Oko CO2-UNIT-BL User manual

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CO2-UNIT-BL
Gas Controller
Manual
IST1140_REV02
SV 2.3.8.2

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Index
1PREFACE .....................................................................................................................................................................................3
2SYMBOL DESCRIPTION ..........................................................................................................................................................4
SYMBOLS USED IN THIS MANUAL...............................................................................................................................................................4
SYMBOLS ON THE PRODUCT LABEL ...........................................................................................................................................................4
3SAFETY NOTES..........................................................................................................................................................................5
4SUPPLIED EQUIPMENT..........................................................................................................................................................7
5NOT SUPPLIED EQUIPMENT ................................................................................................................................................7
6OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT.........................................................................................................................................................8
7EQUIPMENT DESCRIPTION ..................................................................................................................................................9
8INSTALLATION ...................................................................................................................................................................... 11
CO2-UNIT-BL. INSTALLATION GUIDE ................................................................................................................................................11
CO2-UNIT-BL. SET UP THE SYSTEM AND TURN THE UNIT ON......................................................................................................14
HOW TO ASSEMBLE CO2-UNIT-BL WITH A TEMPERATURE UNIT.................................................................................................15
9USER INTERFACE .................................................................................................................................................................. 16
HOME PAGE................................................................................................................................................................................................16
9.1.1 How to enter the set point ......................................................................................................................................................16
9.1.2 Controller Status: colours led and meaning ....................................................................................................................17
SETTINGS....................................................................................................................................................................................................18
9.2.1 Gas......................................................................................................................................................................................................18
9.2.1.1 Air Source............................................................................................................................................................................................................18
9.2.1.2 Calibrations........................................................................................................................................................................................................ 19
9.2.1.2.1 Offset (with exthernal meter).............................................................................................................................................................20
9.2.1.2.2 Sensors (with calibration gas)........................................................................................................................................................... 22
9.2.1.2.2.1 View ......................................................................................................................................................................................................23
9.2.1.2.2.2 Span Settings .................................................................................................................................................................................... 23
9.2.1.2.2.3 Factory Reset ....................................................................................................................................................................................23
9.2.1.2.2.4 Start Span........................................................................................................................................................................................... 24
9.2.1.2.2.5 Start Zero............................................................................................................................................................................................24
9.2.1.2.3 Factory Reset.............................................................................................................................................................................................25
9.2.1.3 Flowrates............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 26
9.2.1.4 Gas cycles............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 27
9.2.1.5 Status ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................29
9.2.1.6 Digital Input.......................................................................................................................................................................................................29
9.2.2 Touch Screen configuration ...................................................................................................................................................30
9.2.2.1 Touch Screen Options..................................................................................................................................................................................... 30
9.2.2.2 Touch Screen Brightness ..............................................................................................................................................................................31
9.2.2.3 Touch Screen Visual Effects –icon and glance mode.......................................................................................................................31
9.2.2.4 Date & Time........................................................................................................................................................................................................ 32
9.2.2.5 Alarms...................................................................................................................................................................................................................33
9.2.2.6 Data Logging .....................................................................................................................................................................................................34
OVERVIEW..................................................................................................................................................................................................38
ICON AND GLANCE MODE VIEW.............................................................................................................................................................38
INFO PAGE ..................................................................................................................................................................................................38
10 CLEANING & MAINTENANCE......................................................................................................................................... 40
11 SUPPORT ............................................................................................................................................................................. 41
12 TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS ....................................................................................................................................... 42
13 TROUBLESHOOTING........................................................................................................................................................ 43
14 FIGURE LIST........................................................................................................................................................................ 44
15 MANUAL REVISION TABLE ............................................................................................................................................ 46

