This is Raj,

What is the difference between HART Analog input module and Analog Input module.

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Split from Reading 4-20mA HART to normal ANALOG INPUT module.

Hi,

Please review the following section of the ET200M HART modules manual to learn the meaning of HART functionality and its benefits or particularities:

Introduction to HART

Typically, analog inputs that are HART-enabled are used for one of two purposes

- acting as a HART master to get any of the four standard HART variables values, which are then tagged and available tagged data

- providing pass-through functionality for asset management software that is used to configure field instruments (via the analog input wiring) or used for the diagnostics available through HART to troubleshoot or perform preventive/predictive maintenance functions for field instruments.  In the Siemens world, PDM is asset management software.

HART-enabled AI cards always cost a premium and are not used unless the task at hand is one of the purposes, above.

A HART enabled AI card is NOT needed to use HART configurator with a field instrument.  

HART configurators are devices like a Rosemount 475, a Meriam 5150, Siemens PDM software on a Windows laptop with a USB/HART modem or Pactware software on a PC with a USB/HART modem.  

HART configurators talk to the field instrument over existing wires, and generally function OK as long as the loop resistance is 250 Ohms or greater (analog input dropping resistor typically provides the loop resistance).