LS6000AT Controller

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
for the
AutoTend TL CONTROL SYSTEM
Pacer Digital Systems, Inc.

8658 Castle Park Drive
Indianapolis, IN 46256
Telephone/Fax: 317-849-7887
Email: [email protected]
www.pacerdigital.com
Table of Contents
Safety:..........................................................................................................................................4
Introduction: ...............................................................................................................................4
System Components:.................................................................................................................4
Overview of the Control System: ..............................................................................................4
Operation: ...................................................................................................................................4
Level Control ................................................................................................................................. 4
Thermistor Descriptions: ................................................................................................................................... 5
Operation with the 2-Thermistor Sensor Assembly:.......................................................................................... 5
Operation with the 4-Thermistor Sensor Assembly:.......................................................................................... 6
Manual Defog:................................................................................................................................................... 7
Opening the valve when a sensor is damaged: .................................................................................................. 7
Sensor Selection: ............................................................................................................................................... 7
Temperature: ................................................................................................................................. 7
Alarms: ........................................................................................................................................... 8
High Temp Alarm.............................................................................................................................................. 8
Open Thermocouple Alarm ............................................................................................................................... 8
Low Level Alarm............................................................................................................................................... 8
High Level Alarm.............................................................................................................................................. 8
Low LN2 Supply Alarm..................................................................................................................................... 9
Sensor Fault Alarm............................................................................................................................................ 9
Remote Alarm Output ....................................................................................................................................... 9
Test Button ........................................................................................................................................................ 9
Watch Dog Test ................................................................................................................................................. 9
Mute................................................................................................................................................................. 10
Default Settings:.......................................................................................................................... 10
The Menu System:....................................................................................................................... 10
Serial Communications: ............................................................................................................. 12
Routine Maintenance: ..............................................................................................................12
Validation: .................................................................................................................................12
Level Sensing Validation:........................................................................................................... 12
Temperature Validation: ............................................................................................................. 13
Visual and Audible Alarm Validation:........................................................................................ 13
Remote Alarm Validation:........................................................................................................... 13
Frequently Asked Questions: ..................................................................................................13
Identifying Problems: ...............................................................................................................14
Specifications: ..........................................................................................................................15
Replacement Parts: ..................................................................................................................16
© Pacer Digital Systems, Inc. 2008
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Warranty ....................................................................................................................................17
Appendix A: Troubleshooting in Detail ..................................................................................18
Appendix B: Calibration of Control and Thermocouple:......................................................22
Appendix C: Remote Alarm Connection Diagram ................................................................23
Appendix D: Description of connections on the AutoTend TL............................................24

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Safety:
Please use proper handling procedures when working with Liquid Nitrogen. It is an extremely cold
refrigerant and can cause serious injury. Also, the liquefied gas can cause asphyxiation in a
confined area so be sure that all confined areas have adequate ventilation. For detailed information
on the handling of cryogenic liquids, refer to the publication: P12 “Safe Handling of Cryogenic
Liquids” available from the Compressed Gas Association Inc., 1235 Jefferson Davis Highway,
Arlington, VA 22202.
Introduction:
The AutoTend TL LN2 level controller is a micro-controller based control designed for easy operation
and uninterrupted, reliable service. This controller will maintain the selected liquid level range of LN2
in your refrigerator and will provide audible and visual alarms for any alarm conditions that may
occur.
System Components:
The following components comprise the AutoTend TL system:
• Control Board (Cabinet Mount or External Mount)
• Sensor Assembly
• Wiring Harness Assembly
• 24 VAC Cryogenic Solenoid Valve
• 24 VAC Wall Transformer
• Thermocouple Assembly
Overview of the Control System:

The AutoTend TL utilizes thermistors to determine the level of LN2 in the freezer and uses a
Type T thermocouple to determine the temperature. Using a 2-thermistor sensor assembly or a
4-thermistor sensor assembly, the control will attempt to maintain the LN2 level between the
appropriate thermistors. In addition, the temperature in the refrigerator is measured at the
location of the thermocouple. The controller will continuously monitor the temperature and
display it on the temperature readout of the control. The control comes equipped with a relay to
provide for a remote alarm output. We strongly recommend that the remote alarm be used to
provide an alert to the user in case of a problem.
Operation:
When the AutoTend TL is first powered up, “000” will be displayed for about 4 seconds as the
control runs a diagnostic test and gathers temperature data.
Level Control
The level of LN2 in the freezer is determined by the physical location of the thermistors in the
sensor assembly. The sensors are thermistors (thermal resistors) that change resistance with
temperature. The automatic filling occurs when the LN2 level drops below the Start Fill thermistor
and then stops when the level reaches the Stop Fill thermistor.

