Televac® AN 3001: Comparison of the MX2A and MX4A Active Gauges

1 Description

Historically, the 2A Thermocouple Vacuum Gauge had a measurement range up to only 20 Torr, and the 4A Convection Vacuum Gauge was used to measure pressures up to 1000 Torr. Software and drive signal enhancements incorporated into the MX2A Thermocouple Active Vacuum Gauge now allow the 2A Thermocouple Vacuum Gauge to measure pressures up to 1000 Torr. This has raised questions about the differences between the MX2A Thermocouple Active Vacuum Gauge and the MX4A Convection Active Vacuum Gauge, as almost all their specifications are now identical. This application note outlines the differences between the two active vacuum gauges.

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2 Differences Between the MX2A and MX4A

Description MX2A MX4A
Sensor Type Thermocouple Convection
Filament Diameter Thicker Thinner
Contamination Resistance Higher Lower
Response Time < 2 seconds < 1 second
Accuracy ±30% (10 to 100 Torr) ±10% (10 to 100 Torr)
Materials Exposed to Vacuum NiMnSi Alloy, CuNiMn Alloy NiCr Alloy, CuNi Alloy
Cost Low Lowest

All other specifications for the MX2A and MX4A are equivalent.

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