1. Manuals
  2. Brands
  3. Thermotron Manuals
  4. Controller
  5. AST 8800
  6. Instruction manual

Thermotron AST 8800 Instruction Manual

Hide thumbs
Table of Contents

Advertisement

Quick Links

Download this manual
A Venturedyne, Ltd., Company
AST 8800
Instruction Manual
Revision 10: April 30, 2020

Advertisement

Table of Contents
loading
Need help?

Need help?

Do you have a question about the AST 8800 and is the answer not in the manual?

Questions and answers

Subscribe to Our Youtube Channel

Related Manuals for Thermotron AST 8800

Summary of Contents for Thermotron AST 8800

  • Page 1 A Venturedyne, Ltd., Company AST 8800 Instruction Manual Revision 10: April 30, 2020...
  • Page 2 Thermotron Industries. All relevant issues have been considered in the preparation of this document. Should you notice an omission or any questionable item in this document, please feel free to contact the Thermotron Product Support group between 8:00 and 4:30 Eastern Standard Time at 616-392-6550.

  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    AST 8800 Instruction Manual Table of Contents Table of Contents Section 1: Setup Introduction to the AST 8800 ........................................1-1 Required components ..........................................1-1 Using the touch screen ..........................................1-1 File functions ..............................................1-2 AST 8800 file types .........................................1-2 • Exporting AST 8800 data .....................................1-3 •...
  • Page 4 Using the edit from hold commands ................................5-36 • Using the programming commands ................................5-37 • Using the operation commands to load a program into the AST 8800 ..................5-38 • Using the query commands to load a program from the AST 8800 ..................... 5-38 •...

  • Page 5: Section 1: Setup

    Using the touch screen (optional) The AST 8800 is designed to be usable with a touch screen interface, removing the need for a keyboard and mouse. Even with a keyboard and mouse connected, every task can be completed with just a mouse, for those installations where the keyboard may take up too much space.

  • Page 6: File Functions

    * NOTE: CSV files of PSD plots may be loaded back into the PSD page for later analysis. NOTE: The AST 8800 Backup Wizard helps you create a backup of your programs, settings, and data files so you can prevent data loss and damage caused by disc failures, power outages, virus infections, and other potentially damaging events.

  • Page 7: Exporting Ast 8800 Data

    AST 8800 screens and panels. For more information, see “Function buttons” later in this section. The current date, time, access level, and mode of the AST 8800, which are always displayed at the bottom of the •...

  • Page 8: Action Buttons

    Access Brings up the Change Access Level dialog box, allowing you to change the access level and password of the AST 8800. For more information, see “Changing access levels and passwords” later in this section. Quick navigation buttons The user-defined quick navigation buttons allow you to switch quickly between frequently used screens and panels.

  • Page 9: Function Buttons

    AST 8800 Instruction Manual Setup Function buttons The function buttons are always available on the right side of the screen. The following paragraphs list the function buttons and briefly describe their functions. Main Returns to the main screen. Allows you to view frequency domain analysis of the accelerometers in the form of a power Vib Info spectral density (PSD) plot.

  • Page 10: Changing Access Levels And Passwords

    Changing access levels and passwords The access level function allows you to select from six different levels of access to the AST 8800 functions. All 8800’s ship without any passwords set. It is up to the user to password protect access levels. The following table provides a general overview of which functions are available at each access level.

  • Page 11: Using The Setup Panels

    This section describes the setup panels and how to use them. System Setup panel NOTE: To change most settings on the System Setup panel the AST 8800 access level must be Lab Manager or higher. General settings From any screen press Setup, then select the System Setup panel.
  • Page 12 Each control channel of the AST 8800 can be set up to activate an alarm if the temperature, humidity, or other process variable exceeds high or low limits you select. If the variable exceeds the high or low limit, the AST 8800 enters stop mode.
  • Page 13 Power failure recovery If the AST 8800 is in run or hold mode and a power failure occurs that is longer than the Max Off Time setting, the AST 8800 will automatically power up in the mode selected under Recover Mode. If the Max Off Time is set to 0:00:00, this feature is disabled and the AST 8800 will power up in whatever mode it was in when power was lost.
  • Page 14 -50% and -100%. For example, if the HASS Optimizer is set at 7 and the HASS Cooling Offset is set to +50, the cooling throttle will be limited to -50%. For more information, refer to the AST 8800 Manual Addendum 03: HASS Optimizer.

  • Page 15: Alerts Panel

    (s) field. For example, if the value is set to 60 and the process variable is out of the deviation band for five seconds, no alarm will sound. The last option allows you to select the action the AST 8800 will take when a deviation occurs. Continue will generate an alarm notification and allow the test to continue.

  • Page 16: Vibration Configuration Panel

    Setup AST 8800 Instruction Manual Vibration configuration panel Accelerometer setup This is where the accelerometer inputs are configured. If sixteen channels are present, the accelerometer options are shown in two pages of eight each. Each accelerometer has three options, Type, Sensitivity and Name: Type: Can be Off, Control, or Monitor.
  • Page 17 AST 8800 Instruction Manual Setup Max Frequency: This defines the highest frequency that may be analyzed. The max frequency divided by the • number of lines gives the bandwidth, or resolution, of the system. For example, if a max frequency of 10,000 Hz is defined with 800 lines, the bandwidth is 12.5 Hz per line.
  • Page 18 Setup AST 8800 Instruction Manual PSD limits Power spectral density (PSD) limits allows you to abort a test if specific portions of the PSD spectrum go above a user-defined set of limits. From the PSD Limits drop-down menu select the PSD limit you want to set.

