Rotronic hygrogen2 User manual

E-M-HG2-S-V1_04
Rotronic AG
Bassersdorf, Switzerland
Document code Unit
HygroGen2 humidity and temperature
generator: Instruction Manual Instruction Manual
Document Type
Page 1of 46
Document title
© 2009-2010; Rotronic AG 1E-M-HG2-S-V1_04
Instruction Manual

E-M-HG2-S-V1_04
Rotronic AG
Bassersdorf, Switzerland
Document code Unit
HygroGen2 humidity and temperature
generator: Instruction Manual Instruction Manual
Document Type
Page 2of 46
Document title
© 2009-2010; Rotronic AG 2E-M-HG2-S-V1_04
HygroGen 2 - Quick Start Guide:
Congratulations on selecting the HygroGen humidity and temperature generator; the unit will enable
you to perform accurate and rapid humidity and temperature calibrations for many years. Before
starting to use the instrument there are a few key points you should pay close attention to:
1. Unpacking
Carefully remove the HygroGen from the packaging and visually inspect for any signs of damage and
check the supply contents defined on page 4. Report any damage or missing parts immediately to your
supplier.
2. Pre-checks
First check that the water reservoir is empty by inserting the HG-Fill syringe and trying to extract water.
If you find that the unit was shipped with water, immediately report this to your supplier and do not
power the unit.
3. Installation and Safety
Before using the instrument, please read Sections 1.1 and 4.1 and take particular note of the content.
4. Power shutdown
Incorrect shutdown procedures can lead to failure of the HygroGen. Please read Section 4.9 and take
note of the content.
5. Getting started
After taking note of the guidance above:
•Fill the water reservoir with distilled water as described in Section 2.1
•Check power connection
•Switch on the instrument
•Allow to stabilise to set-points

E-M-HG2-S-V1_04
Rotronic AG
Bassersdorf, Switzerland
Document code Unit
HygroGen2 humidity and temperature
generator: Instruction Manual Instruction Manual
Document Type
Page 3of 46
Document title
© 2009-2010; Rotronic AG 3E-M-HG2-S-V1_04
Contents
Quick Start Guide ............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 2
Manual contents .............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 3
Introduction to the HygroGen, Contents of the standard supply..................................................................................................................................... 4
Part Identification and Screen Diagrams................................................................................................................................................................... 5 to 8
Section 1: Operation .........................................................................................................................................................................................................
1.1 Before Switching On, Switching On, Automatic/Manual Mode ................................................................................................................ 9
1.4 Setting Temperature and Humidity Set-Points, Below Ambient Temperature Operation, Humidity Map ....................................... 10-11
1.6 Above Ambient Temperature Operation, Programmer Function ........................................................................................................... 11
1.8 Water in the Chamber ............................................................................................................................................................................ 12
1.9 Low Water Level Alarm, Switching Off.................................................................................................................................................... 13
Section 2: Maintenance & Servicing .................................................................................................................................................................................
2.1 How to Fill the Water Reservoir, Overfilling the HygroGen .................................................................................................................... 14
2.3. How to Empty the Water Reservoir, How to Change the Desiccant ...................................................................................................... 15
2.5 Choice of Desiccant, Molecular Sieve Desiccant (Factory Standard),...................................................................................................... 16
2.7 Regeneration of Molecular Sieve Desiccant, Silica Gel Desiccant, Regeneration of Silica Gel Desiccant ................................................ 17
2.10 Drierite Desiccant, Regeneration of Drierite Desiccant , Blue-to-Pink Self-Indicating Desiccant,
HygroGen Door Removal and Refitting, HygroClip Probe Removal and Refitting................................................................................. 18
2.15 HygroGen External Cleaning ................................................................................................................................................................. 19
2.16 HygroGen Internal Cleaning, HygroGen Servicing................................................................................................................................. 20
2.18 Water Quality ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 21
Section 3: Connecting Ancillary Equipment.....................................................................................................................................................................
3.1 USB keyboard and mouse, DVI Monitor, Rotronic USB devices.............................................................................................................. 22
3.4 Connecting a Chilled Mirror Instrument, Sample Loop Operation.......................................................................................................... 23
Section 4: Installation Safety & Transit.............................................................................................................................................................................
4.1 Installation, Power Isolation, Earthing, Earth Leakage Current, Over Current Protection, Voltage Rating ............................................ 24
4.7 Conductive Pollution, Preparing the Unit for Transit or Storage............................................................................................................. 25
4.9 Power management ............................................................................................................................................................................... 26
4.10 Shutdown procedures .......................................................................................................................................................................... 27
Section 5: HW4 Embedded................................................................................................................................................................................................
5.1 HW4 Setup and Getting Started ............................................................................................................................................................. 28
5.2 HW4 Installation and Registration, HW4 Support, HW4 Upgrades........................................................................................................ 28
Section 6: Calibration Reference Opions and Uncertainty ..............................................................................................................................................
6.1 Humidity Calibration Reference Options ................................................................................................................................................ 29
6.2 Internal RH Probe Reference, External RH Probe Reference .................................................................................................................. 30
6.4 Chilled Mirror Humidity Reference ......................................................................................................................................................... 31
6.5 Practical Guidance - Chilled Mirror Reference........................................................................................................................................ 32
Section 7: Practical User Notes ........................................................................................................................................................................................
7.1 Probe insertion depth, Stabilisation time ............................................................................................................................................... 33
7.3 Avoiding condensation, Dessicant choice, Calibrating or adjusting HygroClip probes ........................................................................... 34
Section 8: HygroGen Settings and Updates ......................................................................................................................................................................
8.1 HygroGen settings, water level, dessicant, monitor setup ..................................................................................................................... 35
8.5 Date and time, Controller / HW4 Software Update................................................................................................................................ 36
Section 9: HygroGen Screen Messages ......................................................................................................................................................................... 37
Section 10: HygroGen Specification .............................................................................................................................................................................. 38
Section 11: HygroGen Order Codes.......................................................................................................................................................................... 39-40
Section 12: HygroGen Warranty Statement ................................................................................................................................................................. 41
Section 13: Manufacturer & Service Centre Contact Information ............................................................................................................................... 42
Appendices
Appendix 1 - HygroGen Uncertainty Framework - Internal RH probe
Appendix 2 - HygroGen Uncertainty Framework - External RH probe
Appendix 3 - HygroGen Uncertainty Framework - Chilled Mirror Reference
Appendix 4 - Dew Point Uncertainty Analysis

