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HCF releases new DDL tools

ControlGlobal.com
04/11/2006

The HART Communication Foundation (HCF) has announced the release of a fully enhanced version of the HART Device Description-Integrated Development Environment (DD-IDE). DD-IDE Version 2.0 supports the recent enhancements to the HART Device Description Language (DDL) Specification. The HCF standard DD-IDE tool suite is a comprehensive set of integrated software tools for development, testing and maintenance of enhanced HART Device Descriptions.

“The new DD-IDE tool and DDL enhancements are part of the Foundation’s proactive effort to augment the usability of DD Language in today’s graphical user environments,” says Ed Ladd, HCF Director of Technology Programs. “As the HCF standard for DD development and testing, the new DD-IDE is receiving widespread support from device developers and system suppliers worldwide.

“Enhanced DDL functionality provides an easy, reliable and robust migration path to move from text-oriented handhelds to a full graphical user interface for configuring and working with devices, “ Ladd says. “The benefits for industry users are universal tools with enhanced graphical interfaces, compatibility with all existing devices, consistent look and feel, safe operation, investment protection and lower maintenance and training costs.”
 
Key components of the new DD-IDE Version 2.0 are: an updated SDC-625 Smart Device Configurator for DD validation and testing; an updated XMTR-DD device simulator; an improved DDL Tokenizer; new file Preprocessors; improved Wizards for DD development; and new sample and updated standard DDs. The new DD-IDE improves developer productivity by simplifying DD development through the addition of standard “C” like tools and support for legacy development.

The enhanced Device Description Language simplifies and standardizes the presentation of intelligent device information for both automation suppliers and users worldwide. The DDL enhancements include the capability to use graphs, charts and images to better display operational data; lists, grids, files and arithmetic functions for tabulation and storage of information; and new standard operating procedure (methods) built-ins to provide developers with standardized ways of implementing method operations.

For more information on the HART DD-IDE, enhanced DDL, or HART Communication, email Ed Ladd, Director Technology Programs, or visit the HART website.