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Field bus: a user approach

J.-C. Orsini
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no. 197
Field bus: a user approach

Jean-Christophe ORSINI

After graduating from the Institut National des Télécommunications in

1987, Mr. Orsini entered into Schneider Electric’s Automation activity
in 1988. He participated in the development of several
communication couplers for Schneider Electric Programmable Logic
Controllers (PLCs) on different networks. For the past four years,
he has been working on expanding the connectivity of Schneider
Electric PLCs.

ECT 197 first issue, March 2000

Lexicon

AS-i (Actuator Sensor Interface): Standard for value broadcasting, etc.). Frame length
level 0 field buses (or sensor and actuator (i.e. the number of bits or characters) is
buses). always limited.
ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit): IB-S: Abbreviation for InterBus-S.
Integrated circuit – electronic component – Industrial LAN: Local network used in an
dedicated to a specific application – for example industrial environment (production, etc.).
communication protocol management – as Interbus-S: Standard for level 0 and 1 field
opposed to a general circuit, such as a buses.
microprocessor. Java: Object oriented computer language.
Automated system object: Modelled and LAN (Local Area Network): Network that is
structured representation that describes the limited to an area which does not exceed a few
functions, offered services and the behaviour of kilometres; in general, it refers to networks that
an automated system. are restricted to a building or a company, i.e.
Bandwith: Measures the width of the frequency which remain in the private sector and do not
range in which signals are transmitted with a loss of enter into the public sector; as opposed to WAN
less than three decibels. By extrapolation, (Wide Area Network) for networks such as the
refers to the maximum useful rate of the medium. Switched Telephone Network or the Internet
CAN (Controller Area Network): Group of network.
networks used in very large numbers in the Medium: Physical communication support
automobile industry, which enable connection at (twisted pair, coaxial cable, fibre optic).
a low cost. Message: Information exchanged on a network
C.I.M. (Computer Integrated Manufacturing): via services defined in a messaging protocol:
Concept consisting of computerised production read, write, download memory, files, etc.
units. It defines the hierarchy of used equipment Profibus: Field bus included in the European
and networks, from the sensors and actuators standard EN 50-170, and which covers levels 1
connected to field buses up to the management and 2.
computers connected to public networks. Protocol: Relative to an ISO layer, it refers to
Company network: Local network used in the dialogue rules between the same layers of
administrative and management applications. communicating units.
Coupler, or communication interface: Services: Dialogue rules for two adjacent layers.
Electronic device that enables a device to be For example, addressing service offered by
connected to a network. network layer 3 to the transport layer 4.
Device Net: Field bus based on CAN TCP (Transport Control Protocol) /
technology. IP (Internetwork Protocol): De facto standard
Equipment / device: Signifies, in this document, made popular by the Ethernet and Internet
any automated product that is connected to a networks that cover ISO layers 4 (TCP) and 3
bus: PLC, variable speed drive, pneumatic (IP).
distributor, robot, human / machine interface, etc. Variable: Structured information, characteristic
Ethernet: Network standard based on the of a process, and conveyed on a network (motor
CSMA / CD access procedure to the medium. speed, mobile position, etc.).
FIP (Factory Instrumentation Protocol) / WAN (Wide Area Network): As opposed to LAN;
WorldFIP: Field bus that covers levels 1 and 2 network that covers a large area, in general a
(European standard EN 50-170). public network: Switched Telephone Network,
Frame: A succession of bits or characters Internet, etc. Note: as of a few years ago, the
emitted in an uninterrupted manner by a device term MAN (Metropolitan Area Network) has been
on the network and which constitutes coherent used; this term deals with rapid networks that
information that can be interpreted by the cover a few dozen, even hundred kilometres
receiver(s) (messages, questions or answers, (metropolitan areas).

Cahier Technique Schneider Electric no. 197 / p.2

 Field bus: a user approach

In the past few years, network technologies of the “field bus” type have
surfaced and replace traditional cabling for input / output of programmable
logic controllers. Consequently, automated system architectures have
considerably evolved. This “Cahier Technique” deals with the “field bus”
concept in the manufacturing industry from a user standpoint. Over and
beyond cost and performance criteria, it attracts the attention of specifiers
and contractors to the importance of the needs concerning interoperability
and durability.

Contents
1 Introduction 1.1 Background p. 4
1.2 Present evolution p. 4
1.3 Field bus evaluation p. 8
2 Performance at the lowest cost 2.1 Cost p. 9
2.2 Performance p. 11
2.3 Optimising the cost / performance ratio p. 14
3 Interoperability 3.1 Definitions p. 18
3.2 What are the operational guarantees? p. 19
4 Durability 4.1 Stakes p. 22
4.2 Tendencies p. 22
4.3 Guarantees for durability p. 24
5 Conclusion p. 25
Appendix p. 26
Bibliography p. 30

Cahier Technique Schneider Electric no. 197 / p.3

1 Introduction

1.1 Background
To begin with, it is interesting to place the limited to cases where parallel wiring does not
emergence of the field bus in relation to the short suffice:
history of programmable automated systems: c inter-PLC links,
The appearance of the Programmable Logic c links with computers,
Controller c monitoring,
In the 1960’s, the cost of electronics dropped to c connection of program consoles, etc.
a level low enough so that it could
advantageously replace cabled relay logic. The appearance of field buses
Discrete transistor logic modules surfaced, such Cost reduction in the field of electronics
as the MOG by Merlin Gerin and the continued – in particular thanks to the use of
Téléstatique 1 by Telemecanique. Very simple to ASICs in products – and thus network techniques
assemble, they seduced automated system became advantageous in comparison to point to
technicians. In 1965, germanium for transistors point links to connect PLC inputs / outputs:
was replaced by silicon and gave birth to the These techniques constitute the field bus
SILIMOG. It is welcomed by the majority of (see fig. 1 ).
customers up into the 1980’s.
The appearance of standards such as WorldFIP
In 1968, Modicon invented the programmable and Profibus as well as the Modbus Plus network
logic controller concept. A single device meets followed.
the great multiplicity of needs and provides great
In 1993, Telemecanique marketed its first
savings. Thanks to its great operational
complete industrial offer based on the WorldFip
flexibility, numerous advantages result in all life
standard for the remote operation of PLC
phases of the installation.
inputs / outputs (FIPIO) and inter-PLC
Networks started to pop up here and there as synchronisation (FIPWAY). Siemens provided a
well; at first in the shape of serial links. Protocols similar offer based on the Profibus standard.
formalise exchanges. Since then, Modbus During this same time period, Modicon
(1979), contraction of MODicon BUS, has marketed the Modbus Plus network, a true
become a de facto standard. However they are equipment unifier.

1.2 Present evolution

In the past few years, a great number of c the disappearance of input / output interfaces,
applications have opted for the field bus. This c the disappearance of dedicated serial links.
backbone for automated system architecture
appears as an extremely powerful means of Aside from these architectural aspects, two other
exchange, display and flexibility for the points should be highlighted:
equipment included in it. c the decentralisation and distribution of
The field bus has led to a gradual upheaval of intelligence,
architectures: c the arrival of New Technologies
c the elimination of input / output cables, (Internet, etc.).

Cahier Technique Schneider Electric no. 197 / p.4

 Serial Serial
links links

Sensors-actuators
near the PLC

Point to Field
point links bus
and and
serial links serial
links
Input/output
interfaces

Remote
sensors-actuators

Fig. 1 : connection of input / output interfaces.

Cahier Technique Schneider Electric no. 197 / p.5

 The elimination of Input / Output cables
Cabling costs were first reduced by placing the
Input / Output interfaces outside of the
programmable logic controller (PLC) so as to
place them nearer to sensors and actuators
(see fig. 1).

