ASL INTERCOM F100 User manual

Page 1-1 F100-14-001.2
 ASL 2005
F100 Precision Handheld Thermometer
User Manual
Isotech North America
158 Brentwood Drive, Unit 4
Colchester, VT 05446
Phone: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.isotechna.com

Setting up the F100
Page 1-2 F200-14-001.2
 ASL 2005
Revision history: Original version 9
th
September 2005
Previous releases: Issue 1. August 2005
Issue and date Description of change
Issue 2 - 10/12/05 Manual updated to reflect changes to the structure of the menu system
and different screen layouts. Battery pack insertion and removal
information added.

Setting up the F100
F100-14-001.2 Page 1-3
 ASL 2005
1. Table of Contents
1. TABLE OF CONTENTS ...........................................................................................................................1-3
CONVENTIONS USED IN THIS MANUAL.......................................................................................................1-5
Structure of manual ...........................................................................................................................................1-5
Terminology.......................................................................................................................................................1-5
Warnings and Notices .......................................................................................................................................1-5
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION............................................................................................................1-6
IMPORTANT BATTERY CHARGER SAFETY INFORMATION ......................................................................1-8
IMPORTANT PROBE SAFETY INFORMATION..............................................................................................1-9
1.0 INTRODUCTION .......................................................................................................................................1-11
1.1 Overview.............................................................................................................................................1-11
1.2 Definitions and Terminology ...............................................................................................................1-11
1.3 Principles of measurement.................................................................................................................1-12
2. SETTING UP THE F100.........................................................................................................................2-13
2.1 Safety information...............................................................................................................................2-13
2.2 Unpacking the instrument...................................................................................................................2-13
3. ABOUT THE F100....................................................................................................................................3-1
3.1 The Front Panel....................................................................................................................................3-1
3.2 About the display screen ......................................................................................................................3-1
3.3 The Keypad ..........................................................................................................................................3-1
3.3.1 Keypad overview ..............................................................................................................................3-2
3.4 F100 thermometer inputs .....................................................................................................................3-3
3.5 Battery Pack .........................................................................................................................................3-5
3.5.1 Removing and replacing the battery pack........................................................................................3-5
3.5.2 Battery charger.................................................................................................................................3-5
3.5.3 Name plate(s)...................................................................................................................................3-7
3.5.4 USB Communication interface connector ........................................................................................3-7
4. OPERATING THE F100 ...........................................................................................................................4-1
4.1 Instrument operating modes.................................................................................................................4-1
4.1.1 Measurement Mode .........................................................................................................................4-1
4.1.2 Menu Mode (
 key)..........................................................................................................................4-2
4.1.3 Other menu options..........................................................................................................................4-5
4.1.4 Setting up Temperature measurement...........................................................................................4-19
4.1.5 Smart Probe review........................................................................................................................4-19
5. INSTRUMENT MEASUREMENT RANGE ...............................................................................................5-1
5.1 Instrument measurement working range..............................................................................................5-1
5.2 Measurement Ranges ..........................................................................................................................5-1

Setting up the F100
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 ASL 2005
6. SMART PROBES..................................................................................................................................... 6-1
6.1 About Smart Probes ............................................................................................................................. 6-1
6.2 How Smart Probes Work ..................................................................................................................... 6-1
6.3 Smart Probe Data Security................................................................................................................... 6-1
6.4 Smart Probe Calibration Supervisor..................................................................................................... 6-1
6.5 Smart Probe Working Range Monitor .................................................................................................. 6-1
7. CALIBRATING THE F100........................................................................................................................ 7-1
7.1 F100 Instrument calibration.................................................................................................................. 7-1
7.2 Equipment ............................................................................................................................................ 7-1
7.3 Calibration procedure ........................................................................................................................... 7-1
8. COMMUNICATIONS INTERFACE .......................................................................................................... 8-1
8.1 Introduction........................................................................................................................................... 8-1
8.2 Overview of the USB Interface ............................................................................................................. 8-1
8.2.1 Talk only mode................................................................................................................................. 8-1
8.2.2 ULOG interface ................................................................................................................................ 8-1
9. OPTIONS AND ACCESSORIES.............................................................................................................. 9-3
9.1 Accessories .......................................................................................................................................... 9-3
10. SPECIFICATION................................................................................................................................ 10-1
10.1 Resistance thermometer measurement............................................................................................. 10-1
10.2 Display................................................................................................................................................ 10-1
10.3 Supply................................................................................................................................................. 10-1
10.4 Environmental .................................................................................................................................... 10-2
10.5 Dimensions and weight ...................................................................................................................... 10-2
11. CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE .................................................................................................... 11-1
11.1 Cleaning .................................................................................................................................................. 11-1
12. SERVICE AND WARRANTY ............................................................................................................. 12-1
12.1 Technical Support .............................................................................................................................. 12-1

