Document Subject: Operating manual Instruction and Operation Manual NESLAB DCR-1 Digital Controller / Readout (unnumbered manual) Rev. 12 August 1997 This manual applies to the DCR-1. It does not apply to the DCR-4. Section 1. General Information 1.1 Unpacking [this section omitted as this model is no longer manufactured] 1.2 Warranty [this section omitted as this model is no longer manufactured] 1.3 Description The NESLAB DCR-1 digital controller/readout is designed to operate as an independent controller with any NESLAB bath circulator. It has a digital readout and pre-empts (overrides) the standard temperature setting dial. The DCR-1 is also designed for use with the ETP-3 and ETP-4RC electronic temperature programmers. The DCR-1 uses a platinum Resistance Temperature Detector (RTD) sensor that will maintain uniformity at any point within the NESLAB bath workspace and not at the heater. The temperature sensor can also be located remotely, provided adequate flow is maintained. This controller has an important integral reset feature that ensures temperature stability under load and voltage changes. In addition, excellent long term bath constancy can be expected. 1.4 Specifications Control range: -100C to +150C Resolution: setting: 0.1C reading: 0.1C Digital readout: 0.5 inch (12.7 mm) Light-Emitting Diode (LED) Recorder output: 10 mv / degree C Programmer compatibility: yes, with ETP-3 or ETP-4RC Operating voltage: 115v 60 Hz and 230v 50Hz or 230v 50 Hz Size: 8" (20 cm) x 10" (25 cm) x 5" (12.7 cm) high Weight: 6 lbs (2.7 kg) Section 2. Installation 2.1 The DCR-1 is a sensitive electronic instrument that should be operated in an atmosphere that avoids temperature and humidity extremes. 2.2 Plug the 8-pin connector (from the DCR-1) into the Programmer/Accessory receptacle in the rear of the NESLAB bath control box. Turn the adjacent switch "on". 2.3 Plug the RTD into the 6-pin receptacle in the rear of the DCR-1. 2.4 RTD position: Because of the RTD's rapid response, the RTD can be placed anywhere in the bath and maintain stability. The RTD can be located in a remote insulated bath and also maintain stability - however, adequate flow must be maintained. Section 3. Operation as Controller/Readout 3.1 Connect the DCR-1 to the bath as described in 2.2. 3.2 Place the RTD in the NESLAB bath or remote insulated bath. 3.3 Place SETPOINT-READOUT-PROGRAMMER switch in SETPOINT position. Hold down while setting desired temperature using the coarse and fine adjustment knobs. Release switch when temperature is set. 3.4 Turn NESLAB bath on and set temperature dial 5 to 10C above the working temperature set on the DCR-1. Although the bath temperature control is disabled, it will take over and control the bath if the DCR-1 fails. 3.5 Once the bath temperature is stabilized (heat lamp goes on and off evenly), the actual temperature can be checked against the setpoint by turning the SETPOINT-READOUT-PROGRAMMER switch between the SETPOINT and READOUT positions. 3.6 A recorder may be hooked up to the red and black jacks on the rear of the DCR-1. The temperature signal is output at 10mv = 1 degree C . For example, 17 C will output as 170 mv (0.170 V) DC. Section 4. Operation as Controller/Readout with the ETP-3 (or ETP-4RC) programmer 4.1 Connect the DCR-1 to the bath as described in 2.2. 4.2 Plug the 8-pin connector (from the ETP-3 or ETP-4RC) into the Programmer receptacle in the rear of the DCR-1. Turn the adjacent switch "on". 4.3 Using the DCR-1, set the program by placing the SETPOINT-READOUT-PROGRAMMER switch in the PROGRAMMER position. Hold the switch in this position and simultaneously turn the TEMPERATURE SPAN dial on the programmer to the desired program temperature degrees. The span is read on the DCR-1 display and can be fine tuned to 0.1C. (Follow instructions in the ETP-3 / ETP-4RC manual for running programs). 4.4 A recorder may be hooked up to the red and black jacks on the rear of the DCR-1. The temperature signal is output at 10mv = 1 degree C . For example, 17 C will output as 170 mv (0.170 V) DC. Section 5. Calibration 5.1 Although the DCR-1 is calibrated at the factory, it will be necessary to recalibrate if a different RTD is substituted for the one supplied with the unit. 5.2 Remove the cover and locate the five trimpots on the left side of the unit. Disregard the three that are sealed with red paint. 5.3 Observe that of the two remaining trimpots, one is marked "0" and one is marked "HIGH". 5.4 Place the RTD and a reference thermometer in a bath maintained at or near 0C. Allow time for temperature to stabilize. Adjust the "0" trimpot until the DCR-1 display agrees with the reference thermometer. 5.5 Place the RTD and a reference thermometer in a bath maintained at or near whatever temperature is normally used. Suggested points are 50C, 100C, or 150C. Allow time for temperature to stabilize. Adjust the "HIGH" trimpot until the DCR-1 display agrees with the reference thermometer. Section 6. Maintenance 6.1 The only maintenance required is periodic cleaning to remove dust or dirt from the outside of the case. Section 7. Troubleshooting 7.1 LED display does not light > Check PROGRAMMER/ACCESSORY switch in rear of NESLAB bath is turned on. > Check that NESLAB bath is powered. 7.2 NESLAB bath will not heat or cool. > Set bath control at a temperature higher than the working temperature. 7.3 Temperature readout appears incorrect. > Check calibration. Note: If, after following these troubleshooting steps, your unit fails to operate properly, contact the NESLAB service department. Section 8. Service 8.1 It is important that only a qualified electronic technician attempt to repair or calibrate this instrument. This information should be studied before any repair or calibration is attempted. 8.2 WARNING: There are 120v and/or 230v line potentials accessible at various locations inside the DCR-1. Use an appropriate transformer to isolate the line voltage before connecting any instruments for service or calibration. Section 9. Address NESLAB Instruments, Inc. PO Box 1178 Portsmouth NH 03802-1178 (800) 4NESLAB (603) 436-9444 fax (603) 436-8411 web: www.neslabinc.com Rev. 12 Aug 1997 end of document