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1Preface
The CO2-UNIT-BL is a Digital CO2Controller that mixes CO2and Air to the desired concentration in the
range 0-18%. It connects to any Bold Line T controller and can be operated through the same intuitive touch screen
interface, OKO-TOUCH.
The CO2-UNIT-BL features a long life Non Dispersive InfraRed (NDIR) dual wave length detector to
ensure a high accuracy on CO2 concentration and a flow rate sensor to regulate output flow rate.
The CO2-UNIT-BL is compatible with Okolab Active Humidity Controller to control output gas Relative
Humidity and with Okolab air pump OKO-PUMP-BL, which enables to use background air as a convenient
alternative to compressed air.
The CO2-UNIT-BL is operated via the OKO-TOUCH touch screen control panel (to be ordered separately).
OKO-TOUCH features on-board memory for data logging and mini-USB port for data download.
In addition data logging is possible via SMART-BOX, via DATA-LOG Okolab software and via following
third-party Imaging software: LASX 2.0, NIS-Elements, SlideBook, MetaMorph and MicroManager. Macro for ZEN
Black software is available upon request.
Okolab Bold Line controllers are also capable to receive TTL input (requires to order separately TTL-
CABLE).

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2Symbol description
This paragraph describes the symbols used in the manual and on the product label.
Symbols used in this manual
The following symbols identify important information to note:
CAUTION or WARNING: this symbol warns you about the risk of electrical shock.
CAUTION or WARNING or IMPORTANT: this symbol warns you of circumstances or practices that
can affect the functionality of the instrument.
Tip ►Supplies you with helpful suggestions.
Note ►Supplies you with important information to successfully setup and use the instrument.
Symbols on the product label
CE MARKING: this symbol indicates product compliance with EU legislation.
PRODUCT DISPOSAL: this symbol indicates that this product must not be disposed as urban solid
waste.
This symbol indicates the product production date.
This symbol indicates the manufacturer data.
This symbol warns you to read the user manual before starting the device.
This symbol indicates the protection degree against ingress of solids or liquids inside the product.
IP 30

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3Safety Notes
In order to achieve maximum performance and to ensure proper operation of your new equipment, please
read carefully the following safety notes and the instructions. If you have any question, please contact Okolab.
−The equipment must only be used as intended and as described in this Manual.
−Equipment should be operated only by technically qualified personnel.
−Do not start up the equipment if some of its parts are damaged.
−This instrument is not intended for use in locations subject to flammable or explosive gases.
−Transport the equipment with care.
−Equipment and its internal parts can be damaged by dropping and by shock.
−Not following these instructions can result in damage or breakdown of the device and its
accessories.
−The products labels can be found on the bottom panel of the Main Unit.
−Do not disassemble any part of the system.
−Do not disconnect cables while in operation.
−Do not use a volatile solvent such as paint thinner to clean the instrument because deformation
or discoloration may occur.
−Use a soft, dry cloth to remove stains from the instrument.
−Do not exceed voltage indicated in this manual and on the product label.
−Avoid excessive induction noise, static electricity and magnetic fields.
−Do not expose this instrument to rain or moisture.
−Do NOT go in close contact with or breathe any gas stream whose composition is different from
that of ambient air.
−Prevent throttling and kinking of tubing.
−Check tubing time to time for possible material usage.
−Check that all tubing is well inserted into the connectors so they cannot slip off
−This device is not designed for use for medical applications.
−Install safety valves and adequate pressure regulators on gas lines before the CO2 Controller
input connectors.
−Power cord of unit should be unplugged from electrical outlet when left unused for a long period
of time.
−PRESSURIZED GAS, secure all connections with hose clamps. Never exceed pressure limits, 1.5
Bar. Bleed all lines before disconnecting. Wear safety goggles if needed. If pressure regulators
are not within sight and reach make sure at least one shut off valve within reach.
−LOW OXYGEN ATMOSPHERES, never enter a room or enclosure which has a low oxygen
atmosphere because of severe danger of suffocation. Only operate in well- ventilated room. A
small amount for carbon dioxide gas leaks continuously out of the instrument and should never
be allowed to build up in room.

