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    KAPTEOS - FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

    KAPTEOS –FrequentlyAskedQuestions

    The purpose of these FAQs is to help you to better understand the markets, technologies, products and services of Kapteos.


    Summary

    2. FAQs about the eoProbe measuring probe

    9. FAQs about the eoSense instrument

    11. FAQs about renting a Kapteos system

    12. FAQs on a measurement made by Kapteos in a customer’s application

    14. FAQs on measuring electric fields in medium and high voltage

    15. FAQs on Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) assessment

    17. FAQs on measuring electric field of a plasma

    18. FAQs on measuring electric fields inside a liquid-based system

    20. FAQs on measuring electric fields of a MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) system

    21. FAQs on the measurement of electric fields emitted by antennas

    22. FAQs on measuring electric fields linked to EMC

    2.FAQsabouttheeoProbemeasuringprobe

     

    General frequently asked technical questionsWhat typeof electromagnetic field can be measured by the probe?

    The sensor is designed to measure electric fields with the following characteristics: field shape, amplitude, phase, frequency. The measured bandwidth is very large (from few tens of Hz to few tens of GHz). The E-field to be measured must have an amplitude of at least 50 mV/m or 500 mV/m depending on the type of probe.

    The probe cannot measure magnetic fields.

     

    Why the probe cannot measure magnetic fields?

    The probe does not include any metal part. It is insensitive to magnetic fields. The active part of the probe is based on a crystal and has been designed only for electric fields measurements.

     

    What are the typical applications where the measurement of an electric fieldwould be possible with the probe?

    Applications are divided into two main groups of applications markets:
    1. the biological market and

    2. the industrial market:

    • In the biological market, the probes are used for the Specific Absorption Rate (or SAR) assessment. The actors mainly concerned are the research centers, manufacturers of consumer devices and power systems that emit electromagnetic waves. 
    • In industrial applications, any application that requires an electric field measuring in near-field (even a few millimeters or less), in-situ or laboratory in any rather severe environment. The mainly concerned segments are the systems and equipment in medium and high voltage, power electronic systems (windmills, solar, variable speed drives, uninterruptible power supplies, welding …), railway, mining, MRI, marine, submarines, defense, telecommunications, and many others …).

     

    What are themain advantages of this probe formeasuringan electric field?

    The probe has many assets like its very compact design (5 mm x 35 mm). It does not include any metal part, which does not cause deformation of the signal to be measured and is fully insulated. It is extremely robust against electromagnetic environment. The probe is connected to the treatment instrument (eoSense) by a fiber optic up to 100 meters long. It allows the electric field measurement in the air, liquids or gases (such as plasma for example). The measured signal bandwidth is very large (few tens of Hz to few tens of GHz). The measurement remains stable in ambient temperature from 0 to 50 °C at the sensor’s location. It is therefore perfectly adapted to the above mentioned applications.

     

    How does the probework?

    The eoSense instrument (which mainly manages the operation of the probe and accessories), sends a light wave in the fiber optic. A crystal is located in the probe. This crystal is traversed by the light wave which is itself affected by the electric field to be measured. The modified light wave (measured signal) is sent to the eoSense instrument that will convert the light information into an electrical information, usable by any digital acquisition system.

     A probe corresponds to one E-field component (an axis of the electric field vector). If you want to measure 2 axes of the electric field vector, 2 probes must be used.

    What types of

    information can be provided by the probe?

    The probe supplies to its instrument, the vector information of the electric field, that is to say, the shape of the field, the amplitude, the phase and frequency and this in a continuous manner. The optical signal transmitted to the instrument is not a sampled signal but an analogue one.

     A probe corresponds to a component of the E-field (an axis of the electric field vector). If you want to measure 2 axes of the electric field vector, 2 probes must be used.

     

    What is the ratio between output value of theeoSense instrument an the electric field?

    The eoSense instrument converts the optical signal measured by the probe into an electrical value. This value multiplied by the antenna factor provided an absolute (real) value. As an indication with a field of 1000 V/m and an antenna factor around 100dB/m (1.000.000 Vm-1), the analogue voltage output from the eoSense instrument will be approximately 100mV.

     

    How can I make sure the probe is correctly oriented in accordance with the axis of the component of the E-field to measure?

    There are 2 types of probe:

    • • The probes measuring transverse fields (t)
    • • The probes measuring longitudinal fields (l)

    For transverse type probes (t), the black mark engraved on the probe must be aligned as shown in the drawings below:

     

    KAPTEOS_SAS_FAQ eoProbe Transverse Type x-axis of the electric field

    KAPTEOS_SAS_FAQ eoProbe Transverse Type y-axis of the electric field

    KAPTEOS_SAS_FAQ eoProbe Transverse Type z-axis of the electric field

    KAPTEOS_SAS_FAQ eoProbe Longitudinal Type x-axis of the electric field

    KAPTEOS_SAS_FAQ eoProbe Longitudinal Type y-axis of the electric field

    KAPTEOS_SAS_FAQ eoProbe Longitudinal Type z-axis of the electric field

    Now from a practical point of view, let’s take 2 examples with one probe:
    Case between 2 metal plates Case of a cable

    KAPTEOS_SAS_FAQ eoProbeTransverse Type High Voltage Cable Example

    KAPTEOS_SAS_FAQ eoProbeLongitudinal Type Example

    Can the probe be destroyed by theelectric field to be measured?

