The U-PACE electronics package represents the cutting-edge electronics platform for process measurement instrumentation, offering engineers unprecedented flexibility and functionality in a single device currently available across multiple measurement technologies, including positive displacement, ultrasonic, and magnetic flow meters. This electronics option transforms basic flow measurement into a comprehensive process control solution.
Why the U-PACE Package Stands Out
Traditional flow meter electronics usually offer a single, fixed output configuration: a 4-20 mA signal, a pulse output, etc. The U-PACE system breaks this limitation with two independently configurable outputs, each capable of serving multiple functions. This flexibility means one instrument can:
- Transmit a continuous analog signal to your control system
- Trigger alarms when flow rates exceed thresholds
- Generate precise pulses for totalizing
- Control batch operations
- Communicate via IO-Link for advanced diagnostics and integration into virtually any communication protocol.
Key advantages over conventional electronics:
- Reduced installation costs – One instrument can replace multiple devices
- Enhanced process visibility – Monitor flow while simultaneously tracking totals or triggering alarms
- Future-proof design – Outputs can be reconfigured as process requirements evolve without hardware changes
- Industry 4.0 ready – IO-Link support enables seamless integration with modern automation systems
- Intuitive operation – Color TFT display with optical touch buttons allow for simple menu navigation and setup
Certified to North American Safety Standards for Ordinary Locations
Beyond its functional versatility, the U-PACE electronics platform has now earned cCSAus certification from CSA Group, an OSHA-recognized Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory (NRTL), according to CAN/CSA C22.2 No. 61010-1-12 and UL 61010-1 standards. The "c" prefix and "us" suffix confirm that the electronics have been independently tested and certified to the applicable safety standards of both Canada and the United States, with CSA Group backing that certification through recurring unannounced factory audits to verify ongoing compliance.
For engineers and facility owners, this matters in practical terms: the cCSAus mark satisfies the requirements of local inspectors and authorities having jurisdiction (AHJs), streamlines approval for installations anywhere in North America, and provides documented assurance that the device meets recognized electrical safety standards—removing a common code-compliance and procurement hurdle before a meter ever reaches the process line.
Maximizing Value with Two Configurable Outputs
The dual-output architecture is where U-PACE truly demonstrates its versatility. Each output type is freely selectable and can be independently assigned to the different measured variables of the device. For example, Output 1 could transmit flow rate while Output 2 provides a temperature alarm. Here are practical applications:
Configuration 1: Process Control + Batch Verification
- Output 1: 4-20 mA analog signal scaled to flow range → feeds your PLC for continuous process control
- Output 2: Pulse output representing discrete volume increments → drives an external counter for batch verification
Configuration 2: Real-time Monitoring + Proactive Alarming
- Output 1: 0-10 V analog signal → displays on a local panel meter or SCADA system
- Output 2: Alarm output (high/low threshold or window function) → triggers warning lights, solenoids, or shutdown sequences when flow deviates from setpoint
Configuration 3: Automated Batching System
- Output 1: Control input mode → accepts external start/stop/reset commands from a push button or PLC
- Output 2: Dosing output → controls a valve or pump, switching off when the precise target volume is reached
Configuration 4: Frequency Monitoring + Emergency Shutdown
- Output 1: Frequency output (50-1000 Hz proportional to flow) → ideal for controllers or PLCs that prefer frequency input over analog
- Output 2: Alarm output → immediate shutdown trigger if flow exceeds safe limits
Configuration 5: IO-Link Mode
- Output 1: IO-Link communication delivers flow, volume, temperature (if available), and two status outputs.
- Output 2: Disabled when in IO-Link mode.
IO-Link transmits all process data through output 1 when connected to an IO-Link master. With communication established, output 1 will display “IO-Link” in green. The settings menu and navigation buttons will become locked when connected and all parametrization of the device will take place through the IO-Link interface application.
Understanding IO-Link: Industry 4.0 Communication Made Simple
IO-Link is a standardized communication protocol (IEC 61131-9) that's transforming industrial instrumentation. When you configure Output 1 as IO-Link on a U-PACE equipped meter, you gain:
Simplified Wiring Traditional instrumentation requires separate signal cables for analog outputs, discrete alarm signals, and configuration interfaces. IO-Link enables bidirectional, digital data exchange providing process, diagnostic, and parameter data over a standard three-wire connection, reducing installation time and potential wiring errors.
Remote Configuration & Diagnostics Change measurement parameters, adjust alarm setpoints, or modify filter settings directly from your control system, no need to access the physical device. The U-PACE stores complete configuration data that can be automatically restored if a meter needs replacement.
