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FAQs
In our FAQ area, you can find answers to the most frequently asked questions regarding our vacuum metrology instruments..
If you cannot find an answer to your questions in this category, please contact us directly.
| What is the Min/Max memory feature? Extreme values (minimum and maximum pressure) recorded during the measurement process are stored directly and can be read out on the display when the measurement is complete. |
| Is it possible to measure directly in a vacuum? Yes, our VD8 compact vacuum meters can be placed directly into a vacuum chamber. Via their data logger measurement values are stored and can be sent to a PC for evaluation, once the measurement is completed. |
| What happens to the set device parameters or stored data when the battery is changed? A battery-independent memory module is used to store measured values and device parameters, but the stored extreme values (min/max memory) are lost when the battery is changed. |
| Is the battery included in the shipment? Yes, an alkaline block battery is included in the scope of the initial delivery. The device can also be operated with a plug-in power supply unit (optionally available as an accessory). |
| Which batteries are suitable for VD8 compact vacuum meters? We recommend 9 V alkaline batteries. Alternatively, 9 V lithium batteries or 9 V rechargeable batteries can be used. Zinc-carbon batteries are not suitable due to the high internal resistance. |
| How often do I need to recalibrate the compact vacuum meter? The period between calibrations depends on the specific application. In particular, deposits and dirt in the sensor, but also use under extreme temperature conditions, can make readjustment necessary. For quality assurance, we recommend sending the devices in for calibration every one or two years. We offer a factory calibration (article no. ADJCERT) or a DAkkS calibration (article no. DKDCERT). |
| Do I have to mount the instrument in a specific position? In principle, the devices can be installed in any position. You will achieve the most accurate measurement results if the flange of the device is horizontal, as the devices have been calibrated in this position. Mounting the sensor from below is not recommended, as condensation and dirt can collect in the measuring cell. |
| What data storage options are available with the VD8 Using the integrated data logger, you can store up to 2000 measured values in the device and transfer them to the PC once the measurement is complete. Alternatively, the data can be sent to the PC and evaluated during the measurement (online measurement). |
| What are the benefits of the “Data logging at measurement change” option? To optimally use the memory, especially for long-term measurements, the VD8 offers the function “Data logging at measurement change”. Measured values are only saved if the pressure changes, reducing the amount of insignificant data. |
| Is the VacuGraph® software required for using a VD8 compact vacuum meter? The VacuGraph® software is a helpful accessory for the optimal use of our vacuum meters. It is used for the communication between a PC and the vacuum meter. For example, you can transfer the measured values stored in the data logger to the PC and evaluate them or conveniently adjust device parameters such as the sampling rate in the software configuration board. |
| How can I set parameters like switching points or gas type correction factors? The Smartline vacuum transducers are programmed via their RS485 interface. They respond e. g. on type requests, measurement requests, adjustment commands and commands forsetting gas type correction factors. It is also possible to program both relay switching points of the gauge via RS485. |
| Is the measuring signal independent of the gas type within the rough vacuum range? Yes, in the pressure range above 15 mbar. |
| Is the Pirani sensor protected against pollution and dirt? All Thyracont Pirani sensors are fitted with a cover which protects against basic condensation and pollution. If the sensors are used in an extremely polluted environment, it is advised to additionally either use an extension pipe, an elbow fitting, a cooling trap or a seal ring with a sinter filter. We recommend keeping the transducer switched on permanently, as a hot Pirani filament is less susceptible to contamination. |
| Is it possible to clean the Pirani sensor? Depending on the type and intensity of the pollution, it is feasible to clean the sensor with isopropanol. To do so, you need to fill the measuring cell completely with isopropanol and let it rest for a few minutes. After removing the fluid, the measuring must dry out completely. Please note that if e.g. oil debris is baked onto the filament, it is very difficult or even impossible to clean. |
| Do I have to mount the instrument in a specific position? In principle, the devices can be installed in any position. You will achieve the most accurate measurement results if the flange of the device is horizontal, as the devices have been calibrated in this position. Mounting the sensor from below is not recommended, as condensation and dirt can collect in the measuring cell. |
| How often do I need to recalibrate the vacuum transducer? The period between calibrations depends on the specific application. In particular, deposits and dirt in the sensor, but also use under extreme temperature conditions, can make readjustment necessary. For quality assurance, we recommend sending the devices in for calibration every one or two years. We offer a factory calibration (article no. ADJCERT) or a DAkkS calibration (article no. DKDCERT). |
| How can I change the sensor heads of the transducers? The replaceable, pre-adjusted sensor heads of the Smartline transmitters can be replaced quickly and easily by the user to ensure consistently high system availability. To do this, the fixing screws of the sensor head are loosened, the sensor unit replaced and the screws refastened. After a warm-up time of approx. 15 minutes, press the Adjust button. The sensors and electronics are now automatically adjusted to each other and the transmitter is ready for operation. |
| When to use a hot cathode and when to use a cold cathode? Hot cathode transducers are mainly used for measurements where high precision (<15%) is required. We also recommend our hot cathode for measurements in the ultra-high-vacuum range down to 5e-10 mbar. Cold cathode transducers are more robust in numerous applications and therefore particularly interesting for applications where the sensor is exposed to dust, oil or other pollution. The cold cathode measuring cell can be patrially dismantled and cleaned (e.g. with Scotch Brite). Compared to the VSH, the VSM has a lower, but for a cold cathode very good accuracy of <25%. To ensure high system availability, the sensor head of both transmitters can be easily replaced if necessary. |