  • Page 19: Control Parameters Panel

    Control parameters adjust the performance of the chamber around the set point. As the chamber nears the set point, the AST 8800 adjusts the chamber throttles to provide a smooth ramp to the set point. To prevent overshooting and oscillation around the final set point, the refrigeration, heating, and other systems must be damped as they approach the set point.

  • Page 20: Communication Panel

    AST 8800 Instruction Manual Communication panel NOTE: To change any computer interface setting, the AST 8800 access level must be Lab Manager or higher. For more information on computer interface settings, refer to Section 5 of this manual. Computer interface ports Each AST 8800 is equipped with up to three independent computer interface ports.
  • Page 21 When the error code is received by the host computer it knows that the AST 8800 has finished processing the command. If a response has not been received within two seconds, the command should be re-sent.
  • Page 22 The AST 8800 uses the Send Acknowledgement function to provide feedback to the computer when the • AST 8800 is ready for the next command. The AST 8800 will only send an acknowledgement back to the host computer for non-query commands. When the error code is received by the host computer it knows that the AST 8800 has finished processing the command.
  • Page 23 For details see “Legacy instrumentation command compatibility” below. GPIB NOTE: GPIB communication is normally done using a Thermotron GPIB converter. However, when using the AST 8800 demo software it is possible to do GPIB communication using a GPIB card in your PC by selecting the Use Internal Card check box.

  • Page 24: Service Messages Panel

    Digital input: These service messages will be displayed when the specified digital input (service interval) goes • active. NOTE: An AST 8800 display module may be equipped with up to four CM2 control modules. Each control module has six digital inputs. The valid range for selecting a digital input service message is 1-24, where:...
  • Page 25 AST 8800 Instruction Manual Setup To modify service messages, follow these steps: Select a Service Message field and use the alphanumeric keypad to enter the text of the message. Messages can be up to 40 characters long. From the System drop-down menu select a system to associate with the selected service message.

  • Page 26: System Events Panel

    System Events panel NOTE: If you do not see a System Events tab, it means your AST 8800 is not set up to support system events. System events monitor variables, such as temperature or throttle, and turn digital outputs on or off based on the state of the monitored variables.
  • Page 27 Before you change any system event parameters, you should record the original settings. Select each field to modify its setting. Record the new system event settings on the AST 8800 worksheets in Appendix F. Keep these settings with the AST 8800 manual.

  • Page 28: Chan / Aux Names Panel

    Chan / Aux Names panel NOTE: To modify any of these settings, the AST 8800 access level must be Lab Manager or higher. To help reduce clutter in the program and manual mode screens, enable only the auxiliary relays of interest.

  • Page 29: Backup / Restore Panel

    AST 8800 Instruction Manual Setup Backup / Restore panel The AST 8800 has two types of built-in backup and restore functions: Chamber Settings: This feature lets you backup and restore your chamber’s information, including its setup • information, programs, data log, and activity log.
  • Page 30 Setup AST 8800 Instruction Manual Backup and recovery tools: Operating system Restore Points let you restore the entire operating system (not including data) to a previously known state. If your system is free of problems (such as viruses) you may wish to set a restore point. Then at any time in the future if problems arise you could restore the operating system back to exactly the way it was when you created the restore point.

  • Page 31: Section 2: Operation

    NOTE: For information on operating SCI systems, refer to Appendix B of this manual. Manual mode operates the AST 8800 using set point and rate of change (ramp rate) settings. You can enter manual mode when the system is in stop mode. For instructions see “Running in manual mode” below. NOTE: You also can enter manual mode from hold program mode if, while running a program, you want to perform a special operation in manual mode and then continue with the program.
  • Page 32 “Chan / Aux Names panel” in Section 1 of this manual. NOTE: Standard auxiliaries are active only when the AST 8800 is in run mode. Live auxiliaries can be enabled without the AST 8800 being in run mode. For more information on your live auxiliaries, refer to your chamber manual.

  • Page 33: Program Mode Operation

    Once the interval is completed, the AST 8800 either transitions to the next interval or loops back to an earlier interval. Once a program is entered into memory it can be run immediately, or it can be set up for a delayed start.
  • Page 34 Press the Edit button again, then press Run. The AST 8800 will enter run program mode again using the new values for the remainder of the current interval.
  • Page 35 For multiple channel programs, all non-zero deviation bands must be satisfied before the interval time will begin counting down. Ramp Rate controls the speed (in degrees or other units per minute) at which the AST 8800 cycles a process •...
  • Page 36 The interval time has two methods of control: If you enter a Time greater than zero, the AST 8800 performs a temperature ramp. This cycles the temperature evenly to the final temperature within the programmed time. If too short a time is programmed, the AST 8800 will transition to the next interval when the time runs out anyway.
  • Page 37 AST 8800 Instruction Manual Operation For programmed looping, the Next Int value is valid only if it is less than or equal to the number of the current interval, and if the # Loops value is greater than 1. The interval will actually loop back to the target interval the # Loops value minus 1.

  • Page 38: Creating Or Modifying A Program

    Operation AST 8800 Instruction Manual Creating or modifying a program Press Program. The profile setup screen will appear: If you want to modify an existing program: Press Open. The Open File dialog box will appear. Select the desired program. Press Open.
  • Page 39 AST 8800 will monitor both plus and minus deviations and activate the deviation alarm if the values are exceeded. If you want to specify a Ramp Rate, enter the speed (in units of measurement per minute) for the AST 8800 •...
  • Page 40 Operation AST 8800 Instruction Manual To add descriptive comments to your program: Press Edit under Program Comments. The Program Comments dialog box will open: Select the Comments field and use the alphanumeric keyboard to add your comments. To save your comments, press OK.

