FP900 System FP90 Central Processor

2.1 What is the FP900 Thermosystem Used For?

The Mettler-Toledo FP900 Thermosystem comprises the FP90 Central processor (con-
trol and evaluation unit) and several measuring cells for the determination of a wide
range of thermal data. The temperature of the attached cell is measured by a precision
sensor, the Pt 100 sensor.

FP90 The FP90 Central Processor is a control and evaluation unit for the measuring
cells, any one of which can be attached without the need for temperature recali-
bration. The measurement parameters are entered in dialog with the 6-line liq-
uid crystal display on the keypad of the FP90 control unit. After the measure-
ment, the analysis results appear on the alphanumeric display and can be
documented with an optional dot matrix printer.
It is also possible to display the information in an analog manner (light transmit-
tance, bubble frequency or DTA curve as a function of temperature). Finally, the
experimental data can be transferred to a computer via a standard interface
(RS232C) and there stored and processed further with the METTLER TOLEDO
FP99 program.
For routine measurements, up to 50 methods can be saved in the FP90. A PC
keyboard can be attached for the entry of sample identifications, method names
and a header. Yet another useful accessory for quality control is a bar code
reader, which can be attached to the PC keyboard to record sample designa-
tions automatically.
FP81 The FP81 Measuring Cell can be used to determine melting points and melting
ranges of samples in glass capillary tubes. This measuring cell is also suitable
to determine the boiling point of a liquid or the cloud point, for instance of sur-
factants.
FP82 The FP82 Hot Stage is used to observe the thermal behavior of a sample under
a microscope. Here, the luminosity in the observation field can be measured
with a photomonitor and recorded.
FP83 This measuring cell serves to determine the dropping and softening points of
fats and pasty products in accordance with various national and international
industrial standards.
FP84 With this hot stage, a DTA/DSC sensor replaces the slide in the case of the
simple hot stage (FP82). The temperature difference (DTA signal) between the
transparent sample pan and an inert reference pan is measured and recorded
at the same time as the observations are made. Based on the DTA signal which
is proportional to the heat flow to the sample, the DSC signal in milliwatts is cal-
culated by the Mettler-Toledo computer program FP99.

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FP85 With the FP85 Measuring Cell, the sample is placed in a small aluminum cruci-
ble and subjected to a temperature program. The temperature difference be-
tween sample and inert reference crucible (DTA signal) caused by physical or
chemical changes of the sample is measured and recorded. Based on the DTA
signal which is proportional to the heat flow to the sample, the DSC signal in
milliwatts is calculated by the Mettler-Toledo computer program FP99.
In this Operating Instructions additional NOTES are marked with the symbol .
The older measuring cells of the Mettler-Toledo FP800 system (without the designa-
tion HT) can also be operated (only to 300 °C of course). In the case of the FP84,
you can follow the DTA and the photomonitor signal simultaneously if an appropriate
modification is made to the connector of the FP84.

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2.2 Attaching the Measuring Cell and Switching On

Before you switch on the instrument for the first time, ensure that the installation has
been performed in accordance with the directions given in section 2.14 Startup proce-
dure.
Position measuring cell on the left of the control unit.
Switch off FP90 Central Processor. If a measuring cell is still attached, unplug its 64-
pin connector.
If you wish to work with a PC keyboard or possibly also with a bar code reader (see
2.15 PC keyboard and bar code reader), connect the keyboard cable to the appropri-
ate 5-pin socket below the keypad of the FP90. To do this, raise the FP90 at the left
(do not tilt backward, you could damage the 64-pin connector). The bar code reader
is attached to the PC keyboard (socket at right rear).
Carefully insert 64-pin connector of the measuring cell you wish to attach in the ap-
propriate socket at rear of the control unit ensuring correct alignment.
The FP81, 83 and 85 Measuring Cells have a switch to set the operating mode. Its
setting has no meaning for the FP90 as the operating mode is entered using the key-
pad (see 2.4 The operating mode).
Ensure that the measuring cell does not contain a sample or any packing material.
Switch on FP90:
The message "METTLER FP90 V..., SELFTEST" appears. The figures after the letter V
denote the software version. After the self-test depending on the measuring cell, the op-
tical detection system will be calibrated. The measuring cell remains idle, i.e. there is no
heater current yet.

Sicherungshalter Sicherungshalter v Sicherungshalter

Plug-in Slot for
Power Switch Program Cartridge

Fuse Holder Measuring

Cell Connector
Line Voltage
Selector, Fuse
Power Connector
Printer or PC Connection

Fig. 2-1: Rear view of the FP90 Central Processor

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2.3 Display, Keypad and External Keyboard

The 6-line, high-contrast liquid crystal display is backlit; the illumination is switched off
automatically if the instrument has not been used for 5 minutes.

