GE Optica User manual

GE
Measurement & Control Moisture
A40238752 Rev. G
December 2015
Optica™
Operator’s Manual

www.gemeasurement.com
©2015 General Electric Company. All rights reserved.
Technical content subject to change without notice.
Optica™
General Eastern Dew Point Analyzer
Operator’s Manual
A40238752 Rev. G
December 2015

ii
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Optica™ Operator’s Manual iii
Contents
Chapter 1. Features and Capabilities
1.1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
1.2 Electronics Enclosure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
1.2.1 Front Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
1.2.2 Input/Output Capability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
1.3 The System. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
1.3.1 System Components. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
1.3.2 System Planning. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
1.4 Sensors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
1.4.1 Dew Point Sensors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
1.4.2 Temperature Sensor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
1.4.3 Pressure Sensor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
1.5 Theory of Operation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
1.5.1 Hygrometer Function . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
1.5.2 Hygrometer Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
1.5.3 Other Hygrometer Applications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
1.6 The PACER Cycle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Chapter 2. Installation
2.1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
2.2 Benchtop Optica Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
2.2.1 Mounting the Benchtop Optica . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
2.2.2 Using the Rack Mounting Option . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
2.2.3 Wiring the Benchtop Optica. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
2.3 Wall-Mount Optica Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
2.3.1 Mounting the Wall-Mount Optica . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
2.3.2 Wiring the Wall-Mount Optica. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
2.4 Output Wiring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
2.4.1 Analog Outputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
2.4.2 Alarm Outputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
2.4.3 Serial Output . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
2.5 Sensor Information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
2.5.1 Sampling Lines. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
2.5.2 Ensuring Heat Transfer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
2.5.3 High Dew Point Measurements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
2.6 Sensor Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
2.6.1 Model 1111H Sensor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
2.6.2 Model D-2 Sensor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
2.6.3 Model 1211H Sensor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
2.6.4 Model 1311DR Sensor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
2.6.5 Model 1311XR Sensor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
2.6.6 Model SIM-12H Heated Sensor and Components. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
2.6.7 Connecting the Sensors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Contents
iv Optica™ Operator’s Manual
Chapter 3. Operation
3.1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27
3.2 Normal Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27
3.3 Operating the VGA Optica. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28
3.4 Operating the 4x40 Optica . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28
3.5 Network Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29
3.6 Process Pressure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30
3.6.1 Actively Measuring Process Pressure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30
3.6.2 Manually Entering Pressure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30
3.6.3 Measuring at a Different Pressure. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30
3.6.4 Scenario 1: Measurement Without Enabling the Process Pressure Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31
3.6.5 Measuring Dew Point . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31
3.6.6 Scenario 2: Measurement Requiring the Process Pressure Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32
3.7 Status Line Indications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34
3.7.1 Factory Default Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35
3.8 Sensor Balancing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36
3.9 Helpful Hints For Operating the Unit. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36
3.9.1 Supercooled Dew Points. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37
3.9.2 Contamination. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37
3.9.3 Mirror Flooding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38
3.9.4 Sample Line Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38
3.9.5 Pressure Effects. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38
Chapter 4. Programming the VGA Optica
4.1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39
4.2 Programming Fundamentals. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39
4.2.1 The Keys . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40
4.2.2 Data Entry Fields . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40
4.3 Units of Measure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42
4.4 User Equations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42
4.5 Menu 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44
4.5.1 Analog Outputs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44
4.5.2 Pressure Input . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45
4.5.3 Alarms. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46
4.5.4 Automatic Cleaning and Balance Function . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47
4.5.5 Data Fields . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49
4.5.6 Buzzer/Sound . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49
4.5.7 Network Menu . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50
4.5.8 Datalog . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51

