Posts Tagged configuration software
How to Avoid Honeywell Process Instrument Explorer (PIE) Software Communication Errors
Posted by danstips in Analytical Measurement Devices, Communications, Configuration, Control, Loop Controllers, Process Automation Controllers, Serial, Software, Troubleshooting on August 26, 2016
Honeywell’s Process Instrument Explorer (PIE) configuration software used for configuring UDC controllers and the UDA analytical controller communicates with the instruments via RS-485, Ethernet, or Infrared (IR).
Since most newer PCs don’t ship with built-in serial ports to connect an IR adapter, you can use a USB-to-RS-232 converter, and then connect using the Actisys serial-to-infrared adapter (ACT-IR220L+). The USB converter will plug directly into your PC’s USB port, but install on a virtual COM port.
Here’s where it gets tricky: That COM port has to match the COM port used in PIE, and PIE doesn’t support ports above COM8.
HART communications without busting the budget
Posted by danstips in Communications, Configuration, Cost Issues, HART, Level Technology, Service, Siemens, Software, Transmitters on March 15, 2013
The HART communication protocol has been firmly established as the standard means of configuring field instruments for some years. But talking to a field instrument needs a communicator.
There are the handheld communicators, Rosemount’s x75s and the “budget-priced” Meriam MFC 4150, but at a cost that’s more a capital appropriation than an MRO expense. Even the Meriam, with a 3-year field device description subscription starts at more than $4000.
People continue to ask me if there isn’t a more budget conscious approach to HART configuration.
Lesman Tech Tips 