F1 F2 F3 F4 F5
7 8 9

F6
MENU 4 5 6

1 2 3 CE
METTLER TOLEDO FP90
Central Processor . + _
0

Fig. 2-2 The keypad with the function and entry keys

6 function keys are arranged below the display. The meaning of keys F1 to F5
changes during the operating sequence and this is why the function keys active at any
one time are shown in the bottom line of the display. The F6 MENU key always has the
same meaning and effects a return to the main menu.
The right side comprises the keys for numeric entries, including the clear entry key CE
and the Enter key .
In addition to the numbers 0 through 9 the minus sign and the decimal point are avail-
able. This allows, e.g. the following sample identification: 24-03.194-0.
The enter key is used to close a numeric entry and to start a method. When the instru-
ment expects an entry, the appropriate area is displayed in reverse video. A preset or
default value is accepted by pressing or overwritten with one of the other keys (ed-
iting of individual numbers of a default value is not possible with the FP90 keypad).

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FP900 System FP90 Central Processor

Measuring cell attached

Current measurement parameters
Operating mode Cell temperature

FP81 Melting point 10:01:43 Time

Start temp.
Rate
:
:
120.0 °C
1.0 °C/min
25.3 oC
End temp. : 180.0 °C Method: 11 Method Numbe
Choose method; press
MODE T PROG OUTPUT METHOD SPECIAL Function keys

Fig. 2-3 Example of a display in the main menu. The method number shown in reverse video indi-
cates the entry mode: just type the desired number to choose.

During a measurement, its progress can be followed on the display:

Measuring cell attached
bar display of
measuring signal
Operating mode
Elapsed measurement time (black)
Cell temperature
Remaining time

FP81 Melting range 4'02"

100% 100% 100%
Status symbole

X
0
Y
0
Z
0
123.3 o
C
14
Temperature unit

Method

T PROG HOLD DISPLAY FAST RESET Function keys

Fig. 2-4 Example of a display during a measurement. The height of the three black bars represents
the current value of the light transmittance of the respective sample.

The status symbols shown above the temperature unit are explained in section 2.8.
For text entry (sample identification, method name and header), a PC keyboard (see
2.15 Accessories) can be attached. You can also edit inputted texts with the left/right
cursor keys. The cursor shows the position where the next character will be entered.
The home key moves the cursor to the start of the line, the end key moves it to the right
after the last character of the input field. The insert key switches from the overwrite
mode (the cursor is positioned in the form of a square on the character to be overwrit-
ten) to the insert mode (the cursor is a vertical line between the characters) and the
converse. The backspace key deletes the character to the left of the cursor, the delete
key the character on which the cursor is positioned. Escape clears the entire entry and
restores the text entered previously (like the CE key of the FP90 keypad).

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2.4 The Operating Mode

The measuring cells have several operating modes and these are defined under MODE
(main menu):
FP81: Melting point, melting range, cloud point, boiling point
FP81C: Clear point, cloud point, boiling point, (melting point, melting range))
FP83: Dropping point, softening point
FP84: DTA (curve only), melting range, boiling range
FP85: DTA (curve only), melting range, boiling range

2.4.1 Measurements at strong electric or magnetic noise fields

The disturbing effects of electric or magnetic fields can not be excluded completely by
technical and constructive measurements. The goal for the construction of the instru-
ment is the search for an optimal balance between an absolute, under every circum-
stances, noise free instrument and operating facilities of the sample insert procedure. In
any case the applicable standards for save operation are fulfilled. Mainly during DSC
measurements disturbances can occur and visibly affect the measuring curve.
If your curves are showing an irregular and very noisy sight or abrupt changes in level
inexplicable by thermal reactions the utilization of walkie-talkies or other wireless
phones may be the cause. If none of these tools are identified as responsible cause,
then try another instrument arrangement or another location to reduce the influence of
the disturbances. If none of these changes improves the situation check the room, the
closer surroundings and the mains supply regarding possible emissions. The reduction
or elimination of the source of disturbance can have positive effects on your health and
on the measuring results of the instrument.

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2.5 The Temperature Program

The temperature program is entered with F2 T PROG and has the parameters:
Start Temp: Start temperature. The minimum start temperature is 3 °C above ambient.
Rate: Heating rate in °C/min = K/min. For isothermal measurements enter zero.
For cooling programs a negative sign is not required, but the end tempera-
ture has to be below the start temperature of course.
End Temp: End temperature, important only in dynamic measurements.
Time iso: Duration of isothermal analyses, or isothermal time at the end of a dy-
namic portion.
The abscissa ranges on the display and of the optional printed diagram are defined
by Time iso.
Waiting: It is active as soon as the start temperature is reached and the measurement
has been started. This wait time ensures temperature equilibration between the furnace
and the sample and this can improve the measurement accuracy in the case of samples
of high heat capacity or low heat conductivity. The maximum wait time is 999 s.
Stop after event: With this you define whether measurement should be discontinued
after the thermal effect (e.g. sample melted), in other words heating is not continued up
to the end temperature.
Afterwards?: Here you select the behavior after the measurement. To T start: to per-
form further measurements with the same temperature program. Idle: (no heater cur-
rent) to save energy after a last measurement. At T end: the cell remains at the end
temperature. Press F5 SELECT to choose!
Link method: Normally this field is left empty. In case a linked method shall follow, en-
ter the desired method number (referring to the same cell).
Temperature

T
end

Tstart

A B C D E F

Time

Fig. 2-5 The temperature program with the phases A: Controlling start temperature; B: Start tem-
perature reached (5 s); C: Optional waiting after insertion of the sample for temperature
equilibration; D: Dynamic measurement phase with the inputted heating rate; E: Isothermal
measurement phase. The relevant status symbols are shown at the bottom (see chap. 2.8).

