WAVEFORM CAPTURE · HIOKI MR8848
Short answer: The HIOKI MR8848 is a modular waveform recorder for maintenance teams that need to capture electrical events alongside control and sensor signals. Choose it by the required input modules, simultaneous channel mix and recording duration. Its maximum channel count, sampling speed and storage capabilities depend on the selected configuration.
- Useful for UPS, railway, plant and power-system troubleshooting.
- Specify the complete measurement chain, including modules, probes and storage.
- RCC Electronics can review application and configuration requirements for Canadian customers.
An intermittent fault may last only a moment, but understanding it often requires the signals that came before and after it. A control command, current change and mechanical response can each look reasonable in isolation. Recording them on a common timeline gives the investigation a more useful starting point.
The HIOKI MR8848 MEMORY HiCORDER is intended for this kind of multichannel waveform capture. The following guide focuses on configuring a recorder for a real maintenance task, rather than treating the largest numbers on the specification sheet as a single operating mode.
Does your task need a waveform recorder?
Choose the instrument around the event you need to explain. A maintenance recorder is particularly useful when the relationship between different signals matters as much as any one waveform.
| Your main requirement |
What to evaluate |
MR8848 selection question |
| Capture a brief electrical disturbance |
Bandwidth, sample rate and trigger |
Can the selected input module resolve the event? |
| Correlate analog and control signals |
Simultaneous analog/logic configuration |
Does the required combination fit within eight module slots? |
| Record a long operating sequence |
Record length and storage throughput |
Is internal memory sufficient, or is direct writing needed? |
| Observe temperature, strain or other sensors |
Sensor and input-module compatibility |
Are the correct conditioning and scaling included? |
| Perform a specialised compliance measurement |
Required method and instrument functions |
Does a dedicated analyser better meet the requirement? |
Understand the channel-count tradeoff
The MR8848 has eight module slots. HIOKI lists a configuration of 32 analog channels plus 16 built-in logic channels using eight U8975 or U8978 modules. A configuration with 64 logic channels uses additional logic modules and leaves fewer slots for analog inputs: one published example is 20 analog channels plus 64 logic channels.
Consequently, do not specify 32 analog channels and 64 logic channels as though both maxima are simultaneously available. Write down the actual signal list first, then assign each signal to an input module. Include spare capacity only after the essential measurement channels have been accommodated.
This exercise also reveals what the quotation needs to contain. An instrument main unit is not a complete measurement system. Module selection, voltage leads, current sensors, signal conditioning and storage all affect whether the recorder can do the planned job when it arrives.
Match sampling speed to the event and input module
HIOKI specifies a maximum sampling rate of 20 MS/s when using the Analog Unit 8966. This is a conditional specification, not a promise that every module can operate at that speed. Consult the selected module's bandwidth and sampling limits together; sample rate alone does not describe the complete measurement response.
A useful setup starts with a description of the fault: the shortest feature worth resolving, the expected signal amplitude and how much activity should appear before and after the trigger. For example, a UPS transfer investigation may need the control transition and the resulting output waveform in the same record. Capturing only the final alarm indication can leave the initiating event outside the recording window.
Test the trigger and record length during a known operating sequence before waiting for the intermittent problem. Label channels in terms the maintenance team uses, verify polarity and scaling, and retain those settings with the saved data. These preparation steps make the resulting waveform easier to interpret and share.
Plan recording duration before choosing storage
The MR8848 has 512 megawords of internal memory. Available record duration changes with channel configuration and sampling settings. More active channels or faster sampling consume recording capacity more quickly, so a maximum-memory headline cannot establish the duration of a particular test.
For longer recording, HIOKI offers the optional U8334 1 TB internal SSD and MR9001-01 Direct Write to Storage function. Direct-write performance must be checked against the manufacturer's recording tables for the intended destination and configuration. Do not assume that fitting a large SSD enables uninterrupted recording at the highest sampling rate.
Define the required event window, expected test duration and data-transfer workflow before ordering. Then verify the complete configuration with a trial capture. After the test, check that the saved file opens and contains the relevant channels and time interval before dismantling the setup.
Check isolation and the complete connection arrangement
Isolation is a reason to consider a Memory HiCorder, but the rating belongs to the particular measurement arrangement. Check the input module, lead, probe and measurement-category requirements, including voltage to earth and voltage between inputs. A recorder's general description cannot replace these limits.
HIOKI also states that the built-in logic input ground is common with the main-unit ground. Treat logic connections separately from isolated analog inputs when planning the wiring. Review the manufacturer's configuration restrictions whenever logic measurement or specialised modules are included.
For maintenance work, the practical aim is a documented connection plan that a qualified team can review before installation. It should identify each measurement point, the selected accessory and the applicable limits. This prevents a correct main-unit selection from being undermined by an unsuitable probe or connection.
Configuring an MR8848 in Canada
Send RCC Electronics your signal list, voltage and current ranges, required duration and intended working environment. We can help scope the MR8848 configuration and discuss the applicable service and calibration requirements. Confirm accessory and option availability for the proposed system.
FAQ: HIOKI MR8848 waveform recording
Can I use 32 analog channels and 64 logic channels together?
Not in the published configurations described here. HIOKI lists 32 analog plus 16 logic, or combinations with fewer analog channels when additional logic modules are installed.
Is 20 MS/s available with every input module?
No. HIOKI associates that maximum with the 8966 Analog Unit. Check the sampling and bandwidth limits of the modules specified for your application.
Are the SSD and direct-write function included as standard?
They are options. Confirm U8334 internal storage and MR9001-01 requirements, along with the achievable recording duration, when configuring the system.
Can the recorder measure current and physical sensors?
Yes, with the appropriate compatible measurement modules, sensors and accessories. List the signal types before selecting the hardware so that the required conditioning is included.
Does it replace every oscilloscope or power analyser?
No. It is useful for multichannel waveform correlation and recording. Choose a dedicated instrument when the task depends on capabilities, bandwidth or measurement methods outside the configured recorder's scope.
View the HIOKI MR8848 Discuss Your Recording Application
* Specifications and configuration examples are summarised from the HIOKI MR8848 product information and datasheet. Confirm current module, probe, grounding, storage and safety requirements against the manufacturer documentation before selection or use.