  • Page 41: Using The Program Graph

    AST 8800 Instruction Manual Operation Using the program graph The program graph lets you view your program before running it. The following section describes how to set up and use the program graph. To modify the program graph’s appearance: Press the graph Setup button. The Graph Setup...

  • Page 42: Vibration Analysis

    Operation AST 8800 Instruction Manual Vibration analysis Pressing the Vib Info button from anywhere in the program will display the vibration analysis screen. This will allow you to view frequency domain analysis of the accelerometers in the form of a power spectral density (PSD) plot.
  • Page 43 AST 8800 Instruction Manual Operation Setup: Configure basic graph • settings such as axis limits and colors. In the Grid section of the Setup tab, set the graph background and grid line colors. Y-Axis upper and lower limits set the g²/Hz range the graph will use.
  • Page 44 Word for inclusion in a report. AST LabView File (*.prn): This is a comma-delimited format that is backwards compatible with the previous version of Thermotron’s AST software. Only use this if you need to maintain backwards compatibility with a previous LabView AST installation.

  • Page 45: Transmissibility (Optional)

    AST 8800 Instruction Manual Operation Transmissibility (optional) If you purchased an advanced vibration analysis package with transmissibility, next to the PSD tab there will be a tab labeled Transmissibility. With transmissibility, you can view how any two enabled channels relate to each other. This is done by dividing one channel’s PSD graph, point by point, by one of the other channel’s PSD graph.

  • Page 46: Peak Probability (Optional)

    Operation AST 8800 Instruction Manual Peak Probability (optional) When this option is purchased, a tab titled Peak Probability appears in the Vib Info screen. This option displays a histogram of the probability distribution of the peaks and valleys of the input signal. The histogram is displayed as peaks versus ±sigma (standard deviation) distribution.

  • Page 47: Fatigue (Optional)

    AST 8800 Instruction Manual Operation Fatigue (optional) When this option is purchased, a tab titled Fatigue appears in the Vib Info screen. Fatigue damage occurs to a product when it is subjected to various stimuli such as temperature, vibration, pressure, etc. The AST fatigue analysis option calculates and accumulates fatigue due to vibration stress.

  • Page 48: Time Domain

    Operation AST 8800 Instruction Manual To print the current fatigue data, press the Print button at the top of the screen. A dialog will appear that allows you to add a title, notes, and printed by line. To save the current fatigue data in a comma-delimited format, press the Save As button at the top of the screen. The date and time is saved, followed by the column headers and then the data.

  • Page 49: Impactor Status

    AST 8800 Instruction Manual Operation Impactor status Because the repetitive shock unit is a mechanical shaker, various components will wear over time and use. The impactor status screen warns of potential problems with individual impactors. The screen illustrated above indicates that some of the impactor components on the RS(L) unit may be wearing. Each...
  • Page 50 Operation AST 8800 Instruction Manual Calibration In the calibration access level, the impactor list will display the air pressure being read at each impactor. When the system is on and the air has been released from the system, these should all read 0 psi.

  • Page 51: Multi-Zone Vibration Control

    AST 8800 Instruction Manual Operation Multi-zone vibration control Repetitive shock systems with the multi-zone control option can use two or four closed vibration control loops instead of only one as in past systems. With this option the RS shaker can operate with the standard one closed...
  • Page 52 Operation AST 8800 Instruction Manual There is one closed vibration control loop in each of the specified zones to ensure that the table is operating at the desired vibration level. The system uses individual impactor control to adjust the air pressure to the impactors, increasing or decreasing the acceleration level independently in each zone.
  • Page 53 When attaching accelerometers in multiple zones to measure vibration responses, Thermotron recommends using the same accelerometer manufacturer and model. Construction and electronics may vary between two different accelerometer models, resulting in different vibration readings.
  • Page 54 Operation AST 8800 Instruction Manual AST 8800 multi-zone control configuration To view the AST 8800 multi- zone vibration control settings, press Vib Info, then select the Impactor Status tab. When the multi-zone option is not enabled, as shown to the right, the AST 8800 operates with a single closed vibration control loop.
  • Page 55 AST 8800 Instruction Manual Operation This screen shows multi-zone vibration enabled and the four-zone mode selected. The shaker table graphic on the left side of the screen shows the table divided into four control zones. Example of multi-zone setup and operation The following example illustrates how to configure the repetitive shock system for four-zone vibration control.
  • Page 56 Operation AST 8800 Instruction Manual Press Vib Info, select the Impactor Status tab, make sure Multi-Zone Vibration is checked, and select the four- zone mode. For each zone, enter the desired Offset and select the control accelerometer as described below:...
  • Page 57 AST 8800 Instruction Manual Operation To view the multi-zone control status, press Vib Info, then select the Impactor Status tab. The multi-zone Target fields will be adjusted to reflect the main vibration set point (from manual mode or from the program interval being run), plus any programmed Offset value.

  • Page 58: Using The Graph Panel

    The AST 8800 has a virtually unlimited amount of storage space for graph settings and data. The only limit on the AST 8800 storage capacity is the available space on the hard drive.

  • Page 59: Using The Graph Buttons

    AST 8800 Instruction Manual Operation Using the graph buttons Use the graph buttons to set up and navigate through the recorded chamber data: To modify the graph settings press Setup. See “Graph Setup” below. To change the graph view to a specific date and time: Press Goto.

  • Page 60: Graph Setup

    Operation AST 8800 Instruction Manual Graph setup Press the Setup button to access the graph properties panels. The Graph Properties dialog box will appear with the View panel selected: Under Grid, select the background and grid line colors from their drop- down menus.

