I also installed this Auber basic Silvia PID, which regulates brew temperature only. I have zero electronics experience but am reasonably handy and move carefully. This basic PID from Auber is way easier to install than the more-complex Auber one that also does infusion, etc. because you only need to replace the brew thermostat and not the steam thermostat. The PID does not affect the Silvia’s controls; it merely sets a default brewing temperature the machine maintains when not steaming. Therefore, this basic PID is better for beginners looking to install their first PID. That PID temperature can be easily changed just by pressing the up or down arrows on the controller. Auber has a chart correlating the PID temperature (measured atop the boiler) to the grouphead temperature. The PID temperature will be set higher than than the 195-205 coffee range. The install took me about 3.5 hours one evening, which also included about 30 minutes replacing the old, battered silver grouphead cowling on my v3 with a new black one. The cowl was a hassle to get right. The PID instructions are reasonably clear, but it is good to watch some RUclips videos to avoid problems (e.g. how to pull apart connections properly, etc.). This PID really makes it less stressful to make espresso because you no longer have to watch the Silvia’s light and then time the temperature surf. After steaming milk, I can take my time cleaning the wand, refilling the boiler, and filling the portafilter. By the time I am done, the machine is back at perfect brewing temperature (the default temp) just waiting for me to extract. Keep in mind that the PID can shut off if exposed to intense heat, especially from steaming. I ended up putting some protective material around the wires leading out of the machine (from the steam-wand hole) to the controller, and taping them away from the wand, to eliminate this problem. I highly recommend this PID. Makes life way easier and the espresso easier to dial in.
I waited a full year, thinking about the warranty and getting an idea of how the machine worked stock and have been very happy with installing the PID - total game changer, Pete
@@petesranciliosilvia3777 that's the route l'll follow and l like how you are using that bottomless portafilter. Thank you by the way for posting. This video is very informative.
I had the same PID but with a simple wiring change you can have it operate as the preinfusion one. They're the same PID, just look at the different wiring instructions and you can change how it operates.
Interesting great info, and does make some sense? It slightly entered my mind but no way I thought about it enough to follow up on it - or would be brave enough to wire up, without some solid instructions and confirmation? I'm super happy with the temperature stabilization so far-, and I would need to get more info on if the pre infusion (without flow control) or the shot timer are worth the effort for me. I love the Silvia and am still chasing the dream of simplicity, a single espresso switch --and I don't think I can count on my eyes/fingers on the smaller PID button at 5AM, based on my recent efforts at changing temps etc. Great info - I may look into it more to keep in my back pocket - thanks Pete
Amazing video with great resources! This has everything I was looking for. I thought it was very funny and random (around 1:30) there briefly was Christmas music in the background. I then noticed the posting date (Dec 14) lol. I'm excited to gain this extra set of control and functions. It's definitely worth it because estimating temperature isn't ideal for me. I do have a question. Would using a temperature gun on the espresso work (for an quick alternative?) Thanks for your time!
consistency in temperature for sure, take a look at the video I just posted today showing some temps pre and post PID, - rather than being so hit and miss, ability to get repeatable flavor/taste, not temperature surfing, having to refill the water reservoir as often, -stability in temp improved, resulting in less of a roller coaster in taste differences due to water temps shot to shot, its one less variable creating issues - best Pete
So far so good, still putting it through the paces - great improvement noted, temp stability even at this level is worthwhile , getting some updates posted soon - Thanks , Pete
Hi Pete! Appreciate your videos! Just bought that basic Auber Pid as well. I am just wondering about different installation instructions. I have just downloaded the installation guide (seems to be like yours), but in this version there is no ground wiring necessary? And is it more difficult to install when I have a Silvia V6? I got some doubts that I am able to wire everything right with the new power button. Greetings from Germany
René thank you - and good luck🙏, - we've got to put our trust in the Auber guys, read and follow the instructions, my install went well - but it wasn't without some concern - and I am only familiar with my machine sorry cant give you any input on yours. Let me know how it goes, it turns out my PID has started a few glitchy things😜 and they are sending a new controller out to me to swap, I may put a video of that up when I get to it - best 👍🏻Pete
other than the most simple response of up arrow until the temp you want is displayed ? and you know about the temperature 'offset' that the PID displayed temp is NOT the actual water temp? there's about a 20 F degree difference? so a lot of people start in the 220F zone on PID - ? good luck - Pete
@@petesranciliosilvia3777I figured it out. It's fine to adjust it with the buttons but there is more to it than just that. I just wish the Gaggia could utilize it all.
