Advantage Controls MICROtron MICRO-C User manual

1
Manual
MICROtron
MICRO-C
MICRO-F4
Installation
Maintenance
Repair
Manual
Advantage Controls
P.O. Box 1472
Muskogee, OK 74402
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
www.advantagecontrols.com
email: [email protected]
07/2017

2
Table of Contents
Contents Page
I. Introduction................................................................................. 3
Model Numbering ....................................................................... 3
II. Description.................................................................................. 3
MICRO-C & F4 Features............................................................ 3
III. Installation .................................................................................. 4
Electrical Wiring.......................................................................... 4
Logic and Relay Cards ............................................................... 4
Mounting Instructions ................................................................. 4
Electrode Installation .................................................................. 5
Cooling Tower Installation........................................................... 5
IV. Front Panel Description.............................................................. 6
V. System Operation Overview....................................................... 7
Description of SET UP Menu Screens ....................................... 7
MICRO-C Menu Map.................................................................. 8
MICRO-F4 Menu Map .............................................................. 10
Conductivity Sampling Methods ............................................... 12
A. Continuous
B. Timed Sampling
Calibration Overview ................................................................ 12
A. Continuous
B. Timed Sampling
VI. Maintenance............................................................................. 13
VII. Troubleshooting........................................................................ 13
VIII. Warranty & 30 Day Billing Memo Policy ................................... 14

3
I. Introduction
MICROtron microprocessor based controllers are designed to provide a wide range of control functions for
recirculating water treatment systems. The controller is programmed through a front panel keypad and can
be congured to provide a customized control system for your application. Your particular unit’s functions can
be determined by comparing the units model number to the Model Numbering table listed below.
Model Numbering
MICROtron units have two base models and a few optional features. Your unit may be supplied with one or
more of the features described in this manual. To determine what features apply to your unit check the model
number label located on the controller enclosure. Example: MICRO-C-E3
Base Control Function
Tower Conductivity Control & 3 Feed Timers
C- TE-4A Standard Tower probe
C0 - Tower Conductivity no probe
C1 - TE-4ASS Standard Tower probe with S. Steel Tips
C3 - AH-4ASS 212°F and 250 PSI max
C5 - DC-4ASS Tank mount with S. Steel Tips
F4 - 4 selectable feed timers only
Whole Unit Optional Features
A- 100-240 volt conduit connections
A3 - 100-240 volt conduit connections and CE approval
A7 - Australian power cord (240 VAC)
E - Standard oat style ow switch assembly (towers)
E3 - Paddle ow switch with PVC ow assembly
E4 - Paddle ow switch with PVC ow assembly
(unassembled with 10’ cord)
E5 - Paddle ow switch with brass assembly
E6 - Flow switch connection only with cable
E8 - Standard oat switch assembly (unassembled with
10’ cord)
E11 - Flow indicator (0-10) assembly w/ adjustable switch
II. Description
MICROtron units are designed to automate conductivity control, the addition of various chemicals, or the
activation of other devices via a relay output.
MICRO-C units include:
* One totalizing water meter input that can be congured for contacting head or hall e󰀨ect meter inputs.
* Four mechanical relay outputs with normally open and normally closed contacts.
* A “manual relay” timer that allows for manual activation of the relays for a user dened amount of time.
Conductivity Control (C) - Conductivity monitoring and control of Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) in a recirculating
water systems in terms of electrical conductivity measured in MicroSiemens/cm. The conductivity scale can
be selected from three ranges (low, mid and high) in the Congure menu (see page 8). Three selectable feed
timers are also included (see timer description below).
Feed Timer - Selectable timers can be individually programmed as one of the following types:
1. Pulse Timer – Accepts dry contact pulses from a water meter (supplied separately). It can accumulate
1-9999 pulses to activate the timer to run from 0-99 minutes, 59 seconds in minutes and seconds.
2. Recycle Timer – Provides a user dened “o󰀨” cycle in HH:MM and a user dened “on” cycle in
MM:SS that is repeated constantly.
3. 28-Day Timer - 28-day feed timers, typically used for biocide feed are based on a 28-day cycle with
two independent programmable feed cycles allowing for feed on selectable days and weeks.
4. *Post Bleed Timer - The relay is activated after a conductivity bleed cycle and runs for the set
percentage of that bleed cycle.
5. *With Bleed Timer - Activates the relay output simultaneously with the bleed and limits the amount
of time the relay output will be on during the bleed cycle.
6. Post Timer - The relay is activated after the RUN rime of another timer for the set percentage of the
selected timer.
*NOTE: MICRO-F4 timers only have post, pulse, recycle and 28-day timer types available.