Optica™ Operator’s Manual v
Contents
4.6 Menu 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
4.6.1 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
4.6.2 Special . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
4.6.3 User Equation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
4.6.4 Communication Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
4.6.5 Serial Output Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
4.6.6 Set Time & Date. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
4.6.7 Restore Defaults . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
4.7 Saving Configuration Files . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Chapter 5. Programming the 4x40 Optica
5.1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
5.2 Programming Technique . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
5.3 Programmable Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
5.3.1 Analog Outputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
5.3.2 Communication Parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62
5.3.3 Serial Output Units. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
5.3.4 Serial Output Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
5.3.5 Alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64
5.3.6 Data Fields . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
5.3.7 Pressure Input. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
5.3.8 Automatic Cleaning and Balance Function . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
5.3.9 Buzzer and Sounds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
5.3.10 General Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
5.3.11 User Equations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
5.3.12 Set Time and Date . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
5.3.13 Special . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
5.3.14 User Default Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
5.3.15 Factory Calibrations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
Chapter 6. Network-Based Programming
6.1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
6.2 Programming Screens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
Chapter 7. Maintenance
7.1 Minor Maintenance of Sensor Optics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
7.1.1 Cleaning and Balancing the Sensor Mirror . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
7.1.2 Procedure for Cleaning and Balancing the Sensor Mirror . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
7.2 Field Replacement of Sensor Mirrors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
7.2.1 Replacing the Sensor Mirror . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80
7.3 Test and Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81

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vi Optica™ Operator’s Manual
7.4 Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .81
7.4.1 The Display Doesn’t Light Up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .81
7.4.2 “Service” Appears on the STATUS Display Line. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .81
7.4.3 Incorrect Dew Point Display. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .82
7.4.4 “Balance” Remains on the Status Line . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83
7.4.5 No Analog Output. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83
7.4.6 No Serial Output . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83
Appendix A. Specifications
A.1 Performance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .85
A.1.1 Accuracy [complete system at 25°C (77°F)] . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .85
A.1.2 Measurement Ranges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .86
A.1.3 Response Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .86
A.2 Functionality. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .87
A.2.1 Analog Outputs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .87
A.2.2 Digital Output . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .87
A.2.3 Alarms. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .87
A.2.4 Displays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .87
A.2.5 Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .87
A.2.6 Operating Ranges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .87
A.3 Physical (Bench Mount) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .88
A.3.1 Dimensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .88
A.3.2 Weight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .88
A.3.3 Shipping Weight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .88
A.3.4 Environmental. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .88
A.4 Physical (Wall Mount) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .88
A.4.1 Dimensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .88
A.4.2 Weight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .88
A.4.3 Shipping Weight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .88
A.4.4 Environmental. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .88
A.5 Optional Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .89
A.5.1 T-100E. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .89
A.5.2 PT-30A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .89
A.5.3 PT-300A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .89
A.6 European Compliance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .89
Appendix B. Humidity Equations and Conversion Chart
B.1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .91
B.2 Vapor Pressure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .91
B.3 Humidity. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .92
Appendix C. Configuring the Serial Interface
C.1 Wiring to a Personal Computer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .95

Optica™ Operator’s Manual vii
Contents
Appendix D. Chilled Mirror Sensors
D.1 Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
D.2 Depression . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
D.3 Measurement Range. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
D.4 Comparing Optica Sensor Models . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
Appendix E. Glossary
Appendix F. Automatic Balance (for earlier software versions)
F.1 Programming Automatic Balance for a VGA Optica . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
F.2 Programming Automatic Balance for a 4x40 Optica. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
Appendix G. Communicating with the OPTICA Using Ethernet
G.1 Direct Communication. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105
G.2 Computer Communication. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106
G.2.1 Determining the Available Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106
G.2.2 Retrieving the Alarm Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107
G.2.3 Retrieving the Alarm Types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
G.2.4 Retrieving Supported Units . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 109
G.2.5 Retrieving Labels and Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110
G.2.6 Retrieving Analog Output Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112
G.2.7 Retrieving the Measured and Calculated Values . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112
G.2.8 4X40 Optica Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114

Contents
viii Optica™ Operator’s Manual
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Optica™ Operator’s Manual xi
Preface
Information Paragraphs
Note: These paragraphs provide information that provides a deeper understanding of the situation, but is not
essential to the proper completion of the instructions.
IMPORTANT: These paragraphs provide information that emphasizes instructions that are essential to proper setup of
the equipment. Failure to follow these instructions carefully may cause unreliable performance.
Safety Issues
Auxiliary Equipment
Local Safety Standards
The user must make sure that he operates all auxiliary equipment in accordance with local codes, standards,
regulations, or laws applicable to safety.
Working Area
Qualification of Personnel
Make sure that all personnel have manufacturer-approved training applicable to the auxiliary equipment.
Personal Safety Equipment
Make sure that operators and maintenance personnel have all safety equipment applicable to the auxiliary equipment.
Examples include safety glasses, protective headgear, safety shoes, etc.
Unauthorized Operation
Make sure that unauthorized personnel cannot gain access to the operation of the equipment.
CAUTION! This symbol indicates a risk of potential minor personal injury and/or severe damage to
the equipment, unless these instructions are followed carefully.
WARNING! This symbol indicates a risk of potential serious personal injury, unless these
instructions are followed carefully.
WARNING! It is the responsibility of the user to make sure all local, county, state and national
codes, regulations, rules and laws related to safety and safe operating conditions are met for each
installation.
WARNING! Make sure that power to the auxiliary equipment is turned OFF and locked out before
you perform maintenance procedures on the equipment.

