Overview

WORKS WITH PELTIER MODULES OR RESISTIVE HEATERS, FANS, AND MORE!

The 5C7-36x, 5C7-37x and  5C7-38x Series temperature controllers provide automatic biphase heating and cooling control for Thermoelectric (Peltier effect, or TEC) modules for both cooling and heating applications. If a diode is added to the output these controllers are compatible with  resistive heaters, fans, and many other DC voltage devices that proportionately alter operation based on the amount of power supplied. This also allows the controller to power a Thermoelectric module in conjunction with a resistive heater (for additional heating power), or other DC driven device.

The "H" bridge configuration of the solid state MOSFET output devices allows for the bi-directional flow of current through the thermoelectric modules. Highly efficient N-channel output devices are used for this control mode.

A Pulse Width Modulated controller, or PWM controller, is a type of switched-mode controller. Our PWM controllers use square waves of varying widths and at a high frequency to provide power to the "load" (heater/cooler). Low power dissipation and precision control of the load make this type of temperature controller perferrable to analog controllers.

With peltier modules it is necessary to have a smooth transition between heat and cool modes, especially when controlling the temperature of laser diodes or telecom components. Our controllers provide a smooth transition from one mode to the other.

Compensation can be made for the difference in the efficiency of a peltier module's heat and cool modes.

Once the desired set parameters are established, the PC may be disconnected and the controller becomes a unique, stand alone controller. All parameter settings are retained in non-volatile memory.

The user friendly, communications software requires no prior programming experience to establish operation. A command set is provided for qualified personnel to program a software interface or use as an embedded control.

Mechanically, the controller's printed circuit board is mounted to a metal bracket that is suitable for either horizontal or vertical orientation. Input and output connections are accessible via eurostyle screw type terminal strips, fast-on terminals, and a 0.100 center connector. ( Click for Photo  ) The 5C7-378 is the only controller using Molex/AMP connectors (see the accessories for this controller as listed in the pricing at the bottom of this page). For your production purposes (with NRE fee), all of these controllers can be supplied with Molex/AMP connectors in place of the eurostyle screw type terminal strips.

Models 5C7-361, 5C7-366, 5C7-367, 5C7-368, 5C7-371 and 5C7-379

These controllers are PC programmable via an RS485 communication port for direct interface with a compatible PC (or interface to the PC with our  "RS485/RS232 converter"). The  "RS485 communications interface" has 1500 VAC isolation from all other electronic circuitry minimizing interference from noise or errant signals caused by common ground loops. The easily accessible communications link permits a variety of operational mode configurations. Field selectable parameters or data acquisition in a half duplex mode can be performed.This controller will accept at least 32 addressable devices, over a maximum of 4,000 feet of communications cable.

Each controller has two sensor inputs. The second sensor input can optionally be used for remote set point adjustment. All thermistors are Fenwall Curve 16, but we can customize for other R-T curves.

The standard 5C7-361 usesTS67 Series thermistors at –20°C To +100°C.

The standard 5C7-366 usesTS91 Series thermistors at –25°C To +85°C.

The standard 5C7-367 usesTS104 Series thermistors at 0°C To +150°C.

The standard 5C7-368 usesTS104 Series thermistors at –20°C To +130°C.

The standard 5C7-379 usesTS141 Series thermistor at –40°C To +70°C.

The standard 5C7-371 uses 0-5 vdc (4-20 ma with appropriate resistor) for the controlling sensor providing an internal resolution of 1 mv, and a 15KOhm@25°C thermistor as an auxiliary sensor. The controlling sensor signal can be provided by a Temperature Transmitter attached to Pltainum RTD, Thermocouple or other sensors.

These controllers are PC programmable via an  "RS232 communications interface". One RS232 COM port on your computer will configure and monitor one controller. The easily accessible communications link permits a variety of operational mode configurations.

Each controller has two sensor inputs. The second sensor input can optionally be used for remote set point adjustment. All thermistors are Fenwall Curve 16, but we can customize for other R-T curves.

The standard 5C7-362 usesTS67 Series thermistors at –20°C To +100°C or aTS141 Series thermistor at –40°C To +70°C.

The standard 5C7-365 usesTS91 Series thermistors at –25°C To +85°C or aTS141 Series thermistor at –40°C To +70°C.