The disappearance of Input / Output

interfaces
However, once this step was taken, users Serial
quickly understood the benefit of having sensors links
and actuators themselves directly connected to
the bus. It is used as a means for
interconnecting devices. This is particularly true
for devices that are different since they come
from different sources, as well as through their
type, such as:
c pneumatic distributors,
c variable speed drives and axis control devices,
c welding or screwing machines, Field
c various identification devices, bus
c human / machine interfaces,
c activity specific equipment,
v weighing,
v vision, etc. Network interface
integrated to the
This connectivity sometimes even justifies the
motorised valve
use of a field bus for small distances thanks to
its flexibility and upgrading possibilities
(see fig. 2 ).
Indeed: Input/output
interfaces
c Some of this equipment (variable speed
drives, screwing machines, etc.) simultaneously
needs a digital Input / Output link and a serial
link to the PLC: the field bus replaces both
of these.
c The use in sealed environments of certain
other devices made traditional cabling
particularly expensive.
c AS-i type buses offer more economical
solutions than traditional cabling for the simplest
(however also the greatest in number) sensor
and actuator connections – pushbuttons, light
strips, motor starters, etc. – even for short
distances.
The installation becomes a sort of construction
game centred around the network cable, which Interface
becomes the cabling standard instead of point to integrated into
point links in 0-24 V or 4-20 mA. the variable speed drive.
Furthermore, a great deal of diagnostic The serial link disappears.
information, which is detailed on sensors and
actuators, is made accessible on all points of the Fig. 2 : disappearance of input / output interfaces.
installation thanks to this evolution.

Cahier Technique Schneider Electric no. 197 / p.6

The disappearance of dedicated serial links computer field. This surge reaches automated
With a real communication channel thus created, systems, triggers desires and overstatements,
much greater quantities of information can be with possibilities being explored, dealing with
conveyed. This led users to use it for functions CORBA, JAVA, ACTIVE X, etc.
for which they used dedicated communication At the network level, two tendencies have
means before: surfaced: on the one hand, Ethernet coming
c parameter configuration, down to the field bus levels, on the other hand
the position strengthening of a few level 0 buses,
c diagnostic tools,
such as AS-i. The invasion of widely distributed
c programme loading, network components is to be mentioned as well
c operator interface, etc. (example: CAN, which came out of the
automobile industry).
For example, the dedicated serial link used in
the past by the operator interface is eliminated
and the field bus used in its place. This channel
gives it access from every point of the
installation, not only to the PLC data, but also to
the data of all connected equipment:
micro-PLCs, etc. (see fig. 3 ). This of course is
limited by the performances of the bus being
dealt with: a single type of network cannot satisfy
all needs.

The decentralisation and distribution of Field

bus
intelligence
Above and beyond these architectural
evolutions, the field bus makes way for
decentralisation, or even the distribution of
intelligence (refer to these notions in “Cahier
Technique” no. 186, § 3.1):
c The decentralisation of intelligence allows for:
v Greater design modularity. The specialist can
treat his field and offer an interface to the
designer of the entire system. This modularity is
an advantage for the quality of the system and
thus for development cost control.
v Better reactivity of the automated system
thanks to the use of nano / pico-PLCs closer to
the process.
v Greater reliability in regard to breakdowns. Network interface
Degraded functions can be locally planned for is integrated into
certain breakdowns. even the simplest
components.
c The distribution of intelligence to different
devices helps improve performances by allowing
each automated device to treat that part of the
process for which it is the most capable.
It favours the possibilities for reusing equipment
and software modules. It may even go as far as
eliminating the central processing unit; however,
at present, this is slowed down by the complexity
of the mechanisms to be implemented.

New technologies
Nowadays, Internet technologies, through their Fig. 3 : disappearance of dedicated serial links.
mass distribution, are revolutionising the

Cahier Technique Schneider Electric no. 197 / p.7

1.3 Field bus evaluation
But how should the user manage this To sum up
technological evolution? How can one determine The first two criteria, cost and performance, are
the advantages that it brings and take this into part of a technical-financial analysis
account when choosing automation products? concerning field bus technologies. The latter
For a needs and constraints analysis, this two, interoperability and durability, depend
document provides a great deal of autonomy to rather on user confidence: market analysis,
the user for his evaluation. builder strategy, the attitude of builders in
The questions that an automated system regard to standards, etc. are to be taken into
technician asks himself in regard to an account.
application, and which he must transfer Of course, market penetration of a standard
to field buses, are centred around four themes: remains the best indicator of confidence.
c cost,
c performance,
c interoperability,
c durability.

Cost
First of all, the possibility of cost savings led to
the emergence of the field bus. The first question
that the automated systems technician should
ask himself is: “Will the use of a field bus in my
application be economically advantageous?”

Performance
This is above all a constraint:
“If I determine that x bus is economically
advantageous, how can I be sure that its
performances will satisfy the requirements of my
application?”

Interoperability
If the analysis of the preceding criteria is
favourable, it suffices to make sure that the
different automated products required for the
application can indeed function together
depending on the specific needs of this
application: what kind of guarantee is
available before acquiring and testing the
equipment?

Durability
Lastly, once the benefits and feasibility of field
bus implementation have been proven, the
durability needed for this type of installation
must not be overlooked: return on investment
requires a certain amount of caution in regard
to new technologies. If technologies of the
field bus type are at present well established,
their multiplicity does not always guarantee that
investments will last.

Cahier Technique Schneider Electric no. 197 / p.8

2 Performance at the lowest cost

2.1 Cost
In the cost impact analysis of a field bus, it is not forget to take all accessories into account:
important to take the life span of an automated cables, connectors, special software
system into account, from its design to its programmes, implementation costs, etc.
disassembly. Certain partial data, such as the cost of an ASIC,
are sometimes placed first. An analysis that is
Design incomplete to this degree is to be avoided.
Simplicity of the connections to be installed in
the case of a field bus (in comparison to Operation (functioning and maintenance)
traditional cabling) contributes to savings in the Simplified maintenance thanks to:
cabling diagram. Design modularity (different c Reduced cabling and connections
activities working at the same time) considerably Cable lengths and complex trunkings, as well as
lightens studies. the number of connections (all types), which are
On the other hand, the introduction of new sources of breakdown, are reduced, thus
technology and new types of equipment implies increasing installation reliability even more. This
the need for training. It is therefore the source of is subject to the choice of a bus with an immunity
new expenses. Thus the interest of using that is adapted to industrial electromagnetic
different standards or technologies only when it disturbances.
is clearly justified in terms of cost or c New diagnostic capabilities
performance.
Even the simplest sensor-actuators can
Supply, installation and commissioning provide a great amount of diagnostic
information.
When implementing, savings result from:
c Better modularity
c reduced cabling costs,
The distribution of intelligence favours the
c shorter times, which means savings, through: implementation of more precise and improved
v reducing cabling work, self-tests thus of the reliability in regard to
v testing modularity, breakdowns and evolutions.
v easier / simpler parameter configuration, c Standardisation of components
setting, downloading, The variety of means to route information is thus
v increased diagnostic capabilities. reduced: couplers common to several products
In the case where the bus is used to replace (see fig. 4 next page), cables and connectors
links that were previously dedicated to common to different product categories replace
human / machine dialogue, to diagnostic, various line links, serial links, and high rate
programming or parameter configuration tools: networks. The stock of spare parts and thus
maintenance costs are reduced.
c elimination of certain dedicated communication
couplers, c Cost of breakdowns
Diagnostic information that is available in
c elimination of dedicated network cables.
products enable for both certain breakdowns to
However, the additional costs of automated be avoided and to reduce the time needed for
system components must be taken into account. repairs. Production shutdown costs linked to
So as to be able to calculate overall costs, the breakdowns are thus reduced as well.
user must then compare the price of the same However, only well integrated tools and mature
automated system component in its traditional technology really give access to these
version and in its field bus version. He should advantages.

