Model1700 Rev6

EXCELLENCE IN MAGNETICS AND CRYOGENICS
1 Cover Page
MODEL 1700
LIQUID LEVEL INSTRUMENT
(DUAL HELIUM & NITROGEN VERSION)
INSTALLATION, OPERATION, AND

MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS
American Magnetics, Inc.

P.O. Box 2509, 112 Flint Road, Oak Ridge, TN 37831-2509, Tel: 865-482-1056, Fax: 865-482-5472
Revision 6 - July 2022

AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC. TABLE OF CONTENTS
Foreword ................................................................................. vii

Purpose and Scope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . vii
Contents of this Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . vii
General Precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . viii
Cryogen Safety Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .x
Safety Legend . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .x
Equipment Warnings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xi
Other Manual Conventions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xi
Instrument Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xii
Introduction ...............................................................................1
Model 1700 Instrument . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
Cryogenic (Capacitance-Based) Liquid Level Sensors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Superconducting Level Sensors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Digitally-Controlled . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
System Flexibility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Intuitive Human-Interface Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Measurement Flexibility . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Real Time Clock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Valve Control Output . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Analog Outputs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Signal Relays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Connectivity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Model 1700 Front Panel Layout . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
Model 1700 Rear Panel Layout . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
Model 1700 Specifications @ 25°C. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
REV 6 I
Installation............................................................................... 11
Unpacking and Inspecting the Instrument . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Mounting the Model 1700 Instrument . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Capacitance-Based Liquid Level Sensor Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Connecting the Capacitance Sensor. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
Liquid Helium Level Sensor Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Connecting the Liquid Helium Level Sensor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Configuring an Autofill System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

LN2 Autofill System Description . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
LN2 Autofill System Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
LHe Autofill System Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Power Requirements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Connecting the Analog Outputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

0-10 VDC Recorder Output. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
4-20 mA Current Loop Output. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
Operation................................................................................ 23
Energizing the Model 1700 Instrument . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Screen Navigation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Home Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Home Screen Footer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Editing a Field . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Navigating the Instrument Menus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Menu Structure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Screen Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
Capacitance (Liquid Nitrogen) Level . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Configure the instrument to display nitrogen level . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Superconducting (Liquid Helium) Level . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Configure the instrument to display helium level. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Sensor Burnout Protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Sampled or Continuous Measurements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Other Liquid Helium Functions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37
Alarms and Relays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Alarm Status Screen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
ii REV 6
Level-Based Alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Time-Based Fill Alarm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Multiple alarms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Configuring Alarm Setpoints. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Acknowledging an Alarm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41
Muting an Alarm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Configuring Relay Setpoints . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Configure the Autofill Function . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

Setting the autofill parameters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
Enable the Autofill function . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Clearing the Autofill Timeout Alarm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45
Select the appropriate units on the display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Damping Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
Analog output signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Configuring the Analog Outputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
Ethernet Connectivity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48

IP Addressing Scheme . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
Serial Connectivity. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Configuring the
RS-232 Settings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49
Abnormal Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50

Capacitance Sensor Contamination . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50
Dirty Helium Sensor Operational Mode . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Resetting the Instrument to Factory Defaults . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Shutting the Instrument Down . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52
Calibration ...............................................................................53
Setting the System Date and Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53
Capacitance-based Level Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55

Understanding the Sensor Active Length . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Relationship between Calibration and Sensor Length . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Variations in the Dielectric with Changing Density . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56
Capacitance-based Sensor Calibration Methods . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57
Pre-Calibration Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59
Open Dewar Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
REV 6 III
Closed Dewar Calibration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

Presetting the maximum and minimum calibration points. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65
Completing the closed dewar calibration procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 67
Approximate Calibration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
Superconductivity-Based (Liquid Helium) Level Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74

Verify the Liquid Helium Sensor Type. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74
Sensor Sample Interval. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 75
Sensor Active Length . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
Continuous Measure Time Limit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
Sensor Name . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
Remote Interface Reference..................................................... 79

SCPI Command Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
RS-232 Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84
Serial port connector and cabling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
Command/return termination characters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
Ethernet Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
Ethernet Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86
Termination Characters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86
Port Assignment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86
Command Reference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87
System Related Commands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87
Display Configuration Commands and Queries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90
Relay Configuration Commands and Queries. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 91
Alarm Configuration Commands and Queries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92
Measurement Commands and Queries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93
Fill Control and Queries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94
HE Channel Sampling Commands and Queries. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 95
Assignment Commands and Queries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96
N2 Channel Calibration Commands and Queries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 97
HE Channel Calibration Commands and Queries. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
Remote Units Commands and Queries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 98
Error Codes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
iv REV 6
Service and Repair.................................................................. 101

Cleaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 101
User Replaceable Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .101
Battery Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102

Low Battery Indication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102
Tools Required . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
Fuse Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104

Tools Required . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104
Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104
Firmware Upgrade Via Ethernet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .105

Upgrade via SCP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106
Appendix................................................................................ 109
Serial (RS-232) Connector. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .109
Ethernet Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110
Liquid Helium Connector J1 Wiring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111
Aux I/O Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112
Dielectric Constants for Cryogenic Liquids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113
Troubleshooting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114
Instrument Displays “LOSS OF SENSOR” Condition for LN2 Level Measurement . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114
Instrument Displays “LOSS OF SENSOR” Condition for LHe Level Measurement . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114
Instrument Displays “SENSOR SHORTED” Condition for LN2 Level Measurement . . . . . . . . . . . . 114
Instrument Displays “SENSOR PROTECTED” Condition for LHe Measurement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115
System Test Screens . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115
System Logs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118
Glossary .................................................................................123
Abbreviations and Acronyms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 123
Index ......................................................................................127
REV 6 V
vi REV 6
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC. FOREWORD
FOREWORD
PURPOSE AND SCOPE
This manual contains the operation and maintenance instructions for the
American Magnetics, Inc. Model 1700 Liquid Level Control Instrument
and outlines applications for various system configurations. Since it is
not possible to cover all equipment combinations for all magnet systems,
only the most common configurations are discussed. The user is
encouraged to contact an authorized AMI Technical Support
Representative for information regarding specific configurations not
explicitly covered in this manual. This manual refers to the instrument as
configured for both liquid nitrogen and liquid helium operation.
CONTENTS OF THIS MANUAL
Introduction describes the functions, specifications, and characteristics

of the Model 1700 Instrument. It provides illustrations of the front and
rear panel layouts as well as documenting the performance
specifications. Additional information is provided in the form of system
block diagrams.
Installation describes how the Model 1700 Instrument is unpacked and

installed in conjunction with ancillary equipment in typical systems.
Block-level diagrams document the interconnects for various system
configurations.
Operation describes how the Model 1700 Instrument is used to monitor

and automatically control liquid nitrogen level and/or monitor liquid
helium level.
REV 6 VII
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC. FOREWORD : GENERAL PRECAUTIONS
Calibration describes the various calibration techniques for liquid

helium and liquid nitrogen level sensors.
Remote Interface Reference documents all remote commands and

queries available through the Model 1700 Instrument RS-232 and
Ethernet interfaces. A quick-reference summary of commands is
provided as well as a detailed description of each.
The Appendix and Glossary sections support the information in the

sections listed above. See the Appendix section when referenced from
other sections. See the Glossary for any words or acronyms presented
in the above sections, requiring a more complete understanding.
GENERAL PRECAUTIONS
Cryogen Safety
The two most common cryogenic liquids used in superconducting

magnet systems are nitrogen and helium. Both of these cryogens are
extremely cold at atmospheric pressure (321°F and 452°F,
respectively). The following paragraphs outline safe handling
precautions for these liquids.
Personnel handling cryogenic liquids should be thoroughly instructed

and trained as to the nature of the liquids. Training is essential to
minimize accidental spilling. Due to the low temperature of these
materials, a cryogen spilled on many objects or surfaces may damage
the surface or cause the object to shatter, often in an explosive manner.
Inert gases released into a confined or inadequately ventilated space

can displace sufficient oxygen to make the local atmosphere incapable
of sustaining life. Liquefied gases are potentially extreme suffocation
hazards since a small amount of liquid will vaporize and yield a very
large volume of oxygen-displacing gas. Always ensure the location
where the cryogen is used is well ventilated. Breathing air with
insufficient oxygen content may cause unconsciousness without
warning. If a space is suspect, purge the space completely with air and
test before entry. If this is not possible, wear a forced-air respirator and
enter only with a co-worker standing by wearing a forced-air respirator.
Cryogenic liquids, due to their extremely low temperatures, will also burn
the skin in a similar manner as would hot liquids. Never permit cryogenic
liquids to come into contact with the skin or allow liquid nitrogen to soak
clothing. Serious burns may result from careless handling. Never touch
uninsulated pipes or vessels containing cryogenic liquids. Flesh will stick
to extremely cold materials. Even nonmetallic materials are dangerous
to touch at low temperatures. The vapors expelled during the venting
VIII REV 6
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC. FOREWORD : GENERAL PRECAUTIONS
process are sufficiently cold to burn flesh or freeze optic tissues.

Insulated gloves should be used to prevent frost-bite when operating
valves on cryogenic tanks. Be cautious with valves on cryogenic
systems; the temperature extremes they are typically subjected to cause
seals to fail frequently.
In the event a person is burned by a cryogen or material cooled to

cryogenic temperatures, the following first aid treatment should be given
pending the arrival and treatment of a physician or other medical care
worker:
1. If any cryogenic liquid contacts the skin or eyes, immediately flush the
affected area gently with tepid water (102°F  105°F, 38.9°C  40.5°C) and
then apply cold compresses.
2. Do not apply heat. Loosen any clothing that may restrict circulation. Apply a
sterile protective dressing to the affected area.
3. If the skin is blistered or there is any chance that the eyes have been
affected, get the patient immediately to a physician for treatment.
Containers of cryogenic liquids are self pressurizing (as the liquid boils
off, vapor pressure increases). Hoses or lines used to transfer these
liquids should never be sealed at both ends (i.e. by closing valves at
both ends).
When pouring cryogenic liquids from one container to another, the

receiving container should be cooled gradually to prevent damage by
thermal shock. The liquid should be poured slowly to avoid spattering
due to rapid boil off. The receiving vessel should be vented during the
transfer.
Introduction of a substance at or near room temperature into a cryogenic

liquid should be done with great caution. There may be a violent gas
boil-off and a considerable amount of splashing as a result of this rapid
boiling. There is also a chance that the material may crack or
catastrophically fail due to forces caused by large differences in thermal
contraction of different regions of the material. Personnel engaged in this
type of activity should be instructed concerning this hazard and should
always wear a full face shield and protective clothing. If severe spraying
or splashing could occur, safety glasses or chemical goggles along with
body length protective aprons will provide additional protection.
The properties of many materials at extremely low temperatures may be

quite different from the properties that these same materials exhibit at
room temperatures. Exercise extreme care when handling materials
cooled to cryogenic temperatures until the properties of these materials
under these conditions are known.
Metals to be used for use in cryogenic equipment application must

posses sufficient physical properties at these low temperatures. Since
REV 6 IX
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC. FOREWORD : CRYOGEN SAFETY SUMMARY
ordinary carbon steels, and to somewhat a lesser extent, alloy steels,

lose much of their ductility at low temperatures, they are considered
unsatisfactory and sometimes unsafe for these applications. The
austinetic Ni-Cr alloys exhibit good ductility at these low temperatures
and the most widely used is 18-8 stainless steel. Copper, Monel®, brass
and aluminum are also considered satisfactory materials for cryogenic
service.
CRYOGEN SAFETY SUMMARY
Cryogenic systems are complex systems with the potential to seriously

injure personnel or equipment if not operated according to procedures.
The use of safety mechanisms (pressure relief valves, rupture disks,
etc.) in cryogenic systems is usually necessary.
Recommended Safety Equipment
The use of proper safety equipment is necessary. Such equipment may

include, but not limited to, the following items:
• First Aid kit
• Fire extinguisher rated for class C fires
• Cryogenic gloves
• Face shield
• Signs to indicate that there are potentially dangerous cryogens in use in the
area.
SAFETY LEGEND
Instruction manual symbol: the product is marked with this

symbol when it is necessary to refer to the instruction manual in
order to protect against damage to the product or personal
injury.
Hazardous voltage symbol.
Alternating Current (Refer to IEC 417, No. 5032).
O Off (Supply) (Refer to IEC 417, No. 5008).
I On (Supply) (Refer to IEC 417, No. 5007).
X REV 6
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC. FOREWORD : EQUIPMENT WARNINGS
WARNING The Warning sign denotes a hazard. It calls attention to a

procedure or practice, which if not correctly adhered to,
could result in personal injury. Do not proceed beyond a
Warning sign until the indicated conditions are fully
understood and met.
CAUTION The Caution sign denotes a hazard. It calls attention to an

operating procedure or practice, which if not adhered to,
could cause damage or destruction of a part or all of the
product. Do not proceed beyond a Caution sign until the
indicated conditions are fully understood and met.
EQUIPMENT WARNINGS
Before energizing the equipment, the earth ground of the power

receptacle must be verified to be at earth potential and able to carry the
rated current of the power circuit. Using extension cords should be
avoided. However, if an extension cord must be used, insure the ground
conductor is intact and the cord is capable of carrying the rated current
without excessive voltage drop.
In the event that the ground path becomes less than sufficient to carry
the rated current of the power circuit, the equipment should be
disconnected from power, labeled as unsafe, and removed from place of
operation.
Do not operate this equipment in the presence of flammable gases.

Doing so could result in a life-threatening explosion.
Do not modify this equipment in any way. If component replacement is

required, return the equipment to AMI facilities as described in the
troubleshooting section of this manual.
If used in a manner not specified in this manual, the protection provided

by the design, manufacture and documentation of the Model 1700
Instrument may be impaired.
OTHER MANUAL CONVENTIONS
This manual refers to measuring liquid nitrogen (LN2) when referring to

capacitance-based level measurement since nitrogen is by far the most
common cryogenic liquid measured by a capacitance-based sensor. The
capacitance sensor technology can be used to measure most any
REV 6 XI
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC. FOREWORD : INSTRUMENT CONFIGURATION
cryogenic liquid, with the exception of liquid helium (LHe) which requires
a superconductor-based sensor.
INSTRUMENT CONFIGURATION
The Model 1700 Instrument is configured at time of purchase in several

ways:
• As a capacitance-based (typically liquid nitrogen) level instrument/controller.
• As a helium level instrument for level sensors with active length up to 80
inches (203 cm) for either 4.2K or 2K LHe.
• As a combination nitrogen and helium instrument/controller. Note that there
is only one control channel even though the instrument can simultaneously
display both liquid levels.
Every configuration may be further customized by the following options:

• Table top, single rack mounting, dual rack mounting.
• Line cord: North American, European Schuko, Australia/NZ, China, UK, pig-
tailed ends.
The instrument part number, shown on the serialization label located on

the underside of the instrument, as well as in a field in the instrument
Menu, identifies the configuration according to the following key:
1700-A-B-C-D-E where
A indicates the mounting method:
Tbl = tabletop
SR19L = single rack mounted, 19” wide rack standard, instrument

on left side
SR19R = single rack mounted, 19” wide rack standard, instrument

on right side
SR10L = single rack mounted, 10” wide rack standard, instrument

on left side
SR10R = single rack mounted, 10” wide rack standard, instrument

on right side
DRL = dual rack mount, 19” wide rack standard, instrument on left
side
DRR = dual rack mount, 19” wide rack standard, instrument on

right side
XII REV 6
B indicates the line cord shipped with the instrument:
N = North American
E = European, Schuko
A = Australian/New Zealand
C = Chinese
U = United Kingdom
P = India/pigtailed
C indicates the capacitance-based level configuration:
CAP = capacitance-based (typically nitrogen)
N = not configured
The sensor active length and length units are appended to the
configuration code, ie ...CAP-10.4CM-...
D indicates the helium level configuration:
He2K = 2K helium for sensors
He4K = 4.2K helium for sensors
N = not configured
The sensor active length and length units are appended to the
configuration code, ie ...He2K-40IN-...
E is used to denote any instrument customization:
S = standard (no customization)
C = instrument modified.
REV 6 XIII
XIV REV 6
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC. INTRODUCTION
INTRODUCTION
MODEL 1700 INSTRUMENT
The AMI Model 1700 Liquid Level Instrument is a sophisticated

measurement and control instrument which provides monitoring liquid
helium and/or capacitance-based level sensors as inputs and provides
for automatic level control based on user set parameters.
At time of purchase, the Model 1700 will be configured as:
• A combination capacitance-based and helium level instrument/controller.

Note that there is only one valve control channel (typically used for nitrogen
auto fill systems) but both liquid levels can be displayed simultaneously.
The Model 1700 instrument will measure liquid helium level using a
superconducting level sensor. The instrument will be factory configured
for either 4.2K or 2K liquid helium level sensors at time of purchase.
CRYOGENIC The Model 1700 Instrument will be used with a capacitance-based

sensor for all cryogenic liquids except for helium. Specially insulated
(CAPACITANCE-BASED) capacitance sensors are required for liquids with electrical conductivity,
LIQUID LEVEL SENSORS e.g. water.
The Model 1700 Instrument must use an oscillator device to measure

cryogenic liquid levels. This instrument has an internal oscillator if the
distance between the sensor and the instrument is less than or equal to
15 feet (457 cm) so no external oscillator is necessary. If the distance
between the sensor and the instrument is greater than 15 feet, an
external oscillator/transmitter unit is necessary. The instrument will
automatically configure itself at boot time to use the internal oscillator
unless the external oscillator/transmitter is connected to the BNC
connector on the rear panel.
REV 6 1
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC. INTRODUCTION : MODEL 1700 INSTRUMENT
6' COAXIAL CABLE
LIQUID LEVEL SENSOR
Model 1700 Instrument using internal oscillator/transmitter
2 REV 6
(2) COAXIAL CABLES
OSCILLATOR/TRANSMITTER
LIQUID LEVEL SENSOR
Model 1700 Instrument using external oscillator/transmitter
SUPERCONDUCTING The instrument can be used with a superconducting level sensor to

measure liquid helium levels. The instrument will be configured at the
LEVEL SENSORS factory to measure liquid helium levels. The instrument is configured for
level sensors of active lengths of 1 to 80 inches. The instrument can be
used with either 4.2K or 2K level sensor types but must be configured
and calibrated at time of purchase for the LHe level sensor type.
DIGITALLY- The Model 1700 contains a microcomputer which controls analog data
conversion, display/keypad functions, communications I/O, dry contact
CONTROLLED closures, generation of analog output signals and relay control of a
mains power outlet for solenoid valve autofill applications.
SYSTEM FLEXIBILITY The Model 1700 instrument incorporates data converters to translate
signals between the analog and digital domains. Precision
instrumentation techniques and potentiometer-free designs are
employed throughout the Model 1700 Instrument to ensure long term
stability and accurate signal translation for a wide range of conditions.
REV 6 3
DISPLAY The Model 1700 Instrument has a 4.3” diagonal measure TFT (Thin Film
Transistor) color liquid crystal display of 480 x 272 pixels. The display
has a 4-wire resistive touch overlay for easy operator input.
INTUITIVE HUMAN- The Model 1700 instrument is designed to simplify the touch-screen
based user interface. All functions were analyzed and subsequently
INTERFACE DESIGN programmed so that the most commonly used functions are addressed
with the least number of keystrokes. The menus are presented in a
logical fashion so that the operation of the Model 1700 is intuitive to the
user. Context-sensitive Help screens are also provided.
MEASUREMENT Depending on the instrument version purchased, the Model 1700 can be
configured to monitor and display one capacitance-based liquid level
FLEXIBILITY sensor (LN2 version) or one liquid helium level sensor (LHe version) or
both simultaneously. Set points can be assigned to control two dry-
contact relay outputs. The make or break function of each relay can be
set independently. A solid-state relay allows mains power to be switched
according to set points to operate a solenoid-operated valve or other
load.
REAL TIME CLOCK The Model 1700 Instrument incorporates a real time clock, which can be
manually set or synchronized via NTP, with support for worldwide
timezones including automatic DST adjustment.
VALVE CONTROL The Model 1700 Instrument has a switched 2 ampere at mains voltage
output for energizing a solenoid operated flow valve or other loads. This
OUTPUT output is controlled by a zero-crossing solid state relay.
The fill start is triggered by a level reading. The fill is stopped by reaching
a user-set level, or exceeding a maximum fill time.
ANALOG OUTPUTS The Model 1700 Instrument has two analog outputs, a 0-10 VDC voltage
output and a 4-20 mADC current loop output. The 4-20 mADC loop output
has 1500 VPK circuit isolation. The outputs can be used simultaneously.
The sources for either of the analog outputs can be either one of the two
configured sensors. Both outputs can be driven from the same source, if
desired.
SIGNAL RELAYS The Model 1700 Instrument has two signal relays that change state
based on a measured input. The set points of these relays are user-
selectable as is their function, alarm on level above or below set point.
4 REV 6
For the dual channel instrument, both relays can be assigned to either
channel. For the single channel instrument, both relays are assigned to
the only channel.
CONNECTIVITY The Model 1700 Instrument has a 10Base-T Ethernet connection as well
as an RS-232 port for connecting to other equipment. The instrument
communicates with a SCPI-based command set. The command set is
100% backward compatible with the AMI Model 135, 136, 185, and 186
instruments when configured as a single channel instrument. When
configured as a dual channel instrument, additional commands are
incorporated into the command set.
The Model 1700 Instrument allows for remote operation with an external
browser via TCP/IP connection. All commands that are available by
touching the local screen are available via the web browser
Model 1700 (Dual Display) Via Web Browser
NOTE Using a web browser to connect to the instrument allows

different browser sessions to display different information. For
instance, one browser window can display helium level only and a
second browser window can display nitrogen level only. The
instrument can be configured independently as well since it’s
display is also a browser. Refer to “Configure the instrument to
display nitrogen level” on page 33. Refer to “Configure the
instrument to display helium level” on page 34.
REV 6 5
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC. INTRODUCTION : MODEL 1700 FRONT PANEL LAYOUT
MODEL 1700 FRONT PANEL LAYOUT
Model 1700 Front View; Dual Channel Instrument Shown
6 REV 6
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC. INTRODUCTION : MODEL 1700 REAR PANEL LAYOUT
MODEL 1700 REAR PANEL LAYOUT

