SCIENTIFIC INSTRUMENTS 9700 User manual

SCIENTIFIC INSTRUMENTS, INC.
090-256
OPERATION MANUAL
for
9700 TEMPERATURE CONTROLLER
Record of Revisions
Rev RFEA # Description Rev by Date Appr by Date
-
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
J
K
0728
0729
0734
0768
0850
0878
Initial Release
Modified Specifications
Modified Specifications
Added T/C Support
Added variable external
T/C reference
Modified for electronic
distribution
Corrected for new GUI
version
Revised rear panel,
other changes
New T/C board
Documentation and
spec. refinements
Additional Safety Notes
DS
DS
MS
MS
MS
MS
MS
MS
SL
MS
5/9/02
5/29/02
7/31/02
8/30/02
12/18/02
01/20/03
03/28/03
06/18/03
05/06/04
09/23/04
DS
DS
DS
DS
MS
MS
WJ
WJ
MS
DS
5/9/02
5/29/02
7/31/02
9/3/02
12/18/02
01/20/03
03/28/03
06/18/03
05/20/04
09/23/04

090-256 i
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Quick Start - Model 9700 Temperature Controller -......................................................... 1
Quick Start - Model 9700 Temperature Controller Graphical User Interface -................. 5
Quick Start - Model 9700 Thermocouple Option - ........................................................... 9
1IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION.................................................................. 1-1
1.1 Heater Considerations................................................................................... 1-1
1.2 Auxiliary Outputs (Heater Voltage and Analog) ............................................. 1-1
1.3 Flashing Alarm LED....................................................................................... 1-1
1.4 Heater Fuse................................................................................................... 1-1
1.5 Temperature Display of 999.9 ....................................................................... 1-1
1.6 Grounding Lug............................................................................................... 1-2
1.7 Instrument Case ............................................................................................ 1-2
2DESCRIPTION ....................................................................................................... 2-1
2.1 Standard Features......................................................................................... 2-1
2.2 Options .......................................................................................................... 2-1
2.3 Controller Specifications................................................................................ 2-2
2.3.1 User Interface........................................................................................ 2-2
2.3.2 Sensor Inputs ........................................................................................ 2-2
2.3.3 Optional Signal Conditioning Cards....................................................... 2-3
2.3.4 Main Heater Output ............................................................................... 2-3
2.3.5 Analog Output ....................................................................................... 2-3
2.3.6 Communication Interface....................................................................... 2-3
2.3.7 Relay Outputs........................................................................................ 2-4
2.3.8 General.................................................................................................. 2-4
3SENSOR SELECTION ........................................................................................... 3-1
3.1 Standard Factory Settings ............................................................................. 3-1
3.2 Sensor Performance...................................................................................... 3-1
3.3 Sensor Curves............................................................................................... 3-1
4INSTALLATION ...................................................................................................... 4-1
5OPERATION........................................................................................................... 5-1
5.1 General Description of User Interface ........................................................... 5-1
5.2 Main Displays ................................................................................................ 5-1

090-256 ii
5.3 Control Modes ............................................................................................... 5-2
5.3.1 Stop ....................................................................................................... 5-2
5.3.2 Manual (Normal).................................................................................... 5-2
5.3.3 Program................................................................................................. 5-2
5.3.4 Fixed...................................................................................................... 5-3
5.3.5 AutoTune............................................................................................... 5-3
5.3.5.1 General Description ..................................................................... 5-3
5.3.5.2 Procedure .................................................................................... 5-3
5.4 Menu System ................................................................................................ 5-4
5.4.1 Set Points .............................................................................................. 5-4
5.4.1.1 Main Set Point.............................................................................. 5-5
5.4.1.2 Aux Set Point ............................................................................... 5-5
5.4.1.3 Fixed Heater (Main) ..................................................................... 5-5
5.4.1.4 Fixed Heater (Aux) ....................................................................... 5-5
5.4.2 Control Settings..................................................................................... 5-6
5.4.2.1 PID (Main).................................................................................... 5-6
5.4.2.2 PID (Aux) ..................................................................................... 5-6
5.4.2.3 PID (Zones).................................................................................. 5-6
5.4.2.4 Control Type................................................................................. 5-7
5.4.2.5 Control Sensor ............................................................................. 5-7
5.4.2.6 Max Heater Power ....................................................................... 5-7
5.4.3 Programs............................................................................................... 5-7
5.4.3.1 Edit Current Program ................................................................... 5-8
5.4.3.2 Edit Stored Program..................................................................... 5-9
5.4.3.3 Activate Program........................................................................ 5-10
5.4.4 Auxiliary Output Options...................................................................... 5-10
5.4.4.1 Analog Output ............................................................................ 5-10
5.4.4.1.1 Disable............................................................................... 5-11
5.4.4.1.2 Temperature ...................................................................... 5-11
5.4.4.1.3 Deviation from Set Point .................................................... 5-11
5.4.4.1.4 Aux PID.............................................................................. 5-11
5.4.4.1.5 Fixed Output ...................................................................... 5-11
5.4.4.2 Relay Settings............................................................................ 5-12

