Fieldbus releases updated technical specs
The Fieldbus Foundation has announced that an updated version of its FOUNDATION fieldbus technical specification is now available. The latest specification includes guidance supporting the development of fieldbus devices and host systems that employ advanced field diagnostics per the NAMUR NE107 recommendation, as well as support for the upcoming H1 Interoperability Test Kit (ITK) 6.0.
The Fieldbus Foundation's specifications define the open, non-proprietary FOUNDATION fieldbus protocol. The technology provides an all-digital, two-way, multi-drop communications link among smart field devices and automation systems. It serves as the network for instruments used in process automation, and has a built-in capability to distribute the control application across the network.
Stephen Mitschke, a Fieldbus Foundation manager, said the latest FOUNDATION fieldbus specification reflects growing industry demand for, and adoption of, NE107 field diagnostics.
“Field diagnostics, as implemented in FOUNDATION fieldbus, standardizes how today’s intelligent devices communicate—regardless of the vendor,” Mr. Mitschke said. “This technology ensures that the right message will be delivered to the right person in the plant, at the right time. Operators, engineers and technicians not only receive detailed information, but it is provided in a categorized manner that makes data easier to assess and act upon.”
Mitschke added, “The updated specification also defines the minimum requirements for testing of hosts employing FOUNDATION for Safety Instrumented Functions, which is an ideal platform for advancing standards-based solutions for plant SIFs. FF-SIF enables process end users to realize significant reductions in their total cost of ownership by extending fieldbus benefits into plant safety systems.”
For more information about FOUNDATION fieldbus specifications and maintenance agreement options, please visit the Fieldbus Foundation' s website at www.fieldbus.org.
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