TabControlHTML1 Analog Input Function
In the analog-input signal path, signals are conditioned for maximum integrity, range, and resolution before being sampled by the analog-to-digital converters (ADCs). In the industrial environment common to programmable logic controllers, there is a wide variety of signal levels, signal bandwidths, and noise sources. It is, therefore, essential to reject as much of the irrelevant information as possible. Equally important, the maximum amount of relevant information must be retained when the signals are converted from the analog to the digital domain.
TabControlHTML2 Analog Output Function
The analog output primarily takes commands from the microprocessor and translates them into analog and digital signals to control motors, valves, and relays. As an example, a digital word from the CPU can be converted to an analog voltage or current by a DAC and signal conditioning circuitry. A proper signal is tailored for each output with any needed signal conditioning provided, including bias, offset, and gain calibration.
TabControlHTML3 Fieldbus Function
A fieldbus is the communication medium used in industrial automation systems and in process control to interconnect subsystems that are spatially dispersed. Distributed control allows local, hierarchical control. There is an important advantage of such a non-centralized control strategy: it avoids high processing power and extensive cabling. Control subsystems can be located close to the sensors and actuators in the field. An example of a fieldbus network is an automobile assembly line, where the fieldbus interconnects controllers located at each assembly stage.
TabControlHTML4 Sensor Function
A complete sensor assembly includes: a transducer (commonly called a sensor); signal conditioning and communications circuitry; a housing; and a connector. The transducer converts physical properties such as weight, pressure, temperature, humidity, or light to an electrical signal. Some transducers are resistive elements that require external excitation to create a measurable voltage. Other transducers generate their own voltages or currents in response to physical properties such as light, temperature, or sound.
 | Featured Products |
| Block Name |
Maxim PN |
Description |
| ADC |
MAX1415, MAX1416 |
16-Bit, Low-Power, 2-Channel, Sigma-Delta ADCs |
| OP Amp |
MAX9618 |
High-Efficiency, 1.5MHz Op Amps with RRIO |
| Sensor |
MAX1452 |
Low-Cost Precision Sensor Signal Conditioner |
| Sensor |
MAX1464 |
Low-Power, Low-Noise Multichannel Sensor Signal Processor |
| ADC |
MAX1402 |
+5V, 18-Bit, Low-Power, Multichannel, Oversampling (Sigma-Delta) ADC |
| OP Amp |
MAX4236, MAX4237 |
SOT23, Very High Precision, 3V/5V Rail-to-Rail Op Amps |
| PGA |
MAX9939 |
SPI Programmable-Gain Amplifier |
| OP Amp |
MAX9945 |
38V, Low-Noise, MOS-Input, Low-Power Op Amp |
| XCVR |
MAX3440E, MAX3444E |
±15kV ESD-Protected, ±60V Fault-Protected, 10Mbps, Fail-Safe RS-485/J1708 Transceivers |
Industrial solutions guide: Sensors
App Note 4699: Overview of sensor signal paths |
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