ScreenMaster RVG200
Touchscreen paperless recorder with front/rear USB, Ethernet, RS485, remote web operation, email alarms, custom views, batches, totalisation, maths, logic and secure storage. ABB specifies up to 24 process signals.
ABB ScreenMaster & Commander
Process recorders
Recording means more than displaying a trend. Data integrity, timestamps, audit trails, archiving, cybersecurity, batches and data recovery must be designed alongside the I/O.
ScreenMaster SM500F
Fully field-mounted recorder, IP66/NEMA 4X, for wall, pipe or panel installation. Up to seven analogue/digital inputs, 12 software recording channels, Ethernet/RS485 and secure SD archiving.
When to use it / when to consider alternatives
RVG200 or SM500F?
| Requirement | RVG200 | SM500F |
|---|---|---|
| Number of signals | Up to 24 | Up to 7 inputs / 12 recording channels |
| Touchscreen | Yes | No, front-panel buttons |
| Field installation | IP66 front face when panel-mounted | Entire enclosure IP66/NEMA 4X |
| USB / barcode scanner | Strong capability | Not the main focus |
| Compact field replacement | Possible | Strong capability |
| Remote Ethernet / MODBUS | Yes | Yes |
Paperless best practice
Data integrity and availability
Reliable timestamps are essential for audits and comparison with DCS/PLC data.
Separate operators, maintenance staff and configuration roles. Avoid shared accounts in regulated applications.
SD, USB and internal memory do not replace a defined backup and retention policy.
Recording too slowly misses events; recording too quickly increases storage without adding useful information.
Configure meaningful events and avoid alarm flooding that makes the log difficult to use.
Include Ethernet and web access in the plant cybersecurity policy, with network segmentation and credential management.
Commander
Circular-chart recorders in the ABB portfolio
These instruments are still listed by ABB and should not be classified as obsolete as a whole.
C1300
Advanced circular-chart recorder for up to four process signals, particularly used in water and wastewater. Field-upgradeable and IP66/NEMA 4X.
C1900R / C1900RC
Fully programmable recorders and recorder/controllers. The controller version supports up to two PID loops and four-pen recording, plus profiling, totalisation and maths.
C1950
Recorder/controller for pasteurisation, with versions managing hot/cold product and an event pen for forward flow, diversion and CIP.
C1960
Multi-recipe profile recorder/controller with ramp-soak and time events, used in retorts, autoclaves, food processing, tyre production and other batch or profile applications.
Replacement
Older recorders → ScreenMaster
There is no single universal replacementABB directs users towards SM500F or RVG200 according to channel count, mounting and functions. SM1000/SM2000/SM3000 typically migrate to RVG200; older SR100/MR100/CR100 can often migrate to SM500F or RVG200.
SM1000 → RVG200SM2000 → RVG200SM3000 → RVG200SR100A → RVG200 / SM500FMR100 → SM500FCR100 → SM500F
Request a quotation
Configure your recorder
Technical FAQ
Recorder FAQ
RVG200 or SM500F?
RVG200 suits more channels, a touchscreen and advanced viewing or USB functions. SM500F suits up to seven inputs and direct field installation with an IP66/NEMA 4X enclosure.
How many signals can RVG200 handle?
ABB specifies up to 24 process signals acquired through analogue inputs or digital communication.
Is SM500F suitable for outdoor installation?
Its IP66/NEMA 4X enclosure supports wall, pipe or panel mounting. Check ambient temperature, direct sunlight and site specifications.
What does 21 CFR Part 11 mean?
It is the FDA framework for electronic records and signatures. ABB offers security, audit-trail and storage functions designed for such applications. Final compliance also depends on procedures and system validation.
Why use a recorder if I already have SCADA?
For independent local acquisition, dedicated data integrity, audit trails, batch recording or a recording point separate from the control system.
Are C1900 instruments still available?
ABB continues to list C1300, C1900, C1950 and C1960 in its circular-chart recorder portfolio.
How can an older strip-chart recorder be migrated?
ABB identifies SM500F or RVG200 as replacements for many earlier SR/MR/CR families, depending on channel count and installation environment.