Sensing & Controls News

Customizable Power Distribution Module

Trombetta has introduced a new Power Distribution Module designed to provide a central location for connecting, protecting and switching vehicle power, consolidating fuses, relays, monitoring and control circuits to simplify wiring harnesses and reduce assembly costs. The environmentally protected module is targeted toward non-automotive vehicle applications, including construction and ag equipment, commercial turf and lawn & garden equipment and power sport vehicles.

The Power Distribution Module can be customized to vehicle requirements with varying amounts of I/O, fusing and switching, plus additional devices and logic for specific monitor, control and interlock requirements such as glow plug timing, safety interlocks, etc., the company said. Initial designs include a four-terminal power connector with maximum 45 amp continuous current capability, plus eight signal inputs and four 15 amp outputs on a 12-pin connector.

An onboard microcontroller enables the Power Distribution Module to monitor dynamic signals, generate tones and enforce control and interlock requirements that are dependent upon dynamic parameters such as speed and temperature. Trombetta also offers application engineering assistance to optimize the design of new or existing power distribution systems to maximize savings and reduce time to market, the company said.

The Power Distribution Module features a thermoplastic housing, and is available in a 24V and 12 V versions. Pricing and lead times vary based on design, Trombetta said.

Trombetta is part of Trombetta-Tympanium, a global manufacturer of power switching and power management products. Founded in 1932, Trombetta specializes in dc contactors, industrial work solenoids, key switches and electronic controls. Established in 1970, Tympanium specializes in voltage regulators, time delay switches and ac generators. In 2007 Trombetta - Tympanium became one company.