Key Parameters and Features
Core Features & Advantages
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Loop Power Without Specialized Tools: The module's standout feature is its Power the Loop functionality. The Device Communicator Plus module includes a built-in HART power supply with an internal 167 Ω resistor, allowing technicians to power and configure a HART device directly from the communicator—even before field wiring or I/O infrastructure is in place. This accelerates commissioning and eliminates the need to locate external power supplies or confirm loop resistance before testing .
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Advanced Loop Diagnostics and Measurement: The Plus module provides current and voltage measurement capabilities with high accuracy (±0.01% + 2 µA at 23°C). Technicians can diagnose 4-20 mA current loops, validate loop properties, and locate wiring problems in the field without carrying separate multimeters .
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Inline Valve Configuration and Testing: The communicator supports ValveLink Mobile for HART and FOUNDATION Fieldbus Fisher FIELDVUE digital valve controllers. Technicians can analyze valve assembly condition, perform valve signatures, and run diagnostic tests without affecting the running process. The Plus module can even power the digital valve controller directly from ValveLink Mobile .
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Intrinsically Safe for Hazardous Areas: With ATEX, CSA, and IECEx intrinsic safety certifications (including FISCO), the communicator can be carried into Zone 1, Zone 2, Class I Division 1, and Division 2 hazardous areas. This eliminates the need to declassify the area or obtain hot work permits for routine device maintenance .
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Automatic Data Synchronization with AMS Device Manager: Field data collected by the Trex communicator automatically synchronizes with AMS Device Manager via Wi-Fi or USB. Every change made in the field is recorded and time-stamped, maintaining data integrity in the plant's asset management database without manual transcription .
Typical Applications
The TREXLHPKLWS3 is widely used for field device commissioning and maintenance across process industries:
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Oil & Gas: HART transmitter commissioning and valve diagnostics on offshore platforms and refineries
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Chemical & Petrochemical: Device configuration and loop troubleshooting in hazardous areas
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Power Generation: Instrument calibration and maintenance in turbine and boiler control loops
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Pharmaceutical: Validation and calibration of critical process instruments in regulated environments
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is the primary function of the TREXLHPKLWS3?
A: It is a handheld HART device communicator with the Plus (L) module, used to commission, configure, and troubleshoot HART field devices. The Plus module adds loop power capability, current/voltage measurement, and advanced diagnostics beyond the basic communicator functionality .
Q2: What does the model number TREXLHPKLWS3 indicate?
A: The breakdown is: TREX = base platform; L = Device Communicator Plus module; H = HART application; P = Li-Ion power module; KL = ATEX/CSA/IECEx IS certifications; W = Wireless (Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, NFC); S3 = Standard Support (3 Years) .
Q3: What is the difference between the Device Communicator (C) and Device Communicator Plus (L) modules?
A: The Device Communicator (C) is the basic module for HART communication on externally powered loops. The Device Communicator Plus (L) adds: loop power capability (built-in HART power supply with 167 Ω resistor), current measurement (0-24 mA, 1 µA resolution), voltage measurement, and advanced loop diagnostics. The Plus module is required for bench configuration without external power and for ValveLink Mobile valve testing .
Q4: Can the TREXLHPKLWS3 power a HART device without an external power supply?
A: Yes. The Plus (L) module includes a built-in HART power supply with an internal 167 Ω resistor. Simply connect the communicator to a HART instrument to power it. This enables device configuration in the field even before power and I/O infrastructure are in place .
Q5: Is this device intrinsically safe for hazardous areas?
A: Yes. The KL designation indicates the device carries ATEX, CSA (US/Canada), and IECEx intrinsic safety certifications (including FISCO as applicable). It can be used in Zone 1, Zone 2, Class I Division 1, and Division 2 hazardous locations .
Q6: Does this model support Foundation Fieldbus?
A: No. The H in the model number indicates HART only. For combined HART and Foundation Fieldbus support, a model with F instead of H is required (e.g., TREX LFPKLWS3) .
Q7: What is included with the communicator?
A: Each TREX includes: AC adapter, USB cable, lead set with connectors, hand strap, quick start guide, and installation DVD. The ValveLink Mobile application is available at no charge once the Trex unit is activated .
Recommended Models & Related Products
The TREXLHPKLWS3 is part of the AMS Trex Device Communicator family. Below are related models and accessories:
Choosing the Right Model
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For HART applications requiring loop power and diagnostics: The TREXLHPKLWS3 is the correct choice with the Plus (L) module for bench configuration, loop diagnostics, and inline valve testing .
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For HART + Foundation Fieldbus applications: Select a model with F instead of H (e.g., TREX LFPKLWS3) .
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For basic HART communication without loop power: The TREXCHPKLWS3 with the basic (C) module offers a lower-cost option for externally powered loops.
