GOVERNMENT POLYTECHNIC COLLEGE,CHERTHALA

DEPARTMENT OF COMPUTER HARDWARE

ENGINEERING

SEMINAR REPORT ON

HART COMMUNICATION PROTOCOL

Submitted to Submitted by

Baburajan ts Muhammed Nizar

20150276
 GOVERNMENT POLYTECHNIC COLLEGE, CHERTHALA

2022-23

SEMINAR REPORT ON

HART COMMUNICATION PROTOCOL

Submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements

for the award of the degree of Diploma in Computer Hardware Engineering

by

MUHAMMED NIZAR

[Register No. 20150276]

Under the esteemed Guidance of

MR. BABURAJAN T S

Head of Department
Department of Computer Hardware Engineering, GPTC Cherthala
 DEPARTMENT OF COMPUTER HARDWARE ENGINEERING

Government Polytechnic College, Cherthala

Cherthala – 688539

Certificate

This is to certify that the Seminar entitled [Your Topic] presented by [Your
Name] bearing Registration No. 2015xxxx has been completed successfully
for the partial fulfilment of the requirements of Diploma in Computer
Hardware Engineering from Government Polytechnic College, Cherthala.

Baburajan T S

(HoD, Department

of Computer Hardware

Engineering)
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

I would like to express my deep gratitude to all those who have contributed
to the successful completion of this seminar report.

I would like to extend my sincere thanks to Mr. Baburajan T S, for

providing me with invaluable guidance and support throughout the
seminar. His expertise and encouragement have been instrumental in
shaping this report.

I would also like to thank The Principal Jayakumar R, for providing me

with the necessary resources and facilities to carry out this seminar.

I am grateful to my colleagues, friends, and family for their support and

encouragement throughout the project.

Finally, I would like to acknowledge all the individuals who provided me

with their time, knowledge, and insights, which helped me in completing
this report.

Thank you all for your support and guidance.

 ABSTRACT

The HART protocol is a defined communication method for smart field

instruments to have two-way digital communication with central control or
monitoring systems over the standard analog signal that contains the process
variable. This digital signal is superimposed on the analog signal using the Bell
202 Frequency Shift Keying standard where preservation of the original analog
signal is maintained. Many instruments have been developed that use this
protocol to communicate more information about the instrument and its current
status to some central location. However, at this time, there are very few tools
available to users and system engineers to help them determine how the network
is currently running and what information the instrument is passing along in the
signal. In this paper, we present a software interface for analyzing the HART
protocol messages.

instrumentation devices have been built that use this protocol to

communicate with a central control system instrument information beyond just
the normal process variable. This information can include such things as the
manufacturer, model, serial number, range limits, and process variables. The
protocol was based on using the technology that is currently employed and not
altering its value. It also is an open-architecture that has parts are currently widely
available. Since this has occured, it leaves the door open for many more devices
to be developed to use this method of communication for smart field devices.
With the rise in production of these instruments and the popularity of their use,
comes the need for some useful tools to help the user.

CONTENTS
SLOTE PAGE
CONTENT
NO NO
1 INTRODUCTION 7
1.1 HISTORY 8
2 WORKING PRINCIPLE 9
2.1 CONNECTING HART DEVICE 10
3 HART NETWORKS 11
3.1 POINT TO POINT CONNECTION 11
3.2 MULTIPLEXER 11
3.3 MULTIDROP 11
4 FSK BUS 12
5 HART COMMUNICATION LAYERS 13
5.1 PHYSICAL LAYER 14
5.2 DATALINK LAYER 16
5.3 APPLICATION LAYER 17
6 TWO WIRE TECHNIQUE AND LOAD 19
IMPEDANCE
7 BENEFITS OF USING HART 20
8 CHALLENGES FACED IN HART 22
COMMUNICATION
9 CONCLUSION 24
10 REFERENCES 25

LIST OF FIGURES

SL FIGURES PAGE
NO. NO.
2.1 FREQUENCY SHIFT KEY 4
5.1 HART COMMUNICATION LAYER 13
5.2 DATA TRANSMISSION B/W MASTER AND 14
SLAVE DEVICES

