field device

In the context of IT knowledge, field devices are electronic devices or modules that are connected to fieldbuses in automation and production technology. They are located at the field level and thus at the lowest level in the hierarchical level model for automation.

Field devices are modules with connected sensors that record the data of the measuring points or with actuators that transmit the control data to the actuators. Field devices continuously provide measurement data for process control at specific time intervals and receive control data for the actuators. The field devices do not exchange data directly with each other, but via the control devices at the process level. In addition, the field devices generate analysis data and alarms.

In addition to wired field devices, there are also wireless field devices. Since they are battery-powered, they have to meet particularly high requirements in terms of reliability, which is already very high for field devices. They must have high availability and, depending on the area of application, are subject to increased security requirements with high security levels.