A lot of calibrations are done in the process industry every day to keep the measurements accurate, keep operations running safely, maintain product quality, and meet compliance standards. While some calibrations happen in workshops or labs, many are done right out in the field, where the instruments are installed.
That’s why portable process calibrators have become essential tools for technicians and engineers working in industries like oil & gas, pharmaceuticals, power, and chemicals. These calibrators come in two main types: multifunction calibrators, which can handle several calibration tasks in one device, and single-function calibrators, which are dedicated to a specific measurement.
Both types have their own advantages and disadvantages, and choosing the right one can have a big impact on how efficiently you work, how much equipment you need to manage, and even your long-term calibration costs.
In this blog, we’ll explore what multifunction and single-function process calibrators are, define each type, and break down their pros and cons. We’ll also share some recommendations to help you make an informed choice based on your specific needs—because in the end, the right solution depends on your unique situation.
If that sounds interesting, please read on!
Table of contents
Choosing the right one for your needs
Multifunction calibrators
What is a multifunction calibrator?
A multifunction calibrator is a tool that combines several quantities—like pressure, temperature, and electrical signals—into one portable device. Instead of carrying separate calibrators for each measurement, a multifunction calibrator can handle them all, sometimes including also digital communication features like HART or Fieldbus. Some multifunction calibrators are also documenting calibrators, which means they can communicate with calibration software and can automatically document calibration results.
Multifunction calibrators are designed for process industries where you might encounter many different instruments during a single day: pressure transmitters, temperature sensors, gauges, indicators, control loops, and more. By packing multiple capabilities into one unit, they help technicians stay productive and minimize the need to haul around a toolbox full of single-purpose devices.
Pros of multifunction calibrators
- Versatility: One device can handle pressure, temperature, electrical signals, and sometimes digital communication—all in a single package.
- Efficiency: Technicians save time by carrying and setting up fewer devices when performing calibrations in the field.
- Simplified equipment management: Fewer devices mean less to keep track of, less to schedule for recalibration, and fewer assets for managers to manage.
- Lower total cost over time: While multifunction calibrators have a higher upfront price, they can reduce long-term costs by replacing several single-function calibrators and cutting recalibration and maintenance expenses.
- Field-ready features: Many multifunction calibrators are rugged, portable, and battery-powered, perfect for in-situ calibrations that keep downtime to a minimum.
Cons of multifunction calibrators
- Higher initial cost: Compared to buying one single-function calibrator, multifunction units require a bigger upfront investment.
- Complexity: More features may mean a steeper learning curve, especially for new technicians unfamiliar with the device’s menus and modes.
- Single point of failure: If your multifunction calibrator is out for recalibration or repair, you temporarily lose the ability to do multiple types of calibrations at once.
Single-function calibrators
What is a single-function calibrator?
A single-function calibrator is a device designed to perform calibration for one (or very few) specific quantity or measurement type, such as pressure, temperature, or electrical signals. These calibrators are dedicated tools optimized for their specialized purpose—like a loop calibrator for 4–20 mA signals, a thermocouple calibrator for temperature sensors, or a pressure calibrator for pressure instruments.
Because they focus on just one measurement area, single-function calibrators are often simple to operate, may be highly accurate in their niche, and ideal when you only need to calibrate one type of instrument. They’re commonly used in calibration labs or by technicians whose work is limited to a specific category of instruments.
Pros of single-function calibrators
- Simplicity: Easy to use, with straightforward menus or controls focused on a single task.
- Specialized accuracy: High performance and accuracy for the specific quantity they’re designed to measure or source.
- Lower upfront cost (if only one type is needed): If your work involves only one measurement type, a single-function calibrator can be more budget-friendly than a multifunction unit.
- No unnecessary features: No need to pay for capabilities you won’t use.
Cons of single-function calibrators
- Limited flexibility: Can only perform one type of calibration, so additional tasks require more devices.
- More devices to carry: Technicians often need to bring several calibrators to cover different instruments, increasing the bulk and complexity of fieldwork.
- Higher cumulative costs: Owning multiple single-function calibrators can become more expensive over time due to the need for separate recalibrations, maintenance, and asset management.
- Inventory challenges: Managing several devices means tracking multiple serial numbers, calibration schedules, and certificates.
Comparison table
To help you quickly see the differences, here’s a side-by-side comparison of multifunction and single-function calibrators:
| Aspect | Multifunction Calibrators | Single-Function Calibrators |
| Versatility | One device covers multiple quantities | Limited to one or very few related quantities |
| Ease of Use | More features can make initial use more complex | Simpler operation for specific tasks |
| Accuracy | High accuracy, but may not match specialized lab equipment | Specialized accuracy optimized for the specific quantity |
| Equipment Needs | Fewer devices to carry and manage | Need multiple devices for different calibration tasks |
| Maintenance | One recalibration schedule for all functions | Multiple recalibrations and certificates to track |
| Cost | Higher upfront, lower long-term if many calibrations required | Lower upfront if only one quantity needed, higher if many |
Choosing the right one for your needs
So, which calibrator should you choose? It really depends on your situation.