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Thermistor Descriptions:
The characteristics of the thermistors in the sensor assemblies are illustrated in the following
table.
Thermistor Nickname 4-Thermistor 4-Thermistor 2-Thermistor 2-Thermistor

In LN2 Out of LN2 In LN2 Out of LN2
Top of 4 High Alarm Hi Alarm Normal N/A N/A
Assembly (4-Thermistor
sensor only)
3 Stop Fill Stops Fill Normal Stops Fill Normal

2 Start Fill Normal Starts Fill Normal Starts Fill
Bottom of 1 Low Alarm Normal Low Alarm N/A N/A
Assembly (4-Thermistor
sensor only)
Operation with the 2-Thermistor Sensor Assembly:
If a 2-thermistor sensor assembly is used, the control recognizes the thermistors as Start Fill
(#2) and Stop Fill (#3). If the LN2 level drops below Start Fill (#2), the LOW LED flashes red.
If the LN2 level is between the two thermistors, the NORMAL LED is illuminated green. If the
LN2 level is above Stop Fill (#3), the HIGH LED flashes red.
During an automatic fill, the control turns the solenoid valve on when the level is low (below
the Start Fill thermistor) and turns it off when the level is high (above the Stop Fill thermistor).
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When the level is normal, the valve can be manually turned on or off by the user. For
automatic shutoff, the high level thermistor must be in LN2 for 15 seconds before the control
will shut off the solenoid. The audible alarm is not activated for any level when a 2-thermistor
sensor assembly is being used.
LN2 Level / Thermistors LEDs lit Audible

Below #2 Flashing Red Low No
Between #2 & #3 Solid Green Normal No
Above #3 Flashing Red High No
Operation with the 4-Thermistor Sensor Assembly:
If a 4-thermistor sensor assembly is used, the control recognizes the thermistors as Low
Alarm (#1), Start Fill (#2), Stop Fill (#3) and High Alarm (#4). If the LN2 drops below Low
Alarm (#1), the Low LED flashes red and an audible tone is activated. If the LN2 level drops
below Start Fill (#2), the LOW LED flashes red. If the LN2 level is between the Start Fill and
the Stop Fill, the NORMAL LED is illuminated green. If the LN2 level is above Stop Fill (#3), the
HIGH LED flashes red. If the LN2 level is above the High Alarm (#4), the High LED flashes red
and an audible tone is activated. During a high alarm, the red LED will start flashing when
thermistor #4 is submerged in LN2 and 30 seconds later, the audible will sound. This
prevents false audible alarms due to splashing.

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During an automatic fill, the control turns the solenoid valve on when the level is low (below
the Start Fill thermistor) and turns it off when the level is high (above the Stop Fill thermistor).
When the level is normal, the valve can be manually turned on or off by the user. When the
LN2 level is below the start fill thermistor but above the low alarm thermistor, the user can turn
off the valve by pressing and holding the STOP FILL / TEST button. When the LN2 level is
above the stop fill thermistor but below the high alarm thermistor, the user can turn on the
valve by pressing and holding the START FILL button. For automatic shutoff, the high level
thermistor must be in LN2 for 15 seconds before the control will shut off the solenoid.
LN2 Level / Thermistors LED’s lit Audible

Below #1 Flashing Red Low Yes
Between #1 and #2 Flashing Red Low No
Between #2 and #3 Solid Green Normal No
Between #3 and #4 Flashing Red High No
Above #4 Flashing Red High Yes
Manual Defog:
The fog that is created when the lid is opened can be disbursed by starting a fill operation. If
the level is above the Stop Fill sensor, the START FILL button can be pressed and held to keep
the valve open. After 8 seconds the valve will close. Press the valve again if the fog is not
yet cleared.
Opening the valve when a sensor is damaged:
The solenoid valve can still be opened if the sensor is damaged or unplugged. To open the
valve, the user must press and hold the START FILL button. After 8 seconds the valve will
close. Press the valve again if more filling is required.
Sensor Selection:
The AutoTend TL can automatically detect which type of sensor assembly is plugged into the
control. To allow the control to determine which sensor is being used, unplug the sensor
assembly and power up the AutoTend TL with no sensor plugged into the control. Then turn
power off, plug the sensor in and power up the control again. It will detect which sensor
assembly is being used. Alternatively, the sensor assembly can be changed through the
menu system.
Temperature:
The AutoTend TL monitors temperature in the freezer through the use of a Type T thermocouple
assembly. The temperature displayed will be accurate to within +/- 1 degree C or +/- 1.5% of the
temperature whichever is greater.
To verify that the temperature is correct at any time, the thermocouple can be dipped in an ice
water bath and the temperature displayed on the control should be 0oC. Then the thermocouple
should be dipped in LN2 and the display will read –196oC. If the temperature readings are correct
at these two reference points then they will be correct over the entire temperature curve. The
control is shipped from the factory with the temperature calibrated, however, if the control needs
to be re-calibrated, be sure to calibrate when the control has been running and is warm. This

