Abstract: Conversion circuitry for use in a process control system is adapted for coupling to a primary process control loop. Digital receiver circuitry in the conversion circuitry receives a digital signal transmitted over the primary process control loop from a field transmitter and responsively provides a digital output. A microprocessor receives the digital output and responsively provides a secondary loop control output. Secondary loop control circuitry for coupling to a secondary process control loop receives the secondary loop control output from the microprocessor and responsively controls current flowing through the secondary process control loop. The current flowing through the secondary process control loop is related to the digital signal transmitted by the field transmitter.

Abstract: Conversion circuitry for use in a process control system is adapted for coupling to a primary process control loop. Digital receiver circuitry in the conversion circuitry receives a digital signal transmitted over the primary process control loop from a field transmitter and responsively provides a digital output. A microprocessor receives the digital output and responsively provides a secondary loop control output. Secondary loop control circuitry for coupling to a secondary process control loop receives the secondary loop control output from the microprocessor and responsively controls current flowing through the secondary process control loop. The current flowing through the secondary process control loop is related to the digital signal transmitted by the field transmitter.

Abstract: An improved error detection for microprocessor-based transmitters in two-wire process control loops operating in the process control industry. In particular, techniques are shown which are useful in solving malfunctions or failures of microprocessor-based transmitters. When the transmitter is energized, the impedance of the process loop cabling is resolved and stored, displayed or transmitted as desired. The loop impedance is used to calculate potential of a power supply used to power the control loop. This information is used in testing the two-wire loop.

Abstract: A three wire transmitter bidirectionally communicates AC signals to and from a first external device and sends DC signals to a second external device. The transmitter includes a communication circuit which is energized from power and common terminals and includes memory storage for transmitter status and a process variable (PV). The communication circuit receives a sensor output indicative of the PV and provides the DC signal and the AC signal to a signal terminal which connects to both external devices, and also receives AC signals from the first external device. The communications circuit has a characteristic AC impedance between the signal and common terminals over an AC frequency range for receiving and transmitting AC signals to and from the first external device so that the receiving signals are not shorted out and so the transmitted signals can be received.

Abstract: A charge balanced feedback type transmitter generates charge packets representative of a sensed parameter. Improved performance is achieved by the additiion of resistance connected between a charge packet generating reactance and an integrator to reduce the effects of noise caused by switching transients and by ground noise which is coupled to the charge packet generating circuitry by stray capacitance. The charge packets are integrated by the integrater, and the integrator output is supplied from a selective basis to the input of a comparator. The output of the comparator is used to control the application of charge packets to the integrator to achieve charge balance. The input of the comparator is selectively connected to the output of the integrator, to a first supply voltage, or to a second supply voltage to ensure a stable output of the comparator at a critical time when charge is being supplied to the integrator.