FDT (Field Device Tool) technology standardises the communication interfaces between field devices and the system environment. The special feature of this technology is that it is an open system independent of any communication protocols. Using the FDT technology it is possible to address any units via any system using any protocol.
The FDT framework software, the ifm Container, features a user-friendly user interface. On the programme start-up, users are supported by a wizard that carries out all necessary settings for them. The Classic mode offers a major advantage for users without or with little FDT knowledge who do not need a complex FDT topology. This mode is also the ideal choice for simple point-to-point connections. A changeover between Classic and FDT mode is, however, possible at any time. The FDT mode itself offers all users with FDT knowledge the network topology with the familiar FDT structure.
ifm electronic and many other companies have developed driver special software, the Device Type Manager (DTM), for their own devices or device groups.. These DTM’s contain all device-specific data, functions and operating conditions. They provide functions to call device parameters, to configure and operate devices and to locate errors. The DTM is loaded into a PC-based software, the FDT Container program, and executed there.
ifm electronic offers this technology for pressure, temperature and flow sensors. The easy to use ifm Container program including an extensive DTM catalogue is available now.