Abstract: A barrier device threadably mounts to a cabling aperture on a field mounted transmitter. The field mounted transmitter receives and transmits signals, and is wholly powered by a current loop circuit. The barrier device has a conductive housing with at least a first and a second aperture and a pair of conductors passing through the first aperture of the barrier device, for connecting to a terminal block in the transmitter. A pair of signal terminals, preferably as ring tongue lug, is mounted in the second aperture of the barrier device. The signal terminals are connectable to a handheld communicator, which is used to calibrate, monitor and test the transmitter. A barrier circuit is mounted in the housing and is electrically connected between the signal terminals and the conductors. Signals from the communicator access the terminal block through the barrier circuit, and the barrier circuit limits the power available at the signal terminals.

Abstract: A level transmitter for use in a process application measures height of a product in a tank. The level transmitter includes a microwave antenna directed into the tank. A low power microwave source sends a microwave signal through the microwave antenna. A low power microwave receiver receives a reflected microwave signal. Measurement circuitry coupled to the source and receiver initiates transmitting of the microwave signal and determines product height based upon the received, reflected signal. Output circuitry coupled to a two-wire process control loop transmits information related to product height over the loop. Power supply circuitry in the level transmitter coupled to the two-wire process control loop receives power from the loop which powers the level transmitter including the microwave source and the microwave receiver.

Abstract: An existing analog two-wire transmitter has a sensor module, an analog excitation circuit, and an analog detector circuit which provides an output representative of a sensed process variable, such as pressure, to a two-wire current loop. The analog detection circuit is removed and replaced with apparatus including a digital converter that digitally calculates the transmitter's output. The output is improved by calculating correction for linearity. The analog excitation circuit may also be replaced with a replacement excitation circuit. The replacement excitation circuit and the digital converter can be energized in series to control energization current. A charge pump can be coupled to the loop to balance the current in the series circuit. The digital converter can also provide electrical span and zero adjustments.

Abstract: A cold junction compensation bridge for a thermocouple circuit includes a temperature compensation resistor encased in a heat conductive material and is directly connected to the same terminal block or strip to which the thermocouple leads are attached. The compensation resistor is in the same chamber of a housing as the cold junction of the thermocouple so it is subjected to the same temperature as the thermocouple junction. This is of particular importance in two wire current transmitters wherein the housings are multi compartment, with the electronics in one compartment (that may be sealed and not normally opened) and the terminal blocks for connecting the thermocouple and the like, as well as the calibrating screws, in a separate compartment. In such arrangements the thermocouple cold junction can be at a different temperature than the rest of the electronics.