Auber PID SWA-2451 Experience?

**jeffmeh** · 02-04-2012, 07:13 PM

For those that have used SWA-2451 with the built-in timer, how has it worked out for you?

Is it possible for the device to trigger an alarm based upon the timer and the temperature output simultaneously (e.g., trigger the alarm after 60 minutes, but also trigger if the temperature exceeds 156F, and if I reset the alarm based upon the temperature trigger, still trigger based upon the timer)? From the description, it looks like it can be set for one or the other, but not both at the same time. Thanks.

borny · 02-06-2012, 03:10 AM

I picked one of these up to control my boil kettle thinking it would more convenient than using my phone as the timer... But now I'm not so sure. I will report back after I use it next weekend.

Also, I haven't tried wiring an alarm to the pid.......

**stlbeer** · 02-06-2012, 01:23 PM

I just bought 2 of these but haven't completely thought through how I'm going to wire them up. So long as they alarm when the timer expires and I can easily reset them, then I think that will work.

**jeffmeh** · 02-22-2012, 04:59 PM

Any others have experience with this PID w/ built-in timer? Can you take a shot at answering my questions in the original post? Thanks.

**samc** · 02-22-2012, 05:17 PM

Why not ask Auber? The owner is great at responding to tech questions I had.

**kal** · 02-22-2012, 06:02 PM

I looked at PIDs with timers built in for my setup I didn't see how this could work very well.

The PID you mention only has the 2 values displayed like a regular PID (the temp you set and the temp it's currently measuring). You wouldn't see your timer counting down at all. Yes, it has a timer built in but it's likely more meant for taking certain actions after certain delays/time periods where the operator (a) doesn't need to see a countdown, and (b) it doesn't have to be changed (since changing it on this one doesn't seem overly intuitive).

Kal

**stlbeer** · 02-22-2012, 07:15 PM

I read through the manual and started some testing with a SWA-2451 last night. Here's how I plan on using mine.

1. As a timer and temp controller for my RIMS system. I set the desired mash temp and the timer for the desired time. When the set temperature is reached the timer starts counting down. In this mode the current temperature and the time remaining is on the display. When the timer expires the heat is cut and the alarm activates. With this configuration, if I'm doing something else when the timer expires the mash will stop heating and alert me that it's time to drain the MLT and start my sparge. This is a tested configuration and works just fine.

2. As a timer for my BK for hop additions. My plan is to use the timer with manual mode, but I haven't tested this configuration yet. I'll have more information on this configuration soon.

**kal** · 02-22-2012, 07:21 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by stlbeer

2. As a timer for my BK for hop additions. My plan is to use the timer with manual mode...

See my post above yours. How would you know when to add hops? The PID only shows 2 numbesr: The set temp (or % duty cycle when running in manual mode) and the temp it's currently at.

A countdown timer's great because you just add hops when needed by watching the countdown. This PID/timer combo doesn't show a countdown for you. So how do you know when to add? You'd have to program it, wait for the alarm to go off, add the hops, and then reprogram it for the next hop addition. Not only would that be a royal pain (IMHO) but there would be (albeit minor) delays causing you to boil longer than you should.

Kal

**stlbeer** · 02-22-2012, 07:29 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by kal

See my post above yours. How would you know when to add hops? The PID only shows 2 numbesr: The set temp (or % duty cycle when running in manual mode) and the temp it's currently at.
Kal

The countdown timer (UPT=1) shows when setting INT=1. I'm not sure in manual mode if it's the same as the 2451. I will test that out.

Tested it out and it does function as the 2451 does when in manual mode. I have to consider options here.

Quote:

Originally Posted by kal

A countdown timer's great because you just add hops when needed by watching the countdown. This PID/timer combo doesn't show a countdown for you.
Kal

It does show a countdown. Timer on the bottom set for 10s. When the PV hit SV+HY1 the countdown is triggered.

**kal** · 02-22-2012, 07:40 PM

Ah! You're absolutely right ... time can be displayed instead of the set value. Sorry about that. From the manual:

"SV display: Indicates the time when timer is used. If timer is deactivated, it indicates the set temperature (SV). In manual control mode, a “H” is displayed on the most left digit to indicate number is for percentage of output (%)"

I'd probably spend the extra $28 and buy the separate timer & PID just to make it easier to use. You'd always see all 4 numbers (instead of 2) and you get twice as many buttons. Less confusion. YMMV.

Kal