4
III. Installation
Electrical Wiring
The controller has an internal regulated power supply that will operate in the range of approximately 100 to
240 VAC on the incoming wiring. Output relays are protected with a replaceable fuse. Relay output voltage
will equal the incoming line voltage.
Prewired units are supplied with a 16 AWG cable with a 3-wire grounded USA 120 volt plug for incoming
power and 18 AWG 3-wire grounded receptacle cords for all control relay outputs. Conduit units are
supplied with liquid tights and adaptors for easy hard wiring to supplied connector.
NOTE: Liquid tight ttings and some labeled signal leads are provided for signal (low voltage)
connections, such as water meter inputs.
WARNINGS
1. The controller should be connected to its own isolated circuit breaker, and for best
results, the ground should be a true earth ground, not shared. Wiring must be done
according to all applicable local codes.
2. Power (line voltage) must be disconnected while making any connections. If power is
supplied to the unit, line voltage will be present on the relay cards.
3. Low voltage signal wires (probes, ow switch, water meter, etc.) should never be run in
conduit with high voltage wires.
Logic and Relay Cards
Logic Board Relay / Power Board (Rev. D)
Ribbon Cable
2
1
10
9
POWER INPUT
POWER SUPPLY
Relay 1 Relay 2 Relay 3 Relay 4 Relay 5
5A (R1)
5A (R3)
5A (R2) 5A (R4)
5A (R5)
NEU GND
N.O. N.C.
NEU GND
N.O. N.C.
NEU GND
N.O. N.C.
NEU GND
N.O. N.C. NEU GND N.O. N.C.
H N G
Rev. D
Mounting Instructions
Select a mounting location that provides the operator easy access to the unit and a clear view of the
controls through the cover of the controller. The location should be convenient to grounded electrical
connections, the needed sample line plumbing and is on a stable vertical surface.
WARNING: Avoid locations that expose the controller to direct sunlight, vapors, vibration,
liquid spills or extreme temperatures; less than 0°F (-17.8°C) or greater than 120°F (50°C).
EMI (electromagnetic interference) from radio transmissions and electric motors can also
cause damage or interference and should be avoided.
!
!

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Electrode Installation
Controllers may come congured for various circulating water systems. Listed below are instructions for
cooling tower typical installations. Your specic installation requirements may di󰀨er but should conform to
these instructions as much as possible for proper operation.
Cooling Tower Installation
The standard probe(s) and/or ow assembly for cooling tower installations is constructed of schedule
80 PVC and supplied with 3/4” slip ttings for installing into a sample line. To insure proper operation
the sample line must have a ow rate of 3-10 gpm. Inlet pressure must be higher than outlet pressure in
order for water to ow past the electrode(s) to achieve the required rate. The probes are temperature
compensated for increased accuracy.
NOTES:
1. Install an isolation valve on either side of the ow assembly so electrodes can be easily
isolated for removal and cleaning.
2. A line strainer is recommended upstream from the probes to protect against fouling and
damage.
3. Systems with a ow switch require 2-3 gpm ow rate to operate outputs.
WARNINGS:
1. Electrodes are O-ring sealed, which if damaged will cause a leak.
2. Do not exceed a water temperature range of 32°F to 140°F.
3. Do not exceed a maximum pressure of 130 psi.
Typical Cooling Tower Installation Diagram
BLOWDOWN
COOLING TOWER
CIRCULATION PUMP CHILLER
MAKE-UP
WATER METER
BLEED VALVE
!

