Introduction to DeviceNet safety

The Open DeviceNet Vendors Association (ODYA) is introducing an expansion to the DeviceNet specification that allows the integration of safety measures into all DeviceNet systems. DeviceNet Safety is designed to meet the requirements of machinery shut down and process sector availability/shut down applications. DeviceNet Safety addresses ISO 13849-1, IEC 61508 SIL 3, DIN 19250 AK6 and EM 954-1 Categoiy 4 applications. It is a higher level protocol that allows safety devices to co-exist with standard devices on the same network. DeviceNet Safety allows for multiple independent safety chains on the same network or controller as well as multiple safety controllers on the same network. DeviceNet Safety uses the safety processes and coding as recommended by BIA, the German certification body for safety data transmission on a standard network.