Phoenix MCR Series: Modular Signal Conditioners & Transducers - Comprehensive Application & Selection Guide

Product Positioning & Core Value

The Phoenix MCR Series represents a versatile family of modular signal conditioning and conversion solutions designed to interface industrial sensors, actuators, and control systems. These DIN rail-mounted modules provide electrical isolation, signal conversion, amplification, and protection between different parts of automation systems, ensuring reliable data transmission while safeguarding sensitive equipment from voltage spikes, ground loops, and electromagnetic interference.

Key Value Propositions:

• Universal Compatibility: Works with virtually all industrial signal types (voltage, current, temperature, frequency)
• 3-Way Isolation: Protects measurement circuits from supply voltage fluctuations and ground loops
• Signal Flexibility: Converts between standard industrial signals (0-10V, 4-20mA, etc.)
• Space Efficiency: Compact design (12.5-22.5mm width) saves cabinet space
• Industrial Robustness: Operates in extreme temperatures (-40°C to +70°C) with IP20 protection
• Easy Configuration: Many models feature DIP switch programming without additional software

Product Family Classification

1. MCR-VDC Series: DC Voltage Transducers

Function: Convert DC voltages from 0 to ±660V to standard output signals (0-10V, 4-20mA) with electrical isolation.

2. MCR-VAC Series: AC Voltage Transducers

Function: Convert AC voltages from 0 to 440V to standard output signals.

3. MCR-T Series: Temperature Transducers

Function: Convert thermocouple or RTD sensor signals to standard industrial signals.

4. MCR-TE Series: Thermocouple Transducers

Function: Optimized for thermocouple sensors (Type J/K).

5. MCR-SWS Series: Limit Value Switches

Function: Convert analog signals to digital outputs at adjustable threshold levels.

6. MCR-SPP Series: Signal Splitters

Function: Duplicate input signals to multiple outputs.

7. MCR-SL Series: Signal Conditioners

Function: General-purpose signal conditioning with various input/output combinations.

8. MCR-TTL-RS232-E: Communication Adapter

Function: Connects MCR modules to PC/PLC for programming and monitoring.

Technical Specifications (Universal Parameters)

Application Scenario Analysis

1. Industrial Automation Systems

Recommended Configuration:

• Voltage monitoring: MCR-VDC-UI-B-DC (2811116)
• Temperature control: MCR-T-UI-E-NC (2814126)
• Signal distribution: MCR-SL-S-400-U (2813473)

Advantages:

• 3-way isolation prevents ground loops and voltage spikes
• Converts non-standard signals to PLC-compatible outputs
• Compact design saves 30% cabinet space compared to traditional solutions

2. HVAC & Building Management

Recommended Configuration:

• Temperature sensing: MCR-TE-J-K-U-NC (2810573) with thermocouples
• Humidity/pressure signal conditioning: MCR-SL-S-200-I-LP (2813499)

Advantages:

• Precise temperature measurement (±0.1% accuracy)
• Low-power design reduces energy consumption
• Reliable performance in harsh environmental conditions

3. Renewable Energy Systems

Recommended Configuration:

• Solar inverter monitoring: MCR-VDC-UI-B-DC (2811116)
• Battery management: MCR-SL-S-1/5-I-DCI-230 (2814825)

Advantages:

• Measures wide voltage ranges (up to ±660V DC)
• Isolation protects sensitive electronics from grid fluctuations
• High accuracy (≤1% error) ensures reliable energy management

4. Process Control & Monitoring

Recommended Configuration:

• Multi-point monitoring: MCR-SL-S-16-SP-24 (2864464)
• Alarm functions: MCR-SWS-U (2766465)

Advantages:

• 16-channel design monitors multiple parameters simultaneously
• Adjustable hysteresis prevents false alarms
• Relay outputs directly control alarms or shutdown systems

Selection Guide

Step 1: Identify Signal Type & Range

Step 2: Determine Output Requirements

• Analog Output: Choose voltage (0-10V) or current (4-20mA) based on receiving device
• Digital Output: Select MCR-SWS series for relay or transistor outputs at set thresholds
• Multiple Outputs: Use MCR-SPP or MCR-SL-SP series for signal duplication

Step 3: Consider Environmental & Safety Needs

• Isolation Level: Standard 1.5kV for general use; 3.3kV for high-noise environments
• Temperature Range: Standard (-25°C to +60°C) or extended (-40°C to +70°C) for extreme conditions
• Mounting: All models use 35mm DIN rail; check width (12.5-22.5mm) for space constraints

Step 4: Select Termination Type

• Screw Terminals (SC): Secure connection for vibration-prone environments
• Push-In Terminals (PI): Quick installation without tools (some models only)

Installation & Maintenance Guide

Installation Steps:

1. Mounting: Snap modules onto 35mm DIN rail, ensuring ≥5mm spacing between units for heat dissipation

2. Wiring:

   • Screw Terminals: Strip conductors to 8mm, insert into terminals, tighten to 0.5-0.8Nm
   • Push-In Terminals: Insert stripped conductor until it clicks (no tool needed)

3. Signal Connection:

   • Connect sensors to input terminals
   • Connect output to receiving device (PLC, indicator, etc.)
   • Connect power supply (18-30V DC)

4. Configuration:

   • For DIP-switch models: Set input/output ranges and functions per datasheet
   • For programmable models: Use MCR-TTL-RS232-E (2814388) to connect to PC and configure via software

Maintenance Points:

• Visual Inspection: Check LEDs (power, signal, fault) during regular maintenance
• Cleaning: Wipe dust from housing quarterly (non-abrasive cloth)
• Terminal Retightening: For screw terminals, verify tightness every 6 months
• Module Replacement:
  • Replace immediately if fault LED lights
  • Service life: 10 years under normal conditions
  • When replacing, ensure same model or compatible replacement

Product Comparison (MCR Series vs. Traditional Solutions)

Summary & Next Steps

The Phoenix MCR Series provides a comprehensive, modular approach to industrial signal conditioning, offering universal compatibility, superior isolation, and flexible configuration for automation systems. By standardizing on these versatile modules, engineers can simplify system design, reduce inventory, and improve reliability across diverse applications.