PROFIBUS PA by Christian Diedrich, Thomas Bangemann and several co-authors is now available in a revised and updated English version. This book is a must for all who need in-depth information about PROFIBUS in the process industries. It is equally useful for developers of PA devices and for planners, end-users and maintenance staff. The introductory chapters give an overview of the fundamental functionality of process devices with the PROFIBUS PA interface and general automation principles in process engineering and in hybrid applications in particular. Transmission and installation technology, with special attention to the explosion-endangered zones existing in chemical engineering are treated in detail, including MBP transmission and the FISCO concept, which both play a special role in field-bus-based process automation. Following examination of the PROFIBUS DP- protocol, which is the basis of all PROFIBUS communication, the PA Devices profile, developed specially for process automation, is introduced. The current amendments of the PA profile, PROFIsafe for PA Devices, Condensed Status and Diagnostic Messages, based on the VDI/VDE/NAMUR/WIB 2650 guideline, and Identification and Maintenance Functions, are examined in detail. Sections on device integration, device development and interoperability testing, plus a glossary round off the contents of the book and make it an indispensable reference for experienced engineers as well as for newcomers to the field of process automation.
