GE DS3820FDCA1A1A

Key Parameters

• Channels: 4 independent frequency-to-analog converters

• Input Type: 24 V DC pulse signals (sourcing/sinking configurable)

• Frequency Range: 0–100 kHz (programmable per channel)

• Input Filtering: Software-selectable 0.1–10 ms debounce

• Analog Output: 0–10 V or 4–20 mA (software-selectable per channel)

• Analog Resolution: 16-bit (0.0015% of full scale)

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

• Scaling: Programmable frequency-to-analog scaling (e.g., 0–1000 Hz = 4–20 mA)

• Diagnostics: Per-channel LED status, input short-circuit detection, output short-circuit protection

• Isolation: 1500 V RMS (field-to-backplane); 500 V RMS between channels

• Terminal Type: Fixed screw-type (per suffix “1A1A”)

• Power: 24 V DC backplane power, ≤3 W (logic); external 24 V field supply for inputs and outputs

• Operating Temperature: –40°C to +70°C

Advantages

• Pre-configured – fixed screw-type terminal configuration; reduces setup time and engineering effort.

• Integrated frequency-to-analog conversion – converts pulse signals to analog outputs; eliminates external converters.

• 4 independent channels – four converters in one slot; saves rack space and cost.

• Programmable scaling – each channel independently scaled (e.g., 0–1000 Hz = 4–20 mA or 0–10 V).

• High-resolution analog output – 16-bit resolution for precise control and monitoring.

• Versatile output options – each channel software-selectable for 0–10 V or 4–20 mA.

• Wide frequency range – supports 0–100 kHz; handles flowmeters, encoders, and tachometers.

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

• Diagnostic feedback – input short-circuit and output protection for each channel.

Applications

• Flowmeter retrofitting – converting pulse-output flowmeters to 4–20 mA or 0–10 V for existing analog control systems

• Tachometer monitoring – converting shaft speed (frequency) to analog signal for speed control and indication

• Encoder feedback – converting encoder pulse frequency to analog for legacy controllers

• Process control integration – connecting pulse-output sensors to analog-only PLC/DCS systems

• Water/wastewater – flow totalization and rate monitoring with analog output

• Oil & gas – turbine flowmeter pulse conversion for SCADA systems

• Manufacturing – machine speed monitoring with analog output for display and control

Competitor Comparison

The DS3820FDCA1A1A is the fixed-configuration multi-channel frequency-to-analog converter. Compared to external standalone converters, it offers four channels in one slot, significantly reducing panel space, wiring, and cost. Against competitor modules, the DS3820FDCA1A1A provides higher frequency range (100 kHz vs. 50 kHz), better resolution (16-bit vs. 14-bit), and per-channel software scaling – all at a competitive price with the added benefit of plug-and-play simplicity. For applications requiring conversion of pulse signals to analog outputs, the DS3820FDCA1A1A delivers the most cost-effective and deployment-ready solution.

Selection Tips

• Choose DS3820FDCA1A1A when you need to convert pulse/frequency signals to analog outputs for integration with analog-only control systems with plug-and-play simplicity.

• Ideal for retrofitting pulse-output flowmeters, tachometers, and encoders into existing 4–20 mA or 0–10 V systems.

• Verify the input frequency range matches your sensor output – supports 0–100 kHz per channel.

• Consider the output type – each channel independently software-selectable for 0–10 V or 4–20 mA.

• Confirm the screw-type terminal configuration matches your panel wiring requirements.

• Not suitable for high-voltage pulse inputs – accepts 24 V DC only.

• Ensure your PLC/DCS can receive and process analog output signals from the DS3820FDCA1A1A.

Precautions

• Input frequency: Maximum 100 kHz achieved with filtering disabled. Enable filtering only if necessary to reduce noise.

• Wiring: Use shielded twisted-pair cables for frequency inputs, especially at high frequencies. Ground shield at module end only.

• Analog output: Provides both voltage and current outputs – select the appropriate type per channel. Do not connect both simultaneously.

• Output load: For 0–10 V output, minimum load resistance is 1 kΩ. For 4–20 mA output, maximum loop resistance is 500 Ω (at 24 V supply).

• Power: Requires external 24 V field supply for inputs and outputs – ensure supply capacity for analog output loads.

• Scaling: Set scaling parameters before enabling the channel – changing scaling during operation may cause output jumps.

• Calibration: Perform periodic calibration using precision frequency generator and multimeter to maintain accuracy.

• Spare: Keep one spare DS3820FDCA1A1A for critical conversion applications – the fixed configuration is typically stocked for quick replacement.