A. Product Overview

The iTherm XTC Series is a range of digital preset multifunction timer and counter instruments developed for industrial machines and automation systems.

The series includes:

Both models use a 4-digit LED display and are designed for panel mounting. The main difference between XTC-774 and XTC-994 is their physical panel size.

The XTC Series can be programmed to operate either as a counter or timer. Its key features include:

• Counter and timer operating modes
• Programmable up and down counting
• Counting range from 0 to 9999 counts
• Timer range from 0.01 seconds to 9999 hours
• Two programmable relay outputs
• Multiple selectable count frequencies
• ON delay and OFF delay functions
• Auto reset and latched output modes
• Universal 90 to 270 VAC power supply
• Optional 24 VDC supply
• Remote reset facility
• Panel-mounted ABS housing

The combination of timer, counter and programmable relay functions makes the XTC Series suitable for machine builders who need one compact instrument for several common industrial control functions.

B. Working Principle

The iTherm XTC Series works by receiving an input signal from a machine, sensor, proximity switch or contact and then processing that signal according to the selected timer or counter operating mode.

Counter Mode

In counter mode, the XTC Series counts incoming electrical pulses.

A typical sequence is:

Product detected → sensor sends pulse → XTC receives pulse → count changes → preset count is reached → relay output operates

The counter can be configured for either:

• Up counting
• Down counting

The official documentation lists selectable count frequencies of:

• 3 Hz
• 30 Hz
• 100 Hz
• 1 kHz
• 2.5 kHz

This allows the instrument to be adapted to slow mechanical events as well as faster pulse-counting applications.

Timer Mode

In timer mode, the XTC Series measures a programmed time interval and changes the relay output according to the configured function.

A typical sequence is:

Start signal received → timing begins → preset time is reached → output relay operates

The timer supports both ON delay and OFF delay functions. Timer operation can also be configured for up or down timing.

Timer Start Options

The XTC Series supports several methods for starting the timer:

• Power ON start
• Front-panel start
• Remote pulse input
• Remote pulse and level input

This allows the timer to be integrated with different machine control arrangements.

Relay Output Operation

The XTC Series provides two programmable relay outputs.

Output 1 can operate using functions such as:

• Latched output
• Auto reset
• Time-Plus Repeat

Output 2 can be configured differently depending on whether the unit is operating as a timer or counter.

For counter applications, Output 2 can be used for:

• Auxiliary contact
• Batch mode
• Off

For timer applications, Output 2 can be used for:

• Auxiliary contact
• End of Cycle
• Off

C. Why is the iTherm XTC Series Used?

The iTherm XTC Series is used when an industrial application requires preset counting, preset timing or relay-based control from a single panel-mounted instrument.

Production Counting

The counter can count products, components or operations based on pulses received from an external sensor.

For example:

Preset count: 500 pieces

Once the counter reaches 500 pulses, the relay can operate according to the selected output configuration.

Batch Counting

The programmable batch function can be used where production must be divided into predetermined quantities.

This is useful for:

• Packing operations
• Component counting
• Batch manufacturing
• Product sorting
• Repetitive production cycles

Machine Cycle Counting

Each completed machine cycle can generate a pulse. The XTC Series can count these pulses and provide an output when the required number of cycles is completed.

Process Timing

The timer function can be used when machinery must run for a predetermined duration or when an output needs to switch after a programmed delay.

ON Delay Applications

The relay output activates after the configured delay period.

This can be useful for:

• Sequential machine starting
• Delayed motor operation
• Process sequencing
• Machine interlocking

OFF Delay Applications

The output changes after the programmed OFF delay, making it useful where equipment needs to remain active for a specified period after an input condition changes.

Conveyor Applications

When used with a suitable proximity sensor or switch, the XTC Series can count products passing along a conveyor.

Packaging Machines

It can be used to count packages, bottles, pouches, cartons or completed packaging cycles.

Production Automation

The dual programmable relay outputs make the XTC Series useful where both counting or timing and an additional machine control action are required.

