Method and apparatus to replace an electrical power module in a wireless valve positioner without power disruption

A method of replacing a primary power source of a process control device performing process control operations in a process plant, without interrupting operation of the process control device or disrupting the operation of the process plant, the method comprising:

• coupling to a terminal of the process control device an auxiliary power module configured to temporarily power the process control device;
• while the auxiliary power module is coupled to the terminal of the process control device and providing power to the process control device, replacing a first primary power source installed in the process control device to power the process control device with a second primary power source;
• and
• after installation of the second primary power source, uncoupling the auxiliary power module from the terminal of the process control device.

A system comprising:

• an auxiliary power module;
• and
• a process control device coupleable to the auxiliary power module, the process control device performing one or more process control operations in a process plant and comprising:
• a primary power source, the primary power source configured to provide power to at least one component of the process control device performing the one or more process control operations;
• and
• a terminal configured to electrically couple the process control device to the auxiliary power module such that the auxiliary power module provides sufficient power to the component when the auxiliary power module is coupled to the terminal such that when the primary power source is removed temporarily and replaced, the process control device remains operable to perform the one or more process control operations in the absence of the primary power source.