6
IV. Front Panel Description
MENU - System initializes into RUN mode. Press this switch to toggle the controller
from SET UP mode to RUN mode.
UP/DOWN - Used to change the display from one line to the next. Submenus will
return to the top menu loop when all options are displayed.
ENTER - Used to access menus and accept changed values.
CLEAR - Used to clear numerical values being changed in SET UP mode.
BACK - Used to move the cursor back when entering numerical values.
NUMBERS - Used to enter new values in MENU mode.

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V. System Operation Overview
MICROtron controllers have two modes of operation, RUN and SET UP. Both the RUN and SET UP menus
are circular. Pressing the DOWN key in either menu will display the next line of information on the display.
After the last item in a menu has been displayed, pressing the DOWN key will return the display to the top
line of that menu.
RUN MODE - This mode is for normal operation. The control relays will only be automatically activated
in this mode. In the RUN mode the display will read system values. If an alarm is present
the display ashes with the alarm status.
The RUN menu will display values such as conductivity, day, time, date and other values
depending upon the features present on the unit. The unit will automatically return to the
RUN mode if no keys are pressed for three minutes.
SET UP MODE - This mode is used to make adjustments to settings and readings on the controller. To
access the SET UP mode from the RUN screen, press the MENU key. Use the up or
down arrow to scroll through the various SET UP menus. When you want to enter a
specic SET UP menu, press the ENTER key. Once you have entered a SET UP sub
menu you will be able to step through that menu’s options with the down arrow key.
Relays may be forced on while in the SET UP mode. Press the desired relay test key to
force it on. Press it a second time to turn it o󰀨. The relay will activate upon exiting the
Manual Relay submenu.
Description of SET UP Menu Screens
The SET UP menu is the main menu circle of set up sub-menus used to customize your unit to the particular
parameters needed for your installation. Listed on the following pages is a description and menu map of each
SET UP menu.
NOTES:
1. Your unit may not have all of the SET UP menus listed depending upon your model number.
2. After you press ENTER or CLEAR to change a numerical value in the SET UP menu, use the
number keys to dene the new value. Press ENTER again to enter the new value.
3. When entering new numeric values, all available digits (characters) must be entered. The number
of available digits depends upon the scale of operation. Position of cursor indicates number of
digits to be entered.

8
Calibration Bleed Set Timer1: (type) Water Meter Clock Set Diagnostics
Cal Temp 077°F Continuous Setpoint 01500
Pulse Run After 0010
Password 0000 Reset Meter? N Set Time MICRO-C
Cal 02500µS Diff 0100
Run Time mm:ss
Flow Sw: Close Meter Units Set Date FW: ?.?.?
Direction: Rise
Post Bleed 010% of Bld
Meter Value Set Day & Week Test Keypad
High Alarm 2500
Limit Time hh:mm
Meter Debounce Test Display
Low Alarm 00600
With Bleed Limit Time hh:mm
Reset Cal? N
Limit hh:mm
Disabled
Checked Cal? N
Cond Scale Low (5-1000)
Recycle Off Time hh:mm
MID (100-5000)
Run Time mm:ss
HIGH (1K-20K)
28-Day (Bio) A: All Days
Cond Units µS/cm
A: All Weeks
Post Timer Post Timer: ?
% of RUN: 000
ppm/TDS
A: Start 12:00a
Zero Cond? N
A: Run Time hh:mm
Feed OK W/Bld No Feed W/Bld
A: Prbld hh:mm
Timed Mode Interval hh:mm A: Lkout hh:mm
No Feed No Flow Feed OK NoFlow
Duration mm:ss B: All Days
Setpoint 01500 B: All Weeks
Diff 0100 B: Start 12:00a
Direction: Rise
B: Run Time hh:mm
High Alm 02500 B: Prbld hh:mm
Low Alm 00600 B: Lkout hh:mm
Raw A/D: ????
Cal Factor 0100
Zero Adj: 0000
Increase value to
prevent false
contacts from water
meter. Set debounce
to 0 for paddle wheel
meters. Reduce
value if contacts are
missed.
Default approx 500
0-32,767 scale
Manual Relay
Force Relay: X
Force: ON/OFF
Timer mm:ss
Units: Imperial
Alarm List
Scroll down to see
all active alarms
Repeat for
other timers

