Overview
IEC 61158-4-24:2014 is a key international standard published by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) addressing industrial communication networks and fieldbus systems. Entitled Industrial communication networks - Fieldbus specifications - Part 4-24: Data-link layer protocol specification - Type 24 elements, this standard specifies the data-link layer protocol used for timely and reliable transfer of data and control information between automation devices within industrial environments.
The main objective of IEC 61158-4-24:2014 is to enable efficient, deterministic messaging critical for real-time industrial automation, supporting both cyclic and acyclic communication patterns. This assures seamless interconnection and interoperability of sensors, actuators, controllers, and other field devices, promoting robust industrial communication networks.
Key Topics
- Data-Link Layer Protocols: Outlines procedures for the orderly and time-critical exchange of communication between data-link layer user entities, ensuring determinism required in automation.
- Cyclic and Acyclic Communication: Supports both scheduled (cyclic) communication for real-time data transfer and on-demand (acyclic) communication to meet varied industrial needs.
- Fieldbus DLPDU Structure: Defines the structure and representation of Data-Link Protocol Data Units (DLPDUs) essential for fieldbus data and control information exchange.
- Communication Procedures: Specifies methods for giving sequential and synchronized communication opportunities to all connected devices, managing both time-critical and non-time-critical transmissions.
- OSI Reference Model Alignment: Ensures that fieldbus communication is compatible with the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) model, promoting integration and interoperability.
- Conformance Requirements: Provides criteria for system conformance but does not include direct testing procedures.
- Normative References: Relies on several foundational standards including other IEC 61158 parts, IEC 61784, ISO/IEC 8802-3 (Ethernet), and ISO/IEC OSI standards.
Applications
IEC 61158-4-24:2014 is essential for various industrial automation scenarios, particularly those requiring stringent timing and reliability, such as in process automation, discrete manufacturing, and factory networks. Typical applications include:
- Real-Time Control: Effective for environments needing deterministic messaging between controllers and field devices such as PLCs, sensors, and actuators.
- Interoperable Device Networking: Facilitates integration of equipment from different vendors by providing a standardized communication foundation.
- Flexible Network Architectures: Enables addition or removal of nodes without disrupting operation, supporting dynamic industrial processes.
- Prioritized Data Handling: Accommodates both safety-critical and routine data communication, ensuring priority access for time-sensitive information.
- OS Integration: Helps embed industrial fieldbus protocols into open system architectures, broadening the scope for industrial IoT and smart manufacturing.
Related Standards
IEC 61158-4-24:2014 is part of the comprehensive IEC 61158 fieldbus standards series for industrial communication networks. Its correct application depends on, and complements, the following related standards:
- IEC 61158-2: Fieldbus physical layer specification
- IEC 61158-3-24: Data-link layer service definition for Type 24 elements
- IEC 61784-1 & IEC 61784-2: Fieldbus profiles and protocol type combinations for different industrial communications
- ISO/IEC 8802-3: Ethernet (CSMA/CD) medium access control and physical layer
- ISO/IEC 7498 (all parts): OSI Basic Reference Model for open system communications
These standards together create a solid framework for establishing reliable, standardized, and interoperable industrial digital communications.
Keywords: IEC 61158-4-24:2014, industrial communication networks, fieldbus, data-link layer, protocol specification, Type 24 elements, real-time automation, cyclic communication, acyclic communication, DLPDU, OSI model, industrial networks, automation standards.