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slice:qt [2019/02/13 01:31] – [Front-panel Inputs & Outputs] Michael Radunskyslice:qt [2019/08/22 22:40] – [Home Screen] Michael Radunsky
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-======SLICE-QT Four-Channel Temperature Controller ======+======SLICE-QTC Four-Channel Temperature Controller ======
  
-Model No. SLICE-QT+Model No. SLICE-QT and SLICE-QTC
  
 Document Revision: 1 Document Revision: 1
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 Document Last Updated on ~~LASTMOD~~ Document Last Updated on ~~LASTMOD~~
  
-Please read [[:limited_warranty|Limited Warranty]] and [[:warnings_cautions|General Warnings and Cautions]] prior to operating the SLICE-QT.+Please read [[:limited_warranty|Limited Warranty]] and [[:warnings_cautions|General Warnings and Cautions]] prior to operating the SLICE-QTC.
  
-[[slice:quick_start_qt|SLICE-QT Quick Start Guide]]\\ +==== Links ==== 
-[[https://www.vescent.com/products/electronics/slice/slice-qt-four-channel-temperature-controller/|SLICE-QT web page]]\\+Click here for the [[slice:quick_start_qt|SLICE-QTC Quick Start Guide]].\\ 
 +Click here for the [[slice:qt:API|SLICE-QTC API]].\\ 
 +Click here for the [[slice:Z-N|Ziegler-Nichols loop tuning instructions]].\\ 
 +Click here for the [[https://www.vescent.com/products/electronics/slice/slice-qt-four-channel-temperature-controller/|SLICE-QTC web page]].\\ 
 +Click here for the [[https://github.com/Vescent|Github page for SLICE-QTC GUI]]\\ 
 +Click here for the [[https://github.com/Vescent/SLICE-QT-Firmware-Upgrade|Github page for SLICE-QTC firmware revisions]]\\
 Please check back for added functionality.  Contact [[[email protected]|sales [at] vescent [dot] com]] for questions and corrections, or to request added functionality. Please check back for added functionality.  Contact [[[email protected]|sales [at] vescent [dot] com]] for questions and corrections, or to request added functionality.
 =====Description===== =====Description=====
  
-The SLICE-QT is a high-precision temperature controller (see <imgref qt_prod_shot>).  It will control up to four thermal plants with sub-millikelvin precision.+The SLICE-QTC is a high-precision temperature controller (see <imgref qt_prod_shot>).  It will control up to four thermal plants with sub-millikelvin precision.
  
-<imgcaption qt_prod_shot|The SLICE-QT>{{ slice:front-angle-acs-large.jpg?200|}}</imgcaption>+<imgcaption qt_prod_shot|The SLICE-QTC>{{ slice:front-angle-acs-large.jpg?200|}}</imgcaption>
  
 =====Purchase Includes===== =====Purchase Includes=====
-  * SLICE-QT Temperature Control Unit+  * SLICE-QTC Temperature Control Unit
   * AC power cord with appropriate wall plug for you location (if known)   * AC power cord with appropriate wall plug for you location (if known)
-  * Four single-ended 6-ft control cables((More cables may be purchased separately))+  * Four single-ended 6-ft control cables((More cables may be purchased separately; order p/n 50-00005)) 
 +  * Final Test Documentation
  
 ===== Absolute Maximum Ratings and Power Input ===== ===== Absolute Maximum Ratings and Power Input =====
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 </tabcaption></WRAP> </tabcaption></WRAP>
  
-The SLICE-QT will accept input line voltages within the ranges shown in <tabref v_rng>.+The SLICE-QTC will accept input line voltages within the ranges shown in <tabref v_rng>.
 <WRAP center round box 60%><tabcaption v_rng |Input Voltage Specifications> <WRAP center round box 60%><tabcaption v_rng |Input Voltage Specifications>
 | **Parameter**                                                       | **Value**       | **Units**  | | **Parameter**                                                       | **Value**       | **Units**  |
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 <WRAP center round box 60%> <WRAP center round box 60%>
-| {{ :warning-sign.png?100&nolink }}    | Warning.  Pay special attention to procedures and notes.  If procedure is not followed carefully, damage to the SLICE-QT or devices connected to it may occur.  |+| {{ :warning-sign.png?100&nolink }}    | Warning.  Pay special attention to procedures and notes.  If procedure is not followed carefully, damage to the SLICE-QTC or devices connected to it may occur.  |
 | {{ :electric_shock.png?100&nolink }}  | Potential for electrical shock hazard.                                                                                                                          | | {{ :electric_shock.png?100&nolink }}  | Potential for electrical shock hazard.                                                                                                                          |
  
