Transmitter

Our transducers (also known as signal conditioners) are electronic modules that interface between a potentiometric position sensor and a control system. They handle all signal conditioning, including providing a stable power supply to the potentiometer, high-impedance and ratiometric signal acquisition, scaling to the desired measurement range, and outputting a standardized signal to the PLC. Typical outputs are 0–10 V or 4–20 mA.

Depending on the model, features such as offset and gain adjustment, teach-in for quickly defining start and end points, optional filtering or linearization, and galvanic isolation are available. EMC-optimized design, the standard 24 V DC power supply, and form factors for DIN rail/top-hat rail facilitate integration into the control cabinet. Our robust outdoor versions with a high protection rating are designed for field use. Signal processing is already integrated in non-contact sensors; external transducers are therefore primarily used with potentiometric sensors.

Standard signals for PLCs – 0–10 V and 4–20 mA

Our Novotechnik transducers provide the controller with a stable standard signal that reflects the actual position. The appropriate analog output signal depends on the environmental conditions and the wiring:

• 0–10 V: High resolution and easy connection to many PLC inputs. Ideal for short cables in control cabinet environments. Ensure proper grounding, use shielded cables, and ensure the evaluation unit has a sufficiently high input resistance.
• 4–20 mA: Sehr robust gegenüber Leitungswiderständen und EMV-Einflüssen; prädestiniert für lange Strecken und anspruchsvolle Umgebungen. Drahtbruch ist erkennbar (< 4 mA).

Short signal paths and minimal interference favor 0–10 V; long distances, varying ground potentials, or significant EMC issues favor 4–20 mA—possibly combined with galvanic isolation to decouple the field side from the control side.

Why do I need a transducer?

A transducer is used when a sensor does not provide a standard signal compatible with a PLC and the measurement chain needs to operate reliably and consistently. It converts a raw signal—typically from a potentiometric sensor—into a standardized output signal for the control system, adjusts the measurement range, and ensures reliable transmission in an industrial environment.

At the same time, it reduces EMC-related interference and—depending on the model—can isolate the field side from the control side via galvanic isolation. This simplifies integration across different PLC systems, speeds up commissioning, and enhances long-term stability. In short: Where potentiometric sensors lack integrated signal processing or where there are high requirements for immunity to interference, scaling, and interoperability, the transmitter serves as the central link.

What criteria are important when selecting a transducer?

The sensor type and measurement range are particularly important: If you are using potentiometric displacement/angle sensors, check the required transducer design and the required accuracy. Select the desired output to suit the application: 0–10 V for short, low-interference cables and high resolution; 4–20 mA is suitable for long distances, EMC-critical environments, and wire break detection (note loop impedance).

Consider the protection class and environmental factors (IP rating, humidity, vibration/shock) as well as the mounting type—outdoor use with a rugged field enclosure versus DIN rail mounting in a control cabinet.
EMC/Isolation: In cases of potential differences, distributed grounding, or long cables, transducers with galvanic isolation should be used. Additionally, the operating temperature range and drift requirements must be defined, as well as the parameterization needs (offset/gain, teach-in, filter, linearization) to ensure quick commissioning and stable measurement values.

Also check the power supply (typically 24 V DC), as well as the appropriate connection and connector standards, required certifications (e.g., CE/UL), and guaranteed availability throughout the product lifecycle. The transmitters are single-channel; plan for one device per sensor.

Transmitter Models for Every Application

MUW Transducer for the LWH/TLH Series

These devices are electrically and functionally matched to the linear potentiometers in our LWH/TLH series and utilize ratiometric detection to ensure high accuracy. A stable reference power supply and a high-impedance input stage ensure that the potentiometer’s wiper signal is tapped without loading and converted into a standardized output signal proportional to the travel.

The parameterization adjusts to the actual mechanical travel and maps it to the desired output signal with minimal loss.

A real-world example: In a clamping device, only a partial stroke of the linear actuator is used; the start and end points are set via teach-in so that the entire output signal range is covered and the system monitors the limit values precisely.

MUP Transducer for DIN Rail Mounting

Designed for control cabinets, our modules can be mounted on DIN rails (35 mm) to save space and seamlessly integrated into existing terminal block systems. Plug-in connections, clear front-panel labeling, and status indicators simplify wiring, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

The clear separation of power and signal lines in the control cabinet, along with an EMC-compliant layout, helps ensure stable signal quality.

A practical example is the retrofit of a packaging line: The transmitter replaces a custom PLC configuration, provides a pre-conditioned standard signal, and thereby reduces commissioning and maintenance time. This results in a standardized, modularly expandable measurement chain with uniform documentation.

Transducers for outdoor applications

Designed for field use, these models combine sealed housings (die-cast aluminum with IP66 protection) with vibration-resistant mechanics and EMC-robust electronics. Our transducers are characterized by a wide range of operating temperatures and corrosion protection for use on buildings or exposed infrastructure. Installation close to the sensor reduces interference and thus enables interference-free transmission over long distances. A practical example is position measurement for gap monitoring on structures such as bridges: The transducer is mounted close to the sensor, performs signal conditioning directly on-site, and transmits an interference-free standard signal to the control system. This ensures that measured values remain stable even under vibration, humidity, and fluctuating temperatures.

Transducers for standard signals

Our Novotechnik transducers convert raw signals from potentiometric position sensors into stable standard signals (e.g., 0–10 V, 4–20 mA) and make measurement chains reproducible, EMC-compliant, and PLC-compatible. Key selection criteria include sensor type and measurement range, desired output, protection class and installation environment (outdoor/control cabinet), EMC/isolation, temperature range, and parameterization requirements.

We offer a range of suitable options: rugged outdoor solutions, series-optimized designs, and compact DIN-rail modules. The result: faster integration, shorter commissioning times, higher immunity to interference, and long-term scalability. We would be happy to advise you on the optimal design for your application.

FAQ

• What are signal conditioners?
  Answer: Signal conditioners (also known as measurement transducers) are electronic modules located between a potentiometric position sensor and a control system. They provide a stable power supply to the potentiometer, capture the raw signal with high impedance, condition it, and output a standardized signal (e.g., 0–10 V or 4–20 mA) to the PLC. Depending on the model, functions such as offset/gain, teach-in, filtering/linearization, or galvanic isolation for higher immunity to interference are available.

• Why do I need a transducer?
  Answer: To provide a stable power supply to potentiometric sensors and convert the signal into standardized outputs (e.g., 0–10 V or 4–20 mA) for reliable further processing.

• What criteria are important when making a selection?
  Answer: Sensor type, desired output, protection class/environment, mounting type (outdoor, DIN rail), EMC/isolation, operating temperature, parameterization requirements.