    In theory yes but the real E-field value from most of applications that would destroy the probe, is still well below the physical capabilities of the probe; making it extremely robust with respect to targeted applications. Tests were carried out under 10MV/m without destroying the probe.

     

    Are there any measurement conditions that could disturb the operation ofthe probe?

    Yes. Mechanical stress on the probe or an excessive bend or shock of the fiber optic may induce an erroneous measurement and this irreversibly. Manipulating carefully the probe and the fiber optic are therefore important with respect to the longevity of the system. The guarantee excludes any mechanical stress on the probe and its fiber optic.

     

    A temperature above the specified operating temperature range of the probe (0 to 50 °C) may also disturb the measurement.

     

    Can the probe measure absolute electric fields?

    Yes. The probe provides the full instantaneous temporal information to the eoSense instrument which converts light information of the probe into electrical information. The entire probe and the eoSense instrument are calibrated by Kapteos. Thanks to the use of the real-time antenna factor correction, the client can process the information in accordance with his need to obtain absolute (real) values.

     

    What is the minimum distance to measure the E-field with the probe?

    The minimum distance can be considered at zero distance (contact) as the damage threshold of our fully dielectric probes (complete absence of any metal), in terms of electric field strength, is higher than 10 MV/m (i.e. much higher than air breakdown).

     

    What are the precautions for handling a probe?

    The main precaution to handle a probe is to NEVER generate mechanical stress, nor to the probe neither to the fiber optic. The device, despite his robust appearance, remains a highly efficient measuring instrument and must be handled with great care.

     

    What are the ideal applications measuring conditions for using the probe?

    We can qualify a measure of ideal if the measured field is strong (several V/m and above) and if the eoSense instrument is protected from electromagnetic interference. This last point is quite realistic due to a fiber optic length between the probe and the instrument up to 100 meters.

    The last important point is the ambient temperature range of the probe that should remain between 0 and 50 °C.

    What are the available technical documents on the probe?

    To date, the following available documents are:

    • • The user manual (eoSense instrument)
    • • The data sheet
    • • The calibration certificate

    See with Kapteos for any other specific request for documents.

     

    How is defined the measurement accuracy of the probe?

    The sensor characterization elements are provided in the well detailed certificate of the probe with its eoSense instrument. The probe and its instrument cannot be used separately.

    In general, the accuracy depends mainly from the signal acquisition system of the customer. The best results obtained to date provided a measurement accuracy of the sensor and eoSense instrument of about 0.05dB/m.

    We remind you that, as a measurement instrument, it is imperative to check and calibrate regularly your equipment as recommended by Kapteos.

     

    What is the maximum distance between the probe and its eoSense instrument?

    The standard distance is 5 meters from the sensor to the eoSense instrument. At the order, the length can be increased up to a total distance of 100 meters without reducing the performances of the measure.

    Also note that the signal carried out by the fiber being optical, this one cannot be affected by its environment, leading to a stable and robust measurement.

     

    How do I choose the right probe for my needs?

    All the available probes are listed in the data sheet of the probe.

    If needed, please contact Kapteos to be guided.

     

    Does a same probe perform measurements in air, liquids or gases?

    No. The packaging of the probe is adapted to its environment. This material is different for a sensor that measures an electric field in the air of a sensor that measures an electric field in a liquid or a gas.

     

    What are the possibilities if an E-field to measure is too

    small for a Kapteos probe?

    In general, customers are used to measure E-field based on antennas. These antennas present:

    • • Metal part (measurement distance is needed in case of presence of high voltage)
    • • Low maximum E-field to measure (distance is needed to reduce maximum E-field to measure)

     

    These restrictions are not present with Kapteos probes. It is then very easy to approach the probe to increase the E-field to measure, hence increasing the E-field.

     

    What is the type of a probe?

    The type of a probe determines its physical construction and characteristics; hence the orientation of the measured field.

     

    Transverse type probe Longitudinal type probe

    Other features that determine the type of sensor are:

    • • The protection of the crystal (for measurements in air, liquids or gases)
    • • The length of the fiber optic between the probe and the eoSense instrument
    • • The sensitivity

     

    A probe corresponds to a channel and allows the measure of one of the three axes of the electric field. If you want to measure the 3 axis of the electric field, it is necessary to use 3 probes at the same time. Two different accessories are available to maintain these 3 probes.

     

    What is the typical sensitivity?

    Kapteos offers 2 physical dimensions of crystals inside the probe. This has a strong impact on the measurement sensitivity and the frequency bandwidth. The sensitivity of 50mV/m specified (in the air with a longitudinal probe type) allows a proper signal/noise measurement ratio. The eoProbe data sheet provides the relevant characteristics linked to the sensitivity.

     

    What is the dynamic of measurement?

    The dynamic of measurement is the ratio between the largest possible value and the lowest possible value, this ratio is expressed in decibels. For the field measurement, we must also divide the ratio by the square root of the frequency of the measured signal.

     

    The higher the ratio, the better the probe is performing.