  • Page 61: Using The Therm-Alarm Panels

    If you are testing products with live electrical loads, you should install additional power cutoffs. Please call Thermotron Industries if you have any questions on additional product protection. The Therm-Alarm is a redundant protection system. Each Therm-Alarm has one temperature channel and may also have one linear analog channel.

  • Page 62: Therm-Alarm Operating Modes

    If you are testing expensive products, you should have an additional back-up product protection device. If you are testing products with live electrical loads, you should install additional power cutoffs. Please call Thermotron Industries if you have any questions on additional product protection.

  • Page 63: Viewing The Therm-Alarm Settings

    AST 8800 Instruction Manual Operation Viewing the Therm-Alarm settings NOTE: No more than four Therm-Alarm devices will be displayed in the Therm-Alarm screens and graphed in the graph screens. To display the Therm-Alarms panel press T Alarm from any screen.

  • Page 64: Alarm Mute And Reset Mode Functions

    Operation AST 8800 Instruction Manual Alarm mute and reset mode functions During warning, alarm, open thermocouple, and failure modes, the Therm-Alarm emits an audible alarm. From the Therm-Alarm screen you can mute the alarm and/or reset the instrument. In warning mode the Therm-Alarm resets itself after the input temperature or analog signal moves into the •...

  • Page 65: Calibrating A Therm-Alarm

    AST 8800 Instruction Manual Operation Calibrating a Therm-Alarm To calibrate the Therm-Alarm temperature channel a type ‘T’ thermocouple simulator is required. Make sure the controller’s temperature scale is set to Celsius before beginning any calibration procedure. To calibrate the Therm- Alarm analog channel an appropriate power supply is required.

  • Page 66: Vibration Level Monitor

    Input power: The vibration level monitor draws a maximum of 285 mA at 5 Vdc from the redundant alarm. • NOTE: The vibration level monitor can be configured by Thermotron to be a grms alarm only (no temperature channel). The screens would then show only grms data and settings, but no temperature information.

  • Page 67: Setting Up A Vibration Level Monitor

    AST 8800 Instruction Manual Operation Setting up a vibration level monitor From any screen press T Alarm, then select the Therm-Alarm Setup panel. When a vibration level monitor board is plugged into a redundant alarm, the Therm-Alarm setup screen will look like the illustration above.

  • Page 68: Calibrating A Vibration Level Monitor

    Operation AST 8800 Instruction Manual From the Reset Mode drop-down menu, select Manual or Auto. This setting determines how the Therm-Alarm is reset when it is in alarm mode. In manual reset mode you must go to the Therm-Alarm main screen and select Reset to reset the alarm.
  • Page 69 AST 8800 Instruction Manual Operation Connect a cable from analog output 1 of the vibration I/O module to the accelerometer input (J1) of the vibration level monitor. Press Next. It takes approximately three minutes to calibrate the vibration level monitor. The Time Remaining field indicates how much time is left in the calibration process.

  • Page 70: Verifying Vibration Level Monitor Accuracy

    Operation AST 8800 Instruction Manual To verify the accuracy of the vibration level monitor, leave the calibration cable connected and go to “Verifying vibration level monitor accuracy” below. Verifying vibration level monitor accuracy If you have not completed the procedure for calibrating a vibration level monitor, follow one of the steps below: Go to “Calibrating a vibration level monitor”...

  • Page 71: Section 3: System Information

    8800 alarm outputs are activated. NOTE: The Monitors panel appears only if one or more monitor channels were configured at the factory. To modify a monitor channel alarm setting, the AST 8800 access level must be Lab Manager or higher.

  • Page 72: Refrigeration System Panel

    Refrigeration System panel CAUTION: Access to the low-stage and high-stage limits is provided to allow you to troubleshoot your chamber with the assistance of a Thermotron Technical Liaison. For assistance please call the Thermotron Product Support group at (616) 392-6550.

  • Page 73: Schematic Panel

    NOTE: This panel is available only on SE-Series chambers. The Schematic panel provides a graphical view of a typical Thermotron refrigeration system. The schematic is color- coded to indicate the relative temperatures within the system. If transducers are installed, the Schematic panel provides live refrigeration data for key components of the system.

  • Page 74: Throttle History Panel

    System Information AST 8800 Instruction Manual Throttle History panel The Throttle History panel provides a histogram of percentage of throttle versus time for each control channel. Under View Channel, press a control channel to display that channel’s histogram. The panel also displays run times in hours for the selected channel’s negative and positive throttles.

  • Page 75: Activity Log Panel

    AST 8800 Instruction Manual System Information Activity Log panel The Activity Log panel displays the date, time, and description of all system activities for a specific date. To modify and view the activity log display, follow these steps: Press Prev Day or Next Day to move one day backward or forward.

  • Page 76: Control Module Panel

    All inputs and outputs are numbered for cross reference with chamber electrical and instrument drawings. The numbers of the digital inputs/outputs light up to indicate activity. If the AST 8800 has more than one control module installed, you can choose which control module to display by selecting the appropriate CM number.

  • Page 77: Live Aux Panel

    Live Aux panel The Live Aux panel will appear only if your AST 8800 has live auxiliaries configured. Live auxiliaries are outputs that the user can turn on or off manually or via computer I/O regardless of the chamber’s operating mode. For more information on your live auxiliaries, refer to your chamber manual.

  • Page 78: Computer Interface Diagnostic Panel

    Export Commlog…: Allows the user to save the commlog file to a flash drive. The user may then inspect the file • or e-mail it to Thermotron Product Support. The format is a text file that displays the time of any errors, the device generating the errors, and the command that generated the errors.
  • Page 79 NOTE: To perform the loop back test, the AST 8800 access level must be Lab Manager or higher. The loop back test allows you to check whether the COM2 serial port of the AST 8800 is working correctly. To perform the test, short together pins 2 and3 of the COM2 serial port.

