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