The information contained in this document is believed to be correct, but OMEGA accepts no liability for any errors it contains, and reserves
the right to alter specifications without notice.
6 Heat Up/Cool Down Table ....................................................... 3-5
7 Connecting the BB-4A to a Computer’s Serial Port ............... 4-1
ii
Page 5
Section 1 - Introduction
Your BB4A Blackbody Calibration Source has been designed for ease of use and
reliability whenever you have the need to test or calibrate non-contact infrared
temperature instruments. It is important that you read this manual completely
and follow all safety precautions before operating this instrument.
1.1 Precautions
• Follow all safety precautions and operating instructions outlined in this manual.
• Never leave your calibrator unattended when in use.
• Keep out of reach of all children.
• Remove the cavity wood shipping plug before use.
• Never touch the heater cavity when hot.
• Never place any object within 3 inches of the cavity opening when hot.
• Do not operate in flammable or explosive environments.
• Never operate with a power cord other than the one provided with your unit.
• Remove and or disconnect main power cord before attempting any
maintenance or fuse replacement.
• Do not connect and or operate this unit to a non-grounded, non-polarized
outlet or power source.
• Do not connect the serial port or reference probe port to equipment with
exposed, hazardous, live voltages.
• Protect from moisture and rain.
• The operator of this instrument is advised that if the equipment is used in
a manner not specified in this manual, the protection provided by the
equipment may be impaired.
BB-4A Blackbody Calibrator
NOTE:
1
There are no user serviceable parts inside your unit. Attempting to repair or service your
unit may void your warranty.
1.2 Safety Warnings and ICE Symbols
This device is marked with international safety and hazard symbols in
accordance with EN61010-1. It is important to read and follow all precautions
and instructions in this manual before operating or commissioning this device as
it contains important information relating to safety and EMC. Failure to follow
all safety precautions may result in injury and or damage to your calibrator.
Use of this device in a manner not specified by the manufacturer may impair
protection provided within the unit.
The Model BB4A is a portable, rugged, bench-top, blackbody calibration source
with a built-in precision PID digital controller. The calibrator is used to test and
calibrate infrared pyrometers. The heater cavity, with 21.6 mm (0.88") aperture,
has an emissivity of 0.99 and can be set to any temperature between 100 to 982°C
(212 to 1800°F).
Figure 1. IEC symbols
1-2
Page 7
Section 2 - Installation
2.1 Unpacking
Remove the packing list and verify that you have received all your equipment.
If you have any questions about the shipment, please call our Customer Service
Department.
We can also be reached on the Internet.
When you receive the shipment, inspect the container and equipment for any
signs of damage. Note any evidence of rough handling in transit. Immediately
report any damage to the shipping agent.
The carrier will not honor any damage claims unless all shipping material is saved for
inspection. After examining and removing contents, save packing material and carton in
the event reshipment is necessary.
The following items are supplied in the box:
• BB-4A Blackbody Calibration Source
• Users Manual
• Calibration Certificate
• Power Cord
• Reference Port Cord Plug Connector
• Cavity Wood Shipping Plug (remove before use)
BB-4A Blackbody Calibrator
NOTE:
2
2.2 Mounting
Mount the unit on a bench, table top or shelf in a horizontal position and operate
at least ten inches from any air obstructions to the fan, front panel, rear panel,
bottom and top of the unit, in an ambient environment between the specified 0
to 50°C (32 to 122°F).
Your unit was shipped to you with a wood plug installed in the heater cavity to prevent
damage during shipping. This plug must be removed before using your calibrator.
2.3
Ambient Temperature
The target plate of the BB-4A can achieve any temperature within the specified
temperature range when being operated in normal ambient temperature
environments. The maximum specified heater cavity temperature of 982°C
(1800°F) can be achieved over the entire specified ambient temperature range.
NOTE:
2-1
Page 8
2
CL1000 Series Installation
2.4 Power Connection
Standard (120 VAC~, 50/60 Hz models)
The BB-4A comes with a standard North American 3-prong AC power cord. Do
not use any other power cord other than the one provided. This cord provides
the proper grounding and has been safety tested by the proper safety agencies.
