The SCM5B38 strain gauge signal conditioning modules take a single channel of strain gauge input and filter, isolate, amplify, and convert to a high-level analogue voltage output. Bandwidth is either 4Hz or 10kHz. These modules can interface to full-bridge or half-bridge transducers with a nominal resistance of 100Ω to 10kΩ. A matched pair of bridge-completion resistors (to ±1mV at +10V excitation) allows use of low cost half-bridge or quarter-bridge transducers. Strain gage excitation is provided from the SCM5B38 narrow bandwidth strain gage signal conditioning module by a very stable 10V or 3.333V source. This excitation supply is fully isolated, allowing the amplifier inputs to operate over the full range of the excitation voltage. Input ranges are ±10mV, ±20mV, ±30mV, ±33.3mV or ±100mV whilst analogue voltage output ranges are ±5V or ±10V. This voltage output is logic-switch controlled, allowing these signal conditioning modules to share a common analogue bus without the requirement of external multiplexers.
The SCM5B38 strain gauge input signal conditioning module guarantees the highest level of accuracy and noise immunity in your measured signals. These 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. Isolation is provided by transformer coupling, again using a proprietary technique to suppress transmission of common mode spikes or surges. A special input circuit provides protection against accidental connection of power-line voltages up to 240V AC. 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 on the computer side. After the initial field-side filtering, the voltage input signal is chopped by a proprietary chopper circuit.
Circuit boards are potted within a rugged, compact and industry standard 5B package measuring just 58mm (H) x 57mm (W) x 15mm (D), making it ideal for applications where space needs to be considered. Identical gold-plated pin-outs are used to ensure a reliable connection. With a wide operating temperature of -40°c to +85°c and are also suitable for use in locations where there is presence of a flammable element such as vapours, gases or dust with being ATEX compliant. Other certifications include CE and CSA. The SCM5B38 strain gauge input signal conditioning module goes through a 48-hour burn-in operation and is tested twice whereby test results are uploaded to the website and can be found via searching the unique serial number.
The SCM5B38 strain gauge input signal conditioning module can be mounted on single-channel, dual-channel, 8-channel and 16-channel back panels which are available with panel, DIN rail or 19” rack mounting options. Each SCM5B back panel incorporates screw terminals for field wiring inputs or outputs and may include on-board temperature sensors for cold-junction compensation. A regulated supply of +5V DC is required for power and each module consumes 0.15w or 30mA of power.
