Fieldbus Foundation updates test kit

The Fieldbus Foundation has announced the release of its updated FOUNDATION fieldbus Host Test Kit (HTK) DD Application Module Version 2.0.0. This test kit, driven by the foundation's End User Advisory Council (EUAC), includes hardware and software for testing the functionality of a fieldbus host and its conformance with the FOUNDATION host profile specifications.

The Host Test Kit DD Application Test Module is designed to validate host applications implementing DD Services 4.2 or greater. This includes DD Services 5.0 constructs such as charts, graphs, images and waveforms for visualisation; files for persistent storage of functional parameter data; and grids for vector data visualisation and manipulation.

The HTK 2.0.0 has been updated with field diagnostics capabilities as per the FOUNDATION fieldbus Diagnostics Profile Specification (FF-912), which was defined to allow any EDD-based system to access and configure the diagnostics in fieldbus devices. The field diagnostics profile introduced a new field diagnostic alert type and supports more extensive integration capabilities (such as wizards for configuration) that will enhance diagnostics performance.

Rather than introduce significant changes to the FOUNDATION protocol, the diagnostic profile specification builds on the existing, powerful diagnostic capabilities of fieldbus equipment, and at the same time adds a greater degree of organisation so field instruments can represent their diagnostics in a more consistent way. This technology, per the NAMUR 107 recommendation, allows fieldbus end users to specify the diagnostics most important for a given operation or process area. They can also determine the priority of the diagnostic information and identify all appropriate recipients for particular data. In addition, the diagnostic profile specification allows for common tools and engineering procedures, which will reduce costs and deliver actionable intelligence from the field level to the end user.

In addition to field diagnostics, the revised test kit incorporates profiled custom function blocks enabling the manufacturer/end user to define custom blocks meeting the FOUNDATION fieldbus specification requirements in their host system. This provides the user with flexibility to expand and tailor their systems for each specific application.

HTK 2.0.0 also includes a COMPATABILITY_REV parameter ensuring interoperability between an existing fieldbus instrument and a new replacement. The new parameter is advantageous in situations where a sudden malfunction occurs and it is critical to install a replacement unit quickly that will support all features previously downloaded to the device.

The Fieldbus Foundation established its Host Registration Program as a key initiative benefiting the global automation industry. Under the registration process, fieldbus hosts successfully completing the test requirements are authorised to bear the official FOUNDATION product registration symbol. Hosts may include configuration tools, recording devices, alarm display panels, HMIs or systems with a combination of functionality.

The Host Test Kit, developed in cooperation with the Fieldbus Foundation's EUAC and System Integration and Maintenance team, was driven by end users to bring about consistent interoperability between hosts and devices regardless of the host supplier. Specifications now include profiles for functionally different hosts and the appropriate features that apply to each profile.