Blog > Automation > 4 Signal Conditioner Benefits

In simplest terms, signal conditioners manipulate analog signals to meet the requirements for further processing. In industrial environments, they isolate, transmit, convert, split, and amplify to improve process reliability. They also provide isolation via galvanic isolation, save panel space, standardize on a signal type, solve mismatched signal issues, reduce wiring with loop-powered units, and improve troubleshooting.

Let’s look at a few of the top benefits of using signal conditioners.

#1. Isolate

Signal Conditioners receive the signal from the field device, isolate the signal, and then reproduce and transmit the higher quality signal to the PLC. Signal conditioners can isolate the PLC from the transients and noise that can occur in the environment, as well as eliminate potential differences from long cable runs and common reference points.

There are three different types of isolation available:

• Two-way: The input and output signals are separated from each other
• Three-way: The input and output signals are separated as well as the auxiliary power supply
• Four-way: Isolates multiple channels on the input and output side

All isolation types eliminate potential differences caused by long wire lengths and common reference points.

#2. Convert

One of the most common uses for signal conditioners is to convert one type of signal into another. For example, if you have a sensor that has a 0…10V output and your PLC needs a 4…20mA, the signal conditioner can convert that signal to the PLC.

Another example of a common conversion is thermocouple to an analog signal. Thermocouple wire is expensive, and the PLC will need a thermocouple input card. By converting the signal to a 4…20mA you will only need a short distance of thermocouple wire, and the rest of the run can be standard copper wire. The PLC input can now be the standard analog input.