Introducing the KIC Explorer profiler

Explorer is KIC’s compact, powerful generation of thermal profilers. The profiler is a data acquisition tool and a component of KIC’s thermal process management systems. It physically moves through the thermal process, capturing the temperature and time information that the KIC software uses to create a thermal profile.

The KIC Explorer uses standard type-K thermocouples, and is available in the 7, 9, or 12-channel (L to R) models shown below:

The KIC Explorer has two modes of operation — datalog and wireless. Datalog is the standard operating mode wherein the profiler simply logs temperature data as it moves through the thermal process. Later, a USB cable connects the profiler to the computer and transfers profile data to the software.

The KIC Explorer is also available in a dual capability model that supports wireless mode. With wireless mode, the KIC Explorer transmits data by radio signals directly to the software. An antenna/transceiver pair replaces the cable connection and lets you view the accumulating profile data in real-time.

Receiving your KIC Explorer kit

Upon receiving your profiler kit, check it to make sure that all the required components are there. The specific contents of your kit will match the configuration— datalog or wireless—that you ordered. The full catalog of parts appears below:

Part Description

KIC Explorer datalog or dual model (wireless capable), 7, 9, or 12–channel

KIC Explorer antenna (wireless models only)

KIC Explorer base station RF transceiver and antenna (wireless models only)

USB communication cable

USB extension cable 6ft (wireless models only)

Thermal shield, stainless steel with Cool Touch insulation (7, 9, or 12 channel)

Thermocouples (7, 9, or 12—standard type K)

Aluminum tape for attaching thermocouples

Scissors for cutting the tape

Gloves for handling the unit and test product hot from the thermal process

AAA batteries

KIC Explorer Getting Started Guide (Datalogger or Dual version)

Profiling Software

Profiling Software user manual (on included CD)

Installing and using batteries

The KIC Explorer uses three standard AAA-sized batteries. KIC recommends the use of alkaline batteries. However, you can use other types including rechargeable batteries.

If you experience negative effects using other types of batteries, or discover that your profiler is not operating properly, switch back to standard alkaline batteries. If problems persist, contact KIC Technical Support: tech@kicmail.com .

The illustration below shows how to install or replace batteries:

Managing battery life and performance

Independent tests show that a standard set of alkaline batteries will exceed 20 hours of room temperature operation. The KIC software has a built-in battery monitor and automatically recognizes if battery voltage is too low to complete a profile. When battery voltage drops below 3.5V, the software will not allow you to start a profile until you have replaced the batteries.

Temperature considerations

Operating temperatures can affect battery performance. Since profilers move through heated ovens, it is to be expected that the batteries inside experience rising temperatures. Batteries have a high capacity to absorb heat and tend to remain hot even after the KIC Explorer has exited the thermal process.

Even if the rest of the profiler hardware has cooled sufficiently to permit running another profile, the batteries may remain too hot to use safely. In this case, if you want to run another profile, replace the heated batteries with a new, room temperature set. Battery substitution helps you avoid the chance of overheating the batteries and potentially damaging the profiler. It also lets you run more profiles in a given session.

Note:

 The high temperatures experienced in running thermal profiles can cause the plastic film jacket on the outside of the battery to peel. Always inspect heated batteries before reuse to verify that they are intact and operational.

 In the event the batteries become heat-damaged or corrosive, replace them immediately. Failing to do so can lead to KIC Explorer damage and or personal injury.

Turning the power on and off

Power On – Press/hold the amber colored On/Off button for 1 second (located at the back of the KIC Explorer). When power is on, the LED indicators will illuminate. The LED color/pattern will represent the current KIC Explorer hardware state/status.   Power Off – Press/hold the amber colored On/Off button for 1 second (located at the back of the KIC Explorer). When the power is turned off, the LED indicators will also be off.

