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Chapter 9: Linear Scaling Examples
This chapter provides three linear scaling examples. The examples describe:
•  A pressure sensor generating a 4 to 20mA signal
•  A flow sensor generating a 0 to 5V signal
•  A pulse encoder generating 900 pulses per inch of movement
Example 1: A 4-to-20mA Sensor
Situation
A pressure sensor that generates a 4 to 20mA signal is connected to the controller. The 
specifications of the sensor state it generates 4mA at 0.0 pounds per square inch (PSI) and 20mA  
at 50.0 PSI.
Setup
The sensor is connected to a loop input set up with a resistorscaling network producing 60mV at  
20mA.
The INPUT TYPE for the loop is set to LINEAR. The sensor measures PSI in tenths, so the DISP 
FORMAT is set to -999.9 to 3000.0.
Table 9.1 — Input Readings
PROCESS VARIABLE 
DISPLAYED
SENSOR INPUT
READING, PERCENT OF FULL SCALE 
(%FS)
50.0 PSI 20mA 100%FS
0.0 PSI 4mA 100% x (4mA/20mA) = 20%FS
The scaling values setup in the SETUP LOOP INPUT menu are shown in Table 9.2.
Table 9.2 — Scaling Values
PARAMETER PROMPT VALUE
High Process Variable
HIGH PV
50.0 PSI
High Sensor Reading
HIGH RDG
100.0%FS
Low Process Variable
LO PV
0.0 PSI
Low Sensor Reading
LO RDG
20.0%FS