1. INTRODUCTION
This manual describes the operating procedures for the Sigma Systems Models C4
&CC-3.5Controllers, microprocessor based controllers and control communications interfaces for the family of Sigma Systems temperature chambers and thermal platforms.
1.1 Models C4 & CC-3.5Explained
The models C4 & CC-3.5controllers are successors to the model CC-3.
The model C4 is a completely redesigned controller that uses a completely different and more modern set of internal components with a new processor and completely new firmware. Model C4 controllers are only available as new products from Sigma Systems.
The model CC-3.5is a hybrid upgrade controller that uses only the digital circuitry of the model C4. It is made by substituting the C4 digital p.c. board (known within Sigma Systems as the “CPU board”, or the “A” board) for the CC-3's “A” board. The upgrade from CC-3 to CC-3.5also includes a few small modifications to other internal components. The power supply, power switching, analog, and front panel components of the CC-3 remain. Model CC-3.5controllers are only available as the product of upgrading a CC-3 controller.
From a functional perspective, models C4 & CC-3.5are identical because all of the functionality of the controllers is defined by the processor, bus interface components, and firmware... all of which are integral with the C4 “A” board. The C4 analog and front panel components that remain unique to the C4 (not included in the CC-3.5upgrade from CC-3) provide slightly better accuracy and substantially better noise and static immunity.
For the balance of this manual, the term C4 will mean to include both the model C4 controller and the model CC-3.5controller. In the event that there is a difference between the two models, that difference will be explicitly detailed.