Signal conditioners and switches for vibration.

Metrix has recently announced its new 5580 series smart vibration signal conditioners and switches. The new units provide a 4-20 mA output proportional to the measured variable from accelerometers, velocity or position sensors for preventative maintenance and safety tasks on industrial fans, compressors, generators, pumps, and other large shaft-equipped machines where probe systems are essential. 

Also available as the SW5580 series, optional solid state or relay outputs realise field configurable setpoint and alarm monitoring. Both units are available as single or dual channel devices, also with field configurability for output scaling in peak or RMS units, high, low and band pass, and frequency filters.

Both units are available with full support in Great Britain from Metrix’s distribution partner Ixthus Instrumentation.

These DIN-rail mounted signal conditioners offer a competitive alternative to rack mount monitors. The 4-20 mA output allows convenient connectivity with PLCs, DCS or other 4-20 mA input monitors over extremely long-distance instrumentation set-ups. Also included, an integral signal amplifier boosts the raw sensor output for direct signal monitoring up to 300 metres. Single channel units may be modified in the field with a firmware release code which may be purchased where users require a second sensor monitoring channel as part of a system expansion etc. Metrix can supply these signal conditioners and switches fully configured for the sensor type required. For instance with a proportional output set to acceleration, calibrated in g-forces or proximity set to microns. Sensor input signal levels cover 100 to 500 mV/ips, 10 to 100 mV/g, and 100-200 mV/mm.

These compact units measure approximately 117 x 45 x 93 mm (h x w x d). Sensor excitation is included for piezo-velocity sensor input types at 24 VDC, 4 mA. Wiring is made easy with terminal strip connectors and integrated BNC connectors for output to waveform analysers. The SW5580 solid state switch version has a 100 mA, SPST, 120 VAC or 24 VDC output whilst the relay version offers SPDT resistive loads of 5A, 240/120 VAC and 5A, 24 VDC. A sensor malfunction warning is included with LED status indication on the unit’s facia. The 5580 series has full compliance EMC certification and is furthermore available with hazardous area certification to CSA & NRTL/C Class I (A, B, C & D) T4, Div. 2. ATEX/IECEx/UKCA. Comprehensive datasheets for the series are available for download from the Ixthus website.

Metrix designs and produces a wide range of range of seismic and proximity measurement sensors and instruments for industrial vibration monitoring as individual components as well as field portable and fully installed systems. Ixthus Instrumentation represents Metrix across this full range with comprehensive technical and sales support. Also, through similar distribution partnerships with many other leading suppliers of non-contact sensing technologies, Ixthus provides solutions for force, torque and vibration measurement applications across industry, research, military, aerospace, marine, oil and gas, mining, hoist and crane, automotive and more.

@IxthusInst @MetrixVibration #PAuto #Manufacturing

Bespoke signal conditioning service.

Where can you go when you need a custom signal conditioning solution? No doubt that there a few specialists that can build the system you need but they will be using components from different suppliers which might cause problems if a fault develops. 

The bespoke design and build service from Kistler uses in-house components and, when necessary, components from trusted suppliers. It is important to realise that Kistler takes responsibility for all the components, not just those with their own brand; if any component fails, Kistler will fix it.

One project recently completed was for a portable test system that can measure 160 channels. This required two portable, shock-absorbent and water-resistant racks each with twenty 8 channel charge amps, a 24 port Ethernet switch with time synchronization, shielded Ethernet cables and a DC power supply. To keep the temperature in the racks within the maximum 60°C operating temperature in an ambient of 21°C, active fan cooling was also required. Add to this, a high spec, custom build computer running specialised software was needed to control both racks.

Not every application will require 160 channels although some may demand even more. The bespoke signal conditioning system service from Kistler delivers exactly what is needed for any application, no more and no less, and with a guarantee that the rig will fully meet the detailed specification.

#Kistler #PAuto #TandM

Digital indicating signal conditioners.

The first release from Acromag’s new Vertu™ brand of innovative instrumentation is the VPM3000 Series of universal input displays with transmitter and alarm capabilities. These instruments combine the digital indicator function of a panel meter with optional signal conditioning for 4-20mA transmitter output and/or alarm trip solid-state relays.