The 5C7-378 has 5 times better temperature resolution then the other controllers. This controller does not have the "expansion connector" that is available on the other controllers. The 5C7-378 is the only controller using Molex/AMP connectors as standard connectors for the RS-232 communications and the sensors (see the accessories for this controller as listed in the pricing at the bottom of this page). Maximum output amperage of this unit is 10 amps. However, although the controller requires 12 to 20 vdc to run, the load (TE module, etc.) can be any voltage from 2 to 20 vdc. You can use a dual voltage power supply, or two power sources, to run each separately. The standard 5C7-378 usesTS67 Series thermistors at –20°C To +100°C or, user selectable with the latest version of the controller is theTS91 Series thermistors at –25°C To +85°C.

The standard 5C7-385 uses 0-5 vdc (4-20 ma w/resistor) independent sensor inputs. Internal resolution is approximately 1 mv. Each sensor signal can be provided by a Temperature Transmitter attached to Platinum RTD, Thermocouple or other sensor. Use 2 of the same or use two different sensors.

The standard 5C7-386 usesTS104 Series thermistors at 0°C To +150°C.

The standard 5C7-388 uses Type "T" Thermocouples at –200°C To +260°C, which is –328°F To +500°F.

OPEN FRAME VDC CONTROLLERS - FEATURE COMPARISON

CUSTOMIZATION
Custom temperature ranges
Custom or programmable voltage/current
Custom dimensions
Fan control
Custom alarms
Ruggedized
Uniphase output
Various sensors
Rack mount versions
and more (inquire)

