Flow Computer non based on PC 3

[Okpower]

Hello:
I am looking for information about the differences between a flow computer based on PC and a flow computer non based on PC. The answer seems to be clear, but I would like to have more opinions about advantages and disadvantages.
Thanks in advance

 

[Ashereng]

When you say PC, do you mean a typical office computer?

A flow computer, like the Fisher FloBoss 504 is a dedicated flow computer. It comes pre-programmed with pretty much everything, and you just need to configure it. It is robust, designed to work in the field and has all the certification.

A PC flow computer is typically located in a building. The instruments need to be wired back to the building. There is probably more costs with the PC solution, unless the infrastructure is already in place.

Can you be a bit more clear, and describe more what type of information you are looking for?

"Do not worry about your problems with mathematics, I assure you mine are far greater."
Albert Einstein
Have you read FAQ731-376 to make the best use of Eng-Tips Forums?

 

[Okpower]

Thanks Ashereng:
My question is related with a new installation in my work. It is being installed 3 Flow computers but the vendors say that it is needed 3 laptops or desktops computers. Why it is needed? Is not enough the flow computer itself?

 

[JLSeagull]

Adding to Ashereng's answer, I don't think that the vendor is refering to the flow computer as in a desktop or laptop; but individual boxes with a microprocessor for the custody transfer calculations. These were analog devices in the 1970's and microprocessors in the 1980's. They were dedicated to the individual flow meter of interest because people were afraid of the man behind the curtain like in the Wizard of Oz. Custody transfer had been done by integrating the paper chart from the mechanical chart recorders. It was a big step to digital information where the data manipulation was not visible.

The vendor's response makes some sense if this is the context.

 

[jmw]

When I started in flow measurement, flow computers were not so called. They were simple electro mechanical devices for flow totalisation and batch control. Simple pulse counters with little or no sophistications. Some, I remember, were built around post office Uniselectors, and dials with stepping motors and relay logic.

I later was much impressed with those wonderful displays with the different digits appearing at different depths within the display.

The first company to introduce micro-processors into flow computers were Solartron; these were their fiscal flow computers for refinery and pipeline applications but soon became used for much more.

The sophistication of the programs was impressive and still is as they become ever more complex.

Flow computers tended to be dedicated single loop systems.
Later they introduced digital coms to communicate with PCs, SCAD systems etc.

They have tended to be rich in dedicated I/O; analogue inputs and outputs, alarm relays, density and viscosity transducer inputs and power supplies, flow meter inputs of various types and so on. Rudimentary data logging and alarm logging came along.

Computers evolved into a supervisory role and data logging role.
Soemwhere in the middle were some pretty neat programs for PCs to run flow programs.

Now we should see further evolutions of flow computers, still single loop or multi-channel (perhaps 4 meter systems say) but with more computer technology such as LCD screens and Windows style environments, user programming capability and expandable I/O etc they are set for far greater flexability.

In other words, we are seeing a rapid blurring of the margins between what is a what and what one should use.
A non-aristolean approach to control devices?

JMW

http://www.ViscoAnalyser.com

 

[Ashereng]

eugeniojbg (Electrical)

Flow computers like the Daniel FloBoss504 handle a single meter run. The FloBossS600 handles up to 6 meter runs.

I am not sure what you are doing. Are you using "flow computers" similar to the FloBoss504/S600? Are you wiring back to a "control system"?

Please give more specific information. You may be using terms that are clear to you, but seem confusing to me.

"Do not worry about your problems with mathematics, I assure you mine are far greater."
Albert Einstein
Have you read FAQ731-376 to make the best use of Eng-Tips Forums?

 

[Okpower]

Ok, Colleagues:
I believe I'm clearer now, with your opinions and additional information from the vendor.
The system which is being installed is a Bristol, in fact this is a Flow computer that can do computational calculus. These computers will measure transfer custody of diluent, gas, and oil. And the laptops just are needed as a HMI (Human Man Interface). Just to print reports, see graphics. Etc.
Thanks a lot

 

[Ashereng]

Yes, Bristol is another manufacture of flow computers, very similar to Daniel's and a score of others.

A laptop is a common tool to print/HMI/interface.

Why did the vendor say you need 3 laptops/computers? I would think that one is all you need.

"Do not worry about your problems with mathematics, I assure you mine are far greater."
Albert Einstein
Have you read FAQ731-376 to make the best use of Eng-Tips Forums?

 

[JLSeagull]

Bristol was recently purchased by Emerson.

 

[Ashereng]

Yes, I also noticed that on Emerson's web site.

Unfortunately, in my old age, it doesn't always register. I guess I still consider Daniels and Bristol different vendors.

There is currently a lot of consolidation in the I&C world.



"Do not worry about your problems with mathematics, I assure you mine are far greater."
Albert Einstein
Have you read FAQ731-376 to make the best use of Eng-Tips Forums?

 

[JimCasey]

Another flow computer is offered by Meriam.

http://www.meriam.com/products/default.asp?m=3&d=63&p=17

 

[JLSeagull]

My client uses Omni. I may have a custody transfer project next year that uses these:

http://www.omniflow.com/