Jeff, I found the key to autotuning is to do it in
actual cooking conditions. So, let's say you program the Auber like this for chicken:
C01 130 E01 t t01 0.5
C02 250 E02 f F02 165
Once you get the smoker set up, and the birds inside, turn the Auber on. Press and hold SET key for 4 seconds until LCK displays. Use the + button to run the right display up to 166, and press SET. Press SET 3 times until you see At in the left window. Use the +/- keys to select "1" in the right window (like binary code, "0" is off, "1" is on). Press SET until you get back to the box/meat temp readings. The left temp window will be flashing as it goes through the autotune.
During the autotune, the Auber is actually analyzing how
your smoker reacts to temp changes. It sets parameters for how fast the temp "ramps up," when it slows down to reach the "set" temp, and how it has to add/subtract power to the element to maintain the temp. Well-worth your time. One thing I would recommend for an autotune with the removable probe is to place it in the same place for each cook.
I recently installed a permanent temp probe from Auber, and am very impressed with the results. They're less than $30, and are worth it, in my opinion. The advantage is it is always in the exact same spot in the box, so the autotune settings are consistent. When you autotune with a removable probe, you run the risk of the probe not being in the same location on the next cook. I think the fixed probe is also more responsive than the removable one, too.
Let us know if you need any more help with the tuning process.
Forgot to mention - give our congrats to your wife on the terrific score!
