HART Communication Interview Questions & Answers

3/5/2016 HART Communication Interview Questions & Answers | Instrumentation Tools
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HART Communication Interview Questions & Answers

Communication, Q & A January 25, 2016
What is HART?
The HART Communication Protocol (HART = Highway Addressable Remote Transducer)

defines a bidirectional field communication protocol standard for instrument, control and
automation systems. Actually, it’s not just a standard, but the global standard for sending and
receiving digital information across analog wires between smart devices and host systems. A
host can be any software application from technician’s handheld device or laptop to a plant’s
process control, asset management, safety or other system using any control platform.
Why use HART Technology?
There are several reasons for using HART Communication to enhance the data flow between
hosts and field devices. These include device (re)configuration, diagnosing and troubleshooting
instruments, reading values of additional measurements provided by the device, and much
more. It can provide many benefits, including playing a major role in improving plant operations,
increasing asset availability, reducing maintenance costs and aiding in regulatory compliance.
In all these roles, HART technology has proven to be easy to use and very reliable.
How does HART Communication work?
The HART Protocol provides two simultaneous communication channels on the same wire: 4
20mA “current loop” analog and a HART digital signal. While the analog signal continues to
provide primary values to and from field instruments, the digital signal provides additional
device information. This is a very robust method with roots in the Bell 202 Frequency Shift
Keying (FSK) standard, which originally superimposed a digital communication signal “on top
of” the 420mA current loop to bring Caller ID technology to the field of telephony.
What is a Device Description?
http://instrumentationtools.com/hartcommunicationinterviewquestionsanswers/ 1/9
Key to the HART Protocol’s ability to “get data out of the field device” is a data file called a
Device Description (DD). This describes the features and functions of a device, such as the
form and content of menus and graphic displays to be presented in host computers or handheld
devices. The DD is written in conformance with a Device Description Language in the protocol.
The HART Communication Foundation manages a library of Manufacturer Device Descriptions,
and provides regular updates to which any Foundation member can subscribe. DD’s are
available for download at the HART Communication Foundation website. The DD is not
required for communication with HARTenabled devices. It is an optional enabling element of
HART technology that most device and host suppliers support in order to offer HART Users the
added value of multivendor interoperability
How does a HART Assist commissioning and configuration?
HART technology has been shown to significantly reduce the time required to fully commission
a network (loop). For example. devices can be more quickly verified because the device
specific and application information are loaded into instruments which can quickly be verified by
the host control system. Commissioning is further streamlined by connecting a PC configurator
to each HART communication loop online either through the control system or a multiplexing
I/O system. This eliminates the need to move the configuration device from one termination
point to the next while commissioning devices on the network. Leading PC configurator
applications also include a looptest feature which ensures proper connections, and asinstalled
recordkeeping features for longterm documentation and maintenance.
How to HART Communication data?
There are many ways to integrate HART data and leverage the intelligence in your smart field
devices. PointtoPoint Integration is the most common method, enabling you to interrogate a
device using a remote host by connecting anywhere on the current loop. The next step is
HARTtoAnalog Integration, which replaces analog control components with HART protocol
signal extractors to convert realtime instrument data 420 mA signals for input into an existing
analog control system. Next, HART plus – Analog Integration employs HART technology
multiplexers to replace existing I/O termination panels. The analog signal continues on to the
control system, while HART communication data is sent to a device/asset management system
to provide continuous diagnostics. Finally, Full HART Integration upgrades the field or remote
I/O system for full, bidirectional communication between field instrumentation and the control
system. The result is fully automated, realtime detection of problems with devices or
connections for more rapid corrective action.
What is the main difference between DTM and DD configuration methods?
The FDT standard supports both DD and DTM configuration methods.
The DD (Device Description) Language allows a device to be described using a text like
language. This is then compiled into a DD file that is unique for each HART, FF, and Profibus
network. The host system interprets the compiled DD file and determines how a device appears
in the applications..
While the DD method is a simple way to describe the device, it is at the same time limited in the
features it offers.