Cahier Technique Schneider Electric no. 197 / p.9

 FIPIO
or Modbus + Communicator

Digital input or output modules Analog input or output modules Mixed modules

Fig. 4 : a single FIPIO communicator coupler for all the Schneider MOMENTUM modules.

Renovation
Upgrading an application is greatly simplified 100
with the use of a field bus. For example, the 90
entire cabling system of a machine was changed
between Friday evening and Monday morning in 80
a large automobile manufacturing plant without
production losses. This type of intervention 70
would have been entirely impossible using
60
traditional cabling.
50
Disassembly
Here too, the use of a field bus helps to reduce 40
costs:
30
c reduced “de-cabling” costs,
c best possibilities for reusing equipment. 20
The cost impacts of the different life phases of the 10
installation are shown in the chart in figure 5.
Various studies have been published on this 0
subject, as well as the assessment reports of Point to point Field bus
numerous real applications, to which you can
refer to acquire a more in-depth view of costs Operation Realization Study
(refer to the bibliography).
However, cost analysis cannot be dissociated Fig. 5 : impact on costs due to the use of a bus.
from that of performance.

Cahier Technique Schneider Electric no. 197 / p.10

2.2 Performance
Types of constraints Furthermore, in certain cases, specific
Amongst user needs, the following must be constraints, such as equipment synchronisation,
distinguished: are also required.
c Constraints linked to the application c Determinism
environment: For the correct operation of an automated system
v power supply of connected equipment, application, the transfer of certain information
v number of sensors-actuators, must be conducted in a limited amount of time.
v required distances, The field bus contributes to this factor.
v electromagnetic disturbances, Even if a page takes a few seconds to appear on
v mobile elements, a PC screen, for instance 1% of the time, this
v topological constraints, can be tolerated. This is however not the case
when dealing with the information from the
v tightness,
safety cubicle of a railway barrier that is closing
v harsh environment (salt, water, acids, etc.),
on a car!
v explosive environment, etc.
Determinism is a property that authorises the
The user must write up a complete list of these theoretical calculation of the maximum
constraints, to which a manufacturer must be guaranteed transfer times to the bus in
able to commit. Consequently, bus evaluation function of operating conditions (number of
concerning these aspects does not pose a major devices, etc.).
problem because the characteristics of this type
are in general well identified. For some of them, Deterministic bus mechanisms are given in the
standards define the level of compatibility to appendix: some of them allow for this
which each one refers. This is particularly true determinism to be guaranteed for critical
for that which deals with environmental information while also managing less important
constraints. exchanges (human / machine dialogue,
diagnosis, etc.).
c Time constraints
The benefit of determinism for networks used in
v maximum response time, in function of the
number of Inputs / Outputs. automated applications has been the subject of
numerous debates over the past few years.
v rate of data needed for the application.
Without questioning its importance, the notions
The field bus has underlined the necessity of
of determinism and safety mechanism must not
time performance calculations, which were
however be confused. The fact that all
already taken into account by PLC
applications have a breakdown ratio linked to
manufacturers in their traditional architectures,
the equipment, environment, etc. must be
based on cyclic mechanisms. This merits a more
taken into account as well. Thus, in the given
in depth explanation.
example, whether or not the bus is
Automated bus performances deterministic, a safety mechanism stops the
barrier in case of a break in the medium. The
The time requirements of an automated bus are only risk, with a non deterministic bus, is that the
different from those of a company network or a barrier be stopped not because of a break in the
public network (WAN), primarily concerning two medium but rather due to traffic that is too high.
aspects: To avoid this situation, i.e. so that its
c Order of magnitude probability be less than the allowed breakdown
Automated systems in the manufacturing ratio, the load level of the non-deterministic bus
industry more often require short delays must simply be limited. The use of non-
(from one ms to several dozen ms) to route short deterministic buses is therefore possible with
information (binary) than high transfer higher rates, which indeed are higher cost
rates for large quantities of information. factors. Technical evolutions and the effects of
For large transfers (programme downloading, volume make it competitive; Ethernet, which is
etc.), a certain slowness is allowed as long non-deterministic, after having replaced the
as the binary values (valve closing, etc.) token bus 802.4 a few years ago, is being
continue to be transmitted within the same considered today on the field bus level for the
delays. same cost reasons.

Cahier Technique Schneider Electric no. 197 / p.11

 Evaluation criteria Certain types of buses, such as WorldFIP, allow
c What is to be calculated? for a macro-cycle to be defined, which is itself
made up of elementary cycles (see Appendix).
The user often has to calculate time
Certain pieces of information are then
performance. He should in particular be
exchanged upon each elementary cycle whereas
concerned with the relevance of the figures that
other pieces are only exchanged once every two
have been provided in regard to his needs.
elementary cycles, or even once per macro-
Different values can be found: cycle. This allows for the refreshing period for
v medium rate, each piece of information to be adapted to
v network cycle time, required response times.
v response time of the automated system Likewise, the PLC programme is characterised
concerning a particular action, by a cycle time. Some sensors-actuators contain
v global response time of the process. a software programme that operates according
The user should attribute a great amount of to a cyclic mechanism. Each time an event
occurs at the input of one of these cyclic
importance to applicative data, which are the
systems, a complete system cycle, at most, must
only ones that are significant for him. He is
take place, before being able to treat it. The
typically interested in the input / output response
maximum global response time is thus the sum
time (measure or calculate the amount of time
of cycle times. However, a significant difference
between the activation of an output following the
between this maximum time and nominal
activation of an input), the following being
performance (events occurring in the middle of a
specified each time:
cycle) may arise (see fig. 7 ).
v the nominal value,
c The impact of the medium access principle
v the maximum guaranteed value.
Depending on the access procedure to the bus
Information, such as medium rate or network medium, the impact of the bus cycle time may be
cycle time, can only be used once a more in different. For example, depending on the case,
depth analysis has been conducted. transmission of information to a receiver may
c Performance cycles take place as soon as the information is made
Most automated buses operate on cyclic polling available on the bus or may take up to a
principles: information is acquired at the rate of a complete cycle (see fig. 8 ).
cycle that is infinitely repeated. Each piece of Comparisons of buses with characteristics of the
information is acquired once in the cycle. medium rate or cycle time type, are thus
In the worst case scenario, if the time of insufficient – sometimes abusively used – and
acquisition takes place just before a change in can lead to false conclusions concerning
status, the latter is transmitted in the next cycle response times if they are dissociated from the
(see fig. 6 ). operating principles of the bus.

0 20 40 60
Event reading t (ms)
times

Real signal

Signal used
by the PLC

Fig. 6 : response time fluctuation when using a cyclic mechanism.

Cahier Technique Schneider Electric no. 197 / p.12

Reliability an evaluation with a reliability expert, so as to be
Reliability is a performance criteria. In the field of justifiably confident in the implemented system.
operational safety, everything or almost In other cases, a simple evaluation is sufficient.
everything can be evaluated, and everything, of The user should take into account the risks and
course, has its price. Total, absolute, reliability the means that he has available to cover them.
would have an infinitely high price. In critical The notion of risk is a synthesis between the
cases, where safety appears as a major project cost of a feared event and the probability of it
constraint, it is absolutely necessary to conduct taking place.

