Industrial Current Monitor 1-Channel 5-20 Max Amps Wired Solid Core Dual Interface

NCD Current Monitoring Devices

Current monitoring has never been easier, or more accurate using XB2x Series Energy Monitoring controllers. The XB2x series includes off-board current sensing, designed to safely clamp over a single high-current wire for current consumption measurement applications. When properly calibrated, up to 6 high-current loads can be monitored simultaneously with a maximum error rate of 2%.

All XB2x series controllers include two communication ports compatible with our entire range of communication options, including Ethernet, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB, or RS-232. For long-range, high-speed wireless communications, use the second communication port for industrial wireless applications supporting the Digi 802.15.4 and Digi S3B DigiMesh® communications modules. This device provides an ideal energy monitoring solution for most industrial and commercial applications at a low cost with unmatched accuracy.

Energy Monitoring Choices

Because we custom-build every controller, you have plenty of options. Simply choose the type of computer interface, the number of channels, type of sensor (split-core or solid-core), and your maximum current load (in amps). We will ship your controller pre-tested and pre-calibrated to 98% accuracy.

Tuning Ranges

When it comes to measuring a wide range of currents, there are many choices. In order to get the most accurate readings, you need to select exactly what you need and nothing more. Don’t be alarmed to see a 100 amp sensor on our web site offered with a 10 Amp measurement range. We do this for the sole purpose of improving accuracy. The electronics and the firmware were tuned to operate in the 10-amp range.

If you need to monitor a 10 amp circuit, you should choose a 10 amp controller (not a 20 amp controller). While there is no difference in cost, there is a significant difference in resolution. A 10-bit sensor reading across a 20-amp range will have HALF the resolution per bit as a 10 amp sensor. For this reason, and for the best possible resolution per bit, we offer many tuning ranges.

Solid Core Sensors

You may have noticed we offer both split-core and solid-core sensor options. Solid-core sensors are ideal in applications where low-cost or tight spaces are required. Solid-core sensors are not able to clamp over existing wire; they require a wire to run through the sensor during installation of the wiring. Solid-core sensors are a great choice for new installations. Because the sensor does not “break apart” like a split-core sensor, it has a smaller size and a lower cost.

Split-Core Sensors

For installations that must be retrofitted to add current monitoring, split-core sensors are our most popular choice. Split-core sensors can clamp over existing wiring by breaking apart the sensor and snapping it in place over the wire. Split-core sensors are larger and more expensive, but the versatility and ease of connection make them extremely popular.

Connection Options

Connecting sensors to a controller usually involves connecting two wires to the screw terminals of a controller. However, our SCT013 sensor includes a plug and a jack, reducing installation time.

Inductive and Resistive Loads

Unlike competing products, we do not gloss over the difficulties in monitoring highly inductive loads, such as motors, pumps, and other electrically noisy devices. We spent months developing algorithms that provide an excellent balance of speed and accuracy, whether you are monitoring resistive loads or inductive loads. Because of the difficulties in measuring inductive loads, our (free) Base Station software can be used to help fine-tune the calibration values to provide a more accurate measurement, further reducing the error rate to less than 2% for the most demanding loads.

Software

To get started quickly, use our free Base Station software. Base Station will have you monitoring energy in minutes, offering direct compatibility with your favorite communication technology (excluding Digi Wireless technologies). We highly recommend at least one USB interface in case you run into problems. Base Station and a USB interface can help get you connected fast!

Expandability

NCD Energy Monitoring controllers are designed with expandability in mind. Each controller includes two on-board I2C expansion ports, making it easy to expand to our complete line of I2C sensors, FET controllers, PWM controllers, and I2C relay boards.

Details

NCD Energy Monitoring controllers are rated for use with AC ONLY and will not work with DC loads. We have not yet completed 3-phase testing, but preliminary results are very hopeful. NCD Energy Monitoring controllers require 1.5 seconds to evaluate each channel. Therefore, a 6-channel controller will require 8 seconds to return a result for all channels. Sensors and controllers are designed to work together; it is NOT POSSIBLE to mix sensors to monitor different load sizes with a single controller. Mismatching sensors and controllers can result in permanent damage to the controller.

Users should avoid extending the cable of the current sensor as much as possible. Extending the wires may decrease accuracy.

Our tuning electronics can accept up to 5% current above the rated range, exceeding 10 amps + 5% for an extended period of time may cause damage to the tuning electronics or the CPU on our controller.

Off-board current sensors have a minimum load requirement of 1% of the total rating of the sensor. Failure to meet the minimum load requirements will significantly reduce accuracy. Please see minimum load requirements below.

Choose Any Two Communication Modules

NCD current monitoring controllers support many communication options.  With a dual interface, choose any two of your favorite communication technologies.  Choose from USB, RS-232, Ethernet, WiFi, Industrial Wireless, or more.

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