Overview
IEC 61158-2:2014 is an international standard published by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) that defines the physical layer specifications and service definitions for industrial communication networks using fieldbus technology. This sixth edition of the standard serves as a technical revision, replacing the previous 2010 edition, and provides updated requirements essential for fieldbus component parts and their interoperability at the physical layer
The standard aligns with layer 1 of the OSI 7-layer model according to ISO 7498, with specific adaptations in how frame delimiters are handled between the physical and data-link layers for various fieldbus types. Importantly, IEC 61158-2:2014 ensures that all specified media and network configurations achieve required data integrity before error checking at higher layers.
Key Topics
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Physical Layer Requirements: Comprehensive details for designing and implementing the physical layer components necessary for fieldbus networks, including media types and configurations.
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Media Types and Network Configurations: Specifications cover various media types such as twisted-pair wire, coaxial cable, optical media, and specialized wire media across different fieldbus types (e.g., Type 1, Type 2, Type 3, Type 4, Type 8, Type 12, Type 16, Type 18, Type 20, Type 24).
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Service Definitions and Interfaces: Defines the service primitives and interface requirements between the physical layer and the data link layer to facilitate communication integrity and device interoperability.
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New and Updated Specifications: Introduction of new Type 20 and Type 24 media specifications, with the removal of the RS232 media spec for Type 4, reflecting advancements in fieldbus physical layer technologies.
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Compliance with OSI Model: Consistent with layer 1 of the OSI 7-layer model, promoting standardization across fieldbus physical layer implementations.
Applications
IEC 61158-2:2014 is critical for developers, engineers, and manufacturers involved in industrial automation and communications. The standard’s physical layer specifications enable:
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Reliable Fieldbus Communications: Facilitates robust and high-integrity communication between industrial devices such as sensors, actuators, controllers, and fieldbus gateways.
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Interoperability Across Devices: Ensures that devices from different vendors can operate seamlessly on the same physical communication infrastructure.
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Design of Industrial Network Hardware: Provides technical guidance necessary for designing physical media components and interfaces compatible with fieldbus networks.
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Compliance and Certification: Assists companies in meeting global compliance requirements for industrial communication products associated with fieldbus networks.
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Scalable Industrial Network Solutions: Supports various network sizes and configurations, including use cases with optical media or wired connections based on application requirements.
Related Standards
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IEC 61158 (Parts 1 to 7) - Encompasses comprehensive fieldbus standards covering application, data-link, and other layers.
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ISO 7498 - Defines the OSI Reference Model for Open Systems Interconnection, which IEC 61158-2 follows for the physical layer.
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IEC 61784 - Specifies profiles for industrial communication networks using fieldbus technologies, complementing the physical layer definitions.
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IEC 61850 - Focuses on communication networks and systems in substations, often integrating with fieldbus standards for intricate automation systems.
Summary
IEC 61158-2:2014 plays a vital role in standardizing physical layer components for industrial communication networks. By specifying precise requirements for fieldbus media and physical interfaces, it guarantees interoperability, reliable data exchange, and integrity at the foundational network layer. This standard is indispensable for stakeholders in industrial automation seeking to implement or maintain robust and compliant fieldbus systems.
Open preview (PDF)Industrial communication networks - Fieldbus specifications - Part 2: Physical layer specification and service definition