MercuryiTC
©2014 Oxford Instruments Omicron NanoScience. All rights reserved.
Page 158
16.2 Troubleshooting
It is useful to distinguish between internal and external alarms. Some alarms arise because of
an event internal to the MercuryiTC; other alarms are triggered by a fault in the system being
controlled.
The next two sections summarise good practice when attempting to diagnose and correct faults.
A reference list of alarms is given in section 16.3.
16.2.1 Internal faults
Software (firmware) alarms can often be cleared very simply. Follow the instructions in the next
table and check after each step to see if the alarm has cleared.
Step Action
1
Switch MercuryiTC OFF then ON.
2 Update board firmware (section 6.6)
3 Recalibrate board
16.2.2 External faults
The majority of external faults are the result of wiring problems such as short circuits and open
circuits. Diagnosis will require the use of a DVM.
Step Action
1
Check that cables are in the correct sockets on the MercuryiTC and securely
fastened.
The connector should be flush with the iTC and the locking screws tightened.
2
Check the cable between the iTC and your cryogenic system. Repair or replace if
faulty.
3
Check resistances at the system connector socket. Compare these values with
those in your System Data. If a fault is found, refer to your system handbook.