New release of Foundation Fieldbus test kit

February 2014 News

The Fieldbus Foundation has released the Foundation Fieldbus H1 interoperability test kit (ITK) 6.1.1. This is an advanced testing solution benefitting both developers and end users of Foundation Fieldbus H1 devices.

The latest version of the kit reflects the increased focus of the Fieldbus Foundation on usability. The Fieldbus Foundation has already made enhancements to the ITK that make it easier for end-users to replace ‘like for like’ devices. In other words, the procedure for replacing a device with a newer revision level of the same make and model of device is automated to allow the configuration of an existing field instrument to be restored in a newer version of that instrument without manual intervention.

ITK Version 6.1.1, a maintenance release, is yet another example of the Fieldbus Foundation’s commitment to this usability-focused, continuous improvement process. This latest release includes 64-bit Microsoft Windows support. The full H1 suite of testing tools, including the automation toolkit, is now compatible with modern 64-bit testing systems. Utilising the automation toolkit alongside the H1 ITK allows device suppliers to develop and enhance their products easily and rapidly. Updated test cases for various function blocks and transducer blocks are available to maintain compatibility and fix bugs.

The H1 ITK consists of a test engine, communication stack and function block interface card. An excellent tool for troubleshooting and debugging Foundation Fieldbus instruments, it includes all hardware and software required to ensure complete device interoperability. By using the H1 ITK, instrument manufacturers can test their devices thoroughly prior to submitting their product for official registration with the Fieldbus Foundation. By ensuring conformance with the Foundation Fieldbus specification, developers are able to deliver robust products and enhancements to their users. The H1 ITK 6.1.1 is available immediately to Fieldbus Foundation members holding active maintenance agreements and also as a new purchase.

Further reading:

Reinstatement opportunity for ECSA registration
News
In 2023 the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA) announced a special opportunity for engineers in South Africa to reinstate their registration status if it had been cancelled. This exclusive offer is available until the end of August 2024.

Read more...

---

Hytec opens fifteenth Mandela Day library
Bosch Rexroth Africa News
Over 200 learners at Monene Primary School in rural Limpopo have received their own containerised library. This is the fifteenth library since 2011, provided by Hytec South Africa and the Nelson Mandela School Library Project to schools across the country.

Read more...

---

CSIR survey on the state of cybersecurity in South Africa
News
The CSIR Information and Cybersecurity Centre has released four comprehensive national cybersecurity surveys. These delve into critical areas such as cybersecurity preparedness and resilience in the public sector, cybersecurity skills gaps, cybersecurity incidents, and the digital identity landscape in South Africa.

Read more...

---

Referro Systems partners with Festo in Northern Cape
News
Referro Systems has been recognised as an Authorised Official Partner Candidate for Festo in the Northern Cape, marking a significant milestone in its commitment to delivering best-in-class automation solutions to customers.

Read more...

---

Heavy-duty tablet achieves global certification
Vepac Electronics News
In a significant advancement for the company’s rugged tablets, the Teguar TRT-5380-10 heavy-duty tablet from Vepac has successfully acquired 11 international certifications, setting a new standard in quality, safety, and security across global markets.

Read more...

---

Bühler Johannesburg transforms Little Star Daycare Centre
News
Little Star Daycare in Vanderbijlpark has undergone a remarkable transformation, thanks to the generous support of Bühler Johannesburg.

Read more...

---

Schneider Electric and Harmony accelerate skills development
Schneider Electric South Africa News
Schneider Electric has formed a strategic partnership with Harmony Gold Mining to upgrade the instrumentation workshop into a state-of-the-art facility.

Read more...

---

RS South Africa showcases mining products and solutions
RS South Africa News
RS South Africa recently exhibited at MTE Steelport in Limpopo, and MTE Sibanye-Stillwater in Gauteng.

Read more...

---

RS PRO expands automation range
RS South Africa News
As automation continues to revolutionise production facilities, RS PRO, the trusted own brand of RS, is expanding its product range to meet the growing demand for smarter, more efficient processes.

Read more...

---

From the editor's desk: Killer science
Technews Publishing (SA Instrumentation & Control) News
I couldn’t resist watching The World Industrial Reporter’s video on Ten Scientists Killed By Their Own Experiments. Some of them would have deserved the Darwin Award for taking themselves out of the ...

Read more...

---