IEC 61158-6-16:2007

Overview

IEC 61158-6-16:2007 is a key international standard published by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) that defines the application layer protocol specification for Type 16 fieldbus elements. As part of the broader IEC 61158 series on industrial communication networks - fieldbus specifications, this standard ensures interoperability and reliable communication among diverse automation system components.

The fieldbus Application Layer (FAL) described in this standard acts as a "window" between corresponding application programs, enabling user programs to access the fieldbus communication environment. This edition, along with its companion parts for Type 16, replaces older editions and standards, aligning with OSI Basic Reference Model (ISO/IEC 7498) and OSI application layer structure (ISO/IEC 9545).

Key Topics

• Application Layer Protocols: Specifies the Type 16 application layer protocol, including message structure, transfer syntax, and operation in conformance with OSI models.
• Object-Oriented Services: Describes a model where the FAL exposes application resources (objects), supports various service types, and defines the interrelationships and valid sequences between service actions and events.
• Time-Critical Communication: Supports both time-critical and non-time-critical messaging, essential for automation systems requiring predictable response within defined time-windows.
• Protocol State Machines:
  • FAL Service Protocol Machine (FSPM): Interfaces between the application and protocol layers, converting parameters and handling service requests.
  • Application Relationship Protocol Machine (ARPM): Manages the establishment, communication, and release of application relationships.
  • Data Link Layer Mapping Protocol Machine (DMPM): Handles mapping between the application layer and the data link layer.
• Terminology and Scope: Includes definitions for ‘device’ (typically a slave such as a drive or I/O station), ‘control unit’ (e.g., a PLC), protocol-specific terms, and message types like master data telegram (MDT) and acknowledge telegram (AT).

Applications

IEC 61158-6-16:2007 is widely used in industrial process automation and manufacturing environments that require robust, standardized communication between devices and control systems. Key applications include:

• Sensor and Effector Integration: Facilitates seamless communication between sensors, actuators, controllers, and supervisory systems, regardless of vendor.
• Factory Automation: Ensures reliable and predictable data exchange between programmable logic controllers (PLCs), drives, and input/output devices.
• Time-Sensitive Operations: Supports applications where deterministic communication is crucial for safety, performance, and equipment protection.
• System Interoperability: Enables integration of otherwise incompatible devices through standardized protocol definitions, allowing flexible system expansion or upgrades.
• Device and Network Management: Provides standardized methods for obtaining device/network status, transmitting files, and managing real-time synchronization.

Related Standards

IEC 61158-6-16:2007 is part of a comprehensive set of standards that define fieldbus architectures for industrial networks. Relevant and related standards include:

• IEC 61158-4-16: Data-link layer protocol specification – Type 16 elements
• IEC 61158-5-16: Application layer service definition – Type 16 elements
• IEC 61158 Series: Covers additional fieldbus types and corresponding protocol layers.
• IEC 61491: Replaced in part by IEC 61158-6-16 for application layer protocol specifications.
• ISO/IEC 7498: OSI Basic Reference Model, which underpins the structure and functioning of the application layer.
• ISO/IEC 9545: OSI Application Layer Structure, referenced for the protocol design.

By adhering to IEC 61158-6-16:2007, manufacturers and system integrators can ensure compatibility and achieve high reliability in industrial communication networks, supporting the demands of modern, automated industrial processes.