
Voltage Transmitters & Transducers

Current transducers are devices that act as an interface between the power system and the measurement system. They convert any non-standard electrical current input into a usable electrical current output, such as an alternating current (AC) input signal into a direct current (DC) output signal. Current transducers operate by magnetically inducing current from the conductor into a proportional electric current that flows through the current transducer’s conductor. This protects measuring devices from high power currents.
Phoenix Contact MCR current transducers are used to acquire distorted alternating currents and convert them into a standard analog signal. They provide protection against disturbances using 3-way electrical isolation. The programmable current transducers have the standardized input signals of 1 and 5 A, plus the measuring range can be adjusted in numerous ways via software. The range to be measured is mapped over the entire output signal range, ensuring accurate resolution of the measured values. The devices can be supplied preconfigured between versions up to 11 A AC/DC or up to 55 A AC/DC.
Products
Transmitters vs Transducers
Some of the most common types of transmitters and transducers can be found on pressure instruments. Examples of these include: drop-in well pressure devices and devices that measure the pressure in a pipe or gas chamber. Transmitters and transducers can also be found on flow and speed measurement devices.
What is the difference between transmitters and transducers?
The main difference is the way they send data to the monitoring device, like a PLC. In terms of measurement, the transmitter will reference a measuring unit by sending a milliamp signal (such as 4-20 mA). A transducer will reference a measuring unit by sending a voltage signal, typically in volts or millivolts.
Why have the two different types of transmission methods?
The method will depend on the application. If the electrical connection in the application travels a short distance, a pressure transducer is the better choice. Pressure transducers are smaller with fewer active electronic components that can be upset by electromagnetic interference. Also, the voltage signals transmitted over longer distances are subject to voltage drop and signal corruption. A transmitter is better for transmitting signals over a long distance.