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 =====Specifications===== =====Specifications=====
-<WRAP center round box 60%><tabcaption specs|Specifications of SLICE-QT>+<WRAP center round box 60%><tabcaption specs|Specifications of SLICE-QTC>
 |  **Performance((Subject to change without notice))**                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              || |  **Performance((Subject to change without notice))**                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                              ||
 | **Parameter**                                                                                                                             | **Value**                                                                                                                                                                                                              | | **Parameter**                                                                                                                             | **Value**                                                                                                                                                                                                              |
 | Channels                                                                                                                                  | 4                                                                                                                                                                                                                      | | Channels                                                                                                                                  | 4                                                                                                                                                                                                                      |
-| Loop FIlter                                                                                                                               | PID, adjustable corners and proportional Gain                                                                                                                                                                          |+| Loop Filter                                                                                                                               | PID, adjustable corners and proportional Gain                                                                                                                                                                          |
 | Control Range((Lower precision may be realized above 50°C.  Consider using a thermistor with 10 kΩ at higher temperature than nominal.))  | -10 to +120°C                                                                                                                                                                                                          | | Control Range((Lower precision may be realized above 50°C.  Consider using a thermistor with 10 kΩ at higher temperature than nominal.))  | -10 to +120°C                                                                                                                                                                                                          |
 | Compatible Transducer                                                                                                                     | TEC or resistive heater                                                                                                                                                                                                | | Compatible Transducer                                                                                                                     | TEC or resistive heater                                                                                                                                                                                                |
 | Compatible Sensor                                                                                                                         | NTC thermistor ((Nominal value 10 kΩ at room temperature. Precision at temperatures removed from room temperature can be improved by selecting a thermistor whose resistance is ~10 kΩ near the target temperature.))  | | Compatible Sensor                                                                                                                         | NTC thermistor ((Nominal value 10 kΩ at room temperature. Precision at temperatures removed from room temperature can be improved by selecting a thermistor whose resistance is ~10 kΩ near the target temperature.))  |
 | Temperature Stability                                                                                                                     | ±0.2 mK over 1 hour((Plant-dependent; value specified for D2-100 laser))                                                                                                                                               | | Temperature Stability                                                                                                                     | ±0.2 mK over 1 hour((Plant-dependent; value specified for D2-100 laser))                                                                                                                                               |
-| Precision                                                                                                                                 | ~1 mK                                                                                                                                                                                                                   |+| Precision                                                                                                                                 | ~1 mK                                                                                                                                                                                                                  |
 | Control Capacity                                                                                                                          | 35 W((User-distributable over four channels))                                                                                                                                                                          | | Control Capacity                                                                                                                          | 35 W((User-distributable over four channels))                                                                                                                                                                          |
 | Current Capacity                                                                                                                          | 6 A per channel((Subject to 35 W overall maximum))                                                                                                                                                                     | | Current Capacity                                                                                                                          | 6 A per channel((Subject to 35 W overall maximum))                                                                                                                                                                     |
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   - <color black/yellow>System locked range (yellow dashed lines)</color>   - <color black/yellow>System locked range (yellow dashed lines)</color>
  
-<imgcaption front|Front of SLICE-QT>{{ :slice:slice-qt-front-numbered.png?534x221 |}}</imgcaption>+<imgcaption front|Front of SLICE-QTC>{{ :slice:slice-qt-front-numbered.png?534x221 |}}</imgcaption>
 ===== Rear Panel ===== ===== Rear Panel =====
 An image of the rear panel is shown in <imgref back> The functions and connections are as follows: An image of the rear panel is shown in <imgref back> The functions and connections are as follows:
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   - Input trigger (BNC)   - Input trigger (BNC)
   - USB port (Type B)   - USB port (Type B)
-  - Connections to thermal plants(([[https://www.digikey.com/product-detail/en/cui-inc/PD-40S/CP-7240-ND/2119338|Four-pin DIN connector]]))((In some early versions of the SLICE-QT, the order of these connectors is reversed.))+  - Connections to thermal plants(([[https://www.digikey.com/product-detail/en/cui-inc/PD-40S/CP-7240-ND/2119338|Four-pin DIN connector]]))((In some early versions of the SLICE-QTC, the order of these connectors is reversed.))
  
-<imgcaption back|View of rear of SLICE-QT>{{ :slice:slice-qt-rear-numbered.png?534x221 |}}</imgcaption>+<imgcaption back|View of rear of SLICE-QTC>{{ :slice:slice-qt-rear-numbered.png?534x221 |}}</imgcaption>
  
 ===== Interface Connections ===== ===== Interface Connections =====
-Connections to the thermal plants are made from the rear panel.  Four cables for this purpose are provided with the SLICE-QT.  Each has one end terminated with a [[https://www.digikey.com/product-detail/en/cui-inc/PDP-40/CP-7340-ND/2119475|CUI Inc. PDP-40 connector]] for connecting to the [[https://www.digikey.com/product-detail/en/cui-inc/PD-40S/CP-7240-ND/2119338|CUI Inc. CP-7240-ND connector]] on the SLICE-QT.  The other end is unterminated and is for connecting to your specific plant.  The pin out for connecting the cable ([[https://bit.ly/2SyICSw|Beldon 1502R 010500]]) to your specific plant is given in <tabref pinout>.+Connections to the thermal plants are made from the rear panel.  Four cables for this purpose are provided with the SLICE-QTC.  Each has one end terminated with a [[https://www.digikey.com/product-detail/en/cui-inc/PDP-40/CP-7340-ND/2119475|CUI Inc. PDP-40 connector]] for connecting to the [[https://www.digikey.com/product-detail/en/cui-inc/PD-40S/CP-7240-ND/2119338|CUI Inc. CP-7240-ND connector]] on the SLICE-QTC.  The other end is unterminated and is for connecting to your specific plant.  The pin out for connecting the cable ([[https://bit.ly/2SyICSw|Beldon 1502R 010500]]) to your specific plant is given in <tabref pinout>.
 <WRAP center round box 60%><tabcaption pinout |Cable pinout> <WRAP center round box 60%><tabcaption pinout |Cable pinout>
 | **Connector\\ Pin Number**  | **Color**                 | **Function**  | **AWG**  | | **Connector\\ Pin Number**  | **Color**                 | **Function**  | **AWG**  |
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 </tabcaption></WRAP> </tabcaption></WRAP>
 <WRAP center round box 60%> <WRAP center round box 60%>
-| {{ :warning-sign.png?100&nolink }}  | Do not have servo loop engaged when connecting Servo Output to your plant.                                                                   +| {{ :warning-sign.png?100&nolink }}  | Do not have servo loop engaged when connecting Servo Output to your plant.                                                                                                                                                  
-| {{ :warning-sign.png?100&nolink }}  | It is suggested to not ground the cable shield at the transducer end of the interface cable as ground loops may be formed, degrading performance.  |+| {{ :warning-sign.png?100&nolink }}  | Use caution grounding the shield (drain) at the transducer end of the interface cable as ground loops may be formed, degrading performance. Consider floating the plant or not connecting the shield to the plant chassis.  |
 </WRAP> </WRAP>
  
