Montana Instruments Cryostation s Series User manual

4100-DOC001
System User Manual
Cryostation® s-series
s50 | s100 | s200
Version: 3.0
February 2020
www.montanainstruments.com
[e-mail]
+1.406.551.2796
101 Evergreen Drive
Bozeman, MT 59715, USA

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Specifications & product information listed in this document are accurate to the time of publishing for a
standard system. Options, custom designs, or 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, Cryostation, nanoReveal, microReveal, Cryo Optic, 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...............................................................................................................................8
1.1.1 Abbreviations................................................................................................................................................................................ 8
1.1.2 Explanation of Safety Warnings.............................................................................................................................................8
1.1.3 Graphical Symbols ...................................................................................................................................................................... 9
1.2 General Hazard Information......................................................................................................................................10
1.3 Technical Support Information ................................................................................................................................. 11
1.3.1 Warranty & Repairs ..................................................................................................................................................................11
1.3.2 Accessories & Replacement Parts.......................................................................................................................................11
1.3.3 Contact Details ...........................................................................................................................................................................11
Section 2 - System Overview ....................................................................................................................................12
2.1 Cryostat...........................................................................................................................................................................12
2.1.1 Intended Use...............................................................................................................................................................................12
2.1.2 Components................................................................................................................................................................................12
2.1.3 Technical Specifications..........................................................................................................................................................14
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..........................................................................................................................................................18
2.2.4 Safety Information ....................................................................................................................................................................18
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 - System Installation & Handling .........................................................................................................24
3.1 Packaging Contents .................................................................................................................................................... 24
3.2 Component Placement and Layout Plan ............................................................................................................... 26
3.3 Unpacking the Components..................................................................................................................................... 27
3.3.1 Unpacking the Compressor...................................................................................................................................................27
3.3.2 Unpacking the Cryostat ..........................................................................................................................................................27

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3.3.3 Unpacking the Control Units ................................................................................................................................................28
3.4 Installing the Cryostat ................................................................................................................................................ 29
3.4.1 Mounting the Cryostat to the Optical Table ..................................................................................................................29
3.4.2 Removing the Shipping Supports.......................................................................................................................................29
3.5 Connecting System Cables and Power................................................................................................................... 32
3.6 Moving the System ..................................................................................................................................................... 35
Section 4 - Sample Chamber Configuration........................................................................................................36
4.1 Accessing the Sample Space .................................................................................................................................... 36
4.2 Sample Mounting........................................................................................................................................................ 38
4.3 Mounting a Thermometer......................................................................................................................................... 39
4.4 Windows .........................................................................................................................................................................41
4.4.1 Window Covers ..........................................................................................................................................................................41
4.4.2 Window Removal ......................................................................................................................................................................41
4.5 Sample Chamber Wiring............................................................................................................................................ 42
4.5.1 Types of Wiring ..........................................................................................................................................................................42
4.5.2 Thermal Lagging Techniques ...............................................................................................................................................42
4.5.3 User Wiring Interfaces .............................................................................................................................................................43
4.5.4 Wiring Schematics.....................................................................................................................................................................43
Section 5 - System Usage & Operation................................................................................................................. 47
5.1 System Control Options............................................................................................................................................. 47
5.1.1 User Interface..............................................................................................................................................................................47
5.1.2 Remote Graphical Display......................................................................................................................................................49
5.1.3 Scripting........................................................................................................................................................................................49
5.2 Primary Operations ..................................................................................................................................................... 50
5.2.1 Turning on the System............................................................................................................................................................50
5.2.2 Controlling System Temperature........................................................................................................................................50
5.2.3 Venting and Pulling Vacuum ................................................................................................................................................52
Section 6 - Care & Maintenance .............................................................................................................................54
6.1 System Care .................................................................................................................................................................. 54
6.1.1 When Working in the Sample Chamber ..........................................................................................................................54
6.1.2 When You Will Not Be Using Your Cryostat...................................................................................................................54
6.1.3 Standard Checks Before Every Cooldown .......................................................................................................................54
6.1.4 Periodic Checks Every 6-12 Months ..................................................................................................................................54

