How to Prevent Noise in Transmitter Signals?

Amazeng Technical Team
7 min read
Noise PreventionNoise ReductionTransmitterSignal QualityIndustrial Interference

Introduction

Industrial fields are a complete "electrical noise" field due to motor drives (VFD), contactors, and high voltage lines. Micro-volt level signals coming from a sensitive sensor can easily get lost or corrupted within this noise. So, how to prevent noise in transmitter signals? We examine the golden rules you need to apply for a stable and reliable measurement.

Recognizing Noise Sources

The first step to preventing noise is to understand where it comes from:

  • Electromagnetic Interference (EMI): Caused by radio waves and high voltage lines.
  • Radio Frequency Interference (RFI): Caused by radio devices and wireless communication systems.
  • Ground Loops: Formed from ground potential differences at different points.

5 Ways to Increase Signal Quality

1. Using Shielded Cables

Your signal cables must be shielded and this shield must be grounded from only a single point (usually from the ground on the panel side). Double-sided grounding can cause "ground loop" noise.

2. Physical Separation

Never run signal cables through the same channel as power cables (motor, supply, etc.). If they must cross, cross them at a 90-degree angle.

3. Using Differential Signals

Differential communication layers like RS485 are designed to cancel out the noise on the line. Therefore, Modbus communicating transmitters are much more resistant than analog systems.

4. Digital Filtering

Software filters are used to clean noise from data that cannot be physically prevented.

  • Moving Average: Softens sudden jumps in the signal.
  • Adaptive Filters: Suppresses only noise by learning the character of the signal.

Amazeng Solution: Adaptive Filter Technology

The GDT Digital Transmitter and ZMA Data Acquisition devices developed by Amazeng engineers are best in class in fighting noise.

Adaptive Digital Filter technology found in our devices:

  • Cleans high-frequency noises without reducing measurement speed.
  • Offers the user the opportunity to instantly adjust the hardness of the filter in the field.
  • Allows you to analyze the character of noise visually via ZMA-Desk software.

Conclusion

Fighting noise is a combination of choosing the right hardware and correct mounting techniques. A noise-free data flow prevents your system from getting "confused" and prevents faulty alarms/downtimes.

Contact our engineers to solve the noise problems in your facility and to try our products with high noise immunity.

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