-You may purchase more cables separately from Vescent Photonics.  We do not recommend making cables, but if you do so, make sure the metal sleeve is well grounded to provide proper shielding to the signal cables.+You may purchase more cables separately from Vescent Photonics.  We do not recommend making cables, but if you do so, make sure the metal sleeve is well connected to the connector ground to provide proper shielding to the signal cables.
  
-==== General Concepts ====  +===== Operating the SLICE-QTC ===== 
-=== Screen Navigation ===+==== Screen Navigation ====
 The touch screen interface and the Host GUI operate in a substantially similar way, except touch is substituted for a click in the touch screen interface. The touch screen interface and the Host GUI operate in a substantially similar way, except touch is substituted for a click in the touch screen interface.
  
 When presented with a given view, it is possible to select the functionality or edit the values in a field bordered in <color black/hsl(213, 80%, 60%)>blue</color> When a particular field is actively being edited, its border will change to <color black/yellow>yellow</color>. When presented with a given view, it is possible to select the functionality or edit the values in a field bordered in <color black/hsl(213, 80%, 60%)>blue</color> When a particular field is actively being edited, its border will change to <color black/yellow>yellow</color>.
-The Home Screen of the SLICE-QT is shown in <imgref home_scr>. From the Home screen, summary control over the four channels is possible, including setting T<sub>set</sub>, initiating lock, or entering an individual channel's Detail screen.+The Home Screen of the SLICE-QTC is shown in <imgref home_scr>. From the Home screen, summary control over the four channels is possible, including setting T<sub>set</sub>, initiating lock, or entering an individual channel's Detail screen.
  
 In general, the status displayed in an editable field is the current status (not the result of touching the button).  Touch the field to select a new value/status.  For instance, in <imgref home_scr> all of the channels are in stand by.  Touching the OFF button to initiate servo control over a plant will change this button to read ON (<imgref home_Tset1>). In general, the status displayed in an editable field is the current status (not the result of touching the button).  Touch the field to select a new value/status.  For instance, in <imgref home_scr> all of the channels are in stand by.  Touching the OFF button to initiate servo control over a plant will change this button to read ON (<imgref home_Tset1>).
-<imgcaption home_scr|Home screen of SLICE-QT>{{ :slice:slice-qt_home_screen.jpg?400x254 |}}</imgcaption> +<imgcaption home_scr|Home screen of SLICE-QTC>{{ :slice:slice-qt_home_screen.jpg?400x254 |}}</imgcaption> 
-=== Control Bar ===+==== Control Bar ====
 On the left edge of the screen is the Control Bar.  At any given time, these buttons will have the following effect. On the left edge of the screen is the Control Bar.  At any given time, these buttons will have the following effect.
  