Action requested by the PLC

0
PLC t (ms)

Bus

Actuator
a b

Conducted actions

a - Minimum delay for taking into account b - Maximum delay for taking into account

Fig. 7 : impact of successive cycles on response time.

Bus arbitration Master slave Point to point ring

(producer consumer mechanism) (Interbus-S type)

1 3 1

2 4 3 2

The information is broadcasted: The information, as soon as it The information circulates on a single
as soon as it is made available on is made available on the bus, is frame that travels from one device to
the bus, it is accessible by all of accessible to the master another. A network cycle
the connected equipment. ( 1 and 2 ). However, if it is to corresponds to the time needed to
be transmitted to another slave, conduct a complete loop.
another complete cycle, in the When one device wishes to transmit
worst case scenario, must have information, it will wait, in the worst
evolved ( 3 and possibly 4 ). case, for one complete cycle to take
place before being able to insert the
information into the frame. Then this
information will, in the worst case,
need one complete cycle before
arriving at its destination, and this
depending on the respective positions
of the emitter and the receiver in the
loop.

Fig. 8 : impact of the cycle time on the response time, depending on the access procedure to the medium.

Cahier Technique Schneider Electric no. 197 / p.13

 A priori, except for complex architecture that c On the one hand, the quality of the diagnosis
tolerates breakdowns, a bus fault can block the varies depending on:
entire application. v the information provided,
Even so, field buses contribute to improving the v the means of accessing this information.
application availability (and through this to a c On the other hand, the continuity of supply in
reduction of the global cost of an automated the case of de-energisation, disconnection or
installation), by: breakdown of a device varies from one bus to
c making diagnosis easier (addition of diagnostic another.
information, breakdown search tools, cabling Certain buses are especially designed to
simplicity), manage availability. For example, Modbus+
c separating functions, allows amongst other things medium
c facilitating (and thus making it more rapid) the redundancy. These characteristics constitute a
replacement of a processing module. choice criteria for users. Each person should
However, not all buses offer the same level of evaluate their importance in function of his
service concerning this point: needs.

2.3 Optimising the cost / performance ratio

The technological limits at present v names of network groups,
To date, a single network cannot satisfy the v place in standard architecture.
needs of all applications, in particular in terms of Of course, all values are but orders of
cost and performance, but also concerning the magnitude.
constraints related to environment, connected This classification allows for the target of a bus
products, standardisation, etc. to be quickly understood, or inversely, for a list of
Present technologies are a satisfactory answer buses to satisfy a need. This merits a few
in terms of cost for the connection of simple explanations so as to be correctly understood
input / output equipment due to the fact that they and used advisedly:
only require limited exchanges, in general over c It is not discontinuous. The objective is limited
limited distances. Inversely, for equipment that to identifying the zone in which a bus ensures
needs greater exchange volumes, often over the best response for cost / performance
greater distances, the cost, which is higher, of optimisation. The ratio progressively worsens as
the needed technologies is acceptable in regard one moves away from this zone.
to the higher cost of associated equipment.
c The user may be enticed by standards that
Cost and performance objectives thus go hand cover several levels. Indeed, the fewer the
in hand and have led manufacturers to offer number of different networks used, the more
technical solutions that are adapted to the
v investment is reduced
required levels. A classification of network
solutions has thus been implemented: it joins the - training,
C.I.M. pyramid structure. - standardisation of managed equipment, etc.
v freedom for defining automated system
Field bus classification architecture,
The diagram in figure 9 shows the range - making any device dialogue with any other
covered by each of the main automated system device in a transparent manner
bus standards in this hierarchy. The different - avoiding gateways and the writing up of
aspects are thus correlated: dedicated programmes to manage exchanges,
c Targeted characteristics etc.
v volume and type of exchanged information, It is also an indicator of the solution durability.
v price of network couplers, Since it is not too specialised, it is better placed
v required reaction time, to ensure its own profitability through the volume
effect, thus, for that which concerns the user, its
v maximum network lengths,
durability. This is the case for Modbus Plus,
c Associated classification which is remarkable because of its unifying
v C.I.M. pyramid levels, aspect.

Cahier Technique Schneider Electric no. 197 / p.14

 Connection Reaction Maximum Nature of
costs times distances exchanged
information

Level 3: Ethernet nxs 100 km Files

data processing
Databus

Profibus FMS
Modbus+ n x 100 ms 10 km Messages
Level 2: workshop
Fieldbus FIPWAY

Device Net FIPIO

n x 10 ms km Words
Level 1: automated system islets Profibus DP
Devicebus IB-S
Sensor loop
AS-i
Level 0: sensors-actuators n x ms 0.1 km Bits
Sensorbus

Fig. 9 : field bus classification.

Numerous standards thus respond, in good c Technologies

conditions, to the needs of levels 1 and 2, Most buses offer different technical solutions –
sometimes overflow into the bottom of level 3 different ASICs in particular – to connect to the
and / or the top of level 0. bus at a cost adapted to the connected product
On the contrary, due to high cost constraints at and to its performances. Therefore, a component
level 0, the buses located at this level rarely that is particularly adapted to level 1 and another
overflow more than a little bit into the bottom of particularly adapted to level 2 can exist. The
level 1. existence of several well-targeted components
allows the manufacturer to offer products with an
The user must be careful to not be fooled by a
optimised cost / performance ratio.
so-called universal bus that in reality cannot
ensure the cost / performance compromise at all The user must have a good understanding of
levels. It is better to have a gateway that is these notions, which will be detailed below. If
correctly integrated into the automated system not, he sometimes discovers too late that behind
than a bus that is too expensive on one part of the same description there are actually two
the application. Thus, gateways allow for different buses.
AS-i equipment to be connected to FIPIO or
Modbus Plus architecture. Communication profiles
A network standard defines the rules that aim at
A few precisions need to be made concerning
allowing conform devices to communicate with
two sources of confusion:
each other. However, most standards offer, or
c Communication profiles authorise for lack of precision, operating
In certain cases, variations are hidden in the alternatives that are completely incompatible
same standard – communication profiles – that with each other, each being adapted to a specific
segment the desired cost and performance utilisation. Simply complying with the standard
levels. Between them, the compatibility level thus rarely guarantees that what the user is
varies. looking for, i.e. inter-device communication.