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insures the best possible calibration. See Appendix B for instructions on temperature calibration.
Please Note: All temperatures are displayed in oC on the AutoTend TL.
Alarms:
High Temp Alarm

A high temperature alarm point can be set through the menu system. If the temperature at the
location of the thermocouple exceeds the high temperature alarm set point, an alarm is
triggered. The alarm consists of a flashing red LED on the control panel and an audible tone.
The error will continue until the problem is corrected. The High Temperature Alarm can be
set from –192 to +57. Also, the control can be programmed for a delay of the audible alarm.
This can be accessed through the Temperature Alarm Delay (tAd) option in the menu system.
This allows the user to work in a freezer or dewar without an annoying audible alarm every
time the lid is opened.
Open Thermocouple Alarm

If the thermocouple is not plugged in or becomes damaged the control will detect it and trigger
an open thermocouple alarm. This is indicated with a flashing red LED on the panel, an
audible alarm and “OPn” displayed on the temperature readout.
Low Level Alarm

A Low Level alarm point is automatically set at 1 inch below the low level sensor on the 4-
thermistor sensor assembly. If the LN2 liquid level falls below the lowest thermistor, an alarm
is triggered. The alarm consists of a flashing red LED on the control panel and an audible
tone. The error will continue until the problem is corrected. This alarm is only available when
a 4-thermistor sensor assembly is used.
High Level Alarm

A High Level alarm point is automatically set at 1 inch above the high level sensor on the 4-
thermistor sensor assembly. If the LN2 liquid level covers the highest thermistor, an alarm is
triggered. The alarm consists of a flashing red LED on the control panel and an audible tone.

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The error will continue until the problem is corrected. This alarm is only available when a 4-
thermistor sensor assembly is used.
Low LN2 Supply Alarm

When the level of LN2 has not reached the high level sensor within 30 minutes of the solenoid
valve being turned on, the controller interprets this as an insufficient LN2 supply and an alarm
is activated. The alarm consists of a flashing red LED on the control panel and an audible
tone. The error will continue until the problem is corrected
Sensor Fault Alarm

When the control detects an open circuit on any of the thermistors, an alarm is activated. The
alarm consists of a flashing red LED on the control panel and an audible tone. Also, the
LED’s that display the level will all go dark. The error will continue until the problem is
corrected.
If the sensors are placed in the freezer incorrectly such that a higher level thermistor is
located below a lower level thermistor, an error condition occurs. The alarm consists of
audible tone and both the Low and High LED’s flashing. The alarm will be triggered after a 30
second delay. The error will continue until the problem is corrected.
Remote Alarm Output

A remote alarm output connection is provided on the back panel of the refrigerator. The relay
on the control board can make or break a circuit capable of conducting 2 amps of current. The
remote alarm relay is activated if an alarm condition is not corrected within the amount of time
as specified in the remote alarm delay (rAd) timer. See Appendix C for a connection diagram.
Test Button
The AutoTend TL has a test button to test the audible and all the LED’s. When the STOP FILL
/ TEST button is pressed and held for 8 seconds, the audible sounds and all the LED’s light up
to show they work. Continue holding the STOP FILL / TEST button for another 5 seconds and
the remote alarm relay will be changed to the alarm state. The test button will activate a test
only when the actual LN2 level is above the Start Fill sensor. This allows the user to press
and hold the STOP FILL / TEST button to close the valve when the level is below the Start Fill
sensor.
Watch Dog Test

The AutoTend TL has the capability to monitor power and to reset itself should a problem
develop, this is called the “watch dog.” To manually test the “watch dog” circuit, put the
control into test mode by pressing and holding the STOP FILL / TEST button for 8 seconds.
While continuing to hold the STOP FILL / TEST button, press and hold the TEMP/MUTE button.
The control will reset itself and “000” will be displayed for about 4 seconds.
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Mute
The TEMP/MUTE button can be pressed to silence the audible alarm. The amount of time that
the alarm is silenced can be changed by accessing the “AAd” (Audible Alarm delay) in the
menu system. If the “AAd” is set to “nO” then the audible will not re-activate for the same
error. If a time interval is set in the “AAd” then the audible is re-activated after the time
interval expires.
Default Settings:
The AutoTend TL comes ready to run with the following default values:
Temperature Setpoint -1000C (High Temperature Alarm)