-=== Home Button ===+==== Home Button ====
 <imgcaption home_butt|Home button>{{ :slice:slice-qt-home-button.gif?77x75 |}}</imgcaption> <imgcaption home_butt|Home button>{{ :slice:slice-qt-home-button.gif?77x75 |}}</imgcaption>
 Returns to [[slice:qt#Home Screen|Home screen]] (<imgref home_scr>). Returns to [[slice:qt#Home Screen|Home screen]] (<imgref home_scr>).
-=== Back Button ===+==== Back Button ====
 <imgcaption back_butt|Back button>{{ :slice:slice-qt-back-button.gif?77x75 |}}</imgcaption> <imgcaption back_butt|Back button>{{ :slice:slice-qt-back-button.gif?77x75 |}}</imgcaption>
 Returns to previous screen.  Changes will be lost if not accepted before using the Back button. Returns to previous screen.  Changes will be lost if not accepted before using the Back button.
-=== Lock Button ===+==== Lock Button ====
 <imgcaption lock_butt|Lock button (shown in unlocked mode)>{{ :slice:slice-qt-lock-button.gif?77x75 |}}</imgcaption> <imgcaption lock_butt|Lock button (shown in unlocked mode)>{{ :slice:slice-qt-lock-button.gif?77x75 |}}</imgcaption>
 Locks out further modification of parameters. Touch to lock or unlock parameter entry.  It is still possible to engage the temperature control loops when system is locked, but it is not possible to change the set point temperature or loop parameters, etc. Locks out further modification of parameters. Touch to lock or unlock parameter entry.  It is still possible to engage the temperature control loops when system is locked, but it is not possible to change the set point temperature or loop parameters, etc.
-=== I/O Button ===+==== I/O Button ====
 <imgcaption io_butt|I/O button>{{ :slice:slice-qt-i-o-button.gif?77x75 |}}</imgcaption> <imgcaption io_butt|I/O button>{{ :slice:slice-qt-i-o-button.gif?77x75 |}}</imgcaption>
 Enters the screen for programming the [[slice:qt#Front-panel Inputs & Outputs|front-panel I/O]]. Enters the screen for programming the [[slice:qt#Front-panel Inputs & Outputs|front-panel I/O]].
-=== System Settings Button ===+==== System Settings Button ====
 <imgcaption sys_butt|System settings button>{{ :slice:slice-qt-settings-button.gif?77x75 |}}</imgcaption> <imgcaption sys_butt|System settings button>{{ :slice:slice-qt-settings-button.gif?77x75 |}}</imgcaption>
 Enters screen for [[slice:qt#System Settings|system control settings]] (brightness, volume, etc.). Enters screen for [[slice:qt#System Settings|system control settings]] (brightness, volume, etc.).
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 In most instances, there are two methods for entering parameter values: the physical rotary knobs on the front panel and the pop-up keypad on the touch screen.  When using the knobs to change the value of a parameter, changes take effect immediately.  When using the keypad, changes do not take effect until the enter key is depressed. In most instances, there are two methods for entering parameter values: the physical rotary knobs on the front panel and the pop-up keypad on the touch screen.  When using the knobs to change the value of a parameter, changes take effect immediately.  When using the keypad, changes do not take effect until the enter key is depressed.
 === Rotary Knobs === === Rotary Knobs ===
-If you touch an editable field for a brief moment, a cursor will appear under one of the digits of the parameter value.  By turning the right knob, it is possible to increase (cw) or decrease (ccw) the value of the underlined digit.  Turning the left knob will change which digit is editable (cw to move to the left and ccw to move to the right).  +If you touch an editable field for a brief moment, a cursor will appear under one of the digits of the parameter value.  By turning the right knob, it is possible to increase (cw) or decrease (ccw) the value of the underlined digit.  Turning the left knob will change which digit is editable (cw to move to the right and ccw to move to the left).  
 == Keypad == == Keypad ==
 If you touch and hold an editable field such as the set point temperature, a numeric keypad will appear as seen in <imgref keypad> You can enter in the full value of the desired parameter with this keypad.\\  If you touch and hold an editable field such as the set point temperature, a numeric keypad will appear as seen in <imgref keypad> You can enter in the full value of the desired parameter with this keypad.\\ 
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 To set the temperature set point from the home screen, touch the Setpoint window for the desired channel (circled in red for CH 1 in <imgref home_Tset1>).  A long touch will cause a keypad to appear.  Enter desired value and touch the accept button.  To set the temperature set point from the home screen, touch the Setpoint window for the desired channel (circled in red for CH 1 in <imgref home_Tset1>).  A long touch will cause a keypad to appear.  Enter desired value and touch the accept button. 
  
-A short touch will highlight the Setpoint window in yellow (<imgref home_Tset2>).  Use rotary knobs to select digit to edit (right knob) and value for digit (left knob).\\+A short touch will highlight the Setpoint window in yellow (<imgref home_Tset2>).  Use rotary knobs to select digit to edit (left knob) and value for digit (right knob).\\
 <imgcaption home_Tset1|Select Temperature setpoint for CH 1>{{ :slice:slice-qt_set_t_home_1.png?400x254 |}}</imgcaption> <imgcaption home_Tset1|Select Temperature setpoint for CH 1>{{ :slice:slice-qt_set_t_home_1.png?400x254 |}}</imgcaption>
  
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 === Enabling Feedback === === Enabling Feedback ===
-Touch the OFF button at the bottom of the column for the desired channel.  The button will turn white and read ON to indicate the SLICE-QT is actively controlling the temperature for that channel.  In <imgref home_Tset1> and <imgref home_Tset2> CH 1 is active and CHs 2-4 are inactive.+Touch the OFF button at the bottom of the column for the desired channel.  The button will turn white and read ON to indicate the SLICE-QTC is actively controlling the temperature for that channel.  In <imgref home_Tset1> and <imgref home_Tset2> CH 1 is active and CHs 2-4 are inactive.
  
 When the system is locked (as defined by the user in the CH X > Settings > Limits screen) the Error window will display ∆T with a <color black/green>green</color> background.  As the system approaches lock, it will display ∆T on a <color black/yellow>yellow</color> background. When the system is locked (as defined by the user in the CH X > Settings > Limits screen) the Error window will display ∆T with a <color black/green>green</color> background.  As the system approaches lock, it will display ∆T on a <color black/yellow>yellow</color> background.
 ==== Channel Detail Screen ==== ==== Channel Detail Screen ====
-You can set how individual channels behave in the Channel Detail screen.  To enter a Channel Detail screen from the Home screen, touch the CH button for the appropriate channel (<imgref home_scr>). <imgref detail_scr> shows the CH 1 Detail screen.  From this screen, you can change T<sub>set</sub>, and initiate temperature control as from the Home screen.  You can also visually monitor the performance of the loop.  The graph in the lower right of the screen displays ∆T (T<sub>act</sub> - T<sub>set</sub>) on a rolling basis.  The yellow dashed lines indicate the user-defined "lock range. In <imgref detail_scr>, the lock range is set to ±3 mK.  If ∆T is outside of this range, the Error field will change from green to yellow.\\+You can set how individual channels behave in the Channel Detail screen.  To enter a Channel Detail screen from the Home screen, touch the CH button for the appropriate channel (<imgref home_scr>). <imgref detail_scr> shows the CH 1 Detail screen.  From this screen, you can change T<sub>set</sub>, and initiate temperature control as from the Home screen.  You can also visually monitor the performance of the loop.  When the lock is engaged, the graph in the lower right of the screen displays ∆T (T<sub>act</sub> - T<sub>set</sub>) on a rolling basis.  The yellow dashed lines indicate the user-defined "lock range" (see <imgref T_limits>).  In <imgref detail_scr>, the lock range is set to ±3 mK.  If ∆T is outside of this range, the Error field background will change from green to yellow.\\
  
