B&R X20AO4622 X20 System Analog Output Module

Technical Capabilities and Process Control Application

The X20AO4622 (X20 AO 4622) is a high-density, 4-channel analog output module engineered for deployment within the B&R X20 System topology. This module provides a versatile interface for driving proportional valves, variable speed drives, and industrial actuators in demanding process industries such as chemical manufacturing, maritime propulsion, and oil refining. Operating with a 13-bit native digital converter resolution, the module allows each channel to be independently configured via software to deliver either $\pm$10 V voltage signals or 0 to 20 mA / 4 to 20 mA current loops.

By centralizing four precision outputs into a single 12.5 mm wide housing, the X20AO4622 dramatically reduces required DIN rail footprints while maintaining exceptional signal fidelity, stabilizing critical process loops and minimizing systemic loop latency.

Circuit Protection and Electrical Safety

The module features robust electrical isolation, utilizing a 500 Veff barrier between the internal communication bus and the individual output channels to shield core backplane processors from field-side voltage anomalies. Channel-to-channel isolation is not present. To eliminate erratic actuator movement during system startup or reboot sequences, an internal electrical enable relay physically isolates the output terminals until the module's controller achieves an active, verified operational state.

The hardware includes continuous output short-circuit protection, restricting output faults to a current limit of $\pm$40 mA and incorporating a integrated first-order low-pass filter with a 10 kHz cutoff frequency to suppress high-frequency electromagnetic noise.

Hardware Specifications

Operations and Logistics FAQs

How do the different hardware revisions impact loop design and loading limits?

Hardware revision J0 and newer introduces enhanced power management, dropping internal I/O consumption to 1.8 W and increasing the maximum current loop load capacity to 600 Ohm. Older versions (prior to Rev. J0) draw 2.2 W and are restricted to a maximum current loop load of 500 Ohm. Verify your field device impedance values prior to installation.

What is the significance of the output format codes listed in the data sheet?

The module processes standard signed 16-bit integer values (INT). For voltage configurations, the value ranges from 0x8001 to 0x7FFF where 1 LSB equals 2.441 mV. Current configurations utilize an integer range of 0x0000 to 0x7FFF where 1 LSB maps to 4.883 $\mu$A, enabling direct software manipulation within the automation controller.

How does installation elevation affect the module's ambient operating parameters?

Up to an altitude of 2000 m above sea level, the module can operate across its full temperature profile. Above 2000 m, the reduced density of the air lowers convective cooling efficiency, requiring a strict ambient operating temperature derating of 0.5 deg C for every 100 m of additional elevation.

Field Commissioning and Environmental Guide

• Thermal Constraints and Mounting Vectors: The module supports horizontal and vertical mounting on standard DIN rails, but specific thermal boundaries apply. Revision J0 and newer units allow continuous operation from -25 to 60 deg C horizontally, but vertical mounting restricts the upper limit to 50 deg C. Older revisions (prior to J0) are limited to 55 deg C horizontally and 50 deg C vertically.

• Terminal Module Procurement: The physical electronics assembly must be deployed with one X20BM11 bus module and one X20TB12 terminal block, which are not included with the core module and must be ordered as distinct line items. Ensure the terminal block contacts are free from oxidation before completing assembly.

• Wiring for Voltage versus Current Modes: Field wiring must be routed to specific, separate terminals depending on whether the channel is configured for voltage or current loop outputs. Combining or incorrectly mapping these lines will introduce severe load errors—up to 0.5% for current paths—and may engage the internal $\pm$40 mA current limiting protection.