Best Process Controllers of 2026
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Process controllers are essential tools for maintaining optimal performance and efficiency in industrial processes. These devices are designed to monitor and regulate various parameters such as temperature, pressure, flow rate, and level. They provide real-time data and control signals to ensure that the process operates within specified limits and meets the desired quality standards. Process controllers come in different types and configurations, including single-loop, multi-loop, programmable, and digital models. They are widely used in various industries such as manufacturing, energy, chemical, and food processing. With advanced features such as remote monitoring and data logging, process controllers have become indispensable tools for modern industrial automation.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks
Top 10 Process Controllers
Altek 334A Loop Calibrator
The Altek Loop Calibrator is designed to help you work efficiently with process control loops. It can mimic two-wire transmitters, allowing you to test and troubleshoot your systems without needing the actual device. You can easily measure milliamp outputs to monitor current signals in your loop. The device also powers and measures two-wire transmitters, so you can both supply power and check their operation with one tool. Additionally, it measures DC voltage, helping you verify the power supply in your loop to ensure everything runs smoothly. This makes the Altek Loop Calibrator a handy tool for maintaining and diagnosing process control systems.
PRECISION DIGITAL PD6000 Dual Line Process Meter
The PRECISION DIGITAL PD6000 Meter offers a clear dual-line display with large 0.6-inch digits, making it easy for you to read important process information at a glance. Its compact 1/8 DIN horizontal design fits neatly into your control panel without taking up much space. The built-in 24 VDC power supply conveniently powers your transmitter, simplifying your setup by reducing the need for extra wiring. Additionally, the meter features four relay outputs, allowing you to control various devices or alarms directly from the meter, enhancing your process control capabilities. These features make the PD6000 a practical and efficient choice for managing your process measurements.
BUNN-O-MATIC Liquid Level Control Board 7074-1026
The BUNN Liquid Level Board is a reliable component designed to help you manage liquid levels efficiently. Made by BUNN-O-MATIC, this control board offers high quality, ensuring durability and long-lasting performance. Weighing just 0.41 pounds, it’s lightweight and easy to handle or install. With this board, you can maintain precise control over liquid levels, which is essential for smooth operation in various process control systems. Its dependable design means you can trust it to keep things running without unnecessary interruptions or maintenance.
Ranco ETC-212000-000 Temperature Controller
The Ranco 2 Stage Controller offers reliable temperature management with its two-stage control system, allowing you to maintain precise temperature settings for your process. It operates on a 24-volt single-pole double-throw (SPDT) switch, providing versatile electrical control options that fit various setups. The controller supports a wide temperature range from 30 to 220 degrees Fahrenheit, making it suitable for many applications. With its focus on temperature and process control, this device helps you keep your equipment running efficiently and safely by maintaining the right conditions at all times.
ABB 2TLA020055R0000 Process Controller Accessory
The ABB Process Controller Accessory is a reliable addition to your process control system. Manufactured by ABB, a trusted brand in industrial equipment, this accessory enhances the functionality of your controllers. It carries the UPC code 888614100053, making it easy to identify and purchase. Designed as an accessory, it helps you improve your system's performance and maintain smooth operation. Whether you're upgrading or replacing parts, this ABB accessory ensures compatibility and quality, giving you peace of mind in your process management tasks.
Dwyer Economical Temperature Controller 110V
The Dwyer Temp Controller offers an easy-to-read digital display, allowing you to monitor temperatures clearly without any guesswork. It features an adjustable deadband, giving you control to set how much the temperature can fluctuate before the controller reacts, saving energy and reducing wear on your equipment. With a strong 16 A relay, it can handle devices like compressors up to ¾ horsepower, making it versatile for various applications. You also get password protection and error messages, which help secure your settings and quickly alert you to any issues, ensuring reliable and safe operation.