     

    The formula is then as follows:

    Dynamic dB=20*log⁡[strong signal low signal Hz]

     

    To understand the performance of the Kapteos probe, let’s take 2 examples of an application:

    • • Frequency 1kHz
    • • The strongest signal = 100kV/m
    • • The lowest signal = 0.1V/m

    Dynamic (dB) = 20 × log [(100,000/0.1)/√1000] = 90dB

    • Frequency to 1MHz

    • • The strongest signal = 100kV/m
    • • The lowest signal = 0.1V/m

    Dynamic (dB) = 20 × log [(100,000/0.1)/√1.000.000] = 60dB

    In practice, the Kapteos probes have a dynamic of measurement that may exceed 130dB.

    At 50Hz, this indicates that a Kapteos probe can measure electric fields higher than 1MV/m.

     

    What is the intrinsic bandwidth?

    This is the maximum possible frequency of the electric field to be measured.

     

    Kapteos probes incorporate a crystal having two possible physical lengths:

    • • 5 mm: the minimum sensitivity is about 50 mV/m and bandwidth is around 10 GHz
    • • 1 mm: the minimum sensitivity is about 200 mV/m and bandwidth is around 40 GHz

     

    Kapteos sets the maximum or minimum bandwidth at -3dB.

     

    What is the selectivity?

    A probe measures only one axis of the electric field. To be sure not to be disturbed by the other axis, the probe must be able to «reject» the other 2 axes of the field. This ability is called the selectivity which is measured in decibels. The higher the value, the better the probe is selective.

     

    Selectivity dB=20*log ⁡(Useful axis value Useless axis value)

     

    The Kapteos probes have a selectivity of about 50dB.

    This indicates that the value of the 2 other useless axes is not more than 0.3% of the value of the relevant axis.

     

    What is the spatial resolution?

    The spatial resolution is the smallest distance between two steps of measurements placed next to each other. This resolution corresponds to the physical dimension of the crystal sensor: 0.6 mm. So if the probe moves of 0.6 mm (x or y axis), a new electric field measurement can be made. Kapteos indicates a resolution of 1 mm to be valid in all cases.

     

    Why operating temperature limits are set?

    One of the limitations of the electro-optic technology for electrical field measurement is the ambient temperature of this measurement. Indeed the crystal is strongly affected by the temperature which often limits the use of this technology at a stable temperature of a laboratory. In addition the fiber optic is also affected by the temperature.

     

    However this is not the case for Kapteos probes. They can measure an electric field in a wide temperature range (0 to 50 °C) without any degradation of the signal. This allows the measurement of electric fields in most outdoor applications in operation throughout the year.

     

    What is the protection degree?

    The protection degree (IP) sets the level of protection allowed by hardware to external conditions that are solids or liquids.

    This level is defined by the international standard IEC 60529.

     

    It is characterized by 2 numbers:

    • • The first number indicates the level of protection against foreign object
    • • The second number indicates the level of protection of the water tightness

     

    The table below shows the different levels of protection.

    Protection level Foreign object Water tightness
    0 No protection No protection
    1 Protection against foreign object > 50 mm Protection against vertical drops
    2 Protection against foreign object > 12,5 mm

    Protection against oblique drops

    (maximum 15° inclination)

    3 Protection against foreign object > 2,5 mm Protection against water «rain»
    4 Protection against foreign object > 1 mm Protection against splashes
    5 Protection against dust deposits Protection against water jets
    6 Protection against dust intrusion Protection against water packages
    7 Protection against immersion
    8 Protection against permanent immersion

     

    What is the chemical compatibility?

    The crystal of the probe is protected in a mechanical packaging. This packaging also allows to adapt the measurement of an electric field according to its environment and this with almost no impact. Furthermore, when the probe is used in a gas or a liquid, it should not chemically degrade the probe. The chemical compatibility corresponds to the exhaustive list of media for which the probe is not chemically degraded.

     

    How can we clean the sensor?

    If the media of the measure (biological environment in particular) is dirty, the probe can be cleaned using isopropanol.

     

    Are there different types of probe?

    Yes, there are 3 types of probe:

    • • Environment: air or biological (liquid or gas)
    • • Direction of the axis to measure: transverse or longitudinal
    • • Sensitivity of the probe: very low or normal

     

    So to date in total, Kapteos offers 8 different probe versions.

     

    For each version of probe, you have also the possibility to select the length of the fiber optic between the probe and the eoSense instrument which is 5 meters long in standard or any other length (max. 100 meters) to be defined at the order.

     

    Are there any accessories available for sale?

    Yes. If the customer wants to measure 2 or 3 axes of the vector field at the same location, then it is possible to use different holders which maintain the 2 or 3 probes in the same place. Please refer to the data sheet of the probe.

     

    Also, if the customer wishes to calibrate the probe to its specific organic liquid medium, then the customer can use the eoCal accessory for a do-it yourself calibration.

     

    Finally, if the customer wants to add extra length to the probe, then the customer can purchase a fiber optic extension that includes the two optical connectors (one for the eoSense instrument and one for the probe).

     

    May I buy only a probe and not its eoSense instrument?

    Yes. However, the mandatory calibration of the probe and the eoSense instrument assembly requires the return of the equipment in full to Kapteos. In no event, the calibration is made by the customer or at the customer’s place by Kapteos.

     

    Can I add an «extension fiber» to the fiber optic between the probe and its eoSense instrument?

    Yes. There is a possible fiber optic extension between the probe and the instrument. The total length of the fiber optic of the probe and the extension should be at most 100 meters. This extension is defined in a 5-meter step.

