IEC 61158-3-13:2014

Overview

IEC 61158-3-13:2014 is an international standard published by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) that defines the data-link layer service for Type 13 fieldbus communication networks used in industrial automation. This standard specifies the services provided at the boundary between the application layer and the data-link layer, as well as systems management interaction at the data-link layer boundary. As part of the IEC 61158 series covering fieldbus specifications, Part 3-13 focuses on detailing protocols and communication services essential for reliable industrial communication.

The 2014 edition supersedes the 2007 original, introducing minor technical revisions including the addition of a new communication class, alongside corrections and editorial improvements to enhance clarity and applicability.

Key Topics

• Data-Link Layer Service Definition
  Defines the essential services to support communication between the application layer and data-link layer in Type 13 fieldbus systems. This includes isochronous and asynchronous data transfer services, exception signaling, network management commands, and status reporting.

• Communication Classes
  Introduction of a new communication class to enhance the range of supported communication modes or optimize transmission efficiency under specific industrial scenarios.

• Service Types and Primitives
  Detailed definitions of service primitives and parameters supporting various communication operations, such as:

  • Isochronous-data transfer essential for time-critical data in automation.
  • Asynchronous-data transfer enabling flexible messaging.
  • Exception signaling services for error and event notification.
  • Network Management (NMT) services including command and status messaging.

• Data-Link Management
  Specifications for data-link management services including reset, set value, get value functionalities, and event handling that ensure robust operational management and control of the fieldbus network.

• Protocol Architecture and Addressing
  Clarifies the Type 13 communication architecture and addressing mechanisms including Data Link Service Access Points (DLSAPs) and group addressing, ensuring interoperable and efficient network communication.

Applications

IEC 61158-3-13:2014 is critical for industrial automation systems that rely on fieldbus technologies to enable precise, real-time communication and control. Typical application areas include:

• Manufacturing Automation
  Supports reliable communication between distributed control components such as programmable logic controllers (PLCs), sensors, and actuators.

• Process Control Systems
  Facilitates time-sensitive control data exchange in process industries, ensuring synchronized operation and safety.

• Systems Integration
  Serves as a foundation for interoperable integration of different fieldbus elements from various vendors by specifying standardized data-link services.

• Industrial Network Management
  Enables effective network configuration, monitoring, and fault handling through defined management services, improving system uptime and maintainability.

Related Standards

• IEC 61158 Series
  Covers comprehensive fieldbus specifications including physical, data-link, application layers, and protocol profiles applicable to various industrial communication networks.

• IEC 61784-1 & IEC 61784-2
  Provide protocol profiles and combination rules to enable interoperability of different fieldbus communication protocol types within industrial automation.

• ISO/IEC Directives, Part 2
  Frameworks for structuring and drafting standardized international publications ensuring consistency and clarity.

Summary

IEC 61158-3-13:2014 is a vital standard defining the data-link layer service requirements for Type 13 fieldbus elements in industrial communication networks. By specifying detailed service primitives, data transfer modes, and management functions, it supports high-reliability communication for industrial automation and control applications. Adopting this standard helps industries achieve interoperability, real-time performance, and robust network management essential for modern industrial operations.