Device management FOUNDATION Fieldbus

ABB offers a complete FF solution, containing tools and network devices.

Overview

FF is an open, integrated architecture for distribution of control applications across the network and devices providing an open standard for process automation applications. Two fieldbus networks are supported:

H1 link with 31.25 kbit/s for connection of 2-wire field devices such as transmitters, actuators and I/O incl. intrinsically safe applications.
HSE, the High Speed Ethernet bus with 100 Mbit/s, H1 subsystems via linking devices.

Freelance supports the entire FF architecture including High Speed Ethernet (HSE):

AC 800F controller at FF HSE, optionally redundant.
Infrastructure and network devices for higher availability.

Benefits

Plug and Produce.
High availability - Gateway between HSE and H1.
FOUNDATION Fieldbus Linking Device LD 800HSE.

Technical data

FOUNDATION Fieldbus engineering

In Freelance engineering, the devices are configured in the feedforward part by linking the Device Description (DD) files. This makes it possible to configure the FF without the field devices being physically connected to the controllers.

The devices are configured on the H1 links of the LD 800HSE Linking Devices. As Freelance engineering supports control in the field for FF devices, it is possible to configure function charts that interconnect the function blocks in the individual FF devices. Freelance engineering then automatically generates a process that is passed on to the Link Active Scheduler (LAS).
Redundant Link Active Schedulers are also supported. However, it is also possible to use the FF devices “only” as I/O suppliers and use the function blocks in the controllers.

FOUNDATION Fieldbus commissioning

Live lists displaying which devices exist are available for HSE and H1. During commissioning, Freelance allows you to compare configured parameters for the device modules with the parameters that exist in the device. This makes it possible to detect device parameters that have been changed locally and transfer them to the configuration by means of uploading.

The Link Active Scheduler (LAS) can be stopped in order to interrupt processing of the control loops in a control loops in an H1 link.

Service

My Control System

My Control System is available in the my ABB-business portal and provides ABB control system owners, operators and engineers a unified interface to all of their ABB installed control products and systems.

Service agreements

Service agreements, Automation Software Maintenance Program and Life cycle Policy for control systems.

Training

Engineering, operation or maintenance courses and valuable technical education resource to keep up-to-date with the latest market trends and receive practical tips.

Other protocols supported in Freelance

MODBUS TCP

MODBUS TCP now brings the MODBUS communication protocol into the Ethernet environment, improving data communication rates from the serial basis of 31.25 Kbits/sec to normal Ethernet speeds of 10/100 Mbits/sec or faster. MODBUS TCP enables collaboration and communication that allows everyone in a plant to get a shared view of all of the equipment.

MODBUS Serial

Modbus serial provides a way to connect to various industrial electronic devices such as programmable logic controllers (PLCs), motor controllers, and remote terminal units (RTUs). Many of the data types are named from its use in driving relays: a single-bit physical output is called a coil, and a single-bit physical input is called a discrete input or a contact.

PROFIBUS

PROFIBUS is an international standardized communication protocol for automation technology. The Freelance DCS supports PROFIBUS DP and PROFIBUS PA.

HART

A full range of field devices is certified for the Freelance DCS and enables seamless implementation. New devices are continuously added to the device library by the Device Integration Center.

PROFINET

Freelance 2024 now supports PROFINET communication on AC 900F controller with the multi-purpose Ethernet Communication Interface.