EN IEC 61784-2-13:2023, published by CLC/CENELEC and aligned with IEC 61784-2-13:2023, defines Communication Profile Family 13 (CPF 13) for industrial networks. CPF 13 specifies Real‑Time Ethernet (RTE) communication profiles and related network components based on the IEC 61158 series (Type 13) and ISO/IEC/IEEE 8802-3 (Ethernet). The part covers profile definitions, the selection of protocol services for physical, data‑link and application layers, and RTE performance indicators (PIs) including their interdependencies. CPF 13 specifically addresses Ethernet POWERLINK profile sets (CP 13/1) and provides performance indicator matrices and consistent PI sets for small, medium and large automation systems.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Scope and purpose: Defines RTE communication profiles that coexist with ISO/IEC/IEEE 8802-3 while offering enhanced predictability and synchronization required for industrial automation.
- Profile composition: Specification of Physical, Data‑Link and Application layer service and protocol selections for CPF 13 (e.g., CP 13/1).
- Performance indicators (PIs): Identification of relevant RTE performance indicators, performance indicator selection, and a PI dependency matrix that describes how indicators affect each other.
- Protocol adaptations: Use of ISO/IEC/IEEE 8802-3 network components with amendments where necessary to achieve real‑time features.
- Profile variants: Tables that outline consistent PI sets tailored for different automation system sizes (small / medium / large).
- Normative references: Integrates IEC 61158 parts (Type 13 elements), IEEE 802.1AS for time synchronization, IEEE 802.1Q, and other Internet and Ethernet standards.
Practical applications and who uses it
- System integrators & OEMs: Design and validate deterministic Ethernet solutions for machine and process automation.
- Network architects & engineers: Select and configure physical and protocol layers to meet required real‑time performance and synchronization.
- Control system vendors: Ensure device interoperability and compliance with CPF 13 profile sets (e.g., Ethernet POWERLINK implementations).
- Compliance and test labs: Use PI definitions and dependency matrices to develop test suites and certify real‑time performance.
- Plant operators: Reference CPF 13 when specifying network performance and deterministic communication for critical automation use cases.
Related standards
- IEC 61158 series (Fieldbus specifications - Type 13 elements)
- IEC 61784-1 / IEC 61784-2 (general profile frameworks)
- ISO/IEC/IEEE 8802-3 (Ethernet)
- IEEE Std 802.1AS (Timing & synchronization), IEEE 802.1Q, IEEE 802.1AB
- IETF RFCs for TCP/IP and UDP (supporting layers)
EN IEC 61784-2-13:2023 is essential for implementing deterministic Ethernet solutions (CPF 13 / Ethernet POWERLINK) and for ensuring interoperable, time‑sensitive industrial communication.