15
Troubleshooting
Troubleshooting
If you run into trouble with installation or operation, get in touch with support (
).
General Use
Issue:
My device does not turn on or has trouble staying on.
Action:
Check power and ground connections (
). Please reference the technical
specifications to ensure you have the proper power for your model.
Issue:
The analog output signal indicates values lower than expected.
Action:
Analog signal voltage degrades over long distances. You can minimize this effect
by using wires with a heavier gauge, especially in the ground wire.
Issue:
How often do I need to calibrate my device?
Action:
Annual recalibration is recommended. Check your device’s last calibration date. If it
is time to recalibrate, request a recalibration from customer support (
).
Issue:
I dropped my device. Is it OK? Do I need to recalibrate?
Action:
If the device powers up and appears to respond normally, then it is likely OK.
It may or may not need a recalibration. Tare the device, and compare it against
a known-good flow standard. If it checks out, keep using the device, but tell us
about the drop at your next annual recalibration so we can check it out for you.
Flow Readings
Issue:
The live flow readings won’t settle down.
Action:
The device is very fast, so it can detect subtle variations in flow that may go
unnoticed by your other devices. This sensitivity can help detect problems with
pumps or flow controllers. You can lessen this sensitivity by increasing the flow
averaging.
Controllers use PD or PD²I control loop algorithms to reach the setpoint
given. These parameters are adjustable in the field.
Issue:
My controller won’t reach its setpoint.
Action
: The flow rate is related linearly to the pressure drop across the device. If there
isn’t enough of a pressure difference between the inlet and outlet, the controller
may not be able to reach setpoint. Often, increasing the inlet pressure will fix this
issue. If increasing the pressure doesn’t help, check to see if there is a clog. Teflon
tape can often get stuck in the flow channel and block flow. Make sure to clean
out any loose Teflon tape and never tape the first two threads entering the device
to help avoid this issue.
Issue:
My flow readings are negative.
Action:
Under conditions of no flow, a negative flow reading can indicate a poor tare. Set
a zero setpoint and see if the flow returns to 0 after 2 seconds.
Issue:
Does the controller work if it is laying down? Will it be accurate?
Action
: Yes to both. The flow controller is internally compensated for any changes in
orientation and can be used sideways, on its back, or upside-down.
Issue:
Can I put the flow controller on top of a vibrating device? Will it be accurate?
Action:
Yes you can. However, sensor noise will increase if the flow controller is vibrating.
Issue:
My controller does not agree with another mass flow meter I have in line.
Action:
Check the STP or NTP settings to ensure that your standardized temperature and
pressure references match those of your other flow calibrator. Also check that the
correct gas is selected (
).
