MKS Stabil-Ion 370 Series

Questions and Answers

J
Jessica DavisAug 14, 2025
Why is the pressure reading grossly in error on my MKS Stabil-Ion 370?
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  danielfloydAug 14, 2025
  A grossly incorrect pressure reading on your MKS Controller can stem from several causes: the controller may be out of calibration, necessitating recalibration; the gas type may be unidentified, requiring identification; the gauge might not be mounted horizontally, requiring horizontal mounting; the sensor could be damaged, possibly by a reactive gas, and thus need replacement; the gauge may be very dirty, indicating a need for cleaning; or there might be extremes of temperature or mechanical vibration, which need to be eliminated.
M
Michael FisherAug 17, 2025
What to do if the display reads blank on MKS Stabil-Ion 370 Controller?
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  Matthew McgeeAug 17, 2025
  If the display on your MKS Controller is blank, it could be due to the gauge being unplugged or an open sensor wire. Reconnect the gauge and check the sensor wire to resolve this issue.
W
wallsmichaelAug 21, 2025
What does it mean if the CGA unplugged indicator is lit on my MKS Controller?
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  Tammy StokesAug 21, 2025
  If the CGA unplugged indicator is lit on your MKS Controller, it signifies that the CGA is unplugged or there is an open sensor wire. You should reconnect the CGA and check the sensor wire.
J
jacksonjacobAug 25, 2025
What does it mean if the CGB unplugged indicator is lit on my MKS Stabil-Ion 370 Controller?
- R
  Robert MartinAug 25, 2025
  If the CGB unplugged indicator is lit on your MKS Controller, it indicates that the CGB is unplugged or there is an open sensor wire. Reconnect the CGB and check the sensor wire.
B
burtonbenjaminAug 27, 2025
What does it mean when the CGA over current indicator is lit on MKS Stabil-Ion 370?
- K
  Katherine MartinAug 27, 2025
  If the CGA over current indicator is lit on your MKS Controller, it suggests a cable short between pins 1-3. Check for this cable short to resolve the issue.
J
Jennifer RomeroAug 30, 2025
What does it mean when the CGB over current indicator is lit on MKS Stabil-Ion 370?
- B
  bradykimAug 30, 2025
  If the CGB over current indicator is lit on your MKS Controller, it indicates a potential cable short between pins 1-3. You should check for a cable short between these pins.
T
Timothy PowellSep 3, 2025
What to do if A/D integration failure indicator lit or flashing on MKS Stabil-Ion 370?
- C
  christinayoungSep 3, 2025
  If the A/D integration failure indicator is lit or flashing on your MKS Controller, it suggests a circuit failure. You should check for a circuit failure.
C
Charles StewartSep 6, 2025
What to do if Bridge circuit indicators lit on MKS Controller?
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  Mark BowenSep 6, 2025
  If the Bridge circuit indicators are lit on your MKS Controller, it indicates a circuit failure. You should check for a circuit failure.
R
Robert ReyesSep 10, 2025
Why is the Microprocessor reset LED lit or flashing on my MKS Stabil-Ion 370 Controller?
- R
  Ricardo NelsonSep 10, 2025
  If the Microprocessor reset LED is lit or flashing on your MKS Controller, it suggests a microprocessor failure. The suggested solution is to replace the microprocessor.

Summary

Safety

Safety Instructions

Important safety instructions and notes for installation, operation, and maintenance.

Damage Requiring Service

Conditions under which product servicing should be referred to qualified personnel.

Chapter 1 System Components

Stabil-Ion Vacuum Measuring System

Overview of the main components of the Stabil-Ion system.

Stabil-Ion Vacuum Gauge Control Unit Front Panel

Description of the main unit's front panel controls and displays.

Stabil-Ion Power Supply

Description of the Stabil-Ion Power Supply unit.

Chapter 2 Initial Setup Procedures

Control Unit Option Module Setup

Configuration of installed options on the control unit.

Power Supply Setup

Setting the line voltage and fuses for the power supply.

Chapter 3 Installation

Gauge Installation Tips

Best practices for locating and installing pressure gauges.

Stabil-Ion Gauge Installation

Steps for installing the Stabil-Ion Gauge.

Convectron Gauge Installation

Steps and safety precautions for installing Convectron gauges.

Installing the Control Unit and Power Supply

Procedures for mounting the control unit and power supply.

Grounding the System

Critical safety procedures for grounding the system.

Connecting the RS-232 Computer Interface

Instructions for connecting the RS-232 computer interface.

Connecting the RS-485 Computer Interface

Instructions for connecting the RS-485 computer interface.

Connecting the Gauge Cables

General instructions for connecting gauge cables.

Connecting the Power Cables

Final steps for connecting power cables.

Chapter 4 Preparing the Stabil-Ion System for Operation

Memory Module Loading and Operating Parameter Setup

Loading memory modules and setting operating parameters.

Control Menu Variables

Adjusting pressure range, scale factor, and gas type.

Setup Menu Variables

Adjusting units, degas time, and overpressure threshold.

Degassing the Stabil-Ion Gauge

Process and safety guidelines for degassing the gauge.

Adjustment of Convectron Gauge Zero and Atmospheric Pressure Indications

Calibrating zero and atmospheric pressure for Convectron gauges.

Chapter 5 Operation of a Stabil-Ion System

Convectron Gauge Display Formats

Explanation of different pressure display formats for Convectron gauges.

Stabil-Ion Gauge Turn ON

Basic operation for turning the Stabil-Ion Gauge ON.

Chapter 6 Theory of Operation and Specifications

Stabil-Ion Gauge Theory of Operation

Explanation of the working principles of Stabil-Ion gauges.

Stabil-Ion Gauge Specifications

Technical specifications for Stabil-Ion gauges.

Convectron Gauge Theory of Operation

Explanation of the working principles of Convectron gauges.

Convectron Gauge Specifications

Technical specifications for Convectron gauges.

Chapter 7 Service and Maintenance

Service Guidelines

General advice for servicing and contacting technical support.

Damage Requiring Service

Conditions indicating the need for professional service.

Troubleshooting the Convectron Gauge Module

Common symptoms and causes for Convectron module issues.

Troubleshooting the Electrometer Module

Troubleshooting guide for the Electrometer module.

RS-232 Troubleshooting

Common issues and solutions for RS-232 communication.

RS-485 Troubleshooting

Common issues and solutions for RS-485 communication.

MKS Stabil-Ion 370 Series Specifications

General

Manufacturer	MKS Instruments
Category	Controller
Mounting	Panel Mount
Display	LCD
Storage Temperature	-20 to 70 °C
Enclosure Rating	IP20
Series	370
Communication Interface	RS-232, RS-485
Accuracy	Dependent on connected sensor
Repeatability	Dependent on connected sensor
Response Time	<1 second