Physitemp Instruments BAT-10 - Manual (Page 3)

11.11 Measurements in Electronics. BAT-10 and ICT-4 provide the quickest and cheapest
method of getting accurate reading on both discreet components and integrated circuits used in
electronic equipment. ICT-4 has two important differences from the regular MT-4 probe. There is
a 5 1/2” handle suitable for use in the hand or in a micromanipulator and the micro-thermocouple
protrudes slightly beyond the steel sheath and has some thermal isolation from it. This probe was
designed for use on areas of 5-100 microns in diameter and is used perpendicular to the surface to
be measured. The heat loss described in 11.3 occurs and temperature readings are slightly low --
normally about 0.5°C low. Each probe can be readily calibrated on a larger surface. First lay it
parallel to the surface and note the reading. Then take a reading with it perpendicular to the sur-
face; note the difference. Add this difference to the subsequent reading when using the perpendi-
cular position.
11.12 BAT-10 with a suitable probe has the ability to measure surface gradients, giving almost
instant readings at each point. This feature enables heat sinks to be designed without guesswork,
for maximum efficiency with minimum metal. It is equally easy to check the adequacy of thermal
bonding between a power transistor or rectifier and its heat sink. General purpose probe BT-1 is
suitable for this and many other measurements. When probes such as BT-1 and the larger HT-1
and HT-2 are used for surface measurements, speed of response and accuracy can often be
improved by use of a heat conductive material such as ‘thermal grease’ or silicone grease applied
between the probe and surface. Note: BT-1, HT-1 and HT-2 should not be used on electrically con-
ductive surfaces where voltages are present as the sensor is connected to the stainless steel sheath.
The following probes are isolated and suitable for use on electrical equipment: RET-1, ESO-1, IT-
14, IT-18, IT-21, TFT series.
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