AKCP Sensor Adapter (SEN-A) – Universal integration of third-party sensors
AKCP Sensor Adapter (SEN-A)
In modern data centers and industrial environments, monitoring an increasing number of parameters is essential. Often, many third-party sensors are already in place but cannot be easily integrated into central monitoring platforms. The AKCP Sensor Adapter SEN-A solves this problem by providing interfaces for analog 0–10 VDC sensors and dry contact inputs. This expands AKCP monitoring devices with flexible connectivity and enables seamless integration of external sensors into existing systems.
As part of AKCP’s extensive portfolio designed for the sensorProbe+ hardware, the SEN-A adapter is plug-and-play capable, AutoSense-enabled, and quickly configurable. With a rugged, compact design, it is deployed within minutes, making it ideal for IT rack monitoring, critical infrastructure, or industrial automation.
The adapter is highly versatile, supporting both voltage signals (0–10 VDC) and dry contacts (relays, door sensors, manual switches). This wide application range makes it ideal for integrating climate sensors, specialized lab equipment, or factory automation components. Integration into a unified monitoring system significantly reduces administrative complexity and operational costs.
With a power consumption of only ~50 mW, the SEN-A is energy-efficient. It provides a built-in 5V DC power supply (max. 0.2 A) for connected third-party sensors, eliminating the need for additional power sources. This simplifies installation and reduces costs.
Technical Specifications
- Connector: 3-pin Phoenix terminal
- Voltage input: 0–10 VDC, 5V, GND
- Dry Contact input: switch, 5V, GND
- Built-in power: 5 VDC, max. 0.2 A for external sensors
- Interface: RJ45 via Cat5e/6 cable
- Cable length: up to 15 m to base unit
- Operating temperature: -35 to +80 °C
- Humidity: 20% – 80% non-condensing
- Dimensions: 56 × 55 × 33.3 mm, compact housing
- Mounting: DIN rail or screw mount
Functionality & Flexibility
A key feature is the side switch that toggles between analog voltage input (0–10 VDC) and dry contact mode. Combined with AutoSense technology, the system automatically detects and configures the connected sensor type. This reduces configuration errors and accelerates deployment in large infrastructures.
Typical Applications
- Integration of precision temperature sensors from third-party vendors
- Connecting pressure transducers in HVAC or production facilities
- Tank and reservoir level monitoring
- Linking vibration sensors for predictive maintenance
- Door contacts, relays, or manual switch monitoring
- Integration of alerts from external alarm systems
Integration into AKCP Systems
Fully compatible with the sensorProbe+ family, the SEN-A adapter integrates smoothly into AKCP’s monitoring architecture. Administrators can assign labels, thresholds, and alert levels to connected devices via the web interface. With SNMP support, data can be transmitted into monitoring suites such as Nagios, Zabbix, or PRTG. This allows even heterogeneous third-party sensors to be managed within a single monitoring platform.
Alerts & Networking
When critical values are reached, the SEN-A supports multiple alerting methods, including:
- E-mail notifications
- SMS alerts via GSM gateways
- SNMP traps for network monitoring platforms
- Controlling relays or dry contact devices
With OID assignment, all third-party sensor data is accessible in real time, just like native AKCP sensors.
Easy Installation
With compact dimensions (56 × 55 × 33.3 mm), the adapter is easy to mount via DIN rail or screw installation. Using RJ45 connections, cabling distances up to 15 m give enough flexibility for rack or room deployment.
Economic Value
By integrating legacy third-party sensors into AKCP platforms, the adapter reduces the need to replace existing equipment. Consolidation of all sensor data in a central system improves planning, proactive maintenance, and uptime reliability – lowering costs while maximizing ROI.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
Are all 0–10 V sensors supported?
Yes, any sensor with a standardized 0–10 VDC output is compatible.
Does it support dry contacts?
Yes, relays, door switches, and other dry contact devices can be integrated.
What is the maximum cable length?
Up to 15 m via Cat5e/6 cabling.
Is an external power supply necessary?
No, built-in 5 V output (0.2 A) powers connected sensors directly.
Which monitoring systems are supported?
Optimized for AKCP sensorProbe+ units, data is also available via SNMP for Nagios, Zabbix, PRTG, and others.
The AKCP Sensor Adapter SEN-A is the ideal solution for integrating existing third-party sensors into modern monitoring infrastructures. Supporting both 0–10 V analog inputs and dry contact devices, it offers unmatched versatility while keeping deployment simple and efficient. Thanks to AutoSense, compact design, and SNMP compatibility, the SEN-A bridges heterogeneous sensor setups into unified, professional monitoring environments.