Instruments can speak for themselves

Device allows instruments to verbalize measurements, announce alarms, even in Spanish.

By Control Engineering Staff May 21, 2009

If you’ve ever found yourself talking to a flowmeter, now it can answer back. Just like the GPS gadget in your car, this new device from Omega Engineering speaks the process variable from an instrument.

The UV1000 Universal Verbalizer can take the signal from a measuring instrument and convert the reading to speech. The device provides a new way for engineers, technicians, and operators to monitor measurement and control information on the plant floor or in the laboratory. The device accepts signals from nearly any measurement or process control instrumentation, performs a signal-to-speech conversion, and announces the readings in the engineering unit you specify.

The front panel is configured to accept inputs from a 0-20 mA current loop, a 0 to 10 Vdc voltage source, or a direct connection to a type K thermocouple. The internal voice generator then announces the reading value and correct engineering units either on demand by pressing a “talk” button or at fixed intervals which can be set in the range of 0-120 sec. A voice alarm feature announces an alert when a high or low alarm limit condition occurs.

The device can verbalize over 100 types of engineering units in 23 categories. Announcements provide both a value and the proper unit. English and Spanish speaking models are available now with other languages due in the near future.

Built in a handy portable package, the front panel includes connectors for the three input types, with buttons to select the input type, initiate a reading, and adjust the volume. Although designed as a handheld unit, it can be permanently mounted for continuous monitoring in a fixed location using the ac adapter provided. Audio output is from either a built-in speaker or a standard headphone jack. The kit includes a selection of useful accessories.

—Edited by Peter Welander, process industries editor, PWelander@cfemedia.com ,
Control Engineering Process Instrumentation & Sensors Monthly
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