Strain gauge signal conditioner

Weidmüller’s ACT20P range of signal isolators now contains a strain gauge signal conditioner. The ACT20P-Bridge combines small size with state-of-the-art technology providing simple programming, non interacting calibration points plus front panel or external tare function.

Using a 16-bit A/D converter, the ACT20P-Bridge provides four switch-selectable input ranges of 0 to ±10, 20, 30 and 50 mV, and proportional analog output of between 0 and 22 mA with loads of <600 Ω, and 0 to +11 V with loads of >1 kΩ. Accuracy is stated as better than 0.05% and has a temperature range of -40 to +70 °C with temperature drift better that 50 ppm.

Calibration is performed via front panel push-buttons mounted under the front label. Recalibration can be performed on either zero point or full scale without disturbing the other calibrated point.

With a fast I/O response down to 120 ms (10-90% at 65 ms), this unit will suit many weighing, force or strain gauge applications requiring accurate, high-speed signal transfer either standalone or interfacing to a controller providing the field supply and mV conversion.

The ACT20P-Bridge operates from a 12-60 VDC power source, with a built-in precision power supply capable of driving four 350 Ω load cells with selectable 5 or 10 VDC excitation.

The ACT20P-Bridge exceeds all CE requirements for noise immunity testing to EN61326-1:2006 and has a housing with a width of 22.5 mm, height of 112.4 mm and depth of 92.4 mm. This includes removable coded connectors and a high isolation voltage of 4 kV.