One of the more common questions that we get concerning the DGC III digital ion gauge control (also known as the DIG III) is how to enter the set point values. We created this video to demonstrate the basic operation of the DIG III including the set points. For advanced operations, please refer to the DGC III ion gauge manual.
The PHI DIGIII Digital ion gauge controller provides an indication of the vacuum in the chamber, as well as 4 set points which are used to interlock certain system functions. A common problem with the DIG III is that the set points reset to zero after the DIG III is turned off or loses power. In most cases, that problem is the result of a worn out DIGIII battery and is something that the user can easily replace themselves – just be aware that the battery is soldered onto the set point board inside the DIG III.
The RBD Instruments part number for the DIG III Set point battery is BA3.6RE.
After about 8 to 10 years, the set point operation can become intermittent due to oxidation of the contacts on K901 through K904 on the set point board.
Possible symptoms include:
- The electronic card rack power drops out intermittently.
- The X-ray source will not operate even though set point 3 indicates that it is on.
To repair this problem, simply remove the covers from the set point relays K901-K904 on the set point board and clean the contacts with some fine sandpaper or emery cloth.
For other more serious DIG III problems, RBD Instruments can repair or exchange your defective control. For more information visit our website or call us at 541-550-5016