090-256 iii
5.4.5 Sensor Curves..................................................................................... 5-12
5.4.5.1 View Active Curve ...................................................................... 5-13
5.4.5.2 Edit User Curve.......................................................................... 5-13
5.4.5.3 Select Curve .............................................................................. 5-14
5.4.5.4 Correct Curve............................................................................. 5-15
5.4.6 Communication ................................................................................... 5-16
5.4.6.1 Baud Rate .................................................................................. 5-16
5.4.6.2 GPIB (or IEEE-488) Address ..................................................... 5-16
5.4.7 Instrument Setup ................................................................................. 5-16
5.4.7.1 Data Collection........................................................................... 5-16
5.4.7.2 Data Entry Mode ........................................................................ 5-17
5.4.7.3 Display Setup............................................................................. 5-18
5.4.7.4 Channel Enable.......................................................................... 5-18
5.4.8 Diagnostics.......................................................................................... 5-18
5.4.8.1 Software Version........................................................................ 5-18
5.4.8.2 Display/LED Test ....................................................................... 5-18
5.4.8.3 Keypad Test............................................................................... 5-19
5.4.8.4 Heater/Analog Output Test ........................................................ 5-19
5.4.8.5 Relay Test.................................................................................. 5-20
5.5 Thermocouple Setup and Calibration .......................................................... 5-20
5.5.1 Thermocouple Hardware Configuration............................................... 5-21
5.5.2 Entering the Thermocouple Setup & Calibration Mode........................ 5-21
5.5.3 Operation with an External Reference................................................. 5-21
5.5.4 Using Internal Room Temperature Compensation .............................. 5-22
5.5.5 Calibration of Internal Room Temperature Compensation .................. 5-22
5.6 Additional Diagnostic Features and High/Low Temperature........................ 5-23
5.6.1 Temperature High & Low Statistics ..................................................... 5-23
5.6.2 Current Adjustment Values.................................................................. 5-23
5.6.3 Heater & Analog Output Values .......................................................... 5-24
5.6.4 Communications Debug Display ......................................................... 5-24
5.7 Factory Defaults .......................................................................................... 5-24
5.7.1 Resetting Variables ............................................................................. 5-24
5.7.2 Resetting Sensor Curves..................................................................... 5-25

090-256 iv
5.7.3 Resetting Programs............................................................................. 5-25
6GRAPHICAL USER INTERFACE (GUI) ................................................................. 6-1
6.1 Sensor Configuration..................................................................................... 6-1
6.1.1 Loading a Sensor Curve........................................................................ 6-1
6.1.2 Activating a Sensor Curve ..................................................................... 6-1
6.1.3 Reading a Sensor Curve ....................................................................... 6-2
6.1.4 Sensor Data Format .............................................................................. 6-2
6.2 Program Editor .............................................................................................. 6-3
6.2.1 Creating a Program Temperature Profile............................................... 6-3
6.2.2 Loading a Program ................................................................................ 6-4
6.2.3 Selecting a Program .............................................................................. 6-4
6.2.4 Retrieving a Program............................................................................. 6-4
6.2.5 Saving a Program to Disk...................................................................... 6-4
6.3 Zone PID Settings ......................................................................................... 6-4
7OBTAINING PROPER TEMPERATURE CONTROL.............................................. 7-1
7.1 AutoTune....................................................................................................... 7-2
7.2 Adjustment of PID parameters ...................................................................... 7-2
7.3 Using Zone PID Control................................................................................. 7-3
8REMOTE COMPUTER INTERFACE...................................................................... 8-1
8.1 DLL Header Listing........................................................................................ 8-1
8.2 LabVIEW™ Drivers ...................................................................................... 8-3
8.3 Low Level Communications........................................................................... 8-3
8.3.1 Command Set Summary ....................................................................... 8-3
8.3.2 DETAILED COMMAND SYNTAX.......................................................... 8-4
8.3.3 Detailed Command Summary ............................................................... 8-5
9CALIBRATION........................................................................................................ 9-1
9.1 Equipment Necessary ................................................................................... 9-1
9.2 Preparation.................................................................................................... 9-1
9.3 Procedure...................................................................................................... 9-1
9.3.1 Diode and RTD Models ......................................................................... 9-2
9.3.1.1 Current Source Calibration........................................................... 9-2
9.3.1.2 A/D Converter Calibration ............................................................ 9-2
9.3.2 Thermocouple Models ........................................................................... 9-3