Reading the LED status indicators

A pair of LEDs, (one green; one red) report the current state of the profiler through a small lens found on the top side of the unit, near the on/off button. The table below relates the state of the profiler to its corresponding LED appearance:

Setting up data communication between KIC Explorer and the computer

To begin profiling in either datalog or wireless mode, you must first establish data communication between the KIC Explorer and computer running the software. Both modes communicate to the computer through a standard USB port, datalog mode using a cable, wireless mode using a plug-in transceiver unit called a base station. If the computer has no available USB ports, use a standard 2-8 port hub to add an open port.

Caution: You must install the software before connecting any profiler hardware to the computer. Connecting the hardware before the software is installed will render the KIC Explorer unusable. The normal setup routine must follow the sequence shown below:

1. Install the KIC Software.

2. Connect the KIC Explorer hardware to the computer.

3. Follow the instructions in the Hardware Wizard to link the profiler to the appropriate USB drivers.

Caution: When connecting the KIC Explorer to laptop computers that utilize a floating ground connection (2-prong power plug); you must manually ground the laptop before connecting the KIC Explorer. This procedure will prevent unwanted electrical interference that may distort the temperature data collected by the KIC Explorer. Contact KIC Technical Support for assistance, tech@kicmail.com .

If you have any questions or need assistance connecting your hardware, contact KIC Technical Support tech@kicmail.com .

Setting up communication in datalog mode

In basic datalog mode, the profiler records data as it moves through the thermal process that it later transfers to the computer through a cable.

To setup datalog mode communication

1. Verify that that the software is on the computer and that fresh batteries are in the KIC Explorer.
2. Locate the KIC Explorer USB communication cable, and insert its standard (Type A) connector into a USB port on the computer.

3. Connect the other end of the cable to the USB (Mini–B) socket on the end of the KIC Explorer.
4. Press the power button to turn on power to the KIC Explorer.   Windows recognizes the USB device, and the Found New Hardware Wizard screen appears.     5. Select the Install the software automatically (Recommended) option, then click the Next button.
A Hardware Installation screen appears with a message about Windows compatibility.   6. Click the Continue Anyway button.   Windows begins installing the USB software drivers and redisplays the Found New Hardware Wizard screen.
7. When the “finished installing the software” message appears, click the Finish button.   The USB drivers are now installed, and the KIC Explorer profiler is ready to communicate with the KIC software.

Note: The Found New Hardware Wizard USB driver installation routine will run each time you connect a new KIC Explorer that has not been used before on that PC. Once the USB drivers are installed, whenever you connect a KIC Explorer to a USB port, a message reports whether the device is connected or not:

Setting up communication in wireless mode

Dual model KIC Explorers have the capability of radio communication to the software on your computer. Wireless communication lets you view the thermal profile as it develops in real-time from data transmitted by the KIC Explorer. By default, the dual mode Explorer operates as a datalogger. To switch to wireless mode, you need to enable this functionality in the software.

In place of the basic profiler’s communication cable, the wireless configuration substitutes four hardware items:

 A KIC Explorer antenna for data transmission    A base station—a transceiver that plugs into a USB port on the computer    A base station antenna    An extension cable

To setup wireless mode communication:

1. Verify that that the software is on the computer and that fresh batteries are in the KIC Explorer.
2. Thread the antenna on to the base station connector, insert the base station into a USB port on the computer, and insert the KIC Explorer antenna to the socket on the end of the unit:
When you connect the base station, Windows recognizes the USB device, and the Found New Hardware Wizard screen appears.     3. Select the Install the software automatically (Recommended) option, then click the Next button.