5.3 CLASSIFICATION OF HART COMMANDS 18

5.4 HART HANDHELD COMMUNICATOR 19

1.INTRODUCTION

Field networks are not the only solution when plant operators want to use the
advantagesof smart field devices. The HART protocol provides many possibilities
even for installations thatare equipped with the conventional 4 to 20 mA
technique.HART devices communicate their dataover the transmission lines of the
4 to20 mA system. This enables the field devices to be parameterized and started
up in a flexible manner or to read measured and stored data (records).
All these tasks require field devices based on microprocessor technology.
Thesedevicesare frequently called smart devices.Introduced in 1989, this protocol
has provensuccessful inmany industrial applications and enables bidirectional
communication even in hazardousenvironments. HART allows the use of up to two
masters: the engineering console in the controlroom and a second device for
operation on site, eg. a PC laptop or a handheld terminal.The most important
performance features of the HART protocol.
include: proven in practice, simple design, easy to maintain and operate compatible
with conventional analoginstrumentation simultaneous analog and digital
communication option of point-to-point ormultidrop operation flexible data access
via up to two master devices supports multivariable fielddevices sufficient response
time of approx. 500 m open de-facto standard freely available to anymanufacturer
or user.
he majority of smart field devices installed worldwide today are HART-enabled. But
some new in the automation field may need a refresher on this powerful
technology. Simply put, the HART (Highway Addressable Remote Transducer)
Protocol is the global standard for sending and receiving digital information across
analog wires between smart devices and control or monitoring system More
specifically, HART is a bi-directional communication protocol that provides data
access between intelligent field instruments and host systems. A host can be any
software application from technician's hand-held device or laptop to a plant's
process control, asset management, safety or other system using any platform.
1.1 HISTORY
The protocol was developed by Rosemount INC., built off the Bell 202 early communications
standard in the mid-1980s as a proprietary digital communication protocol for their smart field
instruments. Soon it evolved into HART and in 1986 it was made an open protocol. Since then,
the capabilities of the protocol have been enhanced by successive revisions to specificationThe
benefits of getting two machines (or components within them), to talk to
one another have been an obvious one to Industrial automation and control experts, way
before the Internet of Things (IoT). became mainstream. The values in a temperature sensor
at the heart of a crankshaft sending measurements to control the motor drive relay etc. Was
clear, and one of the communication protocols used in achieving that was the HART
Protocol.
With over 30 million devices based on it, installed around the world, the HART Protocol is
regarded as the most popular protocol in industrial automation and today’s article will
provide an overview into what makes it so special. We will examine its features,
applications, and upgraded versions like the WirelessHART.
The Highway Addressable Remote Transducer (HART) Protocol is one of the most popular
Open communication protocols used in industrial automation to send and receive digital
information via analog wiring between smart devices and control systems. This protocol is
an advancement of the Serial Communication Protocol like RS485 and event to which is also
popularly used in the industries. Rosemount Engineering was founded by Frank Werner,
Robert Keppel, and Vernon Heath in the Minneapolis–Saint Paul area in 1956[1] with a focus on
the aerospace industry, which was then growing rapidly under the expansion of the U.S. space
program. In 1966, the company diversified to the commercial processing industry and became
known as Rosemount Inc.
Rosemount's founders, Frank Werner and Vernon Heath, took up skiing in the 1950s, and
decided to introduce a better ski boot. This led to the Rosemount ski boot of 1965, one of the
first all-synthetic designs. The ski factory was sold to Bass Sports in 1968, but the Rosemount
brand was used until it was purchased by Raichle in 1972.
Its success captured the attention of several high-tech companies. Rosemount was acquired by
Emerson Electric Company in August 1976.
In 2013, Emerson announced the purchase of a new global headquarters location in Shakopee,
Minnesota for its Rosemount branded products headquarters. Its 500,000-square-foot (46,000
m2) building was originally built for ADC Telecommunications, but was abandoned in 2001 prior
to completion and had never been occupied.
The Rosemount brand is associated with Emerson, Emerson Automation Solutions, Rosemount,
Rosemount Inc, and Rosemount Engineering.

2.WORKING PRINCIPLES

How HART works

―HART‖ is an acronym for Highway Addressable Remote Transducer. The HART Protocol makes use
of the Bell 202 Frequency Shift Keying (FSK) standard to superimpose digital communication signals at
a low level on top of the 4-20mA.