090-256 v
10 HARDWARE......................................................................................................... 10-1
10.1 Replacing the Heater Fuse.......................................................................... 10-1
10.2 Using an External Power Booster................................................................ 10-1
11 APPENDIX A: SENSOR PERFORMANCE SPECIFICATION .............................. 11-1

9700 Temperature Controller 1 Quick Start
QUICK START
-MODEL 9700 TEMPERATURE CONTROLLER -
Congratulations!
You have purchased an innovative product from Scientific Instruments employing the latest
technology. The Model 9700 Temperature Controller is designed to combine high performance
with simplicity of use. The provided LabVIEW™ based Graphical User Interface (GUI) is a
valuable extension to the instrument, providing a simple way to collect data, change instrument
parameters, and update user curves.
Features
•(2) 24 bit A/D Converters (0.001 K resolution)
•Fail-safe 0 – 50 VDC, 1 Amp current controlled heater output (50 Watts)
•LabVIEW™ based Graphical User Interface (GUI) for Windows®
•Advanced AutoTune Capability
•RS232 and IEEE-488 Standard
•Universal AC input, 90 – 250 VAC
Hardware Installation
Before using the Model 9700 Temperature Controller, several connections must be made to the
rear panel.

9700 Temperature Controller 2 Quick Start
•Attach the power cord to the universal A/C connector.
•Wire the sensor plug(s) either to the sensor(s) to be used or to a decade box for testing.
If only one is to be used, the other channel may be left open.
•Wire the supplied banana plug to a heater or equivalent resistive load and connect to the
instrument.
•If the Model 9700 is to be used with a computer, connect a communications cable
(RS232 cable or IEEE-488 cable). Communication cables are not supplied with the unit.
Operation of the GUI is covered in a separate Quick Start document.
NOTE: Sensor plugs and communication cables may be connected and disconnected with
power applied to the controller, but normally the heater should only be connected with power
off. In the event that a heater alarm occurs (due to an open heater circuit or no heater
connected), the alarm can only be reset by removing power.
Operation
After making the connections described above, apply A/C power. In the standard configuration
of the instrument, the main display shows the temperature on channels A and B, the control set
point, percent heater power, and the mode of operation.
Pressing the rocker switch Up or Down cycles the display through the various options of the
main display. These options allow the user to see the sensor voltage (or resistance, if an RTD
device is connected).
Menu Key
The menu key provides access to the instrument’s operating parameters. Pressing the
menu key displays the main menu, which contains eight options; each of these options has
a sub-menu. The menu key is illuminated when the instrument is the menu mode. (The
control mode menu cannot be accessed while in the menu mode.)
Select menu options by moving the cursor to the desired option and pressing enter, or by
pressing the number of the desired option. Pressing the rocker switch up or down moves
the cursor up or down in the menu one line at a time. Pressing the rocker switch left or right
moves the cursor up or down two lines at a time.
A one-page overview of the menu structure has been provided as a reference guide to
assist in locating menu options. Press the menu key again to exit the menu mode.
Changing the Set Point
To change the main set point, press “menu, 1, 1” and enter the new number, or press
escape to return to the main display. For more instructions on editing numbers and menu
navigation, see the “Fine Points” section at the end of this Quick Start.
Setting PID Values
Default values for the PID constants are set at the factory. To customize the PID values for
your control environment, press “menu, 2, 1.” The PID values are displayed in sequence.
For further instructions on editing numbers and navigating the menu, see the “Fine Points”
section at the end of this Quick Start.

