ACI A/MCS-A Mini Adjustable Trip Point Current Switch
An adjustable current switch lets the installer set the trip threshold in the field, which is what makes it suitable for condition monitoring rather than simple on/off proof. Because the A/MCS-A trip point can be placed between the loaded and unloaded current of a driven load, it can distinguish a motor that is running normally from one that is running but has lost its belt, is slipping, has a locked rotor, or is otherwise running under- or over-loaded. ACI lists overload, underload, broken belt, belt slippage, locked rotor and equipment failure as the supported applications for adjustable current switches.
The solid-core aperture requires the monitored conductor to be disconnected and threaded through the sensor, which suits new construction and OEM panel builds where the wiring is not yet terminated. Solid-core units are generally the lower-cost option and offer lower trip points than the equivalent split-core model.
The miniature housing is substantially smaller than the A/CS2 and A/SCS2 style switches, which matters in crowded panels and equipment enclosures. The unit secures to the monitored cable using a cable tie through the integrated anchor, and an attachable mounting foot allows Tek screw or 35 mm DIN rail mounting in any orientation.
Specifications on this page are taken from the ACI Mini Adjustable Switches data sheet (MCS-A & MSCS-A Series) and Installation & Operation Instructions I0000558 Rev. 8.0.
Best For
- Belt-loss, belt-slip and locked-rotor detection where the trip point must sit between loaded and unloaded current
- Preventative maintenance scheduling driven by measured load change
- Motor, pump, fan and compressor run status feedback to a BMS, PLC or DDC controller
- Proof-of-operation and run-status interlocks on air handlers and hydronic equipment
- Runtime accumulation and basic load trending from dry-contact closures
- Lighting circuit status and usage logging
Warranty
Key Features
Field-Adjustable Trip Point
Trip threshold is set in the field anywhere from 0.32 to 150 A, with 10% hysteresis typical, so the switch can be tuned to the actual load rather than a factory default.
Self-Powered by Induction
Power is induced from the monitored conductor. There is no 24 V supply to run, no transformer to size and no separate power wiring to install.
Solid-Core Aperture
Threaded aperture for new construction and OEM panel builds, with lower trip points and lower cost than the equivalent split-core model.
Normally-Open (N/O) Dry Contact
Rated 1 A continuous @ 36 VAC/VDC, wired to a 2-position screw terminal block that is not polarity sensitive. Contact resistance is under 0.5 Ohms tripped and over 1 Meg Ohm open.
Compact Housing
At 2.510 in (63.82 mm) on the long axis, the miniature enclosure fits panels where a full-size A/CS2 style switch will not.
Two-Colour Status LED
Red indicates current above the trip point, blue indicates current below it, which makes setting the threshold a visual operation.
Technical Specifications
| ACI Item Number | 117854 |
| Core Style | Solid-Core |
| Trip Point Style | Adjustable Trip Point |
| Trip Point | 0.32 to 150 A |
| Amperage Range | 0.32 to 150 A |
| Contact Type | Normally-Open (N/O) |
| Contact Rating | 1 A continuous @ 36 VAC/VDC |
| Hysteresis | 10% of trip point, typical |
| Response Time | < 90 mS typical |
| Monitored Current Type | AC Current |
| Maximum AC Voltage | 600 VAC |
| Operating Frequency Range | 50/60 Hz |
| Sensor Power | Induced from the monitored conductor (insulated conductors only) |
| Isolation Voltage | 2200 VAC |
| Contact On Resistance | Off Resistance | < 0.5 Ohms (tripped) | > 1 Meg Ohm (open) |
| Aperture Size (Diameter) | 0.53 in (13.46 mm) |
| Operating Temperature Range | -22 to 140 °F (-30 to 60 °C) |
| Operating Humidity Range | 0 to 95% RH, non-condensing |
| Recommended Storage Temperature | RH | 41 to 95 °F (5 to 35 °C) | 40 to 85% RH, non-condensing |
| Enclosure Material | Flammability Rating | PC/ABS (polycarbonate / ABS blend) | UL94-V0 |
| Wiring Connections | 2-position screw terminal block (not polarity sensitive) |
| Wire Size | 16 to 22 AWG (1.31 mm2 to 0.33 mm2), copper wires only |
| Terminal Block Torque Rating | 4.43 to 5.31 in-lbs (0.5 to 0.6 Nm) |
| Minimum Mounting Distance | 1 in (2.6 cm) from relays, contactors and transformers |
| Agency Approvals | UL/CUL US Listed (UL 916) Energy Management Equipment, File # E334792, CE, RoHS2, WEEE |
| CE Wiring Note | Maximum wire length must not exceed 98.4 ft (30 m) to meet CE requirements |
| Product Dimensions (L x W x H) | 2.510 in (63.82 mm) x 0.940 in (23.94 mm) x 2.000 in (50.80 mm) |
| Product Weight | 0.15 lbs (0.068 kg) |
| Warranty | Five (5) Year Limited Warranty |
Not intended for use in life / safety applications or in hazardous / classified locations.
Documentation
ACI Mini Adjustable Switches Data Sheet (MCS-A & MSCS-A Series)ACI Mini Adjustable Status Switch Series Installation & Operation Instructions (I0000558 Rev. 8.0)Related Products
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the trip point of the ACI A/MCS-A?
The A/MCS-A trip point is 0.32 to 150 A. It is adjustable in the field over that range, with 10% hysteresis typical.
Does the ACI A/MCS-A need external power?
No. Power is induced from the conductor being monitored, so no 24 VAC or 24 VDC supply, transformer or power wiring is required. The two terminals carry the dry contact output only.
Is the ACI A/MCS-A solid-core or split-core?
The A/MCS-A is solid-core. Solid-core units require the conductor to be threaded through the aperture, so they suit new installations and OEM panel builds.
What is the contact rating of the ACI A/MCS-A?
The status contact is Normally-Open (N/O) rated 1 A continuous @ 36 VAC/VDC. Contact resistance is under 0.5 Ohms when tripped and over 1 Meg Ohm when open.
What amperage range does the ACI A/MCS-A monitor?
The A/MCS-A monitors 0.32 to 150 A with a maximum conductor voltage of 600 VAC and 2200 VAC isolation.
ACI Five (5) Year Limited Warranty. This product is covered by Automation Components, Inc.’s Five (5) Year Limited Warranty, published in the front of the ACI Sensors & Transmitters catalog and on the ACI website. Warranty terms are set by the manufacturer and are subject to change without notice.
- Mounting Type:
- Solid-Core
- Setpoint:
- Adjustable Trip
- Contact Type:
- Normally Open
- Amp Range:
- 0.32-150A
- Trip Point:
- 0.32-150A
- Contact Rating:
- 1 A @ 36 VAC/VDC
- Contact Termination:
- Terminal Strip
- Sensor Power:
- Self-Powered
- Warranty:
- 5-Year Limited
