Communication Systems
Cost reduction is one of the main factors in favour of fieldbus technology. In addition, introduction of serial communication in process automation has proven as an innovation driver for fi eld devices and consequently for actuators. Concepts for efficiency gains such as remote parameterisation or Plant Asset Management would not be feasible without fieldbus technology.
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AUMA actuators equipped with fieldbus interfaces are state of the art.
Many different fieldbus systems are available on the market. Certain preferences have evolved on a regional level or specific to certain plant applications. Since AUMA actuators are implemented in all types of process plants around the globe, they are available with any fieldbus system established in this industry.
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Profibus DP
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Modbus RTU
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Foundation Fieldbus
Overall, AUMA devices are available with binary and analogue inputs to connect additional sensors to the fieldbus.
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Can be explosion proof if required.
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Options can be used up to SIL 2 and 3
HART makes use of the known 4 – 20 mA standard signal for analogue data transmission. HART communication is modulated as an additional signal to the analogue signal. Advantages: Simultaneous transmission of the digital and the analogue HART signals. Existing 4 – 20 mA infrastructure is also available for digital communication. Facilitates reading additional parameters and diagnostic data from field devices.
HART is based on the master/slave principle. The optional multi drop topology essentially complies with the line structures of fieldbus systems. In most cases, the conventional 4 – 20 mA point-to-point communication is used.
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International standard (fieldcommgroup.org).
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Worldwide distribution.
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Large installation base
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Standardized integration within the DCS (FDT, EDD).
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Large selection of devices.
AUMA actuators with HART
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4 – 20 mA HART analogue signal either for setpoint transmission or alternatively to communicate the actual position.
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Transmission of parameter and diagnostic data via digital HART communication.
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approx. 500 ms per actuator for digital communication.
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Integration within the DCS via EDDL.
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Length of cable approx. 3 km.
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SIMA² Master Station is AUMA’s performing platform for the control and supervision of actuators via standardized fieldbus systems. The system optimizes communication between host and field level and caters for efficient processes within the installation.
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Configuration, operation and asset management of actuators and other field devices are simplified. A large variety of redundancy options maximises plant availability. Comprehensive diagnostic functions ensure perfect installation overview.
