Loop-Mates are novel single-function low-cost pocket-sized units designed for test and calibration of process loops.

Loop-Mates are novel single-function low-cost pocket-sized units, designed for test and calibration of process loops. Simplicity of operation is their key: with no keypads or complicated selections, engineers will be able to pick them up and get to work immediately. Just select 4-20mA or 10V loop, and TxSim, RxTest, RxSim or TxTest.

Both devices have internal loop drive supplies which can be used to power the loop if required.

The Loop-Mate1 is the simulator and acts as a source to provide the loop signals, 4-20mA or 0 - 10V.

No complicated selection of the output, just operate up/down buttons to increase or decrease the signal.

There are seven setpoints: 0, 10, 25, 50, 75, 90 and 100%.

Each is indicated on a high brightness LED and an audible beep sounds as the unit steps between them.

Auto-stepping mode (adjustable rate) allows Loop-Mate1 to be left connected stepping up and down.

The engineer can then move to another location to check (using Loop-Mate2) that the signal is arriving correctly and is within specification.

Loop-Mate2 is a dedicated loop signal indicator, and is just as easy to operate.

Once again the user selects the loop type, 4-20mA or 0-10V, and chooses whether the display is in direct units, or percentage of span.

The LCD shows the signal to an accuracy of 0.05% either in milliamps, volts or percentage of span.

A major advantage of splitting the functions (source and measure) is that now both ends of the loop can be checked at the same time.

This enables the engineer to verify that basic loop cabling is in order.

Both the transmitter and indicator can be tested and calibrated either in or out of the loop.

With an accuracy of 0.1% for Loop-Mate1 and 0.05% for Loop-Mate2, both are ideal for all process loop applications.

Time Electronics plans to continue with the theme of simplicity for the upcoming release of its new range of SensorMates.

These will also be single function sensor simulators for thermocouples, PRTs, millivolt/milliamp and pressure.