Model 1700 Rear Panel Description
1 Computer Network Connector
2 Aux I/O Connector
3 RS-232 Serial Connector
4 Switched Valve Outlet Socket (IEC 60320 C13)
5 Capacitive Sensor Input Connector
6 Mains Power Entry Connector (IEC 60320 C14)
7 LHe Level Sensor Connector
REV 6 7
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC. INTRODUCTION : MODEL 1700 SPECIFICATIONS @ 25°C
MODEL 1700 SPECIFICATIONS @ 25°C
System Architecture
Display: 4.3” 24-bit color TFT display, 480x272 pixel
with resistive touch screen
Sensor Types: Capacitance-based liquid level
Superconductivity-based liquid level
Maximum Length Readout: Capacitance-based liquid level up to 999 in
Superconductivity-based liquid level (LHe) up to 80 in
Superconducting (LHe) Sensor Excitation: Continuous reading or Sample and Hold mode
System Operating Firmware Storage: microSD card
System Clock: Real time clock with timezone support, automatic DST
adjustment, and NTP synchronization
Display Measurement Units: Liquid level in cm, in or percent
Level Measurement
Resolution: 0.1%, 0.1 cm, 0.1 in
Accuracy: ±0.5% of active sensor length
Linearity: ±0.1% or 1 mm (whichever is greater)
Capacitance Sensor Excitation Voltage: 5 VDC
Capacitance Transmitter Measurement Resolution: 0.7 pF
Extension Cable Limits with External Oscillator: 6-500 ft
Superconducting LHe Sensor Current: 4.2K LHe Temperature: 75 mADC nominal
2K LHe Temperature: 57 mADC nominal
Dirty Sensor Mode: Approximately twice normal current for 1 second prior
to normal measurement excitation
Superconducting LHe Sensor Voltage: 4.2K Sensor: approximately 0.87 VDC per inch of
sensor active length @ 10K
2K Sensor: approximately 0.66 VDC per inch of sensor
active length @ 10K
Maximum Open Circuit Voltage: 96 VDC, galvanically isolated
Operating Parameters
Alarm Set Points: 0% to 100%, adjustable; Alarm condition settable to
above or below set point; Assignable to any channel as
high or low alarm for dual instrument
Controller Output: Line voltage @ 2 AAC (maximum)
Sample and Hold Period: 1 second to 86,400 seconds (24 hrs)
Audible alarm: 3500 ± 500 Hz, 73 to 86 dB(A)
8 REV 6
Analog Outputs
Output Types: 0-10 VDC and simultaneous 4 - 20 mADC;
Each assignable to either level channel for dual
instrument
4-20 mA Current Loop Power Supply Voltage: 12-32 VDC
0-10 VDC Recorder Output Load: 50k ohms or greater
0-10 VDC Recorder Output 0% Max Offset: +20 mV
0-10 VDC Recorder Output 100% Max Error: ± 80 mV
Voltage and Current Output Converter Resolution: 12 bits
Integral Non-linearity: ±1LSB
Differential Non-linearitya: ±1LSB
Relays
№1 and/or №2 (W171DIP-7, or equivalent): Contact Form: 1 Form A (SPST-NO)
Maximum Switched Current: 3 A
Switching Voltage: 60 VAC / 100 VDC
Level Control (Solid State): Rated Load Voltage: 2 A at 100 to 240 VAC
Load Voltage Range: 75 to 264 VAC (Line Dependent)
Load Current: 0.1 to 2 A
Surge Current: 30 A (60 Hz, 1 cycle)
Auto Fill
Controller Output Socket: IEC 60320-13 socket on rear panel
Controller Output Power: 2 AAC at line voltage
Autofill Start/Stop Triggering: Level-based; 0% to 100%, adjustable;
Assignable to either nitrogen or helium channel
Fill Timeout Period: 1 minute to 99 hours, 59 minutes
Fill Error Alarm: Fill time out
Communication Protocol
Host Computer Network Protocol: Ehternet 10Base-T TCP/IP and RS-232
IP Addressing: DHCP or static, IPv4
Network Connectivity and Traffic Indication: Link and Activity LEDs on instrument rear panel
RS-232 Connector Specifications: 9-pin D-sub female connector to connect standard
DTE 9-pin D-sub male connector using a standard
straight cable
Communication Command Set: SCPI-based.
REV 6 9
Power Requirements
Primary: 100-240 ±10% VAC, 50-60 Hz, 2.2 A maximum
(200 VA plus sum of controller output)
Backup Battery for RTC: CR2032
Physical
Dimensionsb: Table top configuration:
3.8” H x 8.4” W x 11.4” D
[97 mm H x 213 mm W x 290 mm D]
Single rack mount configuration: 3.5” H x 19.0” W x
11.4” D
[89 mm H x 483 mm W x 290 mm D]
Weight: Table-top configuration: 3.3 lbm [1.5 kG];
Single rack-mount configuration: 4.0 lbm [1.8 kG]
Environmental Limits
Ambient Temperature: Operating: 0°C to 40°C
[32°F to 104°F];
Non-operating: -20 °C to 60 °C
[-4 °F to 140 °F]
Relative Humidity: 0 to 95%; non-condensing
Maximum Instrument Background Field: Gauss (TBD)
Standards
Test Standards Testing of Equipment for Measurement, Control, and
Laboratory Use (IEC 61326-1:2012, EN 61326-1)
Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) (EN 61000-4-2)
Radiated Immunity (EN 61000-4-3)
Fast Transient Burst (EN 61000-4-4)
Surges (EN 61000-4-5)
Conducted Immunity (EN 61000-4-6)
Power Frequency Magnetic Field
(EN 61000-4-8)
Voltage Dips and Interrupts
(EN 61000-4-11)
Harmonics (EN 61000-3-2)
Flicker (EN 6100-3-3)
Conducted Emissions (EN 55011/IEC/CISPR 11)
Radiated Emissions (EN 55011/IEC/CISPR 11)
Safety Requirements for Electrical Equipment for Mea-
surement, Control, and Laboratory Use (IEC 61010-1)
a. Guaranteed monotonic over operating temperature range

b. H = height; W = width; D = depth
10 REV 6
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC. INSTALLATION
INSTALLATION
WARNING Equipment warnings apply to all system installation
configurations. Refer to “Equipment Warnings” on page xi,
in the Foreword to be familiar with the safety requirements
for a system installation.
UNPACKING AND INSPECTING THE INSTRUMENT
Carefully remove the equipment, interconnecting cabling, and

documentation from the shipping carton, and remove all packaging
material.
NOTE If there is any shipping damage, save all packing material and
contact the shipping company representative to file a damage
claim. Do not return to AMI unless prior authorization has been
received.
MOUNTING THE MODEL 1700 INSTRUMENT
If the Model 1700 Instrument is to be used as a table top model, place

the equipment on a flat, secure surface.
If the Model 1700 Instrument is to be rack mounted, install it in a 19"

wide instrument rack using the mounting hardware supplied by the rack
cabinet manufacturer. The feet on the bottom of the instrument may be
removed to facilitate rack mounting by using a prying device to remove
the glossy black cap from the center of the foot and then prying the
rubber foot itself from the chassis. Secure the front panel to the rack rail
in each of the four corners.
REV 6 11
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC. INSTALLATION : CAPACITANCE-BASED LIQUID LEVEL SENSOR INSTALLATION
CAPACITANCE-BASED LIQUID LEVEL SENSOR

INSTALLATION
Refer to the installation instructions provided with the level sensor(s).

The following steps are general installation notes and should be used to
supplement the installation instructions provided with the sensor.
Exercise care when installing the capacitance sensor since dents,

crimps, bends or other physical distortions in the cylindrical capacitor will
change electrical characteristics, possibly causing calibration errors and/
or disruption of proper instrument operation. Before installing the sensor,
review “Calibration” on page 53 to determine what, if any, calibration
procedures may be necessary prior to operation.
NOTE The coaxial interconnecting cables and the transmitter should be

mounted in such a manner as to avoid large temperature changes
such as those encountered in the path of dewar vents.
1. Carefully remove the sensor from the shipping container and remove all
packaging material.
NOTE If there is any shipping damage, save all packing material and
contact the shipping representative to file a damage claim. Do not
return the instrument to AMI unless prior authorization has been
received.
2. Install the sensor in the vessel using the specified fitting of the sensor.
CAUTION Ensure the sensor is mounted with the top vent hole
located inside of the cryostat.
CAUTION Avoid installing in a location where icing may occur. Ice

formations or moisture buildup on the BNC connector may
cause the sensor to short out indicating a higher liquid level
than actually exists.
CAUTION Moisture or contaminants in any of the BNC coaxial

connectors can short out the sensor and cause
measurement errors. A pack of non-conductive electrical
connection lubricant (ECL or “Dielectric Tune-up Grease”)
has been included with the liquid level sensor packaging to
reduce the possibility of this occurring. If desired, apply a
small amount of ECL to any of the BNC connectors that may
be exposed to moisture. Mate the ECL-coated connectors
12 REV 6
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC. INSTALLATION : CAPACITANCE-BASED LIQUID LEVEL SENSOR INSTALLATION
then remove any excess ECL from the outside of the

connector. Added protection can be achieved by covering
the ECL-coated connections with a short section of heat-
shrink tubing.
MSDS sheets for the ECL are available upon request.
CAUTION Exercise care when installing the sensor since dents, crimps,
bends or other physical distortions in the thin wall capacitor
will change electrical characteristics possibly causing
calibration errors and/or disruption of proper instrument
operation.
CONNECTING THE The capacitance sensor may be connected directly to the BNC
connector on the instrument rear panel if the length of the coaxial cable
CAPACITANCE SENSOR is 15 feet or less. If the sensor is greater than 15 feet from the
instrument, an external oscillator/transmitter unit must be used. Refer to
figures “Model 1700 Instrument using internal oscillator/transmitter” on
page 2 and “Model 1700 Instrument using external oscillator/transmitter”
on page 3 as appropriate.
If the transmitter is connected to the sensor with a length of coaxial

cable, the a 15 ft standard length cable, with part number of EH2362, is
available from AMI. Contact the factory for details. Speak to an AMI
Sales Engineer before using cables longer than 15 feet.
NOTE In order to maintain system performance and accuracy, the

coaxial cable used to connect the capacitance level sensor to the
instrument or oscillator/transmitter must be Trompeter TCC-75-2
or equivalent and should not be longer than 15 feet [4.57 m]. If a
longer length section of coaxial cable is necessary, please discuss
with an Authorized AMI Technical Representative.
NOTE If an oscillator/transmitter is used, the length of coaxial cable

between the oscillator/transmitter and the instrument may be up
to 500 feet in length.
CAUTION Moisture or contaminants in any of the BNC coaxial

connectors can short out the sensor and cause an
erroneous readings or transmitter failure. A pack of non-
conductive electrical connection lubricant (ECL or
“Dielectric Tune-up Grease”) has been included with the
liquid level sensor packaging to reduce the possibility of this
occurring.
To connect the coaxial cable to the BNC connector on the capacitance

level sensor:
REV 6 13
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC. INSTALLATION : LIQUID HELIUM LEVEL SENSOR INSTALLATION
1. Apply a small amount of ECL to any of the BNC connectors that may be
exposed to moisture.
2. Mate the ECL-coated connectors then remove any excess ECL from the
outside of the connector.
3. Cover the ECL-coated connections with a short section of heat-shrink tub-

ing, also included, for added moisture protection.
NOTE MSDS sheets for the ECL are available upon request.
LIQUID HELIUM LEVEL SENSOR INSTALLATION

1. The sensor must be mounted with the electrical leads at the top.
2. For minimum losses, mount the liquid helium sensor so that warm helium
gas rising from the sensor can pass directly out of the dewar without con-
tacting surfaces at 4.2K.
3. Do not mount the sensor in restricted areas (tubes, etc.) where the liquid
level around the sensor might be depressed by pressure differences in the
gas. Do not cover the holes in the sensor.
4. The sensor may be mounted by taping or clipping it to an appropriate sup-

port structure. Do not exert excess pressure on the sensor with the mount-
ing device to avoid crushing the tube. Avoid constraining both ends of the
sensor and allow for contraction of the sensor during cooldown.
CAUTION Do not operate the sensor in a vacuum. Operating the

sensor in a vacuum may cause thermal damage and/or
destruction of the superconducting filament sensor. Do not
inadvertently turn the instrument on with the sensor in an
evacuated chamber. Operation in pumped liquid helium
environments is acceptable to 1K as long as liquid helium is
present.
5. Avoid installing in a location where icing (frozen water or gas) may occur
since ice formations may cause erratic operation. Ice formation on the NbTi
filament may stop the propagation of the normal (resistive) zone before it
actually reaches the liquid/gas interface. This will give an indication of a
higher helium level than actually exists.
14 REV 6
6. Connect the sensor to the Model 1700 LHe Level Sensor connector on the
instrument rear panel (refer to “Liquid Helium Connector J1 Wiring” on
page 111). The liquid helium level sensor leads are color coded:
LHe Level Sensor Wire Identification
Wire Teflon Insulation Formvar Insulation Instrument

Function Color Color Connector Pin
I+ Red Red 1
V+ Blue Green 8
V- Yellow Natural 6
I- Black Blue 7
CONNECTING THE The instrument is connected to the liquid helium level sensor with a 4-
conductor cable which has a 9-pin D-sub male connector on one end
LIQUID HELIUM LEVEL that mates with the connector used at the instrumentation feed through
SENSOR connector on the cryostat. This connector is typically a multi-pin circular
type connector.
Prepare the sensor to be connected to the instrument by soldering the

sensor leads to a male 9-pin D-Sub connector which will connect to the
female 9-pin D-Sub connector on the transmitter. Refer to the table on
page 15 and the Appendix of this manual as well as the AMI sensor
manual for the proper pin out and wire color connections. Connect the
sensor to the LHe connector on the rear panel.
WARNING Although the sensor connector terminals are isolated from

earth ground and therefore touching one terminal is not
hazardous, the voltage between terminals is at a hazardous
potential. The sensor connector is for use with an AMI LHe
sensor and the wiring for the sensor is to have no live parts
which are accessible. Conductors connected to its terminals
must be insulated from user contact by basic insulation
rated for 150 VAC (Category I).
The lead wire for the sensor may be sized by the following equation:
R = 420 – 5.21  L A 
where R is the maximum allowable resistance (in ohms) for each lead
wire from the instrument to the sensor, and LA is the active length of the
REV 6 15
connected helium level sensor in inches. Values for active sensor length
vs. lead wire distance are provided in the table below.
Minimum recommended wire gauge for copper lead wire
R=367 R=315 R=263 R=211 R=107 R=3.2

Distance
LA=10” LA=20” LA=30” LA=40” LA=60” LA=80”
10 ft. 34 AWG
20 ft.
30 AWG
30 ft.
40 ft. 36 AWG 28 AWG

36 AWG
50 ft. 27 AWG
100 ft. 24 AWG
200 ft. 22 AWG
500 ft. 32 AWG 16 AWG
NOTE If the system is an Autofill system, proceed to section

“Configuring an Autofill System” on page 17. If the installed
capacitance or liquid helium level sensor(s) are used for indication
only (not autofill), proceed to “Energizing the Model 1700
Instrument” on page 23.
16 REV 6
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC. INSTALLATION : CONFIGURING AN AUTOFILL SYSTEM
CONFIGURING AN AUTOFILL SYSTEM
Autofill systems are useful in applications where liquid level in a dewar

must be maintained without operator intervention.
To create an autofill system, a cryogenic liquid source must be attached

to the target or level controlled dewar via a solenoid-controlled valve, or
customized valving system for LHe application. The valve should be
controlled by the Model 1700 Instrument.
LN2 AUTOFILL SYSTEM For LN2 autofill, the system consists of a Model 1700 Instrument with a
liquid level sensor, and a solenoid-operated flow valve. The instrument
DESCRIPTION makes continuous level measurements and based on level, energizes
the valve to begin liquid transfer. The transfer is stopped when the
measured level reaches a user-determined point.
11
13
10
12
LEVEL-CONTROLLED DEWAR
4 7
5
3
1 2
14 6
MODEL 1700 LIQUID
LEVEL CONTROLLER
Typical LN2 Autofill Setup
REV 6 17
Standard Autofill Setup Description
Number Item
1 Model 1700 Liquid Level Instrument (Level Controller)
2 IEC60320 C13 socket labeled VALVE CONTROL
3 BNC connector labeled O/T
4 Solenoid-operated flow control valve line cord with IEC60320 C14 plug
5 Instrument IEC60329 C14 Power cord inlet
6 Coaxial cable connecting the oscillator / transmitter and the instrument
7 Oscillator / Transmitter (optional; refer to the figure on page 13)
8 Level Sensor for level controlled or target dewar
9 Coaxial cable connecting the Oscillator / Transmitter and the liquid level sensor
(optional; refer to the figure on page 13)
10 Fill port on target dewar
11 Transfer line attached to the target dewar and the fill solenoid valve on the
source dewar
12 Solenoid-operated fill valve
13 Supply dewar relief valve
14 Supply dewar
LN2 AUTOFILL SYSTEM CAUTION A relief valve must be used in autofill systems to ensure no
cryogenic liquid can be trapped in a transfer line volume
SETUP where expansion can cause damaging pressure. This can
occur if the solenoid operated fill valve and the supply
dewar isolation valve are closed, trapping a cryogenic liquid
in a confined volume. All AMI LN2 transfer line systems
include a relief valve to preclude this sort of event.
CAUTION The switched valve outlet socket switches the line voltage
to which the instrument mains power is connected. Ensure
any connected valve is rated to support the local VAC line
voltage.
1. Mount the level sensor (8) in the target dewar.
2. Connect the transfer line (11) and fill solenoid valve (12) or supply manifold
to the source dewar.
3. Connect the other end of the transfer line to the fill port (10) on the valve/
manifold of the target dewar.
18 REV 6
4. Connect the capacitance sensor to the instrument.
a. For distances of 15 feet and less, connect the coaxial cable (6)
between the BNC connector on the liquid level sensor and the BNC
connector on the back of the instrument labeled O/T (3).
b. For distances greater than 15 feet, connect the coaxial cable (9)
between the BNC connector on the liquid level sensor and the BNC
connector on the oscillator / transmitter (7). Use a second length of
coaxial cable (6) to connect between the oscillator / transmitter (7)
and the BNC connector on the back of the instrument labeled O/T
(3).
5. Connect the solenoid valve (12) to the IEC60320 C13 valve socket1 on the
Model 1700 Instrument rear panel labeled VALVE CONTROL (2).
Connect the IEC320 C14 inlet connector and instrument power cord (5)
to an appropriate power source (see below).
NOTE Should the nitrogen level

sensor become
disconnected from the
instrument or an
interconnecting cable
fails, a LOSS OF
SENSOR message will
be displayed (as shown at
right) and the autofill
valve will be shut
(M-CLOSED). When the sensor connection has been restored,
the instrument will display the level but the autofill state will
have to be manually changed back to AUTOFILL.
LHE AUTOFILL SYSTEM An autofill system for LHe application is a more complex issue than
simply selecting a solenoid-controlled valve that can be used for other
SETUP cryogens such as LN2. The valving control must be highly-insulated to
avoid vaporizing the transferred LHe. Contact an AMI Technical Support
Representative to inquire about available LHe autofill solutions as this is
a continually changing marketplace.
1. The valve socket must be IEC60320 C13 type.
REV 6 19
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC. INSTALLATION : POWER REQUIREMENTS
POWER REQUIREMENTS
WARNING The Model 1700 Instrument operates on 50-60 Hz power

and may be powered from 100-240 VAC. Insure that the
input ground terminal is connected securely to an external
earth ground.
Ensure the detachable mains supply cord is of suitable

rating, i.e. 10 A (min) at 125 VAC for North America.
Ensure the power switch is in the OFF (O) position. Plug the Model 1700
Instrument line cord into the power entry module on the instrument rear
panel and into the appropriate power receptacle.
CONNECTING THE ANALOG OUTPUTS
The Model 1700 instrument provides 0-10 VDC and 4-20 mADC outputs
as standard. These outputs may be optionally connected to external
equipment per the instructions below.
NOTE Both analog outputs can be connected to the same or different

level measurement source as desired, and both will operate
simultaneously.
0-10 VDC RECORDER The Model 1700 instrument provides a 0-10 VDC output on the AUX I/O
connector (refer to “Aux I/O Pin Definitions” on page 112) corresponding
OUTPUT to 0-100% of liquid level. This output can be assigned to either level
measurement channel (refer to “Analog output signals” on page 47).
Connect the voltage output on the AUX I/O connector to a suitable
receiver being careful not to exceed the impedance restrictions (refer to
“Model 1700 Specifications @ 25°C” on page 8).
4-20 MA CURRENT The Model 1700 instrument provides a 4-20 mADC output on the AUX I/
O connector (refer to “Aux I/O Pin Definitions” on page 112)
LOOP OUTPUT corresponding to 0-100% of liquid level. This output can be assigned to
either level measurement channel (refer to “Analog output signals” on
page 47).
The instrument requires an external power supply for current loop

operation. Connect a suitable power supply as shown below.
20 REV 6
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC. INSTALLATION : CONNECTING THE ANALOG OUTPUTS
CAUTION It is extremely important to observe all polarities and to not

exceed +32VDC for the loop power supply in order to
prevent damage to the 4-20mA driver circuit.
AUX I/O PIN 1 +V LOOP POWER

