"Dry Runs" for Sensors

Sensors often only provide meaningful signals when the system is in operation. If this is not possible, a simple and quick to connect simulator is a practical tool.

It is difficult to test a system that is not yet fully constructed. The signals from the sensors - if they are already connected - can never provide the correct information. The temperature control of a furnace, for example: Without a furnace, the sensors can hardly deliver the values that can be expected in the finished system. In this case it is practical to simulate the sensors, e.g., by a controllable voltage or current source, depending on whether the sensor delivers a voltage or a current as output signal. It is even more practical to use a sensor simulator that supplies output signals corresponding to those of the sensors.

This is where the SIM-1 sensor simulator from Imtron (Sales: GHM) comes in. When commissioning a system, the SensorSimulator can quickly check whether the controller correctly reacts to a certain sensor signal value. Users can simulate the entire process chain to test the controller's behavior when interacting with other sensors. Various scenarios can be simulated without having to implement them in the real control system. A simulator is also a good aid in troubleshooting a system. To determine whether the fault is in the sensor, in the cabling, or in the controller, it is no longer necessary for the entire process to be in operation. The simulator supplies the sensor signals, making it easy to simulate any situation as a "dry run".

The SIM-1 sensor simulator designed for analog sensors offers simulation functions for voltages, currents, strain gauge signals, and temperatures (thermocouples of types K, J, N, and S as well as Pt100). It is equipped with a 7-pin plug for this purpose. In addition, the SIM-1 offers a measuring function for voltage (± 30 V) and current (± 30 mA) and can be extended by a frequency sensor. The sensor simulator is housed in an IP65 protected housing with rubber cover. Operation is simple and user-friendly: all menus are accessible using the six buttons on the front of the device. A backlit graphic display shows settings and values. The built-in lithium-ion battery lasts up to eight hours.