Frequently asked questions
What is a “Compact Solid State Power Controller”?
Compact power controllers perform the same function as most of the other power controllers in the HBControls product line – they switch power to / from an electrical load when an input (control) signal is applied. They’re designed for applications that require a solid-state power relay for loads of less-than 10 amps AC or DC. As a result, they are significantly smaller and consume less panel space than comparable DIN mount power relays.
What type of solid state relays are used in compact power controllers?
HBControls uses Crydom printed circuit board (PCB) solid-state relays in all compact power controller assemblies. There are two basic types of PCB solid state relays used in the -11 compact power controller series; AC output, SCR-based solid-state relays, and DC output, MOSFET-based solid-state relays.
The -11 series AC output compact power controllers utilize Crydom’s most popular PCB mount solid-state relays, including the CX and SPF series solid state relays. These are the most reliable PCB mount solid-state relays available in the market, using discrete, inverse-parallel SCRs in their output circuit to provide maximum load-current capabilities with minimal power dissipation.
The -11 series DC output compact power controllers primarily use Crydom CMX series DC output solid-state relays, such as the CMX60D5 and CMX60D10 solid-state relays. These power relays utilize low-impedance MOSFETs in their output circuit to minimize power dissipation. The maximum on-state resistance of the Crydom CMX60D10 is 0.018 Ohms, meaning that the HBC-11-CMX60D10 compact power controller only dissipates 1.8 Watts of power at 10 amps of load current.
Where are compact power controllers used?
The application possibilities for solid-state relays and power controllers are extensive and divergent. Medical equipment, professional and industrial ovens, conveyor systems, aircraft galley equipment, agricultural systems, HVAC&R equipment, lighting controls, and even satellite systems utilize solid state relays and power controllers for controlling electrical equipment and on-board electronics. Basically, if you need to switch more than an amp of current to a load, and also want a solution that’s highly reliable, silent, resistant to shock & vibration and environmentally friendly, then a solid-state relay or power controller from HBControls is your best choice.
Compact solid-state power controllers fall into the same spectrum of possible applications but are primarily used when the load-current requirement is less-than 10 amps. They’re often used in conjunction with PLCs or digital I/O boards in applications where one or two additional outputs are required. However, they’re also commonly used in applications with multiple, relatively low-current loads with limited available panel space.
Are different mounting options available for compact solid state power controllers?
Yes. By default, the -11 series power controllers, such as the HBC-11-CX240D5, are DIN mount power controllers, which use Crydom PCB mount solid-state relays in the assembly. However, the individual PCB mount solid state relays are also available. So, for example, if the specifications for the HBC-11-CX240D5 are ideal for your application, but you need a PCB mount version, then you can also purchase the CX240D5 as a stand-alone solid-state relay.
A range of stand-alone AC and DC output solid state relays are available at
https://www.hbcontrols.com/solid-state-relays. Please contact our sales or support team @ 800.879.7918 / support@hbcontrols.com if you need assistance in finding the right product or would like to discuss your application in more detail.
