Sage Prime Vs. Paramount Thermal Mass Flow Meter

The Sage Prime and Paramount are premium thermal mass flow meters that measure gas flow in industrial, commercial, and environmental applications. There are many similarities between the two meters. This post helps the reader understand the differences between the two to decide which meter to purchase.

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What are the main differences between the Sage Paramount and Prime Thermal Flow Meter?

Faster response to Temperature Fluctuations

The Paramount uses updated microprocessor technology, providing a  faster response to temperature fluctuations than the Prime.

Additional Communication Channel

• The Paramount has an additional communication channel (mini‐USB port with cable) located in the rear terminal enclosure. The port provides easy access for the meter and PC to connect to run the SageCom Software. There is no need for an RS485 to USB converter.
• The extra communication channel in the Paramount allows the user to change settings, validate the meter, or log data (with SageCom) without disconnecting the meter from the network. Therefore, a network trunk with many meters can run Modbus (or BACnet or HART) to a PLC, building management system, or SCADA system. The meters do not have to go off-line when modifying or validating a meter.

Certain Options Only Available in Paramount

• Class 1 Div 1 – The Prime has a NEMA 4 enclosure, while the Paramount has an explosion-proof NEMA 4X enclosure with standard Cl I Div 2 and optional Cl I Div 1 approval (Groups B, C, D, T6).
• HART Communication Protocol – The Paramount is the only Sage meter that offers the option for HART Communication Protocol.
• Bluetooth Connectivity – Bluetooth connectivity between the Paramount meter and SageCom coming SQ/DQ 2021.

Improved Terminal Enclosure

• The Paramount has silk-screened wiring labels within the terminal enclosure, permitting easy identification.
• The Paramount has a separate AC voltage strip within the terminal enclosure to avoid confusion with the 24 VDC terminal strip.
• The Paramount terminal enclosure has a 3‐position switch allowing internal or external isolated power to the 4‐20 mA, or non‐isolated power.
• The Paramount terminal enclosure includes a power switch so technicians can service the meter without discontinuing external power.

SageCom Free with Paramount Meter

The Paramount includes the SageCom Validation and Configuration Software, providing reports for three diagnostic tests (including In‐Situ Validation), data logging, loop checks, the ability to change the gas mix, and meter configurations.

$300 Premium

The Paramount is only $300 more than the Prime and includes the SageCom innovative software.

While not all applications need the advanced features of the Paramount, the Paramount is the Sage model offering the best options for future growth.