  • Page 80: System Info Panel

    USB-DAQ status (For more information on the DAQ option, refer to the 8800 DAQ Instruction Manual.) • The I/O module status shows the number and type of data acquisition cards installed in the AST 8800 computer. It also indicates which vibration analysis options are currently enabled for this system. This information is useful to have on hand when speaking with Thermotron Product Support.

  • Page 81: Section 4: Cm2 Calibration

    NOTE: The calibration screens are only available when the access level is set to Calibration. Calibration panels NOTE: The CM2 analog inputs were calibrated by Thermotron for accurate performance. Before beginning any calibration procedure, make sure the calibration instruments you use are properly calibrated themselves. Also make sure the display module’s temperature scale is set to Celsius.

  • Page 82: Verifying Analog Input And Analog Outputs

    0 VDC and 5 VDC) if calibrated (and configured) properly. After verifying the input or output calibration, press the appropriate Cal Verified button. The AST 8800 will display the date and time the calibration was verified on the Input / Output Verification panel and on the System Info panel.

  • Page 83: Calibration Analog Input And Analog Output Channels

    AST 8800 Instruction Manual CM2 Calibration Calibrating analog input and analog output channels Press the Cal button, then select the Input / Output Calibration panel. To calibrate analog inputs, press the • Process Variables button. The Analog Input Calibration Wizard will start.

  • Page 84: Calibration Daq Thermocouple Inputs And Analog Inputs And Outputs

    Calibrating DAQ thermocouple inputs and analog inputs and outputs The AST 8800 supports revision B of the Thermotron Tier 2 USB-DAQ option. Revision B uses all Thermotron hardware and allows calibration of the thermocouple inputs and analog inputs and outputs. NOTE: The USB-DAQ status and revision level are indicated on the System Info panel.

  • Page 85: Adjusting Process Variable Channels

    AST 8800 Instruction Manual CM2 Calibration To calibrate the DAQ analog outputs, • under DAQ Calibration press Analog Outputs. The Analog Output Calibration Wizard will start. Follow the instructions on the screen, pressing Next when you are ready. Adjusting process variable channels Calibrated process variable channels can be further adjusted to match independent sensors.

  • Page 86: Verifying Therm-Alarm Inputs

    CM2 Calibration AST 8800 Instruction Manual Verifying Therm-Alarm inputs To determine if Therm-Alarm input calibration is necessary, press the Cal button, then select the TA Input Verification panel. The data from independent calibration equipment attached to the CM2 can be compared to the “raw” input data shown on the TA Input Verification panel.

  • Page 87: Verifying And Calibrating Accelerometer Inputs

    Press Stop when done. To independently verify the output voltage, you may use a true RMS voltmeter. If one or more channels are outside of the acceptable range, contact Thermotron Product Support for assistance. Self-calibration NOTE: The DAQ card is typically factory calibrated at +25°C. If the DAQ card is operating in environmental conditions significantly different from ambient, it may be helpful to perform a self-calibration to remove any gain and offset errors due to the different ambient operating temperatures of the card.
  • Page 88 Use NI’s Measurement and Automation program to verify that the NI-DAQ card is recognized by the system and functioning. Error –10801, Calibration Error This can mean that the DAQ card EEPROM needs to be repaired. The DAQ card needs to be sent either to Thermotron or National Instruments for repair. Error –10842, Hardware Error If this error dialog is displayed, shut down all software, reboot the computer, and try another self-calibration.

  • Page 89: Section 5: Computer Interface

    The AST 8800 interface command set allows you to control, monitor, and program the AST 8800 from a host computer. The commands use a specified structure and syntax for communication. This section describes the AST 8800 interface command set and gives examples of how to use this command set to operate the AST 8800 from a host computer.

  • Page 90: Gpib-Specific Commands

    Bit 5 Error. This bit is set by any type of command and/or interface error. Bit 6 Reserved by GPIB. Bit 7 Power on reset. This bit is set when the AST 8800 goes through a power up sequence. It is also set as a result of an INIT command.

  • Page 91: Command Syntax

    The command string ends with an ASCII question mark (?) which defines it as a query command. • For example, if the host computer sends the SETP2? command, and channel 2 has a set point of -82°C, the AST 8800 would send -82.0 back to the host computer.

  • Page 92: Command Concatenation

    NOTE: The AST 8800 can hold up to 128 characters. Make sure the data strings and/or concatenated command strings are not longer than 128 characters. Also, any command with more than 30 parameters will cause the AST 8800 to return an “Unknown command” error.