MODEL 1700
AUX I/O PIN 2 -V SUPPLY
INSTRUMENT
(12-32 VDC)
+ -
4-20 mA
LOOP
RECEIVER
REV 6 21
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC. INSTALLATION : CONNECTING THE ANALOG OUTPUTS
22 REV 6
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC. OPERATION
OPERATION
This section describes the operation of the Model 1700 Instrument.
ENERGIZING THE 1. Turn the power switch on the front panel of the instrument to the On (I) posi-
tion. The display will briefly show a boot image and then display the home
MODEL 1700 screen showing level(s).
INSTRUMENT 2. The boot process takes approximately 30 seconds. Boot time can be longer
(approximately 2 minutes) if the instrument has been configured for a net-
work connection and then is booted without the network present.
3. When the boot process is complete, the instrument will display the home
(level) screen.
SCREEN NAVIGATION
HOME SCREEN NOTE If the instrument was purchased with a level sensor, the
instrument will be pre-configured and calibrated at the factory.
If the instrument is configured

for only liquid nitrogen level, the
display will look similar to the
image shown at right:
Nitrogen Home Screen
REV 6 23
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC. OPERATION : SCREEN NAVIGATION

for only liquid helium level, the
display will look similar to the
image shown at right:
LHe Home Screen

for both liquid nitrogen and
liquid helium levels, the display
will look similar to the image
shown at right:
Dual LN2 and LHe Home Screen
If the instrument requires calibration1, refer to the following chapter to

calibrate the instrument with an AMI level sensor.
HOME SCREEN FOOTER Every screen has a footer. The level home screen displays both status
information and buttons in the footer to navigate to other screens.
The home screen footer appears

as shown at right:
   
Home Screen Footer
Model 1700 Instrument Home Screen Footer
No. Name Function
 MENU Takes the user to the main menu screen.
 ALARM When illuminated, indicates an active alarm

condition. Touch to enter the ALARM STATUS screen.
 AUTOFILL When illuminated, indicates the AUTOFILL function is

enabled. Touch to enter the AUTOFILL configuration
screen.
 HELP Takes the user to a Help screen where available.
1. If the instrument was purchased with level sensor(s), the instrument will be shipped set up
and calibrated.
24 REV 6
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC. OPERATION : NAVIGATING THE INSTRUMENT MENUS
EDITING A FIELD Once a field or multi-choice

button on a screen has been  
edited, the footer changes to Field Editing Footer
appear as follows:
Model 1700 Instrument Footer during editing a field
No. Name Function
 SAVE Saves the entries made on the screen. The footer

then reverts to the default footer as shown in the
previous section.
 CANCEL Cancels a change while not saving entries. The

footer then reverts to the default footer as shown
in the previous section.
The functions of the ALARM, AUTOFILL, and Help footer items are as
described in the previous section.
NAVIGATING THE INSTRUMENT MENUS
The menu system is invoked by

pressing the MENU button in the
MENU button on HOME screen
lower left corner of the instrument
level display screen.
When invoked, the MENU screen

will be displayed:
MENU Selection Screen
Pressing HOME in the lower left

corner of the screen will display
the level display screen. HOME button on MENU screen
Once a MENU has been chosen,

a back button will be presented to
the right HOME. This button will BACK button
return the user to the previously
displayed screen.
REV 6 25
MENU STRUCTURE
MENU
SENSORS OUTPUTS NETWORK SYSTEM HISTORY PLOT SHUTDOWN
NITROGEN OSCILLATOR USED: ALARMS ADDRESSING SCHEME Instrument Serial LN2 ON/OFF
Number <value> SHUTDOWN
<INTERNAL | EXTERNAL> {STATIC | DYNAMIC |
1
ALARM No.1 SOURCE: {DISABLED | DISABLED} LHe ON/OFF
NITROGEN LEVEL ON HOME SCREEN? NITROGEN | HELIUM} HW: <value>
{YES | NO} ADDRESS < value>
<
ALARM No.1 WHEN LEVEL {>= | <=} FPGA: <value>
NITROGEN LEVEL DAMPING <level>% NETMASK < value> IN
FW: <value>
Undamped O/T Period: <period> μs ALARM No.2 SOURCE: {DISABLED | GATEWAY < value> OUT
1
NITROGEN | HELIUM} Date of
Undamped LN2 Level: <level> % HOSTNAME <value> Manufacture: >
1 ALARM No.2 WHEN LEVEL {>= | <=} <value>
<level>% MAC ADDRESS <value>
Damping Time Period: <period> >>
Helium Power
seconds
RELAYS Supply: <value>
Damped O/T Period: <period> μs
1 RELAY No.1 SOURCE: {DISABLED | SET TIME
NITROGEN | HELIUM}
Damping LN2 Level: <level> %
1 CURRENT SYSTEM DATE AND TIME: < value>
RELAY No.1 CLOSES WHEN LEVEL
HELIUM SENSOR TYPE: <2 K | 4.2 K> {>= | <=} < level>%
1 SYSTEM TIMEZONE: < value>
HELIUM LEVEL ON HOME SCREEN? RELAY No.2 SOURCE: {DISABLED | BATTERY GOOD <NOTIFY | NO NOTIFY}>
{YES | NO} NITROGEN | HELIUM}
SET MANUALLY
CAL N2 RELAY No.2 CLOSES WHEN LEVEL
{>= | <=} < level>%
TIMEZONE: < value>
OSCILLATOR PERIOD:
<value> μs AUTOFILL
1 YEAR: <value>
SENSOR ACTIVE LENGTH AutoFill CONTROL: {DISABLED |
MONTH: <value>
<nnn.n> cm NITROGEN | HELIUM}
DAY: <value>
PERFORM MAX CAL START: <level > %
HOUR: <value>
PERFORM MIN CAL STOP: <level> %
MIN: <value>
LOSS OF SENSOR CAL FILL TIMEOUT: < m> MINUTES
SET FROM NTP SERVER
APPROX. (MAX) CAL MULTIPLIER ANALOG OUTPUTS
<value> UPDATE
OUTPUT 0-10 SOURCE: {DISABLED |
APPROX. (MAX) CAL MULTIPLIER NITROGEN | HELIUM}
<Choose Firmware Version >
{NOTIFY | NO NOTIFY}
OUTPUT 4-20 mA SOURCE: RS-232 SETUP
SENSOR NAME(S) {DISABLED | NITROGEN | HELIUM}
RS-232 PORT CONFIGURATION {LINUX LOGIN | SCPI}
NITROGEN SENSOR NAME:
<value> ECHO {ON | OFF}
HELIUM SENSOR NAME: LINEFEED {ADD | NO}

<value>
Baud rate: <value>
CAL He
SYSTEM TEST
SENSOR SAMPLE INTERVAL:
<value> min
TURN ON ALL LCD PIXELS
MEASURE SENSOR V/A TURN ON RED LCD PIXELS

<value> V <value> mA
TURN ON GREEN LCD PIXELS
SENSOR ACTIVE LENGTH:
<nnn.n> cm
TURN ON BLUE LCD PIXELS
CONTIN. MEASURE TIME LIMIT: HARDWARE CONTROL

<nnnnn> min
SYSTEM HARDWARE CONTROL: {AUTO | MANUAL}
DIRTY SENSOR MODE: 2
{ENABLED | DISABLED}
VALVE {OPEN | CLOSED}
SENSOR BURNOUT Osc {INTERN | EXTERN} < period > μs

PROTECTION LIMIT: < nnn.n> %
He Sensor {ON | OFF}
He Dirty Sensor {ON | OFF}
RELAY 1 {OPEN | CLOSED}
RELAY 2 {OPEN | CLOSED}
SOUND {ON | OFF}
Analog Outputs
Analog Outputs Hardware Control: {AUTO | MANUAL}
Analog Outputs Hardware Control: AUTO
0-10 VDC Voltage DAC #1 value: < value>
4-20 mADC Current DAC #1 value: < value>
Analog Outputs Hardware Control: MANUAL
0-10 VDC Voltage DAC #1 value: {nnnn}
4-20 mADC Current DAC #1 value: {nnnn}
TOUCH SCREEN CALIBRATE

2
TOUCH SCREEN TEST

2
DRAG
2
DRAW
2
QUIT
2
CURSOR {ON | OFF}

2
FACTORY RESTORE
1
INDICATION ONLY
RESTORE
2
LOCAL OPERATON ONLY 2
Model 1700 Menu Structure
26 REV 6
SCREEN DESCRIPTIONS The Model 1700 Instrument displays various screens on the graphic
display when a MENU item is chosen. The items for each screen are
described in the following table.
Model 1700 Dual Level Instrument Screen Descriptions
Screena Item Label Field Type or Function
SENSOR CONFIGURATION(S) NITROGEN OSCILLATOR USED: Information: INTERNAL, EXTERNALb

NITROGEN LEVEL ON HOME Toggles between: YES, NO
SCREEN?
NITROGEN LEVEL DAMPING Move to another screen
HELIUM SENSOR TYPE: Information: 2K, 4.2Kb

HELIUM LEVEL ON HOME SCREEN? Toggles between: YES, NO
MENU > SENSORS
CAL N2 Move to another screen
SENSOR NAME(S) Move to another screen
CAL He Move to another screen
LIQUID NITROGEN LEVEL DAMPING Undamped O/T Period: Information: <value>b μs (present
value)
Undamped LN2 Level: Information: <value>b % (present

value)
Damping Time Period: Data entry: <value> seconds
Damped O/T Period: Information: <value>b μs (present

value)
MENU > SENSORS > Damped LN2 Level: Information: <value>b % (present
NITROGEN LEVEL DAMPING value)
REV 6 27
LIQUID NITROGEN SENSOR OSCILLATOR PERIOD: Information: <value>b μs (present

CALIBRATION value)
SENSOR ACTIVE LENGTH: Data entry: <value> cm or in (tap

units to change)
PERFORM MAX CAL Move to another screen and

Information: <value>b in μs followed
by the date/time of last entry
PERFORM MIN CAL Move to another screen and

MENU > SENSORS > CAL N2 Information: <value>b in μs followed
NO SENSOR CAL Move to another screen and

Information: <value>b in μs followed
APPROX MAX CAL: Data entry: <value> followed by a

button that toggles between: NO
NOTIFY, NOTIFYc
SENSOR NAME CONFIGURATION NITROGEN SENSOR NAME: Data entry: <value>
HELIUM SENSOR NAME: Data entry: <value>
MENU > SENSORS > SENSOR NAME(S)
LIQUID HELIUM SENSOR SENSOR SAMPLE INTERVAL: Data entry: <value> min
CALIBRATION
MEASURE SENSOR V/A Performs a function: <values> V mAb
SENSOR ACTIVE LENGTH: Data entry: <value> cm or in (tap
units to change)
CONTIN. MEASURE TIME LIMIT: Data entry: <value> min
DIRTY SENSOR MODE: Toggles between:

DISABLED, ENABLED
MENU > SENSORS > CAL He SENSOR BURNOUT PROTECTION Data entry: <value> %
LIMIT:
28 REV 6
OUTPUT CONFIGURATION: ALARMS ALARM No. 1 SOURCE: Toggles between:

DISABLED, NITROGEN, HELIUM
ALARM No. 1 SETPOINT: Data entry <value> %, in, or cm (tap

units to change)
ALARM No. 1 WHEN LEVEL <state> Toggles between: ≤, ≥
ALARM No. 2 SOURCE: Toggles between:

MENU > OUTPUTS > ALARMS ALARM No. 2 SETPOINT: Data entry <value> %, in, or cm (tap
units to change)
ALARM No. 2 WHEN LEVEL <state> Toggles between: ≤, ≥
RELAYS Move to another screen
AUTOFILL Move to another screen
ANALOG OUTPUTS Move to another screen
OUTPUT CONFIGURATION: RELAYS RELAY No. 1 SOURCE: Toggles between:

RELAY No. 1 SETPONT: Data entry <value> %, in, or cm (tap
units to change)
RELAY No. 1 CLOSES WHEN LEVEL Toggles between: ≤, ≥

<state>
RELAY No. 2 SOURCE: Toggles between:

MENU > OUTPUTS > RELAYS DISABLED, NITROGEN, HELIUM
RELAY No. 2 SETPOINT: Data entry <value> %, in, or cm (tap

units to change)
RELAY No. 2 CLOSES WHEN LEVEL Toggles between: ≤, ≥

<state>
ALARMS Move to another screen
REV 6 29
OUTPUT CONFIGURATION: AutoFILL CONTROL: Toggles between:

AUTOFILL DISABLED, NITROGEN, HELIUM
START: Data entry <value> %, in, or cm (tap

units to change)
STOP: Data entry <value> %, in, or cm (tap

units to change)
FILL TIMEOUT: Data entry <value> MINUTES

MENU > OUTPUTS > AUTOFILL
OUTPUT CONFIG.: ANALOG OUTPUT 0-10 VDC SOURCE: Toggles between:

OUTPUTS DISABLED, NITROGEN, HELIUM
OUTPUT 4-20 mA SOURCE: Toggles between:


MENU > OUTPUTS > ANALOG OUTPUTS
NETWORK CONFIGURATION Addressing Scheme: Toggles between:

DYNAMIC, DISABLED, STATIC
Address: Information: <value>d (DYNAMIC)

Data entry: <value> (STATIC)
Netmask: Data entry: <value>b

Gateway: Data entry: <value>b
MENU > NETWORK Hostname: Data entry: <value>
MAC Address: Information: <value>b
30 REV 6
SYSTEM CONFIGURATION Instrument Serial Number: Information: <value>b

HW: FPGA: FW: Information: <values>b
Date of Manufacture: Information: <value>b
Helium Power Supply: Information: <value>b
SET TIME Move to another screen
MENU > SYSTEM UPDATE Move to another screen
RS-232 SETUP Move to another screen
SYSTEM TEST Move to another screen
FACTORY RESTORE Move to another screen
SYSTEM DATE/TIME Current System Date and Time: Informationb

System Timezone: Informationb
SET MANUALLY Move to another screen
SET FROM NTP SERVER Action with status screen
MENU > SYSTEM > SET TIME
FIRMWARE UPDATE INSTALL Select Firmware Version: Selection list: <values> and then
moves to INSTALL verification on
selection
MENU > SYSTEM > UPDATE
RS-232 SERIAL PORT Current Configuration: Informationb

CONFIGURATION
Configuration Choice: Choose alternate function by
touching
Echo Setting: Choose ECHO OFF or ECHO ON
Line Ending: Choose NO LF or ADD LF
Baud rate: Choose desired baud rate
MENU > SYSTEM > RS-232 SETUP
REV 6 31
SYSTEM TEST TURN ON ALL LCD PIXELS Move to multi-color test screen
TURN ON RED LCD PIXELS Move to red test screen
TURN ON GREEN LCD PIXELS Move to green test screen
TURN ON BLUE LCD PIXELS Move to blue test screen
HARDWARE CONTROL Move to hardware test screen
TOUCH SCREEN ALIBRATE Move to touch calibration screen

MENU > SYSTEM > SYSTST
TOUCH SCREEN TEST Move to touch test screen
CURSOR ON/CURSOR OFF Toggles visibility of cursor
HISTORY LN2 Enables/disables nitrogen trace
LHe Enables/disables helium trace
< Move graph back in time
IN Zoom in (less time per division)
OUT Zoom out (more time per division)
> Move graph forward in time

MENU > HISTORY
>> Shift graph to most recent levels
SHUTDOWN SHUTDOWN Shuts down the instrument in an

orderly fashion which reduces boot
time for the next power on.
MENU > SHUTDOWN

a. The path below each illustration indicates the necessary actions in the menu structure required to display the indicated screen.
b. Displays the state or value (display only).
c. If the NOTIFY state is selected and the Approx. Cal factor is not equal to 1.00, a brief message will be displayed indicating an approximate
calibration is in effect when the instrument boots.
d. Value displayed is chosen by the DHCP server for the network in DYNAMIC mode.
32 REV 6
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC. OPERATION : CAPACITANCE (LIQUID NITROGEN) LEVEL
CAPACITANCE (LIQUID NITROGEN) LEVEL
CONFIGURE THE NOTE If the instrument was purchased with a capacitance-based level
sensor, Steps 1 through 5, below have already been performed.
INSTRUMENT TO
DISPLAY NITROGEN 1. From the main screen, choose the following: MENU > SENSORS.
LEVEL
2. The instrument has a built-in
sensor oscillator which will be
used if the level sensor is con-
nected to the BNC connector on
the rear panel of the instrument
with a maximum of 15 feet of
RG59/U coaxial cable (refer to
the figure on page 2). Ensure the
NITROGEN OSCILLATOR
USED field displays INTERNAL. INTERNAL Oscillator Indicated
a. If the sensor is greater
than 15 feet from the instrument, an external oscillator/transmitter is
required and the NITROGEN OSCILLATOR USED will display
EXTERNAL (refer to the figure on page 3).
3. Ensure that NITROGEN LEVEL

ON HOME SCREEN? is set to
YES.
4. Press the HOME icon at the bot-

tom of the screen.
Nitrogen Level Chosen for Display on

Home Screen
REV 6 33
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC. OPERATION : SUPERCONDUCTING (LIQUID HELIUM) LEVEL
SUPERCONDUCTING (LIQUID HELIUM) LEVEL
CONFIGURE THE NOTE If the instrument was purchased with an AMI LHe level sensor,
Steps 1 through 6, below have already been performed.
INSTRUMENT TO
DISPLAY HELIUM LEVEL 1. From the main screen, choose the following: MENU > SENSORS.
2. The instrument will display the

instrument configuration vis-à-vis
the LHe level sensor, 4.2K or 2K.
Note that this configuration is set
at time of manufacture and is not
alterable by the user.
Type of LHe Level Sensor
3. Ensure that HELIUM LEVEL ON

HOME SCREEN? is set to YES.
Helium Level On Home Screen
4. Press the CAL He button.
Choose CAL He
34 REV 6
5. Press the SENSOR ACTIVE

LENGTH field.
Calibrate Helium Screen
NOTE The entered sensor active length must match the actual active
length of the connected LHe sensor for accurate results.
6. In the numeric pop-up keypad,

enter the sensor active length in
centimeters. Press ENTER when
finished.
Numeric Keypad
7. Touch in the CONTIN. MEA-

SURE TIME LIMIT field.
8. Using the pop-up numeric key-

pad, enter the maximum amount
of time that the sensor should
remain energized in the UPDAT-
ING mode before automatically
changing to the HOLDING
mode. This limit prevents inad- Calibrate Helium Screen
vertent sensor energization for
long periods of time which will
cause excessive liquid helium boil off. When the sensor is energized
(UPDATING) a timer is started and after the CONTIN. MEASURE TIME
LIMIT is reached, the sensor is de-energized (switches back to HOLDING
mode).
NOTE Setting the CONTIN. MEASURE TIME LIMIT to 0 (zero)

disables the timeout function and the sensor will remain
energized indefinitely until the operator proactively exits to
HOLDING mode.
REV 6 35
9. Set the SENSOR SAMPLE

INTERVAL to an appropriate
value. This value is used by the
HOLDING timer to determine
how often the sensor is sampled
and the display is updated. The
timer is started when the instru-
ment is powered up, when this
value is changed, or when enter-
ing the HOLDING (sampled) Setting the Sample Interval
mode.
NOTE Setting the SAMPLE INTERVAL to 0 (zero) disables the

sampling function and the sensor is energized at all times.
10. The SENSOR BURNOUT PRO-

TECTION LIMIT is typically set
at approximately 5%. This limit
specifies the amount of excess
sensed resistance that is allowed
before the Model 1700 engages
the burnout protection feature
(see the next section) primarily
intended to protect the sensor fil-
ament in a vacuum environment. Setting the Burnout Protection Limit
If you wish to allow a higher
excess resistance limit in a
warm, gas-filled cryostat, increase the value by 2% increments until the
burnout protection is disengaged.
11. Press HOME in the footer to return to the home screen.
SENSOR BURNOUT Operating the sensor in a

vacuum without contact with
PROTECTION liquid helium can cause thermal
damage and/or destruction of the
superconducting filament. The
Model 1700 is equipped with
circuitry that automatically
prevents this type of damage
from occurring (the sensor active Helium Level Sensor Protection Mode
length setting must be correctly
configured). If excessive sensor
resistance is detected, the Model 1700 display will indicate burnout
protection is in effect and the sensor current will be turned off for a
minimum of six seconds after which time the instrument will attempt to
resume normal operation. When the sensor resistance has returned to
within the expected range, normal operation will be restored. No relay or
alarm states are affected.
36 REV 6
If an attached sensor is installed

in a warm, gas-filled cryostat (not
in a vacuum), the sensor burnout
protection may activate as soon
as the Model 1700 is energized
and a liquid helium level
measurement is attempted. This
is normal until the cryostat and
sensor are cooled in the helium Helium Level Sensor Protection Mode
environment. However, you may in a Dual Display
adjust the SENSOR BURNOUT
PROTECTION LIMIT setting in the MENU > SENSORS > CAL He
screen (see page 36) to allow the sensing function to operate in the
warm, gas-filled cryostat if desired.
SAMPLED OR While viewing the home screen,

toggle between HOLDING
CONTINUOUS (sampled) and UPDATING
MEASUREMENTS (continuous measurement)
modes by pressing the button.
Helium Level Measurement Mode
OTHER LIQUID HELIUM In the MENU > SENSORS >

