New features added to split-range control transmitter
MFS2 series - splitting output into four isolated ranges
Figure 1. MFS2 Appearance and Dimensions

1. Definition

A Split-range transmitter is used to provide control (split-range control) over 2 or more different elements using one input signal. For example, in a heated swimming pool, the water temperature is the input signal and the two controlled elements are hot and cold water supply valves.

Below figure 2 illustrates the MFS2 series’ selectable output characteristics, V-shape or Parallel, depending on the user’s application requirements.

In the heated swimming pool example, user would select V-shaped characteristics using the pool’s water temperature as the input signal, V1 as the cold water supply valve control signal, and V2 as the hot water supply valve control signal.

 

2. MFS2 Features and Functionality

Figure 2. V-shape Characteristics and Parallel Characteristics

The MFS2 is a split-range transmitter with 1 analog input and 4 analog outputs available (See Figure 3 for a block diagram of the MFS2). The unit is capable of using 1 input signal to control 4 different elements. In addition to controlling the hot and cold water supply valves, in the aforementioned example, by utilizing the isolation feature between input and output, the MFS2 could also be used for the pool’s water temperature monitoring (limit alarm instrument), and for the display of the pool’s water temperature (display instrument).

The MFS2 features allow users to set different I/O characteristics for each of its 4 outputs.

From a safety instrumentation perspective, it also provides functionality for setting upper and lower limit values for each output.

The MFS2 also has a contact input. This feature provides forced output of a preset value in response to a contact input status of either closed or open. This is beneficial in applications where it is necessary to force 0% output in emergency situations.

 

3. Simple PC-based Configuration

The functionality described in this article can be configured easily using the PC Configurator software (model: MFS2CFG)*.
Figure 3. MFS2 Block Diagram
 

The following settings are available for each output channel:

  • Two sets of coordinates setting input to output characteristics
  • Upper and lower limit values
  • Selection of whether to use contact input (“Use”) or not (“No Use”)
  • Selection of forced output at contact closed or contact open
  • Output value for forced output

Customers can easily accommodate changes in applications by modifying these settings.

Figure 4 provides a specific setting example using the following values:

I/O characteristics: 0% output at 25% input and 100% output at 50% input

Upper/lower limit values: Upper limit of 75% and lower limit of 30%

Forced output: Forced output of 40% when the contact closed

 

4. Graph-based Confirmation of Settings

Figure 4. Example Settings
 
Figure 5. Confirmation Graph Display Screen
Current settings of configured parameters can be easily confirmed by clicking “Graph” button (see Figure 4).

Figure 5 displays the Figure 4 settings in graph form.

Black circles on the graph indicate coordinates that determine input to output characteristics.

With the upper and lower limit values applied, the red line indicates the input to output characteristics.

Note: A dedicated PC Configurator cable (Model: MCN-CON) is required to connect the MFS2 to user’s computer.

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