Enhanced Diagnostics Beyond basic flow measurement, IO-Link provides:
- Real-time device health status
- Operating hours and cycle counts
- Multiple process data points – flowrate, volume, and temperature (on equipped models)
- Warning notifications
Standardization Benefits IO-Link is vendor-neutral, meaning your control system can interface with any IO-Link master using the same protocol. This eliminates proprietary communication headaches and simplifies integration with automation systems.
Batching and Totalizing: Precision Volume Control
Many industrial processes require precise volume delivery: filling containers, dispensing chemicals, or blending ingredients. The U-PACE electronics include dedicated batching functionality that goes beyond simple totalizing.
Grand Totalizer (Accumulated Volume) Tracks total volume throughput over the instrument's lifetime, ideal for maintenance scheduling and process auditing. The counter handles up to 8 digits (depending on firmware version) before overflow alarm.
Resettable Partial Totalizer Tracks volume for a specific batch, shift, or process run. Operators can reset this counter manually via the display, through the control input, or remotely via IO-Link.
Both totalizers can operate in two modes:
- Absolute mode: Volume increases regardless of flow direction
- Bidirectional mode: Volume increases or decreases based on flow direction - critical for fill/drain applications.
Advanced Batching Mode
When batching mode is activated, the U-PACE electronics transform into a dedicated dosing controller:
Key Features:
- Preset target volumes up to 9999.9 units (units selectable: mL, L, m³, gallons, barrels, or custom)
- Correction value parameter compensates for system overrun. If your valve takes 0.5L to close, set a -0.5L correction for accurate delivery
- Timeout monitoring ensures flow starts within a defined window after the start command, preventing operator errors
- Graphical display shows batch progress with a filling animation
- External control input enables fully automated batch operations
Typical Batching Workflow:
- Operator sets target volume in menu (or pre-programmed)
- Start command issued (optical button or control input pulse)
- Output 2 switches to HIGH, opening valve/starting pump
- Partial totalizer counts down from target to zero
- When target reached, Output 2 switches to LOW, stopping the process
- Operator or control system issues reset command to prepare for next batch
This integrated approach eliminates the need for external batch controllers, reducing system complexity and potential failure points.
Pulse Output: When and Why to Use It
A pulse output generates a discrete signal (voltage pulse) each time a specific volume of fluid passes through the meter. This is fundamentally different from an analog output.
When to Choose Pulse Output:
External Totalizing Systems If you're integrating with an existing batch controller, filling system, or distributed control system (DCS) designed around pulse counting, the pulse output ensures compatibility.
High-Resolution Volume Tracking Configure the pulse volume (the amount of fluid per pulse) to match your precision requirements.
Configuration Considerations: The U-PACE system allows you to set:
- Pulse volume: The amount of fluid that triggers one pulse
- Pulse width: Duration of the HIGH signal (1 to 20,000 ms)
Important: To prevent pulse overrun, proper pulse width and pulse volume values must be set.
The theoretical limit for the Pulse Width:
The theoretical limit for the Pulse Volume:
Where the time constant is used to convert the flowrate into volume per milliseconds (ms).
The operating manual provides additional information and calculation examples to help you optimize settings for your application.
Analog Output Options
Analog outputs remain the workhorse of process control, providing a continuous signal proportional to the measured flow rate (or temperature on equipped models).
4-20 mA Current Loop (Most Common)
- Industry standard for process instrumentation
- Inherently noise-resistant where the current signal is not impacted by voltage drops
- "Live zero" at 4 mA allows detection of broken wires or power failures
- Works with max 500 Ω load
- NAMUR NE43 compliance option extends the signal to 3.8-22 mA, where:
- 3.6 mA indicates device/process fault
- 3.8-4.0 mA indicates under-range (flow below measuring range)
- 4.0-20.0 mA represents normal operation (scalable range)
- 20.0-20.5 mA indicates over-range (flow above configured maximum)
- 22 mA indicates measuring range overflow
0-10 V and 2-10 V Voltage Outputs
- Common in building automation and HVAC systems
- Simpler wiring for local display panels
- 2-10 V provides a "live zero" similar to 4-20 mA
- NAMUR NE43 option available
Scaling Flexibility Each analog output can be scaled to any portion of the measuring range. Example: If your flow meter's full scale is 100 GPM but your process normally operates between 20-80 GPM, configure:
- Value at 4 mA = 20 GPM
- Value at 20 mA = 80 GPM
This maximizes signal resolution where you need it most. The U-PACE will still measure flows outside this range, but the analog signal will indicate under-range or over-range conditions.
