with AutoCal/AutoCal+, Remote Control and
Range Extensions options.
Document title
Page 1 of 75
1 Scope of Document
This instruction manual refers to HygroGen2 running software version 2.1. To determine the software
version your instrument is running, please refer to the Settings Screen as shown in section 3.4.5
. For
version 1.x.x, the software revision number is displayed by pressing the “HG Info” button; for version
2.0, select “Info” from the “Service” drop-down menu; for version 2.1, select “HygroGen2 Info” from
the “Support” drop-down menu. An equivalent manual is available on
www.rotronic.com for
HygroGen2 instruments running software versions 1.x.x and 2.0.
If you are running version 1.x.x, it is strongly recommended to upgrade to version 2.x. Please see
section 3.2 (Upgrading From Previous Versions)
for installation instructions.
1.1 Introducing the HygroGen2
The HygroGen2 is a generator of controlled relative humidity and temperature environments,
primarily for use in calibrating humidity instrumentation, but is also well suited to the calibration of
temperature instrumentation, particularly those used for the measurement of temperature in air.
It is a completely self-contained, portable unit requiring no external resources except mains power.
This allows technicians to perform calibrations in the laboratory, workshop or on-site.
The HygroGen2 uses a mixed flow method for generating the %rh required by the user. A desiccant
cell provides a source of low humidity and a piezoelectric humidifier generates high humidity. A Peltier
element is used for heating and cooling the chamber. Measurement and control is provided by a
combination of a ROTRONIC HygroClip probe, an embedded Platinum Resistance Thermometer (PRT)
and a multi-loop controller. Set-points are entered using the touch-screen front panel display.
1.2 Temperature and Humidity References
The HygroGen2 creates stable temperature and humidity conditions uniformly within its test chamber.
Instruments under test (IUTs) are inserted into the chamber and compared to a reference to calibrate
and monitor their performance so that any appropriate adjustments can be made.
There are three main relative humidity (RH) calibration reference types that can be used with the
HygroGen2. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages, so the reference chosen should be
determined by the uncertainty of measurement required.
with AutoCal/AutoCal+, Remote Control and
Range Extensions options.
Document title
Page 2 of 75
Corresponding temperature references integrated in the above may be used or additional external
temperature references employed (for example, platinum resistance thermometers (PRTs)).
It is vital to consider the comparison of temperatures measured by the reference, the HygroGen2 and
IUTs. Because RH is significantly dependent on temperature, temperature measurement should be
optimised to get meaningful RH results.
For more details, please see A1: Calibration Reference Options and Appendices D1 to D4
on
Uncertainty.
1.3 Optional Enhanced Features: AutoCal, External Reference, Range
Extensions and Remote Control
With the introduction of software version 2.0, the HygroGen2 comes with optional Enhanced Feature
upgrades: AutoCal and RH/Temperature Range Extensions. Version 2.1 has more additions to the
Enhanced Features range: AutoCal+ and Remote Control. Further enhancements are in development
and will be released in subsequent versions.
All Enhanced Features are activated by the application of a licence key, available via your ROTRONIC
dealer, and can be added to any HygroGen2. Under certain circumstances a service may be required.
Low Temperature and Humidity Range Extensions extend the limits of points that can be set on the
instrument, creating chamber conditions down to -5°C and from 2%rh up to 99%rh.
AutoCal allows you to pre-program a series of set-points and times, and record the instrument‘s
progression through them in a PDF Calibration Certificate which is written to an external USB disk
drive. Any values recorded on ROTRONIC HygroClip probes attached to the HygroGen2 via USB
adaptors are recorded in the certificate. Probes can be set to automatically adjust to match the
HygroGen2 reference probe at predetermined values.
AutoCal+ (External Reference) extends the functionality of AutoCal, by integrating MBW/RHS chilled
mirror hygrometers (supplied separately) as the external reference.
Remote Control gives the ability to remotely control the HygroGen2 over a network. As part of this,
there is a dial-back function so that ROTRONIC support personnel can log onto the instrument to offer
support. Support is limited to the settings of the HG2-S, the unit may require a service that can only
be carried out by trained personnel.
with AutoCal/AutoCal+, Remote Control and
Range Extensions options.
