SureCross™ Wireless Technical Notes
Using 4–20 mA Sensors with 0–20 mA Inputs
DX80 SureCross devices allow analog inputs and outputs to use either 0–20 mA or 4–20 mA sensors. When using a 4–20 mA sensor
with a 0–20 mA input, the sensor uses the 4–20 mA section of the total range.
Using a 4–20 mA with a 0–20 mA input allows you to determine when you have an error condition with the sensor. A normal input
reading between 4 and 20 mA indicates a functioning sensor whereas a value below 4 mA indicates an error condition, such as a
broken wire or loose connection.
Values in this range indicate an
error condition
0 mA
(0)
Range of the sensor’s input
20 mA
(65535)
4 mA
(13107)
If necessary, you can use the DIP switches within the devices to configure the analog inputs/outputs to use 4–20 mA.
Switches
Device Settings
1
2
3
4
5
6
0–20 mA scale
OFF*
4–20 mA scale
ON
* Default configuration
Moving the DIP switch to use the 4–20 mA changes the 4 mA register contents from 13107 to 0. Converting the analog I/O to 4–20
mA removes the value range that could notify you of a physical problem with the sensor or wiring. Banner recommends using 0–20
mA analog I/O with 4–20 mA sensors to retain the ability to detect errors.
4 mA
(0)
20 mA
(65535)
Banner Engineering Corp. 9714 Tenth Ave. No., Minneapolis, MN USA 55441 • Phone: 763.544.3164 • www.bannerengineering.com • Email: [email protected]