LEYBELOD CM330 Vacuum gauge controller
The Leybold (Leybold-Heraeus) COMBITRON CM330 is a classic, high-reliability vacuum gauge controller.
It is a multi-channel “combination” instrument designed to provide continuous pressure monitoring across a wide range, from rough vacuum to high vacuum.
1. Product Description
The CM330 is an analog-digital vacuum gauge controller typically used in dual or triple-channel configurations.
It is designed to work with “Passive” gauge heads. Its primary function is to consolidate readings from different types of sensors—usually Pirani (for higher pressures) and Cold Cathode/Discharge (for high vacuum)—into a single interface.
Core Function: Simultaneous measurement and display of multiple vacuum zones.
Design: Rack-mountable or tabletop unit with a distinctive analog needle display or digital segments (depending on version) and manual channel switching.
CM330
2. Technical Parameters
Measurement Channels: Typically 3 channels (e.g., 2 Pirani + 1 Cold Cathode).
Measurement Range: $10^{-9}$ mbar to $1000$ mbar (depending on connected sensors).
Power Supply: 115V / 230V AC, 50/60 Hz.
Analog Outputs: 0–10V or logarithmic outputs for integration with recorders or PLCs.
Switching Functions: Built-in relay contacts for pressure-dependent control (interlocks).
Compatible Sensors: * THERMOVAC (Pirani): TTR 211. TTR 216 or similar legacy models.
PENNINGVAC (Cold Cathode): PTR 225 or similar.
3. Product Advantages & Features
Automatic Range Switching: Seamlessly transitions between Pirani and Cold Cathode readings to provide a “full range” measurement without manual intervention.
Robust Legacy Engineering: Built with high-quality German components, these units are known to last decades in harsh industrial environments.
Safety Interlocks: Protects expensive high-vacuum sensors (like Cold Cathodes) by ensuring they only power on once the Pirani gauge confirms the pressure is low enough.
Clear Visuals: Large, easy-to-read display for real-time monitoring of pump-down cycles.
4. Application Cases
Industrial Coating Systems: Monitoring the transition from roughing to high-vacuum sputtering or evaporation.
Mass Spectrometry: Providing vacuum interlock safety for analytical instruments.
Vacuum Furnaces: Controlling the heating elements and gas backfilling based on precise pressure thresholds.
Semiconductor R&D: Small-scale lab systems requiring reliable, decentralized vacuum monitoring.
5. Related & Other Models
The COMBITRON family and its successors include:
CM350: An upgraded version with enhanced digital communication or different channel capacities.
COMBIVAC CM Series: The broader category of combination controllers from Leybold-Heraeus.
IT 230 / IT 330: Similar legacy controllers focused on Ionization/Thermovac combinations.
Modern Successors:
GRAPHIX Series (1. 2. 3): The modern touchscreen controllers that have replaced the CM series.
COMBIVAC CM (Modern Version): Redesigned for active sensors with digital interfaces.