1. What Is a Handheld Communicator?
In the field of process automation, a handheld communicator is a portable device used for configuring, calibrating, testing, and diagnosing smart field instruments, including:
Pressure transmitters
Temperature transmitters
Flowmeters
Valve positioners
These devices typically support communication protocols such as HART, Foundation Fieldbus (FF), and Profibus-PA, enabling direct communication with field devices.
🔍 Note:
Handheld communicators in process instrumentation differ from those used in robotics or CNC systems:
Robot/CNC handheld units focus on motion control
Process instrument communicators focus on parameter configuration and signal diagnostics
2. Key Functions
| Function | Description |
|---|---|
| Parameter Configuration | Modify ranges, engineering units, and output modes of transmitters |
| Calibration | Verify the correlation between 4–20 mA output and actual measurement |
| Loop Test | Simulate current signal to verify DCS/PLC system response |
| Diagnostics | Read device status, fault codes, and communication integrity |
| Valve Tuning | Adjust zero/span and travel for valve positioners |
| Device Identification | Read model number, serial number, firmware version, and more |
3. Supported Communication Protocols
HART (Highway Addressable Remote Transducer):
Most widely used; overlays digital signal on 4–20 mA loopFoundation Fieldbus (FF)
Profibus-PA
Modbus RTU/TCP (supported by some advanced communicators)
4. Common Brands and Models
| Brand | Model(s) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Emerson | 375 (discontinued), 475, AMS Trex | Industry-standard for HART/FF; modern touchscreen design with diagnostics |
| Yokogawa | BT200, FieldMate | Compact and reliable; supports device management systems |
| Meriam | MFC 5150x | HART communicator with multilingual support and rugged design |
| Beamex | MC6 | High-precision communicator with multifunctional calibration tools |
5. Typical Use Cases
Transmitter Commissioning
Adjusting range of a pressure transmitter on-site from 0–1 MPa to 0–1.6 MPaValve Positioner Setup
Tuning zero/span and travel of smart positioners via HART or FFLoop Testing
Simulating 12 mA to check if the DCS displays 50% correctlyQuick Instrument Replacement
Downloading configuration from old transmitter and uploading to the new one
6. Selection Guidelines
| Feature | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Portability | Lightweight, rugged, easy to carry for field use |
| Protocol Compatibility | Ideally support multiple protocols: HART, FF, Profibus-PA |
| Explosion Protection | For Zone 1/Zone 2 environments, select an intrinsically safe model |
| Maintainability | Easy to update DD/CF files via USB or SD card to support new devices |
7. Product Highlight – Emerson AMS Trex Device Communicator
The AMS Trex series is Emerson’s latest communicator platform, replacing the HART 475 as its flagship solution.
🔧 Key Features:
Protocols Supported: HART, WirelessHART, FOUNDATION Fieldbus
Modern Interfaces: USB, Wi-Fi (optional), Bluetooth
Memory: 32 GB storage for apps and device files
Display: High-resolution touchscreen, glove-compatible
Usability: Designed for single-hand operation, rugged shell
Applications: Deep diagnostics, device configuration, loop tests
✅ Recommendation:
Ideal for long-term deployment, asset management integration, and compatibility with modern systems.
8. Legacy Product – Emerson HART 475 Field Communicator (Discontinued)
Though discontinued, the HART 475 remains in wide use and still supported by many organizations.
📦 Specifications:
Protocols: HART, WirelessHART, FOUNDATION Fieldbus (with license)
Display: 3.5″ 1/4 VGA color touchscreen (240×320 px)
Memory: 32 MB Flash + 1 GB SD card
Battery: Replaceable lithium battery (20–40 hours typical use)
Certifications: Optional ATEX, FM, CSA, IECEx for hazardous areas
Weight: ~0.75 kg (with battery)
Upgrade Support: Internet-based Easy Upgrade for DD and software
🧭 Recommendation:
Still a reliable choice for existing HART-based systems, but consider future transition due to supply limitations.
📌 Summary
In process automation, handheld communicators are indispensable diagnostic and configuration tools for engineers. Whether you’re working with transmitters, flow meters, or smart valve positioners, a compatible communicator ensures efficient setup, troubleshooting, and maintenance.
The Emerson 475 has long been the gold standard, and the AMS Trex series now leads with modern enhancements. Depending on your system requirements and asset management needs, selecting the right communicator can significantly improve on-site efficiency.