  • Page 93: Interface Command Descriptions

    Operation example: AUXE1,59 0 (If the AST 8800 is in run manual mode, AUX 6, 5, 4, 2, and 1 of auxiliary group 1 are AST 8800 response: enabled. If they are enabled, the AST 8800 turns off AUX 8, 7, and 3 of auxiliary group...
  • Page 94 Send process variable units character System status Command type: The AST 8800 returns the ASCII units for the character. Common unit codes are C Description: (Celsius), F (Fahrenheit), and % (percent relative humidity). NOTE: If the channel has no units set or is not configured, the AST 8800 will return a blank character.
  • Page 95 8 respectively. The AST 8800 sets the bit for each channel that is on. Byte 2 = channel configured status: Bits 8 through 15 indicate the configured status of channels 1 through 8 respectively. The AST 8800 sets the bit for each channel that is configured.
  • Page 96 Command type: The AST 8800 sends three coded-integer bytes. These are binary-weighted bytes that Description: indicate all the system options selected at the factory for the AST 8800. The bytes are defined below: Byte 1 (Bits 0 through 7) Product temperature control...
  • Page 97 “No More Files” for the name and -1 for the number. Syntax: DIRPpathname? Where: pathname is the name of a path on the AST 8800 or “\” for the root path of the AST 8800. DIRP\? Query example 1:...
  • Page 98 The query command asks the AST 8800 for the current interval’s final value for Description: channel n (1 through 4). The AST 8800 sends a decimal value for the selected channel. The edit from hold operation command temporarily changes the current interval’s final value.
  • Page 99 The error code buffer holds the last eight errors. You can use the IERR? command repeatedly to read the entire buffer in a first in – last out format. When the AST 8800 returns an error code of 0, the error buffer is empty.
  • Page 100 Computer Interface AST 8800 Instruction Manual INTV Command name: Send or load program interval string Programming Command type: The query command asks for the interval string that initializes the program (INTV0) or Description: for one of the program intervals (INTVn). During load program by value operations, send an INTV0? command, followed by an INTVn? command for every interval in your program.
  • Page 101 Operate example 1: INTV0,-10,20,,,3 AST 8800 response: The AST 8800 loads the program with a channel 1 initial value of -10 units, a channel 2 value of 20 units, and sets channels 1 and 2 as active. INTV35,75,98,,,5,8,,,0:20:00,1,20,15,3,1,55,150 Operate example 2:...
  • Page 102 Send initial value Command name: Command type: System status Queries the AST 8800 for the current interval’s initial value parameter for channel n Description: (1 through 4). The AST 8800 sends a decimal value for the selected channel. IVALn? Syntax: Where n is the channel number (1 through 4).
  • Page 103 LAUXaux, state Where: live auxiliary number (1 through 8) state 0 (off) or 1 (on) NOTE: The AST 8800 will also return a 0 if the specified live aux has never been configured. Query example 1: LAUX2? 0 (Live auxiliary 2 is not on)
  • Page 104 The query command asks the AST 8800 for the number of loops left to be executed Description: for the current loop. On nested looping, the value is for the inside loop. The AST 8800 sends an integer to indicate the number of loops left. The edit from hold operation command temporarily changes the current interval’s loop counter.
  • Page 105 AST 8800 response: 14 (A service request interrupt will occur at the start of interval 14 when running a program.) Operation example: MINT3 AST 8800 response: The AST 8800 loads the match interval parameter with a value of 3. Thermotron Industries 5-17...
  • Page 106 Command name: Send or load multi-zone vibration control status System status Command type: The query command asks the AST 8800 for the status of the multi-zone settings. The Description: operation command allows you to remotely modify the multi-zone settings. Syntax:...
  • Page 107 MRMP2? AST 8800 response: 30 (The manual ramp for channel 2 is 30 units per minute.) Operation example: MRMP1,12 AST 8800 response: The AST 8800 sets the manual ramp for channel 1 to 12 units per minute. Thermotron Industries 5-19...
  • Page 108 8800. The operation command allows you to change the current manual throttle mode of the AST 8800. NOTE: You have to be in run manual mode to use this command. You can use THTL to modify the throttle values once you enter manual throttle mode.
  • Page 109 Send or load controller options Variable Command type: The query command reads the options register of the AST 8800. If the AST 8800 is in Description: manual mode, the operation command temporarily changes the AST 8800 options register to the new set of options. NOTE: If the selected options are not available on your chamber, the AST 8800 will return an error code.
  • Page 110 Command name: Variable Command type: The query command causes the AST 8800 to send the values of the tuning parameters Description: for the selected channel in the selected parameter group. The operation command sends new parameter values for a selected channel of a selected parameter group.
  • Page 111 Command type: Description: Queries the AST 8800 for the name of the currently loaded program. The AST 8800 responds with the program’s assigned name (a string up to 15 characters long). If there is no currently loaded program name available, the AST 8800 will respond with “Untitled”.
  • Page 112 If the AST 8800 is in manual mode, the operation command selects the parameters group (1 through 4) that the AST 8800 will use to control the channels. Edit from hold operations temporarily change the parameter group for the program.
  • Page 113 Computer Interface PVAR Command name: Send process variable Command type: Variable Queries the AST 8800 for the current process variable value of the selected channel. Description: The channel selections are divided as follows: Channel Description 1 through 4 External process variable channels 1 through 4...
  • Page 114 Temperature cooling mode 16 High-stage compressor trip Cascade mode 32 Low-stage compressor trip For example, a 6 (4 + 2) indicates the AST 8800 is in cascade and temperature cooling modes. Syntax: REFG(n)? String (NOTE: The first four variables in the string are integers, the next four variables Data type: are one-decimal-place real numbers, and the final variable is an integer.)
  • Page 115 Send real time clock reading or load real time clock values System status Command type: The query command tells the AST 8800 to return the date and time reading from its Description: real time clock. The operation command loads new values into the real time clock, and resets seconds to 00.
  • Page 116 The stop code identifies the cause of the most recent transition to the stop state. The Description: stop codes are defined as follows: Cold boot power up. The AST 8800 memory has been initialized. Currently running. Not in stop. Stop key pressed.
  • Page 117 AST 8800 response: -33.0 (The process variable channel 1 set point is -33.0.) Operation example: SETP2,95 If the AST 8800 is in manual mode, a set point of 95 units is loaded into process AST 8800 response: variable channel 2. SRQB...
  • Page 118 3 bit 2 bit 1 bit 0 SRQM1 Operation example: 0 (The AST 8800 loads the SRQ mask with the value 1, enabling the state change SRQ AST 8800 response: event.) bit 7 bit 6 bit 5 bit 4...
  • Page 119 Operation example: TALM, -50, 150, 0, 5, 20, 1 0 (The AST 8800 sets the Therm-Alarm 1 low limit to -50°C, the high limit to 150°C, AST 8800 response: the mute time to 0 minutes, the warning band to 5°C, the alarm delay time to 20 seconds, and the reset status to manual.)
  • Page 120 Send or load time left Command type: Program status; edit from hold Queries the AST 8800 for the time left in the current interval. The edit from hold Description: operation command temporarily changes the current interval’s time left counter. TLFT? or TLFThh:mm:ss Syntax: Where hh is hours, mm is minutes, and ss is seconds.
  • Page 121 Queries the AST 8800 for the version number of the display software. Description: Syntax: VRSN? String Data type: The AST 8800 returns a string in the “Vx.yy dd/mm/yyyy” format to identify its software version. VRSN? Query example: AST 8800 response: V1.59 04/02/2010 (The software is version 1.59, released April 2, 2010.)

