Making the Most of Your Bartlett Controller's Diagnostics

What is the Diagnostics Feature?

Bartlett controllers, including the Genesis, RTC1000, and V6CF models, are equipped with powerful diagnostics tools that allow you to test your kiln’s components and monitor its performance. These features help you pinpoint issues with relays, elements, thermocouples, and other components, ensuring your kiln operates at peak efficiency.

When Should You Use Your Controller’s Diagnostics Feature?

The diagnostics feature is ideal for situations where your kiln isn’t heating properly or is displaying error messages. For example:

• If your kiln isn’t reaching the desired temperature, the diagnostics test can help you determine whether the issue lies with the relays, elements, or controller.
• If your kiln is firing unevenly, the test can identify which output or zone is causing the problem.

Diagnostics on Genesis Controllers

The Genesis controllers take diagnostics to the next level with advanced features that provide detailed insights into your kiln’s performance. Here’s what you can do with the Genesis diagnostics:

1. Run Manual Diagnostics

The Genesis controller allows you to manually test each section of your kiln. This feature turns on each section of elements to read amperages and voltage. The results are stored under the Data Menu – Last Manual Diagnostics, where you can review the amperage readings for each section, line voltage readings, and board output.

2. New Element Diagnostics

When you replace your kiln’s elements, the Genesis controller can record the amperages and voltages for the new elements. This data is stored under Data Menu – Last Element Change, allowing you to track the performance of your new elements over time.

3. Relay Health Monitoring

The Genesis controller tracks the number of on/off cycles for each relay in your kiln. This feature helps you monitor relay wear and determine when it’s time for replacement. When you replace a relay, you can reset the cycle count to zero for accurate tracking.

4. Board Temperature Monitoring

The Genesis controller displays the current temperature of the circuit board, which is critical for diagnosing overheating issues. The safe range for board temperature is between 0°F and 160°F. If the board temperature exceeds this range, it may cause damage to the controller.

Diagnostics on RTC1000 and V6CF Controllers

The RTC1000 and V6CF controllers also include a diagnostics test to check each of the kiln’s outputs individually. Here’s how it works:

• The controller will turn on each of the three outputs for 1 minute and 20 seconds, starting with the top output.
• During this time, you can observe the kiln’s behavior and identify any issues with the relays or elements.

To Start the Diagnostics Test:

1. Press Enter, then 0, 0, 4, 4, and 3.
2. The display will show notC.
3. Press the Menu button twice until SHtO appears on the display.
4. Press Enter, and SHtO will alternate with OFF.
5. Press 1 to toggle from OFF to ON.
6. Press Enter to begin the diagnostics test.