Q: My TAP Controller is forgetting the date and time between reboots. Is there a battery on the controller board that needs to be replaced?

Short Answer: Your controller forgetting time and date between reboots is indication that you need to replace your clock battery. Does your kiln controller keep forgetting the date or time every time you restart your controller? That means the coin cell battery needs to be replaced. You can find the clock battery on the back of your controller's circuit board. Usually, you can access it by unscrewing the front display of your controller – though you may need to detach your wiring harness to create additional access to the back of your controller. The controller will accept standard CR1220 or CR1225 batteries. You can also purchase a replacement TAP Clock Battery on our online store. my controller my kiln controller my tap kiln controller forgets the time between resets my controller keeps forgetting time and date my time and date keep resetting how do i get my controller to remember the time and date how to get my controller to remember the time and date do i need to replace my clock battery how to find my battery how do i replace my battery

Q: My controller isn’t displaying any available wireless networks. What should I do?

Short Answer: If your TAP Controller isn't displaying any available WiFi networks, the most common cause is trying to connect to an unsupported network. First, please verify that you’re attempting to connect to a supported network. Network requirements are below: 2.4 GHz wireless network with WEP, WPA, or WPA2 security. Unsecured networks are also supported – but networks that use a captive portal (a la many cafes and airports) are not. WPA3 and EAP networks are not supported. Signal strength of at least two bars is recommended (network latency or weak signal strength can negatively affect controller online status). If you’re still using an original TAP Controller, make sure your WiFi dongle is properly installed in the controller’s USB drive. If you’re using a TAP II, TAP II Pro, or any other TAP Kiln Control Product, inspect the antenna and make sure it is unobstructed and pointed towards your router and doesn’t have any signs of damage. my controller isn't showing any wireless networks no available wireless networks no wifi no available wifi no networks how do i fix no available networks what should i do if my controller isn't showing

Q: My kiln is reading negative temperatures. What should I do?

Short Answer: Negative temperature readings are usually caused by incorrect thermocouple installation. If your kiln reading negative temperatures, this is usually a relatively straightforward fix. The thermocouple on your kiln is likely installed with polarity reversed. Please contact your kiln manufacturer for assistance in resolving this issue. Additionally, you can find troubleshooting steps for thermocouple-related error notifications here . why is my kiln reading negative temperatures what should i do what do i do what does it mean if my kiln is reading negative temperatures the temperatures on my kiln are negative the temperatures on my kiln is negative kiln temperature

Q: I received an error message stating the firing aborted because the kiln was failing to heat. Is it a faulty relay?

Short Answer: While “Failing to Heat” errors can be caused by a failed relay, there are additional possible causes... A “Failing to Heat” error can be caused by a failed relay, but it can also be caused by: Failed thermocouples Faulty wiring Inadequate supply power The best course of action is to contact your kiln manufacturer for further assistance in troubleshooting the cause of the alarm. You can find additional troubleshooting steps and explanations for other error messages here . kiln failing to heat failing to heat firing aborted error message error notification not heating up kiln won't heat

Q: I am receiving an error message indicating that no thermocouple is detected. What should I do?

Short Answer: Usually an error for no thermocouple occurs when your thermocouple wasn't properly installed. If you received an error message stating No thermocouple is detected , this is is likely an issue with the installation of your thermocouple. Please contact your kiln manufacturer for assistance in resolving this issue. Learn more about other TAP error messages , as well as well as corresponding diagnostic and troubleshooting steps. what does it mean if i get an error notification for "no thermocouple is detected" no thermocouple present how do i troubleshoot how do i fix how do i resolve my controller is saying there is no thermocouple my controller says

Q: Every time I turn the kiln on, the time is adjusted and does not match my local time zone. Can this be fixed?

