Druck, a leading manufacturer of pressure measurement and calibration equipment, has officially launched its new-generation pressure controller chassis – PACE5000 E & 6000E, raising the bar in speed, precision, and user experience for metrology labs and industrial manufacturers worldwide. We spoke with Christopher Roberts, Product Leader for Test and Calibration at Druck, a Baker Hughes business.
A Modern Redesign for Today’s Demands
At the heart of this launch are two new models PACE5000 E & 6000 E, built around a completely redesigned user interface.
“Druck PACE5000 & 6000 pressure controllers were introduced in 2008. It was cutting-edge at the time, but user interface design has evolved dramatically since then,” explains Christopher Roberts. “We’ve rebuilt the UI from the ground up, focusing particularly on lab-based users who operate the systems through the front panel, rather than the remote comms.”
But the new release also targets users that use the units remotely. The new models integrate modern communication protocols and standards that make them highly adaptable to today’s connected environments. These include support for SCPI 99, USBTMC, LXI 1.6 (with VXI-11 and HiSLIP), RS232 and GPIB IEEE-488 as well as NI-certified IVI-C and LabVIEW certified instrument drivers—ensuring seamless remote control and integration into both existing and new test systems.
Backward Compatible, Forward Thinking
While packed with next-gen features, PACE5000 E & 6000 E maintain full backward compatibility, enabling users to integrate them into legacy systems without major modifications.
“That was a strong demand from our customers—better usability, but no disruption,” Christopher says.
Druck’s 4Sight2 calibration test software further supports integration and automation, enabling streamlined calibration processes across the Druck ecosystem.
Speed and Stability Remain Unmatched
While the hardware form has evolved, Druck has kept its benchmark performance where it already leads the market: speed, stability, and precision. According to Christopher, the new PACE5000 E & 6000 E retain industry-leading pressure control capabilities:
- Setpoint response: <1.5 seconds, 20-50% FS step, at 0.025% FS stability into a 100 mL volume
- Stability: Control to within 10 parts per million full scale
- Accuracy: Leveraging Druck’s proprietary, application-specific pressure sensors
According to Christopher, compared to competitors, the new PACE5000 E & 6000 E pressure controllers are up to 7 times faster at achieving stable pressure setpoints, particularly in high-volume environments. That performance translates directly into shorter calibration cycles and increased throughput.
Targeting Critical Sectors with Tailored Performance
The new line is specifically built to serve the high-precision requirements of metrology labs and industrial manufacturing, but its potential applications span a wide range of industries—from automotive and aerospace to oil & gas, semiconductor fabrication, and healthcare.
“Industrial manufacturing, for instance, needs both speed and stability at scale. Lab users prioritize precision. These systems are designed to excel in both scenarios,” notes Christopher.
Built for the Future of Automation
As automation and digital integration continue to redefine industrial processes, Druck’s controllers are poised to support this evolution. Enhanced communication protocols and robust remote control capabilities enable plug-and-play integration into automated systems, paving the way for AI-powered analytics and smart calibration workflows.
“We’re using AI in the development process and in our 4sight2 ecosystem, where large datasets can be analyzed to identify trends and help customers optimize performance,” says Christopher. “Robust connectivity and reliable data are key enablers of this shift.”
Looking Ahead
This release marks the beginning of a broader platform redevelopment at Druck. While specifics remain confidential, Christopher hints that this is just the first step in a roadmap that includes expansion into adjacent markets and more intelligent, software-integrated solutions.
Despite global economic headwinds and shifting supply chains, Druck’s UK-based manufacturing and its strong presence in North America and Europe continue to provide strategic stability.
“The broader trade context hasn’t significantly impacted us—our focus remains on meeting customer needs and driving innovation,” says Christopher.
Performance Highlights Recap
- Response Time: ~1.5 sec, 20-50% FS step, at 0.025% FS stability into 100 mL volume
- Stability: 10 ppm full scale
- Protocols Supported: SCPI-99, USBTMC, LXI 1.6, VXI-11, HiSLIP, RS232 and GPIB IEEE-488
- Drivers: IVI-C, LabVIEW Certified
- Software Compatibility: Fully integrated with Druck 4Sight2.
