Optocoupler Cards from bmcm: Measure, Monitor, and Control Digital Signals with Galvanic Isolation

Maisach, Germany, March 29, 2012 --(PR.com)-- If there is no electro-conductive contact between two circuits, we are talking about galvanic or electrical isolation. Amongst others it is required for safety reasons (e.g. to control engines), to separate potentials or prevent hum loops as well as electromagnetic interferences.

If galvanic isolation is accomplished by optocouplers, digital signals can be transmitted fast and without interferences by light.

In measurement and control technology, optocoupler cards serve as a link between the digital line (e.g. of a machine) on one side and the PC data acquisition and control system on the other side.

The optocoupler cards of the measurement specialist BMC Messsysteme GmbH (bmcm) convert digital states of facilities (on/off) into TTL signals to be connected to the input of a PC measurement system. 24V-signals of an SPS, for example, can easily be connected in this way or engines can be controlled by the TTL outputs of the PC control systems.

Due to the galvanic isolation of the optocoupler boards, the digital lines have no electrical influence to each other or to the PC. The entire measurement system is optimally protected against high potentials and other disturbances.

Depending on the demands, two revised versions are available at bmcm.

Many channels but still extremely compact: The OI16 (10cm x 10cm) provides 16 digital inputs and 16 digital outputs at a 37-pin female for the connection of digital sensors (e.g. switch) or digital control lines (e.g. of a machine, etc.). The 16 switching outputs controlled by TTL signals of the PC measurement system feature output high-side drivers for voltages in the range of 7..35V.

The euroboard size OR8 is more than a highly universal optocoupler card for eight voltage inputs in the range of 5-30V. In addition, higher voltages and currents of up to 60V, 6mA can be switched. The digital inputs, as well as the power supply with 9-40V or 5V, are connected at screw-clamp terminals.

Accessory parts for DIN rail mounting are included with delivery. The TTL-compatible signals to the DAQ and control system of both cards are connected at a D-Sub 25 female. Using the optocoupler boards in combination with the digital I/O system USB-PIO from bmcm is especially comfortable, as a standard D-Sub cable is sufficient for connecting.

A practical solution and absolutely undisturbed - that's for sure: Optocoupler boards from bmcm for digital applications.