Remarks to measurements with negative heating rates using the cells FP81, 83 or 85: With suffi-
ciently high end temperatures the fan remains switched off. Under a critical combination of start tem-
perature and cooling rate the fan is activated during the whole measurement. Between these ex-
tremes the fan can suddenly switch on, causing an Offset of the FP85 signal.

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2.6 Configuration Possibilities

Via F5 SPECIAL in the main menu and F2 CONFIG, you have the following setting op-
tions:
F1 CLOCK: This is used for setting the built-in clock, the date and the sequence of
the representation. The date and time entries are separated by the
decimal point. Choose with F1 FORMAT. Close with . Leave with
F6 MENU.
F2 LANG Your instrument is programmed according section 2.14 so that 2
languages and 2 keyboard drivers of your choice are available. Possible
languages: English, German, French and Spanish. When you change
to the other language a power up is required to activate the lan-
guage.
F3 UNIT With this you select the temperature unit Kelvin or °F instead of °C. The
pressure units (important for boiling point determinations) are kPa or
psi.
F4 OPTIONS FP81 detection limits: Melting point, default value B = 20% transmit-
tance above initial value, see Fig. 3-4. Start of the melting range, default
value A = 1.2% above initial value. End of the melting range, default
value of slope C = 0.4%/s. Boiling point, default values D = 0.6 and E =
0.85 Hz. Cloud point, default value F = 4% below initial value, see Fig.
3.16
FP84/85 detection limit for the start of melting or boiling range corre-
sponds to an absolute value of the slope of the DTA curve, expressed
in analog digital converter steps per second. As DTA melting or boiling
curves expressed in this unit become steeper with increasing heating
rate, ß, the value G is multiplied by ß.
Default values are G = 10 (FP84) and G = 3 (FP85). The default
values shown in bold print can be modified if needed with samples of
special properties.
FP81 only: Melting point or range following pharmacopoeia or thermo-
dynamically. Default is thermodynamically (see chap. 3.3.1)
FP84 and 85 only: Lag time constant, FP84: 15 s, FP85 22 s
FP84 and 85 only: Curve ICTA: Yes = DTA curve: exothermic repre-
sentation upward following the International Confederation for Thermal
Analysis (default). No = exothermic to the bottom.
F5 LCD Use this to optimize the contrast of the liquid crystal display and to
switch off the illumination.

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2.7 Performing a Measurement

If you do not wish to continue working with the last method still in the working memory,
you must load the desired method into this memory. You have the following possibilities:

Method selection
Numeric: Press F6 MENU so that the main menu appears:

MODUS T PROG AUSGABE METHODE SPEZIAL

Fig. 2-6 The main menu

Enter desired method number. It shows up in reverse video in the field of the method
number. Close with .

From the method list: via F4 METHOD and F3 LIST using , display the desired
method in reverse video and press F4 VIEW, F1 LOAD.

FP81 Melting Point 08:45:01

01 FP81 QC of Rolfie's drug
05-FP81 Test of excipient R2-11
06 FP85 Polyethylene from aged sample
23 FP81 Boiling point of toluene
VIEW PRINT

Fig. 2-7 Selecting the desired method from the list of methods. The hyphen between the method
number and the cell name indicates a locked method (see chapter 2.12).

Manual method
You have to redefine the operating mode (F1 MODE) and the temperature program
(F2 T PROG).
With F2 GO TO you immediately change the set value of the furnace temperature to
the start temperature of the current method.
To start a method, press the key or F1 RUN respectively.

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Sample identification
The sample identification (numeric or if PC keyboard attached keyed in as text or ac-
quired automatically with a bar code reader attached to the PC keyboard) appears later
in the measurement report.

FP81 Melting point 12:17:40

Probe X: 812-1.08.1991-6
––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Samples inserted? Press RUN to start

RUN GO TO CANCEL
Fig. 2-8 Numeric sample identification without external keyboard (max. 88 characters per sample).

FP81 Melting point 12:18:40

Probe Y: Quality Check ISO9000 of compressed
specimen 6, red CP, T.McKarns, dated 9. –––––-----

Samples inserted? Press RUN to start

RUN GO TO CANCEL
Fig. 2-9 Alphanumeric sample identification using external keyboard (max. 88 characters per sam-
ple). The sample designation is either keyed in or read in from the sample label using a bar
code reader.

Starting the measurement

After answering the questions pertinent to the relevant method and attached cell, place
the sample(s) in the measuring cell and press F1 RUN. The method now runs fully
automatically.
To skip the waiting press F4 GO! (not active with locked methods).
Examples of displays during an FP81 measurement are shown in the next section.