Preface
xii Optica™ Operator’s Manual
Environmental Compliance
Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive
GE Measurement & Control Solutions is an active participant in Europe’s Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment
(WEEE) take-back initiative, directive 2012/19/EU.
The equipment that you bought has required the extraction and use of natural resources for its production. It may
contain hazardous substances that could impact health and the environment.
In order to avoid the dissemination of those substances in our environment and to diminish the pressure on the natural
resources, we encourage you to use the appropriate take-back systems. Those systems will reuse or recycle most of the
materials of your end life equipment in a sound way.
The crossed-out wheeled bin symbol invites you to use those systems.
If you need more information on the collection, reuse and recycling systems, please contact your local or regional
waste administration.
Visit www.gemeasurement.com/environmental-health-safety-ehs for take-back instructions and more information
about this initiative.

Optica™ Operator’s Manual 1
Chapter 1. Features and Capabilities
Chapter 1. Features and Capabilities
1.1 Introduction
The GE Measurement & Control Optica is a multi-purpose chilled-mirror hygrometer, suitable for use in a wide variety
of applications. The Optica can function with any GE Measurement & Control chilled-mirror sensor to provide the
following measurement ranges (depending on the sensor selected):
•Dew/frost point from –80°C to +85°C (–112°F to +185°F)
•Relative humidity from 0.002% to 100%
•Moisture content from 500 ppbvto over 5.71 × 105 ppmv
•Temperature from -100°C to +100°C (-212°F to +212°F)
The Optica also measures and displays gas pressure using a GE Sensing PT-30A or PT-300A pressure sensor, or a
user-supplied 4–20 mA or 0–5 VDC pressure sensor.
Note: If the pressure is known to be constant, a fixed pressure can be programmed, eliminating the need for a
pressure sensor.
Using the Optica, you can simultaneously measure and display dew point, temperature and pressure, with a wide
variety of units of measure. The Optica is Ethernet-ready, so you can access the unit using the Internet for remote
monitoring applications. You can use the data logging function to record and upload weeks of data.
1.2 Electronics Enclosure
The Optica is available in two configurations:
•A benchtop model, with an optional rack-mount adapter available
•A wall-mount unit, housed in a Type 4 enclosure, suitable for industrial environments
See Chapter 2, “Installation” for details on how to mount the Optica.

Chapter 1. Features and Capabilities
2Optica™ Operator’s Manual
1.2.1 Front Panel
The Optica front panel is shown in Figure 1 below. The panel includes: a display, an alphanumeric keypad for data
entry, ENTER and TAB keys, and four softkeys to the right of the display screen.
Two display options are available:
•A high-resolution, full-color, liquid crystal display (LCD) with data graphing and on-screen programming
capability (referred to as the “VGA” unit). See Figure 1 below.
•A 4-line by 40-character alphanumeric display (referred to as the “4x40” unit).
Figure 1: Optica Benchtop Version with VGA Display
1.2.2 Input/Output Capability
Available inputs and outputs include the following:
•4-wire Resistance Temperature Detector (RTD) input
•4–20 mA and 0–5 VDC Pressure Sensor inputs
•Two simultaneous analog outputs, each with 4–20 mA and 0–5 VDC capability
•Two independent alarm relays (Form C, 5 Amp)
•Serial communications port
•Ethernet 10BaseT (on VGA Optica only)
The Optica uses the GE Measurement & Control patented Programmable Automatic Contaminant Error Reduction
(PACER) system for automated self-cleaning and optics rebalancing. Detailed specifications for the Optica are given in
Appendix A, “Specifications”.
VGA Display Softkeys Alphanumeric Keypad
Power
On/Off
Switch