9700 Temperature Controller 3 Quick Start
Warning!!!
The Model 9700 is capable of supplying 50 watts. If this will exceed the power rating of your
heater, you should limit the power using the “Maximum Heater Power” parameter (accessed by
pressing “menu, 2, 6”). Proper heat sinking must be provided for the heater.
Control Key
Pressing the control key displays a menu with the possible control modes. To select an
option, either move the cursor with the rocker switch to the desired option and press enter,
or simply press the number of the option. When a control mode is selected, the control key
lights to show that the instrument is controlling. The “percent heater power” field on the
main display allows monitoring of the heater power. The heater bar graph provides a more
visible, but less accurate indication of heater power.
To end control, simply press the control key again. The control button will no longer be
illuminated and the instrument will return to the STOP mode. A Useful Shortcut: Press the
control key once to display the control options menu. Press the control key a second time to
start the instrument controlling in the manual control mode (Norm). Note that the control key
is not accessible in the menu mode (activated by the menu key, as explained above) except
to stop control.
AutoTune
One of the first things you will want to do to help find the optimal control settings for your
control environment is try the AutoTune feature. This is an innovative feature that tests
system response and recommends PID values. Instructions for running AutoTune are
beyond the scope of this Quick Start, but can be found in the manual. Please refer to those
instructions, since an AutoTune started improperly will not be successful.
Setting Communication Parameters
In order to use the Model 9700 GUI or any other remote interface, it is necessary to have
communication parameters set properly. Press “menu, 6, 1” to access the baud rate for
RS232, or “menu, 6, 2” to set the GPIB address. A separate “Quick Start” document covers
the use of the Model 9700 GUI.
Fine Points
Editing
There are several tips that may prove useful while editing a number. To replace an existing
number, simply enter the new digits. Alternatively, individual digits of the existing number
can be replaced in the overtype mode. To enter the overtype mode, press the rocker switch
right or left. The cursor stops flashing and changes to an underline. When the cursor is at
the digit to be replaced, press the new digit. Pressing the rocker switch up or down
increments or decrements the digit where the cursor is located. Pressing enter accepts the
new number, while pressing escape will restore it to its original value.
Notes on Menu Navigation
When exiting from editing a number (either by pressing enter or escape), the display will
return to the previous menu, or it will exit the menu mode and return to the main display.
This depends on whether the data entry mode (menu, 7, 2) is set to “Remain in Menu,” or
“Exit Menus.”

9700 Temperature Controller 4 Quick Start
MENU STRUCTURE FOR MODEL 9700 TEMPERATURE CONTROLLER
1) Set Points
1) Main Setpoint – Set point for the main control loop
2) Aux Setpoint – Set point for the auxiliary control loop
3) Fixed Htr (Main) – Fixed percentage applied to heater if Fixed Control Mode is selected
4) Fixed Htr (Aux) – Fixed percentage applied to Analog Output if A-Out Type is “Fixed Output”
2) Control Settings
1) PID (Main) – Cycles through P, I, & D for Main Control Loop
2) PID (Aux) – Cycles through P, I, & D for Auxiliary Control Loop
3) PID (Zones) – Cycles through set point, P, I, & D for each zone used in Zoned PID Control
4) Control Type – Selects either Normal PID Control or Zoned PID Control
5) Control Sensor – Assigns the main control loop to Channel A or Channel B
6) Max Heater Power – Provides a software limit for heater power (0 – 100%)
3) Programs
1) Edit Current Prog – Allows user to edit temperature and time points for the current program
2) Edit Stored Prog – Allows user to edit temperature & time points for a stored program
3) Activate Program – Recall a stored program to the active program position
4) Aux Output
1) Analog Output – Sets analog output to one of the following modes:
a) Disable – No voltage is output
b) Temperature – Analog output scaled between high and low scaling points
c) Deviation from SP – Deviation from the main set point (choose range scaling factor)
d) Aux PID – Acts as second PID control loop; set point is Aux Set Point
e) Fixed Output – A fixed voltage (percentage) is applied to Analog Out when control mode is on
2) Relays – Assign channel, set hysteresis & set point for relays 1 & 2
5) Sensor Curves
1) View Active Curve – View the active curve on channel A or channel B
2) Edit User Curve – Edit any of the five user curves
3) Select Curve – Choose a curve to activate on channel A or channel B
4) Correct Curve – Enter calibration points to adjust active curve on channel A or channel B
6) Communication
1) Baud Rate – Set the baud rate for RS232 communications
2) GPIB Address – Set the address used in IEEE-488 communications
7) Instrument Setup
1) Data Collection – Choose filter settings and whether RTD currents will switch
2) Data Entry Mode – Choose whether Escape & Enter exit menu mode or remain in menu mode
3) Display Setup – Set display resolution and choose either Kelvin or Celsius
4) Channel Enable – Enable or disable channel A or channel B
8) Diagnostics
1) Software Version – Displays the instrument firmware revision level
2) Display/LED Test – Lights all pixels on the display and all front panel LED’s
3) Keypad Test – Displays legend for each key pressed
4) Heater/A_Out Test – Manually sets heater output or analog output to 25% points
5) Relay Test – Manually turns each relay on or off

