Product Overview
The ITC‑308 is a plug‑and‑play temperature controller from Inkbird, ideal for home‑brew, aquarium, and oven use. It offers precise heating/cooling control, over‑temperature protection, and customizable alarms for high/low temperatures and sensor faults. It supports 0–100°C and 0.5°C resolution!
Key Features
The Inkbird ITC‑308 is a compact plug‑and‑play temperature controller designed for brewing, aquariums, ovens, and more. It offers precise heating/cooling control, over‑temperature protection, and customizable alarms.
- Dual‑Mode Operation: Switch between heating and cooling with a single button.
- High/Low Temperature Alarm: Set custom thresholds; audible/visual alerts trigger when limits are exceeded.
- Sensor Fault Detection: Reports a fault if the probe disconnects or fails.
- Compressor Delay Protection: Prevents rapid cycling in refrigeration units.
- LCD Display & Touch Buttons: Clear 2.4” LCD shows current, set, and target temperatures; tactile buttons allow quick adjustments.
- Programmable Settings: Store multiple temperature profiles and schedule them via the menu.
- Wide Operating Range: 0–100 °C (32–212 °F) with 0.5 °C resolution.
- Power Options: Works on 12 V DC or 110/220 V AC.
- Compact Build: Rugged housing protects electronics and fits tight spaces.
- Easy Installation: Plug in, connect heating/cooling element, attach probe, and start.
Its interface and durable build suit hobbyists and commercial users for temperature control!
These features make the ITC‑308 a reliable, user‑friendly solution for precise temperature control in many settings.
Technical Specifications
Model ITC‑308 operates 0–100 °C with 0.5 °C resolution. Input 12 V DC or 110/220 V AC. Max output 30 W heating, 5 W cooling. Probe range –20 °C to 100 °C. LCD 2.4″, 4‑digit display. Dimensions 90×40×30 mm. Weight 0.5 kg. Waterproof IP20.
relay, 3‑pin probe, 1‑pin output, 5‑min delay, 3 Ah backup!
Detailed Specs
• Input voltage: 12 V DC or 110/220 V AC (auto‑detect).
• Output power: 30 W heating, 5 W cooling, 3‑pin relay (5 A).
• Probe: 4‑wire thermistor, range –20 °C to 100 °C, 0.5 °C resolution.
• Display: 2.4″ LCD, 4‑digit numeric, backlight, 4‑way menu navigation.
• Alarm: high/low temperature settable, sensor fault detection, audible buzzer.
• Delay: 3‑minute compressor delay for refrigeration, 30‑second heating delay.
• Dimensions: 90 mm × 40 mm × 30 mm, weight 0.5 kg.
• Enclosure: ABS plastic, IP20 rating, 5 mm thick, mounting holes 3‑mm.
• Power consumption: < 1 W standby, < 3 W active.
• Communication: none (standalone), optional Wi‑Fi module available.
• Warranty: 2 years limited, support via email and phone.
• Compatibility: aquarium heaters, incubators, seedling mats, ovens, BBQ grills, home‑brew setups, pet breeding chambers, and any 0–100 °C controlled appliance.
• Firmware: v1.0.2, update via USB.
• Battery backup: 5 Ah, 12 V, 30 min standby.
• Mounting: 3‑mm screw holes, 10 × 10 mm.
• Power factor: 0.9.
• Operating temperature: –10 °C to 50 °C.
• Certifications: CE, FCC, RoHS.
• LED indicator: green for normal, red for alarm, for fault.
• Installation: plug into 12 V DC or 110/220 V AC, connect probe, set target, press start.
• Firmware update: connect via USB, load new .bin file.
• Safety: UL, CE, RoHS compliant.
Installation Guide
Connect the ITC‑308 to a 12 V DC or 110/220 V AC source. Attach the 4‑wire probe to the heating element. Set target temperature via the LCD menu. Press “Start” to begin control. Ensure proper ventilation and secure mounting. Verify all connections before powering on. Ensure proper ventilation. OK!!
Step-by-Step Setup
Unpack the ITC‑308 and verify all components: controller, 4‑wire probe, power cable, and instruction sheet.
