Gauging system having wireless capability

A method for providing power to a wireless communication unit electrically connected to a processing unit by means of a two-wire control interface, wherein the method comprises:

• receiving a sensed process variable from a gauge connected to the processing unit, thereby forming process data representative of the process variable;
• providing regulated power based on power received from a remote external power source other than a two-wire control loop;
• superimposing the process data onto the regulated power, thereby forming a power signal;
• providing the power signal to the wireless communication unit,
• separating the process data from the regulated power;
• providing the regulated power to radio frequency (RF) communication circuitry comprised in the wireless communication unit;
• providing the separated process data to the RF communication circuitry;
• and
• transmitting RF signals representative of the process data by means of an antenna connected to the RF circuitry.

A gauging system, comprising:

• power supply circuitry configured to receive power from an external power source other than a two-wire control loop,
• a gauge, powered by said power supply circuitry, and configured to sense a process variable and to provide process data representative of the process variable;
• a two-wire control interface, and
• a wireless communication unit,
• wherein said two-wire control interface is used to power said wireless communication unit and to communicate said process data to said wireless communication unit.