-You can also set the various parameters for how the loop will behave. +  * Change the speed of the rolling display: touch the {{slice:graph_scale_x.gif}} button and select from 1 to 20 s/div.   
-<imgcaption detail_scr|Initial view of CH 1 Detail screen>{{ :slice:slice-qt_ch_1_tset_16.6.jpg?400x254 |}}</imgcaption>+  * Change the scale of the vertical axis: touch the {{slice:graph_scale_y.gif}} button and select from 1 mK/div to 10 K/div. 
 +  * Pause and restart the rolling screen: touch the {{slice:graph_pause.gif}} button. 
 +  * Turn on & off cursors on the graph: touch the {{slice:cursors.gif}} button.  It is possible to drag the cursors across the display of ∆T to measure an oscillation period.  This function will be helpful when tuning the loop parameters to your plant. 
 + 
 +=== Display of Transducer Current, Voltage, and Power === 
 +As shown in <imgref detail_scr>, the current being delivered to the transducer is displayed in the blue box on the right margin labeled Current [A].  If you touch the blue box, the box will rotate through displaying current through, voltage across, and power delivered to the transducer. 
 + 
 +From this screen, you can also set the various parameters for how the loop will behave. 
 +<imgcaption detail_scr|Initial view of CH 1 Detail screen>{{ :slice:slice-qt_ch_detail.jpg?400x245 |}}</imgcaption>
 === Setting Control Modes === === Setting Control Modes ===
 Touch the Settings button in the top right of the window.  The sub-menu shown in <imgref CH_setting> will appear. Touch the Settings button in the top right of the window.  The sub-menu shown in <imgref CH_setting> will appear.
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 === PID Filter and Slew Rate Adjustment === === PID Filter and Slew Rate Adjustment ===
 +== PID Settings ==
 <imgcaption PID|Screen for adjusting PID parameters for individual channel>{{ :slice:slice-qt_ch_1_pid_param_screen_set_p_gain.jpg?400x254 |}}</imgcaption> <imgcaption PID|Screen for adjusting PID parameters for individual channel>{{ :slice:slice-qt_ch_1_pid_param_screen_set_p_gain.jpg?400x254 |}}</imgcaption>
  
-To set the PID loop filter parameters from the Home screen, select CH X > Settings > PID Params and the screen in <imgref PID> will appear.  The parameters for the PID loop filter are set in this popup screen. These parameters control the closed-loop behavior of the feedback. Each of these parameters will need to be tuned specifically for your plant. There is an option to enable or disable each parameter in the loop filter.  There are a number of methods to tune a loop.  We recommend the Ziegler-Nichols method.((A usable discussion of the Ziegler-Nichols method can be found here: http://faculty.mercer.edu/jenkins_he/documents/TuningforPIDControllers.pdf)) +To set the PID loop filter parameters from the Home screen, select CH X > Settings > PID Params and the screen in <imgref PID> will appear.  The parameters for the PID loop filter are set in this popup screen. These parameters control the closed-loop behavior of the feedback. Each of these parameters will need to be tuned specifically for your plant. There is an option to enable or disable each parameter in the loop filter.  There are a number of methods to tune a loop.  We recommend the Ziegler-Nichols method.(([[https://staff.guilan.ac.ir/staff/users/chaibakhsh/fckeditor_repo/file/documents/Optimum%20Settings%20for%20Automatic%20Controllers%20(Ziegler%20and%20Nichols,%201942).pdf|Optimum Settings for Automatic Controllers, by J.G. Zieger and N. B. Nichols]] and\\ 
 +[[https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ziegler%E2%80%93Nichols_method|Wikipedia]]))  [[Z-N|Instructions on using this method can be found here]].
  
 +== Slew Rate Limit ==
 For applications where the rate of change of the temperature of the plant needs to be controlled, it is possible to set an upper limit on the slew rate.  This can also be done through the PID Params screen.\\ For applications where the rate of change of the temperature of the plant needs to be controlled, it is possible to set an upper limit on the slew rate.  This can also be done through the PID Params screen.\\
  
 <WRAP center round box 60%><tabcaption set_param |Setting loop parameters> <WRAP center round box 60%><tabcaption set_param |Setting loop parameters>
-| **Setpoint**      |  ºC      | Sets the setpoint temperature of the plant.            |+| **Setpoint**      |  °C      | Sets the setpoint temperature of the plant.            |
 | **Proportional**  |  V/V     | Sets the proportional gain of the loop filter.         | | **Proportional**  |  V/V     | Sets the proportional gain of the loop filter.         |
 | **Integral**      |  sec     | Sets the integral time constant of the loop filter.    | | **Integral**      |  sec     | Sets the integral time constant of the loop filter.    |
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 The thermistor data has been configured at the factory for a typical NTC thermistor that is 10 kΩ at 25°C.  Only NTC (Negative Thermal Coefficient) thermistors can be used.  You can enter a new Beta value, reference temperature, and resistance value and the Steinhart-Hart constants will be calculated automatically or vice versa. The thermistor data has been configured at the factory for a typical NTC thermistor that is 10 kΩ at 25°C.  Only NTC (Negative Thermal Coefficient) thermistors can be used.  You can enter a new Beta value, reference temperature, and resistance value and the Steinhart-Hart constants will be calculated automatically or vice versa.
  
