Spicer Field Cancellation FAQs

Below are some of the frequently asked questions regarding the Spicer Magnetic Field Cancellation Systems. Please feel free to contact us directly if you have a specific issue you would like to discuss further with our team.

• How much maintenance is required for a magnetic field cancelling system?
  • None. In normal usage, the cancelling systems should continue working without need for attention. The only exception are DC systems that need resetting under certain circumstances, such as when the DC sensor has been moved.
• Do you have to retune a cancelling system if the magnetic field environment changes?
  • No. It automatically reacts to changes in both field frequency and magnitude.
• How quickly does a cancelling system react to changes in the field?
  • They react in 100 microseconds. But note that the meters on the front panels (which have no effect on cancelling) are not fast enough to show this.
• How are the cables installed?
  • Spicer Consulting generally attaches room size cables to the wall in plastic wireways (38mm x 16mm). Where possible, the cables are routed under the floor or above the ceiling. In newly built or refurbished sites it may be possible to bury conduit in the walls and floor.  Where room size installations are not possible cables are mounted using cable ties to the tool’s cabinet or on a specially manufactured aluminum frame.
• Do I need a Helmholtz frame?
  • Not usually. Helmholtz frames are inconvenient for the user and no better than room size cables for cancelling beam movement. They are typically used for OEM installations and when other cable arrangements are not suitable.
• Can I install one system to cancel fields in a room with multiple tools?
  • A separate system is required for each tool.
• Can I install two systems side by side?
  • Yes, but precautions are needed. Read more in the knowledge base.
• If I install a system on one tool, do I need one on the adjacent tool?
  • Sometimes. It depends on the individual circumstances.
• Do the trip levels affect cancelling?
  • No. They only affect the level at which the Field OK light goes out and the trip indicators come on.
• Can the systems cancel the effect of lifts (elevators)?
  • Yes, using the wideband DC sensor.
• This isn’t true DC cancelling though is it?
  • Yes, the system will permanently cancel changes from the DC field level since the last sensor reset.
• Do I need both an AC and a DC sensor with the SC24?
  • The Sensor SC24/DC+AC has wide bandwidth (DC-13kHz) and when used with the System SC24, the system provides DC and AC field cancelling. You do not need an AC sensor as well.
• What certifications do the cancelling systems have?
  • Spicer Consulting cancelling systems have safety certification from CSA. These are listed on the CSA web site. The cancelling systems also conform to European CE directives. Full details are given in the user manual.