Software gains web access to field devices

An Emerson Process Management - Asset Optimization product story

Edited by the Engineeringtalk editorial team Jun 17, 2003

Version 6.1 of AMS is a key technology of Emerson's PlantWeb digital plant architecture.

Version 6.1 of AMS is a key technology of Emerson's PlantWeb digital plant architecture.

This is the first software to add web-browser-based access to instrument and valve information.

Web access enables users to easily monitor field devices, view configuration and calibration information, and analyse the history of a plant's field device assets.

The AMS web option extends access to live and historical AMS data by making it available at any time from any PC in the plant's intranet.

Diagnostic data from intelligent field devices is made available for fast maintenance action.

As part of release 6.1, Fieldvue Performance Diagnostics, Emerson's exclusive online, in-service predictive valve diagnostics, are now standard in the AMS ValveLink Snap-On application.

Performance Diagnostics identify faults, list possible causes, and recommend corrective actions for users.

Performance Diagnostics benefit users by identifying problems that may be corrected prior to failure thus preventing unplanned shutdowns, reducing the length of planned shutdowns, and extending the interval between shutdowns.

The enhanced security of AMS 6.1 enables users in regulated industries to meet rigorous security requirements, specifically those specified in FDA 21 CFR part 11.

Security improvements include new privileges and administrative capabilities.

AMS 6.1's pharmaceutical package includes electronic signature for configuration changes, validation templates, training manuals, and an additional system licence for evaluation and checkout purposes.

Other new features of AMS version 6.1 include: an enhanced DeltaV system interface to allow support of Hart devices on PROOX and RS3 I/O connected to DeltaV; more tools to integrate AMS data with that of other software applications - these tools further enhance AMS integration capabilities which already include an interface to Maximo and various CMMS or ERP systems; a new web services option, allowing the use of web technologies for integration of essential information; and support for the Microsoft XP Professional operating system as well as Windows NT and Windows 2000.

AMS software benefits users by alerting them to potential problems in a device before that problem upsets the process, by reducing the time required for configuring and calibrating field devices, by eliminating many routine maintenance procedures, and by speeding up the troubleshooting of suspected problems.

Plant personnel rely on AMS to increase plant availability, improve maintenance cost effectiveness, and meet safety, health and environmental requirements.

The AMS software supports a growing number of multiplexers as well as numerous communication interfaces.

By building on standard industry communication protocols, AMS accepts information from a broad field base and also allows easy integration of data into other business systems to maximise plant efficiencies.

Users save time and money on maintenance and optimise plant assets by taking full advantage of their intelligent field devices.

AMS 6.1 features expanded openness and compatibility with a larger number of field devices and multiplexer interfaces than ever before, providing greater access to field-based diagnostic data.

When also used in conjunction with the DeltaV automation system, another key PlantWeb component, AMS gives users access to the diagnostics generated by 85 Foundation fieldbus instruments from 22 manufacturers.

AMS 6.1 now works with more than 223 Hart devices from 39 manufacturers.