Yokogawa will start the shipment of FieldMate Advance software that helps the configuration and maintenance of intelligent field devices. The use of open interface Field Device Tool (FDT) technology facilitates the configuration and adjustment of field devices such as sensors and valves at production sites, regardless of the manufacturer or the communication protocols. Electronic device description language (EDDL) interface technology is also supported. In addition, the price of this software is considerably lower than that of conventional hardware configurators.
The FieldMate Advance software helps to realise Asset Excellence, which is one of the essential elements in Yokogawa's VigilantPlant concept for achieving the ideal plant. FieldMate Advance helps customers optimise Asset Availability through improved device control and maintenance.
Demand for this kind of configuration software is increasing as field devices become more intelligent and digitalisation of field communications moves forward. The growing number of device configuration parameters complicates initial configuration and daily maintenance of devices at production sites. Furthermore, since a variety of communication protocols and configuration methods are in use, users of field devices from multiple manufacturers have had to use different configurators and/or learn multiple configuration procedures. With its device navigation and device maintenance information management features, this software relieves users of these difficulties. This software is also as easy to operate as any standard Windows application.
Satoru Kurosu, vice president of Marketing, says that the 'one tool for all' concept of the FieldMate can save the users a lot of time and pain associated with using many dedicated hardware configurators. In addition, the advanced version has asset management capabilities using both FDT and EDDL technologies. Moreover, FieldMate will support enhanced EDDL soon, using SDC625 for Hart and DD Service Revision 5 for Foundation Fieldbus. By supporting these open and latest standards, Yokogawa believes that the FieldMate allows the users to enjoy the best benefits of intelligent field devices and digital field communications.
The release of this new product is the result of Yokogawa's continual focus on providing an optimal solution for its customers' needs.
About FDT
FDT is an open and standard interface technology supported by leading suppliers of intelligent devices and control systems. FDT facilitates the management and configuration of sensors that are installed at production sites and connected to host control systems and PCs, regardless of the communications protocol (Foundation Fieldbus, Hart, Profibus, etc) or the configuration method used by the device manufacturer.
The use of this technology creates an open environment in control systems and devices. The FDT technology frees users from having to learn configuration methods from different manufacturers and eliminates the constraint of having to install devices from the same manufacturer, so more efficient plant operations can be realised.
Yokogawa is a board member of the FDT Group, which promotes the FDT technology.
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