A. Product Overview

The iTherm CX Series is a range of digital preset multifunction timers and counters developed for industrial machines and automation panels.

The same instrument can be configured to operate either as a counter or timer, making the CX Series useful in applications where machine operations need to be counted, timed or controlled according to preset values.

The CX Series includes models such as:

The instruments use a dual 4-digit, 7-segment LED display that separately indicates process value and set value. Relay status and selected time units are also indicated on the display.

Key CX Series features include:

• Counter and timer operating modes
• Up and down counting
• Multiple selectable counting frequencies for DC input
• ON delay and OFF delay functions
• Cyclic timer operation
• Dual relay outputs
• Programmable output functions
• Remote and front-panel reset
• Universal 90 to 270 VAC supply
• Panel mounting
• ABS plastic housing

The CX Series provides two 5 Amp relay outputs at 230 VAC, allowing the instrument to provide control outputs based on configured timer or counter conditions.

B. Working Principle

The iTherm CX Series works by accepting input signals from a machine, switch or compatible sensing arrangement and processing those signals according to the selected timer or counter mode.

Counter Mode

In counter mode, the instrument receives pulses through its count input.

Each incoming pulse represents one event, product, cycle or machine operation.

For example:

Product detected → pulse generated → CX Series receives pulse → count changes → preset value reached → relay operates

The counter can be configured for up counting or down counting.

It also supports selectable counting frequencies when DC input is used.

This makes the CX Series useful for:

• Product counting
• Batch counting
• Machine cycle counting
• Conveyor counting
• Production quantity monitoring

Timer Mode

In timer mode, a start input initiates the programmed timing sequence.

The CX Series supports several timer functions, including:

• ON delay
• OFF delay
• Cyclic mode

The timer can also operate in up or down direction depending on the application.

For example:

Start signal received → timer starts → preset time reached → relay output changes

This allows the timer to start or stop connected equipment after a selected time interval.

Output Operation

The CX Series provides two relay outputs.

The second output can be programmed for functions including:

• Auxiliary output
• End of Cycle
• Off
• Invert
• Pre Setpoint

This allows the instrument to perform more complex machine sequencing than a basic single-output timer or counter.

C. Why is the iTherm CX Series Used?

The CX Series is used when an industrial application requires programmable counting, timing and relay-based machine control from a compact panel-mounted instrument.

Production Counting

The CX Series can count products, components or repetitive operations based on incoming electrical pulses.

Batch Control

A preset count can be entered so that an output operates when the required production quantity is reached.

For example:

Preset quantity: 100 pieces

When 100 pulses are counted, the configured relay can operate according to the programmed function.

Machine Cycle Counting

Machine manufacturers can use the counter mode to track the number of operating cycles performed by equipment.

Process Timing

The timer mode can be used where an operation must run for a preset duration or start after a specified delay.

ON Delay Control

The output can be activated after a preset period following the start signal.

OFF Delay Control

The output can remain active for a selected time according to the programmed OFF delay function.

Repetitive Cyclic Operation

The cyclic timer function can be used for processes that require repetitive timed switching.

Multiple Timing Ranges

The CX Series supports timing ranges covering seconds, minutes and hours, with selectable resolutions.

The available ranges extend from 999.9 seconds through to 9999 hours, depending on the selected timer configuration.

Dual Output Control

The two relay outputs allow additional machine control functions such as pre-setpoint indication or end-of-cycle operation.

D. Suitable Buyers

The iTherm CX Series Multifunction Timer and Counter is suitable for the following buyers and industries.

Machine Manufacturers

OEM machine builders that require timer and counter functionality within electrical control panels.

Industrial Automation Companies

Automation system integrators requiring configurable digital timers, counters and relay control.

Electrical Panel Builders

Panel manufacturers can use the CX Series where preset counting or timing is required within an industrial control panel.

Packaging Machine Manufacturers

Suitable for:

• Product counting
• Batch counting
• Machine cycle counting
• Timed operations
• Conveyor applications

Manufacturing Industries

Production plants can use the CX Series for monitoring production quantities and controlling repetitive machine processes.

Conveyor System Manufacturers

The counter function can be used with suitable sensors to count products moving through a conveyor system.

Process Equipment Manufacturers

Useful for industrial equipment that requires preset timing, delayed switching or repetitive cyclic operations.

Maintenance Teams

The counter can also be applied where operating cycles or repetitive machine events need to be monitored.

Automation and Instrumentation Dealers

Dealers and distributors requiring a programmable industrial timer and counter range for different panel sizes can offer the CX Series for multiple machine applications.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the iTherm CX Series?

The iTherm CX Series is a range of digital preset multifunction timers and counters designed for industrial automation and machine control applications.

2. Which models are available in the CX Series?

The technical documentation lists models including CX-408, CX-728 and CX-928.

3. Can the CX Series work as both a timer and a counter?

Yes. The operating mode is configurable as either Counter or Timer.

4. Can the CX Series perform up and down counting?

Yes. The counter parameters allow the count direction to be configured for up or down counting.

5. What timer functions are available?

The CX Series supports:

• ON delay
• OFF delay
• Cyclic mode

The exact function can be configured according to the application.

6. What is the maximum timer range?

The documented timing selections extend up to 9999 hours, with other selectable ranges available in seconds, minutes and hours.

7. How many relay outputs does the CX Series provide?

The CX Series provides two relay outputs, each rated at 5 Amp at 230 VAC according to the manufacturer's operating manual.

8. What can the second relay output be used for?

Output 2 can be configured for functions such as Auxiliary, End of Cycle, Off, Invert or Pre Setpoint.

9. What power supply is required?

The CX Series operates on a 90 to 270 VAC universal power supply.

10. Does the CX Series have a reset function?

Yes. Reset options include:

• Front-panel programmable reset
• Remote reset through rear terminals
• Programmable reset at power ON

11. Can the CX Series be used for production counting?

Yes. When connected to a suitable pulse-generating sensor or switch, the counter mode can be used to count products, batches, machine operations or other repetitive events.

12. Can it be connected to a proximity sensor?

The manufacturer's connection diagrams show configurations for PNP proximity sensors, NPN proximity sensors and contact switches.

13. Is the CX Series suitable for control panel installation?

Yes. The CX Series is specifically designed for panel mounting and is available in different panel formats.