COVERSTORY
Issue I 2010
-pv-management.com
Watlow offers a full line controller for this system consisted of 15 control EZ-ZONE RM multi-loop controller reduced the
.solar
of EZ-ZONE temperature modules each configured with one input and four number of devices and panel space required along
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controllers for a process outputs. Control module configuration with simplifying wiring. Overall, the cost savings
multitude of applications options allowed the customer to purchase what from the integrated design and features justified
18
was needed for the job; 15 inputs and 60 outputs. the transition to a multi-loop controller.
The system also included an access module with The control system for this chamber was
Modbus TCP Ethernet communications to tie the composed of 15 control modules with each having
system into the supervisory software. A remote two control loops and two thermal safety limits. A
user interface (RUI) module was also used with the remote user interface (RUI) with integrated
system for convenient access to frequently used DeviceNet communications provided both operator
parameters (temperature, power level, etc.). and communications interfaces to the EZ-ZONE
control system.
The Added Value of Multi-Loop
PID Controllers A Solid Solution to Temperature
One of the common features among thin film Uniformity and Cost Savings
deposition chambers for PV is the relatively high Increased demand and recent advances in
number and concentration of thermal loops. A thin photovoltaics have prompted manufacturers to
film manufacturer using single loop controllers saw develop new processes and equipment for
improvement opportunities with the EZ-ZONE RM depositing photovoltaic materials on panel
multi-loop controller because of it’s suitability for substrates. The EZ-ZONE RM provides PV
applications with a large number of thermal loops. manufacturers with high-performance temperature
The multi-loop architecture enabled that particular control with robust noise immunity, flexibility to
firm to install just one controller supporting 30 customize and enhance PID control, ability to
control loops. create custom logic and a space-saving modular
integrated platform.
The system required thermal safety limits so the
controller’s agency approved integrated limits were DeviceNet and MULTICELL are registered
included in the system configuration. trademarks of Watlow
®
The transition from single-loop controllers to the EZ-ZONE
®
DIN-A-MITE
®
The EZ-ZONE RM provides PV manufacturers with high-performance
temperature control with robust noise immunity, flexibility to
customize and enhance PID control, ability to create custom
logic and a space-saving modular integrated platform
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