Cahier Technique Schneider Electric no. 197 / p.15

 A communication profile is supported by a This allows:
network standard and aims at defining, in the v for messaging to transit in a transparent
framework of this standard: manner from FIPIO to FIPWAY and vice versa,
c on the one hand, choices (amongst the v the program consoles to be indifferently
different alternatives offered by the standard), connected to FIPIO or FIPWAY,
c on the other hand, any eventual additions to v equipment parameters – or operator dialogue
the standard, needed to guarantee connection – that uses messaging, to be
communication between devices that comply indifferently configured on FIPIO or FIPWAY,
with the profile. v identical diagnostic tools – e.g. network
It thus selects all the characteristics in the analyser – to be indifferently used on FIPIO or
standard that are adapted to the given utilisation, FIPWAY, thus limiting the need for user training.
for example remote connection of PLC For the Profibus standard, Profibus DP and
Inputs / Outputs (level 1) or synchronisation of Profibus FMS offer a similar structure.
PLCs (level 2).
Technology
For the user, it is a better guarantee of
interoperability. Furthermore, this allows him to This term is used here to indicate the hardware
benefit from the advantages of the non- and / or software components that allow for
multiplication of network types, under the product operation conform to a standard
condition, however, of correctly understanding and / or a communication profile to be
the range of these profiles and associated limits. ensured.
In particular: A same standard may be implemented by
c Are cabling tools (cables, connectors, etc.) the different technologies (component) that allow for
same for each profile? it to best adapt to the communication needs of
each device:
c To what degree can two devices that are each
conform to a different profile, but that have the c equipment connected to the lowest levels do
same bus, inter-operate? If not, is there not necessarily offer all the proposed functions,
compatibility for a sub-assembly of the protocol? however they all have a common core that
If the answer is negative, using these profiles is allows them to dialogue with each other,
equivalent to using two different buses. c the significant exchange needs in quantity and
diversity of the most complex equipment do not
Example of a communication profile lead to high connection costs for the simplest
On the basis of the WorldFip standard, two equipment.
profiles have been defined and are offered on Each device uses technology – a component –
Schneider Electric products: that depends on its own exchange needs and
c FIPIO, I/O bus for PLCs (level 1), not on the bus to connect itself.
c FIPWAY, synchronisation bus (level 2). This is similar to the profile notion: components
are often specified to implement all or part of the
The definition of such profiles that are integrated profiles in a standard.
into PLC systems, provide the user with a
guarantee of the operating compatibility, without Example concerning technologies
him having to broaden his knowledge of the The WorldFip standard uses 3 types of
WorldFip standard. components:
In this example, FIPIO and FIPWAY equipment c FULLFIP and FIPIU tolerate all the possibilities
cannot be connected to the same network, in the standard, including the messaging and
however: bus arbitration functions.
c cabling tools are the same in both cases, c FIPCO manages the exchange of variables
c both profiles are supported by the exchange of without restrictions (excluding the bus arbitration
variables and messages from the WorldFip and messaging functions). It is piloted by a
standard: micro-controller.
v the variables are different in both cases: PLC c MICROFIP allows for a simple device to be
I/Os for FIPIO versus synchronisation connected (inputs / outputs only) without a
information in the case of FIPWAY; micro-controller.
v the same messages, however, can be routed Figure 10 illustrates the use of these different
from one profile to another. The only difference components in the case of a remote input /
is located in the bandwith that is available for this output bus on a PLC.
messaging: weak on FIPIO versus strong on
FIPWAY.

Cahier Technique Schneider Electric no. 197 / p.16

 Cost
The PLC, thanks to the FIPIU or FULLFIP
component, thus has all the possibilities offered by
the FIP bus, including the bus arbitration function that
allows it to manage access to the medium for all of
the connected equipment.

Operator dialogue connected using the FIPIU

component: this allows it to access, through
messaging, all of the PLC memory to display a large
variety of information needed by the operator.

Variable speed drive controlled using a few input /

output words and the parameters of which can be
configured using a few dozen configuration words.
It is connected using the FIPCO component that is
piloted by a micro-controller from the 8051 family.
Exchanges remain rather simple, however are
greater in size.

Module that manages 8 digital inputs and 8 digital

outputs connected to a bus using the MicroFip
component, without a micro-controller. This is a very
low cost solution, however the only information that
can be exchanged is input / output information.

Fig. 10 : cost-performance optimisation through the use of appropriate components.

Cahier Technique Schneider Electric no. 197 / p.17

3 Interoperability

After having chosen a bus according to its “interoperability” is used to qualify this “correct
characteristics, it is necessary to make sure that operation”.
the different devices to be connected can
function together by performing the exchanges However, before going any further, the terms
required by the targeted application. The term used in this field must be clarified.

3.1 Definitions
Example c Certain standards only deal with part of the
These definitions are illustrated using the ISO layers (see Appendix) and therefore cannot
example of a variable speed drive that alone allow two devices to exchange
exchanges information with a PLC via a information. For example, Ethernet (or 8802.3)
WorldFip network: exclusively processes layers 1 and 2, TCP / IP
only layers 3 and 4.
c Two variable speed drive input words
In the given example, conformity of the variable
v on / off motor command,
speed drive signifies that it exchanges its
v set speed.
inputs / outputs and its parameters through
c Three variable speed drive output words frames that are conform with the WorldFip
v actual status of the motor (on / off), standard. The parameters, for example, can be
v set speed applied to the motor, exchanged via WorldFip variables or messages:
v measured motor speed. in both cases, the variable speed drive is
Furthermore, this variable speed drive must conform.
receive parameters from the PLC to operate.
Interoperability
Conformity Interoperability is the ability of two devices to
Conformity with a standard simply indicates dialogue with each other. However, this notion
compliance with its specifications. This in no way needs to be clarified so that a user may make
guarantees the correct operation of equipment in full use of this concept: Indeed, two devices can
the framework of an automated system inter-operate extremely well concerning certain
application: services and not at all for others. The user must
determine whether the services and functions,
c The standard can offer several options: the
for which the devices inter-operate, satisfy the
correct operation of two devices implies the
needs of his application.
choice of the same options or, at least,
compatible options. So as to facilitate this step, some buses define
communication profiles (see § 2.3) that specify
Example: the medium rate, the type of access to
the chosen options and exact characteristics of
variables (either through a physical address, or
the exchanged information.
through a name) or the list of implemented
services can be the object of a choice. In the given example, even though they are both
conform to the standard, the variable speed
c The standard may contain specification gaps
drive and PLC cannot inter-operate, if:
that allow for interpretation by each device. Two
devices cannot inter-operate if the same key c the variable speed drive receives its
point has been interpreted differently by parameters through the messaging frame,
manufacturers. c the PLC only manages variables.

Cahier Technique Schneider Electric no. 197 / p.18

 Interchangeability speed data comes first and the on / off command
Interchangeability implies the possibility of second. This variable speed drive too inter-
replacing one device with another of the same operates with the PLC. However its information
type, and which ensures the same functions and is not interchangeable with the first variable
offers the same services on the bus: for speed drive. An equipment profile, which defines
example, a variable speed drive can, or not, be the semantics of each of the input / output words
replaced by another without modifying the of a drive, allows for interchangeability to be
automated system application, i.e. without ensured. On the other hand, this prevents the
touching the applicative programme of the PLC user from benefiting from specific functions that
in the given example. On top of the are available on certain products. Moreover,
interoperability between the PLC and each of the some manufacturers see it as an obstacle to the
variable speed drives, this requires that the possibility of enriching their offer. On the
nature and type of information that is exchanged contrary, some users see in it the possibility of
with the PLC be identical no matter which drive interchangeability.
is being used. It is clear that, for complex equipment such as
This notion requires more than simply being variable speed drives, the number of parameters
conform to the network protocol. Indeed, it that need to be taken into account, especially
implies the definition of the list, the structure and real time behaviour, make interchangeability a
the characteristics (nature and type) of the goal that is difficult to reach.
information managed by all of a certain type of Equipment profiles can be defined independently
equipment. This notion deals with equipment from the used network: then all that needs to be
profile. specified for each network are the
Coming back to the given example, let us communication objects used (frame types:
suppose that the variable speed drive messages, variables, etc.) to exchange
exchanges the status of its inputs using a functional objects defined in the equipment
WorldFip variable that contains first of all the profile.
on / off command, then the speed data. Schneider Electric variable speed drives
Another variable speed drive exchanges its are conform with the DRIVECOM equipment
inputs using the same variable but in which the profile.

3.2 What are the operational guarantees?

Objective Associations
The user should obtain guarantees in regard to: Most field buses are promoted by an association
c interoperability, above anything else, to ensure that groups together the manufacturers of
the correct operation of the targeted application, products connected to the bus (or which may be
connected). Some of these associations also
c conformity with a bus standard so as to ensure regroup users, which is clearly an advantage.
that correct operation is not limited to the For example, associations have been set up for
utilisation being dealt with and to offer the best the Profibus, WorldFip, Device Net, Interbus-S,
guarantees in the case of upgrading: use of new and AS-i standards.
services, change in product, etc. These associations contribute to promoting their
c interchangeability, if need be, to have the standard and associated technologies and
possibility to change products, even suppliers, guarantee compliance with the standard by each
for example for upgrade or maintenance of their members.
purpose. However, the quality of their internal functioning
What are the means for obtaining these types of varies. Many of them are primarily animated by a
guarantees? This is detailed in the following big PLC manufacturer and to which peripheral
paragraphs. product manufacturers adhere.