Document title
Page 3 of 75
2 Setting up the HygroGen2
2.1 Physical Location
To ensure correct operation please ensure that:
1. The unit is level and stable;
2. There is at least 15mm clearance underneath and at least 100mm at the back of the unit to
enable adequate air flow;
3. There is adequate access to the electrical mains connection at the rear of the unit.
Note: The feet on the rear panel are for standing the unit for service purposes and to ensure a sufficient
air gap behind the unit. The unit will not operate in the vertical position.
2.2 Electrical Supply
Power Isolation
The unit is supplied with a mains cord set. The unit should be disconnected from the electrical supply
before the unit is moved, cleaned or has water added or removed.
Earthing
This unit must be earthed. Provision for the safety earth is made through the electrical mains connection
(see Figure 2(8) below) to which all parts of the unit requiring earthing are internally connected. An
earthed electrical supply is required.
Earth Leakage Current
Due to RF filtering, there is an earth leakage current, within the limits specified in EN 61010-1:2001. This
may affect mains power circuits protected by Residual Current Device (RCD) or Ground Fault Detector
(GFD) type circuit breakers (particularly if used in multiples or with other equipment with an earth
leakage current on the same supply circuit).
Overcurrent Protection
To protect the internal circuitry against excess currents, the mains supply to the unit must be connected
with the mains cord set provided with the unit and to an appropriate mains supply.
Voltage Rating
The unit is designed to work within the limits of a 110-230VAC 50-60Hz mains supply with voltage
fluctuations up to ± 10% of the nominal voltage. The unit is rated impulse-withstand (overvoltage)
with AutoCal/AutoCal+, Remote Control and
Range Extensions options.
Document title
Page 4 of 75
category II of IEC 60364-4-443. Where occasional voltage transients over 2.5kV are expected or
measured, it may be necessary that the power installation to the unit includes a transient limiting device.
Mains Filtration
If there is risk of power spikes or breaks, it is recommended that an Uninterruptable Power Supply (UPS)
is used to provide continued power and mains filtration. This should be rated according to the
HygroGen2 power specifications (see Appendix B3
) and the time required to run/shut down during
power outage.
Conductive Pollution
The unit is rated Pollution Degree 2 and must not be operated in environments where conductive
pollutants (for example, carbon) may enter the unit. This includes excessive moisture ingress.
with AutoCal/AutoCal+, Remote Control and
Range Extensions options.
Document title
2.3 HygroGen2 Assembly
1) Power switch
2) USB ports
3) Touch screen controller
4) Water port
5) Desiccant cell
6) Chamber door
7) Probe aperture bung
8) Handle
1) Sample loop return
2) Sample loop outlet
3) USB ports
4) DVI monitor interface
5) Ethernet socket
6) Type label
7) Fan outlet
8) Electrical mains connection
9) Power switch
Page 5 of 75
HygroGen2 Chamber and Door
The HygroGen2 does not come supplied with a door. There are various standard and customized
versions available, depending on the intended use for the instrument, the use of an external reference
(see Appendix A1.2) and the instruments under test. Figure 1
(part code: HG2-D-11111). Other options are listed in Appendix B4.
To access the HygroGen2 chamber, remove the door. Grip firmly and twist the door anti-clockwise. In
the event that this proves difficult, cool the chamber first. Occasional application of silicone grease
around the door “O” ring seal will ease movement.
with AutoCal/AutoCal+, Remote Control and
Range Extensions options.
Document title
Page 6 of 75
Replacement can be in any position and requires only a gentle clockwise twist.
Before using your HygroGen2, make sure that the door is secured and that all probe apertures not in
use are sealed with a bung (see Figure 1(7) above) or an appropriate alternative seal.
Desiccant Cell
The unit should be supplied with the desiccant cell in place (Figure 1(5) above). For further details and
best practice for desiccant handling, please see section 8.2
.
External Sample Loop
Unless an external sampling system is to be used (see “External Sample Loop Operation” in Appendix
A1.3), ensure the sample loop caps (Figure 2(1) and (2) above) are firmly secured.
HygroClip Control Probe
The HygroGen2 chamber conditions are monitored and controlled by a ROTRONIC HygroClip RH and
temperature probe. Depending on the circumstances and external references employed (see
A1.2 External RH Probe Reference), this probe may be removed for regular calibration (see section 8.1
Control HygroClip Calibration).
