Powering Sensors

Basics of Automation

Fundamentals of Automation

Powering Sensors

How does the sensor get its power

Selecting the right power supply is the basis for high machine productivity. Today mostly switching power supplies are used, which convert an input voltage (AC) of 230 V/110 V into an output voltage (DC) of 24 V.

Voltage conversion and supply

Conversion of AC voltage into DC voltage

Conversion of AC voltage (230 V/110 V) into DC voltage (24 V) by a switching power supply

Sensors, controller and infrastructure powered by a switching power supply

To select just the right power supply for your requirements, note the following criteria:

Number of sensors and consumers and the resulting total current
Current requirement for the connected consumers
Turn-on response and inrush currents of the sensors
Input voltage (e.g. 230 V/110 V), power and load of the supply network
Location of the power supply (central in the control cabinet/IP20 or modular in the field/IP67)

Suitable Products

Power supply for use in a control cabinet (IP20)

Power supply with IO-Link (IP20)

Power supply for use directly in the field (IP67), also in harsh conditions

Power supply with IO-Link (IP67)

In addition to this criteria you should also take into account the ambient temperature and – if necessary – make any modifications (e.g. cooling). Only then is maximum performance of the power supply assured.

You should also consider how the power supply responds to overload. Depending on the version (e.g. Powerboost* or Hiccup**) inrush currents or fast peak loads will be withstood better or worse.