21
Programming
Description of Steps
RAMP/HOLD
Ramp/Hold Mode is a mode of programming that allows you to write your own firing program. When
you are entering your program, you will notice data already stored. Simply write over this information.
If you mis-enter data, you may either press zeros to clear the data and re-enter it, or if you have
already entered a rate or temperature, you can press REVIEW to go back one step. You can also
press STOP to start from the beginning.
Program Number (PROG)
You have the option of storing up to twelve firing programs. You may recall these programs at any
time for future use. We recommend that you write down which number you have assigned each
program so that you do not overwrite existing programs you have stored.
Segments (SEGS)
This step is prompting you to input the total number of segments you wish to use in your program.
Each segment consists of a heating or cooling rate, a target temperature, and a hold time at that
target temperature if one is desired. You may program up to 32 segments. Two programs may be
connected to achieve up to a 64 segment program. See instructions on page 22.
Rate (RA#)
This step is prompting you to input a Temperature Rate. The display will show RA along with the
current segment number you are programming alternately with the previous data entered. You may
enter any rate between 1 ºF/hr (1 ºC/hr) to 9999 ºF/hr (5555 ºC/hr). This can be a cooling rate or a
heating rate. The controller distinguishes between the two by checking to see if the temperature
entered in the next segment is hotter or cooler than the previous segment.
Just because you enter a rate does not mean the kiln is capable of achieving that rate. Things such as
element age, load density, and temperature range will all affect the kilns ability to heat. Conversely,
the kiln’s insulation will influence its ability to cool. A rate must be entered for each segment.
Temperature (ºF#) or (ºC#)
This prompt is asking you to enter a temperature to go to. When it gets to that temperature it
will either hold at that temperature or switch to a new rate and aim for a new temperature. If you
are programming in Celsius, it will read ºC instead of ºF. The controller will allow you to program
temperatures between 31 ºF (0 ºC) and 2450 ºF (1343 ºC). A temperature should not be entered
which exceeds the kilns temperature rating. The initial kiln temperature and programmed
temperature both need to be above freezing 32 ºF (0 ºC) before starting a firing program.
Hold Time (HOLd)
A Hold time is generally entered to allow the kiln time to balance out and all of the pieces in the
kiln to reach the input temperature before the kiln moves to the next segment. You may enter hold
times of 00.00 to 99.99. A Hold at peak temperature can be used for this reason or to gain additional
heatwork to fine tune cone bends or to fire in-between cones. Remember that everything to the left
of the decimal point on the display is Hours and everything to the right is Minutes. Excessive Hold
times may cause over-fires.
Repeat Steps for All Segments
Continue to enter a rate, a temperature and a hold time for all the segments. When the last segment
has been entered, the display will prompt you to enter an Alarm temperature. The default is 9999
for no alarm. Input an Alarm temperature and press ENTER. The display will briefly flash CPL for
“complete” and then return to Idle Mode. The program is now loaded.
