Phoenix MACX MCR Series: High-Precision Industrial Signal Conditioning Modules - Comprehensive Application & Selection Guide

Product Positioning & Core Value

The Phoenix MACX MCR Series represents a premium lineup of industrial-grade signal conditioning modules engineered for precise processing, isolation, and conversion of analog/digital signals in complex automation systems. Designed to bridge the gap between field sensors/actuators and controllers (PLCs, DCS, industrial PCs), these modules support a wide range of signal types—including RTD (Resistance Temperature Detectors), TC (Thermocouples), SSI (Synchronous Serial Interface), 4-20mA current, and 0-10V voltage—with functional variants for intrinsically safe (Ex) environments, low-power operation, and high-voltage compatibility.

With industry-leading accuracy (≤0.01% full scale), 3-way isolation (input-output-power), and compliance with global standards (ATEX/IECEx, SIL 2/3, UL 508), the series excels in harsh industrial conditions, including hazardous areas, extreme temperatures, and high-electromagnetic interference (EMI) environments. Ideal for manufacturing, process control, petrochemical, and energy sectors, the MACX MCR Series ensures reliable signal transmission, minimizes measurement errors, and enhances system safety—critical for high-precision monitoring and control applications.

Product Family Overview

The MACX MCR Series is categorized by signal type and functional focus to meet diverse application needs:

1. General Signal Isolation & Conversion Modules (SL/IDS Series)

• Function: Universal analog signal isolation, amplification, and conversion (current/voltage signals).
• Key Variants:
  • SL: Standard low-power (ILP) or high-voltage (HV) models for general industrial use.
  • IDS: Intrinsically safe signal conditioning for hazardous area sensors.
• Signal Compatibility: 4-20mA, 0-10V, ±10V analog signals.
• Typical Models: MACX MCR-SL-2I-2I-ILP-SP, MACX MCR-IDS-2I-2I, MACX MCR-SL-2I-2I-HV-ILP.

2. Temperature Signal Conditioning Modules (RTD/TC Series)

• Function: Specialized processing for RTD (Pt100, Pt1000) and TC (J, K, T, E) temperature sensors.
• Key Features: Cold junction compensation (TC), lead wire resistance compensation (RTD), high-precision conversion.
• Typical Models: MACX MCR-RTD-I-SP-C, MACX MCR-EX-TC-I.

3. Explosion-Proof (Ex) Modules (EX Series)

• Function: Intrinsically safe signal conditioning for Zone 0/1/2 hazardous areas (ATEX/IECEx certified).
• Signal Compatibility: Temperature (RTD/TC), SSI, current/voltage, and relay signals.
• Key Variants:
  • TS: Thermocouple/RTD temperature processing.
  • SL-RPSSI: SSI position signal conditioning (single/dual-channel).
  • T-UI/UIREL: Universal current/voltage or relay output.
• Typical Models: MACX MCR-EX-TC-I, MACX MCR-EX-SL-RPSSI-2I-SP, MACX MCR-EX-T-UI-UP-SP.

4. Specialized Interface Modules (PTB/I20 Series)

• Function: Dedicated interface solutions for calibration (PTB) and compact signal processing (I20).
• Key Features: PTB-approved calibration capabilities, space-saving design (I20).
• Typical Models: MACX MCR-PTB-SP, MACX MCR-I20.

Technical Specifications (Universal Parameters)

Detailed Function Module Introduction

1. General Signal Isolation & Conversion Modules (SL/IDS Series)

2. Temperature Signal Conditioning Modules (RTD/TC Series)

3. Explosion-Proof (Ex) Modules (EX Series)

4. Specialized Interface Modules (PTB/I20 Series)

Application Scenario Analysis

1. Petrochemical & Hazardous Area Monitoring

Recommended Configuration:

• Temperature Sensing: MACX MCR-EX-TC-I (1050233) + MACX MCR-EX-TS-I-OLP-SP (2908661)
• Position Monitoring: MACX MCR-EX-SL-RPSSI-2I-SP (2924236)
• Signal Isolation: MACX MCR-IDS-2I-2I-SP (2908066)

Implementation Advantages:

• ATEX/IECEx Zone 2 compliance ensures safety in explosive environments.
• 3kV isolation minimizes EMI interference from industrial equipment.
• Intrinsically safe design prevents ignition of flammable gases/dust.

2. High-Precision Manufacturing (Pharmaceutical/Food Processing)

Recommended Configuration:

• Temperature Control: MACX MCR-RTD-I-SP-C (1052464)
• Process Signal Conditioning: MACX MCR-SL-2I-2I-ILP-SP (2905281)
• Compact Integration: MACX MCR-I20 (2905680)

Implementation Advantages:

• ≤0.01% accuracy ensures compliance with strict quality standards.
• Cold junction compensation (TC) and lead wire compensation (RTD) eliminate measurement errors.
• Low-power (ILP) models reduce energy consumption in 24/7 operations.

