Skip to main content Skip to search Skip to main navigation

Didactum Small AC Current Transformer

Compact Hall Effect Probe for Smaller AC Circuits

The Didactum Small AC Current Transformer probe is a simple open-loop Hall effect AC current transducer (open-loop ammeter) in a particularly compact design that measures current on a conductor contactlessly without disconnecting it. The cable to be measured is passed through the opening of the ring-shaped transducer; the probe converts the measured AC current into a proportional 0–5 V DC output signal.

This article refers to the AC-50 model with a rated current of 50 A and a measuring range of 0–50 A — ideal for individual circuits, outgoing feeders, and smaller to medium-sized loads.

⚠️

Important note: The Didactum Small AC Current Transformer probe measures the current on the conductor, but it cannot transmit the measurement signal to a monitoring system on its own. You also need the Didactum AC Current Transformer, part no. DI14030-AC, which acts as a transceiver, receives the probe’s 0–5 V signal, and forwards it via an analog port (A1…A8) to the Didactum monitoring system. Without the DI14030-AC, no display, analysis, or alarm notification of the measured values is possible.

Current Probe Design

The current probe consists of a compact ring-shaped transducer head with a pass-through opening and a 3-pin connection terminal.

1

Pass-through opening

The cable to be measured is routed through the opening in the ring-shaped compact transducer core. The probe measures the current contactlessly via the magnetic field that is generated.

2

Mounting tabs

Two mounting tabs on the housing used to secure the probe with screws and nuts.

3

3-pin connection terminal (pitch 3.81 mm)

Three-pin terminal for wiring to the Didactum AC Current Transformer DI14030-AC. Pin assignment: + (+12 V DC supply), G (Ground), M (0–5 V measurement signal).

ℹ️

Note on confusion: The AC-50 probe has a 3-pin terminal (+, G, M). The larger K6A model for higher currents uses a 4-pin terminal (G, M, G, +). When connecting, make sure the wires are assigned correctly according to the terminal labeling.

Mounting and Connection

The current probe and the Didactum AC Current Transformer (DI14030-AC) are installed together.

1

Mount the probe

Secure the current probe in a suitable location with screws and nuts. Route the cable to be measured through the probe’s pass-through opening.

2

Wiring to current transformer DI14030-AC

Connect the 3 wires of the terminal (+, G, M) to the 3-pin input terminal of the Didactum AC Current Transformer (DI14030-AC) according to the wiring assignment.

3

Connect to the monitoring system

Connect the Didactum AC Current Transformer (DI14030-AC) to a free analog port (A1…A8) of the Didactum monitoring system or an 8-port sensor expansion unit using an RJ11 cable.

⚠️

Safety instructions: The regulations applicable to installation in the respective country and the relevant accident prevention regulations must be observed, as well as internal company work, operating, and safety regulations. The specified technical limits, especially insulation voltage and ambient temperature range, must under no circumstances be exceeded. Before installation, check the maximum permissible conductor diameter and the maximum insulation voltage of the probe.

Full Control over Thresholds, Trends, and Automation

Via the Didactum AC Current Transformer (DI14030-AC), the probe integrates seamlessly into the Didactum web interface.

  • Individual thresholds (Lower Critical, Lower Warning, Normal, Upper Warning, Upper Critical) for each measurement point
  • Logic schemes for automated actions when limit values are exceeded, e.g. in case of overload
  • Clear, individually configurable dashboard
  • Graphical trend display and continuous logging of measured values
  • Notifications via email, SMS, SNMP trap, and other channels

Use Cases for the Current Probe

  • Monitoring circuits and feeders in electrical distribution panels to detect overloads
  • Monitoring motors, pumps, compressors, and production machines for load changes
  • Automatic alarm notifications when defined current limits are exceeded to prevent equipment damage and power outages
  • Monitoring the power consumption of smaller IT and facility devices in the data center
  • Early detection of wear or defects based on changes in current consumption
  • Complementing existing monitoring environments (Zabbix, PRTG, Nagios)

What Is Included

Please check the delivery for completeness upon receipt and report any missing or damaged parts to your supplier immediately. The Didactum AC Current Transformer DI14030-AC is not part of this scope of delivery and must be ordered separately.