Temperature Alarm Delay 5 minutes
Audible Alarm Delay 15 minutes (Mute delay)
Remote Alarm Delay 30 minutes
Sensor 2-Thermistor assembly
The Menu System:

The menu system on the AutoTend TL utilizes 3 buttons on the front panel to navigate the
menu. To enter the menu system, press and hold the TEMP/MUTE button for 8 seconds. This
button is located immediately to the left of the temperature display. The START FILL and STOP
FILL / TEST buttons can be used to scroll through all the menu choices. To select a menu
choice, press the TEMP/MUTE button. Once a menu selection is chosen, settings can be
changed by pressing the START FILL and STOP FILL / TEST buttons to increment and
decrement the setting values. To save the setting, press the TEMP/MUTE button. When the
setting is saved, the menu will go back to the menu root which is indicated with three dashes
(---). To exit the menu without saving the settings, turn the power off before pressing the
TEMP/MUTE button. If the menu system is accessed but no button activity occurs for 3
minutes, the control will time out of the menu and revert back to full operational mode.
Please Note: When the AutoTend TL menu system is accessed, the valve is turned off and the level
LEDs are blanked out.
Pressing and holding the START FILL and STOP FILL / TEST buttons will increment/decrement
the values more quickly while pressing these buttons repeatedly will increment/decrement the
values more slowly.
The menu choices are as follows:
Menu
Symbol
--- Menu Root – Entry into the menu system
tSP Temperature Set Point – Adjust the temperature alarm setting.
SEN Sensor Choice – Manually adjust the sensor type.

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Temperature Alarm Delay – Adjust the amount of time before the
tAd audible sounds after the temperature exceeds the temperature
alarm setting.
Audible Alarm Delay – Adjust the amount of time that the audible
AAd alarm is silenced after the MUTE button is pressed.
Remote Alarm Delay – Adjust the amount of time that the remote
rAD alarm is triggered after an error condition occurs.
VEr Version of firmware – Display the firmware version of the control.
Control Serial Number – This identifies the control should it be

SEr required.
Sensor State – This identifies if a thermistor is in “G” or “L”.
Pressing the START FILL and STOP FILL / TEST buttons and
SS holding will identify which thermistor and then releasing the button
will indicate the value.
2-Thermistor Sensor with sensor fault (unplugged)
2-Thermistor Sensor with Start Fill in LN2 and Stop Fill in gas.
4-Thermistor Sensor. Reading from left to right (High Alarm in

gas, Low Alarm in LN2, Stop Fill in gas, Start Fill in LN2)
Sensor Value – This is the filtered value of each thermistor.
SU holding will identify which thermistor and then releasing the button
Sensor Value 2 – This is the unfiltered value of each thermistor.
SU2 holding will identify which thermistor and then releasing the button
Menu Possible Settings

Symbol
---
tSP +57 to -192 oC
SEN 2 or 4 thermistor sensor assembly
tAD 5, 15, 30, 45, 60, 75, 90, 105 minutes
AAd No, 15, 30, 45, 60, 75, 90, 105 minutes (No Æ No retrigger for the same error when
the audible is muted)
rAD 0, 15,30, 45, 60, 75, 90, 105 (0 Æ Immediate remote alarm)
VEr Screen 1 is Major revision and screen 2 is the minor revision
SEr Screen 1 are the first 2 digits and screen 2 are the second 2 digits of the serial number
To view the version of the firmware, go into the menu system and then press the START FILL
button until VEr is displayed. Press the TEMP/MUTE button to see the major revision and then
press the TEMP/MUTE button again to see the minor revision.
Major Revision Minor Revision
To view the Serial Number of the control, go into the menu system and then press the START
FILL button until SEr is displayed. Press the TEMP/MUTE button to see the first 2 digits and
then press the TEMP/MUTE button again to see the last 2 digits.
Serial Number = 1001 will look like this Æ
Serial Communications:
The AutoTend TL is compatible with Cryo-Com Interface software supplied by Pacer Digital
Systems. This allows data pertaining to temperature and errors to be collected on a
computer.
Routine Maintenance:
It is important to protect your investment in your Cryo-Storage system and its control system by
performing routine examinations and maintenance. The first step in the maintenance process is
to examine the components for wear or damage. The following components should be checked
routinely:
• Lid - The lid should be checked for fit and for the buildup of ice.
• Gaskets - The gasket should be checked for a tight fit between the lid and the cabinet
and between the tub and the cabinet. On some models of freezer, the gasket keeps the
cold air and the moisture from reaching the control, so it is important to maintain a good
gasket seal.
• Sensors and Sensor Tube - Ice buildup should be kept to a minimum around the top and
bottom of the sensor tube. Ice can cause damage to the sensor assembly. The control
will detect if the sensor assembly has a failure but preventing the damage in the first place
is preferable.
• Control – The control should be checked periodically for any signs of exposure to
moisture. Signs of moisture include white deposits (like calcium) on the circuit board,
signs of water on the aluminum backplate or smeared labels. Controls that have been
exposed to moisture should be replaced immediately. In addition, the cause of the
moisture should be eliminated (many times this can be a bad gasket or insufficient
moisture protection where the sensor assembly runs into the cabinet.
Validation:
Due to the fact that the validation process requires testing of individual components in the control
system, this work should only be done by personnel who are familiar with the freezer, the control
system and the handling of LN2.
Level Sensing Validation:

The LN2 level checking in the control can be validated by performing a dip test. The sensor
should be removed from the sensor tube and then slowly dipped into LN2. The person

validating should verify that the control recognizes when each thermistor is submerged in LN2.
This validates that both the control and the sensor are working properly.
Temperature Validation:
The temperature displayed by the control can be validated by dipping the thermocouple into
liquids with known temperatures as reference points. Remove the thermocouple from the
freezer and dip it into ice water (0oC). The control should display this reading +/- 1oC. Then
dip the thermocouple in LN2 (-196oC) and verify that the control reads -196oC +/- 3oC. If the
readings are correct then the thermocouple and the temperature readings on the control have
been validated. If not, a re-calibration may be needed.
Please Note: Impurities in water may cause temperature differences of a few degrees.
Visual and Audible Alarm Validation:

All the LED’s and the audible alarm on the AutoTend TL can be validated by pressing the
STOP FILL / TEST button for 8 seconds. If the audible sounds and all the LED’s light up, then
the visual and audible alarms have been validated.
Remote Alarm Validation:

The remote alarm on the AutoTend TL can be validated by pressing the STOP FILL / TEST
button for 13 seconds or by removing power from the control. If the relay drops out then the
remote alarm has been validated.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I change the amount of time before the Remote Alarm is triggered?
Yes. This setting can be changed through the menu system on the AutoTend TL. See the
section in this manual about The Menu System for details.
I seem to be getting a warmer temperature than I expect at the thermocouple location.

What is the cause?
If the thermocouple is placed in the sensor tube it can get readings that are warmer due to
influence from the sensor assembly. The sensor assembly is composed of thermal resistors
(thermistors). As the LN2 level drops, the liquid is no longer carrying away the heat generated by
the thermistors. The heat from these thermistors rises up the sensor tube causing the
thermocouple to read warmer than the actual temperature. The solution to this problem is to take
the thermocouple out of the sensor tube and secure it with wire ties it to the outside of the sensor
tube.
During the calibration process, I dip the thermocouple in LN2 when it should be dipped
into ice water and ice water when it should be in LN2. Will the temperature displayed by
the control be incorrect?
No. The control evaluates the reference points and switches them if necessary to insure a good
calibration.
Why offer the control with either a 2-thermistor or a 4-thermistor sensor assembly?
Some customers prefer a high and low level alarm provided by the 4-thermistor assembly while
some prefer a lower cost provided by the 2-thermistor assembly.
Why delay an audible alarm on a high temperature?

The delay is provided to eliminate nuisance alarms. A customer typically does not want to hear
the audible alarm for high temperature while working in the freezer.
Should we connect the remote alarm?

Absolutely YES! It is essential that the customer provide means for notification should a problem
occur. The customer may also consider a redundant alarm, a dialer and/or procedural protocol to
insure the protection of the contents in the freezer.
Describe how the audible works on an alarm condition and the flexibility provided?
An audible alarm is provided whenever an alarm condition occurs. The user can mute the
audible to silence it. The audible will re-trigger after a duration of time set into the “Audible Alarm
Delay” timer. This can be accessed by the user through the menu system. If a different alarm
condition occurs, the audible is activated for the new alarm condition.
Identifying Problems:
If the control system does not seem to be operating properly, the first step is to determine the
problem and the second step is to fix the problem. The system is easier to troubleshoot if it can
be determined what part of the system in not functioning properly.
• Power
• Level Sensing
• Valve Control
• Temperature Sensing
Please see Appendix A: Troubleshooting in Detail for information on troubleshooting the control.

Specifications:
Power: 24 VAC
Display LEDs for level indication, errors and valve operation.