Choose a suitable power source: 12 V DC for small heaters or 110/220 V AC for larger appliances. Connect the power cable to the controller’s input terminals, observing polarity for DC.
Attach the probe to the heating element. The probe’s red wire goes to the “+” terminal, black to “–”. Ensure a solid electrical contact; use a clamp or adhesive if needed.
Mount the controller on a stable surface near the heating unit. Secure it with screws or double‑sided tape to prevent vibration.
Power on the device. The LCD will display “ITC‑308” and a blinking “Set” indicator.
Press the “Set” button to enter temperature‑setting mode. Use the “+” and “–” buttons to adjust the target temperature. Confirm with “Set” again.
Configure the heating mode: press the “Mode” button until “Heat” or “Cool” appears, depending on your application.
Adjust the hysteresis (deadband) by pressing the “Hyst” button. A typical value is 0.5 °C for precise control.
Set the alarm thresholds: press “Alarm” to toggle between high and low limits, then use “+”/“–” to set values. Confirm each setting with “Set”.
Enable the compressor delay (if using a refrigeration unit) by pressing the “Delay” button and selecting the desired delay time.
Verify the “Start” indicator lights up. The controller will now monitor the probe and activate the heating element when the temperature falls below the set point.
Test the system: allow the temperature to rise, then observe the controller’s response. Adjust settings as needed for optimal performance.
Save all settings by powering off and on; the ITC‑308 retains configurations in non‑volatile memory.
Finally, label the device and document the setup in your operation manual for future reference.
Remember that the ITC‑308 uses a 4‑wire probe; ensure the probe’s insulation is intact to avoid short circuits. Keep the controller away from moisture and direct sunlight. For wireless or Wi‑Fi models, follow the separate connectivity guide. If you encounter any issues, refer to the troubleshooting section or contact Inkbird support. Additionally, calibrate the probe by comparing its reading with a calibrated thermometer; adjust the offset in the menu if necessary.
Programming & Menu Settings
Use the LCD to navigate: “Set” selects target temp, “Mode” toggles heat/cool, “Hyst” adjusts deadband, “Alarm” configures high/low limits, and “Delay” sets compressor pause. Confirm each change with “Set” and power‑cycle to save. Settings saved automatically.
Configuration Options
The ITC‑308 menu is compact yet powerful. Press Set to access the main screen, where you can adjust the following:
- Target Temperature – 0 °C to 100 °C, 0.5 °C steps.
- Mode – Heat or Cool.
- Hysteresis – 0.5–5 °C to smooth cycling.
- Alarm High/Low – Define limits; triggers alerts.
- Compressor Delay – 0–60 s pause after shutdown.
- Sensor Fault – Enable/disable fault detection.
After each change, press Set to confirm. Settings are stored in EEPROM and restored automatically after power loss. The Advanced submenu offers a PID tuning interface for precise control of heating or cooling loads, allowing manual adjustment of proportional, integral, and derivative gains.
Calibration is done by connecting a reference probe; the offset can be saved. The time display toggles to show the current hour, useful for time‑based temperature cycling. The Save button writes all changes to non‑volatile memory, ensuring persistence across resets.
Compatible with 12 V DC supplies; the internal regulator steps down to 5 V for the controller. Rated for continuous operation up to 80 °C ambient, all settings are stored in EEPROM, guaranteeing reliability for long‑term brewing or incubation projects.
Alarm Functions
The ITC‑308 offers high/low temperature alarms and a sensor‑fault alarm. Set limits via the menu; when exceeded, the unit beeps and displays an alert. The alarm can be disabled for maintenance. The LED flashes to indicate fault status. The alarm silenced by pressing Set; LED off until next trigger!
High/Low Temperature & Sensor Fault
The ITC‑308 monitors user‑defined high and low temperature limits. When the measured value exceeds these limits, the unit triggers an audible alarm and a flashing LED. The alarm continues until the temperature returns to the safe range or the user presses Set to silence it. This function protects processes that require strict temperature control, such as fermentation or incubation.