I think that based on chart that accompanies the PID, 221/222 on the PID means 204 water temp, I think but cant rem - that my attempts to measure confirmed that 'range' Id have to look up past videos, and 222, really has been a decent fit for my light roasts, like just through/finishing first crack, Ill park at the 220 zone for most of my through 1st crack roasts, and then as low as 217 (chart says water temp 201) for some 'darker' stuff -and great word choice - approximately as - these are all approxs right? occasionally people want to argue to the degree - and we cant do that - not with the silvia and pid, its just not Nasa, set to your preferences and enjoy, Im sure we lose some heat to piping and group, etc - best Pete
An excellent presentation of the Auber PID install for the Silvia. I performed precisely the same one about 8 years ago and it worked perfectly until last week when I flipped on the power switch of my Silvia and the PID display didn't light up. Since the machine's boiler still heats and the water pump still functions I immediately suspected a problem with the PID. Unfortunately, the PID Silvia site from which I purchased the unit hasn't responded to my questions about this problem. Upon removing the front face plate I noticed that with the machine on, the LED lamp on the relay doesn't light up. Measuring the voltage on it, its output to the PID display reads zero volts. I assume that the LED lamp on the relay should light up. Am i correct? If so, I'll try to source a replacement relay.
* I assume that the LED lamp on the relay should light up. Am i correct? * --> if Im understanding correctly then yes, the relay LED flashes along with LED on PID and on Silvia showing heater receiving power - hope that helps best Pete
This is terrible, I don't understand how everyone says it's a great video. The camera is too zoomed in most of the time and the quick camera pans don't help either.
Nice video. Are you going to make another video with what temp you decided on or just ping back here? Just got my PID for christmas and plan on installing this week. I got the pre-infusion version however - seems basically the same although I do like the idea of using the original buttons like you have here.
Thanks - and good luck, nice choice I bet it goes great , let me know. Yes I'm putting a quick status video up soon. Im currently set at 217F, I thought the 220F was producing too much steam/ too hot? We will see and I will keep experimenting, so far I do think I notice more consistent results with having the temperature more stable and repeatable, keeping in the 18G zone, bottomless and extending out past 1:2 into more 1:3 /1:4 while observing temperature etc - great upgrade - makes a ton of sense to improve the temp surfing guesswork
@@petesranciliosilvia3777 Thanks just got it installed. Loving it so far. I left it at the default temps for now and have been adjusting my grind instead. Still haven't found the sweet spot though so might have to start tinkering with temps. Wish I added this PID sooner!
