Digitizing analog signals
In industrial measurement technology, the classic 4 to 20 mA signal is still a widely used standard today. Planners, installers, and maintenance personnel appreciate the high ease of maintenance and the universal application possibilities of the established analog technology.
The plug-in gateways of the MINI Analog Pro product family from Phoenix Contact now enable the integration of these signals into industrial bus systems and networks. This opens up new potential for plant operators.
MINI Analog Pro signal conditioner and measuring transducer with plug-in gateways, seen here in a water distribution network
The combination of electrical isolation and digital communication
- Network integration of signal conditioners in any combination by using compact gateways
- Interference-free signal transmission to the CPU due to safe electrical isolation
- Reduces costs and saves space by omitting signal-specific input cards. Fast, error-free bundling of signals in one network cable
- Measure current signals during operation or take readings using the app
Classic closed-loop control circuit with signal conditioners and I/O level
Classic structure of a closed-loop control circuit
The classic structure of a closed-loop control circuit in automation and process control engineering consists of the sensors located in the field, a central control unit for signal processing, usually in the central control cabinet, and the actuators, which are also located in the field. Signal conditioners and measuring transducers are used as links between the field sensor system and the control level and are usually connected to I/O modules.
In order to transmit the signal from a measuring point to the controller, a considerable amount of wiring is required. This costs time and is prone to errors.
Another disadvantage is the large amount of space required. The interface technology and the I/O level, e.g. for eight signals, usually require about 15 cm of space on the DIN rail before the actual controller.
Leap into the digital world
MINI Analog Pro gateways enable the connection of classic signal conditioners directly to serial communication protocols, such as Modbus, PROFIBUS, or PROFINET.
The output signals of the signal conditioners and measuring transducers are digitized in the gateway and transmitted directly from the interface level to the control system or controller. This means that an additional I/O level can be completely eliminated in certain applications.
With a pitch of only 6.2 mm, it enables temperatures, frequencies, 0 to 10 V signals, 4 to 20 mA signals, switching contacts, and many other signal types to be read in simultaneously. This reduces the additional wiring effort and also prevents wiring errors.
Summary
The particular advantage of using MINI Analog Pro is its highly flexible range of applications. On the one hand, this is the result of the extensive product range of signal conditioners and measuring transducers, which provides the right solution for almost every application. On the other hand, the optional plug-in communication gateways enable simple integration of classic signals from analog technology into digital transmission protocols. The combination of signal conditioners and communication gateways produces a compact, flexible, and efficient solution for the next step towards digitization and Industry 4.0. The MINI Analog Pro makes 4 to 20 mA signals fit for PROFINET.
MINI Analog Pro daisy chaining with PROFINET gateways
Easy integration into PROFINET networks
Using the MINI Analog Pro PROFINET gateway, various analog and digital signals can be integrated into PROFINET networks. The switch from PROFIBUS to PROFINET protocol is particularly interesting for refitting projects.
The gateway has been certified by the PROFIBUS Nutzerorganisation e.V. according to Conformance Class C and can therefore be easily migrated into a wide range of applications.
The plug-and-play principle also helps in this application. Disconnect the output terminal on the MINI Analog Pro signal conditioners, plug in the PROFINET gateway, connect the network cables – and you're done.
Additional gateways are available for the following protocols: Modbus/TCP, Modbus/RTU, and PROFIBUS