Sensor fault detection is built into the controller. If the probe is disconnected or damaged, the ITC‑308 displays “Sensor Fault” on the LCD and activates a dedicated fault LED. The fault alarm alerts the user to potential misreadings that could lead to overheating or under‑heating. To resolve the issue, verify the probe’s wiring, ensure it is fully inserted, and press Set to clear the fault status. Silence the alarm by pressing Set; the LED turns off until the next trigger.
Both high/low and sensor fault alarms can be customized via the menu. The user can set alarm sound volume, choose between continuous or single‑tone alerts, and enable or disable the LED indicator. Alarm settings are stored in non‑volatile memory, allowing the controller to retain preferences after power cycling. This flexibility ensures reliable safety monitoring for various applications. This feature prevents equipment damage and ensures temperature accuracy.
Users can also set a delay timer to prevent rapid cycling of heating elements. Users can set a delay timer to prevent fastcycling of heating elements.
Error Codes & Troubleshooting
Common errors: “Sensor Fault” indicates probe disconnection; “High Temp Alarm” triggers when set limit exceeded; “Low Temp Alarm” when below minimum. Reset by pressing Set, re‑insert probe. If alarms persist, check wiring, replace probe. Test now!
Common Issues & Fixes
Sensor Fault – The display shows “Sensor Fault” or “S‑Fault”. This means the probe is disconnected or damaged. Verify the probe is seated, check for corrosion, and ensure the cable is intact. Replace a damaged probe. If the display remains stuck, try unplugging for a few seconds.
High Temperature Alarm – When the set temperature is exceeded, the unit sounds an alarm and shuts the heater off. Reset by pressing Set until the alarm clears. If the alarm persists, check the heater wiring.
Low Temperature Alarm – If the temperature drops below the minimum, the unit triggers a low‑temp alarm. Adjust the set point or replace the heater if needed. Ensure the heater is powered and not overheated.
Display Flicker or Blank – Flickering or blank screen indicates a power issue. Ensure the power cord is connected, the outlet supplies 110–120 V, and the internal fuse is intact. Also verify the fuse rating matches the heater’s current draw.
Unresponsive Buttons – If Set, Up, or Down buttons don’t work, reset by holding Set for 5 seconds until the display clears. If buttons still fail, the unit may need a reset.
Continuous Alarm Sound – Persistent beeping indicates a fault. Check wiring, probe, and heater. If the problem continues, contact Inkbird support. For detailed diagnostics, refer to the troubleshooting section. Check manual now!!!
Warranty & Support
The ITC‑308 comes with a 1‑year limited warranty covering manufacturing defects. For support,visit Inkbirds website or email support@inkbird.com. Keep the receipt for claims. Warranty excludes damage from misuse or improper installation. Contact local service for repairs.
Warranty Terms & Contact
Inkbird provides a one‑year limited warranty on the ITC‑308 temperature controller, covering defects under normal use conditions. The warranty does not cover damage resulting from misuse, damage, improper installation, or modifications. To file a claim, receipt email support@inkbird.com and visit website’s support portal. For help now!! Provide the serial number, a description of the defect. Inkbird will assess the claim and, if approved, ship a replacement unit or repair the device at cost. Replacement units are subject to authorized service center. Shipping may apply. The warranty period begins on the date of purchase and expires after one year. If the device is repaired or replaced, the warranty period is reset to one year from the date of the new unit’s delivery. Inkbird reserves the right to refuse warranty service for devices that have been tampered with or repaired by unauthorized parties. For additional support, customers can access the FAQ section on the Inkbird website, download the user manual, or join community forums. For urgent assistance, call the customer service hotline at +1‑800‑123‑4567 or +44‑20‑1234‑5678! All warranty claims must be submitted within the warranty period to be considered valid; Inkbird is not responsible for any indirect, incidental, or consequential damages arising from the use or inability to use the ITC‑308. Assistance, contact support@inkbird.com. The device can be used with compatible heating cooling appliance. Settings are adjustable via the display. For urgent assistance, call the customer service hotline at +1‑800‑123‑4567 or +44‑20‑1234‑5678!!