  • Page 122: Vibration Specific I/O Commands

    Computer Interface AST 8800 Instruction Manual Vibration specific I/O commands ACCL Send accelerometer monitor channel data. Command name: Program status command Command type: Description: Queries the AST system for the current grms value of the selected accelerometer monitor channel. The AST system returns the current grms value of the selected accelerometer monitor channel.
  • Page 123 0.042056,0.210476,0.000000,0.000000,0.042056,0.210476,0.000000,0.000000,0.042347,0.208973, 0.042056,0.210476,0.000000,0.000000,0.042056,0.210476,0.000000,0.000000,0.042347,0.208973 <terminator> The AST 8800 returns a string that contains 200 values: 2 channels x 100 lines with a ‘tab’ character inserted between the channels. Notes: The AST system should not be queried more frequently than every two seconds because a new PSD is only generated about every two seconds.

  • Page 124: Using The Interface Command Set

    RUNM Run manual mode THTL Throttle Example: Send the STOP command to the AST 8800. While in stop mode, send the following commands to set up the test run: SETP1,75 Makes the channel 1 set point +75°C. SETP2,5 Makes the channel 2 set point 5% RH.

  • Page 125: Using The Programming Commands

    The program by value and send interval values commands allow you to transfer programs between the AST 8800 and a host computer. The operation commands allow you to send a program to the AST 8800. The query commands allow you to retrieve a program from the AST 8800. The following paragraphs describe each type of transfer and provide a program transfer example.

  • Page 126: Using The Operation Commands To Load A Program Into The Ast 8800

    Send the PROG,LongSoak25Loops,6 command string to the AST 8800. This string loads a 6-interval program named LongSoak25Loops. Send the INTV0,20,,,,1 command string to the AST 8800. This string sets the initial value of interval 0 to +20°C and sets channel 1 active.

  • Page 127: Computer Interface Troubleshooting And Error Codes

    Common computer interface problems and solutions Before attempting to run the AST 8800 communication interface in a user application program on the host computer, it is often helpful to use a dumb terminal or a terminal emulation program to test the serial communications. This allows you to become familiar with the AST 8800 command syntax.
  • Page 128 The host computer sends and receives data, but has problems with specific commands Some commands may cause problems if you do not send them in the proper manner or sequence. Use the AST 8800 error codes to help troubleshoot these types of problems. Use the IERR? command to read the •...

  • Page 129: Error Codes

    Command name: Input buffer overflow Description: The data string sent to the AST 8800 is too long. The AST 8800 can hold up to 128 characters; make sure the data strings and/or concatenated command strings are not longer than 128 characters.
  • Page 130 Command name: Incorrect channel number Description: The value sent to the AST 8800 was not an acceptable channel value. Check the AST 8800 channel configuration for the channel. Also, check the options set up for the channel. For example, the PTC and humidity options can enable or disable channels.
  • Page 131 Error code 19 Command name: Options not configured Description: The AST 8800 is factory configured for the options on your chamber. Check to see if your options byte is selecting an option that is not available on your chamber. Error code 20 NOTE: The AST 8800 does not use this error code.

  • Page 132: Programming Examples

    Programs can be written to operate the AST 8800 from a host computer in a variety of programming languages. The following section is a brief sampling of the types of programs that can be written to operate the AST 8800 from a host computer.
  • Page 133 AST 8800 Instruction Manual Computer Interface //handle to a windows socket SOCKET m_hSocket = INVALID_SOCKET; //The SOCKADDR_IN structure is used by Windows Sockets //to specify a local or remote endpoint address //to which to connect a socket. SOCKADDR_IN addr; //always AF_INET addr.sin_family = AF_INET;...
  • Page 134 Computer Interface AST 8800 Instruction Manual National Instruments Interactive Control Utility (IBIC) It is important to use the special symbols \r and/or \n to add a carriage return (\r), or line feed (\n) to the strings sent to the ibwrt function. The following sequence finds the device at address 10, sends the ‘pvar1?’ query command, and then reads the data.

