Handheld Communicator Delivers Field Diagnostic Capabilities

July 22, 2009

Emerson recently introduced the 475 Field Communicator, the next generation in handheld communicator technology. The new Field Communicator extends beyond device configuration functionality to provide advanced device diagnostic and troubleshooting capabilities in the field and on the bench so users can work more efficiently. Quick boot-up and fast operating time mean that jobs can be performed quickly and easily while longer battery life ensures days, not hours, of operation. The intrinsically safe 475 Field Communicator supports HART, WirelessHART, and FOUNDATION fieldbus devices.

While traditional communicators enable configuration of a subset of devices, the 475 Field Communicator is much more than a configuration tool. With universal support for all HART and FOUNDATION fieldbus devices, the new 475 enables diagnosis and troubleshooting right in the field to streamline daily maintenance activities. The latest version of the Easy Upgrade capability provides an interface for users to quickly and easily update their communicator onsite via the internet. Through Bluetooth communication, users can update their 475 Field Communicator with the latest Device Descriptions for their field devices.

A further advance is the full-color LCD display that provides an intuitive graphical interface to support trend charts, gauges, and graphics available in enhanced Device Descriptions. The color display aids troubleshooting through high-contrast images. Users can also store up to 1,000 device configurations in the 475 Field Communicator or transmit them wirelessly between the communicator and a PC for printing and storage.