CAL He screen, the instrument
FUNCTIONS displays the LHe level sensor
voltage. If the voltage is shown in
light blue, it is the actual (real-
time) voltage as the instrument is
in UPDATING mode. If it is
displayed in gray, it is the voltage
measured the last time the Helium Sensor Voltage
sensor was energized
(HOLDING mode). To update the
reading, press the MEASURE SENSOR V/A button and the level
reading will be updated as will the measured sensor voltage and
excitation current.
NOTE Nominal LHe sensor excitation current is 75 mA for 4K sensors,

and 57 mA for 2K sensors.
REV 6 37
AMI expects the helium level sensor to be reasonably clean and free
from oil, water, ice, etc. for proper operation. However, it is recognized
that some experiments might result in some material being deposited on
the sensor wire. Ice formation at some point on the sensor is a typical
occurrence. Therefore, the Model 1700 has the capability of increasing
the current for a short period of time at the beginning of the
measurement cycle (in the HOLDING mode only) to try and drive the
resistive zone of the sensor wire past the dirty region. This is termed
DIRTY SENSOR MODE. This operation may or may not be successful
depending on the degree of sensor contamination. This mode should be
viewed as a stopgap measure only. If correct readings cannot be
reestablished, the only choice is to warm the sensor or remove for
cleaning or replacement.
NOTE Operation in the dirty sensor mode increases liquid helium losses.
Consequently, operation in this mode should not be used unless
the sensor is known or anticipated to become dirty or the helium
level measurement is in question due to unclean operation.
To enable the DIRTY SENSOR

MODE, Press the DISABLED
button until ENABLED appears
and press SAVE.
Press the home icon in the footer

to return to the home screen.
Dirty Sensor Mode
38 REV 6
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC. OPERATION : ALARMS AND RELAYS
ALARMS AND RELAYS
The Model 1700 Instrument has two types of alarms, level-based and
time-based alarms.
ALARM STATUS Prior revisions of the Model 1700 have attempted to indicate the alarm
conditions in the main screen footer region, including cycling through
SCREEN multiple alarm texts in the footer. This has been replaced by an Alarm
Status screen that summarizes all alarm states and provides a button for
muting.
Alarm Status Screen
The Alarm Status screen can be accessed at any time by tapping on the
ALARM text in the footer. All alarms are summarized in the Alarm Status
screen. If the Alarm Status screen shows the “ALARMING” button (as
illustrated above), then touching the button will mute the alarm(s). This
mute function will remain in effect until a new alarm is activated, or the
status of any active alarm changes. Shortcuts may also be provided on
the Alarm Status screen to enter the Level Alarms and Autofill
configuration screens.
LEVEL-BASED ALARMS The Model 1700 Instrument has two user-configurable level alarms.
Each alarm can be triggered by either level measurement (for dual level
configured instruments). Each alarm can be configured to be active
above or below a user-defined setpoint.
When an alarm condition occurs, an audible alert will sound and visual
indication will appear on the front panel.
Two relays can also be configured with independent setpoints to actuate

independently of the alarm states. These relays have Normally Open
(NO) contacts. The relays can be assigned to either the helium or
nitrogen channel and each relay can be configured to close when the
reading is either ≤ or ≥ the setpoint.
REV 6 39
As an example of this setup flexibility, a level channel can be configured

to have an alarm condition when the level is outside a normal operating
band, or in a dual level configuration, each channel can have a low level
alarm. The relay actions can be set to act identically, or configured for
other conditions, per the user-defined application.
TIME-BASED FILL The Model 1700 Instrument has an alarm to indicate that there is a
problem with the autofill function. If enabled, the instrument will start a
ALARM timer when an autofill condition is initiated, and if the level has not
reached the fill stop level within the user-set period of time, an Autofill
Timeout alarm will occur.
This alarm will cause three things to occur:
1. The de-energizing of the fill valve socket on the instrument rear panel,
2. An audible alarm will sound,
3. A TIMEOUT visual indication on

the Home screen (as shown at
right) or in the footer of the instru-
ment front panel.
The Autofill Timeout function can

be disabled by setting the Fill
Timeout interval to 0 minutes.
Fill Timeout Alarm Indicators
MULTIPLE ALARMS More than one alarm condition can occur at the same time. If that is the
case, the Alarm Status screen summarizes all the alarm states. Access
the Alarm Status screen by touching the ALARM text in the footer.
NOTE Prior versions of the instrument flashed a series of alarms in the

screen footer. This has been superseded by the Alarm Status
screen.
40 REV 6
CONFIGURING ALARM 1. From the MENU screen, select

OUTPUTS and the OUTPUT
SETPOINTS CONFIGURATION: ALARMS
screen will be displayed.
(If already in another OUTPUT

CONFIGURATION screen,
choose the ALARMS button.)
Output ALARMS Configuration Screen
2. If the instrument is configured to

display both nitrogen and helium,
toggle the Alarm Source fields to
choose the appropriate level
source. If the instrument is con-
figured for either nitrogen or
helium, the source will automati-
cally be assigned to the config-
ured level.
ALARMS Source Configuration
3. Set the levels at which the alarm

will be triggered in the Setpoint
fields highlighted in red in the
image at right.
NOTE Tapping the units symbol

(%, in, or cm) allows
selection of the available
unit selections for the ALARMS Setpoints
selected source liquid.
4. Use the ≤ or ≥ button to toggle

between the two states of alarm,
either alarm when the indicated
level is less than or equal to the
setpoint or alarm when the indi-
cated level is greater than or
equal to the alarm setpoint.
Alarm Condition Above or Below

Setpoints
ACKNOWLEDGING AN NOTE The alarms are not “latched” so if the alarm condition clears itself,
the instrument will remove the alarm condition.
ALARM
1. When an alarm is initiated, several things will occur:
REV 6 41
a. The ALARM text in the

footer will illuminate in
bold, red text.
b. An audible alarm will be

energized.
c. The Alarm Status screen,

accessible by touching
Alarm Annunciator
the ALARM text in the
footer, will display a
summary of all alarms.
MUTING AN ALARM To mute the audible alarm, first

touch the ALARM text in the
footer. The Alarm Status screen
will appear with the “ALARMING”
status shown. Tap the
“ALARMING” button to mute all
active alarms. A change in any
alarm state will also re-enable the
audible alarm for any remaining
active alarms. There is no Muted Alarm Condition
permanent mute.
CONFIGURING RELAY The relay outputs are available via the AUX I/O connector on the rear
panel of the instrument per the pinout provided on page 112.
SETPOINTS
1. From the MENU screen, select
OUTPUTS and then choose
RELAYS.
OUTPUT CONFIGURATION: RELAYS

Screen
42 REV 6
2. If the instrument is configured to

display both nitrogen and helium,
toggle the Relay Source fields to
choose the appropriate level
source. If the instrument is con-
figured for either nitrogen or
helium, the source will automati-
cally be assigned to the config-
ured level.
RELAYS Source Configuration
3. Set the levels at which the relay

will be closed in the Setpoint
fields.

unit selections for the
selected source liquid. RELAYS Setpoints
4. Use the ≤ or ≥ button to toggle

between the two states of actua-
tion. Either the relay will close
when the indicated level is less
than or equal to the setpoint, or
when the indicated level is
greater than or equal to the set-
point.
Relay Closed Above or Below Setpoints
REV 6 43
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC. OPERATION : CONFIGURE THE AUTOFILL FUNCTION
CONFIGURE THE AUTOFILL FUNCTION
There are several variables that must be addressed to set up an autofill

system. These include the level indication that will be used to control
autofill, the Fill Start level (A), the Fill Stop Level (B), and the Fill Timeout
interval.
SETTING THE AUTOFILL 1. From the MENU screen, choose OUTPUTS and then choose AUTOFILL.
PARAMETERS 2. Toggle the AutoFILL CON-

TROL button until NITROGEN
or HELIUM is displayed.
AUTOFILL Level Control Selection
3. Enter the Fill START and STOP

levels.
NOTE If the START value is set

to 0.0% the autofill
function will be
effectively disabled.
AUTOFILL Level Start Setting

unit selections for the
selected source liquid.
4. Enter the FILL TIMEOUT inter-

val. Refer to page 45 for a
description of the Autofill time-
out function.
NOTE If the FILL TIMEOUT

value is set to 0 minutes,
the timeout function is
disabled. AUTOFILL Timeout Setting
5. Press HOME in the footer to return back to the level display.
44 REV 6
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC. OPERATION : CONFIGURE THE AUTOFILL FUNCTION
ENABLE THE AUTOFILL The autofill function must first be enabled. After the autofill control loop
has been configured (the parameters in the prior section) the instrument
FUNCTION will enter the AUTO-OFF state.
To enable the autonomous autofill function:
1. Touch the AUTO-OFF text in the display footer until it reads AUTO-ON.
2. Touch SAVE to enable the autonomous autofill function.
The AUTOFILL function has four manually-selectable states by touching

the fill state indicator either in the HOME screen or in the footer when not
in the HOME screen:
AUTOFILL States
Function Operation Overrides
AUTO-ON Automatically maintains level Autofill will alarm and cease if fill
between fill START and STOP set- valve stays open for ≥ the
point (i.e. autonomous mode). FILL TIMEOUT setting .
M-OPEN Manual Open: Energizes the valve Any active ALARM with
control socket on the rear panel. >= setpoint defined for the fill liquid
will close valve.
M-CLOSED Manual Close: De-energizes the None

valve control socket on the rear
panel.
AUTO-OFF Disables the AUTOFILL function. None
CLEARING THE NOTE A Loss of Sensor error condition (see page 19) on the nitrogen
channel will also halt an active autofill in addition to the autofill
AUTOFILL TIMEOUT timeout feature.
ALARM
1. Touch the TIMEOUT text in the HOME screen or in the footer until AUTO-
ON is displayed.
2. Touch SAVE in the footer. This will restart the autonomous autofill function.
3. To clear the TIMEOUT without restarting the autofill function, choose the M-
CLOSED state and then choose SAVE in the footer.
REV 6 45
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC. OPERATION : SELECT THE APPROPRIATE UNITS ON THE DISPLAY
SELECT THE APPROPRIATE UNITS ON THE DISPLAY
Touch the units on the display to

change the units. The available
units are percent (%), inches
(in), and centimeters (cm).

(%, in, or cm) in a
configuration screen also
allows selection of the Dual Liquid Home Screen
available unit selections
for given liquid. The
units selection is then
used for all indication
and configuration values
for that liquid.
DAMPING CONFIGURATION
The level measurement function offers a damping feature which can be

used to dampen fluctuations in the nitrogen level reading that arise from
sloshing liquids or other surface disruptions.
To set the damping for the nitrogen measurement:
1. From the main screen, choose the following: MENU > SENSORS. Ensure
the nitrogen level measurement is enabled and displayed on the HOME
screen.
2. Touch the NITROGEN LEVEL

DAMPING button to enter the
damping configuration screen.
Choose Nitrogen Level Damping
46 REV 6
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC. OPERATION : ANALOG OUTPUT SIGNALS
3. In the LEVEL DAMPING screen,

enter the desired damping time
in seconds. The damping is a
first-order low-pass filter function
where the damping period is
equal to five times the filter time
constant (99% of final reading).
A damping period of 0.0 seconds

means the damping function is Damping Configuration
disabled.
NOTE If the damping period is set to a non-zero value, the damping

function will then be applied to the level measurement used for
all indication and control functions for the liquid nitrogen level.
This includes analog output and fill cycle functions.
ANALOG OUTPUT SIGNALS
Refer to page 112 of the Appendix for the AUX connector pin-out.
CONFIGURING THE 1. From the MENU screen, choose

OUTPUTS, then ANALOG OUT-
ANALOG OUTPUTS PUTS.
2. If necessary, choose the source

for the 0-10 VDC output and 4-
20 mA output.
3. Press the SAVE button to save

the choice (or CANCEL to quit ANALOG OUTPUTS Source Selection
without making a change).
4. Press HOME to go back to the home screen.
REV 6 47
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC. OPERATION : ETHERNET CONNECTIVITY
ETHERNET CONNECTIVITY
IP ADDRESSING 1. From the MENU screen, choose

NETWORK. The current settings
SCHEME will be displayed.
Network Configuration Screen
2. Touch the addressing scheme

button, to choose STATIC,
DYNAMIC, or DISABLED as
appropriate.
Editing the Networking Mode
3. If STATIC is chosen for the

addressing scheme, enter
ADDRESS, NETMASK, and
GATEWAY values that are
appropriate for the connected
network. Once an address field
is touched, the pop-up keyboard
will be presented for data entry.
Press SAVE when done.
Editing Static Network Parameters
4. Set the HOSTNAME field as
desired.
5. If the DYNAMIC addressing scheme is chosen, the IP ADDRESS, NET-

MASK, and GATEWAY addresses will automatically be assigned from a
network DHCP server. Press SAVE when done.
6. If changes are made, select the SAVE button and then the instrument will
reconfigure itself with the chosen network settings.
48 REV 6
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC. OPERATION : SERIAL CONNECTIVITY
SERIAL CONNECTIVITY
The serial (RS-232) connectivity can be customized per the following

instructions.
CONFIGURING THE 1. From the home screen, choose

MENU.
RS-232 SETTINGS
Menu Selection From Home Screen
2. From the MENU screen, choose

SYSTEM.
3. From the SYSTEM CONFIGU-

RATION screen choose RS232
SETUP.
SYSTEM CONFIGURATION Screen
REV 6 49
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC. OPERATION : ABNORMAL OPERATION
4. The RS-232 Configuration

screen shows the current func-
tion for the serial connection.
RS-232 SERIAL PORT CONFIGURATION

Screen
5. Choose the alternate function for
the serial connection if desired.

Screen
6. Choose to customize the port
behavior for character echo, line
ending, and baud rate.
7. If changes are made, select the

SAVE button in the footer.
Screen
ABNORMAL OPERATION
CAPACITANCE SENSOR To ensure proper instrument calibration and operation, care must be
taken to ensure the sensor is kept free of contaminants and not
CONTAMINATION subjected to any force which would physically distort the sensor. Water
or other electrically conducting substances in the sensor will disturb the
measured capacitance and the instrument’s response. Physically
distorting the sensor in any way will also cause abnormal instrument
operation by introducing variations in the sensor capacitance not due to
liquid level. The absolute calibration of the instrument can be inaccurate
if care is not taken to ensure the sensor is in the proper environment.
50 REV 6
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC. OPERATION : ABNORMAL OPERATION
Cold sensors exposed to humidified air can show erroneous high level
readings because the air contains moisture that can condense between
the cold sensing tubes. A minute film of water can cause a shorted or
partially shorted condition, which results in false level readings. As the
sensor warms, the moisture may evaporate and the sensor will again
read correctly. This is a physical phenomenon and does not indicate any
problem with your AMI level equipment. Limit or eliminate exposure of
cold sensors to humidified air to avoid this condition.
If a sensor should require cleaning and the sensor is for use with liquids
other than liquid oxygen, flushing with pure alcohol is recommended.
The sensor cannot be used again until all the alcohol has been
evaporated. Under no circumstances should the sensor be
disassembled.
For sensors to be used with liquid oxygen (LOX), although measures are
taken to minimize oils and greases during manufacture, no special
cleaning required for LOX service is provided by AMI. Certified LOX
cleaning is the responsibility of the customer.
DIRTY HELIUM SENSOR Refer to “Other Liquid Helium Functions” on page 37.
OPERATIONAL MODE
RESETTING THE 1. Press MENU, then SYSTEM,

then FACTORY RESET.
INSTRUMENT TO
FACTORY DEFAULTS
System Configuration Screen
2. Press RESTORE.
3. The instrument will be reset to

factory defaults.
Resetting Instrument to Factory

Defaults
REV 6 51
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC. OPERATION : SHUTTING THE INSTRUMENT DOWN
SHUTTING THE INSTRUMENT DOWN
NOTE The Model 1700 Instrument is a Linux-based computer system

and in order to ensure the file system is properly unmounted, the
SHUTDOWN function should be invoked. If it is not, i.e. the
instrument is shut down by removing power via the front panel
power switch, the next time the instrument boots up, it will have
to scan the memory system to ensure everything is in order.
1. The instrument should be shut

down by using the menu function
SHUTDOWN.
Invoking Instrument Shut Down
2. Choose SHUTDOWN again to

confirm.
3. When prompted, turn off the front

panel power switch.
Confirming Instrument Shutdown
52 REV 6
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC. CALIBRATION
CALIBRATION
Model 1700 instrument is calibrated at the factory for a specific length
sensor(s) for use in a specific liquid(s). The calibration length(s) and
calibration liquid(s) are listed on the calibration sticker on the bottom of
the instrument. For capacitance sensors, if the factory calibration
method utilized was approximate, the calibration length will be noted as
an approximate value.
SETTING THE SYSTEM DATE AND TIME

1. From the home screen, choose
MENU.
MENU Selection From Home Screen

SYSTEM.
REV 6 53
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC. CALIBRATION : SETTING THE SYSTEM DATE AND TIME
3. From the SYSTEM CONFIGU-

RATION screen, choose SET
TIME.
4. In the SYSTEM DATE/TIME

screen, choose to either set the
date and time manually, or set it
automatically from an NTP
server if the instrument has Inter-
net access.
SYSTEM DATE/TIME Screen
5. For the SET MANUALLY selec-

tion, edit the TIMEZONE, YEAR,
MONTH, DAY, HOUR, and MIN
fields as necessary. Touching in
a field will launch the keyboard
on the screen. Edit the informa-
tion in the field as necessary and
choose ENTER to enter the data
in the field and close the pop up
keyboard. SYSTEM DATE/TIME Manual Entry
NOTE The clock is set to GMT at the factory and is battery backed. The
TIMEZONE field must be set to a value from the TZ database.1 The
list of TIMEZONE values can be found at:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_tz_database_time_zones
The TIMEZONE entry must exactly match the entire field as listed
in the above URL in the TZ database name column and it is case
sensitive. An instrument reboot may be required for the
TIMEZONE to take effect. If the entered TIMEZONE supports
Daylight Savings Time (DST), then the local time will be
automatically adjusted to DST.
6. Choose SAVE in the footer after all the fields have been edited as neces-
sary.
1. The tz database is a collaborative compilation of information about the world's time zones,
primarily intended for use with computer programs and operating systems. The topic of
worldwide timezones is a complex issue so please refer to the on-line resource noted above.
54 REV 6
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC. CALIBRATION : CAPACITANCE-BASED LEVEL CALIBRATION
CAPACITANCE-BASED LEVEL CALIBRATION
UNDERSTANDING THE American Magnetics, Inc. fabricates the liquid level sensor with two vent
holes; a lower vent hole in the side wall near the bottom which is typically
SENSOR ACTIVE the minimum liquid level calibration point and the upper vent hole in the
LENGTH sensor side typically near the top of the sensor. The liquid level location
approximately 2.5 cm (1 in) below the upper vent hole is typically the
100% calibration point.
NOTE Without entry of the active length, the instrument will not be
able to read out in units other than percent.
&211(&725
The Model 1700
Instrument requires
6(1625 the user to enter the
6(5,$/180%(5 calibrated, or active
length, (physical
distance between the
MIN and MAX
calibration locations
on the sensor) in
order for the absolute
units function
1371</21 (inches, cm) to be
)(('7+528*+
727$/
27+(502817,1* displayed if desired.
237,216$9$,/$%/(
6(1625
/(1*7+
The user must enter
the sensor length in

centimeters. Use the
Active Length value
noted on the level
sensor
documentation or
6(1625
measure the distance
$&7,9( between the lower
6(1625
/(1*7+ vent hole on the
63(&,)< sensor and 1.0 inch
(2.5 cm) below the
upper vent hole on
the sensor as
illustrated at left.

