When measuring flow, you are
dealing with large quantities of data. Every second that passes can reveal new
data to be processed, gathered or distributed. Reading measurements as they
happen is, of course, very important, but another key aspect of the measurement
process is controlling data sets in such a way that they can be manipulated.
This is why it may be important to invest in a batch controller, as this type
of equipment can facilitate the process of harnessing the potential of fluid data. The following are some examples of batch controllers.
MB2
The MB2, or the MINI-Batcher, is
a low cost, pulse input batch controller. It can fulfill your basic needs with
a six digit totalizer and a 4.5 digit ratemeter. This gadget comes with two
relay outputs, one for the batch amount (called Preset A) and one for prewarn
or batch/grand total. Pushing a single button can offer you a display of the
batch amount, rate or total. Moreover, batching is made simple with the start
and stop buttons, and if you are interested in data logging, there is an analog
output for such purposes. Lastly, the MINI-Batcher is capable of communicating
to a remote computer, if you are looking to transmit data. As you can see, this
device is chock-full of functionality.
BATCHtrol II
No, BATCHtrol II is not a sequel
to a B movie you have never seen. It is in fact another type of batch
controller, one that features eight bright digits on a .55” screen and that
accepts up to 20,000 pulses per second. With eight digit K-factors, the data
can be translated into meaningful systems. This type of batch controller is
split into two counters and a ratemeter. The batching counter is for presetting
and pre-warning numbers and the totalizing counter is used for grand total
readings. The ratemeter has a nifty scaling feature, meaning it can count
gallons per minute, and it can do all of this without losing track of the
total. The BATCHtrol II also allows for easy toggling between the total and the
rate without interrupting the flow, making this a pretty user-friendly device.
923-ST1
Last but not least is the 923-ST1
Flow Computer, which has the capacity to hook up to a modem by way of the standard
RS-232 Serial Port and is perfect for data logging, transaction printing or
remote meter reading. This impressive device can also choose to follow volume
flow, corrected volume flow, temperature, mass flow or density by way of a menu
that is set up through an analog output. The analog output can be used for all
kinds of hardware hookups, which means that the 923-ST1 has seemingly boundless
potential.
These are just a few examples,
plucked out of the wide world of batch controllers. They range from the
simplest of devices to the most complex pieces of equipment, and all batch
controllers share several basic features. Thus it is important to talk to an
expert, someone who has experience with this type of hardware and who can tell
you what your particular circumstance requires.