The DTM method of representing a device is consistent in any FDT Frame application. The
device supplier is in control of the visualization, functionality and advanced features.
What is the FDT Technology?
FDT Technology standardizes the communication interface between field devices and control
systems or engineering and asset management tools. Key features are its independence from
the communication protocol and the software environment of either the device or the host
system. FDT Technology allows any device to be accessed from any host through any protocol.
What is the FDT Interface?
The FDT interface specification describes the standardized data exchange between devices
and control systems or engineering and asset management tools. Devices can be configured,
operated, and maintained through the standardized user interfaces integrated in an FDT Frame
Application.
What is a Device Type Manager (DTM)?
A Device Type Manager (DTM) is part of the FDT standard that is a software component for a
device that contains the devicespecific data, functions and logic elements. DTMs can reach
from a simple graphical user interface for setting device parameters up to a highly sophisticated
application that, for example, can perform complex calculations for diagnostics and
maintenance purposes or can implement arbitrarily complex business logics for device
calibration.
The DTM also contains FDTcompliant interfaces to enable communication with the connected
system or tool. DTMs are classified as Device DTMs, which represent a field device, and
CommDTMs, which represent communication components (gateways, remote I/Os, couplers,
etc.).
A typical FDT based application can contain dozens, hundreds, or thousands of Device DTMs
and CommDTMS from a variety of manufacturers to make up the system.
Which communication protocols does FDT Technology support?
The FDT specification supports the communication protocols ASinterface, CANopen, CIP
Annex Configuration, ControlNet, DeviceNet, EtherNet/IP, FOUNDATION Fieldbus, HART,
INTERBUS, IO Link, MODBUS SL/TCP, PROFIBUS DP/PA, and PROFINET I/O.
The FDT Group is open to future developments and market requirements and continues to
expand its support of new protocols.
Due to the open nature of the standard, several device and host manufacturers have even
added their own proprietary or legacy protocols to the standard for use in their own
applications.
Is Wireless HART an international standard?
YES, WirelessHART is a HART Communication Foundation standard using the licensefree 2.4
GHz frequency band and is an integrated part of HART 7 Specification. In addition it is also the
world’s first field communication International Standard (IEC 62591), a European Standard
(EN62591), complies with EN 300328 and soon to be a Chinese National Standard.
What are the main benefits of wireless HART?
Users report the main benefit of selecting a wireless solution like WirelessHART is the low cost
of adding an additional measurement to the system. This reduced cost includes: engineering
time, fewer drawings, reduced amount of field work including pulling wire and commissioning
Are wireless HART devices are interoperable?
One of the many benefits of using products that conform to an international standard like IEC or
IEEE is the assurance of interoperability. Interoperability is the ability of devices from one or
more suppliers to communicate properly together in an automation application without the need
of special or proprietary software. Interoperability is also ensured by a wellproven testing
What network topologies does wireless HART support?
WirelessHART allows for basically three network topologies: Star or pointtopoint, Mesh and a
combination of Star + Mesh which utilizes the both network topologies. Each topology has
advantages and disadvantages providing flexibility at the time of setup and commissioning.
A Mesh topology allows for further network distance and the ability to adjust for changing
communication paths. Compared to other wireless protocols, this functionality provides greater
reliability and flexibility as well as eliminating the associated cost and risk of installing and
wiring backbone routers throughout the plant.
A Star (pointtopoint) topology allows a device to communicate directly to the gateway without
having to route communications through another device.
All WirelessHART devices can operate in a pointtopoint topology if a mesh is not desired.
How to configure a wireless HART network?
WirelessHART is a selfforming and selforganizing network. The user does not need to know
the details of how the network operates. As long as the devices are within range of the gateway
or another network device, the network is configured automatically.
The system automatically configures the network, scheduling communication between devices,
managing message routes and monitoring network health.
The only user action is to configure the network ID and join key into the individual devices in
order for them to be able to join the network.
How wirelessHART similar to 420mA HART?