Typical Capacitance-based Liquid Level Sensor
REV 6 55
RELATIONSHIP The capacitance-based method of measuring the liquid level operates by

measuring the period of a signal from an oscillator, which can be internal
BETWEEN CALIBRATION or contained in an external oscillator/transmitter unit. As the liquid level
AND SENSOR LENGTH varies, the value of the sensor capacitance varies proportionally. Since
the dielectric properties of liquids vary and the component tolerances for
the sensor and oscillator introduce variations, a calibration is required to
assure maximum accuracy for a specific sensor immersed in the target
liquid. The calibration MIN and MAX settings correspond to the minimum
and maximum oscillation periods, respectively, for a given sensor and
target liquid configuration.
The length setting of the instrument is only provided as a means of

scaling the 0% (minimum calibration) to 100% (maximum calibration)
range of the measurement to meaningful units of length. During the
calibration it is important to accurately measure the distance between
the physical locations on the sensor corresponding to the MAX and MIN
calibration points. The measured value for the length will be used in
configuring the instrument for operation.
VARIATIONS IN THE For cryogenic liquids, the dielectric of the liquid will change with a
change in density. The amount of change is dependent on the properties
DIELECTRIC WITH of the specific liquid. The figure below illustrates the variations in
CHANGING DENSITY dielectric for nitrogen vs. pressure under saturated conditions.1 Since
the instrument uses a capacitance-based method for determining liquid
level, such a change in the dielectric of the liquid will result in a shift in
the level reading of the instrument. The calibration procedures described
herein are most accurate when applied in situations where the operating
conditions of the cryo-vessel are relatively constant, i.e. the operating
pressure and temperature of the cryo-vessel are relatively constant.
To minimize the effects of shifts in the dielectric of the target liquid,

perform a closed dewar calibration (see page 65) at the expected
operating condition of the cryo-vessel. If this is not feasible, then
calibrate the sensor at atmospheric pressure and use the approximate
calibration method to compensate for the shift of the dielectric when the
cryogenic liquid is under pressure. For this type of approximate
calibration, the reference liquid will be the target liquid at atmospheric
pressure — see page 70 for a detailed discussion of the approximate
calibration method. If any questions exist in regard to calibration issues,
contact AMI for assistance in determining the optimal calibration
strategy.
NOTE All references to “dielectric constant” herein refer to the unitless

relative dielectric to ε0 (e0 is the dielectric constant of a vacuum).
1. Data obtained from NIST Standard Reference Database 12.
56 REV 6
Diel-1 (saturated liquid) Diel-1 (saturated vapor)

0.5
0.45
0.4
0.35
0.3
Diel - 1
0.25
0.2
0.15
0.1
0.05
0
0 50 100 150 200 250 300 350 400 450 500
Pressure (psi)
Dielectric vs. pressure for nitrogen under saturated conditions.
CAPACITANCE-BASED The most straightforward calibration method is the Open Dewar

Calibration which requires the customer to have access to a filled dewar
SENSOR CALIBRATION where the full active length of the sensor can be dipped. The Closed
METHODS Dewar Calibration method can be performed in situations where it is not
feasible for the customer to dip the sensor into an open dewar, such as
situations where the target liquid is under pressure. The closed dewar
calibration is more complex and may require initial preparations to insure
success and avoid saturation of the signal during the calibration.
Occasionally customers ask AMI to calibrate an instrument and sensor

for a liquid which is not available at AMI for calibration purposes and/or
for a sensor which is too long to be calibrated at our facilities.
For the case of the target liquid being unavailable, AMI uses liquid
nitrogen as the reference liquid and an Approximate Calibration is
performed using mathematical manipulation of the ratio of the dielectric
constants between liquid nitrogen and the desired liquid. This procedure
is outlined in the Approximate Calibration section beginning on page 70.
The technique is intended to provide the instrument with an approximate
calibration so that it can be used immediately by the customer. However,
the customer is still expected to perform a more accurate calibration
where feasible, such as the open dewar or closed dewar calibration, with
the target liquid.
REV 6 57
For the case where a sensor is too long to be calibrated in AMI facilities,
AMI will perform a partial length open dewar calibration in liquid nitrogen,
and then calculate the MAX calibration point. A dielectric ratio may also
be subsequently utilized to adjust for a target liquid other than liquid
nitrogen. The customer is expected to perform a more accurate open
dewar or closed dewar calibration if feasible.
SELECTION OF CAPACITANCE SENSOR CALIBRATION METHODS
As a quick guide for selection of the best calibration method available, a

calibration selection diagram is presented below.
START
Instrument & Verify calibration Is factory

Verify sensor
sensor purchased Y sticker on bottom of calibration Y
specifications
together? instrument correct?
N
N
Is factory
calibration
Approximate?
Can Open Y**
Dewar Calibration be
Y
performed in target
Can Open liquid?
Dewar Calibration be N
Y
performed in target
liquid?
N
Perform Open
Dewar Calibration
N
Can Closed
Dewar Calibration be
Y N
Can Closed performed in target
Dewar Calibration be liquid?
Y
performed in target
liquid?
Perform Closed
Dewar Calibration
N
Perform
Approximate
Calibration
Go to Operation
** Factory Approximate Calibration should only be used if

open dewar or closed dewar calibration is not feasible in
the target liquid at the customer's facility.
Calibration method selection diagram.
58 REV 6
If the instrument and sensor are purchased as a unit from AMI, then the
factory calibration, including sensor serial number and sensor physical
parameter information entered at the factory, will be adequate in most
cases. However, for the exceptions noted in the previous paragraphs
(which are approximate calibrations), the customer should perform a
more accurate open dewar or closed dewar calibration if at all possible.
A customer-performed calibration is also required for sensors that are
purchased as a separate item from the instrument, since the instrument
and sensor were not both available for calibration at AMI facilities.
Each Model 1700 Instrument must be calibrated with a sensor before

use. If the instrument was purchased with a sensor to be used in liquid
nitrogen, the instrument has been calibrated at the factory.
PRE-CALIBRATION ENTER CAPACITANCE SENSOR INFORMATION

PROCEDURE
The following recommended pre-calibration steps apply to all types of
calibrations.
1. Press the MENU button in the

lower left corner of the display
screen.
MENU Selection
2. Choose the SENSORS selec-

tion from the MENU screen.
3. If the capacitance sensor will

be longer than 15 feet from the
instrument, ensure an Oscilla-
tor/Transmitter is used between
the instrument and the sensor.
SENSORS Selection
REV 6 59
4. Verify that the oscillator source

selection is correct, either
INTERNAL or EXTERNAL.
Note that this setting is auto-
detected by the instrument at
power-up or reboot,
SENSOR CONFIGURATIONS Screen
5. Press the CAL N2 button
CAL N2 Selection
6. Touch in the SENSOR ACTIVE

LENGTH field and using the
numerical keypad, enter the
sensor active length in the
selected units. Press ENTER
and then SAVE at the bottom of
the screen when finished
NOTE Tapping the units SENSOR ACTIVE LENGTH field

symbol (in or cm) allows
selection of the
for that channel.
7. Press the back button in the

screen footer to revert back to
the SENSOR CONFIGURA-
TION(S) screen.
Footer BACK Button Selection
60 REV 6
8. Press the SENSOR NAME(S)

button.
SENSOR NAME(S) Selection
9. Touch in the NITROGEN SEN-

SOR NAME: field. The key-
board will be displayed. Edit the
displayed name and press
ENTER and then SAVE at the
bottom of the screen.
SENSOR NAME CONFIGURATION

Screen
10. Press HOME in the screen
footer to return to the level dis-
play screen.
HOME Selection
PERFORMING LOSS OF SENSOR CALIBRATION

The Model 1700 will detect when the liquid level sensor has been
disconnected from the instrument and display a notification on the front
panel. If the instrument has been configured for autofill, the fill valve will
be shut, requiring operator intervention to resume autofill operation. This
loss of sensor threshold must be calibrated as follows:
For a system where the internal oscillator is used, connect the coaxial
cable to the BNC connector on the instrument rear panel but leave the
cable disconnected from the sensor BNC connector. For a system where
an external oscillator is used, connect the coaxial cable between the
instrument and the oscillator/transmitter unit. Connect the second (6 ft)
coaxial cable to the input of the oscillator/transmitter unit but leave the
cable disconnected from the sensor BNC connector.
REV 6 61

screen.
MENU Selection

SENSORS Selection
3. From the SENSOR CONFIGU-

RATION(S) screen, choose
CAL N2.
CAL N2 Selection
4. Select the NO SENSOR CAL

button.
5. When the calibration proce-

dure is completed, choose
SAVE in the footer of the
screen.
6. Press HOME to return to the

home screen.
NO SENSOR CAL button
7. Connect the BNC cable to the
liquid level sensor.
62 REV 6
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC. CALIBRATION : OPEN DEWAR CALIBRATION
OPEN DEWAR CALIBRATION
The Open Dewar Calibration requires the customer to have access to a

filled dewar where the full active length of the sensor can be dipped.

screen.
MENU Selection

SENSORS Selection
CAL N2 Selection
4. Position the capacitance sen-

sor in the target liquid at the
100% level. Hold the sensor at
this location and press the
PERFORM MAX CAL button.
PERFORM MAX CAL Selection
REV 6 63
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC. CALIBRATION : OPEN DEWAR CALIBRATION
5. The instrument will display the

following screen as it takes
data. Once the calibration mea-
surement stabilizes, press the
SAVE button. The operator
must press the SAVE button for
the new cal point to be saved.
Updating MAX CAL Period

sor in the target liquid at the 0%
level. Hold the sensor at this
level and press the PERFORM
MIN CAL button.
7. While displaying “CALIBRAT-

ING...”, the instrument will dis-
play the MIN LEVEL PERIOD. PERFORM MIN CAL Selection
Press the SAVE button to save
the new minimum level calibra-
tion point.
NOTE Note that the periods listed to the right of the PERFORM MAX
CAL and PERFORM MIN CAL buttons are updated as well as
the date and time stamps of the calibration points.
NOTE The minimum and maximum calibration can be performed in

either order. Also, either the minimum or maximum calibration
point can be updated without altering the other calibration point.
64 REV 6
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC. CALIBRATION : CLOSED DEWAR CALIBRATION
CLOSED DEWAR CALIBRATION
A calibration can be performed in a closed dewar system by monitoring

the liquid level while transferring the target liquid to an initially empty (or
near empty) dewar at a constant rate. In order to insure success with the
closed dewar technique, it is necessary to prepare the instrument by
presetting the calibration minimum and maximum calibration points
outside the estimated level range. If the instrument is not prepared in this
manner before the calibration procedure, it is possible to reach the
maximum calibration point of the instrument before the target vessel is at
the desired maximum level point. If minimum and maximum liquid level
indication is available via some other means (e.g. flow calculation, visual
determination, point sensors, etc.), then the presetting of the instrument
is not necessary.
PRESETTING THE The following procedure should be performed before installation of the
sensor in the target cryo-vessel.
MAXIMUM AND
MINIMUM 1. Connect the sensor coaxial cable to the BNC connector on the rear panel of
the instrument (see page 13). Do not connect the sensor. Energize the
CALIBRATION POINTS instrument.

screen.
MENU Selection

SENSORS Selection
REV 6 65
CAL N2 Selection
5. Press the PERFORM MIN CAL

button.

play the MIN LEVEL PERIOD.
tion point.
PERFORM MIN CAL Selection
NOTE Note that the period

listed to the right of the PERFORM MIN CAL button is updated
as well as the date and time stamp of the calibration point.
7. Connect the sensor to the oscillator coaxial cable that is connected to the
instrument.
8. Perform the maximum level cal-

ibration by pressing PERFORM
MAX CAL.

play the MAX LEVEL PERIOD.
the new maximum level calibra-
tion point. PERFORM MAX CAL Selection
10. Calculate the factor Cadj using
the following equation:
2.1  L active   – 1
C adj = 1.20 1 + --------------------------- -------------
5.2  L total  0.454
where Ltotal is the total sensor length in inches, Lactive is the active sensor
length in inches, and ε is the dielectric constant of the target liquid.
66 REV 6
11. Enter Cadj into the instrument

by touching the APPROX MAX
CAL field.
12. Using the pop up numeric key-

pad, enter the Cadj value and
press the APPLY button.
13. With the sensor connected,

again press the PERFORM
MIN CAL button and SAVE the APPROX MAX CAL Entry
result. The presetting proce-
dure is complete. Proceed to
the remainder of the closed dewar calibration procedure as presented
below.
COMPLETING THE 1. Install the sensor in the dewar and energize the instrument with the sensor
connected to the instrument via the oscillator (if required) and extension
CLOSED DEWAR cable(s) (see the system diagram on page 2).
CALIBRATION
2. Connect a strip chart recorder or graphical data logging application to the
PROCEDURE recorder output terminals on the rear panel of the instrument. If the recorder
output is not available, the 4-20 mA current loop output may be used if
installed, or an installed communications option can be used to query the
instrument for the liquid level at regular time intervals during the calibration
procedure. If no remote monitoring or communication option is installed, the
level display must be manually plotted vs. time during the procedure.
3. Refer to “Analog output signals” on page 47. to configure the recorder out-
put or current loop output.
4. Commence filling the dewar. While the sensor is cooling down, there may be
a slow drift in the displayed liquid level. However, when the liquid actually
touches the bottom of the sensor, contact with the liquid surface may
become apparent by virtue of more random and frequent fluctuations in the
displayed liquid level. The liquid level trace will also start to show an increas-
ing profile with positive slope.
Once the indications of the contact between the sensor and liquid become
readily apparent, use the PERFORM MIN CAL procedure below to save the
new minimum calibration point. This point is the 0% level of the sensor when
the PERFORM MIN CAL procedure is finished and saved becomes the 0%
level.
NOTE If the sensor is installed in the dewar with some small amount of
liquid already in contact with the sensor, then the final minimum
calibration point can be set before filling begins but after any
thermally induced fluctuations in the observed output have
diminished. However, note that the measured span of the liquid
level is reduced by the initial level of liquid in contact with the
sensor.
REV 6 67
5. Press the PERFORM MIN CAL

button.

tion point.

listed to the right of the PERFORM MIN CAL button is updated
7. Continue the transfer while observing the liquid level trace on the strip chart
recorder or computer display, whose slope is proportional to the transfer
rate. The slope of the liquid level trace should decrease significantly when
the liquid reaches the hole in the top of the sensor.
When the break in the slope of the level trace occurs (i.e. the slope of the
level trace becomes 0 or horizontal), perform a PERFORM MAX CAL pro-
cedure below. The level on the sensor when the PERFORM MAX CAL pro-
cedure is finished and saved becomes the 100% level.
NOTE If the instrument displayed a 100% reading before a break is

observed in the slope of the level trace, then the maximum
calibration point set prior to the current procedure has interfered.
If this occurs, the customer has two options: 1) stop the
procedure, repeatedly multiply Cadj by 1.20 (see steps 4 and 5 of
the presetting procedure) and enter as the new APPROX MAX CAL
value until the current liquid level display falls below 100%, and
then continue the procedure; or 2) continue the liquid transfer
until the liquid level is determined to be 100% by means other
than feedback from the instrument and then performing the
maximum calibration procedure.
8. Perform the maximum level cal-

ibration by pressing PERFORM
MAX CAL.
68 REV 6

tion point.

listed to the right of the PERFORM MAX CAL button is updated
10. To achieve a standard calibration of the sensor with the active region
located from the lower hole to one inch below the upper hole, use the level
data from the instrument to recalibrate the maximum point when the percent
level corresponds to one inch below the upper hole. Use the following equa-
tion to determine the percent level at which to reset the maximum calibration
point:
1
MAX percent = 100 – 100 ---------------
L active
where Lactive is the active length of the sensor in inches. This technique can
be used assuming the sensor was built as a standard sensor. If the sensor
was made in a custom configuration, refer to the sensor documentation and/
or drawing or contact AMI.
Example: 20" active length sensor:
When the sensor is calibrated by the closed dewar procedure, the actual
length of calibration will be 21" (distance between the bottom and top holes
in the sensor). When the liquid is 1" below the upper hole, the display will
show 95.2% [e.g. 100% (1"/21" x 100%) ]. When the liquid level reaches
this point during usage, perform the PERFORM MAX CAL operation and
SAVE the result. The instrument and sensor are now calibrated with a stan-
dard active region of 20". The length setting of the sensor in the instrument
should also be configured for 50.8 cm (20").
REV 6 69
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC. CALIBRATION : APPROXIMATE CALIBRATION
APPROXIMATE CALIBRATION
This procedure is the least accurate form of calibration and should be

used only when the aforementioned calibration procedures are not
viable. The approximate calibration method can be used in cases where
the sensor cannot be dipped into the target liquid, the full active length of
the sensor cannot be dipped into an open dewar, or both. Approximate
calibration may also be useful for situations where the sensor cannot be
dipped into the target liquid under the expected operating pressure.
If the target liquid is not available for dipping, a substitute non-

conducting reference liquid can be used. If the full length of the sensor
cannot be dipped, then a partial length dip can be performed. If both
situations are encountered, then a partial length dip can be performed in
a substitute reference liquid.
screen.
MENU Selection

SENSORS Selection
CAL N2 Selection
70 REV 6

sor in the target liquid at the
100% level. Hold the sensor at
this location and perform the
maximum level calibration by
pressing PERFORM MAX
CAL.

tion point.

sor in the target liquid at the 0%
level. Hold the sensor at this
level and press the PERFORM
MIN CAL button.

tion point.
NOTE Note that the periods listed to the right of the PERFORM MAX
CAL and PERFORM MIN CAL buttons are updated as well as
the date and time stamps of the calibration points.
NOTE The minimum and maximum calibrations can be performed in

either order. Also, either the minimum or maximum calibration
point can be updated without altering the other calibration point.
8. Measure the distance between the bottom hole of the sensor and the loca-
tion of the liquid level dipped for max calibration. This measured length is
Ldipped.
9. The dielectric constant for the reference liquid, ε1, and the target liquid, ε2,
must be known to complete the approximate calibration. These values must
REV 6 71
be placed in the equation:

 2 – 1 L active
APPROX MAX CAL = ------------- ----------------
 1 – 1 L dipped
where Ldipped is the length of the sensor dipped in the reference liquid and
Lactive is the active sensor length.
NOTE If the target liquid is available for dipping (i.e. the reference liquid
and target liquid are the same), then the dielectric ratio, (ε2  1)/
(ε11), becomes 1. If the full active length of the sensor can be
dipped, then the length ratio, Lactive / Ldipped , becomes 1.
Note that ε1 = 1.454 for liquid nitrogen at -203°C at atmospheric

pressure. Dielectric constants for several liquids are provided in the
Appendix. The dielectric constant varies with temperature and
pressure, therefore for best accuracy use the dielectric constant for the
target liquid at the temperature and pressure maintained in the
containing vessel.
10. Touch the APPROX MAX CAL

field and using the numerical
keypad that pops up, enter the
value to be applied and press
SAVE in the footer.
APPROX MAX CAL Entry
NOTE The calibration values are retained in the instrument memory,

therefore it is possible to repeatedly adjust the APPROX MAX CAL
value without losing the original MIN/MAX calibration points.
Example: Purchased a 100" active length sensor for operation in liquid

argon at atmospheric pressure, however only liquid nitrogen is available
for calibration at a maximum depth of 30":
First, the sensor is dipped as far as possible into the liquid nitrogen and
cooled. The minimum point is then set as outlined in step 2. The
maximum point is set as outlined in step 3 while the sensor is
submerged 30" in liquid nitrogen. The dielectric constant for liquid
nitrogen is 1.454 and for liquid argon is 1.53. Substituting all values into
the approximate calibration factor equation yields:
1.53 – 1 100
APPROX MAX CAL = ---------------------- --------- = 3.891
1.454 – 1 30
72 REV 6
A value of 3.891 would be entered as the APPROX MAX CAL factor as

outlined in step 10 above. The sensor is now approximately calibrated
for 100" active length operation in liquid argon.
11. The sensor can now be installed in the dewar containing the target liquid.
The approximate calibration can be used until an open dewar or closed
dewar calibration can be performed with the target liquid.
Proceed to the Operation section for directions for configuring the

instrument.
REV 6 73
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC. CALIBRATION : SUPERCONDUCTIVITY-BASED (LIQUID HELIUM) LEVEL CALIBRATION
SUPERCONDUCTIVITY-BASED (LIQUID HELIUM) LEVEL

CALIBRATION
The instrument has been internally calibrated for use with AMI liquid
helium level sensors at the AMI facility. However, it is still necessary to
verify, and if necessary enter, the correct active length for the connected
sensor.
NOTE If the instrument was purchased with a helium level sensor, the
active length will be set at AMI prior to shipping.
VERIFY THE LIQUID 1. Press the MENU button in the

HELIUM SENSOR TYPE screen.
MENU Selection
2. Choose the SENSORS button

from the MENU screen.
SENSORS Selection
3. Verify that the HELIUM

SENSOR TYPE (either 4.2K or
2K is correct for the sensor to
be used with the instrument. If
not, contact the factory for
assistance.
SENSOR TYPE Selection
74 REV 6
SENSOR SAMPLE 1. Press the MENU button in the

INTERVAL screen.
MENU Selection
2. Choose the SENSORS button

from the MENU screen.
SENSORS Selection
3. Choose the CAL He button.
CAL He Selection
4. Press in the SENSOR SAM-

PLE INTERVAL field. A pop up
numeric keypad will be
launched.
5. Enter the desired sample inter-

val time in minutes and press
ENTER and then SAVE.
Enter the SENSOR SAMPLE INTERVAL
REV 6 75
SENSOR ACTIVE 1. Press in the SENSOR ACTIVE

LENGTH field. A pop up
LENGTH numeric keypad will be
launched.
2. Enter the SENSOR ACTIVE

LENGTH in the selected units
and press ENTER and then
SAVE.
Enter SENSOR ACTIVE LENGTH
NOTE Tapping the units
symbol (in or cm) allows
selection of the
for that channel.
CONTINUOUS The Continuous measure time limit feature sets a maximum time that the
instrument will keep the liquid helium level sensor energized. If the
MEASURE TIME LIMIT instrument is left in the CONTINUOUS mode for the CONTIN.
MEASURE TIME LIMIT interval, the instrument will revert back to the
sample and HOLDING mode to prevent excessive liquid helium boil off.
1. Press in the CONTIN. MEA-

SURE TIME LIMIT field. A pop
up numeric keypad will be
launched.
2. Enter the maximum time in min-

utes that the sensor should
remain energized in the contin-
uous mode. Entering a value of
zero disables the feature. Enter CONTIN. MEASURE TIME LIMIT
3. Press ENTER on the keypad
and then SAVE at the bottom of
the screen.
4. Press the HOME button in the

screen footer to return to the
home screen.
Footer HOME Button Selection
76 REV 6
SENSOR NAME 1. Press the MENU > SENSORS

