The IVDMS has a standard 4 mA to 20 mA output signal as well as a CANopen-interface. This CANopen-interface not only allows the reading out of data, it is also the interface for easily programming the sensor on the PC or the operation terminal. The operation terminal allows the engineer to calibrate the IVDMS without any additional tools. The analog and the digital signal path are completely separated, only the measuring element itself is singular. Therefore, the plausibility of the signals can be checked, when required for safety critical reasons. The monitoring of the sensor element can be done in combination with the controller and the operating conditions of the ladder. The housing and the electrical connection are constructed for the rugged requirements in such applications. The electronics is mounted inside aluminum housing conforming to the protection classification IP67, which is necessary at that point. To assure reliability, the electronics itself is coated in case humidity should enter inside the housing.