AMS Trex Communicator | Emerson Automation Solutions

Emerson Automation Solutions had a challenge. They needed a flexible device that could be used to communicate with a myriad of field devices across all types of environments using all sorts of communication protocols. Operators needed to use it one-handed, wearing gloves, in temperature extremes ranging from the Arctic to the Tropics.

M3 worked with Emerson engineering and manufacturing to create a device that suits the needs of users working in rugged environments. The design highlights a large protective bezel that provides for single-handed operation with an easy to read display. Large hard buttons are used to easily navigate through a menu accessing the desired communication protocols. This solution was grounded in extensive first-hand usability research to optimize both the hardware and software experiences, effectively leapfrogging competitive offerings by consolidating many multi-meter and communications products into a single rugged device. Today, the AMS Trex Communicator stands as one of the cornerstone product offerings in the Automation Solutions portfolio, lowering training barriers and decreasing downtime for industrial customers– all while increasing adoption of the Emerson Process Management portfolio.

Design team: Jayson Simeon, Vincent Lam / Mechanical team: Mark Foohey