Analog Signals: 0 to 10V Vs.

4-20 mA

In the world of linear position sensors, analog reigns supreme. Sure there are all
kinds of other sensor interface types available; digital start/stop, synchronous
serial interface, various flavors of fieldbus, and so on. But linear position
sensors with analog outputs still account for probably two-thirds of all linear
position sensors sold.

When choosing an analog-output position sensor, your choice generally comes down to
analog voltage (e.g., 0 to 10 V), or analog current (e.g., 4 to 20 mA). So which
should you choose?

0-10V versus 4-20 mA

When it comes to sensor interface signals, 0-10V is like vanilla ice cream or, if
you prefer, a Chevy Cavalier. It�s nothing fancy, but it get�s the job done. It�s
common, it�s straightforward, it�s easy to troubleshoot, and nearly every
industrial controller on the planet will accept a 0-10V sensor signal. However,
there are some downsides. All analog signals are susceptible to electrical
interference, and a 0-10V signal is certainly no exception. Devices such as
motors, relays, and �noisy� power supplies can induce voltages onto signal lines
that can degrade the 0-10V sensor signal. Also, a 0-10V signal is susceptible to
voltage drops caused by wire resistance, especially over long cable runs.

A 4-20 mA or 0-20 mA signal, on the other hand, offers increased immunity to both
electrical interference and signal loss over long cable runs. And most newer
industrial controllers will accept current signals. As an added bonus, a 4-20 mA
signal provides inherent error condition detection since the signal, even at its
lowest value, is still active. Even at the extreme low end, or �zero� position,
the sensor is still providing a 4 mA signal. If the value ever goes to 0 mA,
something is wrong. The same can not be said for a 0-10V sensor. Zero volts could
mean zero position, or it could mean that your sensor has ceased to function.

In some cases, 4-20 mA sensors can be slightly more costly compared to 0-10V
sensors. But the cost difference is becoming increasingly smaller as more sensor
types incorporate current-output capability.

For more information on linear position sensors, click here.