Domestic (230 VAC~, 50/60 Hz models)
On 230 VAC~, 50Hz models a European style power cord with the proper
color code and approvals is provided with stripped wire ends for connection to
the proper connector used in your country or local area. This connector is not
provided.
• Line voltage variations are not to exceed ±10% of the rated input voltage.
• Electrical connections and wiring should be performed only by suitably trained
personnel.
CAUTION:
2-2
Page 9
Section 3 - Operation
3.1 Front and Side Panel Controls and Indicators
SETPOINT TEMPERATURE
PROCESS TEMPERATUREHEATER CAVITY
BB-4A Blackbody Calibrator
TM
3
BB-4A
Temperature
Range
212F/100C
1800F/982C
ON/STAND-BY
POWER SWITCH
PARAMETER/
ACCESS KEY
MODE KEYTEMPERATURE RANGE
LOWER SETPOINT KEY
RAISE SETPOINT KEY
REFERENCE BAR
Figure 2. Front Panel
Process Temperature:
This field displays the current temperature of the target plate.
Setpoint Temperature:
This field displays the desired target plate temperature. Once the target plate
reaches this desired temperature, both displays will read the same value.
NOTE:
NOTE:
P.I.D. Control:
Proportional, integral, derivative control ( P.I.D.) is a temperature control algorithm used
in high-end temperature controllers. The controller causes the process to attain the desired
temperature by turning the process on or off. The process may be a heater or refrigerator.
As the process temperature approaches the setpoint temperature the hot or cold process
will be pulsed to reduce the corrective measures and minimize overshooting. The
controller provides a visual representation of the process status through LED indicators. An
indicator may be lit continuously, blink or shut off entirely to indicate that the process is
on, being pulsed, or off, respectively.
3-1
Page 10
3
BB-4A Series Blackbody Calibrator
Press to scroll through menu parameters.
Press to increase the selected parameter or scroll upward in the list of possible
settings.
Press to decrease the selected parameter or scroll downward in the list of
possible settings.
Parameter/Access Key:
Raise Key:
Lower Key:
Mode Key:
Press to save settings and exit a menu level.
3-2
Page 11
3.2 Back Panel Connections
BB-4A Blackbody Calibrator
TC REFERENCE
PROBE CONNECTION
FUSE
3
FAN
RS-232 COMMUNICATIONS PORT
AC Power Mains Input and Fuse Compartment:
The customer connects the power cord to the AC Power Input. As a safety
precaution, the power cord cannot be connected if the fuse compartment is open.
Refer to Section 5.3 for information on fuse replacement.
Reference Probe Connection:
The reference probe enables the user to monitor the target plate temperature
with an external instrument. A “K” type thermocouple reference output is
provided.
RS232 Communications Port:
The female DB-9 port allows the customer to make a 3-wire RS232 interface with
the BB-4A. A detailed description of this port is described in Section 4.
3.3 Thermal Reset Switch
Figure 3. Rear Panel
AC MAINS POWER INPUT
AND FUSE COMPARTMENT
In the event that the target plate temperature and/or ambient temperature
exceeds the acceptable limit, this reset switch will pop open. The controller will
appear to be demanding a temperature increase but the target plate temperature
will not rise. Let the unit cool down, completely. Press the switch located on the
right side of the unit, behind the carry handle until a click is heard. If this has no
effect refer to the troubleshooting section.
3.4 Changing the Temperature Setpoint
The layout of the front panel is shown in Figure 2. The BB-4A incorporates a PID
digital setpoint controller. The upper display indicates the blackbody target plate
temperature known as (PV) Process Variable, while the lower display indicates
the programmed setpoint known as (SV) Setpoint Variable. Making changes to
the setpoint, units of measure (°F/°C) and communication settings (BAUD, etc.)
3-3
Page 12
3
BB-4A Series Blackbody Calibrator
are made via the and keys. Holding a key in, continuously, will cause the
setpoint temperature to advance more quickly to a desired value. Three scanning
speeds are provided: slow, medium and fast. The minimum and maximum setpoints
are locked.