Setting up the F100
F100-14-001.2 Page 1-5
 ASL 2005
Conventions used in this manual
Structure of manual
The manual is divided into sections. Each section deals with a specific topic or related topics.
Sections are displayed in a regular, bold typeface, for example - 1.0 Introduction. Sections are
sub-divided into sub-headings, for example - 1.1 Features. These may also be subdivided in turn.
Terminology
The terms Precision thermometer, thermometer, F100 and instrument are used interchangeably in
this manual.
Warnings and Notices
These appear in the body of the text, clearly displayed with a box surrounding the text. The first
word within the box displays the type - Warning or Note.
AWarning (double box) is designed to draw attention to an aspect that may cause danger to the
user or damage to the instrument. A Note (single box) is used to bring special attention to
something important requiring action or avoidance.
Copyright © 2005-2006 ASL. All rights reserved.
Information in this document is subject to change without notice.
Reproduction or modification of the whole or any part of this document (in any form) without Sheens’ written permission is
forbidden (except for internal use by an authorised dealer or agent). Customers may make copies for internal use only.
Whilst efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy of information presented here, Sheen can assume no responsibility
for the accuracy of any information presented or the consequences of acting on this information. Sheen also disclaims any
representation that the contents are current. However, Sheen would be grateful for any comments on the layout, accuracy
or contents of this manual.
Sheen shall not be liable for problems or damages arising from the use (or misuse) of items, servicing, equipment, procedures or
options supplied by other companies.
ASL. 275 King Henry’s Drive, New Addington, Croydon, Surrey, CR0 0AE, U.K. Tel (+44) (0) 1689 800799. Fax (+44)
(0)1689 800405. email [email protected]

Setting up the F100
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 ASL 2005
Important safety information
Read and understand the user instruction manual before attempting to use the instrument.
The F100 is a handheld, battery operated, thermometer. It must not be used for any other purpose.
Warning
The protection provided by the instrument may be impaired if the
equipment is not used in the manner specified.
Only replace items or components with an approved or equivalent spare
part. All spare and consumable parts are available from ASL.
Warning
The instrument is NOT designed to be used in an explosive
atmosphere.
Warning
The instrument is NOT designed to be used in medical environment
8Do NOT use the instrument near water or in damp conditions
8Do NOT clean the instrument with solvents
8Do NOT insert objects into openings
8Do NOT place the instrument, battery-pack or charger onto a hot or cold surface
8Do NOT place any weight on top of the instrument, battery-pack or charger

9Do ensure air can freely circulate around the battery compartment and power-supply during
charging
9Do use the correct USB lead supplied
Warning
Do NOT open the case. There are no user serviceable parts inside.

Setting up the F100
F100-14-001.2 Page 1-7
 ASL 2005
Warning
Inspect cables and probes regularly, ensuring that their insulation is not
damaged
Warning
The instrument and batteries must be disposed of in accordance with
local regulations.
Please refer to ASL if the instrument is to be disposed of within the
European Union.
General warning symbol. This indicates that a
hazardous condition or general danger may exist. You
must read the relevant sections in the User Manual
Handbook before operating the instrument.