A Hardware Installation screen appears with a message about Windows compatibility.   4. Click the Continue Anyway button.   Windows begins installing the base station USB software drivers and redisplays the Found New Hardware Wizard screen.
5. When the “finished installing the software” message appears, click the Finish button.   The base station USB drivers are now installed, and the Explorer profiler is ready to communicate with the KIC software.     Note: The Found New Hardware Wizard USB driver installation routine will run each time you connect a new KIC Explorer that has not been used before on that PC.   Once the USB drivers are installed, whenever you connect a KIC Explorer Base Station to a USB port, a message reports whether the device is connected or not:
6. Launch the KIC software.   One base station LED begins to flash.
7. From the Main screen, click on the Globe button to display the Global Preferences screen.
8. In the Profiling Hardware panel, click the radio button for Transmitter followed by the Save (green check) button:

As the selection toggles from Datalog mode, the following prompt appears:   9. Use the communication cable to connect the Explorer to a USB port on the computer.   10. Turn on power to the unit, and click OK.   Successful mode change displays this confirmation message:   11. Click OK to return to the Main screen.   12. Press the power button to turn on power to the KIC Explorer.     The remaining base station LEDs begin flashing.   Note: Base station LED indicators: Red = Data received from KIC Explorer Green = A wireless signal is detected Orange = Data Sent from Base Station to KIC Explorer

13. When the KIC software home screen appears, click the Hardware Status button.             The Hardware Status screen appears, showing the status of the profiler, and confirming that the KIC software is receiving the wireless signal from the KIC Explorer.     Note: The KIC Explorer panel displays live temperature values and the current battery voltage. TC connections display the live temperature or appear as open (opn).

Improving reception

In most cases, simply connecting the base station to a USB port will produce acceptable wireless performance. However, some environments might require you to take extra care in positioning the base station and its antenna for best results. Follow the guidelines below:

USB port choice: The system uses direct line-of-site transmission, and this may influence your choice of a port on the front or back of the computer. Bear in mind that you will also want to be able to see the base station LEDs to know the system status.

Extension cable: The dual model kit includes a 6-foot extension cable that runs between the base station and the USB port. The cable can let you locate the base station/antenna for better reception and LED visibility.

Antenna orientation: The best position for the antenna is very site-dependent. Generally, the closer you can place the antenna to the oven tunnel opening, the better the reception.

Antenna placement: Placing the antenna itself directly on a metal surface such as an oven can degrade signal reception. The Velcro® included in the kit lifts the antenna away from the metal surface, avoiding the poor reception problem. Always use the Velcro if you want to attach the antenna to the oven.

Antenna height: The antenna should be at least 2.5 feet (0.762 m) above the ground.

Note: Using multiple profilers in too close proximity can cause signal interference problems.

Troubleshooting failed reception

If the base station LEDs do not flash or the software does not display temperatures, the wireless signal is not being received from the KIC Explorer. Check the base station to confirm that its antenna is correctly installed and that the extension cable, if used, is properly connected. Check the profiler unit to confirm that it is:

 Turned on

 Loaded with fresh batteries (The battery level must be greater than 3.49 volts.)

 Using firmware version 74 or higher

 Set to Transmitter in the KIC software

 Equipped with a correctly installed antenna

Using the thermal shield

A KIC Explorer kit includes a thermal shield—a stainless steel enclosure that protects the profiler against extreme heat during runs through a thermal process.

Caution: The KIC Explorer’s maximum internal temperature is 85C. ALWAYS use the thermal shield to protect the KIC Explorer from heat damage.

The shield’s outer surfaces are covered with Cool Touch—a special heat insulating material that makes the shield more comfortable to handle after absorbing oven heat. Cool Touch also lets the profiler perform runs at higher temperatures and longer durations.   The inside surfaces of the shield protect the profiler with yet more Cool Touch insulation, Teflon tape, and foam rubber cushions. As additional thermocouples increase the width of the shield, insulation pieces create snug–fitting spaces for the profiler.

Note: While Cool Touch makes the shield easier to handle, gloves are still highly recommended, especially when the profiler has just emerged from the oven.

