First Working Prototype of FDI (Field Device Integration) to be Presented at the NAMUR AGM

For the first time ever, FDI device packages will be used to integrate Foundation Fieldbus, HART, and PROFIBUS field devices of various manufacturers within an ABB process control system, and typical applications, such as parameter assignment, configuration, diagnostics, and maintenance, will be demonstrated. The system makes use of prototypes of FDI standard host components developed by the FDI Cooperation. The purpose of the working prototype is to verify the FDI concepts, apply the standard host components in a system context and demonstrate FDI functionality.
The next steps are: publication of the first draft of the FDI specifications (end of 2011), completion of Conformance Test concepts, mid 2012, completion of the validation and release of the FDI specifications for member review within the foundations (mid 2012), and completion of the FDI standard host components, such as EDD Engine and User Interface (UI) Engine by the FDI Cooperation (end of 2012).
FDI provides users and manufacturers of field devices with a uniform and easy-to-use solution for device integration into systems, asset management and device configuration. End users and device manufacturers benefit from the following advantages: The life cycle costs will be effectively reduced in the long run, the handling becomes easier and the technical risks will be minimized.