Setting up the F100
Page 1-8 F200-14-001.2
 ASL 2005
Important battery charger safety information
The battery charger and battery pack are supplied for use with the F100.
Warning
Only use the battery charger supplied. Use of any other
charger will invalidate the warranty and may lead to the
danger of overheating and to permanent instrument
damage.
The battery charger supplied must NOT be used with other
equipment.
Warning
Do NOT cover the battery charger, battery pack or
instrument during charging.
Ensure air is free to circulate around these items during
charging.
Warning
Do NOT short the contacts on the battery compartment with
any metallic object.

Setting up the F100
F100-14-001.2 Page 1-9
 ASL 2005
Important Probe safety information
Care must be taken with probes used with the instrument. The following safety information must be
observed.
8Do NOT lift the F100 by any of the leads
9 Do ensure that long probe-leads are kept away from areas where people could trip over them
or become tangled in them
9 Do ensure the probe-leads are kept in good condition
Warning
Because of the nature of the instrument, probes can be
excessively HOT or COLD during use. Take suitable
precautionary measures when handling probes.
Take care that you (and other people working in the same
area) do not come into contact with the metallic probe or
the insulating sheath near the probe, which will also be
hot/cold.
Precautions apply both during use or when moving the
probe from one position to another.
Warning
Probes may be immersed in various chemicals during use.
Some of these chemicals may be dangerous or harmful
(even when the probe is cold).
Always assume that the probe has been used this way and
DO NOT touch the probe without suitable protective
clothing.

Setting up the F100
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Setting up the F100
F100-14-001.2 Page 1-11
 ASL 2005
1.0 Introduction
1.1 Overview
The F100 Precision Handheld Thermometer is a highly accurate instrument designed for laboratory,
commercial and industrial temperature measurement and calibration applications.
Features include:
•Two input channels
•A large graphic LCD display for excellent viewing of temperature measurement values and
instrument settings
•USB communication interface as standard for automated monitoring and calibration
applications
•Calibration against traceable external standards
The F100 will operate with all 4-wire Pt100 (100 ohm) Platinum Resistance Thermometers (PRTs) and
with virtually all NTC thermistors.
Temperature measurement units are user-selectable and can display °C, °F, K and Ω. Overall system
accuracy will depend on the sensor quality and calibration - see the specification section.
1.2 Definitions and Terminology
i. 0°C = 273.15 K
ii. 1 mK (milli-Kelvin) = 0.001°C (one milli-degree Celsius)
iii. 1 milli-degree C = 0.001 °C = 1m°C = 1mK = 1.8m°F
iv. 1 milli-degree F = 0.001°F = 1m°F = 0.56mK = 0.56m°C
v. Alpha, or α, is the temperature coefficient, or temperature sensitivity, of the platinum wire used
in PRTs. In general, the greater the alpha value, the better the PRT thermometer
measurement reproducibility, stability and performance
vi. Abbreviations for platinum resistance thermometers include -
PRT (Platinum Resistance Thermometer)
Pt100 (PRT with nominally 100Ωresistance at 0°C)
RTD (Resistance Temperature Device)
vii. NTC is an abbreviation for Negative Temperature Coefficient thermistors
viii. System accuracy refers to the overall, combined accuracy of the F100 and thermometer.

