This futuristic theme is already being addressed by Sartorius today in the implementation of process container scales, with the presentation two new products: the X3 process indicator and the PR5220 process transmitter.

A special highlight of both instruments is their convenient, state-of-the-art connectivity for Ethernet networks. The standard Ethernet TCP/IP interface enables trouble-free integration in existing computer networks.

Basic transmission of weight values, process status messages or other information over a network is fast and easy.  For identification of scales within the networks, the X3 and PR5220 are assigned names and IP addresses. This way, the product can be assigned to any scale and is easy for operators to identify.

Configuration of these new instruments is remarkably uncomplicated. When the products IP address is entered in a browser, such as the Microsoft Internet Explorer, the products own home page opens for convenient configuration of all settings. With the standard OPC server interface, all information on the scales  is continuously available and can be used, for example, for visualizations. Furthermore, it is easy to integrate the instruments into Microsoft Office applications such as Excel.

Wireless reliability
New features made possible by the Ethernet TCP/IP implementation include also the possibility for wireless LAN (WLAN) and Remote Service. Wireless LAN can be used with any standard WLAN module. Remote Service from the company's intranet is easy to implement over a virtual private network (VPN) connection to the remote customer network. As soon as the connection has been established, the settings can be configured from the remote device.

Both products are equipped with high-quality A/D converters for connecting strain-gauge load cells with an internal resolution of more than 4 million intervals and a verifiability of up to 10,000e in accordance with OIML R76. In addition, Sartorius provides broad-based support for a variety of different communication systems for these instruments.