     

    My sensor is meant to measure a single axis of the electric field. What to do if I now want to measure another axis of the electric field?

    In the necessity of measuring another field or another axis of the field, Kapteos offers several possible solutions:

    • Upgrading your eoSense instrument (adding an additional channel), adding another probe and the calibration of the all system. The material must be returned to Kapteos
    • Rental of an additional probe with its instrument
    • Measurements made by Kapteos at the customer’s plant

     

    Does Kapteos rent products or accessories?

    Yes. Kapteos provided the following products and accessories for worldwide rental:

    • • eoSense instrument with 1 to 3 probes linked to customer needs
    • • Fiber optic extension
    • • eoProbe fixing accessories
    • • eoCal calibration system for bio eoProbe
    • • eoAcq Data Acquisition System with data treatment

     

    The probe appears faulty. Is it possible to have it checked by Kapteos?

    Yes indeed. Before returning the equipment, it is recommended to contact Kapteos to confirm the correct use of equipment. In cases where the probe seems defective, Kapteos will ask you for the return of all equipment (sensor(s) and instrument) for verification.

    Remember, the calibration of the equipment is valid as specified in the calibration certificate.

     

    If you need to return a system to Kapteos, please fill out this Online form to get a return number (RMA) from Kapteos.

     

    What is the procedure to calibrate a probe?

    Calibrating a probe imposes the return of the probe and its associated instrument to Kapteos. In any case, the calibration is made by the customer or at the customer’s plant by Kapteos.

     

    Is it possible to repair a probe?

    Yes. Even though the probe has been designed as an inseparable unit with fiber optic, Kapteos may repair the probe. You have first to complete the Online form to get a RMA number from Kapteos. After acceptance of the RMA, Kapteos may ask you to return the probe or the full system. After analysis of the probe by Kapteos, we can propose you the relevant corrective action.

     

    Can we just replace the connector that connects the probe to eoSense instrument?

    The connector has been qualified for the use in the field.

    To date, it is not supposed to replace the connector but in the unlikely event of a deterioration of the connector (despite strict precautions usage), Kapteos may accomplish a replacement of this part after acceptance of a quote and return of equipment (sensor(s) and instrument).

     

    The sensor is defective and I urgently need to make a measurement. How could Kapteos help me?

    Kapteos could propose the following possibilities:

    • The sending of a measuring system with a probe. This remains conditional to the availability of equipment.
    • The achievement of measurements made by Kapteos at the customer’s plant. This remains conditional to the resources availability of Kapteos.

     

    It is therefore very important to anticipate the planning of your measurement campaigns, to check in advance that your equipment is operational.

    It is recommended to contact Kapteos to get help from Kapteos who will do his best to find the best solution for your situation.

     

    FAQsabouttheeoSenseinstrument

    Generalfrequentlyaskedtechnicalquestions

     How to choose between different versions of eoSense instrument?

    The main question to ask yourself is the frequency bandwidth of the electric field to be measured.

     

    To date, 7 choices of instruments are available:

    • • 40 Hz to 30 MHz (eoSense LF-30S)
    • • 1 kHz to 1 GHz (eoSense MF-01U)
    • • 100 kHz to 10 GHz (eoSense HF-10)
    • • 10 kHz to 10 GHz (eoSense HF-10V)
    • • 100 kHz to 20 GHz (eoSense HF-20)
    • • 10 kHz to 20 GHz (eoSense HF-20V)
    • • 20 kHz to 40 GHz (eoSense HF-40)

     

    Whichever version of the chosen instrument, the probe will work on any of the instrument (after calibration at Kapteos).

    At the order, the customer is also asked to indicate the number of channels to be installed in the instrument (from 1 to 3 channels), if he wishes to add gain amplifiers (versions MF and HF). The Acquisition (eoAcq) accessory can be ordered later on.

     

    How can I ensure that the field measurement system works correctly in my application?

    Before an eventual purchase, Kapteos offers 2 possibilities of service:

    • A theoretical approach based on a simulation software
    • The rental of an equipment
    • The measurements made by Kapteos in your application (in your premises or in an already installed application)

     

    Where to find technical documentation on the eoSense instrument?

    By contacting Reliant EMC

    Is the eoSense instrumental so calibrated?

    The instrument is routinely calibrated on delivery. A calibration certificate is supplied with the unit. This certificate is valid for 2 years. It is strongly recommended that a calibration renewal request is applied at least 2 months before the expiry date as the renewal procedure requires the return of the equipment at Kapteos and involves a complex tooling.

     

    In no event, the calibration is done by the customer or by Kapteos at the customer’s plant.

     

    How many probes can I plug on to an eoSense instrument?

    At maximum, the eoSense instrument can measure 3 channels, so 3 probes (one channel = one probe). If you need to connect more than 3 probes, Kapteos proposes eoSwitch. This accessory (under development) enables up to 48 probes to be connected to a single eoSense instrument.

    CanI swap the probes connection on to the eoSense instrument?

    No because of the calibration procedure. A probe must be always connected to the same input channel. On top of that, the real-time antenna factor correction involves to have always the same probe at the same input channel.

     

    What are the conditions of use of eoSense instrument?

