GE DS3820AISA

Key Parameters

• Channels: 8 differential, individually configurable

• Inputs: 4–20 mA, 0–20 mA, 0–5 V, 0–10 V, ±10 V (software-selectable per channel)

• Sampling Mode: Simultaneous (all channels sampled at same instant)

• Resolution: 16-bit ADC

• Sampling Rate: Up to 1 kHz per channel (simultaneous, global)

• Accuracy: ±0.1% FS (25°C); ±0.3% over –40°C to +70°C

• Phase Mismatch: < 0.1° at 50/60 Hz (between channels)

• Isolation: 1500 V RMS field-to-logic (group isolated)

• Power: 24 V DC, ≤6 W

• Diagnostics: Open-circuit, over/under-range, watchdog timer

• CMRR: >100 dB

Advantages

• Simultaneous sampling – captures all 8 channels at precisely the same moment; eliminates phase errors between signals.

• Software configurable per channel – each channel independently set for current or voltage.

• High-speed sampling – up to 1 kHz per channel, suitable for dynamic process monitoring.

• Hot-swappable – replace without rack power-down.

• Minimal phase mismatch – < 0.1° at 50/60 Hz ensures accurate power and vector calculations.

• Built-in diagnostics – alerts for broken wires and out-of-range conditions.

Applications

• Power monitoring – 3-phase voltage and current measurements for power quality analysis (V, A, W, VAR, PF)

• Motor control – simultaneous current and voltage monitoring for torque and efficiency calculations

• Vibration analysis – multi-axis accelerometer data capture for predictive maintenance

• Hydraulic systems – pressure and flow monitoring requiring time-correlated data

• Test & measurement – dynamic process characterization and transient recording

• Renewable energy – solar inverter and wind turbine output monitoring

Competitor Comparison

The DS3820AISA provides premium simultaneous sampling performance at a fraction of the cost of per-channel isolated competitors. Compared to standard sequential-scan modules, the DS3820AISA eliminates the phase delay that can cause significant errors in power calculations and dynamic control loops – errors that often go undetected until system instability occurs. For applications requiring precise time-correlation, the DS3820AISA is the clear choice over sequentially scanned alternatives. Against competitor simultaneous modules, the DS3820AISA offers comparable performance at a lower price point, making it the best value for power quality and dynamic monitoring applications.

Selection Tips

• Choose DS3820AISA when you need time-coherent measurements across multiple channels – essential for power, vibration, and dynamic process control.

• Ideal for 3-phase power systems (use 3 channels for voltage, 3 for current, 2 spare).

• Verify your CPU scan rate can handle the 1 kHz data throughput.

• Not suitable for applications where per-channel isolation is mandatory – consider the DS3820AIQA family instead.

• If your application only requires static process monitoring (slow temperature/pressure), a standard sequential AI module will be more cost-effective.

Precautions

• Wiring: Use shielded twisted-pair cables to maintain signal integrity at higher sampling rates.

• Grounding: Maintain single-point grounding to avoid noise at high frequencies.

• Power sequencing: Apply backplane power before field power.

• Cooling: Ensure adequate airflow in dense racks – the DS3820AISA dissipates up to 6 W.

• Data throughput: High sampling rates generate significant data traffic – ensure your controller and communication bus have sufficient bandwidth.

• Spare: Keep one spare DS3820AISA for critical monitoring loops to minimize downtime.

• Configuration: Set all channel input types before enabling simultaneous mode – changing a channel type may disrupt sampling timing.