“These versatile signal conditioners can satisfy requirements for a process or temperature transmitter, alarm trips,and high-visibility display with a single unit” asserts Robert Greenfield, Acromag’s Business Development Manager.

The big and bright 1.2 inch (31mm) high numerals are clearly visible from far away, even in bright sunlight. Field-selectable inputs accept process current/voltage and temperature sensor signals including 4-20mA, ±20mA, 0-10V, ±10V, Pt RTDs, and most common thermocouple varieties. For additional versatility, units can provide power to drive a 4-20mA transmitter and other instruments. Modbus RTU serial communication is also supported.

The VPM3000 displays are easy to set up and install. Units are configurable using the front-panel pushbuttons, free Windows software, or a copy function from other units. Models are available for operation from 85-265V AC or 12-36V DC power sources. AC units can provide single or dual isolated 24V DC supplies to power a 4-20mA transmitter or other instruments. A shallow-depth 1/8 DIN enclosure with a NEMA 4X front panel simplifies installation. UL/cUL listing meets industrial control equipment safety requirements.

Other advanced capabilities add further value. In addition to converting sensor signals to a scaled 4-20mA current for retransmission to controllers or recorders, units can also perform flow computation functions. The square root function can linearize the signal from a differential pressure transmitter to display flow rate in engineering units. A low-flow cutoff feature sets a user-defined threshold that forces the display to zero for slow flow rates that often produce unsteady output from a differential pressure transmitter. A pushbutton easily toggles display of min/max values. Dual relays enable a variety of alarm trip configurations for high/low, high/high, and low/low limit triggers. They can also be used for process on/off control and pump alternation applications. For desktop monitoring and data acquisition applications, the free software can display and log data from multiple meters on your PC.

#PAuto @Acromag

Empowering long-distance signal strength in demanding processes and environments.

Red Lion Controls have released  their new Signal Conditioner product lineup. Their full range of signal conditioners boost signal strength while allowing for longer cable runs through industrial environments. When used as a converter, these devices can translate and incorporate signals into existing PLC architectures, eliminating the need for high-priced PLC input cards just to accommodate a unique signal input from a newly-added sensor.

Offering a slim 6 mm footprint, each of Red Lion’s signal converters can accept or convert current, voltage, thermocouples, RTDs, resistance and pulsed input signals.

These new signal conditioners are ideal for customers desiring superior signal integrity, and for industrial applications either requiring data from existing deployed equipment to be incorporated into IIoT strategies through the addition of sensors, or measurement processes involving precise sensor data requiring signals to be accurately transmitted over distance and without interference from external sources of noise such as VFDs and switching spikes. Rather than adding costly specialized I/O cards to an existing PLC system, Red Lion’s signal conditioning and conversion solutions allow plant engineers to add sensor data to current processes in existing formats, simplifying implementation and lowering costs.

These new signal conditioner products offer amplification, isolation, and conversion capabilities, ensuring signal integrity in harsh environments and across long distances, with the option to change the signal to the desired input needed dependent upon the application. A slim 6mm housing translates to added capabilities without sacrificing panel space.

• Red Lion products are marketed through Instrument Technology in Ireland.

@redlioncontrols  #PAuto @Instrum_Tech

Digital integrator for Rogowski coil.

The integrator AI-PMUL has been introduced by LEM to complete its flexible clip-around Rogowski coil offering. AI-PMUL is a versatile digital signal conditioner of Rogowski coils secondary signal which offers a wide range of standard analogue True RMS and instantaneous outputs.

The Rogowski* coils output voltage is proportional to the derivative of primary current. An electrical integrator circuit is therefore necessary to convert this signal, so it is proportional to the value of the primary current. This integrator is an essential component in current measurement with a Rogowski coil, and the amplification stage architecture and implementation have a major impact on the sensor’s electrical performance such as linearity, phase-shift and frequency bandwidth.

With a linearity error below 0.1% and combined with LEM ART & ARU (coming soon) class 0.5 Rogowski coils, it offers a universal metering and monitoring solution with an exceptional measurement accuracy up to 5000 A.

The integrator AI-PMUL covers in one universal product all the ratings that are expected. The simple configuration and the clear status visible from the front fascia allow it to configure with ease. The setting of the current range, input sensitivity and output selection is made through a simple, reliable and error free system using ergonomic push buttons (x2) and visible bi-colour led where green is for current range and red is for input sensitivity and output selection.

