or power off.
CAUTION: These operations do not damage the unit, but could
cause the loss of memory contents and/or data.
6.3 Routine Servicing

This section explains routine maintenance and servicing procedures the
user may do with the Vibrex 2000 and Vibrex 2000 Plus to ensure
optimum performance.

Routine Servicing
6.3.1 Batteries and Replacement

The batteries are located in the two hand grips of the Vibrex unit. This
section explains battery types best suited for the unit, as well as their
removal and reinstallation.
6.3.1.1 Battery Types

The types of batteries that can be used with the Vibrex unit are
Alkaline batteries - This type affords the greatest run time and the
longest shelf life. If the balancer is to be stored for long periods of
time alkaline batteries are the best choice. The 40 hrs. (Vibrex 2000
Plus to 55 hrs) of the balancer with new, top-name alkaline batteries is
approximately 40 hr.
Rechargeable alkaline batteries - Be aware that rechargeable
alkaline batteries require a very specific recharge regimen. Consult
the subject battery manufacturer’s specifications for recharging
instructions.
Nickel-cadmium batteries - This type contains about half the power
density of alkaline batteries. The battery life on new fully charged
nickel-cadmium (NiCad) batteries is approximately 20 hr. The shelf
life of NiCad batteries is far inferior to alkaline batteries, and NiCads
deteriorate if not used regularly. On the good side, NiCads are less
expensive over the life of their use than alkaline batteries. The rule for
NiCad batteries is to use them often and hard.
NOTE: The Vibrex unit comes shipped with alkaline batteries.
6.3.1.2 Battery Usage

Keep the following important cautions in mind when using batteries with
the Vibrex unit:
• Do not take refrigerated batteries, then put them in a unit then set it in
sunlight at 90° or higher. This action may cause severe battery
leakage and severe internal damage to the unit’s circuit board.
CAUTION: Do not put a battery in backwards. If you do, there is
enough voltage to operate the unit for approximately 30 min.
However, this action shorts out the battery and heats it up enough to
rupture, causing severe internal damage to the Vibrex unit.

CAUTION: This backward-battery problem is much easier to cause

in European countries where the D-batteries have no tips on the
positive end. Both ends are flat, so the user must read the label on
the battery.
6.3.1.3 Battery Insertion Diagram

For a diagram of how to insert batteries into the Vibrex unit, see the
illustration below.
CONNECTOR SUBPANEL
LEFT-
SUBPANEL
SIDE
POINTING
HAND
UPWARD
GRIP
GO BACK
1 2 3 START
ABC DEF GHI
PRINT
4 5 6 REVIEW
JKL MNO PQR
RIGHT-
7 8 9 SIDE
STU VWX YZ :
HAND
+/- 0 ON
SPACE #%@ OFF GRIP
PHILLIPS SCREW
+ BATTERY END
PLATE
BATTERIES
(4 SIZE D)
+
6.3.1.4 Removal
Remove batteries from the Vibrex unit, as follows:
1. Using a Phillips screwdriver, turn the large Phillips screw on the
unit’s battery end plate (15), one quarter turn counter-clockwise.
2. Carefully remove the battery end plate.

Routine Servicing
3. Hold the unit with its connector subpanel pointing upward.

4. Slide the batteries out of the side hand grips.
NOTE: The user may find out whether batteries are low on power
by using the Status feature. To access, press the STATUS button
from the Main Menu screen.
6.3.1.5 Reinstallation
When replacing the batteries it is important to observe the proper
orientation as depicted by the decals located inside the Vibrex 2000
battery tubes. Reinstall the batteries, as follows:
1. Insert the right-side batteries (in the hand grip next to the contrast
buttons) negative end first. The raised contact must be facing out.
2. Install the left-side batteries (in the hand grip next to the context keys)
positive end first.
3. Reinstall the battery end plate (15) in the reverse order of removal.
For an illustration, see the diagram on page 124. Diagrams on the
inside of the hand grips illustrate the correct battery insertion and
polarity.
NOTE: Failure to properly install the batteries could result in a
battery leaching its electrolyte onto the electronic circuitry inside
the Vibrex 2000, destroying the circuit board. This is especially true
if only one battery is reversed. Since the unit may appear to be
functioning normally, it is important to verify proper battery
orientation as follows:
Press ON.
Select STATUS.
Wait 5 seconds.
Read BATT voltage.
NOTE: Fresh batteries should produce a reading greater than 6.0
volts.
A reading of less than 3.5 volts may indicate a reversed battery and
orientation should be double-checked.

6.3.1.6 Setting Battery Time

The Vibrex unit has a feature that tells how much time the user has been
operating a set of batteries.
NOTE: If the user already has time use on the batteries, the battery
voltage indication is the best guide to battery health, since resetting
the battery time results in a zero reading for battery time in service.
To ensure the accuracy of this reading, set the battery time after new
battery installation, as follows:
1. Select the BATT context key.
2. Press RESET FOR NEW BATTERIES.
CAUTION: After the user replaces an EPROM chip, the battery
time automatically resets to zero.
6.3.2 EPROM Replacement

The EPROM chip in the Vibrex 2000 or Vibrex 2000 Plus defines the
features contained in the unit and has a version number that corresponds
to these features.
To update the features in the Vibrex unit, the user replaces the EPROM
chip. The user can do this operation in the field (see reference note
below), provided the user follows precautions given in this section. For
more information on the EPROM chip, see Section 6.2.1 “Digital
Subsystem” on page 118.
NOTE: The Vibrex 2000 Plus and Vibrex 2000 (13590-3), the
EPROM cannot be replaced. It is reprogrammed via the serial port.
NOTE: The user can do this operation in the field by following the
instructions in the PDF User Guide Part Number 15766-1,
“VIBREX 2000 and VIBREX 2000+ Flash Programming Guide”
(or the read me text file, same title, Part Number 15767).
6.3.2.1 Determining EPROM Versions

To determine the EPROM version number, press the STATUS key from
the Main Menu screen.
Note: Only Vibrex 2000 (13590-2) and earlier have replaceable
EPROMS.