9700 Graphical User Interface 5 Quick Start
QUICK START
-MODEL 9700 TEMPERATURE CONTROLLER GRAPHICAL USER INTERFACE -
Congratulations!
You have purchased an innovative product from Scientific Instruments employing the latest
technology. The Model 9700 Temperature Controller is designed to combine high performance
with simplicity of use. This LabVIEW™ based Graphical User Interface (GUI) is a valuable
extension to the instrument, providing a simple way to collect data, change instrument
parameters, and transfer sensor curves.
Minimum System Requirements:
•486 100 MHz IBM compatible
•Windows® 95 operating system, or a more recent Windows® operating system
•32 MB RAM (for Windows® 95 operating system)
•CD ROM Drive
•79 MB Free Hard Disk Space
•VGA monitor with 800 x 600 resolution or greater
Program Installation
Insert the CD in the computer’s CD ROM drive; the installation program should start
automatically. If it does not, click Start, Run, and type the name of your CD ROM drive,
followed by setup.exe. (Example: D:\setup.exe) There are automatically installed components
and manually installed components. Do not remove the CD until all have been installed.
Automatically Installed Components
Follow the instructions on the screen, exiting other programs before continuing. In some
cases, it will be necessary to restart the computer during the installation process, as
directed. The installation program will suggest a default directory in which to install the GUI.
If this is not acceptable, click the Browse button and choose a new directory. Click OK to
accept the new directory and click Next to continue. Click Next again to begin copying files.
If the LabVIEW™ Run-Time Engine is not installed on the computer, it will be installed
automatically. The message “M9700 Graphical User Interface has been successfully
installed” indicates that the process of installing the automatically installed components is
complete. Click Finish to exit the installation program and continue with the following step.
Manually Installed Components
It is also necessary to have the National Instruments™ Virtual Instrumentation Software
Architecture resource manager (NI-VISA™) installed in order to run the GUI. This is an
application program interface (API) for the I/O devices and handles GPIB and serial port
communications.

9700 Graphical User Interface 6 Quick Start
If You Have LabVIEW™ 6i, or Later
The resource manager may already be installed on your computer if you are using
LabVIEW™ 6i, or later for instrumentation control, but you should upgrade to this version. If
you have a version of NI-VISA™ earlier than 2.0.1 installed, it is strongly recommended that
you uninstall it first, reboot, and then install this version. NI-VISA™ should upgrade properly
over NI-VISA™ versions 2.0.1 through 2.5.2. The readme.txt file in the “NI-VISA 2.6” folder
on the CD contains more detailed instructions and information on other installation issues.
If You Do Not Have LabVIEW™ 6i, or Later
If the resource manager (NI-VISA™) is not already on your computer, you may install it by
running the visa260runtime file in the “NI-VISA 2.6” folder on the CD. To do this, open
Explorer (hold the Windows® key down and press ‘e’), or use another method of browsing
the CD. Open the “NI-VISA 2.6” folder and double click the visa260runtime file, which is an
application; when the window appears, click Setup. Choose the “Complete” option of
installation. Follow the installation program instructions as prompted.
Other Resources on the CD
An updated driver for many GPIB cards has been provided for your convenience in the folder
“NI-488.2 (1.7)”. If the GUI works properly with RS232, but does not work properly with GPIB,
check to see if this folder contains a newer version of the driver for your card. The ReadMe.txt
file contains a list of supported cards and Windows® operating systems.
Operation
Before using the Model 9700, first follow the procedure in the instrument’s Quick Start, which
provides instructions for making rear panel connections and applying power. Connect the 9700
to your computer using either an RS232 or GPIB cable (not included).
Starting the Program
Click Start, then select Programs, Scientific Instruments, “M9700 Graphical User Interface”
to start the GUI. (The M9700 User Manual is also available in the same program group.
Adobe® Acrobat® Reader version 4.0 or later is required to view the manual properly.) It
may be necessary to reposition the GUI on the screen after it starts up in order to see the
complete window. A monitor resolution of at least 800 x 600 is required. The GUI will not
communicate with the instrument when it is first started; proceed with the following section,
which describes how to set communication parameters.
Setting Communication Parameters
The first thing you must do once the program is running is set the communication
parameters according to the connection you have made. From the menu at the top, click on
Tools, and then on Communications Setup. For GPIB communications, check the GPIB
box. The controller can be left at “0” and the Address box should match the address set via
the front panel on the instrument (menu, 6, 2). The default instrument address is 15.
For RS232 communications, check the “Serial” box and select the correct com port (where
the cable is connected). If the “COM Port” box is blank, this usually indicates that NI-
VISA™ has not been installed, as directed above. If some options are displayed, but the

