GE DS3820NOTA

Key Parameters

• Channels: 4 isolated analog inputs

• Sensor Types: Ni100, Ni1000, Ni120, Ni500 (software-selectable per channel)

• Wire Configuration: 2-wire, 3-wire, or 4-wire (software-configurable per channel)

• Resolution: 16-bit ADC

• Accuracy: ±0.1°C (Ni100, 25°C); ±0.3°C over –40°C to +70°C

• Excitation Current: Software-selectable 0.1 mA, 0.5 mA, 1 mA (per channel)

• Lead Resistance Compensation: Automatic for 3-wire and 4-wire configurations

• Measurement Range: –50°C to +250°C (depending on sensor type)

• Diagnostics: Open-circuit detection, short-circuit detection, over-range/under-range detection, per-channel LED status

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

• Sampling Rate: Up to 50 Hz per channel (with 50/60 Hz noise rejection)

• Power: 24 V DC backplane power, ≤3 W

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

• Terminals: Screw-type (suffix-dependent)

Advantages

• Direct Ni-RTD connection – eliminates external transmitters; saves panel space and cost.

• Per-channel isolation – 500 V between channels; prevents ground loops and cross-channel interference.

• Automatic lead compensation – for 3-wire/4-wire RTDs, cancels lead resistance errors for accurate temperature readings.

• Software-configurable per channel – sensor type, wire configuration, and excitation current independently settable.

• Built-in linearization – provides direct temperature readout in °C or °F; no scaling required.

• Open/short detection – detects broken wires or sensor shorts instantly.

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

• High accuracy – ±0.1°C for precise temperature control.

• Wide Ni-RTD support – covers Ni100, Ni1000, Ni120, and Ni500 types.

Applications

• HVAC systems – duct and return air temperature monitoring with Ni1000 sensors

• Pharmaceutical manufacturing – fermenter and storage temperature control

• Food processing – oven and sterilization chamber temperature profiling

• Industrial chillers – cooling water temperature monitoring

• Environmental chambers – temperature control in test chambers

• Building automation – room and zone temperature sensing

• Laboratory equipment – incubator and water bath temperature control

Competitor Comparison

The DS3820NOTA is the specialized Ni-RTD input module with per-channel isolation. Compared to using external transmitters with standard analog inputs, it saves significant panel space, reduces wiring, and lowers total installed cost (4 channels in one module vs. 4 separate transmitters + AI module). Against competitor Ni-RTD modules, the DS3820NOTA offers superior diagnostics and per-channel isolation at a competitive price. For Ni-RTD temperature monitoring applications, the DS3820NOTA delivers the most comprehensive and cost-effective solution.

Selection Tips

• Choose DS3820NOTA when you need to measure Ni RTD sensors (Ni100, Ni1000, Ni120, Ni500) with high accuracy and per-channel isolation.

• Ideal for HVAC, pharmaceutical, food processing, and building automation applications.

• Verify the sensor type (Ni100, Ni1000, etc.) and wire configuration (2-wire, 3-wire, 4-wire) – software-configurable per channel.

• For 2-wire sensors, lead resistance adds error – use 3-wire or 4-wire for accurate measurements.

• Not suitable for Pt RTDs – use DS3820AIRA family for Pt sensors.

• Ensure your PLC/DCS can handle the temperature data format from the DS3820NOTA.

Precautions

• Lead resistance: For 2-wire sensors, lead resistance directly adds error – use 3-wire or 4-wire for accurate measurements. The DS3820NOTA compensates for 3-wire/4-wire automatically.

• Excitation current: Higher currents (1 mA) produce self-heating errors in small Ni elements – use 0.1 mA or 0.5 mA for sensitive sensors.

• Wiring: Use shielded twisted-pair cables; ground shield at module end only. For 4-wire, use separate pairs for excitation and sense leads.

• Sensor matching: Ni RTDs have different curves – verify your sensor matches the selected type (Ni100 vs. Ni1000).

• Power sequencing: Apply backplane power before field power.

• Calibration: Perform periodic calibration using precision resistors to maintain accuracy.

• Spare: Keep one spare DS3820NOTA for critical Ni-RTD temperature loops – the specialized feature set may have longer lead times.