Temposonics Analog Output Sensors, 4–20 mA & 0–10 V Position Measurement

Analog Output Options

Temposonics analog sensors offer several output configurations to match different control system requirements:

• 4–20 mA current loop, The most popular option for industrial applications. The 4 mA live zero provides open-circuit and short-circuit fault detection. Current loop signals are inherently resistant to electrical noise and can be transmitted over long cable distances (up to several hundred metres) without signal degradation.

• 0–10 V voltage output, Preferred where the controller has voltage-input channels. Offers high-resolution position data but is more susceptible to noise over long cable runs compared to current loop.

• 0–5 V and 1–5 V, Available for specific applications and legacy system compatibility.

All analog outputs provide a signal proportional to the magnet position along the sensor rod, with the zero and span points factory-calibrated to the specified stroke length.

Resolution and Performance

Analog Temposonics sensors provide effectively infinite resolution, the output is a continuous signal that can be digitised to the resolution of the receiving A/D converter. In practice, the limiting factor is the signal-to-noise ratio and the linearity of the sensor itself.

Typical specifications for analog Temposonics sensors include linearity of ±0.01% to ±0.02% of full stroke, repeatability of ±0.001% of full stroke, and update rates of 1–5 kHz depending on the sensor family. These specifications make analog sensors suitable for the majority of hydraulic cylinder position control, level measurement, and motion control applications.

Applications for Analog Sensors

Analog Temposonics sensors are the default choice for many industrial applications:

• Hydraulic cylinder feedback, 4–20 mA output to PLC analog input for press, clamp, and actuator position control.
• Level measurement, Continuous level monitoring in tanks, vessels, and reservoirs with proportional output to SCADA systems.
• Simple motion control, Position feedback for single-axis machines where digital protocols are unnecessary.
• Retrofit and replacement, Analog output is compatible with existing 4–20 mA infrastructure, simplifying sensor replacement without control system changes.
• Process control, Integration with process controllers, recorders, and DCS systems in chemical, pharmaceutical, and food processing plants.

Wiring and Installation

Analog Temposonics sensors are available with M12 connectors, M16 connectors, or cable outlet connections. The 4–20 mA current loop requires only two wires (signal and return), making installation straightforward. Voltage outputs require three wires (signal, common, and power supply).

For electrically noisy environments, shielded cables with proper grounding are recommended. The sensor housing should be connected to earth ground at one point to minimise common-mode noise pickup. In applications with long cable runs, 4–20 mA is strongly preferred over voltage output due to its inherent noise immunity.

Compatible Temposonics Families

Related Interfaces & Connectors

Frequently Asked Questions