The OMRON E5AC is a 96 × 96 mm panel-mount digital temperature controller that combines universal input flexibility, advanced 2-PID control with auto-tuning, and extensive I/O configurability in a body only 60 mm deep. Models are available with remote SP input, RS-485 communications (CompoWay/F or Modbus RTU), up to 4 auxiliary alarm outputs, up to 6 event inputs, a transfer output, and heater burnout alarm. The large white PV display (approx. 25 mm character height) and tool port on both the top and front panels simplify setup and maintenance.

Universal Input and Fast 50 ms Control

• Universal Input: A single E5AC accepts thermocouples (K, J, T, E, L, U, N, R, S, B, C/W, PLII), RTDs (Pt100, JPt100), infrared thermosensors, and analog signals (4-20 mA, 0-20 mA, 1-5 V, 0-5 V, 0-10 V), eliminating the need to stock different controller variants for different sensor types.
• 50 ms Sampling Period: The controller achieves a sampling period of 50 ms, ensuring rapid response to process temperature changes—particularly important for fast-cycling packaging and sealing machinery.
• 2-PID Control with Auto-Tuning: Combined heating and cooling PID control can be tuned independently for systems with different thermal response characteristics. The auto-tuning function automatically calculates optimal PID parameters, reducing commissioning time.

Remote SP and Multi-Setpoint Operation

• Remote SP Input: The setpoint can be externally commanded via analog signals (4-20 mA, 0-20 mA, 1-5 V, 0-5 V, 0-10 V) or a potentiometer (100 Ω–10 kΩ), enabling the controller to operate as a follower in cascade control loops or be adjusted remotely by a PLC.
• Up to 8 Set Points (SP0–SP7): Multiple setpoints can be stored and selected through event inputs, key operations, or serial communications, supporting multi-recipe production without manual re-entry of temperature values.

I/O Configuration and Communications

• Extensive I/O Capacity: Models are available with up to 4 auxiliary alarm outputs (SPST-NO relay), 6 event inputs (contact or non-contact), and 1 transfer output (4-20 mA or 1-5 V linear). This allows the controller to directly interface with external switches, indicators, and data acquisition systems without additional components.
• RS-485 Communications: Supports both CompoWay/F and Modbus RTU protocols. Up to 32 controllers can be connected on a single RS-485 bus for centralized monitoring and setpoint management from a PLC or SCADA system.

Compact 60 mm Depth and Panel Value Design

• Shallow Body (60 mm): The body depth of the E5AC is 60 mm, approximately 77% of OMRON's previous generation controller. This makes the E5AC suitable for control panels with limited depth, such as those in compact machinery or retrofit installations.
• Tool Ports on Top and Front: CX-Thermo configuration software can be connected via a communications conversion cable to either the top or front tool port without wiring the power supply, enabling parameter setup before installation or in-situ adjustments without opening the control panel.
• Optional IP66 Protection: With the optional waterproof packing (Y92S-P10), the front panel achieves IP66 protection when mounted on a flat surface, making it suitable for washdown environments.
• UL Listed: Certified to UL 61010-1 for North American installations.

Applications

• Plastics and rubber processing: injection molding barrels, extruders, blow molding machines
• Packaging machinery: heat sealing, shrink-wrap tunnels, tray sealers
• Food and beverage: ovens, fryers, pasteurizers, fermentation tanks
• Industrial heat treatment: furnaces, ovens, kilns
• Chemical and pharmaceutical: reactor temperature control, distillation columns
• Motor-driven valve control: position-proportional control for heating/cooling process valves