GL Controller System

Touch-screen controller with Ethernet access

Experience the next level of testing flexibility and functionality with the new GL Controller System. Building on 35 years of engineering success, the GL controller offers advanced chamber operation, intuitive controls, and expanded capabilities for today's testing environments.

  • Standard feature for ESPEC Platinous and Global-N chambers.
  • An add-on for remote access to chambers going back 30 years (P-300, SCP-220, F4T, F4).

The user interface features simplified navigation for quick access to any function, and remote network operation allows you to monitor and control your chamber from anywhere on your network via a standard browser.

Advanced Capabilities and Integration

  • Virtually Unlimited Programs: Store virtually unlimited test profiles that can be downloaded via browser or USB. Easily share programs with other chambers for accurate and repeatable testing.

  • Comprehensive Data Logging: Log over 30 operational parameters. Downloads to a server or PC can be automated for efficient data management.

  • Multilingual Support: The display supports English, Spanish, or French, making it accessible to a wider range of operators.

  • Maintenance and Diagnostics: Use programmable timers to set reminders for maintenance or other actions. Advanced diagnostics, a complete history log, and a 'back trace' feature simplify troubleshooting.

Remote Access and Command

  • Web Controller functionality: Our Web Controller tool is built-in, used for remote monitoring, programming, and data logging. The flexible user interface is suited for all devices, from phones to large monitors.

  • API and Macros: Macros allow you to set alerts or updates to email or other devices, or change chamber operation. The RestFUL API allows direct access and interaction with other software and devices.

  • Command Protocol Access: Direct access to GL command protocols via the ethernet, enabling custom programming and integration with other test equipment. Options for RS-232 and RS-485 serial interfaces are also available.

GL Controller System Specification

Specification Features
Display

Color touch-screen, 10-inch diagonal
Multilingual display in English, Spanish, French, Italian, Portuguese, German, French, Polish, Japanese, Chinese, Vietnamese, Korean

Control Method

PID (Proportional, Integral, Derivative)

Communications

Remote access: Ethernet via browser, RestFUL API, or direct
Optional: TCP/IP, RS232, RS485
Email alarm and macro notifications via ESPEC Azure or SMTP

Note: ESPEC Azure is the default email communication protocol. Customers can use SMTP (as alternative email protocol) if they subscribe to the service.

Operating Modes

STOP: chamber off, programmer on
PGM: RUN runs selected test profile
CONSTANT: runs at set value continually (three saved profiles)

Programming Capabilities

Max 500 steps per test profile; test profiles can be chained for >500 steps.
Nesting loops to repeat steps
Copy, edit, insert, and delete steps
Selectable end-of-test modes
Create pause steps within programs
Guraranteed soak mode delays step-timer until setpoint is reached
Upload and download of test profiles via USB or browser

Data Storage

Maximum data log file size is 1GB
Number of test profiles limited by internal GL system storage; current model: 16 GB
Datalogging retention: ~700 days at 10 second intervals (1 sec to 60 min possible)
25 operational parameters available for datalogging
Automated download and storage of data using macro functionality

Additional Functions

Alarm report lists alarm and time occurred (also datalogged)
Time signal relay control (with naming capability)
High/low limit alarm functions
Audible alarm with on-screen explanation
Selectable restart modes after power failure
Automatic start and stop functions
User and role-based log-in security
Customizable screen content display
Service guide and help screens
Three settable reminder alarms for PM
Running time meter is integral

Remote Ethernet Operation

Full functionality of the mounted display
Operation data may be exported to CSV to the local device
Download or upload of test profiles
Creation of Macro functions
Network view: to show status of all enabled chambers on the network
Command pass-thru, allow direct controller access

Firmware maintenance

Firmware updates available via cloud service. One year updates are included.
Firmware CVE (Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures) updates at espec.com

GL Controller System Software/Communications


GL Controller System

Current models: Platinous J-series and Global-N

GL Chamber Controller *Live Demo*

 

Function Interface Notes Link

Remote User Access via browser

Ethernet

  • Full access to GL user interface
  • Download data or test profiles
  • Macro builder for email alerts and automation
GL Chamber Controller
*Live Demo*
RESTful API Ethernet RESTful API for access from other software. Documentation includes examples in Javascript, Python, CURL. Log into this demo (demo/demo),
then go to API Documentation

Direct System Controller Commands

Ethernet or optional RS-232 or RS-485

Use direct controller commands. Bypasses the API and UI, talks directly to the PLC. Library in Python 3.

Chamber Connect Library
at Github.com

Labview drivers

RS-232

Direct controller commands for VISA 5.0+

Labview drivers at ni.com (link)

Detailed guide on remote/software access (pdf)
GL Controller Remote Access Guide

GL Controller Frequently Asked Questions

Does the GL Controller include remote web access?

Yes. Every GL Controller includes ESPEC's browser-based Web Controller, allowing users to remotely monitor chamber status, create and edit test profiles, download data logs in CSV format, configure email alarm notifications, and integrate with third-party software using a RESTful API. No additional software is required to access these features through a supported web browser.


 

Can I download chamber data from the GL Controller?

Yes. The GL Controller makes it easy to export chamber data in industry-standard CSV format for analysis, reporting, and recordkeeping. Data can be downloaded directly to a USB flash drive at the chamber or through the browser interface to your local computer.


 

Can I back up or transfer test programs?

Yes. Test programs can be uploaded to or downloaded from the GL Controller using a USB flash drive. Program files are stored in JSON format, making it simple to back up configurations, duplicate programs across chambers, or archive test methods.


 

Does the GL Controller have a USB port?

Yes. A standard USB port is included on every GL Controller. It supports exporting chamber data logs, importing and exporting test programs, and simplifying routine data management without requiring a network connection.


 

Does the GL Controller support software integration?

Yes. The GL Controller is designed for integration with laboratory software, custom applications, and automation systems. It includes a RESTful API for modern software integration and supports direct communications through optional RS-232 or RS-485 interfaces.


 

Is there a software development kit (SDK) for the GL Controller?

Yes. ESPEC provides the free Chamber Connect Library, which includes sample code and documentation to help developers build custom applications that communicate with the GL Controller over Ethernet or optional RS-232/RS-485 connections. Download at Github.


 

What communication options does the GL Controller support?

The GL Controller supports multiple communication methods to fit a variety of laboratory and manufacturing environments, including Ethernet, USB, optional RS-232, optional RS-485, a browser-based Web Controller, and a RESTful API for software integration.


 

Can the GL Controller connect to factory automation or custom software?

Yes. The GL Controller is designed for seamless integration with laboratory information systems (LIMS), manufacturing execution systems (MES), SCADA platforms, and custom software. Developers can use the built-in RESTful API or the Chamber Connect Library to automate chamber control, retrieve test data, and integrate environmental testing into existing workflows.

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