If your calibration tasks are highly specialized, like working only on pressure gauges in a lab or a workshop focused on a single instrument type, a high-quality single-function calibrator might be your best choice. It offers focused accuracy, simplicity, and lower upfront costs when you truly only need that one measurement area.
On the other hand, if you regularly encounter different types of instruments, work in the field, or need flexibility to handle unexpected tasks, a multifunction calibrator can make your life much easier. Carrying one device instead of three or four means less gear to lug around, faster setup, and simpler equipment management. Over time, the reduced need for multiple devices and recalibrations can actually lower total costs, even if the multifunction calibrator costs more upfront.
It’s also worth thinking about equipment downtime and scheduling: a multifunction calibrator out for recalibration means you temporarily lose all those functions, so having a backup or staggered calibration plan can help. Alternatively, some companies keep a mix: multifunction calibrators for field use and single-function calibrators as backups or for specialized lab tasks.
Finally, consider your team’s skill level and workflow needs. Multifunction devices have more features, so they may need a bit more training—but once learned, they can simplify and speed up your work dramatically.
The key takeaway? Choose the solution that best fits your range of calibration tasks, work environment, and budget. Taking the time to match your calibrator to your real-world needs will pay off in productivity, accuracy, and peace of mind.
Beamex MC6 family multifunction calibrators
When it comes to multifunction calibrators, the Beamex MC6 family sets the standard for performance, flexibility, and ease of use. Designed for the demanding needs of the process industry, the MC6 combines calibration of pressure, temperature, and electrical signals—all in one rugged, portable device. It also features multichannel data logging, advanced digital communication (HART, Foundation Fieldbus, Profibus PA), and documenting capabilities for seamless integration with calibration management software.
With a Beamex MC6, technicians can dramatically reduce the amount of equipment they need to carry, simplify workflows, and improve both accuracy and efficiency. Instead of managing multiple calibrators and endless accessories, you get a single tool that can handle almost any calibration task—whether you’re working in the field or in a calibration lab.
The MC6 isn’t just about hardware—it’s part of a complete Beamex calibration ecosystem, offering connectivity to calibration management software that automates procedures, stores results, and helps to ensure compliance. That means less paperwork, fewer manual errors, and better traceability for audits.
The Beamex MC6 family includes specialized models to meet different needs:
- MC6: Portable multifunction calibrator, combining calibration of pressure, temperature, electrical signals, and digital communication in a rugged, easy-to-use device.
- MC6-Ex: An intrinsically safe multifunction calibrator, certified for use in hazardous areas where explosive gases might be present—ideal for industries like oil & gas or chemicals.
- MC6-T: A portable multifunction temperature calibrator combined with a built-in temperature dry block, perfect for efficient on-site temperature calibrations .
- MC6-WS: A workshop-based panel-mounted calibration solution designed for lab environments, providing all MC6 capabilities in a bench format with easy connections and an ergonomic design.
What our MC6 family customers say
Here's some comments from MC6 customers:
“Instead of carrying as many as 30 different pieces of equipment in the field, technicians now only need one – the Beamex MC6.”
— Jason DePalma, Supervisor of Engineering Services, Glatt Air Techniques, USA
“Using the Beamex MC6 has allowed us to reduce calibration time by half while improving accuracy and traceability.”
— Rick Campbell, Instrumentation Specialist, Lonza Biologics, USA
“The MC6 is very versatile and intuitive. It has replaced multiple devices we previously carried, and our technicians find it easy to use even in challenging environments.”
— Paul Schneider, Maintenance Supervisor, PBF Energy, USA
“We needed an intrinsically safe calibrator for our refinery, and the MC6-Ex has been perfect. It gives us everything we need for calibrations in hazardous areas.”
— Alex Taylor, Instrumentation Team Lead, Valero Energy, UK
“The MC6-T has transformed how we perform temperature calibrations on-site. We don’t have to carry separate dry blocks and indicators anymore.”
— Jens Hansen, Calibration Engineer, Novo Nordisk, Denmark
"I used to have so much calibration gear that I had to carry a cart in my truck just to haul it around the plant. Workers at the different plants gave me a hard time about it, saying it looked like I was pushing around a food cart. That all changed when I got my MC6. I went from a rolling cart to just a backpack to hold my gear and walk into the plant. My MC6, pressure pump, and laptop for my CMX calibration software all fit easily in the backpack."
— Antonio Vega, TNT Instrumentation Solutions
Want to discuss?
Contact our experts to talk about your calibration needs and learn how a Beamex MC6 multifunction calibrator could be the right fit for you.
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