Routine Servicing
Find the EPROM version near the bottom of the screen, for example,
=Vibrex 2000/2000 Plus Version 2.71=
6.3.2.2 Getting Started

Precautions - It is important to note that the EPROM chip is an
electrostatic discharge (ESD) sensitive device. Use all standard ESD
precautions when changing the EPROM or main PCB, including
grounding all parts and using a static wrist strap while touching the
EPROM. These precautions make sure the electrical potential of all parts
is the same.
CAUTION: There is no risk of electrocution from the Vibrex unit,
but electrostatic discharge could damage the EPROM chip.
Required Tools - The table below shows the tools required for EPROM
replacement.
Description Tool
No. 1 Phillips (cross- Screwdriver
head)
No. 2 Common Screwdriver
6.3.2.3 Replacement Procedures

For a complete diagram of how to disassemble the Vibrex unit, see the
illustration on page 138 (numbers in parentheses refer to reference
numbers in this diagram and in the table on page 142).
Replace the EPROM chip, as follows:
1. Remove the battery end plate (15) that holds the batteries in place, by
turning the large Phillips screw (16) counter-clockwise, using the
No. 1 Phillips screwdriver.
2. Remove the batteries (20).
3. Remove the four 4-40 (03) screws holding the shield to the bottom of
the chassis.

4. Pull the shield (02) away from the Vibrex unit chassis enough to gain
access to the ribbon cable that connects the main PCB (14) to the
keypad (part of the chassis).
5. Gently remove the ribbon cable (for the keyboard) from its connector
on the main PCB.
CAUTION: Pull on the connectors only, not on the ribbon cable.
6. Remove the four 4-40 screws (03) from the connector end plate (04).
NOTE: These screws do not hold connectors on the connector end
plate.
7. Pull the connector end plate away from the chassis, using care that the
shield (02) follows the main PCB (14) without catching on anything.
8. Locate the EPROM chip (U20) on the top side of the main PCB
(same side as the LCD screen).
9. Remove the EPROM chip from the EPROM socket in the main
PCB (14) by gently prying it up, first at one end then the other until
the EPROM is clear of the socket.
10. Insert the new EPROM chip into the EPROM socket so the index
notch in the chip aligns with the notch printed for “U20” on the main
PCB.
CAUTION: Take care not to bend the pins on the EPROM when
pushing the chip into place.
11. Make sure the EPROM chip pins align with the EPROM connector
sockets before pressing the chip into the socket.
12. Reassemble the Vibrex unit in the reverse order of disassembly.
13. Switch the unit on and verify a successful power-up operation.
Alternate Replacement Procedure - If, for any reason, the user finds
the previous procedures awkward or difficult, the user may use the
following EPROM chip replacement procedure:
1. Remove the battery end plate (15), as explained in the previous set of
procedures (steps 1 through 4).
2. Remove the two nuts holding the serial connector to the connector
end plate (4).

Routine Servicing
3. Remove the EPROM chip (U20) from the EPROM socket in the main
PCB by gently prying it up, first at one end then the other until the
EPROM is clear of the socket.
4. Insert the new EPROM chip into the EPROM socket so the index
notch in the chip aligns with the notch printed for “U20” on the main
PCB (14).
CAUTION: Take care not to bend the pins on the EPROM when
pushing the chip in.
5. Make sure the EPROM chip pins align with the EPROM connector
sockets before pressing the chip into the socket.
6. Reassemble the Vibrex unit in the reverse order of disassembly.
7. Switch the unit on and verify a successful power-up operation.
6.3.3 Panel Retention Screws

The connector and battery end plates are both held in place on the Vibrex
unit chassis with four 4-40 black, anodized stainless steel screws (03). If
the screws are cross-threaded or stripped for any reason, the user may fix
the chassis by either
• Threading the damaged hole to a deeper depth, using an 4-40
semitaper tap and a longer 4-40 screw
• Using a longer, self-tapping 4-40 screw
6.3.4 Cleaning
This section explains basic housekeeping-type operations the user needs
to perform with the Vibrex unit.
Before cleaning, disassemble the unit in the same way as the user would
for EPROM replacement (see Section 6.3.2.3 “Replacement Procedures”
on page 127).

Finishing Up - Finish the cleaning operation, as follows:

1. Using a moist cloth and mild detergent, clean the face of the
instrument. To add more protection to the instrument, the user may
apply a light film of Armor All to the control subpanel.
2. Blow out any dirt in the interior of the chassis.
3. Ensure the unit is dry before reassembly.
6.3.5 Testing
We recommend that the user perform a yearly function test end to end, on
the Vibrex 2000 and Vibrex 2000 Plus. If the readings obtained during
this test are within the unit’s specifications for that reading in frequency,
amplitude, and phase, then the unit is operating correctly. If not, then the
unit may need servicing.
6.3.5.1 System Testing Using Model 11 Calibrator

The Model 11 Calibrator may be used to perform an end to end check of
the Balancers system as follows.
1. Using Calibrator Model 11, 11B, or 11/11PS install two velocimeters,
one on each side of the Calibrator using the 1/4 - 28 threaded holes
provided.
NOTE: In order for the calibrator to displace the velocimeters
accurately, BOTH velocimeters must be installed, or alternately, a
mass equal in weight to the velocimeter must be placed opposite the
velocimeter being tested.
2. Connect the Velocimeter to the Balancer channels 1 and 2.
3. Insert a magnetic pickup in the 5/8 - 18 threaded hole until the tip of
the magnetic pickup just touches the “interrupter” screws, then back
off one flat and tighten the jam nut.
4. Connect the magnetic pickup to channel A of the Balancer.

