The TestMinder MegaPulse remote control software provides an automated method of applying pulse train outputs from a MegaPulse tester. TestMinder works via the parallel port on any IBM compatible computer. The program displays the front panel of a MegaPulse tester on the computer screen (see screen shots to the right). Pulse train parameters are input via the mouse and keyboard.

Trigger period is determined by the time required for the MegaPulse to charge the bulk capacitor bank to the desired voltage. Fast-charge power supplies are available on some models, contact factory for details.

Result Data fields include Time and Date Stamp, Unit Under Test Description, and Serial Number. The Unit Under Test field (up to 500 characters) can be used to record data such as model number, operator, batch, or lot number. The Serial Number field can contain numbers up to 2,000,000,000 and includes an AUTO INCREMENT feature that allows the user to increment serial numbers up or down making the data collection fast and easy. Test results and data fields are automatically entered into a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet or an ASCII comma delimited text file.

AC connection: the nature of the electrical signal of all the megapulse can generate problems in the comunication of the Testminder option, to prevent damage for the automated system we suggest this connection setup.

Test operation using TestMinder MegaPulse

Manual Operation from the Computer

1. Click Start, Programs, TestMinder MP V1.2, TestMinder MP V1.2 on the Windows main screen to start the program. The following screen is displayed.
    

   Start the Program

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2. The MegaPulse may be run in manual mode from the computer. To conduct a manual test, first enter a test result file in the window at the lower right hand part of the screen.
3. Click on “Select New File” to show the Open File dialog box. Select a file name and suffix. .txt and .csv files can be saved. .csv files can later be imported into Microsoft Excel if desired. After the file is selected, the box will show the file location:
    

   Select New File

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4. For reference, enter a description and/or Serial Number for the EUT can be entered in the lower center portion of the screen. The up and down arrows allow the user to increment or decrement a previously entered serial number without retyping.
    

   MegaPulse 1.2x50-12P Front Panel

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5. To conduct the test, select either positive or negative polarity by clicking on the Polarity button. As it is clicked, it alternates between Normal (positive) and Reverse (negative) polarity. Polarity selection must be entered before clicking on the Charge Button. After the Charge Button has been clicked, the Polarity button is disabled.
6. Press the Charge button. Make sure the voltage meter on the front panel reads the voltage desired. 

   Description and/or Serial Number

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7. Press the Trigger button to discharge the voltage into the EUT.

Automatic Operation in Multi-Pulse Mode

1. Click Start, Programs, TestMinder MP V1.2, TestMinder MP V1.2 on the Windows main screen to start the program. The following screen is displayed.
    

   Start the Program

   ×
2. The MegaPulse may be run in manual mode from the computer. To conduct a manual test, first enter a test result file in the window at the lower right hand part of the screen.
3. Click on “Select New File” to show the Open File dialog box. Select a file name and suffix. .txt and .csv files can be saved. .csv files can later be imported into Microsoft Excel if desired. After the file is selected, the box will show the file location:
    

   Select New File

   ×
4. For reference, enter a description and/or Serial Number for the EUT can be entered in the lower center portion of the screen. The up and down arrows allow the user to increment or decrement a previously entered serial number without retyping.
    

   MegaPulse 1.2x50-12P Front Panel

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5. To set the number of pulses and repetition rate, first check the box in the “Multi-Pulse Test” box. Two buttons will become available; “Setup” and “Start” . Click on the “Setup” button.
   
6. The setup screen is displayed. There is capability to define a test, defined as a number of repeating positive pulses followed by a number of negative pulses. This test can be repeated up to 99 times. NOTE: If negative pulses are required to be run first, click on the arrow, and the pulse polarity can be switched. NOTE: It is possible to set the repetition time faster than the charge time of the MegaPulse. Care must be taken to assure that time is allowed for the MegaPulse to reach full voltage on its front panel meter before the Trigger button is pressed, or the test will be conducted at a lower voltage than
    

   Setup Screen

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7. After Multi-Pulse Test Parameters are correctly entered, click on the OK button to return to the TestMinder Main Screen.
8. To conduct a Multi-Pulse test, click on the “Start” button in the Multi-Pulse Test box. The test commences immediately, and status is shown on the Main Screen. Note that the test can be stopped at any time by pressing the space key.
    

   Start the Program

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