3.5 Changing the Controller Parameter Settings
The BB-4A operates at its optimum performance when left with its factory
parameter settings. The only internal parameter that the operator should need to
change is the engineering units (°F or °C), or serial communications parameters.
Below are two diagrams: a) menu hierarchy with factory default settings
b) programming procedure.
Figure 4. Menu Hierarchy Showing Factory Default Settings
Changing the Controller’s Parameter Settings
1. Press the
key to enter the programming mode. The lower display will
alternately display the menu level and “Ac.Cd.”
2. Use the and keys to change to the desired menu level.
3. Once you have chosen the desired menu use the
key to scroll through
the parameters. To change the setting of a given parameter, use the and
keys.
4. To save settings press the
key. The controller now exits the programming
menu and return to the normal operating mode.
5. To change settings on other menu levels, you must re-enter the programming
menu (from step #1).
3-4
Page 13
BB-4A Blackbody Calibrator
Putting the Controller In or Out of Standby Mode
3
1. To enter the Standby mode hold the
flashes “StbY”.
2. To exit the Standby mode hold the
flashes “tUne”. Then press the key for 4 seconds again until “tUne” stops
flashing.
Figure 5. Programming Procedure
3.6 Heat-Up/Cool-Down Cycle Times
TO:
121ºC 538ºC 982ºC
FROM:
121ºC 25 min. 40 min. 250ºF
538ºC 60 min. 30 min. 1000ºF
982ºC 140 min. 30 min. 1800ºF
250ºF 1000ºF 1800ºF
Figure 6. Heat Up/Cool Down Cycle Time Table
Approximate cycle times for heat up and cool down are given in the table above.
To find a given transition time from an initial temperature to a second target
temperature follow this procedure: Look for an initial temperature in the left
column. Next, look for the target temperature along the top row. The intersection
of the row and column provides the approximate transition time.
key for 4 seconds until the window
key for 4 seconds until the window
FROM:
TO:
3-5
Page 14
4
BB-4A Blackbody Calibrator
Section 4 RS232 Communication
The RS232 port provides the customer with bi-directional data transfer via a
three-conductor cable consisting of signal ground, receive input, and transmit
output. It is recommended that less than fifty feet of shielded cable be used
between the computer and this instrument. This will assure performance of
the BB-4A to EN61326, under the E.M.C. Note that multiple instruments cannot
be tied to the same port in this configuration. The RS232 port is optically isolated
to eliminate ground loop problems.
Below is a pinout diagram for the serial port of the BB-4A as well as the pinout
for a 9-pin PC serial port. Use a straight DB9 (female) to DB9 (male) connector
cable to connect your computer to the BB-4A. The cable should be attached when
only when the computer and BB-4A are off.
Only parameters in the parameter list should be modified or queried via the
serial port. Other parameters should be viewed or queried from the controller,
directly. It is highly recommended that baud rate for the controller be modified
on the controller, directly. Note that both the BB-4A and the computer must be
communicating with the same serial communications parameters to establish a
working communication link.
The serial communications feature can be tested using terminal emulation
package. Note that this controller does not time out waiting for the next
character to be transmitted. Be sure not to use the XON/XOFF or hardware
handshaking. Lastly, it should be noted that following a complete transmission
to the BB-4A, a response it sent back. If the message was valid, the changed or
queried parameter is echoed back (following the same format). If the message
was not according to acceptable format or was attempting to force a parameter
out of range, an “ERROR” message is echoed.
1
2345
BB4A
BLACKBODY
CALIBRATOR
REAR PANEL
6789
TX
RX
RX
TX
GND
GND
YOUR
COMPUTER
SERIAL
PORT
(RS232)
4-1
12 34 5
6789
Figure 7. Connecting the BB-4A to a Computer’s Serial Port
# - This character initiates an “escape sequence” that the controller will recognize.
[controller id] – Up to 2 numeric characters, “00” to “99” (factory default=”01”)
[command] – 1 character, upper case or lower case
“R” – To read a parameter from the controller
“M” – To temporarily modify a controller parameter (lost upon shutdown)
“E” – To modify a controller parameter in non-volatile mem. (saved even
after shutdown)
[parameter #] – Up to 2 numeric characters, “00” to “99”
<new value> - This control word is used only when entering or modifying a
parameter.
