In this article, I will take you through some simple tests that I perform on each universal PID that build.
Connect one end of your continuity tester to the ground (center) terminal on the AC input connector.
Touch the other end of your tester to the ground terminal on the receptacle.
Your tester should show a connection with a light or beep depending on your tester.
Check the ground jack on the receptacle as well.
Step 2 - Check Neutral
Connect one end of your continuity tester to the neutral (bottom) terminal on the AC input connector.
Touch the other end of your tester to the neutral terminal on the receptacle.
Your tester should show a connection with a light or beep depending on your tester.
Check the neutral jack on the receptacle as well.
Check the white wire (terminal 9) on the PID power connection.
Step 3 - Check the AC Line Input
Connect one end of your continuity tester to the Line (top) terminal on the AC input connector.
Touch the other end of your tester to the lug on the fuse holder closest to the fuse.
Your tester should show a connection with a light or beep depending on your tester.
Check the center terminal on the switch.
Check the outside connector on the switch. Note that this will only show continuity when the switch is on.
Check terminal 2 on the SSR. Note that this will only show continuity when the switch is on.
Check the black wire on the PID (terminal 10). Note that this will only show continuity when the switch is on.
Step 4 - Power Test
Make sure the switch is off. Plug in the power cord to the AC input connector.
Turn on the main power switch.
The PID should go through a boot sequence then display the orAL message. This message is an error message indicating no thermocouple detected.
Step 5 - Thermocouple Test
Plug a thermocouple into the thermocouple jack. Note the small slits near the top of the jack. One of these slits is larger than the other. These slits match the posts on the plug.
Important
You can plug this type of plug into the large holes as well, but you must make sure the polarity is correct.
The slits provide a better connection.
Once the thermocouple is connected, you will get a reading.
Note
The PID defaults to Celsius, which I will show you how to change in the next article.
Holding your fingers on the thermocouple should cause the temperature to rise.
Step 6- Install Cover
With the controller functioning correctly we can not install the cover.
Start by removing all the assembly brackets.
Place the cover on the controller. Make sure the small tabs fit into slots on the cover.
Place a washer on each screw.
Add an acorn nut to each of the screws.
Conclusion
Your universal PID controller is now complete. In the next article you will configure your PID.
Help
If something is not clear to you, be sure to use the contact form below and I will help clarify the instructions.