Description
Esters ATM1613 | Frequency to Current/Voltage Transducer
Product Introduction
When a high-speed rotational process or flow meter outputs a pulse stream that standard automation cards struggle to scale, industrial engineers drop in a dedicated converter. The Esters ATM1613 is not just a basic signal conditioner; it is a microprocessor-driven frequency-to-current powerhouse built to translate raw pulse data into clean, linear analog control signals—though setting it up demands precise handling of onboard coding switches.
Operating on a multi-period measurement principle, this unit calculates frequency by evaluating the inverse of input interval times. It handles quick speed regulations with a rapid calculation cycle of roughly 3ms. Encased in a compact DIN-rail housing, it bridges the gap between legacy pulse generators (like magnetic pickups, NAMUR, or Hall-effect sensors) and modern analog control loops.
ATM1613
Key Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
| Measurement Range | 0.001 Hz to 99.9 kHz (Programmable via coding switches) |
| Analog Output | 0–20 mA, 4–20 mA, 0–10 V DC, 2–10 V DC |
| Linearity / Accuracy | ±0.05% |
| Input Sensitivity | 50 mV to 80 Veff (AC-coupled, max 20 kHz / 3 V to 80 Veff up to 99.9 kHz) |
| Sensor Power Supply | 15V / 8V DC, max 60 mA |
| Power Supply Options | 115V or 230V AC (±10%), optional 18–30V DC galvanically isolated |
| Temperature Drift | 30 ppm/°C |
| Dimensions & Mounting | Plastic housing for DIN rail mounting (IP50 protection) |
Application Scenarios & Pain Points
- Extrusion Line Speed Matching: Paper and film manufacturing lines require exact speed tracking. The ATM1613 eliminates jitter from uneven drive rotations by utilizing an adjustable software low-pass filter (\tau = 0.128s or 1s), stabilizing the analog output to the drive controller.
- Legacy Turbine Flow Measurement: Older turbine meters output wild frequency signals that fluctuate under low-flow conditions. By mapping the minimum range down to fractions of a hertz, this unit cleans up chaotic inputs into a dependable 4-20mA loop trace.
- Centrifuge & Agitator Monitoring: High-inertia rotating equipment needs reliable actual-value transmission for one-quadrant analog control loops without dragging down PLC scan cycles.
QA & Live Testing SOP (Trust Signal)
Because these units are officially obsolete, sourcing verified hardware is critical. We bench-test every surplus ATM1613 by feeding a synthesized square-wave frequency from a precision signal generator into the AC-coupled inputs. We verify linear tracking across multiple frequency decades, check the 12-bit D/A conversion output using a Fluke multimeter, and confirm that the internal sensor power supply cleanly delivers 15V without voltage sag under load.
Field Engineer’s Pitfall Guide
- ❗ Coding Switch Configuration Errors: The measurement ranges are configured via internal coding switches. Failing to match the switch matrix to your precise input frequency ceiling will result in clipped analog outputs or complete signal saturation.
- ❗ AC Power Jumper Settings: Ensure the internal wire jumpers for power selection (115V vs. 230V AC) are set correctly before energizing. Misconfiguring this on legacy units can instantly blow the internal primary fuse.
- ❗ Signal Grounding and Shielding: Because input sensitivity scales down to 50 mV, unshielded sensor cable runs near high-voltage motor VFD leads will inject noise and destabilize the internal period-measurement calculation.
Intent-Driven FAQ
- Can I still buy a brand-new ATM1613 directly from the manufacturer?
No. Esters Elektronik discontinued the ATM1613 and ATM1615 series due to component obsolescence. Available units on the market are typically new surplus, refurbished, or pulled from operational test benches.
- What is the difference between the and the ATM1615?
The is strictly an F/I transducer with an analog output. The ATM1615 adds an integrated frequency relay and programmable standstill detection switch output.
- What types of sensors can I wire into the input?
It accepts electromagnetic sensors, Hall-effect impulse sensors, infrared reflex sensors, 2-wire NAMUR sensors, and 3-wire PNP proximity switches.
- How do I adjust the response time for erratic signals?
If your drive motion is unstable, you can toggle the internal low-pass filter options (set via jumpers or software configurations) to smooth out the transient response.
- Does the unit require an external power supply for my proximity sensor?
No, the unit features a built-in auxiliary sensor power supply output rated at 15V/8V DC (60 mA max) to power your front-end pulse generator directly.