Note: For speed of response, this probe must be employed without protective filters.
Figure 3: How to fill and empty the Water Reservoir
Document code Unit
with AutoCal/AutoCal+, Remote Control and
Range Extensions options.
Document title
Page 7 of 75
2.4 Water Reservoir
The HygroGen2 requires 50-80ml of distilled water in the internal reservoir. Insufficient water will
deactivate the humidification system. As long as extreme care is taken not to overfill the water reservoir,
the HygroGen2 may be filled and emptied either with the unit powered up or shut down.
To fill the HygroGen2
1. Insert the tube of the dosing syringe, with the plunger fully depressed, 10mm into the water
port and extract any residual water by drawing out the plunger.
2. Depress the collar on the water port (Figure 1(4) above) and remove the dosing syringe tube.
Wipe up any spilt water with an absorbent cloth immediately.
3. Fill the dosing syringe with 80ml of distilled water. Insert the end of the dosing syringe tube
firmly back into the water port and discharge the syringe steadily. (If water leaks during this
operation the filler tube is not correctly inserted in the water port.)
4. Depress the collar on the water port to remove the dosing syringe tube. Wipe up any spilt water
with an absorbent cloth immediately.
5. A water level indicator is shown in the Settings Screen (see section 3.4.5
).
Caution: Do not overfill the HygroGen2
Overfilling of the unit will result in poor humidification and, in extreme cases, water may be pumped
into the chamber. If the HygroGen2 is overfilled, the humidifier should be fully emptied and then refilled
with 50-80ml of water (as described above). If there is water present in the chamber of the HygroGen2,
this should be removed using an absorbent cloth. Ensure the HygroGen2 is switched off and the mains
power unplugged before manually drying the chamber.
with AutoCal/AutoCal+, Remote Control and
Range Extensions options.
Document title
Page 8 of 75
To empty the HygroGen2
1. Insert the tube of the dosing syringe, with the plunger fully depressed, 10mm into the water
port and extract any water by drawing out the plunger.
2. Depress the collar on the water port to remove the dosing syringe tube. Wipe up any spilt water
with an absorbent cloth immediately.
3. Distilled water discharged from the HygroGen2 may be stored safely and reused at a later date.
Note: The HygroGen2 should always be emptied if it is being shipped or stored (see
section 5.3
Preparing the Unit for Transit or Storage). This will prevent ingress of water into the chamber should
the unit be inverted and prevent possible frost damage.
Water Quality
The HygroGen2 should only be filled with distilled water.
As a precaution against any microbial and algae water contamination, HygroGen2 incorporates an Ultra
Violet (UV) sterilisation lamp within the water reservoir. No user intervention is required - HygroGen2
auto-cycles the process.
Under no circumstance should the water reservoir be opened by non-qualified personnel. Direct
exposure to UV lamps can cause burns or blindness.
with AutoCal/AutoCal+, Remote Control and
Range Extensions options.
Document title
Page 9 of 75
3 HygroGen2 - Basic Operation
This applies to all HygroGen2 models. For details on the operation of optional Enhanced Features, see
section 4
.
3.1 Switching On
1. Ensure the electrical mains supply is correctly plugged in and switched on.
2. Switch the unit on by pressing the Power Switch (see Figure 1(1) above) once.
3. The fans within the unit will switch on giving an immediate audible indication the unit is
powered.
4. The controller will power up and display the controller home screen (as shown in Figure 8).
On power up:
• The temperature and humidity set-points default to the last set values.
• The temperature and humidity control defaults to the last set condition.
If the “Low Water Level” alarm is displayed, then the unit should be filled as described in section 2.4
Humidification is disabled until water is filled.
with AutoCal/AutoCal+, Remote Control and
Range Extensions options.
Document title
Page 10 of 75
3.2 Upgrading From Previous Versions
It is strongly recommended to upgrade your HygroGen2 to at least software version 2.0. Version 2.x
contains numerous core system improvements over version 1.x.x, including robustness against power
outages, water level sensor calibration and compatibility improvements. Each version is a free upgrade.
