WF 2144 – USB Programmable Resistor Module
The WF 2144 is a USB 2.0 compatible 4-channel, 16 bit, programmable resistor module.
Each channel is galvanically isolated, making it ideal for sensor simulation.
The 16 bit resolution is non-linear with finer steps at lower resistance values.
It could, for example, be used to emulate a PT100 sensor with a range of 40–180Ω/-150–+200°C with a resolution of 0.1°C.
An open API using the Modbus standard with Python and LabVIEW drivers makes it compatible with most computer architectures and operating systems.
$ 1,970.00
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Downloads & Information
Downloads
Data sheet
User Manual
Instrument Panel
AC0309-003 WF2144_InstrumentPanel.zip
LabVIEW Driver
Python Driver
Additional Downloads
Multiple WF 2144 USB Programmable Resistor Modules
Simulation of a temp sensor
AB0005-006 AN1 Simulation of a temp sensor.pdf.
Made for WF 3144, but also relevant for WF 2144.
Enhanced Mode
AB0005-017 WP1 WF 3144 Enhanced Mode.pdf.
Made for WF 3144, but also relevant for WF 2144.
PT100 Resistance Thermometer Simulator
AB0005-085 AN9 PT100 Simulator.pdf | Example files referenced in the document can be found HERE.
Made for WF 3144, but also relevant for WF 2144.
NTC Thermistor Simulator
AB0005-087 AN10 Thermistor Simulator.pdf | Example files referenced in the document can be found HERE.Â
Made for WF 3144, but also relevant for WF 2144.
Specifications
– Max Voltage; 150 V
– Max Power; 100 mW/channel
– Range; 16 Ω–160 kΩ
– Update Rate; 200 Hz
– Max Error; R < 1 kΩ: 0,1 %
– Max Error; R < 10 kΩ: 1 %
– Max Error; R < 160 kΩ: 10 %
– Enhanced mode: Max Error; 32 Ω < R < 160 kΩ: 0.25 %
Features
– Entirely solid-state simulation
– High resolution with non-linear scaling
– Wide resistance range
– On-board calibration memory
– Open Modbus API
– LabVIEW and Python driver included
– Combines permutations of real resistors to achieve desired value
Application areas
– Pressure sensors, Thermistors, RTDs etc.
– ATE (Automatic Test Equipment)
– HiL testing (Hardware in the Loop)
– Laboratory testing of electronic control units
– Automated calibration and alignment
– Automate manual controls
Shipping information
– Product Net Weight: 0.23 kg
– Country of Origin: Sweden (SE)
– Harmonized System (HS) Code: 853710
– Combined Nomenclature (CN) Code: 853710.91
– TARIC Code: 853710.91.99
Support & FAQ
General information about WF 2144 – USB Programmable Resistor Module
What kind of connector are used for the WF 2144 Programmable Resistor Module?
The WF 2144 and uses a 10-Pos Plug. You should connect a terminal block for 10-Pos Plug to the module. This terminal block is included together with the module when shipped from WireFlow. If you need some extra plugs you should acquire article 1970045 from Phoenix Contact.
Can I use WF 2144 for RTD Simulation?
Yes, both WF 2144 and WF 3144 kan be used for RTD Simulation. Read more about how to simulate a temperature sensor using a programmable resistor.
Can I use multiple WF 2144 Programmable Resistor Module on the same PC?
Yes, multiple WF 2144 devices can be used on the same PC. For more details, please refer to AB0005-140 AN21 Multiple WF 2144 USB Programmable Resistor Modules.
Can C# be used to control the WF 2144 Programmable Resistor Module?
Yes, C# can be used to control the WF 2144. The device supports an open and documented Modbus RTU interface over a virtual COM port (e.g., via USB-to-serial adapter). This means you can communicate with it from any programming language that supports serial communication, including C#, C++, Java, and Rust.
To interact with the WF 2144, use Modbus RTU with the Modbus Serial Line Protocol. In C#, you can use a library such as NModbus4 to simplify communication.
The Modbus register map and protocol details are available in the user manual.
How can I simulate an NTC temperature sensor or an PT100 in my lab?
The WF 2144 allows you to simulate NTC temperature sensors and commonly used PT100 sensors by programming the module to the resistance values corresponding to the desired temperature points. This makes it easy to test and calibrate temperature measurement systems or controllers without needing real sensors connected.
How is the WF 2144 Programmable Resistor Module designed?
The module uses an array of real resistors switched with solid state relays to the desired resistance.
Can I use the WF 2144 to simulate RTD or temperature sensors?
Yes. The WF 2144 USB Programmable Resistor Module is commonly used for RTD simulation and general temperature sensor simulation. By adjusting the resistance values precisely, you can emulate PT100, PT1000, or NTC thermistors in your test setup. This allows engineers to validate instrumentation and control systems without connecting actual temperature sensors.
Can I use the WF 2144 Programmable Resistor Module without programming?
Yes. You can use the WF 2144 Instrument Panel (AC0309) software, a lightweight application that allows you to easily control and adjust the resistance of the four programmable resistors inside the WF 2144—no coding required.
