Montana Instruments Cryostation CryoAdvance-50 User manual

4400-DOC001
System User Manual
Cryostation
CryoAdvance-50 | CryoAdvance-100
Version: 1.0
December 2021
www.montanainstruments.com
[e-mail]

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Specifications and product information listed in this document are accurate at the time of publishing for
a standard system. Options, custom designs, and other modifications may cause slight differences.
Future design changes to the system, including software updates, may change information.
© Montana Instruments® Corporation, All Rights Reserved
No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means,
including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written
permission of Montana Instruments.
Montana Instruments, CryoAdvance, Cryostation, CryoOptic, and ATSM are trademarks of Montana
Instruments Corporation. Other brand names used are the property of their respective owners.

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Table of Contents
Section 1 - Preface ........................................................................................................................................................ 7
1.1 Conventions Used in this Manual...............................................................................................................................7
1.1.1 Abbreviations................................................................................................................................................................................ 7
1.1.2 International System of Units (SI) Symbols.......................................................................................................................8
1.1.3 System of Imperial Units Symbols........................................................................................................................................ 8
1.1.4 Explanation of Safety Warnings.............................................................................................................................................8
1.1.5 Graphical Symbols ...................................................................................................................................................................... 9
1.2 General Hazard Information....................................................................................................................................... 9
1.3 Technical Support Information .................................................................................................................................10
1.3.1 Warranty & Repairs ..................................................................................................................................................................10
1.3.2 Accessories & Replacement Parts.......................................................................................................................................11
1.3.3 Contact Details ...........................................................................................................................................................................11
Section 2 - System Overview ....................................................................................................................................12
2.1 Cryostation.....................................................................................................................................................................12
2.1.1 Intended Use...............................................................................................................................................................................12
2.1.2 Components................................................................................................................................................................................12
2.1.3 Technical Specifications..........................................................................................................................................................13
2.1.4 Safety Information ....................................................................................................................................................................15
2.2 System Control Unit.....................................................................................................................................................16
2.2.1 Intended Use...............................................................................................................................................................................16
2.2.2 Components................................................................................................................................................................................16
2.2.3 Technical Specifications..........................................................................................................................................................19
2.2.4 Safety Information ....................................................................................................................................................................19
2.3 Vacuum Control Unit.................................................................................................................................................. 20
2.3.1 Intended Use...............................................................................................................................................................................20
2.3.2 Components................................................................................................................................................................................20
2.3.3 Technical Specifications..........................................................................................................................................................22
2.3.4 Safety Information ....................................................................................................................................................................22
Section 3 - Sample Chamber Configuration........................................................................................................24
3.1 Accessing the Sample Space .................................................................................................................................... 24
3.2Sample Mounting........................................................................................................................................................ 25
3.3 Mounting a Thermometer......................................................................................................................................... 26

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3.4 Windows ........................................................................................................................................................................ 28
3.4.1 Window Covers ..........................................................................................................................................................................28
3.4.2 Window Replacement .............................................................................................................................................................28
3.5 Sample Chamber Wiring.............................................................................................................................................31
3.5.1 Types of Wiring ..........................................................................................................................................................................31
3.5.2 Thermal Lagging Techniques ...............................................................................................................................................31
3.5.3 User Wiring Interfaces .............................................................................................................................................................31
3.5.4 Wiring Schematics.....................................................................................................................................................................32
3.6 System Care .................................................................................................................................................................. 36
3.6.1 When Working in the Sample Chamber ..........................................................................................................................36
3.6.2 When Not Using The Cryostation.......................................................................................................................................36
3.6.3 Standard Checks Before Every Cooldown .......................................................................................................................36
3.6.4 Periodic Checks Every 6-12 Months ..................................................................................................................................36
3.7 Long-Term Maintenance ........................................................................................................................................... 37
3.7.1 20,000 Hour Maintenance .....................................................................................................................................................37
Section 4 - System Usage & Operation.................................................................................................................39
4.1 System Control Options............................................................................................................................................. 39
4.1.1 User Interface..............................................................................................................................................................................39
4.1.2 Network Interface......................................................................................................................................................................41
4.2 Primary Operations ..................................................................................................................................................... 42
4.2.1 Turning on the System............................................................................................................................................................42
4.2.2 Controlling System Temperature ........................................................................................................................................43
4.2.3 Venting and Pulling Vacuum ................................................................................................................................................44
4.3 Moving the System ..................................................................................................................................................... 45
Section 5 - Diagnostics & Troubleshooting .........................................................................................................46
5.1 Expected System Performance................................................................................................................................. 46
5.2System Diagnostics ..................................................................................................................................................... 46
5.2.1 Performance Issues...................................................................................................................................................................46
5.2.2 Power and Communication Issues .....................................................................................................................................47
5.2.3 Compressor Issues & Fault Messages...............................................................................................................................48
5.3 System Checks.............................................................................................................................................................. 50
5.3.1 Temperature Optimization ....................................................................................................................................................51
5.3.2 Vibration Mitigation .................................................................................................................................................................53