WirelessHART is HART with a wireless communication implementation. Wired or wireless, they
work together to provide a standardized way to communicate process measurements and
diagnostics information from a HART device to a control or asset management system.
Existing HART configuration tools can be used for WirelessHART also?
YES. Since WirelessHART is HART, all of the standard configuration tools can be used to
configure a wirelessHART device. This includes handheld and PCbased configuration tools
Any additional paramters required to configure a wirelessHART when compared to wired
HART devices?
Yes – two additional parameters need to be set – the device join key and the network I.D.
These are set using standard HART configuration tools such as a handheld tool or a PCbased
application connected directly to the device using a modem.
Why do we use a wired connection to configure the join key & network id in
wirelessHART?
Since users demand a high level of data and network security, the join key and network I.D. are
never broadcasted across the network. However, if the network I.D. and join key are
configured at the factory a local wired connection is not needed for device configuration. Once
the device joins a network, the initial join key is changed.
WirelessHART devices always require a battery?
No. There are many power options including; battery, energy harvesting (including solar), line
or loop power and others.
WirelessHART devices use a special battery?
No. Battery powered WirelessHART devices typically use standard, longlasting highenergy
batteries as part of a power module (battery pack) that is able to operate the device for
extended periods of time depending on the application and the device update rate.
Devices can use offtheshelf batteries and power options as do other wireless sensor network
devices. Each supplier will use what they determine to be the best power solution for their
particular device.
Certain batteries are recommended by different suppliers in order to get the longest time of
operation out of their device in harsh operating conditions. The specification requires the
device to report battery life providing early notification of a need to change or replace the
batteries long before a device runs out of power.
WirelessHART devices can be used for control applications?
Yes. Since there are different levels of control and endtoend required response times, the
specific application will determine if WirelessHART should be used.
What are the benefits of mesh network topology for wirelessHART devices?
The WirelessHART mesh topology has many advantages over star topology making mesh the
most practical topology option:
Very robust: multiple paths for maximum reliability under changing plant conditions
Network distance can be extended because the critical distance is now between devices in multiple
hops, not between device and the gateway
Cost effective because a single gateway can cover a larger network area
Low risk deployment because gateway location can be more flexible including being installed at the
edge of the operating unit using minimal power and backbone networking
Flexibility and mobility because devices can be easily added or moved within the network without
installing and wiring backbone routers.
Incremental expansion – additional devices can to be added with big savings in deployment time and
wiring costs compared to traditional wired installations.
Wireless Hart devices in a Mesh topology have a shorter battery life than in a star
topology?
Yes but very little difference. The biggest impact on battery life is the update rate and not the
routing or use of a mesh topology.
Battery life is a function of measurement update rates, device power requirement (some sensor
types consume more power than others), battery capacity and environment conditions, and
whether the device routes messages sent by other devices in the mesh, Depending on its
position in a mesh network, a device operating as a router may experience a slight reduction in
battery life than a device that does not route messages. Therefore, it is important to properly
evaluate the application to determine the best network configuration considering all issues and
to select devices with a suitable battery life for the application.
The expected battery life for a WirelessHART transmitter set for 1 minute updates may be 10
years, and that includes relaying messages from neighboring transmitters in a mesh topology.
Although mesh topology is the most common topology used in industrial plants, WirelessHART
also supports the star topology.
Is Wireless HART an Open Technology?
Yes. Products and systems from multiple suppliers interoperate
Is WirelessHARTt ranges shorter than other IEEE 802.14.5 based wireless sensor
network topologies?
No. Since WirelessHART uses the same radio as other IEEE 802.15.4 wireless sensor
networks, the range between devices is the same. Any difference from one product to the next
depends on the sensitivity of the radio chip used internally and the antenna selection. Since
mesh topology supports multiple hops, the total network covers longer distance than other
networks.
Can a Combination of wireless protocols be used in a Wireless HART network?