Cahier Technique Schneider Electric no. 197 / p.19

 The advantage is the associated manufacturer operation of products that comply with it. For
guarantee, which is the best indicator of the example, CAN components, from the automobile
good functioning of an association. This also sector, are interesting for the automated systems
eliminates any risk of difference of opinion industry because of their low cost.
amongst its members. However, the probability Likewise, a certain number of technologies from
of this standard becoming a common standard the computer industry, which represents a much
for several big PLC manufacturers is low. A greater market than the automated systems
special case is that of the Interbus-S club market, have penetrated into the industrial world.
animated by Phoenix, which manufactures This is for example in another field, the case of
peripheral products but not PLCs. PCs which have replaced the consoles
Among these associations, the good functioning dedicated to programming PLCs.
of the AS-i consortium, in which Schneider Likewise, the ISO 8802.4 standard, dedicated to
Electric and Siemens partake, is to be noted. automated systems for level 2 networks, was not
This association groups together major able to withstand the Ethernet penetration (ISO
manufacturers that are not only members, but 8802.3). The few advantages of 8802.4 for
that also offer large catalogues of competitive automated systems were not convincing facing:
products. It has been able to manage standard c the enormous Ethernet network base already
evolutions and product compliance with it. installed in factories for data processing needs,
Some associations offer certificates of c cost reductions and the multiplicity of tools
conformity. This contributes to limiting risks, but available for Ethernet, induced by the effects of
does not guarantee interoperability. volume that are unique to the data processing
market.
Organisations for standardisation
In brief, the notoriety of a standard, synonymous
Certain buses are conform to international (ISO,
with volume, and therefore feedback, is for the
IEC, etc.) or national (IEEE, UTE, etc.)
user an indicator of good functioning. The
standards. This constitutes a quality guarantee
volume of the compatible product catalogue is a
for the user and can be of importance in regard
good indicator for it.
to public markets.
Since, however, bus technologies constantly Manufacturer guarantees
evolve, it is often difficult to make them Lastly, one of the best guarantees for correct
compatible with the consensus and thus with the operation of heterogeneous equipment in the
delays needed to draw up a standard. framework of a distributed installation remains
Setbacks concerning standards are numerous. the guarantee by a big manufacturer. This of
In the world of automated systems, the MMS course implies that such a manufacturer is
standard must be cited. Requested by users, willing to open its architectures. This is the case
implemented above Ethernet by the vast majority today of the main PLC manufacturers –
of suppliers, it never really left the ground. Rockwell, Schneider Electric and Siemens –
Despite minor problems due to its novelty, it which master a field bus technology, integrated
correctly satisfied the needs of a good number of in a privileged manner into their offers:
applications. Today, virtually all applications use c PLC CPUs, with integrated bus connection,
proprietary messaging. Was standardised
c wide range of digital and analog IP20 and IP65
messaging really needed?
I/O modules,
Notoriety c a large number of connected devices by the
Many proprietary networks have become “de manufacturer and partners, which are
facto standards”. This has been true in the sometimes competitors:
industrial world for the past few years for v pneumatic distributors,
Modbus / Jbus, Unitelway, etc. This is also true v position encoders,
for the computer world with de facto standards v variable speed drives and axis control products,
such as TCP / IP which have been largely v robots,
developed to the detriment of equivalent ISO v identification: bar code readers, inductive
standards. readers, etc.
The appearance of a de facto standard through v Human-machine dialogue products,
technology penetrating in a market (industry in v products specific to an activity: screwing,
general, significant industrial sector i.e. welding, etc.
automobile, etc.) is clearly an indicator of correct v display systems,

Cahier Technique Schneider Electric no. 197 / p.20

c I/O exchanges and diagnosis transmission that product supplier blames the other for
are harmoniously integrated in the programming malfunctions.
language and programming and diagnostic tools Lastly, this solution limits the multiplication of
for PLC manufacturers products as well as for suppliers to the real need only, i.e. even calls
partners products. upon a new supplier when it has a new and
For this, manufacturers have set up partnership specific competency in a given activity, for
programmes to accompany automated system example:
product manufacturers that are likely to connect c The use of a pneumatic or welding product
to their bus. Thus, Schneider Electric, with its when the PLC manufacturer does not offer this
Modconnect programmes for Modbus Plus, and type of product.
Fipconnect for FIP, today merged into Schneider
Alliances, offers its partners equipment and c The choice of a product that is in competition
software solutions to simplify the development of with the product of the PLC manufacturer when
their connections as well as interoperability tests the competitor’s product has functional, technical
that provide common customers with all the or financial advantages in comparison to the
guarantees for correct operation. equivalent product from the PLC manufacturer.
True, it is preferable in this context that the Based on the construction logic of an automated
field bus technology backed by the system architecture offered by a big PLC
manufacturer be a standard that is guaranteed manufacturer, it allows for costly adaptations for
by an official organisation and supported by a equipment, training and global control to be
club or association in which many companies avoided:
participate, including users. Likewise, the c multiple gateways,
credibility of this “opening-up” strategy
c heterogeneous tools, etc.
implies that it authorises the connection of
products that are in competition with this Interoperability today
manufacturer. However if there is technical
and financial implication by a major In the near past, interoperability and conformity
manufacturer: preoccupied and for a reason users who were
confronted with malfunctions.
c that provides guarantees for bus operation
which it masters, in particular concerning Today, this is no longer the case:
systems aspects, and global performance, c Maturity of network technologies in the
which is impossible with solutions that are too industrial world.
heterogeneous, c Taking these risks into account by the
c for which it can ensure all the necessary manufacturers through more rigorous
technical support, testing (conformity and interoperability with
c with devices that it has validated, including various equipment, including that of
third-party devices, competitors).
this makes the motivation to satisfy him more c Better defined standards.
believable to the customer. c Often, the guarantee by a big manufacturer of
This implication helps limit the situations, technology that it masters.
which are frequent when dealing with As for interchangeability, it is but at its
networks, in which each network connection beginnings.

Cahier Technique Schneider Electric no. 197 / p.21

4 Durability

4.1 Stakes
Once, one or several field bus technologies Automated system products represent in general
having been identified on the basis of cost and a small part of global installation costs. This
performance criteria, and the guarantees installation investment is high and is not
obtained for correct operation of the automated intended to be replaced in the near future: life
system application targeted by this technology, spans are in the region of 10 to 20 years. Yet,
the user should ensure himself of the durability automated system products are more and more
of the application, and in particular of the based on – in particular following the introduction
durability of the chosen field bus technology. of the field bus – electronic and computer
technologies, the life spans of which are clearly
For the automated system technician, it deals smaller and which constantly evolve. In sight of
with the guarantee that the products that he the constant progress in the field of electronics,
uses will have a life span (commercialisation who can predict with certitude that anyone of the
then maintenance) that is compatible with his present technologies will still be used 20 years
needs. from now?