Up to 6 characters may be entered. The first character can be a space, a “+”,
or a “-”. The next 4 characters are for entering the new value parameter
value. Be sure to use the exact same field format as is currently being used.
(i.e. if the XXX.X format is used to express temperature, be sure to enter a
new value that conforms to the same format).
<units> - This optional control word is used to specify units, F for °F, C for °C.
[CR/LF] – Every transmission must be terminated with a carriage return [CR]
character.
The line feed [LF] character is optional.
4-2
Page 16
5
BB-4A Blackbody Calibrator
Section 5 - Maintenance
5.1 Calibration
This unit has been fine tuned at the factory and calibrated to give optimum
performance of its full temperature range. It is recommended that the unit be
returned annually for re-calibration.
5.2 Cleaning
Remove all electrical connections and power before attempting any maintenance or
cleaning.
5.2.1 Main Body
Only a damp soft rag with a mild cleaning solution should be used to clean the
main body of this unit.
CAUTION:
5.2.2 Heater Cavity
Do not attempt to clean the heater cavity.
5.2.3 Fan
The fan filter should be cleaned as a minimum monthly, by washing the filter
with warm water and then blowing dry with air. Never clean it while attached to
the unit. It is removed by by firmly pulling back the plastic frame outward. The
internal protective grill that is seated against the fan can be cleaned with a soft
bristle brush.
5.3 Fuse Replacement
Disconnect all power from source before attempting fuse replacement.
For continued protection against the risk of fire replace with only the same size, type and
rating fuse indicated here and on the rear panel of your unit.
WARNING:
CAUTION:
For model: BB-4A use 1 ea. 250 VAC~, T4A (Time-Lag, 4 Amp) UL./CSA APPROVED (.25 dia. x 1.25 long).
For model: BB-4A -230VAC use 2 ea. 250 VAC~, F3.15A (Time-Lag, 3.15 Amp)
VDE APPROVED (5 mm dia. x 20 mm long).
5-1
Page 17
Section 6 - Reference Probe
A thermocouple reference port is provided for monitoring cavity temperature
with an external instrument. A standard thermocouple panel jack is provided
(OMEGA# RSJ-K-R). If a voltmeter is used to read the output, be sure to use
an Icepoint reference cell (TRCIIIA) or a cold junction compensator (CJ, MCJ,
SMCJ).
1. Unit will not turn on. a. Check all electrical connections.
b. Check rear panel fuses.
c. Unit requires service, contact our customer
2. Unit turns on but the target a. Check that you have entered a setpoint
plate will not get hot. above the ambient temperature.
b. Verify that the controller is set to its
factory default settings.
c. Unit requires service, contact our customer service department.
d. Unit has been operate outside of operating
BB-4A Blackbody Calibrator
service department.
range. Safety cutoff switch has disabled
heater. Let the unit cool down, completely.
Press the reset switch located on the right
side of the unit, behind the carry handle,
until a click is heard. If the problem is not
corrected, contact the factory.
8
3. Controller display shows a. Unit requires service, contact our
“Error” and the target plate customer service department.
will not get hot or cold.
4. Target plate temperature will a. Verify that the controller is set to its
not stabilize to within ± .5°F factory default settings.
of the setpoint temperature.
customer service department
5. Controller has no output. a. Controller may be in Standby mode.
Pressing buttons has NO effect. Hold down the
TUNE blinks on the display. until “TUNE”stops blinking.
6. Controller has no output. a. Controller may be in LOCK mode. Hold
Controller does not Respond to down the
any keypress. “Ac.Cd” is displayed. Change to a menu
b. Unit requires service, contact our
key continuously
key continuously until
level other than level 1 and exit the menu
selection mode by pressing the
once.
key
8-1
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9
BB-4A Blackbody Calibrator
Section 9 - Glossary of Terms Used in This Manual
Blackbody
A theoretical object that radiates the maximum amount of energy at a given
temperature, and absorbs all the energy incident upon it.