E-M-HG2-S-V1_04
Rotronic AG
Bassersdorf, Switzerland
Document code Unit
HygroGen2 humidity and temperature
generator: Instruction Manual Instruction Manual
Document Type
Page 4of 46
Document title
© 2009-2010; Rotronic AG 4E-M-HG2-S-V1_04
Introduction to the HygroGen
HygroGen is a generator of controlled % relative humidity and temperature environments, primarily for use in
calibrating humidity instrumentation, but also well suited to the calibration of temperature instrumentation,
specifically those used for the measurement of temperature in air.
It is completely self-contained, requiring no external resources except mains power, and is light enough to be
portable for use on-site. This allows technicians to perform calibrations in the laboratory, workshop or on-site.
When used on site, the benefit of a full system calibration can significantly reduce calibration workload in checking
each element of a system and obviate the need to remove instruments from the installation location.
The HygroGen uses a mixed flow method for generating the %rh required by the user, a desiccant cell provides a
source of low humidity, and a piezoelectric humidifier generates high humidity. A Peltier element is used for
heating and cooling the chamber. Measurement and control is provided by a combination of a ROTRONIC
HygroClip probe, an embedded Platinum Resistance Thermometer (PRT) and a multi-loop controller with a touch
screen user interface. Set-points are input using the touch screen front panel display.
The key advantage of the HygroGen is the rapid time to reach equilibrium of the set values, which means that a
multiple-point calibration check can be performed in minutes, rather than hours. With integrated temperature
control, calibrations can always be performed at a defined and constant temperature, irrespective of the ambient
conditions, making the HygroGen suitable for on-site calibrations. It is also possible to calibrate equipment over
their typical working temperature and humidity conditions.
HygroGen includes an embedded controller running a Windows operating system that has had all configuration
settings removed from user access or manipulation. Essential functions can be accessed through menus described
in the HygroGen Settings Section.
The convenience of PC functionality and a USB interface enables the use of Rotronic HW4 software and USB
peripherals such as a keyboard and mouse. Nine USB connections are fitted to the front and back of the HygroGen.
Rotronic USB instruments can be connected to HW4 software through this same interface so that standard
Rotronic calibration adjustment functions can be performed without the need for a separate PC. An external DVI
monitor interface is also included so that HW4 can be displayed full size by the user.
Contents of the Standard Supply Package:
HG2-S HygroGen generator
HG2-DES Desiccant cell filled with molecular sieve
IEC mains cable
HG2-FILL Water fill syringe (with tube)
HC2-S HygroClip control probe with calibration certificate1)
Sample Loop connector cover plugs
This Manual
Chamber door (according to customer's order) 2)
HW4 software ID number
USB memory stick including saved test data and user manual.
1) The calibration certificate included will vary according to the country of supply
2) In some countries, the chamber door is delivered with the HygroGen. Due to the diversity of chamber doors and bungs, these normally are to
be ordered separately and may be delivered in separate packaging.