  • Didactum Small AC Current Transformer probe AC-50 (50 A)1 piece
  • Self-adhesive label1 piece
  • Screw L18.5 M42 pieces
  • Bolt L14 M42 pieces
  • Nut M3.52 pieces

Why This Current Probe Is the Right Choice

50 A rated current

Measuring range 0–50 A for circuits and smaller to medium-sized loads.

Compact design

Especially space-saving, ideal for tight control cabinets and distribution panels.

Contactless measurement

Current detection without disconnecting the conductor.

High accuracy

0.5% accuracy and linearity error.

Easy installation

Mounting via two tabs with screws and nuts.

Robust insulation

Insulation voltage AC 2.5 kV 50 Hz 1 min for safe operation.

Wide operating range

Designed for ambient temperatures from -10 °C to +70 °C.

Made in EU

Developed and manufactured in the European Union.

Frequently Asked Questions

For which current range is this model suitable?

This model (AC-50) has a rated current of 50 A and covers a measuring range of 0–60 Aac. Make sure the maximum expected operating current of the conductor being monitored stays safely within this range.

How does this probe differ from the larger K6A probe?

The AC-50 probe is more compact and uses a 3-pin terminal (+, G, M), while the K6A probe for higher currents uses a 4-pin terminal (G, M, G, +). Both probes require the Didactum current transformer (AC version) as the transceiver to the monitoring system.

Can the current probe be connected directly to the monitoring system?

No. The probe outputs a 0–5 V analog signal and absolutely requires the Didactum AC Current Transformer (DI14030-AC) as a transceiver, which transfers this signal to an analog port of the monitoring system.

Is the DI14030-AC included in the scope of delivery?

No. The Didactum AC Current Transformer DI14030-AC is a separate product and must be ordered additionally if not already available.

Does the conductor have to be cut open for installation?

No. The current probe measures contactlessly via the magnetic field of the conductor routed through the pass-through opening. Cutting the conductor is not necessary for the measurement itself.

Can multiple current probes be used at the same time?

Yes. Each circuit to be monitored requires its own AC-50 current probe with its own Didactum AC Current Transformer (DI14030-AC) connected to a free analog port. If the available ports are not sufficient, the number can be expanded using a VT408 expansion unit.

Questions about the Didactum Small AC Current Transformer probe?

Our support team in Germany will advise you free of charge on selection, installation, and configuration.

Didactum Sonde Small AC Current Transformer

General Data

  • Compact AC current transformer for measuring alternating current
  • Analog current sensor with 0–5 VDC voltage output
  • Suitable for energy monitoring, load measurement, and building automation
  • Compact design for use in control cabinets and confined installation spaces

Technical Data

  • Measured variable: Alternating current (AC)
  • Available rated currents:
    • 5 A
    • 10 A
    • 20 A
    • 25 A
    • 30 A
    • 50 A
  • Measurement ranges:
    • 0–50 A AC
  • Output signal: 0–5 VDC
  • Supply voltage: +12 VDC
  • Accuracy: ±0.5%
  • Linearity error: ±0.5%
  • Response time: ≤ 350 ms
  • Power consumption: ≤ 50 mA
  • Bandwidth: 50 / 60 Hz
  • Isolation voltage: AC 2.5 kV, 50 Hz, 1 minute

Connections

  • 3-pin terminal block (3.81 mm pitch)
  • Pin assignment:
    • + – +12 VDC supply
    • G – Ground
    • M – Analog output 0–5 V

Mechanical Data

  • Compact design
  • Diameter: 12 mm
  • Weight: approx. 54 g

Environmental Conditions

  • Operating temperature: -10 °C to +70 °C
  • Storage temperature: -25 °C to +85 °C

Applications

  • Energy and load monitoring
  • Building automation
  • Industrial systems
  • Control cabinets
  • Machine monitoring
  • Energy management systems

Scope of Delivery

  • Didactum Sonde Small AC current transformer

Manufacturer information:

Didactum® Security GmbH

Im Mühlenfeld 4

48163 Münster
Deutschland

Fon: (+49) 250 19 71 63 54 / (+49) 171 33 11 577
Email: info@didactum-security.de

Questions

Do you have questions about this product? Our support will help you.

Contact

Helpdesk

Do you have a technical problem? Our specialist will help you.
Helpdesk