Description
Each DSCA33 True RMS input module provides a single channel of AC input which is converted to its True RMS DC value, filtered, isolated, amplified, and converted to standard process voltage or current output.
The field voltage or current input signal is processed through an AC coupled pre-amplifier and RMS converter on the field side of the isolation barrier. The converted dc signal is then filtered and chopped by a proprietary chopper circuit and transferred across the transformer isolation barrier, suppressing transmission of common mode spikes and surges. The computer side circuitry reconstructs, filters and converts the signal to industry standard outputs.
Module output is either voltage or current. For current output models a dedicated loop supply is provided at terminal 3 (+OUT) with loop return located at terminal 4 (-OUT). The system-side load may be either floating or grounded.
Special input circuits provide protection against accidental connection of power-line voltages up to 480VAC and against transient events as defined by ANSI/IEEE C37.90.1. Protection circuits are also present on the signal output and power input terminals to guard against transient events and power reversal. Signal and power lines are secured to the module using screw terminals which are pluggable terminal blocks for ease of system assembly and reconfiguration.
DSCA33 modules have excellent stability over time and do not require recalibration, however, both zero and span settings are adjustable to accommodate situations where fine tuning is desired. The adjustments are made using potentiometers located under the front panel label and are non-interactive for ease of use.
Read our Application Note 101,
Measuring RMS Values of Voltage and Current.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Dataforth provide calibration reports for modules I purchased?
Yes we can provide calibration reports for the modules that you purchased.
You can either
a) visit https://www.dataforth.com/TestDataReport.aspx to search for Test Report Datasheets by Serial Number or
b) you can send us a list of model numbers and their serial numbers to support@dataforth.com
Is the calibration of Dataforth modules traceable to NIST standards?
Yes, calibration of Dataforth modules is traceable to NIST standards.
Can you explain what is the difference between the “Standard frequency range” and the “Extended frequency range” for the DSCA33 module?
The user does not have to do anything special; the module operates seamlessly over the full frequency range of 45Hz to 20kHz. We needed to split the full frequency range into two ranges so we could define and specify the different accuracy levels associated with each subrange.
If you look further down the DSCA33 Specifications under Accuracy, you will notice the Standard frequency range from 45Hz to 1kHz carries an additional +/-0.25% Reading error. This error is in addition to the +/-0.25% Span error at 50/60Hz. So the total accuracy error will be +/-0.25% Span + (+/-0.25% Reading) = +/-0.50%.
And the Extended frequency range from 1kHz to 20kHz carries an additional +/-0.75% Reading error. This error is in addition to the +/-0.25% Span error at 50/60Hz. So the total accuracy error will be +/-0.25% Span + (+/-0.75% Reading) = +/-1.00%.
Keywords/Phrases: DSCA RMS, DSCA True RMS, DSCA RMS input module, DSCA True RMS input module, DSCA33
Is there an extra charge for the extended frequency range to 20kHz for a DSCA33-01C?
There is no extra charge for the extended frequency range in the DSCA33. If you look in the DSCA33 Specifications under Accuracy, you will notice the extended frequency range carries an additional +/-0.75% of Reading error. This error is in addition to the +/-0.25% Span error at 50/60Hz. So the total accuracy error will be +/-0.25% + (+/-0.75%) = +/-1.00%.
Does Dataforth have any DSCA modules that can operate on a 12Vdc power supply?
Dataforth does not have any custom modules that run on 12VDC power. Most DSCA modules require a minimum power supply voltage of 15VDC while some require a minimum of 19VDC. Both are suitable for use with nominal 24VDC power supplies over the full operating temperature range of -40C to +85C. Dataforth offers a line of accessory power supplies, PWR-PS5RxW, which have been qualified for use with the DSCA product line. https://www.dataforth.com/catalog/pdf/PWR-PS5RxW.pdf
Is there an alternative for DC coupled input signal conditioning for signal conditioning to RMS? I understand SCM5B33-03 is AC coupled therefore it discards the offset or bias in the DC equivalent computation of the RMS whole signal.
Dataforth does not currently offer an equivalent True RMS module for DC coupled inputs, but a two module solution could be implemented depending on the parameters of the DC offset and the AC waveform.
Such an implementation was tested with an SCM5B33-03D True RMS Input Module (0-10Vrms input and 0-10VDC output) and an SCM5B31-02 Narrow Bandwidth Voltage Input Module (+/-5V input and +/-5V output). The inputs to these modules were tied in parallel and connected to a waveform generator with a specified VDC offset and VAC waveform within the input limits of the two modules. The outputs of the modules were then connected in series to get a combined output equal to the sum of their individual output voltages. Both modules were mounted on their own SCMPB03 single channel backplanes in order to maintain separate I/O COM lines for the required series connections to be made on the outputs. Alternatively a single SCMPB07 8-channel backplane could have been used since it allows for isolation of each channel's I/O COM line via a provided jumper. Please note that this combined module configuration will result in a small increase in total error since each module's parameters for accuracy are added up.
If a two module configuration is not possible for a specific application, a custom version of the SCM5B33 with revised coupling circuitry might be possible depending on the required specifications. Be aware that custom module designs are subject to NRE charges and require a 10pc minimum quantity order.