If you are upgrading the HygroGen2 from 1.x.x, it is strongly recommended the HygroGen2 is serviced.
This will allow hardware updates to maximise the performance of the V2.x.x software. These include
connecting the internal network cable and updating the power shutdown hardware.
The Enhanced Features described in section 1.3
code from your ROTRONIC dealer.
To install version 2.1, you will first need to install version 2.0.
3.2.1 Installation of HygroGen2 version 2.0 from recovery installation USB stick
Version 2.0 recovery installation USB sticks (HG2-V2.0.UPGRADE) can be obtained from your
ROTRONIC Dealer.
A recovery installation USB stick can also be made using a blank 4GB USB stick and
downloading the zipped file: http://www2.rotronic.ch/div/me/hg2/HG2v2_RTM20121130.zip
Step by step instructions for preparing the USB stick are included in the zipped file. When you have
downloaded the file and prepared the USB stick, follow the instructions below.
You will need a USB keyboard and mouse plugged into the HygroGen2 to perform the following steps.
Please make sure your HygroGen2 is connected to a stable power supply.
i. Make a note of existing HW4 software version and serial number.
a. Boot your HygroGen2 in the conventional manner. Press the HW4 button and “Start HW4”.
b. Select “About HW4” from the “Help” menu.
c. Make a note of the HW4 version number and serial number (ID) which should be in the
format XX YYYYYYYY ZZZZZ.
d. Close HW4.
e. Insert the USB stick into one of the back ports of the HygroGen2.
f. Go to the settings screen and press Update, then press OK to restart your HygroGen2.
ii. HygroGen2 version 2.0 installation
The HygroGen2 will now boot with a Windows Loading screen and load with a HYGROGEN
INSTALLATION DRIVE splash screen. It will take a few moments to initialise all the hardware
components.
are unlocked by purchasing the appropriate software
with AutoCal/AutoCal+, Remote Control and
Range Extensions options.
Document title
Page 11 of 75
a. Note the warning and press RETURN
b. Type “C” and press RETURN to copy the current HygroGen2 settings to your USB installation
drive and to confirm the action type “Y” and press RETURN.
This creates a snapshot of the current HygroGen2 settings, particularly customisations to the
controller settings that may have been tuned uniquely for your particular instrument. At the end
of the installation, the USB stick should be labelled with the serial number of the HygroGen2 and
stored safely. This USB stick should be used in the event the unit requires a system recovery or
settings restore.
c. Type Y to install HygroGen2 version 2.0 software.
d. Confirm no other USB peripherals apart from keyboard, mouse and your USB installation
drive are plugged in. Press any key to continue.
e. The installation process will then proceed and will take approximately 30 minutes.
Select appropriate settings:
f. At the end of the process, you will be asked which settings you want to use: Last Used (L),
Recovery (R) or default (D). Type “L” and press RETURN.
This will use the previous settings loaded on the HygroGen2 irrespective of whether you performed
the clone process in step ii (b).
g. Acknowledge the warning. The unit will then shut down.
h. Remove the USB drive and turn the HygroGen2 back on. The unit will then boot into
CONFIGURATION MODE.
i. Check the Touch Screen Calibration and Date/Time and then pressOK (or cancel to skip this)
to reboot the machine into OPERATIONAL MODE.
The instrument will now run using HygroGen2 Standard version 2.0 software.
with AutoCal/AutoCal+, Remote Control and
Range Extensions options.
Document title
Page 12 of 75
iii. HW4 activation
HygroGen2 version 2.0 installs HW4 version 3.2.0. If the code you noted in section 3.2.1 step i(c)not version 3.x, proceed to step (a) below. Otherwise, proceed to step (h).
a. To use HW4, you have 3 options. Either you can downgrade to HW4 v2.4, buy and upgrade to
HW4 v3 or buy the AutoCal Enhanced Feature set which includes HW4 v3. Please note, a
standard PC HW4 V3 licence will not work.
To downgrade to HW4 V2:
b. On the root of the USB installation stick is a file “HW4 v2.zip”. On a PC, right-click this file and
click “Extract to…" and choose the root directory of a USB stick, e.g. D:\ (i.e. not a subfolder e.g.
