IEC 62657-2:2017

Overview

IEC 62657-2:2017 is an essential international standard dedicated to industrial wireless communication networks, specifically focusing on coexistence management. Published by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), this standard outlines critical assumptions, concepts, parameters, and procedures to ensure effective coexistence of wireless communication systems within industrial automation plants.

The 2017 edition updates and replaces the original 2013 version, incorporating technical revisions that enhance clarity, add new terms, and align coexistence parameters with the IEC Common Data Dictionary (IEC CDD). It serves as a comprehensive guideline to manage wireless communication coexistence throughout its entire life-cycle in industrial environments.

Key Topics

• Wireless Coexistence Fundamentals IEC 62657-2:2017 specifies the fundamental concepts and parameters essential for managing interference and ensuring smooth coexistence among multiple wireless technologies deployed in an industrial plant.

• Lifecycle Management The standard provides detailed guidance covering the full wireless communication coexistence life-cycle, including:

  • Planning and design
  • Installation and implementation
  • Operation and maintenance
  • Administration and training

• Performance and Availability Optimization Best practices and requirements are outlined to maintain high availability and optimal performance of wireless networks within industrial automation settings, accommodating dynamic and complex operational conditions.

• Operational Aspects Addresses both static and dynamic factors affecting coexistence:

  • Static elements such as human interaction, tools, and organizational factors
  • Dynamic network self-organization and adaptive coexistence mechanisms

• Common Point of Reference Acts as a unified framework that assists all stakeholders - engineers, planners, operators, and administrators - in effectively assessing wireless coexistence efforts and challenges in industrial automation sites.

Applications

• Industrial Automation Plants IEC 62657-2:2017 is particularly valuable for industries deploying multiple wireless communication systems within complex automation environments where interference could threaten system reliability.

• Wireless Network Planning and Deployment Supports engineers and system integrators by providing coexistence criteria and management practices essential when designing or expanding wireless infrastructure in industrial settings.

• Maintenance and Operational Support Facilitates systematic monitoring, maintenance, and adjustment of wireless networks to sustain performance under varying operational conditions and evolving coexistence challenges.

• Training and Administration Provides frameworks for training technical personnel to understand and manage wireless coexistence effectively, fostering resilience and proactive management strategies.

Related Standards

• IEC 62657-1: Industrial communication networks – Transmission systems and media Complements IEC 62657-2 by covering transmission systems and physical media used in industrial wireless communication.

• IEC 62890: Life-cycle management for systems and products used in industrial-process measurement, control and automation The coexistence life-cycle concepts in IEC 62657-2 align with the life-cycle terminology and procedures detailed in IEC 62890.

• IEC Common Data Dictionary (IEC CDD) The standardized coexistence parameters are prepared for future inclusion in the IEC CDD, promoting harmonization and interoperability across IEC standards.

Conclusion

IEC 62657-2:2017 delivers a robust framework for wireless communication coexistence management in industrial automation networks. By addressing all stages-from planning and design through to operation and training-this standard equips professionals with the tools necessary to ensure reliable, efficient, and interference-resilient wireless communications. Its practical guidelines help maintain uptime and performance critical to today’s automated industrial processes, making it an indispensable reference for industrial wireless communication stakeholders.

Keywords: IEC 62657-2, industrial communication networks, wireless communication, coexistence management, industrial automation, wireless coexistence lifecycle, wireless network performance, IEC standards.