Crakker - Trapping PLC and relay logic problems and recording performance in industrial control systems.

A Unique Logic Timing Analyzer
for Troubleshooting of Control Systems

The CRAKKER™ is a powerful and unique instrument for trapping problems and recording performance of industrial control systems.

PLC based, relay logic controlled or other ON/OFF type control systems are all candidates for the diagnostic power of the CRAKKER™ system.

For a basic technical description of PLCs, please read the Logic Beach PLC Primer.

Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC) are stand-alone microprocessor based control systems commonly used by industry and utilities. Typical applications for PLCs include control of production lines, machining equipment, parts handling, packaging, conveyors, pump stations, traffic lights, and a multitude of other applications.

Sample Display of Control System Timing.
Click to enlarge.

Avoid costly downtime. Downtime in a manufacturing environment is extremely costly and frustrating. Calculate the hourly cost of what your company loses when the wheels aren't turning, and you will see the investment in a Crakker is insignificant when it can save hours of troubleshooting time. The Crakker starts at $2,000 and we typically ship overnight. Remember the Crakker when you are in a control system jam or be prepared and call us now. We will be glad to help you.

System Base Recording I/O transitions is the job of the CRAKKER™ System base. Connected to the isolation pods, it constantly monitors the signal conditioned input channels, waiting for a programmed trigger condition to occur -- such as contradicting signals, timing errors, or intermittent signals. When the trigger/ fault condition occurs, each channels logic and timing before and after the event are trapped and stored to CRAKKER™ memory.

The CRAKKER™ accepts up to 16 channels (2 pods) and contains high-speed microprocessor based signal capture circuitry, real-time clock, liquid-crystal display, battery backed-up memory, and additional signal conditioning circuitry.

Crakker and single 8-channel isolation pod

Crakker control system troubleshooting for PLC's and relay logic control systems

The CRAKKER™ front panel display, indicators and push buttons provide real-time display of inputs, system status and control of recording sessions. Programming and analysis of collected data is handled on a PC running our included CRAKKER™ Communications Software. The trapped data is uploaded to a PC and displayed in a time referenced multi-trace graphic format with timing resolution to 165uS.

Isolation Pods: Collecting raw data is the function of the CRAKKER™ signal isolation pod. Connect the input channels to signal points on the control system under test using the provided test leads and industrial strength J-hooks. Each pod channel provides 600v of electrical isolation and signal conditioning for up to eight independent ON/OFF signals such as limit and proximity switches, cam sequencers, solenoids, valves, and motors.

Inter-channel isolation and high input impedance on each channel allow for direct signal input from 5VDC (TTL) to 280VAC/400VDC on each of 8 pod channels. Unique programmable circuitry within the pod allows selection of switching thresholds, precluding false triggering on float 'OFF' voltages common with triac outputs. The conditioned, isolated signals are transmitted to the CRAKKER™ via multiconductor cables, allowing remote location of pods.

Isolation pod for Crakker control system troubleshooter

Sample Display of Run Program
Click to enlarge.

Prior to use a Run Program is developed on a PC with the supplied CRAKKER™ Communications Windows Software. Simple "fill-in-the-blanks" menus access an array of trigger options. Upon downloading the Run Program via the PC serial port, the CRAKKER™ is operational and ready to be used. Locate the CRAKKER™ in the vicinity of the equipment to be monitored, connect power via the power pack, connect the pods to the CRAKKER™ and control system under test, turn on power, enable, and the CRAKKER™ is recording the data.

CK-2-16 shown in optional CK-Case

Input Channel Capability:	8 channel (one IP-2 Isolation Pod) 16 channel (two IP-2 Isolation Pods)
Recorded Channel Data:	State (On or Off)
Input signal range	0-400VDC, 0-280VAC
Input Channel Impedance:	100K ohm
Inter-channel isolation	600VAC Pod to base isolation: 600VAC
ON/OFF thresholds	33 programmable steps
Threshold Step Resolution:	Low End; Apx 1Vdc/Step High End; Apx 10 Vdc/Step
Signal Electrical Connection Method:	5' silicone lead pairs with insulation displacing spring clips (J-hooks); insulated banana jacks on Pod enclosure
Isolation Pod to System Base Connection:	4' multi-conductor DB-15M cable
Input Channel Scan Rate:	Will trap pulses as narrow as 165uS to 1mS, depending on setup
Input Channel Filtering:	3 programmable levels and OFF (for debounce and AC filtering)
Trigger Capabilities:	Logical AND, OR for all channels Level (Hi/ Lo) and Edge (Rise/ Fall) Time based between two channels On any channel change
Sample Capacity:	8 channel -Up to 57,000 8 channel records 16 channel - Up to 38,000 16 channel records
Output Alarms:	2 alarm relays (1amp, lo-voltage)
Base to PC serial comm	RS-232; auto-adjusting baud rate (cables and adapters provided)
System Base Enclosure:	Gasketed door, dust/ splash proof molded plastic, 9.8 x 8.5 x 5.5"
Isolation Pod Enclosure:	6.4W x 9.5H x 3.5D" case, dust/ splash proof molded plastic w/ hanger
System Power requirements:	10-26 VDC, 100mA (120Vac to 12Vdc adapter included)
Software	Software CRAKKER™ Communications for Windows for programming of CRAKKER™, communication between PC and CRAKKER™ and data display Menu driven Run Program setup (triggers, alarms, thresholds, modes) Zoomable graphic timing display Hardcopy printout Self-configuring Runs on Windows 95, 98, 2000, NT, XP Print Options: prints to any windows supported printer, printers supporting banner printing capabilities allows for multiple page print options

CK-2-8	8 Channel CRAKKER™ Logic/Timing Analyzer System. Includes: System Base, CRAKKER™ Communications software, 120VAC plug-in adapter power supply, hangers, one 8-Channel Isolation Pod (IP-2), Quick-Connect leads, User's manual. DB9/DB25, CAR-4
CK-2-16	16 Channel CRAKKER™ Logic/Timing Analyzer System. Same as CK-2-8 System with the addition of one IP-2, 8-Channel Isolation Pod and leads.

IP-2	8 Channel Isolation Pod for use with CK-2 CRAKKER™ System Base. Includes Quick-Connect lead pairs and pod hanger.
IP-2-CL	Custom length Isolation Pod Quick Connect lead pair. (Contact Factory)
XFC-2	Plug-in 220VAC 50/60hz Power Supply for CRAKKER™ System Base w/circular plug connector.
CK-Case	Waterproof Carrying Case for CRAKKER™ System Base, two Isolation Pods, leads, and documentation.
RPS-1-CK	Rechargeable Power Supply for powering CRAKKER™ when utility power is not readily available. Includes: 120VAC plug-in charger, CRAKKER™ System Base power cable.

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Logic Beach, Incorporated
8363-6F Center Drive
La Mesa, CA 91942
Phone: (619) 698-3300
Fax: (619) 469-8604