Routine Servicing
5. Remove all screws from the calibrator strobe disc EXCEPT the two
screws used for the single interruptor. See the picture below:
6. Connect the Calibrator to a regulated 28 Vdc power supply.

NOTE: A 28 volt battery is sufficient.
7. Connect the Strobex (if applicable) to the Balancer using the 12979
tracking cable and to the power supply.
8. Turn the Calibrator switch to “ON”.
9. Turn speed selection to 900 RPM.
10. Using a florescent light, adjust the speed of the calibrator to give a
stopped (but slight blurred) view of the pertinent strobe disc. See
Calibrator manual for details on tuning speed of the Calibrator.
11. Turn Balancer ON.
12. After Power Up self test, press TRACK & BALANCE.
13. Select channel 1 and A press START.
14. Reading should be.4 IPS +/-.04 IPS and 9:00 o’clock +/- 1 hour and
RPM should read 900 +/- 5 RPM.
15. Turn calibrator speed selection to 1800 RPM. Adjust speed according
to Step 10.
16. Press REDO Measurement (Context Key).
17. Readings should be.8 IPS +/-.08 IPS at 9:00 o’clock, +/- 1 hour and
RPM should read 1800 +/-10 RPM.
18. Perform the same tests using channel 2 and B.
19. Press GO back and initiate a Strobe Track.

20. Press spread factor OFF and number of blades to 1.

21. Two images of the C-H logo should be in evidence on strobe disc of
calibrator.
22. Change number blades to two (2).
23. Observe 4 stems on C-H logo of calibrator strobe disc.
24. If these readings are observed, unit is serviceable.
6.3.5.2 Instrument Test Procedures for the Vibrex 2000

and Vibrex 2000 Plus
The following tests provide the highest confidence that the instrument is
accurately measuring the incoming sensor signals.
6.3.5.3 Approach:
Signals from a calibrated source will be measure at start, mid, and end
band frequencies of the filters used and compared to insure they meet
specifications. In addition, a mid band signal will be measured for
amplitude, phase, and frequency response and compared to specification.
All the above testing will be repeated for each of the 2 signal paths.
Test Equipment:
HP 8904A Hewlett-Packard 10 mV to 5 VAC (+/-0.1%),

Signal distortion plus noise less
Generator than -60 dB, sync to sine
signal phase relation
ship180 degrees
BNC to Velo Chadwick-Helmuth
cable 8278
BNC to Mag Chadwick-Helmuth
cable 10502
Fluke True Fluke 5% 2 Hz - 10 kHz
RMS meter

Routine Servicing
Test Setup
8904
Fluke True RMS
8278 10502
1 A 2 B
Vibrex 2000 Plus
6.3.5.4 Procedure:
1. Connect the test equipment to the unit under test as depicted in
Figure 1.
2. Power up the Equipment Under Test (EUT)
3. Press STATUS context key and insure battery voltage reported is
>3.5 Vdc.
4. Configure the 8904 as follows:
• Channels 1 and 2 Float OFF,
• Channel 1 19 mV, 40 Hz, Phase 0 deg, Sinewave,
• Channel 2 1V, 40 Hz, Phase 180 deg, Squarewave,
• Adjust the amplitude of the sinewave on channel 1 so that 13.44
Vrms (+/- 0.01 Vrms) is shown on the True RMS meter.
5. Press “TRACK & BALANCE” from the main menu of the EUT.
6. Acquire a balance measurement on channel 1A, and record the
measurement parameters on the data sheet.
7. Press Spectrum Analysis from the main menu.

8. Complete the following table by adjusting the EUT maximum

frequency, the signal generator frequency and the sinewave amplitude
on the True RMS meters as listed, and acquire a spectrum. Record the
peak value in the table.
6.3.5.5 For The Vibrex 2000 (Basic)

Complete steps 4 through 8 and fill out the following table:
NOTE: For the 13590-2, there is no need to repeat the test on
channel 2.
True RMS Vibrex Specification

Vibrex
Signal Gen Meter 2000 Peak (assumes 5%
2000 Max
Frequency Amplitude (IPS) for True
Freq
(MV) Channel 1 RMS meter)
40 Hz Balance 13.44 0.90 <X<

1.11 11:30 -
12:30, 2400
RPM +/-3.6
5 Hz 1,500 13.44 0.90 <X<
1.11
20 Hz 3,000 13.44 0.90 <X<
1.11
80 Hz 6,000 13.44 0.90 <X<
1.11
160 Hz 12,000 13.44 0.90 <X<
1.11
320 Hz 24,000 13.44 0.90 <X<
1.11

Routine Servicing
6.3.5.6 For The Vibrex 2000 Plus
Signal Gen True RMS Vibrex Specification

Vibrex
Frequency Meter 2000 Peak (assumes 5%
2000 Max
(Hz) (+/- Amplitude (IPS) for True
RPM
0.01%) (VMS) Channel 1 RMS meter)
40 Hz Balance 13.44 0.90 <X<

1.11 11:30 -
12:30, 2400
RPM +/- 3.6
5 Hz 1,200 13.44 0.90 <X<
1.11
500 Hz 30,000 13.44 0.90 <X<
1.11
1,000 Hz 60,000 13.44 0.85 <X<
1.18
5,000 Hz 300,000 13.44 0.85 <X<
1.18
10,000 Hz 600,000 13.44 0.85 <X<
1.18
Move the vibration and azimuth cables to channels 2 and B respectively.