9
Calibration Bleed Set Timer1: (type) Water Meter Clock Set Diagnostics
Cal Temp 077°F Continuous Setpoint 01500
Pulse Run After 0010
Password 0000 Reset Meter? N Set Time MICRO-C
Cal 02500µS Diff 0100
Run Time mm:ss
Flow Sw: Close Meter Units Set Date FW: ?.?.?
Direction: Rise
Post Bleed 010% of Bld
Meter Value Set Day & Week Test Keypad
High Alarm 2500
Limit Time hh:mm
Meter Debounce Test Display
Low Alarm 00600
With Bleed
Limit Time hh:mm
Reset Cal? N
Limit hh:mm
Disabled
Checked Cal? N
Cond Scale Low (5-1000)
Recycle Off Time hh:mm
MID (100-5000)
Run Time mm:ss
HIGH (1K-20K)
28-Day (Bio) A: All Days
Cond Units µS/cm
A: All Weeks
Post Timer Post Timer: ?
% of RUN: 000
ppm/TDS
A: Start 12:00a
Zero Cond? N
A: Run Time hh:mm
Feed OK W/Bld No Feed W/Bld
A: Prbld hh:mm
Timed Mode Interval hh:mm A: Lkout hh:mm
No Feed No Flow Feed OK NoFlow
Duration mm:ss B: All Days
Setpoint 01500 B: All Weeks
Diff 0100 B: Start 12:00a
Direction: Rise
B: Run Time hh:mm
High Alm 02500 B: Prbld hh:mm
Low Alm 00600 B: Lkout hh:mm
Raw A/D: ????
Cal Factor 0100
Zero Adj: 0000
Increase value to
prevent false
contacts from water
meter. Set debounce
to 0 for paddle wheel
meters. Reduce
value if contacts are
missed.
Default approx 500
0-32,767 scale
Manual Relay
Force Relay: X
Force: ON/OFF
Timer mm:ss
Units: Imperial
Alarm List
Scroll down to see
all active alarms
Repeat for
other timers
MICRO-C Menu Map
MICRO-C units have a main menu circle that includes:
Calibration - Calibrating the conductivity reading
Bleed Set - Setting the conductivity bleed set point, sample
method and alarms
Alarm List - Displays all active alarms
Timer Set - Select the timer type and run values
Congure - Password, ow switch direction, units of
measure and more
Water Meter - Reset totalizer and setting contact value
Clock Set - Set time, date and week
Manual Relay - Set the force on time for manual relay
activations
Diagnostics - Tests and calibration reset

10
Timer1: (type) Water Meter Clock Set Diagnostics
Pulse Run After 0010
Password 0000 Reset Meter? N Set Time MICRO-C
Run Time mm:ss
Flow Sw: Close Meter Units Set Date FW: ?.?.?
Meter Value Set Day & Week Test Keypad
Meter Debounce Test Display
Disabled
Recycle Off Time hh:mm
Run Time mm:ss
28-Day (Bio) A: All Days
A: All Weeks
A: Start 12:00a
A: Run Time hh:mm
Feed OK W/Bld No Feed W/Bld
A: Prbld hh:mm
A: Lkout hh:mm
No Feed No Flow Feed OK NoFlow
B: All Days
B: All Weeks
B: Start 12:00a
B: Run Time hh:mm
B: Prbld hh:mm
B: Lkout hh:mm
Increase value to
prevent false
contacts from water
meter. Set debounce
to 0 for paddle wheel
meters. Reduce
value if contacts are
missed.
Manual Relay
Force Relay: X
Force: ON/OFF
Timer mm:ss
Units: Imperial
Alarm List
Scroll down to see
all active alarms
Repeat for
other timers
Post Timer Post Timer: ?
% of RUN: 000

