An EC motor or Electronically Commutated motor can be seen as an AC motor with integrated fan speed controller. The EC motor requires an indication of the desired fan speed. The desired fan speed is sent to the EC motor via a control signal. The control signal can be generated manually via a potentiometer or automatic via a sensor controller. Sensor controllers will adjust fan speed to keep the measured values within range.
A control signal can be analogue or digital:
Analogue control signals Analogue control signals have been popular in the (home) automation industry for many years. It is a proven, simple technology that works fine if cable length remains limited. To avoid disturbances, it is advisable to separate analogue control lines from power lines, to use shielded cables and to keep cable distances limited. We distinguish following analogue control signals: - 0 - 10 Volt - 0 - 20 mA - 0 - 100 % PWM (Pulse Width Modulated) signal
Digital control signals Some EC fans can be controlled via Modbus RTU communication. To control an EC fan via Modbus RTU communication offers many advantages. - Longer cable lengths (up to 1.000 m) are possible. - Communication goes in both directions. Requested fan speed is transmitted towards the EC fan. In the other direction, it is possible to receive information about the EC fan via Modbus RTU communication. Motor status, motor speed, motor temperature, actual motor power, etc. can be monitored on a continuous basis.
