Emerson Converter CON021-000 4–20mA signal conditioner

Based on the model number CON021-000, this is a signal conditioner/converter module from Emerson's CSI (Bently Nevada) portfolio, specifically designed for 4–20mA vibration signals. Here's a detailed breakdown of its purpose and functionality:

Manufacturer & Line: Emerson (CSI / Bently Nevada)

Primary Function: Signal Conditioning & Isolation for 4–20mA vibration transmitters (like your PR6423-011-081 accelerometer).

Input Signal: Accepts a standard 4–20mA DC signal from a vibration transmitter (e.g., PR6423, PR9376, or similar 2-wire loop-powered sensors).

Output Signal: Provides a conditioned, isolated, and often amplified replica 4–20mA DC output signal.

Key Features & Benefits:

Electrical Isolation: Provides galvanic isolation (typically 1500V AC or higher) between the input (sensor side) and output (system side) circuits. This is CRITICAL for:

Breaking ground loops that cause measurement errors and noise.

Protecting sensitive monitoring system inputs (e.g., PLC, DCS, Bently Nevada 3500/42M) from voltage spikes or faults on the sensor side.

Protecting the sensor from faults on the system side.

Signal Repeater/Booster: Acts as a repeater, ensuring the output signal strength is maintained even over long cable runs between the converter and the monitoring system. Helps overcome voltage drop.

Power Supply: Requires an external loop power supply (typically +18 to +30V DC) to operate. This power is used to run the internal electronics and power the input sensor loop. The input sensor (like the PR6423) is powered through the CON021.

DIN Rail Mountable: Designed for easy installation in standard control panels or cabinets on 35mm DIN rail (TS35).

Terminal Block Connections: Uses screw terminals for reliable connection of input, output, and power supply wires.

Diagnostic LED: Often includes an LED indicator showing power and signal status.

Intrinsic Safety (Optional - Verify Model): Some variants (like CON021-002) are certified for use in Hazardous Areas (ATEX, IECEx) as an intrinsic safety (IS) barrier when used with approved IS sensors and properly installed.

Typical Use Case in Your Context:

You have a PR6423-011-081 accelerometer mounted on machinery, outputting a 4–20mA signal proportional to vibration.

The signal travels via the sensor's integral cable + potentially an extension cable (CA6423-090-000).

The CON021-000 is installed in a nearby control panel or junction box.

The sensor's cable plugs into or is wired to the INPUT terminals of the CON021 (+ and - for the 4-20mA loop).

An external DC power supply (e.g., 24V DC) is connected to the CON021's POWER terminals.

The OUTPUT terminals of the CON021 are wired to the input channels of your monitoring system (e.g., Emerson Bently Nevada 3500/42M monitor, PLC analog input card, DCS input).

Result: The sensor is powered, its raw 4-20mA signal is conditioned, electrically isolated, and a clean, robust 4-20mA replica signal is sent to the monitoring system.