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from the Automation department...
I have a problem for long instrument cables
Sensor technologies. topic
Posted by Omalaheem on 26 July, 2008 - 12:56 pm
I have 4 analog signal 4-20 mA, and i have to connect them to the nearest RTU ( S7-400 PLC), but the problem is the distance between the transmitter and the RTU, which is 3000 m.??? so the instrument cable will no go for such big distance, i don't know what to do, any help please !!


Posted by Bob Peterson on 27 July, 2008 - 11:49 am
There are all kinds of options. Retransmission and wireless being the most obvious.


Posted by Roy Matson on 27 July, 2008 - 11:49 am
Omalaheem,
The cable length should not be the problem. You can increase the voltage to overcome voltage drop. The cable cost may make it more feasible to use a wireless link

Regards
Roy


Posted by jojo on 27 July, 2008 - 11:50 am
I would suggest that you do the following:

1. setup an S7-300 PLC close to the point where you are picking the analog signals.

2. install two optical link modules (OLM) one at the S7-300 plc end and the other at the S7-400 plc end, and connect the two with fibre optic cable.

3. send/receive you analog signals in digital format between the two plcs, and conver to analog using the S7-300 plc.

This should work. Siemens have a extensive info on their website re such setups.


Posted by wboyes on 29 July, 2008 - 1:21 am
The most common solution is to install I/I stations every 500 meters. This breaks up the loop into six loops, all individually powered. I/I converters are inexpensive, and all you have to do is provide power and a very small enclosure to house the converter.

Walt Boyes
Editor in Chief
Control and Controlglobal.com
www.controlglobal.com
Mailto:wboyes@putman.net
Read my blog SoundOFF!! At www.controlglobal.com/soundoff


Posted by Roy Matson on 30 July, 2008 - 11:36 pm
If you have line of sight Spread Spectrum Radio will be much more cost effective than running a cable. You would need a wireless system with 4 inputs. If you already have a cable installed measure the resistance of one pair (short at far end) and let us know, up to 1500 Ohms shouldn't be a problem.

Another option is a Data Concentrator, Moore Industries, these convert a number of analogs into a digital signal that is re-constituted at the far end.

Roy

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