4.2 Tendencies
Before dealing with durability, it is necessary to An Ethernet coupler is already available for
specify the directions in which techniques evolve. Input / Output modules in the MOMENTUM
range by Schneider Electric. Simultaneously,
Three tendencies take shape today:
level 1 and 2 field buses, which are widely
Rise in the field of application for buses implanted in industry and which adequately
satisfy users’ needs, evolve to cover a wider field
The first tendency is the increasing capacity of of application:
buses to cover several levels of the C.I.M.
pyramid. Each bus attempts to evolve so as to c rise in the medium rate, for better
broaden its field of application, therefore, in a performances and to better cover level 2 even
pragmatic manner, its potential market. This is the bottom of level 3;
the answer, within the limits of technology, to the c new components, connectors, etc. that are
ideal request from users who would like to have less expensive and simpler to use, to expand
a single, universal network that meets all of their towards the top of level 0;
needs. c an always more complete catalogue of
Taking into account the present technical products adapted to special environments:
possibilities, the main tendency consists of v tight products,
extending level 0 buses to the bottom of level 1, v modules compatible with explosive
while extending level 3 buses towards level 2. environments,
Thus, the AS-i bus evolves to be able to manage v cables that withstand all types of harsh
analog information whereas the use of Ethernet, environments (salt, acid, oil, solar radiation, …)
very present at level 3, is called up by level 2, etc.
even level 1. c taking into account the TCP / IP protocol to
Studies have been conducted concerning the open up to Internet and take advantage of the
ability to meet the needs of these levels, so as to technology wave at a low cost, while preserving
benefit from cost reduction due to the mass characteristics adapted to the industrial
distribution of this technology. environment.

Cahier Technique Schneider Electric no. 197 / p.22

It is therefore difficult today to say in which c Human-machine interfaces,
direction this will evolve. Different possibilities c the programming terminal, which via the bus
are being studied by the manufacturers. distributes the programme to the different
automated components,
Equipment profiles
c possibly, a central unit in a PLC, which is
Today, field bus technologies are widely used
present and available when automated
and already provide more than the benefits
components are not able to integrate all the
initially expected. The market is thus ready to needed processing intelligence (see fig. 11 ).
move on to the next phase, if the users find new
advantages in it, in particular a way to make new
savings. Standardisation work concerning
equipment profiles is underway and in which
Schneider Electric participates. It will deal with
an increasing number of equipment categories.
A multiplication of equipment solutions for
Field bus
equipment profiles can thus be expected.
Furthermore, these profiles allow for high-level
automated system objects to be defined. They
will facilitate users’ work:
c programming,
c maintenance,
c interoperability,
c interchangeability, etc.

Distribution of intelligence
Lastly, after having enabled inputs / outputs to
be placed at a distance, and having often
contributed to the decentralisation of intelligence,
the field bus today opens the way to the
distribution of intelligence.
Indeed, in the beginning, the programmable logic
controller was above all the idea of a computer
that contains input / output interfaces. If these
interfaces can as of now communicate with the
computer via a network, the PLC – simply fitted
out with a network interface, like all computers
today – looses all its particularities.
True, this reasoning is a bit simplified. As such, a
PC does not integrate certain PLC operational
values such as reliability or durability. However,
PLC cards already exist for PCs, which allow
advancement in this direction without a break in
operational continuity, (all the while keeping
durability in mind) and the use of field buses
amplifies this tendency even more.
Automated system architecture is thus reduced
to a field bus upon which the following can be
connected: Fig. 11 : intelligence distributed to automated system
c different automated components that integrate components.
all or part of automated intelligence,

Cahier Technique Schneider Electric no. 197 / p.23

4.3 Guarantees for durability
The notoriety of a standard has already been the “gentle migration” to these new technologies
mentioned as one of the guarantees of by using all sorts of solutions:
correct operation. The appearance of de c automated application conversion,
facto standards that have widely penetrated c gateways,
the market also constitute an indicator of c maintaining former technology in parallel with
durability. However, any standard, even new technology on new products.
widespread, will eventually evolve or even
become obsolete. This can be seen on a daily As an example, there is no equivalent life span
basis in the computer field where even the most in the computer world for communication
widespread standards are abandoned because protocols such as Modbus.
durability is not a strong requirement in this field. The functioning of companies, the activity of
Facing evolutions, simultaneous mastering of which is not based on supplying global solutions
programming workshops and used network for automated systems nor the need for durability
technologies have more than ever become that goes along with these solutions, and which
fundamental in the world of automated systems. only master one type of product and not
The user should be supported by a company necessarily buses to which the product is
that is capable of providing, with its partners, a connected, may lead the user to have to deal
complete system ensuring its correct operation alone with this obsolescence at extortionate prices.
and both corrective maintenance and upgrading. In a broader fashion, equipment and software
Facing the multiplication of heterogeneous tools used by automated system technicians have
equipment and the present technological path, necessarily become commonplace through the
needs concerning durability remain. PLC arrival of technologies stemming from the Internet
manufacturers, aware of this major need, know world. However, in this context, technicians’
that the answer lies in long-term marketing and needs for a credible interlocutor are even greater.
maintenance. Despite the ongoing evolution of This interlocutor has to be able to master both
technologies upon which they base themselves, this new supply of equipment and software and
they also know, when need be, how to ensure the constraints linked to this activity.

Cahier Technique Schneider Electric no. 197 / p.24

5 Conclusion

The programmable logic controller has expected: the user will congratulate himself on
revolutionised the activity by introducing this. A rise in bus performance and thus their
electronic and computer technologies into the field of application is inescapable even if the
heart of control systems for automated universal bus capable of meeting all types of
processing. The field bus has become yet needs will probably never exist.
another revolutionary component by spreading Facing this upheaval, the user must of course be
these same technologies as well as network cautious and keep in mind the constraints
techniques, up into sensors and actuators. specific to his activity (environment, durability,
Included in the processing assembly, they are at etc.). However he should also be careful to not
the basis of an enormous potential for evolution: miss the boat.
c They have already, by successive steps, In particular, durability should not be confused
revolutionised architectures, providing with standstill. For the user, durability means:
advantages that were not always expected in the
c a guarantee that products will be available in
beginning. Technical-financial compromises still the long-term,
maintain for the moment traditional solutions in
c as well as (and maybe even above all) “gentle
parallel.
migration” solutions when he considers that new
c Beyond this, processing itself has been technology may be profitable for him.
questioned: decentralisation then distribution of
intelligence. On top of technology, this leads to Through investment in field bus based
technologies,
the need for standardisation: it is already
underway and will continue in the next few c he can already profit from the advantages
years. recognised today (cost reduction, flexibility,
diagnostic ability, etc.)
c Lastly, it brings with it an infinite number of
innovations that could revolutionise automated c he will be better informed to be able to judge
for himself each of the upcoming evolutions,
systems: Java, Corba, internet, Active X, etc.
have an influence on them, even ask suppliers
Along with the evolutions brought by technology, for them, rather than simply passively accepting
a certain rationalisation of the offer can be them.