> SENSOR NAME(S) buttons.
SENSOR NAME(S) Selection
2. Touch in the HELIUM SENSOR

NAME field. The keyboard will
be displayed. Edit the displayed
name and press ENTER and
then SAVE at the bottom of the
screen.
HELIUM SENSOR NAME Field
3. Press HOME in the screen

footer to return to the level dis-
play screen.
HOME Selection Button
REV 6 77
78 REV 6
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC. REMOTE INTERFACE REFERENCE
REMOTE INTERFACE
REFERENCE
The Model 1700 Instrument provides both serial (RS-232) and Ethernet
interfaces as standard features. The serial and Ethernet interfaces can
be operated simultaneously. Separate output buffers are provided for the
serial and Ethernet return data. The serial and Ethernet interfaces
accept SCPI syntax for commands and queries.
The Model 1700 provides a web browser connection (port 80) via TCP/
IP and presents a mirror of the local display which has hot spots that can
be clicked or tapped, and which also accepts keyboard entry for textual
and numerical input. The instrument’s IP address can be ascertained by
referring to the section titled “IP Addressing Scheme” on page 48. By
using a web browser to connect to the instrument, all functionality of the
Model 1700 can be controlled via the remote connection.
Communication with the Model 1700 via Ethernet or RS-232 (serial)

interface can also be accomplished via the interactive mode of a
commercially available terminal emulation program, or by socket (port
7180) or COM port programming. When the Model 1700 receives a
terminated ASCII string, it always sends back a reply as soon as the
string is processed. When sending commands to the Model 1700, you
should wait for the reply from the Model 1700 before sending another
command even if the reply consists of only termination characters.
SCPI COMMAND SUMMARY
The following manual conventions are used for SCPI (Standard

Commands for Programmable Instruments) syntax for the remote
interface commands:
• Braces { } enclose valid parameter choices.
• A vertical bar | separates multiple choices for each parameter.
REV 6 79
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC. REMOTE INTERFACE REFERENCE : SCPI COMMAND SUMMARY
• Triangle brackets < > indicate that you must supply a value.
• Parentheses ( ) within < > indicate alternative units are available.
• Capitalized portions of the commands indicate acceptable abbreviations.
For example, the command CONFigure:RELAY1:CHannel {0|1|2}

indicates that the command CONFigure:RELAY1:CHannel has three
parameter options: 0, 1, or 2, with 0 (disabled) being the default value.
The following section is a reference list of SCPI commands. Refer to the

detailed description of each command for information regarding specific
parameter choices and their meanings. Default settings are shown in
bold.
System-Related Commands
(see page 87 for more information)

*IDN?
*RST
*TST?
N2?
HE?
SERial_NUMber?
DATE_MANUfacture?
HardWare_VERsion?
FirmWare_VERsion?
Scpi_VERsion?
SYStem:BEEPer:IMMediate <seconds>
SYStem:BEEPer:STATe {0|1}
SYStem:BEEPer:STATe?
SYStem:KLOCK {0|1}
SYStem:KLOCK?
SYStem:DATE <yyyy>,<mm>,<dd>
SYStem:DATE?
SYStem:TIME <hh>,<mm>,<ss>
SYStem:TIME?
SYStem:REBOOT
IPV4addr?
80 REV 6
MACADDR?
GATEWAY?
HOSTname?
SCREENCAP
SYStem:LOcal
SYStem:REMote
Display Configuration Commands and Queries
DISPlay:N2?
CONFigure:NAME:SENSor:N2 "<string>"
NAME:SENSor:N2?
DISPlay:HE?
CONFigure:NAME:SENSor:HE "<string>"
NAME:SENSor:HE?
Relay Configuration Commands and Queries
CONFigure:RELay1:CHannel {0|1|2}
RELay1:CHannel?
CONFigure:RELay1:SETpoint <level>
RELay1:SETpoint?
CONFigure:RELay1:OPeration {0|1}
RELay1:OPeration?
CONFigure:RELay2:CHannel {0|1|2}
RELay2:CHannel?
CONFigure:RELay2:SETpoint <level>
RELay2:SETpoint?
CONFigure:RELay2:OPeration {0|1}
RELay2:OPeration?
{RELay1|RELay2}:STATus?
REV 6 81
Alarm Configuration Commands and Queries
CONFigure:ALArm1:CHannel {0|1|2}
ALArm1:CHannel?
CONFigure:ALArm1:SETpoint <level>
ALArm1:SETpoint?
CONFigure:ALArm1:OPeration {0|1}
ALArm1:OPeration?
CONFigure:ALArm2:CHannel {0|1|2}
ALArm2:CHannel?
CONFigure:ALArm2:SETpoint <level>
ALArm2:SETpoint?
CONFigure:ALArm2:OPeration {0|1}
ALArm2:OPeration?
{ALArm1|ALArm2}:STATus?
ALARm:MUTE {0|1} or {NO|YES}

ALARm:MUTE?
Measurement Commands and Queries
MEASure:N2:LEVel?
MEASure:N2:PERIod?
MEASure:HE:LEVel?
MEASure:HE:HOLD
MEASure:HE:CONTinuous
MEASure:HE:SAMPle
MEASure:HE:VOLTage?
MEASure:ADC0?
MEASure:ADC1?
MEASure:ADC2?
82 REV 6
Fill Control and Queries
CONFigure:FILL:CHannel {0|1|2}
FILL:CHannel?
CONFigure:FILL:A <level>
FILL:A?
CONFigure:FILL:B <level>
FILL:B?
CONFigure:INTerval:FILL <minutes>
INTerval:FILL?
HE Channel Sampling Commands and Queries
CONFigure:INTerval:SAMPle <minutes>
INTerval:SAMPle?
CONFigure:HE:TIME_limit <minutes>
HE:TIME_limit?
LOG_LHE {0|1}
LOG_LHE?
HElium_PowerSupply?
DIRTy_sen_mode?
Assignment Commands and Queries
CONFigure:SOURCE:REC_out {0|1|2}
SOURCE:REC_out?
CONFigure:SOURCE:CURrent_LOOP {0|1|2}
SOURCE:CURrent_LOOP?
REV 6 83
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC. REMOTE INTERFACE REFERENCE : RS-232 CONFIGURATION
N2 Channel Calibration Commands and Queries
CONFigure:N2:LENgth <value>
N2:LENgth?
MINCAL
MINCAL?
MAXCAL
MAXCAL?
NOSENSorCAL
NOSENSorCAL?
APPROXMAXCAL <value>
APPROXMAXCAL?
HE Channel Calibration Commands and Queries
CONFigure:HE:LENgth <value>
HE:LENgth?
Remote Units Commands and Queries
CONFigure:N2:UNIT {0|1|2} or {PERCENT|INCH|CM}

N2:UNIT?
CONFigure:HE:UNIT {0|1|2} or {PERCENT|INCH|CM}

HE:UNIT?
RS-232 CONFIGURATION
An RS-232 serial communication port is available as a 9-pin D-type

connector on the rear panel of the instrument for serial communication
function.
84 REV 6
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC. REMOTE INTERFACE REFERENCE : ETHERNET CONFIGURATION
The Model 1700 uses the following fixed parameters related to the RS-
232 interface:
• Parity: No Parity
• Data Bits: 8 Data Bits
• Number of Start Bits: 1 bit
• Number of Stop Bits: 1 bit
• Flow Control: None
The baud rate default is 115200, but is adjustable in the SYSTEM

CONFIGURATION > RS232 SETUP menu (see page 49).
SERIAL PORT A PC-compatible computer’s serial port can be directly connected to the
Model 1700 via a standard USB-to-serial cable. Refer to the computer’s
CONNECTOR AND documentation to determine which ports are available on a computer
CABLING and the required connector type.
The Model 1700 uses only three wires of the rear-panel DB9 connector:
pin 2 (transmit), pin 3 (receive), and pin 7 (common). There are no
software or hardware handshaking options. The Model 1700 is classified
as a DCE (Data Communication Equipment) device since it transmits
data on pin 3 and receives data on pin 2. The instrument to which the
Model 1700 is attached must do the opposite, i.e., transmit on pin 2 and
receive on pin 3 (the requirements for a DTE, or Data Terminal
Equipment device).
COMMAND/RETURN All commands are transmitted and received as ASCII values and are
case insensitive. The Model 1700 can be configured to return <CR> (i.e.
TERMINATION a carriage return) or <CR><LF> (i.e. a carriage return followed by a
CHARACTERS linefeed) at the end of a serial transmission (see page 49). The Model
1700 can accept <CR>, <LF>, <CR><LF>, or <LF><CR> as termination
characters from an external computer.
ETHERNET CONFIGURATION
The Model 1700 provides a 10/100Base-T Ethernet interface as a

standard feature. It complies with the IEEE 802.3u 100Base-TX and
802.3 10Base-T standards.
The Model 1700 allows its IP address, subnet mask and gateway IP
address to be assigned either statically or dynamically. To make these
values static and assign them manually, set IP Address Assignment to
Static (see page 48) and then set the values using the Edit parameter
REV 6 85
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC. REMOTE INTERFACE REFERENCE : ETHERNET CONFIGURATION
list. To enable the values to be dynamically assigned by a network

DHCP server, set IP Address Assignment to DHCP.
The system name (also known as host name or computer name), can be
set using the Network screen (see page 48) or via remote
communications (either Ethernet or RS-232).
All network parameters (even those assigned by a DHCP server) can be

viewed using the Network submenu (see page 48).
ETHERNET CONNECTOR The Model 1700 uses a standard RJ-45 jack for Ethernet
communications. The Ethernet jack pinout is fully documented on
page 110 in the Appendix.
TERMINATION All commands and queries are transmitted and received as ASCII values
and are case insensitive. The Model 1700 always transmits <CR><LF>
CHARACTERS (a carriage return followed by a linefeed) at the end of an Ethernet
transmission. The Model 430 can accept <CR>, <LF>, <CR><LF>, or
<LF><CR> as termination characters from an external computer.
PORT ASSIGNMENT The Model 1700 accepts remote connections to port 7180. Multiple
connections to port 7180 are allowed.
86 REV 6
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC. REMOTE INTERFACE REFERENCE : COMMAND REFERENCE
COMMAND REFERENCE
All commands sent to the Model 1700 are processed and the Model
1700 responds with a return value (if applicable) and termination. If the
command is invalid, the Model 1700 will respond with an error code (see
the Error Codes section). All return values including error codes are
terminated with <CR><LF> (i.e. a carriage return followed by a linefeed).
For those commands that do not return a value, the Model 1700 will
return the <CR><LF> termination only.
The remote units settings are saved in non-volatile memory and are
restored at power-up.
The Model 1700 instrument may be configured for reading liquid

nitrogen, liquid helium, or both. Some commands will not be applicable if
the instrument is not configured for certain level measurement.
SYSTEM RELATED • *IDN?
COMMANDS Returns the identification string of the Model 1700. The identification
string contains the manufacturer name, model number, serial number,
and firmware revision code. Example output:
AMERICAN MAGNETICS INC.,MODEL 1700,1700-16-002,2.4.32015
• *RST
Performs a Factory Restore if a restore file is available. All prior settings

are lost!
• *TST?
Returns a value incremented by “1” for each query to the requesting

interface if unit is functioning. Return value does not indicate any
operational status other than a functioning interface.
• N2?
Returns “0” if the instrument is not configured to read liquid nitrogen

level, “1” if it is with the internal oscillator, and a “2” if it is with an external
oscillator/transmitter.
• HE?
Returns “0” if the instrument is not configured to read liquid helium level,
“1” if the instrument is configured to read 4.2K liquid helium level for
sensors of active length ≤ 40 inches, “2” if the instrument is configured to
REV 6 87
read 4.2K liquid helium level for sensors of active length ≤ 80 inches, “3”
if the instrument is configured to read 2K liquid helium level for sensors
of active length ≤ 40 inches, or “4” if the instrument is configured to read
2K liquid helium level for sensors of active length ≤ 80 inches.
• SERial_NUMber?
Returns the serial number of the instrument as a string, for example:

1700-16-002.
• DATE_MANUfacture?
Returns the date of manufacture as a string in the form yyyy-mm-dd,

for example: 2016-11-30.
• HardWare_VERsion?
Returns the hardware version of the instrument.
• FirmWare_VERsion?
Returns the firmware version of the instrument, for example:

2.4.32015.
• Scpi_VERsion?
Returns the SCPI command version of the instrument.
• SYStem:BEEPer:IMMediate <seconds>
The receipt of this command with a valid argument causes an audible

tone to be generated by the instrument. The duration time parameter is
specified in seconds.
• SYStem:BEEPer:STATe {0|1}
Enables/disables the beeper. When STATe “0” (OFF) is selected, no

instrument condition, except the SYStem:BEEPer:IMMediate
command, shall cause an audible beep to be emitted. When the
instrument restarts, this value is reset to a default of “1” (ON).
• SYStem:BEEPer:STATe?
Returns present beeper state. A value of “0” indicates the beeper is

disabled. A value of “1” indicates it is enabled.
• SYStem:KLOCK {0|1}
This command locks the local controls of an instrument if set to a value

of “1” (ON). This includes all front panel, keyboard, or other local
88 REV 6
interfaces. The state of the lock defaults to “0” (OFF) when the
instrument is restarted.
• SYStem:KLOCK?
Returns the state of the instrument local controls lock. A return value of
“0” indicates the lock is OFF. A return value of “1” indicates the local
interfaces, such as the touch display, of the instrument are locked.
• SYStem:DATE <yyyy>,<mm>,<dd>
Sets the date per <yyyy> as a four-digit number; <mm> month with
range of 1 to 12 inclusive; <dd> day of the month. Do not include the <>
characters in the command.
• SYStem:DATE?
Returns the system date if the form <yyyy>,<mm>,<dd>.
• SYStem:TIME <hh>,<mm>,<ss>
This command is used to set the instrument’s clock:

<hh> Range of hours is 0 to 23 inclusive.
<mm> Range of minutes is 0 to 59 inclusive.
<ss> Range of seconds is 0 to 60.
Do not include the <> characters in the command.
• SYStem:TIME?
Returns the system time if the form <hh>,<mm>,<ss>.
• SYStem:REBOOT
Reboots the instrument.
• SYStem:RESTORE
Reboots the instrument and sets all parameters back to factory defaults.
All prior settings are lost!
• IPV4ADDR?
Returns the presently assigned TCP/IP version 4 address in the form:

xxx.xxx.xxx.xxx
• MACADDR?
Returns the MAC address of the network interface.
REV 6 89
• GATEWAY?
Returns the Gateway address of the network interface.
• HOSTname?
Returns the hostname of the network interface.
• SCREENCAP
Snaps a TGA-formatted (TARGA) image of the current local display

screen of the instrument and places it in the “Log files” folder of the
instrument’s network share.
• SYSTem:LOCal
Enables the front panel touchscreen. All front panels controls are
enabled by default after a power-up or REBOOT command.
• SYSTem:REMote
Disables front panel touchscreen.
DISPLAY • DISPLAY:N2?
CONFIGURATION Returns a “0” if the instrument is not configured to display liquid nitrogen
COMMANDS AND level on the home screen and a “1” if it is.
QUERIES
• CONFigure:NAME:SENSor:N2 "<string>"
Sets the displayed name of the nitrogen level sensor.
• NAME:SENSor:N2?
Returns the displayed name of the nitrogen level sensor.
• DISPLAY:HE?
Returns a “0” if the instrument is not configured to display liquid helium

level on the home screen and a “1” if it is.
• CONFigure:NAME:SENSor:HE "<string>"
Sets the displayed name of the helium level sensor.
• NAME:SENSor:HE?
Returns the displayed name of the helium level sensor.
90 REV 6
RELAY CONFIGURATION • CONFigure:RELay1:CHannel {0|1|2}
COMMANDS AND Assigns relay №1 as disabled (0), or to nitrogen (1) or helium (2).
QUERIES
• RELay1:CHannel?
Returns a “0” if relay №1 is disabled, a “1” if the relay is assigned to the

nitrogen channel, and a “2” if the relay is assigned to the helium channel.
• CONFigure:RELay1:SETpoint <level>
Configures the relay №1 trip setpoint in the currently assigned channel’s

units.
• RELay1:SETpoint?
Returns the relay №1 setpoint in the current units.
• CONFigure:RELay1:OPeration {0|1}
Configures relay №1 such that it closes when the level is ≤ the setpoint
(0) or ≥ the setpoint (1).
• RELay1:OPeration?
Returns a “0” if relay №1 closes when the level is ≤ the setpoint and a “1”
if the relay closes when the relay is ≥ the setpoint.
• CONFigure:RELay2:CHannel {0|1|2}
Assigns relay №2 to disabled (0), or to nitrogen (1) or helium (2).
• RELay2:CHannel?
Returns a “0” if relay №2 is disabled, a “1” if the relay is assigned to the

nitrogen channel, and a “2” if the relay is assigned to the helium channel.
• CONFigure:RELay2:SETpoint <level>
Configures the relay №2 trip setpoint in the currently assigned channel’s

units.
• RELay2:SETpoint?
Returns the Relay №2 setpoint in the current units.
• CONFigure:RELay2:OPeration {0|1}
Configures relay №2 such that it closes when the level is ≤ the setpoint
(0) or ≥ the setpoint (1)
REV 6 91
• RELay2:OPeration?
Returns a “0” if relay №2 closes when the level is ≤ the setpoint and a “1”
if the relay closes when the level is ≥ the setpoint.
• {RELay1|RELay2}:STATus?
Returns the present status of the specified relay. A return value of “0”
indicates the relay is not closed. A value of “1” indicates the relay is
closed.
ALARM • CONFigure:ALArm1:CHannel {0|1|2}
CONFIGURATION Assigns alarm №1 as disabled (0), or to nitrogen (1) or helium (2).

COMMANDS AND
QUERIES • ALArm1:CHannel?
Returns a “0” if alarm №1 is disabled, a “1” if the alarm is assigned to the

nitrogen channel, and a “2” if the alarm is assigned to the helium
channel.
• CONFigure:ALArm1:SETpoint <level>
Configures the alarm №1 trip setpoint in the currently assigned

channel’s units.
• ALArm1:SETpoint?
Returns the alarm №1 setpoint in the current units.
• CONFigure:ALArm1:OPeration {0|1}
Configures alarm №1 such that it alarms when the level is ≤ the setpoint
(0) or ≥ the setpoint (1).
• ALArm1:OPeration?
Returns a “0” if alarm №1 alarms when the level is ≤ the setpoint and a
“1” if it alarms when the level is ≥ the setpoint. Alarm №1 is considered
as the “legacy” HI level alarm when the alarm condition is set to level ≥ a
setpoint.
• CONFigure:ALArm2:CHannel {0|1|2}
Assigns alarm №2 to disabled (0), or to nitrogen (1) or helium (2).
92 REV 6
• ALArm2:CHannel?
Returns a “0” if alarm №2 is disabled, a “1” if the alarm is assigned to the

nitrogen channel, and a “2” if the alarm is assigned to the helium
channel.
• CONFigure:ALArm2:SETpoint <level>
Configures the alarm №2 trip setpoint in the currently assigned

channel’s units.
• ALArm2:SETpoint?
Returns the alarm №2 setpoint in the current units.
• CONFigure:ALArm2:OPeration {0|1}
Configures alarm №2 such that it alarms when the level is ≤ the setpoint
(0) or ≥ the setpoint (1)
• ALArm2:OPeration?
Returns a “0” if alarm №2 alarms when the level is ≤ the setpoint and a
“1” if it alarms when the level is ≥ the setpoint. Alarm №2 is considered
as the “legacy” LO level alarm when the alarm condition is set to level ≤
a setpoint.
• {ALArm1|ALArm2}:STATus?
Returns the present status of the specified alarm. A return value of “0”
indicates the alarm is inactive. A value of “1” indicates the alarm is
active.
• ALARm:MUTE {0|1} or {NO|YES}
Mutes the audible alarm for any active alarm(s) when set to “1” or “YES”.
Unmutes the audible alarm if set to “0” or “NO”.
• ALARm:MUTE?
Returns “0” if audible alarm is muted. Returns “1” if not muted.
MEASUREMENT • MEASure:N2:LEVel?
COMMANDS AND Returns the liquid nitrogen level in the current units.
QUERIES
• MEASure:N2:PERIod?
Returns the liquid nitrogen level measurement period in microseconds.
REV 6 93
• MEASure:HE:LEVel?
Returns the liquid helium level in the current units.
• MEASure:HE:HOLD
Changes liquid helium level measurement operation from Continuous to

Sample and Hold.
• MEASure:HE:CONTinuous
Changes liquid helium level measurement operation from Sample and

Hold to Continuous mode.
• MEASure:HE:SAMPle
Energizes the liquid helium level sensor, makes a reading and returns to
Sample and Hold mode.
• MEASure:HE:VOLTage?
Returns the last measured liquid helium level sensor voltage in volts.
• MEASure:ADC0?
Returns the last measured liquid helium level sensor voltage in volts.
• MEASure:ADC1?
Returns the liquid helium sensor power supply voltage in volts.
• MEASure:ADC2?
Returns the liquid helium sensor excitation current in milliamperes.
FILL CONTROL AND • CONFigure:FILL:CHannel {0|1|2}
QUERIES Assigns the auto fill control relay to either no channel (disabled) (0),
nitrogen (1), or helium (2).
• FILL:CHannel?
Returns a “0” if the auto fill relay is disabled, a “1” if the relay is assigned
to the nitrogen channel, and a “2” if the relay is assigned to the helium
channel.
94 REV 6
• CONFigure:FILL:A <level>
Sets the A setpoint (control band upper limit) in the assigned channel’s
current units. The A setpoint (autofill stop) must be greater than the B
setpoint (fill start) and must also be between 0% and 100%.
• FILL:A?
Returns the A setpoint (control band upper limit) in the assigned

channel’s current units.
• CONFigure:FILL:B <level>
Sets the B setpoint (control band lower limit) in the assigned channel’s
current units. The B setpoint (autofill start) must be less than the A
setpoint (fill stop) and must also be between 0% and 100%.
• FILL:B?
Returns the B setpoint (control band lower limit) in the assigned

channel’s current units.
• CONFigure:INTerval:FILL <minutes>
Sets the fill timer in minutes. If the level does not reach or exceed the A
setpoint within the fill time, the fill is terminated. Setting the value of FILL
to “0” disables the fill timer function.
• INTerval:FILL?
Returns the fill timer setting in minutes.
HE CHANNEL • CONFigure:INTerval:SAMPle <minutes>
SAMPLING Sets the liquid helium sampling interval in minutes.