Setting up the F100
Page 1-12 F200-14-001.2
 ASL 2005
1.3 Principles of measurement
The F100 measures the voltage (V
t
) developed across the unknown sensor resistance (R
t
) and the
voltage (V
s
) across a stable internal reference resistance (R
s
). The voltages are proportional to the
resistances so the thermometer resistance is derived from –
s
t
st V
V
RR ×=
This technique achieves immunity from slow moving time and temperature drifts in the electronics, as
it is not affected by voltage measurement gain variations or current source fluctuations.
In the same way that AC resistance measurement eliminates thermal EMFs, switched DC achieves a
similar advantage. Switched DC works by reversing the current flow on alternate measurement cycles
and taking the average value, thereby minimising any thermal EMF offsets from the measurement.
For PRTs, the relationship between resistance and temperature varies slightly from one PRT to
another. Therefore, no matter how accurately the F100 measures the PRT resistance, if the
relationship between resistance and temperature for a particular PRT is not known, accurate
temperature measurement is not possible. For thermistors, the relationship depends totally on the
thermistor type and specifications.
The F100 uses PRT and thermistor calibration data to overcome this problem and calculates the result
from temperature conversion functions stored in either the sensors ‘SMART’ connector or the F100’s
internal non-volatile memory. This method enables the F100 to convert resistance to temperature,
uniquely for each sensor used.
It is very important, therefore, that a sensor without a ‘SMART’ connector is used on a properly
configured input channel and that the probes’ coefficients are correctly entered into the instrument.
Note
For non-Smart probes, always check that the coefficients are
correct set for the probe being used.
Failure to do so, may lead to incorrect measurements.
System accuracy is a combination of the F100 accuracy in measuring sensor resistance and the
calibration uncertainty placed on PRTs and thermistors by the calibrating laboratory.

Setting up the F100
F100-14-001.2 Page 2-13
 ASL 2005
2. Setting up the F100
2.1 Safety information
•Please read the safety information section before attempting to operate the F100 located on
page 1.6 onwards.
2.2 Unpacking the instrument
When you unpack the F100 thermometer, check that the following items are present before using the
instrument
1
-
•F100 precision thermometer
•Battery charger
•Operator’s handbook on CD
•Calibration certificate
•USB lead
•Thermometer probes (if ordered) will be packed separately
Please contact the ASL Technical Services Group immediately if any of these items are missing or
damaged.
Please retain the packaging. In case of return, servicing or calibration, use the original packaging.
Failure to do so may invalidate the warranty and/or incur additional costs outside the warranty period.
Please contact your agent when the original packaging is unavailable.
1
Thermometer probes (if ordered), will be supplied separately

Setting up the F100
Page 2-14 F200-14-001.2
 ASL 2005
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Page 3-1 F100-14-001.2
 ASL 2005
3. About the F100
This section will introduce you to the features and functions of the F100 Precision Thermometer. Each of the
features is explained in turn. Once the F100 has been set-up to your particular requirements, all the commonly
used functions are available using single key-strokes.
3.1 The Front Panel
Figure 3.1- Front panel
3.2 About the display screen
The large graphic LCD screen is your direct link to the instrument, presenting you with the
measurement results and information or menus to set and control the instrument.
The LCD screen is designed for reflective-viewing under normal ambient lighting; a backlight is
provided for use when ambient conditions are darker.
3.3 The Keypad
The F100 keypad is shown below. The keys are used to select the various menu options. Generally,
no more than two menu levels are used. A few (infrequently used options) require three menu levels.
Operation is simple once you are familiar with instrument.
It may help to have the instrument to hand when reading through these sections.
Refer to section 4 for a detailed description of how to use the keys to operate the instrument
USB
connector
Keypad
LCD display Inputs at rear

Setting up the F100
Page 3-2 F100-14-001.2
 ASL 2005
Figure 3.3 – F100 Keypad
3.3.1 Keypad overview
The red Power (5
55
5) key turns power on and off
2
to the F100.
The F100 uses a menu system. The Menu (

) key is located at the top right of keypad. Use the
Menu key to access to the less frequently used F100 functions. The four Arrow (S
SS
S T
TT
T W
WW
W X
XX
X) keys
are used to navigate through the menus; the Enter (

) and Clear (Æ
ÆÆ
Æ) keys are used to act on the
menu selections
3
.
The Backlight (Ö
ÖÖ
Ö) key located at the top left of the keypad provides LCD illumination when the
ambient light-level is too low for normal viewing.
The A/B key is used to select one of the two channels (A or B) or the difference (A – B)
The Zero (0) key is used to provide relative (offset) readings.
The Hold (