  • Page 135: Appendix A: Glossary

    A code sent to the AST 8800 by a host computer that the AST 8800 interprets to perform an action. computer interface: A hardware component, such as an RS-232 or IEEE-488, that connects two or more other components for the purpose of passing information from one to the other.
  • Page 136 A set of intervals repeated during a programmed test. delayed start: A function that causes the AST 8800 to wait until a specified date and time before running a program. deviation: The difference between the process variable (actual test space or product condition) and the set point (assigned test space or product condition).
  • Page 137 An audible beep that is sounded each time an AST 8800 key is pressed, unless this function is disabled. limit temperature: The Therm-Alarm adjustable high and low temperature settings. An alarm occurs if the input temperature reaches a limit temperature.
  • Page 138 If the power failure is shorter than the power fail recover time setting, or if the setting is 0:00:00, the AST 8800 will recover by returning to its last mode of operation.
  • Page 139 An option, either dry air or gaseous nitrogen (GN ), used to reduce moisture inside the test space. query command: A code sent to the AST 8800 that causes the AST 8800 to send information to the host computer or server.
  • Page 140 For example, to heat the test space as quickly as possible, the AST 8800 will operate the throttle at +100%. When the process variable (temperature) reaches the proportional band, the AST 8800 will begin reducing the throttle to control the process variable to equal the set point.
  • Page 141 AST 8800 Instruction Manual Glossary throttle limit: A parameter setting that can limit the AST 8800 controller throttle output. time graph: A graph in which each interval is given space based on its duration. Compare to interval graph. timed soak: Maintaining the same test space temperature, humidity, or other variable for a specified time. When entering a test profile, a timed soak period results when the initial and final set points for an interval are the same.
  • Page 142 Glossary AST 8800 Instruction Manual Appendix A-8 Thermotron Industries...

  • Page 143: Appendix B: Sci Capability

    Appendix B: SCI Capability SCI is an option available in the AST 8800 software. When enabled, the impactors can be controlled discretely or in any combination. It can be accurately synchronized to deliver bursts of high G shock events or randomly unsynchronized to provide consistent energy covering a wide frequency range.
  • Page 144 This generates a PSD that has more energy in the high frequency range. The vibration process variable is a G peak level. In this mode you must also select the frequency of the impacts. Thermotron Industries...
  • Page 145 SCI Capability Program mode operation When the Vibration option is selected in program mode and when either the Low Frequency or High Frequency vibration modes are selected. The user can select the desired grms level for an interval. Thermotron Industries...
  • Page 146 In Synchronized mode the user can select the desired frequency of the Vibration impacts and the desired Peak average. As with other variables you can do step changes, g-soaks, and ramps with the peak average and/or frequency of vibration impacts. Thermotron Industries...

  • Page 147: Appendix C: Product Dew Point Control (Pdc)

    The PDC option uses the standard product monitoring thermocouple — the same thermocouple supplied for the product temperature control (PTC) option. If you purchased a group of thermocouples for use with the PDC option, the AST 8800 is configured to use the •...
  • Page 148 If any of the thermocouples that are configured for the product monitoring group are not to be used for a • specific test, they MUST be disconnected (unplugged). This will tell the AST 8800 to ignore these inputs and use the remaining connected thermocouples to derive the PDC and/or PTC temperature.

  • Page 149: Appendix D: Tuning Control Parameters

    Control parameters adjust the performance of the chamber around the set point. As the chamber nears the set point, the AST 8800 adjusts the throttles to provide a smooth ramp to the set point. To prevent overshooting and oscillation around the final set point, the refrigeration, heating, and other systems must be damped as they approach the set point.
  • Page 150 Tuning Control Parameters AST 8800 Instruction Manual Tuning the proportional band and integral time parameters The proportional band and integral time parameters must be “tuned up” to produce an efficient, controlled environmental test cycle. First you tune up the proportional band for quality control near set point, then you tune up the integral time to achieve accuracy.
  • Page 151 14. Once the parameters for the first channel have been tuned up, the next channel’s parameters can be tuned up. 15. Once you have finished tuning up all the channels, record the parameter settings on the AST 8800 worksheets in Appendix F.
  • Page 152 Tuning Control Parameters AST 8800 Instruction Manual Summary When adjusting the control parameters, follow this general outline: Run a heat-up test to see how the chamber controls. If necessary adjust the heat parameters. Run a cool-down test to see how the chamber controls. If necessary adjust the cool parameters.

  • Page 153: Appendix E: Tuning Ptc Control Parameters

    Gain parameters for PTC The gain parameter is a coarse adjustment to the PTC control algorithm. The larger the gain, the longer the AST 8800 will wait to start slowing down the throttle as the load temperature approaches the load set point.
  • Page 154 Tuning PTC Control Parameters AST 8800 Instruction Manual Longer integral times result in longer times to reach the set point. • Shorter integral times result in shorter times to reach the set point. • If the integral time is too short, the process variable will oscillate when it reaches the set point and will continue •...
  • Page 155 AST 8800 Instruction Manual Tuning PTC Control Parameters Obtain a performance baseline Press Manual to go to the manual mode screen. Select and change the settings for the PTC channel (usually channel 3): Set the +/- Deviation to 0. Enter a New Set Point based on which parameters you are tuning, such as a heating set point for tuning the heating parameters.
  • Page 156 15. Once the first set of parameters (such as the heating parameters) have been tuned up, the other set of parameters can be tuned up. 16. Record the PTC parameter settings on the AST 8800 worksheets in Appendix F. Keep these settings with the AST 8800 manual.
  • Page 157 AST 8800 Instruction Manual AST 8800 Parameter and System Event Worksheets Appendix F: AST 8800 Parameter and System Event Worksheets NOTE: Thermotron grants you permission to copy this appendix to use for your records. Channel ____ Non-PTC Parameter Group Entries Parameter Group 1...
  • Page 158 AST 8800 Parameter and System Event Worksheets AST 8800 Instruction Manual Channel ____ PTC Parameter Group Entries Parameter Group 1 Group 2 Group 3 Group 4 Heat Gain Cool Gain Heat Integral Time Cool Integral Time Heat Offset Cool Offset...

Table of Contents

Save PDF