• Load Type
• Can be a peltier module (TE module, Thermoelectirc module), or you can add a diode into your circuit and run resistive heaters (such as a thin film resistive heater, kapton heater, nichrome wire, etc.) or fan, etc.
• Power 
• Input for Controller
• 12 to 28 vdc powers Models 5C7-361/362/365/366/367/368/371/379/385/386/388 and is also passed through to the load.
• 12 to 20 vdc powers the Model 5C7-378 and this can be used to also power the load, or you can supply power for the load separately using 2 to 20 vdc.
• We can custom build to fixed or selectable voltages.
• Input for Load
• 12 to 28 vdc with Models 5C7-361/362/365/366/367/368/371/379/385/386/388. This powers the controller and is also passed through to the load.
• 2 to 20 vdc with the Model 5C7-378. 12 to 20 vdc powers the controller and this can be used to also power the load, or you can supply power for the load separately using 2 to 20 vdc.
• We can custom build to fixed or selectable voltages.
• Output   (Load Rating)
• 25 Amps max with Models 5C7-361/362/365/366/367/368/371/379/385/386/388 for up to 680 Watts at 12 to 28 vdc. Self-contained, 0.1 to 25 ampere load rating 
• 10 Amps max with the Model 5C7-378 for up to 200 Watts at load voltage of 2 to 20 vdc.
• We can custom build to your specifications.
• Control 
• Phase   (Heat/Cool)
• Biphase. The controllers are fully solid state "H" bridge operation with Automatic, bi-directional heating and cooling or we can custom build to uni-directional heat only, cool only, or selectable as bi-directional or uni-directional operation.
• Single-phase. Use an appropriately rated diode with our standard controllers for fans or resistive heaters so that the controller will only heat, or only cool.
•  Modes   (Algorithms)
• Proportional (P), Integral (I), and Derivative (D) control
• P, PI, PD, or PID
• Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) of Output is selectable as 675 Hz (normal), or 2700 Hz
• Control stability depends on the temperature resolution of the controller (see below)
• ON/OFF with an adjustable Deadband (hysteresis)
• Heat Side Multiplier
• Peltier Thermoelectric modules are generally more efficient at heating than at cooling. A configurable heat side multiplier compensates for this.
• Temperature
• Scale
• Centigrade or Fahrenheit
• Display & Settability
• 000.1 for Models 5C7-361/362/365/366/367/368/371/379/385/386/388. To a tenth of a degree.
• 000.01 for Model 5C7-378. To a hundredth of a degree.
• Range  (Control Temperature)
• Please see the Feature Comparison of Different Models above. See links to all related thermistor sensors in the left border menu, or under "Sensors" below.
• Transmitter/Diode Dependent -  For Model 5C7-371/385 temperature range depends on sensor and on the capabilities of the temperature transmitter, or thermal diode circuit, you use.
• Custom - We can reprogram these controllers for different thermistors. There is a nominal, one time, non-recurring fee.
• Resolution   (Internal Resolution, not inherent accuracy)
• Models  5C7-361/362/365/366/379/388
• 0.05°C (approx. 0.1°F) is standard, with a readability/settability of 0.1°C. These controllers provide DC voltage control with the possibility of stabilizing to better than ±0.1°C. With that kind of temperature stability, dependant upon the overall dynamics of the thermal system, it is possible to achieve a laser diode or fiber optic component spectral stability of ±0.1 nm or ±0.001 Absorbance Units, which is often well-suited for prolonged experiments, processes, or commercial applications.
• For Models 5C7-361/362: 0.03°C by means of a custom modification.
• Model  5C7-378
• 0.01°C
• Model  5C7-367/368/386
• Approximately 0.1°C
• Models 5C7-371/385
• The inputs have a resolution of approximately 1 mv.
• Sensors
• 1 or 2 Sensors - Each controller supports 2 sensors. The first sensor is used for the control temperature. Optionally, use a second sensor to provide "differential" temperature control, simply for an auxiliary temperature reading, or this input is used for remote set point adjustment..
• 5KOhm@25°C -TS141 Series NTC thermistors for Models 5C7-362/365/379.
• 10KOhm@25°C -TS91 Series or MA-100 NTC thermistors for the Model 5C7-365/366/378.
• 15KOhm@25°C -TS67 Series NTC thermistors for Models 5C7-361/362/378.
• 50KOhm@25°C -TS104 Series NTC thermistors for the Model 5C7-367/368/386.
• Type "T" Thermocouple - Model 5C7-388.
• Temperature Transmitter (and RTD or Thermocouples) - with Models 5C7-371/385.
• Thermal Diode - With an appropriate circuit you could use a diode for the sensor with the Model 5C7-371/385.
• Offsets - Offset values help adjust for temperature gradients of the thermal system, and can be used to help calibrate.
• Set Point Adjustment
• Software 
• Fixed - Set fixed value from the PC
• Referenced - Use 2nd thermistor to implement differential temperature control
• Hardware with Models 5C7-361/362/365/366/367/368/371/379/385/386/388
• Resistance - Set remotely using a potentiometer
• Current - Use a 4 to 20 MA current loop
• Voltage - Use a 1V to 5V adjustable range
• Alarms
• Limits - PC configurable High and Low alarm values and an alarm deadband.
• Latching - PC configurable alarm latching. Alarm state can automatically reset when the control temperature is between the High and Low alarm settings, or you can configure the controller so that the alarm state must be cleared manually.
• Output Power - PC configurable to turn off the output power in an alarm state.
• Sensor Selection - PC configurable for alarms state to be triggered by either of the the two sensors (each controller supports two sensors).
• External - Configure external alarm indication and alarm cancel for Models 5C7-361/362/366/367/368/371/379/386/388 via expansion connector. Connector supplies 5 Volts DC at 25 MA for High/No/Low alarm states.
• Expansion Connector with all Models axcept the 5C7-378
• Three 5 vdc Signals - Standard configurations use these outputs to provide external indication of the Low/No/High alarm states. However, for an NRE we can customize these 3 outputs. Use them to trigger relays for fans or other circuits, or to light LED's to indicate power on/off, etc. Supplies 5 Volts DC at 25 MA.
• Operation
• Ambient Operating Temperature
• Down to -20°C for off-the-shelf controllers. Notes on Ambient Operating Temperature
• Stand-alone   (disconnected from PC)
• Non-volatile memory for operating parameters allows for stand-alone operation
• From Computer   (from PC)
• Software
• Included - No computer programming experience is required to use the standard, Windows based Setup Program (configuration program)
• Custom - Command set is provided so programmers may create their own software interface for embedded controller applications
• ActiveX Automation Server - Component as an Executable - is available separately. This compiled component encapsulates the command set for easier programming from Visual Basic, LabView, TestStand, etc.
• ThermalMGR - software that is available separately to monitor and configure the controller(s). Includes datalogging
• Interface
• RS-485 for Models 5C7-361/366/367/368/371/379: via our controller's 1500 VAC isolated  "RS485" communications port.
• Connect directly to an RS-485 serial communications port.
• Interface to an RS-232 port with our  "RS485/RS232 converter".
• Interface to GPIB port with GPIB/RS485 converter.
• RS-232 for Model 5C7-362/365/367/368/378/385/386/388: via  "RS232"- can be connected directly to a communications (COMM) port (COM1 or "A", COM2 or "B", COM3. or COM4 on a PC)
• Custom built controllers can use RS-485, RS-232 or I2C.
• For GPIB use a GPIB/RS485 converter. See our library document

RS-485 Serial Interface.
• Dimensions   (includes bracket)
• Inches: 6 long x 3.625 wide x 1.75 high
• Centimeters: 15.3 long x 9.2 wide x 4.5 high
• Or we can custom build to your form factor, or take the design to SMT.