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5.3.3 Vacuum Check............................................................................................................................................................................53
5.3.4 Helium Check..............................................................................................................................................................................54
Section 6 - Appendices.............................................................................................................................................. 56
6.1 Related Documentation............................................................................................................................................. 56
Manual Addendum........................................................................................................................see Supplement A

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Section 1 - Preface
WARNING
Read all instructions before using this product
All users must read and understand this manual and all other safety instructions before using the
equipment. Retain these instructions for future reference.
This manual is intended for users of Montana Instruments products and systems described herein.
Users include anyone who may physically interact with the system or peripheral equipment, including
installation, setup, or configuration . This includes anyone who may operate system components via
control panels, the supplied user interface, or remote interfaces.
This manual may be used by facilities personnel for determining infrastructure requirements in the
room or building where the equipment will be installed.
This manual is meant to be referenced by authorized service personnel for important safety and hazard
information and other product restrictions.
1.1 Conventions Used in this Manual
The following style conventions are used in this document:
•Vertical bar ( | )
oIndicates alternative selections. The bar may be used in place of “and” or “or”.
•Alphanumeric List (1., 2., 3…| a., b., c…)
oIndicates instructions or actions which should be completed in a specific ordered
sequence.
•Bulleted List (•| ◦ | -)
oIndicates instructions, commands, or additional information about an action.
oMay alternatively be used for unordered lists of materials or additional reference notes.
•Courier Font
oIndicates a label or indicator on a physical product or part.
oIndicates a system output, such as a display reading.
oMay also be used for URLs, file paths, file names, scripting language, prompts, or syntax.
1.1.1 Abbreviations
The following abbreviations may be used:
•ACM: Ancillary Control Module
•CAN: Controller Area Network

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•DMM: Digital Multimeter
•HDMI: High-Definition Multimedia Interface
•MI: Montana Instruments
•PCB: Printed Circuit Board
•TCM: Temperature Control Module
•UI: User Interface
•UPS: Uninterruptible Power Supply
•USB: Universal Serial Bus
•VNC: Virtual Network Computing
1.1.2 International System of Units (SI) Symbols
•C: Celsius
•cm: Centimeter
•K: Kelvin
•kg: Kilogram
•m: Meter
•mK: Millikelvin
•MPa: Megapascal
•mTorr: Millitorr
•mW: Milliwatt
•s: Second
1.1.3 System of Imperial Units Symbols
•ft, ‘ : Foot
•in, “ : Inch
1.1.4 Explanation of Safety Warnings
Safety and hazard information includes terms, symbols, warnings, and instructions used in this manual
or on the equipment to alert users of precautions in the care, use, and handling of the system. The
following hazard levels and information are considered:

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DANGER
Serious personal injury
Imminent hazards which, if not avoided, will result in serious injury or death.
WARNING
Serious personal injury
Potential hazards which, if not avoided, could result in serious injury or death.
CAUTION
Possible personal injury
Potential hazards which, if not avoided, could result in minor or moderate injury.
NOTICE
Command or Product Safety Notice
Potential hazards which, if not avoided, could result in product damage.
» NOTE
Points of particular interest for more efficient or convenient equipment operation; additional
information or explanation.
1.1.5 Graphical Symbols
The following symbols may be used in diagrams, supporting text, and on physical parts:
Hazard Alert: General Warning
Hazard Alert: High Voltage
Hazard Alert: Laser Radiation
HDMI port
CAN bus module
USB port
1.2 General Hazard Information
The following descriptions are of general hazards and unsafe practices that may result in product
damage, severe injury, or death.
•The products, parts, and components in this manual are to be serviced by authorized Montana
Instruments service representatives only. Failure to do so will void the warranty and may
damage the product and/or create a safety hazard.
•Only use components provided for the intended purpose described herein.
•If the equipment or any component is used or modified in a manner not specified by the
manufacturer, the protection provided by the equipment may be impaired.

