SCS 963E Benchtop Air Ionizer

Product Overview

The SCS 963E Benchtop Air Ionizer is a self-contained ionizing air blower designed to remove static charges from non-conductive objects. Its proprietary circuitry generates balanced levels of positive and negative ions. The ionizer features a two-speed fan, allowing users to select the amount of ionized air delivered to the target object. The Benchtop Air Ionizer meets the required limits of ANSI/ESD S20.20, tested per ANSI/ESD STM3.1 or ESD TR53.

The unit can reduce a static charge of ±1000V to ±100V in less than two seconds (discharge time) at a distance of one foot (30 cm) using the high fan speed. Testing is performed in accordance with the ionization standard ANSI/ESD STM3.1.

The Benchtop Air Ionizer requires 24VDC power, supplied via a Mini DIN connector on the back of the unit. It is packaged with a switching power supply capable of converting 100V-240VAC, 50/60 Hz into 24VDC. The power supply uses a 6 ft. (1.8 m) cord to connect to the ionizer and has an IEC 320 input socket. It comes with either a North American-style three-prong plug or a Continental Europe (EURO) plug, depending on the version. The ionizer should only be used with the included power supply.

Accessories and Item Numbers

Packaging

• 1 Benchtop Air Ionizer
• 1 Power Adapter with IEC C14 Inlet, 24 VDC
• 1 Power Cord with North America Plug (item 963E only)

Installation

The Benchtop Air Ionizer mounts easily in various positions using the provided tilting bracket/stand. Place the unit on the work surface and point it at the area or object to be neutralized. Alternatively, the mounting bracket can be attached directly to or above the workstation, or on another supporting structure.

Placement of the ionizer is important for effectiveness. The distance from the target object and fan speed affect performance. As distance increases or fan speed is reduced, the discharge time will increase.

To connect, first connect the switching power supply to the ionizer using the Mini DIN connector. Then, using the appropriate electrical power cord, connect the switching power supply to an electrical outlet.

Operation

The three-position rocker switch on the front of the unit is the POWER switch. The center position (marked 'O') is the OFF position. The upper and lower positions (marked 'II' and 'I') turn the unit on to HIGH and LOW fan speeds, respectively. Use this switch to turn the unit on and select the desired fan speed.

A green monitor light illuminates on the front of the unit when the power switch is in an ON position, indicating that the ionizer is in use.

Maintenance

Occasional cleaning of the case and ionizing electrodes are the only routine maintenance procedures required.

Cleaning the Case

Wipe the case with a soft cloth moistened with water. If a stronger cleaning solution is required, mild soap with water may be used. The use of any other cleaning solutions is not recommended.

Cleaning the Emitter Points

Note: Disconnect the power to the ionizer before cleaning the emitter points.

When emitter points become dirty, the internal circuitry automatically adjusts to emit equal amounts of positive and negative ions. However, particulates on the emitter point can inhibit ionization to a limited degree. The emitter points are located between the fan blades and the rear grille. A jet of clean, compressed air can be used to remove dirt. If a more rigorous cleaning method is needed, clean the points with a cotton swab dampened with isopropyl alcohol. Access to the points is available through the rear grille. Be careful not to damage the points during cleaning.

Calibration

The SCS Benchtop Air Ionizer is factory adjusted for optimum performance. Further adjustment in the field is not possible. The following instructions can be followed to determine if the ionizer is performing to specifications, following the procedure outlined in the standard for Ionization, ANSI/ESD STM3.1.

Frequency of recalibration should be based on the critical nature of ESD-sensitive items handled and the risk of failure for ESD protective equipment and materials. In general, SCS recommends that calibration be performed annually.

Periodically measure the balance and neutralization times of the Benchtop Air Ionizer to verify performance within specifications. These measurements should be taken using a charged plate monitor such as SCS items 711, 770004, and 770005.

Calibration should be performed in accordance with the ESD Association ionization standard ANSI/ESD STM3.1. With the fan speed set to high and a distance of 12 inches (30 cm), the neutralization (discharge) time of ±1000V to ±100V should be less than 2 seconds, and the balance should be ±15V or better.

Neutralization (Discharge) Times

All data was taken with the fan speed set to high. All time measurements are in seconds.

Note: Discharge times in seconds are representative only and are not a guarantee. Discharge times are actual measurements recorded in a factory ambient environment.

Per ANSI/ESD S20.20, the test method for Product Qualification is ANSI/ESD STM3.1, and for Compliance Verification is ESD TR53, which advises: "Measurements should be made at the location where ESD sensitive items are to be ionized." A larger area may require additional ionizers. Per S20.20, the required limit for ionizer discharge time is user-defined. Use tables to determine the number of ionizers needed to achieve ionization of an area to meet your company's ESD control plan specified discharge times.

The comparative efficiency of benchtop ionizers is determined by a standard test published by the ESD Association: ANSI/ESD STM3.1. Typical positive and negative decay times (±1000V to ±100V) measured using this standard are shown in Figure 3. The performance of the ionizer was measured with the unit positioned as shown, with the fan speed on high and without a filter.

Specifications

Regulatory Information

FCC Statement

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

Note: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide a reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference, in which case the user will be required to correct the interference at their own expense.

Note: Modifications to this device shall not be made without the written consent of SCS. Unauthorized modifications may void the authority granted under Federal Communication Rules and Industry Canada Rules permitting the operation of this device.

ICES Statement

This Class A digital apparatus meets all requirements of the Canadian Interference-Causing Equipment Regulations. Cet appareil numérique de la classe A respecte toutes les exigences du Règlement sur le matériel brouilleur du Canada.

WEEE Statement

The following information is only for EU-member States: The mark shown to the right is in compliance with Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directive 2002/96/EC (WEEE). The mark indicates the requirement NOT to dispose of the equipment as unsorted municipal waste, but use the return and collection systems according to local law.

CE Statement

Meets EU safety, health and environmental protection requirements.

UL Statement

Meets UL requirements.

Warranty Information

Limited Warranty, Warranty Exclusions, Limit of Liability and RMA Request Instructions.

See the SCS Warranty - StaticControl.com/Limited-Warranty.aspx