Measuring surface resistance with the Trek 152-1

1. Introduction to the Trek 152-1

Resistance determines how readily current can flow through a material. ESD control uses suitable conductive and dissipative materials, bonding and grounding to manage charge dissipation. Resistance measurement is one part of the control programme; it does not replace evaluation of electrostatic voltage, fields or charging risks.

The Trek 152-1 measures surface or volume resistance of conductive, dissipative and insulative materials using the appropriate probes.

2. Main technical specifications

• Resistance range stated in the manufacturer’s technical data: 10³ to 10¹³ Ω.
• Point-to-point 5 lb probes: ±5% from 10³ to 10¹² Ω; ±8% at 10¹³ Ω.
• Concentric-ring probe: ±5% from 10⁴ to 10¹³ Ω; ±8% at the 10¹⁴ Ω range stated for the probe.
• Two-point probe 152P-2P: ±5% from 10³ to 10¹¹ Ω; ±10% from 10¹² to 10¹³ Ω.
• Selectable test voltage: 10 V or 100 V, ±2%.
• Test-current limit: below 13 mA on the 10 V range and below 1.7 mA on the 100 V range.

Accuracy follows the manufacturer’s Performance Specifications table at 25°C and 20–70% RH. Confirm the probe model and the documentation supplied with the instrument.

Advanced Energy - Trek 152-1 technical data

3. Using the instrument

Preparation before measurement

• Identify the material, surface geometry and applicable test method.
• Select the appropriate connection and probe: two 5 lb electrodes, a two-point probe or a concentric-ring probe.
• Confirm the applicable test standard, temperature and humidity conditions.

Measurement methods

Method 1: Two 5 lb electrodes

• This arrangement is used on sufficiently large, flat material surfaces.

Step 1: Prepare the Trek 152-1, two 5 lb electrodes and connection leads.

Step 2: Connect the leads to the electrodes and the meter according to the manufacturer’s instructions and connector markings.

Step 3: Select the measurement locations on the material.

Step 4: Switch on the meter and select the appropriate range.

• The original procedure uses 10 V below 10⁶ Ω and records the reading after 5 seconds. Apply this timing only where specified by the relevant test method.
• The original procedure uses 100 V above 10⁶ Ω and records the reading after 15 seconds. Confirm voltage selection, dwell time and boundary cases against the applicable method.

Method 2: Two-point probe

• This probe is intended for surfaces too small for conventional electrodes; suitability for an uneven surface depends on reliable electrode contact.

Step 1: Prepare the Trek 152-1 and the two-point resistance probe.

Step 2: Connect the leads to the electrodes and the meter according to the manufacturer’s instructions and connector markings.

Step 3: Select the measurement locations on the material.

Step 4: Switch on the meter and select the appropriate range.

• The original procedure uses 10 V below 10⁶ Ω and records the reading after 5 seconds. Apply this timing only where specified by the relevant test method.
• The original procedure uses 100 V above 10⁶ Ω and records the reading after 15 seconds. Confirm voltage selection, dwell time and boundary cases against the applicable method.