Signal splitter/duplicators support bused wiring and redundancy
Software-programmable signal splitters from Acromag now include four new models providing current or voltage output and support of wide-range DC power options including bused wiring and redundancy.
Acromag’s SP330 series of isolated signal splitter/duplicators are designed to accommodate a broad variety of applications. The four-wire DC-powered models are similar to Acromag’s recently introduced SP230 loop-powered two-wire series. They are also software-configurable for precise conditioning of current, voltage or temperature input signals. The SP330 splitters provide two isolated outputs, proportional to a single input, with a choice of process control signal formats (0 to 20mA, four to 20mA, 0 to 5.0V, 0 to 10V, ±5.0V, or ±10V). A standard USB port connects the splitter to a PC or Android device with Acromag’s free software to select and scale I/O ranges. Power sources from six to 32V DC are supported and can connect at the terminals, to a power bus along the DIN rail, or at both locations for redundancy. The rugged design features removable terminal blocks to simplify wiring and a metal spring-loaded DIN rail clip for easy insertion or removal in panels. To ensure reliable performance, units are highly immune to electrical noise, protected from surges, and operate from -40 to +75 degree C. Hazardous location approvals are pending for UL Class 1 Div 2, ATEX Zone 2 and IECex standards.
Software configuration adds value, says Acromag. A common USB port facilitates set-up on a PC, smartphone or tablet without costly proprietary adapters. Software allows custom scaling of I/O ranges, filtering levels, calibration, and other operating options not possible with DIP switches.
Each model accommodates a variety of signal types. The current units are adjustable to support ±20mA or 0 to 20mA DC inputs and 0 to 20A AC signals with a toroid sensor. Voltage models convert unipolar or bipolar signals from ±1.0 to ±150V DC with multiple selectable ranges. Thermocouple units accept eight different sensor types (J, K, T, R, S, E, B, N), as well as ±100mV inputs. All models support a choice of six output ranges including 0/four to 20mA current and unipolar or bipolar voltage ranges for 5.0 and 10V control signals.
The flexible six to 32V DC power range can support battery and solar power sources. There are three options for connecting power, bringing power to a removable terminal block on top of the unit or driving multiple units from a single connection via a power bus that tucks into the DIN rail. Applying power at both locations, provides redundancy with instant failover protection. The power bus also has the advantage of exact sizing with individual interlocking connectors on each module instead of using rails of fixed sizes.
SP330 splitters are built to withstand the hazards of industrial environments. All models deliver high accuracy, superior noise resistance and fast response times. They also demonstrate excellent linearity and stability with very low temperature drift. 1500V AC isolation safely separates the input from each output circuit and provides continuous 250V AC (354V DC) protection. High-level surge suppression adds further protection from harmful transient signals. A tolerance for 25g shock and 4g vibration enables mounting on or near heavy machinery.