7-segment LEDs for temperature indication.
Sensor Assembly: 2-Thermistor Assembly

• Start Fill and Stop Fill
4-Thermistor Assembly
• Start Fill and Stop Fill
• Low Level Alarm and High Level Alarm
Sensor Auto-detect
Minimum separation between Start Fill and Stop Fill sensors is 2”.
Temperature: Type T Thermocouple (+/- 1o C or +/- 1.5% of value).
Solenoid Valve: 24 VAC Cryogenic Solenoid Valve
Control Type: Liquid Level Control & Temperature Monitoring
Alarms: Alarms
• High Alarm (4-Thermistor Sensor only)
• Low Alarm (4-Thermistor Sensor only)
• High Temperature
• Low LN2 Supply Alarm
• Sensor Open Alarm
• Thermocouple Open Alarm
• Each alarm provides both an audible (beep) and a visual (red
flashing LED) indicator.
• A Remote alarm relay is activated after a user defined amount of
time elapses following an alarm condition.
Diagnostics: Circuit diagnostics.

Sensor Assembly diagnostics.
Temperature circuit diagnostics.
Communications: Serial Output to CryoCom

Replacement Parts:
The replacement parts list includes the description and part numbers necessary to allow you to
identify and order parts to keep your AutoTend TL controller in service.
Part Number Description

Control:
AE-C-HS1 AutoTend TL, Internal Mount for 10K, 24K freezer
AE-C-HS2 AutoTend TL, in painted box for 6K dewar
AE-C-HS3 AutoTend TL, in blue anodized box for 38K
Transformer
R08K-9C04 24 VAC Wall Transformer
Harness
AE-WH AutoTend TL wiring harness for internal mount controls (10K, 24K)
Solenoid Valve
R08K-9C03 24 VAC Cryogenic Solenoid Valve
Sensor Assembly & Thermocouple

5140-1188 2-thermistor sensor assembly for 10K, 24K, 38K
R08K-9C01 4-thermistor sensor assembly for 10K, 24K, 38K
AE-S2-6K 2-thermistor sensor assembly for LS6000
AE-S4-6K 4-thermistor sensor assembly for LS6000
R08K-9C51 Thermocouple assembly
Other
R06K-8C20 Plug with Leads

Warranty
Pacer Digital Systems, Inc. warrants that each of its electronic control products will be free from defects
in material and workmanship, in the normal service for which the product was manufactured, for a period
of two years from the date of purchase. Pacer Digital Systems, Inc. at its option will either repair or
replace any item covered under this warranty.
This warranty is void if the product is used for any other purpose than that for which it was designed,
including but not limited to connection with third party systems. This warranty is also void if the product
is in any way altered or repaired by others. Pacer Digital Systems, Inc. shall not be liable under this
warranty, or otherwise, for defects caused by negligence, abuse or misuse of this product, corrosion, fire
or the effects of normal wear.
The remedies set forth herein are exclusive. Pacer Digital Systems, Inc. shall not be liable for any
indirect or consequential damages including, without limitation, damages relating to lost profits or loss of
products, resulting from the delivery, use or failure of the product or for any other cause. By accepting
delivery of the product, the purchaser acknowledges that this limitation of remedies is reasonable and
enforceable. In no case shall Pacer Digital Systems, Inc’s liability exceed the purchase price for the
product.

Appendix A: Troubleshooting in Detail
The AutoTend TL control is an electrical device so care should be taken when working on the system.
Although the system operates on 24 VAC and is a low voltage system, all proper precautions should be
taken before working on the control or any of the other components in the system.
Provide a detailed description of the problem. Observe the display and describe it in accordance to the
problem being reported.
Problem Description:
Power Issues Reference

The control will not turn on Power
Level Sensing Issues

The control goes into High Alarm Level Sensing
The control goes into Low LN2 Supply Level Sensing
The control indicates an open sensor Level Sensing
The control is filling in short frequent fills Level Sensing
Temperature Issues
The temperature does not seem correct Temperature Sensing
The temperature display reads OPn Temperature Sensing
Valve Issues
The valve will not open Valve
The valve appears to leak Valve
Power
General
• Check all power connections. This would include:
o Transformer to electrical panel
o Power plug in electrical panel to connector onto control.
• Check or change out the transformer.
o Should be 24 VAC under load or about 27 VAC no load
Level Sensing
General
• Check the level sensing on the control by performing a dip test. Operation should be
consistent with description for the 2-thermistor and 4-thermistor sensor assembly in the
owner’s manual.
• Check the valve connection into the control. When the valve is in normal range the valve
can be turned on and off by pressing the fill / stop fill button.
• Check to see if the valve is leaking. Turn on the supply of LN2 from the supply tank. Turn
off the solenoid. Wait a few minutes and the frost on the supply hose and valve should
disappear. If the frost does not disappear, the valve is still leaking and should be cleaned
or replaced.
Specific Problems
The control goes into high alarm:
o Check the tank pressure to make sure it is not too high. Too high a pressure will
cause increased turbulence in the freezer, possibly causing a high alarm.