COMMANDS AND
QUERIES • INTerval:SAMPle?
Returns the sampling interval in minutes if the instrument is configured

with a helium channel.
• CONFigure:HE:TIME_limit <minutes>
Sets the continuous measurement time limit for liquid helium

measurements in minutes, after which time the instrument will return to
sampling mode.
REV 6 95
• HE:TIME_limit?
Returns the continuous measurement time limit in minutes.
• LOG_LHE {0|1}
Enables (1) or disables (0) liquid helium level logging.
• LOG_LHE?
Returns “0” if the liquid helium level logging is disabled, or “1” if enabled.
• HElium_PowerSupply?
Returns the helium power supply configuration of the instrument where

“0” is not installed, “1” is standard, and “2” is XL version.
• DIRTy_sen_mode?
Returns a “0” if the instrument’s dirty sensor mode is disabled for the
helium channel and a “1” if it is enabled.
ASSIGNMENT • CONFigure:SOURCE:REC_out {0|1|2}
COMMANDS AND Configures the 0-10 VDC Recorder Output source to disabled (0),
QUERIES assigned to the nitrogen channel (1), or the helium channel (2).
• SOURCE:REC_out?
Returns a “0” if the 0-10 VDC Recorder Output is disabled, a “1” if it is

configured for the nitrogen channel, and a “2” if it is configured for the
helium channel.
• CONFigure:SOURCE:CURrent_LOOP {0|1|2}
Configures the 4-20 mA Current Loop output source to disabled (0),

assigned to the nitrogen channel (1), or the helium channel (2).
• SOURCE:CURrent_LOOP?
Returns a “0” if the 4-20 mA Current Loop output is disabled, a “1” if it is

configured for the nitrogen channel, and a “2” if it is configured for the
helium channel.
96 REV 6
N2 CHANNEL • CONFigure:N2:LENgth <value>
CALIBRATION Configures the liquid nitrogen sensor active length in current units.
COMMANDS AND Returns an error code if the current units are percent.
QUERIES
• N2:LENgth?
Returns the configured active length of the liquid nitrogen sensor in

current units. Returns an error code if the current units are percent.
• MINCAL
Performs and saves a MIN calibration point calibration for the liquid
nitrogen sensor.
• MINCAL?
Returns the last saved MIN calibration point in microseconds for the
liquid nitrogen sensor.
• MAXCAL
Performs and saves a MAX calibration point calibration for the liquid
nitrogen sensor.
• MAXCAL?
Returns the last saved MAX calibration point in microseconds for the
liquid nitrogen sensor.
• NOSENSorCAL
Calibrates and saves the LOSS OF SENSOR condition for the liquid
nitrogen sensor.
• NOSENSorCAL?
Returns the last saved LOSS OF SENSOR calibration point in

microseconds for the liquid nitrogen sensor.
• APPROXMAXCAL <value>
Sets the Approx Cal (Max) Multiplier factor (see page 70) to a decimal
value. The value is nominally 1.000 for no modification to the MAX
calibration point.
• APPROXMAXCAL?
Returns the Approx Cal (Max) Multiplier factor (see page 70) as a
decimal value.
REV 6 97
HE CHANNEL • CONFigure:HE:LENgth <value>
CALIBRATION Configures the liquid helium sensor active length in current units.
COMMANDS AND Returns an error if the current units are percent.
QUERIES
• HE:LENgth?
Returns the configured active length of the liquid helium sensor in

current units. Returns an error code if the current units are percent.
REMOTE UNITS • CONFigure:N2:UNIT {0|1|2} or {PERCENT|INCH|CM}
COMMANDS AND Sets the liquid nitrogen level units of measurement to percent (0 or
QUERIES PERCENT), inches (1 or INCH), or centimeters (2 or CM). The default is
PERCENT units.
• N2:UNIT?
Returns the current liquid helium level units in use as either C, I, or

%.
• CONFigure:HE:UNIT {0|1|2} or {PERCENT|INCH|CM}
Sets the liquid helium level units of measurement to percent (0 or

PERCENT), inches (1 or INCH), or centimeters (2 or CM). The default is
PERCENT units.
• HE:UNIT?
Returns the current liquid helium level units in use as either C, I, or

%.
98 REV 6
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC. REMOTE INTERFACE REFERENCE : ERROR CODES
ERROR CODES
The Model 1700 returns specific error codes for invalid commands and/
or arguments. If an error condition is returned, the command is not
processed and the configuration of the instrument is not modified. The
table below provides a list of error codes, their meaning, and any
associated limits.
Error
Code Meaning Valid Range
-1 LO (or relay №2a) setpoint out of range 0  LO (or relay №2a)  LENGTH
-2 Fill B setpoint (fill start) out of range 0B<A
-3 Fill A setpoint (fill stop) out of range B < A  LENGTH
-4 HI (or relay №1a) setpoint out of range 0  HI (or relay №1a)  LENGTH
Attempted to set or query for LENGTH in PERCENT units

-5
mode
1 cm  value  650 cm (LN2)

-6 Invalid argument, value out of maximum calibration range
0  value  213.36 cm (HE)
0  INTERVAL  999 minb (or)

-7 INTERVAL setting out of range
0  INTERVAL  99999 minc
-8 Unrecognized command
-9 Invalid argument, value was negative or non-numeric
-10 Approximate calibration factor out of range 0.1  factor  999.9
-11 Command exceeds SCPI input buffer limit 256 characters, including spaces, etc.
Command invalid for selected channel or interface in present

-12
configuration
a. Applies to dual instrument configuration
b. For Version HW = 4712
c. For Version HW = 4900
REV 6 99
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC. REMOTE INTERFACE REFERENCE : ERROR CODES
100 REV 6
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC. SERVICE AND REPAIR
SERVICE AND REPAIR
CLEANING
To prevent electrical shock, disconnect the instrument from AC mains

power and disconnect all connected wiring before cleaning. Clean the
outside of the instrument using a soft, lint-free, cloth slightly dampened
with water.
Do not use detergent or solvents.
Do not attempt internal cleaning.
USER REPLACEABLE PARTS
Replacement parts for the instrument are listed in the table below.
AMI Part Number Description

HG0128 Instrument foot
SA 1045 Single Rack Mount Kit
SA 1046 Dual Rack Mount Kit
EF1700 Fuse, 3 A, 250 Vac, 5x20 mm, fast acting, UL/CSA recognized.
HG0005 Battery, 3V lithium, 20mm x 3.2 mm coin cell; CR2032.
REV 6 101
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC. SERVICE AND REPAIR : BATTERY REPLACEMENT
BATTERY REPLACEMENT
This section describes the procedure for replacing the battery on the
instrument's main circuit board.
WARNING This procedure should only be performed by a technician

who is familiar with electronic instrumentation and trained
in electrical safety and ESD precautions. Always disconnect
the power cord and any external wiring before removing
the instrument cover.
Always disconnect all inputs, cords, and cables before disassembling

the instrument.
LOW BATTERY Battery status is displayed in the SYSTEM DATE & TIME dialog. To
access the dialog:
INDICATION
MENU.

SYSTEM.
102 REV 6
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC. SERVICE AND REPAIR : BATTERY REPLACEMENT
3. From the SYSTEM

CONFIGURATION screen
choose SET TIME.
4. The battery status is displayed in

the SYSTEM DATE & TIME
screen. If the battery is weak and
should be replaced soon, the
message will appear as shown
at right.
Weak Battery Indication
5. If the battery is expired, the

message will appear as shown
at right.
NOTE The NOTIFY button state

will cause a warning
message to appear in the
the HOME screen footer.
NO NOTIFY supresses the Expired Battery Indication
HOME screen warning.
The following sections detail how to replace the battery.
TOOLS REQUIRED • Torx Plus (T.M.) size 10 driver (Wera 028034 or equivalent)
• Torx Plus (T.M.) size 15 driver (Wera 028035 or equivalent)
• Small, flat-blade screw driver (for prying)
PROCEDURE 1. Unplug the instrument from the AC power source.
2. Using the T-15 driver, remove the four 8-32 machine screws on the sides of
the instrument cover. Set these screws aside as they will be re-used.
3. Using the T-10 driver, remove the four 6-32 machine screws on the rear of
4. Lift the instrument cover off of the instrument chassis and set aside.
REV 6 103
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC. SERVICE AND REPAIR : FUSE REPLACEMENT
5. Using the small, flat-blade screwdriver, carefully pry the battery from the
holder BH1.
6. Install the new battery into the battery holder BH1.
7. Replace the top cover and secure using the eight machine screws which
were removed previously.
FUSE REPLACEMENT
This section describes the procedure for replacing the two fuses on the
instrument's main circuit board.
WARNING This procedure should only be performed by a technician

who is familiar with electronic instrumentation and trained
in electrical safety and ESD precautions. Always disconnect
the power cord and any external wiring before removing
the instrument cover.
Always disconnect all inputs, cords, and cables before disassembling

the instrument.
TOOLS REQUIRED • Torx Plus (T.M.) size 10 driver (Wera 028034 or equivalent)
• Torx Plus (T.M.) size 15 driver (Wera 028035 or equivalent)
• Small, flat-blade screw driver (for prying)
PROCEDURE 1. Unplug the instrument from the AC power source.
2. Using the T-15 driver, remove the four 8-32 machine screws on the sides of
3. Using the T-10 driver, remove the four 6-32 machine screws on the rear of
4. Lift the instrument cover off of the instrument chassis and set aside.
5. Using the small, flat-blade screwdriver, carefully pry the fuse(s) from the
fuse holders F1 and/or F2.
6. Install the new fuse(s) into the fuse holder(s) F1 and/or F2.
7. Replace the top cover and secure using the eight machine screws which
were removed previously.
104 REV 6
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC. SERVICE AND REPAIR : FIRMWARE UPGRADE VIA ETHERNET
FIRMWARE UPGRADE VIA ETHERNET
The following procedure can be utilized by users to upgrade the Model

1700 by downloading firmware upgrade archives (.tar.gz) from the AMI
support website.
1. Connect the instrument to a computer network via Ethernet cable and ener-
gize the instrument.
2. When the instrument has

completed booting, note the IP
Address: MENU > NETWORK >
Address. There should be a
message in green on the screen
indicating "Network is up".
3. Determine the currently installed version of firmware. From the home page,
press MENU > SYSTEM > FW Version.
4. Download the available new version of firmware and place on a PC on the

same network as the instrument.
NOTE The following steps assume the computer is Windows-based.
5. Start Windows Explorer and enter the instrument's IP address noted from
Step 2 above in the address field. Be sure to use the format such as
\\192.168.1.101. Ensure the Explorer screen looks similar to the
following.
REV 6 105
6. Open a second Windows Explorer and locate the previously downloaded

firmware file:
7. Drag the firmware file to the instrument's Application Update folder in the
first Explorer screen.
8. Install the new firmware by pressing MENU > SYSTEM > UPDATE on the
instrument and choose the name of the firmware file copied to the
instrument. It is likely the top choice of the files listed.
9. Press INSTALL on the instrument when prompted.
10. The instrument will install the new firmware and reboot when completed.
UPGRADE VIA SCP If the instrument’s file shares are not visible on the local network, it is
possible to copy the firmware upgrade directly to the instrument using
the root login and password using SCP (Secure Copy) over Ethernet.
1. Connect the instrument to the local computer network via Ethernet cable
and energize the instrument.
2. When the instrument has

completed booting, note the IP
Address: MENU > NETWORK >
Address. There should be a
message in green on the screen
indicating "Network is up".
3. Determine the currently installed version of firmware. From the home page,
press MENU > SYSTEM > FW Version.
4. Download the available new version of firmware and place on a Windows,

Linux, or Mac computer on the same network as the instrument.
106 REV 6
5. Open a command line application and set the current directory to the folder
where the newly download firmware from the prior step resides.
6. Enter the following command where the example IP address of

192.168.1.101 is replaced by the IP of the instrument noted in step 2
above, and the example firmware file of Ver-2.22719.15.tar.gz is
replaced by the actual file downloaded from AMI:
scp ./Ver-2.220719.15.tar.gz root@192.168.1.101:/update
Note that you will prompted to enter the root account password to complete
the file transfer. If you do not know the password, contact an Authorized AMI
Technical Support Representative for assistance.
7. Install the new firmware by pressing MENU > SYSTEM > UPDATE on the
instrument and choose the name of the firmware file copied to the
instrument via SCP. It is likely the top choice of the files listed.
8. Press INSTALL on the instrument when prompted.
The instrument will install the new firmware and reboot when completed.
REV 6 107
108 REV 6
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC. APPENDIX
APPENDIX
SERIAL (RS-232) CONNECTOR
Serial (RS-232) Pin Out
The RS-232 connector is a 9-pin D-sub female connector to connect

standard DTE 9-pin D-sub male connector using a standard straight (not
NULL) cable.
Serial (RS-232) Pin Definitions
Pin Mnemonic Function
1 N/C
2 TXD Transmit Data
3 RXD Receive Data

4 N/C
5 GND Signal Ground
6 N/C
7 N/C
8 N/C
9 N/C
REV 6 109
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC. APPENDIX : ETHERNET CONNECTOR
ETHERNET CONNECTOR
Pin 1
Ethernet Connector Socket Pin out
Ethernet RJ-45 Connector Pin Definitions
Pin Mnemonic Function
1 TXD+ Transmit differential output +

2 TXD- Transmit differential output -
3 RXD+ Transmit differential input +
4
not used
5
6 RXD Transmit differential input -

7
not used
8
110 REV 6
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC. APPENDIX : LIQUID HELIUM CONNECTOR J1 WIRING
LIQUID HELIUM CONNECTOR J1 WIRING
The LHe connector is a 9-pin D-sub female connector.
5
1
9
6
Liquid Helium (LHe) Level Sensor Connector
LHe Level Connector Pin Definitions
Pin Function AMI Standard Wiring Color
1 Sensor I+ Red
2 +48 VDC P/S Test Point
4 -12 VDC P/S Test Point

5 P/S Test Points Common
6 Sensor V- Yellow
7 Sensor I- Black
8 Sensor V+ Blue
REV 6 111
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC. APPENDIX : AUX I/O CONNECTOR
AUX I/O CONNECTOR
Aux I/O Connector
The AUX I/O connector is a 9-pin D-sub female connector.
Aux I/O Pin Definitions
Pin Function Polarity
1 
4-20 mA Current Loop
2 
3 
0-10 VDC Output
4 
5
Relay № 1 Dry Contact N/A
6
7
Relay № 2 Dry Contact N/A
8
9 N/A
NOTE If the Model 1700 is being used to replace a Model 13x

instrument, a M-M 9-pin gender changer will be necessary to
change the female AUX I/O connector on the Model 1700 to a
male type.
112 REV 6
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC. APPENDIX : DIELECTRIC CONSTANTS FOR CRYOGENIC LIQUIDS
DIELECTRIC CONSTANTS FOR CRYOGENIC LIQUIDS
Common Cryogenic Liquid Dielectric Constantsa
Liquid Dielectric Constant
Argon (Ar) 1.5034
Carbon Dioxide (CO2) 2.5911
Hydrogen (H2) 1.2307
Methane (CH4) 1.6257
Nitrogen (N2) 1.4327
Propane (C3H8) 1.8029
Oxygen (O2) 1.4872
a. NIST RefProp version 9.1
REV 6 113
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC. APPENDIX : TROUBLESHOOTING
TROUBLESHOOTING
The following paragraphs serve as an aid to assist the user in

troubleshooting a potential problem with the Model 1700 Instrument If
the user is not comfortable in troubleshooting the system, contact an
AMI Technical Support.
If the cause of the problem cannot be located, contact an AMI Technical

Support Representative at +1 (865) 482-1056 for assistance. The AMI
technical support group may also be reached by internet e-mail at:
support@americanmagnetics.com
INSTRUMENT DISPLAYS “LOSS OF SENSOR” CONDITION FOR LN2 LEVEL MEASUREMENT

This message indicates one of two things: the signal from the external
oscillator/transmitter has been lost (disconnection) or the capacitance
measured by the instrument is significantly less than the minimum
capacitance expected during level measurement1. Ensue the instrument
has been calibrated (especially “Performing Loss of Sensor Calibration”
on page 61) and is properly connected via coaxial cable(s) to the BNC
connector on the back of the instrument.
INSTRUMENT DISPLAYS “LOSS OF SENSOR” CONDITION FOR LHE LEVEL MEASUREMENT

This message indicates that the instrument cannot get sensor excitation
current to flow in the sensor circuit2. Check that the sensor is wired
correctly and that the sensor is connected to the proper connector on the
back of the instrument. When the wiring is corrected, place the
instrument in MEASURE CONTINUALLY mode and the Loss of Sensor
condition should be cleared at which time the instrument can be placed
back in SAMPLE & HOLD mode if desired.
INSTRUMENT DISPLAYS “SENSOR SHORTED” CONDITION FOR LN2 LEVEL MEASUREMENT

This message indicates that the sensor oscillator circuit has ceased
oscillating. This is usually caused by a contaminated level sensor where
a conductive substance (usually water) is shorting out the sensor tubes.3
Dry or clean out the sensor and this condition is usually removed. Note
1. The threshold is the midpoint between the MINimum CALibration and the NO SENSOR CALi-
bration.
2. The threshold is approximately 1 mA.
3. The threshold is approximately 200 kohms with a sensor capacitance of 2 nF.
114 REV 6
that the sensor resistance measured across the BNC connector should
be >107 ohms.1
INSTRUMENT DISPLAYS “SENSOR PROTECTED” CONDITION FOR LHE MEASUREMENT

This message indicates that the LHe level sensor circuit is of a higher
impedance than expected for the selected active sensor length.2 The
protection means that the normal sensor excitation has been stopped
and the sensor is intermittently pulsing the current to see if the
resistance is back in the expected range. This condition is usually seen
when the instrument is set for an active length greater than the level
sensor connected to the instrument. See “Sensor Active Length” on
page 76. This condition will also occur if a LHe level sensor is energized
in a vacuum since the level sensor’s sensing element will heat up to an
abnormally high temperature and with its positive temperature
coefficient, present a larger than expected resistance to the instrument.
SYSTEM TEST SCREENS The instrument provides various system test functions that can be
performed from the front panel touchscreen. The system test functions
are not available to the web browser interface nor the SCPI remote
interface over serial or Ethernet connections. To access the test
functions:

MENU.
1. Any resistance between the sensor elements will cause the instrument to read higher than
actual level.
2. The threshold is 5% greater resistance than the SENSOR ACTIVE LENGTH resistance.
REV 6 115

SYSTEM.
3. From the SYSTEM

CONFIGURATION screen
choose SYSTEM TEST.
4. In the SYSTEM TEST screen,

several selections are available
to test the touchscreen colors.
Pressing a pixel test button will
cause the screen to show a
scrolling test pattern. When
touched again, the display will
then return to normal.
SYSTEM TEST Pixel Tests
5. To calibrate or test the touch

function of the screen, use the
TOUCH SCREEN CALIBRATE
or TOUCH SCREEN TEST
selections in the SYSTEM TEST
screen.
The calibrate function will display

a screen with touch targets.
Touch all the targets as they are SYSTEM TEST Touch Cal/Test
displayed to complete the
calibration. The instrument will
then automatically store the new
touch calibration.
116 REV 6
6. The HARDWARE CONTROL

selection in the SYSTEM TEST
screen allows the user to
observe in real time and/or
manually test various functions
of the instrument hardware.
Press the HARDWARE
CONTROL button to move to the
detailed test screen.
Hardware Test Selection
7. The HARDWARE CONTROL

screen includes several controls
to manually exercise the
hardware. However, to do so the
operator must press the Control
button to toggle it from AUTO to
MANUAL mode.
8. Once in MANUAL mode, the

user can touch any of the Hardware Control Screen
buttons to toggle the state of the
hardware. The Analog Outputs
button is, however, not a toggle but will move the operator to the ANALOG
OUTPUTS TEST screen.
NOTE In the AUTO mode, the Test screen displays the real time
measurement or state of each labeled function.
NOTE When changing to MANUAL test mode, please be aware that the
automatic functions of the instrument will be overridden.
Functions such as autofill will be interrupted, or a fill initiated, by
the manual actions. Be sure the system is in a safe condition
before exercising manual control.
9. The ANALOG OUTPUTS TEST

screen requires the operator
press the Control button to
toggle from AUTO to the
MANUAL mode to exercise
control over the output values.
The output values range from 0
to 4095 where 0 is the minimum
output value and 4095 is the
maximum output value. Tap a Analog Outputs Tests Screen
value to enter a manual override.
REV 6 117
NOTE The hardware control state will return to AUTO after a few
seconds if the operator does not explicitly return to automatic
control. However, the state of the hardware or autofill functions
are not guaranteed to be the same as when the MANUAL control
state was entered.
10. Finally, the CURSOR ON/OFF

button in the SYSTEM TEST
screen allows the operator to
turn the cursor off and on. The
cursor display can be useful for
verifying the touchscreen
response if it appears to function
incorrectly.
11. Use the HOME button to return CURSOR Display Selection

to the main level display.
SYSTEM LOGS The Model 1700 provides a logging feature that saves detailed
information regarding the liquid level and system events. The information
can be very useful in troubleshooting suspected system errors.
The Model 17XX family of liquid level instruments keeps log files in a
local Ethernet network accessible folder via Samba file shares. The log
folder is labeled “Log files” and can found on a network by opening a
file explorer at the instrument IP address or hostname.
In the Log files folder, there will be a variety of logging files:
He.log: Contains a log of liquid helium measurement events, with each

entry timestamped and a record of the hardware bits at that time.
N2-1.log: Contains a log of liquid nitrogen measurement events, with

each entry timestamped and a record of the hardware bits at that time.
118 REV 6
operations.csv: Contains a log of all operations/events, with each

entry timestamped and appropiate data for the event in a comma
separated file format.
LOG FILE FORMATS
The text based logging format is in a comma separated value format. It

consist of a unix timestamp, followed by the current level, and then the
status bits encoded in a hexadecimal number.
The status bits contains information for both the channels, even if the
channels are disabled.
The status bits are a summation of the hardware flags, each flag has a
unique bit position, and so the status byte displayed is a hexadecimal
representation of those bits.
Refer to the Status Bits table on page 122 for the bit values assigned for
each hardware flag.
A log entry is made when either the level changes by 0.1% or if the
status bits change from last entry. Levels and bits are checked every
second.
A Unix timestamp is the time in seconds since Jan 1, 1970 in

