1.3. Safety Summary and Symbols

Observe these general safety precautions during all phases of instrument operation, service, and repair. Failure to comply with these precautions or with specific warnings elsewhere in this manual violates safety standards of design, manufacture, and intended instrument use. Lake Shore Cryotronics, Inc. assumes no liability for Customer failure to comply with these requirements.

The Lake Shore Model 346 temperature controller protects the operator and surrounding area from electric shock or burn, mechanical hazards, excessive temperature, and spread of fire from the instrument. Environmental conditions outside of the conditions below may pose a hazard to the operator and surrounding area.

Indoor use
Altitude to 2000 m
Temperature for safe operation: 5 °C to 40 °C
Maximum relative humidity: 60% for temperature up to 31 °C decreasing linearly to 50% at 40 °C
Power supply voltage fluctuations not to exceed ±10% of the nominal voltage
Overvoltage category II
Pollution degree 2

Follow the guidelines below to ensure safety

Ground the Instrument

To minimize shock hazard, the instrument is equipped with a 3-conductor AC power cable. Plug the power cable into an approved 3-contact electrical outlet or use a 3-contact adapter with the grounding wire (green) firmly connected to an electrical ground (safety ground) at the power outlet. The power jack and mating plug of the power cable meet Underwriters Laboratories (UL) and International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) safety standards.

Ventilation

The instrument has ventilation holes in its side covers. Do not block these holes when the instrument is operating.

Do Not Operate in an Explosive Atmosphere

Do not operate the instrument in the presence of flammable gases or fumes. Operation of any electrical instrument in such an environment constitutes a definite safety hazard.

Keep Away from Live Circuits

Operating personnel must not remove instrument covers. Refer component replacement and internal adjustments to qualified maintenance personnel. Do not replace components with power cable connected. To avoid injuries, always disconnect power and discharge circuits before touching them. Do not position the instrument so that it is difficult to disconnect the power cord.

Child Safety

This equipment is not suitable for use in locations where children are likely to be present.

Do Not Substitute Parts or Modify Instrument

Do not install substitute parts or perform any unauthorized modification to the instrument. Return the instrument to an authorized Lake Shore Cryotronics, Inc. representative for service and repair to ensure that safety features are maintained. If the equipment is used in a manner not specified by the manufacturer, the protection provided by the equipment may be impaired.

Cleaning

Do not submerge instrument. Clean only with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Exterior only.

Desktop Installation

When installing the instrument in a desktop environment, ensure it is mounted on a flat, level surface.

Improper Use

If the instrument is used in a manner that is not specified by Lake Shore, the safety protections provided by the instrument are no longer guaranteed, and may be impaired.