MACTek Corp. released its previously announced WirelessHART adapter, a universal communication device for use with both analog and HART-enabled devices .

As the newest member to the family of MACTek HART-enabled products, the Bullet provides a cost-effective means to access process measurements and communicate process variables and other valuable information to the control room without wires. The Bullet WirelessHART Adapter is now available for sale in a general purpose model for use in non-hazardous areas with deliveries starting in May. The IS and Ex-proof models will be available early in the third-quarter 2010.

Bullet enables existing wired HART field devices from any supplier to communicate with host applications by means of WirelessHART technology. The Bullet is installed permanently by wiring it directly to a standard HART field device, or connecting it anywhere on the 4-20 mA current loop with a junction box. A wired HART field device retrofitted with the Bullet communicates its analog process variable over the existing wiring to the existing DCS with no wiring changes. The Bullet simultaneously communicates the digital PV and device diagnostic information over the WirelessHART network.

The Bullet can also be installed on a non-smart (analog only) device and will transmit a digital representation of the analog 4-20 mA PV to the control room over the WirelessHART network which can save labor cost by eliminating manual recording of data.

Thomas Holmes, president of MACTek, said, that because device connects to existing installed HART-enabled and analog devices, it provides a huge benefit to users in plants as they continue to lower operating costs by "providing access to valuable information stranded in their measurement and control assets, and by making new measurements cost effective. MACTek’s demonstrated high quality and reliability is built into the Bullet so that users can have confidence when installing and using this exciting product. We are currently submitting the Bullet to all required agencies and the HART Communication Foundation for testing, certification and registration."

One of the many unique features of the Bullet is its ability to multi-drop up to 8 measurement devices per device. The digital multi-drop feature drives the cost of adding devices to an existing WirelessHART network down to well below that of other digital busses that require a linking device, special wire, power conditioners and segment terminators, as well as training for personnel. This cost-effective feature is useful for many SCADA applications including the monitoring of tank farms and pipelines.

The Bullet is typically loop-powered, requiring no batteries or other power sources. Featuring MACTek’s patent-pending StepVolt technology that sets insertion voltage in steps from 1 volt to 2.5 volts the Bullet will optimize the trade-off between available loop power and wireless communication bandwidth.

Optionally the Bullet may be connected to external power such as line power, battery or solar to add new measurement points in locations where powering new loops from the DCS would be too costly or difficult. For example, installing measurement points on rotating and mobile machinery is a particular challenge for which the Bullet can be an easy and cost effective solution.

A unique power cycling feature cycles power to attached devices reducing power consumption, an advantageous feature for battery or solar powered applications. When powered externally the Bullet provides the load resistor required by the HART protocol, saving users the time and cost of installing and wiring an external resistor in the field wiring.

The Bullet maintains the high standards of reliability, quality, and ease of use demonstrated by our Viator Bluetooth, USB and RS-232 HART PC modems. All products comply with the HART communication specifications; wireless and wired solutions have proven to be easy to use and compatible with HART-enabled devices from any vendor.
www.mactekcorp.com

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– Edited by Mark T. Hoske, editor in chief, Control Engineering , www.controleng.com.