Repeat steps 4 through 8 and fill out the following table:

True RMS Vibrex Specification

Signal Gen Vibrex
Meter 2000 Peak (assume 5%
Frequency 2000 Max
Amplitude (IPS) for True
(Hz) RPM
(VMS) Channel 2 RMS meter
40 Hz Balance 13.44 0.90 <X<

1.11 11:30 -
12:30, 2400
RPM +/- 3.6
5 Hz 1,200 13.44 0.90 <X<
1.11
500 Hz 30,000 13.44 0.90 <X<
1.11
1,000 Hz 60,000 13.44 0.85 <X<
1.18
5,000 Hz 300,000 13.44 0.85 <X<
1.18
10,000 Hz 600,000 13.44 0.85 <X<
1.18
Note: If Digital balancer is found to be out of Spec’s contact

Chadwick-Helmuth Product Support.
6.3.6 Clearing Memory Contents

6.3.6.1 Vibrex 2000
There is a global clear of all memory contents invoked by pressing the
zero “O” key during the power up self test.
Global clear will erase ALL memory contents, including all runs,
spectrums and the fault log. If you are having problems with the unit, it is
advisable to print the fault log PRIOR to erasing it. See page X printing
the fault log.

Routine Servicing
6.3.7 Complete Unit Disassembly

This section explains how to completely disassemble and reassemble the
Vibrex 2000 and Vibrex 2000 Plus units, under the following topics:
• Section 6.3.7.1 “Parts List” on page 142
• Section 6.3.7.2 “Disassembly” on page 143
• Section 6.3.7.3 “Assembly” on page 144
Vibrex Unit Diagram - The illustration on page 138 shows an exploded
diagram of the complete unit’s assembly, including all components
referred to in procedures given in this chapter. Required tools are two
screwdrivers, as described in the table on page 127.
NOTE: The numbers in the exploded diagram designate reference
numbers for parts. For the corresponding part names, see the table
under Section 6.3.7.1 “Parts List” on page 142.

Vibrex 2000 PN 13590-3 and Vibrex 2000 Plus PN 14990

Routine Servicing

Vibrex 2000 PN 13590-2

Routine Servicing

6.3.7.1 Parts List

The following table lists the Vibrex 2000 and Vibrex 2000 Plus parts
called out in the procedures given in this chapter (and related parts),
including their names, part, and reference numbers:
Ref. Part
Part Name Qty.
No. Order No.
01 Chassis (housing/keypad assembly) 1 820-13588
02 Shield 1 567-13586
03 Screw, 4-40 by 3/8, Phillips, trilobular 4 651-4533C
04 Connector end plate, silk screened 1 578-13574
05 MS (military standard) panel jack 2 403-0841
No. 8-4S
06 Nut, 4-40, nylon lock standard 8 652-45NS
07 Screw, 4-40 by 3/8, Phillips 16 651-4523
08 Standoff, 4-40, 1/2 in. nylon hex 8 660-3444
09 MS panel connector No. 10-6S 2 403-1063
10 Standoff, male/female, No. 4, by 1.75 8 660-14E4
11 Battery contact PCB assembly; 2 14325-2
includes fuse (F1) and spring
40 Battery contact PCB assembly; 2 14325-1
includes fuse (F1) and spring
12 Screw, 4-40 by 1/4, Phillips, black 8 651-4521
14 Main PCB (PCB/graphics module 1 820-13759
assembly); For 13590-2:
For 13590-3 and 14990: 820-14987
15 Battery end plate 1 568-14318

Routine Servicing
Ref. Part
Part Name (Continued) Qty.
No. Order No.
16 Large Phillips screw 1 N/A
17 Snap ring 1 N/A
18 Battery end plate PCB 1 501-13735
19 Washer, fiber, 0.5-in. inner diameter, 1 654-H06N
1.0-in. outer diameter
20 Battery, D-size cell 4 610-B1D
21 Screw lock, 4-40 by 3/8 in. 1 651-4505
22 Nut, 4-40, Keps standard 1 652-45KS
23 Washer No. 4, lock split ring 8 654-4SPA
26 Term ring No. 6, red 1 408-3163
F1 Fuse, 2a, 125V, PCB; part of battery 2 301-10203
contact PCB assembly
U20 EPROM (programmed integrated 1 816-13830
circuit, No. 27C2048) for 1350-2 only
6.3.7.2 Disassembly
Disassemble the Vibrex unit, as follows:
1. Observe the antistatic procedures explained under Section 6.3.2
“EPROM Replacement” on page 126.
2. Make sure the unit is turned off.
3. Remove the battery end plate (15) by turning the large Phillips
screw (16) counter-clockwise with the Phillips screwdriver.
4. Remove the batteries (20).
5. Remove the four 4-40 screws (03) from the shield (02) with a
Phillips-head screwdriver.

