Omron upgrades its smallest temperature controllers, 1/32 DIN

Omron Electrics increased indication accuracy and sampling rate in its latest version of its compact E5GN temperature controller.

February 22, 2010

Omron Electronics says that upgrades to its smallest temperature controllers, 1/32 DIN size E5GN, make them perfect for panel builders.

Increased indication accuracy and faster sampling rate are among the important enhancements that Omron has incorporated in the latest versions of its compact E5GN temperature controller. To simplify selection and stocking, each E5GN-T model accepts universal temperature sensor inputs (thermocouples and platinum RTDs), and a new series, E5GN-L, accepts analog inputs to support process control applications. Presented in 1/32 DIN (48 mm x 24 mm) housings, the new units are the smallest models in Omron’s popular E5_N temperature controller range yet they make no compromises in versatility and ease of use, the automation company says.

Helps panel builders, machine builders

Omron says this product helps panel builders and machine builders, for more effective temperature control on small machines, with:
– Universal temperature sensor inputs to reduce design and stocking;
– An informative display that can show alarm or change of status without a separate HMI; and
– Space-saving 1/32 DIN (48 x 24 mm) panel face with short mounting depth.

New E5GN controllers have a large easy-to-read color-change display, which can optionally be configured to alternate between showing SV/PV and controller status messages, including alarms. The display can also be switched between three colors for more informative monitoring, allowing it to be used to provide an instant visual indication of an alarm condition.

The controllers are available either with universal inputs for use with Pt sensors and thermocouples, or with inputs that are compatible with standard analog current and voltage signals. The new models have an indication accuracy of

Sampling period and loop update time of the E5GN has also been halved to 250 ms, allowing them to provide a faster response to suit demanding applications. Other enhancements include the introduction of heater burnout alarms and event inputs, as well as provision for two independent alarm outputs. Screw-less clamp terminals models are offered to make wiring faster and easier.

Omron automated software suite enhances functions

To ensure ease of use, the new E5GN temperature controllers incorporate a parameter mask function that is accessed via Omron’s CX-Thermo support software (Ver. 4.2). This function allows parameters that are not needed for a particular application to be hidden, thereby guarding against setting errors and inadvertent operation, the company says. The CX-Thermo software can also be used as an aid to convenient setting, adjustment and of course parameter cloning, creating easy and errorless copies for multiple machines. CX-Thermo software is available stand-alone (EST2-2C-MV4), or as part of Omron’s CX-One integrated automation software suite.

Like a PLC’s ladder, the E5GN has 8 logic registers to perform logic switching. These 8 "work bits" can be programmed to perform simple logic operations, with or without time delays, using the status of alarms or the controller’s digital inputs. The result can be used to control the operation of the E5GN, or one of its Control or Sub outputs.

With this update of the compact 48 mm x 24 mm controllers, Omron’s E5_N range now consists of one versatile range in four sizes. As well as the 1/32 DIN size units (E5GN), the range also offers 1/4 DIN size (E5AN 96 mm x 96 mm), 1/8 DIN size (E5EN 48 mm x 96 mm) and 1/16 DIN size (E5CN 48 mm x 48 mm) controllers, allowing customers to select the best model for their own specific application.
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Also see Control Engineering channels for Sensors Products and Process Control and Machine Control , as well as additional Omron developments:

– Omron STI G9SX-SM Safety Monitoring Unit cuts wait time ; and
– Omron Electronics CX-One Lite v4.0 – Micro PLC Version software .

– Edited by Mark T. Hoske, editor in chief, Control Engineering , www.controleng.com.