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Signal Conditioners

Current Sensors/Transducers A current sensor is a device that detects electric current in a wire, and generates a signal proportional to that current.

Digital Pressure Transmitters A pressure sensor is a device for pressure measurement of gases or liquids.

Humidity Sensors/Transmitters Sensors with an electrical transmission output for remote indication of humidity.

Position Transducers A position sensor is any device that permits position measurement. It can either be an absolute position sensor or a relative one.

Analog Input Signal Conditioners & Isolators A signal conditioner is a device that converts one type of electronic signal into a another type of signal. Its primary use is to convert a signal that may be difficult to read by conventional instrumentation into a more easily read format.

Square Root Extractor A mechanical scientific instrument used to extract the root of a defined value or attain the power of a consecutive series of numbers.

Voltage Transmitters Voltage transmitters measure AC voltage either directly or through a voltage transformer. The transducer converts the AC voltage signal to either a DC mA or DC voltage output which is directly proportional to the input signal value.

Power Transducers Power Transducers and Transmitters are designed to provide a controlled output that is proportional to the average RMS power. These devices are specifically targeted to provide an efficient solution to most power sensing needs.

Current Transformers A current transformer is a type of transformer that is used to reduce or multiply an alternating current. It produces a current in its secondary which is proportional to the current in its primary.

Frequency Transducers Frequency Transducer measures Power Frequency over a specified Frequency Range and converts it to an industry standard output signal which is directly proportional to the measured input.

Phase Angle Transducers Phase angle transducers measure the phase relationship between a current and a voltage or two voltages.

Programmable Multi-Transducers Programmable multi-transducer is used for simultaneously acquiring several quantities in heavy current systems.

Signal Alarm Trips An alarm trip accepts an input signal from a monitoring or control instrument, such as a signal transmitter or sensor. When the monitored variable falls outside of a user-set “Trip” (also called “Set”) Point, the alarm trip activates one or more o

Signal Conditioner Types and Functions

Analog Input Signal Conditioners

Analog input signal conditioners are designed to accept low-level signals from sensors and convert them into a standard format. These devices often provide isolation to break ground loops and amplify weak signals to a usable level for the data acquisition system.

Digital Signal Conditioners

Digital signal conditioners interface with digital sensors and provide a digital output. They are essential for modern control systems that require high-resolution data and fast response times for precise operation.

Isolation and Ground Loop Protection

Isolation signal conditioners electrically separate the input and output circuits. This function is critical in preventing ground loop currents that can distort the signal and damage sensitive equipment in the data acquisition system.

Signal Conversion and Amplification

Signal Conversion Standards

Signal conversion involves changing the type of electrical signal, such as converting a 4-20 mA current signal to a 0-10 V voltage signal. This allows different types of instruments to communicate within the same system.

Amplification for Low-Level Signals

Many sensors, such as thermocouples, produce very low voltage outputs. Amplification increases the signal strength to a level that can be accurately measured by the data acquisition system without being lost in background noise.

Linearization and Scaling

Signal conditioning often includes linearization to correct for non-linear sensor responses. This ensures that the output signal is directly proportional to the physical quantity being measured, providing accurate data for process control.

Choosing the Right Signal Conditioner

Input and Output Compatibility

When selecting a signal conditioner, verify that the input range matches the sensor output and the output format matches the data acquisition system requirements. Mismatched signals can lead to inaccurate readings or equipment damage.

Environmental and Mounting Considerations

Signal conditioners are available in various form factors, including DIN rail mounting for control panels. Ensure the device is rated for the operating environment, including temperature and humidity, to ensure reliable long-term operation.

Accuracy and Performance

The accuracy of the signal conditioner directly impacts the overall system performance. Choose a device with a specified accuracy that meets the requirements of your process control application to maintain consistent operation.