Analog Mixing Module Architecture for Sensor Signal Acquisition
Sigmatek has released a configurable analog mixing module combining multiple inputs and outputs for industrial measurement and evaluation systems.
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Industrial measurement technology, laboratory equipment, and automated test systems require precise acquisition and processing of various sensor signals. To address mixed sensor requirements within compact control cabinets, a new analog mixing module has been developed as part of the S-DIAS series. The system integrates both input and output channels into a single DIN rail-mounted unit, allowing engineers to handle disparate voltage and current signals without requiring separate, dedicated hardware blocks for each signal type.
Signal Configuration and Processing Mechanisms
The AM 821 module incorporates eight analog differential inputs and two analog outputs, all operating with a 16-bit resolution. A core technical mechanism of this unit is the individual configurability of each channel. Both inputs and outputs can be switched via software between current and voltage standard signals, specifically 0 to 20 mA, 4 to 20 mA, and 0 to 10 V. This architecture allows the module to interface directly with different sensor types simultaneously. The hardware achieves a sampling interval of 500 microseconds or greater across all channels, ensuring rapid signal acquisition for dynamic control loops.
Diagnostic Features and System Integration
To maintain operational stability and facilitate maintenance, the module integrates short-circuit detection across its interfaces. Furthermore, engineers can apply software-configurable input filters to suppress signal noise and mitigate electromagnetic interference from the surrounding industrial environment. Status light-emitting diodes are mounted directly on the hardware interface, providing channel-specific diagnostics for immediate state verification during commissioning and operation. To support electrical planning and control cabinet integration, an EPLAN macro is provided. The physical dimensions of the unit are 12.5 millimeters in width, 104.2 millimeters in height, and 72 millimeters in depth.
Additional Context: This section details technical specifications and competitive benchmarking not included in the original product announcement.
Within the industrial automation sector, ultra-compact slice I/O systems typically operate in the 12-millimeter to 15-millimeter width range. The 12.5-millimeter width of the Sigmatek module is consistent with industry standards for high-density I/O terminals, comparable to standard form factors utilized by automation platforms such as Beckhoff EtherCAT terminals or B&R X20 systems. While many standard analog modules in this form factor offer either strictly inputs or outputs, the integration of eight 16-bit differential inputs and two 16-bit outputs within a single 12.5-millimeter slice represents a high channel density for mixed-signal applications. The 500-microsecond sampling time positions the module suitably for standard factory automation and process control, though specialized high-speed measurement modules in competing systems may offer sub-100-microsecond sampling for highly dynamic motion control tasks.
Edited by an industrial journalist, Lekshman Ramdas, with AI assistance.
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