11
Timer1: (type) Water Meter Clock Set Diagnostics
Pulse Run After 0010
Password 0000 Reset Meter? N Set Time MICRO-C
Run Time mm:ss
Flow Sw: Close Meter Units Set Date FW: ?.?.?
Meter Value Set Day & Week Test Keypad
Meter Debounce Test Display
Disabled
Recycle Off Time hh:mm
Run Time mm:ss
28-Day (Bio) A: All Days
A: All Weeks
A: Start 12:00a
A: Run Time hh:mm
Feed OK W/Bld No Feed W/Bld
A: Prbld hh:mm
A: Lkout hh:mm
No Feed No Flow Feed OK NoFlow
B: All Days
B: All Weeks
B: Start 12:00a
B: Run Time hh:mm
B: Prbld hh:mm
B: Lkout hh:mm
Increase value to
prevent false
contacts from water
meter. Set debounce
to 0 for paddle wheel
meters. Reduce
value if contacts are
missed.
Manual Relay
Force Relay: X
Force: ON/OFF
Timer mm:ss
Units: Imperial
Alarm List
Scroll down to see
all active alarms
Repeat for
other timers
Post Timer Post Timer: ?
% of RUN: 000
MICRO-F4 Menu Map
MICRO-F4 units have a main menu circle that includes:
Alarm List - Displays all active alarms
Timer Set - Select the timer type and run values
Congure - Password, ow switch direction, units of
measure and more
Water Meter - Reset totalizer and setting contact value
Clock Set - Set time, date and week
Manual Relay - Set the force on time for manual relay
activations
Diagnostics - Tests and calibration reset

12
Conductivity Sampling Methods
A. Continuous - Typical for most tower applications. The controller is constantly reading the sensor
and activating the bleed relay based on readings relationship to the set point, set point direction
and di󰀨erential. Example: A rising set point of 1500 and di󰀨erential of 50 the bleed relay would
activate when the conductivity rises above 1500 and stays on until the reading drops to 1450.
B. Timed Sampling - A sample timer allows the conductivity to be sampled at periodic intervals.
Sample intervals are adjustable from 1 minute to 99 hours, 59 min. Sample duration (on-time) is
adjustable from 1 second to 99 minutes, 59 seconds. If the reading is below the set point by the
di󰀨erential amount the bleed relay will be turned o󰀨 at the end of the sample duration and the
sample interval countdown started. If the reading is above the set point at the end of the sample
method the bleed relay stays on until the reading drops by the di󰀨erential amount.
Calibration Overview
The MICRO-C controllers update the conductivity reading every two seconds with a running average. If a probe
is quickly exposed from one extreme reading to another, allow up to 30 seconds for the averaging to cycle
and the current reading to stabilize. MICROtron controller’s conductivity scale should be selected so that the
conductivity setpoint is as close as possible to the middle of the scale. (See page 9 menu for setting scale).
Note: If a controller is using Timed Sampling method of control the conductivity reading shown in the
RUN mode may not be a current reading. The controller will hold and display the conductivity value
seen at the end of the last sample or hold duration. To see a current reading force on the bleed relay
with either the Force button or via the Calibration menu.
A. Continuous - Calibrating continuous sampling units can be done at any time with the probe in a
steady stream of water with no air or steam present.
B. Timed Sampling - While in the calibration menu there is a selection to force on the bleed relay.
It will force it into the sample period. After 1-2 minutes verify that the reading is stable then enter
the desired calibration value.
Notes:
1. If you change the conductivity scale in the Congure menu you MUST then go to Diagnostics
and Reset the Cal then go to the Calibration menu and calibrate accordingly.