Users can select between 12 current ranges from 100 A to 5000 A, 6 Rogowski coil sensitivity from 22.5 to 120 mV/kA and 6 possible outputs (4 true RMS output: 0-20 mA, 4-20 mA, 0-5 V and 0-10 V and 2 instantaneous voltage outputs: 0-225 mV and 0-333 mV).
A 1 A instantaneous output version is also foreseen soon.

Working over a temperature range from -25°C to +70°C and operating from a single supply voltage of +24V, AI-PMUL it is offered in a very compact size 100x78x15 mm to be mounted on a 35mm DIN rail. For small current measurement and difficult conditions, an input SMA coaxial connector is proposed as an option. Specifically, for three-phase system up to 3 x AI-PMUL models can be stacked together with an optional connector to share a single power supply.

AI-PMUL integrator series is CE marked and covered by LEM’s five-year warranty.

* A Rogowski coil is a toroid of wire used to measure an alternating current I(t) through a cable encircled by the toroid.

#LEM #PAuto @NapierPR

Programmable Signal Splitters.

Acromag’s new uBSP signal splitter/duplicator acts as a carrier for their microBlox line of plug-in signal conditioning modules to drive two scalable 4-20mA or 0-10V control outputs and an auxiliary 5V third output from a single input.

Users can select from more than ten miniature signal conditioning modules to process inputs from RTDs, thermocouples, two-wire transmitters as well as a variety of current, millivolt, or voltage sources. The interchangeable input modules snap into the uBSP carrier which provides input and output terminal blocks plus a USB port for easy software configuration from a Windows PC or Android mobile device.

“This modular, programmable approach provides an extremely flexible solution to many complex signal splitting applications,” explains Robert Greenfield, Acromag’s Business Development Manager.

The uBSP signal splitter’s USB port allows users to customize the I/O ranges, scaling, and other operations driven by the inserted microBlox signal conditioning module. The powerful configuration software is free and a common mini-B USB port eliminates the need for expensive proprietary cables or adapters to connect with your PC, smartphone, or tablet.

With the plug-in microBlox modules, users can change the input type quickly and inexpensively as requirements change. 1500V isolation safely separates the input from each output circuit to prevent damage to other instruments from surges. Two-wire transmitter input modules provide field excitation for the transmitter. RTD input modules support 2, 3, or 4-wire sensors with excitation, linearization, lead-wire compensation, and break detection functions. Thermocouple input modules support types J, K, R, S, T and E with linear or non-linear output.

To ensure reliable performance, units are highly immune to electrical noise and operate from 40 to 75°C. Power sources from 6-32V DC are supported to simplify battery and solar-powered applications. Units mount securely on a DIN rails with 25g shock and 4g vibration resistance. Hazardous location approvals are pending for UL/cUL Class 1 Div 2 and ATEX/IECex Zone 2 standards.

@Acromag #PAuto

Stainless steel housed converters.

Signal converters IFC 100 and MAC 100 as well as SMARTMAC 200 operating unit are now available in stainless steel housing from Krohne. Mainly targeted at applications in the food and beverage industry, they can be also used where high corrosion resistance is demanded, e.g. in salty environments.

Offering an alternative to the standard aluminum housing, the new stainless steel housing is “hygienic by design” without pooling or harborage areas where contamination buildup could occur. It features a non-glass display to comply with zoning criteria in food and beverage applications, 2 mm/ 5/64" thick 1.4404/316L stainless steel for superior strength, and ingress protection classes IP66/67/69.

IFC 100, MAC 100 and SMARTMAC 200 are based on the same platform, sharing the same HMI and housing options:

IFC 100 is a signal converter for electromagnetic flowmeters in standard hygienic applications. Typically combined with hygienic OPTIFLUX 6000 flow sensor, the new stainless steel housing option offers a cost-effective alternative to the higher positioned IFC 300.

MAC 100 is a signal converter for OPTISENS analytical sensors, e.g. for hygienic conductivity sensors OPTISENS IND 7000 and OPTISENS COND 7200.

SMARTMAC 200 is an operating unit for configuration and calibration of SMARTPAT analytical sensors that feature an integrated transmitter, e.g. hygienic sensors SMARTPAT PH 8570 and SMARTPAT COND 7200.