D:\HW4 v2). You can use the Installation USB stick itself. A folder “HW4 Update” will be created
in the root directory.
c. Safely remove the USB stick from the PC.
d. On the HygroGen2, go to the Settings screen, then select “Update Software” from the
“Updates” drop-down menu.
e. Select OK to boot the HygroGen2 into configuration mode.
f. Once the HygroGen2 is in configuration mode, insert your USB disk and select “Update HW4”.
NB: If “Update HW4” is greyed out, the folder “HW4 update” has not been found in the root of
the inserted USB stick.
g. Press OK to reboot.
Having obtained an HW4 V3 licence key or downgraded to HW4 V2.4, now enter the HW4
code:
h. On the HygroGen2, press the HW4 button. Select “Start HW4” and enter the code.
is
3.2.2 Installation of HygroGen2 version 2.1 (from version 2.0)
Version 2.1 is installed via the “Updates” drop-down menu. Go to the Settings screen and select
“Update Software”. Press OK to restart the instrument into Configuration Mode.
a. Download the software update from www.rotronic.com to a PC.
b. Open up the zip file on a PC and copy the folder “Controller Update” to the root of a USB stick.
c. Remove the USB stick from the PC and insert into any USB port on the HygroGen2
d. Once the HygroGen2 detects a USB stick with the controller software, the “Update HG” button
should become enabled. Press this.
e. Follow the on-screen instructions, accepting the default directory locations and accepting the
with AutoCal/AutoCal+, Remote Control and
Range Extensions options.
Document title
Page 13 of 75
At the end of the process, you will be presented with the Configuration Mode “Updates and Settings”
screen.
Pressing OK will restart the HygroGen2 into Standard Operation Mode. However, you may wish to
configure Network and other Configuration Mode settings first.
with AutoCal/AutoCal+, Remote Control and
Range Extensions options.
Document title
Page 14 of 75
3.3 Configuration Mode Settings
Certain settings on the HygroGen2 must be made in Configuration Mode. From Standard Operation
Mode, go to the Settings screen, then the “Settings” drop-down menu and select either “Network”,
“Date and Time”, “Touchscreen”, or “Update Software”. All four options effectively do the same thing
(i.e. reboot the HygroGen2 into Configuration Mode); press “OK” to restart the HygroGen2.
3.3.1 Network Settings
Prior to machine serial number VCT-HG2-1281, the network port on the back of the HygroGen2 was
physically disabled. Since this unit, and for every unit that has received a service since January 2013, the
network port has been physically enabled, but its functionality has been disabled in software.
As of v2.1, there is an option to enable the functionality, which is required for the Remote
Control/Support Enhanced Feature. If you do not intend to use the Remote features, the Network
functionality can still be enabled, to no disadvantage, but some organisations may stipulate it is turned
off before the instrument can be used.
By default, when v2.1 is installed, the network port functionality is disabled. To enable it, select
“Network” from the “Settings” drop-down menu from within the Configuration Mode “Settings and
Updates” screen.
with AutoCal/AutoCal+, Remote Control and
Range Extensions options.
Document title
Page 15 of 75
To turn on the functionality, press the “After restart” button so that it shows “On”. Review and accept
the legal disclaimer that pops up in order to continue. Press OK to go back to the “Settings and Updates”
screen and then press OK to restart. The instrument will restart back into Configuration Mode to
complete the next step. When rebooted, please reselect “Network” via the “Settings” drop-down menu.
Plug the HygroGen2 into your network using a standard RJ45 Ethernet cable. If network functionality is
not configured, “Network Status” will show as “down”. If it is configured, and assuming the network
cable is attached to other networking hardware, it will show as “OK”, otherwise it will show as
“unplugged”.
PLEASE note: if your instrument has serial number VCT-HG2-1280 or earlier and has NOT been serviced
since January 2013, your instrument requires a physical modification. Please contact your ROTRONIC
distributor who will arrange for this operation to be performed. Without this modification, the
Network Status will show as “unplugged” even if it is plugged in correctly. Please also note, physical
modifications made by anyone other than Authorised Service Centres will void the HygroGen2
warranty.