Fig 2.1 Frequency shift key

This enables two-way field communication to take place and makes it possible for additional
information beyond just the normal process variable to be communicated to/from a smart
field instrument. The HART Protocol communicates at 1200 bps without interrupting the 4-
20mA signal and allows a host application (master) to get two or more digital updates per
second from a smart field device. As the digital FSK signal is phase continuous, there is no
interference with the 4-20mA signal. 9. HART technology is a master/slave protocol, which
means that a smart field (slave) device only speaks when spoken to by a master. The HART
Protocol can be used in various modes such as point-to-point or multidrop for communicating
information to/from smart field instruments and central controller monitoring systems. HART
Communication occurs between two HART- enabled devices, typically a smart field device and
a control or monitoring system. Communication occurs using standard instrumentation grade
wire and using standard wiring and termination practices. The HART Protocol provides two
simultaneous communication channels: the 4-20mA analog signal and a digital signal. The 4-
20mA signal communicates the primary measured value (in the case of a field instrument)
using the 4-20mA current loop - the fastest and most reliable industry standard. Additional
device information is communicated using a digital signal that is superimposed on the analog
signal. The digital signal contains information from the device including device status,
diagnostics, additional measured or calculated values, etc. Together, the two communication
channels provide a low-cost and very robust complete field communication solution that is
easy to use and configure.

2.1 Connecting HART devices

Connecting HART devices Devices which support the HART protocol are grouped into master
(host) and slave (field) devices. Master devices include handheld terminals as well as PC-based
work places, e.g. in the control room. HART slave devices, on the other hand, include sensors,
transmitters and various actuators. The variety ranges from two-wire and four-wire devices
to intrinsically safe versions for use in hazardous environments. The HART data is
superimposed on the 4 to 20 mA signal via a FSK modem. This enables the devices to
communicate digitally using the HART protocol, while analog signal transmission takes place
at the same time (see Coding on page 16ff and Lit./2/). Field devices and compact handheld
terminals have an integrated FSK modem, whereas PC stations have a serial interface to
connect the modem externally. a typical connection scheme of a HART host device and a HART
field device. HART communication is often used for such simple point-to-point connections.
Nevertheless, many more connection variants are possible.

3.HART NETWORKS
In extended systems, the number of accessible devices can be increased by using a
multiplexer. In addition to that, HART enables the networking of devices to suit special
applications. Network variants include multidrop, FSK bus and networks for split-range
operation.
3.1 Point to point connectionz via the operating program. As long as the communication
takes place, the multiplexer connects the current loop to the host. Due to the cascaded
multiplexer structure, the host can communicate with many (> 1000) devices, all with the
address zero.

3.3 Multidrop mode

The HART protocol was originally designed for transmitters. The multidrop mode was also
developed for them. In multidrop operation, the devices exchange their data and measured
values only via the HART protocol. The analog current signal serves just to energize the two-
wire devices, providing a direct current of 4 mA. In multidrop mode, up to 15 field devices are
connected in parallel to a single wire pair The host distinguishes the field devices by their
preset addresses which range from 1 to 15. Control valves cannot be used in conjunction with
multidrop mode. As demonstrated by the calculations on page 25, the digital HART
communication is too slow to preselect set points. The control signals for valves are therefore
always transmitted as 4 to 20 mA standardized current signals.

Bus for split-range operation

There are special applications which require that several usually two actuators receive the
same control signal. A typical example is the split-range operation of control valves. One valve
operates in the nominal current range from 4 to 12 mA, while the other one uses the range
from 12 to 20 mA. In split-range operation, the control valves are connected in series in the
current loop. When both valves have a HART interface, the HART host device must be able to
distinguish with which valve it must communicate. To achieve this, the HART protocol revision
6 (anticipated for autumn 1999) and later will be extended by one more network variant. As
is the case for multidrop mode, each device is assigned to an address from 1 to 15. The analog
4 to 20 mA signal preserves its device-specific function, which is, for control valves, the
selection of the required travel. To be able to use HART communications also for such
applications as the split-range operation, the HART positioner from SAMSON always takes the
analog current signal as a reference variable, independent of the device address (Fig. 5). 10
Communications ⋅ HART Communications SAMSON AG ⋅ V74/ DKE 3780 3780 Fig. 5: Split-
range operation with two HART positioners
4. FSK bus
The HART protocol can be extended by company-specific functions. Hartmann & Braun, for
example, developed the FSK bus. Similar to a device bus, it can connect approximately 100
HART devices and address them. This requires special assembly-type isolating amplifiers (e.g.
TET 128). The only reason for the limited number of participants is that each additional
participant increases the signal noise. The signal quality is therefore no longer sufficient to
properly evaluate the telegram. The HART devices are connected to their analog current
signal and the common FSK bus line via the isolating amplifier (Fig. 6). From the FSK bus
viewpoint, the isolating amplifiers act as impedance converters. This enables also devices with
high load to be integrated in the communication network