• Krohne products are marketed in Ireland by DWN Instrumentation.

@krohnegroup #PAuto #FoodBeverage

Rotation speed!

The SC-System's family of signal conditioners by Pepperl+Fuchs can now be used even more comprehensively: the single rotation speed monitor with just a 6 mm installation width processes digital input signals of all binary sensors currently on the market and is now fitted with a restart inhibit. This feature enables the module to have to be activated via a reset input after limit values have been exceeded for a short period of time so that possible faults are found and rectified before restarting.

The design of the rotation speed monitor meets the philosophy that all signals of a signal type currently on the market may be processed with just one module. Signals from NAMUR and SN sensors including line fault detection and short-circuit detection, as well as the measurement data from the 2-wire DC sensors may be processed in accordance with EN 60947-5-2. Signals can be transferred safely in the control level from S0 sensors for measuring the water volume and from 3-wire sensors with PNP or NPN switching outputs. With its S0 interface the rotation speed monitor is also of interest for areas outside industrial automation, such as building automation. The module can safely detect any signal up to 30 V with an input frequency up to 50 kHz. The device is set using a DIP switch or PC software. A start-up override is available to restart the system when standstill monitoring.

The SC-System from Pepperl+Fuchs includes a wide portfolio of signal conditioners for nonhazardous areas. With its space-saving enclosure design that is 6 mm wide and 97 mm high the modules are among the most compact on the market. They can be used at ambient temperatures of up to 70°C. The signal isolators are characterized by 3-way isolation withstanding a working voltage up to 300 V and a test voltage up to 3 KV. Optionally, they are supplied by terminals or a power bus.

• Pepperl+Fuchs products are marketed in Ireland through Insteco.

@PepperlFuchs  #PAuto @PepperlFuchsUSA

Rotation speed monitor enhanced.

The SC-System's family of signal conditioners by Pepperl+Fuchs can now be used even more comprehensively: the single rotation speed monitor with just a 6 mm installation width processes digital input signals of all binary sensors currently on the market and is now fitted with a restart inhibit. This feature enables the module to have to be activated via a reset input after limit values have been exceeded for a short period of time so that possible faults are found and rectified before restarting.

The design of the rotation speed monitor meets the philosophy that all signals of a signal type currently on the market may be processed with just one module. Signals from NAMUR and SN sensors including line fault detection and short-circuit detection, as well as the measurement data from the 2-wire DC sensors may be processed in accordance with EN 60947-5-2. Signals can be transferred safely in the control level from S0 sensors for measuring the water volume and from 3-wire sensors with PNP or NPN switching outputs. With its S0 interface the rotation speed monitor is also of interest for areas outside industrial automation, such as building automation. The module can safely detect any signal up to 30 V with an input frequency up to 50 kHz. The device is set using a DIP switch or PC software. A start-up override is available to restart the system when standstill monitoring.

The SC-System from Pepperl+Fuchs includes a wide portfolio of signal conditioners for nonhazardous areas. With its space-saving enclosure design that is 6 mm wide and 97 mm high the modules are among the most compact on the market. They can be used at ambient temperatures of up to 70°C. The signal isolators are characterized by 3-way isolation withstanding a working voltage up to 300 V and a test voltage up to 3 KV. Optionally, they are supplied by terminals or a power bus.

@PepperlFuchsUSA  #PAuto

Signal processing portfolio strengthened by acquisition.

Abaco Systems has acquired 4DSP LLC of Austin (TX USA). Founded in 2004, 4DSP designs and manufactures commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) high speed digital signal processing and data acquisition solutions based on FPGA technology to address the specific requirements of aerospace, defense, biomedical, communications and semiconductor applications.

The company provides solutions for applications such as image processing, software defined radio, radar, sonar, airborne surveillance and medical imaging. 4DSP products are complemented by its engineering services, which include the development of custom hardware, FPGA firmware and software, as well as turn-key solutions.

Pierrick Vulliez, CEO of 4DSP, and his team will join Abaco with immediate effect.

The acquisition underscores Abaco’s plans to serve customers with mission ready systems based on best-in-class open architecture platforms that reduce risk and accelerate time to deployment.