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2.8 The Display During a Measurement

You have different displays available::

1. Bar graph of the measuring signal: F3 DISPLAY, F1 BAR

FP81 Melting range 4'05"

100% 100% 100%

123.3 o
C
0 0 0 14
T PROG HOLD DISPLAY FAST RESET

Fig. 2-10 „BAR“: The light transmittance of the sample corresponds to the height of the bars. During
the measurement, the above menu appears (= measurement menu).

2. Numeric representation of the results (FP81 and 83) or the measurement signal
(e.g. FP85): F3 DISPLAY, F2 NUM

FP81 Melting range 2'57"

119.4 120.6 119.9

X
121.3
Y Z 123.7 o
C
14
BAR NUM CURVE X CURVE Y CURVE Z

Fig. 2-11 „NUM“: As soon as results are available, they are displayed. The shown menu appears after
F3 DISPLAY has been pressed in the measurement menu.

3. Measured curve(s): F3 DISPLAY, F3 CURVE X. F4 CURVE Y (FP81 and 84 only) or

F5 CURVE Z (FP81 only).

FP81 Melting range 1'11"

100%

Z
0%
124.6 o
P C
14 *
T PROG HOLD DISPLAY FAST RESET

Fig. 2-12 „CURVE Z“: Graphical display of the transmittance of sample Z. The lower case letter p on
the left of °C means that the type of result selected is „pharmacopoeia“. The asterisk, *, on
the right of the method number (14) indicates that the saved method 14 has been modified
after loading.

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Meaning of the status symbols

Control start temperature Fast heating

Start temperature reached Fast cooling

Waiting before measurement Isothermal phase

Dynamic phase (heating) Pause activated by HOLD

Dynamic phase (cooling) End temperature reached

Fig. 2-13 The status symbols and their meaning. These symbols are shown in the display above the
temperature unit (see also 2.5 The temperature program, Fig. 2.5).

2.9 Interactions During a Measurement

You also have various action possibilities during ongoing measurements::
Break the measurement with F5 RESET.
Modify the temperature program: You will often find that the pre-selected end
temperature is insufficiently high: Press F1 T PROG, F4 , key in the new end tem-
perature and confirm with F6 MENU (not !).
The heating rate and other parameters are modified in an analogous manner, but -
for obvious reasons - not the start temperature.
Hold the temperature program: Press F2 HOLD. The designation of the keypad
changes to F2 CONTINU. Holding the temperature program can influence the results
as it takes some time until the furnace and the sample(s) are again heated uniformly.
In addition, a heat-sensitive sample could start to decompose if the temperature is
held for some time.
Accelerate the measurement: With F4 FAST you can accelerate the measurement
by a factor of 10. The heating rate thus rises ten fold with a maximum of 20 °C/min.
In an isothermal measurement phase, the measurement time remaining expires ten
times faster. During the accelerated measurement, the inscription of function key
changes to F4 NORMAL.
With locked methods, these interactions are locked as well in order to obtain best re-
sults. The only exception is F5 RESET.

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FP900 System FP90 Central Processor

2.10 Evaluations, Results

The FP81 and FP83 measuring cells always lead to numeric results – provided that the
detection limits have been exceeded. With the DTA/DSC (FP84 and FP85) measuring
cells, you can activate the operating mode melting or boiling range to get numeric re-
sults too.
In isolated cases, no or non significant results can be obtained with the default detection
limits. As a help, adapt the detection limits to the sample in question under
F5 SPECIAL, F2 CONFIG and F4 OPTIONS and perform new measurements. If you
are satisfied with the new detection criteria, store a new method.

2.10.1 Statistics of the Measurement Results

The melting and cloud point determinations each result in a mean value (with at least 2
sample capillary tubes) and the standard deviation (only with 3 sample capillaries) of
this measurement.
In addition, the calculation of mean value and standard deviation of numeric results
(melting point, cloud point or dropping point) is performed of any number of measure-
ments with the same method (saved methods only).
Initialize statistical calculation
With F5 SPECIAL, F4 STATIST, F1 INIT you can clear the statistics memory and ini-
tialize the collection of data in the nonvolatile memory. When you start a new
method, the statistics memory is automatically initialized.
In locked operation of the FP90, clearing of the statistics memory is not accessible.
Display statistics
Press F5 SPECIAL, F4 STATIST and the number of results, the mean value and the
standard deviation appear in the display.
Print statistics
F5 SPECIAL, F4 STATIST, F2 PRINT produce a report on the printer comprising the
header followed by the method name, the mean value and the standard deviation.
As soon as you change a method or apply an other one, the statistics are initial-
ized.