Coordinated Universal Time.
DESCRIPTION OF THE HE.LOG FORMAT
Here is an example of a measurement, with the helium level changing

from 26.3 to 45.1:
timestamp, %level, status bits

#1 1626706702, 26.3,028
#2 1626706703, 45.1,038
Entry #1: timestamped at Mon Jul 19 2021 10:58:22 (Eastern Daylight

Time) with a previously read level of 26.3. The status bits (028) indicated
that the external/internal N2 sensor oscillator selection was internal, and
that the helium sensor was active and dirty sensor mode was off. The
level updated when the helium measurement cycle completed, as
recorded in the next entry.
NOTE Note that even if an instrument is not configured for nitrogen

measuring, there will be inactive status bits for that nitrogen
channel in the status word.
REV 6 119
Entry #2: timestamped at Mon Jul 19 2021 10:58:22 with a last read
level of 45.1. The status bits (028) indicated that the external/internal N2
sensor oscillator selection was internal, and that the helium sensor was
active and dirty sensor mode was off. The level had changed between
entry #2 and #3, so when the unit stopped measuring (turning off the
helium sensor) it updated the level, which changed to 45.1
Refer to the Status Bits table on page 122 for the bit values assigned for
each hardware flag.
DESCRIPTION OF THE N2-1.LOG FORMAT
Here is an example of measurements of changing level, with a loss of

sensor event for the liquid nitrogen measurements:
timestamp, %level, status bits

#1 1626708988, 88.2,000020
#2 1626708989, 77.8,000020
#3 1626708990, 54.1,000020
#4 1626708991, 41.3,000020
#5 1626708992, 34.4,000020
#6 1626708994, 16.1,000020
#7 1626708996, 0.0,000221
#8 1626708999, 16.1,000020
Entry #1: timestamped at Mon Jul 19 2021 11:36:28 (Eastern Daylight

Time) with a read level of 88.2%. The status bits (000020) indicated
that the external/internal N2 sensor oscillator selection was internal.
Entries #2-#6: shows the level changing over a 5 second span, settling
at 16.1%
Entry #7: timestamped at Mon Jul 19 2021 11:36:36 showed a loss of

sensor event. The level will be 0.0%, and the status bits show that the
sensor was disconnected and the alarm bit was set.
Entry #8: timestamped at Mon Jul 19 2021 11:36:36 showed back to

normal operation, with a reading of 16.1%.
Refer to the Log Status Bits table on page 122 for information on the
status bits.
DESCRIPTION OF THE OPERATIONS LOGGING FILE

The operations.csv file is a text file that records a log of all
operations/events: remote, local, and SCPI.
120 REV 6
This file contains operations log entries in a comma separated value

format, as follows:
<unix timestamp>, <class>, <data field 1>, <data field 2>, <data field 3>
A data field can be empty, that is, no text.
An overview of the classes:
Class Description of Event

AF Master System Autofill
AL Alarm(s)
BT Battery Status
CE System commands
N1 Liquid Nitrogen channel sensor
LE GUI page load event
LF GUI link (AML function link)
LL GUI link (AML page link)
LS GUI link (system variable)
RY Hardware Relay Status
SC SCPI command that modified the instrument
SF State file operation
PU Power Up
TG GUI toggle
VM Modification of a instrument variable
More detailed information on each class is available from your

Authorized AMI Technical Representative.
Here is a simple example of operations logging file entries for a

shutdown initiation:
timestamp, class,data1,data2,data3
#1 1626712173,LL,MENU,menu.aml,
#2 1626712191,LL,SHUTDOWN,../shutdown.aml,
#3 1626712200,LL,SHUTDOWN ,../shutdown.aml,
#4 1626712200,SF,shmem_dump,checksum,6A7E48E4
#5 1626712200,CE,shutdown,,
Line by line description:
1626712173,LL,MENU,menu.aml,
The operator pressed the MENU button on the home page.
Menu.aml indicated the screen page loaded was menu.aml, that is, the
MENU page.
REV 6 121
The class LL indicates that this was a link label button event, that is, the
label on the button was MENU, and that the linked page loaded was
menu.aml.
1626712191,LL,SHUTDOWN,../shutdown.aml,
The operator pressed the SHUTDOWN menu button which then loaded
the ../shutdown.aml page.
1626712200,LL,SHUTDOWN ,../shutdown.aml,
The operator touched the SHUTDOWN command button which then

executed the shutdown procedure.
1626712200,SF,shmem_dump,checksum,6A7E48E4
The instrument saved the variables to the state file. Class SF indicates
this is a state file operation.
1626712200,CE,shutdown,,
The command executed (CE) was the shutdown command. The data
fields #2 and #3 in this line are empty as shown by the two commas after
the shutdown command.
LOG STATUS BITS TABLE
Status Bit Representation (in hexadecimal)

STATUS_Alarm 0x00001
STATUS_relay1 0x00002
STATUS_relay2 0x00004
STATUS_Ext_1_osc 0x00020
STATUS_Valve_1_open 0x00040
STATUS_N2_1_LossOfSensor 0x00200
STATUS_N2_1_SensorShorted 0x00400
STATUS_PowerUp 0x00800
STATUS_He_1_Burnout_Timeout 0x04000
STATUS_He_1_LossOfSensor 0x08000
122 REV 6
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC. GLOSSARY
GLOSSARY
ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS
Term Meaning
AC; ac Alternating Current; strictly, electrical current that periodically reverses direction.
Typically used also to describe an electrical power source in terms of the voltage. For
example, 240 VAC.
ASCII American Standard Code for Information Interchange; numerical representation of
characters such as 'a' or '@' or an action (such as line-feed); 'plain' raw text with no
formatting such as tabs, bold or underscoring
BNC connector A miniature quick connect/disconnect RF connector used for coaxial cable, featuring
two bayonet lugs on the female connector.
CR or <CR> Text Carriage-Return character
Cryogen A substance for obtaining low temperatures. In the case of use with the Model 1700
instrument, a cryogen is a liquefied gas such as liquid nitrogen or liquid helium.
D-Sub Term referring to the family of connectors containing an odd number of pins in two
parallel rows with a 1-pin difference in pins-per-row (DB9, DB15, and DB25 are most
common)
DB9 Type of electrical connector containing 9 pins arranged in two parallel rows of 4 pins
and 5 pins each
DCE Data Circuit-terminating Equipment - a device that sits between the Data Terminal
Equipment (DTE) and a data transmission circuit.
DHCP Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol; a computer networking protocol which dynam-
ically distributes the IP address to networked devices
dt Rate of change
DTE Data Terminal Equipment - an end instrument that converts user information into sig-
nals or reconverts received signals. A DTE device communicates with the Data Circuit-
terminating Equipment (DCE).
REV 6 123
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC. GLOSSARY : ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS
Term Meaning
ECL Electrical Connection Lubricant - also known as Dielectric Tune-up Grease, a protec-
tive lubricant that prevents corrosion.
Eo Power supply output voltage
i, I Electrical current flow
Io Power supply output current
IEC International Electrotechnical Commission
IEEE Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers
I/O Input/Output; The hardware and associated protocol that implement communication
between information processing systems and/or devices. Inputs are the signals or
data received by the system or device, and outputs are the signals or data sent from
it.
IP Internet Protocol; when used with “address”, refers to a numerical Internet address
kG kilogauss: a magnetic field unit of measurement
LED Light-Emitting Diode; a semiconductor device that emits light when energized - used
for visual status indication
LF or <LF> Text Linefeed character
LHe Liquid Helium

LN2 Liquid Nitrogen
Max Maximum
Min Minimum
MSDS Material Safety Data Sheet - provides workers and emergency personnel with proce-
dures for handling or working with a specific substance in a safe manner and includes
information such as physical data, toxicity, health effects, first aid, reactivity, storage,
disposal, protective equipment, and spill-handling procedures.
RG-59/U A specific type of coaxial cable, often used for low-power video and RF signal connec-
tions, with a characteristic impedance of 75 ohms.
Rlead Electrical circuit lead or wiring resistance
RS-232 RS-232 is a long-established standard and protocol for relatively low speed serial data
communication between computers and related devices; originally established for
teletypewriter communication.
SCPI Standard Commands for Programmable Instruments
V Volts
VA Volt-amperes (V x I); a unit of electrical reactive power

Vlead Voltage (I x R) developed across circuit lead or wiring resistance due to current flow
124 REV 6
Term Meaning
Vm Magnet voltage
Vs Power supply voltage
REV 6 125
126 REV 6
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC.
Index INDEX
A C
abbreviations and acronyms 123 cables
capacitance sensor coax 13
abnormal operation 50 long-distance 13
Alarm Status screen 39 serial 85
alarms 39 calibration
alarm status screen 39 approximate 56, 70–73
configure source and level 41 approx cal equation 71
indication and acknowledgement 41 choosing a method 57
multiple 40 closed dewar 65–69
muting 39, 42 completing closed dewar cal 67
remote configuration 92 increasing the range 68
states 41 preset MIN/MAX 65
AMI contacts 114 diagram 58
dielectric constants 113
analog outputs LHe active length 76
connection 20 liquid helium sensors 74
connector 112 liquid level sensors 55
current loop diagram 21 loss of sensor detection 61
current loop output 20 open dewar 63–64
recorder output 20 presetting MAX/MIN 65
remote configuration 96 remote LHe calibration 98
simultaneous usage 20 remote LN2 calibration 97
source selection 47 stabilizing level during cal 67
specifications 9 substitute liquid or partial length 70
approximate calibration 70–73 touch screen 116
using analog outputs 67
autofill
AUTO-OFF 45 capacitance sensor
AUTO-ON 45 active length 55
home screen indicator 24 approximate calibration 70–73
loss of sensor response 19 avoiding icing 12
manual overrides 45 calibration diagram 58
M-CLOSED 45 calibration methods 55
M-OPEN 45 cleaning 51
output rating 9 closed dewar calibration 65–69
parameters 44 coax cable specs 13
relief valve caution 18 configuration 33
remote configuration 94 connecting 13
socket 9 dielectric variations 56
source selection 44 ECL coating 12
standard 18 exposure to humidity 51
start and stop levels 44 installation 12
states 45 loss of sensor 61, 114
system diagram 17 measurement method 56
system setup 17 open dewar calibration 63–64
timeout 9, 40, 44 sensor length 60
timeout reset 45 sensor name 61
shorted condition 114
AUTO-OFF 45 top vent hole 12
AUTO-ON 45 vent holes 55
choosing units 46
B closed dewar calibration 65, 65–69
battery backup 10 presetting MIN/MAX 65
battery replacement 102 command conventions 79

burnout protection 36 command summary 79–84
REV 6 127
AMERICAN MAGNETICS, INC. INDEX
commands - see remote commands current loop specifications 9

communications
commands - see remote commands D
error codes 99 dielectric constants 113
Ethernet 9
Ethernet connector 9 dielectric effects 56
protocols 9
remote, browser-based 5
dimensions 10
response format and termination 79 dirty sensor mode 38
serial 9
serial connector 109 display
ALARM indicator/button 24
configuration autofill control 45
alarm source and level 41 AUTOFILL indicator/button 24
alarm state 41 BACK button 25
alarms and relays 39 dual levels on home screen 24
analog outputs 47 field editing footer 25
autofill 44 fill timeout indicators 40
capacitance xiii HELP button 24
custom xiii home screen 23
damping 46 home screen footer 24
dirty sensor mode 38 LHe level 34
DST 54 LHe sampling mode 37, 75
Ethernet 48 LN2 level 33
external oscillator 1, 33 MENU button 24, 25
helium xiii multiple alarm conditions 40
instrument options xii numeric keypad 35
internal oscillator 1, 33 remote configuration 90
level-based alarms 39 SAVE/CANCEL buttons 25
line cord xiii size and resolution 4, 8
mounting xii units 46
muting alarms 42
oscillator 60 DST support 54
relay actuation 43
relays source and level 42 E
reset to defaults 51
set date/time 53–54 ECL use 12, 13
shutdown 52 environmental limits 10
timezone 54
equipment
connections recommended for safety x
capacitance sensor 13
liquid helium sensors 15 Ethernet
loss of sensor 61 configuration 48
connector 9, 86
connector connector pin out 110
analog outputs 112 IP addressing 9
Ethernet 86, 110 ip parameters 85
LHe sensor 111 remote commands 87
serial port 85 remote port 7180 86
connectors static ip parameters 48
RJ-45 - see Ethernet termination characters 86
contact AMI 114 Ethernet connector pin out 110

cryogenic liquids viii F
first aid, first aid ix
safety viii fill timeout 40, 44
current loop disable 44
connection diagram 21 fill timeout for LN2
128 REV 6
reset 45 avoiding ice formation 14, 38

burnout protection 36, 115
footer calibration 74
editing 25 configuration 34
home screen 24 connecting 15
front panel layout 6 connector J1 wiring 111
power switch 23 connector warning 15
continuous mode time limit 35, 76
fuse replacement 104 lead wire sizing 15
loss of sensor 114
G mounting 14
sampling interval 75, 95
glossary of terms 123 sensor excitation values 37
DHCP 123 sensor name 77
sensor preparation 15
H sensor sample interval 36
setting active length 35, 76
home screen 23 type 4.2K or 2K 3, 34, 74
AUTOFILL button 45 vacuum caution 14
AUTO-OFF button 45
AUTO-ON button 45 liquid level system terminology 123
footer 24 logging 118
M-CLOSED button 45 LHe level 95
menu button 25
M-OPEN button 45 loss of sensor
show LHe level 34 autofill 19
show LN2 level 33 LHe troubleshooting 114
units selection 46 LN2 troubleshooting 114
I M
ice formation 12 M-CLOSED 45
installation measurement
autofill system 17 continuous mode time limit 35, 76
capacitance sensors 12 LHe burnout protection 36
liquid helium sensors 14 remote query 93
mounting 11 sampling interval for LHe 36
power 20 sampling mode for LHe 37, 75
unpacking 11
menu tree
installing overview 26
earth ground xi
menus 25
instrument descriptions 27
battery replacement 102 overall structure 26
cleaning 101
fuse replacement 104
method of measurement 56
part number definition xii moisture protection 12, 13, 51
replacement parts 101
troubleshooting 114 M-OPEN 45
instrument description 1 mounting
coaxial cable 12
ip address 85 external oscillator 12
helium sensor 14
L removing bottom feet 11
top vent hole 12
level damping 47
muting alarms 42
level units 46
liquid helium sensor
REV 6 129
N remote error codes 99

network remote interface reference
address 48 command summary 82, 83, 84
configuration 48 remote interface reference - see remote com-
connector 85
DHCP 85 mands
DHCP definition 123 reset to factory defaults 51
gateway 48
hostname 48 RJ-45 connector - see Ethernet
netmask 48 RS-232 configuration
port 7180 85 parameters 85
static or DHCP mode 48
RS-232 connector 109
no sensor calibration 62
RS-232 setup 49
O
S
open dewar calibration 63–64
safety
operation warnings xi, 11, 15, 20, 102, 104 cryogenic liquids viii
equipment x
P legend x
liquid helium sensor connectors 15
part number definition xii relief valve 18
power on/off 23 warnings xi
power requirements 10, 20 sampling interval 36
power supply screen descriptions
operating parameters 8 DAMPING 27
HISTORY 32
NETWORK 30
R OUTPUTS
rear panel layout 7 ALARMS 29
ANALOG OUTPUTS 30
recorder output specifications 9 AUTOFILL 30
relays 39 RELAYS 29
actuation states 43 SENSORS 27
configure source and level 42 CAL He 28
ratings 9 CAL N2 28
remote configuration 91 SENSOR NAME(S) 28
type 9 SHUTDOWN 32
remote commands SYSTEM 31
alarms configuration 92 RS232 SETUP 31
analog output assignment 96 SET TIME 31
display configuration 90 SYSTST 32
error codes 99 UPDATE 31
fill control 94
LHe calibration 98 sensor
LHe sampling 95 active length 55
measurement 93 installation 12
N2 calibration 97 LHe active length 76
relays configuration 91 LHe calibration 74
system related 87 LHe sensor name 77
system-related commands 80 LHe sensor test points 111
units 98 protected LHe troubleshooting 115
shorted LN2 troubleshooting 114
remote control
browser-based 5 sensor physical parameters
explanation 55
130 REV 6
serial communications U
baud rate 9, 31, 50
commands 87 units 46
connector 9 remote configuration 98
connector pin out 109 user replaceable parts 101
factory reset 89
interactive communication 79
set date 89
V
set time 89 vacuum caution
system reboot 89 helium sensor 14
terminators 85
vent holes 55
serial port
baud rate 50
echo 50
W
function 50 warnings
setup 49 equipment xi
termination 50, 85
weight 10
serial port connector/cables 85
service
AMI contact 114
service - see instrument
shutdown 52
specifications
analog output 9
autofill 9
display 8
environmental limits 10
level measurements 8
physical 10
power 10
relays 9
standards conformance 10
system
date and time 53–54
logging 118
remote configuration 87
shutdown 52
system features 1
system specifications 8
system test
analog outputs 117
hardware controls 117
screen pixels 116
touch screen cal 116
T
test points for LHe sensor 111
TIMEZONE selection 54
troubleshooting common issues 114
system test screens 115
REV 6 131
132 REV 6

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Model1700 Rev6

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EXCELLENCE IN MAGNETICS AND CRYOGENICS

(DUAL HELIUM & NITROGEN VERSION)

INSTALLATION, OPERATION, AND

American Magnetics, Inc.

Revision 6 - July 2022

Foreword ................................................................................. vii

Contents of this Manual . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . vii

General Precautions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . viii

Cryogen Safety Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .x

Other Manual Conventions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xi

Instrument Configuration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . xii

Model 1700 Front Panel Layout . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

Model 1700 Rear Panel Layout . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

Model 1700 Specifications @ 25°C. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

Mounting the Model 1700 Instrument . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Capacitance-Based Liquid Level Sensor Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Liquid Helium Level Sensor Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Configuring an Autofill System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Connecting the Analog Outputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Navigating the Instrument Menus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Capacitance (Liquid Nitrogen) Level . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

Superconducting (Liquid Helium) Level . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Alarms and Relays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Configure the Autofill Function . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

Select the appropriate units on the display . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

Analog output signals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47

Ethernet Connectivity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48

Abnormal Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .50

Shutting the Instrument Down . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52

Capacitance-based Level Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55

Open Dewar Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63

Closed Dewar Calibration. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

Superconductivity-Based (Liquid Helium) Level Calibration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74

Remote Interface Reference..................................................... 79

Service and Repair.................................................................. 101

User Replaceable Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .101

Battery Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102

Fuse Replacement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 104

Firmware Upgrade Via Ethernet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .105

Ethernet Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110

Liquid Helium Connector J1 Wiring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111

Aux I/O Connector . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112

Dielectric Constants for Cryogenic Liquids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113

PURPOSE AND SCOPE

CONTENTS OF THIS MANUAL

Introduction describes the functions, specifications, and characteristics

Installation describes how the Model 1700 Instrument is unpacked and

Operation describes how the Model 1700 Instrument is used to monitor

Calibration describes the various calibration techniques for liquid

Remote Interface Reference documents all remote commands and

The Appendix and Glossary sections support the information in the

The two most common cryogenic liquids used in superconducting

Personnel handling cryogenic liquids should be thoroughly instructed

Inert gases released into a confined or inadequately ventilated space

process are sufficiently cold to burn flesh or freeze optic tissues.

In the event a person is burned by a cryogen or material cooled to

When pouring cryogenic liquids from one container to another, the

Introduction of a substance at or near room temperature into a cryogenic

The properties of many materials at extremely low temperatures may be