How to Use scc: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The Signal Conditioning Circuit (SCC), manufactured by Cina (Part ID: SCC), is a versatile electronic component designed to modify and prepare signals for further processing. It is commonly used to amplify, filter, or convert signals into a format suitable for subsequent stages in a system, such as analog-to-digital conversion or data acquisition.

• Sensor Signal Processing: Amplifying weak signals from sensors like thermocouples, strain gauges, or photodiodes.
• Filtering: Removing noise or unwanted frequency components from signals.
• Analog-to-Digital Conversion (ADC): Preparing signals for ADC by scaling and offsetting.
• Industrial Automation: Conditioning signals from industrial sensors for control systems.
• Medical Devices: Processing bio-signals such as ECG or EEG for monitoring and analysis.

1. Power Supply: Connect the Vcc pin to a stable 3.3V or 5V power source and the GND pin to the ground.
2. Input Signal: Connect the signal source to the IN+ and IN- pins. For single-ended signals, connect IN- to GND.
3. Gain Configuration: Use the GAIN_SEL pin to set the desired gain:
   • Connect to GND for 1x gain.
   • Connect to Vcc for 10x gain.
   • Use an external resistor for custom gain values (refer to the datasheet for resistor values).
4. Filtering: Attach an external capacitor to the FILTER_SEL pin to implement custom low-pass filtering. For no filtering, leave this pin unconnected.
5. Output Signal: The conditioned signal will be available at the OUT pin. Connect this to the next stage of your circuit, such as an ADC or microcontroller.

• Input Signal Range: Ensure the input signal does not exceed the specified range (±10 mV to ±10 V) to avoid distortion or damage.
• Power Supply Decoupling: Place a 0.1 µF ceramic capacitor close to the Vcc pin to reduce noise and ensure stable operation.
• Gain and Filtering: Select appropriate gain and filtering settings based on your application to optimize performance.
• Temperature Range: Operate the SCC within the specified temperature range (-40°C to +85°C) for reliable performance.

The SCC can be used with an Arduino UNO to condition sensor signals before ADC. Below is an example of how to connect and use the SCC:

• Vcc: Connect to the Arduino's 5V pin.
• GND: Connect to the Arduino's GND pin.
• IN+: Connect to the sensor's signal output.
• IN-: Connect to GND (for single-ended signals).
• OUT: Connect to an analog input pin on the Arduino (e.g., A0).
• GAIN_SEL: Connect to GND for 1x gain.
• FILTER_SEL: Leave unconnected for no filtering.

// Arduino code to read the conditioned signal from the SCC
const int analogPin = A0; // Analog pin connected to SCC OUT pin
int sensorValue = 0;      // Variable to store the ADC value

void setup() {
  Serial.begin(9600); // Initialize serial communication at 9600 baud
}

void loop() {
  sensorValue = analogRead(analogPin); // Read the analog value from SCC
  float voltage = sensorValue * (5.0 / 1023.0); // Convert ADC value to voltage
  Serial.print("Conditioned Signal Voltage: ");
  Serial.print(voltage);
  Serial.println(" V");
  delay(500); // Wait for 500 ms before the next reading
}

1. No Output Signal:

   • Verify that the power supply (Vcc and GND) is correctly connected.
   • Check the input signal connections (IN+ and IN-).
   • Ensure the gain and filter settings are configured properly.

2. Distorted Output Signal:

   • Ensure the input signal is within the specified range (±10 mV to ±10 V).
   • Check for noise or instability in the power supply. Add decoupling capacitors if needed.
   • Verify that the external components (e.g., resistors, capacitors) are correctly selected and connected.

3. Output Signal Too Weak or Too Strong:

   • Adjust the gain setting using the GAIN_SEL pin.
   • Verify that the load connected to the OUT pin does not exceed the output drive capability.

Q1: Can the SCC handle AC signals?
A1: Yes, the SCC can process both AC and DC signals within the specified input range.

Q2: How do I implement a custom filter?
A2: Connect an appropriately valued capacitor to the FILTER_SEL pin. Refer to the datasheet for recommended capacitor values based on the desired cutoff frequency.

Q3: Can I use the SCC with a 3.3V system?
A3: Yes, the SCC is compatible with both 3.3V and 5V systems. Ensure the input and output signals are within the specified ranges for the chosen supply voltage.

Q4: What is the maximum output current of the SCC?
A4: The SCC can drive loads with an impedance of 100 Ω or higher. For lower impedance loads, use a buffer or amplifier.