@@barnabaas79 awesome great update- continued good luck and totally agree- I should have done it months ago although this is how you learn to appreciate it right? works great, one less thing to be worried or focused on, goes off the radar which is super appreciated at 5AM - HNY
I think I went through Auber on eBay, might have a link for it somewhere. Correct it is a model that does not have/offer preinfusion, still retains full function of machine toggle switches, only provides temperature control, very limited interaction with it once temperature set, just using the machine as 'normal' - you could easily stash it away behind the machine etc for as little interaction with the device. Different strokes for everyone, Im not a micro button pusher at 5AM, not sure Im sold on Sylvia preinfusion - but am totally sold on the temperature control. Best Pete
I’m very satisfied with the xmt7100 PID ($30) with a dimmer on the Gaggia. What do you all think of Pete’s Silvia vs this Gaggia? ruclips.net/video/val-K-Z_YCM/видео.html
Jonathan - I am currently parked at 222F or what appears to be 105.5 C (*?). As important in determining my personal preference to PID temp as anything is that - me personally on MY Silvia am using light roast, 1st C + 45-60 second zone single origin could be defined as light or medium roast - but in no way aligns with the a lot of the more traditional expectations from a 'espresso' or darker roast, which in my opinion and other crazy people out there, the darker roasts do not require or respond to higher temps in a enjoyable way, and do benefit from dropping down a few degrees - again MY opinion and I think has decent science behind it if willing to be open to the idea that the beans/roast level do or should make as big of impact on the process as the other variables. If its helpful - and maybe a chance for us both to share info, I have been at 222/223F for a while, I did find increasing 223/224F (225F) was hitting notes I was not after, and to go the other way, I found that 220F/221F was good, but lacked a little 'extra' I , personally feel I am getting and enjoy in the 222F zone --but and again - these are with light /medium roasts 100%, when I use a store bought/gift bean - (dark to 'burnt') I find I have to get down into a 218F zone, - to find it drinkable. I see a response from Jody of suggesting 95C , (203F??) which I agree is a great zone as a goal to get things started so long as I am understanding the suggestion correctly as to me I would take that to mean a 'serving' temperature or water temperature to be 'brewing' from - but I am not totally sure that suggestion is meant to set your Silvia PID to 95C/203F --> but things can be confusing to understand sometimes on the web, either way maybe Jody can add some more info/source with the temp suggestion as to me that seems low(?) is that a temperature you are successfully using on your Silvia PID considering or double checking that some PID temp suggestions found on the web can come from machines with an internal actual touching the brew water thermometer so the reading is very much real world, vs the Silvia PID by Auber is a external 'glued' to boiler exterior so it is not in direct contact with the water and another controversial topic doesn't take into account temperature loss to and during path to group head etc, as water is not flowing through group (some say its minimal, some say non existent, others....) I think I should still have some misc videos up where I attempted to make super basic unscientific observations of the idea of water temp at group in relation to PID settings, and I'll also try to include a Seattle Coffee Gear info sheet relating to PID and temps - where it looks like they did better testing than me in my kitchen with a amazon digital thermometer 😂 with the love of espresso in mind, and the incredible variance in machines, equipment, measuring devices, techniques, and the ever changing science and perspectives the best coffee is going to be the coffee YOU (we) enjoy, I appreciate the opportunity to share my perspective - if you get time let me know your thoughts -Pete I think based on below chart and your setting on PID of 105C 'they' suggest you are likely in a brew temp range of 94-96C range - (*?) let me know if you read things differently or ?? seattlecoffeegear.com/assets/files/silvia-pid-operation-manual.pdf
I also installed this Auber basic Silvia PID, which regulates brew temperature only. I have zero electronics experience but am reasonably handy and move carefully. This basic PID from Auber is way easier to install than the more-complex Auber one that also does infusion, etc. because you only need to replace the brew thermostat and not the steam thermostat. The PID does not affect the Silvia’s controls; it merely sets a default brewing temperature the machine maintains when not steaming. Therefore, this basic PID is better for beginners looking to install their first PID. That PID temperature can be easily changed just by pressing the up or down arrows on the controller. Auber has a chart correlating the PID temperature (measured atop the boiler) to the grouphead temperature. The PID temperature will be set higher than than the 195-205 coffee range. The install took me about 3.5 hours one evening, which also included about 30 minutes replacing the old, battered silver grouphead cowling on my v3 with a new black one. The cowl was a hassle to get right. The PID instructions are reasonably clear, but it is good to watch some RUclips videos to avoid problems (e.g. how to pull apart connections properly, etc.). This PID really makes it less stressful to make espresso because you no longer have to watch the Silvia’s light and then time the temperature surf. After steaming milk, I can take my time cleaning the wand, refilling the boiler, and filling the portafilter. By the time I am done, the machine is back at perfect brewing temperature (the default temp) just waiting for me to extract. Keep in mind that the PID can shut off if exposed to intense heat, especially from steaming. I ended up putting some protective material around the wires leading out of the machine (from the steam-wand hole) to the controller, and taping them away from the wand, to eliminate this problem. I highly recommend this PID. Makes life way easier and the espresso easier to dial in.
