TIC Turbo & Instrument Controller, 200 W RS232

A compact turbo controller with a large clear graphical display, an intuitive user interface and serial communications providing full remote control and data logging functions via a new Windows™ based PC program. The controller automatically recognizes and supports one 24 V turbomolecular pump from the nEXT range. Cooling and vent valve support is provided directly from the controller. Mains backing pumps (up to nXDS20i/RV12) may be controlled via an optional relay box. 2 different power variants are available, 100W or 200W which determines the ramp speed of the turbo pump. In addition 200W models have the ability to power a 24Vdc backing pump such as our XDD1 or nXDS through a 15-way D. Turbo and instrument models add the ability to control up to 3 of our range of Active gauges (excluding IGC & Barocels).

Display interface
 
TIC software is structured through a series of easily accessible screens, similar to a mobile telephone.
 
TIC automatically recognizes which gauges and turbo are connected and displays the appropriate information on the default summary screen. Scrolling and selecting accesses the control and set-up menus for that item.
 
Turbo speed is shown as a proportion of full speed by a bar graph. ‘Norm’ indicates that the turbo has reached its Normal Speed, whilst forward or reverse facing chevrons indicate acceleration and deceleration.
 
Pump status is displayed, which combined with gauge outputs and relay status gives a clear indication of what is currently happening in the vacuum system.
 
There are a number of display options for maximum clarity. In addition, two levels of password protection may be applied, effectively restricting or preventing unauthorized intervention.
 
In the event of an error occurring, TIC will display either a WARNING or flash an ALARM. A warning advises of a condition outside normal parameters, requiring no action, but an alarm must be cleared before normal operation may resume.
 
Display units may be in mbar, Torr, Pa or Volts.
 
The three set point relays which are highlighted when tripped, may be linked to any gauge.
 
Gauge inputs
 
Instrument supporting TIC variants recognize and control the following gauges:
APG, APGX, ATC, ASG, AIM, WRG & AIGX
 
No more than one AIGX gauge may be connected to TIC at a time.
 
Backing pump 24 V (For mains backing pump support, see below.)
200 W turbo supporting TIC variants recognize and control the following 24 V backing pumps: XDD1
 
Relay box (optional)
A range of relay boxes has been developed to allow TIC to operate three 250 V a.c. 3 A (non-inductive) changeover relays, mains backing pumps and accessories.
 
The changeover relays are activated by the TIC set point outputs. The mains backing pump relay controls a backing line isolation valve, such that when the backing pump is switched off the isolation valve closes.
The relay box is connected to the TIC via the logic interface connector, which is also provided with a bypass connector for interfacing with OEM equipment.
 
Relay box options

• TIC Relay Box Instruments
• Changeover relays (3 off 250 V a.c. 3 A)
• TIC Relay Box Small Backing pump
• Heater band & backing line isolation valve
• Small backing pump
• TIC Relay Box Inst & Small Backing pump
• Changeover relays (3 off 250 V a.c. 3 A)
• Heater band & backing line isolation valve
• Small backing pump
• Compatible mains backing pumps and accessories
  • Small backing pumps: E2M0.7 & 1.5, RV3, 5, 8 & 12, XDS5C & 10C, XDS5 & 10 & ESDP12
  • Heater band: BX70 & BX250
  • Backing line isolation valve: LCPV16EKA & LCPV25EKA

 
Windows^TM PC Program
TIC is supplied with a fully functional Windows^TM based PC software, which replicates and adds to the TIC embedded control menus. The PC software enables TIC systems to be configured, controlled and monitored from a single PC.
 
A useful data logging facility is also included, which saves user selectable parameters to file (in .csv format) for later analysis using suitable software.
 
TIC system configurations may be created and saved for use at a later date, thus saving programing time.
The PC software includes an upgrade utility, which enables the TIC embedded software to be upgraded over the serial link from files supplied electronically.
 
System configurations
For information on system configurations contact Edwards.

• TIC automatically recognizes and controls one 24 V turbomolecular pump from either the nEXT, DX or EXDC ranges. nEXT and DX turbos have full serial communication with TIC and may be both configured and report status via TIC.
• Both mains and 24 V backing pumps may be controlled by TIC. For larger vacuum systems the TIC may control mains backing pumps, up to and including nXDS10 and RV12, via the optional relay box.
• The optional external relay box enables mains backing pumps to be controlled and also provides interfaces for a turbo heater band, a backing line isolation valve and a logic bypass. See relay box section.
• In most instances, TIC systems may be simply and quickly configured using the range of standard cables on offer, there is therefore no need for the customer to prepare loom assemblies or relay boxes and special interfaces.
• TIC is packaged in a compact case and may be panel or rack (¼ 19inch rack 3U) or bench mounted. With the addition of the bezel it becomes an attractive bench-top instrument. The large 128 x 64 pixel backlit graphics LCD and mobile phone style menu system simplifies programming and with a choice of summary screens excellent visibility of displayed parameters is assured.
• TIC will operate from mains supplies with voltages between 90 and 264 V ac, and frequencies between 47 and 63 Hz. No user intervention being required.
• To enable complete integration into PC and PLC controlled processes, all TIC variants include RS232 and RS485 interfaces as standard. TIC is supplied with a new Windows™ PC program which enables full setup and control from a PC, using the RS232 interface.
• As new compatible products are released, TIC software may be simply upgraded using the special utility supplied with the Windows™ PC program. TIC software upgrades will be made available via e-mail and the Internet.

Pump / TIC power	100W / 200W
EXT75DX	Fast / Fast
nEXT 80W	Slow / Slow
nEXT 160W	Slow / Fast
Mains input
Electrical supply	90 to 264 V a.c. 47 to 63 Hz
Power consumption (max)	215 VA
Peak inrush current	10.3 A @ 110 V a.c. / 23.0 A @ 230 V a.c.
Earth stud	M4
Auxiliary terminals
Air cooling fan	24 V d.c. 3 W max, ACX70, ACX75 & ACX250H
Vent valve	24 V d.c. 2 W max, TAV5 & TAV6
Dimensions
Electronics housing	110 mm high x 105 mm wide x 245 mm deep
Front panel	106 mm wide x 128 mm high
Weight	3.5 kg
Operating temp	+0 ° to +40 °C
Storage temp	-30 ° to +70 °C
Max ambient operating humidity	90% RH non-condensing at 40 °C
Max operating altitude	3000 m
Electronic Design	EN 61010-1
Electromagnetic Compatibility	EN 61326 Industrial Location, Class B Emissions
Enclosure rating	IP20