National Instruments FP-3000 User Manual

Page 18

Chapter 1

FP-3000 Network Module Overview

1-5

Caution

To avoid damaging the network module and the terminal bases, make sure that

you do not add or remove terminal bases while power is applied to the bank. An
I/O module can be hot-inserted only if an empty terminal base is already available in the
bank.

Using Third-Party Configuration Software with the
FP-3000

If you choose to use third-party configuration software with the FP-3000,
check that it supports the advanced features required by the FP-3000.

Potential Problems with Third-Party Configuration Software

Because FieldPoint I/O modules are interchangable, it does not make sense
to predefine the available function blocks. An FP-3000 initially has only a
resource block. All other function blocks must be instantiated by the
configuration software. Instantiation and deletion of function blocks is an
advanced part of the F

O U N D A TIO N

Fieldbus specification and not all

configuration software packages offer it. If you want to use an FP-3000
with a third-party configuration software package, verify that the package
supports the instantiation and deletion of function blocks.

Parsing of Device Descriptions by Third-Party Configuration Software

Many of the features of the FP-3000 require that the configuration software
be able to parse device description files. Verify that the third-party
configuration software can read the standard

.ffo

and

.sym

device

description files.