WIB Test compares FDT/DTM and EDDL for Asset Management

February 04, 2008
News

Summary

February 4, 2008: WIB, the International Instrument Users’ Association, has completed its test comparing the performance of FDT/DTM and EDDL technologies for asset management of intelligent Field Devices in process automation systems. FDT/DTM and EDDL are the two standard technologies for integration of device information into Process Automation Systems. The extensive testing, based on Foundation Fieldbus communication, was performed by the Shell Global Solutions test laboratories in Amsterdam on behalf of WIB. FDT Group member companies contributed to the test with systems, stand alone tools and field devices supporting both FDT and EDDL technologies. In addition, one system and one device supporting EDDL only were used. The complete results are published in the report to be issued by WIB and confirm the consistent position of the FDT Group: FDT/DTM and EDDL are complementary technologies that perform best in their respective areas of application. EDDL descriptive language is best suited for device data access and FDT/DTM programming interface is the recommended platform for advanced asset management applications and efficient Human Machine Interface. Control systems, tools and field devices suppliers should support both approaches and combine their benefits. Vendors should continue to exploit the unique benefits of each technology including the flexibility and power of FDT/DTM for advanced device functionalities. The test recommends that more devices should be available supporting both technologies in a Foundation Fieldbus environment. Tom Kuperij, managing Director of WIB, declares “This test is a milestone as it performs for the first time a rigorous and exhaustive comparison between two technologies that have been diversely promoted by competing vendors. It provides an objective assessment by an independent laboratory recognized for its competence and experience. It will be a support both for automation end users and suppliers and hopefully provides some guidance in their decisions.” Flavio Tolfo, managing Director of the FDT Group, declares “We are very pleased with the test results. The market needs an objective test that confirms the need and the benefits that FDT technology and associated applications deliver. Yes, we have of course our homework to do but we feel energized by the fact that this test supports our message that FDT technology brings superior benefits to end users and suppliers alike”. About WIB Founded 45 year’s ago, WIB, the International Instrument Users’ Association, a non-profit organisation, provides advisory services to Process Plant owners and Engineering Consultants around the world for the best selection of process instrumentation and systems. WIB Members are Multinationals but also Engineering Contractors and Medium-sized Process and Manufacturing Companies who recognise the importance of independent advisory service, experience and knowledge for the optimal choice of their process instrumentation systems. About the FDT Group AISBL The FDT Group AISBL is a non-profit corporation consisting of over 60 leading worldwide companies active in process and factory automation. The major purpose of the FDT Group is to provide an open and non proprietary interface for the integration of field devices with engineering, automation and asset management systems. In this environment, end users, manufacturers, universities and research organizations are working together to develop the technology, provide development tools, support and training, coordinate field trials and demonstrations, and enable product interoperability. Learn More

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