Calibration
The process of adjusting an instrument or compiling a deviation chart so that its
reading can be correlated to the actual value being measured.
Emissivity
The ratio of energy emitted by a surface to the energy emitted by a blackbody at
the same temperature.
IEC
International Electrotechnical Commission
Infrared (IR)
A range of the electromagnetic spectrum extending beyond red visible light from
760 nanometers to 1000 microns.
NIST
National Institute of Standards and Technology
PID
Proportional, Integral, Derivative. A three mode control action where the
controller has time proportioning, integral (auto reset) and derivative rate action.
RTD
Resistance temperature detector
9-1
Page 21
The OMEGA Family of Dry Block Probe Calibrators
The OMEGA Family of Blackbody Calibrators
Listed below is a selection guide of OMEGA’s current line of blackbody calibration
sources in addition to the one you have selected. This family of rugged, portable and
accurate calibrators cover a wide range of temperatures, target plate sizes and features
making them perfect for infrared pyrometer field service testing and laboratory
calibrations.
BB701 Hot/Cold Blackbody Calibration Source
Calibration Range: -18 to 149°C (0 to 300°F) Accuracy: ±0.8°C (±1.4°F)
Emissivity: 0.95 Ambient Temp.: 4 to 43°C (40 to 110°F)
Cavity Size: 63.5 mm (2.5 in.) Power: 115/230V, 50/60 Hz, 175W
BB702 Blackbody Calibration Source
Calibration Range: 32 to 215°C (amb. 90 to 420°F) Accuracy: ± 0.5°C (±0.9°F), ±0.25% rdg.
Emissivity: 0.95 Ambient Temp.: 5 to 45°C (41 to 113°F)
Cavity Size: 63.5 mm (2.5 in.) Power: 115/230V, 50/60 Hz, 75W
BB703 Mini Blackbody Calibration Source
Calibration Range: 32 to 400°C (90 to 752°F) Accuracy: ±1.4°C (±2.5°F)
Emissivity: 0.95 Ambient Temp.: 0 to 40°C (32 to 104°F)
Cavity Size: 28.6 mm (1.125 in.) Power: 115/230V, 50/60 Hz, 175W
10
BB704 4” Target Plate Blackbody Calibration Source
Calibration Range: 100 to 400°C (212 to 752°F) Accuracy: ±0.8°C (±1.4°F)
Emissivity: 0.95 Ambient Temp.: 0 to 50°C (32 to 122°F)
Cavity Size: 101.6 mm (4 in.) Power: 115/230V, 50/60 Hz, 425W
BB705 Laboratory Grade Blackbody Calibration Source
Calibration Range: 100 to 1046°C (212 to 1915°F) Accuracy: ±1.0°C (±1.8°F), ±0.25% rgd
Emissivity: 0.99 Ambient Temp.: 0 to 35°C (32 to 95°F)
Cavity Size: 44 mm (1.75 in.) Power: 115/230V, 50/60 Hz, 1100W
BB-4A High Temperature Blackbody Calibration Source
Calibration Range: 100 to 982°C (212 to 1800°F) Accuracy: ±1.0°C (±1.8°F), ±0.25% rdg
Emissivity: 0.99 Ambient Temp.: 0 to 50°C (32 to 122°F)
Cavity Size: 22.2 mm (0.88 in.) Power: 115/230V, 50/60 Hz, 400W
For a complete, updated specification sheet and price on any of the calibrators listed here visit our
website. Please call our sales or customer service department for information and pricing on any
new models available.
10-1
Page 22
10
NOTES:
BB-4A Blackbody Calibrator Notes
10-2
Page 23
WARRANTY/DISCLAIMER
OMEGA ENGINEERING, INC. warrants this unit to be free of defects in materials and workmanship for a
period of 25 months from date of purchase. OMEGA’s WARRANTY adds an additional one (1) month grace
period to the normal one (2) year product warranty to cover handling and shipping time. This ensures
that OMEGA’s customers receive maximum coverage on each product.
