Neuron Potentiometer Digitizer

General Description

The Neuron Potentiometer Digitizer sensor measures a wide range of resistive potentiometers and converts the resistance measurement into a 13-bit digital representation. The device then transmits the converted digital signal via a wireless radio.

It is designed to be used in industrial environments, where the wireless transmission capability makes it easy to collect data from remote locations and the battery power makes it convenient to use in areas where power supply is not available.

Typical applications where potentiometers are found are in draw wire sensors, linear actuators and various positioning sensors.

Principle of Operation

The Neuron Potentiometer Digitizer supply a voltage source to the potentiometer and measures the resistance of the middle pin in the voltage divider circuit. The measured resistance then gets converted into a 13-bit digital representation for maximum accuracy.

This makes the sensor very flexible to measure a wide range of potentiometers from 1kΩ to 100kΩ.

The digital output signal can be configured in the app depending on the user need, where 100 count may represent 100mm length and 1000 count may represent 1000mm length for example.

Features

Integrated long life battery – up to 10 years lifetime
The digitizer powers the potentiometer, no need for external power source
Continuous measurement and instant alarm
Adjustment of parameters such as measurement frequency on request
Define your own alarm levels in the Neuron app
Receive alerts as push notifications, emails or SMS
Easily connect the sensor to the system with the QR- code on the sensor. Ensures immediate and accurate registration in the app on your phone/PC/tablet
The sensor transmits data to your nearby Neuron Gateway which then again communicates with the Neuron Cloud

Essentials

PT100 Measuring Range:
1kΩ to 100kΩ potentiometers

Measuring Frequency:
Every 10 sec

Report Frequency:
Every 2 min, or immediately after measurement if trigger for critical data transmission is reached

Expected Operating Time*:
Up to 10 years

*Depends on measurement frequency, amount of critical data transmissions and ambient temperature

Neuron system benefits

Robust sensors
Suitable for rough environments
Wireless
Wireless sensor with integrated battery
Long lifetime
Typical 10 years battery life
Quick installation
Wireless, installed and operational in minutes
Collect and deliver data
Data delivery through API and app
Broad offering
More than 50 different sensor types available

Operational specification

Measuring Range:
1kΩ to 100kΩ potentiometers

Resolution:
1 count

Accuracy:
13-bit (8192 count) of potentiometer range

Measuring Frequency*:
Every 10 sec

Report frequency*:
Reports every 2 min. Or immediately if trigger for critical data transmission is reached, see below

Trigger for Critical Data Transmission*:
200 count (~2.5% FS) change in measurement

Electronics Operating Environment:
Ambient Temperature: -40 – 85 oC
Relative Humidity: 0-80%
Altitude < 2000m above sea level
Pollution degree: 3

IP Grade:
IP 67, wet conditions, indoor use.

Cleaning:
Wipe clean with a damp cloth

Radio Frequency:
863-870 MHz / 902-928 MHz

Battery Type:
Lithium Manganese Dioxide, 3.0V

Expected Operating Time **:
Up to 10 Years

* Adjustable on request.
** Depends on measurement frequency, amount of critical data transmissions and ambient temperature.

Physical specification

Materials:
Polyurethane / Ni-Cu-Ni Coated Neodymium Magnet

Connection Type:
M12 Connector

Connector cable:
M12 A-coded 0.5m cable, other on request

Dimensions
Radio transmitter: 50mm x 15mm Cable length: 50cm

Regulatory

Certifications:
CE marking
UK CA
FCC
Industry Canada

Directives/Standard:
RED 2014/53/EU Radio Equipment Regulations 2017

Installation

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Neuron sensors are ready for use out of the box and will start logging data after registering the sensor in the app. Even though Neuron sensors deliver great range and long battery life, following some simple guidelines for mounting of the sensor and gateway can greatly improve signal coverage and lifetime of the sensor.

To ensure optimal antenna performance and signal strength, the sensor should be placed elevated with some distance to fixed objects. Keep in mind that RF-signals are greatly affected by close metallic surfaces.

For sensors with an external antenna, the antenna should be clear off the metallic surface.

For sensors operating in environments with greatly varying temperatures, care should be taken to avoid putting the sensor in unnecessary stress. Very high or low temperatures will affect the battery life and the signal strength of the sensor. While some sensors must be close to the source of heat or cold, other sensors have external probes which allow the sensor to be placed at a distance.

Fastening
The small, compact blue Neuron sensors are fitted with fastening holes for use with cable ties. The sensors are also delivered with double-sided tape that may be used for fastening of the sensors.

All the black/grey Neuron sensors, like the Neuron Thermocouple and Neuron Vibration, are fitted with a strong magnet at the back for easy fastening. If there is no magnetic surface, then double-sided tape is a good solution.