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2.11 Result Output on a Dot Matrix Printer

If no dot matrix printer is available, the numeric results and if required the statistics
are shown on the display. The GA44/GA42 printers are not supported.
Installing the dot matrix printer, see chap. 2.14: Startup procedure
The analysis report starts with the
Header With F5 SPECIAL, F5 PRINT, F1 HEADER you can enter a header of
maximum 36 characters on the PC keyboard, which appears at the top
of the analysis reports irrespective of the method.
Example: „Dr LeChatelier’s Laboratory“.
You select the other components of the report individually under F3 OUTPUT. These
thus become part of the method:
Curve: Graphical representation of the measuring signal (dynamic or isother-
mal portion).
FP81: Melting and cloud point measurements, either channel x, y or z,
or with "X ONLY" just the signal x.
FP82/84: Transmittance curves. FP84: in addition DTA. FP85: DTA.
Transmittance curves are always shown from 0 to 120% transmittance.
DTA curves are automatically scaled. However, manual scaling is pos-
sible F5 SPECIAL, F5 PRINT, F2 SCALE.
Calibration Temperature calibration data (A and B).
Configuration Table of the configuration data entered under F5 SPECIAL,
F2 CONFIG.
Method List of the method comprising operating mode and temperature pro-
gram, see also 2.12 The method concept.
Results Such as melting points or event temperatures (FP82/84).
Statistics Mean value and standard deviation of the results to date with the
method in question.
Automatic printout of the report at the end of a measurement, irrespective of the
method, is initiated with F5 SPECIAL, F5 PRINT, F3 AUTO. Default setting is "AUTO".
Manual printout of reports: F5 SPECIAL, F5 PRINT, F4 MANUAL suppresses the
automatic output. Additional reports of the last measurement are obtained by F5
SPECIAL, F5 PRINT, F5 PRINT.

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2.12 The Method Concept

The method comprises all instructions needed to perform a measurement, the evalua-
tion and the result representation.
For routine use such methods previously saved (preferably in the locked mode) are
loaded.
New samples with unknown behavior e.g. in R+D, require manual entry of the most im-
portant parameters („manual method“). A manual method can be used without saving.
The instrument is delivered with stored basic methods for each measuring cell (num-
ber 81 through 85) and some temperature check methods number 90 to 99. The ba-
sic methods can be modified and saved under another number

The components of a method

A method comprises the following parts:
Number of the method: The two-digit method number is used to call up the method
from the nonvolatile memory
Title of the method: Comprises maximum 28 characters (without, external keyboard
numeric title only).
Measuring cell: For which the method has been developed.
Operating mode, MODE of the attached measuring cell such as melting range or
cloud point with FP81.
Temperature program T PROG: With the parameters: start temp, rate, end temp,
time iso, waiting, stop after event, afterwards? and link method (see 2.5 The tem-
perature program)
Detection limits with FP81 melting point or range only, result calculation either
thermodynamically (default) or „pharmacopoeia“.
Result representation, OUTPUT: See 2.11 Result output on dot matrix printer.
As soon as you call up a locked method, the FP90 is blocked against modifications.
You can only perform unchanged methods (routine). Advanced users can release the
lock via key sequence F1, F2, F3 from the main menu.

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The Method Menu

FP81 Melting point 08:20:41

o
Start temp.
Rate
:
:
120.0 °C
1.0 °C/min
25.3 C
End temp. : 180.0 °C Method: 11 *
Choose method; press
SAVE LIST PRINT DELETE
Fig. 2-14 The key F4 METHOD displays the method menu. The asterisk on the right of the method
number indicates that the saved method 11 has been modified.

Saving a method
You develop and tested all components of a new method, based on an already existing
method. To have the method available for the future press F4 METHOD, F2 SAVE. En-
ter a method number, if a PC keyboard is attached you can enter a method title with
maximum 28 characters.
To save the method in the non volatile memory press F4 SAVE. To protect a (routine)
method from alterations by the operator you save it locked by the key sequence
F1 (empty), F4 SAVE. The method remains unlocked in the working memory. To get the
locked status load the locked method by . Unlock is activated by the key sequence
F1, F2, F3 from the main menu.
There is storage space for approx. 50 methods in the FP90. The numbers 1 to 79 are
free.
FP81 Melting Range 09:26:30
Method nr.: 13
Title : --------------------------
Enter title and press SAVE

SAVE

Fig. 2-15 Saving a method (F4 METHOD, F2 SAVE)

Loading a method from the nonvolatile memory into the working memory:
Either enter the two-digit method number from the main menu (close entry by ) or
press F3 LIST and select the desired method with F3 , F4 VIEW and F1 LOAD.
FP81 Melting point 08:13:37
01 FP81 Additive CiGy
05 FP81 Check Adjuvant R2-11
81 FP81 Mettler Melting Point
90 FP81 Temp Check Benzoic Acid
VIEW PRINT

Fig. 2-16 Method listing (F4 METHOD, F3 LIST) The hyphen after the method number indicates a
locked method.

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Display method listing

Press F4 METHOD and F3 LIST to obtain a listing arranged by method number. F4
METHOD, F4 PRINT prints the listing. The method shown in reverse video is ready for
viewing of its parameters (F4 VIEW) and to load into the working memory (F1 LOAD).

View method
By means of F4 VIEW you can examine all instructions of the method shown in reverse
video in the method listing without overwriting the current method in the working mem-
ory. F4 PRINT prints the parameters of the method in question.

Delete method
If you no longer need a method, look through it again carefully before deleting it
(F4 VIEW). F5 DELETE erases the displayed method after a confirmatory question.
Deleting a method no longer used doesn’t increase the memory capacity for new
methods immediately. This requires restoring your methods as explained in section
2.14 under Languages and PC Keyboards.

