Are HART transmitters better than 4-20 mA analog ones?

Let me start by saying that a HART transmitter can also provide the 4-20 mA as an old good analog transmitter.

A HART transmitter can directly replace a legacy analog transmitter that you already have installed in the plant.

You can literally remove your analog transmitter from the line and have it replace with a HART transmitter using the same twisted cable.  Yes, it is compatible with your power supply and the twisted pair wiring used before.

There are many advantages that a HART transmitter can bring to your plant.  See some of the presented benefits below and you will be able to understand immediate advantages for your operations.

Some immediate benefits are:

1. We can use remote configuration using a HART interface to communicate with the transmitter.
2. Now users have a digital access to the signal and other internal parameters.
3. Considering that they are microprocessor-based, they can make internal calculations as PID control, Square Root, Totalization…
4. Better and easier for diagnostic and routine maintenance.
5. Your maintenance personal will feel comfortable to deal with a 4-20mA loop.
6. Manufacturers add troubleshooting information.
7. Better integration with a DCS (Distributed Control System)

I don’t know about you, but I can definitely see that they are a better asset to the plant.