    A user guide shows all the conditions of use of the instrument and particularly thermal conditions which must be between 15 and 30 °C. The maximum and minimum temperatures must be respected because they strongly affect the correct functioning of the system.

     

    What is the antenna factor?

    This is a very important point in the operation of the eoSense instrument.

    As a matter of fact, the antenna factor enables:

    • To calculate in real time the absolute value of the electric field
    • To correct in real time all the errors due to the measurement chain (from the probe to the instrument output) due to the environment of the measurement (temperature, humidity …). This correction also takes into account almost all the frequency band to be measured and not a single frequency.

    With this performing system, the eoSense instrument allows the electric field measurement outside a laboratory temperature-regulated room and thus make extremely repetitive field measurements.

    This antenna factor is available through an analogue electrical signal for each channel of the device.

     

    Which accessories are available for sale?

    The following elements are available for sale:

      • Accessories
        • • eoSwitch to connect from 4 up to 48 probes onto an eoSense
    • • eoLink to extend the fiber optic length between the instrument and the probe
    • • eoAcq to record the measured signal (for eoSense LF version)
    • In option, the eoSense instrument can integrate:
      • • AMP: to increase the gain of the measure (for eoSense MF and HF versions)

    How is updated the software in the eoSense instrument?

     

    Does Kapteos offer training for the operation of the eoSense instrument?

    When Kapteos develops a new software version of the instrument, this one is sent by email to the customer.

    The customer must double-click on the file. The update is launched, the customer has just to follow the few instructions. A PDF document is also provided to better guide the user.

     

    Yes. This 2-hour training is a free service. This can be done remotely (with Skype or similar) or at the customer’s plant thanks to the user friendly control software of the eoSense instrument.

    For customers who want to maximize the measuring performances of probes, Kapteos offers on-demand trainings at the customer’s plant in order to understand all the possibilities offered by the many features of the eoSense instrument.

    FAQs about renting a Kapteos system

    Where can I find a list of products and accessories available for rent?

    To date, Kapteos rents the following products:

    • • eoSense instruments and related accessories
    • • eoProbe sensors and related accessories

    The material rental involves to the customer:

    • • A training prior to use of the material
    • • The availability of equipment that suits the customer’s application
    • • A rental period generally between 1 week and 4 weeks

    Shipment of materials can be achieved (in principle) everywhere except in countries that are subject to European or international regulatory restrictions.

    What are the minimum and maximum durations of renting material

    The required minimum duration is one week because it involves important logistics and training on the provided hardware and software. The maximum desired duration is of few weeks but it seems reasonable not to accept period greater than 4 weeks.

    If the equipment that I rent becomes faulty, what are the consequences for me?

    Any material rental involves to adhere to an insurance proposed in standard by Kapteos in the quotes.

    If the customer refuses this insurance, upon shipment of equipment, the customer assumes the risks associated with the use, storage and transport.

    If the equipment, an accessory or physical element or software becomes defective during the lease, the customer will pay the repair costs according to the estimates provided by Kapteos or your local dealer.

    Does the rental material perform as well as a new one?

    Yes, indeed.

    Before each rental, Kapteos ensures of the correct functioning of the rented products despite the fact that each product owns its proper calibration certificate.

     

    FAQs on a measurement made by Kapteos in a customer’s application

    What is the procedure for Kapteos to make a measurement in an operating application?

    The need for an in-situ measurement involves questions that must be answered by the client before any intervention by Kapteos.

    The main elements and steps are:

    • Customer’s need expression (see Customer Request Form)
    • Analysis of the need by Kapteos with any requests for additional information by email, phone, Skype or other video conferencing system, meetings …
    • Delivery of a quote
    • Upon customer acceptance, payment of the deposit to trigger delivery
    • Preparation of the security conditions (by the customer or another) to perform measurements by Kapteos
    • Travel and measurements made by Kapteos
    • Report issued by Kapteos
    • Discussion with the client on performed measurements

    What are the security conditions to take when measuring in an operating application?

    Only the client will be able to judge the specific conditions that must be implemented and under his own responsibility in order to perform measurements by Kapteos.

    Authorized persons in terms of security, belonging to the client organization, will always be present in order to anticipate any risk initially not planned.

    In case of imminent danger on Kapteos staff, the customer must immediately inform Kapteos of this imminent danger.

    What is the Kapteos intervention zone?

    Everywhere in the world except in countries that are subject to European or international regulatory restrictions.

    What are the skills of people performing the measurement services in operation application?

    To date, people in Kapteos empowered to achieve customer measures are:

    • Professor Lionel Duvillaret, an expert in optics and microwave. Mr Duvillaret has published more than 200 articles on electromagnetism, optics, and many other subjects.
    • Associate Professor Gwenaël Gaborit, expert in optics and microwave. Mr Gaborit has published more than 100 articles on electromagnetism, optics, and many other subjects.

    What are the costs involved in the provision of measurements made by Kapteos?

    When Kapteos is sending a quote to achieve a measure for a client, the following elements are included in the costs:

    • Preliminary technical preparation of the measurement
    • Travel actual costs (hotel, meals, car rental, aircraft …)
    • Hardware costs required for measurement (specific to Kapteos and other possible rents)
    • Measures implementation time at the customer
    • Travel time (for journeys greater than 4 hours)
    • Report writing time
    • Time for verbal explanation or physical meeting

    What outcome can we expect of a measure in an operating application?