“The addition of 4DSP and, more importantly, Pierrick and his team, substantially strengthens Abaco’s signal processing portfolio, helping us accelerate our plans to deliver our customers the industry’s best mission ready systems,” said Bernie Anger, CEO, Abaco Systems. “4DSP has an outstanding reputation in the embedded computing industry, and especially in the defense and aerospace industry, for its technical and engineering excellence and the quality of its products.”

“I have spoken to a number of 4DSP’s customers, and their feedback has been unanimously positive,” continued Anger. “We’re delighted that 4DSP is now part of Abaco Systems. What they bring is highly complementary to our existing offering, and I believe they will help us deliver an even more complete range of innovative solutions that will improve our customers’ competitiveness and help them succeed. We are also confident that this move will be very beneficial for current 4DSP customers, who will benefit from accelerated investments in expansion of 4DSP’s signal processing portfolio and additional field support resources.”

“We’re thrilled to become part of Abaco Systems,” said Pierrick Vulliez, CEO, 4DSP. "There is no doubt that this move will enable us to progress to the next level, leveraging Abaco’s global reach and scale. We look forward to helping Abaco increase the breadth and depth of solutions we can offer to customers.”

@AbacoSys #PAuto @4DSP_LLC

High-density signal conditioning modules.

A full line of microBlox™ isolated signal conditioning modules are now available from Acromag. Offering over 175 models, microBlox uB modules can safely interface a wide variety of voltage, current, temperature, frequency, and other field signals with a ±5V or 0-5V DC output to host measurement & control systems. Users can select modules with fixed ranges or wireless configuration via Bluetooth on an Android or iOS mobile device.

Acromag’s free Agility™ app for smartphones and tablets simplifies setting custom I/O ranges and optional alarm functions. The app can also display input signal values and create sharable trend charts. uB modules snap securely into compact backpanels (no screws) in any mix with 4, 8 or 16-channel capacities. With 1500Vac peak (350Vdc continuous) channel-to-channel and field-to-host isolation, the hot-swappable modules are ideal to front-end data acquisition systems or Acromag remote I/O for communication to Ethernet, Modbus, or Profibus networks. High performance is assured with up to 0.05% accuracy and 130dB noise rejection. Prices start at just $90 per module.

“Advanced microcontroller and wireless technologies enable microBlox modules to bring greater flexibility and signal processing capabilities into such a small, economical package.” stated Robert Greenfield, Acromag’s marketing & sales director.

The microBlox module’s small size (1.11" x 1.65" x 0.4") and channel-by-channel scalability is ideal for embedded or portable applications such as test stands, defense systems, and process control applications. Well-suited for use in harsh industrial environments, the over-molded modules resist shock, dirt, and moisture with dependable operation from -40 to 85°C. Hazardous location UL/cUL Class 1 Div 2 and ATEX Zone 2 approvals are also available.

Accessories include a selection of backpanels with slots to insert 4, 8, or 16 modules. Fuse clips hold the modules securely without screws for easy insertion/removal. The backpanels support surface or DIN rail mounting and include CJC for use with temperature input modules. Blue LEDs indicate modules that are ready for Bluetooth communication. Connections are provided for a 5V power source or a 10-32Vdc supply when used with the plug-in 5V power module. A DB25 header facilitates a single cable connection to interface all uB I/O signals directly to the host data acquisition system.

Acromag, a multimillion dollar international corporation, has been developing and manufacturing measurement and control products for more than 50 years. They offer a complete line of industrial I/O products including process instruments, signal conditioning equipment, data acquisition boards, distributed I/O systems, and communication devices.

@Acromag #Bluetooth #PAuto 

Signal conditioners enable plants to reduce operational costs!

Eaton has launched a new series of signal conditioners for safe-area applications – the MTL1000 Series. Process managers can now specify Eaton’s signal conditioners for all areas of their plant, enabling them to reduce the complexity of their supply chain and save on operational costs. The MTL1000 Series is designed to ensure reliable and high quality communication between the field device and control units located in the plant and is ideal for safe areas in the oil and gas industry, chemical, petrochemical and pharmaceutical plants.

The compact MTL1000 Series is exceptionally quick and easy-to-install. It features a special power system which reduces wiring by up to 30 percent and lowers installation time and associated costs. With less wiring, risk of installation error is also reduced, assisting with on-time plant start-up and improved reliability over the lifetime of the installation. In addition, more space is available in the panel board which allows for a higher density of signal conditioners.

