Analog Devices Inc. STB-TCI

Overview

STB-TCI from Analog Devices is an isolated 8-channel thermocouple input panel designed for high-noise industrial environments. It provides cold junction compensation, user-selectable per-channel gains (50/100/200/1000), 750 V_rms channel-to-channel isolation, and 4 Hz low-pass filtering - enabling accurate measurement of J/K/T/E/R/B/S thermocouples in harsh settings such as factory floor monitoring or power plant control cabinets.

For engineers reviewing the STB-TCI datasheet, STB-TCI pinout, STB-TCI application, or STB-TCI equivalent, key selection criteria include its fixed 8-channel isolated architecture (vs. modular 5B02), ±5 mV to ±100 mV input range scalability, break-detect capability per channel, and compatibility with RTI-820 data acquisition systems via standard multiplexed analog bus.

Technical Context

The STB-TCI implements a dedicated, non-modular signal path per channel: each thermocouple input passes through a 3-pole low-pass filter (4 Hz cutoff), gain-setting amplifier (jumper-configurable), and isolation amplifier delivering 750 V_rms channel-to-system and channel-to-channel isolation. Cold junction compensation is performed on-board using a precision sensor referenced to the terminal block temperature.

Signal conditioning is fully analog and fixed-function - no onboard ADC/DAC or digital configuration. All channel addressing, timing, and data transfer are handled externally by the RTI-820 host board via the multiplexed analog bus interface, requiring CAB-01 or CAB-01-2 cabling and shared +5 V power distribution.

Key Specifications

Availability

STB-TCI is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial process control, power generation monitoring, and factory automation systems requiring stable component supply across long-lifecycle embedded deployments.

Supply support for STB-TCI includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

Analog Devices, Inc. is a global semiconductor company specializing in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and digital signal processing technologies for precision measurement and industrial applications.

The STB-TCI belongs to Analog Devices' legacy STB-series analog signal conditioning panels - engineered specifically for ruggedized, rack-mountable interfacing of thermocouples to RTI-820 data acquisition systems in electrically hostile environments.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the STB-TCI in a data acquisition system?

The STB-TCI serves as an isolated 8-channel thermocouple input interface that conditions low-level thermocouple voltages (J/K/T/E/R/B/S types) for connection to the RTI-820 data acquisition board. It performs cold junction compensation, user-selectable gain scaling, 4 Hz noise filtering, and break detection - all while maintaining 750 V_rms channel isolation. The STB-TCI outputs conditioned analog signals directly to the RTI-820's multiplexed analog bus, eliminating the need for external signal conditioning in harsh industrial settings.

Does the STB-TCI require external power, or is it powered by the RTI-820?

The STB-TCI is powered solely by +5 V dc supplied from the host RTI-820 board or an external PWR-01 power supply - no separate AC or dual-rail power is required. It draws up to 300 mA at +5 V, and the specification sheet confirms full operation within ±5% tolerance of nominal voltage. The STB-TCI does not generate or regulate its own internal supply rails; all analog circuitry operates directly from this single +5 V source.

How does the STB-TCI handle thermocouple disconnection detection?

The STB-TCI integrates dedicated break-detect circuitry on each of its eight input channels. When a thermocouple or connecting cable opens, the circuit identifies the open-circuit condition and reports it to the RTI-820 via the multiplexed analog bus - enabling automated fault logging or alarm triggering. This functionality operates independently of gain setting or filter configuration and requires no user calibration. The STB-TCI's break detect is intrinsic to its analog front-end design and functions reliably across all supported thermocouple types (J/K/T/E/R/B/S).

Can the STB-TCI be used with thermocouple types beyond J, K, T, E, R, B, and S?

No - the STB-TCI is explicitly specified and calibrated only for standard thermocouple types J, K, T, E, R, B, and S, as confirmed in its official specifications table and functional description. Its cold junction compensation algorithm, gain scaling, and linearization (where applicable) are optimized for these eight standardized alloys. Using non-standard or custom thermocouples with the STB-TCI would result in uncorrected errors exceeding ±1°C and is not supported by Analog Devices' documentation or calibration data for the STB-TCI.

What mechanical accessories are compatible with the STB-TCI?

The STB-TCI supports two officially designated accessories: the RM-02 rack mount kit for 19-inch chassis installation, and the CV-01 protective cover for environmental sealing against dust, moisture, and incidental contact. Both are listed in the STB-TCI selection guide and outline drawings. The STB-TCI shares identical physical dimensions (8.25" × 6.8" × 1.97") and mounting hole pattern with other STB-series panels (STB-HLI, STB-TC, etc.), ensuring mechanical interchangeability within the same rack assembly - but it is not compatible with the 5B02's AC1363 rack mount, which is dimensionally distinct.