Brinsea CONTAQ Z6, Operating Instructions Manual

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4 Modes of Operation
Your Contaq Z6 combines the proven benefits of Contact Incubation with the
additional flexibility of being a forced draft incubator and hatcher in one space-
efficient machine. Both modes of operation provide sophisticated control of egg
turning and cooling.
In Contact Mode the optimum temperature gradient across the eggs is created by the
warm contact skin and the relatively cool egg chamber. The nest environment may be
adapted to suit the species being incubated by the addition of layers of nest material to
provide increased humidity levels by evaporation.
In Forced Draft Mode the addition of an insulating panel in the base of the egg
chamber provides even temperature around the eggs and allows precise control of
relative humidity levels to optimise hatching conditions. The contact skin is simply
removed and replaced by an air filter panel to provide gentle air movement around the
eggs. An adjustable vent is provided on the rear panel to give further control of
humidity, this is usually left half open.
5 Setting Up Your Contaq Z6
5.1 Location
Your incubator will give best results in a room free from wide temperature variations
and with generous ventilation – particularly if several incubators are running at the
same time. Ensure that the room temperature cannot drop on a cold night. Ideally
thermostatically control the room at between 20 and 25°C (68 and 77°F). Never allow
the room temperature to drop below 15°C (59°F) and ensure that the incubator cannot
be exposed to direct sunlight.
Place the incubator on a flat, level surface capable of supporting the weight of the
incubator (30kg).
If water addition for humidity control is required the water tube inlet is located on the
right hand side of the incubator adjacent to the water pump. Considerable water use
may be experienced in Contact Mode and a water reservoir of several litres capacity is
recommended.
Contac Z6 incubators may be stacked a maximum of 2 units high. The top machine
must be located squarely over the lower machine to ensure the weight is distributed
through the load bearing structure.