2.13 The Calibrations

Light transmittance: Each time you switch on the control unit, an automatic calibration
of the light transmittance follows when the FP81, FP82 or 84 is connected. You can skip
it and initiate a manual calibration when your 100% specimen is ready (F5 SPECIAL,
F3 CALIB, F1 SIGNAL).
Temperature: All measuring cells are calibrated in the factory. Despite this, it is advis-
able to check the temperature accuracy regularly in the temperature range important for
you. Should you discover deviations, perform a calibration. You will find further details in
the section dealing with the appropriate measuring cell.
Such a new temperature calibration is stored in the FP90. It only is valid for the ap-
plied measuring cell.

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2.14 Startup Procedure

FP90
The FP900 should not be exposed to large temperature fluctuations and sunlight must
be avoided. It should stand on a sturdy bench. The FP900 operates trouble-free at room
temperature (+10 ... +31°C) up to a relative humidity of 80%.

Power fuse, power line voltage

The FP90 operates with alternating voltages (50 or 60 Hz) of 100, 120, 230 or 240 V.
In countries with 220 V, the 230 V range is used.
The fuse holder also serves as a voltage selector. Check that the voltage set on the
fuse holder (next to the power socket on the rear instrument panel, see Fig. 2-1)
matches the actual power line voltage. If not, open the fuse holder as follows:

Opening the fuse holder

The FP90 must be disconnected from the power supply before you open
the fuse holder!
The FP90 is suitable only for power supplies with a grounding conductor.
Double pole fuse protection: Use only fuses of the same type.
Open the cover of the fuse holder by inserting a screwdriver in the space provided at
the upper edge of the holder and turning it slightly. Pull the cover right back.
Changing the voltage: Remove the drum inscribed with the different voltages and
turn it so that the correct voltage is at the front and then press it back in place.
Replacing a blown fuse: Take out the fuse holder and replace the blown fuse by a
new one: 230 to 240 V: T2L250V , 100 to 120 V: T2H250V and slide in the fuse
holder again.
If you want to operate the FP900 system with a voltage of 100 V using a 100 V /
50/60Hz power supply with high impedance, the technical safety requirements can be
ensured by a T2,5H250V fuse.
Close the cover of the fuse holder until it snaps in.

Legend for fuse: Example T315L250V

T Characteristic
315 Rated current
(numbers x and x,xx = ampere values ; numbers xx and xxx = milli-ampere values
L Interrupting capacity
250V Rated voltage

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Changing the Battery

The FP90 is equipped with a battery 1.5 V (Mingnon AM3 / LR6). This battery supports
the internal clock (date and time), as well as the non volatile memory. Use a long life
battery with a large capacity (> 1200 mAh) to reach a life time as long as possible. The
data security depends on the switching off and on of the FP90. When the FP90 is
switched on, the data memory is supported by the power line and the battery is relieved.
The life duration of a battery is longer than a year when having a capacity of 2250 mAh.

Changing the battery without loosing data (Date, time, statistics)

Switch on the FP90.
Free some working space at the left side of the FP90.
Turn over the FP90 to its left side. Now the battery holder is accessible at the bottom
of the FP90.
Open the lid with a coin or a large screwdriver.
Remove the old battery and replace with a new one. Mind the correct placement.
Close the lid and put the FP90 back on its feet.
Dispose your battery correctly as recommended in your country.

Changing the battery with loosing the data (date, time, statistics))
Same as above, but without switching on the FP90. When switching the FP90 on the
next time, you will have to set date and time as described in chapter 2.6.

Selecting languages and PC keyboards

During manufacturing the FP90 is equipped with the languages English and German.
Accordingly the respective keyboard drivers US and GR are available. You select one of
these by F5 SPECIAL, F2 CONFIG, F2 LANG. It will be available after power up.
To load another language or keyboard driver from the language cassette:
Switch off FP90 and carefully insert 64-pin connector of any measuring cell in the ap-
propriate socket at rear of the control unit ensuring correct alignment.
Remove cover and insert the language cartridge in the appropriate socket at rear of
the control unit (see Fig. 2-1).
Switch on FP90. First of all the user methods (numbers 1 through 79) are copied and
restored without empty areas from deleted methods.
If you switch off the FP90 during restoring, all user methods will be lost!

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Choose the first and a second language by typing the desired numbers and press
. The choice is English, German, French and Spanish.
Select two keyboard drivers (US:USA, GR:GFR, FR: France, SP: Spain, SG: Switzer-
land, UK: United Kingdom, IT: Italy, NL: Netherlands)
Follow the message „Switch off FP90 and remove cartridge“ and keep the cartridge
at a safe place. Insert cover to protect the socket.
after power up select one of the two available languages/keyboard drivers with
F5 SPECIAL, F2 CONFIG, F2 LANG.
Set time and date.
After a power up the new selection will be there.

2.14.1 Attendance and Maintenance

The FP90 needs neither special attendance nor maintenance.
If you don't use the FP900 System:
Switch off the system.
Protect the system with the protection cover from surroundings influences.

Clean keyboard and housing

Switch off the instrument and disconnect the power cable before you clean
the keyboard or the housing.

Moisten a soft cloth with water and a mild detergent.

