Signal conditioners reduce heat output

A Pepperl+Fuchs GB product story
Edited by the Engineeringtalk editorial team Oct 6, 2009

Pepperl and Fuchs has introduced KC Series signal conditioners with a 12.5mm-wide footprint and low power consumption that reduces heat output.

These features make the devices a suitable option in control rooms with limited space in both hazardous area and general-purpose locations.

The SIL-rated KC modules deliver a broad range with three-port isolation, and can be programmed and configured in the field with pushbutton or dip switch logic functions.

They provide limit detection with form C alarm contacts, as well as fault detection and alarm functionality.

Additional features include loop-powered and analogue isolators and removable terminals that reduce maintenance.

In a large project, the KC module's smaller size can potentially reduce the number of cabinets required, eliminating the costs of additional cabinet hardware and wiring.

As KC modules consume less power, users may be able to use smaller power supplies than would otherwise be required.

Consuming less power reduces heat generation, and less heat means smaller cooling systems, further reducing cabinet space requirements.

The key to process control is accuracy, both in terms of measurement and signal conditioning.

The biggest threat to effective process control is the presence of ground loops.

Whenever analogue data is transferred through long cable runs, there is a high probability that ground loop problems will occur.

A ground loop exists when multiple earth ground connections are made in a system.

A difference in potential between the grounds generates an extraneous current flow in the signal conductor.

The result is commonly known as noise.

In its mildest form, noise in the signal line causes measurement offsets, incorrect sensor readings and general signal corruption.

In its most severe form, noise contamination erodes communication to a point where process control is lost.

Signal conditioners provide the necessary isolation as well as amplification, filtering and linearity corrections to prevent noise.

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