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−VENTILATION, unit should be situated so that its location or position does not interfere with
proper ventilation. Neither the gas mixer nor stream destinations should be in poorly ventilated
areas.
−Unit should be situated away from heat sources such as open flames, radiators, heat registers,
stoves, or other appliances or processes that produce heat.
−Do not start up the equipment if the supply cable is damaged.
−Connect the equipment only to grounded mains power socket.
−Do not disconnect cables while in operation.
−Do not open the unit. Do not remove cover or back.
−Prevent metal fragments or lead wire scraps from falling inside instrument to avoid electric shock,
fire or malfunction.
−No user serviceable parts inside.
−Before starting, assemble the equipment far from electric device.
−Unit should never be used where it can fall or be pushed into water.
International caution symbol marks this device. It is important to read the “Safety Notes” before
installing, using and commissioning this device, as the notes contain important information relating
to safety and EMC. Not following these instructions can result in damage or breakdown of the device
and its accessories.
We reserve the right to make technical variations.
IN NO EVENT SHALL OKOLAB S.R.L. BE LIABLE FOR ANY DIRECT, INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL
DAMAGES OF ANY NATURE, OR LOSSES OR EXPENSES RESULTING FROM ANY DEFECTIVE PRODUCT OR THE USE
OF ANY PRODUCT.

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4Supplied equipment
1. CO2 Controller, main box.
2. TUBE A (x2). Rigid tubes, 3m long 6mm OD each. Use TUBE A to connect the output ports of Air and Carbon
Dioxide tanks to the corresponding input ports (Air and CO2) on the rear panel of the CO2 Controller.
3. TUBE C (x1). 2m long blue rigid tube 6mm OD with attached a 4mm ID silicon transparent tube 1 m long plus
PTFE filter in the middle. Use TUBE C to connect the CO2 Controller to your device or to the humidifier, if it is
present.
4. Pressure Gauge for CO2 + regulator + assembly stirrup (x1). Install pressure gauge between the pure CO2
tank pressure regulator and the CO2 Controller input port.
5. PTFE filter (x2). One to be installed on the rear of the Unit and one spare replacement.
6. RS232 Serial cable (x1). To connect the touch screen interface (OKO-TOUCH) to the CO2-UNIT-BL.
7. 24V-DC Power Adapter (x1).
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Figure 1. CO2 UNIT BL and OKO TOUCH - components
5NOT supplied equipment
−OKO-TOUCH (to be ordered separately), including:
1. Touch Screen Interface
2. #1 RS232 Serial cable. To connect the Touch Screen to the T-Unit

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3. MINI-USB-OTG cable. To connect a USB pen to the OKO-TOUCH for data download.
−CO2tank with safety valve/pressure gauge regulator to accept rigid tubing 6 mm OD. Gas source must be
Standard Purity CO2 (coded as 4.5 that means 99.995 % of CO2) and humidity-free gas.
−Air tank or compressed air line with safety valve/pressure gauge regulator (degree of filtration 20 µm and
condensate drain) to accept rigid tubing 6 mm OD.
Note ►An alternative solution for Air supply is the OKO-AIR-PUMP-BL.
6Optional Equipment
It can be equipped with:
•OKO-AIR-PUMP-BL (optional) that includes:
▪TUBE B. 2 m long tube composed of 6 mm OD rigid tube (0.5 m long) connected to 4 mm ID silicon
transparent tube (0.5 m long) then connected to an hydrophobic filter 0.2 micron porous, connected
to 4mm ID silicon transparent tube 0.5 m long and then connected to 6 mm OD rigid tube (0.5 m
long). Use the TUBE B to connect the OKO-AIR-PUMP-BL to the port labeled “Air In” on the rear panel
of the CO2 Controller.
OKO-AIR-PUMP-BL
TUBE B
Figure 2. CO2 UNIT BL with OKO AIR PUMP BL
•HM-ACTIVE (optional) that includes:
▪Humidity Sensor Lid with Temperature control.
▪Humidity bottle and its Humidifier (Heated Base)
▪Heated and Insulated Tube