“For large installations of signal conditioners, a wiring reduction of up to 30 percent can save a lot of space and allow users to have clear access to the modules,” says Roger Highton, MTL product line manager, Eaton’s Crouse-Hinds division. “With the new MTL1000 Series, we bring more than 40 years of hazardous area experience and industry expertise to safe-area applications, enabling customers to benefit from a single source supplier that will enhance the integrity of their supply chain and lead to cost savings. Using the MTL1000 Series, our customers can now specify reliable signal conditioners for use throughout their plants, in both hazardous and safe areas.”  

Eaton’s intrinsically safe isolators are reliable in hazardous areas and the new MTL1000 Series complements this range and offers high quality signal conditioning for general purpose applications. With an operating temperature range of -25º to +60º C, the MTL1000 Series is designed for long-term protection with a product life in excess of 10 years in even the most demanding of environments.

Eaton’s signal conditioners use galvanic isolation which is designed to prevent transmission and control errors which can lead to an interruption in the safe processing and monitoring of control signals. The MTL1000 Series is engineered to make sure that excessive voltages and noise do not affect the overall communication and can amplify, convert or isolate signals. The new signal conditioners provide excellent protection for equipment and personnel, so equipment and plants can operate safely and efficiently.

In addition, the MTL1000 Series is backed by Eaton’s global technical support team enabling users and systems integrators to simplify their design engineering.

Improved load cell amplifier

Mantracourt has announced the launch of the LCA20, a flexible digital signal conditioning amplifier for single or multiple load cell applications.

LCA20 with transparent lid option!

The versatile LCA20 load cell weight indicator offers options of 3 programmable digital inputs including Auto Tare, Peak Hold and Reset. In addition, the LCA20 provides two relay outputs for control or alarm functions and is now able to support up to ten 350 ohm load cells. The new LCA20 features include a simplified digital set-up via PC, 10 point linearisation and the provision of measurement speeds of 10 or 80 samples per second.

“The LCA20 takes advantage of new technology, it replaces and builds on our previous LCA15 load cell amplifier, providing increased functionality and improved performance,” said Dave Porter, Technical Sales at Mantracourt. “The core design is based on existing, proven technology but it has now been updated to ensure that we continue to meet the needs of end-users in the field.”

The LCA20 provides both RS232 and RS485 options for digital communications (including setup) and can support label or ticket printers. Furthermore, the LCA20 is enabled with an easy one-pass calibration and fast setup procedure.

The LCA20 supports Mantrabus 1 & 2, MANTRA ASCII 2 and MODBUS RTU protocols. It is housed in a ROHS compliant enclosure and is environmentally sealed to IP65 / NEMA 4 (dimensions 200 x 120 x 75 mm). DIN rail or PCB module versions are also available.

The LCA20 also caters to existing LCA15 users in that it features a full LCA15 emulation mode. The LCA20 shown in main photo has the transparent lid option (LTL).

New 2-Wire and 4-Wire Transmitters!

Acromag expands their line of versatile USB-configured signal conditioning transmitters to include RTD/resistance and potentiometer/thermistor input signals.

Acromag’s new offerings in the TT230 and TT330 series of process transmitters are designed to deliver flexibility while maintaining optimal performance. These isolated signal conditioners feature high-density mounting on DIN rails, supporting RTD/resistance and potentiometer/thermistor input signals. With a convenient USB connection to a PC, precise configuration using Windows software is simple. Wiring terminals are front-facing and removable for easy connections and maintenance.

“The TT230 and TT330 process transmitter series’ continue to provide greater versatility with our new additions,” explained Don Lupo, process group sales and marketing director. “Whether you need 2-wire or 4-wire transmitters, we can accommodate a wide array of process measurement and control applications.”

Each model accommodates a variety of signal types selected in the configuration software. The TT234 and TT334 models interface 100-100k ohms via potentiometer/slidewire or 100-1M ohms from a thermistor/rheostat. The TT235 and TT335 models accept 100 ohm, 200 ohm, 500 ohm, or 1000ohm platinum RTD; 120 ohm nickle RTD; 10 ohm copper RTD; or 0-450 ohm linear resistance. All units effortlessly convert the input signals to a proportional current output signal of +/-20mA, 0-20mA, or 4-20mA. The TT330 series also allows for +/-10V, +/- 5V, 0-5V, and 0-10V output signals as well. The software also lets you precisely scale input ranges for full resolution. You can then test or calibrate input/output values in the software, too.

