The Preheater operates in either of two modes, Power Mode or T/C (Thermocouple) Mode. Power Mode allows the user to set the output of the unit manually. When running in this mode, the unit will output the set percentage of power, regardless of the T/C actual value. A thermocouple is not required in this mode, but may be used to monitor the actual board temperature.

T/C Mode allows the user to set the desired temperature (50-180°C/122-356°F) of the PCB for closed-loop control of the temperature using the T/C input. A Type-K thermocouple must be secured to the PCB and plugged into the unit’s T/C jack for this mode to operate. When running in this mode, the unit will apply 100% power until the board reaches 10°C below the set temperature. The unit will then start PID control to regulate the power output of the heater to hold the PCB at the set temperature.