Rosemount 5400 Series Level Transmitter
The Rosemount 5400 Series is a two-wire or four-wire non-contacting radar level transmitter that uses advanced microwave radar technology to measure the distance between the transmitter and the product surface.
Unlike ultrasonic systems, radar technology is unaffected by environmental conditions such as temperature, pressure, vapor, dust, or foam, making it highly reliable in complex process environments. The transmitter continuously emits microwave signals toward the surface of the material. The reflected signal is analyzed using advanced signal processing techniques to determine accurate level readings in real time.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Measurement Principle | FMCW Radar |
| Measurement Type | Continuous non-contact level |
| Frequency | High-frequency radar (industrial FMCW band) |
| Output Signal | 4–20 mA + Digital Communication |
| Accuracy | High precision (application dependent) |
| Process Temperature | Wide industrial range |
| Process Pressure | Suitable for high-pressure applications |
| Antenna Options | Various horn and cone antennas |
| Housing | Industrial-grade enclosure |
| Mounting | Top-mounted tank installation |
| Diagnostics | Advanced built-in diagnostics |
| Maintenance | Very low |
What Was the Rosemount 5400 Series Level Transmitter Used For?
The Rosemount 5400 Series Level Transmitter was designed for continuous, non-contact level measurement using FMCW (Frequency Modulated Continuous Wave) radar technology. It is primarily used in industrial processes where accurate level monitoring is critical and where process conditions such as vapor, dust, pressure variations, or temperature fluctuations can affect traditional measurement technologies.
Typical Industrial Applications
The Rosemount 5400 Series was commonly used in:
- Storage tank level monitoring in oil & gas terminals and refineries
- Chemical storage and process vessels in petrochemical plants
- Separator and reactor level measurement in process industries
- Water and wastewater treatment tanks and basins
- Bulk liquid storage tanks in industrial facilities
- Silo and hopper level monitoring for certain bulk solids applications
- Inventory management systems requiring continuous level tracking
Product Lifecycle Status
The Rosemount 5400 Series remains part of Emerson’s advanced radar level transmitter portfolio, designed for industrial applications requiring high reliability and precision.
It is commonly used as part of modern automation systems and continues to be selected for both new installations and upgrade projects.
Recommended Replacement
The Rosemount 5400 Series Level Transmitter is a radar-based platform, and in most cases it remains part of Emerson’s ongoing radar level measurement portfolio rather than a fully obsolete system. However, when upgrades, modernization projects, or technology migration are required, replacement selection depends on the application, process conditions, and required performance level.
In modern industrial installations, the Rosemount 5400 Series is typically replaced or upgraded with newer Rosemount non-contacting radar level transmitters that offer improved diagnostics, simplified commissioning, and enhanced signal processing.
- Rosemount 5408 Non-Contacting Radar Level Transmitter
Used for advanced industrial applications requiring higher diagnostic capability, improved reliability in complex process conditions, and enhanced signal stability. - Rosemount 1208A Non-Contacting Radar Level Transmitter
Used in standard water and wastewater applications where compact design, ease of installation, and reliable level measurement are required.
Need Support for Replacement or Upgrade?
Many maintenance and procurement teams contact us when dealing with urgent operational issues involving retired or discontinued instrumentation, including:
- Difficulty sourcing legacy Rosemount or Bently Nevada products
- Missing or incomplete technical documentation (manuals, datasheets, wiring details)
- Unexpected equipment failures affecting plant operation
- Vibration or level measurement issues impacting production efficiency
- Emergency shutdown situations requiring immediate replacement support
- Urgent need for obsolete part identification or cross-referencing
In such cases, we assist by analyzing available part numbers or application details to quickly identify practical repair, replacement, or upgrade solutions to minimize downtime.