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The following hazards may be typical for this product:
WARNING
Risk of injury when lifting or moving system components
System components, including standalone equipment and installed assemblies, may be heavy.
•Use caution when lifting or moving equipment or assemblies. Ensure proper lifting principles are
used to avoid injury.
•Equipment or assemblies >20 kg should always be lifted by two or more people or with a suitable
lifting device.
WARNING
High voltage: danger of electric shock
Electric shocks and burns from capacitor discharge or power circuits could lead to serious injury or
death.
•Before turning on any power supply, the ground prong of the power cord plug must be properly
connected to the ground connector of the wall outlet. The wall outlet must have a third prong or
must be properly connected to an adapter that complies with these safety requirements.
•Only use replacement power cords or power plugs with the same polarity and power rating as
that of the original ones. Do NOT use inadequately rated cables.
If the equipment or the wall outlet is damaged, the protective grounding could be disconnected.
•Do NOT use damaged equipment until its safety has been verified by authorized personnel.
•Do NOT disconnect or tamper with the operation of the protective earth terminal inside or
outside the apparatus.
NOTICE
Only clean exterior surfaces with acceptable fluids
•Only use deionized water, glass cleaner, or isopropyl alcohol to clean the exterior surfaces of any
enclosure. Do NOT use any volatile chemicals other than isopropyl alcohol.
•Apply fluid to a clean, lint-free cloth and wipe the surface with a cloth. Do NOT apply fluid
directly to any surfaces or enclosures.
1.3 Technical Support Information
Any technical questions or issues with the system that cannot be resolved with the information in this
manual should be referred to an authorized Montana Instruments service representative.
1.3.1 Warranty & Repairs
If the system or parts need to be returned to the Montana Instruments factory or an authorized service
center for repair or service, contact an authorized service representative for a return merchandise
authorization (RMA) number and instructions on returning the unit.
For a copy of the Limited Warranty Agreement, visit:
https://www.montanainstruments.com/support/warranty-information

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1.3.2 Accessories & Replacement Parts
Only use cables, hoses, accessories, and parts provided or approved by the manufacturer. Follow all
instructions for proper installation or replacement.
•To order spare or replacement parts, please contact your local service representative.
•To order new accessories or options, or for more information on other Montana Instruments
products and technologies, please contact your local sales representative.
1.3.3 Contact Details
For a complete list of sales and service centers visit: www.montanainstruments.com/Contact
North American Authorized Service
•M-F 8:30am-5pm MST | Call: +1.406.551.2796
•Email: [e-mail]
North American Sales
•M-F 8:30am-5pm MST | Call: +1.406.551.2796
•Email: [e-mail]
International Sales & Authorized Service
•Visit www.montanainstruments.com/Contact for contact information for your local
representative.

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Section 2 - System Overview
2.1 Cryostation
2.1.1 Intended Use
The system is a closed-cycle optical Cryostation used to control the temperature and vacuum
parameters of an integrated sample environment.
The Cryostation is designed to connect to the system control unit, vacuum control unit, and helium
compressor provided by Montana Instruments. The back panel of the Cryostation includes interface
locations for these cable and hose connections.
2.1.2 Components
Cryostation
The Cryostation consists of the cooling tower assembly and the sample chamber, connected by a
baseplate and a semi-rigid bellows assembly. The entire Cryostation assembly is rigidly mounted at
either 45° or 90° to the hole pattern on an optical table via screw locations in the baseplate (optical
table not included). The Cryostation can be mounted on either imperial or metric optical tables.
Cooling Tower Assembly
The main cooling is provided by a two-stage Gifford-McMahon (GM) cryocooler suspended inside the
cooling tower assembly (the vertical aluminum cylinder inside the sheet-metal rear case). A vibration

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damping support structure serves to isolate the cryocooler mechanical vibrations from the optical table
and sample platform. The cryocooler is part of a closed-loop flow of helium which is pressurized by the
separate helium compressor.
The cryocooler has two principal stages, each with thermometers to monitor temperature and heaters
for warmup. Stage 1 is thermally coupled to the radiation shield inside the sample chamber. Stage 2 is
thermally coupled to the sample mount platform.
Sample Chamber
The sample chamber consists of the lower vacuum housing with interfacing side panels, the sample
mount platform and sample mount assembly, a surrounding radiation shield with inner “cold” windows,
and the upper vacuum housing assembly with outer “warm” windows.
Thermal fluctuations are damped using both active and passive techniques. The sample platform
mitigates the effects of gross thermal contraction during cooldown by using a thermal contraction-
canceling design of the sample support structure.
Helium Compressor
Compressor unpacking and installation instructions are contained in the Installation Procedure. Refer to
the Operating Instructions provided by the original manufacturer for further technical details, advanced
operating instructions, and important safety information regarding the compressor. Pressure sensors
allow for system monitoring and can aid in the detection of leaks.
Temperature Control Module (TCM)
A TCM peripheral card in the attached system control unit is used to read the
thermometers and control the heaters connected to the cryocooler stages, platform, and
user channels and feed that data to the appropriate readouts in the UI. This
communication interface provides closed-loop control of the platform temperature.
The DSUB37 port (HEATER/THERMOMETER CONTROL) on the TCM card is used to interface
with the Cryostation.
2.1.3 Technical Specifications
Environmental Specifications
Temperature of Environment
5 –40 °C
Humidity
5 –80% non-condensing
Altitude
<2000 m
Power Specifications
Model
Compressor: B-01

