The HART® Communication Foundation (HCF) announces the release of a fully enhanced version of the HART Device Description-Integrated Development Environment (DD-IDE). DD-IDE Version 2.0 is the first development tool available that supports the recent enhancements to the HART Device Description Language (DDL) Specification. The HCF standard DD-IDE tool suite is a comprehensive set of integrated software tools for efficient development, testing and maintenance of enhanced HART Device Descriptions.
The new DD-IDE tool and DDL enhancements are part of the Foundations proactive effort to augment the usability of DD Language in todays graphical user environments, says Ed Ladd, HCF Director of Technology Programs. As the HCF standard for DD development and testing, the new DD-IDE is receiving widespread support from device developers and system suppliers worldwide.
Enhanced DDL functionality provides an easy, reliable and robust migration path to move from text-oriented handhelds to a full graphical user interface for configuring and working with devices, Ladd says. The benefits for industry users are universal tools with enhanced graphical interfaces, compatibility with all existing devices, consistent look and feel, safe operation, investment protection and lower maintenance and training costs.
Key components of the new DD-IDE Version 2.0 are: an updated SDC-625 Smart Device Configurator for DD validation and testing; an updated XMTR-DD device simulator; an improved DDL Tokenizer; new file Preprocessors; improved Wizards for DD development; and new sample and updated standard DDs. The new DD-IDE improves developer productivity by simplifying DD development through the addition of standard C like tools and support for legacy development.
The enhanced Device Description Language simplifies and standardizes the presentation of intelligent device information for both automation suppliers and users worldwide. The DDL enhancements include the capability to use graphs, charts and images to better display operational data; lists, grids, files and arithmetic functions for tabulation and storage of information; and new standard operating procedure (methods) built-ins to provide developers with standardized ways of implementing method operations.
For more information on the HART DD-IDE, enhanced DDL, or HART Communication, email [email protected] or visit www.hartcomm.org.
Device Description Language (IEC 61804-2, EDDL) has been a key element of the HART technology since 1990 and is the HART standard and the only technology endorsed by the HCF for configuration of HART devices.
The HART Field Communications Protocol is the global standard for smart process instrumentation. 70% of all smart process measurement and control instruments installed worldwide each year use HART Communication and the global installed base of HART-enabled devices is the largest of all communication protocols at more than 14 million. Key features of this unique open standard communication technology are: 4-20mA compatibility, ease of use, low risk, and cost-efficient implementation for both users and suppliers.
The HART Communication Foundation is an independent not-for-profit organization providing worldwide support for application of HART technology. Established in 1993, the Foundation is the technology owner and standards setting body for the HART Communication Protocol. Major instrumentation manufacturers and users around the world support the Foundation. Membership is open to anyone interested in the use of HART technology. For more information, go to www.hartcomm.org.
