3 Common Mistakes When Converting Analog Signals to Digital

Introduction

Converting an analog signal into digital data consists of more than just using a ready-made module. An incorrectly designed digitizing process will lead you to wrong results, no matter how high-quality your sensor is. We examine 3 common mistakes that we frequently encounter in the field and that "poison" the accuracy of data with technical reasons.

1. Grounding and Isolation Errors (Ground Loops)

The biggest enemy of the analog signal is the ground potential differences in the system.

• Mistake: Grounding the transmitter and ADC module from different sources causes a "noise" overlap on the signal.
• Result: Constantly oscillating, unstable values on the screen.
• Solution: Using transmitters with isolated inputs or bringing the whole system together at a single star grounding point.

2. Wrong Sampling Rate (Aliasing)

This is the mismatch between the change rate of the signal and the sampling rate of the ADC.

• Mistake: Trying to read a rapidly changing signal (e.g., vibration) only a few times per second.
• Result: Due to the phenomenon called "aliasing," low-frequency imaginary fluctuations that do not exist appear as data.
• Solution: Choosing devices such as the ZMA Series that sample at least 2 times (preferably much more) the signal frequency in accordance with the Nyquist theorem.

3. Impedance Mismatch and Signal Losses

Mismatch between sensor output resistance and transmitter input resistance.

• Mistake: Connecting a loadcell with mV/V output to an ordinary analog card with low input impedance.
• Result: Signal attenuation and low-resolution data.
• Solution: Using special GDT Digital Transmitters with high input impedance and capable of ratiometric measurement.

No Room for Mistakes with Amazeng

Amazeng engineering prevents these mistakes while still in the hardware design phase:

• Full Isolation: Our devices have galvanic isolation at industrial standards.
• Filter Technology: Hardware and software "anti-aliasing" filters are available to prevent fake signals (aliasing).
• 24-bit Stability: Offers high resolution enough to absorb even small signal fluctuations caused by impedance.

Conclusion

Correct data is the result of correct design. Erroneous measurements not only provide wrong information, but also jeopardize the safety of your system.

To overcome the challenges in the digitization process and to detect errors in your system, take a look at our technical documents or contact us to benefit from our consultancy service.