Short Answer: SDS Industries introduced a permanent fix for this issue in our 3.0 software update. This was a known issue that was related to the controller pulling time from network time protocol servers and defaulting to UTC time zone. However, we rolled out a patch for this issue in our 3.0 software update. If you are still facing this issue, it means your TAP Kiln Controller software is out of date. Updating your software will permanently resolve this issue. doesn't match my local time zone my kiln controller's time zone is wrong time zone resets every time i turn on or off my kiln how to make my controller remember time zone

Question 1

I received an error message on my controller. What does it mean and how do I fix it?

Scott Shannon · Accepted Answer

Below are explanations for each possible error message on the TAP II or TAP II Pro Controllers – as well as possible causes and troubleshooting steps...

TAP Kiln Controller Table of Errors

Message on Controller	Error Condition	Possible Cause	Possible Solution
The maximum allowable temperature for this device has been exceeded, the firing is Aborted.	Max Temperature Exceeded	Programmed Temperature Too High Relay Failure	Reduce programmed top temperature Verify relay turns off when 12VDC removed
The controller has detected a failure to heat, the firing is Aborted.	Failing to Heat for Too Long	Intermittent/Shorted Thermocouple Relay Failure Element Failure Reduced Power Available	Check thermocouple to ensure not broken or shorted Verify relay turns off when 12VDC removed Verify element is not open circuit Verify source power
The controller has detected a ramp rate in excess of the programmed ramp rate, the firing is aborted. This could be due to a latched relay.	Ramp Rate Exceeded	Relay Failure Controller Output Failure	Verify relay turns off when 12VDC removed Verify controller output 0VDC when in standby
The controller has detected a failure to cool. This firing is aborted.	Failure to Cool	Relay Failure Controller Output Failure	Verify relay turns off when 12VDC removed Verify controller output 0VDC when in standby
The controller has detected a high deviation from the setpoint, the firing is aborted. This could be due to a latched relay.	High Temp Deviation From Setpoint	Relay Failure Controller Output Failure	Verify relay turns off when 12VDC removed Verify controller output 0VDC when in standby
The controller has detected a rising temperature while not actively firing. This could be the result of latched relays.	Rising Temperature Alarm	Relay Failure Controller Output Failure	Verify relay turns off when 12VDC removed Verify controller output 0VDC when in standby
No thermocouple is detected. Firing is Aborted.	No Thermocouple Detected Alarm	Thermocouple Failure Thermocouple Connection Bad Controller Input Failure	Verify thermocouple is not broken Verify thermocouple connection at the controller and isothermal block Contact SDS Industries
Failed to initialize AD7799 Hardware.	Analog to Digital Converter Has Failed	Analog to Digital Converter Has Failed	Contact SDS Industries as a replacement controller will be needed

Please contact our Support Team with any questions. We're happy to assist you! You can find more detailed troubleshooting steps here.

Question 2

My TAP Controller won't respond to touch. What should I do?

Scott Shannon · Accepted Answer

Follow these steps to initiate the Touchscreen Calibration Utility for your original TAP, TAP II, or TAP II Pro Controller...

Please note: The process of recalibrating your touchscreen is the same for TAP, TAP II, and TAP II Pro, unless you’re using an original TAP Controller which hasn’t been updated to Software Version 5.0 or higher (in which case you can find instructions at the bottom of this page).

First, take a deep breath. We know it's scary when your controller stops responding. But the vast majority of the time you just need to recalibrate your touchscreen. This only takes a few seconds.

Steps for Recalibrating Your Touchscreen

Turn your TAP Controller off and on again 3 times to automatically bring up the touchscreen calibration utility. When rebooting your controller, make sure you wait until the Warning Screen appears each time before restarting again AND you don’t acknowledge the warning banner.

Once the Touchscreen Calibration Utility launches, tap and hold the 5 points that are indicated on screen via a yellow crosshair pattern that appears on the screen going clockwise from the upper left corner. You will move sequentially through the points from upper left to upper right to lower right to lower left to center. Tap and hold each point for approximately 5 seconds for best results.

