The first release from Acromag’s new Vertu brand of instrumentation is the VPM3000 Series of universal input displays with transmitter and alarm capabilities. These instruments combine the digital indicator function of a panel meter with optional signal conditioning for 4-20mA transmitter output and/or alarm trip solid-state relays. The big and bright 1.2 inch (31mm) high numerals are clearly visible from far away, even in bright sunlight. Field-selectable inputs accept process current/voltage and temperature sensor signals including 4-20mA, ±20mA, 0-10V, ±10V, Pt RTDs, and most common thermocouple varieties. For additional versatility, units can provide power to drive a 4-20mA transmitter and other instruments. Modbus RTU serial communication is also supported.
The VPM3000 displays are easy to set up and install. Units are configurable using the front-panel pushbuttons, free Windows software, or a copy function from other units. Models are available for operation from 85-265V AC or 12-36V DC power sources. AC units can provide single or dual isolated 24V DC supplies to power a 4-20mA transmitter or other instruments. A shallow-depth 1/8 DIN enclosure with a NEMA 4X front panel simplifies installation. UL/cUL listing meets industrial control equipment safety requirements.
Other advanced capabilities add further value. In addition to converting sensor signals to a scaled 4-20mA current for retransmission to controllers or recorders, units can also perform flow computation functions. The square root function can linearize the signal from a differential pressure transmitter to display flow rate in engineering units. A low-flow cutoff feature sets a user-defined threshold that forces the display to zero for slow flow rates that often produce unsteady output from a differential pressure transmitter. A pushbutton easily toggles display of min/max values. Dual relays enable a variety of alarm trip configurations for high/low, high/high, and low/low limit triggers. They can also be used for process on/off control and pump alternation applications. For desktop monitoring and data acquisition applications, the free software can display and log data from multiple meters on your PC.