Clean the keyboard and the housing with the soft humid cloth. No humidity must en-
ter the instrument.

The maintenance of the modules is described in the corresponding chapters to the

module.

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2.15 PC Keyboard and Bar Code Reader

As a PC keyboard without socket for the bar code reader, the Cherry model
G80-1000HAU *) (US keyboard QWERTY) 1) has proved reliable.
However, most PC-AT keyboards with the 5-pin DIN connector should also function. A
trial will pay dividends! You install the according keyboard driver with F5 SPECIAL,
F2 CONFIG, F2 LANG.
As a PC keyboard with socket for the bar code reader, the Cherry model G81-1600* has
proved reliable. 1).
Pin assignment: Pin 1 CLOCK, pin 2 DATA, pin 3 unassigned, pin 4 GND, pin 5 +5V..
As bar code readers, Cherry recommends the bar code readers: 630-0238 (high resolu-
tion), -0207 (medium resolution), -0235 (low resolution). The required resolution de-
pends on the size of your bar codes.
Connect the keyboard cable to the appropriate 5-pin socket below the keypad of the
FP90. To do this, raise the FP90 at the left (do not tilt backward, you could damage
the 64-pin connector). The bar code reader is attached to the PC keyboard (socket at
right rear).
If need be a header can be programmed in the Cherry keyboard. This header then be-
comes part of the sample identification. To program a header press the keys Prog, F1
and Control-h. Enter a suitable word of maximum 12 characters and press Prog again
(the LED switches off).

1) Address: Cherry Mikroschalter GmbH Industriestr. 19, Postfach 1220 W-8572 Auerbach (BRD).
Cherry is represented in Switzerland by the company Eurodis Ineltro AG, Bahnstrasse 58/60, 8105
Regensdorf.

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2.16 Dot Matrix Printer

The optional printer generates reports and diagrams.
As a printer, the Epson model with the Epson #8148 Intelligent Serial Interface has
proved reliable. However, most 100%-Epson compatible printers with RS232C port
should also function.
Activate the serial interface and its buffer.
Baud rate 9600
Word length 8 bit
Parity check disable
Parity odd
X-on/X-off Protocol no
Follow the instructions of the interface. The DIP switches of the Epson 8148 Intelligent
Serial Interface are set as follows :
DIP switch1 No. 1 through 8 : 00000100 *)
DIP switch2 No. 1 through 6 : 110000*)
Activate the US character set and 10 inch form length (follow the instructions of the
printer). The DIP switches of the Epson are set as follows :
DIP switch1 No. 1 through 8 : 0xxxx111*)
DIP switch2 No. 1 through 4 : 1xxx*)

*) 1 = on, 0 = off, x = to your liking

The ordinates of the diagrams are properly labeled using the standard character width
(12 characters per inch not condensed) only.
Engage the enclosed adapter into the printer port at rear of the FP90. Connect the
serial port of the printer with adapter by the cable ME-17854.

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2.17 Accessories

Standard Accessories FP90 Order No.

Operating Instructions
German 707 762
English 704 763
French 707 764
Microfuses (set of three)
Power supply 100/120 V 51 018 961
Power supply 230/240 V: 13 873

Power cable
neutral 87 576
Germany 87 925
USA 88 668
Switzerland 87 920
Tweezers 70 661
Phillips screwdriver No. 1 73 071
Assembly gauge for FP81, 83, 85 18 858
Dust cover FP90 18 867
Language cartridge FP90*
English/German/French/Spanish 650023
English/German/French/Dutch 650024
English/German/French/Italian 650025
Printer cable 25 pin m/25 pin f 17 854
Adapter, 25 pin m/25 pin m 89 780
Calibration standard: benzoic acid 18 555
Calibration standard: benzophenone 18 870
Calibration standard: caffeine 18 872

Optional accessories to the FP90 Order No.

Connection cable for the RS232C Interface

9- pin connector (FP99AT) 17 853
25-pin connector (FP99PS) 17 854

*Three types of language cartridge are available. The languages English, German and French are in-
cluded in each language cartridge. The fourth language differs according to the selected cartridge (Span-
ish, Italian or Dutch)

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2.18 Technical Data

FP90 Central Processor
Temperature range –100…600 °C
The temperature range is given by the attached
cell.
Temperature sensor Pt100
Heating rate: 0,0…20,0 °C/min
Display graphic LC - display; 6 lines, 36 characters per
line; 64 x 256 pixels; menu- and command lines
Entries numerical with floating point, function keys
Temperature display resolution 0,1 °C or K
Languages English, French, Spanish and German,
2 of them are chosen
Key pad Splash proof
Measuring cells Optionally: FP81, 82, 83, 84, 85
Influence of the ambient temperature depending on measuring cell
Temperature coefficient = 0.1 °C error with a
change in ambient temperature of 10 °C
Power supply Adjustable 100/115/230/240 Volt
Admissible voltage fluctuations
for 100/120V 10 %
for 230/240V + 6 %, -15%
Frequency 50/60 Hz
Power consumption: max. 210 VA
Housing PU foam, metal
Dimensions width x depth x height = 305 x 485 x 155
Weight 11,5 kg
Surroundings
Admissible location indoors only
not higher than 2000 m above sea level
Ambient temperature during op- 10...31 °C
eration
Relative humidity 20...80%
Degree of soiling 2
Over voltage category II
Standard
Electric Safety EN61010-1
Electromagnetic compatibility En55022/EN50082-2
Mark of Safety S+, CSA
Mark of Conformity CE

