Description
Split-core 4–20 mA AC current sensor
The ACI A/SCTA2-50 is a small sensor that “watches” how much AC current a device is drawing and sends a clean 4–20 mA signal back to your controller. It’s a simple way to keep an eye on fans, pumps, compressors, heaters, or other loads so you can spot problems early and confirm equipment is really running when it should.
Because it’s a split-core design, you don’t have to disconnect wires to install it. Just clip it around an existing conductor and land two wires for the loop-powered 4–20 mA output. That makes it ideal for retrofits and service work where downtime needs to stay low.
A jumper lets you select one of three ranges (0–10, 0–20, or 0–50 amps), so the same part works on a wide variety of circuits. A patented 35 mm DIN-rail foot lets you mount it neatly in a control panel alongside other controls.
Note that the “True RMS” sensors are able to be used in all applications since the “True RMS” current sensors provide the best overall accuracy and should be used in applications which includes Variable Frequency Drives, Switching Power Supplies, Computers and Data Centers, Electronic Ballasts, SCR’s, and Variable Speed Loads.
For currents monitored above 250 Amps, the CTA2-5 and SCTA2-5 are ideal for use with a step down Ratio:5A Output CT (Current Transformer) in stepping down current in a monitored conductor to a proportional 0 to 5A output signal.
Applications: Load Trending, Basic Power Monitoring, Electronic Ballasts, Computers/Data Centers, Industrial, Variable Speed Loads, Pumps, Compressors, Fans, Preventative Maintenance, LEED, Project Justification (ROI) Process Control, Solid State Environments (SCR’s)
Key Features or Benefits
Retrofit-Friendly Split-Core Design
Opens and clamps around an existing wire, so you don’t have to pull or disconnect conductors. Great for upgrades and field installs where you can’t shut equipment down for long.
Selectable Ranges for Different Loads
One sensor covers three ranges (0–10, 0–20, or 0–50 A) using an internal jumper. That means fewer part numbers you need to stock and more flexibility.
Simple 4–20 mA Loop-Powered Output
Provides a standard 4–20 mA signal that most BAS controllers, PLCs, and building controllers can read. It’s loop-powered from the same DC supply, so there’s no separate power brick to mount.
Designed for “Clean” Single-Speed Loads
This model uses “average” sensing, intended for sinusoidal waveforms without heavy distortion. This makes it perfect for resistive heaters, incandescent lighting, and single-speed motors on fixed-speed starters.
Supports Load Trending and Basic Power Monitoring
ACI positions the CTA2/SCTA2 series for load trending, basic power monitoring, and preventative maintenance that way you can catch belt slippage, failing bearings, or overloaded circuits.
Panel-Ready DIN-Rail Mounting
Includes ACI’s patented 35 mm DIN-rail foot, so it snaps into place inside a panel just like other control components.
Key Specs
- Sensed Current Type: AC current
- Selectable Ranges: 0–10 A, 0–20 A, 0–50 A
- Output Signal: 4–20 mA, 2-wire, loop powered
- Supply Voltage: +8.5 to 30 VDC (reverse-polarity protected)
- Accuracy: ±1% of selected range (A/SCTA2 series, non-RMS)
- Max Sensed Voltage: 600 VAC; isolation 2200 VAC
- Operating Frequency: 40–1,000 Hz (A/CTA2 & A/SCTA2 series)
- Aperture Size: 0.75 in (19.05 mm) opening
- Mounting: 35 mm DIN-rail, split-core housing
- Operating Temperature: 5 to 104°F (−15 to 40°C)