No. WirelessHART is designed to communicate using the HART protocol. A WirelessHART
network will allow only WirelessHART devices even if the other devices use the same wireless
radio for many reasons including security. With the majority of all intelligent smart devices
installed worldwide being HARTenabled, WirelessHART is designed to provide a means of
maximizing these installed assets and protecting the investment in training and tools. The
output of the WirelessHART gateway varies depending on the supplier but may include
Modbus, OPC, HARTIP or others.
What is a WirelessHART adapter?
There are more than 35+ million 420 mA/HART devices in operation. For most of them, only
the analog 420 mA signal is used in daily operation. The digital communication was only used
for calibration and configuration at the time of commissioning. After that, HART often went
unused because most legacy systems support only 420 mA, without HART communication
passthrough.
By installing a WirelessHART adapter on the 420 mA/HART transmitter, intelligent device
management software can continuously monitor diagnostics to alert operators and technicians
to failures that could translate into process problems. That is, a WirelessHARTadapter can
unleash the power of 420 mA/HART devices by communicating process variables and
stranded data to device monitoring and asset management applications.
The WirelessHART adapter connects to the 420mA / HART device or anywhere on the 4
20mA loop. The adapter may communicate information from a single HARTenabled device or
multiple devices. The adapter may also be battery, loop or direct powered and may also
provide the power to the device.
Does WirelessHART communicate both the Process Value (PV) and device configuration
& diagnostics?
Yes. All device capabilities available in any HARTenabled device are also available using
WirelessHART. This includes the PV and all other device information.
What is the transmission distance between WirelessHART devices?
The transmission distance between devices is typically 250 m using a 0dB standard antenna.
Longer distances may be possible using different antenna types.
What is distance covered by a WirelessHART network?
WirelessHART uses mesh topology meaning every device is capable of being a repeater
capable of relaying data from measurement devices to the gateway. Therefore data can travel
very long distances by “hopping” from one transmitter to the next until it reaches the gateway.
Is WirelessHART is a part or subset of ANSI/ISA100?
No. WirelessHART is an International Standard – IEC 62591 and not part of ANSI/ISA100.
Can multiple WirelessHART networks coexists in one plant?
Yes. A large plant can deploy hundreds or even thousands of WirelessHART devices. For large
installations, use separate gateways for each process unit or plant area, joined using a HART
IP network over Ethernet or WiFi. This totals up to large numbers of devices, yet logically sub
divided per plant area and work responsibilities – just like the DCS controllers are today.
Are redundant gateways available for WirelessHART?
Yes. Redundant WirelessHART gateways are available from certain suppliers.
Does WirelessHART supports IP (Internet Protocol) addressing?
No. It was deliberately designed to not use IP to make WirelessHART easy to manage. In
addition, cyber security and the deployment of new transmitters are simplified.
Is a WirelessHART data encryption key change manual or automatic?
Automatic. Always enabled, there is no on/off option. WirelessHART uses two encryption keys:
a network key and a session key. The network key operates at the data link layer of the
protocol and is used in communication hops between neighboring transmitters nodetonode.
The session key operates at the network layer and is used endtoend (over multiple hops),
from the originating transmitter to gateway. The intermediate transmitters cannot decode the
message. These keys are not seen by plant personnel. The system periodically rotates these
keys every few days, this happens automatically without human intervention.
Can WirelessHART Coexists with WiFi and other wirelsss technologies?
YES. WirelessHART has several mechanisms to ensure coexistence with other wireless
technologies. For instance, IEEE 802.15.4 uses Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum (DSSS)
modulation, channel hopping, channel black listing, and Clear Channel Assessment to minimize
the effect of interference from other wireless networks. To minimize interference onto other
wireless networks, WirelessHART uses low power radio and very short message bursts. Over
1 Billion hours of proven field operation have proven that WirelessHART does coexist with
other wireless networks.
Must all devices on the wirelessHART network share same Join key?
No. In WirelessHART, the join key can be shared by all the devices or can be unique for each
device.
Also Read: Foundation Fieldbus Interview Questions & Answers
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The HART Communication Protocol (HART = Highway Addressable Remote Transducer)

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