BCS-460 Temp probe question

[bartjav]

For all of you BCS guys.....
Hello all, I am new to the community. I just purchased the BCS-460 and an expansion card for my upcoming build. The 462 was out of my price range but want to get more than 4 temp inputs. I plan on having a temp probe in my HLT, MT, BK and RIMS out. I would also like to control fermentation and read Counterflow Chiller output temp. My question is, for Processes not active, (ie. BK and RIMS won't be going at the same time) could I install a selector switch/relay downstream of the Temp 0 input (with 2 temp probes connected for example) to manually (or automatically through the BCS) select which probe the BCS will pull info from, thus allowing additional temp capability on the 460? Thoughts? Thanks for your valued input!

 

[bmckee56]

If you use thermocouples (K - type) you could purchase the panel mounted quick connector and just swap out you probes instead of adding selector switches. I do not have a bcs controller so I can not comment on programming inputs.

http://www.auberins.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=7&products_id=119

Note: They aslo have RTD panel mount connectors.

Salute!

 

[P-J]

You would probably come out cheaper by installing a Digi16 I/O Expansion card.

 

[bartjav]

PJ, thanks. I do have a Digi 16 Expansion card, however it was my understanding that there are no Temp inputs. Unless the Din ports can be used for Temp inputs. I would love to be wrong! That would answer my problem! Thoughts?

 

[bmckee56]

I believe it has 12 out and 4 in. Here is the link http://www.embeddedcontrolconcepts.com/index.php/products/digi16.html. At the bottom of the page it states the 12/4 configuration.

Salute!

 

[bartjav]

I read the Wiki and it was unclear if the Dins supported thermistor type thermocouples. I have the Digi 16, and would love it if it did support temp probes. I have a thread about the same issue on the ECC forum, and am awaiting clarification.

One member of ECC recommended a DPDT 5vdc relay that would not pull more than 20mA. I could wire the two probes up to that, and have one of the Ouputs control the switching of the relay for each process. That may be an option as well.