How to calibrate any SMART transmitters like Differential Pressure Transmitters (FT, LT, etc.) & Pressure Transmitters & Temperature Transmitters without using HART communicator?
Then you also need the software to go with it and patches for new instrument models. A few transmitters will also calibrate by buttons included with the display option, but I assume you want a universal solution.
Even if you have a HART communicator, it also needs updating from time to time. I have an ABB that is almost useless for other brands. Hopefully someone can recommend a suitable software package.
We don't use a Hart to calibrate SMART transmitters. We use a Fluke calibrator, pressure modules, and a hand pump. You could use any multimeter that measures milliamps but the calibrator makes it easy. All of our transmitters have a test port on their manifold.
With a calibrator you set it up to source pressure, for instance, and measure milliamps. You put in the span of the milliamp span (4-20ma), and the span of the instrument (0-100psi), desired error limit, and the test strategy (5 point increasing). The calibrator will tell what pressure to go to. You set up the screen to see both pressure and milliamps. The error is automatically calculated. You can store the results and write them down later. Some of the calibrators let you upload the cal information and download the data to a PC. I use a Fluke 743 and 744.
You could do it without a calibrator and but it would be quite a bit more work.
If your zero or span is off, you go to the desired pressure and set it. You'll see the milliamp output jump to 4 or 20 when you zero or span it.
Use a handheld communicator or software based on EDDL (http://www.eddl.org) technology (IEC 61804-3). There are several options of EDDL-based software from Emerson (AMS Device Manager), ProComSol, Siemens, and Yokogawa etc. that work with the interfaces Mr. Matson mentioned and more.
The EDDL technology makes it possible to keep the software up to date with new device types as they come into your plant well into the future. As a new type or version of device arrives, just download its EDDL file or have the device manufacturer email it to you. Then just copy and paste onto your computer like a document. There is no need for installation or upgrade. The beauty here is that the EDDL file is independent of Windows version. So even if you later upgrade to a new version of Windows, service pack, security hot fix, or .NET framework - the EDDL file does not become obsolete. One EDDL file will not conflict with another either.
Make sure the software supports the "EDDL methods" which is essentially what we in normal computer-speak call "wizards". These wizards are step-by-step procedures created by the device manufacturers to make their device easy to use - for instance there are wizard for zero trim and sensor trim etc. They ensure the technician that does the work take the appropriate steps, the same way every time.
Just because a transmitter is SMART, it doesn't mean that you have to have a calibrator, communicator, modem or any other device to calibrate it.
Most smart transmitters still allow you to calibrate zero and span the "old way" by applying a reference pressure and adjusting the 4-20mA to suit (adjustment is normally available via push buttons and local indicator).
This is particularly useful if you are on a site that only has a couple of transmitters and a communicator is an unnecessary expense.
What manufacture is your transmitter?
If you would like a detailed explanation for a particular make, I'll be happy to help. Email me at sales at coulton. com.
The majority of SMART transmitters installed in plant nowadays are HART enabled. Either you use a HART communicator or an appropriate software for device management (Device Manager) that use EDDL or DD file technology. Most of the software programs of a vendor are compatible with any SMART (HART enabled) transmitters as long as you have the right DD file. Yes, you can calibrate the transmitter SMARTly from the software instead of using the HART communicator.
HART communicator comes with a HART protocol software that you need to install in your PC. The advantage of this is data settings, rangeability & calibration. With HART communicator you can even connect your transmitter from your marshalling rack>HART modem>your eng station & then use any standard calibration device which can be connected to the transmitter directly on field. All settings can be saved in your station.
This video clip shows how EDDL wizards on software with interface (or
handheld field communicator) make calibration of SMART transmitters easy and less error prone:
