How to Test an AC Current Transducer for 4-20mA Output

Question:

Hello everyone,I have an AC current transducer that I need to test to ensure it is producing a 4-20mA output. I am using an AE001 unit with a simple M12 cable. I have connected the brown wire to L+ on the 24V supply of the PLC, the blue wire to L- on the PLC's ground, and the black wire to the IO-Link output of the PLC. My PLC is powered by an X20DS4387 IO-link module. However, I am not receiving any output when monitoring my PLC live. There are no terminals on this CT for external bench testing like other transducers I have used in the past. (Current sensor with IO-Link)Previously, I successfully used an ACT050-42L-F with an IFM DP2200 connected in the same way to my PLC. I was able to see an output of 4.0 mA with no load. My objective is to replace these two components with this single sensor. As a newcomer to instrumentation, any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!Currently, I have limited testing and measuring equipment available, including a basic multimetre, signal generator, and adjustable power supply for bench testing. You can find these tools here:https://www.amazon.com/Adjustable-Generator-Simulator-Controller-Calibration/dp/B0991ZSBHJ/https://www.amazon.com/SHNITPWR-Universal-Adjustable-Switching-100V-240V/dp/B08N4R48LJ/«Last Edit: Today at 04:51:38 pm by am1»

Top Replies

Are you receiving the 4-20 mA signal through the white wire? Utilizing this signal for the PLC's analog input could streamline your system. Which specific PLC model are you using?

The system in question is a B&R X20CP0483 with a limited analog input module for +/-10V signals (X20AI4222). I also have an IO-Link module (X20DS4387) capable of functioning as IO-Link or standard input/outputs. I was considering bypassing the need for a converter to obtain my desired output. However, it seems that a converter is necessary when utilizing this hardware.

To convert a 4-20 mA signal to a 0-10 V voltage, connect a 500 ohm resistor between your analog input and ground. This simple modification allows for easy monitoring and control of the signal output.

The voltage range may vary from 2 to 10 volts.

It sounds like you have done most of the initial set up correctly, but have you tested the output directly from the transducer with your multimeter? You might be dealing with a faulty wiring or a bad transducer here. Also, ensure that your PLC is correctly configured for a 4-20mA input signal. Possibly, the IO-Link port isn't activated, or it's set to a voltage input instead of current. Furthermore, it might also be helpful to check that you're using the right range - sometimes these systems operate within very specific ranges. If all else fails, you might consider reaching out to the manufacturer for support. You never know, it might just end up being a specific quirk of that model. Good Luck!

Hi there, it sounds like you're in a bit of a pickle with the AC current transducer. One thing that could be causing the lack of output could be related to the difference between the AE001 and ACT050-42L-F. This could be due to a higher resistance or it could be an issue with scaling. I'd recommend checking the manufacturer's data for both and verify if the parameters used in your PLC program match the AE001's specifics. Also, correctly using a multimeter to measure current might help you visualize what's truly happening. This will help isolate the issue. You can place your multimeter in series with the output and the PLC input, set it to measure DC mA, and observe the output. But ensure that you disconnect one side of the loop before proceeding, to save your meter from blowing up! I hope this helps!

Hi there, it seems like your connections are correct so the issue might be elsewhere. How about checking the voltage across the transducer's power supply points? If it deviates from 24V, it could be affecting the performance of your AE001 unit. Also, try swapping the M12 cable with another, just to rule out a potential cable fault. The power supply you shared seems versatile enough to allow you to adjust the voltage for bench testing. However, you might also need an oscilloscope to dive deeper into the hardware diagnostics. Lastly, ensure you've done a complete configuration of the IO-Link Master Port on your PLC for the new transducer; sometimes the lack of configuration or an incorrect setup could cause such issues.

It sounds like you're on the right track with your setup, but it can definitely be tricky with IO-Link connections. First, make sure that your PLC's configuration is set correctly to recognize the new transducer; sometimes, the settings might default to previous configurations that might not match the new device. Also, check the polarity and integrity of your connections—one loose wire or wrong connection can cause the signal loss you're seeing. If you have access to a better multimeter, you might also want to test the output directly from the transducer before it hits the PLC. Lastly, since you mentioned limited testing equipment, consider borrowing or renting a more advanced setup if possible, as it might help isolate the issue more effectively. Good luck, and keep us posted!

Hey there! It sounds like you have your wiring correct, but have you double-checked the configuration settings in your PLC for the IO-Link module? Sometimes there are specific parameters or data formats that need to be set up for the transducer to work properly. Also, since you're using an adjustable power supply, ensure it's providing a stable voltage and that the transducer is within the specified operational range. If possible, try connecting an oscilloscope or the multimeter to see if there's any signal fluctuation at the output—sometimes even a flicker can give you clues. Good luck!

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

FAQ: FAQs:

Answer: 1. How can I test an AC current transducer for a 4-20mA output? - To test an AC current transducer for a 4-20mA output, ensure correct wiring by connecting the brown wire to L+, the blue wire to L-, and the black wire to the IO-Link output of the PLC. 2. Why am I not receiving any output when monitoring my PLC live? - If you are not receiving any output when monitoring your PLC live, double-check the wiring connections and ensure they are correctly aligned with the transducer specifications.

FAQ: 3. What equipment can I use for testing and measuring the AC current transducer?

Answer: - For testing and measuring the AC current transducer, you can use basic equipment like a multimeter, signal generator, and an adjustable power supply for bench testing.

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