Convert 0-10 V to 0-20 mA Using Resistor

       It is extremely simple to measure 0-10Vdc signal with a device that will measure only Current inputs. If Current input module available will accept a 0-20mA signal, but may not accept a 0-10Vdc signal directly. 

Basically, Ohms law is used to calculate a resistor value in order to convert the 0-10Vdc signal to a current.

     Voltage to Current Conversion Circuit Diagram

Example (0-10 VDC to 0-20 mA)

 

Ohms law states: R = V/I where V is the Voltage, I is the current and R is the resistance

R = 10V/0.020A = 500 Ohms

 

0-10 VDC to 0-20 mA Conversion Circuit Diagram

 I= V/R = 0/500   = 0mA

I= V/R = 10/500 = 0.02A = 20mA

Example (0-5 VDC to 0-20 mA)

 

Ohms law states: R = V/I where V is the Voltage, I is the current and R is the resistance

R = 5V/0.020A = 250 Ohms

 

 0-5 VDC to 0-20 mA Conversion Circuit Diagram

I= V/R = 0/250   = 0mA

I= V/R = 5/250 = 0.02A = 20mA

Convert 0-20 mA to 0-10 VDC Using Resistor

 

Note:-

     To avoid damage you must ensure that the external current source has short-circuit protection in all conductor cases.
The external resistor is a source of error because of its dependency on temperature and its inaccuracy.
In order to obtain measuring results that are as precise as possible it is recommended to use resistors with tolerances that are as small as possible.