9700 Graphical User Interface 7 Quick Start
desired com port is not available in the drop down list, this usually means that another
device, such as the mouse, or another program, such as a palm top PC program, has
control of that com port. The port must be released before it will appear as available. In the
“Port Speed” box, choose the baud rate that matches the baud rate set via the front panel
on the instrument (menu, 6, 1). The default baud rate set at the factory is 9600. Improved
performance and faster update times may be observed at higher baud rates.
When the proper settings have been made, click OK. At this point, the busy “LED” at the
top of the screen should light as the GUI attempts to communicate with the instrument.
After a period of time (less than 1 minute), the red “Communications” LED should change to
green, indicating that communication has been established. The REMOTE LED on the
instrument lights when serial port or GPIB communication occurs.
Main Display
The main display of the GUI shows a graph of temperature versus time for channels A and
B. At the bottom is a graph of heater power versus time. To the right of the graph are
digital displays of temperature and the set point for each channel. PID values and other
system parameters are also shown.
To change a set point, PID values, or other system parameters, simply click in the box, type
the new value and press Enter or click outside the box. The Busy LED will light while the
GUI sends the command to the instrument and queries the status of other system
parameters.
At the far right are buttons with the various control modes. A green box shows the current
mode of operation. To select another mode, simply click on the button for the desired mode
of operation.
File Menu
Under the File menu, there are options to start or stop log files for data collection. There is
also an option to exit the program. Another way to end the program is by pressing the End
key.
Edit Menu
The edit options are only active when the cursor is in one of the text fields and editing
actions are performed. These are standard functions similar to those in many programs.
Tools Menu
Most of the available system operations are located under the tools menu. The
Communications Setup is the last option on the menu and was referenced above in order to
set communication parameters after starting the program.
At the top of the tools menu are two options. Refresh causes the GUI to query all
parameters from the instrument and refresh the display. Use this option to make certain
that all parameters shown are current. The other option, “Clear Graphs,” erases
time/temperature points shown in the graphs. These two functions are also available as
buttons on the lower right of the main display.
The Sensor Configuration option makes it possible to view the curves stored in the
instrument or download new curves. The Zone PID Settings option makes it possible to

9700 Graphical User Interface 8 Quick Start
view the PID values and set points for each of the ten zones used when zoned PID control
is selected.
Relay Control provides access to the set point and hysteresis values for the two relays. The
Program Editor provides a convenient way to build program profiles and download them to
the instrument.
Window Menu
If more than one window is open, the window menu allows switching between the various
windows.
Thank You!
This completes our brief overview of the LabVIEW™-based Graphical User Interface. We hope
you enjoy using the GUI and find it a valuable extension to the Scientific Instruments Model
9700 Temperature Controller.
GRAPHICAL USER INTERFACE MAIN SCREEN

9700 Thermocouple Option 9 Quick Start
QUICK START
-MODEL 9700 THERMOCOUPLE OPTION -
Congratulations!
You have purchased an innovative option for the Model 9700 Temperature Controller from
Scientific Instruments. This Quick Start provides the information unique to the thermocouple
option, namely the connection of the thermocouple temperature sensor. Reference should also
be made to the other “Quick Starts” for additional information, as that information is not
repeated here.
Features
•All industry standard thermocouples are supported
•Both external reference (ice bath) and room temperature compensation available
•Individual thermocouple calibration capability
Reference Junction
A unique feature of thermocouples is the necessity for what is commonly known as a “reference
junction.” Even though every thermocouple generates a temperature dependent voltage from a
single junction, it is not possible to measure that voltage without creating a second junction of
opposite polarity. The voltage measured will be the difference between the two junctions, thus
the accuracy of the measurement depends directly on the accuracy of the junction.
The most common method of creating this reference junction is by use of an “ice bath.” This is
normally a thermos bottle of some kind with a mixture of ice and pure water. The reference
thermocouple is connected as shown in the following diagram and then inserted into this
mixture. The accuracy of this ice bath can be increased by providing a continual mixing, and by
inserting the thermocouple in a small plastic tube filled with oil.
Because of the inconvenience of maintaining an ice bath, the reference junction is often
simulated with electronic circuitry. This is commonly known as “room temperature
compensation.” The reference junction is actually created where the thermocouple wires join
the connector, and the temperature of that junction is monitored and used to generate a
reference voltage as though the junction was actually being held in ice. While this method is
much more convenient, it can also be a source of inaccuracy depending on many factors.
For best results, when using room temperature compensation, care should be taken to protect
the thermocouple plug from direct sunlight and air drafts. One method of doing this is to cover
the connector and compensation module with a protective shield after the thermocouple is
connected. When simple precautions such as this are taken, the results are often acceptable
for many applications. In addition, for best results, the thermocouple should not be grounded.