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HM-ACTIVE
Figure 3. CO2 UNIT BL, OKO AIR PUMP and HM ACTIVE
•DATA LOG (Optional-to be purchased separately).Software used to log, view, and store data from PC.
It may be used to change parameters of the controllers via PC. Data can be exported in .xlsx format.
Figure 4. DATA LOG software.
•SM-BL Smart Box. To store data, to operate the controllers via web/smartphone/tablet and to allow
remote assistance for service.
7Equipment Description
A detailed description of the CO2 UNIT BL rear is provided in the following list, which refers to the pointers
in Figure 5:
4. Filter Out. To connect the PTFE filter
5. Filter In. To connect the PTFE filter
6. Gas Output
7. Power Input

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8. OKO-AIR-PUMP-BL connector. Leave unplugged if the system is not equipped with OKO-AIR-PUMP-BL
9. HM-ACTIVE connector. To connect the HM-ACTIVE active humidity controller
10. GPIO (General Purpose Input Output) connector
11. USB connector
12. Air Push to fit Input Connector for 6 mm O.D. rigid tubing carrying air from air source
13. Pure CO2 Push to fit Input Connector for 6 mm O.D. rigid tubing
Figure 5. Gas Controller Rear Panel Overview

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8Installation
The following paragraphs will illustrate how to install and to use the CO2 Controller.
CO2-UNIT-BL. Installation guide
The following instructions shall give you the possibility to install the unit quickly. For safe operation
of the unit it is absolutely necessary to read carefully all the instructions and safety notes.
1. Install the pressure Gauge for the CO2 line between the CO2 tank and the CO2-UNIT-BL. Follow the arrow
on the rear of the Pressure Gauge for the correct Gas In-Out (See Figure 6).
GAS IN GAS OUT
Figure 6. Input and Output gas ports. See symbol on the rear of Pressure Gauge
On the bottom of the unit there is an automatic purging valve. Close it before operating the Pressure Gauge.
To close the purging valve, looking at the regulator vertically from the top knob, pull it down and rotate it
counterclockwise. (See A and B in Figure 7). Now you can operate the Pressure Gauge.
Purging valve
A B
Figure 7. How to close the purging valve of the Pressure Gauge

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To close the gauge, pull the knob up and rotate it counterclockwise. Push the knob down to lock it. Open
valve on gas supply tank. Adjust Pressure Gauge by pulling the top knob up and rotating it clockwise until the
pressure reaches the desired value (See Figure 8), then push the top knob down to lock it.
A B C
Figure 8. Pressure gauge using
2. Install the PTFE filter on the rear panel of the CO2-UNIT-BL. It filters the Air/CO2flow coming from their
tanks before entering in contact with sensing cells. It prevents sample contamination from bacteria and gas
sensors from damages caused by dirty gas streams. It is connected with two 4 I.D. mm silicon tubes with the
“Filter In” and “Filter Out” connectors on the rear panel of the CO2-UNIT-BL (see Figure 9 and pointer 1 and
2 in Figure 5).
Figure 9. Filter tubing
Tip ►Replace this filter each 2-3 months of continuous use or when it is present water in the inner part of
the filter.
Do not remove the filters. This may cause damages to the gas sensor and sample contaminations.
3. Tubing for CO2and Air lines are rigid tubing, 6 mm O.D. (TUBE A in par. 4), and they connect to the CO2-
UNIT-BL through Push-in connectors (see Figure 10 and pointer 3 in Figure 1). Make sure to push tubes
securely all the way into connectors avoiding any gas leak. To remove tubing from push-in connectors push

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the black or red rubber ring while pulling the tubing. If tubing does not easily come out, do not force it, simply
make sure the black ring is properly pushed.
Figure 10. Avoid gas leak: strongly push the tube into the Push-in to-Fit connector
Before disconnecting any of the polyurethane tubing connected to tanks or to the CO2 Controller,
make sure there is no residual pressure by adjusting the pressure gauges upstream of the system
and the tank manometer.
4. Figure 11 shows the connections between the CO2and Air tanks and the respective connectors on the rear
panel of the CO2-UNIT-BL (see pointer 3 in Figure 1).
Figure 11. CO2and Air Tanks connections to the back panel of the CO2 Controller
Tip ►If you have ordered OKO-AIR-PUMP-BL, you have to connect TUBE B (see par.6 Figure 2) between the
Air Pump and the connector labeled “Air” on the rear panel of the CO2 Controller (see Figure 12).

