Honeywell DC2800 and DC2900 Digital Temperature Control
Model Selection Guide
In this guide, we will help you to choose the right features for your plant or facility, down to the very last digit of the part number.
The Honeywell DC2800 and DC2900 digital temperature controllers are advanced process control instruments designed to deliver reliable and precise performance in demanding industrial environments. As part of Honeywell’s well-regarded DCP line, these compact controllers are ideal for applications that require tight control over temperature, pressure, or other process variables. Whether used in manufacturing, packaging, thermal processing, or environmental chambers, the DC2800 and DC2900 series offer powerful capabilities in a user-friendly format.
The DC2800 provides dual-loop control, flexible input options, and a clear, high-visibility display—making it suitable for both simple and moderately complex process control tasks. It features a robust control algorithm, universal input compatibility, and Modbus communication, allowing seamless integration into existing systems. The DC2900 builds on this platform with expanded capabilities, offering up to 8 digital inputs and outputs, as well as optional Ethernet and RS-485 communication ports for enhanced connectivity.
Both controllers are DIN panel-mounted and designed for long-term reliability in continuous use scenarios. Engineers and technicians value these units for their intuitive configuration, onboard diagnostics, and versatility across various industrial sectors. If your application demands accurate process stability with the flexibility to scale, the Honeywell DC2800 and DC2900 series provide the performance and dependability expected from a trusted name in industrial automation.
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Model Selection Guide
Honeywell breaks the part number down into the main Series Description, followed by six main options sections delineated by a dash.
The DC2800 is for a 100-240 VAC Power Supply, and the DC2900 for use with 24 V AC/DC. The 100-240 VAC is more popular for applications inside the USA.
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TABLE 1 – Output and Alarms
| Output #1 | |
|---|---|
| Code | Description |
| C = Current Output (4–20 mA or 0–20 mA) | Suitable for proportional control applications. Can be configured for direct or reverse action. Offers high-resolution analog control. |
| E = Electromechanical Relay (EM Relay) | Single-pole, double-throw (SPDT) relay contacts. Rated for 5 A resistive load at 125/250 VAC or 30 VDC. Ideal for on/off control of external devices. |
| T = Open Collector Output | Provides a transistor output capable of switching up to 20 mA at 24 VDC. Suitable for driving external devices like solid-state relays. Not isolated from the second current output. |
| R = Dual Electromechanical Relay | Two single-pole, single-throw (SPST) relays. Each rated for 2 A resistive load at 125/250 VAC or 30 VDC. Useful for applications requiring multiple relay outputs. |
| Output #2 | |
|---|---|
| Code | Description |
| B = Alarm Relays | Up to two SPDT electromechanical relays available. Each alarm can monitor various conditions such as: Process Variable (PV), Deviation, Output, Manual Mode Activation, PV Rate of Change, Loop Break Detection, and Diagnostic Alarms. Each alarm can be set as high or low. Alarms can be latching or non-latching. |
TABLE II – Communications and Software
| Communications Options | |
|---|---|
| Code | Description |
| 0 = None | No communication capabilities included. Straight-forward. |
| 2 = RS-485 Modbus RTU (Optional) | Enables serial communication with PLCs or host systems. Selectable baud rates: 4800, 9600, 19,200, or 38,400. Supports floating point or integer data formats. |
| 3 = 10/100M Base-T Ethernet (Optional) | Provides Ethernet connectivity using Modbus TCP/IP protocol. Allows integration into Ethernet networks for remote monitoring and control. |
| Software Features | |
|---|---|
| Code | Description |
| L = Limit Controller | Configured to provide safety shutdown on process deviation. One loop with no PID control. Used for temperature limiting or safety interlock applications. |
| S = Standard Software | Single PID loop control. Ideal for basic process control tasks. Includes autotuning and basic alarming features. |
| D = Dual Loop | Two independent PID loops in a single controller. Can be used for cascade, ratio, or duplex control strategies. Ideal for processes requiring two coordinated control outputs. |