If the unit malfunctions, it must be returned to the factory for evaluation. OMEGA’s Customer Service
Department will issue an Authorized Return (AR) number immediately upon phone or written request.
Upon examination by OMEGA, if the unit is found to be defective, it will be repaired or replaced at no
charge. OMEGA’s WARRANTY does not apply to defects resulting from any action of the purchaser,
including but not limited to mishandling, improper interfacing, operation outside of design limits,
improper repair, or unauthorized modification. This WARRANTY is VOID if the unit shows evidence of
having been tampered with or shows evidence of having been damaged as a result of excessive corrosion;
or current, heat, moisture or vibration; improper specification; misapplication; misuse or other operating
conditions outside of OMEGA’s control. Components in which wear is not warranted, include but are not
limited to contact points, fuses, and triacs.
OMEGA is pleased to offer suggestions on the use of its various products. However,
OMEGA neither assumes responsibility for any omissions or errors nor assumes liability for
any damages that result from the use of its products in accordance with information provided
by OMEGA, either verbal or written. OMEGA warrants only that the parts manufactured by the
company will be as specified and free of defects. OMEGA MAKES NO OTHER WARRANTIES OR
REPRESENTATIONS OF ANY KIND WHATSOEVER, EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, EXCEPT THAT OF
TITLE, AND ALL IMPLIED WARRANTIES INCLUDING ANY WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY
AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE ARE HEREBY DISCLAIMED. LIMITATION OF
LIABILITY: The remedies of purchaser set forth herein are exclusive, and the total liability of
OMEGA with respect to this order, whether based on contract, warranty, negligence,
indemnification, strict liability or otherwise, shall not exceed the purchase price of the
component upon which liability is based. In no event shall OMEGA be liable for
consequential, incidental or special damages.
CONDITIONS: Equipment sold by OMEGA is not intended to be used, nor shall it be used: (1) as a “Basic
Component” under 10 CFR 21 (NRC), used in or with any nuclear installation or activity; or (2) in medical
applications or used on humans. Should any Product(s) be used in or with any nuclear installation or
activity, medical application, used on humans, or misused in any way, OMEGA assumes no responsibility
as set forth in our basic WARRANTY/DISCLAIMER language, and, additionally, purchaser will indemnify
OMEGA and hold OMEGA harmless from any liability or damage whatsoever arising out of the use of the
Product(s) in such a manner.
RETURN REQUESTS/INQUIRIES
Direct all warranty and repair requests/inquiries to the OMEGA Customer Service Department. BEFORE
RETURNING ANY PRODUCT(S) TO OMEGA, PURCHASER MUST OBTAIN AN AUTHORIZED RETURN (AR)
NUMBER FROM OMEGA’S CUSTOMER SERVICE DEPARTMENT (IN ORDER TO AVOID PROCESSING
DELAYS). The assigned AR number should then be marked on the outside of the return package and on any
correspondence.
The purchaser is responsible for shipping charges, freight, insurance and proper packaging to prevent
breakage in transit.
FOR WARRANTY RETURNS, please have the
following information available BEFORE contacting
OMEGA:
1. Purchase Order number under which the product
was PURCHASED,
2. Model and serial number of the product under
warranty, and
3. Repair instructions and/or specific problems
relative to the product.
OMEGA’s policy is to make running changes, not model changes, whenever an improvement is possible. This affords our
customers the latest in technology and engineering.
reproduced, translated, or reduced to any electronic medium or machine-readable form, in whole or in part, without the prior
written consent of OMEGA ENGINEERING, INC.
FOR NON-WARRANTY REPAIRS, consult
OMEGA for current repair charges. Have
the following information available BEFORE
contacting OMEGA:
1. Purchase Order number to cover the COST
of the repair,
2. Model and serial number of the product, and
3. Repair instructions and/or specific problems
relative to the product.