great feedback appreciate it , enjoy the PID coffee ☕️ agreed on all 👏🏻 it is a great improvement- who needs the stress 😂 - best Pete
Nice post man, and has helped inform my decision about which version to order.
@@longfade glad it helped. Just be sure to wire everything carefully. The instructions are clear enough. Good luck.
Great video!
Hope to see shot results soon!
Thanks !
My mind: "I won't buy, l won't buy, l won't buy" 3 weeks later... "thank you for shopping on Amazon prime, your item is on the way"
I waited a full year, thinking about the warranty and getting an idea of how the machine worked stock and have been very happy with installing the PID - total game changer, Pete
@@petesranciliosilvia3777 that's the route l'll follow and l like how you are using that bottomless portafilter. Thank you by the way for posting. This video is very informative.
I had the same PID but with a simple wiring change you can have it operate as the preinfusion one. They're the same PID, just look at the different wiring instructions and you can change how it operates.
Hey swissarmies, I have bought this kit as well but have not installed it yet. Is this wiring instruction in the documents that came with the kit?
Interesting great info, and does make some sense? It slightly entered my mind but no way I thought about it enough to follow up on it - or would be brave enough to wire up, without some solid instructions and confirmation? I'm super happy with the temperature stabilization so far-, and I would need to get more info on if the pre infusion (without flow control) or the shot timer are worth the effort for me. I love the Silvia and am still chasing the dream of simplicity, a single espresso switch --and I don't think I can count on my eyes/fingers on the smaller PID button at 5AM, based on my recent efforts at changing temps etc. Great info - I may look into it more to keep in my back pocket - thanks Pete
Great video thank you
appreciated - Pete
Good job Pete!
Thanks!
Amazing video with great resources! This has everything I was looking for. I thought it was very funny and random (around 1:30) there briefly was Christmas music in the background. I then noticed the posting date (Dec 14) lol. I'm excited to gain this extra set of control and functions. It's definitely worth it because estimating temperature isn't ideal for me. I do have a question. Would using a temperature gun on the espresso work (for an quick alternative?) Thanks for your time!
seem possible to get a good estimate right ? test it out, let us know - good luck Pete
Hello. Thanks for sharing. Did you noticed a significant difference in the coffee after the instalation? Thanks.
consistency in temperature for sure, take a look at the video I just posted today showing some temps pre and post PID, - rather than being so hit and miss, ability to get repeatable flavor/taste, not temperature surfing, having to refill the water reservoir as often, -stability in temp improved, resulting in less of a roller coaster in taste differences due to water temps shot to shot, its one less variable creating issues - best Pete
V5, nice one.
Thanks !
Hey Pete
Just wondering if you could give me a little more information on why the PID install is needed
Lumoo - just posted a video today - go check it out and let me know what you think - best Pete
Keep us POSTED!!!
So far so good, still putting it through the paces - great improvement noted, temp stability even at this level is worthwhile , getting some updates posted soon - Thanks , Pete
Hi Pete! Appreciate your videos! Just bought that basic Auber Pid as well. I am just wondering about different installation instructions. I have just downloaded the installation guide (seems to be like yours), but in this version there is no ground wiring necessary?
