Eaton Adds More I/O Options for SmartWire-DT

With the introduction of six new input/output modules, Eaton’s Electrical Sector has further enhanced the versatility and convenience of its innovative SmartWire-DT communication system, which virtually eliminates the need for conventional control wiring in panels. Two of the new modules are for use with digital signals and three are for analogue signals. The sixth new module is a universal type that makes it easy for users to provide for future expansion of SmartWire-DT installations.

The new digital modules added to the range are a four-input type with three-wire connection and an integrated short-circuit proof power supply, and an eight-channel output module that provides outputs rated 24 V dc at 0.5A.

For analogue applications, Eaton is now offering a four-channel input module suitable for use with industry-standard 0-20 mA and 0-10 V current and voltage signals, and a combined I/O module with two input and two output channels, which is once again designed for 0-20 mA and 0-10 V signals. The third new analogue module added to the SmartWire-DT range has five inputs for use with resistance-type temperature sensors. The module supports two- and three-wire connections, and is compatible with Pt100, Pt1000 and Ni1000 sensors.

Eaton’s new universal module for SmartWire-DT is primarily intended to be used as a “placeholder” in systems where future expansion is planned. The module is typically fitted in place of SmartWire-DT enabled devices such as motor protective circuit breakers and I/O modules, which will be added to the installation at some future date.
This allows users to design and program the full configuration of the installation without having to spend money on hardware that is not yet needed. And, when the time comes to put the expansion in place, all that’s needed is to replace the universal modules with the appropriate new hardware – no changes to the program or the system configuration are necessary.

Like all devices in the range, the new modules can be connected to the SmartWire-DT system at any point. This allows users to optimise space usage within the control panel and, in the case of the I/O modules, to minimise the amount of wiring needed for the connection of sensors and actuators.


Editor’s Notes
Eaton’s electrical business is a global leader in power distribution, power quality, control and automation, power monitoring, and energy management products and services. Eaton is positioned, through its Cutler-Hammer®, Moeller®, Powerware®, Holec®, MEM®, and Santak® global electrical product series, to answer today’s most critical electrical power management challenges.

Eaton Corporation is a diversified power management company with 2010 sales of $13.7 billion. Celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2011, Eaton is a global technology leader in electrical components and systems for power quality, distribution and control; hydraulics components, systems and services for industrial and mobile equipment; aerospace fuel, hydraulics and pneumatic systems for commercial and military use; and truck and automotive drivetrain and powertrain systems for performance, fuel economy and safety. Eaton has approximately 73,000 employees and sells products to customers in more than 150 countries. For more information, visit www.eaton.com .