TT230 process signal converters have the option of loop-power with a 2-wire connection, or DC-powered with a 3-wire connection. TT330 process signal converters are DC-powered (12-32V) and support a bussed rail power option for primary or redundant power. The rugged design of these thin transmitters feature CE approval as well as: -40 to 80 Degrees C operation, electrical noise immunity, and surge protection. UL/cUL Class 1 Division 2 Zone 2 hazardous location approvals pending. Prices start at $175 (TT230 series) or $220 (TT330 series) for single quantities.

The USB-to-PC connection for software-driven configuration makes setting ranges and calibration easier, more accurate, and very reliable. Many competing units use DIP switches that can only offer coarse range settings, not fine adjustments. Using trim pots can allow fine tuning, but they require far more time to achieve the desirable results. With a USB port, you can digitally set the calibration gain and offset using precision D/A converters whereas DIP switches and pots can change values over time or due to temperature/shock/vibration. These changes can lead to drift and require periodic re-calibration. And once configured, the device’s settings can be archived in a file or uploaded quickly into additional units for rapid cloning in large systems. Later, a device’s USB port enables diagnostic communication using software while a unit configured with DIP dipswitches and pots cannot. Plus, USB-configured devices use fewer mechanical parts which increases long-term reliability.

All TT230 and TT330 models deliver high accuracy, stability, surge suppression, noise immunity, and fast response. They also withstand 25g shock and 4g vibration to deliver dependable operation in hostile environments. Built to AS9100 aerospace and ISO 9001 certified quality control standards and backed by a 2-year warranty, you can rely on Acromag’s instruments for long-lasting superior performance, even under the toughest conditions.

Dual channel process signal isolator

The SEM1750 is a cost effective dual channel signal conditioner that accepts a bipolar voltage or current signal and isolates to provide ranged industrial process output signals such as (0 to 20) mA, (4 to 20) mA, (0 to 10) V, (1 to 5) V DC. In fact, any signal output can be programmed within the output range limits.

The SEM1750 is configured using Status Instruments easy to use configuration software, USB Speed Link. It offers the user two levels of configuration, a basic current/voltage signal converter were the device can be set as dual channel signal isolator / convertor or signal splitter. For more advanced applications, a configuration menu offering a wide range of user set functions, including process scaling and profiling, maths functions, signal damping, sensor linearisation and signal preset for diagnostics purposes.

Status Instruments are market by PJ Boner & Co in Ireland.

Multifunctional transmitter power supply with converter functions

Universal Transmitter Power Supply
KFU8-VCR-1

Many process automation applications require versatile devices. The new signal conditioner KFU8-VCR-1 from Pepperl+Fuchs combines a universal power supply for 2- and 3-wire transmitters with signal converter functionality. Multiple outputs offer active and passive current sources and one voltage output, allowing a flexible adaptation of the field signal to the control system.

Front-sided rotary switches feature fast and easy setup and configuration without the need for software. Switch settings can be easily duplicated in case of replacements or expansions.

Finally, no 24VDC supply is needed due to the integrated wide range power supply. Ideal for small projects and world wide usage. The new transmitter power supply is THE flexible all-rounder for input conversion and output signals.

Multi-function USB DAQ modules

Adlink Technology has released its USB-1900 Series and USB-2401 USB DAQ modules. Equipped with built-in signal conditioning, the USB-powered Plug and Play USB DAQ modules deliver easy connection and accurate results for both portable measurement and machine automation applications. Featuring built-in signal conditioning, ADLINK USB DAQ modules enable direct measurement of most frequently applied signal sources which reduce manpower requirements and associated development costs while increasing overall accuracy.

All their USB DAQ modules feature USB power and removable screw-down terminals, for simplified device connectivity, and a multi-functional stand for fast and easy desktop, rail, or wall mounting. Additionally, a lockable USB cable secures connectivity. The modules also provide device ID setting by a rotary control for convenient identification of the active module in multiple-connection configurations.

