Self-diagnostic Calorimeter Operating System

A self diagnostic operating system that helps detect problem with the calorimeter controlling electronics has been developed at EG&G Mound Applied Technologies to address operator troubleshooting needs. The controlling electronics, which are monitored by the data acquisition portion of the calorimeter operating system, are comprised of digital voltmeters, constant current sources and a scanner. A series of diagnostic signals are read during the start of a calorimeter run. The readings are averaged and the standard deviation is calculated. The standard deviation for each signal is checked against the three standard deviation error alarm limit. When an alarm level occurs, the final run printout is flagged with an error message to warn the operator that the run is questionable due to a malfunction in electronics. The operator then can determine the validity of the run and take action if electronics need replacement. The self diagnostic operation system can be implemented on most existing calorimeter systems with a few minor system electronic signal inputs added.