We can custom build to your form factor! Low voltage, low current, small footprint versions of this controller can be custom built based on your application.

The Model 5C7-378 is capable of operating from an input supply voltage of 12 through 20 VDC, common to many available thermoelectric modules. However, by supplying load power sperately from the controller power, you can use loads such as thermoelectric modules that are anywhere frmo 2 to 20 vdc.The self-contained MOSFET output devices deliver load currents up 10 amperes. This unit will control with a finite temperature resolution of 0.01°C.

The other controllers on this page are capable of operating from an input supply voltage of 12 through 28 VDC, common to many available thermoelectric modules. The self-contained MOSFET output devices deliver load currents from 0.1 to 25 amperes (NOTE: consult appropriate installation instructions for power supply and heat sinking requirements for high current operation). This unit will control total load power up to 680 watts with a finite temperature resolution of 0.05°C.

We can custom build for fixed, or selectable, voltages and levels of power, such as fixed 5 VDC at 2 Amperes.

Output Signal

The output signal to the thermoelectric module is Pulse Width Modulated (PWM). It is 2700 Hz for the Model 5C7-388 controller, and it is PC selectable for either 675 Hz or 2700 Hz operation for the other controllers. Pulse Width Modulation averages the amount of energy provided to the module and reduces the extreme temperature excursions that are experienced with an "on / off" system. This tends to extend the life and reliability of the thermoelectric devices. In an optimal thermal system, the PWM control scheme affords control accuracy at the control sensor to within...

• ±0.01°C for the Model 5C7-378
• ±0.1°C for the Model 5C7-367/368/386
• ±0.05°C for the other controllers

The controller tuning structure allows designation of a variety of control features. The computer set value provides for manual control of the output, either polarity, from 0% to 100% of load power. Proportional bandwidth (P) in degrees, integral reset (I) in repeats per minute, and the derivative rate (D) in minutes may be configured for P, PI, PD, or PID control. In addition, a deadband control (on/off) with an adjustable hysteresis may be selected. Differential temperature control is offered when two input sensing thermistors are used.

Set Temperature Input

The temperature can be set directly through our standard Setup program or other software.

Additional external set temperature input types may be selected for all controllers except the Model 5C7-378. They include a remote set temperature potentiometer, a 0 to 5 VDC signal, and a 0 to 20 ma current loop. These secondary inputs are used to define and "map" the secondary input to an adjustable temperature range. Differential set temperature control may also be selected from this configuration menu. All temperatures may be consistently displayed in °C. or °F.

Differential control is available for all controlles and is accomplished by selecting the primary set temperature with the second thermistor input and establishing the offset with the computer set temperature. In other words, when using differential control you no longer set the temperature itself from the computer, but rather the offset from the temperature sensed by the second sensor. For example, A +10 degrees offset means the control temperature will always be held at 10 degrees above the temperature being sensed at the second sensor. The control temperature will be the "differential" between Input 2 (the temperature at the second sensor, which becomes a reference temperature) and Input 1 (actual system temperature).

Control Output Modes

Two types of control output modes may be selected for all controllers except the Model 5C7-378. This determines the direction of the current flow through the thermoelectric module during the heat cycle. This current flow may be from Wire Point WP1 (+) to Wire Point WP2 (-). Alternatively, this current flow may be reversed from WP2 (+) to WP1 (-) as selected in the configuration menu.

Variac Mode

From the PC you can choose to bypass the controllers internal control algorithms and set the output power to a specific value. There are 120 negative and 120 positive power values. Using a Kajei temperature controller device driver you can programmatically specify the output power using various percentage values from -100% to +100%.