With the HygroGen2 plugged into a network, IP settings need to be configured. Networking addressing
can be set to obtain an address automatically via DHCP, if your network supports it, or manually via
“Static”. Please contact your local IT administrator for advice, if unsure. You may be required to advise
the network hardware (MAC) address of the instrument. This can be found in the “HygroGen2 Info” via
the “Support” drop-down menu.
with AutoCal/AutoCal+, Remote Control and
Range Extensions options.
Document title
Page 16 of 75
The IP address assigned to your instrument will be reported in the Network Settings interface and via
the “HygroGen2 Info” screen. The HygroGen2 will assign itself a network name/identity. This can be
changed within the interface. It is recommended to change it to the instrument’s serial number, though
local network policies may require something else.
Operation of the Remote Control functionality is described in section 4.3
.
3.3.2 Date and Time Settings
Date and time stamps are included in AutoCal and HW4 logged data.
To adjust these settings, select the “Date and Time” option from the “Settings” drop-down menu on the
“Settings and Updates” screen.
3.3.3 Touch Screen Calibration
Should the touch screen calibration be significantly awry – which can happen when upgrading from
version 1.x to version 2.0 – you can realign the touch screen calibration. You may wish to plug in a USB
mouse to perform this step.
Select the “Touch Screen” option from the “Settings” drop-down menu on the “Settings and Updates”
screen. Pressing the touch screen button will begin a four-point calibration. Press the cross in each
corner of the screen as directed.
3.3.4 Activation of Enhanced Features
Enhanced Features can be activated via the “Upgrade Features” option on the “Updates” drop-down
menu in Configuration Mode, or via the Settings screen in Standard Operation Mode. See section 4
more details.
with AutoCal/AutoCal+, Remote Control and
Range Extensions options.
Document title
Page 17 of 75
3.3.5 HygroGen2 Information
General instrument information including serial numbers, software versions, network parameters and
enabled features can be found on the HygroGen2 Information screen. This can be found on the
“Support” dropdown menu On the Configuration screen and the Settings screen (when in normal use).
with AutoCal/AutoCal+, Remote Control and
Range Extensions options.
Document title
Page 18 of 75
3.4 HygroGen2 Touchscreen Interface
The HygroGen2 controller consists of four top level screens that are accessed using the forward or back
buttons in a loop:
Please note: the Programmer Screen is replaced by the AutoCal Screen when AutoCal is activated. The
standard Programmer functionality is still available, however. Please see section 4.1
3.4.1 Controller Home Screen
1) Menu (drop down)
2) Chamber temperature
3) Temperature set-point
4) Heating power
5) Temperature control
6) Chamber humidity
7) Humidity set-point
8) Humidification power
9) Humidity control
10) Previous screen
11) Prog/ACal function
12) HW4 software
13) Power off
14) Next screen
Navigating to Other Screens (items 1, 10 & 14)
The user can navigate to different screens using the drop-down menu (item 1) or can scroll through the
four main screens using items 10 & 11.
Setting Temperature and Humidity Set-Points (items 3 & 7)
At any time, the user can change humidity or temperature set-points by simply touching the set-point
on screen. A pop-up will appear and either the touch screen or, when connected, the keyboard/mouse
may be used to input desired values.
Note: To aid a smooth and efficient transition between temperature set-points, the controller is
programmed to suspend humidification during changes in temperature. Once the chamber temperature
is within 0.7°C of the temperature set-point, the humidity control is activated.
with AutoCal/AutoCal+, Remote Control and
Range Extensions options.
Document title
Page 19 of 75
When set-point combinations are programmed that resolve a low dew point condition (i.e. 0°C, 5%rh =
-36°C dew point), make sure that the desiccant is dry enough to achieve the desired value. Check the
desiccant condition on the Settings screen (Figure 12) and consult maintenance records to establish
when the desiccant was last changed. Stabilisation time to low RH conditions will be longer than normal
as the chamber and internal surfaces need to be very dry.
Temperature and Humidity Control (items 5 & 9)
The Temperature and humidity control can be set to automatic or off. Automatic mode results in the
unit attempting to adjust to the temperature (or humidity) in the chamber to match the set-point value.
When switched off the HygroGen2 does not control the parameter.
When off, the control buttons are grey.
When on, but not stable, the control buttons are red.
When on and stable, the control buttons are green.