TCAT-2 Animal Temperature Controllers

Realizing that laboratory applications are diverse, Physitemp can provide several versions of the TCAT Animal Temperature Controller. The model specified depends on whether a laboratory has a general or specific need for the controller.

All TCAT-2 versions may be used with any of our extensive line of accurate Type T thermocouple probes, which act as the temperature feedback sensor. Most commonly used are the RET series of animal rectal probes, but the IT series of implantable flexible probes and MT series of needle probes may also be used depending on the specific application. All instruments are designed to operate on a 110V or 230V AC supply. Must specify voltage when ordering.

The unit comes in a durable baked enamel painted aluminum housing. Adjustable front feet allow the user to raise the front of controller to provide a more convenient viewing angle.

A heat/cool switch is provided when using the controller with cooling devices such as small refrigeration compressors or thermoelectric stages. In the cooling mode it inverts the control function and shuts off the load when feedback sensor temperature falls below the set point. A small lamp on the front of the control unit indicates when power is being applied to the load.

The TCAT-2 is simple to set-up; connect the feedback sensor to the animal and to the back of the controller, connect the heating pad, blanket, lamp or cooling device to the appropriate outlet on the rear of the controller. Adjust the set temperature as required (lower green display) according to the instruction label on top of the instrument. The set temperature is stored in memory after the unit is switched off.

TCAT-2AC

This version controls only AC powered heating or cooling devices such as a heat lamp. It is the least costly.

For low voltage models with DC output for electrically sensitive applications where AC frequencies might interfere with other monitoring devices see TCAT-2LV and TCAT-2DF.

TCAT-2LV

This model provides a low-voltage DC output for electrically sensitive applications where AC frequencies might interfere with other monitoring devices. It comes standard with a built in DC power supply designed to operate with our HP-1M Heating Plate for small rodents. The TCAT-2LV utilizes a dual set point control circuit to prevent a heating element from overshooting the control point due to thermal lag in the control system. This is an important feature in preventing burns due to incorrect control settings or faulty feedback sensor. On a custom basis, we can provide a variety of DC power supplies Depending on the load power requirements.

TCAT-2DF

This is a combination version which includes both and AC outlet for controlling primarily resistance loads such as heat lamps, AC powered warming blankets and a low-voltage, low noise DC output for heating pads. This version allows you to controls a variety of different loads.

Related Accessories

WB-1 Small Animal Warming Blanket

Physitemp now offers two sizes of flexible blankets for use with the TCAT-2LV and TCAT-2DF controllers. This blanket uses far infrared radiation to penetrate deep into the body. It measures 8” x 6” is suitable for mice and small rats.

The warming blankets feature overtemperature protection which prevents the blanket temperature from exceeding 42°C in the event that the primary feedback sensor becomes disconnected.  Please note that the blanket must be supplied with the controller to match the overtemperature unit setting.

WB-2 Large Animal Warming Blanket

This blanket uses far infrared radiation to penetrate deep into the body. It measures 10” x 10” is suitable for mice and small rats.

The warming blankets feature overtemperature protection which prevents the blanket temperature from exceeding 42°C in the event that the primary feedback sensor becomes disconnected.  Please note that the blanket must be supplied with the controller to match the overtemperature unit setting.

HP-1M Large Animal Heating Plate

Optional direct current heating plate for small rodents (mice and rats). Standard plates are black anodized aluminium and the HP-1M measures 4 3/8W” x 8.5″L The heating plate has small feet attached giving it an elevation of 1/4″ above the surface it sits on, such as a table or stereotaxic stage. They are easily cleaned with alcohol. The Heat Plate is provided with a feedback sensor to prevent overheating when used with our TCAT-2 series of controllers. Custom sizes are also available with longer lead times.

HP-4M Small Animal Heating Plate

Optional direct current heating plate for small rodents (mice and rats). Standard plates are black anodized aluminium and the HP-4M measures 1 1/2”W x 4”L. The plate has small feet attached giving it an elevation of 1/4″ above the surface it sits on, such as a table or stereotaxic stage. They are easily cleaned with alcohol and are provided with a feedback sensor to prevent overheating when used with our TCAT-2 series of controllers. Custom sizes are also available with longer lead times.

Infrared Heat Lamps

Available with a range of mounting options and with adjustable swing arms to provide for easy adjustment of radiant heat to specimen. The lamp is supplied with a 250W (infrared) heat lamp bulb and a built in reflector. A chrome bulb guard is also provided and easily snaps onto the lamp housing after the bulb is installed. Fits standard 110V AC socket. 220V available upon request.For use with our TCAT-2AC or TCAT-2DF Animal Temperature Controllers. Can be used independently as well.

HL-1 Heat – Lamp with Table Clamp – Standard lamp is provided with a Table Clamp: Standard ”U” screw clamp expands to fit bench up to 2.25” deep.

HL-1/Base – Heat Lamp with Tabletop Base – Standard lamp fitted with tabletop base for convenience

HL-1/FS – Heat Lamp with Floor Stand – Standard lamp fitted with convenient rolling floor stand