Transmitter/Intelligent Junction Box for Remote Scale System Monitoring

Transcell has announced a digital weight transmitter, combined with an intelligent junction box, for high-speed, individual monitoring of up to four individual load cells. The unit is able to measure and transmit filtered weight data of powder and bulk solids to a programmable logic controller (PLC) or other compatible host device, via MODBUS protocol or EtherNet/IP protocol.  

The LCT-2 offers major benefits over the conventional topology of separate transmitters, junction boxes and EIP bridges. Cost is especially notable, as the LCT-2 costs about 50% less than the combination of separate devices. Install time is also reduced by 50%, with even more savings on interconnection components.

Another unique feature is the capability to monitor up to four individual load cells, instead of a combined measurement. This adds to the flexibility of use in different applications and provides the operator with much more data.

A calibration-free feature provides for scaling of the LCT-2 to the load cell mV/V calibration data. This eliminates the need for conventional calibration methods utilizing test weights and/or material substitution.  In addition, to offset errors due to eccentric loading, a digital corner calibration feature is also available. Both features save time and labor costs.

Based on high-speed analog-to-digital conversion technology, the device can minimize the effects of long, analog homerun cable installations.  The sampling rate is adjustable from 4.7 Hz to 4800 Hz, with a resolution of 24 bits. Designed for in-plant applications, several capabilities help guard against costly downtime and the resultant product waste. These include real-time scale system diagnostics, capable of immediate fault detection.  Dead load cell emulation provides a workaround until a detected fault can be corrected, making the LCT-2 ideal for mission-critical systems requiring single or multiple scales with multiple cells.  

The Transcell LCT-2 is designed to be highly flexible, adaptable to virtually any plant environment, and is well suited to powder and bulk solids applications. Up to 20 industrial network protocols are supported. MODBUS RTU and MODBUS ASCII are standard. MODBUS TCP/IP and Ethernet IP are also available (with additional hardware). Other interface options include PROFIBUS, CAN open, and DeviceNet.

Transcell Technology Inc., Buffalo Grove, IL 847-419-9180 www.transcell.com

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