The ability to react quickly to changing process conditions can be critical to the safety and efficiency of a plant. But what if the display in question is located in direct sunlight or total darkness? LCD displays are notoriously difficult, if not impossible, to read in high ambient light conditions and most need to have a backlight activated to be visible in the dark.
Addressing the need for robust field displays that can be seen in any ambient light condition, Endress Hauser has launched a new range of highly visible, loop powered field displays. Designated RIA 14 and 16, the new 5 digit devices have 26/20mm high, white digits displayed on a dark background that are easy to see in all ambient light conditions. They display the measured value and any selected unit of measure. An integrated bar graph shows the measured value as a percentage of full scale for quick reference at a glance.
Displays are available in several robust IP67 housings including 316L stainless steel, die-cast aluminium and lightweight glass reinforced plastic. Specific versions are available for use in hazardous areas with IEC Ex approvals for Ex d (flameproof) or Ex ia (intrinsic safety). All units are fully HART compatible.
Being loop powered, the displays simply connect in series with their host device and require no external power supply, which saves time and money. A programmable switch output makes local alarm indication of critical system values possible without the need for extra cables back to the control room.
The displays can be conveniently configured prior to installation via a PC using free of charge FieldCare software and without the need for external power. Alternatively the three on-board pushbuttons allow for configuration in the field. Once the parameters have been set, they are stored in a non-volatile, password protectable memory. Detachable front covers and large terminal chambers make wiring and overall installation trouble-free.
Poor visibility displays are now a thing of the past with the new RIA range of field displays.