o Turbulence related to lack of racks, rack orientation, direction the fill tube is
pointing. All of these can cause increased turbulence which may cause a
momentary high alarm.
o Restricted air flow in the sensor tube. Over the years, different freezers have had
different sensor tubes (solid stainless, polycarbonate, perforated stainless). If the
tube gets clogged so it cannot “breathe”, the level of LN2 inside the tube may not
match the level of LN2 in the freezer. High level alarms can occur if a lag occurs in
LN2 entering the sensor tube due to restricted air flow. Keep the sensor tube free
and clear of ice and snow both at the bottom of the tube and at the top of the tube
for best operation.
The control goes into low LN2 supply alarm:
o Check the pressure in the LN2 Supply tank. It should be approximately 22 psi.
Sometimes the supply cylinder may be full of LN2; however, there may not be
enough head pressure to push the LN2. Check with your gas distributor to remedy
this problem.
o Check the distance of the freezer from the supply tank and the number of items
connected into the supply line. The distance and the location of the freezer in the
supply line will affect the pressure and the fill time.
The control indicates an open sensor:
o Check to make sure that the sensor is plugged into the back of the control.
o A thermistor may be broken. Change out the sensor assembly.
The control is filling in short frequent fills:
o Turbulence will cause this problem. The level goes up to the Stop Fill sensor
which will close the valve. The valve closing stops the flow of LN2 allowing the
liquid to settle, which drops the level below the Start Fill sensor starting the flow of
LN2 and causing turbulence. The cycle continues.
Temperature
General
• Check the thermocouple to make sure that it is plugged into the back of the control. + on
the plug should be connected into + on the blue plug on the board.
• Check the temperature displayed by the control when the thermocouple is dipped into ice
water and into LN2. If it is correct at these two points then it will be correct for all
temperatures along the temperature curve.
Specific Problems
• The control does not read the correct temperature at one of the reference points of ice
water and LN2.
o Re-calibrate the control
The control is indicating that the thermocouple is Open.
o Look for damage to the thermocouple wire. Replace if necessary.
Wild fluctuations in temperature readings.
o Check to make sure the shrink tubing on the tip of the thermocouple is intact and
that the tip is not causing a short circuit with another piece of metal.
Thermocouple readings change very, very slowly.
o Check to make sure that the tip of the thermocouple is not insulated with tape if it
was taped to the sensor assembly for level.
The temperature seems to be reading warm.
o Locate the thermocouple outside of the sensor tube. It can be wire-tied to the
outside of the tube.

Valve
General
• Check the valve to make sure that it is plugged into the control.
• Check to insure that the proper valve is installed. The AutoTend TL uses a 24 VAC
Cryogenic valve.
Specific Problems
• The valve will not turn on
o Check all the wiring from the valve to the control
o Check to insure the valve has been opened by the control. This can be done
by examining the filling LED on the front of the control panel. If it is lit, the
control has opened the valve.
o Check to make sure the sensor assembly is plugged into the control. The
control cannot automatically fill (turn the valve on) unless the sensor is
plugged in.
o Check to make sure the High Alarm sensor is not in LN2. The valve can only
be opened by pressing and holding the START FILL button when this sensor is
in LN2.

Pacer Digital Systems Problem Submission Report
Company Name:
Contact Name:
Telephone:
Alternate Telephone Number:
Product: AutoTend TL Control System
Control S/N: AE-
Firmware Version
Approximate length of time in
service?
Return Authorization #:
Date of Problem:
Control Settings:
Start Fill and Stop Fill Levels
Actual LN2 Level
Temperature Reading
Temperature Set Point
Sensor being used 2-Thermistor or 4-Thermistor
Temperature Alarm Delay
Audible Alarm Delay
Remote Alarm Delay
Please complete this sheet and fax or email to an authorized representative, your distributor or Pacer
Digital Systems.
Describe Problem:
A. Level Sensing?
B. Valve operation?
C. Temperature?
D. Power?
Please provide a detailed description of the problem including:

• How long the problem has existed
• What has been done to identify the problem
• A description of the display (a digital picture if possible)
• The actual LN2 level in the freezer
• Locations of sensors and thermocouple
• Any external factors that may be a factor (such as moving a freezer, etc)

