Power solenoid driver modules for flight-control systems and weapons firing introduced by MSS

Summary points:

• SDM950 solenoid driver module from Magnetic Sensor Systems is for powering flight-control and military armament systems.
• Compact energy-efficient design uses pick-and-hold operation to reduce power consumption while maintaining reliable solenoid performance.
• Adjustable settings enable users to configure pick time and holding voltage for a wide range of aerospace and defense applications.

VAN NUYS, Calif. – Magnetic Sensor Systems (MSS) in Van Nuys, Calif., is introducing the pick-and-hold SDM950 power solenoid driver module for powering flight-control systems and controlling armament equipment, and firing sequences in weapons.

A solenoid driver module safely powers and controls a solenoid from a low-power control signal such as a microcontroller output, programmable logic controller (PLC), or switch, and protects the control electronics from inductive kick and faults.

Solenoid drivers power flight-control systems, actuating flaps, slats, and ailerons for aircraft maneuverability and stability, as well as control landing gear extension/retraction, fuel valves for optimized flow and efficiency, and hydraulic systems in brakes or pilot-operated valves.

In military systems, solenoid drivers operate safe-and-arm controls, armament equipment, and weapons firing in systems like tank coaxial guns.

Consumes little energy

This compact pulse width modulation (PWM) driver module measures 2.95 by 3 inches, and is designed to consume little energy by first applying the voltage for a pre-determined period (pick time) necessary to activate the solenoid and then drops the voltage when the plunger is seated to keep the solenoid seated to conserve energy.

This also enables the use of small solenoids. Initially a large force for a long stroke may require a high voltage to provide the necessary force to pull the plunger in, but then can lower to hold the plunger in place.

Designed to operate with a supply voltage of 9 to 50 volts DC at a peak current of 15 amps, the SDM950 solenoid driver module has a command or trigger voltage of 2.5 volts DC.

Users can set a pick time of 5 to 2,000 milliseconds via an on-board potentiometer. The factory setting for the holding voltage drops to 30 percent of the supply voltage, after the plunger is seated, however, the holding voltage can be adjusted by the user via an on-board potentiometer, as an example, the holding voltage for latching solenoids can be set to zero.

For more information contact Magnetic Sensor Systems online at www.solenoidcity.com.