Features
- Output board versions with one or two analog outputs
- Single analog output: 4-20 mA, 0-20 mA, 0-10V, -10 to +10V
- Dual analog output: 4-20 mA, 0-20 mA, 0-10V with a shared ground
- 16-bit resolution (1 part in 65,536 or 0.0015% of full scale)
- ±0.02% full scale accuracy
- Output linearized to reading, isolated to 250 Vac
- Output derived from filtered or unfiltered signal input
- Scale and offset via meter front panel or Instrument Setup Software
- 50 Hz or 60 Hz update rate
- 12V compliance at 20 mA
- Certified to EN 61010-1 (CE Mark) and RoHS
- Isolated from meter and power grounds
A 16-bit analog output option board can turn a Laureate 1/8 DIN digital panel meter, counter, timer or remote display into a superb, isolated, linearized transmitter or signal conditioner with exceptional accuracy and high-speed response. The analog output for thermocouples, RTDs and custom curves is linearized to the displayed reading.
Single-output and dual-output versions of the analog output option board are available for use with Laureate counter-timers and the Laureate 6-digit remote display.
- With the single-output version, the output can be selected as 4-20 mA, 0-20 mA, unipolar 0-10V, or bipolar -10V to +10V with a 20V span and 0V at mid-range. If a voltage output is selected, output pins 1 and 2 may be reversed to provide reversed polarity.
- With the dual-output version, either output can be selected as 4-20 mA, 0-20 mA, or unipolar 0-10V. The ground of the two outputs is shared. One of the outputs is typically be tied to the displayed item, while the second output may be tied to a non-displayed item. For example, with the Extended Laureate frequency meter, Item #1 can be assigned to rate, while Item #2 is assigned to total. With the Laureate batch controller, Item #1 is the current batch total, Item #2 can be assigned to grand total or number of batches, and Item #3 is the flow rate.
A 16-bit D-to-A converter provides 0.0015% full-scale resolution and ±0.02% full-scale accuracy. The update rate for meters is a fast 60/sec for 60 Hz power or 50/sec at 50 Hz power. The analog output can track the unfiltered signal for fastest response, or a digitally filtered signal for best noise rejection.
Scaling of the analog output can be via the meter's front panel pushbuttons or a serial digital interface using Laurel's free Instrument Setup software. The displayed readings to produce the low and high analog outputs can be set to any value from -99999 to +99999 for DPMs or from -999999 to +999999 for counters and timers. Depending on your selected output range, simply set the meter reading for low analog output (4 mA, 0 mA, 0V or -10V) and for high analog output (20 mA or 10V).
The bipolar -10V to +10V analog output can provide a negative signal for a negative deviation from a setpoint, and a positive signal for a positive deviation. It can also be used for proportional control around a setpoint. For example, if proportional control is desired around 170°C with a ±10°C span, set the -10V output to 160°C and the +10V output to 180°C. The control signal will be 0V at 170°C.
Isolation from power and signal is provided by a separate power supply in the meter. This supply can drive 20 mA of current into loads up to 600 ohms for 12V compliance. Isolation to signal ground and power ground eliminates problems caused by ground loops.
Laureate DIN rail transmitters, whether 4-20 mA transmitters or serial output transmitters, also come with a scalable 16-bit analog output, which can be configured for current or voltage.
Electrical | |||
---|---|---|---|
Number of analog outputs | 1 or 2 depending on option board | ||
Output types (user-selectable) | 4-20 mA, 0-20 mA, 0-10V, -10 to 10V (single output)
4-20 mA, 0-20 mA, 0-10V (dual outputs) |
||
Power source | Provided by meter | ||
Signal source | Filtered or unfiltered digitized signal | ||
Output linearization | Linearized to reading | ||
Output Levels (selectable) | 4-20 mA, 0-20 mA, 0-10V, -10 to 10V | ||
Compliance at 20 mA | 12V ( 600 Ω max load ) | ||
Compliance at 10 V | 2 mA ( 5 kΩ min load) | ||
Isolation | 250V rms working, 2.3 kV rms per 1 min test | ||
Output resolution | 16 bits (0.0015% of full scale) | ||
Output nonlinearity | < 0.01% of full scale | ||
Accuracy | < 0.02% of full scale | ||
Output update rate, DPMs | 50 or 60/sec (output may be digitally filtered) | ||
Output update rate, rate counter | Gate time + 30 ms + 0-2 periods | ||
Scaling | |||
Zero output & full-scale output, DPMs | -99,999 to +99,999 counts | ||
Zero output & full-scale output, counters | -999,999 to +999,999 counts | ||
Minimum span | 150 counts | ||
J4 Pin Assignments | |||
Unipolar Connections | Bipolar Connections | ||
4-20 mA or 0-20 mA output 1 0-10V output 2 Isolated ground 3 |
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Reference or Return 1 |
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What Are Analog Output Boards for Laureate Meters, Counters, and Timers?
