LYNX® Operator Interface (LYNX-OI)
Operation of a complete LYNX Temperature Control System requires an operator interface. LYNX OI is a state-of-the-art PID (proportional integral derivative) temperature control system comprised of up to 1,024 zones (8 strings of heaters). Each zone (heater) can be individually controlled and monitored. LYNX OI provides users the ability to track each unit's performance. Monitor each zone from the full-color touchscreen, highly visible indicator lights, and remote system, or via email alerts.
Since 1949
Additional Features:
- Provides complete control and system optimization for maximum precision
- User-configurable graphical mapping and naming to match application provides ease of use
- Historical graphing of temperature, duty cycle and current displays performance over time
- Alarm history for diagnostics
- Large 10.1 in (25.7 cm) touchscreen enables easy monitoring and programming
- Wire or wireless (WiFi) communications sends email alerts
- Modbus communications allows remote access and control via HMI
- Zone-locator feature enables user to easily identify specific modules
- USB port simplifies ability to upload firmware and download data
- Global programming saves time
Temperature Control Range: 32°F to 1100°F (0°C to 593°C)
Display: Red LEDs show current temperature in °F or °C
Sensor Input: Type-J and Type-K Thermocouples; PT100-RTD
Accuracy:
- RTD: ±0.45°F + 0.125% of temperature in °F (±0.25°C + 0.125% of temperature in °C)
- Type-J Thermocouple: ±1.96°F (1.09°C)
- Type-K Thermocouple: ±2.03°F (1.13°C)
Alarms: Multi-color LED display with highly visible viewing
Power Cord: Harnesses are sold separately; available in several lengths, with or without communications cable
Connections: Control modules require docking station (included with some heaters or separate harness for stand-alone use); see ordering information for options
Voltage: 100 to 277 VAC
Maximum Continuous Amp Load per Zone: 7 amps at 77°F (25°C) ambient; 4 amps at 104°F (40°C)
Maximum Continuous Amp Load per Power Harness: 12 amps (Power booster cables available to increase amps load per string)
Communication Method: Modbus RTU over RS-485. Cable is included on some power cord harnesses for communication to Operator Interface or CMS; Modbus TCP/IP connection on Operator Interface for communication to CMS
Maximum Communication Length: 98 ft (30 m)
Enclosure Dimensions:
- Operator Interface: 10.9 in W x 9.0 in H x 3.2 in D (276 mm W x 229 mm H x 81 mm D)
- Module: 1.95 in W x 2.97 in H x 1.7 in D (50 mm W x 75 mm H x 43 mm D)
Ambient Temperature Range: 32°F to 130°F (0°C to 54°C)
Conforms to UL STD 61010-1Certified to CSA STD C22.2 # 61010-1
Updates
Catalog/Specifications Sheet
Instruction Manuals
-
LYNX® Safety and Warnings - Instruction Manual LYNX Safety and Warnings Instruction Manual (41295-09)
Brochure & Line Cards
Q: Why should I use a temperature controller?
A:: A temperature controller helps:
- Maintain precise temperatures
- Improve product quality and process consistency
- Reduce energy consumption
- Prevent overheating
- Extend heater life
- Increase safety
Q: What types of temperature controllers are available?
A:: Common types of temperature controllers include:
- Digital temperature controllers
- PID controllers
- On/Off controllers
- Programmable controllers
- Multi-zone controllers
- Benchtop controllers
Q: What is the difference between a PID controller and an On/Off controller?
A:: An On/Off controller switches the heater fully on or off when the temperature crosses a set point. A PID (Proportional-Integral-Derivative) controller continuously adjusts heater output to maintain a more stable temperature with minimal fluctuation, making it ideal for applications requiring greater precision.
Q: How do I choose the right temperature controller?
A:: When selecting a temperature controller, consider:
- Required temperature range
- Sensor compatibility
- Voltage and current requirements
- Heater wattage
- Number of heating zones
- Accuracy requirements
- Programming features
- Environmental conditions
Q: Can one controller operate multiple heaters?
A:: Yes. Some temperature controllers can control multiple heating zones or multiple heaters, depending on their output capacity and configuration. Make sure to check to check the controller’s specifications to ensure it’s compatible.
Q: Can temperature controllers be used with any heater?
A:: Most temperature controllers are compatible with a wide variety of electric heaters, including:
- Silicone rubber heaters
- Heating blankets
- Heating tapes
- Heating cables
- Drum heaters
- Pail heaters
- Heating mantles
- Flexible heaters
Compatibility depends on voltage, current, power requirements, and sensor type.
Q: What industries use temperature controllers?
A:: Temperature controllers are used in:
- Manufacturing
- Chemical processing
- Food and beverage
- Laboratories and research
- Aerospace and composites
- Semiconductor manufacturing
- Medical device production
- Pharmaceutical processing
- Plastics and packaging
Q: Are temperature controller’s accurate?
A:: Accuracy varies by controller model and sensor type. Many digital and PID controllers provide precise temperature regulation that helps maintain stable process conditions and improve repeatability.
Q: Can I program different temperature settings?
A:: Many programmable temperature controllers allow users to create temperature profiles, ramps, soak periods, timers, and multiple operating programs for complex heating processes.
Q: Can temperature controllers help prevent overheating?
A:: Yes. Temperature controllers continuously monitor temperature and adjust heater output to maintain the desired set point. Many models also include high-temperature alarms and safety limits to help protect equipment and materials.
Q: Are digital temperature controllers easy to use?
A:: Yes. Many digital controllers feature intuitive displays, simple programming, and user-friendly interfaces that make setting temperatures and monitoring performance straightforward.
Q: Do I need a temperature controller for my heating application?
A:: While some heaters include built-in thermostats, many industrial and laboratory heating applications benefit from an external temperature controller for improved accuracy, safety, energy efficiency, and process control. A controller is especially valuable when precise temperature regulation is critical.
Q: What is the difference between a single-zone and multi-zone temperature controller?
A:: A single-zone controller regulates one heater or heating circuit. A multi-zone controller independently manages multiple heaters or heating areas, allowing each zone to maintain its own temperature set point.