For a half-wave rectified sine, Crest Factor = 2, in a DSCA33, which additional error spec do I apply; the one for Crest Factor 1 to 2 or 2 to 3?
The DSCA33 Crest Factor additional error is specified in several ranges of 1 to 2, 2 to 3, 3 to 4, and 4 to 5. For every whole number Crest Factor 2 and greater, choose the pair with the applicable whole number to the right. That whole number is included in the range or mathematically: <=. The whole number at the left of a range is excluded from the range or mathematically: >.
Keywords/Phrases: DSCA33, Crest Factor, DSCA33 and Crest Factor
Where can I find the MTBF of my module?
Information on MTBF for SCM5B, SCM7B, 8B and DSCA is available on our website. Please see application note AN802 for more details. Application notes can be found under the "Literature" tab on the top navigation bar.
What does "Response time, 90% span" mean on the datasheet for my module?
Normally, a response time figure refers to how quickly a module's output can "respond" to a change in the input signal. "Response time, 90% span" refers to how fast a module can adjust its output when a step signal is applied at the input, where the magnitude of this step input is 90% of the input span of the module.
Is it possible to measure an AC voltage on top of a DC voltage signal with the DSCA33?
The DSCA33 is AC coupled, so it will reject the DC portion of the signal and only measure the AC portion. As long as the signal is within the protection specifications of the module (these can vary depending on the specific model of DSCA33) there will be no issue measuring VAC on top of VDC.
How does the load resistance of a module affect the noise at the output?
Noise at the output of a module is independent of load resistance.
How do I convert an RMS voltage to its corresponding peak voltage?
To convert an RMS voltage to its corresponding peak voltage, you simply take the RMS voltage value and multiply it by the square root of 2, or roughly 1.414.
For example, 1500Vrms corresponds to a peak voltage of 1500 * 1.414 = 2121 Vp
If the input range of my signal conditioner is -1V to +1V and the output range is 0 to 10V, does this mean that it ignores polarity?
A signal conditioner with these I/O ranges does not mean that the module ignores the polarity of your voltage input. The output of voltage input modules are scaled linearly, meaning an input of -1V would correspond to an output of 0V, an input of 0V would correspond to an output of 5V, an input of +1V would correspond to an output of 10V, and so on.
What is the output resolution of the DSCA series?
The DSCA series is completely analog, so the output resolution cannot be expressed in terms of bits as it is not a digital signal. The only thing that would cause any uncertainty/lack of clarity in your output signal would be the output ripple and noise, which is rated at a typical value of 0.025% span RMS as listed in the datasheet.
What is the input impedance of the DSCA33 module?
For models DSCA33-01 through DSCA33-05, the input impedance is 499kOhm with a <100pF capacitor in parallel with the resistor. For the DSCA33-06 and DSCA33-07, the input impedance is 100 milliohms and 25 milliohms respectively.
Do DSCA modules come with screw terminal blocks installed?
Yes, DSCA modules do come with the screw terminal blocks installed. The screw terminal accessories listed in our catalog are intended as replacements in case a terminal block is damaged or lost.
What does it mean when an input module has for example a 3kHz bandwidth?
A 3kHz bandwidth on an input module means it can accept voltages from DC to 3000Hz. Any frequency higher than that and the signal will start to be attenuated by the filter at the input.
Can Dataforth analog modules be used in high vibration environments? If so, what type of testing or certification was completed?
SCM5B, SCM7B, 8B SensorLex, and DSCA modules are well suited for use in high vibration environments. These modules and their associated accessories have undergone testing for random vibration, shock, and swept sine wave vibration. Details of each of these testing methods are provided below:
Random Vibration (Operating):
○ MIL-STD 202G, Method 214A, Condition 1
- Frequency Range: 50-2000Hz, flat spectrum
- Vibration Intensity: 7.56 Grms
- Duration: 10min/axis (X, Y, Z)
Shock (Operating):
○ MIL-STD-810F, Method 516.5
- Pulse Shape: Sawtooth
- Test Level: 30G
- Duration 11ms
- Orientation: +/-X, +/-Y, +/-Z
Swept Sine Vibration (Operating)
○ MIL-STD-810G, Method 514.6, modified
- Frequency Range: 10-2000Hz
- Vibration Intensity: 5Gp-p
- Sweep Rate: 1 octave/min
- Orientation: X, Y, Z
Declaration of conformity for the above-listed tests can be provided upon customer request. Please contact customer service if a copy of the declaration is needed.
What size wires do the DSCA modules accept?
DSCA module screw terminals are rated to wire gage AWG: 28 – 12.
Due to resource constraints on my computer, I'm unable to open the three dimensional CAD models provided on your website. Does Dataforth provide two demensional CAD models for download as well?
Two dimensional CAD models can be generated upon customer request. Please contact Customer Service for assistance.
How will the DSCA33 behave with an input signal that is non-sinusoidal, with a quick current spike and zero current for the rest of the waveform?
The DSCA33 would still output the RMS of the waveform. However, the DSCA33 may be less accurate due to the crest factor of such a signal.
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