Sx-STG from IPETRONIK – high-speed, eight-channel, multi-input analog measurement module with sensor excitation

This measurement module offers channel sample rates of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500 Hz as well as 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 40 kHz. Four different rates can be selected per module for this. The output of the measurement data is accomplished via Fast Ethernet at a maximum speed of 100 MBit/s in accordance with IEEE 802.3 via XCPonEthernet (UDP/IP). Due to the use of a dual bus concept (CAN and Ethernet in a single cable), it will also be possible to output the measurement data directly to the CAN bus at a sample rate of up to 2 kHz once system integration is complete. Beyond this, Mx modules and M or SIM modules can be then operated in a chain of systems. The two bus systems are decoupled to the notebook/PC using a special xBus2PC adapter cable. The data format has a 16-bit resolution (word format). Furthermore, the Sx-STG offers additional useful functions, such as adjustment of the offset and target values, shunt checks for evaluating sensor plausibility, supplementary bridge resistors that can be selected via software at 120 Ω, 350 Ω and 1000 Ω, as well as current-surge detection capabilities for the sensor excitation. As an optional extra, the module supports detection of TEDS sensors. The measurement inputs’ wire breakage detection function can be activated via software.

The module is housed in an anodized aluminum enclosure with dimensions of 75 mm x 119 mm x 185 mm (B x H x D) and an IP54 protective rating, and it weighs 1430 g. It operates in the temperature range from –40 °C to +85 °C at a relative air humidity of 5 % to 95 %. The Sx-STG requires a supply voltage of 9 V DC to 36 V DC. If the voltage drops to below six volts, the module is turned off. Power consumption is typically 7.5 watts, and it rises to a maximum of 20 watts under a full load (including sensor excitation). The Sx-STG can be operated both as a standalone measurement module or as part of a system that includes other modules from the IPETRONIK Sx and Mx series. Configuration and measurement tasks are performed using the corresponding drivers and software tools. All settings can be made conveniently via the IPEmotion Windows-based software, for which a special plug-in is available. In this way, users can also take advantage of the latest functions offered by version 1.07 of the IPEmotion software, which was recently released. Mechanical adapters and holding brackets are available as optional mounting accessories.
“The Sx-STG combines the advantages of IPETRONIK’s SIM-STG and Mx-SENS measurement modules in a small, robust housing,” said Harry Störzer, head of application & support at IPETRONIK. “It supports STG applications – such as vibration, acceleration assessments, as well as, Road Load Data Acquisition (RLDA) – with sample rates of up to 40 kHz, and it is the ideal solution for testing vehicle components and car bodies.”