9700 Thermocouple Option 10 Quick Start
Jumper Selection
When the thermocouple option is purchased, the thermocouple connector and compensation
module is mounted on the back panel for each channel. This module covers the normal
diode/RTD connector location. There are jumpers inside this module that must be set prior to
using the instrument. They may have already been set to the proper position at the factory, but
they still should be verified. The cover plate should be removed to gain access to these jumpers.
The first selection should be for either external or internal compensation. This is made by
moving JMP1 and JMP2 to position 2-3 for external (ice bath) compensation, or to position 1-2
for internal (electronic) compensation. (Notice in the diagram below showing thermocouple
connections that pin 1 is on the left side for JMP2 and on the right side for JMP1.) If internal
compensation is selected, then a jumper must be placed in the correct position to select the
thermocouple according to the following table. A menu option in the thermocouple setup mode
must be set to follow the choice of compensation, and the proper thermocouple curve must be
selected as described in the operation section of the manual.
Jumper T/C Type Positive (+) Negative (-)
JP1 J Iron Copper-Nickel (red)
JP2 K Nickel Chromium (yellow) Nickel-Aluminum (red)
JP2 T Copper (blue) Copper-Nickel (red)
JP3 R,S Platinum-Rhodium (black) Platinum (red)
JP4 E Nickel-Chromium (Purple) Copper Nickel (Red)
JP5 CrAu Chromel Gold
Calibration
The thermocouple option is a factory-installed option. The Model 9700 is calibrated at the factory
to read millivolts. If external compensation is used, no further instrument calibration is necessary.
If internal compensation is used, after the proper jumper selections have been made, a final
calibration of the compensation circuit must be performed. If the type of thermocouple to be
used was specified at order placement, this calibration has already been done. If the
thermocouple type was not specified, or if another type is selected, this calibration must be
performed again. Refer to the operation section of the manual for additional details.
Provision has also been made to calibrate an individual thermocouple to known calibration points
if desired. Again, refer to the operation section of the manual for the details of this procedure.

MODEL 9700 SCIENTIFIC INSTRUMENTS INC.
090-256 1-1
1 IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
1.1 Heater Considerations
Proper heater selection, system design, and installation are critical to assure
maximum performance and safety. The following are important considerations:
•The heater circuit may produce up to 50 watts of power. The heater must be
capable of dissipating this power properly.
•The circuit is Current controlled to 50 VDC @ 1 Amp. Parallel connection of
multiple heaters may cause catastrophic failure.
1.2 Auxiliary Outputs (Heater Voltage and Analog)
There are two auxiliary voltage outputs. One is a voltage output of the main control
circuit (0 to 5 VDC) and the other is a multifunction analog output (0 to 10 VDC).
Both of these outputs are rated at 1-watt output, but they are not fused, and a heavy
load may damage the circuit. It is recommended that connections to these outputs
be carefully made prior to applying power to the controller to minimize the possibility
of damage to the circuits through accidental shorts.
1.3 Flashing Alarm LED
Indicates a heater circuit fault condition. Heater power is turned OFF and the
controller is set to STOP mode when flashing. The heater circuit is isolated by
opening a relay. AC power down is the only way to reset the Fail Safe circuit. If the
controller is being operated as an indicator only, it is recommended that a dummy
heater (resistor, 50 ohms maximum) be connected to the heater output so that the
heater protection circuit does not activate. If a very low resistance (or short) is used
for this purpose, care must be taken that the heater output is not activated.
Operating the heater with a short circuit attached will cause heavy currents in the
output transistor, possibly damaging the device or creating excessive temperatures.
1.4 Heater Fuse
The heater circuit is fused by an internal fuse mounted on the main circuit board. It is
provided as a backup to the normal heater protection, and thus it is highly unlikely
that this fuse will blow. In the event that it does, the indication would be that the
heater alarm light will flash indicating that the heater circuit is open even when a
proper heater is connected and the unit has been powered off and back on to reset
the normal heater protection. If this condition exists, refer to instructions for replacing
this fuse located in the HARDWARE section of this manual.
1.5 Temperature Display of 999.9
A display of 999.9 indicates a sensor reading outside of the range of the sensor data
table. It could be a fault condition such as an open or shorted sensor. If the sensor
fault appears on the control channel, the controller shifts to STOP mode, turning off
heater power.

