FieldComm Group released FDI Package IDE and Common Host Components Version 1.1, an update to its tool featuring enhancements and general bug fixes.
The update introduces new capabilities for FDI product developers including an automated device package test tool, support for PROFINET based device packages and support for developing device packages capable of offline configuration, including upload and download features.
Here are some of the new improvements for the FDI Package IDE 1.1:
- Device Package Test Tool - Enables automated testing of device packages
- Support for PROFINET -Tool now supports HART, FOUNDATION Fieldbus, PROFIBUS and PROFINET
- Offline Configuration Capability of Devices - Enables configuration of devices prior to connection to the system
- Upload/download Features - Enables offline configuration to be downloaded/uploaded on the system
- Bug Fixes
The FDI Common Host Components 1.1 has the following improvements:
- Offline Configuration Capability of Devices - Enables configuration of devices prior to connection to the system
- Upload/download Features - Enables offline configuration to be downloaded/uploaded on the system
- Bug Fixes
Since the dissolution of the FDI Cooperation July 28, 2015, both PROFIBUS and PROFINET International and FieldComm Group, as co-owners of the tools and components, have partnered together to support, maintain and enhance FDI products. Development of a single software product across all protocols will be performed at FieldComm Group in collaboration with PROFIBUS and PROFINET International through the Group's working group model. FDI tools and host components are currently available for purchase from FieldComm Group across FOUNDATION Fieldbus, HART and PROFIBUS/PROFINET protocols.
FDI makes it easier for automation suppliers to develop and integrate intelligent devices because suppliers only need to create a single, unified package for each intelligent device that can work with all host systems and tools. This reduces overall development costs, while preserving and expanding existing functionality. Users will also find it easier to manage information from intelligent devices with a single device package, instead of managing multiple file types for disparate solutions and investing significant capital in custom integration efforts to connect multiple technology platforms.