Frequently Asked Questions
Testing the TS-1 Temperature Sensor
The TS-1 temperature sensor can be disconnected from the host device and tested. The test requires a 5-12 VDC power supply and a test meter capable of measuring to 1/100 of a volt DC. The sensor draws very little current so any supply with an appropriate voltage rating should work.
The TS-1 temperature sensor is used with the CTI, TTI, TTT and RFC series devices. It can be identified by the presence of an LM34 (Fahrenheit) or LM35 (Celsius) device as the sensing element. The sensing element is the small, black TO-92 packaged device on the sensor PCB.
Disconnect power from the host device: CTI, TTI, TTT, RFC, etc. Then, disconnect the sensor from the cable. The sensor cannot be tested in circuit.
Once you have access to the sensor connector:
- Connect the positive lead of the meter to the sensor "S" lead.
- Connect the negative lead of the meter to the sensor "G" lead.
- Connect the sensor "G" lead to the low side of the power supply.
- Connect the sensor "+" lead to the positive side of the power supply.
Set the meter to measure low-scale DC voltage and apply main power to the 5VDC supply. If the sensor is working properly, the volt meter will read one 1/100 of a volt per degree for the ambient temperature at the sensing device.
For example, if the ambient air temperature is 75 degrees F, the meter will read 0.75 volts +/- 0.02 volts. If the voltage varies from actual temperature reading by more than several 1/100ths of a volt, then sensor is probably damaged.