E-M-HG2-S-V1_04
Rotronic AG
Bassersdorf, Switzerland
Document code Unit
HygroGen2 humidity and temperature
generator: Instruction Manual Instruction Manual
Document Type
Page 5of 46
Document title
© 2009-2010; Rotronic AG 5E-M-HG2-S-V1_04
Part and Screen Identification Diagrams
Figure 1: Front of HygroGen
1) Power switch
2) USB ports
3) Touch screen controller
4) Water port
5) Desiccant cell
6) Chamber door
7) Probe aperture bung
8) Handle
Figure 2: Rear of
HygroGen
1) Sample loop return
2) Sample loop outlet
3) USB ports
4) DVI monitor interface
5) Ethernet socket (service use)
6) Type label
7) Fan outlet
8) Electrical mains connection
9) Power switch

E-M-HG2-S-V1_04
Rotronic AG
Bassersdorf, Switzerland
Document code Unit
HygroGen2 humidity and temperature
generator: Instruction Manual Instruction Manual
Document Type
Page 6of 46
Document title
© 2009-2010; Rotronic AG 6E-M-HG2-S-V1_04
Figure 3: HygroGen Screens
The HygroGen controller consists of four primary screens that are accessed using the forward or back
buttons in a loop:
Secondary Screens are accessed through touch screen buttons. Examples are shown below; sub-screens
and their use are described later in the relevant Section of this manual.
•Program edit
•Monitor-setup
•Pt100 Reference
•Date & time
•Update

E-M-HG2-S-V1_04
Rotronic AG
Bassersdorf, Switzerland
Document code Unit
HygroGen2 humidity and temperature
generator: Instruction Manual Instruction Manual
Document Type
Page 7of 46
Document title
© 2009-2010; Rotronic AG 7E-M-HG2-S-V1_04
Figure 4: Controller Primary Screen
1) Menu access (top left corner HOME)
2) Parameter identification °C
3) Actual chamber temperature
4) Temperature set point
5) Temperature control status indicator
6) Automatic/Manual selection
7) Parameter identification %rh
8) Actual chamber humidity
9) Humidity set-point
10) Humidity control status indicator:
11) Automatic/Manual selection
12) Back to previous screen
13) Access programmer function
14) Access HW4 software
15) Power off
16) Forward to next screen
Figure 5: Trend Screen
1) Graphical trend display
2) Parameter/set point display selection
3) °C actual and set point values
4) %rh actual and set point values
5) Date and time settings
6) Back to previous screen
7) Access programmer function
8) Access HW4 software
9) Power off
10) Forward to next screen
Figure 6: Programmer Screen
1) Scroll back/forward through programs
2) Program number and name
3) Scroll set-points of displayed program
4) Step and set-point conditions
5) Run/stop displayed program
6) Program/step time display
7) Back to previous screen
8) Access programmer function
9) Access HW4 software
10) Power off
11) Forward to next screen

E-M-HG2-S-V1_04
Rotronic AG
Bassersdorf, Switzerland
Document code Unit
HygroGen2 humidity and temperature
generator: Instruction Manual Instruction Manual
Document Type
Page 8of 46
Document title
© 2009-2010; Rotronic AG 8E-M-HG2-S-V1_04
Figure 7: Program Edit Screen
1) Graphical display of program
2) Program step number
3) Temperature set-point
4) Humidity set-point
5) Set-point duration
6) Insert new program step
7) Delete program step
8) Scroll across set-point steps
9) Current program number and name
10) Temperature set-point stability criteria
11) Humidity set-point stability criteria
12) Make set-point temperature only
13) Forward to next screen
Figure 8: Settings Screen
1) Water level display
2) Desiccant condition display
3) External monitor set up
4) Date and time settings
5) Software update utility
6) HG information access
7) Back to previous menu
8) Access programmer function
9) Access HW4 software
10) Power off
11) Forward to next screen
Figure 9: Set-Point Entry Pop-Up
At any time, the user can change humidity or
temperature set-points by simply touching
the set-point on screen. This pop-up will
appear, and either the touch screen or where
connected the keyboard/mouse used to input
desired values.

