Bluetooth makes sensor adjustment convenient and reliable

Bluetooth solutions are being used more and more in industrial applications. Wireless data transmission now enables convenient operation with  smart phones and tablets, making it easier to configure devices that are difficult to reach or located in harsh environments. Since access to the sensors is wireless, Bluetooth makes the complex hazardous area authorization procedures/permits that are normally required, a thing of the past.

Ever since the introduction of the plics® platform; modularity and compatibility, as well as simple setup and operation, have been the top priority at VEGA. The best proof of this is PLICSCOM, this is the display and adjustment module that can be used on any plics® sensor, regardless of the measuring principle or instrument generation. Of the more than 1.5 million plics® transmitters that have been sold since 2002, approximately 700,000 were delivered with this universal display and adjustment module. The addition of this new optional Bluetooth option into PLICSCOM allows a sensor to be remotely adjusted from a distance of about 25 meters away, and in some instances, even further.

This modern, widely used communication standard allows convenient setup, adjustment, measured value display and diagnosis via smartphone or tablet. The functions are integrated in the free, universal VEGA Tools app. The user does not even have to load additional apps for different sensors on his smartphone. No update of the sensor software is necessary. The adjustment structure is very easy to use and similar to the one users are accustomed to on the PC.

Sensors can also be parameterized wirelessly via PC or laptop via a Bluetooth USB adapter. This convenient communication channel makes it possible to access connected sensors via PACTware and adjust them in the usual way.

Especially user-friendly: PLICSCOM is fully backward  compatible and can be integrated into any plics® sensor supplied since 2002, quickly and easily: again no firmware changes are required. Sensors can then be wirelessly adjusted right away, This applies to about 70 different level and pressure transmitter variants, multiplied by the different VEGA housings, flanges and electronics versions.

In many production facilities there are measuring points that are extremely difficult to reach and often located in dangerous places. Cereal, flour and animal feed are often stored in tall silos. The level sensors are installed at the top of such containers. Climbing to the top in bad weather with equipment such as a PC, adapter, etc. can be a very difficult, if not dangerous, task.

This is often the case if technicians have to make adjustments on site. They may have to brave dust, heavy rain, strong winds, extreme temperatures and even snow to ensure optimal utilization of the facilities. With Bluetooth, such challenges can be handled from a safe distance, conveniently and much more cost-effectively. The main argument for using this modern transmission standard is undoubtedly the great convenience it offers: no cabling, no ladders, no scaffolding. Hot work permits for hazardous areas are not normally required.

With the new display and adjustment module, a magnetic pen can be also be used for contactless  adjustment of the sensor through the window of the closed lid. This keeps the sensor well protected and in demanding, dirty measuring environments, technicians can make adjustments on site without having to remove their gloves. The best part: Since the housing remains closed during operation, permits for Ex areas (fire prevention certificates) are not required. This new tool is unique in the process industry.

In the digital age, data security is of paramount importance. Companies must protect their free flow of data in wireless networks against hackers and Internet criminals. PLICSCOM with Bluetooth is equipped with a two-fold data protection system. First, a four-digit PIN has to be entered to connect the sensor with the VEGA Tools app. Authorized users can change this PIN at any time to if needed. In addition, the Bluetooth communication is encrypted and thus protected against unauthorized access to data. This double protection ensures that the user's data is secure at all times. If necessary, the Bluetooth communication can also be switched off via a physical switch.

The third-generation PLICSCOM is the latest step VEGA has taken in expanding and perfecting the setup, adjustment and diagnostic functions of its standardized, modular instrument platform plics®. Four methods of operation are available to the user. Two directly on site – conventional finger-touch operation and non-contact operation with magnetic pen – and two at a safe distance with wireless – PACTware/DTM on PC or laptop with Bluetooth USB adapter and VEGA Tools app on smartphone or tablet.

Bluetooth makes sensor adjustment convenient and reliable