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Chapter 3
Cooling the Detector
Introduction
The NTE/CCD detector is designed for cooled operation. A four-stage Peltier effect
thermoelectric cooler, driven by closed-loop proportional-control circuitry, cools the
CCD. A thermal sensing diode attached to the cooling block of the detector monitors its
temperature. An internal fan draws air through the heat-exchanger to remove the waste
heat and the warm air is exhausted through openings in the side of the housing.
Note:
The power requirements of the NTE CCD Detector can not be met by a standard
ST-133 or ST-138 Controller. Special high-power versions of these controllers have been
developed for use with the NTE CCD Detector.
Setting the Temperature
ST-133 Controller
The temperature is set directly from the application software. It takes from 10-20 minutes
for the NTE/CCD to reach and lock at the set temperature. The TEMP LOCK indicator
on the back of the controller then lights to indicate that lock has been achieved.
Application software, such as WinView/32 or WinSpec/32, may also provide a
temperature locked indication (both WinView/32 and WinSpec/32 do this).
Note:
Temperature regulation does not reach its ultimate stability for at least 30 minutes
after temperature lock is established. Also note that the thermoelectric cooler has no
capability to heat the CCD. These detectors are therefore more thermally stable at lower
temperatures.
ST-138 Controller
The temperature is set by means of a dial on the front panel of the controller. Directions
follow:
1.
Turn the cooler switch on the front of
the controller off.
2.
Turn the power switch on.
3.
Locate the Temp knob on the front of
the controller. The dial reads in units
of minus degrees Centigrade. See
Figure 9 to locate the locking tab. Turn
this tab counterclockwise until the
Temp knob is free to rotate.
0
locking tab
×1°C
×100°C
(unlocked)
(locked)
Figure 9. ST-138 Temperature Knob