| F = Standard Software with Setpoint Programming | Includes all standard features plus profile programming. Supports up to 4 programs with 16 segments each. Designed for applications like batch processing, ramp/soak temperature control. |
Table III – Input 1 and Input 2
| Input 1 and Input 2 | |
|---|---|
| Input Type | Description |
| Thermocouple (TC) | Supports various TC types for temperature measurement. |
| Resistance Temperature Detector (RTD) | Accepts RTD inputs for precise temperature sensing. |
| Millivolt (mV) | Suitable for low-voltage signal inputs. |
| Voltage Inputs | 0–5 V, 1–5 V, and 0–10 V ranges for standard voltage signals. |
| Current Inputs | 0–20 mA and 4–20 mA ranges for current loop signals. |
| Slidewire Input | For position proportional control applications. |
| Carbon, Oxygen, or Dewpoint Sensors | Specialized inputs for specific process measurements. |
Table IV – Approval and Tag Options
| Approval Options | |
|---|---|
| Option | Description |
| None | Standard model with no special approvals. Suitable for general-purpose industrial use. |
| UL/CSA/CE | Complies with UL (Underwriters Laboratories), CSA (Canadian Standards Association), and CE (European Conformity) standards. Ensures global safety and compliance for electrical equipment. |
| FM (Factory Mutual) | Certified for use in hazardous locations by Factory Mutual. Ideal for installations requiring flameproof or intrinsically safe control equipment. |
| Tag Options | |
|---|---|
| Option | Description |
| None | No custom tag provided with the unit. |
| Stainless Steel Tag | Durable laser-engraved stainless steel nameplate. Custom text available for equipment ID, location, or user-defined labeling. Attached directly to the controller for permanent reference. |
TCI Supply will always ship your product with the manual in English, unless otherwise requested.
Our standard warranty is one year.
Troubleshooting the Honeywell DC2800 and DC2900 Digital Temperature Controllers
Troubleshooting the Honeywell DC2800 and DC2900 Universal Digital Controllers involves a systematic approach to identifying and resolving common configuration and hardware issues. Both models share a user-friendly interface and diagnostic tools that help pinpoint faults quickly. If the controller fails to power up, users should first verify the input voltage and inspect fuses or wiring for continuity. Inconsistent or no temperature readings often stem from incorrect sensor type configuration or damaged input wiring—double-checking the selected input type (e.g., RTD, thermocouple, mA) in the input setup menu is essential.
For PID control issues like overshooting or instability, enabling the Accutune III feature can help auto-tune the control loop and reduce manual tuning errors. Alarm outputs not functioning may be due to misconfigured setpoints, incorrect alarm action types, or hardware failure in the output relays. Communication failures, such as no response over Modbus or Ethernet, usually relate to address conflicts, incorrect protocol settings, or cabling issues.
Both models support diagnostic menus and onboard help prompts, which can guide users step-by-step. For persistent problems, factory reset options and firmware update procedures are available. Referencing the official manuals ensures adherence to safety and performance standards during troubleshooting.
DC2800 & DC2900 Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I connect to the UDC2800 via Bluetooth?
- Activate Bluetooth by pressing any key on the controller.
- Use the Honeywell EasySet app on your iOS device to pair and configure.
- Each controller has a unique Bluetooth ID for identification.
2. What types of inputs does the UDC2800 support?
- Supports thermocouples (TC), RTDs, mV, mA, and voltage inputs.
- Two universal analog inputs are available, each sampled ten times per second.
- Input types are selectable via the keypad.
3. Can I use the UDC2800 for dual-loop control?
- Yes, with the Dual Loop software option, it supports two independent PID loops.
- Suitable for applications requiring coordinated control outputs
4. How accurate is the UDC2800?
- Typical accuracy is ±0.15% of full scale.
- Can be field-calibrated to ±0.05% of full scale.
- Features a 100ms scanning rate for rapid response.
5. What alarm functions does the UDC2800 support?
- Two independent alarm relays configurable for high/low, deviation, or rate-of-change
- Alarms can be latched or non-latching with adjustable hysteresis
- Startup alarm suppression and timer-based activation are available
6. Can I program temperature ramp/soak profiles?
- Yes, with the Setpoint Programming software option
- Supports up to 4 programs with 16 segments each
- Ideal for batch processes and temperature cycling