The shield has top and bottom halves that fit closely together, secured by a latch mechanism on each end. The bottom half features a wide metal tab. The top half has a swinging latch arm with a curved end and a narrow tab. The shield halves close together tightly as the latch arm swings under the wide tab and over the narrow tab:

To load the thermal shield for profiling:

1. Unlatch the ends, and take off the top half of the shield.
2. Place the Explorer into the bottom half so that the profiler rests on the Cool Touch insulation and the thermocouples rest flat on the Teflon tape.
3. Make sure the thermocouple wires clear the sides and exit from the front of the shield.
4. On wireless units, make sure the KIC Explorer antenna is securely attached, fully extended, and exits from the back of the shield.
5. Look at the lens near the back of the KIC Explorer to verify that the LED is lighted and the profiler is powered.
6. Place the shield top over the bottom half, and close the latches on both ends, being careful not to damage exiting wires.

Calibrating the KIC Explorer

To keep your profiler operating at proper factory specifications, KIC recommends calibrating the unit every 12 months. The procedure detailed below lets you calibrate the profiler to within +1.2°C (+2.0°F).

The calibration procedure follows a sequence of three parts:

1. Establishing hardware/software communication

2. Setting the Cold Junction Reference (CJREF) offset value

3. Adjusting temperature gain

The CJREF offset is the amount of temperature to add or subtract from the base profiler readings. KIC recommends setting this value to the same temperature as the CJREF (Internal) temperature. You can view the CJREF (Internal) temperature by clicking the Get Current TC button on the Calibration Log screen displayed during the procedure.

The Gain Adjust portion of the calibration procedure affects the accuracy of the profiler across its temperature capability range. For maximum accuracy, set the Gain Adjust calibration value to the highest temperature you expect to read for your thermal process.

Note: The maximum temperature setting is the highest temperature that the KIC Explorer is set to read. (The highest temperature that the profiler is capable of reading is 1050C (1922F)). The value is factory preset at 500°C (932°F), but you can change the setting to suit your needs.

Note: Only qualified persons should perform the calibration procedure. If you need assistance, training, or need to arrange for KIC to calibrate your KIC Explorer contact KIC Technical Support tech@kicmail.com , asia.tech@kicmail.com , europe.tech@kicmail.com .

Before starting the procedure

 Assemble the following hardware:

o KIC Explorer USB communication cable.   o Type K thermocouple simulator   o KIC Explorer Calibration Adapter (7, 9, or 12 channel).   Contact KIC to acquire the correct calibration adapter cable. sales@kicmail.com

TC Simulator Calibration Adapter (7–channel shown)

 Be prepared to run the KIC Profiling Software application and its Profiler Hardware Utility.

 You need to run the calibration procedure for each of the profiler’s four thermocouple connector ports.

 Do not attempt to calibrate the profiler with an ungrounded computer as this may produce inaccurate results.

To establish communication:

1. Connect the profiler to the computer USB port.

2. Turn on the profiler power.

3. Connect the calibration adapter to the profiler, making sure to occupy all of the thermocouple inputs as required.

4. Connect the other end of the adapter to the output port (left side when instrument viewed upright) of the type K thermocouple simulator.

5. Turn on the power to the thermocouple simulator, and set the output value to 25°C (77°F).

6. Open the KE Utility folder and double click the KPUtil icon (default folder location = OS C:\Profiling Software),

7. The Profiler Hardware Utility – Calibration screen and the Calibration Log screens appear:

8. Make sure that KIC Explorer is selected in the Device field.

9. Click one of the radio buttons to select the number of channels used by your profiler:

10. On the Log screen, click the Set Idle button, and then click the Get Current TC button to verify communication between the software and the profiler. (If communicating properly the current live temperature readings from the profiler appear.)

Note: With the software utility is open and the hardware connected, if the profiler unit does not appear in the Device field, clicking the Refresh button makes the software detect the presence of the hardware and display the name in the field:

To specify the CJREF offset:

1. Open the Profiler Hardware Utility – Calibration screen.   2. In the CJREF Offset panel’s Calibrate Temperature field, accept the recommended default temperature of 25°C (77°F) or type in a new value between 10°C (50°F) and 500°C (932°F).

