Technical updates for Alicat mass flow and pressure instruments: FAQ

Alicat Scientific has developed a new firmware version (9v) to make the most of the latest electronics.

Which instruments are affected by this change?

All Alicat units, with the exception of ATEX certified units, OEM units, FP-25 (calibrator for air quality monitoring) and CODA (Coriolis), ship with 9v firmware  as of June 10, 2021.

Can I upgrade my existing instruments to 9v?

Perhaps. Instruments with version 8v firmware can be updated to 9v. On request, we can update your firmware to 9v during the next recalibration free of charge. However, older hardware is not compatible with 9v firmware. In the local menu on your instrument you will find information about which firmware you have. See below.

Will my new 9v Alicat communicate the same way as my existing 8v Alicats?

Yes. Communication protocols and commands have not changed during the move from 8v to 9v, so your current communication remains the same regardless of which protocol you have been using.

What changes will I notice?

The new menu map improves the user experience with easier navigation to popular functions. Below you will find a list of changes to the menu structure.

• Instruments ordered with RS-232 or RS-485 will also have both Alicat's standard ASCII and Modbus RTU available as standard without the need for any additional firmware. The device automatically detects which protocol to use based on the commands sent. Additional Modbus settings are available under MENU > SETUP > (RS-232 serial or RS-485 serial).
• A new INFO button provides easy access to the details of a gas mixture created in COMPOSER. To view, press MENU > SETUP > Active Gas > COMPOSER Mixes. Find the name of the gas mixture that you selected when you created the gas mixture and select that gas.
• Choose whether a button press should do one of the following: Display the value in the center of the screen. Opens a menu to change units (mass flow, volume flow, pressure, temperature) and other settings. Display valve opening percentage (regulators only).
  • Choose whether a button press should do one of the following:
    • Display the value in the center of the screen.
    • Opens a menu to change units (mass flow, volume flow, pressure, temperature) and other settings.
    • Display valve opening percentage (regulators only).

In the table below you will find a summary of the new, more user-friendly menu tree in Alicat's Mass Flow and Pressure Instruments.

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