Cahier Technique Schneider Electric no. 197 / p.25

Appendix

Access procedures to the medium

This paragraph explains the basic principle that when a device “speaks”, it can address
behind a few of the most common procedures information to any other device or to all of them
for access to the mediums. Deterministic at the same time (broadcasting).
procedures (see § 2.2) and non-deterministic This is the principle used for example with the
procedures can be distinguished. WorldFIP bus.
c Token ring
Deterministic procedures
This type of procedure is defined by the 8802.4
c Master-slave standard. A token, which corresponds to the
In a medium access procedure of the master- right to speak, goes from station to station
slave type, a single device, the master, initiates according to a predetermined order. Each station
all exchanges; the other devices, the slaves, can emit to any other station as long as it has
simply answer the requests of the master. This the token, however it can only keep it for a
principle can be found on a significant number of limited time, defined during configuration. This
networks that are based on a serial link of the is the principle used by the Modbus Plus
RS 485 type with protocols such as Modbus. In network.
this case, exchanges are programmed by the
user, and if random applicative events are likely Non-deterministic procedures
to trigger such exchanges, the network is not of c CSMA / CD - Carrier Sense Multiple
the deterministic type. However, this procedure Access / Collision Detection
can serve as the base for defining cyclic polling This is the access principle to the medium used
of information by the master on a defined in buses of the Ethernet type (ISO 8802.3
number of devices. standard). A device that wants to send a frame,
The time needed to poll all the devices makes up attempts to transmit it then verifies that no
a cycle time, which is the maximum delay for collision occurred (i.e. that another device tried
each device to convey its information. This is the to send information at the same time). In the
principle used for example with the AS-i bus. case of a collision, it tries again after waiting a
c Bus arbitration certain amount of time, which is randomly
The procedure is quite similar to the preceding determined.
one (master-slave procedure with a definition of Thus, frame transfer time is linked to a delay
the equipment polling cycle) since a single bus- after which a collision is avoided: it is therefore a
arbitrating device allows each of the other static function of the number of devices that try
devices to “speak” in turn. The main difference is to send frames, thus of the network load.

Sharing the bandwith

Certain buses can guarantee transfer delays for c acyclic traffic of variables,
certain information (typically remote PLC c acyclic traffic of messages,
inputs / outputs) while preserving part of the c maintaining all elementary cycles synchronised.
bandwith to convey information for which the
Each portion of the cyclic traffic is allotted
transfer delays are not critical.
once and for all to a process datum: for example
Illustration using WorldFIP equipment Inputs and Outputs. Contrarily,
The WorldFIP bus is based on processing a acyclic traffic corresponds to an allotted time but
network cycle or macro-cycle, through is only used upon request (see fig. 12 ).
equipment that has the bus arbitration function. Thus, three types of exchanges share the
This cycle is made up of elementary cycles of bandwith on a WorldFIP network:
the same length and which have an identical c Cyclic variables, for critical time control and
structure. monitoring functions.
The length of an elementary cycle is structured c Acyclic variables, transmitted upon request
on time frames allotted to: and on status changes.
c cyclic (periodic) traffic of variables and / or c Messaging, acyclic as well, for downloading
messages, and maintenance functions.

Cahier Technique Schneider Electric no. 197 / p.26

 Bandwith

100%

nges and
excha stu
clic ffi
y

ng
Ac
F F

E E

D D

C E D E C E D E

B D B C B D B D B C B D

A A A A A A A A A A A A
t
EC1 EC2 EC3 EC4 EC5 EC6 EC1 EC2 EC3 EC4 EC5 EC6

Macro-cycle n Macro-cycle n+1

EC: Elementary Cycle

Letters A, B, C, D, E, and F represent cyclic variables

Fig. 12 : the WorldFIP macro-cycle.

Acyclic messages
and variables
Traffic used upon request,
available like air in a hose

Cyclic variables
(critical time)
Incompressible traffic,
like water in a hose
FIPWAY FIPIO

Fig. 13 : WorldFIP: a hose at the adjustable water level. Illustration: FIPIO and FIPWAY.

The portion of the bandwith that is allotted to Thus, a WorldFIP network can be compared to a
each of these flows is an important element in a hose through which different types of data flow,
WorldFIP configuration. By privileging one type the “level” of each data type is determined by its
over another, networks are specialised for an configuration (see fig. 13 ).
application of the reflex PLC type or for co-
ordination between monitoring and operator
dialogue devices.

Cahier Technique Schneider Electric no. 197 / p.27

 Illustration using Interbus-S Illustration using MODBUS PLUS
This is a “point-to-point ring” mechanism, Likewise MODBUS PLUS simultaneously offers
a single frame travels from one device to functions that need a deterministic procedure,
another: such as cyclic updating of inputs / outputs, and
other functions that do not need this, such as on-
When the frame passes, the device reads the
line programming. “Logic sessions” ensure
part that contains the values of its inputs and
proper mechanics and thus are dedicated to
writes on the part that contains its output values.
these different functions.
On top of this, the frame contains from 0 to 4,
16-bit words that can contain a message The AS-i case
fragment (in general, four words does not suffice
On AS-i, a contrario, all exchanges are cyclic:
to transmit a message), that allow for such a
equipment inputs / outputs flow once every
fragment to be transmitted at each bus cycle.
5 ms whereas the parameters of each device
For example, for a messaging channel of 1 word, flow once every 31 cycles. It is not possible to add
the rate per slave is 256 octets / sec. If the cycle additional traffic to this. Due to this, AS-i cannot
has 32 slaves and 1024 I/O. tolerate messaging. This is clearly not its goal.

The OSI model by ISO

The OSI model (Open System Interconnection) replaced by a fibre optic link to travel across a
defined by ISO (International Standard zone that is subjected to electromagnetic
Organisation) segments functions of a system disturbances, all functions of the other layers
that communicates using 7 layers. These layers remaining the same: information content,
range from functions nearest the network (cable, messaging addressing, access procedure to the
etc.) to functions nearest the communication medium, etc.
needs of devices (nature and meaning of Nevertheless, not all networks use all the layers.
exchanged information, etc.) (see fig. 14 ): This is the case in particular for field buses that
The main objective of this structure is to allow for are primarily based on a 3-layer structure: 1, 2
the standard of a layer to be changed and 7. This simplifies the operation of
independently from the others. Thus, for communication couplers and authorises high
example, a twisted pair link can be locally performances and low costs.

Cahier Technique Schneider Electric no. 197 / p.28

 Defines the nature of exchanged
Application information: messages, file transfer, etc.
7

Defines the representation of information:

encoding (there where layer 7 processes
Presentation semantics, layer 6 processes grammar),
6 possibly, information compression or
ciphering.

Manages the session concept, time interval

during which two devices communicate
Session (the "pick-up and hang-up" concept) and the
5 "picking up where left off" after an
interruption.

Transport of information from one end to

Transport another between two remote stations: frame
4 segmentation, etc.

Manages the addressing of information: who

receives my messages, equipment or
Network station number, on what network, etc.
3

Manages monitoring and the flow of

information. CRC and associated
LLC sub-layer
reiterations, etc.
Data link
2
Manages the sharing of the access to the
MAC sub-layer
medium (CSMA/CD, bus arbitration, etc.)

Defines the nature of the physical

communication support and information
Physical coding: cable type, radiotransmission ,
1 connectors, electric signals, binary coding of
information, etc.

Fig. 14 : the OSI model.

Cahier Technique Schneider Electric no. 197 / p.29

Bibliography

Miscellaneous works
c Fieldbus routes and timetables.
A. REEVE
Control and Instrumentation publication -
May 1995.

Internet addresses
c General sites
(with numerous links)
http://cran.esstin.u-nancy.fr/CRAN/Cran/
ESSTIN/FieldBus.html
http://www.fieldbus.com
http://www.infoside.de
http://www.shipstar.com
http://www.industrial-networking.com
c Sites relative to the primary automated buses
http://www.as-interface.com
http://www.can-cia.de
http://www.controlnet.org
http://www.devicenet.org
http://www.industrialethernet.com
http://www.industrial-ethernet.com
http://www.fieldbus.org
http://www.worldfip.org
http://www.interbusclub.com
http://www.modbus.org
http://www.profibus.com
c Schneider Electric sites
http://www.schneider-electric.com
http://www.schneiderautomation.com
http://www.schneideralliances.com
http://www.transparentfactory.com

Cahier Technique Schneider Electric no. 197 / p.30

 © 2000 Schneider Electric

Schneider Electric Direction Scientifique et Technique, DTP: AXESS - Saint-Péray (07).

Service Communication Technique Edition: Schneider Electric
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