) key is used to freeze the current reading.
2
The F100 may also be set to power-off after a preset period.
3
The Clear (Æ
ÆÆ
Æ) key is also used to view F100 statistics; press once to select the statistics page. Press any key to
return.
Α
ΑΑ
ΑΣ
ΣΣ
ΣΛ
ΛΛ
Λ AUTOMATIC SYSTEMS
LABORATORIES
S
T
X
XX
X
W
WW
W
Ö
ÖÖ
Ö



A/B
Æ
ÆÆ
Æ



0



5
55
5
)
))
)
)
))
)
)
))
)




































Key Function


Menu display
Ö
ÖÖ
ÖBacklight
S
SS
SUp arrow
T
TT
TDown arrow
W
WW
WLeft arrow
X
XX
XRight arrow
Æ
ÆÆ
ÆClear (view statistics)


Enter
A/B Channel and
differential select
0Zero (offset) reading


Hold reading
5
55
5Power on/off

Setting up the F100
F100-14-001.2 Page 3-3
 ASL 2005
3.4 F100 thermometer inputs
There are two input channels; two 5 pin DIN input-sockets are located at the rear of the instrument.
These are designed to take either PRT or thermistor probes. Channel A is colour-coded red. Channel
B is colour-coded blue.
Figure 3.4 - Rear panel
Either channel can accept either Smart or Passive probes; any combination of probes can be use
together. Smart probes (described in section 6.0) contain their own calibration information and
communicate this to the F100 as soon as they are used. Passive probes do not contain calibration
information and the F100 must be set-up with the calibration information for each probe used (and
each time the probe is changed).
Probe connection information for both PRTs and thermistors
4
is shown below (viewed looking towards
the sockets) -
Figure 3.4.1 4-Wire SMART probe PRT/thermistor input
4
Two wire PRTs/thermistors must have the probe pins1 & 2 connected together and also pins 4 & 5 connected together.
Channel B (blue)
Channel A (red)
PRT or thermistor

Setting up the F100
Page 3-4 F100-14-001.2
 ASL 2005
Figure 3.4.2 4-Wire Passive probe PRT/thermistor input
PRT or thermistor

Setting up the F100
F100-14-001.2 Page 3-5
 ASL 2005
3.5 Battery Pack
Figure 3.5 - Base of the F100 showing the battery back removed
The instrument operates from battery power (or from a powered USB cable when connected to a PC).
The battery pack is replaceable.
3.5.1 Removing and replacing the battery pack
To remove the battery pack, press the latching tab and slide the battery pack back. See figure 3.6 for
details.
Figure 3.6 – Removing and replacing the battery pack
To replace the battery pack, place the pack in position before sliding home. See figure 3.6 for details.
Do check that the battery pack is securely in position before using the instrument.
3.5.2 Battery charger
USB communications
connector
Battery pack,
removed from the
F100
Battery charger input
connector

Setting up the F100
Page 3-6 F100-14-001.2
 ASL 2005
The batteries are located in a removable pack located on the base of the instrument. The batteries
may be charged in-situ or the battery pack may be removed and recharged separately (spare battery
packs are available). Refer to page 1.8 for additional safety information.
Note
Batteries are shipped fully discharged. The battery pack
should be fully charged before first-use. It is shipped fully
discharged.
The battery pack contains two NiMHi cells in series and a charger control circuit. The battery pack
must only be charged using the unit supplied.
Warning
Only use the battery charger supplied. Use of any other
charger will invalidate the warranty and may lead to the
danger of overheating and to permanent instrument
damage.
The battery pack has a socket on its side that accepts the chargers’ connector. The F100 may be
used when the battery pack is being charged, but its performance may be degraded.
Note
It is recommended that the battery pack is removed from
the F100 for charging.
Check that the small LED visible through the bottom of the
battery pack flashes during charging. Flashing ceases when
the battery is fully charged.
Warning
Take care not to short the battery packs’ contacts with any
metal object when the pack is not connected to the
instrument.
Warning
Take care not trap any part of your hand when closing the
battery compartment.
The AC battery charger provides various interchangeable mains connectors; select the one that you
require - see the charger pack for details.