And is it more difficult to install when I have a Silvia V6? I got some doubts that I am able to wire everything right with the new power button. Greetings from Germany
René thank you - and good luck🙏, - we've got to put our trust in the Auber guys, read and follow the instructions, my install went well - but it wasn't without some concern - and I am only familiar with my machine sorry cant give you any input on yours. Let me know how it goes, it turns out my PID has started a few glitchy things😜 and they are sending a new controller out to me to swap, I may put a video of that up when I get to it - best 👍🏻Pete
The machine I purchased came with this pid installed but no manual was included. Would someone tell me how to set the temperature on it?
other than the most simple response of up arrow until the temp you want is displayed ? and you know about the temperature 'offset' that the PID displayed temp is NOT the actual water temp? there's about a 20 F degree difference? so a lot of people start in the 220F zone on PID - ? good luck - Pete
@@petesranciliosilvia3777I figured it out. It's fine to adjust it with the buttons but there is more to it than just that. I just wish the Gaggia could utilize it all.
So 221/222F at the broiler is putting out what degree at the brew head approximately?
I think that based on chart that accompanies the PID, 221/222 on the PID means 204 water temp, I think but cant rem - that my attempts to measure confirmed that 'range' Id have to look up past videos, and 222, really has been a decent fit for my light roasts, like just through/finishing first crack, Ill park at the 220 zone for most of my through 1st crack roasts, and then as low as 217 (chart says water temp 201) for some 'darker' stuff -and great word choice - approximately as - these are all approxs right? occasionally people want to argue to the degree - and we cant do that - not with the silvia and pid, its just not Nasa, set to your preferences and enjoy, Im sure we lose some heat to piping and group, etc - best Pete
An excellent presentation of the Auber PID install for the Silvia. I performed precisely the same one about 8 years ago and it worked perfectly until last week when I flipped on the power switch of my Silvia and the PID display didn't light up. Since the machine's boiler still heats and the water pump still functions I immediately suspected a problem with the PID. Unfortunately, the PID Silvia site from which I purchased the unit hasn't responded to my questions about this problem. Upon removing the front face plate I noticed that with the machine on, the LED lamp on the relay doesn't light up. Measuring the voltage on it, its output to the PID display reads zero volts. I assume that the LED lamp on the relay should light up. Am i correct? If so, I'll try to source a replacement relay.
* I assume that the LED lamp on the relay should light up. Am i correct? * --> if Im understanding correctly then yes, the relay LED flashes along with LED on PID and on Silvia showing heater receiving power - hope that helps best Pete
This is terrible, I don't understand how everyone says it's a great video. The camera is too zoomed in most of the time and the quick camera pans don't help either.
valid, its them, some people am I right ?
hi I have an old nancy and want to pid it. which pid do you recommend? thanks
way out of my wheelhouse - good luck! Pete
I am ready to get the PID Pete. Would you say this would take a good Sunday (non-honey do list) day?
A great sunday afternoon project, absolutely good luck let me know how it goes - Pete
Nice video. Are you going to make another video with what temp you decided on or just ping back here? Just got my PID for christmas and plan on installing this week. I got the pre-infusion version however - seems basically the same although I do like the idea of using the original buttons like you have here.
Thanks - and good luck, nice choice I bet it goes great , let me know. Yes I'm putting a quick status video up soon. Im currently set at 217F, I thought the 220F was producing too much steam/ too hot? We will see and I will keep experimenting, so far I do think I notice more consistent results with having the temperature more stable and repeatable, keeping in the 18G zone, bottomless and extending out past 1:2 into more 1:3 /1:4 while observing temperature etc - great upgrade - makes a ton of sense to improve the temp surfing guesswork
@@petesranciliosilvia3777 Thanks just got it installed. Loving it so far. I left it at the default temps for now and have been adjusting my grind instead. Still haven't found the sweet spot though so might have to start tinkering with temps. Wish I added this PID sooner!
