M.S. Jacobs & Associates

M.S. Jacobs & Associates is a leading manufacturer's representative and distributor of industrial instrumentation and controls in Western Pennsylvania, West Virginia and New York. MS Jacobs services and supplies products in all major industrial markets, including power generation, chemical processing, pulp and paper, oil and gas production, water and wastewater treatment, and nuclear power generation.

https://msjacobs.com
800-348-0089

High Density Signal Conditioners

MicroBlox™ signal conditioning modules offer broad
functionality in a very compact package.
Image courtesy Acromag

Signal conditioning is a common function needed for proper operation of data acquisition or process control systems. The general purpose of signal conditioning is to convert an input signal of one type to an output signal of another, completing a usable path of information from signal generating device to signal using device. With many control and data acquisition systems employing numerous input signals from diverse sources and instruments, a control panel benefits from having a consolidated, adaptable means of performing all the required signal conditioning while occupying a minimized footprint in the panel.

The microBlox™ line of signal conditioners, from Acromag, provides a broad range of signal conditioning functionality in a compact and rugged industrial package. The microBlox™ line of signal conditioners provides a wide array of useful features, broad range of I/O signal compatibility, and a very compact high density footprint. The input modules offer screwless mounting in a choice of backplanes accommodating up to 16 channels. Functions included transmitter, alarm, and signal conditioner.

The variety of available models, some with economical precalibrated ranges, is extensive. The module construction, with its overmolded circuitry, provides resistance to dust, moisture, vibration and shock. The most valued capability of microBlox™ input modules is their Bluetooth connectivity. Mobile devices running either the Android or Apple versions of the Agility app can communicate with enabled modules to perform setup and configuration, diagnostic and troubleshooting functions. Input polling and trending is also possible using the app.

More technical data, illustration and description of the microBlox™ signal conditioners is included below. Share your signal conditioning and I/O challenges with a a product specialist. Leverage your own process knowledge and experience with their product application expertise to develop effective solutions.

Industrial Signal Conditioning Modules from MSJacobs-Cali

Switching Inductive Loads With Relays and Solid State Devices in Process Control

Switching devices must be properly protected for longevity

We connect a lot of black boxes together in our control systems, not really knowing what goes on inside. There is a basic understanding of function, but maybe not enough knowledge to thoroughly assess all aspects of integrating a device into a train of control system components. We range from novice to seasoned expert, so Acromag, manufacturer and global supplier of I/O devices for process control, has provided a useful application note regarding the protection of devices employed to switch inductive loads.

The application paper provides a good explanation of what an inductive load is, and how it can impact the performance and longevity of a switching device. The document further explains how to offset the potentially damaging impact of an inductive load on a connected switching device, with specific examples and recommendations on how to put the protective measures in place. It is useful information.

The paper is provided below. Share your I/O and other process measurement and control challenges with application specialists, combining your own process knowledge with their product application expertise to develop effective solutions.

Recommended Protection Schemes for Switching Inductive Loads from MSJacobs-Cali

Analynk Wireless Overview Video - Wireless Connectivity For Process Measurement and Control

M.S. Jacobs handles the Analynk line of industrial wireless  products. Available for use in almost every industrial environment, including those rated hazardous, Analynk products enable extension of your industrial WiFi into hazardous areas. Other products enable radio links between process measurement and control locations on a local, remote, or global scale. The video provides a summation of the company's product offering.

Share your wireless connectivity challenges with product application specialists and work together to develop effective connectivity solutions.

High Density Signal Conditioning Modules Offer Bluetooth® Configuration of I/O Ranges and Alarms

The microBlox™ signal conditioners for high density I/O configuration

Acromag, a globally recognized manufacturer of signal conditioning modules and related equipment, announced a new product release earlier this month. The microBlox™ line of signal conditioners provides a wide array of useful features, broad range of I/O signal compatibility, and a very compact high density footprint.

Here is an excerpt from the Acromag newsletter from June 6, 2016.

A full line of microBlox™ isolated signal conditioning modules are now available from Acromag. Offering over 175 models, microBlox uB modules can safely interface a wide variety of voltage, current, temperature, frequency, and other field signals with a ±5V or 0-5V DC output to host measurement & control systems. Users can select modules with fixed ranges or wireless configuration via Bluetooth® wireless technology on an Android™ or iOS® mobile device. Acromag’s free AgilityTM app for smartphones and tablets simplifies setting custom I/O ranges and optional alarm functions. The app can also display input signal values and create sharable trend charts. uB modules snap securely into compact backpanels (no screws) in any mix with 4, 8 or 16-channel capacities. With 1500Vac peak (350Vdc continuous) channel-to-channel and field-to-host isolation, the hot-swappable modules are ideal to front-end data acquisition systems or Acromag remote I/O for communication to Ethernet, Modbus, or Profibus networks. High performance is assured with up to 0.05% accuracy and 130dB noise rejection. Prices start at just $90 per module. 

“Advanced microcontroller and wireless technologies enable microBlox modules to bring greater flexibility and signal processing capabilities into such a small, economical package.” stated Robert Greenfield, Acromag’s marketing & sales director.
The microBlox module’s small size (1.11" x 1.65" x 0.4") and channel-by-channel scalability is ideal for embedded or portable applications such as test stands, defense systems, and process control applications. Well-suited for use in harsh industrial environments, the over-molded modules resist shock, dirt, and moisture with dependable operation from -40 to 85°C. Hazardous location UL/cUL Class 1 Div 2 and ATEX Zone 2 approvals are also available.

Accessories include a selection of backpanels with slots to insert 4, 8, or 16 modules. Fuse clips hold the modules securely without screws for easy insertion/removal. The backpanels support surface or DIN rail mounting and include CJC for use with temperature input modules. Blue LEDs indicate modules that are ready for Bluetooth wireless technology communication. Connections are provided for a 5V power source or a 10-32Vdc supply when used with the plug-in 5V power module. A DB25 header facilitates a single cable connection to interface all uB I/O signals directly to the host data acquisition system.

 A consolidated catalog describing the new microBlox™  signal conditioners is included below. Share your signal conditioning and I/O challenges with a a product specialist. Combining your process knowledge with their product application expertise will produce the best solutions.

High Density Signal Conditioners From Acromag from MSJacobs-Cali