3. Power Generation & High-Voltage Systems

Recommended Configuration:

• High-Voltage Signal Processing: MACX MCR-SL-2I-2I-HV-ILP (2907706)
• Temperature Monitoring: MACX MCR-RTD-I (1050192)
• Universal Signal Conversion: MACX MCR-EX-T-UI-UP-SP (2924689)

Implementation Advantages:

• HV variant supports up to 300V input, ideal for high-voltage sensors.
• 3-way isolation protects controllers from voltage spikes.
• Explosion-proof models safe for power plant hazardous areas (e.g., fuel storage).

4. Automotive & Compact Machinery

Recommended Configuration:

• Space-Saving Signal Conditioning: MACX MCR-I20 (2905680)
• SSI Position Sensing: MACX MCR-EX-SL-RPSSI-I (2865340)
• Calibration: MACX MCR-PTB-SP (2924184)

Implementation Advantages:

• 6.2mm compact design saves control cabinet space.
• SSI compatibility supports precise motor position monitoring.
• PTB-approved calibration ensures manufacturing precision.

Selection Guide

Step 1: Determine Signal Type

• Temperature Signals: Choose RTD/TC sub-series (e.g., MACX MCR-RTD-I-SP-C for Pt100, MACX MCR-EX-TC-I for hazardous areas).
• Analog Signals (4-20mA/0-10V): Select SL/IDS sub-series (e.g., MACX MCR-SL-2I-2I-ILP for general use, MACX MCR-IDS-I-I for intrinsically safe applications).
• SSI Position Signals: Opt for EX-SL-RPSSI sub-series (e.g., MACX MCR-EX-SL-RPSSI-2I-SP for dual-channel).
• Calibration/Compact Needs: PTB/I20 sub-series (e.g., MACX MCR-PTB-SP for calibration, MACX MCR-I20 for space constraints).

Step 2: Verify Environmental Requirements

• Hazardous Areas (Zone 0/1/2): All EX sub-series models (ATEX/IECEx certified).
• High-Voltage Inputs: SL-HV variants (e.g., MACX MCR-SL-2I-2I-HV-ILP).
• Low Power Consumption: ILP suffix models (e.g., MACX MCR-SL-2I-2I-ILP-SP).
• Space Constraints: I20 sub-series (6.2mm width).

Step 3: Confirm Functional Features

• Special Protection: SP suffix models (enhanced EMI resistance, overload protection).
• Overload Protection: OLP suffix models (e.g., MACX MCR-EX-TS-I-OLP-SP).
• Universal Output: UP suffix models (compatible with multiple controller inputs).
• Cold Junction Compensation: C suffix models (e.g., MACX MCR-RTD-I-SP-C).

Step 4: Match Accuracy & Isolation Needs

• High-Precision Applications: Models with ≤0.01% accuracy (e.g., RTD/TC sub-series).
• High-EMI Environments: 3kV isolation models (all MACX MCR variants).
• SIL Compliance: EX sub-series (SIL 2/3 certified for safety-critical systems).

Installation & Maintenance Guide

Installation Steps:

1. Mounting: Snap the module onto a 35mm DIN rail, ensuring ≥3mm spacing between modules for heat dissipation.
2. Wiring: Connect supply voltage, sensor input, and controller output wires according to polarity markings (use 0.14~2.5mm² conductors).
3. Torque: Tighten terminal screws to 0.5~0.8Nm (prevents vibration-induced loosening).
4. Grounding: Ensure proper grounding of the module to minimize EMI and enhance safety.
5. Configuration: Use DIP switches (where applicable) to set signal type, range, and output mode.
6. Testing: Verify LED indicators (green = power-on, yellow = signal active) post-installation.

Maintenance Points:

• Status Monitoring: Regularly check LED indicators (red = fault, replace immediately).
• Calibration: Calibrate RTD/TC models annually (or per application requirements) using PTB-approved tools.
• Replacement: Replace modules after fault indication or every 10 years (service life).
• Environmental Control: Keep installation area dry (relative humidity 10~90%, non-condensing) and free of dust.
• Inspection: Conduct semi-annual checks for loose connections, damaged housing, and wire wear.

MACX MCR Series vs. Traditional Signal Conditioning Solutions

Summary & Next Steps

The Phoenix MACX MCR Series delivers high-precision, reliable signal conditioning solutions for industrial automation and hazardous area applications. With support for diverse signal types, explosion-proof capabilities, and industry-leading accuracy, these modules ensure seamless communication between sensors, actuators, and controllers—even in the harshest environments. By selecting the appropriate sub-series based on signal type, environmental requirements, and functional needs, you can optimize system performance, reduce downtime, and ensure compliance with global safety standards.