Flow Computer operates in remote locations.

Press Release Summary:




FloBoss(TM) 103 Flow Manager includes solar panel assembly that adjusts 360° in azimuth and 90° in elevation to optimize solar exposure. Internal spread-spectrum radio operates in 900 MHz band and provides 2-way data communication to host computer or to another FloBoss. Pass-through communication permits several units to communicate to host through single radio. FloBoss 103 offers PID loop control, logic and sequencing control, and optional 4 channels of I/O.



Original Press Release:



Emerson Adds Major Performance Enhancements to Class-Leading FloBoss(TM) Flow Computer



Solar panel, integrated radio, and pass-through communications
boost FloBoss(TM) 103 effectiveness in remote locations

MARSHALLTOWN, IA (JULY 30, 2003) - Emerson Process Management has just introduced three new enhancements to its FloBoss(TM) 103 Flow Manager. The FloBoss 103 is designed for chart replacement applications, yet it has the measurement and control power of high-tier flow computers and RTUs. These new features and enhancements further extend the capabilities of the FloBoss 103, and make it even more cost effective when used in remote locations:
o A patented solar panel assembly that attaches to the unit and adjusts 360 degrees in azimuth and 90 degrees in elevation to optimize solar exposure.
o An internal low-power spread-spectrum radio that eliminates the complexity and cost of external radio equipment.
o A pass-through communication technique that permits several FloBoss 103 units to communicate to a host through a single radio, thereby lowering installation cost.

The solar panel assembly uses a small 2-Watt nominal solar panel to maintain battery charge under most conditions. Its unique mounting gives the user exceptional flexibility in positioning the panel for the best solar exposure. The extremely low power consumption of the FloBoss 103, combined with its internal rechargeable batteries, enables up to 25 days of continuous operation without solar energy.

The internal low-power spread-spectrum radio provides two-way data communication to a host computer or to another FloBoss 103. The radio operates in the 900 MHz band for reliable non-licensed communications. The high operating frequency results in an antenna that is very compact and mounts conveniently at the top of the solar panel mast.

Pass-Through communication lets a single FloBoss 103 serve as a host communications port for other FloBoss 103s that are connected to it. Data is passed from unit to unit until it reaches the one connected to the host computer. Data can be routed in either direction using this technique. The benefit of pass-through is that it eliminates the need for each FloBoss unit to have its own radio, thereby reducing installation and maintenance costs.

Emerson's FloBoss 103 eliminates the off-chart gas flow problems that are inherent with chart recorders. The result is less lost and unaccounted gas, which translates into more revenue. Static and differential pressures are measured to a reference accuracy of up to +0.075 percent. Gas flow is calculated for both volume and energy in accordance with the 1992 AGA3 flow and AGA8 super-compressibility equations, and the unit is compliant with API Chapter 21.1.

The FloBoss 103 offers PID loop control, logic and sequencing control, optional four-channels of I/O, and an optional port for RS-232 or dial-up communications. In addition, unlike many competitive units, users have a choice of native ROC or MODBUS protocols for added flexibility when interfacing to a host or network.

About Emerson Process Management
Emerson Process Management (www.emersonprocess.com), an Emerson business, is a leader in helping businesses automate their production, processing and distribution in the oil and gas, chemical, refining, pulp and paper, power, food and beverage, pharmaceutical and other industries. The Flow Computer Division of Emerson (www.emersonprocess.com/flow) is a leader in the design, manufacture, and application of flow computing products. Technology and innovation in flow computing play a key role in Emerson's combining of superior products and technology with industry-specific engineering, consulting, project management and maintenance services. Emerson brands include PlantWeb®, FloBoss(TM), Fisher®, Micro Motion®, Rosemount® DeltaVTM, Ovation, and AMS.

About Emerson
St. Louis-based Emerson (www.gotoemerson.com) is a global leader in bringing technology and engineering together to provide innovative solutions to customers in process control; electronics and telecommunications; industrial automation; heating, ventilating and air conditioning; and appliance and tools. Sales in fiscal 2002 were $13.8 billion.

PlantWeb, FloBoss, Fisher, Micro Motion, Rosemount, and DeltaV are marks Emerson Process Management. Other marks are the property of their respective owners.

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