B&R 3AT660.6 Thermocouple Input Module: High Precision Temperature Measurement for SYSTEM 2005

Product Overview

The B&R 3AT660.6 is a thermocouple input module belonging to the SYSTEM 2005 series of programmable controller I O modules, designed for precise temperature measurement in industrial automation applications. This module provides eight thermocouple input channels, grouped into two groups of four inputs each, supporting type L, J, and K thermocouples across a wide measurement range from -200 to +1300 °C. The module is engineered for reliable operation in demanding industrial environments, providing accurate temperature data for process monitoring, control calculations, and safety interlocks. The 3AT660.6 integrates seamlessly with B&R programmable controllers and Automation Studio engineering platform, enabling straightforward configuration and data exchange between the thermocouple inputs and the control program.

Key Features of B&R 3AT660.6

The 3AT660.6 module features eight independent thermocouple input channels, each providing cold junction compensation to ensure accurate temperature measurement regardless of ambient temperature variations at the terminal block. The module supports multiple thermocouple types including L, J, and K, with automatic type configuration selectable through the Automation Studio software. The input channels are electrically isolated from the I O bus and from each other in groups, reducing the potential for measurement errors caused by ground loops and electrical noise. The module includes open-circuit detection that identifies broken thermocouple wires and reports the fault condition to the controller program, enabling appropriate safety responses such as alarming or shutdown.

Thermocouple signals are digitized with high resolution, converting the millivolt-level sensor outputs into engineering units directly readable by the PLC program. The module performs linearization of the thermocouple non-linear response curve within the onboard electronics, presenting temperature values to the CPU in degrees Celsius or Fahrenheit without requiring user programming of complex conversion formulas. A separate terminal block, typically the TB170, is ordered separately and must be used to complete field wiring connections to the module.

Technical Specifications

• Manufacturer: B&R Automation (Bernecker & Rainer)

• Part Number: 3AT660.6

• Series: SYSTEM 2005

• Product Type: Thermocouple Input Module

• Number of Channels: 8 inputs in 2 groups

• Sensor Types Supported: L, J, K thermocouples

• Measurement Range: -200 to +1300 °C (dependent on thermocouple type)

• Isolation: Group isolation between channels and bus

• Diagnostics: Open-circuit detection

• Cold Junction Compensation: Integrated

• Linearization: Automatic onboard

• Required Accessory: TB170 terminal block (sold separately)

• Configuration Software: Automation Studio

• Weight: Approx. 0.7 to 1.0 kg

Functional Description

The 3AT660.6 continuously samples the millivolt signals generated by the connected thermocouples, amplifies and filters these low-level signals to remove electrical noise, and performs analog to digital conversion to obtain a digital representation of the measured voltage. The onboard microprocessor applies cold junction compensation using a precision temperature sensor located near the terminal block connection points, correcting for the thermocouple reference junction temperature that would otherwise introduce measurement error. The compensated voltage is then converted to a temperature value using stored linearization tables specific to the selected thermocouple type. The resulting temperature values are transmitted to the controller CPU over the I O bus, where they can be accessed by the user program for monitoring, alarming, or PID loop control. If the open-circuit detection circuit determines that a thermocouple wire has broken or become disconnected, the module sets a status flag that the CPU can use to trigger appropriate safety actions.

Applications

The B&R 3AT660.6 thermocouple input module is deployed in industrial applications where accurate temperature measurement is required for process control or monitoring. Typical applications include plastic extrusion and injection molding machines requiring precise barrel temperature control, packaging machinery with heated sealing bars, industrial drying ovens, heat treat furnaces, and chemical process temperature monitoring. The eight-channel density of the module makes it cost-effective for applications requiring multiple temperature measurement points within a single control cabinet. For system integrators designing B&R-based automation systems, the 3AT660.6 provides a reliable interface between thermocouple sensors and the controller program, eliminating the need for external signal conditioners or temperature transmitters in many applications.