Rockwell Automation 1757-FFLD Linking Device Configuration Manual - Manual (Page 5)

1 Publication 1757-PM002A-EN-E - June 2006
Chapter
1
System Requirements
In This Chapter
Purpose of this Chapter This chapter describes the components of a typical fieldbus system, including
the Rockwell Automation Linking Device, 1757-FFLD.
Refer to the Glossary for further explanation of fieldbus terms and concepts.
If you already have a basic understanding of fieldbus concepts, skip to Chapter
2, Setting Up A System, or if you want to start using RSFieldbus for
applications immediately, skip to Chapter 4, Applications.
Foundation Fieldbus
Description The term fieldbus refers to an all-digital, two-way communication system that
connects control systems to instrumentation.
The Fieldbus Foundation is an organization that developed a fieldbus network
standard based on the work and principles of the ISA and IEC. The goal of the
Fieldbus Foundation is to provide multi-vendor interoperable process control
using a single robust industrial network based on standards and other proven
technologies.
F OUNDATION Fieldbus, the communications network created by the Fieldbus
Foundation, is a protocol designed for robust, distributed control of process
control applications. Devices that you connect within a F
OUNDATION
Fieldbus network are used for sophisticated, highly distributed Process
Control. F
OUNDATION Fieldbus is an enabling technology that has been
integrated into Rockwell Automation’s Integrated Architecture through the
linking device.
For See Page
Purpose of this Chapter 1-1
Foundation Fieldbus Description 1-2
Hardware Requirements 1-4
Software Requirements 1-12
Additional Resources 1-12