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Mains Power Connector on Unit
IEC 60320 C20
Line Voltage
208 –240 VAC
Frequency
50 –60 Hz
Maximum Current Draw
15 A
Maximum Power Consumption
3.12 kW
Wall Outlet /
Receptacle
N. America & non-EU
NEMA 6-20R single-phase (see note below)
CEE Europe (non-UK)
CEE 7/3 or CEE 7/5 w/ common ground terminal
UK
IEC 60309-6H (16 A)
Israel
SI 32 (IS1-16P)
» NOTE
The NEMA 6-20R is a special outlet in the United States. An electrician must set up this circuit for
single-phase 208-240 VAC with a 20 A breaker. The circuit cannot be three-phase.
Physical Dimensions
Component
L x W x H
Mass
Cryostation
CryoAdvance-50
56.3 cm x 23.2 cm x 49 cm
29 kg
CryoAdvance-100
64 cm x 23.2 cm x 49 cm
29 kg
Compressor
61 cm x 38 cm x 64 cm
93 kg

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2.1.4 Safety Information
The following hazards may be typical for this product:
WARNING
Risk of serious injury due to hazards associated with cryocooling
All personnel working with the system must be aware of the potential hazards associated with
cryocooling.
•Personnel working with the system should be trained in emergency measures that may be
required in the event of an accident.
Risk of suffocation due to potential asphyxiates.
Nitrogen (N2) and Helium (He) are potential asphyxiates if released into an enclosed area with poor
ventilation. A decrease in air oxygen content can be caused by leaks.
•Ensure that proper tubing is used, and good connections are made at each connection point to
prevent the release of these gases.
Risk of explosion due to high pressure if the system is not allowed to vent properly.
•Never bolt or otherwise fasten the lid of the sample chamber closed. The lid acts as a safety
pressure release in the event of high-pressure accumulation in the Cryostation.
Risk of cold contact burns.
Parts of this system are very cold and may cause severe burns to the skin.
•Allow components to warm up to room temperature before touching. If contact occurs, consult a
physician immediately.
NOTICE
Take care when moving the Cryostation
•Do NOT tilt the Cryostation more than 45 degrees. Inverting the Cryostation will cause damage.
•The Cryostation and sample chamber are a single unit. The attached sample chamber must be
supported at all times. Do NOT lift the Cryostation by the sample chamber.
•Do NOT lift the Cryostation by the cryocooler tube or the top of the main body enclosure.
•The Cryostation ships with red locking plugs and shipping support to prevent damage to
sensitive components. Do NOT remove these until after the unit has been attached to the table.
Take care when moving the compressor
•Do NOT tilt the compressor. Doing so may damage the unit.
•The compressor is on casters for moving. Ensure casters are locked before operating.

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Risk of product damage due to improper use
•Never disconnect the vacuum hose while the temperature of any stage of the Cryostation is
below 285 K.
•Never open the case or vent valves when the temperature of any stage is below 285 K.
•Only use dry, high-purity nitrogen gas with the Cryostation. Do NOT substitute other gases for
system venting.
•Avoid using any material in the sample chamber that may outgas or otherwise contaminate the
optical windows and Cryostation surfaces.
•When manually operating heaters, monitor the Stage 1 and Stage 2 temperatures to ensure these
temperatures do NOT rise above 350 K. Temperatures above 350 K may damage critical
components within the system.
2.2 System Control Unit
Models
SC1160
System Control Unit with User Interface Touchscreen
Front of Enclosure
2.2.1 Intended Use
The system control unit is a device used for instrumentation control of Montana Instruments products.
It provides both the electronics hardware and software interface for communicating with other devices
and controlling various instrument parameters.
2.2.2 Components
The system control unit consists of an outer enclosure, single-board computer, peripheral cards, a
touchscreen user interface display, and several communication ports. The enclosure is compatible with a
standard 19-inch-wide equipment rack (4U) and can be mounted with other rack-mount devices. It can
alternatively be placed independently on a table or shelf.
User Interface Touchscreen
A 10-inch touchscreen display provides the main user interface control for the system. The software can
alternatively be monitored and controlled via a VNC interface or remote scripting.

