First, check the design of the segment with the longest cable paths and the highest number of nodes. Second, budget a reserve of 20 % for changes within the scope of plant engineering and subsequent expansions. Even for 24 nodes with intrinsically safe device connections, you can easily achieve trunk cable lengths of 600 m.
Segment Checker Planning Tool
Segment Checker is a software tool that supports centralized and distributed fieldbus architecture concepts for FOUNDATION™ fieldbus H1 and PROFIBUS PA.
Using Segment Checker, you can easily check the optimal function of the segment. At the click of a mouse, you accurately combine the required instrumentation, fieldbus infrastructure components, and accessories.
The technical data from Segment Checker can be loaded into Advanced Diagnostics for exact matching between the planning status and implementation of individual segments. Additionally, you are able to set alarm limits individually for each device.