6. Reach in with two fingers and disconnect the ribbon cable (for the
keyboard) from the main PCB (14). Be careful not to damage or kink
the connector ribbons.
7. Remove the four 4-40 screws (03) from the connector end plate (04).
8. Remove the main PCB from the chassis by pulling on the connector
end plate slowly. Pay special attention to feeding the shield (02)
through the chassis (01), since it is attached to the main PCB (18).
Alternately, the user can detach the shield from the main PCB by
removing the 4-40 nut (22).
6.3.7.3 Assembly
Reassemble the Vibrex unit, as follows:
1. Observe the antistatic procedures explained under Section 6.3.2
“EPROM Replacement” on page 126.
2. Partially loosen the two screw locks (21) on the nine-pin connector.
These parts hold the main PCB (14) to the connector end plate (04).
Loosening these parts allows the main PCB to “float” as it is inserted
into the chassis (01).
3. Orient the main PCB so its attached LCD screen and the window (on
chassis, 01) line up, once they are inserted into the chassis.
4. Slide the main PCB into the chassis slowly, paying special attention
to the ribbon cable and the shield (02), if attached.
5. Use fingers to connect the ribbon cable to the keyboard connector on
the main PCB.
6. Line up the shield (02) and screw it back in place with the four 4-40
screws (03). This plate only orients one way and will not fit in place
correctly any other way.
7. Attach the connector end plate (04) to the chassis with the four 4-40
screws (03).
8. Tighten the two screw locks (21).
9. Reinstall the batteries (20), two cells for each side. Refer to the
picture inside the hand grips to determine battery polarity. Also, see
the diagram on page 138 and Section 6.3.1.5 “Reinstallation” on
page 125.
NOTE: Unit does not operate if battery polarities are reversed.
10. Replace the battery end plate (15) by turning the large Phillips
screw (16) clockwise with the Phillips screwdriver.

Troubleshooting
6.4 Troubleshooting
In troubleshooting the Vibrex 2000 and Vibrex 2000 Plus, be aware that
any problems generally fit into one or more of the following categories:
• Operator error
• Equipment failure
• Aircraft problem
• Interface problem
This section gives you the following troubleshooting aids:

• Explanation of fault logs
• Troubleshooting guide
6.4.1 Fault Logs

The Vibrex unit’s fault log keeps track of all the power-up cycles and
errors encountered during use, for example, an unstable vibration signal,
an RPM measurement that was not acquired, or low battery-power
voltage. Information on such faults is stored in the unit’s “background”
memory, in the form of a log the user may retrieve, if desired.
6.4.1.1 Printing the Fault Log

Use the fault log to troubleshoot the instrument in case of problems. The
fault log does not display. To view this log, the user must print it on hard
copy. Print the fault log by printing the Status screen.
NOTE: If the unit is locked up, power down then power up again.
After the Vibrex unit reboots, then print from the Status screen to
obtain the fault log.
The fault log is printed by pressing PRINT while viewing the Status
screen. The user must wait until the status test bars stop rotating before
printing to get the full fault-log printout.
For complete instructions on how to print the Chapter 3.3.4.1 “Global
Printing” on page 31.

6.4.1.2 Clearing the Fault Log

In some early versions of the Vibrex firmware, the fault log fills and begin
to corrupt the working power of the processor. In such cases, it is
necessary to manually clear the fault log; clear the fault log, as follows:
1. Press and continue to hold down the 0 (zero) key.
CAUTION: Never clear the fault log without first printing it out, if
possible. It is important that you keep a record of this data.
2. Press the ON key until the power-up, self-test screen displays.
3. Release the 0 key.
Also, the user may turn the unit on and press 0 during the power-up test.
Keep in mind that, if you clear the fault log without printing it, and
clearing doesn't fix the problem, there is no data left to help troubleshoot
the instrument. If you call Product Support, sending or faxing us a copy of
the fault log is most helpful in determining the cause of a problem.
6.4.1.3 Failure Modes

Basically there are three failure modes that prevent the Vibrex unit from
acquiring a reading, as listed in the fault logs. These modes are
Azimuth Unstable - Means the Vibrex unit is not getting a steady one-
per- revolution signal from the photocell. This problem could be
happening because the photocell is clipping the tape in two spots, is
proxing (getting returns from a shiny surface), or has failed (rare).
No Azimuth - Is caused by using too little tape to register (obvious,
because the Vibrex unit acquires data at lower RPM but quits working
as the RPM increases), also there could be no tape, the tape has not
been applied in the beam, or there is an open in the photocell wiring.
Vibration Unstable - Is caused by unstable vibration characteristics. This
problem could be resulting from a poor location (flimsy mount) or a
loose mounting structure supporting dynamic components on the
aircraft. It can also be caused by another component turning at or near
the same rate as the component being measured, such as unbalanced
tail rotor shaft that interferes with the tail rotor balance. Normally a
spectrum examination will reveal this problem.

Troubleshooting
6.4.2 Troubleshooting Guide

This section gives a table and helps that explain a variety of general
Vibrex unit troubleshooting operations. If the needed help is not shown
here, contact Chadwick-Helmuth Customer Support (see Section 1.2
“Product Support” on page 4).
The user may also refer to the maintenance manual for the subject
aircraft. In any case, when the problem is unknown, return the unit to the
factory for repair.
NOTE: The table in this section lists problems and solutions in
order, according to their relative simplicity. To locate and/or order
specific parts, see the diagram and table under Section 6.3.7
“Complete Unit Disassembly” on page 137.
6.4.2.1 Reference Table

The following table provides a basic Vibrex 2000 and Vibrex 2000 Plus
troubleshooting guide:
Possible Cause Corrective Action

Problem: Vibrex Unit Not Turning On
Contrast incorrectly Adjust the contrast by using the two keys to the
adjusted right of the screen. If the display turns dark, but
no text is visible during the adjustment, see
“Problem: Display Dark or Darkening” on
page 149.
The 12V power Remove any damaged cables and try again.
short-circuited Inspect connectors for visible damage.
Batteries installed Remove the batteries and check the installation
incorrectly polarity against the pictured instructions inside
the hand grips on the chassis.
Battery terminals in If the terminals on the battery end plate PCB
the end plate are discolored or corroded, clean them with a
corroded and/or dirty pencil eraser.