MODEL 9700 SCIENTIFIC INSTRUMENTS INC.
090-256 1-2
1.6 Grounding Lug
The grounding post mounted on the rear panel does not have a standard grounding
function and is not required to be used. However, it may be used to provide
additional grounding of the unit if desired.
1.7 Instrument Case
In the event it becomes necessary to remove the cover, be sure to remove all A/C
power connections first. In addition, care should be taken to reinstall the special
washers used on the screws that hold the cover in place. Failure to use these
washers could create a safety hazard by allowing the cover to become ungrounded
to the chassis.

MODEL 9700 SCIENTIFIC INSTRUMENTS INC.
090-256 2-1
2 DESCRIPTION
The 9700 Temperature Controller is a state-of-the-art temperature controller
designed to meet the present day requirements for cryogenic temperature control. It
may be operated as a stand-alone instrument or in conjunction with a computer. A
Graphical User Interface (GUI) for a personal computer is provided as a standard
feature. This user interface provides an easy way to set all instrument parameters
and evaluate performance in a new environment. After the instrument has been
configured, the GUI may be used as an operator interface, or it may be controlled
from the user’s program via either an RS232 or GPIB (IEEE-488) interface.
LabVIEW™ drivers are provided on the included CD.
2.1 Standard Features
•Two channels
•Two 24 bit A/D Converters, one per channel
•Dedicated constant current sources on each channel
•Support for diode sensors, 10 µA current source, 0-5 V DC
•Support for DC measurement of RTD devices (10 µA, 100 µA, and 1 mA)
•Heater output 50 watts, current controlled (1 amp @ 50 volts)
•Front panel bar graph heater power indicator (hardware controlled)
•Full short circuit protection on heater output, relay disconnect
•Alternate voltage output (0-5 VDC) for driving higher wattage power supplies
•Multi-function analog output (temperature, deviation, and 2nd PID control loop)
•Two relays with NO/NC contacts
•Dual line, 20 character VFD display (9 mm character height)
•Twenty-key ergonomic operator interface
•Universal power supply, 90-250 VAC, 47-63 Hz
•16 bit processor, flash memory
•AutoTune of PID parameters
2.2 Options
•RTD A/C Signal Conditioning
•“E” range for 0 to 7.5 VDC input
•Thermocouple Support

MODEL 9700 SCIENTIFIC INSTRUMENTS INC.
090-256 2-2
2.3 Controller Specifications
2.3.1 User Interface
•Display............................................ 2 lines by 20 characters Vacuum
Florescent Display (9 mm character
height)
Twenty-key control, numeric keypad,
four-arrow rocker pad, two control
keys, and two data entry keys
•LED Indication ................................ Power, Alarm, Remote, Menu, and
Control
•Display Units................................... Kelvin, Centigrade, Voltage,
Resistance
2.3.2 Sensor Inputs
•Number of Channels....................... 2
•A/D Converter Resolution............... 24 bit (effective resolution 20 bits)
•A/D Sampling rate .......................... 15 Hz (67 milliseconds/sample)
•Input Range.................................... 0 to 5 VDC standard (0 to 7.5 VDC
for “E” option)
•Excitation........................................ Dedicated constant current for each
channel (10 µA standard, 100 µA or 1
ma set at factory at time of order)
•Electronic Resolution...................... 10 µV (standard range of 0 to 5 VDC)
•Electronic Accuracy ........................ +/- 100 µV (standard range of 0 to 5
VDC)
•Display Temperature Resolution .... 0.001K (below 100 K)
•Control Sensor................................ Programmable to either channel
•Filtering........................................... Programmable, Exponential, levels 0
to 9
•Standard Sensor Type.................... Diodes and DC measurement of
RTDs
•Sensor Curves................................ Five user curves plus two active
curves