We are very pleased to introduce the new function of (switchable) “potential-free contacts” with the current version. The function is always required when external devices provide a potential that you want to switch with switch actuators. Classic applications are motorized locks, garden gates or awnings, for example.
It is also possible to route external signals with external potential via a binary input or the coil of a relay
The current implementation now allows both the “simple, normal” cases and “wild things” that I’m not sure you even need 😀
How are such potential-free contacts configured?
We have integrated the function for potential-free contacts into “direct connectors”. These could already be used to connect terminals together, but not with switching contacts.
Follow the steps below:
- Create a terminal block that provides switched external potentials
- Create a switch actuator to have the desired switching channels available
- Create a direct connector to be able to flexibly connect the desired terminals
- Select the “Select potential-free terminals” option in the direct connector
A selection window will now appear showing you all terminal blocks and their terminals. Select the desired wires that are to be connected to each other:
The wires will now be displayed in the direct connector and the terminals will be provided with a simple connection in the diagram.
The last step is to assign an actuator channel (or binary input, or relay coil) to the desired terminal. You will already be familiar with the assignment window from the terminal blocks.
Once you have made your selection, you can also use the arrows to configure the logical flow direction of the current. This is then shown in the diagram with small arrows on the terminals, making it easier to see which terminal actually provides the potential.
If you jump back to the terminal block configuration, you will see that the terminals are connected to the direct connector. The direct connector is displayed as a link, so you can always quickly jump to the direct connector (and back) to make the desired changes.
Backwards compatibility
You may have already configured direct connectors to connect terminals to each other. Previously, it was possible to assign direct connectors in the terminal blocks.
This option is no longer available, the direct connectors have been automatically migrated so that you can configure everything in the direct connector.
In conclusion
I hope you can now use this function to solve many cases that you previously had to do in a roundabout way.
