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Details the purpose and function of the 9600 Calibration Tester for Welch Allyn thermometers.
Explains how the 9600 system provides a regulated temperature source and eliminates complex setup.
Describes the function of the switch used to select desired test temperatures on the unit.
Explains the function of the indicator that shows when the unit is receiving power.
Details the indicator that signals when the unit has reached a stable temperature.
Outlines the fail-safe feature that protects the unit from overheating conditions.
Describes the two holes designed for inserting different types of thermometers for testing.
Step-by-step instructions on how to prepare and set up the 9600 Calibration Tester for operation.
Procedure for testing the calibration of Model 9000 and 9020 Infrared thermometers.
Instructions for calibrating thermistor-based thermometers using the 9600 Tester.
Guidance for calibrating Celsius-only thermistor thermometers, including a conversion table.
Detailed steps for conducting a Level 2 calibration test when Level 1 results are outside tolerance.
Checks to perform if multiple thermometers fail calibration tests, suggesting a potential issue with the 9600 Tester.
Factors related to ambient conditions that can affect calibration accuracy and how to mitigate them.
Procedures for cleaning the sensor lens and stabilizing the thermometer before adjustment.
Method for taking and averaging readings to establish a baseline for calibration adjustments.
Steps to enter calibration adjustment mode and use controls to modify readings.
The Welch Allyn 9600 Calibration Tester is a specialized device designed for accurately testing the calibration of Welch Allyn thermometers. It serves as a convenient and reliable "reference patient" for ensuring the precision of various thermometer models, including thermistor-based thermometers (such as Models 500, 600, 650, 678, 679, 767T, SureTemp®, and SureTemp4®) and infrared-technology Model 9000 and Model 9020 Welch Allyn thermometers. The unit incorporates solid-state circuitry to achieve long-term stability and requires virtually no user maintenance, simplifying the calibration process significantly.
The primary function of the 9600 Calibration Tester is to provide a tightly regulated temperature source that is compatible with all Welch Allyn thermometer products. This eliminates the need for complex and time-consuming setups involving water baths, ovens, or environmental chambers, which are typically required for precision calibration. The device is factory calibrated to very close tolerances, ensuring that precise temperature readings are obtained when used. User adjustments to the calibration of the 9600 Tester itself are neither required nor recommended, as its internal components are designed for high precision and stability.
To maintain its long-term stability and ensure strict control over varying environmental conditions, the 9600 System is constructed using only the highest precision components. For this reason, the instrument must be factory calibrated on a regular basis. The initial calibration, if performed within the warranty period, is provided free of charge. Users are advised to contact Welch Allyn Customer Service for further information regarding factory calibration services.
The 9600 Calibration Tester features a straightforward setup and operation. To prepare the system for use, it should be placed on a level surface, away from direct sunlight, drafts, and other heat or cold sources. The unit has a Temperature Select Switch located on the front, allowing users to choose between two temperature settings: 96.4 °F and 106.0 °F. There is no power ON/OFF switch; the unit powers on automatically when plugged into a standard wall outlet.
Upon plugging in the unit, the POWER indicator will illuminate, signifying that the device is receiving power. The Power Module is permanently connected to the Main Unit to ensure a continuous power supply, as intermittent power could lead to a loss of temperature control and cause the READY Indicator to turn off. After warming up, the 9600 Tester draws approximately 7 watts of power, making it suitable for continuous operation. However, if the unit will not be used for extended periods, it can be unplugged.
A crucial feature of the 9600 Calibration Tester is the READY indicator. This indicator illuminates only when the internal temperature has stabilized at the selected setting. The unit contains an independent temperature sensing circuit that detects temperature changes with greater precision than the thermometers it tests. This independent circuitry ensures that even if there were a failure in the temperature-control circuit, the "READY-sensing" ability would not be compromised, making it virtually impossible for the READY indicator to illuminate if the temperature is incorrect. Users are cautioned not to use the unit if the READY indicator is not illuminated. If the unit fails to show "Ready" within the specified warm-up time under acceptable environmental conditions, it indicates a malfunction and should be returned to the factory for repair or replacement.
The warm-up times for the 9600 Tester are relatively quick. It takes about 6 minutes to heat to the low setting (96.4 °F) from room temperature and an additional 4 minutes to heat from the low setting to the high setting (106.0 °F). Cooling from the high setting to the low setting takes approximately 20 minutes. When testing multiple thermometers at both temperatures, it is recommended to test units on the cool setting first, then switch to the high setting, wait for the READY indicator, and proceed with testing.
