Introduction
The Thomas 5012 Traceable Multi-Colored Timer is a versatile 4-channel timer designed for precise timekeeping in various environments. It features a clear digital display, multiple timing functions, and customizable colored frames to suit individual preferences. This manual provides detailed instructions for setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting to ensure optimal performance of your timer.

Figure 1: Thomas 5012 Traceable Multi-Colored Timer. This image displays the front view of the timer, highlighting its digital screen, control buttons for hours, minutes, seconds, clear, clock, and four timer channels (T1-T4), along with the start/stop/memory button.
Key Features
- 4-Channel Timing: Independent countdown and count-up functions for four separate events.
- Automatic Bounceback Memory: Recalls the last set time for repetitive timing.
- High Accuracy: 0.01 percent accuracy for precise measurements.
- Wide Timing Range: Times up to 99 hours, 59 minutes, 59 seconds.
- Time-of-Day Clock: Displays current time in 12 or 24-hour format.
- Versatile Placement: Features an easel bench stand and magnetic back for flexible positioning.
- Customizable Appearance: Includes three bright, colorful frames for personalization.
- NIST Traceability: Supplied with an individually serial-numbered traceable certificate from an ISO 17025 calibration laboratory.
Setup
1. Battery Installation
The Thomas 5012 Timer requires batteries for operation. Locate the battery compartment on the back of the unit. Insert the required batteries, ensuring correct polarity (+/-). Close the battery compartment securely.
2. Attaching Color Frames
Your timer comes with assorted colorful frames. To personalize your timer, gently snap the desired colored frame onto the front of the timer until it is securely in place.
3. Placement Options
- Easel Bench Stand: Pull out the integrated stand on the back of the timer to prop it up on a flat surface.
- Magnetic Back: The timer features a magnetic back, allowing it to be securely attached to metallic surfaces such as refrigerators or lab equipment.
Operating Instructions
1. Setting the Time-of-Day Clock
- Press the CLOCK button to enter clock setting mode.
- Use the H (Hours), M (Minutes), and S (Seconds) buttons to adjust the current time.
- Press CLOCK again to exit setting mode and save the time. The clock supports both 12-hour and 24-hour formats.
2. Using the Timer Channels (T1, T2, T3, T4)
The timer has four independent channels. Each channel can be used for countdown or count-up timing.
Setting a Countdown Timer:
- Select the desired channel (e.g., T1) by pressing its respective button. The display will show the selected channel.
- Use the H, M, and S buttons to set the desired countdown time (up to 99 hours, 59 minutes, 59 seconds).
- Press the START/STOP MEMORY button to begin the countdown.
- When the timer reaches zero, an alarm will sound, and the timer will begin counting up, indicating the elapsed time since the alarm.
- Press START/STOP MEMORY again to stop the alarm and the count-up.
- Press the channel button (e.g., T1) again to recall the original set time (Automatic Bounceback Memory).
Using as a Stopwatch (Count-Up Timer):
- Select the desired channel (e.g., T2) by pressing its respective button.
- Ensure the display for that channel shows "00:00:00". If not, press the CLEAR button to reset it.
- Press the START/STOP MEMORY button to begin counting up.
- Press START/STOP MEMORY again to pause the count. Press it again to resume.
- Press the CLEAR button to reset the stopwatch to zero.
3. Clearing a Timer
To clear the time set on any channel, select the channel and then press the CLEAR button. This will reset the channel to "00:00:00".
Maintenance
Cleaning
To clean the timer, wipe it with a soft, damp cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or immerse the unit in water. Ensure the unit is dry before storage or continued use.
Battery Replacement
When the display dims or the timer functions become erratic, it is time to replace the batteries. Refer to the "Battery Installation" section under Setup for instructions.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Timer does not turn on or display is dim. | Low or dead batteries; incorrect battery installation. | Replace batteries with new ones, ensuring correct polarity. |
| Buttons are difficult to press or unresponsive. | Debris under buttons; internal malfunction. | Ensure buttons are clean. If issue persists, contact customer support. |
| Timer does not start after pressing START/STOP. | Time not set; button not fully pressed; internal issue. | Ensure a time is set for countdown. Press the START/STOP button firmly. If problem continues, contact customer support. |
| Alarm does not sound. | Low battery; internal malfunction. | Replace batteries. If issue persists, contact customer support. |
Specifications
- Model Number: 5012
- Dimensions: 0.5"D x 2.25"W x 2.75"H (1.27 cm D x 5.72 cm W x 6.99 cm H)
- Weight: Approximately 3.2 ounces (90.7 grams)
- Timing Range: 99 hours, 59 minutes, 59 seconds
- Resolution: 1 second
- Accuracy: 0.01 percent
- Channels: 4 independent timing channels
- Clock: 12/24 hour format
- Power Source: Battery (type not specified, assume common AAA or button cell)
- Country of Origin: China
Warranty and Support
The Thomas 5012 Traceable Multi-Colored Timer is supplied with an individually serial-numbered traceable certificate from an ISO 17025 calibration laboratory accredited by A2LA. This certificate indicates traceability to standards provided by NIST (National Institute of Standards and Technology), assuring accuracy.
For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please contact Thomas Scientific directly. Refer to their official website or product packaging for current contact details.
Note: Keep your traceable certificate in a safe place for future reference.