To address the devices, a special, long form of addressing is used. During the
configuration phase, the bus address and the tag number of each device are set via the point-
to-point line. During operation, the devices operate with the long addresses. When using the
HART command 11, the host can also address the device via its tag. In this way, the system
configuration can be read and checked during the start-up phase. Higher-level
communication systems To be able to connect a HART communication system with other
communication systems, gateways are used. They convert the respective protocols of the
networks to be coupled. HART protocol ⇔ Fieldbus protocol In most cases, when complex
communication tasks must be solved, fieldbus systems would be the preferred choice
anyway. Even without complex protocol conversions, HART enables communication over long
distances. HART signals can be transmitted over telephone lines using HART/CCITT
converters. Field devices directly connected to dedicated lines owned by the company can
thus communicate with the centralized host located many miles away.
5. HART communication layers

Fig 5.1 HART protocol layers

The HART protocol utilizes the OSI reference model. As is the case for most of the
communication systems on the field level, the HART protocol implements only the layers 1, 2
and 7 of the OSI model. The layers 3 to 6 remain empty since their services are either not
required or provided by the application layer 7

5.1 Physical layer

• Coding

Data transmission between the masters and the field devices is physically realized by
superimposing an encoded digital signal on the 4 to 20 mA current loop. Since the coding has
no mean values, an analog signal transmission taking place at the same time is not affected.
This enables the HART protocol to include the existing simplex channel transmitting the
current signal (analog control device → field device) and an additional half-duplex channel for
communication in both directions.
 Fig 5.2 Data transmission between the masters and the field devices

The bit transmission layer defines an asynchronous half-duplex interface which operates on
the analog current signal line. To encode the bits, the FSK method (Frequency Shift Keying)
based on the Bell 202 communication standard is used. The two digital values 0 and 1 are
assigned to the following frequencies logical 0: 2200Hz logical 1: 1200Hz Each individual byte
of the layer-2 telegram is transmitted as eleven-bit UART character at a data rate of 1200
bits/s. The HART specification defines that master devices send voltage signals, while the field
devices (slaves) convey their messages using load-independent currents. The current signals
are converted to voltage signals at the internal resistance of the receiver (at its load). To
ensure a reliable signal reception, the HART protocol specifies the total load of the current
loop including the cable resistance to be between minimum 230 ohms and maximum 1100
ohms. Usually, the upper limit is not defined by this specification, but results from the limited
power output of the power supply unit load ensures reception level frequency-modulated
HART signals data rate: 1200 bit/s mA 20 4 10 1 t la+0,5 mA la la–0,5 mA Fig. 10: Hart signal
superimposed on the analog current signal data bits: analog current signal Ia + 0.5 mA Ia Ia
0.5 mA The HART masters are simply connected in parallel to the field devices so the devices
can be connected and disconnected during operation because the current loop need not be
interrupted.

• Wiring
HART wiring in the field usually consists of twisted pair cables. If very thin and/or long cables
are used, the cable resistance increases and, hence, the total load. As a result, the signal
attenuation and distortion increases while the critical frequency of the transmission network
decreases. For trouble-free transmission, the cables must have a sufficient cross section and
an appropriate length. If interference signals are a problem, long lines must be shielded. The
signal loop and the cable shield should be grounded at one common point only.

For short distances, simple unshielded 0.2 mm2 two-wire lines are sufficient. For distances of
up to 1,500 m, individually twisted 0.2 mm² wire pairs with a common shield over the cable
should be used. For distances of up to 3,000 m, individually twisted 0.5 mm2 two-wire lines
shielded in pairs are required. Most of the wiring in the field meets these requirements and
can therefore be used for digital communication.

• Plug connectors

An essential benefit is that HART integrates the existing wires. So the HART specification does
not prescribe the use of a specific type of plug connector. Since the polarity has no influence
on the frequency evaluation, HART signals are usually connected via simple clamp terminals.

