Palmer Wahl P32 Handheld Process Signal Calibrator

A handheld process signal calibrator for 4-20 mA and voltage loops

The Palmer Wahl P32 is a handheld process signal calibrator that measures or generates process current and voltage. The datasheet gives a reading accuracy of 150 ppm (0.015 percent of reading) and describes it as designed to make maintenance on sensors and transmitters using signals such as 4-20 mA or 0-10 V easier. It can simulate ramps, steps and fixed values to check process transmitters, panel meters and recorders.

The P32 is supplied with four alkaline AA batteries, a protection sheath, two cables with crocodile clips, a carrying strap, a user manual and a factory test report; a battery charger option allows rechargeable Ni-MH cells. A certificate of conformance lists the data points where the unit was tested.

Features

• Accuracy of 0.015 percent of reading with adjustable resolution down to 1 mV and 1 uA, with values displayed in A, mV and percent.
• Low temperature coefficient: below 15 ppm per C on voltage and below 20 ppm per C on current.
• Active or passive loop power supply, 24 V plus or minus 10 percent, and measurements with a hold function.
• Simulation of simple and cyclical ramps (dwell, rise, fall, stabilization and delay times from 1 to 3,600 s), pre-programmed steps and synthesizer values.
• Scaling in measurement and simulation with up to 10 segments, and a square root function for differential pressure transmitters.
• Non-disturbing digital transmission resistance for measuring the output of HART transmitters; display of minimum, maximum, average and number of measurements.
• 160 x 160 pixel graphic backlit display showing a table of values or a trend curve; USB port.

P32 specifications

Pre-programmed steps and tests

The datasheet lists preset step emission for linear and quadratic signals and a valve test sequence. In percent of span:

A continuity test and linearity tests on linear or quadratic signals are also provided.

Selection and installation

• Choose the P32 for loop and signal work only; it does not source or measure temperature sensors, so a multifunction model such as the C150 is the datasheet route for RTD and thermocouple work.
• Use the active loop supply to power a transmitter on the bench, and the passive mode when a plant supply drives the loop.
• Set scaling so the display reads in engineering units, and recheck the loop with the preset steps.
• Keep the protection sheath fitted in the field; the instrument is IP54, not immersion rated.
• Order the optional charger and ask for the full accessory list when needed.
• Remember the datasheet quotes accuracy as percent of reading plus a fixed offset, so the fixed 2 mV or 2 uA term matters most at the low end of a range.

Applications in Oman and the GCC

Instrument technicians use a handheld loop calibrator at transmitters, control valve positioners, panel meters and chart recorders across oil and gas, water, power and process plants. The 4-20 mA valve test steps and the 24 V loop supply cover typical field checks without a separate power supply, and the operating range to 55 C suits hot sites if kept out of direct sun.

Selection and installation notes

Calibration and test instruments should be set up before they are relied on. Check the ranges and sockets against the devices you will test, use leads and probes in good condition, let the instrument warm up and stabilise, keep the battery charged and enter the sensor type and scaling correctly before recording a result. Keep the calibration certificate on file and plan the re-calibration interval according to your quality system.

Information needed for a quotation

Send the full model code, the quantity, the delivery location in Oman or the GCC, the intended use and any accessories needed, so that the complete package can be quoted together.

Documents and supply information

The manufacturer data sheet is attached to this page and should be read together with the project specification and the site risk assessment before a purchase is confirmed. Ratings, standards and dimensions are quoted as printed on that sheet. Lead time, stock position and certificates available with the shipment are confirmed in the quotation, and we supply to Oman and the wider GCC region for industrial, utility and building services projects.

Related items and documents

See more portable test and measurement instruments and test instruments in our range. The datasheet is attached; Seven Star LLC can quote the P32 with accessories.

Related Palmer Wahl products: Palmer Wahl TC622A Pocket RTD Calibrator, Palmer Wahl C150 Documenting Multifunction Calibrator, Palmer Wahl HSICBB-P Portable Calibration Black Body and Palmer Wahl DHS520L Heat Spy High Temperature IR Thermometer.