The Durban branch held its most recent monthly meeting on 2 August at the Durban Country Club. Members and visitors were treated to an interesting presentation on the topic of ‘ISA100.11a wireless technology’, given by Clint Viviers, product specialist at Yokogawa.
He gave his audience the background of the development of ISA100.11a, with special focus on the aspects of security and data integrity, while also covering the capabilities and limitations of systems using this technology.
Clint explained in principle how the system secures data against interference by unauthorised external agencies, while showing that a notable feature of this technology is its adaptability. It facilitates the use of field devices from many different manufacturers, and the use of differing signal protocols to interface with the DCS or PLC control system via wireless access points and routers. The fact that the ISA100.11a battery-powered field transmitters can give a service life of several years came as a surprise to most of the audience, and he explained that the battery life is dependent on the update time required. Clint also explained that the field devices can be used in hazardous areas, and even changing the batteries can be done safely in the field.
He showed the importance of designing a network structure correctly, so that reliable coverage and redundancy can be incorporated to ensure system integrity for control purposes. It was also noted that the wireless system update time, which is often thought of as being a problem, is often less than the update time of other parts of the data system, it is therefore important to take all those aspects into consideration when designing.
There were many questions both during and after Clint’s presentation, all of which were answered clearly. Certainly the audience found his talk very relevant and interesting.
As is customary, he was thanked by Hennie Prinsloo for his contribution. Yokogawa was also thanked for its kind sponsorship of the evening.
People were then able to see the demonstration which had been set up by Yokogawa and ICA and ask questions before adjourning to the dining area for networking over supper and drinks.
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