Introduction to the 3500/61-02-01 Temperature Monitor
When reliable temperature monitoring is critical, the 3500/61-02-01 from Bently Nevada delivers accurate readings for rotating machinery and industrial processes. This Temperature Monitor with Recorder Outputs is designed for continuous operation in demanding environments, providing real-time data to help prevent overheating and equipment failure.
Part of the Bently Nevada 3500 series, the 3500/61-02-01 accepts signals from up to six RTD or thermocouple transducers. Its non-isolated I/O module configuration (option 02) and CSA/NRTL/C (Class 1, Div 2) agency approval make it suitable for hazardous areas where safety and reliability are paramount.

Key Features and Technical Specifications
The 3500/61-02-01 offers a range of features that ensure accurate temperature measurement and seamless integration into your monitoring system.
- Inputs: Accepts 1 to 6 RTD or TC transducer signals.
- Input Impedance: 10 MΩ for each lead input.
- Power Consumption: Nominal 9 watts (3500/61).
- Recorder Outputs: +4 to +20 mA, proportional to monitor full-scale, with individual values per channel.
- Voltage Compliance: 0 to +12 Vdc range across load, load resistance 0 to 600 Ω.
- Resolution: 0.3662 µA per bit, ±0.15% error at room temperature, ±0.4% over temperature range.
- RTD Current Source: 925 ±15 µA @ 25°C per transducer.
- System Isolation: 500 Vdc (isolated I/O module).
- Channel-to-Channel Isolation: 250 Vdc.
These specifications ensure the 3500/61-02-01 provides stable and accurate temperature readings, even in electrically noisy environments. The isolated I/O module design helps protect the monitor from fault conditions, while the recorder outputs allow direct connection to external recording or control systems.
Supported Transducer Types
The 3500/61-02-01 supports a variety of RTD and thermocouple types, giving you flexibility in sensor selection.
Thermocouples (TCs)
- Type E: -100 °C to +1000 °C (-148 °F to +1832 °F)
- Type J: -18 °C to +760 °C (0 °F to +1400 °F)
- Type K: -18 °C to +1370 °C (0 °F to +2498 °F)
- Type T: -160 °C to +400 °C (-256 °F to +752 °F)
RTDs
- 100 Ω Platinum (alpha = 0.00385): -200 °C to +850 °C (-328 °F to +1562 °F)
- 100 Ω Platinum (alpha = 0.00392): -200 °C to +700 °C (-328 °F to +1292 °F)
- 120 Ω Nickel: -80 °C to +260 °C (-112 °F to +500 °F)
- 10 Ω Copper: -100 °C to +260 °C (-148 °F to +500 °F)
Platinum RTDs with 0.00385 alpha are the worldwide industrial standard and are recommended for most applications. The monitor's input impedance of 10 MΩ ensures minimal loading on the transducer signal.

Applications and Use Cases
The 3500/61-02-01 is ideal for monitoring bearing temperatures, motor windings, and process temperatures in industries such as power generation, oil and gas, and manufacturing. Its ability to handle multiple transducer types makes it a versatile choice for retrofit and new installations.
For example, in a steam turbine application, the monitor can track bearing temperatures using RTDs, while thermocouples monitor exhaust gas temperatures. The recorder outputs provide a continuous signal to a DCS or chart recorder, enabling trend analysis and early warning of abnormal conditions.
Installation and Setup
Proper installation is essential for accurate temperature monitoring. The 3500/61-02-01 is designed to mount in a standard 3500 rack, and the non-isolated I/O module (option 02) uses external terminations for field wiring.
When wiring, ensure that RTD leads are connected correctly for 3-wire or 4-wire configurations. For thermocouples, use the appropriate extension wire and maintain proper polarity. The monitor's input impedance of 10 MΩ minimizes signal degradation, but it is still important to keep lead lengths as short as practical and route wiring away from high-voltage sources.
After installation, verify that the OK LED is lit, indicating proper operation. The TX/RX LED should blink to show communication with other modules in the rack.
Maintenance and Reliability
Routine maintenance of the 3500/61-02-01 is straightforward. Periodically inspect the module for dust accumulation or loose connections. Ensure that the rack's cooling fans are operational and that ambient temperature remains within the specified range.
The monitor's accuracy of ±3 °C at 25 °C (for most configurations) ensures reliable performance over time. The recorder outputs are short-circuit protected, so accidental shorts will not affect monitor operation.
For long-term reliability, follow the manufacturer's guidelines for periodic calibration and testing. If the module is used in a safety-critical application, verify its operation according to your plant's procedures.
Comparison with Similar Temperature Monitors
When compared to other temperature monitors in the 3500 series, the 3500/61-02-01 offers a balanced set of features:
- 3500/60: Similar functionality but lower power consumption (7 watts vs. 9 watts).
- 3500/61 (isolated I/O): Provides 500 Vdc system isolation and 250 Vdc channel-to-channel isolation, suitable for applications requiring electrical isolation.
- 3500/61-02-01 (non-isolated): Offers a cost-effective solution for applications where isolation is not critical, while still providing accurate temperature measurement and recorder outputs.
This comparison helps engineers select the right module for their specific needs.
Compatibility and Integration
The 3500/61-02-01 is designed to work within the Bently Nevada 3500 monitoring system. It communicates with other modules in the rack via the internal communication bus, as indicated by the TX/RX LED.
For integration with external systems, the recorder outputs (+4 to +20 mA) can be connected to PLCs, DCSs, or standalone recorders. The voltage compliance of 0 to +12 Vdc and load resistance of 0 to 600 Ω ensure compatibility with most input devices.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If the 3500/61-02-01 is not functioning correctly, consider these common issues:
- OK LED off: Check power supply and rack seating.
- TX/RX LED not blinking: Verify communication with other modules.
- Inaccurate readings: Check transducer wiring and configuration.
- Recorder output out of range: Verify load resistance and voltage compliance.
If problems persist, consult the official Bently Nevada documentation or contact AutoDCSTech for support.
Product Support and Availability
The 3500/61-02-01 is available from AutoDCSTech. Please contact our sales team for current pricing and lead times. We are here to help you with your industrial automation needs.
Availability & Condition at AutoDCSTech
| Part Number | 3500/61-02-01 |
|---|---|
| Availability | In Stock |
| Condition | New |
| Warranty | One Year |
| Origin | US |