5.2 Datalink layer

• Access control

The HART protocol operates according to the master-slave method. Any communication
activity is initiated by the master, which is either a control station or an operating device.
HART accepts two masters, the primary master usually the control system and the secondary
master a PC laptop or handheld terminal used in the field. HART field devices the slaves
never send without being requested to do so. They respond only when they have received a
command message from the master (Fig. 12). Once a transaction, i.e. a data exchange
between the control station and the field device, is complete, the master will pause for a fixed
time period before sending another command, allowing the other master to break in. The two
masters observe a fixed time frame when taking turns communicating with the slave devices.

The simplest form of a transaction is a master telegram which is directly followed by a

response or acknowledgement telegram from the slave (Fig. 12). This communication mode
is used for the normal data exchange. When connection is established, the HART command
11 can be used to send a broadcast message to all devices to check the system configuration.
Some HART devices support the optional burst communication mode. A single field device
cyclically sends message telegrams with short 75-ms breaks, which can alternately be read by
the primary as well as the secondary master. While usually only two transactions per second
are possible, the field device can send up to four telegrams using this method. Telegram
structure The structure of a HART telegram is shown in Fig. 14. Each individual byte is send as
11-bit UART character equipped with a start, a parity and a stop bit. In the revision 5 and later,
the HART protocol provides two telegram formats which use different forms of addressing. In
addition to the short frame slave address format containing four bits, a long frame address
format has been introduced as an alternative. This allows more participants to be integrated,
while achieving more safety in case of incorrect addressing during transmission failures.
Structure and elements of a HART telegram 2 status bytes byte count HART command byte
address start byte HART telegram structure

• Noise immunity

During operation the communication participants can be added or removed without

endangering the components of the other devices or disrupting their communication

For interferences that can be coupled into the transmission lines, the HART specification

noise immunity according to IEC 801-3 and demands class 3 -4. So general noise immunity

requirements are met. Further protection Mechanisms to detect errors in the communication

are implemented in the Different communication layers.

On the lower levels, the UART and the longitudinal parity check reliably de-Tect up to three
corrupted bits in the transmitted telegram (Hamming distanceHD=4). Errors occurring on
higher levels, such as HART commands that can-Not be interpreted and device failures, are
indicated by the slave upon eachTransaction using the status bytes reserved for this purpose.
Polling at regularIntervals enables the master device to know the state of all connected commu-
Nication participants and to react as requested by the user or the operating program.

5.3 Application layer

• HART commands
The communication routines of HART master devices and operating pro-Grams are based on
HART commands which are defined in the applicationLayer of the HART protocol.

Pre-defined commands enable the master device to give instructions to a fieldDevice or send
messages/data. So set points, actual values and parametersCan be transmitted and various
services for start-up and diagnostics performed The field devices immediately respond by
sending an acknowledgement tele-Gram which can contain requested status reports and/or the
data of the field device.The example shows what the transmitted bytes mean in a transac-Tion
initiated using the command . This HART command enables the mas-

Ter to read four transmitter variables of the field device and theCorresponding units of
measurement with only one command.To enable a universal communication, the HART
commands are classified According to their function into commands for master devices and for
field Devices

Fig 5.3 Classification of HART commands in classes of commands and conformance classes

4master devices: six conformance classes 4field devices: three classes of commands Depending on the
tasks to be executed, the HART master device uses a command that can be assigned to one of the six
different conformance classes. Each conformance class contains a subset of HART commands which
cover a special administrative or control-related range of tasks. Field devices interpret and process only
those HART commands that are directed to them or to all participants. Each command belongs to one
of three classes of commands. These classes distinguish how specific or universal a command is:
4Universal commands are understood and used by all field devices operating with the HART protocol
(device designation, firmware no., etc.). 4 Common-practice commands are usually supported by many,
but not necessarily all, HART field devices. (Read variable, set parameter, etc.). Most of the HART
field devices are able to interpret and respond to common-practice commands

4Device-specific commands support functions that are unique to each device. These commands provide
access to data about the type and construction of a device as well as information on the maintenance
state and start-up (see also DDL device description, page 29). Most of the field devices support
commands of all three classes: they understand all universal commands, the common-practice
commands tailored to them and special, device- and manufacturer-specific commands.

HART handheld master device

Handheld master devices support simple, on-site operation and diagnostics for HART devices. These
devices are also available in intrinsically safe version for use in hazardous areas

Fig 5.4 HART handheld communicator

The handheld master device of the Rosemount company shown in Fig. 22 can be adapted via a
special programming hardware so that all required device descriptions can be stored and
deleted again when they are no longer needed. This allows the user to operate with a flexible
and versatile service device, enabling him to freely access all HART field devices in his
installation.