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Figure 12. CO2Tank and Air Pump connections to the back panel of the CO2 Controller
5. Connect the touch screen interface OKO-TOUCH to the CO2 Controller with the RS232 serial cable as illustrated
in Figure 13.
Figure 13. Oko Touch Connection
6. Connect the power adapter to the CO2 Controller (see pointer8 in Figure 2Figure 1).
CO2-UNIT-BL. Set up the system and Turn the Unit On
Brief instruction to set up and turn on the unit.
1. Regulate the pressure of each gas before the CO2 Controller at 1.4 barg (20.3 PSI). Do not exceed 1.5 barg!
2. Check that all the cables are properly installed as described in the previous paragraph.
3. To switch the CO2 Controller on use the power button on OKO-TOUCH. The led on the front of the CO2
Controller will turn green.

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4. Once the system has been initialized the led on the CO2 Controller will stop blinking and will turn steadily on.
The Homepage will appear on the touch screen, the color of the light indicator on the gas tab will be yellow at
the start.
5. Select the set point gas composition from the touch screen Home page ( see Paragraph 9.1.1.).
6. Wait until the light indicator on the Home page becomes green.
How to assemble CO2-UNIT-BL with a Temperature Unit
CO2-UNIT-BL can be used as a stand-alone device or in combination with any one of the Bold Line
Microscope Incubator. Figure 14 shows how to assemble CO2-UNIT-BL, for example, with a H301-T UNIT-BL-
PLUS.
a. CO2-O2 UNIT-BL [0-10; 1-18] and
H301-T-UNIT-BL-PLUS. Units rear panels.
b. CO2-O2 UNIT-BL [0-10; 1-18] and
H301-T-UNIT-BL-PLUS. 3D view.
Figure 14. CO2 UNIT-BL and H301-T-UNIT-BL-PLUS
The T-Unit and the CO2 Controller must stack on top of each other by lining up the bus ports located on
the top and bottom surface of each. When the units are properly connected the Temperature and CO2parameters
will appear on the OKO-TOUCH Touch Screen interface Home page. If not all the parameters appear on OKO-
TOUCH Home Page then the Control Units are not properly connected. Please check that the bus ports are properly
aligned with each other.
If you have the CO2 Controller and a Temperature Control Unit, it is essential to read both
this manual and the Temperature Control Unit Manual to familiarize yourself with the
functions and the operation of the devices before use.

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9User Interface
This chapter describes the user interface of the CO2 UNIT BL.
Home page
Figure 15. Homepage of the CO2 Controller Touch Screen Display
1. Status LED
2. CO2set point (see 9.1.1 to learn how to change the set point value)
3. CO2current value
4. Min/max CO2values within the time-frame set in the Options subpage (see paragraph 9.2.2.1)
5. Chart history length set at 5 minutes
6. Display mode. Touch here to switch display mode
7. Overview page
8. Settings. Press here to access system options and settings
9. Home. To open the homepage
10. Product info. Press here to know generic info about CO2UNIT BL and running time
Tip ►The OKO-TOUCH is pre-set at a 5% CO2 concentration hence when you witch it on the system will start
operating to reach this set-point value.
9.1.1 How to enter the set point
To input a new set-CO2set point, touch the corresponding tab, as indicated in Figure 16 (a).