-NOTE: The SLICE-QT can achieve sub-millikelvin stabilities over a very wide set point temperature range. For most applications working near room temperature, an NTC thermistor with a nominal value of 10 kΩ at 25°C will work fine. For temperatures far from room temperature, best results will occur by choosing a thermistor that has a resistance of 10 kΩ at your desired set point temperature. The input bridge circuitry is configured to have maximum sensitivity at a 10-kΩ resistance.+NOTE: The SLICE-QTC can achieve sub-millikelvin stabilities over a very wide set point temperature range. For most applications working near room temperature, an NTC thermistor with a nominal value of 10 kΩ at 25°C will work fine. For temperatures far from room temperature, best results will occur by choosing a thermistor that has a resistance of 10 kΩ at your desired set point temperature. The input bridge circuitry is configured to have maximum sensitivity at a 10-kΩ resistance.
    
 <imgcaption plant|Set Thermistor and Plant Information>{{ :slice:slice-qt_thermistor_and_plant_screen_tec_.jpg?400x254 |}}</imgcaption> <imgcaption plant|Set Thermistor and Plant Information>{{ :slice:slice-qt_thermistor_and_plant_screen_tec_.jpg?400x254 |}}</imgcaption>
-| {{ :warning-sign.png?100&nolink }}  | WHEN USING A RESISTIVE HEATER, be sure to set the transducer type (CH X > Settings > Plant) to Heater/Monopolar.  If set to TEC/Bipolar, attempts by the SLICE-QT to actively cool your plant will result in a thermal runaway condition. |+| {{ :warning-sign.png?100&nolink }}  | WHEN USING A RESISTIVE HEATER, be sure to set the transducer type (CH X > Settings > Plant) to Heater/Monopolar.  If set to TEC/Bipolar, attempts by the SLICE-QTC to actively cool your plant will result in a thermal runaway condition. |
  
 === Maximum & Minimum Temperature, Lock Range === === Maximum & Minimum Temperature, Lock Range ===
 +== Set Maximum & Minimum Temperature ==
  
-The maximum and minimum allowable temperatures (T<sub>max</sub> and T<sub>min</sub>) can be set as well as the range of ∆T where the system is considered to be locked.  From a Channel Detail screen (<imgref detail_scr>), tap Settings > Limits and the screen in <imgref T_limits> will appear.  It is advised to set T<sub>min</sub> above the dew point temperature for your ambient conditions.  If the temperature of the plant exceeds the range set by T<sub>max</sub> and T<sub>min</sub>, the temperature will be displayed in a flashing <color black/red>red</color> field.+The maximum and minimum allowable temperatures (T<sub>max</sub> and T<sub>min</sub>) can be set as well as the range of ∆T where the system is considered to be locked.  From a Channel Detail screen (<imgref detail_scr>), tap Settings > Temp Limits and the screen in <imgref T_limits> will appear.  It is advised to set T<sub>min</sub> above the dew point temperature for your ambient conditions to avoid condensation on your plant surface.  If the temperature of the plant exceeds the range set by T<sub>max</sub> and T<sub>min</sub>, the temperature will be displayed in a flashing <color black/red>red</color> field.
  
 +== Set Lock Range ==
 In the view shown, the lock range has been defined to be ±3 mK.  If -3 mK ≤ ∆T ≤ +3 mK, ∆T will be displayed on a <color black/green> green</color> field.  If outside this range, ∆T will be displayed on a <color black/yellow>yellow</color> field.  The graph in the bottom right of the Channel Detail screen plots ∆T vs. time.  The dashed yellow lines on this plot represent the lock range limits as set in this screen. In the view shown, the lock range has been defined to be ±3 mK.  If -3 mK ≤ ∆T ≤ +3 mK, ∆T will be displayed on a <color black/green> green</color> field.  If outside this range, ∆T will be displayed on a <color black/yellow>yellow</color> field.  The graph in the bottom right of the Channel Detail screen plots ∆T vs. time.  The dashed yellow lines on this plot represent the lock range limits as set in this screen.
 <imgcaption T_limits|Screen for setting absolute extrema and lock range>{{ :slice:slice-qt_ch_1_limits_screen.jpg?400x254 |}}</imgcaption> <imgcaption T_limits|Screen for setting absolute extrema and lock range>{{ :slice:slice-qt_ch_1_limits_screen.jpg?400x254 |}}</imgcaption>
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 | {{ :warning-sign.png?50&nolink }}  | If your plant is exposed to the atmosphere, use an abundance of caution in setting T<sub>min</sub> below the dew point for your ambient conditions!  Water will condense on surfaces that are below the dew point temperature.  | | {{ :warning-sign.png?50&nolink }}  | If your plant is exposed to the atmosphere, use an abundance of caution in setting T<sub>min</sub> below the dew point for your ambient conditions!  Water will condense on surfaces that are below the dew point temperature.  |
 ==== Front-panel Inputs & Outputs ==== ==== Front-panel Inputs & Outputs ====
-The front panel of the SLICE-QT has two analog inputs (channels A & B) and two analog outputs (channels 1 & 2, not to be confused with the temperature control channels) available for use. The two analog outputs can be configured to output useful monitor signals, while the two analog inputs can be configured to provide additional functionality. A schematic of the input and output functionality is shown in <imgref io_map>, with the light blue boxes indicating the front panel I/O. The voltage range of the analog I/O on the SLICE-QT is ±10 V. +The front panel of the SLICE-QTC has two analog inputs (channels A & B) and two analog outputs (channels 1 & 2, not to be confused with the temperature control channels) available for use. The two analog outputs can be configured to output useful monitor signals, while the two analog inputs can be configured to provide additional functionality. A schematic of the input and output functionality is shown in <imgref io_map>, with the light blue boxes indicating the front panel I/O. The voltage range of the analog I/O on the SLICE-QTC is ±10 V. 
  
