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Mixed DC supply

01/06/2008 9:55 AM
  • I am working with a programmable logic controller with 0 to 10 V analog inputs. The wiring diagram for connecting the analog input shows the transducer connected to the same 24 V DC power supply the PLR uses, the temperature transducer that I intend to use is powered by 120 V AC, and has a zero to 10 V DC output. The PLR I have uses the power supply negative as one half of the circuit (a ground if you will) and the positive output of the transducer completes the circuit on the input of the PLR. Since pure DC has only resistance and no reactance to me there is no chance of getting out of phase, and I should have no problems connecting the negative on 24 volt DC power supply and the negative on the 0 to 10 V output of the transducer then connecting the positive output of my transducer to the analog input on the PLR. I've done a short test using a battery to simulate my DC input with no problems. My question is does anyone see a problem connecting the input on the PLR with the 0 to 10 V positive output of the temperature transducer and using a common negative ground?
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#1

Re: Mixed DC supply

01/06/2008 10:44 AM

That sounds OK - but I'm not sure where this 120Vac comes in. If it's just the supply to a unit which produces a 0 - 10V signal, then procede as you've suggested. Sensor device 0V to PLC 0V (BTW - what's a PLR?), & signal to PLC input.

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#2
In reply to #1

Re: Mixed DC supply

01/06/2008 12:48 PM

Hello JohnDG, and thank you for your reply. The 120 V AC supplies a thermostat that has a set of dry contacts, a temperature display, and a 0 to 10 V DC output to feed a building automation system. In this case a PLR (programmable logic really) basically a cheap PLC missing some of the features that I now wish I had, it would've been worth $150 price difference or so. This PLR can only read 0 to 10 V for analog inputs, a 4 to 20 milliamps analog input would've made life much simpler. Again thank you for your reply I was pretty sure this would work however I have been wrong before.

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#3
In reply to #2

Re: Mixed DC supply

01/06/2008 1:42 PM

All sounds fine - for Safety, just make sure that every point with an Earth symbol or letter E (on the PLR, thermostat unit etc.) is solidly tied to a PE (protective earth) point.

If the PLR is DC-only supplied, then it could float (though a functional earth (black wire in UK, depends on your regs) could be tied to the PE and will probably make fault-finding easier). The thermostat body may well be earthed through the pipework (which you should also check for earth connection!).

Sorry to harp on about the safety aspects, but better safe ...

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#4
In reply to #3

Re: Mixed DC supply

01/06/2008 3:05 PM

No harping perceived here, truthfully I hadn't yet consider the safety of the system, I had been focused on not damaging the PLR. Most custom controls that I am involved with, I'm also the only one working with, in this instance I will be turning it over to the end-user's maintenance personnel, so safety is well worth considering. I've already specified that there will be no unshielded high-voltage in my panel, quite to the electrician's dismay, But it is certainly worth reviewing all safety aspects of the system. I do not know if you're acquainted with him in the UK , we have this guy called Murphy here in the US. The last time I thought I had everything figured, and that nothing could possibly go wrong I had one part of an AC circuit get out of phase with the other, fortunately the only damage was the egg on my face as the circuit breakers tripped.

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#6
In reply to #4

Re: Mixed DC supply

01/06/2008 4:05 PM

mixit said it. Wish you well.

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#5

Re: Mixed DC supply

01/06/2008 3:17 PM

We know Murphy very well...

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