Home > About the HART Protocol > Benefits of HART

Benefits of Using HART Communication

Engineers operating in analog automation environments no longer need utter the words "if only" as in "if only I could get the device information without going into the field" or “if only this configuration information from that pressure transmitter into my PC."

Users worldwide who have realized the benefits of HART Communication know that they can gain quick, easy visibility to devices in the field when using HART-enabled handheld test, calibration devices and portable computers. In fact, device testing, diagnostics and configuration has never been easier!

However, many have yet to realize HART technology’s greatest benefits which come from full-time connections with real-time asset management and/or control systems.

HART technology can help you:

Leverage the capabilities of a full set of intelligent device data for operational improvements.
Gain early warnings to variances in device, product or process performance.
Speed the troubleshooting time between the identification and resolution of problems.
Continuously validate the integrity of loops and control/automation system strategies.
Increase asset productivity and system availability.

Increase Plant Availability

Integrate devices and systems for detection of previously undetectable problems.
Detect device and/or process connection problems real time.
Minimize the impact of deviations by gaining new, early warnings.
Avoid the high cost of unscheduled shutdowns or process disruptions.

Reduce Maintenance Costs

Quickly verify and validate control loop and device configuration.
Use remote diagnostics to reduce unnecessary field checks.
Capture performance trend data for predictive maintenance diagnostics.
Reduce spares inventory and device management costs.

Improve regulatory compliance

Enable automated record keeping of compliance data.
Facilitates automated safety shutdown testing.
Raise SIL/safety integrity level with advanced diagnostics.
Take advantage of intelligent multivariable devices for more thorough, accurate reporting.

The standard features of HART technology range from simple compatibility with existing 4-20mA analog networks to a broad product selection:

Compatibility with standard 4-20mA wiring
Simultaneous transmission of digital data
Simplicity through intuitive menu-driven interfaces
Risk reduction through a highly accurate and robust protocol
Ease of implementation for maximum “up-front” cost effectiveness
Broad product selection, with compatible devices and software applications from most process automation providers
Platform independence for full interoperability in multi-vendor environments

Worldwide support by leading suppliers
Most of the world’s leading process instrumentation and control system suppliers, comprising most of the industry’s solutions, actively support HART technology. There are 990+ registered devices in 20 device categories manufactured by 230+ members of the HART Communication Foundation.

Types of HART-enabled Devices
Device Category	No. of Companies	No. of Devices
Actuator	2	9
Analytical	29	152
Calibrator	4	6
Control	3	6
DCS	4	4
Density	5	5
Development Services & Tools	8	25
Flow	24	159
Handheld	8	9
I/O System	11	32
IS Barrier	7	25
Isolators (IS)	5	46
Level	34	153
Modem	8	15
Modem IC (chips)	1	3
Loop monitor	3	6
Multiplexer / Gateway	7	7
Positioners - Valve	16	47
Pressure Transmitters	37	110
Software	14	25
Total	238	990

For a complete list by Manufacturer or Device Type, see our Product Catalog.