Echelon OpenLNS Commissioning Tool User Manual
Page 369
OpenLNS CT User’s Guide
353
Dynamic Network Variable
A network variable that is added to a functional block after the device has been commissioned.
Devices that support dynamic network variables include controllers and gateways with dynamic
interfaces.
Engineered System Scenario
A control network installation scenario in which configuration data is collected into the network
database when the system is being designed with OpenLNS CT and downloaded into the physical
devices when the network is installed.
Enumerated Object
A network variable, configuration property, or functional block state that has enumerated types.
Examples of enumerated objects include SNVT_hvac_mode, SCPT_hvac_type, and functional block
states enable and override.
Fan-in Connection
A connection in which multiple output network variables (or message tags) are connected to a single
input network variable (or message tag).
Fan-Out Connection
A multicast connection in which multiple input network variables (or message tags) are connected to a
single output network variable (or message tag).
Free Topology
A connection scheme for a communication bus that removes traditional transmission line restrictions
of trunks and drops of specified lengths and at specified distances, and terminations at both ends. Free
topology allows wire to be strung from any point to any other, in bus, daisy chained, star, ring, or loop
topologies, or combinations thereof. It only requires one termination anywhere in the network. This
can reduce the cost of wiring by a factor of two or more.
Functional Block (FB)
A collection of network variables, configuration properties, and associated behavior that defines a
desired system functionality. Functional blocks define standard formats and semantics for how
information is exchanged between devices on a network.
Functional Block State
An indication whether a functional block is enabled or disabled, or whether it is in override mode.
Functional Profile
A specification that enables equipment specifiers to select the functionality they need for a system. A
functional profile is a template for a type of functional block that defines mandatory and optional
network variable and configuration property members along with their intended usage. A small
number of standard functional profiles are available for generic devices such as simple sensor and
actuators. Many industry-specific standard functional profiles are available for industry-specific
applications. Industry-specific standard profiles are developed through a review and approval process,
including a cross-functional review to ensure the profile will interoperate within an individual
subsystem and also provide interoperability with other subsystems in the network. Device developers
can also create custom manufacturer-specific profiles.
Group
A logical collection of devices within a domain. Unlike a subnet, devices are grouped together without
regard for their physical location in the domain. The number of groups to which a device may belong
is determined by the number of available address table entries. This number is set by the device
application. Groups and group membership are defined by the OpenLNS Server during binding.