This video demonstrates how to use the TAP Touchscreen Calibration Utility:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IWbzZXjq_4g

If you still have no response after entering the Touchscreen Calibration Utility, please contact SDS Industries.

Instructions for Original TAP Controller That Hasn’t Been Updated

If you’re using an original TAP Controller [discontinued] that hasn’t been updated to Software Version 5.0 or higher, we strongly recommend updating your controller software.

However, you can still recalibrate your touchscreen in the meantime. First, tap around your screen until you find an area of the screen that responds. Then, tap and hold that point for ~30 seconds to launch the Touchscreen Calibration Utility, and follow the on-screen prompts.

Question 3

My TAP Controller is forgetting the date and time between reboots. Is there a battery on the controller board that needs to be replaced?

Scott Shannon · Accepted Answer

Short Answer: Your controller forgetting time and date between reboots is indication that you need to replace your clock battery.

Does your kiln controller keep forgetting the date or time every time you restart your controller? That means the coin cell battery needs to be replaced.

You can find the clock battery on the back of your controller's circuit board. Usually, you can access it by unscrewing the front display of your controller – though you may need to detach your wiring harness to create additional access to the back of your controller.

The controller will accept standard CR1220 or CR1225 batteries.

You can also purchase a replacement TAP Clock Battery on our online store.

Question 4

My controller isn’t displaying any available wireless networks. What should I do?

Scott Shannon · Accepted Answer

Short Answer: If your TAP Controller isn't displaying any available WiFi networks, the most common cause is trying to connect to an unsupported network.

First, please verify that you’re attempting to connect to a supported network. Network requirements are below:

2.4 GHz wireless network with WEP, WPA, or WPA2 security.
Unsecured networks are also supported – but networks that use a captive portal (a la many cafes and airports) are not.
WPA3 and EAP networks are not supported.
Signal strength of at least two bars is recommended (network latency or weak signal strength can negatively affect controller online status).

If you’re still using an original TAP Controller, make sure your WiFi dongle is properly installed in the controller’s USB drive.

If you’re using a TAP II, TAP II Pro, or any other TAP Kiln Control Product, inspect the antenna and make sure it is unobstructed and pointed towards your router and doesn’t have any signs of damage.

Question 5

My kiln is reading negative temperatures. What should I do?

Scott Shannon · Accepted Answer

Short Answer: Negative temperature readings are usually caused by incorrect thermocouple installation.

If your kiln reading negative temperatures, this is usually a relatively straightforward fix.

The thermocouple on your kiln is likely installed with polarity reversed. Please contact your kiln manufacturer for assistance in resolving this issue.

Additionally, you can find troubleshooting steps for thermocouple-related error notifications here.

Question 6

I received an error message stating the firing aborted because the kiln was failing to heat. Is it a faulty relay?

Scott Shannon · Accepted Answer

Short Answer: While “Failing to Heat” errors can be caused by a failed relay, there are additional possible causes...

A “Failing to Heat” error can be caused by a failed relay, but it can also be caused by:

Failed thermocouples
Faulty wiring
Inadequate supply power

The best course of action is to contact your kiln manufacturer for further assistance in troubleshooting the cause of the alarm.

You can find additional troubleshooting steps and explanations for other error messages here.

Question 7

I am receiving an error message indicating that no thermocouple is detected. What should I do?

Scott Shannon · Accepted Answer

Short Answer: Usually an error for no thermocouple occurs when your thermocouple wasn't properly installed.

If you received an error message stating No thermocouple is detected, this is is likely an issue with the installation of your thermocouple.

Please contact your kiln manufacturer for assistance in resolving this issue.

Learn more about other TAP error messages, as well as well as corresponding diagnostic and troubleshooting steps.

Question 8

Every time I turn the kiln on, the time is adjusted and does not match my local time zone. Can this be fixed?

