Stratos Pro is the first transmitter to provide a widescreen display with a functional, colour-based user interface. The new product family also ensures flexibility in measuring electrochemical parameters: Stratos Pro supports standard analogue sensors as well as digital ISM and digital contact-free sensors.
The units allow users to measure pH, redox potential (ORP), conductivity, toroidal conductivity and oxygen concentration values even in very rugged environments.
The new series consists of intrinsically safe two-wire models for use in hazardous areas (zone1/Class1Division1) with the sensor installed in zone 0 as well as two-wire models for safe areas.
Additionally, Knick will supply mains-operated four-wire models which will be suitable for use in zone2/Class1Division2. All devices support HART communication and are certified for standard asset management systems from leading process control system suppliers.
Colour-based operating concept
Since, according to a NAMUR study, operating errors lead to more downtime in modern transmitters than hardware defects, malfunctions or measuring errors, Knick's main development objective was user-friendly, intuitive operation.
The Stratos Pro widescreen display shows high-resolution pictograms instead of pixel graphic elements. Long text displays are scrolled horizontally in an easily readable font. The Stratos Pro display can switch between six different colours, thereby clearly indicating operating modes.
The standard measuring mode has a white backlight, while displays in the information mode are green and the diagnosis menu is backlit in turquoise.
The alarm status was assigned an especially noticeable shade of red. The units also support the HOLD function which is important for process devices: if a unit is integrated into a process control system, the data output must not provide incorrect values because of interference with the device.
In such cases, the unit automatically switches into the HOLD mode and displays an orange screen. Notifications relevant for predictive diagnostics are signalised with a magenta backlight.
Two-wire technology
The multi-colour backlight has been implemented in the two-wire model for the first time, even though this connection/supply method must manage with the least electric power.
Further features mark a technological leap especially in the two-wire models. Unlike all other devices available worldwide, Stratos Pro units provide two digital inputs which can be used, for example, for external HOLD activation or external switching of parameter sets. Moreover, the transmitters feature an analogue current input which allows users to loop through temperature or pressure signals. The units are also equipped with a second current output for a second measured value. Stratos Pro four-wire models come with a VariPower wide range power supply unit which allows users to employ the same device with mains supplies at 20-253Vac/dc, thereby ensuring safe operation worldwide.
All standard analogue sensors can be used with Stratos Pro. The devices can also be operated with contact-based digital systems such as ISM or contact-free, induction-coupled digital sensors which provide galvanic isolation. Stratos Pro supports both the InduCon standard and the Memosens technology. The InduCon system in particular combines the advantages of contact-free data transfer with high-performance functions for predictive diagnostics. Since InduCon sensors can now be used with all Stratos Pro devices, InduCon solutions will become more attractive especially for cost-sensitive applications. Thanks to a new circuit technology, the two- and four-wire Stratos Pro models enable operation with virtually all standard sensors for the first time.
Rugged environments
Stratos Pro, which features IP67 protection, is equipped with a reinforced, corrosion-resistant plastic housing. Safe operation is possible between -20 and 65 °C. The Stratos Pro display window is connected to the plastic housing during the molding process by means of a new manufacturing technology. Consisting of hardened 3 mm safety glass, it is scratch- and UV resistant. All electronics are encapsulated within the door module. The large lower housing section can be installed separately.
All electrical connections are carried out via plug terminals in the door unit, which allows users to retain the complete wiring in the lower housing if the door unit is exchanged.
Stratos Pro units are equipped with a door contact switch, which creates a log entry in case of unauthorised access. This is essential especially in pharmaceutical processes requiring Audit Trails according to 21CFRPart11.
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Dr Dirk Steinmüller, vice president business development, Knick Elektronische Messgeräte GmbH & Co KG is based in Berlin, Germany. www.knick.de