Optica™ Operator’s Manual 3
Chapter 1. Features and Capabilities
1.3 The System
1.3.1 System Components
A complete Optica system consists of the following items:
1.3.2 System Planning
The Optica can be used for a wide variety of measurement applications, including the measurement of dew points of
gasses that are at pressures that exceed the measurement range of GE sensors. In this situation be sure to check
“Process Pressure” on page 30 for installation planning.
1.4 Sensors
The Optica can be configured with a chilled-mirror dew point sensor. The specific sensor is chosen according to the
expected dew point range and the environment in which the dew point is to be determined. In addition, the Optica can
be configured with a temperature and/or pressure sensor.
1.4.1 Dew Point Sensors
GE offers the following sensors for various applications:
•Model 1111H - Single-stage sensor
•Model 1211H - Two-stage sensor; high pressure and temperature
•Model D-2 - Two-stage sensor
•Model SIM-12H - Two-stage heated sensor
•Model 1311DR - Four-stage, liquid or air cooled sensor
•Model 1311XR - Five-stage, liquid cooled sensor
1.4.2 Temperature Sensor
•Model T-100E
1.4.3 Pressure Sensor
•Model PT-30A or PT-300A
•Electronic monitor •Temperature sensor (optional)
•Dew point sensor •Pressure sensor (optional)
•Interconnecting sensor cable •Maintenance kit
•AC line cord •User’s Manual
•Certification that the unit is traceable to the National Institute of Standards
and Technology (Certificate of Conformance)

Chapter 1. Features and Capabilities
4Optica™ Operator’s Manual
1.5 Theory of Operation
Optical condensation hygrometry is a precise technique for determining the water vapor content in gases by directly
measuring dew point or frost temperatures. Using this technique, a metal mirror is cooled until it reaches a temperature
at which a thin layer of condensation begins to form on it. The dew layer is detected optically, and the mirror is held at
that temperature. The mirror temperature, measured with a platinum resistance thermometer, is an accurate indicator of
the dew or frost point. Because these hygrometers are so accurate, they are widely used as a standard in many of the
world’s metrology laboratories.
1.5.1 Hygrometer Function
Figure 2 below illustrates how GE Measurement & Control hygrometers detect and measure dew point. The
condensate mirror is illuminated with a solid state, infrared emitter (IR). A photodetector monitors the IR light
reflected from the mirror. The photodetector is fully illuminated when the mirror is clear of dew, and it receives less
light as dew forms. A separate LED and photodetector pair are used as a known reference to compensate for any
thermally induced changes in the optical components. The photodetectors are arranged in an electrical bridge circuit,
the output current of which is proportional to the light reflected from the mirror. The bridge output controls the
electrical current to the thermoelectric cooler.
A large bridge current develops when the mirror is dry, causing the mirror to cool toward the dew point. As dew begins
to form on the mirror, less light is reflected, and the bridge output decreases. This, in turn, causes a decrease in cooling
current. A rate feedback loop within the amplifier ensures critical response, causing the mirror to stabilize quickly at a
temperature that maintains a thin dew or frost layer on the mirror surface. A precision thermometer element embedded
within the mirror directly monitors this dew point temperature.
Figure 2: Chilled-Mirror Hygrometer Diagram
41.2°F Dew Point Temperature
(Precision Thermometer)
LED
Regulation
Thermoelectric
Heat Pump Power
Gain
Optical Reference

Optica™ Operator’s Manual 5
Chapter 1. Features and Capabilities
1.5.2 Hygrometer Calibration
The Optica unit can be sent to the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) in Gaithersburg, Maryland for
certification or to any National Standards lab for calibration against their primary humidity standards. A calibrated
instrument can then be used as a transfer standard in local laboratories to calibrate lower echelon instruments.
Hygrometers used as calibration standards must have the following characteristics:
•The mirror thermometer must have suitable long-term accuracy (such as that obtained with a platinum
resistance thermometer).
1.5.3 Other Hygrometer Applications
Many GE Measurement & Control Chilled Mirror Hygrometers are used in industrial applications in addition to
metrology. The optical condensation hygrometer is not readily damaged or contaminated by industrial process gases
that can degrade other secondary measurement schemes such as saturated salt and polymer-based sensors. If the sensor
or sampling components should become contaminated with oils, salts, etc., they can be cleaned without harm to the
sensor or impairment to the system accuracy. The performance of the hygrometer can be checked at any time by
heating the mirror above the dew point, causing the dew deposit to evaporate, then reclosing the servoloop and
checking to see that the system cools and returns to the same dew point.
The GE optical condensation sensors cover a wide range of applications limited only by the heat pumping capabilities
of the thermoelectrically-cooled mirror.
At high dew points (up to 100°C), the sensor is limited by the thermal properties of the solid state optical components
as well as the thermoelectric heat pump capacity.
In a typical application measuring sub-ambient dew points, a two-stage thermoelectrically-cooled mirror can reach a
temperature approximately 65°C lower than an ambient (heat sink) temperature of +25°C. The thermoelectric cooler
pumps heat from the mirror into the heat sink. By reducing the temperature of the heat sink with a coolant such as
chilled water, or by applying the sensor in a low-temperature condition such as monitoring of a test chamber, even
lower dew points can be measured. In meteorological applications where the heat sink temperature is considerably
lower, frost points down to –75°C can be monitored.
Four- and five-stage sensors are available for measuring the lowest dew/frost points.
CAUTION! Field calibration of the Optica is not recommended.