Scott Shannon · Accepted Answer

Short Answer: SDS Industries introduced a permanent fix for this issue in our 3.0 software update.

This was a known issue that was related to the controller pulling time from network time protocol servers and defaulting to UTC time zone.

However, we rolled out a patch for this issue in our 3.0 software update.

If you are still facing this issue, it means your TAP Kiln Controller software is out of date. Updating your software will permanently resolve this issue.

Question 9

My screen is blank and dark, but there is a flashing blue LED light inside. What should I do?

Scott Shannon · Accepted Answer

Below are troubleshooting steps for if your screen is blank and dark with a flashing blue light...

If you're seeing a flashing blue light, this is your controller's 'heartbeat.' This means your TAP Kiln Controller is operating in a normal state.

If there's no display, check all internal wiring and ensure the controller display assembly is still connected to the controller IO board.

If the problem persists after verification of all internal wiring, please contact SDS Industries.

Question 10

My controller isn’t connecting to my network. How do I fix it?

Scott Shannon · Accepted Answer

Comprehensive steps for resolving controller connectivity issues are below...

First, please verify that you’re attempting to connect to a supported network. Network requirements are below:

Network requirements for all TAP Kiln Controller Models

2.4 GHz wireless network with WEP, WPA, or WPA2 security.
Unsecured networks are also supported – but networks that use a captive portal (à la many cafes and airports) are not.
WPA3 and EAP networks are not supported.
Signal strength of at least two bars is recommended (network latency or weak signal strength can negatively affect your controller's online status).

If you recently changed your network name or password, you will need to complete the following steps. On your controller, go to Menu>Settings>Network.

Then, select the Wireless tab. From there, select your preferred wireless network and press Connect to Network. Enter your WiFi’s password, if applicable. When the controller returns to the Status tab, power off the controller and then power back on. Recheck connection status in the TAP Kiln Control Mobile app.

If you haven’t recently changed your network name or password, then most likely there was a connection timeout and a simple reboot will solve it. To reboot your controller, turn it off and on again and then wait 10 minutes.

If those steps don’t work, inspect relevant hardware components on your controller:

For the original TAP Controller, verify that the WiFi Dongle is securely connected to the USB port.
For the TAP II or TAP II Pro Controller, inspect the antenna and make sure it is unobstructed and pointed towards your router and doesn’t have any signs of damage.

Also, check the on-screen messages on your controller. These can often help pinpoint the issue.

Question 11

If I experience an issue with my controller, what are the first things I should try to do to resolve the issue?

Scott Shannon · Accepted Answer

Below are the most common troubleshooting steps for easily resolved issues...

Like most electronic equipment, the first troubleshooting step is to turn your TAP Controller off and then on again. Below are additional steps that resolve common problems:

Issues with Touchscreen Response: Turn your controller on and off 3 times to automatically bring up the touchscreen calibration utility and follow the prompts on the screen.
Issues with Date and Time Between Reboots: Replace the TAP Clock Battery (TAP accepts either CR1220 or CR1225 batteries).
Issues with Display Screen: Remove your controller from its housing. Check all internal wiring and ensure the controller display assembly is still connected to the controller IO board.
Error Messages Related to Temperature: Verify the relay turns off when 12VDC removed. Verify the controller output is 0VDC when in standby. Inspect thermocouple to ensure it is not broken or shorted and that all connections are intact.
Kiln is Showing ‘Offline’ on the TAP Kiln Control Mobile app: If you’ve already connected your controller to TAP Kiln Control Mobile app but it’s showing offline, turn your controller off and then on again. If you are still having issues, go to the Q&A for What should I do if my TAP Kiln Control Mobile app is showing my kiln as being 'offline?' for more in-depth troubleshooting steps.

More in-depth, comprehensive troubleshooting information can be found throughout the Troubleshooting Section of the FAQ. But these are the easy first steps that will resolve most issues. And, if all else fails, please contact SDS Industries.

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