What is a Temperature Transmitter?

A Temperature Transmitter is a device that converts the signal from a temperature sensor (such as a Thermocouple, RTD, or PT100) into a standard analog output signal, typically 4–20 mA.

The transmitter processes the input from the connected temperature sensor and transmits a corresponding current signal based on the measured temperature. The output range (4–20 mA) represents the full scale of the sensor’s temperature range, which can be configured as per the required measurement range. And this signal connected PID controller, PLC & DCS.

Key Functions of a Temperature Transmitter

1. Signal Conversion and Amplification

The Temperature Transmitter converts the signal from a temperature sensor (e.g., Thermocouple, RTD, PT100) into a standard output signal such as 4–20 mA, 0–10 V, or digital (HART/Modbus) formats. It also amplifies the low-level sensor signal to ensure accurate and stable transmission over long distances.

2. Diagnostics

Modern Temperature Transmitters include built-in diagnostic features that can detect open or short circuits, calibration errors, and other faults. They also provide status or alarm indications and maintenance alerts, helping ensure reliable system operation and reducing downtime.

3. Monitoring and Configuration

Some Temperature Transmitters come with a local display for real-time temperature indication. Users can easily configure parameters such as measuring range, input type, and engineering units.

The transmitter output is directly connected to PLC, DCS systems, where the measured temperature is displayed, recorded, and used for process control using SCADA or HMI.

How a Temperature Transmitter Works

A temperature transmitter measures temperature using a temperature sensor such as a RTD (e.g., PT100) or a thermocouple.

The sensor detects (senses) the temperature and converts it into a small electrical signal.

The transmitter then receives this signal, processes it, and converts it into a standardized output  typically a 4–20 mA current signal or a digital signal (like HART or Modbus).

This standardized signal is stronger, less affected by noise, and can be transmitted over long distances to control systems such as PLCs, DCS, or indicators.

Temperature Transmitter Top International Manufacturers

1. Emerson 

Robust diagnostics (sensor health, wiring checks), field-mount / head-mount / rail-mount options.

2. Siemens

SITRANS series transmitters with HART/PROFIBUS communication.

3. Yokogawa

Long experience in process industries; rugged designs for harsh conditions, YTA series transmitters are widely used in process industries.

4. Honeywell

STT series transmitters, reliable for industrial automation.

5. Endress+Hauser (E+H)

Wide range of housings (head, panel, field), supports hazardous-area approvals, modern features like Bluetooth setup.

6. ABB

TTH and TTF series of transmitters.

7. WIKA

analog and digital temperature transmitters.

8. Omega Engineering

Specializes in thermocouples, RTDs, and transmitters for laboratory and process use.

Popular Indian Manufacturers

1. Masibus

Cost-effective transmitters and signal conditioners.

2. Radix 

Temperature transmitters, sensors, and indicators.

3. Tempsens Instruments

Manufactures thermocouples, RTDs, and transmitters.

4. Yudian India (Universal Controllers Pvt. Ltd.)

Offers programmable transmitters and controllers.

5. PR Electronics India

Provides signal conditioners and transmitters for automation.


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