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4-20mA Current Loop Transmitter

Overview

Description

The 4-20mA current loop is the dominant standard for sensor systems across many industries due to its simplicity and efficiency. It is easy to configure and connect, requiring less wiring and fewer connections than other signal types, which helps reduce overall system costs. Additionally, it is ideal for large locations, as the current remains stable over long distances, unlike voltage signals that degrade.

This current loop transmitter design utilizes a precision digital power monitor (DPM), a stable power source, and the low-power, analog-rich capabilities of the 16-bit MCU.

System Benefits:

  • Analog and ultra-low power MCU optimized for detector and sensor applications.
  • High-voltage, adjustable VOUT, low quiescent current linear regulator suitable for "always-on" applications
  • Renesas' NanoPower voltage reference featuring low supply voltage operation at 310nA typical.

Comparison

Applications

Block Diagram

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4:3 ratioSheet.1Sheet.2Sheet.3Sheet.4US199US199US199Sensor with Analog InputSensor with Analog InputSensor with Analog InputSensor Module with ADCSensor Module with ADCSensor Module with ADCGround (earth)Sheet.22Sheet.23Sheet.24Sheet.25Sheet.115Sheet.101Sheet.102Sheet.103Sheet.104Sheet.105Sheet.106Sheet.107Sheet.108Sheet.109Sheet.110Sheet.111Sheet.112Sheet.113Sheet.114Connector ArrowConnector Arrow.118Connector LineConnector dotted lineConnector Line.122Connector double arrowConnector Line.124Connector Line.125Connector Line.126Connector Line.127Connector Line.128Connector Line.129Connector Line.130Connector Line.131Connector Line.132Connector Line.134Connector Line.135Connector Line.137Connector Line.138Connector Line.139Connector Line.140Connector Line.141Connector Line.142Connector Line.143Connector Line.144Connector 1Connector 1.146Connector 1.147Connector 1.148Connector Line.150Voltage ReferenceVoltage ReferenceVoltage ReferenceLDOLDOLDOLoop Input ProtectionLoop Input ProtectionLoop Input ProtectionLoop PowerLoop PowerLoop PowerOp AmpOp AmpOp AmpRF FilterRF FilterRF FilterResistorResistor.20Resistor.263.3V3.3V3.3VRLRLRLUp to 40VUp to 40VUp to 40VTotal Resistance of Receiver and Transmission LineTotal Resistance of Receiver and Transmission LineTotal Resistance of Receiver and Transmission LineMCUMCUMCUMCUOp Amp/ADCOp Amp/ADCOp Amp/ADCI2CI2CI2CPWMPWMPWM
Exiting Interactive Block Diagram

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