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2.19 Error messages and Warnings

Error Messages

1 Switch off FP90 and connect any measuring cell. If

No cell connected message still appears, check the pins of the connec-
tor. They may not be broken nor bent. If possible
dress a bent pin straight with small pliers. Engage
connector and switch on FP90. If still negative, try
another cell occasionally. If negative call the service.
3 to 7 Switch off FP90 and check the pins of the cell con-
nector. They may not be broken nor bent. If possible
dress a bent pin straight with small pliers. Engage
connector and switch on FP90. If Still negative, try
another cell occasionally. If negative call the service.
8 Switch off FP90. Check all keys of front panel with
Front panel key stuck respect to their pressure point. If there is one without
a pressure point, disconnect cell and power cable, tilt
the FP90 on the rear panel and loosen the 6 screws
that fix the front panel by approx. 1 mm. Now push
and pull slightly at the loose sheet metal and check
the faulty key again. When O.K., fix the screws oth-
erwise call the service.
9 (FP82/84 only) Check pressure points of the 4 keys. If
Handset key stuck one is bad send handset to service. Check another
handset occasionally.
10 to 13 Switch off FP90 and check the pins of the connector.
They may not be broken nor bent. If possible dress a
bent pin straight with small pliers. Engage connector
and switch on FP90. If still negative, try another cell
occasionally. If negative call the service
14 and 15 When using the language cassette only. Try again, If
negative call the service.

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FP90 Central Processor FP900 System

16 (when using the language cassette only). Language

String tables different size cassette damaged.
19 Switch off FP90 and check the pins of the connector.
They may not be broken nor bent. If possible dress a
bent pin straight with small pliers. Engage connector
and switch on FP90. If still negative, try another cell
occasionally. If negative call the service.
20 to 24 Switch FP90 off and on again. If negative check an-
other cell occasionally or call the service.

Warnings
Check configuration
Calibration memory full
No temperature calibration
The battery is weak. Please set clock, language, unit,
LCD contrast and – with FP84/85 – lag time constant
and curve ICTA (Sect. 2.6 Operating Instructions).
Replace the battery
For an FP90 delivered before September 1993: To
charge the built-in battery completely don't switch off
the FP90 for at least three days. To save energy dur-
ing charging, switch the FP90 off and on again. This
causes the temperature to be controlled "idle" (no
heater power consumption).
After approx. 18 temperature calibrations the memory
is full and your current calibration has not been
saved. Clear up the memory with the language cas-
sette (sect. 2.14 Selecting languages and PC-
keyboards, OI). Afterwards key in the last calibration
temperatures again. The calibrations of the other
modules are still in the memory of course.
The calibrations and the user methods have been lost
due to power failure during selecting languages and
PC-keyboards. Please call the service for a new fac-
tory calibration. For urgent analyses perform a normal
temperature calibration. After the factory calibration
has been done press F5 SPECIAL, F3 CONFIG,
F3 CALIB, F1 METTLER to cancel the intermediate
calibration.

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FP900 System FP90 Central Processor

Furnace temperature This message is displayed in connection with the

warnings „No cell heating / No cell cooling“ (see chap.
out of control
2.4.1; Measurements at strong electric or magnetic
noise fields)
No cell heating Furnace heating insufficient to follow the temperature
program. Check the pins of the cell connector. They
may not be broken nor bent. If possible dress a bent
pin straight with small pliers. Engage connector and
switch on FP90. If still negative, try another cell occa-
sionally. If negative call the service.
No cell cooling Furnace cooling insufficient to follow the temperature
program. This message is caused by a too high cool-
ing rate, too high ambient temperature or a malfunc-
tion of the fan.
Fan FP82/84: remove housing to check whether it
works.
Fan FP81/83/85: The built-in fan creates a typical
noise when properly working.
The fan of these cells only operates on demand of
the temperature controller
Ext. keyboard key stuck Check pressure points of the keys. If one is bad send
keyboard to the appropriate service. Check another
keyboard occasionally.
Ext. keyboard selftest failed Keyboard damaged or incompatible. If there is a
switch PC(XT) <> AT set it to AT. Check another key-
board occasionally.
(No display or lines only) and 2 Switch FP90 off and on again. If negative call the ser-
or 3 beeps followed by a con- vice.
tinuous sound
(Temperature display Indicates a short circuit or bad contact of the Pt100
below –200 °C) temperature sensor. Switch off FP90 and check the
pins of the cell connector. They may not be broken
nor bent. If possible dress a bent pin straight with
small pliers. Engage connector and switch on FP90. If
still negative, try another cell occasionally. If negative
call the service.
No display and continuous beep Check the power line voltage and the voltage selector

97/09 METTLER TOLEDO FP900 2-29