13
VI. Maintenance
The only required maintenance for normal uninterrupted operation of your controller is cleaning of the
electrode(s). After initial start up, it is a good idea to clean the electrode frequently until a schedule based on
need has been developed. Since each application is unique, it is di󰀩cult to estimate the required frequency
of cleaning. The rst cleaning should take place after about one week of the system being on line.
To determine the required cleaning frequency, record the reading on the controller before the electrode is
removed for cleaning. After cleaning, record the new reading. If a change is observed in the two readings,
the electrode was dirty. The more signicant the change, the dirtier the electrode. If no change occurs,
cleaning needs to be done less often.
Conductivity Electrode Cleaning Procedure
1. Record the current conductivity reading.
2. Turn o󰀨 water ow through the electrode loop, bleed pressure from the line and remove
electrode.
3. Use a clean cloth and a mild cleaning solution to remove loose dirt etc., from the at
surface of the electrode.
4. If the electrode has deposits such as scale attached to the electrode surface a more
aggressive cleaning approach will be needed. There are several ways to do this, the
preferred method being the one that is easiest for the user.
A. Use a mild acid solution to dissolve deposits.
B. Lay a piece of sandpaper (200 grit or ner) on a at surface such as a bench
top. “Sand” electrode to remove stubborn deposits. (Do not wipe surface with
your nger.) Oil from your skin will foul carbon tips.
5. Reinstall the electrode in the system. After the reading stabilizes, calibrate the unit to a
reliable test reading.
Many times an electrode can appear to be clean, but the unit still cannot be calibrated. If this is the case, use
one of the more aggressive electrode cleaning procedures listed in step 4 above. Recheck the calibration
after completion of this procedure. If no change was observed in the reading, replace the electrode. If a
change occurred but the unit still will not calibrate, repeat procedure as many times as necessary.
VII. Troubleshooting
The Advantage MICROtron controller is designed for many years of trouble free operation. Should a problem
occur, refer to the following chart to help identify the problem. If replacement is required, follow the procedures
listed in the Warranty and Factory Service portion of this manual.
SYMPTOM POSSIBLE CAUSE SOLUTION
False reading.................................... Bad or dirty electrode Clean, as needed
Out of calibration Calibrate unit
Will not calibrate ............................... Dirty electrode Clean electrode
Faulty electrode Replace electrode if needed
Faulty wiring to electrode Replace wiring if needed
No system power.............................. Check power source Plug into di󰀨erent receptacle
Check fuse Replace as needed
Check connections Make sure ribbon cables are secure
Pulse timer not activating ................. Check wiring Repair as needed
Check external device Repair/replace as needed
Outputs not energized ...................... No ow Check sample line for
clogged pipes or strainers
Check fuse Replace as needed

14
VIII. Manufacturer’s Product Warranty
Advantage Controls warrants units of its manufacture to be free of defects in material or workmanship. Liability
under this policy extends for 24 months from date of installation. Liability is limited to repair or replacement of
any failed equipment or part proven defective in material or workmanship upon manufacturer’s examination.
Removal and installation costs are not included under this warranty. Manufacturer’s liability shall never
exceed the selling price of equipment or part in question.
Advantage disclaims all liability for damage caused by its products by improper installation, maintenance,
use or attempts to operate products beyond their intended functionality, intentionally or otherwise, or any
unauthorized repair. Advantage is not responsible for damages, injuries or expense incurred through the
use of its products.
The above warranty is in lieu of other warranties, either expressed or implied. No agent of ours is authorized
to provide any warranty other than the above.
30 Day Billing Memo Policy
Advantage Controls maintains a unique factory exchange program to ensure uninterrupted service with
minimum downtime. If your unit malfunctions, call 1-800-743-7431, and provide our technician with Model
and Serial Number information. If we are unable to diagnose and solve your problem over the phone, a fully
warranted replacement unit will be shipped, usually within 48 hours, on a 30 Day Billing Memo.
This service requires a purchase order and the replacement unit is billed to your regular account for payment.
The replacement unit will be billed at current list price for that model less any applicable resale discount.
Upon return of your old unit, credit will be issued to your account if the unit is in warranty. If the unit is out of
warranty or the damage not covered, a partial credit will be applied based upon a prorated replacement price
schedule dependent on the age of the unit. Any exchange covers only the controller or pump. Electrodes,
liquid end components and other external accessories are not included.
FCC Warning
This equipment generates and uses radio frequency energy and if not installed and used properly, that is, in
strict accordance with the manufacturer’s instruction, may cause interference to radio communications. It has
been type tested and found to comply with the limits for a class A computing device pursuant to subpart J of
part 15 of FCC Rules, which are designed to provide reasonable protection against such interference when
operated in a commercial or industrial environment. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely
to cause interference in which case the user, at his own expense, will be required to take whatever measures
necessary to correct the interference.

15

16
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