In the intricate world of industrial automation and process control, the ability to translate digital measurements into actionable analog signals is a cornerstone of operational success. Analog Output Boards for Laureate Meters, Counters, and Timers represent a cutting-edge solution, serving as specialized add-on modules that enhance the functionality of these precision instruments. These boards are meticulously engineered to convert the digital data generated by Laureate devices—such as voltage, current, frequency, or pulse counts—into continuous analog outputs, typically in the 4-20 mA or 0-10 V range. This transformation enables seamless integration with a vast array of external systems, including programmable logic controllers (PLCs), data acquisition systems, and control valves, ensuring that real-time monitoring and precise control are achievable across diverse industrial landscapes. Designed with durability and adaptability in mind, these boards are indispensable for environments where reliability and accuracy under varying conditions are non-negotiable.
How Do Analog Output Boards for Laureate Devices Work?
Input Signal Processing
The operational journey of an Analog Output Board begins with the Laureate device’s core function: measuring critical parameters like DC voltage, AC current, or pulse rates from connected sensors. The board captures these digital readings through a high-speed interface, employing advanced signal conditioning techniques to filter noise and enhance accuracy. This initial processing stage ensures that the raw data is clean and representative of the physical phenomenon being monitored, setting the foundation for reliable output generation.
Analog-to-Analog Conversion
At the heart of the board lies a high-resolution digital-to-analog converter (DAC), which transforms the processed digital data into a smooth, continuous analog signal. This conversion process supports industry-standard ranges such as 4-20 mA (current loop) or 0-10 V (voltage output), chosen based on the application’s requirements. The DAC’s precision, often exceeding 0.1% accuracy, ensures that the analog output faithfully mirrors the input measurement, making it ideal for applications demanding fine control, such as adjusting valve positions or modulating motor speeds in real time.
Output Transmission
Once converted, the analog signal is transmitted to external devices via isolated output channels, which protect against ground loops and electrical noise—a common challenge in industrial settings. The board’s design includes robust isolation (up to 1500 V in some models), allowing the signal to travel over long distances without degradation. This output can drive actuators, recorders, or SCADA systems, enabling dynamic adjustments to maintain optimal process conditions and supporting comprehensive data logging for later analysis.
Additional Functionalities
Beyond basic conversion, these boards offer a suite of advanced features to enhance versatility. Users can configure output scaling to match specific engineering units, set alarm thresholds for critical limits, and integrate optional communication protocols like RS-485 or Modbus for digital oversight. Some models also support dual-channel outputs, allowing simultaneous monitoring of multiple parameters, making them highly adaptable for complex automation architectures and remote diagnostic systems.
Where Are Analog Output Boards for Laureate Meters, Counters, and Timers Used?
Analog Output Boards for Laureate devices are pivotal in industrial sectors where precise analog signal output is essential for monitoring, control, and optimization. Their robust design and flexible integration capabilities make them a go-to solution across the following applications:
Industrial Automation and Control Systems
In manufacturing facilities, these boards are integral to monitoring DC voltage or current in motors, actuators, and robotic arms, providing analog outputs to prevent over-voltage damage or under-performance. Integrated into centralized control panels, they facilitate remote automation, enabling operators to adjust production lines dynamically, reduce downtime, and enhance safety by maintaining equipment within specified operational envelopes.
Power Generation and Distribution
Within power plants, the boards track voltage and current across generators, transformers, and distribution lines, delivering analog signals to stabilize power output. This capability is crucial for preventing blackouts, protecting high-value equipment from surges, and ensuring compliance with grid standards, offering real-time feedback to operators for immediate corrective actions.
Renewable Energy Systems
In solar farms and wind turbine installations, the boards convert DC voltage or AC power data into analog outputs, optimizing energy conversion and battery storage efficiency. They provide continuous feedback to inverters and charge controllers, enabling performance tuning under varying weather conditions and alerting maintenance teams to potential inefficiencies or faults.
Automotive and Transportation Industry
In electric vehicles (EVs) and rail systems, these boards monitor battery voltage and current draw, supplying analog signals to ensure proper charging cycles and system integrity. During development, they offer engineers precise data for testing battery management systems, enhancing vehicle range and safety through iterative design improvements.
Laboratories and Research Facilities
In research environments, the boards deliver high-precision analog outputs for experimental voltage or current measurements, supporting calibration of scientific instruments and validation of new technologies. Their reliability ensures consistent data collection, critical for peer-reviewed studies and innovative breakthroughs in material science or electronics.
HVAC and Building Automation
In HVAC systems, the boards monitor DC voltage for fans, pumps, and dampers, optimizing energy consumption and extending equipment lifespan through analog feedback to control units. Within building automation systems, they enable centralized management of electrical performance, reducing operational costs and improving occupant comfort across large facilities.
Marine and Aerospace Applications
On maritime vessels and aircraft, the boards ensure stable voltage monitoring for navigation, communication, and life support systems, providing analog outputs for critical safety checks. Their rugged design withstands extreme conditions, offering real-time data to pilots or crew for immediate system adjustments, enhancing mission reliability.
Conclusion
Analog Output Boards for Laureate Meters, Counters, and Timers are indispensable across a broad spectrum of industries, delivering precise analog signals that drive advanced monitoring and control. Their adaptability to harsh environments, support for diverse applications, and seamless integration with modern automation systems underscore their value, meeting the growing demands for efficiency, safety, and innovation in industrial technology.
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