1 related manuals – INFICON SQM-242 Thin Film Deposition Controller Card Operating Manual User Manual
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SQM-242 Operating Manual
The optional SQS-242 software allows multi-layer deposition recipes, graphics, 
flexible PLC-based digital I/O and RS-232/Ethernet external control. 
The SQM-242 card is a PID loop process controller designed for use primarily in 
physical vapor deposition. The SQM-242 card monitors and/or controls the rate 
and thickness of thin film depositions. The SQM-242 reads frequency from an 
in-vacuum 1 to 10 MHz quartz crystal driven by a small external oscillator module. 
The oscillator module uses the in-vacuum crystal as the feedback element of an IC 
oscillator circuit to amplify the crystal signal to about 0.75 volts peak to peak. The 
SQM-242 card supplies 5 V (dc) to the oscillator module, and reads the module's 
frequency output signal on a single BNC cable. On the SQM-242, a 200 MHz 
reference oscillator sets a known measurement period. By counting the input 
transitions during the measurement period, a frequency is calculated. 
Deposition rate and thickness are inferred from the frequency change induced by 
mass added to a quartz crystal. This technique positions sensors in the path 
between, or to the side of, the target substrate and the source of vaporized 
material. The sensor incorporates an exposed oscillating quartz crystal whose 
frequency decreases as material accumulates. The change in frequency provides 
information to determine rate and thickness and to continually control the 
evaporation power source. With user supplied time, thickness and power limits and 
with desired rates and material characteristics, the SQM-242 card is capable of 
automatically controlling the process in a precise and repeatable manner. User 
interaction is accomplished via the front panel or serial communications and 
consists of selection or entry of parameters to define the process.
When reading this SQM-242 Manual, please pay particular attention to the 
NOTES, CAUTIONS, and WARNINGS found throughout the text. The Notes, 
Cautions, and Warnings are defined in 
.
1.1.1 Related Manuals
Sensors are covered in separate manuals. PDF files of these manuals are 
contained in the 074-5000-G1 CD, part of the Ship Kit.
074-154 - Bakeable Sensor
074-156 - Front Load Sensor, Single/Dual
074-157 - Sputtering Sensor
147-800 - Cool Drawer Sensor, Single/Dual
