Affordable Digital Display with Input Capabilities: Connecting Analog Input and Output for Home Workbench

Question:

Hello, I am in search of an affordable digital display with input capabilities to connect to analog input and output for my home workbench. The ideal setup would involve a 4-20 output from a PLC displaying numbers on the screen, and a 4-20 input on the display for setting a specific value. While I have come across budget-friendly 4-20 digital displays on eBay, I am unable to find one that allows for inputting numbers. I am open to the idea of using separate units if needed. Thank you, Trevor.

Top Replies

Explore this website filled with innovative products from Adafruit Industries, known for their unique and fun DIY electronics and kits. Have you ever wondered why analog devices are necessary? Perhaps consider utilizing an 8 segment display to save costs on I/O.

Thank you GeniusInTraining for your input! I currently have analog input and output capabilities at 4-20mA. I am looking to upgrade to a digital interface, possibly with an 8-segment display. I will review the link you provided.

Automation Direct offers compact customizable analog displays. I recently purchased a couple of these displays, but I have not yet configured them, so I am not very familiar with their functions.

Thank you for tagging me, @mburtis. I will definitely check it out.

Looking to input a range of numbers? There are multiple cost-effective methods you could use to accomplish this task using basic components.

Hi Trevor! I totally understand your struggle. It seems like what you're looking for isn't common in budget-friendly options. However, have you considered using a Raspberry Pi with an appropriate ADC/DAC HAT? This solution will allow you to display and accept 4-20mA signals, and since the Pi is so versatile, you can add any other functionality you might need. Moreover, you can have the exact control layout you want as you will need to build a GUI for it yourself. There is a learning curve, but the resources and community are vast if you're up for the challenge. Good luck!

Hey Trevor, have you ever considered building one yourself? With an Arduino and a few components, you can set up a display that perfectly matches your specifications. It's a relatively cost-effective solution as well. This way, you get to have fun figuring out spare parts from your workbench while also customizing the input and output to your preference. Plus, there are numerous tutorials online that could guide you through the process.

Hey Trevor! Have you considered looking into programmable logic controllers with built-in HMI (Human-Machine Interface) capabilities? They often allow both display and input functionalities while being budget-friendly. Brands like Siemens and Allen-Bradley have some good options, and there are also open-source solutions that might fit your needs nicely. If you’re okay with using separate units, a simple digital display with a separate input module could work too. Just make sure to check the compatibility with your PLC to ensure smooth integration! Good luck with your setup!

Hey Trevor! It sounds like you're looking for a versatile display solution for your workbench. You might want to check out some industrial HMI (Human-Machine Interface) options; they can sometimes handle 4-20mA input and output while offering display features. Brands like Red Lion or Maple Systems have affordable models that let you set values directly on the display. If budget is a concern, sometimes a small PLC with a built-in HMI functionality can also do the trick, allowing you to manage both input and output seamlessly. Good luck with your project!

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

FAQ: 1. Can you recommend any affordable digital displays with input capabilities for connecting analog input and output at home?

Answer: - While there are budget-friendly 4-20 digital displays available on platforms like eBay, finding one that allows for inputting numbers might be a challenge. Consider exploring industrial automation equipment suppliers for more options.

FAQ: 2. Is it possible to achieve the desired setup of connecting a 4-20 output from a PLC to display numbers and using a 4-20 input on the display to set a specific value?

Answer: - Yes, it is possible to achieve this setup by potentially using separate units for displaying numbers and setting values. You may need to explore different devices or modules that cater to your specific requirements.

FAQ: 3. How can I integrate analog input and output functionalities effectively on my home workbench using digital displays?

Answer: - To effectively integrate analog input and output functionalities on your home workbench, consider researching digital displays that are compatible with PLCs or microcontrollers. Look for displays that support the required input and output ranges for seamless integration.

FAQ: 4. Are there any resources or forums where I can seek advice on connecting analog input and output using digital displays for DIY projects?

Answer: - You can explore online forums dedicated to electronics, automation, or DIY projects to seek advice and recommendations from experienced individuals who have worked on similar projects. Additionally, reaching out to technical support teams of digital display manufacturers could also provide valuable insights.

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