Dataforth Corporation SCM5B36 Potentiometer Input Module SCM5B36-xx

Each SCM5B36 Potentiometer input module provides a single channel of potentiometer input which is filtered, isolated, amplified, and converted to a high-level analog voltage output. This voltage output is logic switch controlled, which allows these modules to share a common analog bus without the requirement of external multiplexers. The SCM5B modules are designed with a completely isolated computer side circuit which can be floated to ± 50V from Power Common, pin 16. This complete isolation means that no connection is required between I/O Common and Power Common for proper operation of the output switch. If desired, the output switch can be turned on continuously by simply connecting pin 22, the Read-Enable pin, to I/O Common, pin 19. Excitation for the potentiometer is provided from the module by two matched current sources. When using a three-wire potentiometer, this method allows cancellation of the effects of lead resistances. The excitation currents are very small (less than 1.0mA) which minimizes self-heating of the potentiometer. Signal filtering is accomplished with a six-pole filter which provides 95dB of normal-mode rejection at 60Hz and 90dB at 50Hz. Two poles of this filter are on the field side of the isolation barrier, and the other four are in the output stage. After the initial field-side filtering, the input signal is chopped by a proprietary chopper circuit. Isolation is provided by transformer coupling, again using a proprietary technique to suppress transmission of common mode spikes or surges. The module is powered from +5VDC, ±5%. A special input circuit on the SCM5B36 module provides protection against accidental connection of power-line voltages up to 240VAC.