Alarms

Several alarm types may be selected. (With models other than the 5C7-378 the alarms provide a 5 VDC output at the expansion connector, rated for 25 ma of current.) The alarms consist of no alarm function, tracking alarm, and fixed value alarm. Alarm set temperature values are entered in the setup menu. The computer-controlled selection is available for additional embedded controller input/output options. The alarm setup menu also provides for selection of an alarm latching condition. The alarm sensor may be either the control temperature sensor or a secondary thermistor sensor.

The various alarms have the ability to determine the status of the output power to the thermoelectric module or auxiliary heater. Power may be maintained during an alarm condition or the main power may be shut down.  

Model 5C7-378 Hookup
 

Temperature Stability

Temperature stability is a function of the resolution of the input temperature signal.  The controller can hold temperature to the finest increment of the input temperature signal.  The 5C7-361 and 5C7-362 can resolve temperature changes down to 0.05°C, or 0.03°C, or 0.01°C degrees Centigrade, depending on whether you are using a standard, customized, or custom built version. The 5C7-378 can resolve to changes of 0.01°C. The stability you achieve depends more on the design of the overall thermal system than on the controller's resolution.

If you start with the standard controller that has 0.05°C resolution and determine you need a controller with greater resolution, you can send the controller in for a factory modification that improves the resolution to better than 0.03°C.

Connections

• This unit requires an AC cable that connects to the controller using two 0.25 inch quick connects (fast tab connections).
• The power connection of the heater or cooler to the relay is also made with the same type of connector as above.

A console program for configuring the controller comes with the unit, but you can go beyond the program provided and control the temperature controller by means of your own or other software:

• For Programmatic Control
• Programming: Programming the controllers yourself requires an appropriate capability in a programming language (such as Microsoft's Visual Basic or National Instrument's LabView or similar). Device drivers for the controllers are available at Kajei.com.
• Source Code: Upon written request the source code for the acccompanying, standard configuration program can be provided. It is usually written in C.

Initial Order: For multiple controller RS485 applications: we will sell 2 controllers initially so that you can test your software concepts, and then the bulk upon approval. 

FOR FIBER OPTIC COMPONENTS AND LASER DIODES... Note.

Note: Prices shown are for the controllers only.  Sensors, TE modules and power supplies may be available but are not included in the controller pricing.

Lead Time: The 5C7-361 and 5C7-362 are generally in stock and can be shipped in 2 to 4 days ARO. The other controllers are not generally maintained in volume in stock. Out of stock items may have a 1 to 3 week lead time.

SENSOR PRICING
Click here for TS141 Series Sensor Housings and Prices (5K@25°C)
Click here for TS91 Series Sensor Housings and Prices (10K@25°C)
...also can use MA-100 Thermistor 10K@25°C - Third party sensor.
Click here for TS67 Series Sensor Housings and Prices (15K@25°C)
Click here for TS104 Series Sensor Housings and Prices (50K@25°C)

S485, -20°C to 100°C withTS67 Sensor)

-20°C to 100°C withTS67 Sensor, -40°C to 70°C withTS141 Sensor)

-25°C to 85°C withTS91 Sensor, -40°C to 70°C withTS141 Sensor)

-25°C to 85°C withTS91 Sensor)

0°C to 150°C withTS104 Sensor)

-30°C to 120°C withTS104 Sensor)

-40°C to 70°C withTS141 Sensor)

   MODEL 5C7-361 or 5C7-362 with optional 0.03°C Resolution...

Per unit price is same as above. We charge an NRE to modify the controller specifications. Restricted temperature span of 40°C within range of -20°C to 100°C. It is generally recommended you start with the standard controller and then send it back in for a factory upgrade if you need improved resolution.

-20°C to 100°C withTS67 Sensor, -25°C to 85°C withTS91 Sensor)

Accessory: Model 0145 Communications Cable is $12.50.

Accessory: Model 0144 Sensor Connectors (1 pair)  is $12.50.

0°C to 150°C withTS104 Sensor)

• Customization
• We can custom build for fixed, or selectable, voltages and levels of power. We can customize the form factor. We can take a finalized through-hole design to SMT. This is a custom build. We can quote an NRE and per unit price based on your feature set. Email us. Give us an idea of what you are considering and we will work with you to develop the controller's specifications.
• Payment
• Check, wire transfer, VISA, Mastercard, Discover, American Express, Electronic Check, PayPal.
• General Notes on Pricing
• Controllers Only: Prices shown are for the "controllers only". 
• Currency: All prices are $US.