In addition to the READY Indicator, the 9600 Calibration Tester includes an "Over-Temperature Detector." This is a fail-safe mechanism designed to protect the unit from over-temperature conditions in the unlikely event of a failure in the temperature-control circuitry. If the temperature rises a few tenths of a degree above the set point, the Over-Temperature Detector activates, overriding the normal control circuit and holding the temperature slightly above the set point. In such a scenario, the READY indicator would not illuminate, alerting the user that the unit should not be used.
The internal "blackbody" of the 9600 Calibration Tester serves as a heat reservoir for thermistor probes and a heat radiator for infrared-sensing aural thermometers. The unit has two thermometer holes: a large hole under a flap on the top of the Main Unit for Model 9000 infrared (IR) Aural thermometers, and a small hole for thermistor-based thermometers. Proper positioning of the thermometers in these holes is essential for accurate readings.
The surface texture inside the large hole must be flat (dull) and dry for proper IR readings and should appear black. The small hole, which is not painted black, must be kept clean and dry. The coating in this part of the unit is fragile, so specific cleaning instructions must be followed carefully. Users should avoid touching the surface inside the holes or inserting any foreign objects. Spilling liquids onto the unit, even with its dust cover, should also be avoided, as contaminants can compromise proper calibration.
The calibration testing process involves two levels. Level 1 Calibration Test is described on the instruction label on the top panel of the unit and in the manual. If a thermometer reading in the 9600 Tester is within +/-0.3 °F of the selected temperature, the instrument is within specifications, and no further testing is needed. This tolerance accounts for +/-0.2 °F from the thermometer system and +/-0.1 °F from the 9600 Tester.
If a Level 1 reading exceeds the +/-0.3 °F tolerance, users should proceed to the Level 2 Calibration Test. This involves checking several variables before concluding that a thermometer is out of calibration. These checks include ensuring the 9600 READY indicator is continuously on, verifying the room temperature is within 65°F and 80°F (18.3°C and 26.7°C), and for Model 9000/9020 thermometers, ensuring the sensor is free from debris and taking multiple readings with new probe covers. For thermistor thermometers, connections between the probe and thermometer should be checked, and any damaged components replaced.
Troubleshooting procedures are provided for readings that are more than +/-0.3 °F from the selected temperature. If Level 1 and Level 2 tests are unsuccessful, it suggests the unit might be out of calibration. Before replacing the unit, users should perform Model 9600 Calibration Checks, such as verifying the calibration date (annual validation required) and ensuring the unit has not been opened or tampered with, as this voids the warranty. Environmental Checks are also crucial, including ensuring no excessive moisture or steam, allowing thermometers to stabilize after exposure to extreme temperatures, and testing calibration at normal room temperatures.
For Model 9000 thermometers that fail the Troubleshooting Test, a manual calibration adjustment procedure is available. This involves placing the thermometer into a special Test Mode, which is entered by simultaneously pressing the PULSE, TIMER, and MODE switches, indicated by a 'T' on the thermometer LCD. Prior to adjustment, the sensor lens must be absolutely clean, using isopropyl alcohol and dry swabs, followed by a 60-minute stabilization period. The 9600 Calibration Tester is set to 106°F, and the thermometer is set to Test Mode and Fahrenheit display. A baseline is established by taking and averaging 10 temperature readings from different probe cover dispensers. The thermometer can then be adjusted using the F/C and Pulse switches according to a provided table to achieve the correct calibration number. After adjustment, the thermometer is retested in the black body with probe covers.
The Welch Allyn 9600 Calibration Tester is a robust and user-friendly device designed to simplify and ensure the accuracy of thermometer calibration, making it an indispensable tool for healthcare professionals.
General| Model | 9600 |
|---|---|
| Brand | Welch Allyn |
| Manufacturer | Welch Allyn |
| Type | Vital Signs Monitor |
| Power Source | Rechargeable battery or AC adapter |
| Battery Life | Typically 8 hours of operation with a new fully charged battery (parameter dependent) |
| Display | Color LCD |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth |
| Operating Temperature | 10° to 40°C (50° to 104°F) |
| Storage Temperature | -20° to 60°C (-4° to 140°F) |
| Humidity Range | 15% to 95% non-condensing |
| Wireless | Bluetooth |
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