3. Adjust the output on the thermocouple simulator to match your specified calibration temperature.

4. When the values match, click the-Start button to begin calibration.

The software automatically adjusts the calibration temperature for each of the thermocouple ports, typically resulting in different values among the four ports. Electronic adjustments also tune the profiler for maximum accuracy at the specified temperature.

When the software completes the offset calibration, a status messages appears in the Report area at the bottom of the utility screen and in the status panel of the Calibration Log:

To specify the gain adjustment:

1. Open the Profiler Hardware Utility – Calibration screen.   2. In the Gain Adjust panel’s Calibrate Temperature field, accept the recommended default temperature of 300°C (572°F) or type in a new value between value between 10°C (50°F) and 500°C (932°F).

Note: The recommended default temperature is selected for its suitability to typical lead-free soldering applications. The range of values presented offers you the choice of calibrating to a maximum temperature or to a specific temperature of interest. Calibrating to the maximum temperature will yield acceptably accurate performance throughout the range. Alternatively, if your thermal process is well established around specific temperatures, it may make sense to focus calibration on these target values.

Note: Older versions of KIC software may indicate other values as the default temperature.

3. Adjust the output on the thermocouple simulator to match your specified calibration temperature.

4. When the values match, click the-Start button to begin calibration.

The software automatically adjusts the Gain setting while electronic adjustments tune the profiler for maximum accuracy at the specified temperature.

When the software completes the gain adjustment, a status messages appears in the Report area at the bottom of the utility screen and in the status panel of the Calibration Log:

5. Close and exit the software to end the procedure.

Note: In the Gain Adjust panel, the Number of Run field displays a running count of the number of times you needed to run the final gain adjustment part of the calibration procedure. The count can go to a maximum of eight. While it is typical to restart the gain adjustment two or three times before achieving final calibration, a run count number that exceeds five or six can indicate that the profiler has a problem that should be analyzed by KIC technical support. tech@kicmail.com

Specifications

Accuracy:	±0.5°C
Resolution:	±0.1°C
Internal Operating Temp:	0°C to 85°C
Measurement Range:	–150°C to 1050°C
Sample Rate:	0.1 to 10 per second
Data Points:	224.640
PC Connection:	USB 2.0 (Std–A/Mini–B)
Power Requirements:	AAA batteries (3) or USB cable when connected to a computer
Radio Frequency (RF):	433.92 MHz
Thermocouple Compatibility: 7, 9 and 12–Channel Models	Type K, Standard
Dimensions (L x W x H mm):
7–Channel Model:	206.0 x 60.0 x 17.0
9-Channel Model:	206.0 x 75.0 x 17.0
12–Channel Model:	206.0 x 98.0 x 17.0

Minimum system requirements

 Dual Core / 1GHz processor PC with 2GB RAM

 2GB available storage (for product history)

 Video 1024 x 768 / 16-bit color

 1 available USB port (for software key)

 1 available USB port for data download

 Microsoft® Windows® 2000, XP, Vista, or 7 (32-bit or 64-bit)

Contacting KIC

On the Web You can find the latest KIC product news along with a library of useful information at our website: www.kicthermal.com or www.kic.cn

KIC Technical Support

KIC Tech Support (phone) is available by email:

USA: tech@kicmail.com

Europe: europe.tech@kicmail.com

Asia: asia.tech@kicmail.com

KIC Product Training

Contact KIC Customer Support by email, training@kicmail.com

KIC Sales

Contact KIC sales:

USA: sales@kicmail.com

Europe: europe.sales@kicmail.com

Asia: asia.sales@kicmail.com

China: asia.sales@kicmail.com

Find the KIC Representative in Your Area

Send an email, or visit our web page to find a local representative.