Industrial automation demands precise, fast, and reliable data acquisition. When machines and systems rely on analog signals from sensors, the quality of input modules directly impacts performance, accuracy, and efficiency. This is where the Omron NX-AD3604 Analog Input Unit shines. Part of Omron’s powerful NX Series, this 4-channel analog input module ensures stable measurements, seamless integration, and dependable operation in demanding environments.
What is the Omron NX-AD3604 Analog Input Unit?
The Omron NX-AD3604 Analog Input Unit is a compact, high-performance module designed to handle up to four differential voltage inputs within the NX Series platform. With its ±10 V input range, 13-bit resolution, and rapid 250 μs per-channel conversion speed, the NX-AD3604 provides accurate and timely readings essential for automation processes.
Unlike general-purpose input devices, the NX-AD3604 is engineered to integrate seamlessly into Omron’s Sysmac automation environment. Whether paired with an NX/NJ Series CPU or used in remote I/O configurations via an EtherCAT coupler, it delivers dependable performance and flexible installation options.
Key Features of the Omron NX-AD3604
Precision and Accuracy
Accuracy is vital in industrial control systems. The NX-AD3604 delivers ±0.2% full-scale accuracy at 25 °C and ±0.4% across a 0–55 °C temperature range. This ensures that your analog data reflects real-world conditions with minimal error.
High-Speed Data Acquisition
Thanks to its 250 μs per-channel sampling rate (1 ms for four channels total), this module is capable of capturing fast-changing signals. This responsiveness is crucial in industries like automotive, semiconductor, and packaging, where real-time monitoring and adjustments drive efficiency.
Seamless NX Series Integration
The NX-AD3604 connects directly to NX-series controllers or communication couplers. Powered entirely via the NX bus, it eliminates the need for external power supplies. Omron’s Sysmac Studio software fully supports configuration and diagnostics, making integration straightforward.
Robust Build and Certifications
Built for industrial environments, the module is housed in a slim 12 mm-wide body, DIN-rail mountable, and carries IP20 protection. It also holds certifications like cULus, CE, RCM, and KC, as well as Class I Division 2 hazardous location approvals, ensuring compliance across multiple regions and industries.
Technical Specifications at a Glance
· Inputs: 4 channels, differential ±10 V range
· Resolution: 1/8000 full scale (~13-bit)
· Conversion Speed: 250 μs per channel (1 ms per module)
· Accuracy: ±0.2% FS at 25 °C, ±0.4% FS across full operating temp
· Input Impedance: ≥ 1 MΩ
· Max Input Voltage: ±15 V (without damage)
· Isolation: Galvanic isolation from NX bus (no isolation between channels)
· Operating Temperature: 0–55 °C
· Dimensions: 12 × 100 × 71 mm
· Weight: ~70 g
System Compatibility
The Omron NX-AD3604 Analog Input Unit is fully compatible with:
· NX/NJ Series Controllers – Directly connected to CPUs for local I/O expansion.
· NX Communication Couplers – Used in remote I/O stations over EtherCAT or EtherNet/IP.
This flexibility allows engineers to design both centralized and distributed control architectures without worrying about data integrity or speed.
For synchronous high-speed control applications, Omron also offers the NX-AD3608, which delivers finer resolution and faster sampling. However, for most general-purpose industrial tasks, the NX-AD3604 offers the perfect balance of performance and cost.
Applications and Use Cases
The NX-AD3604 Analog Input Unit is used across a variety of industries, including:
· Automotive Manufacturing – Monitoring pressure, torque, and voltage signals from sensors in assembly lines.
· Semiconductor Production – High-speed data acquisition for equipment calibration and monitoring.
· Packaging and Robotics – Capturing analog sensor feedback to ensure accuracy in movement and alignment.
· Process Control Systems – Acquiring data from transmitters measuring flow, level, or environmental parameters.
· Energy and Utilities – Reading analog feedback from monitoring devices in infrastructure control.
Its combination of speed, accuracy, and easy integration makes it suitable for both machine builders and system integrators.
Advantages of Using the Omron NX-AD3604
1. Compact Size – Slim 12 mm width conserves panel space.
2. Easy Installation – Screwless push-in wiring for quick and secure connections.
3. High Reliability – Omron’s engineering quality backed by global certifications.
4. Cost-Efficiency – Offers precise performance without the premium cost of ultra-high-speed units.
5. Versatility – Supports a wide range of general industrial applications.
Related Industrial Electrical Solutions
When considering the NX-AD3604 for your system, you may also find these solutions valuable:
· Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) – Enhance your control system with Omron PLCs.
· Industrial Sensors – Reliable sensing solutions to pair with analog input modules.
· Circuit Protection Devices – Safeguard your automation equipment from overload and faults.
Conclusion: Why Choose the Omron NX-AD3604?
In today’s fast-paced industrial environments, precision and reliability in analog data acquisition are non-negotiable. The Omron NX-AD3604 Analog Input Unit stands out as a powerful, compact, and dependable solution for a wide range of applications. From manufacturing lines to process monitoring, it delivers accuracy, speed, and seamless integration into Omron’s Sysmac platform.
If you’re looking to optimize your automation systems with reliable analog input performance, explore the Omron NX-AD3604 and related products today. Visit Industrial Electrical Warehouse to learn more and take your automation projects to the next level.