Appendix B: Calibration of Control and Thermocouple:
To perform a calibration, you will need to know the room temperature (ambient) and then
follow the sequence of steps below. The best calibrations occur when the control has been
running for at least 10 minutes allowing it to warm up.
1. Press and hold the TEMP/MUTE button. Two seconds later, while continuing to press
the TEMP/MUTE button, also press and hold the STOP FILL / TEST button. After
approximately 8 seconds. “CAL” will appear on the temperature display.
2. Release the TEMP/MUTE and the STOP FILL / TEST button and the display will
indicate an “A” followed by a number. Press the START FILL or STOP FILL / TEST
buttons to raise or lower the ambient temperature to the correct value as indicated
by a thermometer in the room. Press the TEMP/MUTE button to lock in the value.
3. “ICE” will now be displayed. Dip the thermocouple in ice water and wait for five
minutes while the temperature reaches equilibrium. As this occurs the “ICE”
message will flash as will the green “Normal” LED. As the readings settle, the
display of “ICE” and the Normal LED will flash less frequently. When the Normal
LED stays solidly lit, press the TEMP/MUTE button to lock in the value.
4. “Ln2” will now be displayed. Dip the thermocouple in LN2 and wait for a couple of
minutes while the temperature reaches equilibrium. As this occurs the “LN2”
message will flash as will the green “Normal” LED. As the readings settle, the
display of “LN2” and the Normal LED will flash less frequently. When this occurs
press the TEMP/MUTE button to lock in the value.
The temperature has now been calibrated. If the user wants to abort the calibration in the
middle of the process, simply unplug the AutoTend TL and no calibration data will be saved.
Also, the control checks the calibration data and can perform the following functions:
1. Switches the ice water calibration data and the LN2 calibration data if the control is
accidentally calibrated with the reference points reversed.
2. Indicates “bAd” if the calibration data is entered before it reaches a suitable
temperature stability point or if the calibration data is inconsistent with known
values.

Appendix C: Remote Alarm Connection Diagram

Appendix D: Description of connections on the AutoTend TL


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OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

Pacer Digital Systems, Inc.

© Pacer Digital Systems, Inc. 2008

Overview of the Control System:

© Pacer Digital Systems, Inc. 2008

Thermistor Nickname 4-Thermistor 4-Thermistor 2-Thermistor 2-Thermistor

3 Stop Fill Stops Fill Normal Stops Fill Normal

Operation with the 2-Thermistor Sensor Assembly:

LN2 Level / Thermistors LEDs lit Audible

Operation with the 4-Thermistor Sensor Assembly:

© Pacer Digital Systems, Inc. 2008

LN2 Level / Thermistors LED’s lit Audible

Opening the valve when a sensor is damaged:

© Pacer Digital Systems, Inc. 2008

Please Note: All temperatures are displayed in oC on the AutoTend TL.

High Temp Alarm

time the lid is opened.

Open Thermocouple Alarm

Low Level Alarm

High Level Alarm

© Pacer Digital Systems, Inc. 2008

Low LN2 Supply Alarm

Sensor Fault Alarm

Remote Alarm Output

Watch Dog Test

Temperature Setpoint -1000C (High Temperature Alarm)

The Menu System:

The menu choices are as follows:

--- Menu Root – Entry into the menu system

tSP Temperature Set Point – Adjust the temperature alarm setting.

SEN Sensor Choice – Manually adjust the sensor type.

© Pacer Digital Systems, Inc. 2008

VEr Version of firmware – Display the firmware version of the control.

Control Serial Number – This identifies the control should it be

2-Thermistor Sensor with sensor fault (unplugged)

4-Thermistor Sensor. Reading from left to right (High Alarm in

Menu Possible Settings

Major Revision Minor Revision

Serial Number = 1001 will look like this Æ

Level Sensing Validation:

© Pacer Digital Systems, Inc. 2008

Visual and Audible Alarm Validation:

Remote Alarm Validation:

Frequently Asked Questions:

I seem to be getting a warmer temperature than I expect at the thermocouple location.

Why delay an audible alarm on a high temperature?

Should we connect the remote alarm?

© Pacer Digital Systems, Inc. 2008

Display LEDs for level indication, errors and valve operation.

Sensor Assembly: 2-Thermistor Assembly

Temperature: Type T Thermocouple (+/- 1o C or +/- 1.5% of value).

Solenoid Valve: 24 VAC Cryogenic Solenoid Valve

Control Type: Liquid Level Control & Temperature Monitoring

Diagnostics: Circuit diagnostics.

Communications: Serial Output to CryoCom

© Pacer Digital Systems, Inc. 2008

Part Number Description

Sensor Assembly & Thermocouple

© Pacer Digital Systems, Inc. 2008