April 15, 2020 - Kistler introduces the miniature charge amplifier with IO-Link – suitable for use in a range of applications including robotics, the packaging industry and the food and beverage sector, as well as being ideal for OEMs. This intelligent amplifier combines analog and digital communication technology to pave the way for Industry 4.0.
Kistler is launching its 5028A charge amplifier that can use IO-Link technology to output analog signals from piezoelectric sensors as digital measurement data. IO-Link technology supplies users with real-time data to monitor the condition of their plants and measurement chains. This opens the way to predictive maintenance: for example, users can initiate maintenance tasks on a plant if data is regularly outside of the setpoint range. When the IO-Link component is replaced, the new parameters are transferred automatically.
By incorporating a digital interface into the 5028A charge amplifier, Kistler is taking another step towards the fully networked factory in keeping with the goals of Industry 4.0. Users receive data for process evaluation – and they can start work on processing the data immediately. With the 5028A, the raw analog signal is already digitized in the amplifier. The disturbance variables that occur in conventional analog systems due to inductive or capacitive couplings can therefore be avoided from the outset.
Likewise, individual cabling for analog and control signals is eliminated. However, the 5028A is also suitable for alternative use as an analog charge amplifier with reset/operate input.
As well as its extended functional scope, the 5028A charge amplifier interfaces with the upstream sensor as well as the customer's downstream system are compliant with industrial standards. This means that the charge amplifier can be integrated into any existing network that supports IO-Link.
The device can be used generally in mechanical engineering applications and is also suitable for sectors such as medical technology, because it allows verification of changes to settings at any time.