D. Suitable Buyers

Machine Manufacturers

OEM machine builders requiring preset timer and counter functionality for their equipment.

Packaging Machine Manufacturers

Suitable for product counting, batch counting, timed machine operations and production cycle control.

Industrial Automation Companies

System integrators can use the XTC Series in automation panels that require pulse counting, timer functions and relay outputs.

Electrical Panel Builders

Panel manufacturers can install XTC-774 or XTC-994 depending on the available panel space and required instrument format.

Conveyor System Manufacturers

Suitable for counting products and monitoring repetitive product movement when connected to an appropriate sensor.

Manufacturing Plants

Production facilities can use the XTC Series for batch quantities, machine cycle counting and process timing.

Process Equipment Manufacturers

Suitable for industrial equipment requiring preset timing, delayed switching or count-based control.

Maintenance and Engineering Teams

Engineering teams can use preset counting to monitor repetitive machine events and operate outputs after a defined number of cycles.

Instrumentation and Automation Dealers

Industrial dealers and distributors can offer XTC Series models for applications requiring programmable timers, counters and relay-based controls.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the iTherm XTC Series?

The iTherm XTC Series is a range of digital preset multifunction timers and counters designed for industrial timing, counting and machine control applications.

2. Which models are available in the XTC Series?

The XTC Series includes:

XTC-774 and XTC-994.

3. What is the difference between XTC-774 and XTC-994?

The primary difference is their physical panel size.

XTC-774: 72 × 72 mm
XTC-994: 96 × 96 mm

Both use a 4-digit display and provide similar timer and counter functionality.

4. Can the XTC Series work as both a timer and a counter?

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

5. What is the counting range of the XTC Series?

The specified counting range is 0 to 9999 counts.

6. What is the timer range?

The timer range extends from 0.01 seconds to 9999 hours, with the required range selected through the instrument configuration.

7. Can the XTC Series count upward and downward?

Yes. The XTC Series supports programmable up and down counting.

8. What count frequencies are supported?

The XTC Series supports selectable frequencies of 3 Hz, 30 Hz, 100 Hz, 1 kHz and 2.5 kHz for compatible input configurations.

9. How many relay outputs are available?

The XTC Series provides two programmable relay outputs. The operating manual specifies 5 Amp at 230 VAC relay outputs.

10. Does the XTC Series support ON delay and OFF delay?

Yes. The XTC Series supports both ON delay and OFF delay functions.

11. Can it be used for batch counting?

Yes. Output 2 can be configured for Batch Mode when the instrument is operating as a counter.

12. Can the XTC Series be connected to a proximity sensor?

Yes. The manufacturer's wiring information shows connections for PNP proximity sensors, NPN proximity sensors and contact switches.

13. Can the timer be started remotely?

Yes. The timer supports remote start options in addition to power ON and front-panel start.

14. Does the XTC Series support remote reset?

Yes. Reset can be performed from the front switch or through the rear remote reset terminals. Reset at power ON can also be configured.

15. What power supply does the XTC Series require?

The standard supply is 90 to 270 VAC. A 24 VDC version is available on request according to the manufacturer's datasheet.

16. Does the XTC Series have memory backup?

No. The official XTC Series datasheet specifically states that memory backup is unavailable.

17. Is the XTC Series suitable for production counting?

Yes. When connected to an appropriate pulse-generating sensor, it can be used for product counting, component counting, batch counting and machine cycle counting.

18. Where can the XTC Series be used?

Typical applications include packaging machines, conveyors, assembly lines, production equipment, batch processes, industrial machinery and automation control panels.

19. Which model should I select, XTC-774 or XTC-994?

Selection primarily depends on the required panel size and available installation space. XTC-774 uses a 72 × 72 mm format, while XTC-994 uses a larger 96 × 96 mm format. Their required operating function, input arrangement and output requirements should also be checked before selection.

20. Is the iTherm XTC Series suitable for OEM machines?

Yes. Its programmable timer and counter operation, multiple input options, dual relay outputs and panel-mounted construction make it particularly suitable for OEM machinery and industrial automation panels.