Introducing RTI’s PID Temperature Controller

Compact Digital Temperature Controller for Semiconductor Testing

PID temperature controller plugged into a heated base of 950 Series

The PID Temperature Controller from RTI provides precise, localized temperature regulation for IC and PCB testing applications. Its benchtop design is compact—measuring just 4”x4”x6”— and integrates seamlessly into existing test setups, offering both standard and customizable configurations to suit a variety of needs.

This digital benchtop controller regulates temperature via embedded heating elements in copper or nickel-plated aluminum blocks. These blocks, installed in a fixture base or removable lid, provide consistent thermal performance at the device level. The unit supports operational heating from ambient to +100°C, with custom options available for extended ranges up to +150°C.

Close up to auto-tune PID control system

Key to its performance is the Auto-Tune PID control system, which offers stable and accurate temperature management. For greater flexibility, users can manually adjust the Proportional (P), Integral (I), and Derivative (D) settings to fine-tune ramp-up speeds and temperature accuracy.

Technical Specifications

• Physical Dimensions: Compact benchtop form factor at 4”x4”x6”.
• Heating Range: Ambient to +100°C (custom configurations up to +150°C).
• Power Requirements: 24V, 30W heater element.
• Temperature Sensors: Options include K-type thermocouples or thin-film RTD elements, both embedded close to the DUT for precise measurement.
• Accuracy: Near-die temperature readings with a tolerance of ±2°C under stable conditions.*
• Controller: 1/8 DIN interface with Auto-Tune PID functionality and manual adjustability for precise control.
• Safety Features: Includes an in-line thermal protection fuse, a 5A heater fuse, and a 500mA controller fuse.
• Customizable Umbilicals: Available in various lengths for flexible test setups.
• Heating Blocks: Copper or nickel-plated aluminum blocks, machined to apply heat to specific areas of the DUT.

This controller is a practical tool for a range of applications, including fault-tolerance testing, device reliability validation, and optimizing thermal management strategies. Its small size and user-friendly controls make it easy to incorporate into diverse test environments, from benchtops to environmental chambers.

Footnote:

Thermocouples and thin-film RTD sensors are installed as close to the DUT terminal “source” as possible. Variable Temperature Range assumes a highly stabilized condition. Rapid changes to the supply current and operational temperature of the DUT, sudden fluctuations in ambient temperature, and other external factors impacting the test environment may limit accuracy.