K-TC FAQs
What are the various modes in which a K-TC device can be used?
This single K-TC device from Influx can work in three different and unique modes to suit the customer's requirements:
Thermocouple data to the PC- Measure the thermocouple data and put it onto a CAN/FD network for other modules/ECUs to view.
Stand-alone Data logging- The TC logger has an integrated 8Gb eMMc storage that allows you to log timestamped temperature data and store it on the device (for years), eliminating the need for additional data logging devices.
USB connected to a PC- allows you to configure, calibrate and view your data using a single device (using the oscilloscope option).
What software is supplied with the TC device?
Two free software are supplied with the TC device, namely:
Influx K-Cal- Configuration software for Windows® and configurable via a DBC file.
TC Logger software- to manage the stand-alone data logging functions
How accurate is the K-TC module?
Accuracy-±1deg.
The K-Tc module offers an accuracy of ±1°C, indicating that temperature readings can be expected to fall within a one-degree margin of error. This level of precision is suitable for a range of applications, ensuring reliability in temperature measurements.
What is the resolution of the K-TC module?
Resolution 0.0001deg C
The resolution of the K-Tc module is 0.0001°C. This means that the module can provide temperature readings with a level of detail such that temperature differences as small as 0.0001°C can be discerned and displayed. This finer resolution allows for more precise temperature measurements, making the module suitable for applications where detailed and accurate temperature information is essential.
What are the type of thermocouple that are compatible with the TC device?
J, K and T-type thermocouples (up to 8, 16 or 32 thermocouple connections at a 20Hz sampling rate) are used.
Depending on the configuration, the K-TC is compatible with J, K, and T-type thermocouples, supporting up to 8, 16, or 32 thermocouple connections. The device operates at a 20Hz sampling rate, allowing for rapid and simultaneous data acquisition from multiple thermocouples of the specified types. This versatility in thermocouple compatibility makes the TC device suitable for various temperature measurement applications, accommodating various temperature ranges and environmental conditions.
Is this device isolated? If yes, then how?
Yes, the K-TC device is Galvanically isolated. The isolation is provided across
Enclosure
Power
CAN BUS
USB
Independent TC boards {group of 8 (connected) thermocouples- each galvanically isolated}.
Galvanic isolation enhances safety and prevents unwanted electrical interactions and is achieved by physically separating different parts of the device to eliminate direct electrical connections. In the case of the K-TC device, this isolation spans the enclosure, power supply, CAN BUS, USB, and independent TC boards. Each group of 8 connected thermocouples has its galvanic isolation, ensuring that electrical signals from one thermocouple group do not interfere with others.
The importance of galvanic isolation lies in preventing ground loops and minimizing the risk of electrical faults. Ground loops can introduce unwanted currents, noise, and potential safety hazards in the system. By isolating different sections of the device, galvanic isolation effectively breaks potential paths for undesirable electrical currents, safeguarding both the equipment and the connected thermocouples. This feature is particularly critical in applications where accurate and reliable temperature measurements are essential, as it helps maintain signal integrity and reduces the likelihood of errors or safety risks arising from electrical interference.
Why is it important to galvanically isolate the CAN bus and the USB port?
To protect the device and your laptop when used in high-voltage environments.
Isolating the CAN bus and the USB port in the device is crucial for safeguarding both the equipment and connected devices, mainly when operating in high-voltage environments. This isolation is a protective barrier, preventing potential electrical issues or surges from reaching and damaging the device or the connected laptop. Creating an isolated barrier significantly reduces the risk of voltage spikes, ground loops, or other electrical disturbances affecting the CAN bus and USB port. This protective measure ensures the overall integrity and longevity of the equipment, minimizing the potential for damage and malfunctions in scenarios with high voltages.
Can the K-TC modules be calibrated and certified? Is this possible?
Yes, our K-TC device can be professionally calibrated (on demand) and certified.
What is the function of WakeOnCAN?
WakeOnCAN enables K-TC modules to power up and down in deep sleep mode.
This enables K-TC modules to power up and down while in deep sleep mode in response to activity on the CAN bus. This feature allows the device to conserve power by entering a low-power or deep sleep state when not actively capturing data from the CAN bus. When activity is detected on the CAN bus, the WakeOnCAN functionality triggers the device to wake up from deep sleep mode, ensuring it is ready to receive messages on the bus and capture thermocouple data. This capability is beneficial for optimizing power consumption in scenarios where intermittent data capturing is expected.
Where can I download the drivers for installation?
C:\Program Files (x86)\Influx Technology\Influx K-Cal\TCxxDriver
Can Pin-3 be used as Power Ground?
No, as Pin-3 is for Signal Ground and Pin-5 is for Power Ground.
It's crucial to adhere to the correct pin assignments to ensure proper functionality and prevent potential issues related to grounding in your system.
Can I daisy chain the K-TC modules?
Yes. Multiple K-TC devices can be stacked/daisy chained together using a DB9 to DB9 cable (INF4305.0) to cater to the need for multiple thermocouples.
Is it possible to interface K-TC with any CAN data logger
Yes, it can be interfaced with ReXgen and Rebel from Influx.
The free K-CAL software also facilitates the export of the necessary DBC file, enabling compatibility with any 3rd party datalogger of your choice. This flexibility in interfacing allows you to integrate the K-TC seamlessly into various data-logging setups, providing versatility and compatibility with various data-logging solutions.
Can the K-TC log data by itself? How long can it log data in this stand-alone mode?
Yes, the K-TC can be used for stand-alone data logging. It has an integrated 8 GB eMMc storage, which lets you store years of data without using a PC.
Is separate software needed to configure a TC device to function as a stand-alone data logger?
Yes, the K-TC logger has a separate software, so it can be configured to function like a stand-alone data logging device. 'The TC-Logger' software, can be downloaded from the Software Links page.
Video Tutorial- How to configure K-TC for logging.
Is it possible to record data to the EMMC storage and transmit it over the CAN Bus simultaneously?
Yes, recording data to the EMMC storage simultaneously and transmitting it over the CAN bus is possible. This capability enables the system to store data locally for later retrieval while transmitting real-time information over the CAN bus for immediate communication or analysis. This simultaneous recording and transmission feature can be advantageous in applications requiring redundancy, data backup, or real-time data sharing.
Is it possible to connect more then 1 K-TC to K-CAL software?
Yes.
It is possible to connect multiple K-TC devices to the K-CAL software. The software simultaneously supports the connection and configuration of up to 5 K-TC devices. This capability allows for efficient management and configuration of multiple devices, streamlining the setup process and allowing users to work with several K-TC modules concurrently within the K-CAL software environment.
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