The Sun Systems EC1A is an environmental temperature test chamber engineered for automated test systems and laboratory applications. It delivers precise thermal cycling across an extreme temperature range with dual cooling options: −184°C to +315°C with LN₂ cooling, or −73°C to +315°C with LCO₂ cooling. The chamber achieves 30°C/min heat and cool rates with ±0.1°C absolute accuracy and ±0.3°C long-term stability. Local control via full-function keyboard and 2-line LCD display accommodates standalone operation, while IEEE-488 (GPIB) and RS232/RS422 interfaces enable remote integration into larger test systems. The TC10 controller manages temperature profiling, ramp scheduling, and real-time device monitoring through an electrically isolated user temperature probe. Battery-backed memory preserves user programs and parameters across power cycles.
Technical Specifications
Thermal Performance
• Temperature range: −184°C to +315°C (LN₂); −73°C to +315°C (LCO₂)
• Heat/cool rate: 30°C/min
• Temperature resolution: 0.1°C
• Absolute accuracy: ±0.1°C (probe error excluded)
• Long-term stability: ±0.3°C per month
• Workspace volume: 0.37 cubic feet
• Air flow: 60 CFM
Physical Dimensions
• Workspace: 10″ W × 8″ H × 8″ D
• Overall: 17.5″ W × 13.25″ H × 20″ D
• Form factor: 19″ rack-mountable; benchtop option available
Electrical
• Power consumption: 1600 W max
• Heating input: 1200 W
• Supply: 110/220 VAC, 50/60 Hz, single phase (optional: 100 VAC 50 Hz, 208 VAC, 240 VAC)
Communication & Control
• Local: Full-function keyboard with 2-line, 16-character LCD display
• Remote: IEEE-488 (GPIB), RS232/RS422
• Transparent mode: IEEE-488 to RS232/RS422
• Analog I/O, SPI high-speed serial, parallel port
• Programming: BASIC-like command set
– Key Features
• Non-volatile memory for user temperature profiles and system parameters
• Adjustable PID coefficients accessible from keyboard and remote interfaces
• Programmable automatic restart following power loss
• Mechanically adjustable over-temperature thermostat
• Software upper and lower temperature limits
• Processor watchdog timer
• Configurable alarm function, audio level, BAUD rate, interrupt assignments, and communication port selection
• Isolated probe input for product temperature monitoring and control
– Typical Applications
• Automated test system (ATS) integration
• Component and assembly thermal validation
• Laboratory environmental stress screening
• Device reliability and qualification testing
– Compatibility & Integration
The EC1A operates standalone or integrates into production test environments via standard instrumentation interfaces. The TC10 controller supports direct command-line programming and parameter modification through any configured communication port, enabling both manual operation and fully automated test sequences.
