Transmitters
A temperature transmitter for thermocouples and RTDs is an electronic device
that converts the small voltage (from a thermocouple) or resistance change (from an RTD)
into a standardized output signal, usually 4–20 mA, which can be read by a control
system or data logger.
Key Features
1. Input Types
- Thermocouple (TC): measures millivolt signal generated by the thermocouple junction.
- RTD (Resistance Temperature Detector): measures resistance changes, usually of Pt100, Pt1000, or other RTD types.
2. Signal Conversion
- Converts mV (TC) or Ω (RTD) into a linearized, calibrated signal proportional to temperature.
- Often includes cold-junction compensation for thermocouples.
3. Output Signals
- Most common: 4–20 mA (loop-powered).
- Other options: 0–10 V, digital (HART, FOUNDATION Fieldbus, Modbus, Profibus).
4. Mounting
- DIN rail,Head-mounted or Field-mount (directly on thermowell or sensor connection head).
5. Features
- Linearization and scaling for thermocouples and RTDs.
- Cold-junction compensation (for thermocouples).
- Loop-powered or separately powered.
- Optional explosion-proof or intrinsically safe versions for hazardous areas.