| Is it possible to clean the sensor head of the VSM? Yes, it is possible to partly dismantle the sensor head and to carefully clean it with Scotch Brite. Thereby, metallic debris and minor pollution can be easily removed. |
| Is it possible to clean the sensor head of the VSH? Hot cathode sensors are not suited for cleaning. |
| What does “piezoresistive” mean? By changing the presUnder the effect of pressure, a thin membrane with a resistance measuring bridge on the back is deformed. These piezoresistive resistors change under compressive or tensile stress. The resulting detuning of the measuring bridge is a measure of the absolute pressure acting on the diaphragm. |
| What are the advantages of the ramp pulse process compared to the standard Pirani? With the patented ramp pulse method, the required heating time of the Pirani filament is evaluated. It works at a low filament temperature, therefore requires less power and offers a larger measuring range. |
| Is the Pirani sensor protected against pollution and dirt? All Thyracont Pirani sensors are fitted with a cover which protects against basic condensation and pollution. If the sensors are used in an extremely polluted environment, it is advised to additionally either use an extension pipe, an elbow fitting, a cooling trap or a seal ring with a sinter filter. |
| Is it possible to clean the Pirani sensor? Depending on the type and intensity of the pollution, it is feasible to clean the sensor with isopropanol. To do so, you need to fill the measuring cell completely with isopropanol and let it rest for a few minutes. After removing the fluid, the measuring must dry out completely. Please note that if e.g. oil debris is baked onto the filament, it is very difficult or even impossible to clean. |
| Do I have to mount the instrument in a specific position? In principle, the devices can be installed in any position. You will achieve the most accurate measurement results if the flange of the device is horizontal, as the devices have been calibrated in this position. Mounting the sensor from below is not recommended, as condensation and dirt can collect in the measuring cell. |
| How often do I need to recalibrate the vacuum transducer? The period between calibrations depends on the specific application. In particular, deposits and dirt in the sensor, but also use under extreme temperature conditions, can make readjustment necessary. For quality assurance, we recommend sending the devices in for calibration every one or two years. We offer a factory calibration (article no. ADJCERT) or a DAkkS calibration (article no. DKDCERT). |
| What output signal does the sensor provide? The VSP841/2 itself does not provide any output-signal. It is a passive Pirani sensor without evaluation electronics. We will be happy to send you a proposal for an evaluation switching suitable for your application on request. |
| Is the Pirani sensor protected against pollution and dirt? All Thyracont Pirani sensors are fitted with a cover which protects against basic condensation and pollution. If the sensors are used in an extremely polluted environment, it is advised to additionally either use an extension pipe, an elbow fitting, a cooling trap or a seal ring with a sinter filter. |
| Is it possible to clean the Pirani sensor? Depending on the type and intensity of the pollution, it is feasible to clean the sensor with isopropanol. To do so, you need to fill the measuring cell completely with isopropanol and let it rest for a few minutes. After removing the fluid, the measuring must dry out completely. Please note that if e.g. oil debris is baked onto the filament, it is very difficult or even impossible to clean. |
| Do I have to mount the instrument in a specific position? In principle, the devices can be installed in any position. You will achieve the most accurate measurement results if the flange of the device is horizontal, as the devices have been calibrated in this position. Mounting the sensor from below is not recommended, as condensation and dirt can collect in the measuring cell. |
| How often do I need to recalibrate the vacuum transducer? The period between calibrations depends on the specific application. In particular, deposits and dirt in the sensor, but also use under extreme temperature conditions, can make readjustment necessary. For quality assurance, we recommend sending the devices in for calibration every one or two years. We offer a factory calibration (article no. ADJCERT) or a DAkkS calibration (article no. DKDCERT). |
| What is the difference between the VD6 and the VD12 packages? The VD6 is a compact 1-channel display and control unit for panel mounting (48×96 mm) for the 4 to 20 mA transducers VSC43MA4 and VSP63MA4 only. The device has a USB-interface for communication with a PC. Power supply and switching outputs are connected via phoenix strip terminal. The VD12 is a 2-channel display and control device in a metal housing for 19" installation systems. The measuring device can be combined with all Thyracont transducers with 0-10V output. |
| What does “piezoresistive” mean? By changing the presUnder the effect of pressure, a thin membrane with a resistance measuring bridge on the back is deformed. These piezoresistive resistors change under compressive or tensile stress. The resulting detuning of the measuring bridge is a measure of the absolute pressure acting on the diaphragm. |
| How is the switching point set? First, the housing cover must be removed to prevent unintentional adjustment. The switching point is set using a potentiometer, whereby the value of the switching point is output as a 0 - 1 V analog signal for checking purposes. |
| Can you display the measurement values? Yes, the measurement values are displayed as a 0-10 V analog signal. |
| What do I need the VacuGraph® software for? VacuGraph® enables a simple visualization and analysis of the measured data. Process curves can be saved and compared, particularly for quality assurance purposes, e.g. for audits. Practical functions such as the leak rate calculation tool complement the software. A free lite version is even available for a convenient device configuration. |
| What are the limitations of the VacuGraph® Lite-Version? Measurement data cannot be saved, exported and printed. The maximum measurement time is limited to 5 minutes and only one live measurement tab/window can be displayed. In addition, it is not possible to read out "data logger" devices. |
| Is it possible to export the measurements into Excel? Yes, this is possible, but only with a license key, not with the Lite version. |
| What is the validity period of a factory calibration? A factory calibration documents the actual state of a test item at the time of calibration by noting the displayed pressure values of the test item in comparison to the actual pressure values of a reference measuring device. |