Possible Cause Corrective Action (Continued)

Battery power too Install fresh batteries.
low
Keyboard ribbon Remove the shield (see Section 6.3.7.2
cable loose or offset “Disassembly” on page 143) and check the
ribbon cable for looseness, position, and/or
damage.
Internal short circuit, Remove the connector end plate and carefully
battery wire pinched inspect internal wires for damage (see
Section 6.3.7.2 “Disassembly” on page 143).
Internal power Check internal connectors for position,
connectors offset or looseness, and/or damage.
damaged
One or both fuses With an ohmmeter, check the resistance across
opened each fuse (one each on the two battery contact
PCB assemblies). Resistance must be less than
1Ω. Replace any bad fuse (Ref. No. F1).
Continue to inspect the instrument for the cause
of fuse tripping. This cause could be a pinched
wire, incorrectly installed batteries, conductive
debris, an external cable short, and so on.
Spring is loose and Battery contact PCB assembly springs must be
only making clean and tight. If looseness is a problem, the
intermittent contact eyelet that holds the spring must be re-pressed
or the assembly replaced.
Installation Error Incoming pickup Signal is out of Range.
Ensure target tape “dwell” is long enough for
installation parameters.
If low speed RPM is OK but signal is lost as
speed is increased, make tape wider in beam or
photocell.

Troubleshooting

RPM fluctuations exceed unit screening.
Cable bad - replace/repair cable.
Unstable Vi be Input Nearby frequency competing with target
frequency check Spectrum for nearby peaks.
Wind causing unstable vibes. Move out of
variable wind areas like left side of hangars,
beams, etc.
Intermittent cable - fix cable
Bad sensor - replace sensor
Sensor loose in bracket
Problem: Display Dark or Darkening
adjusted right of the screen.
The 12V power Remove any cables and try again. Inspect
short-circuited connectors for visible damage.
Unit too hot If the unit has been exposed to heat (greater
than 130° F) the display may not be able to be
adjusted brightly enough to read. Remove the
unit from heat.
EPROM chip loose Remove the shield (see Section 6.3.7.2
or damaged “Disassembly” on page 143) and check the
EPROM chip for looseness, position, and/or
damage. The main PCB may have to be
removed for closer inspection.
Keyboard ribbon Check the ribbon cable for looseness, position,
cable loose or offset and/or damage.


Internal short circuit Remove the connector end plate and carefully
inspect internal wires for damage (see
Problem: Display Too Light
adjusted right of the screen.
The -12V power Remove any damaged cables and try again.
short-circuited Inspect connectors for visible damage.
Unit too cold If the unit has been exposed to low
temperatures (less than 0° F), the display may
not be able to be adjusted dark enough to read.
Move the unit to a warmer place.
Problem: Unit Not Responding to Certain Keys
Keyboard connector Adjust the contrast by using the two keys to the
loose, offset, or right of the screen.
damaged
Keyboard failure Return the unit to the factory for repair.
Problem: Unit Repeatedly Turning Off Unexpectedly
Battery end plate Check the battery end plate for excessive
loose looseness; some play is normal. Adjust the
spring(s) on the battery contact PCB assembly,
or replace the battery end plate.
Battery voltage low Replace or recharge the batteries.
Terminals in battery If the terminals on the battery end plate PCB
end plate PCB are discolored or corroded, clean them with a
corroded and/or dirty pencil eraser.

Troubleshooting

Internal short circuit, Remove the connector end plate and carefully
battery wire pinched inspect the internal wires for damage (see
Internal power Check internal connectors for position,
connectors offset or looseness, and/or damage.
damaged
Spring loose and Springs in the battery contact PCB assembly
only making must be clean and not excessively loose. If
intermittent contact there is a problem with looseness, the eyelet
that holds the spring must be re-pressed or the
assembly replaced.
Conductive debris Internally inspect the unit for loose debris, for
loose in unit example, a screw.
Problem: Unit Turning Off/Resetting While Collecting Data
Short circuit on Inspect the cable. Replace it if it is damaged.
photocell/magnetic
pickup cable
Internal connections Remove the connector end plate (see
loose or damaged Section 6.3.7.2 “Disassembly” on page 143).
Inspect the unit for loose connectors, pinched
and/or broken wires.
Photocell probe Inspect the photocell. Replace it if necessary.
failed and is causing
a short circuit


Problem: EPROM Checksum Error
EPROM chip loose Remove the shield (see Section 6.3.7.2
(13590-2 only) “Disassembly” on page 143) and check the
EPROM (the large socketed chip) for
looseness, position, and/or damage. The main
PCB may have to be removed for closer
inspection.
EPROM failure Replace the EPROM or return it to the factory
for repair.
Conductive debris Internally inspect the unit for loose debris, for
loose in unit example, a screw.
Problem: Memory Bad Error
Internal short circuit Inspect the unit for loose internal debris.
Problem: Unit Not Retaining Memory/Date/Time
Memory retention Return the unit to the factory for repair.
capacitor failing
Problem: No Vibration Signal
Wrong channel Check to make sure the sensor cable is
selected connected to the correct channel.
Cable damaged Inspect the cable for damage, short circuits,
bent pins, and/or opens.
Connector damaged Inspect connectors for damage and/or bent
pins.
loose or damaged Section 6.3.7.2 “Disassembly” on page 143).
Inspect the unit for loose connectors, pinched