6. Two wire technique and load impedance

HART signals are imposed on the conventional analog current signal. Whether the devices are
designed in four-wire technique including an additional power supply or in two-wire technique,
HART communication can be used for both cases. However, it is important to note that the
maximum permissible load of a HART device is fixed. The load of a HART device is limited
by the HART specification (see page 17: max. 1100 ohms for the entire load in the circuit).
Another limitation is caused especially in older installations by the process controller. The
output of the process controller must be able to provide the power for the connected two-wire
device. The higher the power consumption of a two-wire device, the higher its load. The
additional functions of a HART-communicating device increase its power consumption and
hence the load compared to non-HART devices. When retrofitting HART devices into an
already existing installation, the process controller must be checked for its ability to provide
the power required by the HART device. The process controller must be able to provide atleast
least the load impedance of the HART device at 20 mA. The required load impedance UB and
the consumed power PW are calculated as follows: NOTE: The value of the device load is
always defined for a current of 20 mA. If the process controller cannot provide the load
including the cable resistances, etc. , a HART-compatible IS (Intrinsic Safety) isolating
amplifier can be installed. Application in hazardous areas The technical details defined in the
HART specification enable HART devices with the operating mode Intrinsic Safety (Ex-i) to
be used if they are approved also in hazardous areas. Upon installation in the hazardous area,
make sure that the IS isolating amplifier, which acts as an amplifier and as an IS barrier, is
HART compatible (for more details, see page 19). Field device interface HART-
communicating field devices require an appropriate communication interface. As already
mentioned, field devices have an integrated FSK modem. Fig. 8 shows the components of the
SAMSON Type 3780 HART Positioner in a block diagram. For signal evaluation, the
following components are important: 4The analog current signal (8) is transmitted via an A/D
converter to the microprocessor (2) which is responsible for the application, e.g. for position
control. 4The FSK modem feeds the received HART signals (8) to the microprocessor (5)
which computes the communication data. 4The FSK modem superimposes the HART signals
to be sent on the analog current signal of the 4 to 20 mA line. 14 Communications ⋅ HART
Communication

7. Benefits of Using HART

Engineers operating in analog automation environments no longer need utter the words “if only” as in
“if only I could get the device information without going into the field” or “if only I could get this
configuration information from that pressure transmitter into my PC.”

Users worldwide who have realized the benefits of HART Communication know that they can gain
quick, easy visibility to devices in the field when using HART-enabled handheld test, calibration
devices and portable computers. In fact, device testing, diagnostics and configuration has never been
easier!

However, many have yet to realize HART technology’s greatest benefits which come from full-time
connections with real-time asset management and/or control systems.

HART technology can help you:

• Leverage the capabilities of a full set of intelligent device data for operational improvements.
• Gain early warnings to variances in device, product or process performance.
• Speed the troubleshooting time between the identification and resolution of problems.
• Continuously validate the integrity of loops and control/automation system strategies.
• Increase asset productivity and system availability.

Increase Plant Availability

• Integrate devices and systems for detection of previously undetectable problems.

• Detect device and/or process connection problems real time.
• Minimize the impact of deviations by gaining new, early warnings.
• Avoid the high cost of unscheduled shutdowns or process disruptions.

Reduce Maintenance Costs

• Quickly verify and validate control loop and device configuration.

• Use remote diagnostics to reduce unnecessary field checks.
• Capture performance trend data for predictive maintenance diagnostics.
• Reduce spares inventory and device management costs.

Improve regulatory compliance

• Enable automated record keeping of compliance data.

• Facilitates automated safety shutdown testing.
• Raise SIL/safety integrity level with advanced diagnostics.
• Take advantage of intelligent multivariable devices for more thorough, accurate reporting.

The standard features of HART technology range from simple compatibility with existing 4-20mA
analog networks to a broad product selection:
 • Compatibility with standard 4-20mA wiring
• Simultaneous transmission of digital data
• Simplicity through intuitive menu-driven interfaces
• Risk reduction through a highly accurate and robust protocol
• Ease of implementation for maximum “up-front” cost effectiveness
• Broad product selection, with compatible devices and software applications from most process
automation providers
• Platform independence for full interoperability in multi-vendor environments

8. Challenges faced by hart protocol

BAD CONNECTION TO LOOP

It is always a good practice to minimize the amount of bare wire other than what is essential to make
contact with terminals. It is important that terminals are loosened and the loop wires pulled out far
enough for the alligator clips to make good contact with the wire, especially on compression type
terminals. Remember to readjust inserting the loop leads again when done.

