Rockwell Automation has added process device configuration using Field Device Tool (FDT) technology to its FactoryTalk AssetCentre asset management software, further helping manufacturers in the process industries to manage and maintain their production environments. Process device configuration helps process manufacturers increase reliability of instrumentation and simplifies regulatory reporting compliance efforts. The capabilities also help improve product quality in applications where conditions are tied directly to process parameters, such as temperature, pressure or flow.
The FactoryTalk AssetCentre process device configuration uses FDT technology to standardise the communication interface between field devices and systems. Because processing facilities rely on a wide variety of devices, it is important to choose an industry standard that addresses the broadest spectrum of device technologies. The process device configuration relies on the iDTM for the HART Communication Protocol, making it simple for organisations to take advantage of diagnostic information that is already available in many of today’s processing facilities. The iDTM uses the data in the HART device descriptor (DD) file and the graphical capabilities of FDT technology to integrate to any Hart Communication Foundation registered device descriptor. As a result, asset management of any HART device is possible.
With FactoryTalk AssetCentre version 2.31, engineering staff can remotely connect and conduct instrument diagnostics, view and edit device configurations, and quickly swap out or reconfigure devices with the last-known good configuration. The process device configuration functionality provides a common asset management platform that works within a multivendor field device environment to drive maintenance efficiency improvements.
In addition to process device configuration, the latest version of the FactoryTalk AssetCentre asset management software also includes calibration management capabilities and disaster recovery support for Rockwell Automation and third-party controller, operator interface and robotic assets. Calibration management functionality helps manufacturers develop calibration schedules, make calibration testing decisions, and better define what the testing schedule will look like for each individual instrument across the plant floor. It also helps maintain records and certificates related to calibration and testing schedules. Disaster recovery capabilities provide control system backup that is integrated with source control to provide easier and more reliable access to the latest control system configuration files. All new features are integrated with the broader Rockwell Automation PlantPAx process automation system capabilities.