Troubleshooting

Sensor bad Check the sensor with the Model 11 Calibrator
or return the sensor to the factory for
inspection.
Indeterminate cause See Section 6.4.2.2 “No Vibration Reading” on
page 155.
Problem: No RPM Signal
Wrong channel Check to make sure the sensor cable is
selected connected to the correct channel.
RPM out of range The incoming RPM is below or above the
instrument specifications. Adjust the unit to the
RPM being measured.
Interrupter gap Reduce the gap between the interrupter and
(magnetic pickup) magnetic pickup.
too large
Small, missing, or Recheck the photocell setup and alignment.
misaligned retro- Use the correct target width.
reflective target
(photocell)
Connector damaged Inspect the connectors for damage and/or bent
pins.
loose and/or Section 6.3.7.2 “Disassembly” on page 143).
damaged Inspect the unit for loose connectors, pinched
Sensor failure Replace the sensor.


Problem: RPM Reading Erratic
Interrupter gap Increase the gap between the interrupter and
(magnetic pickup) magnetic pickup.
too small
Small or misaligned Recheck the photocell setup and alignment.
retro-reflective Use the correct target width.
target (photocell)
Damaged connector Inspect the nine-pin connector for damage.
and/or bent pin
Problem: Unit Not Printing
and/or bent pin
Bad cable Inspect the cable. Replace it if necessary.
Printer setup/charge Ensure that the printer is correctly set up and
powered.
Problem: Strobex Not Flashing
Power not attached Check the general Strobex setup. Ensure that
the external power is attached and on.
No incoming RPM The Strobex flashes once when the user pulls
its trigger. Check the incoming RPM
transducers and the general setup.
and/or bent pin

Troubleshooting

Bad cable Inspect the cable. Replace it if necessary.
Possible Strobex Refer to the Strobex Operation and
failure Maintenance Manual for additional
troubleshooting.
6.4.2.2 No Vibration Reading

If the user has extreme difficulty in acquiring a vibration reading, do one
or more of the following actions:
• First, try to acquire readings again. The Vibrex 2000 Plus has a
feature that tightens the tolerance automatically on hard-to-acquire
readings.
• As a last resort, try acquiring just the IPS reading in a spectrum. Most
unstable vibration readings occur at low IPS levels. Typically the
propeller or rotor is already balanced, but to document it the user may
still use the IPS only. One can always get a reading on the one-per-
revolution in a spectrum (order No. 1.0), as long as the Velocimeter is
working and the right channel is selected.
• The user may employ the spectrum feature for RPM also. Once the
spectrum samples the photocell or magnetic pickup, it is finished.
There is very little averaging in the spectrum, so the readings can
tolerate some variations.
• In these types of cases, we strongly recommend that the user take
several spectra and compare the RPM and IPS levels for a better
picture. One cannot get phase reference this way, but a good reading
on the vibration level is possible.


Appendix: Photocell Taping
This appendix helps the user determine how much retro-reflective tape
(tape width) to use with the Vibrex 2000 and Vibrex 2000 Plus systems’
photocell installations.
Tape Width Determination

The user may determine the optimum photocell tape width for the subject
aircraft in the following ways:
• Mathematical formula
• Simplified table
• Numerical graph
Mathematical Formula
Use the following formula to calculate the minimum width of retro-
reflective tape necessary:
Minimum tape width = 2.0(p)(Radius)(Rate)(0.0003)
Express the answer in inches. Use the following values and units with this
equation:
• π = 3.1416
• Radius = Distance of the tape from the center of rotation in inches
• Rate = Rotational rate in Hertz (cycles per second)
The user may determine the Hertz value by taking the revolutions per
minute (RPM) and dividing by 60. Note that this formula calculates the
minimum tape width.

Simplified Table
Use the following table to look up the minimum width of retro-reflective
tape necessary:
No. of Tape Strips To Use at the Following

Tape RPM Ranges:
Tape
Distance
Part 1500 2300 3100
From
No.b 0 to 600 to
Centera 600 1500
to to to
2300 3100 3800
10 to 12803 1 1 2 2 3
20 in.
10444 1 2 3 4 5
3300 3 5 8 10 13
0 to 10 in. 12803 1 1 1 1 2
10444 1 1 2 2 3
3300 1 3 5 5 8
a. This means the distance of the tape from the center of rotation.
b. Numbers refer to the Chadwick-Helmuth part number. No. 12803 is
1 in. wide, No. 10444 is 0.5 in. wide, and No. 3300 is 0.2 in wide.

Numerical Graph
Use the following numerical graph to look up the minimum width of
retro-reflective tape necessary:
Working Example
This section shows how to use each of the three tape-width determination
methods given in this appendix to solve the following sample problem:
The user has placed the tape at 5 in. from the center of propeller
rotation and is doing a propeller balance operation at 2400 RPM.

Glossary
The alphabetized list in this “Glossary” includes definitions of terms the
user needs to know and be familiar with in order to use the Vibrex 2000
and Vibrex 2000 Plus Digital Dynamic Balancer/Analyzer systems.
Alpha-numeric Keypad data entry characters that can be either
letters (alphabetical or alpha) or numbers
(numeric).
Alpha-numeric key A key that enters alphabetical or numeric
characters.
Azimuth A term used to describe an angle. An azimuth
signal is a timing or tachometer signal measured as
frequency, for example, in Hertz or RPM.
Clock angle A unit used to measure an angle; can also be
measured in degrees of a circle.
Context key A key that can perform any named operation; a
label next to the key, on the Vibrex 2000 and
Vibrex 2000 Plus display screen, calls out its
operation in the current function, which changes
from screen to screen. There are four context keys
to the left of the screen, for example, DONE.
CPM Cycles per minute (see also, RPM).
CPS Cycles per second (see also, Hertz).
Dedicated key A key that performs a specific operation named on
the key (for example, START or GO BACK). The
operation of this key does not change.
Dynamic Describes an object in motion.
EPROM Erasable, programmable read-only memory; a chip
(microchip) containing operating instructions for
the Vibrex 2000 or Vibrex 2000 Plus.

