DX4091 Z-meter - Pellet Tester Intro

Z-Meter model DX4091 stays separate from the rest devices in our Z-Meter family. While the rest devices measure only complete assembled thermoelectric coolers, DX4091 uses a unique and innovative methodic to test a single BiTe pellet (post). The compact table-top device measures  Resistance (R), Conductivity (σ) and Figure-of-Merit (Z) of a single BiTe pellet.

With DX4091 it is possible to test the parameters of BiTe pellets and understand the real properties of further thermoelectric coolers (TECs) at the initial stage of their production - before TEC assembly. In other words, if you know the parameters of a single BiTe pellet, you know the exact parameters and performance of the thermoelectric cooler you want to make using these pellets.  

NOTE: DX4091 is the professional analysis instrument mainly for thermoelectric modules manufacturers and researchers, but not consumers.  DX4091 is designed for the analsyis of TEC key components - BiTe pellets only.

How does it work

DX4091 Z-Meter is a single-channel device with an internal chamber for test frame placement with a mounted pellet sample. Chamber’s cover is magnetically locked when closed or opened. The internal chamber is a passive thermostat that provides constant temperature during measurements. An integrated temperature sensor measures the temperature inside the chamber during the measurement process.  There is also a special spot heater inside a chamber to check pellet conductivity type (P-type or N-type).  LEDs indicate the status of the measurement process.

The measurements are carried out on standard BiTe thermoelements, the ones that are used for TEC manufacturing. BiTe pellet to be mounted on a particular reusable testing frame, provided with DX4091 Z-Meter (5 sets by default).  

NOTE: BiTe pellet sample mounting process may require advanced engineering skills and soldering experience.

- Requires connection to PC

- USB Mini PC Connection Interface

- Windows 7 or later

DX4091 Maintenance

The Z-Meter DX4091 does not require any particular maintenance or service. Nevertheless it's recommended to make a verification of resistance measurememets using a precision resistor sample and compare the data obtained. If the difference between the measured resistance values and specified one for the resistor is within 0.5%, DX4091 Z-Meter is OK and requires no maintenance.

BiTe Pellet sample setup in DX4091

The accuracy of measurements using this Z-Meter DX4091 depends on the accuracy of the samples' preparation for measurements. BiTe pellet testing sample must be mounted on a special test frame.

The BiTe sample setup for the testing procedure requires additional materials and equipment not provided in the DX4091 standard kit. You will need a soldering iron, an optical microscope, flux and acetone for cleaning.

DX4091 is designed to test the BiTe thermoelements, which are used for TEC manufacturing. This means that the BiTe pellets must already have a special coating on two sides - a barrier layer (usually Nickel) and a layer of tin (or gold) for soldering on the ends.

What you can see with DX4091 Z-Meter

- Pellet type (N-type, P-type)

- Pellet conductivity (Sigma)

- Pellet electrical resistance (R)

- Pellet Figure-of-Merit (Z)

- Calculated value for maximum ΔT for TEC, if it will be

  manufactured with such BiTe pellets.

Other Z-Meter devices available

All other devices in the Z-Meter family are for express control and measurements of the assembled thermoelectric coolers. There are several Z-Meter versions available, each with some key features. The measuring methodic and tolerances are the same for all Z-Meter devices. The differences are in form-factor, usability, measuring interfaces and application scope. Please, check the following devices available:

DX4190 - 10position Z-Meter for volume TEC manufacturers

Z-Meter DX4190 is the must-have device for TEC manufacturers or consumers with serious TEC volumes. DX4190 provides 100% Quality Control for thermoelectric coolers in all stages of mass production with no compromises. The device  measures TEC key parameters  for up to 10 thermoelectric coolers simultaneously. DX4190 can be used with separate (not mounted) TECs by manufacturers or consumers at income/outcome control, or TECs quality control and performance testing in the end-product with thermoelectric cooler integrated.

DX4085 TEC Tester - compact stand-alone Z-Meter

DX4085 Z-Meter Tester is a portable measuring device for thermoelectric coolers express analysis. The device measures directly three key parameters (AC Resistance, Figure-of-Merit and Time Constant) of separate or integrated (mounted)  thermoelectric coolers. DX4085 has 2.4" LCD screen, built-in Li-Ion battery for up to 8 hours operating, it is autonomous and doesn't require a constant connection to PC. All necessary settings, measuring process results and history are displayed and adjusted on LCD screen. The device has a miniature, pocket size form-factor and it's ideal for engineers and researchers dealing with TECs every day.  

DX4095 Mini - Z-Meter in USB-stick

Z-Meter Mini DX4095 is a portable TEC tester for thermoelectric coolers express analysis. The device has ultra-miniature, pocket size form-factor and it's ideal for engineers and researchers dealing with TECs. Due to a very small size DX4095 has only external measurement interface - external clips - connected to Z-Meter.  DX4095 has also a built-in temperature sensor for accurate TEC ACR calculations.  DX4095 is recommended for regular express quality control of small TEC batches, occasional QC testing, R&D analysis and TEC integrating/assembly process control and optimization.

- Testing of single pellets (BiTe posts)

- Pellet cross-section suported: 0.1 .. 10mm2

- Resulting TEC performance analysis

- Portable design

- Bi-directional current measurement

- Normalization to required temperatures

- Correction coefficients for Z value

- Low power consumption

DX4090 Z-Meter Classic

DX4090 device has two measurement interfaces - an internal chamber (works as a passive thermostat) with connectors and an external interface with clips. DX4090 has also a built-in temperature sensor for accurate TEC ACR calculations and a heating element for TEC quick polarity. DX4090 is recommended for regular express quality control of small and mid-size TEC batches, R&D analysis and TEC integrating/assembly process control and optimization.