How to Use PZCT-02: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The PZCT-02 is a compact and efficient current transformer designed for measuring alternating current (AC) in electrical circuits. It operates by scaling down high currents to a lower, manageable level, making it suitable for use with microcontrollers, data acquisition systems, and other monitoring devices. Additionally, the PZCT-02 provides electrical isolation, ensuring safety and protecting sensitive components in the circuit.

• Energy monitoring systems
• Smart home automation
• Industrial equipment monitoring
• Overcurrent protection systems
• Integration with microcontrollers (e.g., Arduino, Raspberry Pi) for current sensing

The PZCT-02 is designed to provide accurate current measurements while maintaining safety and reliability. Below are its key technical details:

The PZCT-02 has a simple two-wire interface for its output. Below is the pin description:

1. Connect the Input Wire: Pass the AC wire (carrying the current to be measured) through the center of the PZCT-02. Ensure the wire is properly insulated.
2. Connect the Output Wires:
   • Connect the red wire to the positive input of your measurement device (e.g., ADC pin of a microcontroller).
   • Connect the black wire to the ground of your measurement device.
3. Load Resistor: Place a suitable burden resistor across the output terminals to convert the transformer's current output into a measurable voltage. For example, a 10Ω resistor is commonly used for a 0–1V output range.
4. Calibration: Calibrate your system to interpret the output voltage as the corresponding current value. Use the transformer's turns ratio (1000:1) for calculations.

• Electrical Isolation: Ensure the PZCT-02 is electrically isolated from high-voltage components to prevent damage or injury.
• Burden Resistor Selection: Choose a burden resistor that matches your measurement range and desired output voltage.
• Avoid Saturation: Do not exceed the rated input current (100A) to prevent core saturation and inaccurate readings.
• Secure Mounting: Mount the PZCT-02 securely to avoid movement or vibration that could affect measurements.

Below is an example of how to use the PZCT-02 with an Arduino UNO to measure AC current:

// Example code for using the PZCT-02 current transformer with Arduino UNO
// This code reads the AC current and calculates the RMS value

const int sensorPin = A0;  // Analog pin connected to PZCT-02 output
const float burdenResistor = 10.0;  // Burden resistor value in ohms
const float turnsRatio = 1000.0;    // PZCT-02 turns ratio
const int numSamples = 500;         // Number of samples for RMS calculation

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

void loop() {
  float voltageSum = 0.0;

  // Take multiple samples to calculate RMS
  for (int i = 0; i < numSamples; i++) {
    int rawValue = analogRead(sensorPin);  // Read analog value
    float voltage = (rawValue / 1023.0) * 5.0;  // Convert to voltage (0-5V)
    voltageSum += voltage * voltage;  // Square the voltage and add to sum
    delay(1);  // Small delay between samples
  }

  // Calculate RMS voltage
  float rmsVoltage = sqrt(voltageSum / numSamples);

  // Convert RMS voltage to current
  float current = (rmsVoltage / burdenResistor) * turnsRatio;

  // Print the current value
  Serial.print("Current (RMS): ");
  Serial.print(current);
  Serial.println(" A");

  delay(1000);  // Wait 1 second before next reading
}

1. No Output Signal:

   • Ensure the AC wire is properly passed through the transformer's core.
   • Verify the burden resistor is correctly connected across the output terminals.
   • Check the connections to the measurement device.

2. Inaccurate Readings:

   • Confirm the burden resistor value matches your design requirements.
   • Avoid exceeding the rated input current (100A) to prevent core saturation.
   • Calibrate your system to account for any offsets or scaling factors.

3. Noise in Measurements:

   • Use shielded cables for the output wires to reduce electromagnetic interference.
   • Add a capacitor in parallel with the burden resistor to filter high-frequency noise.

Q: Can the PZCT-02 measure DC current?
A: No, the PZCT-02 is designed for AC current measurement only. It cannot measure DC current.

Q: What happens if I exceed the rated current?
A: Exceeding the rated current (100A) may cause core saturation, leading to inaccurate readings and potential damage to the transformer.

Q: Can I use the PZCT-02 without a burden resistor?
A: No, a burden resistor is required to convert the transformer's current output into a measurable voltage. Without it, the output signal will not be usable.

Q: Is the PZCT-02 suitable for outdoor use?
A: The PZCT-02 is not specifically designed for outdoor use. If used outdoors, ensure it is properly enclosed and protected from environmental factors like moisture and extreme temperatures.