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6.2 Long-Term Maintenance ........................................................................................................................................... 56
6.2.1 20,000 Hour Maintenance .....................................................................................................................................................56
Section 7 - Diagnostics & Troubleshooting ......................................................................................................... 57
7.1 Expected System Performance................................................................................................................................. 57
7.2 System Diagnostics ..................................................................................................................................................... 58
7.2.1 Performance Issues...................................................................................................................................................................58
7.2.2 Power and Communication Issues .....................................................................................................................................58
7.2.3 Compressor Issues & Fault Messages...............................................................................................................................59
7.3 System Checks.............................................................................................................................................................. 62
7.3.1 Temperature Optimization ....................................................................................................................................................62
7.3.2 Vibration Mitigation .................................................................................................................................................................62
7.3.3 Vacuum Check............................................................................................................................................................................63
7.3.4 Helium Check..............................................................................................................................................................................64
Section 8 - Appendices.............................................................................................................................................. 66
8.1 Related Documentation............................................................................................................................................. 66
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 the Montana Instruments products and systems described herein.
Users include anyone who may physically interact with the system or peripheral equipment, including
installing, setting up, or configuring the system or anyone who may operate system components via
operating 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 should be referenced by authorized service personnel for important safety and hazard
information and other product restrictions.

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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
•DMM: Digital Multimeter
•HDMI: High Definition Multimedia Interface
•MI: Montana Instruments
•TCM: Temperature Control Module
•UI: User Interface
•UPS: Universal Power Supply
•USB: Universal Serial Bus
•VNC: Virtual Network Computing
•International System of Units (SI) symbols
•System of Imperial Units symbols
•Element, molecule, and compound abbreviations
1.1.2 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 to precautions in the care, use, and handling of the system. The
following hazard levels and information are considered:
DANGER
Serious personal injury
Imminent hazards which, if not avoided, will result in serious injury or death.

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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.
1.1.3 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

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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 all 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.
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 surface with cloth. Do NOT apply fluid directly to
any surfaces or enclosures.

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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 an return merchandise
authorization (RMA) number and instructions on returning the unit.
For a copy of the Limited Warranty Agreement, visit: www.montanainstruments.com/About/Warranty
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/Sales-Offices for contact information for your local
representative.

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Section 2 - System Overview
2.1 Cryostat
Models
Part Numbers
Cryostation s50
4106-5000-00
Cryostation s100
4123-5000-00
Cryostation s200
4118-5000-00
2.1.1 Intended Use
The system is a closed-cycle optical cryostat used to control the temperature and vacuum parameters
of an integrated sample environment.
The cryostat is designed to connect to the system control unit, vacuum control unit, and helium
compressor provided by Montana Instruments. The back panel of the cryostat includes interface
locations for these cable and hose connections.
2.1.2 Components
Cryostat
The cryostat consists of the cooling tower assembly and the sample chamber, connected by a baseplate
and a semi-rigid bellows assembly. The entire cryostat 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).

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Cooling Tower Assembly
The main cooling is provided by a two-stage Gifford-McMahon cryocooler suspended inside the
cooling tower assembly (inside the black vertical outer cylinder). A vibration 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 principle 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.
» NOTE
Some purchased options may arrive pre-installed in or on the sample chamber. Any other options
should be installed according the directions provided in the relevant Manual Addendum.
Helium Compressor
The helium compressor is a single-phase, variable-speed, air-cooled compressor. It uses an on-board
microcontroller to control the compressor capsule and cryocooler drive motor to achieve the desired
cooling.
To ensure the safe operation of the compressor, a variety of compressor conditions are monitored,
including pressures, temperatures, oil level, and oil flow. The microcontroller uses these parameters to
adjust operating conditions for efficiency. In addition, pressure sensors allow the system to check for
leaks or improper attachment of the cryocooler.
Temperature Control Module (TCM)
A TCM peripheral card in the attached system control unit is used to control the
thermometry and heaters located on the cryocooler stages, platform, and user channels
and display those readouts in the UI. This communication interface is used to actively
control the platform temperature.
The DSUB25 port (HEATER/THERMOMETER CONTROL) on the TCM card is used to interface
with the cryostat. The split cable connects to ports on the back panel of the cryostat.