Glossary
FFT Describes a fast Fourier transform, that is, a

method used to record vibration spectra digitally.
An FFT consists of individual bins (also called
lines). Each bin contains a percentage of the RPM
range. The user may determine the actual RPM
range contained in each bin by dividing the
spectrum range (RPM) by the number of bins.
Fundamental A vibration source.
g A unit of measure of the rate at which a body
accelerates while changes direction.
Harmonic A vibration relative to some primary (fundamental)
disturbance.
Hertz One Hertz (Hz) equals one cycle per second.
IPS Inches per second; a unit of measure for vibration
velocity. In the context of the Vibrex 2000 and
Vibrex 2000 Plus, IPS represents a velocity peak.
Mil A unit of physical measure; one mil equals
0.001 in.
Move line A line connecting two balance points. These two
points may be two consecutive balance readings
with an adjustment in between or two balance
points on the same run with a change in power
setting (for fixed-wing applications).
Phase A term used to describe angular measure or time.
Phase lag The angular distance an object or assembly moves
before its movement is measured.
Reflective The optical quality of a surface to deflect light.
Retro-reflective The optical quality of a surface to return light to its
source.
RPM Revolutions per minute.

Glossary
Serial interface Data interface between a personal computer (PC)

and another device (for example, a printer) that
allows for communication between the two. The
cable that connects these devices is called an
RS-232 cable. When the Vibrex 2000 or
Vibrex 2000 Plus connects directly with a printer,
this link is called a serial interface.
Velocimeter A Chadwick-Helmuth accelerometer that
integrates acceleration into velocity as its output
(Model 7310 Velocimeter).

Glossary

Notes
Vibrex 2000 User Guide 165

Notes

Notes
Vibrex 2000 User Guide 167

Notes
PRODUCT SUPPORT AND SERVICES

S.A.R.L. VIBRATECH
93 allée du phœnix
L’orée du parc 83600
Fréjus - France
Tel : +33 (0)4 94 44 41 13
Fax : +33 (0)4 94 44 47 30
E.mail : contact@vibratech.fr
WEB SITE: www.vibratech.fr

Chadwick Helmuth Vibrex 2000 Plus Operation User S Manual 180

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User Guide No.

Digital Dynamic Balancer/Analyzer

Chadwick-Helmuth Company, Inc.

ii Chadwick-Helmuth Company, Inc.

Chapter 2. System Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Chapter 3. Getting Started . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Vibrex 2000 and Vibrex 2000 Plus User Guide iii

iv Chadwick-Helmuth Company, Inc.

4.4 General Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

Chapter 5. General Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61

Vibrex 2000 and Vibrex 2000 Plus User Guide v

5.4.3 Obtaining Balance Solutions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81

Chapter 6. Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 117

vi Chadwick-Helmuth Company, Inc.

6.2.2 Display Subsystem. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119

Vibrex 2000 and Vibrex 2000 Plus User Guide vii

Propeller Balance, After Run No. 1

Vibrex 2000 and Vibrex 2000 Plus User Guide ix

x Chadwick-Helmuth Company, Inc.

• Press the STROBEX TRACK context key.

Vibrex 2000 and Vibrex 2000 Plus User Guide xi

xii Chadwick-Helmuth Company, Inc.

1.1 About This User Guide

Vibrex 2000 and Vibrex 2000 Plus User Guide 1

The chapters explain basic steps required to accomplish optimum one-

1.1.2 Notice Formats

Special notices appear in the format shown here.

2 Chadwick-Helmuth Company, Inc.

1.1.3 Document Conventions

1.1.4 Reference Documentation

Vibrex 2000 and Vibrex 2000 Plus User Guide 3

1.2 Product Support

1.2.1 Fax Service

1.2.2 Internet Service

4 Chadwick-Helmuth Company, Inc.

2.1 Vibrex Systems: Introduction

Vibrex 2000 and Vibrex 2000 Plus User Guide 5

2.2 Product Description

2.2.1 Vibrex 2000 System Overview

6 Chadwick-Helmuth Company, Inc.

2.2.1.1 System Operations

Vibrex 2000 and Vibrex 2000 Plus User Guide 7

2.2.1.2 System Benefits

2.2.1.3 Self-Test Feature

8 Chadwick-Helmuth Company, Inc.

2.2.2 Vibrex 2000 Plus Enhancements

Vibrex 2000 and Vibrex 2000 Plus User Guide 9

2.3 System Specifications

2.3.1 Vibrex 2000 Specifications

10 Chadwick-Helmuth Company, Inc.

Characteristic Specifications (Continued)

Vibrex 2000 and Vibrex 2000 Plus User Guide 11

Characteristic Specifications (Continued)

12 Chadwick-Helmuth Company, Inc.

Characteristic Specifications (Continued)

2.3.2 Vibrex 2000 Plus Specifications

Vibrex 2000 and Vibrex 2000 Plus User Guide 13

Characteristic Specifications (Continued)

14 Chadwick-Helmuth Company, Inc.

Characteristic Specifications (Continued)

Vibrex 2000 and Vibrex 2000 Plus User Guide 15

Characteristic Specifications (Continued)

16 Chadwick-Helmuth Company, Inc.