System Integration & Control Systems Design


Global leaders combine to provide integrated solutions

June 2007 System Integration & Control Systems Design

Working together, global leaders Rockwell Automation, Endress+Hauser and Spectrum Controls have combined their core competencies to provide a wide range of pre-integrated, pre-tested, measurement, automation and information solutions based on global standards.

As part of a complete process asset management solution, FieldCare software can provide users with multiple benefits, including significant initial and annual savings, better decision-making and interpretation, rapid troubleshooting, recognition of performance deterioration, remote diagnostics and reconfiguration, efficient planning of scheduled shutdowns and easy access to instrument information.

The FieldCare HART Configuration Bundle incorporates all the software that plant and maintenance engineers need for effective asset management of HART field devices connected to ControlLogix or CompactLogix programmable automation controllers and Flex I/O from Rockwell Automation.

The HART I/O modules pass data to the controller over the backplane, where Connects software translates the data to be used by FieldCare asset management software
The HART I/O modules pass data to the controller over the backplane, where Connects software translates the data to be used by FieldCare asset management software

The bundle comprises Endress+Hauser FieldCare Plant Asset Management Software, Spectrum Controls Connects software, Rockwell Automation RSLinx Professional Software and a one-year TechConnect support contract. It also includes the communication Device Type Management (DTM) programs and drivers needed to configure and manage HART instruments attached to the Rockwell Automation Integrated Architecture system. Industries where this bundle will be of particular interest include food and beverage, life sciences, chemical, oil and gas, water/wastewater, pulp and paper, power generation and mining.

Because FieldCare is based on the open Field Device Tool/Device Type Manager (FDT/DTM) standard, this bundle will allow users to configure and manage any HART device with a DTM. DTMs for all Endress+Hauser instruments are also included. The bundle can be simply loaded onto a PC that resides on the Ethernet/IP or ControlNet network and you are ready to go. Users can configure, calibrate, tune, analyse and optimise HART devices connected to Spectrum Controls HART analog I/O modules installed within ControlLogix and/or CompactLogix and/or Flex I/O and FlexEX-based process automation system.

HART-capable field instruments provide the diagnostic and process control information that users require to optimise their production assets. When connected to ControlLogix, CompactLogix, Flex I/O and FlexEX I/O modules with built-in HART communication, there is no need for extra hardware or wiring to access the HART data for use as part of a standard maintenance program.

Leveraging the power of the Rockwell Automation Integrated Architecture, HART I/O modules pass data to a ControlLogix or CompactLogix controller over the backplane, while at the same time, using RSLinx, Connects software translates CIP messages that encapsulate the HART data to be used by FieldCare asset management software. Users can also use Allen-Bradley FLEX and FLEX EX HART analog I/O modules as an alternative or complementary I/O solution for applications in which the digital HART signal is used for asset management purposes only and the analog signal is used exclusively for control. As well as all HART data, the instrument also uses a conventional 4-20 mA signal for the process variable complementing regular analog and digital I/O signals.

For more information contact Vusi Sithole, Rockwell Automation, +27 (0)11 654 9700, [email protected], www.rockwellautomation.co.za



Credit(s)



Share this article:
Share via emailShare via LinkedInPrint this page

Further reading:

Cybersecurity in 2025: Six trends to watch
Rockwell Automation IT in Manufacturing
Rockwell Automation’s 10th State of Smart Manufacturing report finds that cybersecurity risks are a major, ever-present obstacle, and are now the third-largest impediment to growth in the next 12 months.

Read more...
Control system upgrade: Smelting
System Integration & Control Systems Design
Systems Automation & Management recently completed a major control system upgrade in the smelting industry. The project was delivered on budget and achieved a positive ROI for the client.

Read more...
Gottwald drives upgrade: Ports and harbours
Abacus Automation System Integration & Control Systems Design
In the ports and harbours sector, Abacus Automation completed a significant modernisation of a Gottwald crane, improving both operational reliability and serviceability.

Read more...
Mining industry upgrade: From ageing systems to maximum capacity
System Integration & Control Systems Design
Iritron recently undertook a major upgrade in the mining sector, focusing on washing and screening plants, jigs, thickeners, tailings, water systems, conveyors and reclaimers.

Read more...
Agogo Integrated West Hub Project: FPSO/subsea offshore Angola
System Integration & Control Systems Design
The Agogo Integrated West Hub project represents a historic milestone in the FPSO and subsea industry, achieving first oil offshore of Angola. This project is the first FPSO deployment since ANPG’s establishment in 2019, and the first major project for Azule Energy since 2022.

Read more...
Enabling a sustainable organisation
Rockwell Automation IT in Manufacturing
This article explains the top sustainability trends and key actions that you can leverage to become a more sustainable organisation.

Read more...
Speeding up warehouse automation
Rockwell Automation Editor's Choice Motion Control & Drives
Bastian Solutions designs and delivers world-class material handling systems. The company was engaged by a high-end global fashion brand to implement a new warehouse system. Bastian used Rockwell Automation Emulate3D digital twin software to test the system before it was installed and went live.

Read more...
Digital transformation from the edge
DirectLogic Automation System Integration & Control Systems Design
Edge-enabled PLCs are an accessible and affordable way for most users to collect and create value from use field-sourced data.

Read more...
Powering southern Africa’s industrial evolution for over five decades
Oilpower System Integration & Control Systems Design
Established in 1974, Oilpower is a recognised name in South Africa’s hydraulic and pneumatic sector. What started as a small, family-run business has matured into a highly structured operation with specialised teams, experienced engineers and a reputation for technical excellence and reliability. Oilpower is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year

Read more...
Control system for deep antenna
Rockwell Automation Motion Control & Drives
When a major university in South Korea set out to build a 21-metre deep space antenna, the researchers needed a control system that could track celestial objects with pinpoint accuracy, a level of precision they thought was out of reach. By partnering with Rockwell Automation, they discovered that the right technology and support could turn their vision into reality.

Read more...









While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, the publisher and its agents cannot be held responsible for any errors contained, or any loss incurred as a result. Articles published do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. The editor reserves the right to alter or cut copy. Articles submitted are deemed to have been cleared for publication. Advertisements and company contact details are published as provided by the advertiser. Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or veracity of supplied material.




© Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd | All Rights Reserved