Frequency Output: Proportional Digital Signal
Frequency output provides an alternative to analog signaling where the output frequency is proportional to flow rate. The U-PACE generates a square wave (50% duty cycle) with the maximum frequency scalable from 50 to 1000 Hz.
When to Use Frequency Output:
- Your receiving device (PLC, controller) has frequency input cards
- Legacy systems designed around frequency inputs
Key Difference from Pulse Output: While pulse output generates discrete counts based on volume, frequency output provides continuous rate information. Think of it as a digital equivalent to 4-20 mA where frequency represents flow rate, not cumulative volume.
Configuration: Set two parameters:
- Value at 0 Hz: The flow rate that generates minimum frequency
- Value at maximum Hz: The flow rate that generates your configured maximum frequency (50-1000 Hz)
Advanced Features for Challenging Applications and Industrial Environments
Signal Filtering
Process flows often fluctuate due to pump pulsations, valve cycling, or turbulence. The U-PACE offers three filter types to stabilize readings:
- Standard filter (factory setting): Low filtering with active step detector provides smoothing while maintaining fast response to genuine flow changes
- IIR (Infinite Impulse Response): Simple digital filter for moderate fluctuations
- Exponential smoothing: Aggressive filtering for highly pulsating flows (e.g., peristaltic pumps)
Filters apply to analog, frequency, and alarm outputs but not pulse outputs, ensuring volume accuracy is never compromised.
Low Flow Cutoff (Separation)
Set a threshold below which the meter reports zero flow. This prevents nuisance signals from mechanical drift or electronic noise at no-flow conditions. Critical for alarm functions that could false-trigger on minimal flow.
Bi-directional Measurement
On capable flow meters, the U-PACE automatically detects flow direction. Totalizers can operate in:
- Absolute mode: Count volume regardless of direction (useful for pump cycling)
- Bidirectional mode: Add volume for forward flow, subtract for reverse flow (essential for tank fill/drain monitoring)
Direction indication appears on the display with +/− symbols.
User Interface: Designed for Industrial Environments
The U-PACE display is engineered for harsh conditions where mechanical buttons fail:
Optical Touch Buttons Four optical sensors detect finger or gloved hand proximity, no physical contact needed. This eliminates wear and tear while maintaining IP67 protection ratings. Buttons illuminate blue when active.
Rotatable TFT Display The color display can be software-rotated in 90° increments to accommodate any installation orientation. No need to specify display rotation at order time, change it in the field as needed.
Dual Display Modes
- Single value: Large font for high-visibility monitoring
- Dual value: Simultaneous display of two parameters (e.g., flow + temperature, or flow + totalizer, etc.)
Hot Keys Assign frequently used functions (view MIN/MAX values, reset partial totalizer, view accumulated volume) to the top buttons for instant access without entering menus.
Menu Lock Protect configurations with a password to prevent unauthorized changes in production environments.
Flexibility for Current Needs and Future Growth
The U-PACE electronics package transforms flow meters from single-purpose instruments into versatile process measurement and control devices. Whether you're implementing basic monitoring today with plans for automated batching tomorrow, or you need immediate multi-output functionality, the configurable architecture adapts to your requirements.
Best suited for:
- Applications where process requirements may evolve
- Systems requiring multiple output signals from one measurement point
- Batch/dosing operations needing integrated control
- Industry 4.0 initiatives requiring smart device integration
- Projects where instrument count minimization reduces installation costs
Currently Available on these Kobold Flow Meter Platforms with More in Development:
- DON/DON-H Positive Displacement (Oval Gear) Flow Meters
- DUK Compact Ultrasonic Flow Meters
- MIK/MIM/MIS Inline Magnetic Flow Meters
- PITe Insertion Magnetic Flow Meters
By selecting U-PACE electronics, you are not just buying a flow meter. You're investing in a configurable measurement platform that grows with your process control sophistication.
Need Help Selecting the Right Configuration?
Choosing the optimal flow measurement solution involves balancing measurement technology, process requirements, output configurations, and integration needs. Our in-house engineering team has decades of combined experience matching instrumentation to real-world applications across industries from chemical processing to food and beverage, water treatment to oil and gas.
Whether you're uncertain which flow meter technology best suits your fluid, need guidance on output configuration for a specific control system, or want to discuss how U-PACE electronics can solve a complex measurement challenge, we're here to help. Contact us at info@koboldusa.com or call 412-788-2830 to discuss your application. We'll provide honest recommendations tailored to your exact requirements, not just what's on the shelf.