1. Introduction
The SINOTIMER MC101 series is a versatile digital display PID temperature controller designed for precise temperature management in various industrial and domestic applications. It features a four-digit LED display, high measurement accuracy, and supports multiple thermocouple and RTD inputs. This controller is capable of both heating and cooling control, incorporating an auto-tune function for optimal PID parameter setting. It can display temperature in both Celsius and Fahrenheit modes.
2. Safety Information
Please read and understand all instructions before installation and operation. Failure to follow these instructions may result in equipment damage, personal injury, or death.
- Ensure all wiring is performed by qualified personnel and complies with local electrical codes.
- Disconnect power before making any connections or performing maintenance.
- Do not operate the device in environments with excessive moisture, dust, or corrosive gases.
- Verify the power supply voltage matches the controller's specifications (85-265V AC).
- Avoid touching internal components when the device is powered.
3. Product Overview
3.1. Features
- Four-digit LED digital display for Process Value (PV) and Set Value (SV).
- High measurement accuracy of 0.3%.
- Maximum resolution of 0.1 degree for thermocouple and thermal resistance inputs.
- Maximum resolution of 0.001 for analog inputs.
- Universal input, supporting 10 different types of thermocouples and RTD inputs.
- Supports both heating and cooling control.
- Auto-tune function for automatic PID parameter optimization.
- Displays temperature in Celsius (°C) or Fahrenheit (°F).
- Relay contact + Solid-State Relay (SSR) voltage output (single group output).
- Compact 'Short Shell' design.
3.2. Package Contents
- 1x SINOTIMER MC101 PID Digital Temperature Controller
- 1x English User Manual (this document)
3.3. Physical Description
4. Setup and Wiring
Careful wiring is essential for the correct and safe operation of the MC101 controller. Refer to the wiring diagram below for terminal connections.
4.1. Wiring Diagram
4.2. Terminal Connections
The MC101 controller features a terminal block at the rear for all electrical connections. Ensure all connections are secure and correctly polarized where applicable.
- Power Supply (Terminals 1 & 2): Connect 85-265V AC, 50/60Hz power.
- Relay Output (Terminals 3, 4, 5):
- Terminal 3: Normally Open (NO)
- Terminal 4: Common (Relay)
- Terminal 5: Normally Closed (NC)
- SSR Output (Terminals 11 & 12): Connect to Solid-State Relay (SSR) input. Terminal 11 is SSR+, Terminal 12 is SSR-.
- Alarm Output (Terminals 6 & 7): Connect alarm device.
- Sensor Input (Terminals 8, 9, 10):
- For RTD (Resistance Temperature Detector): Connect A to Terminal 8, B to Terminal 9.
- For Thermocouple (TC): Connect B- to Terminal 9, A+ to Terminal 10.
4.3. Mounting
The MC101 controller is designed for panel mounting. Cut an appropriate opening in your control panel and secure the controller using the provided mounting clips on the sides.
5. Operation
The controller's front panel features a dual LED display and four control buttons for setting parameters and monitoring temperature.
5.1. Display Indicators
- PV (Process Value - Red LED): Displays the current measured temperature.
- SV (Set Value - Green LED): Displays the target temperature set by the user.
- OUT: Output indicator (e.g., heating/cooling element active).
- AT: Auto-tune indicator.
- AL1, AL2: Alarm indicators.
5.2. Control Buttons
- SET: Enters parameter setting mode or confirms a setting.
- < (R/S): Shifts cursor during parameter setting or acts as a reset/run button.
- V (Down Arrow): Decreases the value of a parameter.
- ^ (Up Arrow): Increases the value of a parameter.
5.3. Setting the Target Temperature (SV)
- Press the SET button briefly. The SV display will start flashing.
- Use the ^ (Up) and V (Down) arrows to adjust the SV to your desired temperature.
- Use the < (Shift) button to move the cursor to adjust individual digits.
- Press SET again to confirm the new SV and exit the setting mode.
5.4. Auto-Tune Function
The auto-tune function automatically calculates optimal PID parameters for your specific heating/cooling system. This helps achieve stable and accurate temperature control.
- To initiate auto-tune, press and hold the SET button for a few seconds until you enter the parameter menu.
- Navigate through the parameters (using SET to cycle) until you find the auto-tune parameter (often labeled 'AT' or similar).
- Set the auto-tune parameter to 'ON' or '1' (using ^ or V).
- Press SET to confirm and exit. The AT indicator will light up, and the controller will begin the auto-tuning process.
- The auto-tune process typically involves several cycles of heating and cooling to analyze the system's response. Once complete, the AT indicator will turn off, and the new PID parameters will be saved.
Refer to the full English User Manual (included in the package) for detailed parameter settings and advanced functions.
6. Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and reliable operation of your MC101 controller.
- Cleaning: Wipe the display and casing with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
- Inspection: Periodically check all wiring connections for tightness and signs of wear or damage.
- Environment: Ensure the operating environment remains within the specified temperature and humidity ranges.
7. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your MC101 controller, refer to the following common problems and solutions.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No power/Display off | No power supply; Incorrect wiring; Blown fuse | Check power connections (Terminals 1 & 2); Verify power source; Inspect internal fuse (if accessible and safe). |
| Incorrect temperature reading | Sensor wiring error; Wrong sensor type selected; Damaged sensor | Verify sensor wiring (Terminals 8, 9, 10) matches diagram; Check controller settings for correct sensor type; Replace sensor if damaged. |
| Temperature unstable/Overshoot | PID parameters not optimized | Run the auto-tune function to optimize PID parameters. |
| Output not activating | Output wiring error; Output type mismatch; Controller in manual mode | Check relay/SSR wiring; Ensure controller output type matches connected device (Relay/SSR); Verify controller is in automatic control mode. |
8. Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Model | MC101-611 |
| Measurement Accuracy | 0.3% |
| Resolution (Thermocouple/RTD) | 0.1 °C/°F |
| Resolution (Analog Input) | 0.001 |
| Temperature Range | 0-1300 °C (K-type thermocouple, range dependent on sensor) |
| Temperature Unit | Celsius (°C) / Fahrenheit (°F) |
| Input Types | Universal (supports 10 types of thermocouples and RTD inputs, e.g., K, J, E, T, R, S, B, Pt100, Cu50) |
| Output | Relay contact + Solid-State Relay (SSR) voltage output (one group) |
| Alarm | ALM1 |
| Power Supply | 85-265V AC, 50/60Hz |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 5.0 cm x 5.0 cm x 10.0 cm |
| Material | ABS + Electronic Components |
| Battery Included | No |
| High-concerned chemical | None |
| Origin | Mainland China |
9. User Tips
- Sensor Compatibility: The MC101 is designed for universal input, supporting a wide range of thermocouples (e.g., K, J, E, T, R, S, B) and RTD sensors (e.g., Pt100, Cu50). Ensure you select the correct sensor type in the controller's settings to get accurate readings. If using Pt100 or Pt1000, confirm the controller's input settings are configured accordingly.
- Auto-Tune for Stability: Always perform the auto-tune function after initial setup or if you change your heating/cooling element or process. This optimizes the PID parameters for your specific system, leading to more stable and precise temperature control.
10. Warranty & Support
For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the documentation provided with your purchase or contact the seller directly. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.