 To program the functionality of the front panel I/O, from any screen, touch the I/O icon on the left sidebar.  You will be presented with the screen shown in <imgref io> Touch the blue-framed window to the right of the I/O channel you wish to program. Upon doing so, you will be presented with a pull-down menu of the various options available for that channel. For instance, if you select <color orange>channel A input</color>, you will be presented with the screen shown in <imgref in_prog> You can select the input to be any of the signals shown in <tabref input> for any of the four temperature-control channels. To program the functionality of the front panel I/O, from any screen, touch the I/O icon on the left sidebar.  You will be presented with the screen shown in <imgref io> Touch the blue-framed window to the right of the I/O channel you wish to program. Upon doing so, you will be presented with a pull-down menu of the various options available for that channel. For instance, if you select <color orange>channel A input</color>, you will be presented with the screen shown in <imgref in_prog> You can select the input to be any of the signals shown in <tabref input> for any of the four temperature-control channels.
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 <imgcaption out_gain|Adjusting the Gain & Offset of Channel 2 Output>{{ slice:slice-qt_i_o_gain_adjust.jpg?400x254 |}}</imgcaption> <imgcaption out_gain|Adjusting the Gain & Offset of Channel 2 Output>{{ slice:slice-qt_i_o_gain_adjust.jpg?400x254 |}}</imgcaption>
 +
 +When the SLICE-QTC is programmed to deliver data to an output port, the data that is being delivered will be indicated on the Channel Detail screen as seen in <imgref 4out> The numeral 1 in the magenta circle in the upper right-hand corner of the <color black/green>green</color> Error [mK] display field indicates that the error in temperature for CH 4 is being delivered to the front-panel I/O port ch 1.
 +
 +<imgcaption 4out|CH 4 ∆T data is being delivered to front-panel I/O channel 1>{{ slice:slice-qt_ch4_deltat_out_ch_1.jpg?400x234 |}}</imgcaption>
  
 <WRAP center round box 60%><tabcaption output |Front-panel ouput signals> <WRAP center round box 60%><tabcaption output |Front-panel ouput signals>
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 </tabcaption></WRAP> </tabcaption></WRAP>
 ==== Triggering ==== ==== Triggering ====
-External control of the SLICE-QT is accomplished via a TTL trigger.((https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Logic_level)) 0 to 0.8 V TTL is low and 2 to V<sub>CC</sub> is TTL high.+External control of the SLICE-QTC is accomplished via a TTL trigger.((https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Logic_level)) 0 to 0.8 V TTL is low and 2 to V<sub>CC</sub> is TTL high.
 === Trigger Out === === Trigger Out ===
-The Trigger Out on the back panel of the SLICE-QT can be forced to go high to alert an external device to a status change.  To program the trigger, from any screen touch I/O > Trigger Out.  You will be presented with the screen shown in <imgref trigger> Select those events on the desired channels for which you want the trigger to go high. A logical OR is performed on the set of selected events to determine the state of the output trigger. In the example, the trigger will go high if the minimum temperature set for CH 1 is exceeded, the maximum temperature set for CH 2 is exceeded, the maximum slew rate set for CH 3 is exceeded, or when CH 4 reaches its set point temperature.+The Trigger Out on the back panel of the SLICE-QTC can be forced to go high to alert an external device to a status change.  To program the trigger, from any screen touch I/O > Trigger Out.  You will be presented with the screen shown in <imgref trigger> Select those events on the desired channels for which you want the trigger to go high. A logical OR is performed on the set of selected events to determine the state of the output trigger. In the example, the trigger will go high if the minimum temperature set for CH 1 is exceeded, the maximum temperature set for CH 2 is exceeded, the maximum slew rate set for CH 3 is exceeded, or when CH 4 reaches its set point temperature.
  
 <imgcaption trigger|Programming the rear-panel trigger out>{{ :slice:slice-qt_trigger_programmed.jpg?400x254 |}}</imgcaption> <imgcaption trigger|Programming the rear-panel trigger out>{{ :slice:slice-qt_trigger_programmed.jpg?400x254 |}}</imgcaption>
  
 === Trigger In === === Trigger In ===
-Currently, there are no input triggers allowed.  +Currently, there are no input triggers allowed for the SLICE-QTC.  
 ==== System Settings ==== ==== System Settings ====
 Touching the System Settings button on the Control Bar (<imgref sys_butt>) will open the System Settings screen as seen in <imgref settings>. Touching the System Settings button on the Control Bar (<imgref sys_butt>) will open the System Settings screen as seen in <imgref settings>.
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 Change the input impedance of the two front-panel input ports.  Select either 50 Ω or 1 MΩ. Change the input impedance of the two front-panel input ports.  Select either 50 Ω or 1 MΩ.
  