    The main added value of a measurement made by Kapteos at the customer, is based on the implementation of high performance technologies and used by recognized experts in the issues raised by the client beforehand.

    The customer will thus obtain a very precise report on the understanding of its problems with a very detailed report, which is supplemented by a verbal exchange with Kapteos experts.

    The customer has, in a very short period of time and at a reasonable cost, access to the reasoned and written comprehension of his subject in order to take full knowledge of actions or necessary improvements or corrections.

    The pay-back of the performance made by Kapteos at the customer’ plant is mostly very short (few months).

    Finally, Kapteos may, in accordance with the customer’s situation, offer other complementary services such as electrical simulation, training or work as an expert in support to the customer.

    What a report of a measurement made in an operating application looks like?

    The report topics of measurements made in situ by Kapteos are generally the following:

    • Customer’s need reminder
    • Goals of measures to achieve
    • Description of the client application
    • Description and detailed measurement results
    • Findings
    • Conclusion

    This report is written in either French or English. The report is provided by email in PDF format.

    The report is then reviewed by Kapteos to the client (Skype or other means). The proposed average time is about 2 hours.

    Continuer lecture ici

    FAQs on measuring electric fields in medium and high voltage

    What are the electric field measurement needs in medium and high voltage?

    In power transmission, it is to diagnose a fault occurred in operating such an insulation fault, a blackout of the grid.

    All the components involved in the electrical network infrastructure may be subject to a defect or be a need for aging analysis such as an insulator which would produce partial discharges.

    From a normative point of view, it is required to measure human exposure to electric fields (Specific Absorption Rate or SAR).

    Finally analyses of the purity of the 50 or 60 Hz fundamental frequency system are necessary through high harmonic measurements of electrical fields.

    What are the electric fields measurement solutions in medium and high voltage?

    For analysis or monitoring the line infrastructure, expensive security systems are used by logging physically on the line to be monitored through resistive or capacitive bridges.

    For the measurement of human exposure, there are measuring devices with metal antenna from the ground which give an effective value of the electric field. These devices can monitor and analyze for example the influence of lightning strikes.

    To address all issues of fault analysis, infrastructure monitoring, aging equipment, exposure of people or analysis of network quality, Kapteos offers its eoSense system coupled to one or more probes.

    What are the advantages of the measuring solution proposed by Kapteos?

    First of all, a single system addresses all measurement problems for an electric field in medium and high voltage.

    The measuring probe is very compact (5mm x 35 mm), very accurate in time and space. It allows the measurement of a field vector (amplitude, phase, spectrum, vector direction) rather than a simple effective (RMS) measure.

    The measurement is completely insulated and secure (even for lines up to several hundred kilovolts) through the insulated probe and its fiber optic (up to 100 meters) for the transport of information measured without being disturbed by strong electromagnetic fields.

    Finally the probe perfectly functioning between 0 and 50 °C, allows a field measurement by not being sensitive to temperature.

    Which benefits can I expect?

    The Kapteos solution enables high detailed analysis of the raised issues.

    The customer can therefore understand very quickly the situation and at a much reduced cost, to take actions for improvement or correction.

    The customer can rely on a Kapteos expert to be helped anywhere in the world.

    What are the experiences of measuring electric fields in medium and high voltage already made by Kapteos?

    Here are some typical examples:

    • 25kV cable degradation analysis (SNCF)
    • Electric field mapping of a 25kV insulator with partial discharges analysis (SNCF)
    • Electric field mapping of a bus bar inside an electrical network infra-structure (GE)
    • Analysis of partial and total discharges of a medium voltage system (EDF, UQAC (University of Québec at Chicoutimi) for the Hydro-Québec customer)

     

    What are the requirements for measuring electric fields on SAR?

    The target is to perform measurements in accordance with standards requiring in-situ electric field in a biological medium.

    Emitting electrical fields sources, are becoming more numerous, have a very broad frequency range (from kHz to GHz) and a range of signal amplitude.

    The main emission sources are typically:

    • WI-FI
    • Bluetooth
    • Cell phones
    • Induction wireless charging systems (small electronic equipment, cars, buses …)
    • Induction furnaces
    • Energy transport
    • Antennas (TV, radio, telephone, defense …)

    Companies employing personnel must ensure that this one does not work in conditions related to dangerous electromagnetic fields for the human body.

    What are the electric fields measurement solutions to measure SAR?

    The SAR measurement is done following two completely different principles:

    • By a temperature measurement
    • By an electric field measurement

    For electric field measurements, there are mainly two ways:

    • The measurement based on antennas
    • The measurement based on electro-optics (the solution proposed by Kapteos).

    What are the advantages of the measuring solution proposed by Kapteos?

    The proposed Kapteos solution is perfectly suited for this need because the probe:

    • Is non-invasive (it does not include metal, so do not alter the electric field to be measured)
    • Is very small, it allows an extreme localized measurement
    • Allows measurement of ultra-wide band electric field
    • Enables vector measurement of the electric field with excellent rejection ratio of an axis of the field to another. The measured information is very comprehensive and accurate.
    • Remains insensitive to the variation of temperature within a range of 0 to 50 °C

    Which benefits can I expect?

    One system that perfectly meets the standards in force (for frequencies from 100 kHz to 40 GHz).