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Enclosure Communication Ports
SC1160 (no peripheral cards) rear enclosure
SC1160 (two peripheral cards) rear enclosure
HDMI
The HDMI port on the rear face of the enclosure is used to interface with the touchscreen display.
USB
Two USB ports are available on the rear face of the enclosure. One of the USB ports is used to interface
with the touchscreen display. The USB port is used to interface and communicate with the VC1130
turbopump option, if applicable.
Four USB ports are available on the front face of the enclosure. These can be used for connecting with
external storage drives.
Ethernet
An ethernet port is available on the rear face of the enclosure for connecting with a local network or
computer. A local network connection is required for controlling the instrument via the remote
graphical display or scripting features, and a network internet connection is required for remote
technical support.
DSUB9 (CAN)
The DSUB9 port on the rear face of the enclosure is used to interface with the helium compressor. This
connection allows the system control unit to run the CAN bus in the compressor and display
compressor readouts in the UI.
Peripheral Cards
The SC1160 contains slots for up to six, rear-facing peripheral control cards. There are several types of
peripheral cards for controlling various equipment. The two standard cards are described below.

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Ancillary Control Module (ACM)
An ACM peripheral card in the attached system control unit is used to control the valves
and pump in the vacuum control unit. The DSUB25 port (VACUUM CONTROL) on the ACM is
used to interface with the vacuum control unit.
Temperature Control Module (TCM)
A TCM peripheral card in the system control unit is the communication interface used to
control the thermometry and heaters located on the cryocooler stages, platform, and user
channels and display those readouts in the UI.
The DSUB37 port (HEATER/THERMOMETER CONTROL) on the TCM card connects to the
DSUB37 port on the back panel of the Cryostation.

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2.2.3 Technical Specifications
Environmental Specifications
Temperature of Environment
5 –25 °C
Humidity
5 –80% non-condensing
Elevation
<2000 m
Power Specifications
Model
SC1160
Mains Power Connector on Unit
IEC 60320 C14
Line Voltage
100 –240 VAC
Frequency
50 –60 Hz
Maximum Current Draw
6.65 A
Maximum Power Consumption
665 W
Wall Outlet /
Receptacle
N. America & non-EU
Standard NEMA 5-15
CEE Europe (non-UK)
CEE 7/3 or CEE 7/5 w/ common ground terminal
UK
BS1363 (UK) w/ common earth ground terminal
Israel
I-32-3 w/ common earth ground terminal
Cart Power Module
IEC 60320 C13
Physical Dimensions
Component
L x W x H
Mass
SC1160
43 cm x 38 cm x 17 cm
13.6 kg
2.2.4 Safety Information
The following hazards may be typical for this product:
WARNING
Risk of injury due to sharp edges
The interior of the enclosure contains sheet metal parts that may have sharp edges.
•When working inside the enclosure (authorized service personnel only), exercise caution to avoid
injury.
WARNING
High voltage: danger of electric shock
Electric shocks and burns from capacitor discharge or power circuits could lead to serious injury or
death.
•before accessing the enclosure or when otherwise servicing the unit (authorized service personnel
only), completely power down the system and unplug the power cable.
•If power must be applied to diagnose issues or otherwise, a grounding strap must be applied to
the arm interfacing internal components.

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NOTICE
Peripheral cards must not exceed 600 W to avoid product damage
•The system control unit can supply a maximum power of 600 W across all installed peripheral
cards. Ensure the cumulative power of all installed peripheral cards (maximum power rating of all
cards added together) does not exceed 600 W.
Transportation and installation
•When not mounted in a rack unit, the enclosure should not be stacked on any other equipment,
nor should other equipment be placed on it.
•Allow 8 cm minimum clearance from any ventilated face (sides, front) and 20 cm clearance in the
rear for cables and hoses.
•Do NOT move the unit during operation. Disconnect all cables before moving. Lift the enclosure
by using both handles on the front face.
2.3 Vacuum Control Unit
Models
VC1110
VC1130
Vacuum Control Unit
Front of Enclosure
2.3.1 Intended Use
The vacuum control unit is used for vacuum control of Montana Instruments Cryostations. It is designed
to connect to the system control unit and Cryostation provided by Montana Instruments. It is
recommended to locate the vacuum control unit near both connected apparatuses.
2.3.2 Components
The vacuum control unit consists of an outer enclosure, diaphragm (roughing) pump, ¼ inch vacuum
coupling O-ring (VCO) connection, one case valve, one vent valve, and several communication ports.
The enclosure (6U) is compatible with a standard 19-inch-wide rack and can be mounted with other
rack-mount devices. It can alternatively be placed independently on a table or shelf.