Intranet-based management framework for industrial communication systems

Industrial Communication Networks based on fieldbusses require specific software tools for planning, configuration and management. The integration of fieldbusses into intranet-based enterprise networks provides a platform for the introduction of a new quality of software tools for fieldbus handling. The paper shows concepts, scenarios and requirements for the web-integrated management of fieldbus systems. Exemplary solutions with P-NET and CAN are described. Strategies are shown for a mapping of the bus systems' management function to Internet technology and Internet software components. Furthermore, problems, benefits and future trends of this integration are discussed from the users' and vendors' points of view.