Red Lion Controls N-Tron C48CS103 Preset Counter
The Red Lion C48 Preset Counter is a versatile industrial counter designed to help you track counts easily with its clear 6-digit display and backlight, making it simple to read in any lighting. It offers flexible programming options, so you can customize it to fit different tasks and applications. With nine different counting modes, you can handle complex counting needs like bidirectional or quadrature counting, which is especially useful for precise measurement tasks. Additionally, it can count on both signal edges, effectively doubling the frequency it can register, giving you more accurate and efficient counting performance.
Solid State Logic UC1 Control Surface
The SSL UC1 Control Surface offers a smooth way to manage your audio plug-ins. When you buy the UC1, you get licenses for powerful SSL plug-ins like 4K B, Channel Strip 2, and Bus Compressor 2, which means you can start working right away. You can control these plug-ins directly from the UC1, saving time and making adjustments easier without using a mouse. The SSL Plug-in Mixer, found in SSL 360°, lets you see and manage all your connected plug-ins in one place, simplifying your workflow. Plus, the UC1’s display shows you exactly which channel strip and compressor you’re working on, so you always know where your focus is.
Honeywell L404F1102 Pressuretrol Controller
The Honeywell Pressuretrol Controller is designed to effectively manage process control applications. As a reliable controller, it helps you maintain optimal pressure levels, ensuring your systems operate efficiently. This model is part of Honeywell's trusted lineup, providing you with peace of mind in your operations. With its user-friendly design, you can easily monitor and adjust settings to suit your specific needs, enhancing overall productivity. Whether you are in industrial or commercial settings, this controller can streamline your processes and improve performance.
ICM Controls Furnace Control Board Module
The ICM Controls Furnace Control Board Module is designed to control various furnace components such as gas valve, ignitor, blower motor, inducer, humidifier, and air cleaner. It features software for enhanced controls operation in counterflow and downflow furnace applications, designed for 100% gas shutoff in case of ignition failure, and is twinning compatible with another ICM282A control. It replaces various Carrier furnace control board models, is compatible with 24 VAC standard thermostat, provides diagnostic LEDs to aid in troubleshooting, and features secondary brownout voltage protection and reverse polarity protection.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What does a process controller do?
A process controller maintains the output of process variables, such as temperature, pressure, flow, or level, within a pre-set range. It uses feedback from sensors to detect any deviation from the desired setpoint and automatically adjusts the output to bring the parameters back within the desired range.
2. What are types of process controllers?
There are three main types of process control: open-loop, closed-loop, and feedback control. Process control strategies include proportional control, integral control, derivative control, PID control, cascade control, feedforward control, and ratio control.
3. What is an example of a process controller?
A common example of a process controller is a thermostat in a room. It consists of a temperature sensor, a heating element, and a cooling element. As the temperature fluctuates, the thermostat turns on either the heating or cooling system to maintain the room at a specific temperature.
4. What are the two commonly used process controllers?
The two commonly used process control systems are single input – single output (SISO) and multiple-input – multiple-output (MIMO). SISO is a simple control system that measures one process parameter, such as temperature, and converts it into an electrical signal for control purposes.
5. What are the three basic types of controllers?
The three basic types of controllers are on-off, proportional, and PID. The choice of controller depends on the specific system being controlled and the desired level of control over the process.
6. What are the three types of PID controllers?
PID controllers can be classified into three types: ON/OFF, proportional, and standard type controllers. The selection of the controller type depends on the control system and the desired regulation method.
During our process controller research, we found 24 process controller products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 5,230 customer reviews through our big data system to write the process controllers list. We found that most customers choose process controllers with an average price of $329.37.
The process controllers are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of process controllers, including Altek, PRECISION DIGITAL, Bunn-O-Matic, Ranco, ABB. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 10 consumers with an average rating of 4.6.
Brian Howie is a content writer and senior industrial designer. After graduation from Westminster College, he has been engaged in product design and manufacturing for 18 years. Brian Howie has always found great pleasure in designing industrial products and sharing his ideas and experience online.