Cap Analog 421

Overview

Cap Analog 421

For process engineers, automation technicians, and plant operators who need accurate, stable level measurement with integrated control capabilities, the Cap Analog 421 delivers RF capacitance precision and dual relay flexibility in a single, rugged instrument.
Unlike conventional transmitters that require separate controllers or frequent recalibration, the Cap Analog 421 combines continuous analog output (4–20 mA / 0–10 V DC) with independent high and low relay outputs, temperature-stable electronics, and coating-rejection circuitry—ensuring dependable performance even with conductive, viscous, or sticky materials.
Designed for liquids, slurries, and bulk solids, the 421 provides fail-safe control, remote preamplifier capability, and explosion-proof construction, making it ideal for chemical plants, wastewater facilities, food processing, and bulk storage applications where both measurement and alarm control are critical.
Omnitrols 610/710

Features

RF Capacitance Technology (1 MHz Excitation)

High-frequency measurement delivers precise, drift-free performance across conductive and non-conductive materials.

Dual SPDT Relay Outputs

Provides independent control for high/low alarms, pump-up/pump-down operation, or overflow protection—all in one device.

Analog + Relay Combination

Offers both continuous 4–20 mA or 0–10 V output and discrete relay control—reducing the need for separate instruments.

Wide Temperature Range

Independent Zero, Span, and Setpoint Controls

Allows fine-tuned calibration and stable operation with minimal maintenance.

Graphite Displacer Reliability

Fail-Safe Relay Mode (Selectable)

Relays de-energize automatically on fault or power loss for added operational safety.

Coating Rejection (up to 1,000 µmho)

Compensates for buildup or conductive coating on probes, maintaining reliable readings in sticky or viscous media.

Remote Preamp + Long-Distance Capability

Supports up to 1 mile (1.6 km) of cable between probe and electronics for remote or hard-to-access tanks.

Details

Applications

Technical Specifications

Parameter Description
Measurement Technology
RF Capacitance, remote preamplifier with high-frequency excitation (~1 MHz)
Output Signal
4–20 mA DC and 0–10 V DC (standard); optional 20–4 mA or 10–0 V inverted output
Relay Outputs
Dual SPDT (5 A @ 115 VAC, 3 A @ 230 VAC or 26 VDC non-inductive); independent setpoints and adjustable differential
Power Supply
115 VAC (100–130 V) or 230 VAC (200–260 V), 50–60 Hz
Fail-Safe Modes
Selectable High or Low level (relay de-energized above or below setpoint)
Setpoint Range
0.08 in. to 200 ft water equivalent (0.5–30,000 pF adjustable)
Analog Accuracy
±0.1% of setting up to 1,000 pF
Temperature Stability
±0.01%/°F (±0.018%/°C)
Response Time
0.5 sec standard; optional 50 ms–10 sec adjustable delay
Operating Temperature
–40 °F to +160 °F (–40 °C to +71 °C) for preamp and electronics
Cable Length (Probe to Electronics)
Up to 1 mile (1.6 km) using shielded twisted pair
Probe Options
Rigid or flexible probes in 316 SS, Teflon®, or Kynar® insulation
Housing
Explosion-proof cast aluminum, NEMA 4, 5, 7, 9, 12
Enclosure Approvals
NEC Class I, Groups C & D; Class II, Groups E, F, G
Indicators
Red: Level ≥ setpoint; Yellow: Relay energized; Green: Probe/wiring OK
Accessories
AFI-150 / DFI-150 field indicators, remote calibration tools, and mounting kits

Documents and Downloads

Product Flyer

Have a look at the flyer to get all the tech specs and product features. Brochure

User Manual

Read the manual for detailed information and instructions. Manual

Calibrations

Check out a sample cert from our calibration lab. Certificate

Contact Support

If you have a question that we have not covered then just get in touch and we’ll be happy to help.

FAQs

We have tried to answer the most common questions we are asked here.

It combines continuous analog measurement with dual relay control in a single, explosion-proof device—reducing the need for separate instruments.

Yes. Its coating-rejection circuitry compensates for conductive or sticky buildup, ensuring stable measurement accuracy.

Up to 1 mile (1.6 km) using shielded twisted-pair cable, ideal for remote or inaccessible tanks.

The Cap Analog 421 uses a two-piece design with an integral pre-amplifier at the probe head and a separate remote electronics unit. The pre-amplifier conditions the signal for long-distance transmission over a shielded twisted pair cable, allowing the main control unit to be installed up to 1 mile away in a safe, accessible location.

Absolutely. The 421 is rated NEC Class I, Div 1 and Class II, Div 1, with explosion-proof housing and fail-safe relay modes.

Yes. The 421 offers 4–20 mA or 0–10 V DC analog output alongside dual SPDT relays for high/low alarms or pump control.

The dual SPDT relays allow the transmitter to perform basic process control in addition to continuous measurement. For instance, one relay can be set as a high-level alarm (shutdown) and the other as a low-level setpoint (pump-on), consolidating control logic and continuous signal output into a single instrument.

Common applications include chemical processing, wastewater treatment, food and beverage, and bulk storage systems where both measurement and alarm control are required.

No. The transmitter features temperature-stable electronics with a stability rating of 0.01% per °F. This high level of thermal compensation ensures that the analog output remains accurate and consistent, even in extreme outdoor or process temperature variations, minimizing the need for field recalibration.