Transmitters are essential components that convert physical measurement variables like temperature or humidity into electrical signals, which are used for control and monitoring in various applications. They play a crucial role in building automation, industry, and climate control.
This ensures that temperature measurement signals can always be transmitted safely, easily, and over long distances to your control system or display.
- What is a transmitter?
- How does a transmitter work?
- What are the advantages of using transmitters?
- In which applications do I need a transmitter?
- What different types are available?
- What should I consider when purchasing a transmitter?
- How can a transmitter be parameterized/scaled?
What is a transmitter?
A transmitter, also known as a signal converter, transforms physical variables such as temperature or humidity into electrical signals. A temperature transmitter converts resistance or voltage values from a temperature probe, while a humidity transmitter converts humidity values (and optionally temperature) into a standardized output signal (e.g., 0-10 V or 4-20 mA). These signals are safely transmitted over long distances to control or regulation systems.
How does a transmitter work?
The transmitter receives an analog signal from a sensor—either from a temperature sensor or a humidity sensor. This signal is then converted into a standardized electrical signal (e.g., 0-10 V or 4-20 mA). These standardized signals allow for uniform processing, regardless of the type of measured value. Simultaneously, the signal is amplified, ensuring lossless transmission even over long cable distances.
What are the advantages of using transmitters?
Transmitters, such as temperature and humidity transmitters, ensure precise measurements by stabilizing, amplifying, and converting susceptible sensor signals into a uniform signal format. This enables reliable transmission over long distances, which is particularly important in large installations or complex environments such as building systems or industrial plants. In addition, the standardization of signals simplifies integration into existing systems.
In which applications do I need a transmitter?
Transmitter systems are used in numerous fields, including building automation, industrial control, climate and ventilation technology, and agriculture. In these areas, accurate measurements of temperature and humidity are critical for process control, quality assurance, and energy management. Temperature transmitters are commonly used in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, while humidity transmitters are especially useful for monitoring storage conditions or production environments.
What different types are available?
Transmitter with connection head
These transmitters are housed in a robust connection head type B and are particularly suitable for harsh environments, as the connection head offers additional protection against mechanical influences. This type is ideal for industrial applications.
Transmitter with housing
Transmitters with housing are especially durable and protect the electronics from external factors such as dust, moisture, or vibrations. They are suitable for use in demanding environments.
Hat rail transmitter
Hat rail transmitters can be easily mounted on hat rails and are ideal for installation in control cabinets. They offer a space-saving solution and allow for quick installation in control systems.
Pendulum transmitter
Pendulum transmitters are flexibly mountable sensors used in large rooms or hard-to-reach areas, such as high halls or ventilation shafts. They are excellent for applications where airflow changes.
Head transmitter
A head transmitter is built directly into the sensor's measuring head. This type allows for especially space-saving installation and is ideal when the sensor is installed close to the measuring point.
What should I consider when purchasing a transmitter?
When purchasing a transmitter, you should consider the measurement accuracy and measurement range, depending on the variable to be measured (temperature or humidity). The output signal (e.g., 0-10 V or 4-20 mA) and the environmental conditions in which the transmitter will be used are also crucial. For humidity transmitters, factors such as dust or condensation should be taken into account. It is also important to check whether the transmitter is parameterizable, i.e., whether it can be adjusted to different application conditions.
How can a transmitter be parameterized/scaled?
The parameterization of a transmitter can be done in various ways: either via DIP switches, using software, or via an integrated display. This allows the transmitter to be adapted to specific measurement ranges and requirements. For example, temperature transmitters can be scaled to a specific temperature range, while humidity transmitters can be flexibly adjusted to different humidity ranges. This ensures accurate measurements and optimal adaptation to the respective application conditions.