Multifunction Calibrator

A precision dual display multifunction calibrator with unmatched accuracy and feature set.

The MC-1210 is a rugged and reliable universal multifunction calibrator. It’s dual display and isolated readback circuit allows it to power a transmitter under test while reading its milliamp output. Truly an all-in-one calibrator. The MC-1210 Multifunction Calibrator also has a wide range of switch test features for both pressure and temperature switches.

• Dual Display. The upper display is used for the measurement of volts, current, and pressure. The lower display can be used to measure volts, current, pressure, resistance temperature detectors (RTD’s), thermcouples (TC’s), frequency, resistance, and to source pulse trains.
• A thermocouple (TC) input/output terminal with automatic reference-junction temperature compensation
• Setpoint in each range for quickly increasing/decreasing output
• Complete serial interface for remote control
• Isolated read back for transmitter calibrations
• Switchtest capability

The Martel MC-1210 multi-function calibrator provides a feature set unmatched in high accuracy, hand-held process calibrators in its price range. The Martel MC-1200 multi-function calibrator provides the functions and accuracy associated with fixed-installation, laboratory instruments. The Martel MC-1210 multi-function calibrator has everything needed for virtually any calibration task.

The Martel MC-1200 multi-function calibrator can be used to measure and source thermocouples, RTDs, current, voltage, and frequency, and source pulse trains. Results are shown of the high contrast ClearBrite graphic display which features a vivid white backlight that makes the display easy to read in all light conditions. Martel's easy to learn yet powerful 3 key menu structure provides a highly intuitive yet powerful operator interface. A communications port compatible with BetaPort–P or Fluke 700 Series pressure modules is provided, as is an isolated milliamp/Volt read-back circuit.

The Martel MC-1210 multi-function calibrator includes a built-in 250Ω resistor for Hart compatibility as well as compatibility with smart transmitters and PLCs. The calibrator also offers full fuseless protection. A serial communications port offers full control with ASCII commands.

Calibrator Interface

Figure 1 shows the location of the input and output connections  on the calibrator, while Table 1 describes their use.
 

Figure 1. Input/Output Terminals

Table 1: Input and Output Terminals
No.	Name	Description
1, 2	Measure Isolated V, mA terminals, switchtest	Input terminals for measuring current, voltage, switchtest, and supplying loop power.
3	TC input/output	Terminal for measuring, or simulating thermocouples. Accepts miniature polarized thermocouple plugs with flat in-line blades spaced 7.9 mm (0.312 in) center to center.
4,5	Source/Measure V,RTD 2W, Hz,	Terminals for sourcing and measuring voltage, frequency, pulse train, and RTDs
6,7	Source/Measure mA terminals, 3W 4W	Terminals for sourcing and measuring current, and performing RTD measurements with 3-wire or 4-wire setups.
8	Pressure module connector	Connects calibrator to a pressure module for pressure measurements.
9	Serial port	Connects calibrator to a PC for remote control.

 
Figure 2 shows the location of the keys on the calibrator. Table 2 lists the functions of each key.

Figure 2. Keypad

Table 2. Key Functions
No.	Name	Function
1	Function Keys F1, F2, F3	Used to operate the menu bar at the bottom of the calibrator display. F1 is used for selecting options in the left box, F2 for the center box, and F3 for the right box.
2	Home	Returns to home menu on the menu bar.
3	Power	Turns calibrator on and off.
4	Cursor Control Key	Left and right arrow keys are used to select which decade to be changed in output value. Up and down arrow keys are used to increase, decrease, or ramp output value.
5	Numeric Keypad	Allows user to enter Numeric values.

Main Display

Figure 3. Display

The display of the calibrator, shown in Figure 3, is divided into three main sections: the upper display, the lower display, and the menu bar.

The upper display is used for measuring dc voltage, dc current with and without loop power, and pressure.

The lower display can be used for both measuring and sourcing.

The menu bar is used to setup both the upper and the lower display to perform the desired function.

Table 3 explains the different parts of the display:

Table 3: Display Functions
No.	Name	Description
1	Primary Parameters	Determine what parameter is going to be measured or sourced. The available options for the upper display are:VOLTS IN, PRESSURE, mA IN, and mA LOOP. The available options for the lower display are:VOLTS, TC (thermocouple), RTD, FREQ (frequency), PULSE, PRESSURE, mA, and mA 2W SIM.
2	Input/Output control	Switches the lower display between input mode (read), and output mode (source).
3	Additional Settings	Available only for TC (thermocouple), and RTD measurements. For TC this setting turns the CJC (Cold Junction Connection) on and off. For RTD measure [RTD IN], this setting sets the number of wires used in the measurement (2-wire, 3-wire, or 4-wire)
4	Span Indicator	Available only for mA and mA LOOP. Shows where in the preset span the measured value falls. Fixed for mA at 4 (0%) and 20 (100%).
5	Units	Shows what unit the measurement or source value is in. Available options are for RTD and TC (°C or °F), and for FREQ and PULSE (CPM, Hz, or KHz)
6	Sensor Types	Allow for measurements to be made for different types of RTDs and TCs. All types are shown in the Specifications. Also, displays the amplitude of the pulse and frequency source, and pressure units.
7	Numeric	Displays Display the numeric values of the signal being measured, or sourced. An “OL” reading indicates an out of range or overload condition.

Menu Bar

The parameters on the display are controlled by the menu bar, which is located at the bottom of the LCD. The function keys (F1, F2, and F3) are used to navigate through all the levels and choices of the menu bar. Refer to the menu tree for a clarification on the layout of all the levels.

The top level of the menu is the home menu. It can be accessed anytime by pressing the HOME key. There are three variations of the home menu: the input home menu, the output home menu, and the pulse home menu.