E-M-HG2-S-V1_04
Rotronic AG
Bassersdorf, Switzerland
Document code Unit
HygroGen2 humidity and temperature
generator: Instruction Manual Instruction Manual
Document Type
Page 9of 46
Document title
© 2009-2010; Rotronic AG 9E-M-HG2-S-V1_04
Section 1: Operation
1.1 Before Switching On
Ensure the operator has read and implemented Section 4 of this manual “Installation, safety and transit”
Check there is no water in the chamber - see Section 1.8
If the unit is being switched on for the first time, or after storage or transit, please fill the
water reservoir, as described in the ‘How to Fill the Water Reservoir’ - Section 2.1 (page 13)
If the unit is used in a manner not specified by ROTRONIC, the function and protection provided by the
unit may be impaired.
Note: The feet on the rear panel are for standing the unit for service purposes, and to ensure a sufficient
air gap behind the unit. The unit will not operate in the vertical position.
1.2 Switching On
1) Ensure the electrical mains supply is correctly plugged in and switched on.
2) Switch the unit on by pressing the Power Switch (figure 1) once.
3) The fans within the unit will switch giving an immediate audible indication the unit is powered.
4) The controller will power up and settle to the controller primary screen in figure 3.
On power up:
•The temperature and humidity set-points default to the last set values.
•The temperature control defaults to automatic mode (controlling the temperature)
•The humidity control defaults to manual mode
If the ‘Low Water Level’ alarm is displayed then the unit should be filled as described
in the ‘How to Fill the Water Reservoir’ Section 2.1. Humidification is disabled until
water is filled.
1.3 Automatic/Manual Mode
Both temperature and humidity control can be set to automatic or
manual. Automatic mode results in the unit attempting to adjust to the
temperature (or humidity) in the chamber to match the set-point value.
Manual mode (automatic/manual selection displays ‘Off’) prevents the
unit from trying to control the chamber.
The automatic or manual status of both the temperature and humidity control is displayed on the
controller primary screen (figure 4). To toggle the humidity or temperature control loop between
automatic and manual press the automatic/manual selection for temperature or humidity.

E-M-HG2-S-V1_04
Rotronic AG
Bassersdorf, Switzerland
Document code Unit
HygroGen2 humidity and temperature
generator: Instruction Manual Instruction Manual
Document Type
Page 10 of 46
Document title
© 2009-2010; Rotronic AG 10 E-M-HG2-S-V1_04
1.4 Setting Temperature and Humidity Set-Points
The temperature and humidity set-points are set by touching the set-point
value on the primary controller screen. When in automatic mode the set-
point value can be adjusted by entering the desired set point value in the
pop-up window that is displayed.
NOTE: To aid a smooth and efficient transition between temperature set-points the controller is
programmed to suspend humidification during changes in temperature. Once the chamber temperature
is within 0.7°C of the temperature set-point, the humidity control is activated.
When set-point combinations that resolve a low dew point condition (i.e. 0°C, 5%rh = -36°C dew point)
are input, make sure that the desiccant is dry enough to achieve the desired value. Check the desiccant
condition on screen (Figure 8) and consult maintenance records to establish when the desiccant was last
changed. Stabilisation time to low RH conditions will be longer than normal as the chamber and internal
surfaces need to be very dry.
Once the HygroGen has reached a stable condition, the Auto/Manual button will change colour to
green.
1.5 Below Ambient Temperature Operation
If the chamber is cooling (or maintaining a temperature below ambient), then the heat pump assembly
inside the chamber will necessarily be below the chamber temperature. If the humidity in the chamber
is high, the cool heat pump assembly can bring the local air temperature below the dew point, causing
condensation to occur on the internal heat pump assembly. If run under these conditions for extended
periods condensation will collect in the chamber. This will not affect chamber performance within
normal operating ranges (though it will increase the time to achieve low humidity). Water in the
chamber can be removed using an absorbent tissue. Ensure the HygroGen is switched off before
manually drying the chamber.
When operating the unit at high humidity and chamber temperatures of more than a few degrees below
ambient the following procedure will minimise condensation in the chamber during stabilisation.
1. Set-point temperature to approximately ambient
2. Set-point humidity to that desired and allow the HygroGen to stabilise
3. Set the humidity control to Manual (as described in Automatic/Manual Mode Section 1.3).
4. Apply the temperature set-point to that desired and allow the HygroGen to stabilise
5. Wait for the Humidity reading to fully stabilise (may take 15 to 20 minutes)
6. Set the humidity control loop to Automatic
It is recommended that the chamber door is not opened when the chamber temperature is below the
ambient temperature as water vapour from the atmospheric air introduced will condense out in to the
chamber. The dehumidification of the chamber takes longer at lower chamber temperatures.