A precision sensor is needed to provide vital feedback on the performance of your inertial project and the input power connection is what breathes life into that sensor. To save on costs and maximize efficiency, engineers have been using dual-ended power input instead of single. If you need a sensor with single-ended input power but are not sure how to accommodate for it, this process is easier than you think.
The Benefits of Single-ended Input Power
Dual-ended power input requires three wires, one for the positive power supply, one for the negative power supply and a third to be used as the common return connection for both positive and negative supplies. With single-ended, only two wires are needed. One for the positive power supply connection and the other for the power return connection to the supply. With less equipment, this saves on costs and creates a more efficient process. This will also save you headaches since one less connection means there is one less thing that can go wrong.
How to Adapt to Single-ended Input Power
If you’ve been accustomed to using dual-ended power input, accommodating for a single is a smoother process than you may realize. Dual-ended input power typically requires ±12 to ±18 Vdc, but single power encompasses this with a range of +9 to +18 Vdc.
Your connection equipment will not need to be replaced as one wire end can be hooked up to the positive connection of the sensor. There may need to be additional changes in the wiring, but this depends on how your grounding is configured.
What Kind of Sensors Use Single Input Power
A number of inclinometers, using various technologies, offer the option of single-ended input power. Force balanced inclinometers include the LSOX, LCF-300, SMI, and RMI.
The JMI-100/200 inclinometer can offer both single and dual input power as well as its accelerometer cousin, the JMA-100/200/300.
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Dual-ended Power
| A | Positive Input Power |
| B | Power/Signal Common |
| C | Negative Input Power |
| D | Signal |
| E | N/C |
| F | N/C |
Single-ended Power
| A | Input Power |
| B | Power/Signal Common |
| C | N/C |
| D | Signal |
| E | N/C |
| F | N/C |