    It allows the measurement of a field vector (amplitude, phase, spectrum, vector direction).

    FAQs on Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) assessment

    What are the experiences of measuring electric fields for SAR assessment already made by Kapteos?

    Several publications have been made with the XLIM research institute (www.xlim.fr), specialized in bio-electromagnetics and a world reference.

    Sale of a measurement system, after validation by comprehensive tests at the Tübingen Clinic (Germany).

    Sale of a measurement system with numerous sensors for measuring infantrymen exposure to electric fields from military communications antennas (DGA).

    Kapteos is national research coordinator on the Specific Absorption Rate (SAR)

    Kapteos is expert for the National Health Safety Food Agency, Environment and Labor (ANSES) in France (www.anses.fr)

    FAQs on measuring electric field of a plasma

    What are the requirements for measuring electric field of a plasma?

    Firstly it concerns the measurements of very strong electric field (kV/m to MV/m) in order to ionize a gas containing charged particles.

    The measure of this field must be physically very close (few millimeters or less for cold plasma to tens of centimeters for hot plasmas) and very localized. Finally the shape of the electric field of a plasma is extremely complex.

    In general, there are cold plasmas for biomedical and hot plasmas for industry (metal processing or semiconductor, for example).

    What are the electric fields measurement solutions of a plasma?

    The power supply voltage measurement of the plasma generator determines a number of information but it is very limited.

    Theoretical simulations are possible but do not allow to take into account the reality of the implemented technical solutions.

    Kapteos offers its eoSense system coupled to one or more probes perfectly suited to this application.

    What are the advantages of the measuring solution proposed by Kapteos?

    The Kapteos solution is a unique solution and widely validated by extensive testing.

    The Kapteos solution is perfectly suited for this need because the probe:

    • Is non-invasive (it does not include metal, so do not alter the electric field to be measured)
    • Is very small, it allows an extreme localized measurement
    • Allows measurement of ultra-wide band electric field
    • Enables vector measurement of the electric field with excellent rejection ratio of an axis of the field to another. The measured information is very comprehensive and accurate.
    • Remains insensitive to the variation of temperature within a range of 0 to 50 °C

    Which benefits can I expect?

    A full monitoring of the plasma generation means to improve the quality of plasma and its performances.

    What are electric fields measuring experiences of a plasma already made by Kapteos?

    In-situ plasma mappings by several customers with different environments such as biological or magnetic (GREMI University in Orleans (France) or the INP Greifswald University (Germany)).

    FAQs on measuring electric fields inside a liquid-based system

    What are the electric field measurement needs of a liquid-based system?

    The measurement of electric fields in liquid-based system includes various needs such as:

    • Sterilization / decontamination bacteria with cold plasma
    • The fruit juice sterilization by a very large electric field
    • Specific Absorption Rate assessment within a phantom (linked to regulatory standards)
    • The microwave heating of liquids
    • The electroporation of cells
    • In-situ measurement (inside) of a transformer
    • The electric field measurement in an MRI for the study of medical implants incorporating electronics

    What are the markets where there is the measurement of electric fields of a liquid-based system?

    The markets that address the needs expressed above in the previous question are:

    • The companies, laboratories, research centers and academic institutions with a tendency towards the medical
    • Research and Development services of companies in the food sector
    • MRI, Smart-phone, WIFI, Bluetooth, energy, RFID, induction…
    • Research and development services of industrial companies
    • Fundamental research centers with a tendency towards the medical
    • Research and development services of industrial companies
    • Manufacturers of medical implants incorporating electronics

    What are the electric field measurement solutions from a liquid-based system?

    In a very general prospective, apart from the SAR measurement that meets standards with the presence of several actors in measuring electric field (including Kapteos), there are no products that can make the measurement of electric fields in a liquid-based system.

    Kapteos alone can address all of these applications with its products and services.

    What are the advantages of the measuring solution proposed by Kapteos?

    The solution proposed by Kapteos is quite suitable for all of these needs because the probe:

    • Is non-perturbative (it does not include metal, so do not alter the electric field to be measured)
    • Is very small, it allows an extreme localized measurement
    • Allows measurement of ultra-wide band electric field
    • Enables vector measurement of the electric field with excellent rejection ratio of an axis of the field to another. The measured information is very comprehensive and accurate.
    • Remains insensitive to the variation of temperature within a range of 0 to 50 °C

    Which benefits can I expect?

    To finally have a solution for measuring electric fields in liquid-based system (almost all liquids). The solution is, on top of that, calibrated to the medium; that is to say Kapteos offers a calibration solution of the probe for the liquid used by the customer. It is a real added value for the customer.

    With these new information, customers can increase the knowledge of their products or develop new technology.

    What are the experiences of measuring electric fields of a liquid-based system already made by Kapteos?

    Measurements of E-fields inside various liquids for fundamental physics (CEA Saclay – FR)

    Measurements of E-fields inside a Petri dish submitted to a cold plasma, at various distances inside the dish (IPREM – FR)

    Measurements of E-fields inside liquids for cells electroporation and dosimetry (XLIM – FR)

    Measurements of E-fields inside liquids submitted to a cold plasma (Gremi – FR)

    FAQs on measuring electric fields of a MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) system

    What are the electric field measurement needs of a MRI system?

    The topic is to measure the exposure of people to electromagnetic fields.