"Adlink, having already developed and released over one hundred DAQ and DIO modules to the market, is pleased to leverage our accrued analog design expertise into the new USB DAQ modules.” Catherine Wu, Director of their Measurement and Automation Product Segment said. “Adlink USB DAQ modules provide comprehensive advantages and a cost-effective option. Our combined features make them not only ideal for users requiring portable measurement in basic research and data monitoring scenarios, but also for machine automation applications with limited space for I/O expansion.”

This collection offers the USB-1900 series, consisting of USB-1901 and USB-1902 models of 16-bit 250 kS/s DAQ modules. Also in the series is the USB-1903, with additional built-in precision current-to-voltage resistors allowing direct measurement of current signals from 0 to 20 mA. Rounding out the USB DAQ category is the USB-2401, a 24-bit four-channel simultaneous-sampling universal DAQ module supporting sampling rates up to 1.6 kS/s and a more flexible signal conditioning circuit such as voltage, current, strain, load cell, thermocouple, and RTD measurement. The line is ideally suited for easily accomplished deployment and superior accuracy when measuring temperature, stress, strain, and other factors in diverse applications.

The USB DAQ modules include ADLINK’s free U-Test utility, allowing direct operation and testing of all functions with no requirement for coding or programming. Driver support is provided for Windows 7/Vista/XP, in both 32-bit and 64-bit versions, and 3rd party software support accommodates LabVIEW & MATLAB.

Multi-channel signal conditioning

Modular instrumentation system is suitable for input from many transducer types

Thanks to design modularity and the capability to be connected to several different transducer types, the Modular 600 system from RDP Electronics is widely used in universities and research establishments.

The Modular 600 is a fully featured microprocessor instrumentation system, which also incorporates configurable analogue outputs. Its modular design concept, provides complete flexibility and expandability, accepting inputs from up to 164 channels in either free standing or rack form. It can be tailored to measure several engineering parameters including displacement, pressure, load/force, strain, torque and vibration. There is a family of signal conditioning modules suitable for LVDTs, load cells and strain gauges for pre-amplifying transducers before they are connected to logging equipment such as A & D cards.. It is straightforward to add or remove modules by simply unplugging them from the front panel and making the necessary switch changes. A key element in the Modular 600 system is the 650 digital I/O and data storage module that provides a real-time LED display of any selected channel in the system and also acts as a data hub into which a PC can be connected. Serial data can be sent via RS232, RS422 or RS485.

Panel mounted device displays transducer values

Local display of transducer values from a variety of sources including displacement, pressure, load and torque can be incorporated into control panels using an E725 signal conditioner and display unit from RDP Electronics.

The easy-to-use E725 is suited for applications in manufacturing, process industries and test and research and in addition to displaying values can deliver signals concerning transducer status to PLCs or other connected control devices. The E725 incorporates signal conditioning for transducers, offers a clear 5 digit display, with fast peak and trough detection and limit trips shown by indicator lights and has options such as relay outputs. The E725 has a 4-20mA 2-wire output that can be connected to a suitable analogue input on a PLC and can also provide serial communication via RS232 or RS485 with the controlling device. The settings can be password protected and if required the whole panel can be disabled to prevent operators upsetting the operation of the unit. The E725 is compactly housed and can be used in a stand-alone mode as well as panel mounted and offers flexibility and high performance at a competitive price.

Active signal conditioner

Available through P J Boner & Co

The SEM1600T from Status Instruments accepts resistance or mV signals from RTD, Slidewire or Thermocouple sensors. The flexible design can accommodate Pt100, 500, 1000, Ni or Cu sensors, slide wire sensors up to 100 K Ohm and 13 different thermocouple types. Other sensor characteristics or your own 22 point linearisation characteristic (for slidewire, linear resistance or mV) can be downloaded into the product enabling you to adapt it exactly to your application.

The output stage offers either voltage, bipolar voltage or current re-transmission signals. The retransmission signal can be ranged to a scale anywhere within the input process range. A transmitter power supply is provided on the output meaning the product can accept sink or source mA applications. The voltage output will drive 2 mA into 5 KOhm @ 10 V.

For ease of use, a high efficiency switch mode power supply is fitted as standard and does not require any adjustment between ac or dc applications. Operating voltages are (10 to 48) V dc and (10 to 32) V ac.


The unit will be available from early September.

This and all Status Instruments are available in Ireland through P J Boner & Co.