IEC 61158-3-25:2019

Overview

IEC 61158-3-25:2019 is part of the IEC 61158 series, which specifies fieldbus standards for industrial communication networks. This edition, published by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), focuses on the data-link layer service definition for Type 25 elements. It establishes abstract services provided at the interface between the application layer and data-link layer, as well as between the data-link layer and system management, specifically for time-critical messaging communications in automation environments. The standard is a key resource for enhancing interoperability and reliability among automation devices using Ethernet-based fieldbus systems.

Industrial manufacturers and automation solution providers can rely on IEC 61158-3-25:2019 to define consistent communication behaviors at the data-link layer, which is critical for maintaining the performance and safety of industrial automation networks.

Key Topics

• Time-Critical Messaging: Addresses communications where strict time-windows must be met for safety, operational integrity, and system responsiveness.
• Data-Link Layer Services: Detailed service definitions and abstract primitives (actions/events) between the application and data-link layers for Type 25 fieldbus networks.
• Service Interfaces: Formally describes the external service interface through primitives, including requests, indications, responses, and confirmations.
• Communication Types: Defines three primary communication modes in industrial Ethernet environments:
  • Cyclic Communication: For periodic, real-time data exchange.
  • Control Communication: For high time-critical, acyclic data.
  • Information Communication: For non-time-critical, acyclic data.
• Ring Control and Reconfiguration: Specific services for network topology management in ring-configured industrial networks.
• Parameterization: Outlines abstract parameters such as addresses, port numbers, priorities, frame types, service data units, and status indicators essential to data-link communication.
• Interoperability: Facilitates migration between legacy protocols and modern Ethernet-based architectures by providing a universal service model.

Applications

IEC 61158-3-25:2019 is widely applicable across industries employing automation systems and industrial Ethernet, including:

• Factory Automation: Ensures reliable communication between programmable logic controllers (PLCs), sensors, and actuators for time-sensitive operations.
• Process Industries: Supports control and monitoring for systems requiring deterministic and robust data exchange to prevent equipment failures or hazards.
• Robotics: Enables precise and safe coordination among robotic elements through guaranteed time-critical messaging.
• Building Automation: Allows integration of diverse devices and systems, maintaining performance even in complex, interconnected environments.
• Transportation and Power Management: Critical in maintaining communication between devices where timing and data integrity are essential for system operation and safety.

By deploying the service definitions from IEC 61158-3-25:2019, system integrators can design networks that are more predictable, manageable, and scalable, with enhanced support for real-time Ethernet communication and fieldbus network management.

Related Standards

For further guidance and system compatibility, the following standards are closely related to IEC 61158-3-25:2019:

• IEC 61158 Series: A comprehensive set of standards specifying industrial communication networks - fieldbus specifications.
• IEC 61158-1: Provides the general overview and guidance on the fieldbus reference model.
• ISO/IEC/IEEE 8802-3 (Ethernet): Establishes the foundational protocols for Ethernet-based communication, extended by Type 25 services.
• IEC 61784-1 and IEC 61784-2: Define profiles for use of fieldbuses in industrial networks to ensure interoperability and consistent performance.
• ISO/IEC 7498-1: The OSI Reference Model, which forms the basis for the layered architectural approach used in this standard.

Leveraging IEC 61158-3-25:2019 together with these related standards ensures a robust, compliant, and future-ready industrial communication infrastructure, critical for the evolving demands of Industry 4.0 and modern automation solutions.