Digital DC Ammeters Have Built-in Shunts

Described as the first digital DC ammeters to include built-in precision, low-loss shunts, the DCA-20PC Series covers six ranges from 200 µA to 20A. The meters require no calibration or user-supplied components and include terminal blocks for external load circuits, a feature that enables simple 3-wire operation. Two shunt configurations are available: grounded-shunt ("low side"), 5V-40V powered models for cost-sensitive applications; and 8V-36V isolated supply models for high-side or floating shunt applications. The versatile power supply design accommodates voltages from 5 to 75 Vdc. Total ammeter power consumption, including the 20 mV dropped across the on-board shunts, is typically less than 75 mW for 5V-40V models and less than 1W for 8V-36V models. The ammeters are housed in miniature, 1.38" x 0.88" plastic packages with a 0.37" high LED display, which can be read at distances of up to 15 feet. The DCA-20PC Series ammeters are priced at $33 each/500. DATEL INC., Mansfield, MA. (800) 233-2765.