Chapter 1. Features and Capabilities
6Optica™ Operator’s Manual
1.6 The PACER Cycle
GE Measurement & Control has developed and patented a compensation technique called PACER (Programmable
Automatic Contaminant Error Reduction) that is very effective in reducing the Raoult Effect error associated with
soluble contaminants, particularly for near-ambient dew points. The Optica is equipped with the PACER cycle as well as
AUTO balance as found on earlier models. The user can choose which self-cleaning and balancing routine to run
depending on the severity of the contamination.
The PACER cycle, diagrammed in Figure 3 below, begins with a coalescence period, during which the mirror is cooled
well below the dew point of the sample gas, condensing out a large amount of water.
Figure 3: A Typical PACER Cycle
This excess water easily dissolves any water-soluble contaminants. The mirror is then heated. During the heating
phase, the large puddles of water gradually evaporate, carrying increasingly heavy concentrations of salts as the
puddles become smaller. Finally, when all the puddles have evaporated, dry “islands” of crystallized salt are left on the
mirror. The area between the islands (80-85% of the mirror surface) is now clean and shiny, whereas before the PACER
cycle it may have been completely covered. The total amount of contamination has not been reduced, but instead,
redistributed as shown in Figure 4 below, with more clean mirror surface available for dew formation. The reflected
light signal is then electronically balanced against the reference.
Figure 4: Results of the PACER Cycle
Mirror Heats
Start of Cycle
End
Cooling Heating
Data is Sampled
and Held
(3 min) Optical System
Automatically
Adjusts for
Correct
Reflectance
(5 sec)
Prevailing
Dew Point
Mirror Cools
and Coalesces
(30 sec)
Mirror Returns
To Dew Point
(60 sec)
To Dry State
(90 sec)
Before
PACER Cycle
After
PACER Cycle

Optica™ Operator’s Manual 7
Chapter 2. Installation
Chapter 2. Installation
2.1 Introduction
This chapter explains the installation of the benchtop and wall-mount versions of the Optica, the various sensors used
with the system and the I/O and power wiring. To install your Optica, refer to the instructions and drawings for your
specific configuration:
•Benchtop - see “Benchtop Optica Installation” on page 7
•Wall-Mount - see “Wall-Mount Optica Installation” on page 12
2.2 Benchtop Optica Installation
2.2.1 Mounting the Benchtop Optica
The Optica benchtop dimensions are shown in Figure 5 below. Two feet on the bottom of the case can be unfolded to
raise up the front for easier viewing, if desired.
Figure 5: Optica Benchtop Dimensions
WARNING! To ensure the safe operation of this unit, you must install and operate the Optica as
described in this manual. In addition, be sure to follow all applicable safety codes and regulations for
installing electrical equipment in your area.
Dimensions =
*Add .75” (19 mm)
6.5*
13.5 13
(330)
(343)
(165)
inches
(mm)
for Feet

Chapter 2. Installation
8Optica™ Operator’s Manual
2.2.2 Using the Rack Mounting Option
There is an optional kit for mounting the benchtop unit in a standard 19-inch rack (see Figure 6 below, Figure 7 on
page 9, and Figure 8 on page 10). The two brackets are attached to the front panel using four #8 screws. The Optica is
mounted to the brackets using the eight mounting holes located just in front of and behind the unit’s feet.
Figure 6: Optica Rack-Mount Adapter