Metis Engineering, a pioneer in advanced CAN-based sensor technology, today announced the launch of its new 8-Channel Isolated Thermocouple to CAN module, designed to meet the demanding temperature monitoring requirements of industrial, automotive, and research applications.
Image Credit: Metis Engineering Ltd
Each channel isolated to 1000 VDC making the new device a significant advancement in thermocouple technology. Offering unparalleled precision with an accuracy of ±0.5 °C from 0 to 85 °C and ±1 °C from -40 to 125 °C, the module delivers reliable performance in the most challenging environments.
Key Features and Capabilities
The 8-Channel Isolated Thermocouple module measures temperatures across an exceptional range from -200 °C to +1,800 °C at sampling rates of up to 40 Hz per channel. This capability makes it ideal for applications ranging from cryogenic research to high-temperature industrial processes.
Each channel features galvanic isolation exceeding 1000 VDC, enabling safe and accurate temperature measurement in high-voltage systems such as battery packs, power electronics, and electric vehicle components. This isolation eliminates current paths through thermocouple leads, ensuring reliable measurement accuracy by preventing ground loops and electrical interference that can compromise temperature readings.
"This new thermocouple module addresses the critical need for high-precision, multi-channel temperature monitoring in demanding industrial environments," said Joe Holdsworth, founder and CEO at Metis Engineering. "The combination of isolation, accuracy, and CAN bus integration makes it an ideal solution for applications where temperature monitoring is mission-critical."
The device features comprehensive fault detection capabilities, including open-circuit and short-circuit detection that alerts users when thermocouple wires are broken, disconnected, or shorted to ground or power. This built-in diagnostic functionality ensures system reliability and reduces maintenance overhead.
Industrial-Grade Design and Integration
Engineered for harsh industrial environments, the module with potted electronics features DIN rail mounting and IP67-rated JWPF connectors that enable daisy-chaining with additional modules for expanded measurement capabilities. The robust design supports input supply voltages from 9 to 32 V, making it compatible with a wide range of industrial power systems.
The device ships with K-type miniature thermocouple connectors as standard, with support for multiple thermocouple types including K, J, T, N, S, E, B, and R configurations. This flexibility allows users to select the optimal thermocouple type for their specific application requirements.
Seamless CAN Bus Integration
The module's configurable CAN bus speed and address, combined with the supplied DBC file, enables straightforward integration into existing CAN networks. This feature is particularly valuable for automotive applications and industrial automation systems where CAN bus communication is standard.
"The CAN bus integration reflects our commitment to providing sensors that integrate seamlessly into modern industrial and automotive systems," added Holdsworth. "Engineers can quickly deploy multiple channels of high-precision temperature monitoring without complex integration challenges."