    The radio frequencies field analysis is required with a very high spatial resolution.

    The measure must be performed under a magnetic field of 3 or 4.7 Tesla depending on the MRI model.

    What are the electric field measurement solutions of a MRI system?

    Theoretical simulations and empirical implementation rules are mainly considered.

    There are certainly ways to measure but remain inaccessible outside MRI manufacturers.

    Kapteos offers its eoSense system coupled to one or more probes perfectly suited to this application.

    What are the advantages of the measuring solution proposed by Kapteos?

    The proposed Kapteos solution is perfectly suited for this need because the probe:

    • Is non-invasive (it does not include metal, so do not alter the electric field to be measured) which is ABSOLUTELY requested in this market
    • Is very small, it allows an extreme localized measurement
    • Allows measurement of ultra-wide band electric field
    • Enables vector measurement of the electric field with excellent rejection ratio of an axis of the field to another. The measured information is very comprehensive and accurate.
    • Remains insensitive to the variation of temperature within a range of 0 to 50 °C
    • The signal to be measured can be up to a distance of 100 meters away.

    Which benefits can I expect?

    To measure very precisely the Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) of people inside the system (inside the air on inside a phantom).

    To improve the design knowledge of MRIs.

    What are the electric fields measuring experiences of a MRI system already made by Kapteos?

    Publications by Kapteos have been made on this subject.

    Measurement tests of electric fields under 3 and 4.7 Tesla were carried out with very good results.

    A partnership is underway with the biomedical imaging research laboratory in Lyon (Créatis).

    Sale of a measurement system, after validation by comprehensive tests at the Tübingen Clinic (Germany).

    FAQs on the measurement of electric fields emitted by antennas

    What are the requirements for measuring electric fields emitted by antennas?

    To measure near electric fields (0 to few tens of centimeters).

    The measured E-field must contain the amplitude and phase of each component (or axis) of the field vector.

    The measured E-field has a very wide frequency band (from few kHz to several GHz).

    What are the antennas emitted electric fields measurement solutions?

    Mainly to date, there are mini-dipole and mono-pole antennas which all contain a metal part. This metal part alters the electric field to be measured.

    Kapteos offers its eoSense system coupled to one or more probes perfectly suited to this application.

    What are the advantages of the measuring solution proposed by Kapteos?

    The proposed Kapteos solution is perfectly suited for this need because the probe:

    • Is the same one for all bandwidth
    • Is non-invasive (it does not include metal, so do not alter the electric field to be measured)
    • Is very small, it allows an extreme localized measurement
    • Allows measurement of ultra-wide band electric field
    • Enables vector measurement of the electric field with excellent rejection ratio of an axis of the field to another. The measured information is very comprehensive and accurate.
    • Remains insensitive to the variation of temperature within a range of 0 to 50 °C
    • The signal to be measured can be up to a distance of 100 meters away

    Which benefits can I expect?

    To validate the full operation of the antenna with a simple, fast and costless solution.

    To acquire new information for the future development of new generations of antennas.

    What are the experiences of measuring electric fields emitted by antennas already made by Kapteos?

    Mappings were made internally at Kapteos.

    Mappings of horn antennas or other shapes were made with several customers.

    Several publications have been made.

    FAQs on measuring electric fields linked to EMC

    What are the applications where there is the measurement of electric fields for EMC?

    Kapteos is mainly targeting companies facing issues with EMC:

    • At R&D stage
    • At commissioning
    • During operation

    The typical applications which may be involves are:

    • Drives (variable speed devices)
    • UPS (Uninterpretable Power Supplies)
    • Solar inverters
    • Windmills inverters
    • Power supplies
    • PCBs with several tens of volts (short distances)
    • Railways
    • Mining

    For the time being, Kapteos is not targeting the market of E-field measurements linked to IEC standards within an anechoic chamber.

    What are the requirements for measuring electric fields for EMC?

    To measure low (up to very high) E-fields in near field from few tens of Hz to several tens of MHz under several 100s of volts.

    What are the electric fields measurement solutions for EMC?

    Mainly to date, there are mini-dipole and mono-pole antennas which all contain a metal part. This metal part alters the electric field to be measured.

    Kapteos offers its eoSense system coupled to one or more probes perfectly suited to this application.

    What are the advantages of the measuring solution proposed by Kapteos?

    The proposed Kapteos solution is perfectly suited for all these needs because the probe:

    • Is the same one for all bandwidth
    • Is non-invasive (it does not include metal, so do not alter the electric field to be measured)
    • Is completely insulated and secure (even for lines up to several hundred kilovolts)
    • Is very small, it allows an extreme localized measurement
    • Enables vector measurement of the electric field with excellent rejection ratio of an axis of the field to another. The measured information is very comprehensive and accurate.
    • Remains insensitive to the variation of temperature within a range of 0 to 50 °C
    • The signal to be measured can be up to a distance of 100 meters away.
    • A mapping of the E-field may be performed with a scanner

    Which benefits can I expect?

    Fast and very accurate measurements.

    Safe measurement (insulated probe).

    Comprehensive data to perform rapidly improvements, actions, corrections or mitigations

    What are the experiences of measuring electric fields for EMC already made by Kapteos?

    Bus bar E-field mapping (GE – CH)

    PCB E-field mapping (NXP Semiconductors – FR)