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Figure 16. How to change the CO2set point
The set point regulation page will appear as in the Figure 16(b). You can modify the set point by clicking
on + and –. Once you have input the new CO2set point, press Set to save or Cancel to undo.
Tip ►After any change in the set point value the controller enters into a transient regime, the Status
Indicator and the Top LED turn yellow (see paragraph 9.1.2). During the transient regime, the controller will
not trigger on alarm.
9.1.2 Controller Status: colours led and meaning
The C02 UNIT BL can assume four different status, which are represented by the colors assumed by the
Status Indicator (pointer 1 in Figure 15) and by the TOP LED (if enabled, as indicated in paragraph 9.2.2.3):
The GREEN color indicates that the set-point value has been reached (within the
tolerance defined in the alarm subpage, see paragraph 9.2.2.5) and that the system is working
properly.
Controller Status: NORMAL
The YELLOW color indicates that the controller is in transient regime. The Yellow light
will appear after the controller is turned on and after any set point chance. The system is working
properly, it is not in alarm and no action is needed. As soon as the CO2 UNIT BL reaches the CO2
composition, the CO2 Controller Status changes to NORMAL and the color turn GREEN. If the CO2
UNIT BL cannot reach the set composition values within the maximum time defined by the
operator (see paragraph 9.2.2.5), the Gas Controller Status changes to ALARM and the color turn
ORANGE.
Controller Status: TRANSIENT
The ORANGE color indicates that that the current gas concentration is not correct and its
value is out of the set tolerance (see section “ALARMS” in paragraph 9.2.2.5). Most commonly this
is related to gas leaks or gas source(s) running low. Verify that all cables are correctly connected.
Check all tubing for gas leaks and pressure in gas supply tanks.
Controller Status: ALARM
The RED color indicates that there is a problem with the unit itself (for example the
sensor is broken). The system is on alarm. Turn the system off, wait for 5 minutes, and turn it
back on. If the color is still red, contact Okolab at www.oko-lab.com for support.
Controller Status: ALARM

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Settings
9.2.1 Gas
Press on the Settings Icon to adjust gas settings, as shown in the Figure 17 (a and b).
a b
Figure 17. Gas Settings (a –b)
When you press the Gas Icon , the Gas Settings Submenu will open. See Figure 18.
Figure 18. Gas Settings submenu
9.2.1.1 Air Source
Press the icon to set which Air source you are using (see Figure 19 a). If this is an external Air tank
or compressed Air line (Compressed Air) or if you are instead using the OKO-AIR-PUMP-BL (Air Pump) (See Figure
19 b).
a b
Figure 19. Air Source page (a - b)

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To connect the air pump (OKO-AIR-PUMP-BL) to the CO2 Controller, see Figure 12. In the case you
are using OKO-AIR-PUMP-BL please note that it can be turned on/off only via the Touch Screen
interface (OKO-TOUCH). Thus, it is essential that you hereby set the correct Air source.
By pressing on “Usage” button (see Figure 20 a), it is possible to check/reset the usage time of the air
pump:
a b
Figure 20. Air pump usage (a –b)
Tip ►Do not forget to reset the time counter after replacing the air pump.
Press on “Adv” button (see Figure 21 a) to change the air pump speed in a range [-10; +10] %: (see Figure
21 b).
ab
Figure 21. Air pump advanced settings (a –b)
Tip ►Reducing the air pump speed will lead to a lower emitted noise from the air pump, while rising the air
pump speed will help if you cannot reach your desired flow rate set-point.
9.2.1.2 Calibrations
Press on Calibration icon to enter in the Calibration Menu, as shown in Figure 22

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Figure 22. How to reach the Sensor Calibration Submenu
9.2.1.2.1 Offset (with exthernal meter)
Press on Offset icon to calibrate the instrument by using an external CO2meter (NOT hereby
provided).
Figure 23. Sensor Calibration Submenu
To run the gas sensor calibration through an external gas meter follow the indications below:
1. Disconnect the blue tubing inserted into the “Gas Output” port. Remove it by keeping the black
ring of this connector pushed in; you should feel no resistance in pulling this tubing out. If you
do make sure you are properly pushing in the black ring.
Output Gas External Gas Meter
Tubing not supplied
CO2-UNIT-BL
Figure 24. External Gas Meter Connection