- Using HART
- How to Choose HART Products
- Device Commissioning
- Configuration
- Integration
- Calibration
- Wire Length & Capacitance
Integration of HART Data
There are many ways to integrate HART data and leverage the intelligence in smart field devices. These simple and cost-effective strategies include:
- Point-to-Point – This is the most common use of HART technology.
- HART-to-Analog – Integrate HART data with an existing analog control system by converting digital data into analog signals.
- HART-plus-Analog – A hybrid approach that keeps analog control but provides better device access.
- Full HART integration – A newer method with continuous communication between field device and control system.
- HART-to-Plant-Network – This powerful integration strategy passes HART data into plant Ethernet networks for use anywhere in an enterprise.
These data integration capabilities can save time and money, provide valuable diagnostic information, and allow field device data to be used plantwide in enterprise resource planning systems. Here are several ways to get more from currently installed HART equipment, running from the simplest to the most powerful.
Point-to-Point Integration – The most common use of HART technology. The communication capability of HART-enabled devices allows them to be configured and set-up for specific applications. This reduces spares inventory as well as saving time and money in commissioning and maintenance.
By connecting to the 4-20mA wires anywhere on the current loop, you can interrogate a device from remote locations. You can then obtain device status and diagnostic information.
HART-to-Analog Integration – Signal extractors communicate with HART devices in real-time to convert the intelligent information located in these devices into 4-20mA signals. These are then fed into an existing analog control system. Add this capability one device at a time to get more from your intelligent HART devices. Some of these devices also provide contact / alarm closures for early warning of potential problems.
HART-plus-Analog Integration – HART multiplexer package solutions make it easy to communicate with HART devices by replacing existing I/O termination panels. Your analog control signal continues on to the control system as it does today.
The HART data is lifted off the analog signal and sent to a device / asset management system providing valuable diagnostics information 24 hours a day 7 days a week. Although the controller is not aware of the HART data, this solution provides better access to device diagnostics for asset management or process improvements.
Full HART Integration – Upgrading your Field or Remote I/O system to one that is HART-enabled provides an integrated path to continuously put HART data directly into your control system. Most new control systems are HART-capable. Many suppliers offer software and I/O solutions to make upgrades simple and cost-effective.
Continuous communication between the field device and control system enables problems with a device, its connection to the process, or inaccuracies in the 4-20mA control signal to be detected automatically. Corrective action can be taken before there is negative impact to the process operation. This solution also provides the opportunity to move from a schedule-based maintenance strategy to a predictive-based maintenance strategy where devices notify the system of a potential problem – allowing you the ability to work on devices that only need attention.
HART-to-Plant Network Integration – The HART OPC Server software tool provides a simple, cost-effective means of passing HART data into your plant Ethernet network. Once there, the data can go to OPC-compliant applications anywhere in the plant.
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