VACUUBRAND DVR 2pro Ceramic Capacitive Vacuum Gauge

Overview

The VACUUBRAND DVR 2pro is a fully electronic, portable ceramic capacitive vacuum gauge engineered for reliable, drift-free pressure measurement across the rough vacuum range—from atmospheric pressure (1060 mbar) down to 1 mbar. Unlike thermocouple or Pirani gauges, the DVR 2pro employs a high-stability alumina (Al₂O₃) ceramic diaphragm as its sensing element. Under applied pressure differential, the diaphragm deflects proportionally, altering the capacitance between the diaphragm and a fixed electrode. This change is converted into a linear, temperature-compensated analog voltage signal and digitized for precise display. The sensor’s monolithic ceramic construction eliminates hysteresis, minimizes long-term drift (<0.5% full scale/year), and ensures chemical inertness against aggressive vapors—including halogenated solvents, acids, and organic condensates—common in rotary evaporation, freeze drying, and vacuum distillation workflows. Its self-contained 9 V lithium battery (Ultralife U9VL, 1.2 Ah) enables cable-free operation for over 2,000 hours, making it ideal for field diagnostics, mobile lab setups, and safety-critical verification tasks where mains-powered instrumentation is impractical or hazardous.

Key Features

• True all-in-one handheld design with integrated alumina ceramic capacitive sensor—no external transducer or cabling required
• Dual-mode display: high-resolution digital numeric readout (±1 digit) paired with an intuitive analog bar graph for real-time trend analysis
• Three selectable pressure units (mbar, hPa, Torr) with automatic scaling and zero-point recall
• On-device digital recalibration function—no external calibration kit or software needed
• Robust electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) per IEC 61326-1:2013—validated for stable operation near RF generators, induction heaters, and motor drives
• Compact footprint (115 × 115 × 66 mm) and lightweight construction (0.375 kg) for benchtop, wall-mount, or handheld use
• KF DN 16 vacuum flange standard; optional DN 6/10 mm elastomeric hose nipple for quick connection to glassware or flexible tubing

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The DVR 2pro is compatible with non-corrosive and mildly aggressive gas/vapor environments typical of laboratory vacuum systems—including water vapor, ethanol, acetone, ethyl acetate, and hydrochloric acid vapor at low partial pressures. Its Al₂O₃ sensor surface resists oxidation, hydration, and solvent swelling, eliminating the need for frequent recalibration after exposure to condensable vapors. The device complies with EU Directive 2014/30/EU (EMC Directive) and carries CE marking. While not intrinsically safe for Zone 0/1 hazardous areas, it meets general-purpose laboratory safety requirements per EN 61010-1. It supports GLP-compliant documentation when used with external logging tools, though it does not implement FDA 21 CFR Part 11 audit trails natively due to its standalone architecture.

Software & Data Management

The DVR 2pro operates autonomously without host software or drivers. All configuration—including unit selection, backlight timeout, and calibration offset—is performed via front-panel push buttons. Analog output (0–10 V DC, linear vs. log pressure scale) is available via a 4-pin LEMO connector for integration into PLC-based control systems or data acquisition hardware. For long-term monitoring, users may connect the analog output to third-party DAQ devices (e.g., National Instruments USB-6009 or Keysight 34972A) and export timestamped pressure logs in CSV format. Firmware updates are not supported—the device relies on hardware-level stability rather than field-upgradable code.

Applications

• Routine verification of vacuum integrity in rotary evaporators, lyophilizers, and vacuum ovens
• Process validation during solvent removal, degassing, and vacuum-assisted filtration
• Calibration reference for lower-cost Pirani gauges in QC/QA laboratories
• Field troubleshooting of vacuum pump performance, leak detection (qualitative), and foreline pressure monitoring
• Educational demonstrations of pressure–capacitance relationships and ceramic MEMS sensor principles
• Backup measurement during maintenance of permanently installed vacuum monitoring systems

FAQ

Does the DVR 2pro require periodic factory recalibration?
No—its alumina ceramic sensor exhibits intrinsic long-term stability. Users may perform on-site digital zeroing or span adjustment using dry nitrogen or ambient air at known pressure; full factory recalibration is recommended only every 24 months or after mechanical shock.
Can it measure absolute pressure in sealed systems?
Yes. The sensor is referenced to high-vacuum internal cavity, delivering true absolute pressure readings without venting or atmospheric compensation.
Is the battery replaceable by the end user?
Yes—the 9 V Ultralife U9VL battery is accessible via a screw-secured compartment; replacement requires no tools and preserves IP54-equivalent ingress protection.
What is the maximum allowable temperature at the sensor head?
The operating ambient temperature range is 0–40 °C; prolonged exposure above 45 °C may accelerate electrolyte aging in the battery but does not affect sensor accuracy within specification limits.
Does it support RS-232 or USB communication?
No—it is intentionally designed as a self-contained analog/digital indicator without serial interfaces to maximize reliability and minimize electromagnetic susceptibility.