• Part number 99-0401
• This version does not include Workstation SW (for unit and SW, please see Tracker 2800 WS / 99-0422)
• Uses the power-off test method known as Analog Signature Analysis
• Eliminates the risk of further circuit damage when power is applied
• Variable range parameters for over 100 combinations of voltage, source resistance, and frequency

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

Several versions available

The Tracker 2800 is available with or without scanning functionality, as well as Huntron’s Workstation software package. The chart below provides an overview of both features and part numbers. Please note, the Workstation software package can also be purchased at a later date. 

The Huntron Tracker 2800S extends the capabilities of the popular Tracker 2800 to scan and compare up to 40 pins per channel using standard IC clips and cables.

Comparisons between Channel A (green signature) and Channel B (red signature) can take place manually or automatically allowing you to identify signature differences quickly. The Tracker 2800S can save you time when compared to testing with hand probes. You can step through each pin using the touch screen controls or have the Tracker step through the pins at a preset rate.

The Tracker 2800 series offers over 100 combinations of voltage, source resistance and frequency and is a great off-line support tool for the automated Huntron Access Prober diagnostic systems.

• 6 voltages: 200mV, 3V, 5V, 10V, 15V, 20V
• 9 resistances: 10Ω, 50Ω, 100Ω, 500Ω, 1kΩ, 5kΩ, 10kΩ, 50kΩ and 100kΩ
• 6 frequencies: 20Hz, 50Hz, 60Hz, 200Hz, 500Hz and 2kHz
• DC Voltage Source for testing gated devices: Variable voltage from 0 to 10VDC; 200mA max

Huntron Trackers can be used to test a wide variety of components, including:

• Passive devices: Resistors, capacitors, inductors
• Diodes: General purpose, Zener, varactor, high voltage
• Transistors: NPN and PNP, Bipolar, Darlington, JFET, MOSFET, Unijunction
• Gated devices: SCRs TRIACs, relays
• Opto-electronic Devices: LED’s LED displays. Photo Transistors, Optocouplers
• Integrated Circuits: Digital, analog

Signature Analysis is a power-off test method that is used to troubleshoot circuit boards. A current-limited sine wave is applied across two points of an electronic component or circuit. The resulting waveform or “signature” is displayed using vertical deflection for current and horizontal deflection for voltage. This unique signature represents the overall health of the part being analyzed. By comparing the signatures of known good circuit boards to those of suspect boards, faulty nets and components can be quickly identified.

When catastrophic failures make ordinary testing impossible technicians turn to Huntron Trackers. Trackers are extremely effective when troubleshooting electronic systems that cannot be turned on because of serious component failures. Since you do not apply power to the system, there is no risk of further damage to the printed circuit assembly (PCA) while troubleshooting. Trackers can also tell you far more about a circuit than many power-on test instruments such as spotting intermittent and marginal component failures.

Unlike functional or specialized test systems that require a tremendous investment in software programming and hardware fixtures, a Tracker starts paying for itself the day it arrives. When you cannot justify custom test equipment because PCA volume is too low, the Tracker is an excellent addition to the test department. In the service depot, where a wide variety of boards for repair make dedicated testers and fixtures impractical, the Huntron Tracker is both an economical and effective solution.

You can easily have software control of your USB connected Tracker 2800 and 2800S by utilizing Huntron Workstation software to create tests, scan, store and compare Tracker signatures on your PC. If you need to capture and store your good board signatures, Huntron Workstation is the answer.

Huntron Workstation is an option that can be ordered at any time. It is also included with certain Tracker models – please see the chart above.

Huntron Instruments introduced the first Huntron Tracker in 1976. Since then, technicians, engineers, and hobbyists around the world have found Analog Signature Analysis to be an effective and efficient method for troubleshooting printed circuit boards. The signature comparison method is easy to use and allows for immediate feedback that will assist you in locating a faulty component. As you gain experience with Analog Signature Analysis you will realize that the Huntron Tracker is an indispensable troubleshooting tool.

The signatures shown below are typical of those observed when using Analog Signature Analysis. Good signatures are shown in green and bad signatures are in red.

Capacitors typically have an elliptical signature. Electrolytic capacitors will sometimes fail because of internal leakage.

In some cases, diodes can degrade internally causing the junction to conduct improperly.

Digital components have many similar pins that allow for identifying signature patterns.

Composite signatures are derived from the interconnection between multiple components. The composite signatures shown below are from an in-circuit voltage regulator. Note how the range values are adjusted to isolate different aspects of the signature.