LOOP RESISTANCE

HART connection can be made anywhere in the loop in parallel as long as there is enough resistance
(250 to 1100 Ohms). The impedance is needed to get the amplitude of the frequency pulses high enough
to be read. An indication that this may be the problem is when you start reading the transmitter, and it
faults out, or you drop out in the middle of communications. This situation can also arise in the case of
a PLC or DCS card being replaced in a loop where no resister was required before.

Now with newer higher resolution analog-to-digital converters, many replacement I/O cards no longer
have 250 ohms input impedance, only 50 ohms. The voltage drop in the loop is lower. Given the wide
range of acceptable resistance, one can always add a resister in series in one of the legs, and then connect
across that resister. Many people opt to make it standard practice of always adding a 250 ohm resister
on the negative loop leg at the control system terminal.

LOW POWER ON HANDHELD

HART communicators have a diagnostic to indicate low battery. Communications problems can rear
their ugly head prior to this diagnostic flag appearing. It is a good idea to have access to fresh batteries
or full charged batteries at any point in time.
OLDER NON-ISOLATED HART MODEMS

Some of the early HART serial modems were not electrically isolated. This could cause a problem when
using a laptop/desktop with the AC charger connected. If possible, try the laptop with the AC charger
disconnected running on battery power. If this does not work, try using another computer. We have
found that some notebook computers will not work as the voltage to the port pins is outside the
acceptable range, leaving the modem with insufficient power.

NON-ISOLATED TRANSMITTERS OR FAULTY PRIMARIES

Some lower cost temperature transmitters are not electrically isolated. Should a grounded junction
thermocouple be the primary, an elevated ground potential in the field could be introduced to the
transmitter and introduced to the loop, inhibiting HART communications. The same could be said for
a capacitance probe with cracked insulation. Remove the primary element, and reattempt
communications while keeping the loop side of the transmitter powered.

TRANSMITTER RUNNING ON MARGINAL POWER

Each component added to a loop has a voltage drop. That drop becomes more significant as the
measured variable drives upscale. If the transmitter runs on 12-45VDC, and starting with a 24VDC
source, there remains only 12 volts after the transmitter is satisfied.

LOOP ISOLATORS

Loop isolators not only help eliminate the possibility of grounds in a loop dragging down other loops
references to a common electrical point, such as on PLC or DCS non-isolated cards with a common
negative loop connection, but they also filter out electrical noise.

INTRINSIC SAFETY BARRIERS

Consult with the barrier manufacture as to whether the specific barrier will pass HART signals or not.

INDUCED ELECTRICAL NOISE

noise can come in along the run of loop leads. Check that the 4-20mA loop is run in grounded conduit.
This helps drive any induced electrical voltage to ground with a low impedance.

9. Conclusion
• HART protocol provides a unique communication solution that is backward
compatible with the installed base of instrumentation in use today. This backward
compatibility ensures that investments in existing cabling and current control
strategies will remain secure well into the future.
• The HART communication protocol is based on the Bell 202 telephone
communication standard and operates using the frequency shift keying (FSK)
principle. The digital signal is made up of two frequencies— 1,200 Hz and 2,200 Hz
representing bits 1 and 0, respectively.
• Versatile-It continuously validates the integrity of control information.
• It ensures accuracy of system data and detect any deviation between device and
system.
• It gives additional information in multi variable devices.
• A practical Digital communication tool for analog installation
• Proven successful for smart devices
• Simple design easy to maintain and operate
• Simultaneous analog and digital communication
• Sufficient respond time for approximate 500 ms
• Support for implementaion and operation
• Continuesly validate the integrity of control information
• It gives additional information in multivariable device
10. References

• [1]. Introduction to HART [Online]. Available FTP: http://en.hartcomm.org/

• [2]. BASICS OF HART PROTOCOL [Online]. Available FTP

:http://www.pacontrol.com

• [3]. HART Communication [Online]. Available FTP :

http://www.samson.de/pdf_en/l452en.pdf

• [4]. Wireless hart [Online]. Available FTP :

http://www.instrumentationtools.com

• [5] ABSTRACT ON HART [Online]. Available FTP :

http://ieeexplore.ieee.org/hart

• [6] Ieee Spectrum Magazine, edition : September 2000.