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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
Mains Power Connector
IEC 60320 C19
Line Voltage
208 –240 VAC
Frequency
50 –60 Hz
Maximum Current Draw
15 A
Maximum Power Consumption
3.6 kW
Wall Outlet
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
IEC60309-6H (16A)
Israel
SI 32 (IS1-16P)
» NOTE
The NEMA 6-20R is a special outlet in the United States. An electrician must set this outlet up for
208-240 VAC, 20 Amps, and single-phase. The outlet cannot be three-phase.
Physical Dimensions
Component
L x W x H
Mass
Cryostat
Cryostation s50
56.3 cm x 23.2 cm x 49 cm
29 kg
Cryostation s100
64 cm x 23.2 cm x 49 cm
29 kg
Cryostation s200
58 cm x 27 cm x 49 cm
47 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 release of these gases.
Risk of explosion due to high pressure if 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 cryostat.
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 cryostat
•Do NOT tilt the cryostat more than 45 degrees. Inverting the cryostat will cause damage.
•The cryostat and sample chamber are a single unit. The attached sample chamber must be
supported at all times. Do NOT lift the cryostat by the sample chamber.
•Do NOT lift the cryostat by the cryocooler tube or the top of the main body enclosure.
•The cryostat ships with red locking plugs and a 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 prior to operating.
Risk of product damage due to improper use
•Never disconnect the vacuum hose while the temperature of any stage of the cryostat is below
285 K. Never open the case or vent valves when the temperature of any stage is below 285 K.
•Only use dry nitrogen gas with the cryostat. 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 cryostat 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.

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2.2 System Control Unit
Models
Part Numbers
SC1160
4116-500-00 | 4116-500-01
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 consist 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 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.
Enclosure Communication Ports
SC1160 (no peripheral cards) rear enclosure
SC1160 (two peripheral cards) rear enclosure

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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 these is used to interface with the
touchscreen display. The other is used to interface and communicate with the VC1130 turbopump
option (when available).
Four USB ports are available on the front face of the enclosure. These can be used for communicating
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 (when
present). 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 peripheral control cards. Depending on the enclosure
configuration, peripheral cards may have access on either the front or rear face. There are several types
of peripheral cards for controlling various equipment.

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2.2.3 Technical Specifications
Environmental Specifications
Temperature of Environment
5 –40 °C
Humidity
5 –80% non-condensing
Altitude
<2000 m
Power Specifications
Model
SC1160
Mains Power Connector
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
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
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
getting cut by these edges.
WARNING
High voltage: danger of electric shock
Electric shocks and burns from capacitor discharge or power circuits could lead to serious injury or
death.
•Prior to 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 in a rack unit, the enclosure should not be stacked on any other equipment nor should
another other equipment be placed on it.
•Allow 8 cm minimum clearance from any ventilated face (sides, front, and rear).
•Do NOT move the unit while operational. Remove all cables prior to moving. Lift the enclosure by
using both handles on the front face.

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2.3 Vacuum Control Unit
Models
Part Numbers
VC1110
4117-520-00
VC1130
4117-520-01
Vacuum Control Unit
Front of Enclosure
2.3.1 Intended Use
The vacuum control unit is a device used for vacuum control of Montana Instruments cryostats. It is
designed to connect to the system control unit and cryostat 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 consist of an outer enclosure, diaphragm (roughing) pump, ¼ inch vacuum
coupling O-ring connection, two valves, and several communication ports. The enclosure is compatible
with a standard 19-inch equipment rack (6U) and can be mounted with other rack mount devices. It can
alternatively be placed independently on a table or shelf.
The roughing pump is used to achieve a rough vacuum. A high vacuum is achieved with cryopumping.
During cooldown, the sample platform temperature lags the Stage 1 temperature in the cryostat by
~100 K so that remaining particles are trapped by the charcoal adsorbers, keeping the sample clean and
free from contamination. When venting after warmup, a dry nitrogen purge (if attached) is used to clean
the vacuum system.