-=== Firmware Version === +=== SLICE-QT Firmware === 
-Current firmware versions are reported here.+Current firmware versions are reported here.   
 + 
 +<WRAP center round box 60%><tabcaption firmware_rev |Most recent firmware versions as of 6 June 2019> 
 +| Firmware | Version Level | Release Date | 
 +| System Controller| 1.24| 23 May 2019| 
 +| QTC| 1.38| 23 May 2019| 
 +</tabcaption></WRAP> 
 +From time to time, Vescent will upgrade the firmware for controlling the SLICE-QTC.  The procedure to upgrade the firmware is given [[slice:qt:firmware|here]].
  
 === Host GUI === === Host GUI ===
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 ===== Using the Host GUI ===== ===== Using the Host GUI =====
-It is possible to control the SLICE-QT from a Windows<sup>®</sup>-based PC using a GUI.  In order to use the GUI, you must first download the latest version, connect the PC to the SLICE-QT, and assign a COM port to the SLICE-QT.  The following describes the steps involved.+It is possible to control the SLICE-QTC from a Windows<sup>®</sup>-based PC using a GUI.  In order to use the GUI, you must first download the latest version, connect the PC to the SLICE-QTC, and assign a COM port to the SLICE-QTC.  The following describes the steps involved.
  
   - Download and store the latest GUI executable from the FTP site (Request copy of executable GUI from [[[email protected]|sales [at] vescent [dot] com]]).   - Download and store the latest GUI executable from the FTP site (Request copy of executable GUI from [[[email protected]|sales [at] vescent [dot] com]]).
-  - Connect the SLICE-QT to the PC using a USB type B cable. +  - Connect the SLICE-QTC to the PC using a USB type B cable. 
-  - Turn on the SLICE-QT+  - Turn on the SLICE-QTC
-  - On the PC, double click on the SLICE-QT GUI to start the GUI.+  - On the PC, double click on the SLICE-QTC GUI to start the GUI.
   - On your PC, go to Start > Control Panel > Device Manager > Ports   - On your PC, go to Start > Control Panel > Device Manager > Ports
     - Identify which COM Port is labeled "STMicroelectronics Virtual COM Port (COMXX)" or similar.  Note the value of XX.     - Identify which COM Port is labeled "STMicroelectronics Virtual COM Port (COMXX)" or similar.  Note the value of XX.
-  - On the SLICE-QT GUI, click on the Settings icon {{:slice:slice-qt-settings-button.gif?77x77}} to get to the window shown in <imgref com>. <imgcaption com|Settings screen when viewed by GUI>{{ :slice:slice-qt_settings_gui.png?400x350 |}}</imgcaption>+  - On the SLICE-QTC GUI, click on the Settings icon {{:slice:slice-qt-settings-button.gif?77x77}} to get to the window shown in <imgref com>. <imgcaption com|Settings screen when viewed by GUI>{{ :slice:slice-qt_settings_gui.png?400x350 |}}</imgcaption>
   - Click on the OFF button below COM Port. You should see a menu similar to the one shown <imgref com1>. NOTE: The COM port numbers may differ from those shown below.<imgcaption com1 |COM port selection>{{ :slice:slice-qt_gui_com.png?400x350 |}}</imgcaption>   - Click on the OFF button below COM Port. You should see a menu similar to the one shown <imgref com1>. NOTE: The COM port numbers may differ from those shown below.<imgcaption com1 |COM port selection>{{ :slice:slice-qt_gui_com.png?400x350 |}}</imgcaption>
   - Select the COM port identified in the step above (usually the last COM port in the list; COM11 in this example). The window in <imgref com2> should appear if the connection is successful.<imgcaption com2|Ready to upgrade>{{ :slice:slice-qt_gui_com2.png?400x350 |}}</imgcaption>     - Select the COM port identified in the step above (usually the last COM port in the list; COM11 in this example). The window in <imgref com2> should appear if the connection is successful.<imgcaption com2|Ready to upgrade>{{ :slice:slice-qt_gui_com2.png?400x350 |}}</imgcaption>  
  
-The GUI should now actively control the SLICE-QT.  You should only have to do the above steps once from a given PC.  After assigning the COM port, the system will recognize the device in the future (unless you reassign the COM port to another device).+The GUI should now actively control the SLICE-QTC.  You should only have to do the above steps once from a given PC.  After assigning the COM port, the system will recognize the device in the future (unless you reassign the COM port to another device).
 ===== Firmware Update ===== ===== Firmware Update =====
-From time to time, Vescent will upgrade the firmware for controlling the SLICE-QT.  The procedure to upgrade the firmware is given [[slice:qt:firmware|here]].+From time to time, Vescent will upgrade the firmware for controlling the SLICE-QTC.  The procedure to upgrade the firmware is given [[slice:qt:firmware|here]].
 ===== Serial API ===== ===== Serial API =====
-It is possible to control the SLICE-QT through serial commands.  More information coming soon.  Please contact [[[email protected]|sales [at] vescent [dot] com]] for information.+It is possible to control the SLICE-QTC through serial commands.  Click here to access the [[slice:qt:API|SLICE-QTC API]]. 
 + 
 +More information coming soon.  Please contact [[[email protected]|sales [at] vescent [dot] com]] for information.
  
 ===== Maintenance ===== ===== Maintenance =====
slice/qt.txt · Last modified: 2023/08/11 15:53 by 127.0.0.1