@@barnabaas79 awesome great update- continued good luck and totally agree- I should have done it months ago although this is how you learn to appreciate it right? works great, one less thing to be worried or focused on, goes off the radar which is super appreciated at 5AM - HNY
Pete, where did you get the pid without preinfusion? Thay all seem to have it at $200. Thanks
I think I went through Auber on eBay, might have a link for it somewhere. Correct it is a model that does not have/offer preinfusion, still retains full function of machine toggle switches, only provides temperature control, very limited interaction with it once temperature set, just using the machine as 'normal' - you could easily stash it away behind the machine etc for as little interaction with the device. Different strokes for everyone, Im not a micro button pusher at 5AM, not sure Im sold on Sylvia preinfusion - but am totally sold on the temperature control. Best Pete
Auber has it on its site for sale (11/21) for $149.
I’m very satisfied with the xmt7100 PID ($30) with a dimmer on the Gaggia. What do you all think of Pete’s Silvia vs this Gaggia? ruclips.net/video/val-K-Z_YCM/видео.html
what is the insulation on the boiler that you used?
the insulation on the boiler came stock - not by me, - Pete
what did you set your Temperature at ? I have mine at 105 Celsius, but i find most shots are bitter
Everything I've read suggests about 95 C
Jonathan - I am currently parked at 222F or what appears to be 105.5 C (*?). As important in determining my personal preference to PID temp as anything is that - me personally on MY Silvia am using light roast, 1st C + 45-60 second zone single origin could be defined as light or medium roast - but in no way aligns with the a lot of the more traditional expectations from a 'espresso' or darker roast, which in my opinion and other crazy people out there, the darker roasts do not require or respond to higher temps in a enjoyable way, and do benefit from dropping down a few degrees - again MY opinion and I think has decent science behind it if willing to be open to the idea that the beans/roast level do or should make as big of impact on the process as the other variables. If its helpful - and maybe a chance for us both to share info, I have been at 222/223F for a while, I did find increasing 223/224F (225F) was hitting notes I was not after, and to go the other way, I found that 220F/221F was good, but lacked a little 'extra' I , personally feel I am getting and enjoy in the 222F zone --but and again - these are with light /medium roasts 100%, when I use a store bought/gift bean - (dark to 'burnt') I find I have to get down into a 218F zone, - to find it drinkable.
I see a response from Jody of suggesting 95C , (203F??) which I agree is a great zone as a goal to get things started so long as I am understanding the suggestion correctly as to me I would take that to mean a 'serving' temperature or water temperature to be 'brewing' from - but I am not totally sure that suggestion is meant to set your Silvia PID to 95C/203F --> but things can be confusing to understand sometimes on the web, either way maybe Jody can add some more info/source with the temp suggestion as to me that seems low(?) is that a temperature you are successfully using on your Silvia PID considering or double checking that some PID temp suggestions found on the web can come from machines with an internal actual touching the brew water thermometer so the reading is very much real world, vs the Silvia PID by Auber is a external 'glued' to boiler exterior so it is not in direct contact with the water and another controversial topic doesn't take into account temperature loss to and during path to group head etc, as water is not flowing through group (some say its minimal, some say non existent, others....)
I think I should still have some misc videos up where I attempted to make super basic unscientific observations of the idea of water temp at group in relation to PID settings, and I'll also try to include a Seattle Coffee Gear info sheet relating to PID and temps - where it looks like they did better testing than me in my kitchen with a amazon digital thermometer 😂
with the love of espresso in mind, and the incredible variance in machines, equipment, measuring devices, techniques, and the ever changing science and perspectives the best coffee is going to be the coffee YOU (we) enjoy, I appreciate the opportunity to share my perspective - if you get time let me know your thoughts -Pete
I think based on below chart and your setting on PID of 105C 'they' suggest you are likely in a brew temp range of 94-96C range - (*?) let me know if you read things differently or ??
seattlecoffeegear.com/assets/files/silvia-pid-operation-manual.pdf
thanks jody, confirming that is your suggested actual on PID set temperature > ? 95C /203F
How is it holding up ?
Dutch - its fantastic, just posted a one year video, enjoying nice shots - best Pete
playing music during a video shot is really a stupid idea. honestly I couldn't finish the video.
appreciate the feedback, you didn't miss much, I barely finished it, - best Pete
I liked the Christmas music!